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Ridley Kayne Chronicles #1
Elemental Thief
A young thief. Outlawed magic. A heist that’s about to change everything.
In a near-future city shielded from the elemental magic raging through the wastelands, seventeen-year-old Ridley steals from the wealthy and secretly gives to those in need—which is far less of a crime than the other thing she spends her free time doing: using magic.
Ridley's managed to stay under the radar for years, but the night she steals a gold figurine from the richest family in the city, everything starts to unravel.
A stranger follows her home and ends up murdered outside the antique store she lives above.
Her best friend—who definitely wasn't there—is accused of the crime.
And that family Ridley stole from? Their son just walked into her store.
As heir to the city's largest fortune, Archer Davenport represents everything Ridley hates. She'd prefer to stay well away from him, but he has a problem only Ridley can solve: Turns out that ancient figurine she stole could unlock secrets that will endanger many lives.
Which means Ridley has to get it back. Without revealing her own biggest secret.
As she and Archer journey into the hidden parts of the city, they'll have to put their differences aside and figure out how to trust each other. Because their true enemy is lurking in the shadows, moving ever closer, and if they don't get that stolen artifact back, it'll be their own lives that are at stake.
Urban fantasy series with a dystopian flavor!
In a near-future city shielded from the elemental magic raging through the wastelands, seventeen-year-old Ridley steals from the wealthy and secretly gives to those in need—which is far less of a crime than the other thing she spends her free time doing: using magic.
Ridley's managed to stay under the radar for years, but the night she steals a gold figurine from the richest family in the city, everything starts to unravel.
A stranger follows her home and ends up murdered outside the antique store she lives above.
Her best friend—who definitely wasn't there—is accused of the crime.
And that family Ridley stole from? Their son just walked into her store.
As heir to the city's largest fortune, Archer Davenport represents everything Ridley hates. She'd prefer to stay well away from him, but he has a problem only Ridley can solve: Turns out that ancient figurine she stole could unlock secrets that will endanger many lives.
Which means Ridley has to get it back. Without revealing her own biggest secret.
As she and Archer journey into the hidden parts of the city, they'll have to put their differences aside and figure out how to trust each other. Because their true enemy is lurking in the shadows, moving ever closer, and if they don't get that stolen artifact back, it'll be their own lives that are at stake.
Urban fantasy series with a dystopian flavor!
ebook
First published August 14, 2018
820 people are currently reading
2419 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Morgan
51 books1,854 followersOnce upon a time, in a land not so far away, a young science graduate named Rachel found that the real world wasn't a place she wanted to inhabit all the time. So she decided to escape into the magical realms that had occupied her mind since childhood.
Armed with a vivid imagination, Rachel spends her days conjuring up fantastical worlds filled with adventure, romance, and plot twists, where readers can escape the real world along with her.
Rachel lives in Cape Town, South Africa, with her husband, two little wildlings, and three fur-babies.
Receive bookish updates directly from Rachel:
Rachel's email newsletter
Armed with a vivid imagination, Rachel spends her days conjuring up fantastical worlds filled with adventure, romance, and plot twists, where readers can escape the real world along with her.
Rachel lives in Cape Town, South Africa, with her husband, two little wildlings, and three fur-babies.
Receive bookish updates directly from Rachel:
Rachel's email newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 285 reviews
August 28, 2018
This would have been a great one. The world building is great , the conspiracy is lit. Unfortunately she had to go and put in the most stupid heroine I’ve seen all year. TSTL!!! Ridley is extremely ungracious. She’s not the first person to go through economic upheaval so having to watch her stew the whole book long...sigh. She kept spilling other peoples secrets,almost gave Laura up and why did Laura have to know about the figurine? She’s not quick in the head, how did she not realize that Archer didn’t have anything to do with the doctored video? She’s always arguing about things she clearly knows nothing about! She actually all but said “this is not true because I saw it on TV”. Like ugh shut up and take in this information for a second,process it and don’t argue blindly.
Archer was a superior sounding dolt in that one scene but he was dead on right, she’s a self righteous petty thing. Why did Archer have to remind her she had a weakness , you would think that finding that out what that was would be a bloody priority but of course not. About her Dad and Shen being more than they seemed, why was she so surprised ? You sneak into your old friends houses and steal;why can’t your Dad be a secret magic user and your besty an Assasin?
I’m complaining about this so angrily because the main characters silliness ruined the immersion. I can’t focus on how amazing Christy must be to run a secret magic society in such a hostile world because Miss Dumbellina is spazzing. A heroine doesn’t have to be good at everything to make a good story but she needs to be useful. If she’s not useful she can be the comic relief or the narrator while someone else does the job. I would give up hope if I found out my life was riding on this person’s shoulder. I almost forgot to mention that she’s also rather overpowered.Heh.That would have been fine if not... I’m done. 3 Stars because I like the premise and I want to see how this plays out anyway.
Archer was a superior sounding dolt in that one scene but he was dead on right, she’s a self righteous petty thing. Why did Archer have to remind her she had a weakness , you would think that finding that out what that was would be a bloody priority but of course not. About her Dad and Shen being more than they seemed, why was she so surprised ? You sneak into your old friends houses and steal;why can’t your Dad be a secret magic user and your besty an Assasin?
