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Heartstone #3
Flamebringer
Monsters, manners, and magic combine in this exciting final volume in the Heartstone Trilogy--an exhilarating blend of epic fantasy and Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice--in which a fearless healer and her dragon-riding husband must stop a reawakened evil from destroying their world.
It starts with the inconceivable: Wydrick, sworn enemy of the Daireds, is back from the dead, possessed by a ghast that grants him immortality and inhuman strength. From the isolated northern mountains, Aliza, Alastair, and Akarra chase him into the dangerous Old Wilds, realizing too late that he's led them into a blizzard. Before he vanishes, Wydrick utters a warning: A terrible, ancient evil has awoken, hungry for blood, and is headed their way.
The danger is closer than they know. The Tekari--sworn enemies of humans--are openly roaming the kingdom and are headed towards the capital, Edonarle. Then unexpected news arrives: riding like a dark dragon on the winds from the south, an ambassador from the Silent King of Els, has left the shores of the distant desert kingdom for the first time in centuries.
Unknown enemy? Or unexpected ally? Plunged into a dangerous world of royal intrigue and ancient grudges, Aliza and Alastair soon realize it will take more than steel and dragonfire to save their kingdom. For the silence of Els hides a secret that could shake House Daired to its foundations, and the time has come to settle accounts.
Silence, it seems, is about to be broken.
It starts with the inconceivable: Wydrick, sworn enemy of the Daireds, is back from the dead, possessed by a ghast that grants him immortality and inhuman strength. From the isolated northern mountains, Aliza, Alastair, and Akarra chase him into the dangerous Old Wilds, realizing too late that he's led them into a blizzard. Before he vanishes, Wydrick utters a warning: A terrible, ancient evil has awoken, hungry for blood, and is headed their way.
The danger is closer than they know. The Tekari--sworn enemies of humans--are openly roaming the kingdom and are headed towards the capital, Edonarle. Then unexpected news arrives: riding like a dark dragon on the winds from the south, an ambassador from the Silent King of Els, has left the shores of the distant desert kingdom for the first time in centuries.
Unknown enemy? Or unexpected ally? Plunged into a dangerous world of royal intrigue and ancient grudges, Aliza and Alastair soon realize it will take more than steel and dragonfire to save their kingdom. For the silence of Els hides a secret that could shake House Daired to its foundations, and the time has come to settle accounts.
Silence, it seems, is about to be broken.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2019
67 people are currently reading
1151 people want to read
About the author
Elle Katharine White
9 books349 followersA textbook introvert who likes to throw out the textbook every once in a while just to see what happens, Elle grew up in Buffalo, NY, where she learned valuable life skills like how to clear a snowy driveway in under twenty minutes and how to cheer for the perennial underdog. When she’s not writing, she spends her time drinking tea, loitering in libraries and secondhand bookshops, and dreaming of world travel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
March 24, 2022
While there are moments with characters, themes, or worldbuilding that I enjoyed in this (and I LOVED the very final scene), there is way too much plot crammed into this book. When I think through where all this trilogy goes, I can't help but feel that while I liked the content of what all was explored across the three books, the pacing was pretty messy
December 25, 2020
It was clear to me that this final book in the trilogy was even better than the second book. The sense of danger approaching was clearer and there was some truly weird, freaky stuff in the one Woods bear the beginning of the book. The ancient Evil was clearly getting closer with the gastradi they controlled. So the stakes are much higher and things must be discovered before the whole kingdom falls.
Like in the second book, Aliza is poking her nose where it doesn't belong. But it's clear she has insights that her dragonrider husband doesn't. Which is probably good for the whole kingdom...if only she can stay alive!
I read this book even faster than the second one! I really flew through the pages because it was more captivating. And for once the climax lived up to my expectations. The secret evil turned out to be something immense and totally unexpected. The one scene described was creepy indeed! Than chaos reigned after the big reveal, like it should. I won't say how it went after that. Because that would ruin the story.
I must say that in the back of my mind I had always hoped that Aliza would get her own dragon. Yes, I know she is not born to have one - she's just a common born person - but some part of me had still hoped she would. I must say that didn't pan out at all. I guess it was just me being hopeful. Since it's not actually part of the plot I don't mind writing that here. It's just me being silly.
I must say I do like the cover image of this book better than the second book. I really don't know why the second book didn't have a dragon on the cover?? It's kind of strange...
Like in the second book, Aliza is poking her nose where it doesn't belong. But it's clear she has insights that her dragonrider husband doesn't. Which is probably good for the whole kingdom...if only she can stay alive!
I read this book even faster than the second one! I really flew through the pages because it was more captivating. And for once the climax lived up to my expectations. The secret evil turned out to be something immense and totally unexpected. The one scene described was creepy indeed! Than chaos reigned after the big reveal, like it should. I won't say how it went after that. Because that would ruin the story.
I must say that in the back of my mind I had always hoped that Aliza would get her own dragon. Yes, I know she is not born to have one - she's just a common born person - but some part of me had still hoped she would. I must say that didn't pan out at all. I guess it was just me being hopeful. Since it's not actually part of the plot I don't mind writing that here. It's just me being silly.
I must say I do like the cover image of this book better than the second book. I really don't know why the second book didn't have a dragon on the cover?? It's kind of strange...
November 17, 2019
4 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2019/11/14/...
It’s amazing to look back and see how far this series has come. What began as a fantasy retelling of Pride & Prejudice has flourished and matured into a trilogy that is a phenomenon in its own right. Ever since Elle Katharine White started injecting more original ideas into the world of Heartstone, expanding the lore and enriching the characters and story with her own personal touch, things have started to really take off.
Flamebringer, the third and final volume, begins with Aliza and Alastair heading off into the wilderness in pursuit of Wydrick, the sworn enemy of the Daireds. Reanimated by a ghast, Wydrick is now immortal and more powerful than ever, and he has a dire warning for our characters.
In this world of magic and monsters, there are creatures more terrible than you can ever imagine. In the heart of the Old Wilds, Aliza and Alistair stumble upon an ancient sanctum holding secrets older than time itself. Everything they know and love is now being threatened by a terrible evil, newly awakened and ready to wreak havoc. Under its direction, bloodthirsty hordes of Tekari and Ghasts are gathering outside the capital of Edonarle and preparing to attack.
Racing against time to warn the city, our couple traveling on the dragon Akarra must brave the elements and other dangers of the wilds. But even if by some miracle they manage to survive the coming onslaught, there’s still the messy matter of politics to contend with. The word is that an ambassador from the south has been dispatched at the behest of the elusive Silent King, and it is anyone’s guess what his next move will be.
There’s a bit of everything in this book, including action, adventure, mystery, and a strong dose of political intrigue. There’s another noticeable shift here in terms of focus, as this time, the author has decided to go all in on the story. Of the three books, Flamebringer feels the most tightly plotted, whisking readers off on this epic journey packed to the gills with edge-of-your-seat battle scenes and shocking watershed moments—all of it building up to a finale you won’t soon forget.
At the same time, White is careful not to neglect the character development amidst all this furious action. The relationship between Aliza and Alistair is central to this series, and thankfully this aspect continues to grow and evolve as we watch their marriage go through its ups and downs. Despite the novel’s aggressive pace, we do get the occasional opportunity to catch our breath and explore Aliza’s inner thoughts during these brief moments of respite. She is still dealing with a lot of grief and guilt over past losses, and even though Aliza has nothing but love for her family, some of her feelings are causing unwanted tensions between her and her sister.
Quite honestly, I was surprised to find such a heavy emotional component in such a fast-paced book. But at the same time, having been with these characters since the beginning, I feel a closeness to them, especially to Aliza who wears her heart on her sleeve despite the rules of etiquette and social manners being so ingrained in her life. I really felt for her, and throughout the novel there were a few intensely raw moments that stood out for me, where I truly believe the author wrote straight from the heart.
While a part of me is tempted to say Flamebringer could have used more dragons, at the same time, I think we all know the series has moved far beyond that. All in all, I couldn’t be happier with the way this book ended. It’s hard to believe such a sensational epic journey grew out of a book like Heartstone, but such surprises are often the best kind. Needless to say, I’m mighty glad we broke out of the standard retelling mold, and I look forward to seeing all the other ways Elle Katharine White will stretch her creativity muscles in the future. Overall, I highly recommend this trio of books for anyone who enjoys a good balance of fantasy, romance, and intrigue!
It’s amazing to look back and see how far this series has come. What began as a fantasy retelling of Pride & Prejudice has flourished and matured into a trilogy that is a phenomenon in its own right. Ever since Elle Katharine White started injecting more original ideas into the world of Heartstone, expanding the lore and enriching the characters and story with her own personal touch, things have started to really take off.
Flamebringer, the third and final volume, begins with Aliza and Alastair heading off into the wilderness in pursuit of Wydrick, the sworn enemy of the Daireds. Reanimated by a ghast, Wydrick is now immortal and more powerful than ever, and he has a dire warning for our characters.
In this world of magic and monsters, there are creatures more terrible than you can ever imagine. In the heart of the Old Wilds, Aliza and Alistair stumble upon an ancient sanctum holding secrets older than time itself. Everything they know and love is now being threatened by a terrible evil, newly awakened and ready to wreak havoc. Under its direction, bloodthirsty hordes of Tekari and Ghasts are gathering outside the capital of Edonarle and preparing to attack.
Racing against time to warn the city, our couple traveling on the dragon Akarra must brave the elements and other dangers of the wilds. But even if by some miracle they manage to survive the coming onslaught, there’s still the messy matter of politics to contend with. The word is that an ambassador from the south has been dispatched at the behest of the elusive Silent King, and it is anyone’s guess what his next move will be.
There’s a bit of everything in this book, including action, adventure, mystery, and a strong dose of political intrigue. There’s another noticeable shift here in terms of focus, as this time, the author has decided to go all in on the story. Of the three books, Flamebringer feels the most tightly plotted, whisking readers off on this epic journey packed to the gills with edge-of-your-seat battle scenes and shocking watershed moments—all of it building up to a finale you won’t soon forget.
At the same time, White is careful not to neglect the character development amidst all this furious action. The relationship between Aliza and Alistair is central to this series, and thankfully this aspect continues to grow and evolve as we watch their marriage go through its ups and downs. Despite the novel’s aggressive pace, we do get the occasional opportunity to catch our breath and explore Aliza’s inner thoughts during these brief moments of respite. She is still dealing with a lot of grief and guilt over past losses, and even though Aliza has nothing but love for her family, some of her feelings are causing unwanted tensions between her and her sister.
Quite honestly, I was surprised to find such a heavy emotional component in such a fast-paced book. But at the same time, having been with these characters since the beginning, I feel a closeness to them, especially to Aliza who wears her heart on her sleeve despite the rules of etiquette and social manners being so ingrained in her life. I really felt for her, and throughout the novel there were a few intensely raw moments that stood out for me, where I truly believe the author wrote straight from the heart.
While a part of me is tempted to say Flamebringer could have used more dragons, at the same time, I think we all know the series has moved far beyond that. All in all, I couldn’t be happier with the way this book ended. It’s hard to believe such a sensational epic journey grew out of a book like Heartstone, but such surprises are often the best kind. Needless to say, I’m mighty glad we broke out of the standard retelling mold, and I look forward to seeing all the other ways Elle Katharine White will stretch her creativity muscles in the future. Overall, I highly recommend this trio of books for anyone who enjoys a good balance of fantasy, romance, and intrigue!
November 8, 2019
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Fantasy, Dragons
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Flamebringer is the third and final installment in author Elle Katharine White's Heartstone trilogy. This series started out as a homage to Pride and Prejudice but has become more of an epic fantasy novel. The story picks up almost immediately after the events in Dragonshadow. Having been warned by former Ranger Tristan Wydrick that a terrible, ancient evil has awoken, hungry for blood, and is headed their way, Aliza & Alistair Daired, along with Akarra the Dragon, attempt to fly thru a deadly blizzard only to end up stranded in the Rushless Wood.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Fantasy, Dragons
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Flamebringer is the third and final installment in author Elle Katharine White's Heartstone trilogy. This series started out as a homage to Pride and Prejudice but has become more of an epic fantasy novel. The story picks up almost immediately after the events in Dragonshadow. Having been warned by former Ranger Tristan Wydrick that a terrible, ancient evil has awoken, hungry for blood, and is headed their way, Aliza & Alistair Daired, along with Akarra the Dragon, attempt to fly thru a deadly blizzard only to end up stranded in the Rushless Wood.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
November 8, 2020
I enjoyed this series, but I feel like it got just a bit worse with every entry. This one was 2.5 stars rounded up for me, and it’s not that it was bad it just felt like it was missing something. There was a ton of action, which would make sense in the last book of a trilogy, but there wasn’t as much of the character drama that the first two books were full of. This was a rather dark entry too, which I actually thought was good. Solid series, and I’ll definitely be looking out for the author’s next work.
December 15, 2019
2.5 stars
This got a little dark for me. I don’t usually mind dark storylines, but turning something that was based on Pride and Prejudice so dark just didn’t sit right with me.
I like what the author did with many of the characters—Leyda (Lydia), Curdred (Mr. Collins), and Mrs. Bennet—and I admire the imagination and love for Pride and Prejudice that inspired this trilogy. But I didn’t enjoy this book like I did the first two. Maybe the death in the first book should have warned me of the grimness to come, but it didn’t prepare me for the sad turn taken in the second book and the atmosphere of sorrow and dread that pervaded most of this one.
I’m not sure I understood or was convinced by the denouement either. That might be due to faulty memory or just fatigue from all the drama and sadness by the time I got there.
I’m curious what might come next from this author. I hope it will be a story that’s not based on a beloved classic. She proved in the second novel that she’s capable of writing a story that doesn’t need to be propped up by another, but I think the original basis on P&P caused some dissonance when she launched into a wholly different, much darker story.
This got a little dark for me. I don’t usually mind dark storylines, but turning something that was based on Pride and Prejudice so dark just didn’t sit right with me.
I like what the author did with many of the characters—Leyda (Lydia), Curdred (Mr. Collins), and Mrs. Bennet—and I admire the imagination and love for Pride and Prejudice that inspired this trilogy. But I didn’t enjoy this book like I did the first two. Maybe the death in the first book should have warned me of the grimness to come, but it didn’t prepare me for the sad turn taken in the second book and the atmosphere of sorrow and dread that pervaded most of this one.
I’m not sure I understood or was convinced by the denouement either. That might be due to faulty memory or just fatigue from all the drama and sadness by the time I got there.
I’m curious what might come next from this author. I hope it will be a story that’s not based on a beloved classic. She proved in the second novel that she’s capable of writing a story that doesn’t need to be propped up by another, but I think the original basis on P&P caused some dissonance when she launched into a wholly different, much darker story.
June 13, 2023
Preface
It was rushed and that peeved me, leaving an empty gash that is wanting more. I guess I could have used more set up and more getting to know characters; more scenes with Aliza and Alastair. There was quite a lot left unresolved; the things that were resolved felt artificial. I still enjoyed the series and this book it was just not as good as the previous one. Which I’m deeply saddened about.
————————————————————————————
RATINGS:
Plot : 2.5 📚📚💫 Some + some more. I liked the twist with the Saint. The lore was really well done. I wish the author would have put a little bit more of everything into this book.
World Building(Immersion): 2 🌎🌎 Dipped half my body. Not enough descriptions to make me submerged.
