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The Chronicle of the Three #3
The Chronicle of the Three: Eden Sword
The final showdown is fast approaching, and a grief-stricken Zoe is forced to count the cost of her destiny. As the losses mount, her strength wanes.Even if the Chosen find the Eden Sword in time, will Zoe be strong enough to wield it? Will she be able to stand against the darkness as the promised Daughter of the ancient prophecy? Or will she be consumed by the fear of her nightmares becoming real?
Fear or faith? Even the Chosen must choose.
Fear or faith? Even the Chosen must choose.
- GenresFantasyChristian Fiction
210 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2018
2 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Tabitha Caplinger
8 books136 followersTabitha Caplinger gets way too emotionally invested in the lives of fictional characters, whether it’s obsessing over a book or tv show, or getting lost creating her own worlds. Tabitha is the author of The Chronicle of the Three Trilogy, a Christian urban fantasy, and a lover of good stories and helping others live chosen. When she’s not writing book words, she’s reheating her coffee, binging a new show or teaching God’s Word to students. Tabitha, her husband and two beautifully sassy daughters desire to be Jesus with skin on for those around them. They live to love others, and for Marvel movies.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
April 9, 2018
This is one of my most anticipated reads of this year and I ended up loving this book despite feeling a bit nervous at how things would turn out. **and oh my to that cover!!** Without giving anything away, I believe reader fans of this epic trilogy have nothing to be nervous about, but you might need a hug or two when reading this one. Zoe, Claire and the gang are all dealing with the death of a dear friend and demon slayer when this book begins. I didn’t cry, but the grief over this character is quite tangible. Zoe feels responsible, Claire wishes she could’ve prevented this tragedy, Maggie is devastated but holding up because Maggie in just an amazing friend like that. The grief hits Zoe more than anyone else and Abaddon uses her emotions against her. I totally relate to this process and it’s SO NOT FUN, but if you can learn to trust the Maker in the process, you can come out even stronger afterwards.
"She's Maggie. Looking on the bright side is her super power."
EVERYONE is tested in this book, which I expected, but man it’s rough going through it! Zoe’s dreams are getting more intense and foreboding and Claire is concerned about the group, especially Alex because he’s disconnecting more and more from the group with his own issues and it’s not helping.
"Maybe that is the problem," the Guardian responded. "You are trying too hard to understand rather than simply having faith."
There is also light romance between Daniel and Zoe, but it’s more cute than anything else.
Charlie has a bigger role in this book as well and I loved that it’s Maggie who is with him when he first wakes up. The way they make Christmas happen for their demon slaying family after a brutal battle is both tangible and sweet.
I loved the last line before the epilogue, something to do with having more pie, it just made perfect sense to me :) The book ended exactly as I hoped it would, it even made me yearn for more of Zoe and Claire’s story. Everything sad that happens in this trilogy has a purpose and there’s a treat in Eden Sword that reader fans will NOT want to miss. TCO3 is beautiful, brilliant, and just the right amount of spiritual boldness that believers and non-believers alike will enjoy…then once you’re finished, you’re going to want to eat some pie!
I received a free copy from the publisher and this review is voluntary. The thoughts and comments are my own.
"She's Maggie. Looking on the bright side is her super power."
EVERYONE is tested in this book, which I expected, but man it’s rough going through it! Zoe’s dreams are getting more intense and foreboding and Claire is concerned about the group, especially Alex because he’s disconnecting more and more from the group with his own issues and it’s not helping.
"Maybe that is the problem," the Guardian responded. "You are trying too hard to understand rather than simply having faith."
There is also light romance between Daniel and Zoe, but it’s more cute than anything else.
Charlie has a bigger role in this book as well and I loved that it’s Maggie who is with him when he first wakes up. The way they make Christmas happen for their demon slaying family after a brutal battle is both tangible and sweet.
I loved the last line before the epilogue, something to do with having more pie, it just made perfect sense to me :) The book ended exactly as I hoped it would, it even made me yearn for more of Zoe and Claire’s story. Everything sad that happens in this trilogy has a purpose and there’s a treat in Eden Sword that reader fans will NOT want to miss. TCO3 is beautiful, brilliant, and just the right amount of spiritual boldness that believers and non-believers alike will enjoy…then once you’re finished, you’re going to want to eat some pie!
I received a free copy from the publisher and this review is voluntary. The thoughts and comments are my own.
