What do you think?
Rate this book
In the second volume of the Fourth Talisman series, Nazafareen’s path takes a twist, setting her on a journey into the heart of the maelstrom…
It’s been a thousand years since the Avas Vatras tried to burn the world to ashes. A thousand years since they were imprisoned in the brutal wasteland called the Kiln. But revenge is a dish best served cold—even, apparently, by the children of fire.
In Delphi, Nazafareen joins forces with the followers of Dionysius to rescue her friends from the Oracle’s dungeons and seek out the three talismans whose extraordinary powers stopped the Vatras before. With her own breaking magic growing stronger by the day, she must walk a razor’s edge to control her volatile temper. And if the Vatras find the talismans first, their last hope will die.
In the frozen wastes of the Valkirin range, Victor strikes an uneasy bargain to keep his tenuous grip on the Maiden Keep. The other holdfasts are coming for him. But it’s a traitor within Val Moraine’s walls that may prove to be his downfall.
It’s been a thousand years since the Avas Vatras tried to burn the world to ashes. A thousand years since they were imprisoned in the brutal wasteland called the Kiln. But revenge is a dish best served cold—even, apparently, by the children of fire.
In Delphi, Nazafareen joins forces with the followers of Dionysius to rescue her friends from the Oracle’s dungeons and seek out the three talismans whose extraordinary powers stopped the Vatras before. With her own breaking magic growing stronger by the day, she must walk a razor’s edge to control her volatile temper. And if the Vatras find the talismans first, their last hope will die.
In the frozen wastes of the Valkirin range, Victor strikes an uneasy bargain to keep his tenuous grip on the Maiden Keep. The other holdfasts are coming for him. But it’s a traitor within Val Moraine’s walls that may prove to be his downfall.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 19, 2018
147 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
Kat Ross
60 books806 followersKat Ross is an award-winning and bestselling fantasy author whose series range from the Persian-inspired Fourth Element to the cozy Ravencroft Hall books. She lives in Connecticut with her son and a gang (clowder?) of anarchist cats. When she’s not writing, you can find Kat wandering in the woods or poring over maps in the cartography turret. For more info, check out her website: www.katrossbooks.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
June 10, 2018
First thing first: shame on me for not reviewing this any sooner! So sorry for the delay!:p
Where do I start? Well, let me tell you...this book is so GOOD I actually re-read it, which is almost unprecedented and very,very rare.
That should tell you what kind of fantastic read Solis is.
There is a lot going on (and no, I won't be more precise on what...you will have to read it! Sorry not sorry!) with the plot thickening page after page, along with the Oracle's plan one could say...
There also a lot of characters involved in it but Kat Ross is so good she manages to hold everything it together with ease and without making the reader feel too overwhelmed or confused.
The only complaint-not-really-a-complaint I have with this novel is that my loves (they go by the names of Darius & Nazafareen) are separated for too long. Although their heart-wrenching reunion makes it worthwhile (I love some bit angst, but Kat...a little bit...NOT TOO MUCH!). Please allow me a bit of fangirling, I love them too much...to the point of wanting to wrap them in blankets, offer them an hot chocolate, some biscuits and a pat on the back.
Okay this is getting out of hand but still...Darius & Nazafareen are so wonderful together. Even though Nazi has this terrible knack for trouble (really girl...).
I have seldom encountered an author that manages to get her characters right under your skin as skillfully as Kat Ross. For example I couldn't help but wanting to slap Nazi & Darius when their were being stupid (Still love youuuu though) or not-so-silently cursing Gerda the old cow to be as mad as an old cow, really. And what to say about Thena and the Oracle? I hate them, I really really hate them and wish for their most gruesome death. (I'm totally invested in see them dead...)
While I sort of loved to hate Neblis and respected her as a villain, I just hate these two psychopaths mentioned above.
Last but not least...Solis does not end in a cliffhanger (mercifully!) but that doesn't mean you aren't left craving the next book in the series, and the next and the next and the next....(You get it...)
Where do I start? Well, let me tell you...this book is so GOOD I actually re-read it, which is almost unprecedented and very,very rare.
That should tell you what kind of fantastic read Solis is.
There is a lot going on (and no, I won't be more precise on what...you will have to read it! Sorry not sorry!) with the plot thickening page after page, along with the Oracle's plan one could say...
There also a lot of characters involved in it but Kat Ross is so good she manages to hold everything it together with ease and without making the reader feel too overwhelmed or confused.
The only complaint-not-really-a-complaint I have with this novel is that my loves (they go by the names of Darius & Nazafareen) are separated for too long. Although their heart-wrenching reunion makes it worthwhile (I love some bit angst, but Kat...a little bit...NOT TOO MUCH!). Please allow me a bit of fangirling, I love them too much...to the point of wanting to wrap them in blankets, offer them an hot chocolate, some biscuits and a pat on the back.
Okay this is getting out of hand but still...Darius & Nazafareen are so wonderful together. Even though Nazi has this terrible knack for trouble (really girl...).
I have seldom encountered an author that manages to get her characters right under your skin as skillfully as Kat Ross. For example I couldn't help but wanting to slap Nazi & Darius when their were being stupid (Still love youuuu though) or not-so-silently cursing Gerda the old cow to be as mad as an old cow, really. And what to say about Thena and the Oracle? I hate them, I really really hate them and wish for their most gruesome death. (I'm totally invested in see them dead...)
While I sort of loved to hate Neblis and respected her as a villain, I just hate these two psychopaths mentioned above.
Last but not least...Solis does not end in a cliffhanger (mercifully!) but that doesn't mean you aren't left craving the next book in the series, and the next and the next and the next....(You get it...)
February 18, 2018
-ARC kindly offered by Xpresso and author in exchange for an honest review-
But how nice when you can read the sequel immediately after the end of the previous one. We readers have too many expectations to endure and these consecutive readings are a panacea for our poor nerves. Nocturne ended with some scary cliffhangers and I would have gone mad with anxiety if I had not read immediately what happened then.
Kat, confess! You like too much to hold Darius prisoner. It is not possible that, poor man, he always finds himself locked up somewhere. It was thought that he had stopped messing up his life at the end of the first series but staying behind Nazafareen, being quiet is not a possibility. This girl is a real magnet for trouble. Her stubbornness and resourcefulness makes her easy to prey on intrigues and dangers. Then put the fact that she is not a simple human and consequently she attracts the curiosity of many including the villains.
The characters involved are many and the author moves them with great skill in this difficult chessboard. The antagonists, Avas Vatras, make the other enemies of the sugary seem. Revenge has made them even more ruthless and if they take possession of the talismans it will be the end of everything.
The three talismans have great powers, but if they end up in the wrong hands, hell will break out. If instead our heroes manage to recover them first, they will represent the salvation of the world.
In Kat's books there is much talk of revenge. Just think that Nazafareen, driven by this feeling, became what she is now. Not to mention the continuous search for redemption and peace.
It is a very troubled research but I hope that at the end of the next volume of the Forth Talisman series, my favorite couple will live and reign in peace.
But how nice when you can read the sequel immediately after the end of the previous one. We readers have too many expectations to endure and these consecutive readings are a panacea for our poor nerves. Nocturne ended with some scary cliffhangers and I would have gone mad with anxiety if I had not read immediately what happened then.
Kat, confess! You like too much to hold Darius prisoner. It is not possible that, poor man, he always finds himself locked up somewhere. It was thought that he had stopped messing up his life at the end of the first series but staying behind Nazafareen, being quiet is not a possibility. This girl is a real magnet for trouble. Her stubbornness and resourcefulness makes her easy to prey on intrigues and dangers. Then put the fact that she is not a simple human and consequently she attracts the curiosity of many including the villains.
