In the city of Evennal, where the Karnaea is set to begin, love is awakened as mistrust stirs and prowling the streets at night, a blademaster hunts all who would seek to befoul the name of the Whispering God.
The Elder has returned. The Karnaea tournaments have begun and Stasanda and Jaydan want the full experience but are unaware of what will soon develop between them when their paths cross.
Jeremy Forsyth is the author of the epic fantasy, Upon the Sands, book 1 of A Symphony of Shadow and Darkness.
He is also the author of The Sun, Moon, Sand, and Star series, a collection of short stories which include The Evening Tide, The Broken Rose, The Missing, The Raven Heiress, The Little Fairleaf and The Other Fairleaf.
To get his books cheaper than you would on Amazon, simply visit www.jeremyforsyth.co.za now!
I absolutely loved this book!! This was great storytelling as it was in The Evening Tide!
Young love, elves, and an incredibly fascinating world, with a shocking ending, comes out of nowhere.
I love these characters; Teegs was so funny, Jaydan was so charming. Stase is complex, and I envision a beautiful and sweet elvess but strong and stubborn, very independent!
My heart goes out to Stase! Without giving anything away, I feel like I understand her dilemma in choosing between love with Jay and her deep desire to be 'free' and travel! Beautifully done! I loved the dynamic that these three, along with Lardian, Teegs, Nendia, and Alardia, gave to this story.
These six friends find themselves attending the Karnaea for a great time but are thrust into a world suddenly fearful when the Old Way is discovered to be in the city!
I loved everything about this book; Characters, world-building, romance, the mistrust, the dark atmosphere that slowly settles somewhere halfway. I loved the elements of humor too. Then, of course, the twist at the end shook me!
I have already bought The Missing, and I am itching to find out what happens in this next installment!
Read it a second time and still my heart shattered again in million pieces. This is my favourite book in the Sun, Moon, Sand and Star series and it always affects me deeply. Another sleepless night pondering the whys and the hows. But, I guess that's the beauty of it; you never know how things will turn out, how and it will escalate and that happily ever after is perhaps happily ever moment!
** Huh! I was not fooled this time! I read this in one sitting, as I should had done with The Evening Tide as well.
This book is also short, but it is packed with a combination of elements that satisfy the greedy eyes and the thirsty minds of the readers.
The whole setting reminded of the Middle Ages and had a slight modern vibe into it. The writing, the dialogues, the manners, were all so Medieval British-proper with a New World-twist. Using the term ‘buddy’ was absolutely entertaining and smart. It is amazing how such small details can make a book stand out.
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and how they were multi-layered, showing so many different aspects. I thought, at first, I minded the lack of their background, but along the way I found myself not really caring, as I was sucked into the story and was fascinated by the series of events.
The way the author has weaved romance and mystery into the story is unbelievable. Stasanda is an adventurous Elvess, who has a good sense of humor, who is kind and who values friendship. Jaydan is charming, bold and straight-forward. His infatuation with Stase grows into love with -dare I say- a little bit of obsession in it. There was a mystery surrounding his origins and upon revealing some of it towards the end, I found myself wanting to know more.
In the Evening Tide, I was frustrated by the rather cruel ending, and the Broken Rose shares a similar sadness, but I have come to appreciate the author’s unusual approach and I can hardly wait to see if all these loose ends will be bind one day.
The last scene with Stasanda in her bedroom was cut abruptly and the details are never given to the reader. I wish we had had a better glimpse of what went down, but I guess this was the author’s way of keeping the mystery and the drama alive. Also, the fact that the author has once again described a near-rape scene had me thinking.
The narration in first person, as always, was excellent, and I just loved the epilogue said through the eyes of the Blademaster. To be honest, I kept thinking that the Blademaster would turn out to be something more than just that. The cloud of mystery and menace that surrounded him throughout the book was finally dissolved and I was surprised to see someone underneath who feels compassion and guilt.
As for the fabled rivals of the Moon Elves, the Sun Elves and their notorious Father of the Sun, this was a subtle, yet brilliant way of connecting the two realms. The Moon Elves seem to have a richer culture and are driven by religious beliefs. They have a rich history and they rely strongly on their Elder and the blademasters and feel blessed by the grace of the Whispering god. Whereas, the Sun elves seem to be a more closed society, darker, and with great gaps between elves and elvesses, as well as social status.
Also, it is pointed out how the Father of the Sun is not worshipped by all the Elves in his realm, but only by those who he shows preference towards; once again referring to Asharal’s arrogance and cruelty. The Blademaster's memory of his encounter with Asharal was one of the best parts!
“Know this Moon Elf. Though the Moon has overcome the Sun, the Highborns are eternal and are therefore, content to wait," his pale eyes piercing my soul. “Enjoy these islands whilst you still live, Blademaster. When I hear that death has claimed you, the fight for the Middle Islands will begin again.”
There are so many things I would love to know more about: the war between the Moon Elves and the Sun Elves with more facts and details, the encounter between the Blademaster and Asharal, what happened to Stasanda, what did Jay’s letter say, why Lardian followed the old gods, what was Asharal’s warning to the Blademaster, the signs of Adonai, will we ever learn more about the Blue Elves or the Gatheians, and so many more.
It seems that, the more I write the more I want to say, but I don’t want to tire anyone with my bazilion thoughts.
Once again, I would like to congratulate Jeremy Forsyth, for thinking out of the box and for offering a unique reading experience. Indeed, I agree that a giant of fantasy has emerged out of South Africa!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Although set in the same Elven world as The Evening Tide, this is a stand-alone fantasy novel with only minor crossover elements. Moon Elves are converging on Asher City where victory celebrations will be held in the form of the Karnaea tournaments. Elder Dayane has successfully pushed back the Sun Elves establishing Moon dominance in the realm.
Stasanda has joined the queue of elves wanting to gain entry to Asher City but there is a ripple of concern running through the prospective tournament goers. The sentinels are checking for Dead God worshippers and preventing their entry into the city. Stasanda doesn’t think she needs to be concerned. In another area, Jaydan and his friends, Tegerian and Lardian, are also seeking entry to the city but not in the conventional way.
For most of the novel, the story is told from the alternating points of view of Stasanda and Jaydan in first person. They want to trust each other but there is a small element of doubt arising which gives a nice tension to their interactions and also amongst their respective friends. That said, however, there was an underlying tension relating to the continued searching for Dead God worshippers that I felt wasn’t as sinister or constant as it could have been which meant I felt the pace lagging a little in the middle.
I found I wasn’t as engaged with Stasanda and Jaydan as I could have been. The secondary characters of Alardia and Tegerian held more of my interest. I enjoyed the world building and I enjoyed the read but not as much as I enjoyed The Evening Tide. My rating is sitting at three and half stars, rounded up.
Book received from the author for an honest review.
For those who like a quick read that's filled with many fascinating elements like medieval themes and magical references! The author has a very particular way of writing that was enjoyable if you like vivid description.
I was given a free pdf copy from the author. This in no way sways my opinion of the book.
3.5 stars Consider me shook. I wasn't expecting to like this as much as I did! The book itself is really short (about 60 or something pages depending on the edition) but there's so much world-building in there it's hard to believe looking back it is that short! I'm in awe at how good the world-building is, it's definitely made me think on how I can make my NaNoWriMo draft better. The writing (besides the world) was my favourite part, it was so good! I could reread this over and over just for the writing (and the world). On the negative side of things, there's insta-love. It's understandable since the book's so short, things are bound to go fast. But sometimes I couldn't help thinking... why does Jaydan love this elvess so much? Their first meeting didn't give off any indication that he was going to fall for her then straight after, he does. The ending had me a bit confused as well. But besides from these minor problems I had with it, I altogether had a brill time reading. It's one of those books where you're gonna need tissues while reading the ending, trust me.
Touching, interesting. It's great because it is not within my usual genre of interest but yet I still found myself enjoying each chapter. I understand why fantasy fans love this author.
Although I loved the action of The Evening Tide, I was thoroughly captivated by the love story that Jeremy twisted into the threads of a world struggling through religious and political upheaval; all encompassed in a universe that your heart will long to visit! The characters are captivating and no one sets a scene quite like Jeremy. The book will leave you with moments that will still be crystal clear in your mind for years to come!
3.5. I found this book more straight-forward and easier to follow than The Evening Tide— at least until I got to the ending. I reread the last chapter and the epilogue a couple of times to try to understand what had happened. Not 100% sure. I’d love more clarity on that.
While not a big fan of insta-love, I did appreciate the Jay-Stase arc and the use of it to frame the conflict between those allegiant to Adonia and those allegiant to the Old Way. I must admit I was rooting for Jay.
There are several interesting characters. I wish they were more fleshed out. Alardia, for example. Good or bad? She did something that seems bad, but I need more information to decide. Perhaps due to the shortness of the book, ambiguity about their characters remains unresolved.
Thanks to Jeremy for proving me with a free copy in exchange for my thoughts. Seems like you have a keen imagination and lots of original ideas. Keep writing!
After the heartache in The Evening Tide, I was really hoping for happiness... My heart!
All that aside, I really enjoyed this short novel. The author knows how to draw you into this fantasy world... it feels real and I could picture it in my head as if I was there. I think I actually like these Elves better than the Sun elves!
The characters are great, and as with the first novel, I really enjoyed the romance between the two characters. And I still love and hate Asharal!
I'm eagerly awaiting the third installment in this series, but I hope that it merges the two stories instead of being somewhat standalone.
This story has many possibilities, and many possible meanings. When you look at the meaning of the white rose it suggests a symbol of honor, reverence secrecy ,worthiness, innocence , and purity. The readers finds all of these symbols throughout the entire story. Visions and Prophecy are key elements, and play major roles in this story. When you read the story you find an innocent maid removed from the city -- and it appears that she is dismissed for practicing the Old Ways-- but in truth she was removed for her own safety, due to a vision that fore warned of impending danger to her if she remained. The white rose symbolizes secrecy. Things aren't always what they seem. As is the case with Jay and his friend Lardian. The white rose symbolizes honor and reverence. This could also show us the reasoning of secrecy of the Old Ways. The author said it best," Elves who had still held fast to the old gods have waged a secret and eternal war against believers of Adonai ever since - the Silent War, It dated back to the Great Split during the First Moon - when the First Elder declared Adonai the one true God of the Moon Elves. He had ordered the images and idols of the old gods to be burned. This has a lot to do with the divisions of the elves and why they hated each other. Currently the Moon Elves are ruling the land -- but a vision to the Blade Master warns him the Father of the Sun; the Highborn immortal, Asharal Evening The Father of the Sun looked at me. “Know this Moon Elf. Though the Moon has overcome the Sun, the Highborn s are eternal and are therefore, content to wait," his pale eyes piercing my soul. The utter contempt I had perceived in them, I could recall, had been extremely unsettling. When I hear that death has claimed you, the fight for the Middle Islands will begin again.” In the mean time the remaining Old Way followers remain in secret, and will kill as many of the Moon Elves as possible. So our story continues.... A Very Excellent read !!! I love the many layers this story has --
Once I got reading, I literally couldn't put it down. The suspense was great for me, especially towards the end. I knew the twist was coming but I wasn't sure who I could trust. In the end, though sad, I was satisfied with the conclusion and I can say, without a shadow of a doubt that I'm fully invested in the goings on of this elven world that author Jeremy Forsyth has conjured up. Looking forward to the full length novel.
The Broken Rose had me captivated from the first page all the way through till the very end. The book is incredibly well written with an amazing story. It has got to be one of my favorite reads along with "The Evening Tide" and I cant wait for the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an incredible fantasy.
A very interesting short novel that is worth reading. It is very well written for the most part. There were just a few areas where I had to backup and re-read a section. It was in the last section. I am not sure about the end. It was sad and I was hoping for a different outcome, but you can't please us all.
Many thanks to the author for sending this to me as a gift. All opinions are my own!
Okay, so this is the third book I've read from the author and I have been surprised every time; you think you're reading one story but, by the end, you're convinced that you read the story wrong...?
Let me try to explain: Having read this series out of sequence so far (book 1, book 5, book 2 - not really a big deal), I don't think that's really a problem at all; as long as you've read 1 book to get a feel of the world, I feel you'd be golden reading this series in any order (I'll confirm this once I've read it completely?). Why? Because, even though they have each been a different story with different characters, they all follow the same main themes: - They're set in the same world, - They're short and sweet, - Each story is a mix of romance and intrigue, - The plot twists are *chef's kiss*, - There seems to be a sub-story connecting them all, but I haven't figured that out yet?
But, I have to admit, I am left completely baffled as to the conclusion of this particular story and I just cannot makes sense of the actual story behind the story ... maybe I'm missing something? Or maybe that's the point of this story and will become clearer later on? Whatever the reason may be, I'm loving these stories more and more.
