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Breaking Eselda: A Kingdom of Fraun Novel
Strength, humility, speed, mirth, and wisdom are perfectly balanced in the kingdom of Fraun where council leaders make decisions in the best interest of all Fraunians. Meanwhile, young Princess Eselda is being groomed to eventually take the throne of Enchenda. But as her reign draws closer and long-held secrets are revealed, she realizes that her title comes with challenges she never imagined. After Eselda hears the council has been withholding valuable information about age markers that only affect those born of royal blood, she is horrified to learn that she will soon become malicious, power hungry, and lustful. As she struggles to accept her destiny, Eselda is overwhelmed with fear. There are rulers who will kill to keep these secrets hidden; and rulers who will kill to change the council. What kind of ruler will Eselda be? In this fantasy tale, a young princess must overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges as she prepares to take the throne of a kingdom in turmoil.
Kindle Edition
Published April 25, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
November 4, 2018
This book was pretty good, for a new author it had an interesting story line though I found the writing a little stiff. There is definitely room for improvement but as a starting novel it was good.
December 6, 2018
After careful consideration, I give this book 4.3/5 ⭐️! I thoroughly enjoyed exploring Fraun and learning the intricacies between each of the five realms. I can honestly say I look forward to the sequel and I have no doubt that Tabitha Shipley will deliver another great story for us to read!
One of my favorite aspects of this book was the main character, Princess Eselda. I am a firm advocate in using the YA fantasy genre to further expand a reader’s knowledge by incorporating lessons that could carry weight in our everyday lives. I, myself, have been inspired by our protagonist to practice the art of humility, of helping others with no regard for recognition or rewards. I praise Shipley for creating a female protagonist who takes pride in practicing selflessness with her every breath.
Another aspect of this novel I enjoyed was the “courting” of Eselda. At first I was apprehensive that the romance in this book would turn out to be another cliché love triangle that I so despise. Luckily, the author surprised me by having Eselda think not only of herself in this matter, but also of her people and the people of Fraun! (Eselda dear, your humility is showing again and I love you for it!) On a side note, I cannot tell you how much respect I have for Shipley creating male characters (specifically the dark, brooding “bad-boy”) who RESPECT a woman’s decision to abstain from certain intimacies. (Don’t get me wrong, he is still a villain in my book, but I appreciate that he did not pressure Eselda in Chapter 63. Although I’m worried that it could be a ploy to manipulate her later on *really really really hoping otherwise because that will break Eselda’s heart 😭* Only time will tell it seems. On another side note, I do not condone the horrors Tin has otherwise committed. I will still punch him given the chance 😂🤷♀️)
I did find a few instances to be just a little predictable, but never to the point of being annoying. (I have read other novels that were so cookie-cutter and plain that I barely finished them. This was not the case here!) An example where this occurred (and warning ⚠️ spoilers ahead) was Carson’s death and the person who orchestrated his demise. But I don’t thinkmy predictions took too much away from the book 😊
There are a few things I am excited to see in the sequel. These could be considered small spoilers so read at your own risk!
1. I’m excited to see the journey Sawchett has ahead of her. I think she is going to grow a lot in the next book and play an important role, especially with her loyalty and commitment to Eselda.
2. I am excited to see how Eselda fares given her new role as Queen of Enchenda. There is going to be many obstacles ahead of her—her courtship with Tin, the corruption of the council, her ever-nearing age markers, etc. I am excited to see how all of these pieces will play out in the future.
3. I cannot wait to find what other mysteries are hidden within the royal lineage as well! I feel a scandal coming into play *imagine villainous laughter found in cheesy superhero movies*
Seeing as this review is now super long, I will end with this: I definitely recommend reading “Breaking Eselda” because I think we can all learn something to better, not only our lives, but the lives of those around us.
Thanks for sticking with me to the end! Lots of love to you all! ❤️
One of my favorite aspects of this book was the main character, Princess Eselda. I am a firm advocate in using the YA fantasy genre to further expand a reader’s knowledge by incorporating lessons that could carry weight in our everyday lives. I, myself, have been inspired by our protagonist to practice the art of humility, of helping others with no regard for recognition or rewards. I praise Shipley for creating a female protagonist who takes pride in practicing selflessness with her every breath.
Another aspect of this novel I enjoyed was the “courting” of Eselda. At first I was apprehensive that the romance in this book would turn out to be another cliché love triangle that I so despise. Luckily, the author surprised me by having Eselda think not only of herself in this matter, but also of her people and the people of Fraun! (Eselda dear, your humility is showing again and I love you for it!) On a side note, I cannot tell you how much respect I have for Shipley creating male characters (specifically the dark, brooding “bad-boy”) who RESPECT a woman’s decision to abstain from certain intimacies. (Don’t get me wrong, he is still a villain in my book, but I appreciate that he did not pressure Eselda in Chapter 63. Although I’m worried that it could be a ploy to manipulate her later on *really really really hoping otherwise because that will break Eselda’s heart 😭* Only time will tell it seems. On another side note, I do not condone the horrors Tin has otherwise committed. I will still punch him given the chance 😂🤷♀️)
I did find a few instances to be just a little predictable, but never to the point of being annoying. (I have read other novels that were so cookie-cutter and plain that I barely finished them. This was not the case here!) An example where this occurred (and warning ⚠️ spoilers ahead) was Carson’s death and the person who orchestrated his demise. But I don’t thinkmy predictions took too much away from the book 😊
There are a few things I am excited to see in the sequel. These could be considered small spoilers so read at your own risk!
1. I’m excited to see the journey Sawchett has ahead of her. I think she is going to grow a lot in the next book and play an important role, especially with her loyalty and commitment to Eselda.
2. I am excited to see how Eselda fares given her new role as Queen of Enchenda. There is going to be many obstacles ahead of her—her courtship with Tin, the corruption of the council, her ever-nearing age markers, etc. I am excited to see how all of these pieces will play out in the future.
3. I cannot wait to find what other mysteries are hidden within the royal lineage as well! I feel a scandal coming into play *imagine villainous laughter found in cheesy superhero movies*
Seeing as this review is now super long, I will end with this: I definitely recommend reading “Breaking Eselda” because I think we can all learn something to better, not only our lives, but the lives of those around us.
Thanks for sticking with me to the end! Lots of love to you all! ❤️
January 2, 2020
I read this book because I follow the author on Twitter, and I wanted to read one of her novels to be supportive and also because she writes in my favorite genre, fantasy.
What I like about this book:
Eselda. She's a great main character. Her trait as princess of Enchenda is "humility," and Shipley does a great job of showing us Eselda's humble nature.
All the characters, actually, but Tutor is my favorite. They're all well-developed and show their traits but also have personal qualities that make them unique.
The world itself, the concept of Fraun with its five kingdoms and the monthly council meetings, the traits focused on in each realm, and, especially, the age markers. I love the details of the changes that come over people at certain ages and the markers Eselda learns about that only affect those of royal blood. I like the way she shows the malicious age marker and how it affects multiple characters. I like the back stories of how the realm was founded and the secrets Eselda learns of her own family's lineage but also the little secrets King Tin gives Eselda about his family line.
I love that Eselda is fascinated by lineage and the concept of the family trees in each royal home. I found that very unique.
What I don't like about this book:
The romance stuff--as usual in YA novels, it all happens too quickly, and the protagonist is always feeling "warm" from men touching her or from her thought about men. I understand some mention of physical responses and attractions, but the same wording for the same idea is monotonous, and also, we can assume a character feels this way. It's not really an impression that needs to be pointed out.
The point of view shifts within chapters. It only happens a few times, but it's jarring to read in third person and then have Eselda come in and pick up where the third-person narrator left off. The point of view shifts from chapter to chapter, though, are handled really well and are very smooth and easy to follow.
The tone--in some ways, it reads like a children's fairy tale with small people (fairies, I'm assuming?) living in a world vacated by giants, who killed each other off in a war and left behind all their clothing and housing for the small people to use after their demise. The characters ride from place to place on insects, and the setting is described simplistically in most places. It feels like a middle grade story. Yet, we have descriptions of characters making out, falling into bed, and of murder. Those details and plot points fit with the YA marker. The disparity between background, tone, and some of the action is very disconcerting.
