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The Drowning Empire #1
Skykeeper
Alternate Cover Edition of ASIN B074P1JPW4
The sky is falling
down.
And all her life, Aven has been trained to prevent it from collapsing completely. As a keeper of her underwater empire, her blood is laced with the magic that allows her to seal the 'sky', to reinforce the barrier that holds the great Sea-Above in place.
But that sea has never liked being restrained.
And now strange things are happening in the western corners of the empire.
There are rumors of increasingly broken skies. Rising flood waters. Of a tidal wave of destruction that is spreading, racing toward Aven's own peaceful, glittering kingdom. She may be the only one who can stop that wave. But to do that, she will have to fight her way through rioting kingdoms and overcome dangerous magic, all while guarding herself--and her heart in particular--against the mysterious hunter trying to stop her.
Time is growing shorter.
The sky is growing darker.
Can Aven somehow keep it from breaking apart and drowning her entire world?
The sky is falling
down.
And all her life, Aven has been trained to prevent it from collapsing completely. As a keeper of her underwater empire, her blood is laced with the magic that allows her to seal the 'sky', to reinforce the barrier that holds the great Sea-Above in place.
But that sea has never liked being restrained.
And now strange things are happening in the western corners of the empire.
There are rumors of increasingly broken skies. Rising flood waters. Of a tidal wave of destruction that is spreading, racing toward Aven's own peaceful, glittering kingdom. She may be the only one who can stop that wave. But to do that, she will have to fight her way through rioting kingdoms and overcome dangerous magic, all while guarding herself--and her heart in particular--against the mysterious hunter trying to stop her.
Time is growing shorter.
The sky is growing darker.
Can Aven somehow keep it from breaking apart and drowning her entire world?
316 pages, ebook
First published August 8, 2017
285 people are currently reading
2919 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Gaither
28 books2,055 followersI don't check Goodreads regularly, but you're welcome to send me an email (smgaitherbooks@gmail.com) anytime!
--
As a kid, S.M. Gaither spent way too much time playing video games like Final Fantasy and reading every book she could get her hands on instead of doing silly things like her assigned homework. As an adult…Well, not much has changed. Her goal is to write books that distract others from their life’s obligations, too, thus creating an army of fellow procrastinators over which she can reign supreme. These days, her personal favorite places to procrastinate are in the mountains near her North Carolina home, in the company of her husband, their daughter, and their very spoiled dog.
--
As a kid, S.M. Gaither spent way too much time playing video games like Final Fantasy and reading every book she could get her hands on instead of doing silly things like her assigned homework. As an adult…Well, not much has changed. Her goal is to write books that distract others from their life’s obligations, too, thus creating an army of fellow procrastinators over which she can reign supreme. These days, her personal favorite places to procrastinate are in the mountains near her North Carolina home, in the company of her husband, their daughter, and their very spoiled dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
April 20, 2018
💮 Chosen book for the
2018 MacHalo Reading Challenge (aka MMFBCE™)
~~ 11. Under the Sea & Above the Clouds ~~
💮
THE ITCHING.
Dear Goddess,
Make it STOP
This...this was bad. Wasted potential. Bad.
For you to be able to understand you need to picture a few specific things in a specific order. Here we go:
Imagine a puppy with ADHD.
Imagine Patrick Star (from Spongebob).
Imagine those two had a kid. That kid, besides getting all the characteristics of its parents, was bipolar & lived in a vacuum.
Now imagine that someone fed that kid: methamphetamines, a lethal dose of caffeine, chocolate, wine, cocaine, antidepressants & ecstasy all at once and then gave the kid a great bitch slap in the face for good measure.
Then placed said kid in a hall where on the right is a library and on the left is a raging old-fashioned rave party. And then told said kid to be paranoid of shadows and twinkling lights at the same time for no apparent reason.
That ⤴ is how it was to read this book, how it wad to be inside the heroines' head. I had an insane and unreasonable desire to scratch the inside of my skull the entire time I was reading, which was a day and a half, which in turn was a day and a half too long for this. I still have it thy urge even though I'm finished. *shudders*
*whispers...
...make the itching stop*
The arguments and all the thoughts in this were solid but they were on at the same time. I feel schizophrenic just going through them all.
Let's go past that schizophrenia inducing inner monologue, because make no mistake it was an inner monologue. The dialogues in this only take like 5 pages. 5 pages of dialogue. Out of 316.
We don't see any of the characters. Not the love interest, not the new friend, not the villain, not even the heroine, at least not at first. From the very, very little we see: West (whose real name was a blasphemy not to have it revealed earlier btw) & Coralind are decent, they seem to be intelligent enough, strong with a potential for badassery. Varick again seems to have intelligence and charm in spades. But we don't fucking see any of them so this is the best I can tell you.
As far as the world goes it is Bikini Bottom with magic. Again not seeing anything and even though we are given a map at the beginning of the book the narration and the directions are fucking confusing. It is a fucking shame too cause the world has potential. I mean Bikini Bottom with magic. Let that sink in for a moment.
The only plus here were the pets, as Hiccup would say. We have a tiny colour-changing, magic-wielding dragon called Atlas and a speed demon of a water horse named Finn. Loved them both but we didn't get to see them much. You can see the pattern here huh? *shakes head*
Anyway I read it and managed to retain the slivers of sanity I had left when I was done. Of course that lasted for approximately 20 seconds since I read the blurp for Book #2 just now and ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?!?! I survived all this monologuing for what seems to be absolutely nothing?!?
*breathes in*
*breathes out*
I'm calm. I'm calm. You know what, it's fine. Really. It makes absolute sense. Yep.
THE ITCHING.
Dear Goddess,
Make it STOP
This...this was bad. Wasted potential. Bad.
For you to be able to understand you need to picture a few specific things in a specific order. Here we go:
Imagine a puppy with ADHD.
Imagine Patrick Star (from Spongebob).
Imagine those two had a kid. That kid, besides getting all the characteristics of its parents, was bipolar & lived in a vacuum.
Now imagine that someone fed that kid: methamphetamines, a lethal dose of caffeine, chocolate, wine, cocaine, antidepressants & ecstasy all at once and then gave the kid a great bitch slap in the face for good measure.
Then placed said kid in a hall where on the right is a library and on the left is a raging old-fashioned rave party. And then told said kid to be paranoid of shadows and twinkling lights at the same time for no apparent reason.
That ⤴ is how it was to read this book, how it wad to be inside the heroines' head. I had an insane and unreasonable desire to scratch the inside of my skull the entire time I was reading, which was a day and a half, which in turn was a day and a half too long for this. I still have it thy urge even though I'm finished. *shudders*
*whispers...
...make the itching stop*
The arguments and all the thoughts in this were solid but they were on at the same time. I feel schizophrenic just going through them all.
Let's go past that schizophrenia inducing inner monologue, because make no mistake it was an inner monologue. The dialogues in this only take like 5 pages. 5 pages of dialogue. Out of 316.
We don't see any of the characters. Not the love interest, not the new friend, not the villain, not even the heroine, at least not at first. From the very, very little we see: West (whose real name was a blasphemy not to have it revealed earlier btw) & Coralind are decent, they seem to be intelligent enough, strong with a potential for badassery. Varick again seems to have intelligence and charm in spades. But we don't fucking see any of them so this is the best I can tell you.