The characters involved are many and the author moves them with great skill in this difficult chessboard. The antagonists, Avas Vatras, make the other enemies of the sugary seem. Revenge has made them even more ruthless and if they take possession of the talismans it will be the end of everything.
The three talismans have great powers, but if they end up in the wrong hands, hell will break out. If instead our heroes manage to recover them first, they will represent the salvation of the world.
In Kat's books there is much talk of revenge. Just think that Nazafareen, driven by this feeling, became what she is now. Not to mention the continuous search for redemption and peace.
It is a very troubled research but I hope that at the end of the next volume of the Forth Talisman series, my favorite couple will live and reign in peace.
October 10, 2018
(English Below)
За цялото ревю кликни тук. :)
Solis е съкрушително преживяване, което не те оставя на мира! Огромният талант на Кат Рос да гради и да развива света си ме оставя без дъх страница след страница…
Ще се справи ли Дариус с последиците от пленничеството си? Какво очаква моя нов любимец Кулах? Нямам търпение да разбера, но и малко се тревожа дали ще го понеса… И без това малкото ми сърце вече едва издържа!
Имах някои проблеми с факта, че твърде много внимание започна да се обръща на всевъзможния романс и да се губи фокуса на историята, но се надявам да бъда компенсирана в книга номер 3!
---
Solis is an overwhelming affair that has no end! I honestly can't handle everything Kat Ross gives us with her tremendous talent… The world in Solis is huge! Full of action and fast-paced events that leave you breathless!
Will Darius cope with everything that happened? What fate awaits my new favorite Culach? I can't wait to find out but I'm also scared of what I might get… My tiny heart barely handles the situation as it is!
I gave it 4 out of 5 stars because I think it has become way too romance-oriented. More than it needs to be in order to be attractive for the readers. There were also so many things happening all at once, they sometimes seemed useless to the story. Just occurrences to feature all of the whole cavalcade of characters. Otherwise, it is still the finely tuned storytelling I so much loved.
За цялото ревю кликни тук. :)
Solis е съкрушително преживяване, което не те оставя на мира! Огромният талант на Кат Рос да гради и да развива света си ме оставя без дъх страница след страница…
Ще се справи ли Дариус с последиците от пленничеството си? Какво очаква моя нов любимец Кулах? Нямам търпение да разбера, но и малко се тревожа дали ще го понеса… И без това малкото ми сърце вече едва издържа!
Имах някои проблеми с факта, че твърде много внимание започна да се обръща на всевъзможния романс и да се губи фокуса на историята, но се надявам да бъда компенсирана в книга номер 3!
---
Solis is an overwhelming affair that has no end! I honestly can't handle everything Kat Ross gives us with her tremendous talent… The world in Solis is huge! Full of action and fast-paced events that leave you breathless!
Will Darius cope with everything that happened? What fate awaits my new favorite Culach? I can't wait to find out but I'm also scared of what I might get… My tiny heart barely handles the situation as it is!
I gave it 4 out of 5 stars because I think it has become way too romance-oriented. More than it needs to be in order to be attractive for the readers. There were also so many things happening all at once, they sometimes seemed useless to the story. Just occurrences to feature all of the whole cavalcade of characters. Otherwise, it is still the finely tuned storytelling I so much loved.
March 13, 2018
For complete review check out my blog at https://booksaplentybookreviews.blogs...
February 22, 2018
THE
FOURTH ELEMENT
trilogy is one of my favorite fantasy series. So, it should come as no surprise that Kat Ross’ follow up series, Fourth Talisman, has rightfully carved a permanent space in my heart. Brimming with complex characters, suspenseful plot twists, and set in a world that is as exotic and beautiful as it is dangerous, Solis, the second installment in the Fourth Talisman series does not disappoint!
The day of reckoning draws near. It’s been a thousand years since the Avas Vatras tried to burn the world to ashes. Only by the magic of the four talismans, were the children of fire stopped, but not before sundering the world into day and night. Now the Ava Vatras are back with a vengeance.
Nazafareen and Darius must find the talismans before the Avas Vatras do. But Nazafareen’s breaking magic grows stronger fueled by her volatile temper. It is a double-edged sword where she must learn to exert absolute control over her will before her magic consumes her. Meanwhile, Darius has his own demons to wrestle. Ms. Ross doles out equal heartache and adventure for Nazafareen and Darius. But, with their bond from the magical cuff removed for much of the story, I sorely missed the deep and loving connection that they shared.
From the placid beauty of Nocturne (Fourth Talisman 1), Ms. Ross takes us to the glittering glamour of Solis (Fourth Talisman 2) where the sun never sets and magic is forbidden. What makes Solis highly enjoyable is its pull on my emotions with memorable characters and an adventure-driven storyline that practically turns the page itself. It encompasses tragedy and joy, darkness and humor in an engrossing plot that ever so slower leads me toward a maelstrom of near-cataclysmic events. Book three can’t be here soon enough!
{Thank you Kat Ross and Acorn Publishing for kindly giving me this book free of charge, which does not influence my review.}
The day of reckoning draws near. It’s been a thousand years since the Avas Vatras tried to burn the world to ashes. Only by the magic of the four talismans, were the children of fire stopped, but not before sundering the world into day and night. Now the Ava Vatras are back with a vengeance.
Nazafareen and Darius must find the talismans before the Avas Vatras do. But Nazafareen’s breaking magic grows stronger fueled by her volatile temper. It is a double-edged sword where she must learn to exert absolute control over her will before her magic consumes her. Meanwhile, Darius has his own demons to wrestle. Ms. Ross doles out equal heartache and adventure for Nazafareen and Darius. But, with their bond from the magical cuff removed for much of the story, I sorely missed the deep and loving connection that they shared.
From the placid beauty of Nocturne (Fourth Talisman 1), Ms. Ross takes us to the glittering glamour of Solis (Fourth Talisman 2) where the sun never sets and magic is forbidden. What makes Solis highly enjoyable is its pull on my emotions with memorable characters and an adventure-driven storyline that practically turns the page itself. It encompasses tragedy and joy, darkness and humor in an engrossing plot that ever so slower leads me toward a maelstrom of near-cataclysmic events. Book three can’t be here soon enough!
{Thank you Kat Ross and Acorn Publishing for kindly giving me this book free of charge, which does not influence my review.}
May 18, 2019
So... I'm starting to wonder if maybe Kat Ross just had an idea for one really long epic novel, and decided to chop it up into bits and publish the bits separately . Which I guess is okay? I'd really rather have the whole story at once; it's hard to see the shape of the tale when it's chopped into bits like this. I'm having a hard time getting the "why bother" out of this series.
I'm also (to be perfectly honest) having a hard time keeping the characters and their tangled relationships straight; every time a new scene started, I had to pause and try to remember "Okay, who is this?" It doesn't help that the semi-immortal characters all act like bratty teenagers on a CW show, full of petty spite and drama. (Except Darius, who is so perfect it makes one's teeth hurt a little.)
I did read the whole thing, but I'm becoming less enamoured of the series as it goes on, not more, and starting to wonder what the point of the whole thing really is. I believe I will take a breather from these books and read something more substantial, and see if I feel like returning to them later.
I'm also (to be perfectly honest) having a hard time keeping the characters and their tangled relationships straight; every time a new scene started, I had to pause and try to remember "Okay, who is this?" It doesn't help that the semi-immortal characters all act like bratty teenagers on a CW show, full of petty spite and drama. (Except Darius, who is so perfect it makes one's teeth hurt a little.)
I did read the whole thing, but I'm becoming less enamoured of the series as it goes on, not more, and starting to wonder what the point of the whole thing really is. I believe I will take a breather from these books and read something more substantial, and see if I feel like returning to them later.