I think Shipley originally wrote her book entirely in third person because there are some odd pronoun and subject/verb agreement errors that hint at a few missed changes. Again, it can be jarring.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It's light and fun and easy to read, but it's also entertaining and offers an interesting perspective on traits or qualities that are important to possess and develop. I definitely want to read book two because this novel left off on a cliffhanger. We get some answers, but there are others that I want to know about, like what is going on with Tutor, and what will happen next for Eselda, Jordyn, Tin, and the others?
I recommend this book if you like YA fantasy and want a quick, fun read. It's not deep and complex with intense world-building or character development, but it does offer well-rounded characters in a well-shaped world and definitely good plotting and suspense.
What I like about this book:
Eselda. She's a great main character. Her trait as princess of Enchenda is "humility," and Shipley does a great job of showing us Eselda's humble nature.
All the characters, actually, but Tutor is my favorite. They're all well-developed and show their traits but also have personal qualities that make them unique.
The world itself, the concept of Fraun with its five kingdoms and the monthly council meetings, the traits focused on in each realm, and, especially, the age markers. I love the details of the changes that come over people at certain ages and the markers Eselda learns about that only affect those of royal blood. I like the way she shows the malicious age marker and how it affects multiple characters. I like the back stories of how the realm was founded and the secrets Eselda learns of her own family's lineage but also the little secrets King Tin gives Eselda about his family line.
I love that Eselda is fascinated by lineage and the concept of the family trees in each royal home. I found that very unique.
What I don't like about this book:
The romance stuff--as usual in YA novels, it all happens too quickly, and the protagonist is always feeling "warm" from men touching her or from her thought about men. I understand some mention of physical responses and attractions, but the same wording for the same idea is monotonous, and also, we can assume a character feels this way. It's not really an impression that needs to be pointed out.
The point of view shifts within chapters. It only happens a few times, but it's jarring to read in third person and then have Eselda come in and pick up where the third-person narrator left off. The point of view shifts from chapter to chapter, though, are handled really well and are very smooth and easy to follow.
The tone--in some ways, it reads like a children's fairy tale with small people (fairies, I'm assuming?) living in a world vacated by giants, who killed each other off in a war and left behind all their clothing and housing for the small people to use after their demise. The characters ride from place to place on insects, and the setting is described simplistically in most places. It feels like a middle grade story. Yet, we have descriptions of characters making out, falling into bed, and of murder. Those details and plot points fit with the YA marker. The disparity between background, tone, and some of the action is very disconcerting.
I think Shipley originally wrote her book entirely in third person because there are some odd pronoun and subject/verb agreement errors that hint at a few missed changes. Again, it can be jarring.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It's light and fun and easy to read, but it's also entertaining and offers an interesting perspective on traits or qualities that are important to possess and develop. I definitely want to read book two because this novel left off on a cliffhanger. We get some answers, but there are others that I want to know about, like what is going on with Tutor, and what will happen next for Eselda, Jordyn, Tin, and the others?
I recommend this book if you like YA fantasy and want a quick, fun read. It's not deep and complex with intense world-building or character development, but it does offer well-rounded characters in a well-shaped world and definitely good plotting and suspense.
May 8, 2018
I loved this story. It grips you within minutes and continues to hold on long after you have finished. The characters are so well developed, I was able to see pieces of myself in each of them. There are so many layers to this it keeps you guessing and tugs at your heart strings all within seconds. It makes you wonder what would I do and also WHY DID THEY DO THAT!?
This is a must read again, and again, and again! I love these people,and I love this world- GIVE ME MORE FRAUN!
This is a must read again, and again, and again! I love these people,and I love this world- GIVE ME MORE FRAUN!
June 4, 2021
Breaking Eselda by Tabatha Shipley is an unique novel that shows a lot of promise not only for the series but also for the author with some room still to grow and develop. This novel is of the Fantasy genre and it is the author's first book.
Eselda is the princess of Enchenda one of the five families of the Kingdom of Fraun. She being the only child of her father is expected to take over his throne at his passing. But as her twentieth year slowly approaches she learns that when she reaches twenty she will become an angry and power hungry ruler due to her own royal blood. As her time to take over the throne approaches she begins to learn that the council that is made of the five rulers of the Kindgom of Fraun is not as peaceful or as made of mature rulers as she had thought. With the approach of her throne growing nearer Eselda must choose not only her husband, but also the King who she will place at her side.
The five rulers of Fraun each represent a important trait that the Kingdom of Fraun needs,to be in balance. Eselda being the princess of Enchenda must embody humility. Though Eselda holds a position of power she, being the youngest of the council members, tends to rely much on the two younger members of the council. However, Eselda does have her moments in which she stands up for herself. If only they were not so far inbetween.
"You boys accomplish little beyond arguing. Send word to me when you are ready to think about Fraun instead of yourselves." (Pg 236).
King Tin of Sarcheda represents strength and is not much older than Eselda herself. Being over the age of twenty he struggles with the anger flowing through him. Yet even as his anger grows so does his desire to defy the rules which would keep two rulers apart so that there is always five lands. Due to his developing love for Eselda Tin begins ignoring those long held rules to be with her. Tin is an interesting character due to his ability to hide so many secrets and some even in plain sight while those that suspect him can find no evidence to do anything. Even though Tin is not very obvious about his intentions like most villains he is just as evil. He manipulates many people especially women and even kills if need be.
Much like Princess Eselda and King Tin, King Jordyn is a ruler of Fraun who represents wisdom. While Jordyn does represent wisdom he like King Tin is in his twenties so he also must fight the anger flowing through him. Additionally like Tin he is in love with Eselda. However, unlike King Tin he knows the councils rules so he is willing to deny his love for Eselda to follow tradition.
This novel is the first of many to come from this author. Though the novel is not perfect it is very good for a first novel. The series could use some more world building such as what is going on outside of Fraun which with how the story is going it will explain in the next novel. Additionally Eselda could use some more development such as in what her early life was, like such as when her mother was alive. With that thought more female characters in the series would be a great addition due to few being mentioned. Even with these things mentioned I would still recommend the novel due to the unique and interesting plot. Just the need to see King Tin get what he deserves and for Eselda to finally find love and happiness makes me greatly want the next books to be published.
Eselda is the princess of Enchenda one of the five families of the Kingdom of Fraun. She being the only child of her father is expected to take over his throne at his passing. But as her twentieth year slowly approaches she learns that when she reaches twenty she will become an angry and power hungry ruler due to her own royal blood. As her time to take over the throne approaches she begins to learn that the council that is made of the five rulers of the Kindgom of Fraun is not as peaceful or as made of mature rulers as she had thought. With the approach of her throne growing nearer Eselda must choose not only her husband, but also the King who she will place at her side.
The five rulers of Fraun each represent a important trait that the Kingdom of Fraun needs,to be in balance. Eselda being the princess of Enchenda must embody humility. Though Eselda holds a position of power she, being the youngest of the council members, tends to rely much on the two younger members of the council. However, Eselda does have her moments in which she stands up for herself. If only they were not so far inbetween.
"You boys accomplish little beyond arguing. Send word to me when you are ready to think about Fraun instead of yourselves." (Pg 236).
King Tin of Sarcheda represents strength and is not much older than Eselda herself. Being over the age of twenty he struggles with the anger flowing through him. Yet even as his anger grows so does his desire to defy the rules which would keep two rulers apart so that there is always five lands. Due to his developing love for Eselda Tin begins ignoring those long held rules to be with her. Tin is an interesting character due to his ability to hide so many secrets and some even in plain sight while those that suspect him can find no evidence to do anything. Even though Tin is not very obvious about his intentions like most villains he is just as evil. He manipulates many people especially women and even kills if need be.
Much like Princess Eselda and King Tin, King Jordyn is a ruler of Fraun who represents wisdom. While Jordyn does represent wisdom he like King Tin is in his twenties so he also must fight the anger flowing through him. Additionally like Tin he is in love with Eselda. However, unlike King Tin he knows the councils rules so he is willing to deny his love for Eselda to follow tradition.
This novel is the first of many to come from this author. Though the novel is not perfect it is very good for a first novel. The series could use some more world building such as what is going on outside of Fraun which with how the story is going it will explain in the next novel. Additionally Eselda could use some more development such as in what her early life was, like such as when her mother was alive. With that thought more female characters in the series would be a great addition due to few being mentioned. Even with these things mentioned I would still recommend the novel due to the unique and interesting plot. Just the need to see King Tin get what he deserves and for Eselda to finally find love and happiness makes me greatly want the next books to be published.
Did Not Finish
June 22, 2019DNF'd at page 50.
I had really high hopes for this book. I love books with political and societal issues and this sounded like it was going to be something I loved.
I had a few issues with this book so let's just go over them quickly.
First, the distance issue. By this I mean the realms are described as being so vast you'd never know everyone in them. One even has uncharted territory! But for her to get to a neighboring king's castle, she travels via large insect at dusk for a dinner meeting. She has to go to yearly school visits to talk to the children but there's only one school and it's so small she can see all of the children? This does not add up.
She describes herself while looking in a mirror. I REPEAT, our first vision of what Eselda looks like, is her looking into a mirror and describing herself.
There was too much info dumping and it just didn't make sense. I admit, using the school visit was a clever way of weaving in the history of the world without it sounding like info dumping. But I just don't feel like it was done properly.
And the world makes zero sense to me. Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm too dumb to get it. But it's not working for me.
I probably only actually read the first 30 pages and then skimmed to 50 to try to be as fair as possible because again, it sounded like something I would love but this is just not for me. I feel like the minority compared to other reviewers so, maybe I'm wrong but, I'm just not feeling this one.
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review - and I feel horrible that I didn't finish it, but I couldn't.
I will probably put this book into a giveaway on my booktube channel in the future and maybe someone else will get some love out of it!
I had really high hopes for this book. I love books with political and societal issues and this sounded like it was going to be something I loved.
I had a few issues with this book so let's just go over them quickly.
First, the distance issue. By this I mean the realms are described as being so vast you'd never know everyone in them. One even has uncharted territory! But for her to get to a neighboring king's castle, she travels via large insect at dusk for a dinner meeting. She has to go to yearly school visits to talk to the children but there's only one school and it's so small she can see all of the children? This does not add up.
She describes herself while looking in a mirror. I REPEAT, our first vision of what Eselda looks like, is her looking into a mirror and describing herself.
There was too much info dumping and it just didn't make sense. I admit, using the school visit was a clever way of weaving in the history of the world without it sounding like info dumping. But I just don't feel like it was done properly.
And the world makes zero sense to me. Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm too dumb to get it. But it's not working for me.
I probably only actually read the first 30 pages and then skimmed to 50 to try to be as fair as possible because again, it sounded like something I would love but this is just not for me. I feel like the minority compared to other reviewers so, maybe I'm wrong but, I'm just not feeling this one.
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review - and I feel horrible that I didn't finish it, but I couldn't.
I will probably put this book into a giveaway on my booktube channel in the future and maybe someone else will get some love out of it!
November 16, 2018
The verdict: A fantasy twist on “coming of age” with a YA protagonist actually worth following.
It’s difficult to categorize Breaking Eselda. It’s an epic fantasy without extended sequences of mountain crossings or clan-clashing warfare; it’s a young adult romance without secret hookups or an overblown love triangle. In fact, it’s Shipley’s play with genre and expectations that makes the Kingdom of Fraun so interesting. Princess Eselda’s likable enough—curious and resilient, yet flawed. It’s always great to see a complex female lead who can be enchanted by romance but not so swooned that she forgets to how to think. Eselda considers others and the implications of her actions without becoming so selfless that the story feels cheaply moralistic.
The Kingdom of Fraun has long been divided into five domains, and young Princess Eselda is poised to take the throne in her homeland. Yet her coming ascension arrives in a time of political turmoil. Fraun is both threatened internally with few heirs to the realms and externally as new threats press against the borders. Most distressingly, those with royal blood are subject to “age markers,” certain years of their lives in which they’re overcome with lust or power. As tensions rise in the royal council, Eselda uncovers long-held family secrets and scandals, and she develops a growing urgency and fear as she nears the next age marker. Questions of lineage and royal duty loom as a high-profile crime shakes the kingdom, and Eselda’s every action comes against the dripping sands of time.