As far as the world goes it is Bikini Bottom with magic. Again not seeing anything and even though we are given a map at the beginning of the book the narration and the directions are fucking confusing. It is a fucking shame too cause the world has potential. I mean Bikini Bottom with magic. Let that sink in for a moment.
The only plus here were the pets, as Hiccup would say. We have a tiny colour-changing, magic-wielding dragon called Atlas and a speed demon of a water horse named Finn. Loved them both but we didn't get to see them much. You can see the pattern here huh? *shakes head*
Anyway I read it and managed to retain the slivers of sanity I had left when I was done. Of course that lasted for approximately 20 seconds since I read the blurp for Book #2 just now and ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?!?! I survived all this monologuing for what seems to be absolutely nothing?!?
*breathes in*
*breathes out*
I'm calm. I'm calm. You know what, it's fine. Really. It makes absolute sense. Yep.
September 9, 2019
I’m so glad I finally started this series! It has a strong Atlantis-retelling vibe to it . . . but is really just completely its own thing in the end. There was no predicting the world or characters, and I eventually I stopped trying and just settled in to enjoy the experience.
Aven is our heroine. She is a Keeper in the kingdom of Garda, and uses blood magic to keep the skies from literally falling and letting the vast ocean above drown her world. Without Keepers, humanity is doomed.
Aven, as a Pure Keeper, has the unique power to sense where a rift is forming in the sky . . . which, as you can imagine, is a desperately important power in a situation like this! Following in the footsteps of her famous Keeper father and brother, Aven is ready to fulfill her role in life. But naturally things don’t work out according to plan! Her brother dabbles in dangerous heresy, and the sky barrier is weakening. Keepers are giving too much blood and dying in their desperate attempts to keep their world safe. It’s time for Aven to step out of her intended role and take action.
It’s forbidden for anyone to leave the Garda . . . and Aven is about to find out why.
I really enjoyed the relationships in this book. Strong friendships, a bond to a magical water horse . . . and, yes, for those of you looking for romance, there IS something there too! But you won’t get any spoilers out of me. This story is full of adventure, fantastic world building, great plot twists, and masterful writing on the part of SM Gaither.
If you’re a fan of kick-butt heroine fantasy and are eager for something a little unique in the genre, THIS is the book for you!
Aven is our heroine. She is a Keeper in the kingdom of Garda, and uses blood magic to keep the skies from literally falling and letting the vast ocean above drown her world. Without Keepers, humanity is doomed.
Aven, as a Pure Keeper, has the unique power to sense where a rift is forming in the sky . . . which, as you can imagine, is a desperately important power in a situation like this! Following in the footsteps of her famous Keeper father and brother, Aven is ready to fulfill her role in life. But naturally things don’t work out according to plan! Her brother dabbles in dangerous heresy, and the sky barrier is weakening. Keepers are giving too much blood and dying in their desperate attempts to keep their world safe. It’s time for Aven to step out of her intended role and take action.
It’s forbidden for anyone to leave the Garda . . . and Aven is about to find out why.
I really enjoyed the relationships in this book. Strong friendships, a bond to a magical water horse . . . and, yes, for those of you looking for romance, there IS something there too! But you won’t get any spoilers out of me. This story is full of adventure, fantastic world building, great plot twists, and masterful writing on the part of SM Gaither.
If you’re a fan of kick-butt heroine fantasy and are eager for something a little unique in the genre, THIS is the book for you!
October 4, 2017
Skykeeper is a great book if you looking for a nice fast read.
The main protagonist Aven has a surprisingly good character arc surrounded through what is morally right and the sense of losing your relative and dealing with him gone all the while trying to save the world and having no idea what she is doing. She’s a incredible relatable lead and I’m glad to read the story from her narration. I’m too sadden that despite such interesting concept as underwater world and the magic involved we get so little to know about the people and the world in it and I hope the author digs a little more in the future. Some of the supporting characters could have gotten better handling just like Aven was but unfortunatly the fast pacing of the plot had to make some sacrifices regardless of much needed characterization. The writing is superb and fun to read and some of lines in this book I couldn’t but stop the reading in order to just highlight them. They are just that remerable.
Please try Skykeeper you won’t be disappointed ;)
The main protagonist Aven has a surprisingly good character arc surrounded through what is morally right and the sense of losing your relative and dealing with him gone all the while trying to save the world and having no idea what she is doing. She’s a incredible relatable lead and I’m glad to read the story from her narration. I’m too sadden that despite such interesting concept as underwater world and the magic involved we get so little to know about the people and the world in it and I hope the author digs a little more in the future. Some of the supporting characters could have gotten better handling just like Aven was but unfortunatly the fast pacing of the plot had to make some sacrifices regardless of much needed characterization. The writing is superb and fun to read and some of lines in this book I couldn’t but stop the reading in order to just highlight them. They are just that remerable.
Please try Skykeeper you won’t be disappointed ;)
July 31, 2017
This is a remarkable story, about a world without a sun, moon or stars, threatened by a vast sea looming overhead, protected by oh so few magically gifted individuals. There are secrets, and something very wrong. And a young woman willing to lose her life to find the answers.
Battling a falling sky, sought bounty hunters, Aven struggles to control her magic as she begins her perilous journey for the answers that will save her world. Along the way, be captivated by strange, sometimes deadly, yet oddly familiar creatures. In her relentless struggles along her path wind rivers of blood. Sought as source of magic, used for light, protection and healing, blood flows. Descriptions so vivid, feel the mud cling to your feet, slow to a plodding advance. Feel glimpses of mist swirl around and tremble as ghostly fingers encircle your throat. Characters so real, the many twists and unexpected turns keep your heart racing between betrayals and battle.
Battling a falling sky, sought bounty hunters, Aven struggles to control her magic as she begins her perilous journey for the answers that will save her world. Along the way, be captivated by strange, sometimes deadly, yet oddly familiar creatures. In her relentless struggles along her path wind rivers of blood. Sought as source of magic, used for light, protection and healing, blood flows. Descriptions so vivid, feel the mud cling to your feet, slow to a plodding advance. Feel glimpses of mist swirl around and tremble as ghostly fingers encircle your throat. Characters so real, the many twists and unexpected turns keep your heart racing between betrayals and battle.
August 11, 2017
I voluntarily received an ARC copy of this book to review.
I really enjoyed this story. I think the world that S.M. Gaither weaved together was unique and for the most part was solidly constructed. I feel that there were small parts here and there where there was just something missing. I liked the romance aspect of the story. It was refreshing that it wasn’t over the top and wasn’t necessarily the focal point. I’m looking forward to reading the next installment.
I really enjoyed this story. I think the world that S.M. Gaither weaved together was unique and for the most part was solidly constructed. I feel that there were small parts here and there where there was just something missing. I liked the romance aspect of the story. It was refreshing that it wasn’t over the top and wasn’t necessarily the focal point. I’m looking forward to reading the next installment.
April 5, 2019
That rating is probably a bit biased, tbh.
Anyway! This is basically the legend of Atlantis with a high-fantasy twist. There are kelpies and dragons and magic and a knife-throwing heroine. I love this book, and I hope you will too!
Also, here's a pretty Pinterest board of stuff I collected while working on this story.
Anyway! This is basically the legend of Atlantis with a high-fantasy twist. There are kelpies and dragons and magic and a knife-throwing heroine. I love this book, and I hope you will too!
Also, here's a pretty Pinterest board of stuff I collected while working on this story.
August 8, 2017
For fans of magic, original fantasy concepts, and girls being awesome!
April 30, 2021
Here’s the thing when it comes to my read trough of Sky Keeper. I liked the world, the originality of it, and the potential this book had. I loved the idea of this book, however that idea did not work out great on paper I’m afraid.
Considering this book takes place in a air bubble under the sea (or as I thought of it; Atlantis) It definitely had an intriguing start, learning about the world, the magic, Aven and her brother’s place in that world as well as the potential love interest Varick. I also liked that the story took up speed immediately with the worries of a failing sky, her brother’s revelation and a shaky peace in the empire. Had the story kept it on that level a bit more throughout I’m sure I would have fallen in love with it. The sad thing is though that it was mostly only the start that held my interest.
I can never say that the plot stood still since Aven and her companions were in constant movement, adventure and fights, but that does not mean much when it comes to the actual writing. I mean, the writing wasn’t bad per say, it was just bad at holding my attention as a reader. It went on way too long and way too detailed fighting sequences, descriptions and what not, really making me struggle to actually find care or will to follow along. Especially when the characters involved in this plot and fights were treated the opposite way. I found them bareboned at best, having little to no defining or relatable character traits separating them. It almost felt detached the way they were written out, like the author was more interested in the magic and fighting than the actual characters. Well, that did not work well for me since I needed a complexed, relatable and flawed heroine as well was side characters and love interest.
With so little put into the characterization of the main heroine it felt off and kind of strange to me how she became the catalyst in the war and the one everyone wore a banner for. All everyone knew was that she ran away from home and from her duties to keep the sky whole. She didn’t say or do anything indicating otherwise and what it seems from the story she was not the first to abandon her duties either, so why and how did she become “Katniss Everdeen” to this plot? Seems to me like she should have become the opposite considering the sky was weakening and she ran from upholding that sky. Yet, everyone somehow magically knew she was trying to save the world and started wearing her banner and fight for her. Hell, even Kai went from hunting her to helping her without much ado.
While I liked Kai in the beginning, just like the start of this book my intrigue of his character quickly waned out. This is partly do to him not having much impact or role in this story after he went from trying to capture her to helping her, other than following Aven and her being attracted to him. Somehow that attraction turned into love without either character actually doing or interacting that much with each other. Kai wasn’t even much in her thoughts it seemed since she didn’t mourn him more than as a passing thought when she thought she had lost him. And any scene with them supposedly connecting on a deeper level felt forced since the characters where so generic to begin with. The only love I could really feel in this book were between Aven and her horse, them having way more defining and deep moments than any other character.
Even the plot felt a bit lost to me. They were supposedly looking for a magic stone that would save them all but that stone is then hardly ever mentioned and the story is more about them running around getting into fights and bad situations they barely get out of. And in the end when a character seemingly will not get out of it and give a very impactful and realistic ending, next page all that was for nothing and she magically got out of it anyway. That along with the “villain” being defeated by basically creating and standing on his own grave for Aven to take him out, the ending was underwhelming.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Considering this book takes place in a air bubble under the sea (or as I thought of it; Atlantis) It definitely had an intriguing start, learning about the world, the magic, Aven and her brother’s place in that world as well as the potential love interest Varick. I also liked that the story took up speed immediately with the worries of a failing sky, her brother’s revelation and a shaky peace in the empire. Had the story kept it on that level a bit more throughout I’m sure I would have fallen in love with it. The sad thing is though that it was mostly only the start that held my interest.
I can never say that the plot stood still since Aven and her companions were in constant movement, adventure and fights, but that does not mean much when it comes to the actual writing. I mean, the writing wasn’t bad per say, it was just bad at holding my attention as a reader. It went on way too long and way too detailed fighting sequences, descriptions and what not, really making me struggle to actually find care or will to follow along. Especially when the characters involved in this plot and fights were treated the opposite way. I found them bareboned at best, having little to no defining or relatable character traits separating them. It almost felt detached the way they were written out, like the author was more interested in the magic and fighting than the actual characters. Well, that did not work well for me since I needed a complexed, relatable and flawed heroine as well was side characters and love interest.
With so little put into the characterization of the main heroine it felt off and kind of strange to me how she became the catalyst in the war and the one everyone wore a banner for. All everyone knew was that she ran away from home and from her duties to keep the sky whole. She didn’t say or do anything indicating otherwise and what it seems from the story she was not the first to abandon her duties either, so why and how did she become “Katniss Everdeen” to this plot? Seems to me like she should have become the opposite considering the sky was weakening and she ran from upholding that sky. Yet, everyone somehow magically knew she was trying to save the world and started wearing her banner and fight for her. Hell, even Kai went from hunting her to helping her without much ado.
While I liked Kai in the beginning, just like the start of this book my intrigue of his character quickly waned out. This is partly do to him not having much impact or role in this story after he went from trying to capture her to helping her, other than following Aven and her being attracted to him. Somehow that attraction turned into love without either character actually doing or interacting that much with each other. Kai wasn’t even much in her thoughts it seemed since she didn’t mourn him more than as a passing thought when she thought she had lost him. And any scene with them supposedly connecting on a deeper level felt forced since the characters where so generic to begin with. The only love I could really feel in this book were between Aven and her horse, them having way more defining and deep moments than any other character.
Even the plot felt a bit lost to me. They were supposedly looking for a magic stone that would save them all but that stone is then hardly ever mentioned and the story is more about them running around getting into fights and bad situations they barely get out of. And in the end when a character seemingly will not get out of it and give a very impactful and realistic ending, next page all that was for nothing and she magically got out of it anyway. That along with the “villain” being defeated by basically creating and standing on his own grave for Aven to take him out, the ending was underwhelming.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 28, 2017
Captivated me from beginning to end!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From beginning to end, I was hooked. I needed to know what happened to Aven, so much that it was difficult to put the book down when work and life called for me to do so. I flew through the book in less than a day. The only thing I would have liked to see would be a bit more character development and backstory for Aven’s companions, but that may be explored more in the second book, for all I know!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From beginning to end, I was hooked. I needed to know what happened to Aven, so much that it was difficult to put the book down when work and life called for me to do so. I flew through the book in less than a day. The only thing I would have liked to see would be a bit more character development and backstory for Aven’s companions, but that may be explored more in the second book, for all I know!
July 27, 2018
Ripped out my heart so many tines only to put it back together and rip it out again... Loved it
August 11, 2017
“I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book”
It's been a while since I've read a new fantasy book and this one was perfect. The kind of story that has just enough magic, suspense, dragons, and love that makes me want to read more books like it. The problem with reading an advanced copy of a first book in a series is that I will have to wait a long time to read the next one, haha. I can't wait. I loved the characters in Skykeeper and feel a bit attached. I look forward to more from S.M. Gaither! :)
It's been a while since I've read a new fantasy book and this one was perfect. The kind of story that has just enough magic, suspense, dragons, and love that makes me want to read more books like it. The problem with reading an advanced copy of a first book in a series is that I will have to wait a long time to read the next one, haha. I can't wait. I loved the characters in Skykeeper and feel a bit attached. I look forward to more from S.M. Gaither! :)
August 12, 2017
When I first starting reading this story, I didn't think I was going to like it. But then it drew me in and made me want to finish. It was a bit slow at times, and written from first person point of view, which is a style I don't care for much. But the world of this story was very interesting, and I did like the main character. However, I didn't like the end, so I probably won't go looking for more of this series when it is available.
May 30, 2021
Scattered
Fascinating concept. I enjoyed the idea that they are living in basically a huge air pocket in the ocean. The author did well with the magic, too. I found the concept of sacrifice tied to its use intriguing.
On the other hand, I wanted more backstory on the characters to flesh them out. Time was also confusing in the book; I couldn't get a sense of it passing. Apparently several months went by, not just a few weeks. Also, I struggled with trying to reconcile Aven's age as she seemed very young in a lot of this but I think she was at least 18. Romance needed depth because it was basically an I am looking at him to in I love him with nothing in between.
Fascinating concept. I enjoyed the idea that they are living in basically a huge air pocket in the ocean. The author did well with the magic, too. I found the concept of sacrifice tied to its use intriguing.
On the other hand, I wanted more backstory on the characters to flesh them out. Time was also confusing in the book; I couldn't get a sense of it passing. Apparently several months went by, not just a few weeks. Also, I struggled with trying to reconcile Aven's age as she seemed very young in a lot of this but I think she was at least 18. Romance needed depth because it was basically an I am looking at him to in I love him with nothing in between.
April 25, 2020
It was okay
The world and the idea of the story was interesting, but I feel like there was too much info dumping, especially in the beginning and it made it harder to imagine these people and places throughout the book. Characters were decent, I liked everyone. It was also a somewhat blurry plot because all they're doing is looking for this stone, but it's hardly mentioned at all, aside from maybe 3 or 4 times. The romance kind of came from no where, it was hinted at, but it was just sort of dropped in. Not my favorite, but it was interesting.
The world and the idea of the story was interesting, but I feel like there was too much info dumping, especially in the beginning and it made it harder to imagine these people and places throughout the book. Characters were decent, I liked everyone. It was also a somewhat blurry plot because all they're doing is looking for this stone, but it's hardly mentioned at all, aside from maybe 3 or 4 times. The romance kind of came from no where, it was hinted at, but it was just sort of dropped in. Not my favorite, but it was interesting.
August 21, 2018
I really struggled with this book. I felt that it jumped around a lot, I couldn't get sucked into the story because of that, and it was a bit slow. This is sad because the author is a good writer, I liked what the book was about and the characters, but I just couldn't get into the story at all.
September 27, 2017
What a fantasy story of a world without a sun, moon or stars. Where the sea is controlled by a few magical people. Impossible to stop reading until I finished.
January 22, 2021
☆☆☆☆ /5
Encore un roman de fantasy.
Mais que voulez-vous ?
C'est mon petit pêché mignon ♡
Et j'ai beaucoup aimé celui-ci.
¤
Pendant des siècles, les quatre royaumes de l'empire de la Caspienne sont restés en sécurité et cachés sous l'océan, protégés du monde de la surface par une grande barrière maintenue par magie.
Aven Talavir a été élevée dans le seul de but d'être la Gardienne de cette barrière, de canaliser ses pouvoirs pour la maintenir et la guérir, comme son père et son grand-père l'ont fait dans leurvtemps.
Mais maintenant, une force incroyablement sinistre cherche à briser cette barrière, menaçant chaque royaume d'une inondation destructrice.
Pour protéger l'empire, Aven fait le choix de défier l'empereur, déserte et prend ses couteaux, en se lançant dans une quête pour trouver un ancien pouvoir capable de guérir cette barrière, qui constitue leur ciel factice.
Et ce ne sera pas aussi simple que cela. Entre une politique dangereuse, une magie mortelle, des complots, Aven va se rendre compte que la trahison provienne plus souvent de ses proches.
¤
Au début, j'ai eu quelque peu de difficultés à me mettre dans l'histoire, à savoir où l'auteure voulait nous emmener. Les premiers chapitres nous présentent la protagoniste Aven, qui semble avoir une lourde charge sur ses épaules, parce que coule dans ses veines le sang des célèbres Gardiens qui ont toujours pris soin de la barrière magique, protégeant leur empire.
Les bases se posaient lentement. Ensuite, il y a eu l'intrigue d'une certaine rébellion. Et ensuite, la menace de l'inondation, qu'allait provoqué la brisure de la barrière magique -leur ciel factice les protégeant du Monde de la Surface puisqu'ils vivent sous l'Océan.
Une fois que les bases ont été clairement posées, je me suis tout de suite retrouvée entraînée dans le récit.
¤
Il se passe énormément de choses et en même temps pas vraiment. Le rythme est assez bien équilibré.
Aven part dans sa quête, défiant les lois de l'Empereur et étant donc maintenant considérée comme un déserteur. Elle part apparemment dans la carte assez loin, pourtant elle ne fait pas beaucoup d'arrêts, elle ne rencontre pas tant d'obstacles. Mais son périple est meublé par des interactions fortes intéressantes, des soupçons, des questions, des doutes, des rires, qu'on a en effet l'impression qu'il se passe plus de choses que ce qui est écrit.
¤
Aven part en compagnie de son mentor Cora, qui l'a vue grandir et qui l'a entraînée à maîtriser son pouvoir.
D'ailleurs, j'aurais peut-être voulu en savoir plus sur Cora. Les quelques informations que nous avons eu à propos de ses parents et de son village sont intéressantes, mais je reste sur ma faim.
Également, Aven semble avoir un allié, qui va la rejoindre plus tard sur la route. Un autre Gardien, provenant du Royaume de l'Ouest et qui apparemment se serait exilé pour faire partie de la main-d'oeuvre de l'Empereur : Varick.
Concernant ce personnage, j'avoue avoir été peu surprise. Il a tout de suite été d'accord avec Avec lorsqu'elle a mentionné le plan de défier les lois de l'Empereur. Il n'a montré aucune résistance, il n'a pas cherché à argumenter. Je m'en suis assez méfiée. Ce qui se passe par la suite dans le roman fut finalement assez prévisible, mais très bien amené par l'auteure !
Puis, j'ai apprécié l'alchimie entre Aven et West. Aven est une jeune femme qui ne manque pas de ressources. Elle sait se débrouiller, elle est têtue, au point qu'elle ne veut pas demander de l'aide. Elle connaît son objectif et ne l'oublie. Elle est déterminée et ne veut pas être distraite.
Pas même par West, ce chasseur inconnu qu'elle croise dans la forêt pendant son voyage. West n'est pas une personne que l'on aime forcément, mais on s'y attache. Il se donne un genre de mauvaise personne, mais on sent qu'il y a quelque chose de caché derrière. Et Aven le repousse, elle le rejette et lui dit très clairement qu'elle ne veut pas de distraction tant que son monde est en danger.
D'ailleurs, cette scène m'a tellement fait mal au cœur !
¤
Finalement, tout s'accélère à la fin.
Je ne sais pas comment l'auteure a fait mais elle a finement joué avec ses mots et j'ai ressenti l'urgence et la tension de la situation.
Le combat final m'a époustouflé. C'était délicieusement bien décrit et je me suis régalée.
C'est le premier roman de l'auteure que je découvre et je pense que je vais m'intéresser de plus près à ses autres œuvres ♡
Encore un roman de fantasy.
Mais que voulez-vous ?
C'est mon petit pêché mignon ♡
Et j'ai beaucoup aimé celui-ci.
¤
Pendant des siècles, les quatre royaumes de l'empire de la Caspienne sont restés en sécurité et cachés sous l'océan, protégés du monde de la surface par une grande barrière maintenue par magie.
Aven Talavir a été élevée dans le seul de but d'être la Gardienne de cette barrière, de canaliser ses pouvoirs pour la maintenir et la guérir, comme son père et son grand-père l'ont fait dans leurvtemps.
Mais maintenant, une force incroyablement sinistre cherche à briser cette barrière, menaçant chaque royaume d'une inondation destructrice.
Pour protéger l'empire, Aven fait le choix de défier l'empereur, déserte et prend ses couteaux, en se lançant dans une quête pour trouver un ancien pouvoir capable de guérir cette barrière, qui constitue leur ciel factice.
Et ce ne sera pas aussi simple que cela. Entre une politique dangereuse, une magie mortelle, des complots, Aven va se rendre compte que la trahison provienne plus souvent de ses proches.
¤
Au début, j'ai eu quelque peu de difficultés à me mettre dans l'histoire, à savoir où l'auteure voulait nous emmener. Les premiers chapitres nous présentent la protagoniste Aven, qui semble avoir une lourde charge sur ses épaules, parce que coule dans ses veines le sang des célèbres Gardiens qui ont toujours pris soin de la barrière magique, protégeant leur empire.
Les bases se posaient lentement. Ensuite, il y a eu l'intrigue d'une certaine rébellion. Et ensuite, la menace de l'inondation, qu'allait provoqué la brisure de la barrière magique -leur ciel factice les protégeant du Monde de la Surface puisqu'ils vivent sous l'Océan.
Une fois que les bases ont été clairement posées, je me suis tout de suite retrouvée entraînée dans le récit.
¤
Il se passe énormément de choses et en même temps pas vraiment. Le rythme est assez bien équilibré.
Aven part dans sa quête, défiant les lois de l'Empereur et étant donc maintenant considérée comme un déserteur. Elle part apparemment dans la carte assez loin, pourtant elle ne fait pas beaucoup d'arrêts, elle ne rencontre pas tant d'obstacles. Mais son périple est meublé par des interactions fortes intéressantes, des soupçons, des questions, des doutes, des rires, qu'on a en effet l'impression qu'il se passe plus de choses que ce qui est écrit.
¤
Aven part en compagnie de son mentor Cora, qui l'a vue grandir et qui l'a entraînée à maîtriser son pouvoir.
D'ailleurs, j'aurais peut-être voulu en savoir plus sur Cora. Les quelques informations que nous avons eu à propos de ses parents et de son village sont intéressantes, mais je reste sur ma faim.
Également, Aven semble avoir un allié, qui va la rejoindre plus tard sur la route. Un autre Gardien, provenant du Royaume de l'Ouest et qui apparemment se serait exilé pour faire partie de la main-d'oeuvre de l'Empereur : Varick.
Concernant ce personnage, j'avoue avoir été peu surprise. Il a tout de suite été d'accord avec Avec lorsqu'elle a mentionné le plan de défier les lois de l'Empereur. Il n'a montré aucune résistance, il n'a pas cherché à argumenter. Je m'en suis assez méfiée. Ce qui se passe par la suite dans le roman fut finalement assez prévisible, mais très bien amené par l'auteure !
Puis, j'ai apprécié l'alchimie entre Aven et West. Aven est une jeune femme qui ne manque pas de ressources. Elle sait se débrouiller, elle est têtue, au point qu'elle ne veut pas demander de l'aide. Elle connaît son objectif et ne l'oublie. Elle est déterminée et ne veut pas être distraite.
Pas même par West, ce chasseur inconnu qu'elle croise dans la forêt pendant son voyage. West n'est pas une personne que l'on aime forcément, mais on s'y attache. Il se donne un genre de mauvaise personne, mais on sent qu'il y a quelque chose de caché derrière. Et Aven le repousse, elle le rejette et lui dit très clairement qu'elle ne veut pas de distraction tant que son monde est en danger.
D'ailleurs, cette scène m'a tellement fait mal au cœur !
¤
Finalement, tout s'accélère à la fin.
Je ne sais pas comment l'auteure a fait mais elle a finement joué avec ses mots et j'ai ressenti l'urgence et la tension de la situation.
Le combat final m'a époustouflé. C'était délicieusement bien décrit et je me suis régalée.
C'est le premier roman de l'auteure que je découvre et je pense que je vais m'intéresser de plus près à ses autres œuvres ♡
March 17, 2019
This book was was so fantastic and a well deserved 5/5 stars. I’m very familiar with this authors books, but I actually found this one quite different from her other series in a exciting way.
I had been reading fluffy light romances before this book so did struggle with the beginning... not because it wasn’t entertaining but my brain wasn’t quite ready for it! So do be prepared for a slower start as the world is built up.. but it soon becomes an action packed adventure.
You are thrown into this new fantasy world with so much vivid detail that I’m not sure I was expecting. This is definitely a true fantasy book, bringing in whole new worlds, races, cultures etc so whilst it’s a lot to take in I appreciate the effort that went into it.
The book was written in third person which was quite a refreshing change from most of the YA fantasy at the minute and allowed you to connect with all of the characters.
Be prepared for all of the emotions when reading, at times I cried, I laughed and also got very angry. But this is only more evidence of how attached to each character I became.
There are some twists and turns, lots of action and a shocking ending to this fabulous page turner and I cannot wait to get my hands of the second instalment!
Characters:
Aven - although she can be naive and almost reckless, she always does everything with the best intentions and has a pure heart. I enjoyed watching her character mature and grow.
Cora - the loyal, protective and funny older sister type character that I wish was real. She loves Aven and will always do what’s best for her.
Varick - mysterious, powerful and curious. You don’t get much insight into Varick’s character which adds to his allure. Mostly he is a very logical thinker and seems the most calming presence.
West - this author always makes my FAVOURITE male characters and she did not disappoint with West. He has so much depth to him which most YA males lack and an actual sense of humour. I can’t wait to learn more about him.
“Patience isn’t really a strength of yours, is it?”
“Nor is asking for help.” He laughed. “At least you’re self-aware.”
“A thousand pardons,” she said, bitingly. “Next time you grab me in a dark forest and hold a dagger to my neck, I’ll be sure to respond by turning around and curtsying for you instead.”
She arched an eyebrow. “Cora suspects it’s because you might be a halfway decent person.”
“She suspects wrongly.” He made a face. “And what an awful accusation that is.”
*I received a free early copy of this book in return for an honest review*
I had been reading fluffy light romances before this book so did struggle with the beginning... not because it wasn’t entertaining but my brain wasn’t quite ready for it! So do be prepared for a slower start as the world is built up.. but it soon becomes an action packed adventure.
You are thrown into this new fantasy world with so much vivid detail that I’m not sure I was expecting. This is definitely a true fantasy book, bringing in whole new worlds, races, cultures etc so whilst it’s a lot to take in I appreciate the effort that went into it.
The book was written in third person which was quite a refreshing change from most of the YA fantasy at the minute and allowed you to connect with all of the characters.
Be prepared for all of the emotions when reading, at times I cried, I laughed and also got very angry. But this is only more evidence of how attached to each character I became.
There are some twists and turns, lots of action and a shocking ending to this fabulous page turner and I cannot wait to get my hands of the second instalment!
Characters:
Aven - although she can be naive and almost reckless, she always does everything with the best intentions and has a pure heart. I enjoyed watching her character mature and grow.
Cora - the loyal, protective and funny older sister type character that I wish was real. She loves Aven and will always do what’s best for her.
Varick - mysterious, powerful and curious. You don’t get much insight into Varick’s character which adds to his allure. Mostly he is a very logical thinker and seems the most calming presence.
West - this author always makes my FAVOURITE male characters and she did not disappoint with West. He has so much depth to him which most YA males lack and an actual sense of humour. I can’t wait to learn more about him.
“Patience isn’t really a strength of yours, is it?”
“Nor is asking for help.” He laughed. “At least you’re self-aware.”
“A thousand pardons,” she said, bitingly. “Next time you grab me in a dark forest and hold a dagger to my neck, I’ll be sure to respond by turning around and curtsying for you instead.”
She arched an eyebrow. “Cora suspects it’s because you might be a halfway decent person.”
“She suspects wrongly.” He made a face. “And what an awful accusation that is.”
*I received a free early copy of this book in return for an honest review*
March 18, 2019
Rich world building, fast-paced adventure, a dash of romance and a wondrous quest make this a book to get lost in and wish for the continuation as soon as the last page is done.
Aven lives in a world caught in a layer between the water—ocean above and below. She is a keeper of the barrier which holds the ocean of the sky from breaking and flooding her world, one of many. Although her world as existed for eons, the barrier is now growing weaker, not only in the kingdom in which she resides, but in the surrounding areas as well. Or so rumor has it. Her king refuses to admit a problem exists and keeps the keepers close to his land. When Aven's brother dies during the sealing of a dangerous rift, she embarks to do the task he was secretly going to undertake...one that leaves her hunted by the king himself and has put a price on her head. Aven is determined to find an item, which myth claims will hold the skies permanently and save them all. But with the entire kingdom and more hunting her down...and her hopes laid on something which may not even exist...the quest quickly becomes even harder than she ever dreamed it would.
This is a read for fantasy friends who enjoy an exciting adventure and a little girl power on the side. Aven is a character easy to root for. She is powerful but not more than many of the other keepers; she is a little risk friendly but not stupid; and she does make mistakes. She's not even sure that what's happening around her is necessarily what she wanted. But she tries to keep her heart in the right place and do what is right, and that's what makes her wonderful.
Aven is by no means in this adventure alone. She has several friends who support her and meets more along the way—as well as enough adversaries. Trust needs to be won, and each character has their own role as well as personality. While romance does come into play, it by no means overplays the main plot. The adventure holds the center stage the entire way through.
The world is quite different than what I suspected and promises many more surprises in the upcoming series. The author lays out the details in just the right amount and at the right time, to allow the richness of the world to unfold and maintain a fairly secure base in its own logic. There are many secrets and mysteries, but that's part of the adventure...and something even Aven questions along the way. It is an exciting start to an intriguing series, and I'm looking forward to see where it goes next.
I received an ARC copy and enjoyed the tale quite a bit.
Aven lives in a world caught in a layer between the water—ocean above and below. She is a keeper of the barrier which holds the ocean of the sky from breaking and flooding her world, one of many. Although her world as existed for eons, the barrier is now growing weaker, not only in the kingdom in which she resides, but in the surrounding areas as well. Or so rumor has it. Her king refuses to admit a problem exists and keeps the keepers close to his land. When Aven's brother dies during the sealing of a dangerous rift, she embarks to do the task he was secretly going to undertake...one that leaves her hunted by the king himself and has put a price on her head. Aven is determined to find an item, which myth claims will hold the skies permanently and save them all. But with the entire kingdom and more hunting her down...and her hopes laid on something which may not even exist...the quest quickly becomes even harder than she ever dreamed it would.
This is a read for fantasy friends who enjoy an exciting adventure and a little girl power on the side. Aven is a character easy to root for. She is powerful but not more than many of the other keepers; she is a little risk friendly but not stupid; and she does make mistakes. She's not even sure that what's happening around her is necessarily what she wanted. But she tries to keep her heart in the right place and do what is right, and that's what makes her wonderful.
Aven is by no means in this adventure alone. She has several friends who support her and meets more along the way—as well as enough adversaries. Trust needs to be won, and each character has their own role as well as personality. While romance does come into play, it by no means overplays the main plot. The adventure holds the center stage the entire way through.
The world is quite different than what I suspected and promises many more surprises in the upcoming series. The author lays out the details in just the right amount and at the right time, to allow the richness of the world to unfold and maintain a fairly secure base in its own logic. There are many secrets and mysteries, but that's part of the adventure...and something even Aven questions along the way. It is an exciting start to an intriguing series, and I'm looking forward to see where it goes next.
I received an ARC copy and enjoyed the tale quite a bit.
May 17, 2020
As always I am captivated by SM Gaiter's writing, and this first book in the Drowning Empire Series has captivated me once again. The Caspian Empire is made up of four kingdoms and is the empire beneath the sea which is held up by the divine magic wielded by it's keepers to hold up a makeshift sky. Aven is a pure keeper who does her best to protect the people of Siro, the city of glass, and keep up the southern part of the sky she is responsible for, however when her brother who had been her idol, and the golden boy, was killed she takes on his ideal and leaves her responsibility, her family and her city behind to find the Jewel of Four Skies in order to work for the well being and safety of all the Caspian Empire and not just the Kingdom of Garda as her Emperor seemed to be doing. When she escaped others left with her and they all took to wearing a band around their arms with the logo of the four skies, this became her symbol, one to which people in all four kingdoms rallied as they too felt the rifts growing in the sky and the chaos magic threatening all their lives. Aven was armed with her knives and ready to fight against the politics and anyone who stood in her way to succeed in her quest, however she was not prepared to fight the betrayal which came from those around her. This is a story of courage as well as one of hope, of uprising to save the world they knew, and amidst the betrayal and deceit Aven managed to find love and loyalty. I particularly enjoyed reading about Atlas, Cora's little dragon, and of course the heroic Finn, Aven's water horse who more than proved himself in the final battle. I also really like the scoundrel, Kai and hope to read more about him and Aven in the rest of the series which I just have to continue reading.
April 16, 2018
3.5 stars. If you are looking for a fast paced fantasy read, look no further.
I rather enjoyed this read. It was fast paced with intriguing characters and a MC that I rather liked.
Aven ended up being a very well written main character who grew wonderfully throughout the novel. She started off as a timid and scared girl and ended up turning that fear into fuel. She went through some hardships and could have given up at any point but she remained resilient. I didn't mind West either, he was mysterious, layered and amousing at times. There wasn't insta-love which happens all too often in YA novels. And it was so sweet and so innocent.
Oh and the magic! How interesting was the magic? How creepy was it that the Pure literally bleed from the magic leaving their body? Oh oh, and West's magic! How he literally lost chunks of his memory to use it. Sooooo interesting!
Overall it was a fun read.
I only gave it 3.5 stars bc as fascinating as I found the world in Skykeeper, I was also so very confused by it. So is this an entire world UNDER the water...as in it has all the elements of a world on land but its all under water? How does that work, essentially? How do things grow without sunlight? How does everyone live without sunlight? Has ANYone ever been to the "surface". How are there rivers and bodies of lakes? Do they extend out to the greater vast of the ocean they live under? What kind of other terrains were there? Are there deserts or places of extreme heat? I was left with so many questions in regards to that, and some of the explanations of the world I found either unstatisfying or confusing.
I rather enjoyed this read. It was fast paced with intriguing characters and a MC that I rather liked.
Aven ended up being a very well written main character who grew wonderfully throughout the novel. She started off as a timid and scared girl and ended up turning that fear into fuel. She went through some hardships and could have given up at any point but she remained resilient. I didn't mind West either, he was mysterious, layered and amousing at times. There wasn't insta-love which happens all too often in YA novels. And it was so sweet and so innocent.
Oh and the magic! How interesting was the magic? How creepy was it that the Pure literally bleed from the magic leaving their body? Oh oh, and West's magic! How he literally lost chunks of his memory to use it. Sooooo interesting!
Overall it was a fun read.
I only gave it 3.5 stars bc as fascinating as I found the world in Skykeeper, I was also so very confused by it. So is this an entire world UNDER the water...as in it has all the elements of a world on land but its all under water? How does that work, essentially? How do things grow without sunlight? How does everyone live without sunlight? Has ANYone ever been to the "surface". How are there rivers and bodies of lakes? Do they extend out to the greater vast of the ocean they live under? What kind of other terrains were there? Are there deserts or places of extreme heat? I was left with so many questions in regards to that, and some of the explanations of the world I found either unstatisfying or confusing.
April 1, 2019
Sky Keeper follows Aven, A Keeper of Her Southern Skies. She lives in the Kingdom of Garda, using blood magic to keep the skies from falling upon the heads of down world. You see, in this world, the sky is a vast sea that threaten to fall and drown humanity if people like Aven, Sky Keepers aren't there to fortify the barrier keeping the sky from flooding their world.
Aven's family comes from a line of Pure Keepers, meaning they can sense, roughly, where there is a rift in the sky. This helps other keepers find the rift to close it up. Her brother is best Keeper in Garda, as was their father before them. Aven is content to follow in her father and brother's footsteps, being the best she can be. Until...everything goes wrong and mass tragedy strikes. Her brother starts sprouting heresy and the sky barrier won't hold. Keepers are dying from blood loss, and the world is at danger of drowning. Aven knows she must do more than just the status quo. There could be future, a cure to their problems in the other Kingdoms. However, her Emperor fobids anyone from leaving. Why? It's time Aven finds out for herself.
Aven has a solid friend in Cora. I love female friendships, they're just so heartwarming. Her water horse, Finn is also just a dear to read about. This story will keep you hooked with the this adventure, that trap, those revelations, and THAT betrayal. SM Gaither skillfully weaves a story of friendship, prejudice, and motivation all with a sense of dire urgency.
Ah yes, you want to know if there's romance don' t you? Yes...and that's all I'll say for fear of giving anything away. I'll be starting on book 2 soon and I can't wait to see what it brings.
Aven's family comes from a line of Pure Keepers, meaning they can sense, roughly, where there is a rift in the sky. This helps other keepers find the rift to close it up. Her brother is best Keeper in Garda, as was their father before them. Aven is content to follow in her father and brother's footsteps, being the best she can be. Until...everything goes wrong and mass tragedy strikes. Her brother starts sprouting heresy and the sky barrier won't hold. Keepers are dying from blood loss, and the world is at danger of drowning. Aven knows she must do more than just the status quo. There could be future, a cure to their problems in the other Kingdoms. However, her Emperor fobids anyone from leaving. Why? It's time Aven finds out for herself.
Aven has a solid friend in Cora. I love female friendships, they're just so heartwarming. Her water horse, Finn is also just a dear to read about. This story will keep you hooked with the this adventure, that trap, those revelations, and THAT betrayal. SM Gaither skillfully weaves a story of friendship, prejudice, and motivation all with a sense of dire urgency.
Ah yes, you want to know if there's romance don' t you? Yes...and that's all I'll say for fear of giving anything away. I'll be starting on book 2 soon and I can't wait to see what it brings.
September 17, 2017
This book is one that I comfortably read in sips and tastes, reading a chapter or two at a time. I would not call this book gripping; it's not one I would stay up late into the night to finish. However, the story is interesting, the character development well-done, and the world in which the story takes place is one that seems fairly unique.
The story is told from the perspective of Aven, a girl coming into her magical power as large unusual rifts are forming in the magical barrier that protects the world from the Sea Above. Aven's magic is a gift from the gods, a gift that she and others with the same magic use to reseal the rifts that appear in the barrier. A horrible sealing-gone-wrong thrusts her into a situation where she must run from the life she's known in order to save her world. As she travels west, she learns more about the true cause of the rifts and must make a hard decision about where her loyalties lie.
The world in which the story happens is described in a way that leaves a lot to the imagination. Could it be an unexplored part of our world that sunk below the ocean, a la Atlantis? Is it somewhere else in the universe? What is beyond the western islands? Exactly how big is the barrier and the Sea Above it holds up? A lot of speculation is left to the reader, and I hope the author uses future stories to flesh out this interesting world a little more.
The story is told from the perspective of Aven, a girl coming into her magical power as large unusual rifts are forming in the magical barrier that protects the world from the Sea Above. Aven's magic is a gift from the gods, a gift that she and others with the same magic use to reseal the rifts that appear in the barrier. A horrible sealing-gone-wrong thrusts her into a situation where she must run from the life she's known in order to save her world. As she travels west, she learns more about the true cause of the rifts and must make a hard decision about where her loyalties lie.
The world in which the story happens is described in a way that leaves a lot to the imagination. Could it be an unexplored part of our world that sunk below the ocean, a la Atlantis? Is it somewhere else in the universe? What is beyond the western islands? Exactly how big is the barrier and the Sea Above it holds up? A lot of speculation is left to the reader, and I hope the author uses future stories to flesh out this interesting world a little more.
March 25, 2019
From the moment Aven Talavir was born, her path in life was set. A keeper of the barrier, she's supposed to give her all in order to help maintain it. Even if it means she'll have to give up her own life in the process. When things go awry, she takes matters into her own hands. She sets out on a pilgrimage to find the one thing that may help her achieve an end to her own means, determined to save the world and those she loves from destruction.
Sky Keeper is one of those books that immerses you in the world the author has created from start to finish. I found myself so engrossed in the story that I had a hard time in putting the book down. That's how good the writing is!
I love the way S. M. has taken the mermaid lore and turned it into something so unique and believable. We're presented with a complex world. One where its citizens live under water, unsure if whether the dome that holds the sky above will break at any time. Mind you, Aven and those living in the world aren't aware of the true aspects of what the sky really is. They've been instructed from an early age to maintain the 'sky,' else the world as they know will be torn asunder.
This is such a refreshing and lovingly crafted world. One where nothing is as it seems. Will Aven unite the scattered kingdoms? Or will her quest to save the world end up being her own undoing? Only time will tell. So can't wait to see what else S. M. has in store for us with Aven and the others.
Sky Keeper is one of those books that immerses you in the world the author has created from start to finish. I found myself so engrossed in the story that I had a hard time in putting the book down. That's how good the writing is!
I love the way S. M. has taken the mermaid lore and turned it into something so unique and believable. We're presented with a complex world. One where its citizens live under water, unsure if whether the dome that holds the sky above will break at any time. Mind you, Aven and those living in the world aren't aware of the true aspects of what the sky really is. They've been instructed from an early age to maintain the 'sky,' else the world as they know will be torn asunder.
This is such a refreshing and lovingly crafted world. One where nothing is as it seems. Will Aven unite the scattered kingdoms? Or will her quest to save the world end up being her own undoing? Only time will tell. So can't wait to see what else S. M. has in store for us with Aven and the others.
March 31, 2019
(3,5 ☆)
It took me a while to get into this book, to understand this Atlantis-inspired world and its magic. I'm not sure I fully understand it yet... The characters on the other hand, I grew fond of almost at once. Aven is both strong and vulnerable, and I love her connection to Finn, her river horse. Cora is always there for Aven - and she has a small dragon namned Atlas! And then there's Varick and Kai (or West, as he ends up being called)... If I tell you about them there will be spoilers, so I'm not gonna do that!
I'm not sure the author explains enough about why so many come to Avens aid, who decide to fight on her side. Of course, she's one of the Pure Keepers, but she's not the only one. She seems surprised herself, actually. It's probably just me who can't keep up with all the twist and turns, but I don't quite get what the different sides are after (except that one of them want to overthrow the Emperor). I guess it will be clearer in the next book.
The last 100 pages, or so, I had trouble putting the book down, I just needed to know what was going to happen! I'm looking forward to reading more about Aven and the others in Curse Breaker, and if you enjoy reading an epic fantasy with a strong, yet vulnerable, female protagonist, I strongly advice you to give Sky Keeper a go!
I received an ARC from the author, but my review is voluntary.
It took me a while to get into this book, to understand this Atlantis-inspired world and its magic. I'm not sure I fully understand it yet... The characters on the other hand, I grew fond of almost at once. Aven is both strong and vulnerable, and I love her connection to Finn, her river horse. Cora is always there for Aven - and she has a small dragon namned Atlas! And then there's Varick and Kai (or West, as he ends up being called)... If I tell you about them there will be spoilers, so I'm not gonna do that!
I'm not sure the author explains enough about why so many come to Avens aid, who decide to fight on her side. Of course, she's one of the Pure Keepers, but she's not the only one. She seems surprised herself, actually. It's probably just me who can't keep up with all the twist and turns, but I don't quite get what the different sides are after (except that one of them want to overthrow the Emperor). I guess it will be clearer in the next book.
The last 100 pages, or so, I had trouble putting the book down, I just needed to know what was going to happen! I'm looking forward to reading more about Aven and the others in Curse Breaker, and if you enjoy reading an epic fantasy with a strong, yet vulnerable, female protagonist, I strongly advice you to give Sky Keeper a go!
I received an ARC from the author, but my review is voluntary.
August 8, 2017
**I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a review**
Let me begin by saying that the world is imaginative and creative. The concept of this story should have held me throughout.
Issue #1 - it is in first-person, which I am not a fan of. For those that enjoy reading first-person fantasy, this is for you. It is not for me.
Issue#2 - It felt like most of the middle of the story was fluff to drag the story along until we got the ending. It is like a novella was written, and then the word count doubled in the middle to make this a novel. It was disjointed and long.
The magic and the world-building is fun and interesting and fresh. That is important in a day and age when there is nothing new under the sun. This has a fresh vibe to it that I can get behind, but I cannot continue this journey at this time. Others will enjoy this more than I, and not every book is for everyone. I do wish this author success in her career and I know that she has a future as a writer.
Let me begin by saying that the world is imaginative and creative. The concept of this story should have held me throughout.
Issue #1 - it is in first-person, which I am not a fan of. For those that enjoy reading first-person fantasy, this is for you. It is not for me.
Issue#2 - It felt like most of the middle of the story was fluff to drag the story along until we got the ending. It is like a novella was written, and then the word count doubled in the middle to make this a novel. It was disjointed and long.
The magic and the world-building is fun and interesting and fresh. That is important in a day and age when there is nothing new under the sun. This has a fresh vibe to it that I can get behind, but I cannot continue this journey at this time. Others will enjoy this more than I, and not every book is for everyone. I do wish this author success in her career and I know that she has a future as a writer.
March 22, 2019
ONE WILD RIDE!!!
OMG! Talk about living on edge. A whirlwind of activities and events that keep you flipping page after page. One rollercoaster ride with a plethora of emotions to sort through. An amazing storyline and strong plot bring this read roaring to life beautifully. The characters were realistic with personalities and depth that drew you in. Sparks fly as suspense and intrigue ensues. All the drama, heart pounding, uncertainty and hard hitting, smooth flowing tale that brings all the pieces together for one incredible experience. The scenes were so vividly detailed and descriptive that it gives the illusion you were right there in the middle of ground zero with them. Remarkable job Gaither, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
OMG! Talk about living on edge. A whirlwind of activities and events that keep you flipping page after page. One rollercoaster ride with a plethora of emotions to sort through. An amazing storyline and strong plot bring this read roaring to life beautifully. The characters were realistic with personalities and depth that drew you in. Sparks fly as suspense and intrigue ensues. All the drama, heart pounding, uncertainty and hard hitting, smooth flowing tale that brings all the pieces together for one incredible experience. The scenes were so vividly detailed and descriptive that it gives the illusion you were right there in the middle of ground zero with them. Remarkable job Gaither, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
March 25, 2019
Ok right off is that cover not freaking awesome I simply love it . It definitely says reach out and pick me up but be warned , once you do you will not want to put this book down . This story is again simply fantastic Just be prepared to get nothing done once you start LoL this book draws you in from the start and leaves wanting book 2 . The main characters are great they will soon become favorites and you are vested in them and have to know more and more so you can't put this down . So my advice is to buy this book sit back in your favorite reading spot and get ready for a fantastic book that you will not regret buying and will have you wanting the next book so bad . 😁😁😁😁 I'd give this 10 stars if I could . Oh wait I can. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
March 27, 2019
I enjoyed reading about Aven as her and her friends navigate how to best serve their world and keep the sky from falling. When you're faced with endless grief, how are you supposed to hold up the world? Are you supposed to keep praying to the gods that you aren't sure you believe in anymore? Aven and Cora set out to try and find the one thing that can keep the sky permanently in place. In doing so, Aven is labeled a traitor to the crown and marked a fugitive. Varick meets them halfway, swearing to help the cause. Kai, or West as he's called, searches for Aven so that he can return her to the emperor and get the reward. Neither one of them are who they first appear to be. I loved the ending of the story and look forward to more Drowning Empire books.
April 2, 2019
This is an excellent start for this new series. The storyline is well written and the world building is a mass of descriptive phrases that tend to rattle one's emotions. An impressive way to hold my attention, I'll say! And of course, there is the romance that blossoms between Aven and West aka Kai, despite the chaos disrupting their lives. An epic fantasy of magic and a kingdom on the verge of collapsing? Not if our heroine can prevent that from happening!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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