February 4, 2022
This series continues to grab me and hold on tight! I don’t think a review is even necessary besides 😍😍😍
March 6, 2018
Solis, book 2 in the Fourth Talisman Series continues the adventures of Nazafareen, Darius, Javid, and Culach. After a narrow escape from Delphi, Nazafareen is staying with Kallisto and her Maenads, helping to find a way to free Herodotus and Javid from their confinement. Unbeknownst to Nazafareen, Darius is also a prisoner in Delphi. Meanwhile, back in Nocturne, at the captured fortress of Val Moraine, Culach continues to have dreams of the the fall of the Vatras, while Gerda scrys the progress of the newly freed Vatra on the sailing vessel. These various players work together, though they don't realise it scattered so far apart as they are, in order to find the talismans before the vengeful Vatras. But defeating the fire daevas the first time is what sundered the world. What price will success require this time?
I love this series!! The characters, and cultures, are rich and complex. Ross has woven a beautiful, if deadly, world, with one half wrapped in perpetual night, and the other in perpetual day. I'm still interested in the mechanics behind how this happened. I know it's fantasy, but the science oriented part of me wants to know if it's because the magic stopped the planet’s spin on its axis.
Darius and Nazafareen are still working through their own inner turmoil. Nazafareen's magic is growing stronger, the longer she's in Solis, and her volatile temper makes it easier to slip free. She must learn to master herself in order to master this rare breaking magic, a magic valuable to defeating that of the Avas Vatras. Darius, even once freed, must deal with the aftermath of his treatment at the hands of the Oracle novices, so reminiscent of his previous enslavement as a Water Dog (see the Fourth Element Series).
Seeing Samarqand was pretty cool. I loved the bargaining scene between Javid and the tailor. I know there are some cultures where it's considered rude not to do so. I think that's so of Persian/Iranian culture, but I'm not sure. I could never do that 😶 I'm way too shy! Speaking of Javid, I love that things always stay from his chosen perspective, even when we learn the full truth about him, and that this truth is simply part of his personality, and not dwelled upon, or the reader bludgeoned with as a statement. It was cool to see him more in his element once back in Samarqand, because familiar ground always changes how people act by giving greater confidence, which was surely lacking in Delphi!
While Nazafareen/Darius, and Culach are still my favourite, Javid certainly grew on me. I like Herodotus too. The elderly scholar shares many of my own interests. He's a very knowledgeable, valuable ally for Nazafareen too. His life’s work centres on the gates, and the talismans that broke the world. Speaking of characters I like, let's discuss who I despise… The Pythia needs to be stuffed into her own brazen bull. Just saying… She's beginning to rival Dolores Umbridge for the 'most despised villain’ award.
I can't recommend this series enough! I want the next book now! And have I mentioned how beautiful these covers are?
Read my review of Nocturne here.
https://wp.me/p6C2DX-1pJ
***Many thanks to XPresso Blog Tours and the author for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I love this series!! The characters, and cultures, are rich and complex. Ross has woven a beautiful, if deadly, world, with one half wrapped in perpetual night, and the other in perpetual day. I'm still interested in the mechanics behind how this happened. I know it's fantasy, but the science oriented part of me wants to know if it's because the magic stopped the planet’s spin on its axis.
Darius and Nazafareen are still working through their own inner turmoil. Nazafareen's magic is growing stronger, the longer she's in Solis, and her volatile temper makes it easier to slip free. She must learn to master herself in order to master this rare breaking magic, a magic valuable to defeating that of the Avas Vatras. Darius, even once freed, must deal with the aftermath of his treatment at the hands of the Oracle novices, so reminiscent of his previous enslavement as a Water Dog (see the Fourth Element Series).
Seeing Samarqand was pretty cool. I loved the bargaining scene between Javid and the tailor. I know there are some cultures where it's considered rude not to do so. I think that's so of Persian/Iranian culture, but I'm not sure. I could never do that 😶 I'm way too shy! Speaking of Javid, I love that things always stay from his chosen perspective, even when we learn the full truth about him, and that this truth is simply part of his personality, and not dwelled upon, or the reader bludgeoned with as a statement. It was cool to see him more in his element once back in Samarqand, because familiar ground always changes how people act by giving greater confidence, which was surely lacking in Delphi!
While Nazafareen/Darius, and Culach are still my favourite, Javid certainly grew on me. I like Herodotus too. The elderly scholar shares many of my own interests. He's a very knowledgeable, valuable ally for Nazafareen too. His life’s work centres on the gates, and the talismans that broke the world. Speaking of characters I like, let's discuss who I despise… The Pythia needs to be stuffed into her own brazen bull. Just saying… She's beginning to rival Dolores Umbridge for the 'most despised villain’ award.
I can't recommend this series enough! I want the next book now! And have I mentioned how beautiful these covers are?
Read my review of Nocturne here.
https://wp.me/p6C2DX-1pJ
***Many thanks to XPresso Blog Tours and the author for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 25, 2018
Thank you to Xpresso Book Tours and author Kat Ross for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review!
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Solis is the second novel in Kat Ross’s Fourth Talisman series and is another exhilarating, adventure driven story full of excitement, action and thrilling romance that will take readers across a dangerous desert land on the brink of war.
In the heart of Delphi, Nazafareen desperately searches for a way to rescue her friends Herodotus and Javid who have been taken prisoner by the Oracle and are going to be executed. Joining forces with the followers of Dionysius, Nazafareen and her new allies plan a daring rescue as rumours of the Avas Vatras, an ancient clan of daevas known to wield fire simmer across the lands. Unbeknown to Nazafareen, Darius is also being held captive by the cult of Apollo and determined to outlast his captor even as her methods become increasingly violent. Wanting to stop the rise of the Avas Vatras who will surely burn the world to the ground if they escape their otherworldly prison, Nazafareen will need to find three powerful talismans capable of stopping them before her enemies do. Yet as Nazafareen and Darius wage their own fights, will they be able to find their way back to each other or will they be kept apart indefinitely?
I always know when I begin a Kat Ross novel that I’m in for a thrilling tale. Honestly, I’m yet to read a novel written by her that hasn’t been spectacularly told and addictive and Solis is really no exception to this rule. Unfolding in third person and once again following Nazafareen, Darius, Victor and Culach amongst others, Solis was equal measure excitement and adventure with moments of romance and friendship thrown in.
Perfectly written, Solis continues on where the last novel left off and primarily depicts Nazafareen’s continuing journey to find a way to restore her lost memories while finding herself caught in the middle of a much bigger danger driven by the Oracle of Delphi, the Pythia, who has mysterious but clearly evil intentions. Author Kat Ross is yet to make the Pythia’s motives known but it’s clear that her desires for the talismans will play a large part in the continuing storyline of the series and seeing as I’m enjoying getting to know the other societies and divisions this side of the gate, I’m keen to discover what they are down the track.
Nazafareen continues to be a strong character to follow and I feel like she’s as kick ass as ever. I missed seeing her and Darius together in this instalment with the majority of the novel seeing them distances apart although I enjoyed their reunion and continue to lap up any moments that featured Culach—honestly adore this guy; more than I ever anticipated I could!
Ending in an intriguing manner, Solis was another highly addictive and entertaining novel and leaves me keen to see what Kat Ross does next with the third instalment. I have no doubt it will be as thrilling and enjoyable as its predecessors.
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Solis is the second novel in Kat Ross’s Fourth Talisman series and is another exhilarating, adventure driven story full of excitement, action and thrilling romance that will take readers across a dangerous desert land on the brink of war.
In the heart of Delphi, Nazafareen desperately searches for a way to rescue her friends Herodotus and Javid who have been taken prisoner by the Oracle and are going to be executed. Joining forces with the followers of Dionysius, Nazafareen and her new allies plan a daring rescue as rumours of the Avas Vatras, an ancient clan of daevas known to wield fire simmer across the lands. Unbeknown to Nazafareen, Darius is also being held captive by the cult of Apollo and determined to outlast his captor even as her methods become increasingly violent. Wanting to stop the rise of the Avas Vatras who will surely burn the world to the ground if they escape their otherworldly prison, Nazafareen will need to find three powerful talismans capable of stopping them before her enemies do. Yet as Nazafareen and Darius wage their own fights, will they be able to find their way back to each other or will they be kept apart indefinitely?
I always know when I begin a Kat Ross novel that I’m in for a thrilling tale. Honestly, I’m yet to read a novel written by her that hasn’t been spectacularly told and addictive and Solis is really no exception to this rule. Unfolding in third person and once again following Nazafareen, Darius, Victor and Culach amongst others, Solis was equal measure excitement and adventure with moments of romance and friendship thrown in.
Perfectly written, Solis continues on where the last novel left off and primarily depicts Nazafareen’s continuing journey to find a way to restore her lost memories while finding herself caught in the middle of a much bigger danger driven by the Oracle of Delphi, the Pythia, who has mysterious but clearly evil intentions. Author Kat Ross is yet to make the Pythia’s motives known but it’s clear that her desires for the talismans will play a large part in the continuing storyline of the series and seeing as I’m enjoying getting to know the other societies and divisions this side of the gate, I’m keen to discover what they are down the track.
Nazafareen continues to be a strong character to follow and I feel like she’s as kick ass as ever. I missed seeing her and Darius together in this instalment with the majority of the novel seeing them distances apart although I enjoyed their reunion and continue to lap up any moments that featured Culach—honestly adore this guy; more than I ever anticipated I could!
Ending in an intriguing manner, Solis was another highly addictive and entertaining novel and leaves me keen to see what Kat Ross does next with the third instalment. I have no doubt it will be as thrilling and enjoyable as its predecessors.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2018
Solis est la suite directe de Nocturne et en quelque sorte le revers de la médaille. Comme l’indique le titre, on passe plus de temps sous les terres ensoleillées, avec les manigances de ses habitants. Même si on reste dans la lignée du tome précédent, il manquait un peu d’intensité, on ressent de la retenue de la part de l’auteure et je pense que c’est dû à la volonté de garder de grosses révélations pour la suite. Cependant, on a quand même notre lot de surprise et on reste totalement immergé dans les incroyables aventures de Nazafareen et toute la clique.
On reprend les choses où on les avait laissées précédemment avec une Nazafareen au pied du mur qui s’est faite de nouvelles alliées. Elle commence à redevenir celle qu’elle était inconsciemment, mais avec plus de maturité et de bonté en elle. Darius a été mis en esclavage une fois de plus, ce qui va le changer et faire naitre en lui une part sombre qui pourrait s’avérer dangereuse. Thena, sa captive est assez intriguant, à la fois bonne et vicieuse, on ne sait pas trop sur quel pied danser avec cette pauvre fille. Victor est bien trop arrogant pour son bien, il se laisse aveuglé par son ambition, pendant que Culach devient de plus en plus intéressant avec ses choix et ses visions. Galen est comme Culach de ce point de vue, il évolue et on commence à deviner son rôle dans tout ça.
Peu à peu les différentes intrigues se dévoilent, notamment le retour des Avas Vatras, les daevas de feu. On en apprend davantage sur eux grâce aux cauchemars de Culach, mais aussi à travers de différentes légendes contées par les « anciens ». En parallèle on suit toujours l’introspection de Nazafareen qui tente de se retrouver et dompter ses dons qui vont se révéler plus qu’essentiel pour la suite. La guerre entre Danai et Valkirin continue et on est d’ailleurs étonné en découvrant leurs relations un millénaire plus tôt. Chacun avance ses pions et des sacrifices seront faits. Mais qui sont réellement les plus dangereux ? Nazafareen et son pouvoir ? Les humains et leur fanatismes ? Les daevas et leur arrogance ? Ou bien un ennemi millénaire qui semble avoir été effacé des mémoires ?
Une suite haletante et surprenante qui nous force à nous poser tout un tas de questions et à mettre en place tout plein d’hypothèse, toutes plus folles les unes que les autres. De nouveaux alliés et ennemis apparaissent, des traîtres se dévoilent et l’univers global de la série ne cesse de s’étoffer. La multitudes de narrateurs donne toujours autant de rythme et c’est très agréable, mais il est dommage que dans certaines occasions, on trouve une certaine redondance qui rappelle la première trilogie de l’auteure. Le dernier chapitre case tout de même avec cela et nous donne de grands espoirs quand à la suite !
On reprend les choses où on les avait laissées précédemment avec une Nazafareen au pied du mur qui s’est faite de nouvelles alliées. Elle commence à redevenir celle qu’elle était inconsciemment, mais avec plus de maturité et de bonté en elle. Darius a été mis en esclavage une fois de plus, ce qui va le changer et faire naitre en lui une part sombre qui pourrait s’avérer dangereuse. Thena, sa captive est assez intriguant, à la fois bonne et vicieuse, on ne sait pas trop sur quel pied danser avec cette pauvre fille. Victor est bien trop arrogant pour son bien, il se laisse aveuglé par son ambition, pendant que Culach devient de plus en plus intéressant avec ses choix et ses visions. Galen est comme Culach de ce point de vue, il évolue et on commence à deviner son rôle dans tout ça.
Peu à peu les différentes intrigues se dévoilent, notamment le retour des Avas Vatras, les daevas de feu. On en apprend davantage sur eux grâce aux cauchemars de Culach, mais aussi à travers de différentes légendes contées par les « anciens ». En parallèle on suit toujours l’introspection de Nazafareen qui tente de se retrouver et dompter ses dons qui vont se révéler plus qu’essentiel pour la suite. La guerre entre Danai et Valkirin continue et on est d’ailleurs étonné en découvrant leurs relations un millénaire plus tôt. Chacun avance ses pions et des sacrifices seront faits. Mais qui sont réellement les plus dangereux ? Nazafareen et son pouvoir ? Les humains et leur fanatismes ? Les daevas et leur arrogance ? Ou bien un ennemi millénaire qui semble avoir été effacé des mémoires ?
Une suite haletante et surprenante qui nous force à nous poser tout un tas de questions et à mettre en place tout plein d’hypothèse, toutes plus folles les unes que les autres. De nouveaux alliés et ennemis apparaissent, des traîtres se dévoilent et l’univers global de la série ne cesse de s’étoffer. La multitudes de narrateurs donne toujours autant de rythme et c’est très agréable, mais il est dommage que dans certaines occasions, on trouve une certaine redondance qui rappelle la première trilogie de l’auteure. Le dernier chapitre case tout de même avec cela et nous donne de grands espoirs quand à la suite !
April 24, 2018
Wow.
That's it. Just wow. Kat Ross has done it again. Just a note that I did, in fact, receive my copy of this free from the author in exchange for an honest review, but this is completely my own, unbiased opinion. The status of how I came by my copy hasn't swayed my review.
But the thing about these books is that they're just so freaking good, that disclaimer doesn't even matter. Like, at all. That's how awesome these books are. Solis is the second part of The Fourth Talisman series, which is actually a sequel series to The Fourth Element series. Highly suggest you read that series first, or won't have much background information on what's happening here. You won't regret it. AT ALL.
Solis picks up right where Nocturne left off, with Nazafareen still lacking her memory and Darius in chains. I won't reveal anything more for fear of spoiling someone's good time, but suffice it to say things are a huge, huge mess.