Angst : 3 👹👹👹 Getting slapped.
Lots of people I wanted to care about died in this book. Except I never got to care about them and their deaths felt like a waste.
Funniness: 1.5 🌝💫 Amused.
Scariness: 1 💀 Not really
Romance: 2.5 💖💖💫It was there but it was underwhelming.
Spice: 1 🌶 Some steamy kisses and fade to black.
Goriness: 3 🫀🫀🫀 Someone died and I got to see what happened.
Sadness: 1.5 🥲💫 A twinge.
Overall star rating : 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Enjoyable but there were somethings that fell flat.
————————————————————————————
🚨🚨🚨MILD SPOILERS 🚨🚨🚨
Excuse me? What kind of death was given to Cedric. It was sudden and pathetic to the guy who killed the Lindworm.
Also I felt like the dragons were not used enough. I missed some bounding time with Aliza and Akarra.
I did enjoy Aliza and Alastair’s marriage. Also I liked the way that Tristan was portrayed in the end (💀). It made me sad because he was just a product of his father’s infidelity (along with his own bad choices, all I can say is that I understand the anger issues, even if I cannot excuse them).
Romance Safety:
Main couple (Aliza and Alastair) safe. They are still struggling because of her miscarriage but they come together and still love each other.
Side couples were not so lucky. One couple who had an established happy ending had the H die. Now the h is pregnant and alone. Plus another couple who was established to be happy turned to be broken (the guy cheated on his poor wife).
————————————————————————————
🚨🚨🚨🚨 SPOILERS 🚨🚨🚨🚨
Some ( Very Random) Moments of Notice Along With (Sometimes) My Very Live Reactions Straight From My Notes App to You:
📌She held the heartstones tightly,
and her lips curved upward in a contented smile. Tears filled my eyes as I knelt next to Alastair.
She was missing two fingers on her left hand, and the fingers on her right were hopelessly crooked.
It was rushed and that peeved me, leaving an empty gash that is wanting more. I guess I could have used more set up and more getting to know characters; more scenes with Aliza and Alastair. There was quite a lot left unresolved; the things that were resolved felt artificial. I still enjoyed the series and this book it was just not as good as the previous one. Which I’m deeply saddened about.
————————————————————————————
RATINGS:
Plot : 2.5 📚📚💫 Some + some more. I liked the twist with the Saint. The lore was really well done. I wish the author would have put a little bit more of everything into this book.
World Building(Immersion): 2 🌎🌎 Dipped half my body. Not enough descriptions to make me submerged.
Angst : 3 👹👹👹 Getting slapped.
Lots of people I wanted to care about died in this book. Except I never got to care about them and their deaths felt like a waste.
Funniness: 1.5 🌝💫 Amused.
Scariness: 1 💀 Not really
Romance: 2.5 💖💖💫It was there but it was underwhelming.
Spice: 1 🌶 Some steamy kisses and fade to black.
Goriness: 3 🫀🫀🫀 Someone died and I got to see what happened.
Sadness: 1.5 🥲💫 A twinge.
Overall star rating : 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Enjoyable but there were somethings that fell flat.
————————————————————————————
🚨🚨🚨MILD SPOILERS 🚨🚨🚨
Excuse me? What kind of death was given to Cedric. It was sudden and pathetic to the guy who killed the Lindworm.
Also I felt like the dragons were not used enough. I missed some bounding time with Aliza and Akarra.
I did enjoy Aliza and Alastair’s marriage. Also I liked the way that Tristan was portrayed in the end (💀). It made me sad because he was just a product of his father’s infidelity (along with his own bad choices, all I can say is that I understand the anger issues, even if I cannot excuse them).
Romance Safety:
Main couple (Aliza and Alastair) safe. They are still struggling because of her miscarriage but they come together and still love each other.
Side couples were not so lucky. One couple who had an established happy ending had the H die. Now the h is pregnant and alone. Plus another couple who was established to be happy turned to be broken (the guy cheated on his poor wife).
————————————————————————————
🚨🚨🚨🚨 SPOILERS 🚨🚨🚨🚨
Some ( Very Random) Moments of Notice Along With (Sometimes) My Very Live Reactions Straight From My Notes App to You:
📌She held the heartstones tightly,
and her lips curved upward in a contented smile. Tears filled my eyes as I knelt next to Alastair.
She was missing two fingers on her left hand, and the fingers on her right were hopelessly crooked.
May 31, 2020
I loved book 1 in this series. I liked book 2. Book three and what I understand to be the final book in the series was a disappointment for me. It was okay, but it went very far from the things that I loved about the first two books.
I loved the combination of Pride & Prejudice [my favourite book] and dragons. It was clever and well done and channeled the 1800s and its structure and manners really well, while also working in dragons, garden gnomes and other magical folk in a way that just worked. I found it all a charming new take on my favourite story.
This book really drove hard into action-movie with lots of violence and dark, disturbing things happening to the characters. Battles, death and war really took over in this book and I found very little of the manners, social relationship challenges and people development that I loved in the first two books. I missed that.
I realize I am probably not the target demographic for this series/book, but I loved the first two nonetheless. I am glad I found and read this series, but have to admit that I was disappointed in how it all ended.
I loved the combination of Pride & Prejudice [my favourite book] and dragons. It was clever and well done and channeled the 1800s and its structure and manners really well, while also working in dragons, garden gnomes and other magical folk in a way that just worked. I found it all a charming new take on my favourite story.
This book really drove hard into action-movie with lots of violence and dark, disturbing things happening to the characters. Battles, death and war really took over in this book and I found very little of the manners, social relationship challenges and people development that I loved in the first two books. I missed that.
I realize I am probably not the target demographic for this series/book, but I loved the first two nonetheless. I am glad I found and read this series, but have to admit that I was disappointed in how it all ended.
November 13, 2019
Thank you so much Harper Voyager for providing me a free copy through Edelweiss in exchange of an honest review.
A great conclusion to this fantasy homage to Pride and Prejudice.
CHARACTERS:
Aliza really shines in this final installment: she learns more the world she lives in and her husband’s family, her personality and upbringing help her finding solutions to multiple problems.
Alistair is kinda relegated to the background: he has to deal with a huge truth about his family (whom at this point he considered irreproachable to the point of blind devotion) and it’s a huge shock to his system...that said, he continues to sustain Aliza and they both continue to grow together and cementing their relationship.
Overall I was pretty satisfied with the character development in this book as well.
WORLD-BUILDING AND PLOT:
The plot can be divided in three chunks: the first two are the crescendo in which Aliza (mainly) and Alistair hunt for the clues of what exactly they’re facing, which will then erupt in the big final battle (all of the third section).
The world building was yet again improved by adding a huge layer of lore and history and some new kind of creatures.
WRITING:
The writing style remains on par with the previous two: it flows smoothly and maintains an easy vocabulary (while still obeying to the archetypes of period literature, mainly in the dialogues).
A great conclusion to this fantasy homage to Pride and Prejudice.
CHARACTERS:
Aliza really shines in this final installment: she learns more the world she lives in and her husband’s family, her personality and upbringing help her finding solutions to multiple problems.
Alistair is kinda relegated to the background: he has to deal with a huge truth about his family (whom at this point he considered irreproachable to the point of blind devotion) and it’s a huge shock to his system...that said, he continues to sustain Aliza and they both continue to grow together and cementing their relationship.
Overall I was pretty satisfied with the character development in this book as well.
WORLD-BUILDING AND PLOT:
The plot can be divided in three chunks: the first two are the crescendo in which Aliza (mainly) and Alistair hunt for the clues of what exactly they’re facing, which will then erupt in the big final battle (all of the third section).
The world building was yet again improved by adding a huge layer of lore and history and some new kind of creatures.
WRITING:
The writing style remains on par with the previous two: it flows smoothly and maintains an easy vocabulary (while still obeying to the archetypes of period literature, mainly in the dialogues).
March 15, 2020
Unfortunately, this installment in the trilogy kind of let me down. I would still recommend reading the series, it's Pride and Prejudice but with dragons. I also appreciated how it went on, though the universe is very different from the original, it gave us a glimpse into how Mr. Darby and Elizabeth's lives could have persisted- a risky endeavor that paid off in the second but missed the mark here.
I think my main issue was how much build-up there was, 2/3rd of the book was just them trying to put all the clues together but with the awkward breaks to have an anti-climatic fight scene. I also felt like the chemistry between Aliza and Alastair was different from what it was in the first two books. I just didn't vibe with it as much, it wasn't as exciting or romantic. There was too much tragedy and not enough of the lighter scenes which balanced it all in the other two.
Still a great series with great world building, it just maybe should have stopped at a duology for me. Or should have focused more on characterization rather than the ultimate fight I don't know. Nothing will beat the first for me though and it'll always be one of my favorites.
This review and all my others can be found at: https://aworldshapedbybooks.blogspot....
June 5, 2022
Aliza and her Daired husband and his dragon return home to a greater danger: there is an ancient evil seeking to destroy their country. They also must unravel the mystery of Daired’s family.
The first book in this series was such a pleasant surprise. I really enjoyed the low fantasy first person narrative of a high fantasy story. I also loved how this worked with the Jane Austen retelling (as she used the domestic sphere for comedy, character drama, and complex human truths). The second book was a real disappointment, as it lost much of that and just became a run of the mill fantasy story. (Except that I appreciated the treatment of Aliza’s miscarriage.)
This book falls somewhere in the middle. The main plot is ok, but not really grabbing. But at least Aliza gets to return home, be with her sisters, use her healing skills (at the very end), and pair up with Topple the garden folk (I some reason really like that character!). I wish the author had played up the family angle and the social drama (there was a teeny tiny bit), really fleshed out these characters and themes. (I’m also disappointed that Aliza his hides her miscarriage from her family and then nothing happened with that. This was another opportunity for the author to make Aliza a strong low fantasy character, battling real concerns in a fantasy world.)
All in all, I’m glad I finished this series; this is better than the second. But I wish the author had really done something clever here.
The first book in this series was such a pleasant surprise. I really enjoyed the low fantasy first person narrative of a high fantasy story. I also loved how this worked with the Jane Austen retelling (as she used the domestic sphere for comedy, character drama, and complex human truths). The second book was a real disappointment, as it lost much of that and just became a run of the mill fantasy story. (Except that I appreciated the treatment of Aliza’s miscarriage.)
This book falls somewhere in the middle. The main plot is ok, but not really grabbing. But at least Aliza gets to return home, be with her sisters, use her healing skills (at the very end), and pair up with Topple the garden folk (I some reason really like that character!). I wish the author had played up the family angle and the social drama (there was a teeny tiny bit), really fleshed out these characters and themes. (I’m also disappointed that Aliza his hides her miscarriage from her family and then nothing happened with that. This was another opportunity for the author to make Aliza a strong low fantasy character, battling real concerns in a fantasy world.)
All in all, I’m glad I finished this series; this is better than the second. But I wish the author had really done something clever here.
June 10, 2024
The finale of the Heartstone trilogy was packed with action, adventure, secrets revealed, and emotional anguish.
The Daireds have fought their way from the blizzard-battered North to the capitol in order to share what they have learned with the king. And they have learned a lot about the various forces who want to destroy the kingdom. However, they can't get in to see the king who is busy with the influx of trade delegations from other kingdoms and the impending visit of the Shadow King of Els.
When the Daireds are captured at a banquet honoring the Shadow King, it is up to Aliza to find a way to free them and take back the kingdom. This was a classic "underestimated heroine gathering allies" plot line.
The worldbuilding was complex and interesting and richly detailed. I especially enjoyed the role Tobble played in the rescue of the Daireds. The descriptions of their underground journey to enter the capture was enough to almost trigger my claustrophobia.
This was an entertaining fantasy series.
The Daireds have fought their way from the blizzard-battered North to the capitol in order to share what they have learned with the king. And they have learned a lot about the various forces who want to destroy the kingdom. However, they can't get in to see the king who is busy with the influx of trade delegations from other kingdoms and the impending visit of the Shadow King of Els.
When the Daireds are captured at a banquet honoring the Shadow King, it is up to Aliza to find a way to free them and take back the kingdom. This was a classic "underestimated heroine gathering allies" plot line.
The worldbuilding was complex and interesting and richly detailed. I especially enjoyed the role Tobble played in the rescue of the Daireds. The descriptions of their underground journey to enter the capture was enough to almost trigger my claustrophobia.
This was an entertaining fantasy series.
November 12, 2019
3.75 Stars
Elle Katharine White brings her Heartstone trilogy to a dramatic conclusion in Flamebringer. Her protagonist Aliza finds that she has married into a Fireborn family with a mysterious history and that the younger generation of the family is being held to account for events that took place centuries before. Wydrick is truly back (though not alone in his being back...) and there are others, like Rookwood, from Aliza and Alastair's past who have returned to plague them. Aliza's sight (a kind of foresight) has been her greatest strength, other than her powers as a healer. In this instance, it is her resolute nature and loyalty to the family that she married into that will save the day. We also see her reunited with her beloved sister Anjey, and her much loved sister in law, Julienna. The Silent King of the Els is a part of this dark story and when he starts speaking everyone will have to try their hardest to survive his wrath.
A fitting conclusion to this YA series, it will be interesting to see where White goes next. Is more epic fantasy in her future plans?
Content Warning: protagonist ends up with disfigurement/permanent damage.
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Elle Katharine White brings her Heartstone trilogy to a dramatic conclusion in Flamebringer. Her protagonist Aliza finds that she has married into a Fireborn family with a mysterious history and that the younger generation of the family is being held to account for events that took place centuries before. Wydrick is truly back (though not alone in his being back...) and there are others, like Rookwood, from Aliza and Alastair's past who have returned to plague them. Aliza's sight (a kind of foresight) has been her greatest strength, other than her powers as a healer. In this instance, it is her resolute nature and loyalty to the family that she married into that will save the day. We also see her reunited with her beloved sister Anjey, and her much loved sister in law, Julienna. The Silent King of the Els is a part of this dark story and when he starts speaking everyone will have to try their hardest to survive his wrath.
A fitting conclusion to this YA series, it will be interesting to see where White goes next. Is more epic fantasy in her future plans?
Content Warning: protagonist ends up with disfigurement/permanent damage.
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2019
I am crying, y’all. This book left me in tears! White sure knows how to pull on all the heartstrings. This is a great conclusion to the series, and the last fourth of the book was breakneck, heartstopping action.
That being said, the middle dragged a bit for me. I also wasn’t sure why the author chose to include some elements other than to surprise the reader because they didn’t seem to tie back to the conclusion. I wish everything had been plotted a little more tightly.
Overall I enjoyed Dragonshadow more than this one, but as a whole I love the series and definitely recommend it to anyone who loves epic fantasy with a perfect romance at the forefront. I hope to see more from this author soon!
That being said, the middle dragged a bit for me. I also wasn’t sure why the author chose to include some elements other than to surprise the reader because they didn’t seem to tie back to the conclusion. I wish everything had been plotted a little more tightly.
Overall I enjoyed Dragonshadow more than this one, but as a whole I love the series and definitely recommend it to anyone who loves epic fantasy with a perfect romance at the forefront. I hope to see more from this author soon!
July 26, 2020
I enjoyed this final book in the Heartstone trilogy quite a bit. It ended up being my second favorite in the series, after Heartstone. I enjoyed it more than the second book (Dragonstone) as it had more with Aliza's family. There was more with the dragons as well, which is one of the reasons I originally wanted to read it (along with it being a Pride & Prejudice retelling). Plus, I loved the hobgoblins from the first book and they returned in this one! I gave this 4.5/5 stars (rounded up to 5/5 stars)!
June 9, 2022
I devoured this trilogy and especially this last volume, because the pace was definitely high and there were a couple of plot twists that I was not expecting. One of which, however, made me think that the author was taking a little too much inspiration from George R. Martin, and I didn't particularly appreciate that.
Ho divorato questa trilogia e specialmente questo ultimo volume, perché il ritmo era decisamente alto e ci sono stati un paio di plot twist che non mi aspettavo. Uno dei quali peró mi ha fatto pensare che l'autrice si stesse un po' troppo ispirando a George R. Martin e non l'ho particolarmente apprezzato.
Ho divorato questa trilogia e specialmente questo ultimo volume, perché il ritmo era decisamente alto e ci sono stati un paio di plot twist che non mi aspettavo. Uno dei quali peró mi ha fatto pensare che l'autrice si stesse un po' troppo ispirando a George R. Martin e non l'ho particolarmente apprezzato.
April 30, 2020
Flamebringer brings an end to a fantastic fantasy trilogy based originally on Pride and Prejudice. Aliza and Alistair reunite with family and friends in a fight for the kingdom of Arle and that questions the history all hold dear. I have thoroughly enjoyed this trilogy and am sad that it's over. I hope that Elle Katharine White revisits this kingdom in the future, but I am satisfied with how everything was wrapped up.
I received an advance reader copy of this title from the publisher.
I received an advance reader copy of this title from the publisher.
December 15, 2019
In Flamebringer, Elle Katharine White's Heartstone trilogy - which started as a Darcy-with-Dragons Pride and Prejudice retelling and somewhere along the way morphed into a fantasy epic - wings its way to its inevitable conclusion.
Having solved the mystery at Castle Selwyn only to discover a very dead but somehow not dead Wydrick at the heart of things, Aliza and Alistair Daired realize that the Battle of North Fields was but the opening salvo of a greater war fought against a much older and stronger enemy. Desperate to rally the kingdom's forces, they visit the dragons of the mountains (by way of a creepy forest full of trees with heartbeats) then travel to the capital city Edonlare (by way of Hart's Run, where they pause for a bit of battle badassery) trying to enlist allies for a fight only they can see coming.
Flamebringer rebounds a bit from the disappointment that was Dragonshadow, but still suffers from some of the second volume's flaws, if to a lesser extent: namely, the Let's Fly All Across the Bloody Kingdom for No Good Goddamn Reason Other Than That's What People on a Quest Do. The book literally opens with Aliza admitting they've made a terrible mistake flying half-cocked into a snow-storm in a poorly-thought-out pursuit of Wydrick; much of the first quarter of the book feels like an equally pointless tour of Arle. (Sure, they wind up learning a couple of important pieces of information that come in handy later, but do we really believe there wasn't a more efficient way to insert those clues into the narrative?) Once the couple arrive in Edonlare and the novel pivots to political intrigue, though, things pick up significantly.
While nowhere near the stunner Heartstone was, Flamebringer at least offers a solid finish to Aliza's story. Perhaps now she and Alistair can finally get that idyllic honeymoon at Pendragon they so richly deserve.
Having solved the mystery at Castle Selwyn only to discover a very dead but somehow not dead Wydrick at the heart of things, Aliza and Alistair Daired realize that the Battle of North Fields was but the opening salvo of a greater war fought against a much older and stronger enemy. Desperate to rally the kingdom's forces, they visit the dragons of the mountains (by way of a creepy forest full of trees with heartbeats) then travel to the capital city Edonlare (by way of Hart's Run, where they pause for a bit of battle badassery) trying to enlist allies for a fight only they can see coming.
Flamebringer rebounds a bit from the disappointment that was Dragonshadow, but still suffers from some of the second volume's flaws, if to a lesser extent: namely, the Let's Fly All Across the Bloody Kingdom for No Good Goddamn Reason Other Than That's What People on a Quest Do. The book literally opens with Aliza admitting they've made a terrible mistake flying half-cocked into a snow-storm in a poorly-thought-out pursuit of Wydrick; much of the first quarter of the book feels like an equally pointless tour of Arle. (Sure, they wind up learning a couple of important pieces of information that come in handy later, but do we really believe there wasn't a more efficient way to insert those clues into the narrative?) Once the couple arrive in Edonlare and the novel pivots to political intrigue, though, things pick up significantly.
While nowhere near the stunner Heartstone was, Flamebringer at least offers a solid finish to Aliza's story. Perhaps now she and Alistair can finally get that idyllic honeymoon at Pendragon they so richly deserve.
December 21, 2019
This series started off as Pride, Prejudice, and Dragons, before evolving into its own world of sword-and-sorcery. If you like Andre Norton's Witchworld books, you'll enjoy this mix of battles both external and internal as the decidedly non-magical heroine rescues herself, family, and friends.
March 28, 2020
I needed to know the ending, but had a hard time with parts of the story. The long build up was needed, but made it a bit tedious for me. The ending left me sad. Even though the evil is ended, the price was very high and there is no feeling of triumph.
April 5, 2020
My favorite of the series.
December 12, 2022
end of a series and no epilogue is my villain origin story
September 25, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars.
This is quite a bloody ending, not as bad Game of Thrones, but there are casualties!
This is quite a bloody ending, not as bad Game of Thrones, but there are casualties!
January 25, 2024
2.5 stars
2 stars in general and 1/2 added for Tobble and the little folk. Unfortunately, I dont think the the author made the landing. This was just ok for me and a let down from book 2 to be honest.
This book wraps up the series with the resolution of the "big bad macro" plot. However, I don't think the book couldn't sustain the tone and pace to manage the big fantasy events satisfactorily. It also didn't help that the main "events" actually happen in the second half - the first half is a lot more slow in line with the rest of the series. As a result, the second half felt rushed and kind of gave me a headache. All my notes, unfortunately are variants of me thinking "I don't care", about the second half.
The two half of the book read very differently and don't sucessfully mesh with tone of the series. If I wasn't stuck on a plane and had the audiobook, I would have likely skim read / DNF'd this book. A shame. But at least I finished the series - so yay? I guess.
2 stars in general and 1/2 added for Tobble and the little folk. Unfortunately, I dont think the the author made the landing. This was just ok for me and a let down from book 2 to be honest.
This book wraps up the series with the resolution of the "big bad macro" plot. However, I don't think the book couldn't sustain the tone and pace to manage the big fantasy events satisfactorily. It also didn't help that the main "events" actually happen in the second half - the first half is a lot more slow in line with the rest of the series. As a result, the second half felt rushed and kind of gave me a headache. All my notes, unfortunately are variants of me thinking "I don't care", about the second half.
The two half of the book read very differently and don't sucessfully mesh with tone of the series. If I wasn't stuck on a plane and had the audiobook, I would have likely skim read / DNF'd this book. A shame. But at least I finished the series - so yay? I guess.
January 17, 2023
Alright…….what the FUCK????????? I spent 6 hours binge reading this godforsaken finale for THAT????? God help me.
There’s so much I thought about during this story but at this point, every thought has escaped me. Let me try to gather my thoughts once more.
1) for this story being praised as a romance, there was like , two pages of romance worth reading. That left me quite literally skimming pages because I got so bored. The last book at least introduced pregnancy as a concept, and then a fucking wild and, looking back at it now, unnecessary miscarriage. Like, why the fuck put those two through a miscarriage if none of the issues were at ALL resolved in the finale? What a useless plot point. Then her sister becomes pregnant and suddenly Aliza resorts back to an unstable and cold hearted bitch? PUSHING HER HUSBAND AWAY WHEN HE TRIES TO CONSOLE HER? JUST TO ACT LILE NOTHING EVER HAPPENED THE FOLLOWING MORNING? AND TO NEVER TOUCH ON IT AGAIN? Crazy bitch. Why not portray some kind of healing from this miscarriage? A stronger bond between husband and wife from shared trauma? Literally NOTHING came from that. I’m at a loss for anymore words about it.
2) why the FUCK did Cedric die like that?? Or actually, AT ALL???? It was SO random. So blunt. So fucking STRANGE. Just out of nowhere, he gets shot in a fucking hallway and Aliza is just like “oh damn, let’s go” AND JUST CHARGES OFF! WHAT THE FUCK? He was such a major character in the first story, never even MENTIONED in the second story, and then for the brief 6 pages he’s finally returned with his poor wife, he gets fucking SLAUGHTERED. What a fucking shame and also another random and seemingly forced plot trauma point that made the story end on a fucking AWFUL note. Now her poor sister who was so happy to finally be with the man she loved and expecting his child now has to bear his baby on her own without him ever knowing it. Fucking sad and fucking stupid.
3) the final build up to the main villain was so fucking dumb in my opinion. It’s another one of those creepy ass ghast things that possessed the body of their infamous Saint Ellias? Okay. So dumb. And how it all played out-Aliza being a useless incapable waste of space the entire fucking time, poor Alastair getting his fucking ass beat, and people dying who had no business dying.
I’m so sad to say that this story has ended with a bad taste in my mouth. The premise was so good, and so many small moments throughout the series had me thinking “wow, this might actually be a worth while read.” But alas, it all came to guttural halt at the very end, and I can’t help but feel like that entire last half was forced and unfinished. So what, now all the ghasts have disappeared? They’re just magically gone? Okay. Did Aliza ever get over her miscarriage? Did she and Alastair try for another baby? Is she truly incapable of carrying? Does she ever learn NOT to be useless and actually learn how to use a weapon? If I was Anjey I would’ve just died. There’s no living after that shit. Fucking awful.
Also, I mentioned this before in my other reviews, but I still can’t help but feel like this story was so underdeveloped and the writing style was meant for like, 12 year olds. These characters were full fledged adults! And they were running around like kids! What the fuck!
Whatever. I have to give at least 3 stars because I put so much of my own time and effort into this shit.
There’s so much I thought about during this story but at this point, every thought has escaped me. Let me try to gather my thoughts once more.
1) for this story being praised as a romance, there was like , two pages of romance worth reading. That left me quite literally skimming pages because I got so bored. The last book at least introduced pregnancy as a concept, and then a fucking wild and, looking back at it now, unnecessary miscarriage. Like, why the fuck put those two through a miscarriage if none of the issues were at ALL resolved in the finale? What a useless plot point. Then her sister becomes pregnant and suddenly Aliza resorts back to an unstable and cold hearted bitch? PUSHING HER HUSBAND AWAY WHEN HE TRIES TO CONSOLE HER? JUST TO ACT LILE NOTHING EVER HAPPENED THE FOLLOWING MORNING? AND TO NEVER TOUCH ON IT AGAIN? Crazy bitch. Why not portray some kind of healing from this miscarriage? A stronger bond between husband and wife from shared trauma? Literally NOTHING came from that. I’m at a loss for anymore words about it.
2) why the FUCK did Cedric die like that?? Or actually, AT ALL???? It was SO random. So blunt. So fucking STRANGE. Just out of nowhere, he gets shot in a fucking hallway and Aliza is just like “oh damn, let’s go” AND JUST CHARGES OFF! WHAT THE FUCK? He was such a major character in the first story, never even MENTIONED in the second story, and then for the brief 6 pages he’s finally returned with his poor wife, he gets fucking SLAUGHTERED. What a fucking shame and also another random and seemingly forced plot trauma point that made the story end on a fucking AWFUL note. Now her poor sister who was so happy to finally be with the man she loved and expecting his child now has to bear his baby on her own without him ever knowing it. Fucking sad and fucking stupid.
3) the final build up to the main villain was so fucking dumb in my opinion. It’s another one of those creepy ass ghast things that possessed the body of their infamous Saint Ellias? Okay. So dumb. And how it all played out-Aliza being a useless incapable waste of space the entire fucking time, poor Alastair getting his fucking ass beat, and people dying who had no business dying.
I’m so sad to say that this story has ended with a bad taste in my mouth. The premise was so good, and so many small moments throughout the series had me thinking “wow, this might actually be a worth while read.” But alas, it all came to guttural halt at the very end, and I can’t help but feel like that entire last half was forced and unfinished. So what, now all the ghasts have disappeared? They’re just magically gone? Okay. Did Aliza ever get over her miscarriage? Did she and Alastair try for another baby? Is she truly incapable of carrying? Does she ever learn NOT to be useless and actually learn how to use a weapon? If I was Anjey I would’ve just died. There’s no living after that shit. Fucking awful.
Also, I mentioned this before in my other reviews, but I still can’t help but feel like this story was so underdeveloped and the writing style was meant for like, 12 year olds. These characters were full fledged adults! And they were running around like kids! What the fuck!
Whatever. I have to give at least 3 stars because I put so much of my own time and effort into this shit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2023
(originally reviewed at
thelibraryladies.com
)
As I mentioned in the post for the giveaway for “Flamebringer,” this series kind of came out of nowhere in many unexpected ways. Not only did it manage the difficult task of adapting “Pride and Prejudice” into an original fantasy story without losing the foundations of the former or sacrificing the freshness of the latter, but it produced an equally compelling sequel that was completely new. The second book went further to explore some challenging topics while also expanding on the original concepts set up in the first book. It also set up this third book. So, first chance I got, obviously I read it!
After the dire warning/threat from Wydrick, Aliza and Alistair attempt to make their way home and gather a council of war. On the way, they encounter various other mysterious parties, all with their own whispers of an evil stirring. History, it appears, holds secrets. Some on the grand scale, and some much more close to home. Will Aliza, Alistair and Akarra be able to piece together the puzzle in time? Or is the ancient evil that is coming beyond even the scope of House Daired?
While about average in length for a fantasy novel, this one sure packed a lot in. From my perspective, this was both a good and bad thing. It was definitely not lacking in story, plot, or action. But at times it also felt as if the author had crammed two books into this one. Both books were interesting, but at times the story felt disjointed and overwhelming.
For one thing, the story picks up immediately where the previous one left off. I’ve read both of the first books right when they came out, so there hasn’t been any delay in my read of this series other than the one that came with its own publication schedule. And yet I still found myself having to re-read sections to re-orient myself with this story. Part of this is due to the fact that the world is so fully formed and unique. There’s a lot going on with different places, peoples, histories, and religions. This is definitely a good thing, but it did make the story a bit challenging to focus in on.
This struggled isn’t helped by the fact that the first half of the book sees our main trio off on a few mini adventures. On their own, these events are exciting, a bit creepy, and give even more depth to the world that we’re in. They also sprinkle in more clues as to what the greater conflict may be. But they also add more things to keep track of. And throughout these action pieces, we also have the emotional repercussions of the last book still playing out for Aliza and Alistair, as well as some new, shocking information for them both. Again, great character development, but even more story points.
By the middle of the book, the main story does feel as if it is getting started, and once the final conflict begins, the story is off and running. The second book definitely introduced a darker theme to this series, and this one is quick to take that torch and run even further with it. As I mentioned, several sections were pretty spooky and the threat presented deals real damage to our characters. I whizzed through this last section of the book, intrigued and yet dreading every page turn.
As a final book, I do feel that this one perhaps bit off more than it could chew. There was just so much! The mystery of what is going on isn’t revealed until quite near the end of the book and it wasn’t a simple explanation by any means. Between trying to wrap my mind around that, while also getting through the emotional character arcs of our characters, I felt a bit overwhelmed. After the book was finished, I found myself looking back on it and still not feeling as certain portions of it were fully resolved or that I fully understood how it all fit together.
It was almost an excess of good things, in the end. I enjoyed it all, but felt that it might have all worked a bit better had it been given two books. The second book in the series was a neat little mystery of its own that laid some ground work for the larger conflict of the series. This, too, could have been a nice third book that contained its own smaller story (the first half of the book has several portions that could have been expanded out further, I feel) while laying even more groundwork. This would have left a final book with more room to really breathe and fully dive into the complicated history and conflict of the threat looming on the horizon. So, too, it would have given a bit more resolution to our main characters.
The strengths of the first two books are definitely still here, however. I still loved Aliza as our main character and the ways she finds to contribute to a battle that she is not well-equipped to fight (not being raised a warrior). I also liked that we saw a return of several characters from the first book who were absent in the second.
Overall, I did very much enjoy this book. My main complaint seems like a weird one, that there was almost too many good things here. I do think, perhaps, the book would read better if being picked up immediately after the second. Had I not needed to spend as much time re-orienting myself in the beginning, some of these feelings of being overwhelmed may not have lingered as long. Mostly, I think the trilogy as a whole is a great success and that this book is best viewed as a segment of that. If you haven’t already, make sure to enter our giveaway to win your copy!
Rating 8: Best appreciated as part of a larger whole, but still a thrilling conclusion to the series!
As I mentioned in the post for the giveaway for “Flamebringer,” this series kind of came out of nowhere in many unexpected ways. Not only did it manage the difficult task of adapting “Pride and Prejudice” into an original fantasy story without losing the foundations of the former or sacrificing the freshness of the latter, but it produced an equally compelling sequel that was completely new. The second book went further to explore some challenging topics while also expanding on the original concepts set up in the first book. It also set up this third book. So, first chance I got, obviously I read it!
After the dire warning/threat from Wydrick, Aliza and Alistair attempt to make their way home and gather a council of war. On the way, they encounter various other mysterious parties, all with their own whispers of an evil stirring. History, it appears, holds secrets. Some on the grand scale, and some much more close to home. Will Aliza, Alistair and Akarra be able to piece together the puzzle in time? Or is the ancient evil that is coming beyond even the scope of House Daired?
While about average in length for a fantasy novel, this one sure packed a lot in. From my perspective, this was both a good and bad thing. It was definitely not lacking in story, plot, or action. But at times it also felt as if the author had crammed two books into this one. Both books were interesting, but at times the story felt disjointed and overwhelming.
For one thing, the story picks up immediately where the previous one left off. I’ve read both of the first books right when they came out, so there hasn’t been any delay in my read of this series other than the one that came with its own publication schedule. And yet I still found myself having to re-read sections to re-orient myself with this story. Part of this is due to the fact that the world is so fully formed and unique. There’s a lot going on with different places, peoples, histories, and religions. This is definitely a good thing, but it did make the story a bit challenging to focus in on.
This struggled isn’t helped by the fact that the first half of the book sees our main trio off on a few mini adventures. On their own, these events are exciting, a bit creepy, and give even more depth to the world that we’re in. They also sprinkle in more clues as to what the greater conflict may be. But they also add more things to keep track of. And throughout these action pieces, we also have the emotional repercussions of the last book still playing out for Aliza and Alistair, as well as some new, shocking information for them both. Again, great character development, but even more story points.
By the middle of the book, the main story does feel as if it is getting started, and once the final conflict begins, the story is off and running. The second book definitely introduced a darker theme to this series, and this one is quick to take that torch and run even further with it. As I mentioned, several sections were pretty spooky and the threat presented deals real damage to our characters. I whizzed through this last section of the book, intrigued and yet dreading every page turn.
As a final book, I do feel that this one perhaps bit off more than it could chew. There was just so much! The mystery of what is going on isn’t revealed until quite near the end of the book and it wasn’t a simple explanation by any means. Between trying to wrap my mind around that, while also getting through the emotional character arcs of our characters, I felt a bit overwhelmed. After the book was finished, I found myself looking back on it and still not feeling as certain portions of it were fully resolved or that I fully understood how it all fit together.
It was almost an excess of good things, in the end. I enjoyed it all, but felt that it might have all worked a bit better had it been given two books. The second book in the series was a neat little mystery of its own that laid some ground work for the larger conflict of the series. This, too, could have been a nice third book that contained its own smaller story (the first half of the book has several portions that could have been expanded out further, I feel) while laying even more groundwork. This would have left a final book with more room to really breathe and fully dive into the complicated history and conflict of the threat looming on the horizon. So, too, it would have given a bit more resolution to our main characters.
The strengths of the first two books are definitely still here, however. I still loved Aliza as our main character and the ways she finds to contribute to a battle that she is not well-equipped to fight (not being raised a warrior). I also liked that we saw a return of several characters from the first book who were absent in the second.
Overall, I did very much enjoy this book. My main complaint seems like a weird one, that there was almost too many good things here. I do think, perhaps, the book would read better if being picked up immediately after the second. Had I not needed to spend as much time re-orienting myself in the beginning, some of these feelings of being overwhelmed may not have lingered as long. Mostly, I think the trilogy as a whole is a great success and that this book is best viewed as a segment of that. If you haven’t already, make sure to enter our giveaway to win your copy!
Rating 8: Best appreciated as part of a larger whole, but still a thrilling conclusion to the series!
June 19, 2020
Oof . . . this series started off so strong with Heartstone, a fantasy retelling of Pride and Prejudice that managed to breathe fresh life into an old, familiar story. The follow-up, Dragonshadow, introduced a bunch of new characters, not based on Austen, and felt off. I hoped that Flamebringer, by reuniting our heroes with more familiar characters, would recapture the magic of Heartstone. Sadly, that didn’t happen. This was a jumbled, confusing, depressing mess. I highly recommend that you read Heartstone, and then STOP.
November 19, 2019
Originally posted at Vampire Book Club
While away investigating the deaths of Idar near the Castle of Selwyn at the northern border of Arle, Aliza and Alastair Daired came face to face with House Daired’s sworn enemy Tristan Wydrick, previously thought dead, but still very much alive. That is, alive and ghast-ridden (playing host to violent shadow creatures). Wydrick imparts the same warning as others in the area: a great evil has been biding its time but is getting ready to strike.
As Arle prepares for a convocation between neighboring nations, and Tekari attacks are happening with more frequency, Aliza and Alastair must gather together all those able and willing to fight for Arle, because the evil is already at their shores.
Flamebringer picks up right where Dragonshadow left us, with Aliza and Alastair in pursuit of Wydrick. It’s not long before they realize it’s a fruitless endeavor as he’s already escaped for now. In other words, the book starts off running and while it seemingly has moments of pause and reflection, looking back as I write this review, I feel like Flamebringer—when compared to Dragonshadow’s languorous build—sped through the story too fast. It’s almost like books two and three are just parts two parts of a whole. They go hand-in-hand moreso than the first book which stands on its own more solidly despite having certain elements that were tied into the last two books.
Mostly, I felt like there were still a lot of issues that Aliza and Alastair needed to deal with that get pushed aside without any meaningful resolution because of the overarching conflict that has arisen. I loved how Elle Katharine White portrayed their marriage. You can feel the love they have for each other even when life happens and puts them on paths that are askew from one another. It’s one of the most honest and true relationships I’ve read recently. Yes, we love the Happily Ever Afters (at least I do), but what really solidifies a relationship is working through the difficult times and the times you’re at odds with your significant other.
I was super happy that there was a brief return to Hart’s Run and reuniting with Aliza and Alastair’s families and more characters from the first book. I felt like Dragonshadow really set the Daireds apart, and slightly adrift, from those they care about—an almost desolate feeling—but Flamebringer brings them back into the fold, so to speak, and you can feel that strength of heart and spirit that being around your loved ones provides. Elle Katharine White certainly doesn’t pull any punches throughout this series and with it being the final battle, you know Flamebringer is going to have some pretty big emotional moments.
Flamebringer is an engaging read. For all that I thought it went by too quickly, mostly that’s because I am really interested in the world Elle Katharine White has created, and don’t want to leave it so soon. I feel like there are still corners of Arle, and beyond, that beg for exploration, and there is certainly a plethora of characters who can take up the mantle in Alize and Alastair’s stead. Fingers crossed we get to explore some more. Overall, though, I’m really impressed with a series that started as a classic retelling but developed its own history and mythology that stand apart on their own merits.
While away investigating the deaths of Idar near the Castle of Selwyn at the northern border of Arle, Aliza and Alastair Daired came face to face with House Daired’s sworn enemy Tristan Wydrick, previously thought dead, but still very much alive. That is, alive and ghast-ridden (playing host to violent shadow creatures). Wydrick imparts the same warning as others in the area: a great evil has been biding its time but is getting ready to strike.
As Arle prepares for a convocation between neighboring nations, and Tekari attacks are happening with more frequency, Aliza and Alastair must gather together all those able and willing to fight for Arle, because the evil is already at their shores.
Flamebringer picks up right where Dragonshadow left us, with Aliza and Alastair in pursuit of Wydrick. It’s not long before they realize it’s a fruitless endeavor as he’s already escaped for now. In other words, the book starts off running and while it seemingly has moments of pause and reflection, looking back as I write this review, I feel like Flamebringer—when compared to Dragonshadow’s languorous build—sped through the story too fast. It’s almost like books two and three are just parts two parts of a whole. They go hand-in-hand moreso than the first book which stands on its own more solidly despite having certain elements that were tied into the last two books.
Mostly, I felt like there were still a lot of issues that Aliza and Alastair needed to deal with that get pushed aside without any meaningful resolution because of the overarching conflict that has arisen. I loved how Elle Katharine White portrayed their marriage. You can feel the love they have for each other even when life happens and puts them on paths that are askew from one another. It’s one of the most honest and true relationships I’ve read recently. Yes, we love the Happily Ever Afters (at least I do), but what really solidifies a relationship is working through the difficult times and the times you’re at odds with your significant other.
I was super happy that there was a brief return to Hart’s Run and reuniting with Aliza and Alastair’s families and more characters from the first book. I felt like Dragonshadow really set the Daireds apart, and slightly adrift, from those they care about—an almost desolate feeling—but Flamebringer brings them back into the fold, so to speak, and you can feel that strength of heart and spirit that being around your loved ones provides. Elle Katharine White certainly doesn’t pull any punches throughout this series and with it being the final battle, you know Flamebringer is going to have some pretty big emotional moments.
Flamebringer is an engaging read. For all that I thought it went by too quickly, mostly that’s because I am really interested in the world Elle Katharine White has created, and don’t want to leave it so soon. I feel like there are still corners of Arle, and beyond, that beg for exploration, and there is certainly a plethora of characters who can take up the mantle in Alize and Alastair’s stead. Fingers crossed we get to explore some more. Overall, though, I’m really impressed with a series that started as a classic retelling but developed its own history and mythology that stand apart on their own merits.
October 2, 2023
Where to begin…
SPOILER WARNING!!!
First I want to start by saying I did enjoy this series a lot. I felt that the plot has some issues (which most books do), but I greatly enjoyed the concept. The writing is pretty decent though I wish some parts were more detailed and descriptive. I absolutely loved all of the different fantastical creatures and I feel like the fantasy element in these books was phenomenal. It is one of things that makes you want to keep reading. The romance.. ehhhh had some problems.
One of the biggest issues I have is with the female main character being so USELESS. I get it she is a “Nakla”, an ordinary girl, but for her to have no real skill set really killed the character. She’s deemed an artist which is kind of cool, but it’s a pointless talent that they barely touched upon in the book. Aliza’s real “skill” was supposed to be an herbmaster or healer, but this was not focused on and she did nothing besides the basics that any person could probably do. Aside from mixing some plants from time to time, bandaging a few wounds, and arguing with garden Gnomes, her healer’s ability was not brought to light. This confused me because she persuades Alastair to let her come on his contract because she is a healer and she can help. However, she doesn’t help anyone and she isn’t a real healer in the book.
She couldn’t fight (which was to be expected because she’s not a warrior), but her character never even tried to learn to defend herself. This was weird to me considering she was on the battlefield most of the time in the books. The author made her character the non-warrior type, but she should have brought out her talent as healer in exchange. Given that she is a Nakla, she should have had some redeeming quality to combat her not having any special abilities. And though her character was brave, what good is that if she can’t even defend herself? Everyone had to swoop in to save her. It was annoying and made her utterly useless. Especially since even her sister’s were able to put themselves to use by learning to fight. Why not develop her healing talents so she isn’t a completely helpless character? I wish the author would have given her substance. Her only strong character trait was being nosey and asking around for information. Disappointing really, as her character had so much potential.
Aside from that, I felt the intimate moments between her and Daired were very underwhelming. Half the time they were interrupted by somebody or some startling news. When they weren’t interrupted, the scenes were so short and non-descriptive.. it was hard to really get into their relationship. There definitely was not enough romantic scenes and the scenes that were “romantic” did not do them justice. I also did not like the dark tragedies surrounding their relationship (but that’s subjective). I especially thought it cruel that it was constantly rubbed into Aliza’s face by those things happening in a happier light to the people around her.
SPOILER WARNING!!!
First I want to start by saying I did enjoy this series a lot. I felt that the plot has some issues (which most books do), but I greatly enjoyed the concept. The writing is pretty decent though I wish some parts were more detailed and descriptive. I absolutely loved all of the different fantastical creatures and I feel like the fantasy element in these books was phenomenal. It is one of things that makes you want to keep reading. The romance.. ehhhh had some problems.
One of the biggest issues I have is with the female main character being so USELESS. I get it she is a “Nakla”, an ordinary girl, but for her to have no real skill set really killed the character. She’s deemed an artist which is kind of cool, but it’s a pointless talent that they barely touched upon in the book. Aliza’s real “skill” was supposed to be an herbmaster or healer, but this was not focused on and she did nothing besides the basics that any person could probably do. Aside from mixing some plants from time to time, bandaging a few wounds, and arguing with garden Gnomes, her healer’s ability was not brought to light. This confused me because she persuades Alastair to let her come on his contract because she is a healer and she can help. However, she doesn’t help anyone and she isn’t a real healer in the book.
She couldn’t fight (which was to be expected because she’s not a warrior), but her character never even tried to learn to defend herself. This was weird to me considering she was on the battlefield most of the time in the books. The author made her character the non-warrior type, but she should have brought out her talent as healer in exchange. Given that she is a Nakla, she should have had some redeeming quality to combat her not having any special abilities. And though her character was brave, what good is that if she can’t even defend herself? Everyone had to swoop in to save her. It was annoying and made her utterly useless. Especially since even her sister’s were able to put themselves to use by learning to fight. Why not develop her healing talents so she isn’t a completely helpless character? I wish the author would have given her substance. Her only strong character trait was being nosey and asking around for information. Disappointing really, as her character had so much potential.
Aside from that, I felt the intimate moments between her and Daired were very underwhelming. Half the time they were interrupted by somebody or some startling news. When they weren’t interrupted, the scenes were so short and non-descriptive.. it was hard to really get into their relationship. There definitely was not enough romantic scenes and the scenes that were “romantic” did not do them justice. I also did not like the dark tragedies surrounding their relationship (but that’s subjective). I especially thought it cruel that it was constantly rubbed into Aliza’s face by those things happening in a happier light to the people around her.
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