I’m complaining about this so angrily because the main characters silliness ruined the immersion. I can’t focus on how amazing Christy must be to run a secret magic society in such a hostile world because Miss Dumbellina is spazzing. A heroine doesn’t have to be good at everything to make a good story but she needs to be useful. If she’s not useful she can be the comic relief or the narrator while someone else does the job. I would give up hope if I found out my life was riding on this person’s shoulder. I almost forgot to mention that she’s also rather overpowered.Heh.That would have been fine if not... I’m done. 3 Stars because I like the premise and I want to see how this plays out anyway.
April 22, 2022
Subpar, slow, boring dystopian New Adult book with special snow flake ungracious, tstl heroine. And what must be the most awful narrator in the world of audio books. Her monotonous narration not unlike those robotic, automated voices, made listening a chore.
December 3, 2020
4.5 stars!
May 4, 2023
Elemental Thief is the first book in the Ridley Kayne Chronicles and is action-packed and full of adventure! Ridley channels her inner Robin Hood by stealing from the rich and giving to the poor but one night something terrible happened and her best friend is to blame. Did her latest target have any connection to the murder and the framing of her best friend or is something else at play?
I read From Storm and Shadow and enjoyed it and added all of Morgan's books to my TBR. I was then surprised when Morgan gifted me this entire series and I jumped into the first book and knew this is a world I can get lost in. I read the majority of the book, only a few chapters I listened to the audiobook while following along in the book.
Set in a dystopian world with magic. adventure and characters that are opposite in every way (a thief and an heir to a fortune), this YA fantasy will have you reading until late at night. It's fast-paced with the right amount of world-building and the magic system is different. With a mysterious murder, a stolen antique and a brooding heir to a fortune, you will be entertained from the first page to the last! Readers who like forbidden magic with a dash of danger will devour this series.
*This book is currently free on the author's website so be sure to grab a copy today!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I read From Storm and Shadow and enjoyed it and added all of Morgan's books to my TBR. I was then surprised when Morgan gifted me this entire series and I jumped into the first book and knew this is a world I can get lost in. I read the majority of the book, only a few chapters I listened to the audiobook while following along in the book.
Set in a dystopian world with magic. adventure and characters that are opposite in every way (a thief and an heir to a fortune), this YA fantasy will have you reading until late at night. It's fast-paced with the right amount of world-building and the magic system is different. With a mysterious murder, a stolen antique and a brooding heir to a fortune, you will be entertained from the first page to the last! Readers who like forbidden magic with a dash of danger will devour this series.
*This book is currently free on the author's website so be sure to grab a copy today!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2018
3.5 Stars
Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book from the author. This has not influenced my review.*
This was a good start to a new series by an author whose previous fantasy series I really liked. The pacing, the writing, the story, the characters, all of it was good. But that's the thing, this one was good but not great for me. I think all the dangerous stuff and secrets and sinister plots and twists just felt like a bit too much, although they did keep things surprising and interesting. Also, just a note, although this book didn't have any romance, I get the feeling there might be some in future books. I'm not sure this was quite right for my tastes, but I think plenty of readers will love this book and its dystopian/post-apoc world, elemental magic, mysterious characters, and headstrong teenage protagonist.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book from the author. This has not influenced my review.*
This was a good start to a new series by an author whose previous fantasy series I really liked. The pacing, the writing, the story, the characters, all of it was good. But that's the thing, this one was good but not great for me. I think all the dangerous stuff and secrets and sinister plots and twists just felt like a bit too much, although they did keep things surprising and interesting. Also, just a note, although this book didn't have any romance, I get the feeling there might be some in future books. I'm not sure this was quite right for my tastes, but I think plenty of readers will love this book and its dystopian/post-apoc world, elemental magic, mysterious characters, and headstrong teenage protagonist.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
March 4, 2021
3.5 rounded up
I enjoyed this, I liked the plot. The whole book was fun. The writing is clear and easy to read.
I hesitated rounding up only because I thought the ending and all the reveals were a little silly. Suddenly everyone knows Ridley's secret. But, I liked what the end of the 1st book was leading up to and I'll finish the series.
I enjoyed this, I liked the plot. The whole book was fun. The writing is clear and easy to read.
I hesitated rounding up only because I thought the ending and all the reveals were a little silly. Suddenly everyone knows Ridley's secret. But, I liked what the end of the 1st book was leading up to and I'll finish the series.
December 11, 2020
3.5 stars
Overall, liked it. It blended dystopian and fantasy in a way I thought was really unique, and several elements set it apart from your typical YA novel. The one thing that really hindered my enjoyment of the book was the language; it was completely unnecessary and quite frequent.
Overall, liked it. It blended dystopian and fantasy in a way I thought was really unique, and several elements set it apart from your typical YA novel. The one thing that really hindered my enjoyment of the book was the language; it was completely unnecessary and quite frequent.
August 5, 2025
This is an audio story I downloaded free from Chirp,, I only listen to audiobooks to help unwind my brain to sleep, so it takes awhile to get thru one!
It's about a near-future city that is shielded from the destructive elemental magic that rages through the dystopian wasteland. Young Ridley (17) is a supposedly skilled thief with a secret talent for outlawed magic. The young Robin-hoodie steals from the wealthy and secretly gives to those in need...
A stranger who follows her home (after her latest heist) ends up murdered in the alley behind her apartment. Things start getting dicey-- her best friend is accused of the crime, and the guy who set him up is someone Ridley would rather stay far away from.
Archer Davenport is heir to the city’s largest fortune. He represents everything Ridley hates—and that was before he landed her best friend in prison. He’s also the guy she just stole from, because after all- she only takes from the extremely rich who can afford to lose it.
Though Ridley would prefer to keep her distance, she’s about to spend a whole lot more time with Archer. Because that ancient artifact she just stole? Turns out it could unlock secrets that will put many lives in danger. Now Ridley and Archer will have to put their differences aside and work together in order to uncover the true enemy and keep the information from winding up in the wrong hands. I'm sure there will end up a romance between these two in the next book.
Even though this narrator has a lot to be desired.. it was a nice enough story, easy to follow, and I enjoyed drifting off to it each night. My only real complaint is this girl needs to buy a clue sometimes. She can be self absorbed and argues with people actually trying to help her. But then again-- she's 17.. I'm not sure the next part of the story is available free, but if so, I'd like to follow it to sleep. It's definitely one I wouldn't pay for though. 🌷
It's about a near-future city that is shielded from the destructive elemental magic that rages through the dystopian wasteland. Young Ridley (17) is a supposedly skilled thief with a secret talent for outlawed magic. The young Robin-hoodie steals from the wealthy and secretly gives to those in need...
A stranger who follows her home (after her latest heist) ends up murdered in the alley behind her apartment. Things start getting dicey-- her best friend is accused of the crime, and the guy who set him up is someone Ridley would rather stay far away from.
Archer Davenport is heir to the city’s largest fortune. He represents everything Ridley hates—and that was before he landed her best friend in prison. He’s also the guy she just stole from, because after all- she only takes from the extremely rich who can afford to lose it.
Though Ridley would prefer to keep her distance, she’s about to spend a whole lot more time with Archer. Because that ancient artifact she just stole? Turns out it could unlock secrets that will put many lives in danger. Now Ridley and Archer will have to put their differences aside and work together in order to uncover the true enemy and keep the information from winding up in the wrong hands. I'm sure there will end up a romance between these two in the next book.
Even though this narrator has a lot to be desired.. it was a nice enough story, easy to follow, and I enjoyed drifting off to it each night. My only real complaint is this girl needs to buy a clue sometimes. She can be self absorbed and argues with people actually trying to help her. But then again-- she's 17.. I'm not sure the next part of the story is available free, but if so, I'd like to follow it to sleep. It's definitely one I wouldn't pay for though. 🌷
August 17, 2023
Enjoyable and fun YA dystopia novel, but the characters leave something to be desired. It was distinctly mid-level younger YA for me.
This is an urban fantasy that blends magic and intrigue in a near-future dystopian city. Ridley, a skilled thief with a secret talent for outlawed magic, is thrown into chaos when a routine heist turns deadly. Ridley teams up with Archer Davenport, an unexpected ally with a mysterious past. The book's strength lies in its exploration of themes like wealth disparity and societal privilege and the interesting world-building. These both add depth to the story's familiar YA and dystopian elements.
This is an urban fantasy that blends magic and intrigue in a near-future dystopian city. Ridley, a skilled thief with a secret talent for outlawed magic, is thrown into chaos when a routine heist turns deadly. Ridley teams up with Archer Davenport, an unexpected ally with a mysterious past. The book's strength lies in its exploration of themes like wealth disparity and societal privilege and the interesting world-building. These both add depth to the story's familiar YA and dystopian elements.
July 4, 2022
Devoured this series. I loved the blend of dystopian and fantasy!
I didn’t like the lack of communication and language throughout(not… strong but… frequent and annoying).
Full of action and twists!
I didn’t like the lack of communication and language throughout(not… strong but… frequent and annoying).
Full of action and twists!
April 17, 2020
FREE DOWNLOAD FROM CHIRP
Unlike other first books in most other series, this one cannot stand alone. As a stand alone, it is a truly terribly written book. The plot doesn't really get going until half way through the book, and by that time the whole 'clueless powerful heroine' act is frustratingly annoying. The trope, while it's overdone already, has nothing new or unique to bring to the table in this book. The second half was jammed packed full of new information - none of which makes sense because the main character doesn't know anything and nothing is revealed until the very end. Ridley has no growth in this book and though it's left wide open for a second one (and you'll need to read the second one to understand anything (probably)) I don't care about any of these characters. Ridley is annoyingly stupid and nosy, and somehow doesn't know how to do anything despite the fact that she's been a master thief until this point. The begging shows her talent and skill as a criminal and then that somehow all goes out the window and she's useless. I assume Archer is supposed to be the love interest in later books, but he's insufferable and is too vague to be of any help. He keeps telling Ridley to trust him and yet he won't trust her. Barely any of the magic has any rules, and the ones establish hardly make sense. Also the title is too straightforward for me that's just a personal preference. I won't be picking up the second one.
Unlike other first books in most other series, this one cannot stand alone. As a stand alone, it is a truly terribly written book. The plot doesn't really get going until half way through the book, and by that time the whole 'clueless powerful heroine' act is frustratingly annoying. The trope, while it's overdone already, has nothing new or unique to bring to the table in this book. The second half was jammed packed full of new information - none of which makes sense because the main character doesn't know anything and nothing is revealed until the very end. Ridley has no growth in this book and though it's left wide open for a second one (and you'll need to read the second one to understand anything (probably)) I don't care about any of these characters. Ridley is annoyingly stupid and nosy, and somehow doesn't know how to do anything despite the fact that she's been a master thief until this point. The begging shows her talent and skill as a criminal and then that somehow all goes out the window and she's useless. I assume Archer is supposed to be the love interest in later books, but he's insufferable and is too vague to be of any help. He keeps telling Ridley to trust him and yet he won't trust her. Barely any of the magic has any rules, and the ones establish hardly make sense. Also the title is too straightforward for me that's just a personal preference. I won't be picking up the second one.
