What do you think?
Rate this book
Moonburner Cycle #2
Sunburner
No one said being queen was easy...
Kai, the newly-crowned queen of Miina, finds her reign threatened by a plague of natural disasters that leave death and destruction in their wake. Are the gods truly angry at the peace between the moon and sunburners, or is something more sinister to blame? Kai's throne and her very life may be forfeit unless she can appease the gods' anger and her peoples' superstitions.
Determined to find a solution, Kai and the Sunburner Prince Hiro embark on an extraordinary and dangerous journey to discover the true cause of the plagues. What they find is an ancient enemy determined to plunge their world into eternal darkness — and one desperate chance to save it.
Sunburner, the sequel to Moonburner, is a young adult fantasy that will appeal to fans of Sabaa Tahir, Sarah J. Maas, and Leigh Bardugo.
Kai, the newly-crowned queen of Miina, finds her reign threatened by a plague of natural disasters that leave death and destruction in their wake. Are the gods truly angry at the peace between the moon and sunburners, or is something more sinister to blame? Kai's throne and her very life may be forfeit unless she can appease the gods' anger and her peoples' superstitions.
Determined to find a solution, Kai and the Sunburner Prince Hiro embark on an extraordinary and dangerous journey to discover the true cause of the plagues. What they find is an ancient enemy determined to plunge their world into eternal darkness — and one desperate chance to save it.
Sunburner, the sequel to Moonburner, is a young adult fantasy that will appeal to fans of Sabaa Tahir, Sarah J. Maas, and Leigh Bardugo.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 25, 2017
144 people are currently reading
562 people want to read
About the author
Claire Luana
33 books637 followersClaire Luana grew up reading everything she could get her hands on and writing every chance she could. Eventually, adulthood won out, and she turned her writing talents to more scholarly pursuits, going to work as a commercial litigation attorney at a mid-sized law firm. While continuing to practice law, Claire decided to return to her roots and try her hand once again at creative writing.
She has written and published five series, the Moonburner Cycle, the Confectioner Chronicles, the Mythical Alliance, the Knights of Caerleon, with Jesikah Sundin, and the Faerie Race, with J.A. Armitage. She lives in Cle Elum, Washington with her husband and two dogs. In her (little) remaining spare time, she loves to hike, travel, binge-watch CW shows, and of course, fall into a good book.
Check her out on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/claireluana/
She has written and published five series, the Moonburner Cycle, the Confectioner Chronicles, the Mythical Alliance, the Knights of Caerleon, with Jesikah Sundin, and the Faerie Race, with J.A. Armitage. She lives in Cle Elum, Washington with her husband and two dogs. In her (little) remaining spare time, she loves to hike, travel, binge-watch CW shows, and of course, fall into a good book.
Check her out on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/claireluana/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
June 30, 2018
Claire Luana not only equaled her first book . . . she surpassed it!
One thing I really love about the Moonburner Cycle is the presence of a very real and important spiritual world. The gods and goddesses--and those dreadful beings posing in the place of gods and goddesses--matter to the characters, not as a figureheads, but as active parts of their world. The adventure is grounded in the mortal, physical realm, but it all stems from a deeper place. Thus this action-adventure-romance story boasts an added layer of profundity, and everything feels as though it MATTERS more. (If that makes any sense?)
The spiritual element is present in Moonburner, but it all goes so much deeper in Sunburner, as Kai and her true love, Hiro, join with their friends (and fren-emies) on an epic quest to find their missing gods. No spoilers here, but this quest does NOT go anything like our heroes plan, and the turn-about in the mission had me absolutely gasping with surprise and horror along the way.
Kai continues to develop as a heroine. She's no longer the out-of-her-depth girl she was in book 1. She's now a young woman and a queen, finding her way through the tricky waters of ruling a kingdom. She feels unprepared for this daunting task . . . and, as certain unexpected discoveries come to light, she realizes that she might not actually even be MEANT for this role. But regardless of circumstances or even her own beliefs about herself, she is a true queen at heart, and it's wonderful watching her grow into the role.
Hiro gets a lot more page-time in this book as well, and I really loved getting to know him. The two young lovers are separated for large chunks of the story, but I actually really liked that. I liked seeing them acting as individuals. They're always on each other's minds, but they're not bound to each other as such.
My favorite character of the whole book ended up being the Mean Girl from Book 1, however. Again, no spoilers, but . . . Claire Luana's handling of that storyline was amazing and heartbreaking and ultimately so satisfying and just . . . *hugs the book!!!!*
Anyway, all my worries of Second Book Syndrome were completely dashed to pieces. I loved Sunburner to pieces. It was a satisfying story in and of itself--no cliffhangers or anything. But when I reached the end, I felt VERY eager for the third and final book, simply because I wanted to dive deeper into this world and see where these characters go and how they grow. Thankfully, Starburner was only a few weeks away from launching, so I didn't have to wait long!
One thing I really love about the Moonburner Cycle is the presence of a very real and important spiritual world. The gods and goddesses--and those dreadful beings posing in the place of gods and goddesses--matter to the characters, not as a figureheads, but as active parts of their world. The adventure is grounded in the mortal, physical realm, but it all stems from a deeper place. Thus this action-adventure-romance story boasts an added layer of profundity, and everything feels as though it MATTERS more. (If that makes any sense?)
The spiritual element is present in Moonburner, but it all goes so much deeper in Sunburner, as Kai and her true love, Hiro, join with their friends (and fren-emies) on an epic quest to find their missing gods. No spoilers here, but this quest does NOT go anything like our heroes plan, and the turn-about in the mission had me absolutely gasping with surprise and horror along the way.
Kai continues to develop as a heroine. She's no longer the out-of-her-depth girl she was in book 1. She's now a young woman and a queen, finding her way through the tricky waters of ruling a kingdom. She feels unprepared for this daunting task . . . and, as certain unexpected discoveries come to light, she realizes that she might not actually even be MEANT for this role. But regardless of circumstances or even her own beliefs about herself, she is a true queen at heart, and it's wonderful watching her grow into the role.
Hiro gets a lot more page-time in this book as well, and I really loved getting to know him. The two young lovers are separated for large chunks of the story, but I actually really liked that. I liked seeing them acting as individuals. They're always on each other's minds, but they're not bound to each other as such.
My favorite character of the whole book ended up being the Mean Girl from Book 1, however. Again, no spoilers, but . . . Claire Luana's handling of that storyline was amazing and heartbreaking and ultimately so satisfying and just . . . *hugs the book!!!!*
Anyway, all my worries of Second Book Syndrome were completely dashed to pieces. I loved Sunburner to pieces. It was a satisfying story in and of itself--no cliffhangers or anything. But when I reached the end, I felt VERY eager for the third and final book, simply because I wanted to dive deeper into this world and see where these characters go and how they grow. Thankfully, Starburner was only a few weeks away from launching, so I didn't have to wait long!
November 19, 2017
This sequel will keep your heart racing and your eyes glued to the page until the very last page!
This was everything you ever hope for in a sequel, it is packed with action and problem solving, mystery and deception, betrayal and anger, and of course to balance it all out, love and humour!
Kai is now crowned queen of Miina, she follows her duties well and is constantly worrying about her duties as queen and being the friend that her close friends need of her.
But as we saw in the last book, a prophecy was said that during Kai's reign a Great War between man and the god's will take place and only one side will prevail and the other will be completely destroyed. Everyone has been walking on egg shells when this topic arises, no one wants to talk about this, especially in front of Kai but the rumours and superstitions are growing amongst her people, especially when diseases, plagues and natural distasteis begin to terrorise the land. Leading the people to speak among themselves and planning to rebel against the peace treaty that now exist between the moonburners and sunburners.
So Kai, Hiro and her friends seek answers and fight to protect the land and know why the gods are angry with their alliance, but not everything or everyone is as it seems. There are questions arises and answers are difficult to obtain, friendships are questioned, loyalties are confusing and even the love between Kai and Hiro is threatened to be ended before it has truly started
But together they fight and see to preserve what little hope their land has.
And Kai, is filled with powers that are foreign to her, yet she holds incredible power that will help her fight off the darkness that threatens to tear their world and leave them to live in eternal darkness
Through this incredible journey to save the world, we suffer hardship and sufferings with the characters, there is death and sickness that take hold of our beloved characters, and it was such an emotional wreck to go through but so worth it.
This was such a beautiful novel, the way it was set out, the way the characters were made, stubborn, fierce, sarcastic, emotional, compassionate, anger, jealously, bravery, humorous and so many wonderful and horrible traits, even the enemies had an incredible emotion within them that it made them feel real and not only 2-dimensional.
Absolutely loved everything about this book, and there is hope for a third novel, it not explicit but I do reckon (and desperately hope) there is more this series!
This a series I would highly recommend that everyone should read, especially if you love fantasy and young adult genres combined!
This was everything you ever hope for in a sequel, it is packed with action and problem solving, mystery and deception, betrayal and anger, and of course to balance it all out, love and humour!
Kai is now crowned queen of Miina, she follows her duties well and is constantly worrying about her duties as queen and being the friend that her close friends need of her.
But as we saw in the last book, a prophecy was said that during Kai's reign a Great War between man and the god's will take place and only one side will prevail and the other will be completely destroyed. Everyone has been walking on egg shells when this topic arises, no one wants to talk about this, especially in front of Kai but the rumours and superstitions are growing amongst her people, especially when diseases, plagues and natural distasteis begin to terrorise the land. Leading the people to speak among themselves and planning to rebel against the peace treaty that now exist between the moonburners and sunburners.
So Kai, Hiro and her friends seek answers and fight to protect the land and know why the gods are angry with their alliance, but not everything or everyone is as it seems. There are questions arises and answers are difficult to obtain, friendships are questioned, loyalties are confusing and even the love between Kai and Hiro is threatened to be ended before it has truly started
But together they fight and see to preserve what little hope their land has.
And Kai, is filled with powers that are foreign to her, yet she holds incredible power that will help her fight off the darkness that threatens to tear their world and leave them to live in eternal darkness
Through this incredible journey to save the world, we suffer hardship and sufferings with the characters, there is death and sickness that take hold of our beloved characters, and it was such an emotional wreck to go through but so worth it.
This was such a beautiful novel, the way it was set out, the way the characters were made, stubborn, fierce, sarcastic, emotional, compassionate, anger, jealously, bravery, humorous and so many wonderful and horrible traits, even the enemies had an incredible emotion within them that it made them feel real and not only 2-dimensional.
Absolutely loved everything about this book, and there is hope for a third novel, it not explicit but I do reckon (and desperately hope) there is more this series!
This a series I would highly recommend that everyone should read, especially if you love fantasy and young adult genres combined!
October 11, 2017
Sunburner by Clair Luana is a heart pounding, heart shattering ride, that will have you glued to the pages and in tears when it ends. All endings are not happy, some will appreciate as so, but there is always something after, something brewing and that is what happens in Sunburner.
Right away we are tossed into a growing crisis, this just gets bigger and bigger. Kai is tested in more ways then she expected and her growth was simply amazing. She’s learns what it is to lead and what it is to be a true ruler.
As this is the second book, I won’t say too much, as it will spoil not on this out of this world read, but the first. In saying that you need to read the first book, not only as it is the start of this epic, ride but because it’s amazing.
Clair Luana again brings you rich imagery, a sold thrilling plot and epic battles. This book is better then the first and I know that this series is among towards being legendary. Take my high recommendation that you will be wishing you were apart of this world, you will be so engrossed that you won’t want to leave.
Happy Reading
-E.A. Walsh
Right away we are tossed into a growing crisis, this just gets bigger and bigger. Kai is tested in more ways then she expected and her growth was simply amazing. She’s learns what it is to lead and what it is to be a true ruler.
As this is the second book, I won’t say too much, as it will spoil not on this out of this world read, but the first. In saying that you need to read the first book, not only as it is the start of this epic, ride but because it’s amazing.
Clair Luana again brings you rich imagery, a sold thrilling plot and epic battles. This book is better then the first and I know that this series is among towards being legendary. Take my high recommendation that you will be wishing you were apart of this world, you will be so engrossed that you won’t want to leave.
Happy Reading
-E.A. Walsh
August 26, 2017
I received a free copy of this book from Claire. Thank you so much, this is my honest review.
What a fantastic novel. From the beginning to the very end this novel is action-packed. This novel had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. All of my favourite characters returned from Moonburner, as well as a lot of new characters were introduced that were spectacular. I love Quitsu he is beyond my favourite, he is so cute and sarcastic. I just want to squeeze him all the time. Emi will also always hold a special place in my heart. She is the best, best friend I think ever written. She is so funny, and forgiving and bad-ass. I really enjoy the journey of this story. I love that Kai struggles like everyone else with her powers, being queen and having relationships. I love that Claire writes real and honest characters that are relateable. Hiro, is wonderful and so strong and protective. I love this world, these books. I would highly recommend the Moonburner Cycle novels. Clarie's writing is phenomenal, very gripping and keeps you very entertained.
What a fantastic novel. From the beginning to the very end this novel is action-packed. This novel had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. All of my favourite characters returned from Moonburner, as well as a lot of new characters were introduced that were spectacular. I love Quitsu he is beyond my favourite, he is so cute and sarcastic. I just want to squeeze him all the time. Emi will also always hold a special place in my heart. She is the best, best friend I think ever written. She is so funny, and forgiving and bad-ass. I really enjoy the journey of this story. I love that Kai struggles like everyone else with her powers, being queen and having relationships. I love that Claire writes real and honest characters that are relateable. Hiro, is wonderful and so strong and protective. I love this world, these books. I would highly recommend the Moonburner Cycle novels. Clarie's writing is phenomenal, very gripping and keeps you very entertained.
August 3, 2017
I received this novel as an ARC from Ms. Luana. Thank you!!
This novel was a great sequel from the first book. Several of the characters returned as well as some new additions. There were more plot twists and the story flowed well. I liked how the author incorporated the villains' plot into the story. You need to read the the first novel, Moonburner, to understand the plot and where this novel is heading
Kai and her seishen, Quitsu, are still trying to solve why their land is dying even after defeating Kai's aunt, the former queen. It has been a year and the gods still are unhappy with the peace between moonburners and sunburners. Hiro and his seishen, Ryu, have been helping Kai and her kingdom through this transition. Both has grown to love each other more, but Kai is a moonburner Queen and Hiro is a sunburner prince. They have many enemies, ones known and ones in disguise.
When the gods keep punishing them for ending the war, they need to find answers to why the gods are angry. Kai, Hiro, and others travel to discover what they can do to save their kingdoms of Miina and Kita. Along the way, they encounter tengu, who want the world to become total darkness so they can escape the spirit realm. Their powers hinder the tengu, but do not destroy them, which makes them difficult to kill.
However, nothing is at appears to be and evil intentions are at work. As they get closer to the truth about the gods and the past, they both keep secrets from the other, which impacts their relationship, since Kai is a strong woman and Hiro wants to protect Kai. They both love each other but cannot ask the other to choose between their kingdom and their love. Kai also discovers another secret, which was a shocking discovery and one I did not see coming. As they continue on their journey, they are betrayed by those they thought they could trust and others who they had doubts will prove themselves worthy. The battle keep their kingdoms from eternal darkness is on and neither side is willing to give in.
This novel was a great sequel from the first book. Several of the characters returned as well as some new additions. There were more plot twists and the story flowed well. I liked how the author incorporated the villains' plot into the story. You need to read the the first novel, Moonburner, to understand the plot and where this novel is heading
Kai and her seishen, Quitsu, are still trying to solve why their land is dying even after defeating Kai's aunt, the former queen. It has been a year and the gods still are unhappy with the peace between moonburners and sunburners. Hiro and his seishen, Ryu, have been helping Kai and her kingdom through this transition. Both has grown to love each other more, but Kai is a moonburner Queen and Hiro is a sunburner prince. They have many enemies, ones known and ones in disguise.
When the gods keep punishing them for ending the war, they need to find answers to why the gods are angry. Kai, Hiro, and others travel to discover what they can do to save their kingdoms of Miina and Kita. Along the way, they encounter tengu, who want the world to become total darkness so they can escape the spirit realm. Their powers hinder the tengu, but do not destroy them, which makes them difficult to kill.
However, nothing is at appears to be and evil intentions are at work. As they get closer to the truth about the gods and the past, they both keep secrets from the other, which impacts their relationship, since Kai is a strong woman and Hiro wants to protect Kai. They both love each other but cannot ask the other to choose between their kingdom and their love. Kai also discovers another secret, which was a shocking discovery and one I did not see coming. As they continue on their journey, they are betrayed by those they thought they could trust and others who they had doubts will prove themselves worthy. The battle keep their kingdoms from eternal darkness is on and neither side is willing to give in.