May 1, 2018
Well, I certainly never expected to cry as much as I did when reading, nor was I prepared how emotional this book would be overall.
Definitely not saying that as a bad thing because WOW! The author did a phenomenal job of bringing Zoe's struggle to life. Her grief was very very relatable and absolutely loved how her friends just loved on her.
Not only did Zoe grow a lot in this book, but Claire did too. I really felt connected with her as she overcame past struggles and truly understood truths spoken to her. I especially loved a touching, reverent scene she has in the barn. That spoke so much to me!
This was an excellent, strong finish to this trilogy, though with the epilogue I truly hope that this really isn't the ending as I would LOVEEEEEEE to read a few followup novellas (or even short stories). After everything my heart went through, I think us fans deserve it. ;) Plus, the author knows she wants to keep going!
I would recommend this series to readers who enjoy witty banter, breakfast, and butt-kicking heroines.
*I received an ARC from the author. All thoughts expressed are my own.*
Definitely not saying that as a bad thing because WOW! The author did a phenomenal job of bringing Zoe's struggle to life. Her grief was very very relatable and absolutely loved how her friends just loved on her.
Not only did Zoe grow a lot in this book, but Claire did too. I really felt connected with her as she overcame past struggles and truly understood truths spoken to her. I especially loved a touching, reverent scene she has in the barn. That spoke so much to me!
This was an excellent, strong finish to this trilogy, though with the epilogue I truly hope that this really isn't the ending as I would LOVEEEEEEE to read a few followup novellas (or even short stories). After everything my heart went through, I think us fans deserve it. ;) Plus, the author knows she wants to keep going!
I would recommend this series to readers who enjoy witty banter, breakfast, and butt-kicking heroines.
*I received an ARC from the author. All thoughts expressed are my own.*
May 7, 2018
Thank you to Tabitha Caplinger and Blue Ink Press for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for review! All opinions are my own.
After the rollercoaster ride that Armor-Bearer took me on last year, I wasn't sure if anything could top it. And then Eden Sword came along. This book was easily one of my most anticipated releases of the year because honestly, I haven't read anything like this trilogy in probably all of my years of reading. It's so unlike every other series out there and it holds a special place in my heart without a doubt. This book made me laugh, cry, jump (and fall) out of my seat with excitement, scream and shout, and everything in between. Eden Sword is easily one of my all-time favorite endings to a series and I am so satisfied with everything I read!
Plot:
The final battle is almost here and Zoe, grief-stricken from the loss of a friend, must start to weigh the cost of her destiny. Her strength is failing, and her faith in herself and others is almost gone. With the Eden Sword on the verge of discovery, Zoe has to wonder: will she be strong enough to wield it even if the Chosen find it in time? Will she be able to be the Daughter the ancient prophecy spoke of and fight the darkness? Or will she allow her fears and nightmares to take over?
This is the final book in the series and everything has been building up to the final battle with Abaddon. There's love, loss, laughter, tears, betrayal, a reunion, and an ending that absolutely does not disappoint. I obviously expected there to be the big battle at the end (kinda like in Supernatural when the entire season has been building up to the fight with the big bad, you know?) and there was, but there was just so much more to this book than that. There were characters dealing with loss and the struggle to move on or accept things about others or themselves. There was hilarious banter between absolutely everyone involving pity eggs and angel muffins. You know that so much bad is happening but there's also so much good waiting to outweigh the bad. I can definitely say that there were some things that happened that I wasn't expecting, but everything about the plot was just phenomenal. I'm convinced that Tabitha Caplinger doesn't have the ability to write a bad book!
Characters:
One of my favorite parts about this series is the characters. Throughout this series, and especially in Eden Sword, none of the characters are portrayed as the "typical" YA characters. What do I mean by "typical" YA characters? I mean the ones who are noticeably super special right from the beginning. The ones who are "plain" but also ridiculously pretty and quite obviously destined for a long adventure spanning several books. Ones who are perfect, never make mistakes or have problems. You won't find those kinds of characters in this series. In Eden Sword, we get to see both Zoe and Claire struggle with things both inside and outside of themselves. Claire struggles to accept that what happens with Alex is not her fault but rather the result of his own choices, showing that even the seemingly strong parental figure is not always as strong as she pretends to be. Zoe struggles with her faith in both herself and the Maker and whether or not she believes she is strong enough to defeat Abaddon. We even get to see Maggie struggle with moving on and accepting the loss of a loved one. But these characters are definitely flawed and it's incredibly refreshing to see such real characters struggle with things and overcome the challenges that they're presented with. They're human, and humans make mistakes and have flaws, and this series doesn't shy away from that.