August 25, 2018
Loved this new series. Once again Morgan creates a world full of intrigue and fantasy that had me turning the pages at top speed. Can’t wait for the next book!
November 12, 2021
Free on Amazon as of today-11/12/2021!
August 14, 2018
Actual Rating: 4.5
*I was sent an eARC of this book in exchange of an honest review*
Happy Relase Day to Elemental Thief!
I discovered Rachel Morgan thanks to my Soulmate and I’ve read all of her Creepy Hollow books, finding it was a very enjoyable series, perfect especially if you’re looking to pause massive series that are hundreds of pages long. So obviously when Rachel announced this new series, set in a completely new world, my friend and I were super excited for it! Knowing how much I’ve enjoyed Creepy Hollow, I knew I was going to enjoy this book too.
Well, Ifreaking loved it!
The story is very original, the setting unlike anything I’ve read. The fact that wild, unstable magic surrounds the city and risks of striking people through like lightning is cool, as is the ability people had of pulling magic from their surroundings before it was banned for reasons I will not explain because you have to read this book. When urban fantasy is done right, it’s such a joy to read!
The protagonist, Ridley Kayne, is not unlike other Rachel Morgan heroines: brave, selfless, willing to do anything for the people they care about, unafraid to do the wrong thing for the right reasons—within limits, obviously. Yet I found Ridley to be darker than Violet, Calla or even Emerson. Perhaps it is because the book is set in Lumina City and not in Creepy Hollow, the fact that it is a city making it feel more real and dangerous; perhaps it is because she is shunned by her former friends once magic is outlawed and she’s had to start from the bottom, working her way towards a good school, living in a beaten down neighborhood with her father, running an antique shop that barely earns enough to keep them going. Or maybe it’s the fact that the first thing we see her doing is stealing a priceless figurine. She does it to help two people in need in a very Robin Hood maneuver, but still decidedly more rogue than any of the other heroines so far.
And don’t get me started on Archer Davenport! *giggles uncontrollably* This guy is the kind of tall, dark and mysterious I like, changed since his year away from Lumina City. We still don’t know what happened that transformed him from the selfish rich brat he was to the dangerously handsome hero, but I am very much looking forward to discovering more about him.
As expected from Rachel Morgan, there was a plot twist at the end of the book that I didn’t see coming and a cliffhanger that has you begging for more. The only reason I’m not giving it a full five star rating is that the resolution of the final two chapters felt a little bit rushed, as if too much was happening all at once. But it did its job: I’m excited and I NEED TO KNOW EVERYTHING! Dare I say it, but I liked it even more than my favorite Creepy Hollow books!
*I was sent an eARC of this book in exchange of an honest review*
Happy Relase Day to Elemental Thief!
I discovered Rachel Morgan thanks to my Soulmate and I’ve read all of her Creepy Hollow books, finding it was a very enjoyable series, perfect especially if you’re looking to pause massive series that are hundreds of pages long. So obviously when Rachel announced this new series, set in a completely new world, my friend and I were super excited for it! Knowing how much I’ve enjoyed Creepy Hollow, I knew I was going to enjoy this book too.
Well, I
The story is very original, the setting unlike anything I’ve read. The fact that wild, unstable magic surrounds the city and risks of striking people through like lightning is cool, as is the ability people had of pulling magic from their surroundings before it was banned for reasons I will not explain because you have to read this book. When urban fantasy is done right, it’s such a joy to read!
The protagonist, Ridley Kayne, is not unlike other Rachel Morgan heroines: brave, selfless, willing to do anything for the people they care about, unafraid to do the wrong thing for the right reasons—within limits, obviously. Yet I found Ridley to be darker than Violet, Calla or even Emerson. Perhaps it is because the book is set in Lumina City and not in Creepy Hollow, the fact that it is a city making it feel more real and dangerous; perhaps it is because she is shunned by her former friends once magic is outlawed and she’s had to start from the bottom, working her way towards a good school, living in a beaten down neighborhood with her father, running an antique shop that barely earns enough to keep them going. Or maybe it’s the fact that the first thing we see her doing is stealing a priceless figurine. She does it to help two people in need in a very Robin Hood maneuver, but still decidedly more rogue than any of the other heroines so far.
And don’t get me started on Archer Davenport! *giggles uncontrollably* This guy is the kind of tall, dark and mysterious I like, changed since his year away from Lumina City. We still don’t know what happened that transformed him from the selfish rich brat he was to the dangerously handsome hero, but I am very much looking forward to discovering more about him.
As expected from Rachel Morgan, there was a plot twist at the end of the book that I didn’t see coming and a cliffhanger that has you begging for more. The only reason I’m not giving it a full five star rating is that the resolution of the final two chapters felt a little bit rushed, as if too much was happening all at once. But it did its job: I’m excited and I NEED TO KNOW EVERYTHING! Dare I say it, but I liked it even more than my favorite Creepy Hollow books!
March 25, 2019
Four years ago magical user caused a cataclysmic event which wiped out whole swathes of the world, now all magic use is banned and punishable by death. Citizens have two implants under their skin which prevent them from using magic which rages uncontrollable out in the wastelands.
Before magic broke the world Ridley Kayne and her parents were wealthy, living in Aura Tower, the premier apartment building in Lumina City. But her mother died in the Cataclysm and her father, a jeweller who fashioned beautiful pieces using magic, lost his livelihood, now they eke out a living running Ridley's grandfather's antique store. Having been ostracised by her former friends when her family fell on hard times, Ridley still manages to attend the same school, having won a scholarship.
Ridley's experiences have made her into a futuristic Robin Hood, she steals from the rich to help out those who are struggling. Stealing an antique from the home of the Davenports in Aura Tower one night using her magic, which is different to that used by other people prior to the Cataclysm, to avoid detection Ridley is followed home by a stranger who is later murdered outside the antique shop after the two younger Davenports come to visit, ostensibly to buy their mother a birthday present.
Archer Davenport is the Davenports' son. He left Lumina City a while back and rumours have been rife as to where he is and what he's doing, until he turns up at Ridley's antique shop. Then it seems that he is everywhere and somehow linked to the murder of the man outside the store. But when Ridley's best friend is arrested for the murder Ridley is determined that the Davenports won't buy their way out of trouble and determines to find out what Archer was doing with the victim and prove that her friend isn't responsible for the murder.
This has a little bit of everything. Sort of a bit Gossip Girl, a bit Pretty in Pink, a shade of A Little Princess, magic, teenage angst, secret societies and prom. I loved it and can't wait to read the next book.
Before magic broke the world Ridley Kayne and her parents were wealthy, living in Aura Tower, the premier apartment building in Lumina City. But her mother died in the Cataclysm and her father, a jeweller who fashioned beautiful pieces using magic, lost his livelihood, now they eke out a living running Ridley's grandfather's antique store. Having been ostracised by her former friends when her family fell on hard times, Ridley still manages to attend the same school, having won a scholarship.
Ridley's experiences have made her into a futuristic Robin Hood, she steals from the rich to help out those who are struggling. Stealing an antique from the home of the Davenports in Aura Tower one night using her magic, which is different to that used by other people prior to the Cataclysm, to avoid detection Ridley is followed home by a stranger who is later murdered outside the antique shop after the two younger Davenports come to visit, ostensibly to buy their mother a birthday present.
Archer Davenport is the Davenports' son. He left Lumina City a while back and rumours have been rife as to where he is and what he's doing, until he turns up at Ridley's antique shop. Then it seems that he is everywhere and somehow linked to the murder of the man outside the store. But when Ridley's best friend is arrested for the murder Ridley is determined that the Davenports won't buy their way out of trouble and determines to find out what Archer was doing with the victim and prove that her friend isn't responsible for the murder.
This has a little bit of everything. Sort of a bit Gossip Girl, a bit Pretty in Pink, a shade of A Little Princess, magic, teenage angst, secret societies and prom. I loved it and can't wait to read the next book.
August 14, 2018
Rachel Morgan’s ELEMENTAL THIEF is priceless. Seventeen-year-old Ridley Kaye is a futuristic Robin Hood, stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. However, her bigger crime is for using magic in a world where it has been outlawed. This dystopian Urban Fantasy is suitable for young adults.
I loved this story. It was skillfully written and original. Ridley is a lovable character. Her family was wealthy until magic was outlawed. Now she is on a scholarship at a prestigious school hoping to make something of her life. Unfortunately, since she comes from a family a magic-users, she has become ostracized by her former friends.
A series of events takes place forcing Ridley to work with an unlikely ally, Archer Davenport. He is the older brother of her former best friend. Additionally, one of the influential people that turned her friends against her. I enjoyed the banter between Ridley and Archer. Archer is a mysterious character that kept the story interesting.
ELEMENTAL THIEF is fast-paced and full of excitement. It had a cliff hanger ending that is making me anxious to read book two in the Ridley Kayne Chronicles, expected to be released on November 7, 2018. ELEMENTAL THIEF would make a thrilling movie or television series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
I loved this story. It was skillfully written and original. Ridley is a lovable character. Her family was wealthy until magic was outlawed. Now she is on a scholarship at a prestigious school hoping to make something of her life. Unfortunately, since she comes from a family a magic-users, she has become ostracized by her former friends.
A series of events takes place forcing Ridley to work with an unlikely ally, Archer Davenport. He is the older brother of her former best friend. Additionally, one of the influential people that turned her friends against her. I enjoyed the banter between Ridley and Archer. Archer is a mysterious character that kept the story interesting.
ELEMENTAL THIEF is fast-paced and full of excitement. It had a cliff hanger ending that is making me anxious to read book two in the Ridley Kayne Chronicles, expected to be released on November 7, 2018. ELEMENTAL THIEF would make a thrilling movie or television series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
August 14, 2018
Riddle me this!
What do you get if you cross the world from Altered Carbon with Robin Hood?
Elemental Thief!!!!
At least these were the things that popped in my head as I was reading this book!
A dystopian world where the divide between the rich and the poor is extremely shocking.
Ridley does her best to maintain her grades, in the hope of having a chance at a better future. However, once she realises that she can do things that others can't, her life diverges on two different paths, her normal life and her magical one.
I love the relationship between Ridley and her dad, the loss of her mother, bringing them even closer together.
Everyone has an agenda here, nothing is clear cut and it seems that Ridley is the only one that has no idea what is really going on.
I highly recommend you pick this up. It had me racing to reach the last page then wishing I had the next book already!
I have purchased my copy on Amazon AU.
What do you get if you cross the world from Altered Carbon with Robin Hood?
Elemental Thief!!!!
At least these were the things that popped in my head as I was reading this book!
A dystopian world where the divide between the rich and the poor is extremely shocking.
Ridley does her best to maintain her grades, in the hope of having a chance at a better future. However, once she realises that she can do things that others can't, her life diverges on two different paths, her normal life and her magical one.
I love the relationship between Ridley and her dad, the loss of her mother, bringing them even closer together.
Everyone has an agenda here, nothing is clear cut and it seems that Ridley is the only one that has no idea what is really going on.
I highly recommend you pick this up. It had me racing to reach the last page then wishing I had the next book already!
I have purchased my copy on Amazon AU.
April 8, 2020
Definitely a young adult novel, which I didn’t realize when I picked it up. 5 stars for engaging writing and likeable characters, fascinating setting and avoiding many common powered-girl tropes. Lost a star for poor structure such as action recaps and failing to set up plot turns. Will be interested to see how this author develops. I got this one during a free promotion but I’m likely to buy the second.
December 20, 2019
mmm,, like it was interesting but i feel like the tension was not quite there? all the major plot points felt more like events leading up to the main event rather than the actual main event itself
April 11, 2020
The premise is interesting but I didn’t connect with or really even like any of the characters.
August 14, 2018
An Outstanding 4.5 Stars. A Wonderful Start To This Magical Series!!⚡🍃✨
Ridley grew up in era when magic was still freely used by all. It was used in jewellery, fashion, technology, medicine & in any way that could be thought of to enhance people's things or lives. Her Parents are happy, she's happy & loved and life is good!!🌟
When Ridley was about 8 years old her World was turned on its head!😢 Earth had become so depleted by generations of abuse that a Global initiative grew. They wanted to harness magic to power everything like a series of giant batteries. Unfortunately on the day the harnessing took place a cataclysmic reaction occurred around the World 🌎🔋💥 Much of it was turned to wasteland with unstable & lethal magic having free reign. Her Mum wasn't in a protected city on that day so she apparently died!!😱😭😭
Skip forward to start of senior year. Ridley only has two close friends now, Meera & Shen. Their family's are poor too. Ridleys Dad lost absolutely everything after that awful day, So they now live in a tiny flat above the antique store her Grandfather owned. She has secrets, they're huge, especially in a World where magic is now outlawed & carries the Death Penalty!!😳
She's been contracted for a job, It's in the ultra exclusive Aura Towers. But little does she know that being successful will set off a chain of events that could cause untold damage & death!!😳😢 She may have to lie, cheat, fake & try to trust the untrustable all while facing her own prejudices & insecurities. She will need to have complete faith in the guy she views as 'person who ruined her childhood friendships'. He turned her bestfriend against her after they lost everything. So foe becomes ally, does ally become foe?😳 Is what they've all been told truth or has it all been a lie and is she the only one with magic within??🍃🔥🌊,
The main character was well rounded, but still has ample room to grow. I think Lilah & Archer both have lots of potential in future stories, I also liked Meera's little sister & think she could have a role to play too. Obviously Shen & Meera have more to say, but I fear Meera may be on the other side of things!!😱 I wasn't a fan of either of them if I'm honest. They weren't very fleshed out though, maybe that's why I didn't connect with them?!
I was engrossed & transported by this book!!👍 There wasn't really any romance, though there is scope for it in future books 😉💕 It wasn't to badly missed either to be honest, I can rarely say that about a book. Lol
I definitely recommend this one. Fancy a full day in another world? Yes please 😎😍
Debbie, 1970, UK
Ridley grew up in era when magic was still freely used by all. It was used in jewellery, fashion, technology, medicine & in any way that could be thought of to enhance people's things or lives. Her Parents are happy, she's happy & loved and life is good!!🌟
When Ridley was about 8 years old her World was turned on its head!😢 Earth had become so depleted by generations of abuse that a Global initiative grew. They wanted to harness magic to power everything like a series of giant batteries. Unfortunately on the day the harnessing took place a cataclysmic reaction occurred around the World 🌎🔋💥 Much of it was turned to wasteland with unstable & lethal magic having free reign. Her Mum wasn't in a protected city on that day so she apparently died!!😱😭😭
Skip forward to start of senior year. Ridley only has two close friends now, Meera & Shen. Their family's are poor too. Ridleys Dad lost absolutely everything after that awful day, So they now live in a tiny flat above the antique store her Grandfather owned. She has secrets, they're huge, especially in a World where magic is now outlawed & carries the Death Penalty!!😳
She's been contracted for a job, It's in the ultra exclusive Aura Towers. But little does she know that being successful will set off a chain of events that could cause untold damage & death!!😳😢 She may have to lie, cheat, fake & try to trust the untrustable all while facing her own prejudices & insecurities. She will need to have complete faith in the guy she views as 'person who ruined her childhood friendships'. He turned her bestfriend against her after they lost everything. So foe becomes ally, does ally become foe?😳 Is what they've all been told truth or has it all been a lie and is she the only one with magic within??🍃🔥🌊,
The main character was well rounded, but still has ample room to grow. I think Lilah & Archer both have lots of potential in future stories, I also liked Meera's little sister & think she could have a role to play too. Obviously Shen & Meera have more to say, but I fear Meera may be on the other side of things!!😱 I wasn't a fan of either of them if I'm honest. They weren't very fleshed out though, maybe that's why I didn't connect with them?!
I was engrossed & transported by this book!!👍 There wasn't really any romance, though there is scope for it in future books 😉💕 It wasn't to badly missed either to be honest, I can rarely say that about a book. Lol
I definitely recommend this one. Fancy a full day in another world? Yes please 😎😍
Debbie, 1970, UK
July 29, 2025
A dystopian UF set in an alternate world, though I struggles with the cast. The world, the magic, and the state of humanity was intriguing - magic was once common, a part of life, until humans reached too far to create unlimited power and ended up causing a massive cataclysm. The few cities that survived only because of their paranoia around magic led them to set up special metal plates that suppress magic.
Our MC has magic, one that is different from normal, and employs it as a thief. Though the last item she's paid to steal sets off the events of the novel. There was a dystopian feel to this whole world which was intriguing, where all magic users are now the enemy - but it seemed to forget that fact sometime. In the opening we are told about the drone that always fly overhead, all the security features - but the drones never played a real part and I though it would've upped the stakes a lot.
My biggest issues that dropped my enjoyment is that all of the characters have the chronic condition of being in a YA story. The FMC is TDTL, and for all of the dangerous stuff she does, the choices she makes don't match that. She's flung together with her former best friends old brother and their relationship didn't really fit who they were as people. And it was just painful for me to read knowing this would turn into a romance as it was heavy handed.
Everything was far too convenient, the way things unfolded, the lack of real consequences for the kinds of actions they were taking etc. But one of the most frustrating, that dropped it another star, was that a climax should be answering the questions posed at the beginning, we should be seeing everything come together. Rather here we kind of get some answers but mainly we get even more question. All of these threads are thrown into the climax and it felt chaotic (and again far too convenient) and again no real consequences to their actions. Even the death of someone didn't have the impact it should've.
Our MC has magic, one that is different from normal, and employs it as a thief. Though the last item she's paid to steal sets off the events of the novel. There was a dystopian feel to this whole world which was intriguing, where all magic users are now the enemy - but it seemed to forget that fact sometime. In the opening we are told about the drone that always fly overhead, all the security features - but the drones never played a real part and I though it would've upped the stakes a lot.
My biggest issues that dropped my enjoyment is that all of the characters have the chronic condition of being in a YA story. The FMC is TDTL, and for all of the dangerous stuff she does, the choices she makes don't match that. She's flung together with her former best friends old brother and their relationship didn't really fit who they were as people. And it was just painful for me to read knowing this would turn into a romance as it was heavy handed.
Everything was far too convenient, the way things unfolded, the lack of real consequences for the kinds of actions they were taking etc. But one of the most frustrating, that dropped it another star, was that a climax should be answering the questions posed at the beginning, we should be seeing everything come together. Rather here we kind of get some answers but mainly we get even more question. All of these threads are thrown into the climax and it felt chaotic (and again far too convenient) and again no real consequences to their actions. Even the death of someone didn't have the impact it should've.
August 31, 2018
*i was provided an eARC by the author in exchange for an honest review, so thank you again for that!*
Being a huge fan, probably one of the biggest ones, of Rachel‘s Creepy Hollow series, I went into this series with high hopes and oh boy, I was NOT disappointed! Her characters are usually strong, self-confident and awesome who want to make their world a better a place. This book isn’t an exception but while her other fantasy series felt kind of dreamy and had lots of magic in it, including magical creatures, this one has a more mature and realistic feel to it as it is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a magical incident happened which lead to magic being forbidden. I really loved the blend of bits of dystopian and magic in this book- it’s a mix I’ve never read before but it works together so well!
Whenever I read a book by Rachel Morgan I know three things are gonna happen because she’s excellent at it: I get to experience a unique magic system, a gripping story in which a romantic relationship isn’t present and a painful cliffhanger at the end which makes me want to stare at the book‘s last page hoping for more words to magically appear.
Furthermore, this author always manages to surprise you when you think you’ve figured everything out, but you never know what is still about to come!
To sum up, I absolutely loved this book because I enjoyed reading every page and obviously I’m eagerly waiting for book two!
Being a huge fan, probably one of the biggest ones, of Rachel‘s Creepy Hollow series, I went into this series with high hopes and oh boy, I was NOT disappointed! Her characters are usually strong, self-confident and awesome who want to make their world a better a place. This book isn’t an exception but while her other fantasy series felt kind of dreamy and had lots of magic in it, including magical creatures, this one has a more mature and realistic feel to it as it is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a magical incident happened which lead to magic being forbidden. I really loved the blend of bits of dystopian and magic in this book- it’s a mix I’ve never read before but it works together so well!
Whenever I read a book by Rachel Morgan I know three things are gonna happen because she’s excellent at it: I get to experience a unique magic system, a gripping story in which a romantic relationship isn’t present and a painful cliffhanger at the end which makes me want to stare at the book‘s last page hoping for more words to magically appear.
Furthermore, this author always manages to surprise you when you think you’ve figured everything out, but you never know what is still about to come!
To sum up, I absolutely loved this book because I enjoyed reading every page and obviously I’m eagerly waiting for book two!
August 26, 2018
See Ana's full review at The Book Hookup!
After loving her previous books, I knew that this story was likely to be good. What I didn’t imagine was that all the twists and turns in this story would have me glued to the pages and anxiously awaiting what would happen next. Quite a lot happens in this story yet it still leaves you with unanswered questions. Which means I can’t wait to see where things go from here. I don’t know how many books Ms. Morgan is planning for this series but I definitely know that if they’re as captivating as this one (and I’m very sure they will be) I’ll be following this series until the end!
After loving her previous books, I knew that this story was likely to be good. What I didn’t imagine was that all the twists and turns in this story would have me glued to the pages and anxiously awaiting what would happen next. Quite a lot happens in this story yet it still leaves you with unanswered questions. Which means I can’t wait to see where things go from here. I don’t know how many books Ms. Morgan is planning for this series but I definitely know that if they’re as captivating as this one (and I’m very sure they will be) I’ll be following this series until the end!
April 11, 2019
I am really enjoying this new series by Rachel Morgan. Like her Creepy Hollow books, the world-building is super strong. Also like her Creepy Hollow books, these are primarily adventure novels centered around the heroine. Ridley Kayne is awesome. She's complex, layered, and has a good moral compass, even when she does bad things. Archer is also an interesting character, though we don't really get to know him. The plot is slow to get moving, but once it starts, the pieces all click in place quickly. And it is interesting to see everything from Ridley's point of view (though in 3rd person) since her worldview is (or has been) very limited up to this point. The book ends on a huge cliffhanger and I am excited to see where things head from here.
August 8, 2018
I’m not sure what it is exactly about Rachel Morgan’s writing that is so addicting, but it most definitely is!
Her latest book Elemental Thief tells the story of Ridley Kayne. Ridley Kayne is no ordinary teenage girl...not only does she steal from the rich to help the poor, but she has magic! After a mysterious stranger is murdered outside her home and her best friend framed, Ridley’s life becomes full of unexpected turns as she learns more about her world and the people she thought she knew, and more about herself!
“From what I’m hearing this is more about bitterness
and revenge than about justice”
This story drew me in immediately and was impossible to put down. A fun, quick read full of magic, mystery and a hint at a romance.
What I loved:
*Ridley, of course!
*The magic, I wish I could pull magic from the elements!
*Archer
*the mystery
*oh, and did I mention Archer? Seriously hoping for a romance to blossom
Cons:
*having to wait for the next book to come out!
Her latest book Elemental Thief tells the story of Ridley Kayne. Ridley Kayne is no ordinary teenage girl...not only does she steal from the rich to help the poor, but she has magic! After a mysterious stranger is murdered outside her home and her best friend framed, Ridley’s life becomes full of unexpected turns as she learns more about her world and the people she thought she knew, and more about herself!
“From what I’m hearing this is more about bitterness
and revenge than about justice”
This story drew me in immediately and was impossible to put down. A fun, quick read full of magic, mystery and a hint at a romance.
What I loved:
*Ridley, of course!
*The magic, I wish I could pull magic from the elements!
*Archer
*the mystery
*oh, and did I mention Archer? Seriously hoping for a romance to blossom
Cons:
*having to wait for the next book to come out!
August 13, 2018
Magic has been outlawed since the magicists attempted to gather too much power and ended up destroying most of the towns and cities. However, Ridley Kayne not only still uses magic, but she actually has magic inside her, something that seems to be unique to her. Even before the prohibition she has been keeping this a secret from the world.
Ridley is such a cool character and has a Robin Hood thing going on, stealing from rich people, selling the goods and using the money to help other people who lost their livelihoods when magic was banned. Despite this she does have a strong ethic and cares a lot about people, risking herself for others.
I really enjoyed the start of this new series and I am desperate to know what happens next!
Ridley is such a cool character and has a Robin Hood thing going on, stealing from rich people, selling the goods and using the money to help other people who lost their livelihoods when magic was banned. Despite this she does have a strong ethic and cares a lot about people, risking herself for others.
I really enjoyed the start of this new series and I am desperate to know what happens next!
November 18, 2020
I didn't expect liking so much this book, I thought it would be an okay read but it got my heart halfway through the story. I honestly like Ridley and her strong beliefs & constant/rational mindset. Of course she gets frustrated when there are people she loves in danger, but she is curious with caution.
And oh boy, Archer already seems a super interesting character. I think I'm gonna fall for this man the more I get to know him. We got glimpses, but he is still a mystery.
The worldbuilding is interesting, well explained and can't wait to dive into more and more secrets being revealed.
And oh boy, Archer already seems a super interesting character. I think I'm gonna fall for this man the more I get to know him. We got glimpses, but he is still a mystery.
The worldbuilding is interesting, well explained and can't wait to dive into more and more secrets being revealed.
August 5, 2018
Rachel Morgan is one of my auto-buy authors. I LOVE the Creepy Hollow series (I haven't read Emerson's story yet). It's in my top 10 favorites. Her contemporary romance novels (under the name Rochelle Morgan) are also really good. They're cute, clean, adorable, and addicting.
I was really excited when I heard Rachel Morgan was writing a new fantasy/dystopian series. She does an awesome job at world building, and her characters always have depth and outstanding growth. This is such a great start to a series. I can't wait for the second book! She writes killer cliffhanger endings.
If you like mystery, magic, dystopia, and strong female characters, you're going to love Elemental Thief! It comes out August 14. Pre-order it now!
By the way, the first book in the Creepy Hollow series is free wherever ebooks are sold, if you want to check out her writing.
I was really excited when I heard Rachel Morgan was writing a new fantasy/dystopian series. She does an awesome job at world building, and her characters always have depth and outstanding growth. This is such a great start to a series. I can't wait for the second book! She writes killer cliffhanger endings.
If you like mystery, magic, dystopia, and strong female characters, you're going to love Elemental Thief! It comes out August 14. Pre-order it now!
By the way, the first book in the Creepy Hollow series is free wherever ebooks are sold, if you want to check out her writing.
September 8, 2018
A solid 4 Stars! It started off a little slow for me and I thought it might drag on but it picked up quickly and didn’t let down! I love Ridley and loved all the little puzzle pieces and how they were revealed and pieced together just right.
Definitely recommend giving this book a try. I’m dying to get my hands on book 2 so I can continue this eye opening journey!
Definitely recommend giving this book a try. I’m dying to get my hands on book 2 so I can continue this eye opening journey!
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