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Wielders of Arantha #2
Queens
A cosmic game of chess is underway, and the planet Elystra is the board.
Earth pilot Maeve and her son Davin have joined the Ixtrayu, hoping to avert the destruction that their leader, Kelia, has foretold. But will Maeve's burgeoning Wielding powers be enough to thwart the machinations of Elzor and his lightning-wielding sister, Elzaria, before everything the Ixtrayu have ever known is destroyed in Elzor's quest for ultimate power?
Queens is Part Two in the Wielders of Arantha trilogy. If you love science fiction or fantasy, then this series will thrill and enthrall you!
Earth pilot Maeve and her son Davin have joined the Ixtrayu, hoping to avert the destruction that their leader, Kelia, has foretold. But will Maeve's burgeoning Wielding powers be enough to thwart the machinations of Elzor and his lightning-wielding sister, Elzaria, before everything the Ixtrayu have ever known is destroyed in Elzor's quest for ultimate power?
Queens is Part Two in the Wielders of Arantha trilogy. If you love science fiction or fantasy, then this series will thrill and enthrall you!
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 22, 2017
6 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Patrick Hodges
48 books122 followersI guess I am the classic "late bloomer." I had to sit in the front row of the class picture every year in elementary school; I didn't reach my present, permanent height until the year I got my driver's license. It took me a long time to "grow up" mentally, too; I was probably the least goal-oriented person you could ever meet.
I always enjoyed reading books, though I was convinced that I was not, and never would be, creative enough to come up with an original idea or story without cobbling it together from things I'd already seen.
And so, in my mid-forties, imagine my surprise when a story was born inside my head, and nine months later had grown so large that I couldn't hold it in any more. I'm sure many writers tell similar origin stories, but I sure wouldn't wish a three-decade gap between high school Creative Writing class and, you know, writing something actually creative.
Better a "late bloomer" than a "never bloomer," I guess.
What else? Oh, yeah, I live in Arizona with my amazing wife Vaneza, and our kids, June, Benji, and Sunshine (two are dogs and one is a cat, I'll let you figure out which is which).
I always enjoyed reading books, though I was convinced that I was not, and never would be, creative enough to come up with an original idea or story without cobbling it together from things I'd already seen.
And so, in my mid-forties, imagine my surprise when a story was born inside my head, and nine months later had grown so large that I couldn't hold it in any more. I'm sure many writers tell similar origin stories, but I sure wouldn't wish a three-decade gap between high school Creative Writing class and, you know, writing something actually creative.
Better a "late bloomer" than a "never bloomer," I guess.
What else? Oh, yeah, I live in Arizona with my amazing wife Vaneza, and our kids, June, Benji, and Sunshine (two are dogs and one is a cat, I'll let you figure out which is which).
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 15, 2020
When you read the blurb about 'Queens' by Patrick Hodges, it tells you the book is a "cosmic game of chess" -- which is a perfect one-liner about the second book in this fantasy / sci-fi series, Wielders of Arantha, published by Creativia. Although this isn't my typical genre, I took a chance on the first book and enjoyed it so much, I took on the second this month. I didn't want to forget anything about the characters, plot, or imaginary world Hodges has created, so it was necessary!
The series focuses on 5 or 6 different groups of people some 700 years in the future on a planet, Elystra, that is most definitely not Earth. Earth, as we know it, really doesn't exist anymore due to an alien species, the Jegg. Each of the groups has their own culture, and they're battling one another to secure their own safety and to stay true to their god, Arantha, who goes by a few different names. The key storyline that connects everyone besides the quest for freedom or protection is how a tribe of women keep any female children born to them but return male children to the father who helped created them. The women go on a sojourn from time to time to ensure the future of their race, but this time, there's a lot more at stake.
After I finished the first book, I new I was a fan of Hodges writing style and storytelling abilities. Although it's definitely a fantasy novel ripe with primary characters ranging in age from 13 to 50, there are major components leaning toward the mysterious, romance, and young adult realms. At the same time, although there are a few somewhat intimate scenes (minor in my opinion), the love is seen through character interactions, voice, and dialog. Women bond to protect their race and a few trustworthy newcomers. Men bond because they know they need to stick together to fight a common enemy. Children rely on strangers to play parental roles when their own have been killed in battle. Friendship crosses species lines. There's a lot at play in this novel, and in the series as a whole, which make it intense, captivating, and tragic. It has everything I expect in the normal genres I read which makes it a complete surprise and welcome addition to my reading list.
Between the quest to locate all the stones, learning the history of how wielding (ability to cast lightning from your hands -- okay, it's more than that, but you have to read to understand it all) developed in different cultures, and genealogical research to discover all the connections between the different tribes or lands, it's a very well-crafted plot full of secrets, surprises, and scary drama. I usually take a week to read books like this, but I devoured it in two days this time. For the most part, it doesn't get technical or very sci-fi, which was probably good for me; however, there are definitely those moments which will appeal to mega fans of the genre. I see it as a cross between Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, Star Trek, The Hunger Games, and any contemporary fiction / modern family drama novel. It should appeal to a wide variety, and if you're not a fantasy fan, I wouldn't say no just because this is in that genre. You might be surprised by how quickly the series draws you in.
I will definitely read the third and final installment in the trilogy, probably in January, as I don't want to go too long and forget some of the details in the relationships and alliances. Although it wraps up a big piece of the storyline, a clever cliffhanger closes out this second book... hence why I must read the next one soon. The chess board has changed, and the game is now being played in a different way. I can't wait to find out who is behind the scenes... I'm thinking it's gonna go down like it did in Erin Morgenstern's The Night Circus. There's more to this chess board than we know, I'm quite confident. Bring it on, Hodges, where's the next installment!? Oh, that's right... available on Amazon right now: Endgame.
The series focuses on 5 or 6 different groups of people some 700 years in the future on a planet, Elystra, that is most definitely not Earth. Earth, as we know it, really doesn't exist anymore due to an alien species, the Jegg. Each of the groups has their own culture, and they're battling one another to secure their own safety and to stay true to their god, Arantha, who goes by a few different names. The key storyline that connects everyone besides the quest for freedom or protection is how a tribe of women keep any female children born to them but return male children to the father who helped created them. The women go on a sojourn from time to time to ensure the future of their race, but this time, there's a lot more at stake.
After I finished the first book, I new I was a fan of Hodges writing style and storytelling abilities. Although it's definitely a fantasy novel ripe with primary characters ranging in age from 13 to 50, there are major components leaning toward the mysterious, romance, and young adult realms. At the same time, although there are a few somewhat intimate scenes (minor in my opinion), the love is seen through character interactions, voice, and dialog. Women bond to protect their race and a few trustworthy newcomers. Men bond because they know they need to stick together to fight a common enemy. Children rely on strangers to play parental roles when their own have been killed in battle. Friendship crosses species lines. There's a lot at play in this novel, and in the series as a whole, which make it intense, captivating, and tragic. It has everything I expect in the normal genres I read which makes it a complete surprise and welcome addition to my reading list.
Between the quest to locate all the stones, learning the history of how wielding (ability to cast lightning from your hands -- okay, it's more than that, but you have to read to understand it all) developed in different cultures, and genealogical research to discover all the connections between the different tribes or lands, it's a very well-crafted plot full of secrets, surprises, and scary drama. I usually take a week to read books like this, but I devoured it in two days this time. For the most part, it doesn't get technical or very sci-fi, which was probably good for me; however, there are definitely those moments which will appeal to mega fans of the genre. I see it as a cross between Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, Star Trek, The Hunger Games, and any contemporary fiction / modern family drama novel. It should appeal to a wide variety, and if you're not a fantasy fan, I wouldn't say no just because this is in that genre. You might be surprised by how quickly the series draws you in.
I will definitely read the third and final installment in the trilogy, probably in January, as I don't want to go too long and forget some of the details in the relationships and alliances. Although it wraps up a big piece of the storyline, a clever cliffhanger closes out this second book... hence why I must read the next one soon. The chess board has changed, and the game is now being played in a different way. I can't wait to find out who is behind the scenes... I'm thinking it's gonna go down like it did in Erin Morgenstern's The Night Circus. There's more to this chess board than we know, I'm quite confident. Bring it on, Hodges, where's the next installment!? Oh, that's right... available on Amazon right now: Endgame.
September 24, 2017
That first book ended part way through the story, which was my only real complaint about it. Book II, Queens, picks up exactly where Book I ended and ups the stakes.
In addition to being a cracking good story to read, Hodges spends some time exploring the way our preconceived notions drive the way we do things. Most of Arantha cannot comprehend a woman that can wield the elements, while the women who walled themselves off from the world have difficulty imagining men who aren’t complete jerks. It’s kind of like the battle of the sexes on a global scale, except they come to the conclusion that there’s no real reason to be fighting, especially since a greater threat has arisen.
That’s another theme to the story, the idea that the things we do can have extremely long-lasting repercussions, the kind of stuff no one ever saw coming. Themes like these make for a resounding story and Hodges – originally a youth/YA author – handles the adult themes with aplomb.
Read the full review on my blog
In addition to being a cracking good story to read, Hodges spends some time exploring the way our preconceived notions drive the way we do things. Most of Arantha cannot comprehend a woman that can wield the elements, while the women who walled themselves off from the world have difficulty imagining men who aren’t complete jerks. It’s kind of like the battle of the sexes on a global scale, except they come to the conclusion that there’s no real reason to be fighting, especially since a greater threat has arisen.
That’s another theme to the story, the idea that the things we do can have extremely long-lasting repercussions, the kind of stuff no one ever saw coming. Themes like these make for a resounding story and Hodges – originally a youth/YA author – handles the adult themes with aplomb.
Read the full review on my blog
October 4, 2017
I enjoyed the Book 1 (Pawns) immensely, and I was hoping to get a repeat performance with Book 2. Patrick didn't disappoint!
The book started off a bit too slow, and I struggled through the first few pages. The names of some of the (non-main) characters are unmemorable, so I had a hard time remembering who they were. The book took its time to get to the action.
However, once the ball got rolling, I had a bloody hard time putting the book down. I quickly remembered why I enjoyed the first book so much: beautifully descriptive visuals, fascinating and complex characters, an interesting magic/tech system, and that glorious blend of space travel and medieval life.
The twist at the end of Book 1 caught me totally off guard, and the reveal at the end of this Book 2 hit me just as hard. I never saw it coming!
All in all, an excellent book, one well worth the read!
The book started off a bit too slow, and I struggled through the first few pages. The names of some of the (non-main) characters are unmemorable, so I had a hard time remembering who they were. The book took its time to get to the action.
However, once the ball got rolling, I had a bloody hard time putting the book down. I quickly remembered why I enjoyed the first book so much: beautifully descriptive visuals, fascinating and complex characters, an interesting magic/tech system, and that glorious blend of space travel and medieval life.
The twist at the end of Book 1 caught me totally off guard, and the reveal at the end of this Book 2 hit me just as hard. I never saw it coming!
All in all, an excellent book, one well worth the read!
September 13, 2017
Wow! This story just keeps getting better! Queens is an excellent follow up to Pawns, and I can honestly say, I feel even more invested in the characters than I did after book one—which is quite a feat, considering how much I already loved them. I'm still amazed that the author is able to keep the story captivating and flowing at such a great pace while switching POVs, but I could hardly step away from the story because I needed to know what was going to happen next. This book has plenty of action mixed with humor and sweet romantic moments, and all the storylines come together beautifully. Well done, Mr. Hodges. Well done.
November 4, 2017
This book makes me want to read more of the story. Although I wasn't certain what I would think of this series, since it's so different from his other series, Pawns had me hooked and Queens kept me thirsting for more. If you're looking for something exciting with surprises around every turn this is the series to read!
September 25, 2017
I'm in awe of Patrick Hodges' ability to transport the reader into an alien land with such ease. His world-building is amazing, I felt like I was right there among the people of the planet Elystra. I am completely invested in the characters and need to know what will happen to them next. I anxiously await the next book in the series.
February 22, 2018
I am in love with this series. Every time I think I know what’s going to happen some twist is thrown in. The women in this series are all so unique and intriguing. The action in book two really ramped up! Can’t wait for Endgame!
October 10, 2017
Wow! It has been a while since I have indulged in a good Fantasy or Sci fi book. Wielders has gotten me hooked! Book one did a fantastic job of world building and setting the stage for a truly epic tale. The scope is far reaching, bringing such depth and weight to the plight of our heroes. Patrick does a skillful job of painting emotion and breathing life into every single character, from Maeve and Davin, a mother and son from Earth, seeking for a way to end the invasion that decimated the planet. To the Ixtrayu, a tribe of women who have lived for eight hundred years far from the control of man on the planet Elystra.
I never give spoilers, so will attempt to review this without giving away the main theme and plot turns.
Wielders, is a saga that follows Maeve from Earth as she seeks a weapon strong enough to defeat the Jegg who invaded Earth and killed billions in the space of months. Reaching Elystra with her teenage son, she sets out to complete her mission no matter the cost. She soon finds that there are greater forces at play and powers that guide not only her destiny but that of Earth as well as Elystra.
Kelia, Protectress of the Ixtrayu women, finds herself and her people drawn into the struggle for power, threatening to change the sheltered life of her tribe as they question the choices they have made and the future ahead.
Elzor and Elzaria, the twins who suffered a traumatic childhood continue their quest for revenge and dominance, drawing in the varied powers throughout the kingdoms to defend their lands and people.
Each story and every string in the fabric of Wielders has a purpose, a connection. I was thrilled to find familiar faces and watch them grow in depth and character as the story unfolds as well as build relationships and alliances that surprised and pleased me.
The author has a way of creating a build and suspense that had me ignoring my chores to read just one more page. Ok maybe a dozen more :0 I cried and laughed and in the end didn't want it to end!
I can't wait for the third in this series, I am totally hooked.
Super job!
I never give spoilers, so will attempt to review this without giving away the main theme and plot turns.
Wielders, is a saga that follows Maeve from Earth as she seeks a weapon strong enough to defeat the Jegg who invaded Earth and killed billions in the space of months. Reaching Elystra with her teenage son, she sets out to complete her mission no matter the cost. She soon finds that there are greater forces at play and powers that guide not only her destiny but that of Earth as well as Elystra.
Kelia, Protectress of the Ixtrayu women, finds herself and her people drawn into the struggle for power, threatening to change the sheltered life of her tribe as they question the choices they have made and the future ahead.
Elzor and Elzaria, the twins who suffered a traumatic childhood continue their quest for revenge and dominance, drawing in the varied powers throughout the kingdoms to defend their lands and people.
Each story and every string in the fabric of Wielders has a purpose, a connection. I was thrilled to find familiar faces and watch them grow in depth and character as the story unfolds as well as build relationships and alliances that surprised and pleased me.
The author has a way of creating a build and suspense that had me ignoring my chores to read just one more page. Ok maybe a dozen more :0 I cried and laughed and in the end didn't want it to end!
I can't wait for the third in this series, I am totally hooked.
Super job!
September 14, 2017
Patrick Hodges does it again! I'm not usually a sci-fi reader, but this author has converted me with his latest book, Queens.
In this second installment of Wielders of Arantha, we are once again thrown into the lives of Maeve and her young son, Davin.
I'm a great fan of Maeve, since she is a sort of representative of women my age. In my opinion, books of this type usually leave out or trivialize characters like Maeve, giving in to a male or youth-driven plot. In Queens, she is the hands down heroine! That fact alone makes this series entirely refreshing.
There are also a couple of sweet love stories blooming in the pages, including one involving Maeve.
I've always been a sucker for romance and I appreciate the various connections in the story. However, the author is careful not to allow this theme to take over the book or to steer it, which is delightful. He does it just right.
But, my praise for Queens doesn't stop there!
As in Pawns, the pair face enemies and align with allies who hinder or help them in their journey. In Queens, we are reintroduced to some old favorites, as well as some new friends and foes, a few of which develop nice little story lines of their own.
We learn a secret or two, carried over from the first book, which Maeve has been hiding from her son as well as from everyone else. While I won't give away the details, I can say readers will be intrigued, to say the least. It changes the way Davin looks at the world and his mission.
This book is all about the quest for the rights to several stones which hold unmeasurable powers.
Be ready for conflict, battle, and loss. Be especially prepared for loss. The ending won't leave a dry eye in the house.
I can't say enough about this book or this author! He cranks out five-star hits every time! His delivery, world building, and pacing are always spot-on!
Five well-deserved stars for this outstanding book!
In this second installment of Wielders of Arantha, we are once again thrown into the lives of Maeve and her young son, Davin.
I'm a great fan of Maeve, since she is a sort of representative of women my age. In my opinion, books of this type usually leave out or trivialize characters like Maeve, giving in to a male or youth-driven plot. In Queens, she is the hands down heroine! That fact alone makes this series entirely refreshing.
There are also a couple of sweet love stories blooming in the pages, including one involving Maeve.
I've always been a sucker for romance and I appreciate the various connections in the story. However, the author is careful not to allow this theme to take over the book or to steer it, which is delightful. He does it just right.
But, my praise for Queens doesn't stop there!
As in Pawns, the pair face enemies and align with allies who hinder or help them in their journey. In Queens, we are reintroduced to some old favorites, as well as some new friends and foes, a few of which develop nice little story lines of their own.
We learn a secret or two, carried over from the first book, which Maeve has been hiding from her son as well as from everyone else. While I won't give away the details, I can say readers will be intrigued, to say the least. It changes the way Davin looks at the world and his mission.
This book is all about the quest for the rights to several stones which hold unmeasurable powers.
Be ready for conflict, battle, and loss. Be especially prepared for loss. The ending won't leave a dry eye in the house.
I can't say enough about this book or this author! He cranks out five-star hits every time! His delivery, world building, and pacing are always spot-on!
Five well-deserved stars for this outstanding book!
September 20, 2017
Queens picks up right where Pawns left off, with Maeve and her son Davin working to find their place in the battle ahead for the planet of Elystra. Maeve has aligned with the Ixtrayu and the book is told through expertly interwoven POVs from both sides of the battle between good and evil and the rights to the stones which have the power to change everything.
Many of the things I loved about Pawns are evident again in this new installment of The Wielders of Arantha. The book is fast-paced and will have you turning page after page to find out what happens next. I also LOVE the fact that this book (series) portrays women in such a favorable light. Usually, in this genre, female characters are bit parts or exist solely to help the male characters progress through the plot. In this series, the women are fully-formed characters, forming alliances with one another of their own volition. And it's not only the main characters who have fully developed arcs in this series, growth can be seen in even the secondary characters which is so refreshing. Finally, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Mr. Hodges spectacular world-building abilities. When you read about Elystra you feel like you are actually there. Talk about escapism!
LOVE LOVE this series and highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a good SFF!!
Many of the things I loved about Pawns are evident again in this new installment of The Wielders of Arantha. The book is fast-paced and will have you turning page after page to find out what happens next. I also LOVE the fact that this book (series) portrays women in such a favorable light. Usually, in this genre, female characters are bit parts or exist solely to help the male characters progress through the plot. In this series, the women are fully-formed characters, forming alliances with one another of their own volition. And it's not only the main characters who have fully developed arcs in this series, growth can be seen in even the secondary characters which is so refreshing. Finally, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Mr. Hodges spectacular world-building abilities. When you read about Elystra you feel like you are actually there. Talk about escapism!
LOVE LOVE this series and highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a good SFF!!
September 15, 2017
This series is so utterly different from any fantasy I've ever read and I love how it keeps surprising me. It's very female-centric which is a rarity in the genre. Many times, there'll be a few women to fulfill the woman quota, but they'll be surrounded by men. Not so here. There's a balance and an equality. The women aren't only these angry warriors as in many stories. They're (for the most part) level-headed and intelligent. And so are the men!
Anyways, it's safe to say that the character development in this book is top notch. It's just so dang easy to root for them. The line between good and evil is very clear and we know who is on each side. Maeve, our bad-ass pilot from another world fits easily into the world of the all female Ixtrayu. Even her son finds his place. Their way of life is simple and the kind of culture that needs to be protected at all costs. Maeve will do whatever she needs to do to protect them as she comes into her powers alongside Kelia. And they aren't the only forces for good. We spend the entire book waiting anxiously for our different groups to come together and when they finally do, it doesn't disappoint.
Count me among those who will wait not so patiently for the next chapter in their story.
Anyways, it's safe to say that the character development in this book is top notch. It's just so dang easy to root for them. The line between good and evil is very clear and we know who is on each side. Maeve, our bad-ass pilot from another world fits easily into the world of the all female Ixtrayu. Even her son finds his place. Their way of life is simple and the kind of culture that needs to be protected at all costs. Maeve will do whatever she needs to do to protect them as she comes into her powers alongside Kelia. And they aren't the only forces for good. We spend the entire book waiting anxiously for our different groups to come together and when they finally do, it doesn't disappoint.
Count me among those who will wait not so patiently for the next chapter in their story.
September 13, 2017
QUEENS picks up right where PAWNS left off . The message Maeve received from her husband in the first book shifts everything they've ever believed into a new direction in the second one. Also, Maeve and Kelia's relationship is developing as well as Maeve's powers as a wielder.
All of the main characters are present in this one and they all walk their own paths. There's Vaxi, Sen, and Mizar who visit the king. Then, Elzor and Elzaria who want to take over everything. Finally, Davin, Maeve, Nyla, and Kelia who are trying to prepare the Ixtrayu for the evil that's coming their way.
I loved that you can see each character continuing to grow and I love the action and passion that lingers with each page. I could see this series becoming a movie and would recommend it to any fan of science fiction and fantasy. This is a series you won't want to miss and I can't wait for the third installment!
All of the main characters are present in this one and they all walk their own paths. There's Vaxi, Sen, and Mizar who visit the king. Then, Elzor and Elzaria who want to take over everything. Finally, Davin, Maeve, Nyla, and Kelia who are trying to prepare the Ixtrayu for the evil that's coming their way.
I loved that you can see each character continuing to grow and I love the action and passion that lingers with each page. I could see this series becoming a movie and would recommend it to any fan of science fiction and fantasy. This is a series you won't want to miss and I can't wait for the third installment!
September 15, 2017
Just like the first book in this series, I was once again swept away in the story from the very first chapter. Mr. Hodges has a wonderful way of writing so that when you read, you can picture everything perfectly as if you were there yourself. And once you start reading, expect hours to fly by without even realizing it because it’s so easy to get wrapped up in the world he’s created.
In Queens, the story deepens, characters grow closer, alliances are forged, battles are fought, and visions foreseen start to come together, setting things up perfectly for the next book in the series. All in all, I really enjoyed book two just as much as I did book one, and I look forward to finding out what’s going to happen next. If you love fantasy and sci-fi, I definitely recommend you give this series a go.
In Queens, the story deepens, characters grow closer, alliances are forged, battles are fought, and visions foreseen start to come together, setting things up perfectly for the next book in the series. All in all, I really enjoyed book two just as much as I did book one, and I look forward to finding out what’s going to happen next. If you love fantasy and sci-fi, I definitely recommend you give this series a go.
September 15, 2017
Author Patrick Hodges managed to unravel more of the intricate interplanetary drama in Book 2 of The Wielders of Arantha. With new characters and deeper looks into the lives of the ones from the first book, we begin to understand more about the residents of Elystra and their connections with the survivors from Earth - Maeve and her son Davin. The plot is interesting and above all expertly interwoven with characters who seemingly have nothing to do with each other coming together at the end. The end is my favorite part, but I won’t give that away! In this installment of this epic Sci-Fi novel, the stakes are higher, the bad guys are badder and the heroines are tougher than before. If you enjoyed the first one, you’ll love book 2 totally appropriately named Queens.
September 19, 2017
Fantastic! Yet again, Patrick Hodges captivated me in this high-paced and suspenseful sci-fi continuation of Pawns. Maeve is one tough chick. I love her character; totally kicks ass! Maeve will stop at nothing to keep her people safe from the forces trying to bring them to their knees. She will not cave, even though, Maeve and her son Devin come face to face with their enemies, Elzor and Elzaria. She and her son will fight through it, and begin to form alliances with the Ixtrayu. The ending blew me away! I'd love to fill you in, but you'll just have to read it! Cannot wait for the third book so I can find out what happens next! I strongly recommend this series to all readers, SCI-FI fans or not!
September 19, 2017
Fantastic! Yet again, Patrick Hodges captivated me in this high-paced and suspenseful sci-fi continuation of Pawns. Maeve is one tough chick. I love her character; totally kicks ass! Maeve will stop at nothing to keep her people safe from the forces trying to bring them to their knees. She will not cave, even though, Maeve and her son Davin come face to face with their enemies, Elzor and Elzaria. She and her son will fight through it, and begin to form alliances with the Ixtrayu. The ending blew me away! I'd love to fill you in, but you'll just have to read it! Cannot wait for the third book so I can find out what happens next! I strongly recommend this series to all readers, SCI-FI fans or not!
September 22, 2017
Queens, the second book in Patrick Hodge's awesome series is even more exciting than the first. He continues to weave a magnificent tale that kept me intrigued and turning pages. The action is great, and characters are well-developed. I found myself cheering for the Ixtrayu and booing the evil Elzor. Surprising, however, I found myself feeling compassion for Elzaria.
There is plenty of action, drama, and even romance in this book to please most any scifi or fantasy fan, and I was thrilled with the turns the story took. Some great surprises and lots of anticipation for the next book. I believe this author is finding himself well established in this different genre from what he's written in the past. It's great to see such diversity in an author.
There is plenty of action, drama, and even romance in this book to please most any scifi or fantasy fan, and I was thrilled with the turns the story took. Some great surprises and lots of anticipation for the next book. I believe this author is finding himself well established in this different genre from what he's written in the past. It's great to see such diversity in an author.
October 24, 2017
Great installment, bring on the next!
So, Queens picks up where Pawns, Book 1, leaves off. I love that because you’re not left hanging and wondering what happened.
The message Maeve received in the first book really sets this book up and the author weaves his magic writing style to pull you in. I felt like I was on an emotional rollercoaster because everything they believed in was...yeah, you have to read to find out.
I love that the characters, and yes all the characters are back, grow, and you get a deeper connection with them, especially with Maeve and Keila. I think those two are my favorite.
If you want to read a book with strong heroines, search no farther! Lovers of fantasy will enjoy this series. I know I am thus far.
December 12, 2017
Wow. You don't get smarter fantasy novels than this. Unique, compelling story line with (VERY) memorable characters. Outstanding sequel, which is a rarity. I was hugely impressed with Pawns (book 1) and hoped book 2 would be as intelligent and surprising - It Is All That And Some! I'm still reeling from the ending! I can't express enough how difficult it is to write such complex story lines and characters while keeping it from getting muddy or too long, Patrick Hodges is a true master of this skill. The Wielders of Arantha books are this century's Star Wars. Bravo!
August 13, 2018
Queens
This book is the bridge of an exciting trilogy. The storyline continues where Pawns left off and world building and character development build. Maeve and Davin are brought to the forefront of the battle against the dark twins, additional aspects of the "game" are revealed and the reality of battles for control of Elystra unfold. This is one of the best fantasy series I've read in a long time. I'm looking forward to the conclusion.
This book is the bridge of an exciting trilogy. The storyline continues where Pawns left off and world building and character development build. Maeve and Davin are brought to the forefront of the battle against the dark twins, additional aspects of the "game" are revealed and the reality of battles for control of Elystra unfold. This is one of the best fantasy series I've read in a long time. I'm looking forward to the conclusion.
September 27, 2017
A strong sequel!
Hodges’ Wielded a of Arantha Book 2: Queens is a strong follow-up to Pawns. There's a lot of great tension and as we learn more about the interplanetary chess game that Kelia and Maeve are sucked into. Queens is definitely better than Pawns, and that's saying something. Definitely a great read and I'm totally looking forward to Book 3.
Hodges’ Wielded a of Arantha Book 2: Queens is a strong follow-up to Pawns. There's a lot of great tension and as we learn more about the interplanetary chess game that Kelia and Maeve are sucked into. Queens is definitely better than Pawns, and that's saying something. Definitely a great read and I'm totally looking forward to Book 3.
October 15, 2017
AWESOME.
All the alternate point of views, the bread crumbs sown in the two books gathered into a huge plot. And we see that the game is bigger than we could expect and the result too. And we learn that sometimes the enemy is not necessarily the one you thought. Nice diversion, mister Hodges.
All the alternate point of views, the bread crumbs sown in the two books gathered into a huge plot. And we see that the game is bigger than we could expect and the result too. And we learn that sometimes the enemy is not necessarily the one you thought. Nice diversion, mister Hodges.
September 22, 2017
Truth in advertising. I was a huge fan of the first Wielders book. It was a natural for me to read the next one in the series. As the book begins, we see where Maeve and Davin are left off at the end of the last book. Dav is anxious about his unconscious mother and she is in need of medical attention.
The magically gifted ‘Wielders’, as they are known, are connected to powerful stones which gives them powers of one kind or another. It is only after Maeve, an earthling, and her son Davin make their way to an alien world that they find out about their latent powers. The question facing the reader is this, what happens if someone controls all the stones?
Not wanting to spoil anything, there is an advancement of a whole love story … perhaps two. Armies will clash, people will die, and ‘sisters’ who are not natural warriors will pick up arms to stop their foes. I hate spoilers so I will stop there.
The Wielders series is personality driven in the sense that it focuses on some very strong and complex central characters. He makes you see the characters by making them three-dimensional. When something happens to one of your favorite characters, you feel it in your gut and that is the mark of a great author. I would be remiss if I did not point out that Patrick is one hell of a world builder as well. You are sucked into the world he builds and it carries you though the story.
As far as continuity is concerned, it is easy to see where the first book ends and the second begins. I I will always argue that you should start with book one before reading book two, but that is just me. If you happen to read book two first you would miss some of the initial world building, but you could read book two without book one. But you would, after reading book two, go back and read the first one, I guarantee it.
Patrick is a solid and seasoned writer such that the prose flows off the page cleanly. You find yourself unwilling or unable to put down this page-turner.
I can whole-heartedly recommend Wielders, book 2 (Queens). If you read this one before reading book one, I will warn you that you probably should just order book one at the same time. Trust me, you will read it.
The magically gifted ‘Wielders’, as they are known, are connected to powerful stones which gives them powers of one kind or another. It is only after Maeve, an earthling, and her son Davin make their way to an alien world that they find out about their latent powers. The question facing the reader is this, what happens if someone controls all the stones?
Not wanting to spoil anything, there is an advancement of a whole love story … perhaps two. Armies will clash, people will die, and ‘sisters’ who are not natural warriors will pick up arms to stop their foes. I hate spoilers so I will stop there.
The Wielders series is personality driven in the sense that it focuses on some very strong and complex central characters. He makes you see the characters by making them three-dimensional. When something happens to one of your favorite characters, you feel it in your gut and that is the mark of a great author. I would be remiss if I did not point out that Patrick is one hell of a world builder as well. You are sucked into the world he builds and it carries you though the story.
As far as continuity is concerned, it is easy to see where the first book ends and the second begins. I I will always argue that you should start with book one before reading book two, but that is just me. If you happen to read book two first you would miss some of the initial world building, but you could read book two without book one. But you would, after reading book two, go back and read the first one, I guarantee it.
Patrick is a solid and seasoned writer such that the prose flows off the page cleanly. You find yourself unwilling or unable to put down this page-turner.
I can whole-heartedly recommend Wielders, book 2 (Queens). If you read this one before reading book one, I will warn you that you probably should just order book one at the same time. Trust me, you will read it.
September 21, 2017
Patrick Hodges is a master storyteller in Wielders of Arantha and Book Two – Queens – does not disappoint! Successfully weaving together various storylines from the POVs of many different characters, Hodges captures each voice distinctly and uniquely.
Queens delves deeper into the lives of Maeve and her son Davin as they integrate among the Ixtrayu people. While a battle between good and evil emerges on Elystra, the reader is pulled into the lives of the characters, the alliances they form, and the relationships they develop.
Hodges writes a compelling story with interesting, complex characters that will have you glued to your chair, reading Queens for hours. Important aspects that resonate with me – and set Hodges work apart - are the “extras” that he includes in his series. In addition to the phenomenal world-building and complex character development, Hodges also casts many of the leading characters as empowered women (in a typically male-dominated genre), he touches on romance and same-sex relationships, he delves into the innocence of first loves and coming-of-age growing pangs. He makes his characters from another world, who are facing severe obstacles and difficult decisions, incredibly relatable. These elements endear so many of the characters to me and add so much to their storylines.
An incredible work of fiction by a fantastic writer, Wielders of Arantha is quickly becoming my favorite series in the Sci-fi genre.
Queens delves deeper into the lives of Maeve and her son Davin as they integrate among the Ixtrayu people. While a battle between good and evil emerges on Elystra, the reader is pulled into the lives of the characters, the alliances they form, and the relationships they develop.
Hodges writes a compelling story with interesting, complex characters that will have you glued to your chair, reading Queens for hours. Important aspects that resonate with me – and set Hodges work apart - are the “extras” that he includes in his series. In addition to the phenomenal world-building and complex character development, Hodges also casts many of the leading characters as empowered women (in a typically male-dominated genre), he touches on romance and same-sex relationships, he delves into the innocence of first loves and coming-of-age growing pangs. He makes his characters from another world, who are facing severe obstacles and difficult decisions, incredibly relatable. These elements endear so many of the characters to me and add so much to their storylines.
An incredible work of fiction by a fantastic writer, Wielders of Arantha is quickly becoming my favorite series in the Sci-fi genre.
December 27, 2017
After reading Pawns, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on book two of The Wielders of Arantha and Queens sucked me right back in to this amazing fantasy world.
Where in Pawns we followed the paths of many characters, learning who they were and what their role was in this epic story, in Queens you’re left on the edge of your seat waiting for the moment those characters’ lives finally intertwine.
Maeve and her son Davin are finding their place in the all women Ixtrayu tribe, while Kelia is trying to find a way to change the frightening future she’s foretold. Meanwhile, Elzor and his sister Elzaria are still on the hunt for the stones they believe will give them ultimate power. Last but not least, Vaxi, Sen and Mizar are on their own adventure to visit the king. Little do they all know, but all of their lives are about to collide.
Queens is a great balance of romance, action, fantasy and science fiction and I highly recommend you pick up Pawns and start this fantastic series!
Where in Pawns we followed the paths of many characters, learning who they were and what their role was in this epic story, in Queens you’re left on the edge of your seat waiting for the moment those characters’ lives finally intertwine.
Maeve and her son Davin are finding their place in the all women Ixtrayu tribe, while Kelia is trying to find a way to change the frightening future she’s foretold. Meanwhile, Elzor and his sister Elzaria are still on the hunt for the stones they believe will give them ultimate power. Last but not least, Vaxi, Sen and Mizar are on their own adventure to visit the king. Little do they all know, but all of their lives are about to collide.
Queens is a great balance of romance, action, fantasy and science fiction and I highly recommend you pick up Pawns and start this fantastic series!
May 16, 2020
I read the first book, and thought it was incredible. I didn't realize that the story would get better, with more and more characters that are so diverse. Really great storytelling and I'm not exaggerating when I say that I had difficulty putting the book down.
It reminds me of the storytelling in great shows like Breaking Bad, where I actively want to try and speculate about what's going to happen next, to me if an author can make that happen, that's really gripping and impressive. Looking forward to the conclusion in the final book!
It reminds me of the storytelling in great shows like Breaking Bad, where I actively want to try and speculate about what's going to happen next, to me if an author can make that happen, that's really gripping and impressive. Looking forward to the conclusion in the final book!
May 8, 2019
The story continues in this second chapter of the series. Patrick Hodges still won't let the reader off the edge of their seat. The plot definitely thickens as the book progresses. The hardest part is telling anything without telling too much. This is a must read for anyone who likes Pawns, as well as any can of sci-fi and fantasy. An automatic classic!
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