The character growth in this installment is on point. The setting--as usual--is described in such lush detail that's it's becoming a trademark of Ross'. The plot moves along at a pretty good clip, not a bruising pace. That, actually, is the only drawback. There is, admittedly, a slight lag around the 60 percent mark, which may simply just be mine, and no one else's problem. Things did slow down a bit at that point in the story. Also, there are just a few too many POVs going on. Not so many that you lose track of anyone, but it did happen to me a few times where I had to think back in order to remember who's head we were currently in. Ross handled that with her typically great writing, though, so, all in all, not a big deal. I admit, I would've docked it a star had that been too severe an annoyance, and for the slowing of the plot around the halfway point.
BUT. The finish of this novel was so sweeping and breakneck that all of that is forgotten. The journey has officially gotten underway, Darius and Nazafareen are trying to make it work--not really trying, those two were made for each other--and more adventure awaits.
As a novice writer myself, every time I read one of Kat's books I think "Gosh. This is exactly the kind of book I want to publish." Every. Time. Naz is a flawed, wonderful, determined character and Darius is her stubborn, tough, swoon-worthy, yet vulnerable counterweight, and I just adore them together.
If you don't read series, or only read a chosen few, let this and it's predecessor be one of them. You won't regret it.
So if you like alternate worlds, history, a little steampunk thrown in for extra flavoring and kick-ass ladies, this is the book for you. Just make sure you read all the first ones. It'll be a fantastic adventure. Trust me.
That's it. Just wow. Kat Ross has done it again. Just a note that I did, in fact, receive my copy of this free from the author in exchange for an honest review, but this is completely my own, unbiased opinion. The status of how I came by my copy hasn't swayed my review.
But the thing about these books is that they're just so freaking good, that disclaimer doesn't even matter. Like, at all. That's how awesome these books are. Solis is the second part of The Fourth Talisman series, which is actually a sequel series to The Fourth Element series. Highly suggest you read that series first, or won't have much background information on what's happening here. You won't regret it. AT ALL.
Solis picks up right where Nocturne left off, with Nazafareen still lacking her memory and Darius in chains. I won't reveal anything more for fear of spoiling someone's good time, but suffice it to say things are a huge, huge mess.
The character growth in this installment is on point. The setting--as usual--is described in such lush detail that's it's becoming a trademark of Ross'. The plot moves along at a pretty good clip, not a bruising pace. That, actually, is the only drawback. There is, admittedly, a slight lag around the 60 percent mark, which may simply just be mine, and no one else's problem. Things did slow down a bit at that point in the story. Also, there are just a few too many POVs going on. Not so many that you lose track of anyone, but it did happen to me a few times where I had to think back in order to remember who's head we were currently in. Ross handled that with her typically great writing, though, so, all in all, not a big deal. I admit, I would've docked it a star had that been too severe an annoyance, and for the slowing of the plot around the halfway point.
BUT. The finish of this novel was so sweeping and breakneck that all of that is forgotten. The journey has officially gotten underway, Darius and Nazafareen are trying to make it work--not really trying, those two were made for each other--and more adventure awaits.
As a novice writer myself, every time I read one of Kat's books I think "Gosh. This is exactly the kind of book I want to publish." Every. Time. Naz is a flawed, wonderful, determined character and Darius is her stubborn, tough, swoon-worthy, yet vulnerable counterweight, and I just adore them together.
If you don't read series, or only read a chosen few, let this and it's predecessor be one of them. You won't regret it.
So if you like alternate worlds, history, a little steampunk thrown in for extra flavoring and kick-ass ladies, this is the book for you. Just make sure you read all the first ones. It'll be a fantastic adventure. Trust me.
January 27, 2020
"The world is a big place, my friend. And life is too short to live as others would have us be.”
♠ Sono coerente e se dico che il voto deve essere onesto indipendentemente dall'affetto che si prova per l'autore allora eccolo. Drastico ma giusto. Perché questo secondo libro è assolutamente inutile. Succedono solo 3 cose in quasi 300 pagine. Io capisco che devi scrivere 5 libri però asciuga da qualche parte e siamo tutti contenti.
♠ Di queste 3 cose che succedono poi, solo una è davvero importante per la storia lineare. Un nome, quello di una Marakai, così vecchia da poter sapere cosa sono i talismani e come trovarli e quindi i nostri amici si mettono alla sua ricerca dopo essere fuggiti da Delfi e aver raggiunto Samarcanda, avevamo dubbi che sarebbe successo con tutti vivi? No e infatti questa è la mezza cosa che succede.
Darius e Nazafareen si riuniscono completamente random perché sto povero cristo ha solo 2 capitoli in croce mentre è prigioniero quindi non sappiamo come ha fatto ad arrivare fin li, niente. Lui e Nazafareen sono i protagonisti della storia e hanno meno spazio di tutti. Solo Culach forse ha meno spazio di loro, però è un ex villain e sta rinchiuso a Val Moraine, ha senso. Se poi posso capire il perché Victor abbia più spazio di Darius visto che sta per affrontare un assedio, il suo parlare come se stesse negli anni duemila mi da fastidio e, a mia discolpa, non ricordavo che nella prima serie la sua personalità fosse così abrasiva. È testardo, lamentoso e fastidioso.
Cos'altro succede? Delilah raggiunge Darius a Samarcanda, il giorno dopo che c'è arrivato lui, è partito da Nocturne tre giorni prima di lei, è stato imprigionato a Delfi però lei ha raggiunto la città in cui era diretta un giorno dopo di lui.
Thena impazzisce per i sentimenti che prova per Darius però poi torna in se, la Pizia da fuoco alla gente però si fida ancora di lei e la manda in missione a recuperare un Valkirin. Chi sarà mai questo, nessuno lo sa ma inizia per C e finisce per ulach. Non vi serve la marakai ve ne ho gia trovati due io, l'altro è Galen, però loro non sanno cosa cercare e ok.
♠ Come se non bastasse mi sprechi 18 pagine per farmi vedere Javid che torna dal suo capo e riottiene una nave volante. 18 pagine. Katsu lo rivedremo mai? Boh. Presentato così, ci è stata detta la storia della sua vita però poi rimasto li in prigione .
♠ Sono coerente e se dico che il voto deve essere onesto indipendentemente dall'affetto che si prova per l'autore allora eccolo. Drastico ma giusto. Perché questo secondo libro è assolutamente inutile. Succedono solo 3 cose in quasi 300 pagine. Io capisco che devi scrivere 5 libri però asciuga da qualche parte e siamo tutti contenti.
♠ Di queste 3 cose che succedono poi, solo una è davvero importante per la storia lineare. Un nome, quello di una Marakai, così vecchia da poter sapere cosa sono i talismani e come trovarli e quindi i nostri amici si mettono alla sua ricerca dopo essere fuggiti da Delfi e aver raggiunto Samarcanda, avevamo dubbi che sarebbe successo con tutti vivi? No e infatti questa è la mezza cosa che succede.
Darius e Nazafareen si riuniscono completamente random perché sto povero cristo ha solo 2 capitoli in croce mentre è prigioniero quindi non sappiamo come ha fatto ad arrivare fin li, niente. Lui e Nazafareen sono i protagonisti della storia e hanno meno spazio di tutti. Solo Culach forse ha meno spazio di loro, però è un ex villain e sta rinchiuso a Val Moraine, ha senso. Se poi posso capire il perché Victor abbia più spazio di Darius visto che sta per affrontare un assedio, il suo parlare come se stesse negli anni duemila mi da fastidio e, a mia discolpa, non ricordavo che nella prima serie la sua personalità fosse così abrasiva. È testardo, lamentoso e fastidioso.
Cos'altro succede? Delilah raggiunge Darius a Samarcanda, il giorno dopo che c'è arrivato lui, è partito da Nocturne tre giorni prima di lei, è stato imprigionato a Delfi però lei ha raggiunto la città in cui era diretta un giorno dopo di lui.