July 16, 2019
there is something i learned a long time ago. hatred and regret ... these things choke the life from you.sometimes slowly , sometimes fast.but you wither and die. forgiveness breaths lifr back in , it allows for something to grow in hatred's place. love . purpose .
The frist book " moonburner " i loved very much. It was full of an amazing very unique worldbuilding & magic system like i haven't seen before , a super great realistic & deep main charracter , funny side charracters , a super great action paced yet meaningfull plot & many great scenes that had you smiling , laughing out loud and sometimes feeling really sad inside. " Sunburner " was everyone of those things and a super great sequel to me. I enjoyed it from the first page till the last page. It was again full of depht and a really meaningfull and actionpaced plot that was even a better plot then the first book , again the amazing worldbuilding and some really great sometimes creepy new creatures and magic items , and the growth of the main charracter grow even further in this book.
the plot -
the plot in this book was really great. In short it starts almost right after where " moonburner " ended Kai is now queen but there are a lot of really weird and catastropic events happening with nature. The weather is really dry and there isnt any food avaliable because of that , sickness spreads really fast in an unusual way & many other weird things are happening. Kai and her friends are going out to look what it is all about and what is doing this. More i will not spoil because it is the second book but just know that the plot takes somany suprising twists especially at the end , it has somany great actionscenes and also scenes where i personally felt really sad inside about. It has a lot of meaning and there are a lot of new great unique elements in this story that weren't there in the previous one. i personally really enjoyed it.
the charracter & their relationships -
the main charracter Kai continues to grow even more in this book and goes trough a lot of things , witch makes her even stronger. I personally conect with her a lot & i really can say that i love her and really felt with her she is really great , she has this really brave , badass side mixed with sassyness but she also has this really sensitive and kindhearted side and i think it is perfectly in ballance. I alsoo lovee Quisu her Seishen. He is so sassy and he really reminds me of grimalkin in Julie kagawa's iron fey serie & the relationship between them is like in the frist book really pure and really unique and just amazing to me. I also loved the friendship between Kai and Emi & Kai and Chiya.
then the little - point of this book & the reason why i coudnt give it 5 stars witch i really wanted to , the romance .. it isnt that i dont like it i do. But in moonburner we saw Kai and Prince Hiro of the sunburners their romance grew really slow and i really liked that and then at the start of this book they shared all these amazing moments that we never got to see and suddenly are all in love and can't wait to get married . I still think they are great together but i just coudnt connect to their relationship that mutch because i missed all these moments where they really fell in love you know so that is the meh point of this book.
worldbuilding and magic system -
the worldbuilding and magicsystem are again very unique and so great i am totally in lovee with this amazing high fantasy world and its magic system it gives me all the feels & i just really want to be there you know ? , there are somany amazing ellements new here in this book that i wont spoil but i just can say that i totally loveed them !
overall this book is really really great & i loved it very mutch i think that the plot is even better then the plot in the first book , the worldbuilding & magicsystem and all their new elements are really great & the charracters are really growing more in this book aswell like they did in the first book the only thing i didnt conect to was the romance so thats why a 4 star rating
The frist book " moonburner " i loved very much. It was full of an amazing very unique worldbuilding & magic system like i haven't seen before , a super great realistic & deep main charracter , funny side charracters , a super great action paced yet meaningfull plot & many great scenes that had you smiling , laughing out loud and sometimes feeling really sad inside. " Sunburner " was everyone of those things and a super great sequel to me. I enjoyed it from the first page till the last page. It was again full of depht and a really meaningfull and actionpaced plot that was even a better plot then the first book , again the amazing worldbuilding and some really great sometimes creepy new creatures and magic items , and the growth of the main charracter grow even further in this book.
the plot -
the plot in this book was really great. In short it starts almost right after where " moonburner " ended Kai is now queen but there are a lot of really weird and catastropic events happening with nature. The weather is really dry and there isnt any food avaliable because of that , sickness spreads really fast in an unusual way & many other weird things are happening. Kai and her friends are going out to look what it is all about and what is doing this. More i will not spoil because it is the second book but just know that the plot takes somany suprising twists especially at the end , it has somany great actionscenes and also scenes where i personally felt really sad inside about. It has a lot of meaning and there are a lot of new great unique elements in this story that weren't there in the previous one. i personally really enjoyed it.
the charracter & their relationships -
the main charracter Kai continues to grow even more in this book and goes trough a lot of things , witch makes her even stronger. I personally conect with her a lot & i really can say that i love her and really felt with her she is really great , she has this really brave , badass side mixed with sassyness but she also has this really sensitive and kindhearted side and i think it is perfectly in ballance. I alsoo lovee Quisu her Seishen. He is so sassy and he really reminds me of grimalkin in Julie kagawa's iron fey serie & the relationship between them is like in the frist book really pure and really unique and just amazing to me. I also loved the friendship between Kai and Emi & Kai and Chiya.
then the little - point of this book & the reason why i coudnt give it 5 stars witch i really wanted to , the romance .. it isnt that i dont like it i do. But in moonburner we saw Kai and Prince Hiro of the sunburners their romance grew really slow and i really liked that and then at the start of this book they shared all these amazing moments that we never got to see and suddenly are all in love and can't wait to get married . I still think they are great together but i just coudnt connect to their relationship that mutch because i missed all these moments where they really fell in love you know so that is the meh point of this book.
worldbuilding and magic system -
the worldbuilding and magicsystem are again very unique and so great i am totally in lovee with this amazing high fantasy world and its magic system it gives me all the feels & i just really want to be there you know ? , there are somany amazing ellements new here in this book that i wont spoil but i just can say that i totally loveed them !
overall this book is really really great & i loved it very mutch i think that the plot is even better then the plot in the first book , the worldbuilding & magicsystem and all their new elements are really great & the charracters are really growing more in this book aswell like they did in the first book the only thing i didnt conect to was the romance so thats why a 4 star rating
August 17, 2017
***** 5+++++ Stars
I received an ARC of this from Claire Luana! And so happy I did because I have been waiting for this book!!
Sunburner by Claire Luana is such an incredible sequel to the Moonburner saga! I seriously could not put this book down! I had to force myself to read it slow so that I wouldn’t burn through it! I am so glad I did. I loved how everything you learn in Moonburner comes together in Sunburner. The journey Kai and Hiro take towards learning the truth about burners is incredible. You find out the truth behind Tsuki and Taiyo and what really happened to them. This book is a page turner that will have you gripping the edge of your seat and guessing until the end!
I received an ARC of this from Claire Luana! And so happy I did because I have been waiting for this book!!
Sunburner by Claire Luana is such an incredible sequel to the Moonburner saga! I seriously could not put this book down! I had to force myself to read it slow so that I wouldn’t burn through it! I am so glad I did. I loved how everything you learn in Moonburner comes together in Sunburner. The journey Kai and Hiro take towards learning the truth about burners is incredible. You find out the truth behind Tsuki and Taiyo and what really happened to them. This book is a page turner that will have you gripping the edge of your seat and guessing until the end!
August 29, 2017
This book was an amazing read. It kept me on my toes. It was very different from the other books I have read.
April 2, 2018
Sunburner picks up a short time after Moonburner left off. Kai has taken her place as queen, with Hiro as her side, but the sinister prophecy about her rule looks to be coming true. Famine and disease are taking their toll on her people, and it seems the gods themselves aren’t happy with the alliance she’s forged with her old enemies.
Kai and Hiro’s relationship was all but absent from Moonburner. It was an unusual tactic from the author, but it worked. Keeping their romance on the backburner while they dealt with bigger issues made it feel genuine, rather than a shallow infatuation. Now, we finally get to see them together. And what a pairing. I loved seeing Hiro content to take Kai’s side without having to constantly prove his macho credentials. There was no possessive behaviour, no putting her in her place to make himself look like a big man. Theirs was at true partnership, and it showed.
It was a bit of a shame that Kai's relationship her sensei-esque fox Quitsu was a bit surplus to requirements this time around. With Hiro in the picture as Kai's confidant and supporter, Quitsu could have been left out in the cold, but the author managed to keep him in the story and maintain his close relationship with Kai without him feeling like a third wheel. Kai herself was easily one of the best things about this story, keeping it grounded as the odds became increasingly stacked against her. One of my pet peeves in YA fantasy - as much as I love it - are 'sassy' protagonists. I say sassy in inverted commas because, more often than not, I read them as rude, insufferable and arrogant. So it was wonderful to read a strong-willed, fiercely determined character who didn't once insult anyone, threaten them with violence if she didn't get her way or throw a tantrum when someone didn't show her proper respect.
Kai’s best friend Emi was back in Sunburner, much to my delight! This straight-talking, take-no-shit moonburner was one of my favourite characters in the last book. Her burgeoning relationship with bitter sunburner Daarco felt a bit trite at first, but the messages of forgiveness and growth that played out through it made it worthwhile. I had to love Emi putting the arrogant Daarco in his place time and time again!
The story itself – of an age-old war between gods and demons playing out to the detriment of the innocent humans that are caught up in its effects – felt like a huge step up from Moonburner. That’s not to say there was anything wrong with the first book’s story, it’s just that this felt like everything great from that book, turned up to 11. The stakes were higher, the world bigger and the consequences more severe. I loved the idea of the gods being somewhat weak and ineffective. It makes sense of course – they’d relied on the Burners they’d created to fight for and defend them – and was a great twist on the usual trope of the protagonist racing to raise an all-powerful being or uncover a magical MacGuffin to save the day, leaving the characters themselves in the dust. These characters weren’t going to be saved. They had to save themselves.
As for the ending … well, I won’t spoil anything, but it was absolutely note perfect. The story is wrapped up and the characters have come full circle, although the door is open for new stories in this world. And I, for one, will be snapping up any sequels.
Kai and Hiro’s relationship was all but absent from Moonburner. It was an unusual tactic from the author, but it worked. Keeping their romance on the backburner while they dealt with bigger issues made it feel genuine, rather than a shallow infatuation. Now, we finally get to see them together. And what a pairing. I loved seeing Hiro content to take Kai’s side without having to constantly prove his macho credentials. There was no possessive behaviour, no putting her in her place to make himself look like a big man. Theirs was at true partnership, and it showed.
It was a bit of a shame that Kai's relationship her sensei-esque fox Quitsu was a bit surplus to requirements this time around. With Hiro in the picture as Kai's confidant and supporter, Quitsu could have been left out in the cold, but the author managed to keep him in the story and maintain his close relationship with Kai without him feeling like a third wheel. Kai herself was easily one of the best things about this story, keeping it grounded as the odds became increasingly stacked against her. One of my pet peeves in YA fantasy - as much as I love it - are 'sassy' protagonists. I say sassy in inverted commas because, more often than not, I read them as rude, insufferable and arrogant. So it was wonderful to read a strong-willed, fiercely determined character who didn't once insult anyone, threaten them with violence if she didn't get her way or throw a tantrum when someone didn't show her proper respect.
Kai’s best friend Emi was back in Sunburner, much to my delight! This straight-talking, take-no-shit moonburner was one of my favourite characters in the last book. Her burgeoning relationship with bitter sunburner Daarco felt a bit trite at first, but the messages of forgiveness and growth that played out through it made it worthwhile. I had to love Emi putting the arrogant Daarco in his place time and time again!
The story itself – of an age-old war between gods and demons playing out to the detriment of the innocent humans that are caught up in its effects – felt like a huge step up from Moonburner. That’s not to say there was anything wrong with the first book’s story, it’s just that this felt like everything great from that book, turned up to 11. The stakes were higher, the world bigger and the consequences more severe. I loved the idea of the gods being somewhat weak and ineffective. It makes sense of course – they’d relied on the Burners they’d created to fight for and defend them – and was a great twist on the usual trope of the protagonist racing to raise an all-powerful being or uncover a magical MacGuffin to save the day, leaving the characters themselves in the dust. These characters weren’t going to be saved. They had to save themselves.
As for the ending … well, I won’t spoil anything, but it was absolutely note perfect. The story is wrapped up and the characters have come full circle, although the door is open for new stories in this world. And I, for one, will be snapping up any sequels.
September 27, 2017
Sunburner (Moonburner Cycle Book 2) by Claire Luana is the second book in her Moonburner Cycle series. I highly suggest that you read the first book, Moonburner first as this one picks up where the other left off. I enjoyed her first book and I enjoyed this one even more. Her writing style is such that it will pull you in from the first word and keep you engaged until the last word. Her creative details are full of suspense, action and keep the story flowing. Her characters are creative, connectable and will take you on a few twists and turns that you just won't see coming. They will pull you into their world and leave you sitting on the edge of your seat just waiting to see what will happen next. I enjoyed how this author incorporated the plot from Moonburner into this story also. In this story you will that Kai and Quitsu are still trying to solve the mystery of why the land is still dying. The gods are just unhappy that there is a piece between Moonburners and Sunburners. Kai and Hiru's relationship has grown into love but that is forbidden as Kai is a Moonburner and Hiru is a Sunburner. They both have enemies but the problem becomes that they can't tell one from friend to enemy. Together they try to find out why the gods are so angry that the war is over, there is peace. In this story nothing appears to be what it really is which will cause some dangerous situations. Secrets are kept from each other but neither one will ask them to give up their kingdom. What choice will they have to make? What will they chose, land or love? These are two very strong characters. Kai is independent but there is a sensitive side to her when it comes to Hiru. Hiru just wants to protect Kai but protecting her could mean letting her go. They are both determined to solve the mystery and to keep their kingdoms safe. The secondary characters just add to their story. They are just as strong and keep things flowing. You never know who is good or who is nice because they may not be who they say they are. I hope to see a few of these characters in future books with their own stories. I highly recommend this story as I know you will want to see what nail biting action Kai and Hiru gets themselves into. You will also need to know if these two find a way to have their kingdoms and their love at the same time.
June 18, 2019
'Moonburner' introduced us to the magical world of Kita and Miina. It focused on the relationship between the moonburners and sunburners, briefly touching upon the mythology of the kingdoms.
'Sunburner' felt otherworldly in comparison. It expanded on the world even further, delved into its creation, with a huge focus on the mythology. Gods, demons, spirits, occultists — the battles were bigger, the enemies more deadly, the world more at stake...
Just like the previous book, it took a while for me to get into the story. I found myself a little bored towards the first half, but things got better as I read on.
In terms of action and adventure, this book easily surpasses the first. There's a lot more fighting and battling, all tense and exciting to read — this aspect is definitely the book's major strength.
However, in terms of plot, I think it was more straightforward; there were fewer twists and turns, although this was made up for with more action. Personally, I preferred the mystery and plotting of the previous book, but that's just me.
The bad guys were bad and evil and sought darkness and destruction, but they weren't very memorable in my opinion. I was slightly disappointed in the lack of a strong, interesting villain, since that was one of my favourite parts of the first book — the villain was just so good! (well, bad, but you get it...)
Again, this is more of a personal preference.
We were introduced to a new character, Colum, who I liked a lot, and I also liked how much Daarco developed in this book, considering how much I hated him at first. Kai also grows as a person and as queen; she learns how to handle tough decisions and how to deal with the wrong ones.
The romance skipped a year at the beginning so I didn't feel as connected to it. Or maybe Kai and Hiro are just kind of flat together. Although, I think I did eventually start to warm to them later on in the story. There was also another romance slowly brewing in the background that had way more chemistry and they were so cute together, I wish we got to see more of their relationship.
Some of these comments are personal nitpicks. I am probably being too harsh since I did love the first book. 'Sunburner' is still a great book with much to enjoy — an action-filled fantasy adventure.
'Sunburner' felt otherworldly in comparison. It expanded on the world even further, delved into its creation, with a huge focus on the mythology. Gods, demons, spirits, occultists — the battles were bigger, the enemies more deadly, the world more at stake...
Just like the previous book, it took a while for me to get into the story. I found myself a little bored towards the first half, but things got better as I read on.
In terms of action and adventure, this book easily surpasses the first. There's a lot more fighting and battling, all tense and exciting to read — this aspect is definitely the book's major strength.
However, in terms of plot, I think it was more straightforward; there were fewer twists and turns, although this was made up for with more action. Personally, I preferred the mystery and plotting of the previous book, but that's just me.
The bad guys were bad and evil and sought darkness and destruction, but they weren't very memorable in my opinion. I was slightly disappointed in the lack of a strong, interesting villain, since that was one of my favourite parts of the first book — the villain was just so good! (well, bad, but you get it...)
Again, this is more of a personal preference.
We were introduced to a new character, Colum, who I liked a lot, and I also liked how much Daarco developed in this book, considering how much I hated him at first. Kai also grows as a person and as queen; she learns how to handle tough decisions and how to deal with the wrong ones.
The romance skipped a year at the beginning so I didn't feel as connected to it. Or maybe Kai and Hiro are just kind of flat together. Although, I think I did eventually start to warm to them later on in the story. There was also another romance slowly brewing in the background that had way more chemistry and they were so cute together, I wish we got to see more of their relationship.
Some of these comments are personal nitpicks. I am probably being too harsh since I did love the first book. 'Sunburner' is still a great book with much to enjoy — an action-filled fantasy adventure.
September 27, 2017
Sunburner (Moonburner Cycle Book 2)
By: Claire Luana
5 out of 5 stars
The story Sunburner (Moonburner Cycle Book 2) by Claire Luana is a myths and legends/fantasy book. This is an amazing story that I loved reading. It has action, danger, mystery, and romance. I loved the first book in the series and was excited to see that the next story has been released. Kai and Prince Hiro are my favorite characters. Kai is a leader that worries about her people. She is one to think of them first before herself. That is one of the reasons that I love her character so much. Hiro is in love with Kai and wants to protect her. Kai feels like he is overprotective. Will this cause a rift in their relationship? This story finds both the moon and sunburners dealing with situations that include drought and sickness. The situation has become serious and the answers to why this is happening and how to fix it become a priority. Thus starts a story that had me on the edge of my seat and wondering just what was going to happen next. There are plenty of surprises and revelations along the way. New enemies make themselves known and work their hardest to make sure that all efforts fail. I love the attention to detail that the author gives when relaying the prophecies and stories of the past. This is also the case when describing the different places that the characters go to. Such detail made the story come alive for me. There are quite a lot of characters in the story. Some of them I remembered from the first book and others are brand new. Not all of them are who they appear to be and some are working for the evil that would have the moon and sunburners at war with each other again. Who will prevail? This is an author that has created a wonderful story and series with amazing characters. I didn’t want to put this book down until I had finished the last page. I can’t wait to read what she writes next.
By: Claire Luana
5 out of 5 stars
The story Sunburner (Moonburner Cycle Book 2) by Claire Luana is a myths and legends/fantasy book. This is an amazing story that I loved reading. It has action, danger, mystery, and romance. I loved the first book in the series and was excited to see that the next story has been released. Kai and Prince Hiro are my favorite characters. Kai is a leader that worries about her people. She is one to think of them first before herself. That is one of the reasons that I love her character so much. Hiro is in love with Kai and wants to protect her. Kai feels like he is overprotective. Will this cause a rift in their relationship? This story finds both the moon and sunburners dealing with situations that include drought and sickness. The situation has become serious and the answers to why this is happening and how to fix it become a priority. Thus starts a story that had me on the edge of my seat and wondering just what was going to happen next. There are plenty of surprises and revelations along the way. New enemies make themselves known and work their hardest to make sure that all efforts fail. I love the attention to detail that the author gives when relaying the prophecies and stories of the past. This is also the case when describing the different places that the characters go to. Such detail made the story come alive for me. There are quite a lot of characters in the story. Some of them I remembered from the first book and others are brand new. Not all of them are who they appear to be and some are working for the evil that would have the moon and sunburners at war with each other again. Who will prevail? This is an author that has created a wonderful story and series with amazing characters. I didn’t want to put this book down until I had finished the last page. I can’t wait to read what she writes next.
September 27, 2017
Claire Luana shines in a brilliant fantasy novel about trying to reconcile two sides of a war. The sunburners and moonburners, both with amazing mystical powers, have formed an alliance under queen Kai's leadership. However, when old demons return and wreck natural disasters on the kingdom of Miina, peaceful relationships are put to the test. Meanwhile, Kai and her fiancee Hiro and a group of friends journey to find the answer to their problems, facing many dangers of demons and killer trees along the way. They find the elder seishen in the forest, only to discover the gods Tsuki and Taiyo are demons in disguise and the real gods are in captivity and must be released to solve their problrms. Meanwhile, riots occur in Miina alongside fatal spotted fevers. An old foe Geisa escapes. Despite this, Kai and her friends set out to find and free the gods. They face many perils from the resl world and spirit world alike. Will they be able to free the gods and convince them to help the burners? their whole future depends on it....
A fantastic novel. Beautifully written. Worlds of Miina and Kita are built perfectly and have excellent backstories hinted at in reminiscence, flashback, and Maaya. The whole sfory is packed with beautifully visual detail and description which I adored, for example the scenes in the box and the island of the elder. The seishen spirits were written well and reminded me a little of the daemons in The Northern Lights which I have been studying recently. i liked the fact the villian Geisha had more to her story as a villainand that the expectation for Daarco to be a villain was turned on its hesd. i liked the recurring opposites of the sun and the moon. Well developed characters., and i particualrly loved the Vita and Jouron librarian figures. an excellently written plot with exciting twists and turns that I just couldnt put doen. Overall,a fantastic novel and I would give it five stars. I cant wait for the next installment of this wonderful series!
A fantastic novel. Beautifully written. Worlds of Miina and Kita are built perfectly and have excellent backstories hinted at in reminiscence, flashback, and Maaya. The whole sfory is packed with beautifully visual detail and description which I adored, for example the scenes in the box and the island of the elder. The seishen spirits were written well and reminded me a little of the daemons in The Northern Lights which I have been studying recently. i liked the fact the villian Geisha had more to her story as a villainand that the expectation for Daarco to be a villain was turned on its hesd. i liked the recurring opposites of the sun and the moon. Well developed characters., and i particualrly loved the Vita and Jouron librarian figures. an excellently written plot with exciting twists and turns that I just couldnt put doen. Overall,a fantastic novel and I would give it five stars. I cant wait for the next installment of this wonderful series!
February 20, 2018
A great sequel to Moonburner. It's rare that a second book can so well match or come close to the first. This one managed to do just that.
Kai and Hiro are back. They've won the day and brought peace to their kingdoms. But the land itself seems to be against this new peace. While many suspect that the gods are angry about the lack of war, Kai thinks there's more to it.
What she finds out is even more terrifying then what the people believe. Time is running out for her as disease, famine, and drought sweep across the land.
My only quibble is that the short antagonist povs hid his name. It was so obvious the minute the guy showed up in Kai's pov who he was. I was like, yep, that's him. Process of elimination. We know it's a sunburner who is going to need to be near Kai to do whatever evil thing he has to do. That narrows it down to three sunburners who arrive near the beginning of the book. Filing away the rest of the hints we've picked up, yeah, I knew who he was as soon as he climbed off his mount. It only gets more obvious.
I can get behind Kai not figuring it out because she didn't see his pov like the reader, but I hate it when the author tries so hard to hide something from the reader that's just too obvious. It's like standing in front of an elephant and expecting me not to know what's behind you. Either don't try to hide it or hide something like a cracker.
That aside, there's perilous journeys with new dangers. Lots of old faces and some new ones. More awesome action from the seishen(mostly Quitsu who is amazing). A little bit of romance when they find time between Hiro and Kai. A shocking new twist that I certainly didn't see coming when Kai finds out that someone in her council is more to her than she thought.
An epic ending battle where I was so not sure how they were going to pull out a win, and overall just a well-paced book that kept me flipping pages as fast as I could read them.
Kai and Hiro are back. They've won the day and brought peace to their kingdoms. But the land itself seems to be against this new peace. While many suspect that the gods are angry about the lack of war, Kai thinks there's more to it.
What she finds out is even more terrifying then what the people believe. Time is running out for her as disease, famine, and drought sweep across the land.
My only quibble is that the short antagonist povs hid his name. It was so obvious the minute the guy showed up in Kai's pov who he was. I was like, yep, that's him. Process of elimination. We know it's a sunburner who is going to need to be near Kai to do whatever evil thing he has to do. That narrows it down to three sunburners who arrive near the beginning of the book. Filing away the rest of the hints we've picked up, yeah, I knew who he was as soon as he climbed off his mount. It only gets more obvious.
I can get behind Kai not figuring it out because she didn't see his pov like the reader, but I hate it when the author tries so hard to hide something from the reader that's just too obvious. It's like standing in front of an elephant and expecting me not to know what's behind you. Either don't try to hide it or hide something like a cracker.
That aside, there's perilous journeys with new dangers. Lots of old faces and some new ones. More awesome action from the seishen(mostly Quitsu who is amazing). A little bit of romance when they find time between Hiro and Kai. A shocking new twist that I certainly didn't see coming when Kai finds out that someone in her council is more to her than she thought.
An epic ending battle where I was so not sure how they were going to pull out a win, and overall just a well-paced book that kept me flipping pages as fast as I could read them.
October 9, 2017
Sunburner is the second book in the Moonburner Cycle Series by Claire Luana.
As I was reading this book I kept thinking that it would make a spectacular Anime. It’s got spirit animals, demons, Moonburners (people who get their powers from the Moon), Sunburners (people who get their powers from the Sun), ancient gods, traitors, love tested by trial, and an evil plot to take over the world with darkness…what more could you ask for?
I identified with the main character, Kai a lot. She has a good heart and good intentions, but somehow her choices are not leading her kingdom down the road she though they would. There is a drought and an unnatural illness plaguing her land and the people are blaming it on her. Her subjects think that her decision to make peace with the Sunburner kingdom has angered the gods and brought misfortune upon them.
As Kai seeks answers to the problems piling up, she ends up contracting the mysterious illness and is thrown into the spirit realm where she visits with the Creator. When she is thrust back into the physical realm she can’t remember anything that happened while she was out, but she now carries a mysterious hand print on her body.
As time passes Kai and her companions uncover a plot from the demons that reside in the demon realm. They embark upon a journey that tests their faith, their relationships, and their strength as they race against time to find a way to stop the demons and the humans working with them.
I loved this book. This book can be read as a standalone book, which was also good since I have not had a chance to read the first one yet.
As I was reading this book I kept thinking that it would make a spectacular Anime. It’s got spirit animals, demons, Moonburners (people who get their powers from the Moon), Sunburners (people who get their powers from the Sun), ancient gods, traitors, love tested by trial, and an evil plot to take over the world with darkness…what more could you ask for?
I identified with the main character, Kai a lot. She has a good heart and good intentions, but somehow her choices are not leading her kingdom down the road she though they would. There is a drought and an unnatural illness plaguing her land and the people are blaming it on her. Her subjects think that her decision to make peace with the Sunburner kingdom has angered the gods and brought misfortune upon them.
As Kai seeks answers to the problems piling up, she ends up contracting the mysterious illness and is thrown into the spirit realm where she visits with the Creator. When she is thrust back into the physical realm she can’t remember anything that happened while she was out, but she now carries a mysterious hand print on her body.
As time passes Kai and her companions uncover a plot from the demons that reside in the demon realm. They embark upon a journey that tests their faith, their relationships, and their strength as they race against time to find a way to stop the demons and the humans working with them.
I loved this book. This book can be read as a standalone book, which was also good since I have not had a chance to read the first one yet.
December 13, 2017
The sequel isn't as good as the original Moonburner. In a lot of ways, I wish I'd stopped reading after the first book.
The complexity offered in Moonburner is severely lacking. While characters still show signs of war trauma, much of it is wrapped up in a neat bow. It all feels too clean and neat.
Kai and her love interest are flat and bland. Their sesshien are given lesser rolls, like now that they've identified their owners as "special" there is ver little for them to do. I don't know that either of the beings has an personality or reason to exist in these books.
Kai also suffers from some kind of "supreme special" solution. Her very flat one dimensional existence is treated like a deus ex machina. I'm disappointed with how "chose ones" this story went. The one interesting-ish detail added is also ruined. Spoiler alert: Chiya as Kai's sister is the rightful heir to the thrown, and this had real potential to be an interesting side arc. Instead it's solved with a "sad" death scene. Except it's not sad, we've never really gotten a chance to connect with Chiya. The "wrinkle" that Chiya may take over the thrown after the Tengu war becomes one more coincidental character connection created in place of actual personality and emotional connection.
I was personally bothered by most of the creative choices made in this story. That said, the writing style is pleasant. I can see Sunburner appealing to younger teens who need to know what happens to Kai and her romantic interest.
The complexity offered in Moonburner is severely lacking. While characters still show signs of war trauma, much of it is wrapped up in a neat bow. It all feels too clean and neat.
Kai and her love interest are flat and bland. Their sesshien are given lesser rolls, like now that they've identified their owners as "special" there is ver little for them to do. I don't know that either of the beings has an personality or reason to exist in these books.
Kai also suffers from some kind of "supreme special" solution. Her very flat one dimensional existence is treated like a deus ex machina. I'm disappointed with how "chose ones" this story went. The one interesting-ish detail added is also ruined. Spoiler alert: Chiya as Kai's sister is the rightful heir to the thrown, and this had real potential to be an interesting side arc. Instead it's solved with a "sad" death scene. Except it's not sad, we've never really gotten a chance to connect with Chiya. The "wrinkle" that Chiya may take over the thrown after the Tengu war becomes one more coincidental character connection created in place of actual personality and emotional connection.
I was personally bothered by most of the creative choices made in this story. That said, the writing style is pleasant. I can see Sunburner appealing to younger teens who need to know what happens to Kai and her romantic interest.
September 27, 2017
I read book one and loved it. Well, with book two I need to find an adjective that is stronger than love. This second book was amazing, wonderful, terrific, fantastic, and whatever positive adjective I can use. Before I go on, let me say that even though you could start with this book, but I think you would get way more enjoyment out of it if you read book one first. The other thing I need to let you know you could easily finish both books in a weekend.
The plot of this book is face-paced and will speed the reader to the end. As I read it, I could not read it fast enough because I wanted to know what came next. The characters are so well developed they felt like real people. It was more than just seeing them in my mind's eye. The author created character paintings using words, dialog, setting, and conflict.
As with every fantasy book, world building is crucial. This world felt like my world. There were times when I knew what happened next, not because it was predictable, but rather because the author set everything up so well I KNEW this world.
There is nothing deep or worldly insight in this story. However, it was completely enjoyable and for a few hours I escape my ordinary life and walked in the shoes of one rockstar queen who will do anything to save her people.
The plot of this book is face-paced and will speed the reader to the end. As I read it, I could not read it fast enough because I wanted to know what came next. The characters are so well developed they felt like real people. It was more than just seeing them in my mind's eye. The author created character paintings using words, dialog, setting, and conflict.
As with every fantasy book, world building is crucial. This world felt like my world. There were times when I knew what happened next, not because it was predictable, but rather because the author set everything up so well I KNEW this world.
There is nothing deep or worldly insight in this story. However, it was completely enjoyable and for a few hours I escape my ordinary life and walked in the shoes of one rockstar queen who will do anything to save her people.
September 28, 2017
Sunburner by Claire Luana is the second in the Moonburner Cycle. Definitely needs to be read in order but is worth your time to do so! This book picks up at the end of the first book and is a continuation of the great writing and inventive storytelling we saw in book one.
Kai now finds herself fighting a new and different battle than she was used to before - the battle to keep the two united sides together, even while the gods appear to be displeased with them. With natural disasters occurring constantly Kai is desperate to find a solution that will not only help the people but secure the tenuous alliance.
With Hiro's help Kai sets out on a dangerous mission which leads her to an unexpected discovery. A discovery that could change everything they have been fighting for. With time against them Kai rushes to utilise heir new knowledge for the benefit of the people.
But what is the new knowledge isn't all she thought it was? With new enemies and hidden agendas Kai just learn how to fight now only a war but also herself.
This was just as gripping and enjoyable as the first book. With a story similar but also completely different than the first I found myself hooked from page 1. This is a great series that everyone needs to read.
Kai now finds herself fighting a new and different battle than she was used to before - the battle to keep the two united sides together, even while the gods appear to be displeased with them. With natural disasters occurring constantly Kai is desperate to find a solution that will not only help the people but secure the tenuous alliance.
With Hiro's help Kai sets out on a dangerous mission which leads her to an unexpected discovery. A discovery that could change everything they have been fighting for. With time against them Kai rushes to utilise heir new knowledge for the benefit of the people.
But what is the new knowledge isn't all she thought it was? With new enemies and hidden agendas Kai just learn how to fight now only a war but also herself.
This was just as gripping and enjoyable as the first book. With a story similar but also completely different than the first I found myself hooked from page 1. This is a great series that everyone needs to read.
October 11, 2017
I give Sunburner (book 2 in the Moonburner Cycle series) by Claire Luana, 5 stars.
Wow. This was such an epic novel. This is one of those books that will just blow you away. It is book two of the series, so I do recommend reading book one first to understand this one a little better. This story just left me speechless. I have read quite a few books between this and Moonburner (book 1), so it took me a little while to get back into the story. Once I was though, I was completely swept away by what was happening and was totally submerged in the story.
Kai is such a strong character, as is every one of the people in this fight. Many have had to step up and become more than they were. And most gladly do. Of course, there are those who choose to side with the darker side too. There are also some new characters you will meet too that will surprise you.
As for the story itself -- well you have to read it to understand. This author is such an amazing storyteller. It is categorized as a YA fantasy, but that is only because of the ages of the main characters. This series appeals to all ages. This is one of those series that you should read, recommend to everyone, and be proud to have experienced this wonderful tale.
Wow. This was such an epic novel. This is one of those books that will just blow you away. It is book two of the series, so I do recommend reading book one first to understand this one a little better. This story just left me speechless. I have read quite a few books between this and Moonburner (book 1), so it took me a little while to get back into the story. Once I was though, I was completely swept away by what was happening and was totally submerged in the story.
Kai is such a strong character, as is every one of the people in this fight. Many have had to step up and become more than they were. And most gladly do. Of course, there are those who choose to side with the darker side too. There are also some new characters you will meet too that will surprise you.
As for the story itself -- well you have to read it to understand. This author is such an amazing storyteller. It is categorized as a YA fantasy, but that is only because of the ages of the main characters. This series appeals to all ages. This is one of those series that you should read, recommend to everyone, and be proud to have experienced this wonderful tale.
October 10, 2017
I was so excited to get the sequel to Moonburner and I was not disappointed! More and more the characters in this series remind me of ATLA and just like I could watch that series over and over, this is definitely a book series I will reread many, many times.
We start this book off about a year after the first and things are not looking good. The oracle’s prophecy is starting to really scare people but Kai is such a soulful and caring person that even though she’s a little concerned for her place on the throne of Miina, she has so much more concern for the welfare of her people. It says so much about a ruler to care that deeply for their subjects and I think she has found a better than perfect match in Hiro. He has just as much care for the people of his own kingdom as he does for Kai. The interactions between the two aren’t just formal or lovey-dovey. The have some real conflict and I really appreciate that a more realistic relationship is portrayed on paper than ones I’ve read that are all sunshine and rainbows.
I discovered that there is a prequel to this series called Burning Fate and I can’t wait to get my hands on it! There is so much that I want to know about the history of this world.
We start this book off about a year after the first and things are not looking good. The oracle’s prophecy is starting to really scare people but Kai is such a soulful and caring person that even though she’s a little concerned for her place on the throne of Miina, she has so much more concern for the welfare of her people. It says so much about a ruler to care that deeply for their subjects and I think she has found a better than perfect match in Hiro. He has just as much care for the people of his own kingdom as he does for Kai. The interactions between the two aren’t just formal or lovey-dovey. The have some real conflict and I really appreciate that a more realistic relationship is portrayed on paper than ones I’ve read that are all sunshine and rainbows.
I discovered that there is a prequel to this series called Burning Fate and I can’t wait to get my hands on it! There is so much that I want to know about the history of this world.
October 11, 2017
The second book in the Moonburner cycle book confused me at first, and it took me about a hundred pages to grasp entirely the situation, but that was because I read the second book first. As soon as I opened the book, though, it immediately sucked me in. Kai is such a strong female role model I couldn’t help but love her, and the relationship between her and Hiro is so cute I couldn’t help but root for them every time I read a paragraph about them. Even if this love is forbidden, as one is a moonburner and one a sunburner, it just makes you want to cheer for them all the more. This book was the epitome of a fantasy tale. It had legends and mystery, magic and Gods. It has all the makings of being a grand epoch.I loved that this was a quest based adventure, reminding me of dungeons and dragons on a much grander scale. Going across the world to find the solution to national disasters, working together to collaborate a cure, it was almost too much! I definitely picked up on the parallels between an Asian Inspired fantasy world and the world of Sunburner. I love Asian lore, and legend, and this book was no exception. The tales it weaved, the flashbacks to the past, all created a vivid panorama. I can’t wait to read more from this author, and eagerly!
September 28, 2017
Sunburner is the second book in the Moonburner Cycle by Claire Luana and the story continues on where we see our the return of our favorite characters and new ones to boot. In this mythical fantasy book there is a bit of everything you could want, a lot of action, danger and mystery with a little romance thrown in as well.
Claire has woven great fantasy and created characters that are well developed and you feel as though you are going on this gripping journey with them in this magical world. The story is fast paced but you will not be able to read it fast enough because you keep wanting to know what will happen next.
Just when they thought they were free of war, they learn that there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the hell that has been unleashed in their world. Will Moonburners and Sunburners be able to come together to fight the evil that is literally destroying their world? Will they find the key to saving everything and everyone they hold dear? Our heroine and her hero who will do anything to save their people.
I enjoyed these books and highly recommend the Moonburner Cycle novels that will keep you engaged right the way through.
Claire has woven great fantasy and created characters that are well developed and you feel as though you are going on this gripping journey with them in this magical world. The story is fast paced but you will not be able to read it fast enough because you keep wanting to know what will happen next.
Just when they thought they were free of war, they learn that there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the hell that has been unleashed in their world. Will Moonburners and Sunburners be able to come together to fight the evil that is literally destroying their world? Will they find the key to saving everything and everyone they hold dear? Our heroine and her hero who will do anything to save their people.
I enjoyed these books and highly recommend the Moonburner Cycle novels that will keep you engaged right the way through.
October 11, 2017
5 Star
Sunburner (Moonburner Cycle Book 2) By Claire Luana
Sunburner (Moonburner Cycle Book 2) By Claire Luana is the second book in the Moonburner a cycle series..I was instantly hooked and had a hard time putting it down once I started reading. I highly recommend if you haven't already read the first book in this series that you go back and read it,as this one picks up where Moonburner leaves off.This story will have you on the edge of your seat ,with a few twists and turns you truly don't see coming..In this story Kai and Quitsu are still trying to solve the mystery of the land and why it's still dying.The God's aren't happy about the Peice between the Moonburner andSunburners.The issue becomes they can't tell friend from enemy. The relationship between Kai and Hiru's has grown into love but it's forbidden ,because Kai is a Moonburner and Hiru is a Sunburner. What happens with these two?As ice already said I highly recommend this book as well as the first book in this series. I absolutely look forward to reading more from this author.
Sunburner (Moonburner Cycle Book 2) By Claire Luana
Sunburner (Moonburner Cycle Book 2) By Claire Luana is the second book in the Moonburner a cycle series..I was instantly hooked and had a hard time putting it down once I started reading. I highly recommend if you haven't already read the first book in this series that you go back and read it,as this one picks up where Moonburner leaves off.This story will have you on the edge of your seat ,with a few twists and turns you truly don't see coming..In this story Kai and Quitsu are still trying to solve the mystery of the land and why it's still dying.The God's aren't happy about the Peice between the Moonburner andSunburners.The issue becomes they can't tell friend from enemy. The relationship between Kai and Hiru's has grown into love but it's forbidden ,because Kai is a Moonburner and Hiru is a Sunburner. What happens with these two?As ice already said I highly recommend this book as well as the first book in this series. I absolutely look forward to reading more from this author.
October 12, 2017
Sunburner (Moonburner Cycle Book #2)
By Claire Luana
5 Stars
Sunburner by Claire Luana is a five-star read and it is a sequel to the first book Moonburner and it must be read first to understand the story. This is an amazing story with plenty of surprises and plot twists for Kai and Hiro.
The land is still dying even after the defeat of Kai’s aunt the previous queen. The gods remain unhappy with the moonburners and sunburners attempt at peace.
Hiro, a sunburner prince, is helping Kai, a moonburner queen, through the transition. Difficulties of enemies have proven a challenge to Kai and Hiro, as their feelings grow for the unlikely pair. Kai and Hiro are trying to figure out why the gods continue to be angry with them, so they travel to try and figure out how to save their kingdoms.
What happens as feelings grow and their kingdoms need to be protected? What happens when the ones you trust are the ones who betray you? A battling is brewing to keep their kingdoms’ in total darkness and both sides are willing to fight.
By Claire Luana
5 Stars
Sunburner by Claire Luana is a five-star read and it is a sequel to the first book Moonburner and it must be read first to understand the story. This is an amazing story with plenty of surprises and plot twists for Kai and Hiro.
The land is still dying even after the defeat of Kai’s aunt the previous queen. The gods remain unhappy with the moonburners and sunburners attempt at peace.
Hiro, a sunburner prince, is helping Kai, a moonburner queen, through the transition. Difficulties of enemies have proven a challenge to Kai and Hiro, as their feelings grow for the unlikely pair. Kai and Hiro are trying to figure out why the gods continue to be angry with them, so they travel to try and figure out how to save their kingdoms.
What happens as feelings grow and their kingdoms need to be protected? What happens when the ones you trust are the ones who betray you? A battling is brewing to keep their kingdoms’ in total darkness and both sides are willing to fight.
February 8, 2020
Claire Luana's Sunburner is an amazing sequel to Moonburner. I believe that the antagonists in this book were exceptionally unique. Instead of moonburner against sunburner, it was burners against larger forces. The book was SO captivating, it was hard to put it down. It has been a while since I've been able to read a series without getting bored of the books.
I was able to connect with Kai more compared to Moonburner. Kai struggled with lots of circumstances, but continued to try her very best. The fact that the book also contained passages from Hiro's point of view made it more enjoyable. It gave me more insight in the way he saw Kai. It made me love their relationship even more.
I'll admit, the books aren't perfect. It still has some plotholes. But for me, the most important aspect of reading is that I enjoy it. I don't feeling that finishing the book is a task. I want to feel sad because the book is finished whilst I wanted to read more. Sunburner managed to do just that. I can't wait to start Starburner and read more about this world.
Enjoy your read!
I was able to connect with Kai more compared to Moonburner. Kai struggled with lots of circumstances, but continued to try her very best. The fact that the book also contained passages from Hiro's point of view made it more enjoyable. It gave me more insight in the way he saw Kai. It made me love their relationship even more.
I'll admit, the books aren't perfect. It still has some plotholes. But for me, the most important aspect of reading is that I enjoy it. I don't feeling that finishing the book is a task. I want to feel sad because the book is finished whilst I wanted to read more. Sunburner managed to do just that. I can't wait to start Starburner and read more about this world.
Enjoy your read!
October 12, 2017
What a great book!! If I could give this sequel to Moonburner more than five stars, I would. Sunburner by Clair Luana is just that good. It’s not often that the sequel lives up to the first book, but Sunburner certainly did. I came close to tears, I was that involved with the characters. The love expressed by Kai and Hiro was one of the many things that I loved about this book. They have some problems with respect which is rarely seen in books with heroes and heroines in them.
This story is amazing. The detail given by Ms. Luana brings the action right into your lap. From page one to the last page, I was spell bound. Ms. Luana gave intricate and detailed descriptions on every aspect of this world and the characters in it. She clearly demonstrated her ability to create a fascinating world populated by fascinating people.
Brava Ms. Luana!! I am hoping for one more story, at least, from this world. Prehaps about our errant lovers?
This story is amazing. The detail given by Ms. Luana brings the action right into your lap. From page one to the last page, I was spell bound. Ms. Luana gave intricate and detailed descriptions on every aspect of this world and the characters in it. She clearly demonstrated her ability to create a fascinating world populated by fascinating people.
Brava Ms. Luana!! I am hoping for one more story, at least, from this world. Prehaps about our errant lovers?
October 10, 2017
A wonderful fanasty story that will take you into another world. I absolutely loved this book and looking forward to seeing what is going to happen next. Everything was just brilliant. The writing was excellent and you can imagine yourself in this world with them. So very creative.
I loved how it leaves off from the first book. All the characters return and Kai and Hiro's relationship grows. The characters were great and well thought on. I would highly recommend reading the first book so you know more what happens.
The storyline was great and went at an easy pace. I was hooked from the start. I am looking forward to seeing more of the characters stories it seemed like there story ended a little too soon but hopefully there is more to come.
Highly recommend to Fanatasy readers.
I loved how it leaves off from the first book. All the characters return and Kai and Hiro's relationship grows. The characters were great and well thought on. I would highly recommend reading the first book so you know more what happens.
The storyline was great and went at an easy pace. I was hooked from the start. I am looking forward to seeing more of the characters stories it seemed like there story ended a little too soon but hopefully there is more to come.
Highly recommend to Fanatasy readers.
October 11, 2017
Sunburner by Claire Luana
5 stars!!
Delve into the supernatural world with Gods and Goddesses in Claire Luana's Sunburners. I throughly enjoyed the fast paced story. In the mix of the threat of war is the love between Kai and Hiro making for some very heart wrenching moments where you just cant wait to turn the page to find out the outcome. The threatening war and the underlying cause of it draw the reader into this first person pov book.
I was on the edge of my seat whilest I was reading this book. Claire Luana has created such an eventfull world through this book and the use of the different plains and levels of beings just adds to the flow of the book. The reader is pulled into the world of the Sun and Moon and the evil that is out to try and bring it into darkness. Making this a very good read.
5 stars!!
Delve into the supernatural world with Gods and Goddesses in Claire Luana's Sunburners. I throughly enjoyed the fast paced story. In the mix of the threat of war is the love between Kai and Hiro making for some very heart wrenching moments where you just cant wait to turn the page to find out the outcome. The threatening war and the underlying cause of it draw the reader into this first person pov book.
I was on the edge of my seat whilest I was reading this book. Claire Luana has created such an eventfull world through this book and the use of the different plains and levels of beings just adds to the flow of the book. The reader is pulled into the world of the Sun and Moon and the evil that is out to try and bring it into darkness. Making this a very good read.
September 29, 2017
Sunburner is the second novel in the Moonburner Cycle series by Claire Luana. This is my second novel by this author.
Continuing where the first novel left off, Kai is struggling with being queen. She is also not sure why the Gods are upset about the peace between Sunburners and Moonburners. Her relationship with Hiru is still forbidden because she is Moonburner and he is Sunburner. They start on journey to find out what the Gods are mad and why the land is still dying.
This was a such a faced paced novel that kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the relationship between Kai and Hiru, forbidden love always makes me want to know if they are able to stay together or not.
This novel had mystery, great plot, amazing characters, and an amazing cover. I would recommend it.
Continuing where the first novel left off, Kai is struggling with being queen. She is also not sure why the Gods are upset about the peace between Sunburners and Moonburners. Her relationship with Hiru is still forbidden because she is Moonburner and he is Sunburner. They start on journey to find out what the Gods are mad and why the land is still dying.
This was a such a faced paced novel that kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the relationship between Kai and Hiru, forbidden love always makes me want to know if they are able to stay together or not.
This novel had mystery, great plot, amazing characters, and an amazing cover. I would recommend it.
October 12, 2017
Sunburner (Moonburner Cycle Book 2) by Claire Luana – 4 stars
I did not read Moonburner first and it took me just a little bit to catch on to what was happening. Claire Luana wrote a very detailed epic novel with lots of characters and new worlds. At the heart of the story is the moral of good vs evil. Two worlds come together – Kai is a Moonburner and Hiru is a Sunburner. The two are not supposed to work together as their people are pitted against each other, but love overcomes all obstacles. Kind of a Romeo and Juliet tale, if you will.
This story has twists and turns and flows well from beginning to end. There are mysteries and secrets and so much more. It is not typically the type of story that I enjoy reading so I’m glad I picked this book up.
I did not read Moonburner first and it took me just a little bit to catch on to what was happening. Claire Luana wrote a very detailed epic novel with lots of characters and new worlds. At the heart of the story is the moral of good vs evil. Two worlds come together – Kai is a Moonburner and Hiru is a Sunburner. The two are not supposed to work together as their people are pitted against each other, but love overcomes all obstacles. Kind of a Romeo and Juliet tale, if you will.
This story has twists and turns and flows well from beginning to end. There are mysteries and secrets and so much more. It is not typically the type of story that I enjoy reading so I’m glad I picked this book up.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews