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Age of Magic: Wish Quartet #3
Birth of Chaos
A WISH FOR DESTRUCTION...
HAS JOSEPHINA UNRAVELING
A new wish is pushing the weary members of the Society to their breaking points. But as Jo’s complex relationship with their leader reveals dangerous truths about who she truly is, and was, her priorities quickly change. Now, she seeks to expose the enemy lurking in their midst, but it may already be too late to thwart an ancient goddess bent on stealing Jo’s power and destroying everything she loves.
HAS JOSEPHINA UNRAVELING
A new wish is pushing the weary members of the Society to their breaking points. But as Jo’s complex relationship with their leader reveals dangerous truths about who she truly is, and was, her priorities quickly change. Now, she seeks to expose the enemy lurking in their midst, but it may already be too late to thwart an ancient goddess bent on stealing Jo’s power and destroying everything she loves.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2018
About the author
Elise Kova
52 books18.2k followersJoin Elise's mailing list to never miss a giveaway, release, sale, and more: https://elisekova.com/subscribe/
ELISE KOVA is a USA Today bestselling author. She enjoys telling stories of fantasy worlds filled with magic and deep emotions. She lives in Florida and, when not writing, can be found playing video games, drawing, chatting with readers on social media, or daydreaming about her next story.
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ELISE KOVA is a USA Today bestselling author. She enjoys telling stories of fantasy worlds filled with magic and deep emotions. She lives in Florida and, when not writing, can be found playing video games, drawing, chatting with readers on social media, or daydreaming about her next story.
Say Hello!
INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | FACEBOOK | TWITTER
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 23, 2018
I was sent this book as an advanced copy by the author for reviewing purposes, but all opinions are my own.
Birth of Chaos is in some ways better and in some others worse than the previous installments of this series. Some of the problems I had with the first two books (read the reviews here and here) are still there, other problems are somewhat solved, but I just can’t help but feel that the whole series feels extremely rushed and that it would benefit immensely from a little more editing.
What I continue liking about the series is the whole concept of worlds that can be destroyed and rebuilt, and the many missing pieces of worldbuilding that we finally got to discover in this third book make everything more interesting. Granted some things were kind of predictable if you’ve been paying attention during book two, some things still managed to surprise me.
There’s not much I can add to what I’ve already said in my previous reviews for this series without spoiling the plot, so this is just a short review. I want to read the next and final book because now I’m invested in the story and the characters. One thing I will say is that the ending (as in, the few final chapters) had me even more curious about what’s going to happen, so I guess that regardless of my problems with the execution, the concept still keeps dragging me into the story.
Birth of Chaos is in some ways better and in some others worse than the previous installments of this series. Some of the problems I had with the first two books (read the reviews here and here) are still there, other problems are somewhat solved, but I just can’t help but feel that the whole series feels extremely rushed and that it would benefit immensely from a little more editing.
What I continue liking about the series is the whole concept of worlds that can be destroyed and rebuilt, and the many missing pieces of worldbuilding that we finally got to discover in this third book make everything more interesting. Granted some things were kind of predictable if you’ve been paying attention during book two, some things still managed to surprise me.
There’s not much I can add to what I’ve already said in my previous reviews for this series without spoiling the plot, so this is just a short review. I want to read the next and final book because now I’m invested in the story and the characters. One thing I will say is that the ending (as in, the few final chapters) had me even more curious about what’s going to happen, so I guess that regardless of my problems with the execution, the concept still keeps dragging me into the story.
July 5, 2018
I received an e-ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Review and lots of fangirling can be found on *Milky Way of Books*
The plot on Birth of Chaos was one big fat surprise. Jo and the remaining Society must face a new wish, which will tear them all apart and yet the plot worked in a way I didn't expect it to. I was very surprised by the ending and I am eager to see what will happen in the final book!
The plot on Birth of Chaos was one big fat surprise. Jo and the remaining Society must face a new wish, which will tear them all apart and yet the plot worked in a way I didn't expect it to. I was very surprised by the ending and I am eager to see what will happen in the final book!
July 5, 2018
Holy shit this book was so tedious.
June 30, 2018
Note: I have received this ARC in exchange for my honest review. I’m rating this book a 4.5/5 stars!
WHAT. A. WHIRLWIND!
This book picks up right after the ending of Circle of Ashes. It started out with some sad notes but quickly evolved to answer some of our most anticipated questions. I have devoured this book in two days and cannot wait for more from the authors.
There were parts where I didn’t like how the relationship between some of the characters is developing but I believe that was only to serve the plot of the book. I loved how we FINALLY have our answers to so many of the questions we had in the first two books. The sense of morality becomes gray with each upcoming wish. This proves to cause issue between the society members and what they are willing to tolerate. I do also think that some people may have trouble understanding the artificial intelligence part if they’re not aware of the subject. (Although I did love it)!
There was a part which I didn’t understand where Jo was talking to Snow about Nico and his magic. If anyone understood that please let me know.
The events of this book are the embodiment of the title. We finally know who Pan is and the best thing is that all my suspicions were on point. The relationship between Snow and Jo develops in this book and we get more answers about who they are and how they know each other. Eslar’s role was minimized in this book but I do hope to see more of him in the next book.
Wayne is definitely my favorite and I hope he has a bigger part in the next book (Age Of Magic).
Side note: Seeing a hijabi character in the book made me SO HAPPY!!!
I do have to saw this book is a new adult book so it is not suitable for younger ages.
In the end, I think we can all agree that we love to hate Pan (she is definitely crazy)!
Overall, I have loved this book (I would definitely spend my money on this series) and I need to get my hands of the next one ASAP! Can I beta read it? 🙋🏻♀️
WHAT. A. WHIRLWIND!
This book picks up right after the ending of Circle of Ashes. It started out with some sad notes but quickly evolved to answer some of our most anticipated questions. I have devoured this book in two days and cannot wait for more from the authors.
There were parts where I didn’t like how the relationship between some of the characters is developing but I believe that was only to serve the plot of the book. I loved how we FINALLY have our answers to so many of the questions we had in the first two books. The sense of morality becomes gray with each upcoming wish. This proves to cause issue between the society members and what they are willing to tolerate. I do also think that some people may have trouble understanding the artificial intelligence part if they’re not aware of the subject. (Although I did love it)!
There was a part which I didn’t understand where Jo was talking to Snow about Nico and his magic. If anyone understood that please let me know.
The events of this book are the embodiment of the title. We finally know who Pan is and the best thing is that all my suspicions were on point. The relationship between Snow and Jo develops in this book and we get more answers about who they are and how they know each other. Eslar’s role was minimized in this book but I do hope to see more of him in the next book.
Wayne is definitely my favorite and I hope he has a bigger part in the next book (Age Of Magic).
Side note: Seeing a hijabi character in the book made me SO HAPPY!!!
I do have to saw this book is a new adult book so it is not suitable for younger ages.
In the end, I think we can all agree that we love to hate Pan (she is definitely crazy)!
Overall, I have loved this book (I would definitely spend my money on this series) and I need to get my hands of the next one ASAP! Can I beta read it? 🙋🏻♀️
August 7, 2018
Rating: 4.5
After the way that things ended in the second book of the Wish Quartet (Circle of Ashes), I was definitely looking forward to Birth of Chaos quite a bit! I had to find out where things were going to go, and how the story would develop before the fourth book (a.k.a. the end of the series). Luckily, the Wish Quartet books are published every few months or so, rather than one book per year, so the wait wasn’t very long. Even with the wait being so short, however, Birth of Chaos was definitely worth the wait because it answered a lot of questions! It obviously didn’t wrap up the story, because it was not the final book in the series, but it certainly made a lot of things a lot more clear.
Also, I did not predict any of what happened in this book! Kova and Larsh definitely kept me guessing, and I absolutely loved that! I was also happy that there was a dash of romance snuck in here and there (though I hope that there will be just a little bit more of it in the next book! Hehe)! That being said, I think that I liked the steamy bits in Birth of Chaos the most out of all three of the books that are out so far. I found that I also liked the plot, as well as the overarching plot for the series, more in this book because of the pacing, and also because a lot more made sense after some things were unveiled! I am definitely going to be reading the last book in the Wish Quartet, and am very much looking forward to seeing how the story develops and wraps up for Jo and her friends!
After the way that things ended in the second book of the Wish Quartet (Circle of Ashes), I was definitely looking forward to Birth of Chaos quite a bit! I had to find out where things were going to go, and how the story would develop before the fourth book (a.k.a. the end of the series). Luckily, the Wish Quartet books are published every few months or so, rather than one book per year, so the wait wasn’t very long. Even with the wait being so short, however, Birth of Chaos was definitely worth the wait because it answered a lot of questions! It obviously didn’t wrap up the story, because it was not the final book in the series, but it certainly made a lot of things a lot more clear.
Also, I did not predict any of what happened in this book! Kova and Larsh definitely kept me guessing, and I absolutely loved that! I was also happy that there was a dash of romance snuck in here and there (though I hope that there will be just a little bit more of it in the next book! Hehe)! That being said, I think that I liked the steamy bits in Birth of Chaos the most out of all three of the books that are out so far. I found that I also liked the plot, as well as the overarching plot for the series, more in this book because of the pacing, and also because a lot more made sense after some things were unveiled! I am definitely going to be reading the last book in the Wish Quartet, and am very much looking forward to seeing how the story develops and wraps up for Jo and her friends!
June 21, 2018
4.5 stars!!!
We pick up a well after A Circle of Ashes left off. The society is still grieving over their loss when another wish that tests both their morals and patience all while setting the society breaking down due to mysterious glitches. Jo thinks... KNOWS it's her fault, and it's determined to get answers (and more) out of the one man with all the answers.
I have grown to love all the characters so much. Samson and Eslar, especially have grown on me Meanwhile, you only have more reason to hate pan more and more as we finally get answers we have been craving since book 1. Why was the society made? Who is Snow? Who is Pan? Who is Jo, for that matter????
The information is a bit of an overload, but so satisfying nevertheless.
I still wish we had more Snow/Jo moments of them learning about each other in this time period rather than just knowing each other from another time. Hopefully we see more of the "knowing" in the final book.
Overall a brilliant penultimate addition to a series that will leave you reading late into the night.
We pick up a well after A Circle of Ashes left off. The society is still grieving over their loss when another wish that tests both their morals and patience all while setting the society breaking down due to mysterious glitches. Jo thinks... KNOWS it's her fault, and it's determined to get answers (and more) out of the one man with all the answers.
I have grown to love all the characters so much. Samson and Eslar, especially have grown on me Meanwhile, you only have more reason to hate pan more and more as we finally get answers we have been craving since book 1. Why was the society made? Who is Snow? Who is Pan? Who is Jo, for that matter????
The information is a bit of an overload, but so satisfying nevertheless.
I still wish we had more Snow/Jo moments of them learning about each other in this time period rather than just knowing each other from another time. Hopefully we see more of the "knowing" in the final book.
Overall a brilliant penultimate addition to a series that will leave you reading late into the night.
September 23, 2018
And if that love was to have a fighting chance, if any of them were, then the Society must end.
4,5 stars.
By the bloody heavens this was good. I thought the beginning was a little slow and somewhat tedious, but when this book picked up it was a big old whirlwind of events, emotions, and chaos. I fell in love more with Snow, and I am so curious to see what his development will be in Age of Magic. Another character that is one of my favourite is Eslar, everything about this elf peakes my interest and I want to know so much more about him, I feel like out of all the characters he is the one who is still the biggest mystery and I truly hope that will change in the next book! I just really really enjoyed this story and cannot wait to see what the conclusion will hold.
June 14, 2018
The revelations in Birth of Chaos have left me reeling and wanting more! Like, seriously, I did NOT see that one coming (multiple times).
The tension throughout the story was so tangible you could cut it with a knife, and I absolutely loved the crazy and twisted wish. Man, I can’t even put into words how much I loved this book. It is definitely my favourite in the series but after that ending... I have a feeling the last book will become my new favourite! Bring on Age of Magic!
The tension throughout the story was so tangible you could cut it with a knife, and I absolutely loved the crazy and twisted wish. Man, I can’t even put into words how much I loved this book. It is definitely my favourite in the series but after that ending... I have a feeling the last book will become my new favourite! Bring on Age of Magic!
June 29, 2018
This was my favorite out of the whole series so far. Right away, you are sucked into the mystery of this intriguing next wish and the secrets surrounding the Society itself. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time and I am now dying in anticipation for the epic finale.
June 19, 2020
So Birth of Chaos to me kind of didn't improve, but more so took a little step back. I enjoyed where the story went in the end. However getting there felt rushed in some aspects of story and plot.
Like previous books the Society had a certain wish they needed to focus on. The particular wish was very compelling and thought provoking, but it almost became a second thought in the last half of the book. I am starting to see that this series could have benefited from being a little more fleshed out. I mean it has a great concept and foundation, but the story and plot need some breathing room, if that makes sense.
The element of this series that I have wanted to see stronger was character development. I was very pleased with some of the characters growth and development in BoC, especially from Jo, Snow, and Pan. The core conflict that was revealed between the three of them was very well done and made me super invested in seeing how this will all play out in the final book. Now the side characters to me got pushed aside which I didn't enjoy. I mean yes they were utilized but in a sense none of them were really needed. If you were to remove them from the story, the plot would not have been affected tremendously or really at all. So that was a bummer to see because I like most of the side characters in this series so far. Hopefully that will get fixed in the final book.
Any who before I get to Age of Magic, I am going to read the prequel novella which will dive into the Jo, Snow, Pan dynamic and I am here for it. Then it will be time to wrap this series up.
Like previous books the Society had a certain wish they needed to focus on. The particular wish was very compelling and thought provoking, but it almost became a second thought in the last half of the book. I am starting to see that this series could have benefited from being a little more fleshed out. I mean it has a great concept and foundation, but the story and plot need some breathing room, if that makes sense.
The element of this series that I have wanted to see stronger was character development. I was very pleased with some of the characters growth and development in BoC, especially from Jo, Snow, and Pan. The core conflict that was revealed between the three of them was very well done and made me super invested in seeing how this will all play out in the final book. Now the side characters to me got pushed aside which I didn't enjoy. I mean yes they were utilized but in a sense none of them were really needed. If you were to remove them from the story, the plot would not have been affected tremendously or really at all. So that was a bummer to see because I like most of the side characters in this series so far. Hopefully that will get fixed in the final book.
Any who before I get to Age of Magic, I am going to read the prequel novella which will dive into the Jo, Snow, Pan dynamic and I am here for it. Then it will be time to wrap this series up.
June 27, 2018
(Disclaimer: I received this free book from the author. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
So I didn't think this series could get more intense, but I was wrong. If you thought Circle of Ashes introduced some high stakes, get ready for Birth of Chaos. The quest to destroy the Society is more dire than ever before. The events of last book has wrung everyone dry and if they want to dismantle the Society, Jo will need more help than ever before. But how does the society even work? And where did it come from? In order to bring it down, Jo will have to find out how it came to be - and who she is.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
So I didn't think this series could get more intense, but I was wrong. If you thought Circle of Ashes introduced some high stakes, get ready for Birth of Chaos. The quest to destroy the Society is more dire than ever before. The events of last book has wrung everyone dry and if they want to dismantle the Society, Jo will need more help than ever before. But how does the society even work? And where did it come from? In order to bring it down, Jo will have to find out how it came to be - and who she is.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
October 12, 2020
Now something is happening. Finally.
After chapter 21 (I know, almost at the end) something is happening. We're finally getting some answers.
“Keeping me in ignorance is not letting me thrive in a beautiful lie. It’s death in the dark.”
This is a beautiful quote from said chapter.
So, I don't know if I just can't connect with the characters or they're just really flat? And the plot? Can't really seem to find it, unless it's save the world from going under.
Okay, so basically this book is a lot of grieving, getting a new wish (from a serial killer, which is kinda cool, because he's quite likable) and Jo figuring out who she is. That's it.
After chapter 21 (I know, almost at the end) something is happening. We're finally getting some answers.
“Keeping me in ignorance is not letting me thrive in a beautiful lie. It’s death in the dark.”
This is a beautiful quote from said chapter.
So, I don't know if I just can't connect with the characters or they're just really flat? And the plot? Can't really seem to find it, unless it's save the world from going under.
Okay, so basically this book is a lot of grieving, getting a new wish (from a serial killer, which is kinda cool, because he's quite likable) and Jo figuring out who she is. That's it.
June 24, 2018
Just finished it today and I can't wait to see how the last book winds up this series!!
In this, the 3rd installment of the Wish Quartet series, we find out a lot more about Jo and who she (as well as Snow and another certain someone) is and boy does that amp things up... that and her relationship with Snow that is (yes, we're talking what we've all been waiting for... at last!!! lol). This was a great book for all it reveals as well as sets up for the final book.
Great stuff!
In this, the 3rd installment of the Wish Quartet series, we find out a lot more about Jo and who she (as well as Snow and another certain someone) is and boy does that amp things up... that and her relationship with Snow that is (yes, we're talking what we've all been waiting for... at last!!! lol). This was a great book for all it reveals as well as sets up for the final book.
Great stuff!
June 13, 2018
I received an ARC of this book from the authors and it doesn't in any way influence my opinion on it.
Birth of Chaos by Elise Kova and Lynn Larsh yet again elevates this series onto a greater heights. It just keeps getting better and better and shows no sign of stopping.
When the first book in the series came out, I could sense the potential of the series. It's great to see it coming into fruition as it branches out and expands.
Birth Of Chaos began with the aftermath of Nico's passing. The team takes his loss hard as it hit all of them, tensions are running high as they try to make sense of it all.
It gets worse when a new terrible wish comes not as impossible as the last but a moral dilemma. They have to aid a serial killer in continuing his work and not getting caught by the authorities.
This causes an uproar among the Society especially as Pan seems to add gasoline to the flame with her nonchalant indifference.
Josephina's machinations to twist things and tweak outcomes was extremely entertaining despite the dire circumstance. The character has this earnest way of approaching things that's quite raw and endearing.
Things heat up between her and Snow as she gets closer to the truth (Like finally!!), They get all up on each other as the bond between them strengthens.
Her relentless quest for knowledge is as engrossing as ever even if she comes across roadblocks here and there but she bludgeons through intent on knowing all.
I love the little easter eggs thrown here and there it gives us tantalizing glimpses into the whole story and by the time Jo finally figures it out, the reader will also be thinking along the same lines. I love the truth that is revealed as it was something that really resonates with what the characters are about.
Birth of Chaos also dives deeper into mythology and I applaud the way it's handled as the well of information on it is quite deep. It all fits perfectly as each reveal ties up loose ends and answers questions brought up from the beginning.
The magic system is as great as ever as it totally morphs itself over and over.
The ending is mind blowing, genius, refreshingly original and just bloody amazing. It totally changes things up and everything you think you know.
I LOVE where this is going as it opens up to a WORLD of unlimited possibilities. I can't wait to explore this new status quo in the next book in the series.
Fans of this series will love Birth of Chaos as it has the magic, action, hot romance, camaraderie, mysteries and crazy haired villainess that makes the series such a gem.
P.S: Expect a game changing ending!!.
Like what you read, Pre-Order on Amazon: http://viewbook.at/BoC
Birth of Chaos by Elise Kova and Lynn Larsh yet again elevates this series onto a greater heights. It just keeps getting better and better and shows no sign of stopping.
When the first book in the series came out, I could sense the potential of the series. It's great to see it coming into fruition as it branches out and expands.
Birth Of Chaos began with the aftermath of Nico's passing. The team takes his loss hard as it hit all of them, tensions are running high as they try to make sense of it all.
It gets worse when a new terrible wish comes not as impossible as the last but a moral dilemma. They have to aid a serial killer in continuing his work and not getting caught by the authorities.
This causes an uproar among the Society especially as Pan seems to add gasoline to the flame with her nonchalant indifference.
Josephina's machinations to twist things and tweak outcomes was extremely entertaining despite the dire circumstance. The character has this earnest way of approaching things that's quite raw and endearing.
Things heat up between her and Snow as she gets closer to the truth (Like finally!!), They get all up on each other as the bond between them strengthens.
Her relentless quest for knowledge is as engrossing as ever even if she comes across roadblocks here and there but she bludgeons through intent on knowing all.
I love the little easter eggs thrown here and there it gives us tantalizing glimpses into the whole story and by the time Jo finally figures it out, the reader will also be thinking along the same lines. I love the truth that is revealed as it was something that really resonates with what the characters are about.
Birth of Chaos also dives deeper into mythology and I applaud the way it's handled as the well of information on it is quite deep. It all fits perfectly as each reveal ties up loose ends and answers questions brought up from the beginning.
The magic system is as great as ever as it totally morphs itself over and over.
The ending is mind blowing, genius, refreshingly original and just bloody amazing. It totally changes things up and everything you think you know.
I LOVE where this is going as it opens up to a WORLD of unlimited possibilities. I can't wait to explore this new status quo in the next book in the series.
Fans of this series will love Birth of Chaos as it has the magic, action, hot romance, camaraderie, mysteries and crazy haired villainess that makes the series such a gem.
P.S: Expect a game changing ending!!.
Like what you read, Pre-Order on Amazon: http://viewbook.at/BoC
September 5, 2018
Slow start but definitely worth it!
I was ready to give this book two stars and say how disappointed I was with it. It was very hard to get into and had a very slow start. This felt different from the other two books. It started to pick up around halfway through. The way magic was handled was new and exciting. Characters developed in subtle ways that was natural. I started to enjoy this book. And finally at around 80% it got extremely exciting. I was not expecting any of what happened and it was all done so well. I want age of Magic now!
I was ready to give this book two stars and say how disappointed I was with it. It was very hard to get into and had a very slow start. This felt different from the other two books. It started to pick up around halfway through. The way magic was handled was new and exciting. Characters developed in subtle ways that was natural. I started to enjoy this book. And finally at around 80% it got extremely exciting. I was not expecting any of what happened and it was all done so well. I want age of Magic now!
June 15, 2018
Note: I received a free e-ARC by the authors in exchange for an honest review. This in no way affects my opinion.
Kova and Larsh leave no chance for a breather, plunging right back into the thrilling drama of the Wish Quartet with the third installment, Birth of Chaos. The members of the Society, barely on the brink of recovery, are faced with another brutal wish—one with another impractical deadline and one that goes against all their morals. This new wish has Jo questioning everything about the Society. Where do the wishes come from? Who gets to choose the wishes? And why are they happening more frequently and more intensely? To make matters worse, Jo finds that the magic holding the Society together is slowly failing. With the clock ticking fast, Jo juggles unraveling the mysteries behind the Society and finding another way around granting a wish she can’t come to terms with; all while dealing with faulty magic. And, although she grows closer to Snow, Jo is still unable to get him to open up for answers she desperately seeks. Jo realizes that the only other person who can provide them is the last person she’d ever want to reach out to—Pan. By facing Pan, Jo discovers that she herself is a significant puzzle piece to the origins of the Society. With the pieces starting to fit together, Jo decides that the only way to unshackle herself and the rest of the team from the crumbling Society and an adverse wish is to do the unimaginable—take down the Society itself. As her focus shifts dramatically and the countdown looms closer, Jo must figure out how to get the team on board with her plan and how to succeed without destroying the team themselves.
Without giving any spoilers, what I loved about Birth of Chaos is that Jo’s long-awaited history is finally laid out and it’s absolutely mind blowing. I had my suspicions with the little breadcrumbs the authors threw out in the first two books, but I would never have guessed the final outcome. By the end of the book I was still left completely in knots. I don’t know what’s more dramatic, the ending of the last book or this one? All I can say is that it seems far from over for the members of the Society. Kova and Larsh do an incredible job with this book, successfully blending classic mythology with urban fantasy, and setting up the story for the next installment. Please, September, come sooner!!!
Kova and Larsh leave no chance for a breather, plunging right back into the thrilling drama of the Wish Quartet with the third installment, Birth of Chaos. The members of the Society, barely on the brink of recovery, are faced with another brutal wish—one with another impractical deadline and one that goes against all their morals. This new wish has Jo questioning everything about the Society. Where do the wishes come from? Who gets to choose the wishes? And why are they happening more frequently and more intensely? To make matters worse, Jo finds that the magic holding the Society together is slowly failing. With the clock ticking fast, Jo juggles unraveling the mysteries behind the Society and finding another way around granting a wish she can’t come to terms with; all while dealing with faulty magic. And, although she grows closer to Snow, Jo is still unable to get him to open up for answers she desperately seeks. Jo realizes that the only other person who can provide them is the last person she’d ever want to reach out to—Pan. By facing Pan, Jo discovers that she herself is a significant puzzle piece to the origins of the Society. With the pieces starting to fit together, Jo decides that the only way to unshackle herself and the rest of the team from the crumbling Society and an adverse wish is to do the unimaginable—take down the Society itself. As her focus shifts dramatically and the countdown looms closer, Jo must figure out how to get the team on board with her plan and how to succeed without destroying the team themselves.
Without giving any spoilers, what I loved about Birth of Chaos is that Jo’s long-awaited history is finally laid out and it’s absolutely mind blowing. I had my suspicions with the little breadcrumbs the authors threw out in the first two books, but I would never have guessed the final outcome. By the end of the book I was still left completely in knots. I don’t know what’s more dramatic, the ending of the last book or this one? All I can say is that it seems far from over for the members of the Society. Kova and Larsh do an incredible job with this book, successfully blending classic mythology with urban fantasy, and setting up the story for the next installment. Please, September, come sooner!!!
June 22, 2018
I read Birth of Chaos in small increments and much slower than I usually read. This was in part because I wanted to savor the experience of being immersed in the Society of Wishes once again. But it was mostly because I was dreading finding out what Elise Kova was going to do to one of my beloved characters (I've read enough of her books to know what I'm getting into).
Like the previous book, Circle of Ashes, this was rife with tension. You could almost feel the story culminating in an unknown, monumental change. There was so much revealed about the world(s) and Jo's past (some expected and some not) that I often felt a little overwhelmed with the amount of information presented. Snow evolved from a confusing, cold "explainer of magic" to a protector and dynamic character. Furthermore, Snow and Jo's interactions acquired far more depth than in the previous two books. It was a refreshing change.
Pan was... I can't even describe her... you have to read it yourself to understand how delightfully twisted her character is.
My one main issue with Birth of Chaos is the lack of an "ensemble cast" in regards to how Snow/Jo interact with the other members of the Society. There are so many unique personalities and skills that I feel are horribly underutilized and glossed over. I'm truly hoping Jo's "lone shewolf" mentality begins to change in the next installment.
And finally, the ending... I think it gave me whiplash. I can't wait to read the marvels that Kova and Larsh create with the canvas they have before them.
I would highly recommend Birth of Chaos to anyone who enjoys tense storylines, beautifully created worlds, and intricate magical components.
I received this book as an ARC from the author. This in no way influences my honest review.
Like the previous book, Circle of Ashes, this was rife with tension. You could almost feel the story culminating in an unknown, monumental change. There was so much revealed about the world(s) and Jo's past (some expected and some not) that I often felt a little overwhelmed with the amount of information presented. Snow evolved from a confusing, cold "explainer of magic" to a protector and dynamic character. Furthermore, Snow and Jo's interactions acquired far more depth than in the previous two books. It was a refreshing change.
Pan was... I can't even describe her... you have to read it yourself to understand how delightfully twisted her character is.
My one main issue with Birth of Chaos is the lack of an "ensemble cast" in regards to how Snow/Jo interact with the other members of the Society. There are so many unique personalities and skills that I feel are horribly underutilized and glossed over. I'm truly hoping Jo's "lone shewolf" mentality begins to change in the next installment.
And finally, the ending... I think it gave me whiplash. I can't wait to read the marvels that Kova and Larsh create with the canvas they have before them.
I would highly recommend Birth of Chaos to anyone who enjoys tense storylines, beautifully created worlds, and intricate magical components.
I received this book as an ARC from the author. This in no way influences my honest review.
June 25, 2018
After an impossible wish decimated the team in the last book and brought everything they knew about the society into question, it seemed almost impossible that the stakes could get any higher in this one. But boy have they ever. A new wish comes in that shakes the teams morals and beliefs, or whatever is left of them. But the wish itself still needs to be granted or the consequences could be dire. And after already loosing a team member, they can't afford any mess ups. So what happens next? Will the team be able to grant the wish? Wish they may not want to grant, but with their very lives at stake, they don't have any other options. And will Jo be able to find out what makes the society tick? And that way save, not only her fellow members, but all the realities they destroy to grant wishes. And will we find out who Jo really is & what is her previous tie to the society. I for one don't know, but am eager to find out.
One question does begg to be asked, and it's not exactly related to this tale....when will Elise write a romance novel?? Cause she has a knack for it. Birth of Chaos only enforces it. Wheather it's teaming up with Lynn or something else, this series has raised the quality of Elise's writing to another place, one she always seemed destined for, and is as of right now, at least in my opinion, one of the underrated writers of this generation. I certainly expect that to change. Rarely do you find words so gripping, and so engulfing. Every page draws you deeper and deeper, and that's everything you want in a good fantasy tale. And this one is just that. So if you're just getting familiar with Elise's work or diving in for the first time this book is worth picking up!
One question does begg to be asked, and it's not exactly related to this tale....when will Elise write a romance novel?? Cause she has a knack for it. Birth of Chaos only enforces it. Wheather it's teaming up with Lynn or something else, this series has raised the quality of Elise's writing to another place, one she always seemed destined for, and is as of right now, at least in my opinion, one of the underrated writers of this generation. I certainly expect that to change. Rarely do you find words so gripping, and so engulfing. Every page draws you deeper and deeper, and that's everything you want in a good fantasy tale. And this one is just that. So if you're just getting familiar with Elise's work or diving in for the first time this book is worth picking up!
September 8, 2018
This 3rd book begins exactly where book 2 leaves off. We're still immersed in a state of grief and reflection, and instead of having a normal amount of time for mourning, we're plunged right back into the next wish. Not only are the wishes coming in much faster, leaving no downtime to recoup, but the wishes are harsher and test all the limits. This latest one pushes every member but one to their moral limits. Things start unraveling out of control, and leaves Jo with even more questions about the inner workings of The Society and herself as a member. She's still learning about her magic, and finding out that hers is different than everyone else's, beyond the normal. We find that each character is stretched and pulled to their breaking and what they do under those circumstances shows us even more layers of each individual.
This has been my favorite of the 3 books so far, but don't get me wrong, they're all SO good. Each one leading us to this explosive conclusion that I know... I JUST KNOW is going to implode our brains. There is so much here that we don't even understand quite yet. I'm sitting on pins and needles waiting for the 4th, and final book to release! *anxiously bites nails*
This has been my favorite of the 3 books so far, but don't get me wrong, they're all SO good. Each one leading us to this explosive conclusion that I know... I JUST KNOW is going to implode our brains. There is so much here that we don't even understand quite yet. I'm sitting on pins and needles waiting for the 4th, and final book to release! *anxiously bites nails*
June 24, 2018
I don't now where to start because it's all so amazing! From the cover to the very last sentence. And now... I honestly can't wait to read book four of The Wish Quartet.
If the first two books feature Jo settling in to, and trying to get to grips with the Society of Wishes then Birth of Chaos is where it all unravels! I couldn't wait to read Birth of Chaos after the end of Circle of Ashes. The opening of the book focuses on the aftermath of the events of Circle of Ashes and we see the Society members at their lowest, and weakest points. It's really interesting to see how each member deals with the events. (Apologies for being vague but I really do not want to spoil anything!)
We get yet another unbelievable wish, this one I really did not see coming. And the wish and resulting discussions between Society members are very interesting and led me to think about the morality of the situation, even once I had finished the book. We see the Society members also battling with the ideas of surviving and truly living.
The ending of the book was incredible and I am even more excited to read to read Age of Magic. As much as I loved the first book in The Wish Quartet, this series has just gotten better and better with each book. The writing is incredible and I love the way that Elise Kova and Lynn Larsh has worked together on these books.
The character development is really something in this book, and I love how seeing each of the characters at their lowest really. Jo is rapidly becoming one of my favourite characters and I have found that she had really grown on me since the earlier books in the series.
Through Jo's determination we find out lots more about the Society, about some of it's members, and about Jo herself. I love that we get to learn a bit more about Snow, though I think he will always be an enigma. I have to say I I did not see a lot of the revelations coming, I love being surprised by a book and Birth of Chaos was filled with surprises.
If you love Urban Fantasy, or just Fantasy in general I would definitely recommend the Wish Quartet books, they are incredibly written with unique characters and the world building is out of this world!
If the first two books feature Jo settling in to, and trying to get to grips with the Society of Wishes then Birth of Chaos is where it all unravels! I couldn't wait to read Birth of Chaos after the end of Circle of Ashes. The opening of the book focuses on the aftermath of the events of Circle of Ashes and we see the Society members at their lowest, and weakest points. It's really interesting to see how each member deals with the events. (Apologies for being vague but I really do not want to spoil anything!)
We get yet another unbelievable wish, this one I really did not see coming. And the wish and resulting discussions between Society members are very interesting and led me to think about the morality of the situation, even once I had finished the book. We see the Society members also battling with the ideas of surviving and truly living.
The ending of the book was incredible and I am even more excited to read to read Age of Magic. As much as I loved the first book in The Wish Quartet, this series has just gotten better and better with each book. The writing is incredible and I love the way that Elise Kova and Lynn Larsh has worked together on these books.
The character development is really something in this book, and I love how seeing each of the characters at their lowest really. Jo is rapidly becoming one of my favourite characters and I have found that she had really grown on me since the earlier books in the series.
Through Jo's determination we find out lots more about the Society, about some of it's members, and about Jo herself. I love that we get to learn a bit more about Snow, though I think he will always be an enigma. I have to say I I did not see a lot of the revelations coming, I love being surprised by a book and Birth of Chaos was filled with surprises.
If you love Urban Fantasy, or just Fantasy in general I would definitely recommend the Wish Quartet books, they are incredibly written with unique characters and the world building is out of this world!
June 27, 2018
Birth of Chaos is the third book in a joint venture between Elise Kova and Lynn Larsh. The intensity really ramps up in this third installment i was reading this on the treadmill at the gym doing a brisk pace but i was sucked in so intensely that i had not noticed the treadmill had switched to cool down mode.
The steamy intensity is ramped up to a ten between our would be lovers Jo and Snow. I think my favorite part of this third book is really we get into the meat of how Jo, Pan and Snow are connected along with the whole society. The authors do a fantastical job of painting Pan on point with a delicious drip of complex evilness that i almost can’t hate her as she play her part so well.
The ending transistions nicely into a new time from what has transpired and love the peak we are getting at how this new age will be vastly different from what we have seen in the previous books. Can anyone say dragons i want to travel by Dragonback. Applause to our authors you have both done a phenomal job and i look forward to the Age of Magic.
The steamy intensity is ramped up to a ten between our would be lovers Jo and Snow. I think my favorite part of this third book is really we get into the meat of how Jo, Pan and Snow are connected along with the whole society. The authors do a fantastical job of painting Pan on point with a delicious drip of complex evilness that i almost can’t hate her as she play her part so well.
The ending transistions nicely into a new time from what has transpired and love the peak we are getting at how this new age will be vastly different from what we have seen in the previous books. Can anyone say dragons i want to travel by Dragonback. Applause to our authors you have both done a phenomal job and i look forward to the Age of Magic.
July 10, 2018
I was super excited to get back into the complex and unique world created by Elise Kova and Lynn Larsh. The story begins in a surprising way, but quickly diverges into another story line that looks deeper into the history and lore of this universe. It also takes a look at Jo's strange magic and delves into the truth of her existence. It definitely wasn't something I saw coming and should lead to a pretty intense conclusion. In the wake of tragedy, Jo's relationships are strained, especially when it comes to Wayne, who's story is also expanded a little. My favourite relationship to watch however was the one between Jo and Snow, whose connection ran deeper than I would have imagined. There was also a lot more involvement with Pan, as her truths are slowly revealed. All in all, this was a great follow-up/build-up to the final book, and the ending has me wondering just what could possibly happen next, and how many people will be standing at the end of it.
July 4, 2018
A Couple Great Twists
There were/are a few formatting issues (like the final chapter repeating), but outside of those (which are fixable and hopefully will be fixed), this is a solid follow up to the first two books. The twist on the wish made my jaw drop which was awesome. Some of the stuff we learn about our main character, Jo, wasn’t that surprising, but the way other characters were weaved together felt right. Overall, I’m excited to see how this concludes. The best part? I feel conflicted over what the right ending is; that alone should tell you the tension in the story is legit. Definitely enjoyed.
There were/are a few formatting issues (like the final chapter repeating), but outside of those (which are fixable and hopefully will be fixed), this is a solid follow up to the first two books. The twist on the wish made my jaw drop which was awesome. Some of the stuff we learn about our main character, Jo, wasn’t that surprising, but the way other characters were weaved together felt right. Overall, I’m excited to see how this concludes. The best part? I feel conflicted over what the right ending is; that alone should tell you the tension in the story is legit. Definitely enjoyed.
July 1, 2018
BIRTH OF CHAOS DEFINITELY A PLOT DRIVEN BOOK COMPARE TO THE LAST TWO WISH QUARTET BOOKS THAT IVE FELT WHERE VERY CHARACTER DRIVEN. WE LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SOCIETY HERE, MORE ABOUT JO AND HOW DIFFERENT SHE IS TO THE REST OF THE MEMBERS. AND WE GET TO SEE A NEW LIGHT TO PAN. THE WOMEN CHILD WHO HAS BEEN PLAYING AROUND IN THE SHADOWS TILL NOW. WE SEE THE TRUTH AND WE GET TO WITNESS THR DOWNFALL OF THE SOCIETY IN A WAY. AND ITS AFTERMATH. TIME IS TICKING A NEW AGE HAS STARTED.
October 8, 2018
I received a free copy for an honest review. This series just gets better and better. As a new wish shakes up the team, things between Jo and Snow heat up even more. Jo finally learns who she really is and how she fits into everything. She learns of an enemy in their midst and does everything she can to stop them. As my previous questions are answered, I'm left with even more. This series is heating up and I can't wait for the next book.
October 31, 2018
Mind blowing
Morals are blurred as the Society is forced to take on a horrific wish that no one wants to grant. Jo knows there's only one thing she can do, if she can only figure out how to do it. Her search leads to secrets from her past she never imagined possible and power she may not be able to control. After this wild ride and a drastic change at the end of the book, I'm eager to start reading the next story.
Morals are blurred as the Society is forced to take on a horrific wish that no one wants to grant. Jo knows there's only one thing she can do, if she can only figure out how to do it. Her search leads to secrets from her past she never imagined possible and power she may not be able to control. After this wild ride and a drastic change at the end of the book, I'm eager to start reading the next story.
August 16, 2018
My least favorite so far...
The third installment of this series is my least favorite so far. I was there in the beginning and speed through the end, but much of the middle was quite tedious. Good thing the end brought me back up and now September 20th cant get here fast enough!
The third installment of this series is my least favorite so far. I was there in the beginning and speed through the end, but much of the middle was quite tedious. Good thing the end brought me back up and now September 20th cant get here fast enough!
November 6, 2021
More like 3.5 stars. To me, the best part of the book was after chapter 18 where truths started to reveal but there was not much that I did not know because I had read the prequel "Prince of Gods" before and it pretty much left nothing unknown up until this point. But, I am this far into the series so I will read the last book.
October 21, 2021
Very much enjoyed this series. think I devoured three books in three days! I enjoyed the IT/AI aspects, the time outside of time and the concept of gods and demi-gods. All woven very nicely together. Liked our heroine and the smidges of romance. A good balance acheived.
July 16, 2018
This was something else like mind blown amazing. It was so satisfying to finally understand Snow, Jo and Pan and frustrating to see Pan finally reveal herself. Can't wait to read the next book!
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