Typically with fantasy worlds, I prefer to learn as I go, so I found the first several chapters a bit slow-moving—too much information and not enough motion. The story has quite a few character names to remember before I have reason to care about them. Shipley switches perspectives a few times from one chapter to the next, but I usually wanted to stay with Eselda, finding her plot the most interesting. That said, the action comes later, and the world of Fraun has enough thought and structure to facilitate the drama. The markers explore the literal implications of coming-of-age, but it was nice to see examples of characters maintaining complexity even after they’d reached the “malicious age.” I also enjoyed the added layers to the narrative, like the roaches, a subjugated species in service of the royal family. Shipley successfully contains the plot while still opening plenty of doors for more in the series. Through all the drama and politicking, Eselda finds the key to the kingdom may be following her heart. All things considered, Breaking Eselda is an intriguing first entry in a promising series. Recommended for young adults or adults young at heart, especially those who like romance without all the mushy-gushy.
It’s difficult to categorize Breaking Eselda. It’s an epic fantasy without extended sequences of mountain crossings or clan-clashing warfare; it’s a young adult romance without secret hookups or an overblown love triangle. In fact, it’s Shipley’s play with genre and expectations that makes the Kingdom of Fraun so interesting. Princess Eselda’s likable enough—curious and resilient, yet flawed. It’s always great to see a complex female lead who can be enchanted by romance but not so swooned that she forgets to how to think. Eselda considers others and the implications of her actions without becoming so selfless that the story feels cheaply moralistic.
The Kingdom of Fraun has long been divided into five domains, and young Princess Eselda is poised to take the throne in her homeland. Yet her coming ascension arrives in a time of political turmoil. Fraun is both threatened internally with few heirs to the realms and externally as new threats press against the borders. Most distressingly, those with royal blood are subject to “age markers,” certain years of their lives in which they’re overcome with lust or power. As tensions rise in the royal council, Eselda uncovers long-held family secrets and scandals, and she develops a growing urgency and fear as she nears the next age marker. Questions of lineage and royal duty loom as a high-profile crime shakes the kingdom, and Eselda’s every action comes against the dripping sands of time.
Typically with fantasy worlds, I prefer to learn as I go, so I found the first several chapters a bit slow-moving—too much information and not enough motion. The story has quite a few character names to remember before I have reason to care about them. Shipley switches perspectives a few times from one chapter to the next, but I usually wanted to stay with Eselda, finding her plot the most interesting. That said, the action comes later, and the world of Fraun has enough thought and structure to facilitate the drama. The markers explore the literal implications of coming-of-age, but it was nice to see examples of characters maintaining complexity even after they’d reached the “malicious age.” I also enjoyed the added layers to the narrative, like the roaches, a subjugated species in service of the royal family. Shipley successfully contains the plot while still opening plenty of doors for more in the series. Through all the drama and politicking, Eselda finds the key to the kingdom may be following her heart. All things considered, Breaking Eselda is an intriguing first entry in a promising series. Recommended for young adults or adults young at heart, especially those who like romance without all the mushy-gushy.
May 7, 2020
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Breaking Eselda
Author: Tabatha Shipley
Book Series: A Kingdom of Fraun Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: April 9, 2018
Genre: Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (romance, slight sexual content, slight violence and gore)
Publisher: Lulu
Pages: 304
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Strength, humility, speed, mirth, and wisdom are perfectly balanced in the kingdom or Fraun where council leaders make decisions in the best interest of all Fraunians. Meanwhile, young Princess Eselda is being groomed to eventually take the throne of Enchenda. But as her reign draws closer and long-held secrets are revealed, she realizes that her title comes with challenges she never imagined.
After Eselda hears the council has been withholding valuable information about age markers that only affect those born of royal blood, she is horrified to learn that she will soon become malicious, power hungry, and lustful. As she struggled to accept her destiny, Eselda is overwhelmed with fear. Still, she must face her future, one way or the other. There are rulers who will kill to keep these secrets hidden; and rulers who will kill to change the council. What kind of ruler will Eselda be?
In this fantasy fale, a young princess must overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges as she prepaes to take the throne of a kingdom in turmoil.
Review: I thought this was a great book! The characters were well developed, the world was well built, and the details of this book were excellent! The book was also well paced and the plot was intriguing from start to finish. This was a light and easy read!
However, the writing was a bit stiff and there was a bit more telling than showing, but it was still pretty good!
Verdict: It was good!
Book: Breaking Eselda
Author: Tabatha Shipley
Book Series: A Kingdom of Fraun Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: April 9, 2018
Genre: Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (romance, slight sexual content, slight violence and gore)
Publisher: Lulu
Pages: 304
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Strength, humility, speed, mirth, and wisdom are perfectly balanced in the kingdom or Fraun where council leaders make decisions in the best interest of all Fraunians. Meanwhile, young Princess Eselda is being groomed to eventually take the throne of Enchenda. But as her reign draws closer and long-held secrets are revealed, she realizes that her title comes with challenges she never imagined.
After Eselda hears the council has been withholding valuable information about age markers that only affect those born of royal blood, she is horrified to learn that she will soon become malicious, power hungry, and lustful. As she struggled to accept her destiny, Eselda is overwhelmed with fear. Still, she must face her future, one way or the other. There are rulers who will kill to keep these secrets hidden; and rulers who will kill to change the council. What kind of ruler will Eselda be?
In this fantasy fale, a young princess must overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges as she prepaes to take the throne of a kingdom in turmoil.
Review: I thought this was a great book! The characters were well developed, the world was well built, and the details of this book were excellent! The book was also well paced and the plot was intriguing from start to finish. This was a light and easy read!
However, the writing was a bit stiff and there was a bit more telling than showing, but it was still pretty good!
Verdict: It was good!
November 16, 2018
I received Breaking Eselda by Tabatha Shipley in exchange for an honest review. I have given this book four out of five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I thoroughly enjoyed learning and exploring throughout the five realms that make up the kingdom of Fraun. I thought this book was unique to the fantasy genre and left me wanting to read the next instalment (which I hope is being published) immediately!
Development of characters is always a huge deal for me as I like to be able to connect and feel emotions towards the characters who I am reading about, and this book did exactly that. The main character, Princess Eselda, was by far my favourite character. She is a well-built protagonist who I found to be admirable for the selfless acts she brings to others in the village of Enchenda, the realm she resides in. I really liked how Shipley developed other characters well too, as you were able to learn about their history, family history and individual personalities.
In some of the chapters you get to read from another characters point of view which I really liked as it changed your thought process for a little while, as you're looking in on someone else's thoughts and trying to figure out which character it is you're reading from.
The minimal downside to Breaking Eselda for me, was that there were a few grammatical and spelling errors I came across. I never thought the story was dragging on, however there were a couple of chapters around the start which made me question if the story was going to pick up, which it then did, exceptionally well!
I absolutely enjoyed reading this book and would definitely recommend it to any fans of young adult fantasy and suspense stories. I am both anxious and excited to continue the adventures in the kingdom of Fraun and hope to visit this world again soon, especially as I need the questions I have swirling around my mind answered!
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September 30, 2020LOOK AT THIS BOOK! ISN’T IT STUNNING?! It’s so sleek and sexy and I’m coming to realize that I have a deep obsession with green and black. But don’t let the outside fool you, this inside is just as amazing! Breaking Eselda is just so good and contains elements that will feel familiar to you while also being an all new and unique world.
So, what do I mean by this? I guess what I’m trying to convey that this book has like a traditional ya feel that I’m always missing. It has those wonderful overlays of important life lessons that I always love to see but is also just a really fun story! There is a delicate balance between the seriousness, the romance, and those cheesy moments I just love to eat up. So yeah, this is a good one. Plus it’s like an epic fantasy without being too bogged down with so many details that it’s hard to read.
This was a great start to a brand new world! The worldbuilding was done really well and I loved learning all about it! And the characters, particularly our Eselda, we so much fun! I really just enjoyed this read, you know? I was able to curl up under the blankets and devour it. And I seriously can’t wait to learn more about these characters and this world and the overall story.
You can view my full review on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
So, what do I mean by this? I guess what I’m trying to convey that this book has like a traditional ya feel that I’m always missing. It has those wonderful overlays of important life lessons that I always love to see but is also just a really fun story! There is a delicate balance between the seriousness, the romance, and those cheesy moments I just love to eat up. So yeah, this is a good one. Plus it’s like an epic fantasy without being too bogged down with so many details that it’s hard to read.
This was a great start to a brand new world! The worldbuilding was done really well and I loved learning all about it! And the characters, particularly our Eselda, we so much fun! I really just enjoyed this read, you know? I was able to curl up under the blankets and devour it. And I seriously can’t wait to learn more about these characters and this world and the overall story.
You can view my full review on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
November 24, 2019
(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique)
Murder, mystery, deception, secrets, scandals, and a love triangle await you amongst the pages of Breaking Eselda.
Eselda’s life is not dull. As she prepares to take the throne, her life is bombarded with questions. Is she ready to rule Enchenda? Should she get married? Whom should she marry? Is she prepared to birth an heir to the throne?
Being in charge of a realm is a taxing job. There are so many decisions to be made. There’s also the worry of becoming dark and malicious around your 20th birthday.
In Breaking Eselda, a lifespan isn’t nearly as long as what we have in real life. At age marker ten, a royal individual reaches full height. When he or she reaches forty annuals, their hair turns gray, and their bodies begin to fail them. Death soon follows.
I wouldn’t want life to end this soon.
I also wouldn’t want to ride on a talking cockroach or eat earthworm stew. For sure, the only bug I would ever consider using for transportation is a Volkswagen Beetle. 😀
No, I like my bugs small, and my meals bug-free.
This book is labeled young adult, but even people with many years under his or her belt will find enjoyment with it as well.
(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
Murder, mystery, deception, secrets, scandals, and a love triangle await you amongst the pages of Breaking Eselda.
Eselda’s life is not dull. As she prepares to take the throne, her life is bombarded with questions. Is she ready to rule Enchenda? Should she get married? Whom should she marry? Is she prepared to birth an heir to the throne?
Being in charge of a realm is a taxing job. There are so many decisions to be made. There’s also the worry of becoming dark and malicious around your 20th birthday.
In Breaking Eselda, a lifespan isn’t nearly as long as what we have in real life. At age marker ten, a royal individual reaches full height. When he or she reaches forty annuals, their hair turns gray, and their bodies begin to fail them. Death soon follows.
I wouldn’t want life to end this soon.
I also wouldn’t want to ride on a talking cockroach or eat earthworm stew. For sure, the only bug I would ever consider using for transportation is a Volkswagen Beetle. 😀
No, I like my bugs small, and my meals bug-free.
This book is labeled young adult, but even people with many years under his or her belt will find enjoyment with it as well.
(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
June 20, 2018
This is a good book that gives a desire for a sequel to be published. The character development gives the reader a place in the Fraun. You are connected to each one and tie their being into your own experiences. You connect with some and loathe others.
I really want to read a sequel to know how the next phase of Eselda and Fraun evolve. Any reader of YA, or even those that just like the ancient royalty genre of books, will agree this is a great book that leaves you wanting more.
Read the book and share it with friends. I know you will not be disappointed.
I really want to read a sequel to know how the next phase of Eselda and Fraun evolve. Any reader of YA, or even those that just like the ancient royalty genre of books, will agree this is a great book that leaves you wanting more.
Read the book and share it with friends. I know you will not be disappointed.
January 19, 2020
This YA novel reminds me of Kiera Cass's "The Selection" series in that there are kings, marriage choices, and political intrigue/secrets. It's a fun read, and those who enjoy Cass's books (I do without shame !) will also like this book. Eselda isn't a bland heroine, and the addition of giants and sentient roaches is a unique touch. My only suggestion for the author is to make the point-of-view shifts more explicit by adding a title at the beginning of each chapter that says whose POV we're in.
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