Again, I'm looking forward to more from this author, so keep an eye out for more from me, too ;)
But seriously. do yourselves a favour and go get this series, it really doesn't disappoint. #SupportLocal
This story is definitely on par with the previous one, The Evening Tide. I like that it stands completely alone, but also subtly ties in. The two main characters who alternately narrated the book were very endearing, and I was attached both of them right away. It's a short and quick read, with little to no extra details, giving more of a fast paced feel.
I received this book for free from the author/publisher in response for an honest review of the book. I have not had the opportunity to read this book at this time. I will add my review of this book once I have read the book. Thank k you for allowing me the optometrist review your work. I look forward to reading this book.
This is such a fantastic way to follow up to the first book "The Evening Tide". Fantastic job, on blowing my mind away at how unique and interesting this series is.
I liked the twist and turns in this book it looked like a budding romance but it became something else completely. It did a good job of holding my interest from start to finish.
I was given a free review copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. I must say this is not my normal reading genre, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The Elder has returned ans Stasanda wants to enter the city of Evennal for the Karnaea. Hayden and co help her access the city but all beware the blademaster who is looking for those who befoul the name of the whispering God, and believe in the old ways. Well done Jeremy your books are getting better and better.
This 2nd book in the series discussed the moon elves and their quest. As I read more of these fantasy type books, I can say they are very interesting and well thought out. Loved the unique characters names. Storyline was easy to follow. Looking forward to the next part.
I’m still reeling from the shocking end , I didn’t see that coming ! This is a great fantasy read with action and a slow burning attraction between Jay and Stasanda . Loved it and the plot twist !
The second book in the Sun, Moon, Sand and Star series is set in the same world as the first, but only loosely connected. Where that book was focused on the Sun elves, with barely a mention of "moons" in prophecies, we are now concerned with the Moon elves. This connection feels a little clunky, as I don't recall any mention of Moon elves in the first book, and nobody seemed to connect the numerous moon-obsessed prophecies with the seemingly age-old rivals. The action of the book centres around two groups of young elves travelling to watch a medieval games, but under the fear of an uprising from those who follow the Old Ways (and worship the Dead Gods). One such young elf is the main character Stasanda, who is on her travels (elf gap year, looking to like really find herself ya?), and is denied entry to the city for no apparent reason. She fears this is over a suspicion that she is one who follows the Old Ways, and she is somewhat looked on with suspicion from then on. She meets the males elves who help her enter the city (using magic to walk through the city walls, which is frustratingly never mentioned again - I would much rather they found a hidden passage or unattended gate rather than this nonsense). Needless to say, one of the males elves falls instantly head over heels for her, but can't quite get over the suspicion that she is a follower of the Dead Gods, who rumour has it are rife in the city. Over the rest of this short book, the romance blossoms, but alongside it grows the suspicion over Stasanda. The world Forsyth has envisaged here is rich and detailed, however the books are simply not long enough for this to be explored fully, leaving the reader trying to guess what is going on in the wider world and left frustrated by the lack of knowledge. The prose is good, with well described scenes and well written character. The plot is a little lacking, with just some very vague hints of important things and historic events. Aside from these, it is simply a tedious romance novel with a medieval tournament setting. The final chapter, and the epilogue, leave so many needlessly unanswered questions.
I would say that this book has been my favorite story within this series thus far.
It has a Game of Thrones-like feel to it. There are plots everywhere. A hint of romance. Deception from the first few pages. Madness. Death. This book ties into the 4th book (The Raven Heiress) somewhat. We are introduced to the Moon elves in this story. A young elves is barred entry into the city for unknown reasons (it is revealed near the ending) but snuck in via a mysterious new friend.
A conspiracy spirals out of control between the Old Way and the believers of Adonai. This results in paranoia within the city and ultimately ends with several distraught and fewer to be trusted.
Get your hands on the follow-up to The Evening Tide and meet the Sun Elves' most fabled rival, the Moon Elves of Alepion!
Step into the Moon Elf realm and meet Jaydan and Stasanda, two youngsters seeking adventure with their friends, who find each other in the city of Evennal, where the Karnaea tournaments are set to begin.
Jaydan becomes infatuated with an elvess he finds stranded beyond the city walls, leaving the elvess, Stasanda, forced to choose between a life of independence as she had always dreamed of or a life with an elf who slowly begins touching her heart.
But what both elves soon realize, is that in the city, the dark and cruel secret society known as the Old Way have made their presence known and are being hunted by the realm's most elite warrior, Senistar the Destroyer. But while the Old Way remains faceless, none can be trusted, and both Stace and Jay realize that the other might not be who they say they are.