Thena impazzisce per i sentimenti che prova per Darius però poi torna in se, la Pizia da fuoco alla gente però si fida ancora di lei e la manda in missione a recuperare un Valkirin. Chi sarà mai questo, nessuno lo sa ma inizia per C e finisce per ulach. Non vi serve la marakai ve ne ho gia trovati due io, l'altro è Galen, però loro non sanno cosa cercare e ok.
♠ Come se non bastasse mi sprechi 18 pagine per farmi vedere Javid che torna dal suo capo e riottiene una nave volante. 18 pagine. Katsu lo rivedremo mai? Boh. Presentato così, ci è stata detta la storia della sua vita però poi rimasto li in prigione .
March 13, 2019
I love the immense world that Kat Ross has created for The Fourth Talisman series. Throughout book two, Solis, the world continues to expand as we learn more about the Vatras, the Greeks, and the Valkirin. I learned more about the characters and places on every page, and the adventure continues to grow.
Nazafereen is in Greece with a mission. A tricky one that takes most of the book to accomplish. But as she navigates the solution to her problem, she is unaware that Darius is also in danger. My one big hang-up here was at the very end. I wanted is POV a little bit more. I was so used to seeing what was happening to him, and then bam, something happened and I only got a recap without many details. And the details sounded exciting.
Back in Valkirin, things aren't looking so good for Victor. But pay close attention to everything happening here. There's a big clue and I almost missed it, but now I'm curious to see how it all plays out. Even characters that appear to be secondary in nature have their chance to shine and play important roles here - which just brings the world to life even more.
I think what impresses me most about the series so far is that scale of the world that Kat Ross has brought to the pages. Details are polished and characters (even side ones) feel like they are complete people and not just used to push the story along. The way the storylines overlap and lives cross in unexpected ways remind of some of the fantasy greats.
**I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book**
Nazafereen is in Greece with a mission. A tricky one that takes most of the book to accomplish. But as she navigates the solution to her problem, she is unaware that Darius is also in danger. My one big hang-up here was at the very end. I wanted is POV a little bit more. I was so used to seeing what was happening to him, and then bam, something happened and I only got a recap without many details. And the details sounded exciting.
Back in Valkirin, things aren't looking so good for Victor. But pay close attention to everything happening here. There's a big clue and I almost missed it, but now I'm curious to see how it all plays out. Even characters that appear to be secondary in nature have their chance to shine and play important roles here - which just brings the world to life even more.
I think what impresses me most about the series so far is that scale of the world that Kat Ross has brought to the pages. Details are polished and characters (even side ones) feel like they are complete people and not just used to push the story along. The way the storylines overlap and lives cross in unexpected ways remind of some of the fantasy greats.
**I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book**
December 28, 2018
"Solis" continues the story of Nazafareen and Darius's adventures where "Nocturne" left off. Since this is the middle book in a trilogy, which is itself the second trilogy in the entire series, it will probably make more sense to you if you read at least some of the other books first. If you're coming to this after having read the previous books, it's an exciting and action-filled continuation of the story, with twists and turns in every chapter.
I don't want to give away too much of the plot, so I want go into detail there, other than to say that there are lots of evildoings involving the Pythia of Delphi, who is a delightfully sinister character. One of the nice things about this series is the large cast of female characters it contains. They can be a bit cliched, and I notice that the trope of "scorned/mistreated woman turning to evil" continues in both Neblis and the Pythia, and some other stereotypes (as is so often the case, the "trans" character upholds rather than breaks gender stereotypes, by linking maleness with virtue and rewarding women who erase their femaleness--but don't get me started on that. Or on the "fake news" aspect...) but this series is still a vast improvement in that regard over many others. All in all, a fun and exciting read in a well-imagined fantasy world.
I don't want to give away too much of the plot, so I want go into detail there, other than to say that there are lots of evildoings involving the Pythia of Delphi, who is a delightfully sinister character. One of the nice things about this series is the large cast of female characters it contains. They can be a bit cliched, and I notice that the trope of "scorned/mistreated woman turning to evil" continues in both Neblis and the Pythia, and some other stereotypes (as is so often the case, the "trans" character upholds rather than breaks gender stereotypes, by linking maleness with virtue and rewarding women who erase their femaleness--but don't get me started on that. Or on the "fake news" aspect...) but this series is still a vast improvement in that regard over many others. All in all, a fun and exciting read in a well-imagined fantasy world.
July 24, 2021
*** CONTIENE SPOILER ***
Mi è piaciuto davvero. Man mano che si va avanti ci sono sempre più indizi che rendono il tutto interessante e ti spingono a non fermarti nella lettura.
Però la conclusione non me la aspettavo. Che la Pizia fosse una Vatra lo avevo capito. Ci speravo sul serio. Odia i daeva in un modo in cui solo qualcuno che ha un conto personale in sospeso potrebbe odiarli. Allo stesso tempo però percepisce Nazafareen attraverso la sua magia. Non poteva essere altro che una Vatra. L'aggiunta però di suo fratello secondo me rende il tutto più interessante.
Ad ora conosciamo per certo il sigillo Danai, gli altri sono ancora abbastanza un mistero. Che Culach sia il talismano Valkirin? Potrebbe essere in effetti, anche se ad ora lo vedo più come un messaggero e basta. Ha accesso diretto ai pensieri di Farrumohr e avrà un ruolo importante per questo. E Farrumohr poi. Dio lo detestavo già nella prima trilogia ma qui proprio non lo sopporto. Ditemi pure che è diventato ciò che è diventato per come è stato trattato, ma per me proprio meriterebbe la peggior fine. Non capisco ancora se in qualche modo sia sopravvissuto alla distruzione del pozzo visto che appunto Culach riesce a vedere il suo passato e se sia solo un residuo della "possessione".
Mi è piaciuto davvero. Man mano che si va avanti ci sono sempre più indizi che rendono il tutto interessante e ti spingono a non fermarti nella lettura.
Però la conclusione non me la aspettavo. Che la Pizia fosse una Vatra lo avevo capito. Ci speravo sul serio. Odia i daeva in un modo in cui solo qualcuno che ha un conto personale in sospeso potrebbe odiarli. Allo stesso tempo però percepisce Nazafareen attraverso la sua magia. Non poteva essere altro che una Vatra. L'aggiunta però di suo fratello secondo me rende il tutto più interessante.
Ad ora conosciamo per certo il sigillo Danai, gli altri sono ancora abbastanza un mistero. Che Culach sia il talismano Valkirin? Potrebbe essere in effetti, anche se ad ora lo vedo più come un messaggero e basta. Ha accesso diretto ai pensieri di Farrumohr e avrà un ruolo importante per questo. E Farrumohr poi. Dio lo detestavo già nella prima trilogia ma qui proprio non lo sopporto. Ditemi pure che è diventato ciò che è diventato per come è stato trattato, ma per me proprio meriterebbe la peggior fine. Non capisco ancora se in qualche modo sia sopravvissuto alla distruzione del pozzo visto che appunto Culach riesce a vedere il suo passato e se sia solo un residuo della "possessione".
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
This is the 2nd installment in the “The Fourth Talisman” series by Kat Ross. Because I’ve already read “The Fourth Empire “ series, which is set with many of the same characters, but about 20 years later, I know many of the characters in this series and am loving trying to figure out what is happening that leads to the future I know will happen. While I usually highly prefer reading series in their appropriate order, I wasn’t aware until I’d already read out of order. It happens. But in this case, it doesn’t matter. They’re tying together, but they’re definitely standalone series’ so they can be enjoyed either way. I really enjoy thinking while I read so while I’m still being taken for a ride with the characters, I’m racking my brain trying to figure out how things happened.
I really love the world building and character development Kat Ross brings to all her books (that I’ve read so far and this is my 3rd series of hers so far). She manages to seemingly bring together magic, various cultures, political intrigue, exploration, etc. While it’s not something I’m looking for in my reading, many people will appreciate the DEI found in the characters.
Continue to highly recommend anything by Kat Ross!
This is the 2nd installment in the “The Fourth Talisman” series by Kat Ross. Because I’ve already read “The Fourth Empire “ series, which is set with many of the same characters, but about 20 years later, I know many of the characters in this series and am loving trying to figure out what is happening that leads to the future I know will happen. While I usually highly prefer reading series in their appropriate order, I wasn’t aware until I’d already read out of order. It happens. But in this case, it doesn’t matter. They’re tying together, but they’re definitely standalone series’ so they can be enjoyed either way. I really enjoy thinking while I read so while I’m still being taken for a ride with the characters, I’m racking my brain trying to figure out how things happened.
I really love the world building and character development Kat Ross brings to all her books (that I’ve read so far and this is my 3rd series of hers so far). She manages to seemingly bring together magic, various cultures, political intrigue, exploration, etc. While it’s not something I’m looking for in my reading, many people will appreciate the DEI found in the characters.
Continue to highly recommend anything by Kat Ross!
April 23, 2018
*voluntarily and honestly reviewed the ARC I received from the author*
I liked the first book, but things seemed a little different with this one. I still love the world the author built and the characters' different paths laid out. The pacing seemed a little different; where one character's journey was quickened, another's was slowed to a near minimum, so there were times when I'd want to get one chapter over with if only to go back to one of the other's. This already feels like a major part (well one of the major parts) of the series (trilogy?) has come to a head, and I'm not ready to say goodbye to their peaceful (I mean, it was as peaceful as it could be, considering) time so soon. I don't like some of the new 'bad guy' characters, but it has more to do with the fact that they hurt one of my favorites and may possibly do even more damage XD And I just hate not being able to do anything as these characters suffer. Sooo I'd definitely recommend this series because of the world created. The adventure parts are great and I like a lot of what Nazafareen goes through. You should read the previous trilogy though, as this series continues from that.
I liked the first book, but things seemed a little different with this one. I still love the world the author built and the characters' different paths laid out. The pacing seemed a little different; where one character's journey was quickened, another's was slowed to a near minimum, so there were times when I'd want to get one chapter over with if only to go back to one of the other's. This already feels like a major part (well one of the major parts) of the series (trilogy?) has come to a head, and I'm not ready to say goodbye to their peaceful (I mean, it was as peaceful as it could be, considering) time so soon. I don't like some of the new 'bad guy' characters, but it has more to do with the fact that they hurt one of my favorites and may possibly do even more damage XD And I just hate not being able to do anything as these characters suffer. Sooo I'd definitely recommend this series because of the world created. The adventure parts are great and I like a lot of what Nazafareen goes through. You should read the previous trilogy though, as this series continues from that.
February 20, 2018
Getting back into the story after Nocturne ended, Solis shows how well Kat Ross does her research and I'm amazed at how well she does at keeping the facts and everything that goes on in this world straight.
While the story seemed a little slow in comparison to Nocturne, maybe it was all the changing POVs, at other times it seemed like the action really picked up and Naz and Darius finally get reunited after being separated. We also learn more about the talismans, the Vastras, so many secrets that are being revealed, and more in depth look to a lot of the new characters.
Although I would have liked for Naz to finally get her memories back, it was still nice to see how Darius and Naz are together despite the amnesia. And of course things are starting to get really interesting and complicated that I can't wait for the next book to see what happens next! At least this time, Naz and Darius are reunited, I just hope Thena doesn't show up and mess everything up.
While the story seemed a little slow in comparison to Nocturne, maybe it was all the changing POVs, at other times it seemed like the action really picked up and Naz and Darius finally get reunited after being separated. We also learn more about the talismans, the Vastras, so many secrets that are being revealed, and more in depth look to a lot of the new characters.
Although I would have liked for Naz to finally get her memories back, it was still nice to see how Darius and Naz are together despite the amnesia. And of course things are starting to get really interesting and complicated that I can't wait for the next book to see what happens next! At least this time, Naz and Darius are reunited, I just hope Thena doesn't show up and mess everything up.
February 20, 2018
Oh yes!
Nazafareen is back and she is as independent and kick butt as before. Finding other strong female allies she forges her way into her future, coming to terms with a past she may never remember. Darius collects new demons and the Pythia starts to show her true colours, whilst the Vatras mystery starts to unravel.
It’s an epic story with intrigue and characters to love at every turn. From the followers of Dionysius and the pious servants of Apollo to the Firey Vatras and the steadfast Marakai. I really enjoy the way Kat Ross writes and the flow of her story is seamless. She pulls you in and you only come up long enough to catch your breath. Yet again I’m begging for more of the story and waiting with bated breath for the conclusion. All the players have a roll to play and at some point they will have to choose which side they are on. When the time comes who will be victorious and whose side will you be on?
Nazafareen is back and she is as independent and kick butt as before. Finding other strong female allies she forges her way into her future, coming to terms with a past she may never remember. Darius collects new demons and the Pythia starts to show her true colours, whilst the Vatras mystery starts to unravel.
It’s an epic story with intrigue and characters to love at every turn. From the followers of Dionysius and the pious servants of Apollo to the Firey Vatras and the steadfast Marakai. I really enjoy the way Kat Ross writes and the flow of her story is seamless. She pulls you in and you only come up long enough to catch your breath. Yet again I’m begging for more of the story and waiting with bated breath for the conclusion. All the players have a roll to play and at some point they will have to choose which side they are on. When the time comes who will be victorious and whose side will you be on?
March 30, 2018
I love Darius and Nazafareen. This book starts where the first book left off and gives us much more insight into what's really going on. Read to the end and you'll discover an eyebrow-raising secret.
It still felt more episodic than like a full story. Was the problem that they get together? The book should have ended sooner.
Maybe the problem was that they needed to get word to Nocturne about the Oracle's diabolical plans. And they're more diabolical than anyone can imagine (except maybe Kat Ross since she DID imagine them). In any case, that news is only on its way.
Several of the twists in this story have me sitting on the edge of my seat. But now I have to wait for a few months until the next book comes out.
If you love magic, Greek mythology and alternate histories, you will want to pick this up. If you haven't already read THE FOURTH ELEMENT series, that will keep you entertained while you wait for the next installment here.
It still felt more episodic than like a full story. Was the problem that they get together? The book should have ended sooner.
Maybe the problem was that they needed to get word to Nocturne about the Oracle's diabolical plans. And they're more diabolical than anyone can imagine (except maybe Kat Ross since she DID imagine them). In any case, that news is only on its way.
Several of the twists in this story have me sitting on the edge of my seat. But now I have to wait for a few months until the next book comes out.
If you love magic, Greek mythology and alternate histories, you will want to pick this up. If you haven't already read THE FOURTH ELEMENT series, that will keep you entertained while you wait for the next installment here.
July 12, 2021
Nocturne by Kat Ross is N in my A-Z Challenge of Fiction Titles. This is part of The Fourth Talisman series, which is a sequel to The Fourth Element Series, so as a quick recap, I reread the review I had written previously.
The book starts with Nazafareen being held in Nocturne after she has lost all her memories. She has been advised not to travel without being accompanied, but she is aware there is more going on than meets the eye, convinced that if she could regain her memories everything would fall into place. After stowing away aboard an air-ship, Nazafareen discovers the other lands are not all they seem.
As with the previous series by Kat Ross, I couldn't put these books down, and ended up buying the rest of the series: Solis, Monstrum, Nemesis, and Inferno.
I don't want to give away too much of the plot of these books, but it is another epic adventure mixing magic, religion, revenge, power, love and action.
Highly recommended.
The book starts with Nazafareen being held in Nocturne after she has lost all her memories. She has been advised not to travel without being accompanied, but she is aware there is more going on than meets the eye, convinced that if she could regain her memories everything would fall into place. After stowing away aboard an air-ship, Nazafareen discovers the other lands are not all they seem.
As with the previous series by Kat Ross, I couldn't put these books down, and ended up buying the rest of the series: Solis, Monstrum, Nemesis, and Inferno.
I don't want to give away too much of the plot of these books, but it is another epic adventure mixing magic, religion, revenge, power, love and action.
Highly recommended.
May 24, 2025
I love this world so, so much and the fact that is is constantly growing and developing makes my heart more happy than I can express.
Nazafareen is really starting to grow on me. I loved her in the first series, but struggled through the whole memory loss thing as I felt that her character really changed into someone I wasn’t excited about.
But! But. Her being separated from Darius is really bringing her back to her roots and she's starting to feel more like the Nazafreen I remember and love.
Kat Ross is amazing at multiple povs. Not just your basic pov, but multiple storylines going on at the same time, somehow also intertwining with all the other story lines that are also going on. The story never stalls, it never slows down and there's never a chance for boredom to sneak in.
Nazafareen is really starting to grow on me. I loved her in the first series, but struggled through the whole memory loss thing as I felt that her character really changed into someone I wasn’t excited about.
But! But. Her being separated from Darius is really bringing her back to her roots and she's starting to feel more like the Nazafreen I remember and love.
Kat Ross is amazing at multiple povs. Not just your basic pov, but multiple storylines going on at the same time, somehow also intertwining with all the other story lines that are also going on. The story never stalls, it never slows down and there's never a chance for boredom to sneak in.
July 6, 2018
Solis has Nazafareen settling in with the Maedra -- women who worship the god Dionysius. They're big fans of wine, but they're also strong, skilled, intelligent women who can hold their own in a fight. The women and Nazafareen are planning to free Herodotus, Kallisto's husband, and Javid, the young man who helped Nazafareen in book one. They also want to try and take down the evil Pythia if at all possible. It won't be easy, but they're determined to do whatever it takes.
On the other side of the world, Victor is now trying to keep hold over Val Moraine. He enters an uneasy alliance with the blind Culach, but he knows one wrong move could send things spiraling out of control. He's balanced on a thin wire, and if he's not careful, it will all come crashing down upon his head.
Solis is intense at times, with some of the scenes bordering on sadistic (thanks for being a complete psycho, Pythia!), and it doesn't hold back. I found myself hating so many characters in this story because of how awful they are. And, of course, I was rooting for Nazafareen and the other women, because why wouldn't you? They're the good guys here, and you want to see them win. Alas, though, the Pythia and her minions do not make it easy.
I didn't quite care as much about what was going on in Val Moraine, but I did find myself torn when it came to Gerda and Culach. Mainly Gerda. She's a strange bird.
Overall, I enjoyed Solis, and it made me curious to read Monstrum and see where the story was going to go. This series is one of my new favorites this year, and I'm so glad I took a chance on it.
I give Solis four stars.
On the other side of the world, Victor is now trying to keep hold over Val Moraine. He enters an uneasy alliance with the blind Culach, but he knows one wrong move could send things spiraling out of control. He's balanced on a thin wire, and if he's not careful, it will all come crashing down upon his head.
Solis is intense at times, with some of the scenes bordering on sadistic (thanks for being a complete psycho, Pythia!), and it doesn't hold back. I found myself hating so many characters in this story because of how awful they are. And, of course, I was rooting for Nazafareen and the other women, because why wouldn't you? They're the good guys here, and you want to see them win. Alas, though, the Pythia and her minions do not make it easy.
I didn't quite care as much about what was going on in Val Moraine, but I did find myself torn when it came to Gerda and Culach. Mainly Gerda. She's a strange bird.
Overall, I enjoyed Solis, and it made me curious to read Monstrum and see where the story was going to go. This series is one of my new favorites this year, and I'm so glad I took a chance on it.
I give Solis four stars.
February 19, 2018
DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN ARC OF THIS BOOK(AND THE FIRST BOOK), THROUGH XPRESSO BOOK TOURS, FOR A BLOG TOUR. THIS IS MY HONEST REVIEW.
I had the chills while reading this book(and the first book). Kat Ross is amazing. I read her The Fourth Element series and fell in love with her writing. SOLIS picks up where NOCTURNE left off. I was biting my poor fingernails. This book is a must read. Nazafareen's character is driven and determined. I really liked her. And Darius! I need to know what comes next!
I had the chills while reading this book(and the first book). Kat Ross is amazing. I read her The Fourth Element series and fell in love with her writing. SOLIS picks up where NOCTURNE left off. I was biting my poor fingernails. This book is a must read. Nazafareen's character is driven and determined. I really liked her. And Darius! I need to know what comes next!
November 8, 2020
Up through the third book of this series I was saying it was nearly as entertaining as Game of Thrones but let's say a solid "B" grade version. By that, I mean multi-layered, complex storylines interwoven within sprawling magical and political worldbuilding.
Then, the Author stretched it out across too many volumes and it all went to shite in the fourth book. Stupid decisions by the characters; conflicts from left field taking up huge chunks of pages; melodrama (lurve instead of love) blah blah--you know, the usual downfalls of greedy editors pushing for as long a series as possible.
Then, the Author stretched it out across too many volumes and it all went to shite in the fourth book. Stupid decisions by the characters; conflicts from left field taking up huge chunks of pages; melodrama (lurve instead of love) blah blah--you know, the usual downfalls of greedy editors pushing for as long a series as possible.
October 1, 2020
Enter the land of Solis!
Where Nocturne was set in the dark world, Solis is set in the world of light and sun. The gods are used to manipulate agendas by those who hold power over the people. The characters grow and learn in this next book in the series. Drastic events happen in non-stop action. A fast-paced story that is heading towards a crescendo that will rock these worlds to their cores. Fantastic adventure!
Where Nocturne was set in the dark world, Solis is set in the world of light and sun. The gods are used to manipulate agendas by those who hold power over the people. The characters grow and learn in this next book in the series. Drastic events happen in non-stop action. A fast-paced story that is heading towards a crescendo that will rock these worlds to their cores. Fantastic adventure!
April 1, 2018
As the second book in this series, Kat Ross has done it again. Her beautiful use of description and character development kept me turning pages while her depth of plot and meaning kept me intrigued. This is a great dark epic fantasy and I’m looking forward to continuing with these characters and this storyline!
August 25, 2019
I coudn't put this book down
I read it in two days. The story was so interesting that I coudn't do nothing but read. The parts with Pythia and the Vatras was so scary that I was afraid to read. I had to skip the tourching parts beacose is too much for me. The best part was Coulach and Mina romance.
I read it in two days. The story was so interesting that I coudn't do nothing but read. The parts with Pythia and the Vatras was so scary that I was afraid to read. I had to skip the tourching parts beacose is too much for me. The best part was Coulach and Mina romance.
December 7, 2019
Wow
It is getting so exciting. Nazafareen has arrived in Delphi along with Javid, they save an elderly scholar who offers them a job in the library. The library is a hotbed of intriguing characters with many dangerous twists and turns. Grab yourself a copy and lose yourself in a fabulous series. Highly recommend.
It is getting so exciting. Nazafareen has arrived in Delphi along with Javid, they save an elderly scholar who offers them a job in the library. The library is a hotbed of intriguing characters with many dangerous twists and turns. Grab yourself a copy and lose yourself in a fabulous series. Highly recommend.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews