Now a full-fledged gryphon rider, Eva’s come a long way from the timid girl she used to be.
After proving herself to the Windsworn, forging a bond with her gryphon, Fury, and discovering the truth about her parentage, Eva thought life would get easier. Instead, war is blossoming on the eastern frontier. And raiders on giant sabercats might only be a shadow of worse things to come.
If that weren’t enough, a captured enemy reveals a startling truth: Eva’s long-lost father is still alive.
Against direct orders, Eva and her friends desert the Windsworn, risking everything to bring her father home. Eva and Fury have come a long way in a short time, but beyond the mountains, danger lurks at every turn. Will Eva sacrifice everything she holds dear for a man she’s never met?
Don’t miss the rousing second installment in the Gryphon Riders Trilogy!
Derek Alan Siddoway is the author of Teutevar Saga, a medieval western/frontier fantasy series, and Gryphon Riders, a young adult fantasy trilogy. He was born and raised in the American West at the foot of the Uinta Mountains. An Undaunted and Everyday Author, Derek spends his free time reading, obsessively filling notebooks, adventuring outdoors and celebrating small victories. He's also a sucker for Star Wars and football, namely the University of Utah and Minnesota Vikings.
Thank you to the author and Undaunted Publishing for sending me these audiobooks in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Gryphon Riders Trilogy is a very entertaining fantasy series. We follow the adventures of Eva, a young orphan girl raised by a blacksmith, who she loves as a father. She is fierce, has her own opinion, but isn't afraid to show emotion. I loved her. Letting the characters grow emotionally and at the same time keep their personalities consistent throughout three books isn't an easy writing job, I can speak from experience. However, Derek Alan Siddoway succeeded in the character development departement! And in the world building department as well, for that matter. Dragons have always been my favourite fantasy creature. But I am glad this wasn't another dragon story. Gryphons are so cool! They should get more stories of their own! Plot wise, the author really managed to keep my attention while binge listening the complete trilogy. Their was the right amount of action, a strong female lead, a little bit of romance, just enough to be appropriate for the young audience. It all happened a bit quickly in the beginning, but on the other hand I like stories that get into action quickly.
Because I listened to the audiobooks, I want to give some credits to Kate Rudd, who narrated these three books. She did an amazing job. It's crazy how she can give each character a different voice that fits them well, both female and male characters. Voice acting is a real talent!
I cannot tell you enough how much I am loving this series. The first book, Windsworn, took me by surprise as to how much I enjoyed it, and this second was just as good!
This book continues Eva’s story, now a full-fledged Windsworn gryphon rider, as she sets out on a mission with her friends. Although the story told in these books essentially is not new, it feels fresh and well done. The books are pretty short by YA fantasy standards (this one is under 200 pages), but I think that is exactly what I like about them. They don’t carry extra flesh or fluff. Instead they are well written and to the point. I feel the characters are fleshed out enough and there is a good pace to them.
The only criticism of this book is that some the battles could have been a bit more fleshed out, but apart from that, there is nothing I did not like about the first two books in the series. I am looking forward to reading the last in the series, Windbreak, in the not-too-distant future.
If you are looking for a YA fantasy series that is fun and well written but not too heavy or trying too hard, I would highly recommend picking this series up.
* I was sent the audiobooks of this series in exchange for an honest review!
Windswept picks up with Eva now being a actual Gryphon Rider following the events of Windsworn.
I’m really enjoying this little series! What I like about this series is the fact that it’s on the shorter side for a fantasy story so it’s a nice little break from all the heavy fantasies that I’m reading all the time!
What I really enjoyed about this second book specifically was the amount of action and adventure! I’m a sucker for a good adventure story and Eva and her friends definitely went on a long journey with a lot of trials! The few little twists that were sprinkled in were also really awesome and some emotional scenes that definitely pulled at my heartstrings.
I really enjoy these characters and the ending left me hanging a little so I’m excited to immediately pick up the next book!
If you’re looking for a quick and fun fantasy series, I definitely suggest giving this a chance!
Adventure, heartbreak, redemption, what can I say? Great book, though it can be a bit heart wrenching at times. If you are not in an emotional good place, I would not advice to read it, there is loss, and if your heart is sad like mine after loosing one of your parents, it can hit a bit hard and too close to home if you are the sentimental type… but all and all, a great story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I enjoyed this book much more than the first: the characters received some much appreciated development, the plot was fast paced and full of mystery, and the ending provided a twist that I’m excited to learn more about. Onto the final installment!
The little potential (interesting factor) that this fantasy novel series had in book 1 is all gone in book 2. Without rhyme or reason, main character Evelyn (Eva) takes Fury (Gryphon) on a wild goose chase, to try to determine the whereabouts of her "unrecognized Dad". She risks the lives of her friends, her retinue, her life, the lives of the gryphons that they use to travel and basically go AWOL (Absent Without Leave) from the Gryphon Riders Group, after a conversation that Eva, had with the King (her supposed Uncle/Biological Mom's husband/King of the territory where the story takes place). Having three potential Dads (Uncle/King, Aleron (supposed real Dad), and Foster Dad (ironsmith) I'm not quite sure why the author wrote that Eva was a "bastard child"??? Unless there is DNA evidence to the contrary, her real Dad is the Smith, that took care of her during her childhood. Aleron was exiled, by his brother the King, and never really knew about his potential "daughter" Eva. So, that's two possible Dads and if you consider the sexual prowess/possibility of Eva's Mom, the King, her husband, could have also had opportunity and probability to be the biological father of Eva as well. In the civil laws of some countries, the biological Father of a child is assumed to be, the Husband of the Mom of that child. I do not know why the author created such a convoluted and complicated family tree. Personal experience?? Wanted the additional drama for his Young Adults Fantasy novel series??? Is it a proper theme for a young adults fantasy novel series?? and if it is a potential theme, why not put it on the title of the series?? Bastard Cinderella-like Princess?? Basterella (Bastard and Cinderella mix)-Princess?? Too Soap Opera-ish?? Again I would find it offensive because in my opinion, Eva had a Dad, her whole life, the Smith that took care of her, gave her love and sustenance her whole life. So, why make it so complicated for poor Eva?? The illustration on the cover, looks like a fox-gryphon version of the Gryphon fantasy mythological beast. Because Fury is supposed to be red, that particular Gryphon looks too hairy and foxy-like. Did not imagine Fury this way at all. This fantasy novel series has no inside maps (of this fantasy world or its territories), no inside illustrations, no character summaries, no economic, political geopolitical development or world building. Little to no character development. I didn't like the fact that the author treated the mythical and magical Gryphons (basically) as disposable mounts. If they had a "life-bond" with their riders, aren't they supposed to live and die with their Gryphons?? I do not recommend this fantasy novel series.
An official gryphon rider of the Windsworn, Eva looks forward to a routine. One that will give her time to process all that she has recently learned; including the truth behind her heritage. However, destiny has another idea.
When an enemy of war is captured, Eva learns of the possibility that her biological father is alive. Determined to find her father and bring him home, she takes risks that may end life as she knows it forever. Will she be able to locate her father and uncover the answers she seeks?
A continuation of The Gryphon Riders Trilogy, Derek Alan Siddoway’s Windswept is the perfect transition. Derek not only ties the ongoing story throughout the trilogy, but he expertly adds an underlying plot that keeps his readers hooked to the words on the pages.
An adventure of battles both on the field and internally, Derek’s ability to compose an impressive storyline is apparent. Even though borderline profanity and a few grammatical and formatting errors are included, the amount is minimal. Therefore, a deserving rating of 5 out of 5 stars is awarded.
As this story revolves around a war, there are certain actions that may cause one distress. Some of these actions include: mangled and bloody bodies, slavery, raids, thievery, murder, assassination, death during childbirth, betrayal, foster care, prisoner of war, kidnapping, child abuse, and banishment.
A tale of epic proportions, Windswept is an addition to the Gryphon Riders Trilogy that not only can stand on its own, but also keeps you craving more. Looking forward to reading how the journey ends in the final installment, Windbreak.
Thank you to #Windswept, #GryphonRidersTrilogy, and #DerekAlanSiddoway for the opportunity to read this book and give my honest review.
A stronger showing in book 2 that makes for good page-turner.
Where the first felt like a children's book with over aged characters this one sees a two-year jump making the main protagonist 20 years old but given a story that feels more age appropriate. It is still a bit convoluted at times but nowhere near book one's level. The plot and pacing kept it an interesting page turner.
With plenty of action and some farely emotional scenes, along with some character moments that drew me in, it was a good fantasy. There is not much in term of humor but there was no need for it considering what was happening and the relentless need for the characters to push forward. There is some romantic elements that show that our main protagonist and her love interest have had a 2-year relationship where are they tell each other they love one another and kiss. This is not bad as it shows in certain maturity taken a certain way. However it felt less like two adults making mature decisions as it did early teenagers happy to have someone to like a lot and kiss.
Where the first book felt more like a story for 10 and up the book has more of a young adult feel 14 and up with some bloody scenes and death. A good read.
This book is even better than the first book! A wonderful action packed story with incredible characters. A larger than life journey for Eva, Sigrid, Ivan and Chel. Eva will give anything to find her father but doing so will lead the group into a greater and sinister mystery. They will have to deal with pain, loss, hope and sacrifice. This book was so compelling and exciting I could not put it down. I highly recommend this book! It is going to be so hard to wait for book three!
Book 2 of the Gryphon Riders Trilogy was just as good, if not better, than the first. Which I find is often unusual for the sequels of movies/books. Windswept had me turning page after page and I kept going back to read just a little bit more in all my free minutes. Derek does a great job with recapping the reader with what happened in book 1 by sprinkling the information throughout the book as you need to remember it. So if it takes you a little longer to get around to reading book 2, don't worry you'll be caught right back up to speed in no time.
Book 2 truly raked my emotions everywhere! From unsanctioned missions to lands covered in death, these characters faced seemingly unending sadness and loss at every turn. Eva’s young gryphon faced a lifetime of maturity in a short span of time due to the constant trials they endured! The ugly truths that war brings spring from these pages so be forewarned! This author uses a slow burn build and holds a reader spellbound, willingly but still cruel! On to book 3. All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
It was a very interesting read. I loved reading about the perilous journey Eva and her friends had to go through. The writing was clear and well thought out, the characters grew immensely since the first book, the journeys kept me on the edge of my seat and some kickass new characters got introduced. My only complaint is that I find it pointless to introduce a new character for a few chapters just to kill them off in the end.
The story was alright. I think it would have been great if the story was centered around Sigrid or Ivan. Eva is great, but at times the things she says are cringeworthy. I think the relationship with Tal would have been better if it was a friendship. Their relationship in the book can be defined as "instalove."
Decent and enjoyable read for a YA book. The writing is clean (I only saw one error), the plot moved well, and there weren't any cliffhangers for a middle book, which is nice for once.
The sequel picks up where Windsworn left off. Well told story depicting the search for Eva's father and a solution to their upcoming disaster. I enjoyed this book as much as the first. Still needs another good proofreading.
I fell in love with the characters in this series and love how they were developed. The story moves along taking you with it and then the next thing you know BAM! you done and left wanting more. Read this in one setting, couldn't put it down! Great Reading Everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!
An interesting sequel with more battles and fewer long one on one fights (though the battles are often just a succession of fights). Vastly increased scope. Some gaping plot holes. But it was readable. Not decided whether last page plot twist is enough to drive me forward in this series.
I had a chance to buy the set when the first book was given to me, I loved the book. I was concerned it would be too much like some of the other books I have read, They were great,,but I did not want more of the same. Now I will need to wait til next payday to buy the next book.
I stayed up way too late cause I had to finish this one. Great book, tons of action and an emotional roller coated. Highly recommend, can’t wait for the next book!
I enjoyed this book even more than Windsworn. The storyline was engaging right from the beginning and kept me guessing til the very end. I will definitely be reading Windbreak.
Full of adventures & misadventures Eva and Fury will learn about true friendship and family. Fast forward 2 years and Eva has finished her training at The Gear. While out scouting her team comes across a girl who looks like an enemy. But when she mentions something about Eva’s father, the real adventure begins. On a mission to get answers about the Smelter born and maybe find possibly find her father. Eva and her crew meet a lot of different people, good and bad and learn a lot along the way.
A great second book! It does fall prey to the typical 'middle book' syndrome a bit; some of the transitions between events feels a bit rushed, but overall still a really good read. Again a perfect book for people who want adventure but do not want a lot of romance.
This started off with a review request for book #1, but turned into a marathon reading session of the entire series!
Windsworn (Gryphon Riders Trilogy #1), introduces us to Eva, a young girl who chances upon a thief in possession of a Gryphon egg. This part of the story will remind the reader of the Eragon series ( if you are a fan ), but later on the story takes on it's own identity and the reader is taken on a wonderful adventure of discovery and learning. The entire series follows Eva's journey as she learns to be a Gryphon rider, gains the trust of her Gryphon and forges new friendships. Having earned the trust of some of her peers and teachers, Eva, embarks on a journey to save the world from those seeking to destroy the Windsworn.
The plot thickens in Windswept (Book #2), where Eva discovers the truth behind her parentage and the chance that her father might be alive. Throwing caution to the winds, she takes off on a journey with some friends against all orders to discover the truth. Finally, in Windbreak (Book #3), Eva and the Windsworn must stand against the Smelterborn and also unite with others whom they previously considered to be enemies. Having learnt the secret to destroying the golems, Eva must do what she can to end it all. What ensues is a thrilling war that will have the reader on the edge of their seats.
Throughout the series, we follows Eva on her journey of growth, self-discovery and the search for the truth. This coming of age series is filled with adventure and action. The war sequences are well written and the entire plot comes together very well throughout the three books. The author keeps the plot simple but ensures that the reader is hooked until the end of not just a book, but the entire series. The supporting characters are well crafted and add a lot of spice to the book.
I am grateful to have been given the chance to read and review these books and I do recommend them for fans of fantasy adventures. Do give this series a shot!
Normally I would write a fairly long review to give you all an idea of how well a book was written, or not, but right now I'm rushing into book 3 and don't want to stop!
This trilogy is grabbing me tight and not letting go. I need to know what happens to Eva and the gang. They're off on another adventure, trying to keep their world from falling to an evil so great it could run them all down and crush all they know and love.
So I'm going back to reading book 3, Windbreak. My advice, give this a try. It may be YA, but it's exciting and fun and is worth reading even for a 64 year old like me!
I was gifted the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this second in the series. It’s always very hit or miss with second books in a series with them living up to the first. What was great about the second book is it was so full of action!
It definitely fit the second book mold, a quest and learning about the mysterious past that the mc has. But it did it in a way that was not overly done.