In Eden Sword, there is a ton of character growth and development from start to finish. You really get to see these characters change as they get closer to the battle with Abaddon and they're so different (in the best way) from who they were at the start. Zoe is probably one of the strongest characters in any series I've read and I love that she has her ups and downs and that we get to see her internal battle with accepting herself, her strength, and faith in not only herself but others as well. I also (as always) enjoyed the banter between characters. They really do feel like a family and their interactions are always a treat to read. Especially when Maggie wants pity eggs! But all in all, my absolute favorite thing about this group is how they're constantly motivating each other and they're always there for support if one of them is down. They're a family in every sense of the word.
Writing:
As always, Tabitha Caplinger's writing is fantastic. You can really tell that as a writer, she puts her heart and soul into every word she puts on the page. The attention to detail with every scene is incredible and really draws you into the story, allowing you to feel like you're really there beside Zoe fighting demons or having pancakes with Maggie. I believe I've said it before but one of my favorite things about the writing is how you can immerse yourself into the story and not really be concerned with what chapter you're on or how many pages you have left, but rather just read what's happening and follow along. Tabitha really does an amazing job bringing these characters and this story to life and you can feel it with every word you read. This series is unlike anything you've read before, I assure you. It's hard to find a YA series where there's not obnoxious language or characters that have been copy-pasted from a "typical YA character" sheet, but this series has managed to do just that. You get genuinely good writing and a story that keeps you turning the pages to find out what happens next.
Eden Sword is a fantastic ending to a trilogy that is sure to remain with readers long after they finish the final page. Be sure to keep a spare lollipop handy while reading because, as Maggie says, lollipops make everything better!
After the rollercoaster ride that Armor-Bearer took me on last year, I wasn't sure if anything could top it. And then Eden Sword came along. This book was easily one of my most anticipated releases of the year because honestly, I haven't read anything like this trilogy in probably all of my years of reading. It's so unlike every other series out there and it holds a special place in my heart without a doubt. This book made me laugh, cry, jump (and fall) out of my seat with excitement, scream and shout, and everything in between. Eden Sword is easily one of my all-time favorite endings to a series and I am so satisfied with everything I read!
Plot:
The final battle is almost here and Zoe, grief-stricken from the loss of a friend, must start to weigh the cost of her destiny. Her strength is failing, and her faith in herself and others is almost gone. With the Eden Sword on the verge of discovery, Zoe has to wonder: will she be strong enough to wield it even if the Chosen find it in time? Will she be able to be the Daughter the ancient prophecy spoke of and fight the darkness? Or will she allow her fears and nightmares to take over?
This is the final book in the series and everything has been building up to the final battle with Abaddon. There's love, loss, laughter, tears, betrayal, a reunion, and an ending that absolutely does not disappoint. I obviously expected there to be the big battle at the end (kinda like in Supernatural when the entire season has been building up to the fight with the big bad, you know?) and there was, but there was just so much more to this book than that. There were characters dealing with loss and the struggle to move on or accept things about others or themselves. There was hilarious banter between absolutely everyone involving pity eggs and angel muffins. You know that so much bad is happening but there's also so much good waiting to outweigh the bad. I can definitely say that there were some things that happened that I wasn't expecting, but everything about the plot was just phenomenal. I'm convinced that Tabitha Caplinger doesn't have the ability to write a bad book!
Characters:
One of my favorite parts about this series is the characters. Throughout this series, and especially in Eden Sword, none of the characters are portrayed as the "typical" YA characters. What do I mean by "typical" YA characters? I mean the ones who are noticeably super special right from the beginning. The ones who are "plain" but also ridiculously pretty and quite obviously destined for a long adventure spanning several books. Ones who are perfect, never make mistakes or have problems. You won't find those kinds of characters in this series. In Eden Sword, we get to see both Zoe and Claire struggle with things both inside and outside of themselves. Claire struggles to accept that what happens with Alex is not her fault but rather the result of his own choices, showing that even the seemingly strong parental figure is not always as strong as she pretends to be. Zoe struggles with her faith in both herself and the Maker and whether or not she believes she is strong enough to defeat Abaddon. We even get to see Maggie struggle with moving on and accepting the loss of a loved one. But these characters are definitely flawed and it's incredibly refreshing to see such real characters struggle with things and overcome the challenges that they're presented with. They're human, and humans make mistakes and have flaws, and this series doesn't shy away from that.
In Eden Sword, there is a ton of character growth and development from start to finish. You really get to see these characters change as they get closer to the battle with Abaddon and they're so different (in the best way) from who they were at the start. Zoe is probably one of the strongest characters in any series I've read and I love that she has her ups and downs and that we get to see her internal battle with accepting herself, her strength, and faith in not only herself but others as well. I also (as always) enjoyed the banter between characters. They really do feel like a family and their interactions are always a treat to read. Especially when Maggie wants pity eggs! But all in all, my absolute favorite thing about this group is how they're constantly motivating each other and they're always there for support if one of them is down. They're a family in every sense of the word.
Writing:
As always, Tabitha Caplinger's writing is fantastic. You can really tell that as a writer, she puts her heart and soul into every word she puts on the page. The attention to detail with every scene is incredible and really draws you into the story, allowing you to feel like you're really there beside Zoe fighting demons or having pancakes with Maggie. I believe I've said it before but one of my favorite things about the writing is how you can immerse yourself into the story and not really be concerned with what chapter you're on or how many pages you have left, but rather just read what's happening and follow along. Tabitha really does an amazing job bringing these characters and this story to life and you can feel it with every word you read. This series is unlike anything you've read before, I assure you. It's hard to find a YA series where there's not obnoxious language or characters that have been copy-pasted from a "typical YA character" sheet, but this series has managed to do just that. You get genuinely good writing and a story that keeps you turning the pages to find out what happens next.
Eden Sword is a fantastic ending to a trilogy that is sure to remain with readers long after they finish the final page. Be sure to keep a spare lollipop handy while reading because, as Maggie says, lollipops make everything better!
May 6, 2018
I seriously have no idea what to say about this book without giving away spoilers. So much happened! That character came back, I cried when that thing happened to that other character, I loved how she handled that part after something big happened... Hmm. Let's just say this book was as epic as I hoped this series conclusion would be. Zoe continued to develop as a character, the stakes got higher (as did the curves in the emotional roller-coaster!), and the community of descendants drew closer. The group didn't have quite as many light-hearted moments in this book, but plenty of pity eggs and muffins were baked, and Michael even got to watch The Princess Bride :) Speaking of Michael, I felt like he really came out of his shell in this book, and I loved it! I also loved the way Caplinger wrapped everything up at the end, and her beautiful messages of finding purpose and receiving God's love. In conclusion, let's just say that TCO3 fans won't want to miss Eden Sword!
February 5, 2019
Eden's Sword was the best of the three books in this trilogy. The writer has such a vivid imagination and her story telling is second to none. There were so many twist in this book and the added characters were well thought out. The battles between the good and evil was heart rending and to be honest a little scary but it keeps you on the edge of your seat. Great job Tabitha Caplinger
April 10, 2018
Review coming soon! But just know that this was so beautifully written and was a perfect final book for this trilogy
October 9, 2025
Such a great ending! 🥹
October 19, 2025
An emotional ending to a powerful trilogy, The Chronicle of the Three is a must read for YA readers. Eden Sword, as well as the two preceding titles, offers a paranormal fantasy comparable to Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Supernatural; however, it is woven with biblical truths and important lessons that mainstream media tends to overlook. These lessons include but are not limited to what faith looks like in both calm and challenging times, the impact of grief and what it means to be healing, and what is means to "live chosen."
Overall, a high-stakes fantasy that YA readers will enjoy! With clear messages of faith and family, parents and guardians can get behind their YA readers loving this series---and they will most definitely love this series!
Overall, a high-stakes fantasy that YA readers will enjoy! With clear messages of faith and family, parents and guardians can get behind their YA readers loving this series---and they will most definitely love this series!
March 19, 2021
My trilogy is complete. I’m a little sad that it is finished. Sometimes I want to go back and add another volume to the series because I miss these characters. (I mean Maggie and Lucas are too fun.) While I figure out how to write a bonus scene for all my future stories in which Maggie meets my other characters and invites them to brunch, I also wanted to again say thank you.
Thank you for reading.
Tab
Thank you for reading.
Tab
May 27, 2020
Books one and two from the TCO3 trilogy captured my attention and time. But Eden Sword surpassed my expectations. The author’s writing--descriptions, characterization, and character arcs--and storytelling has flourished in abundance. And the elaborate way she weaves the entire storyline, tying up loose ends, makes for a satisfying finale.
I also love the dynamics between Zoe and her friends. Her Aunt Claire and her father, Garrett, too. The loyalty and support they have for each other is heartwarming. And their teamwork is "awesome" when they kick demon booty! The tone of the book gives off an Indiana Jones vibe with all the adventures and mysteries. Which I love! The consistent humor and bantering between Zoe and the crew makes me smile. It’s a much-needed refresher between the darkness that's always looming everywhere they go.
However, my heart ached for a certain character, but then it was restored by an unexpected presence! I’d say more, but I don’t want to spoil book three, or the trilogy as a whole. Thank you, Tabitha Caplinger, for creating a story that brings God Almighty to the pages of this most entertaining, inspiring, and encouraging Christian fantasy!
“You are powerful, chosen, loved and never alone.”
The TCO3 Trilogy is a must read!
P.S. I HOPE there will be short stories or novellas that proceed the ending of Eden Sword. I'd absolutely love to see Zoe in her college years--to see if she's still slaying demons, pursuing dance, and if she and Daniel are still together. Another character I'd like a follow-up story on is Maggie. I want to see the new paths and plans the Maker has for her too.
I also love the dynamics between Zoe and her friends. Her Aunt Claire and her father, Garrett, too. The loyalty and support they have for each other is heartwarming. And their teamwork is "awesome" when they kick demon booty! The tone of the book gives off an Indiana Jones vibe with all the adventures and mysteries. Which I love! The consistent humor and bantering between Zoe and the crew makes me smile. It’s a much-needed refresher between the darkness that's always looming everywhere they go.
However, my heart ached for a certain character, but then it was restored by an unexpected presence! I’d say more, but I don’t want to spoil book three, or the trilogy as a whole. Thank you, Tabitha Caplinger, for creating a story that brings God Almighty to the pages of this most entertaining, inspiring, and encouraging Christian fantasy!
“You are powerful, chosen, loved and never alone.”
The TCO3 Trilogy is a must read!
P.S. I HOPE there will be short stories or novellas that proceed the ending of Eden Sword. I'd absolutely love to see Zoe in her college years--to see if she's still slaying demons, pursuing dance, and if she and Daniel are still together. Another character I'd like a follow-up story on is Maggie. I want to see the new paths and plans the Maker has for her too.
May 5, 2018
In the feels in all the right ways...
To adequately put into words how I feel about this book is nearly impossible. It took my broken heart from book two and restored. I don't think I've ever fangirled so hard while reading a book though.
This book is the perfect ending to a perfect series.
While reading it, I had been dealing with some personal things in my life, fighting my own demons, and it reminded me of who I was and Whose I was. I was chosen, just like Zoe and Claire, and it was a stark reminder that I wasn't alone and that I could fight and win against these demons. I love how these characters, though extraordinary in ways, are reminiscent of each and every one of us. Normal people who have been chosen for greater things.
I cried. I laughed. I rejoiced along with these characters.
This book is a lollipop for the soul.
To adequately put into words how I feel about this book is nearly impossible. It took my broken heart from book two and restored. I don't think I've ever fangirled so hard while reading a book though.
This book is the perfect ending to a perfect series.
While reading it, I had been dealing with some personal things in my life, fighting my own demons, and it reminded me of who I was and Whose I was. I was chosen, just like Zoe and Claire, and it was a stark reminder that I wasn't alone and that I could fight and win against these demons. I love how these characters, though extraordinary in ways, are reminiscent of each and every one of us. Normal people who have been chosen for greater things.
I cried. I laughed. I rejoiced along with these characters.
This book is a lollipop for the soul.
May 21, 2022
I really enjoyed this book and how it concluded the series.
It finishes off from where the end of the second book.
I loved where this book ended. It was a great conclusion to the series. I loved how the characters dealt with all that they were dealing with.
I'm glad to have read this series.
It finishes off from where the end of the second book.
I loved where this book ended. It was a great conclusion to the series. I loved how the characters dealt with all that they were dealing with.
I'm glad to have read this series.
February 5, 2019
I loved this book! Was hard to put it down once I sat down to read it! Zoe and Claire are my idols. I love the way they stand up against the powers of darkness. It gives hope that we can all do the same. And I have to mention Charlie.....Loved Charlie! I recommend that anyone reading this book. But only after they have read the first two.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews