What do you think?
Rate this book
Elements of Five #1
From Breath and Ruin
New York Times bestselling author Carrie Ann Ryan dives into a world with magic and sacrifice with the Elements of Five.
It is said the Spirit Priestess will one day unite the two Kingdoms of the Maison Realm. She will one day fight alongside Wielders and unlock the five elements of power.
It wasn’t until I nearly died that I realized they were talking about me. They tell me I have the power to save the world, and yet the war raging around me seems insurmountable. I must rely on those I thought shunned me long ago: a boy who isn’t who I thought, and a new realm of warriors who have come to protect me.
The darkness is coming, and the Queen of Obscurité wants to ensure that the King of Lumière can’t get his hands on me. And to make that happen, the Queen will sacrifice anything—including me.
It is said the Spirit Priestess will one day unite the two Kingdoms of the Maison Realm. She will one day fight alongside Wielders and unlock the five elements of power.
It wasn’t until I nearly died that I realized they were talking about me. They tell me I have the power to save the world, and yet the war raging around me seems insurmountable. I must rely on those I thought shunned me long ago: a boy who isn’t who I thought, and a new realm of warriors who have come to protect me.
The darkness is coming, and the Queen of Obscurité wants to ensure that the King of Lumière can’t get his hands on me. And to make that happen, the Queen will sacrifice anything—including me.
351 pages, ebook
First published March 19, 2019
484 people are currently reading
4481 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Ann Ryan
275 books6,343 followersCarrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Talon Pack, Promise Me, and Elements of Five series, which have sold millions of books worldwide. She's the winner of a RT Book of the Year and a Prism Award in her genres. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 205 reviews
March 26, 2019
Incredible world building!
March 11, 2019
DNF at page 97.
First off, thank you so much to Carrie Ann Ryan & to Entangled Teen Publishing for sending me this book ahead of release for me to review!
I feel bad for DNFing this one, it has so much potential. The background of a girl who doesn’t know she has magic and is destined to save a world she didn’t know existed is becoming more common in YA, and when executed properly, can make for quite an interesting story. However, I don’t think this one hit the mark. There are portions of “day to day life” that are a bit boring, followed by HUGE expositional dumps of information, followed by over-explained nuances.
I feel like this book would be more appropriate for a Middle Grade audience based on the writing style, but the content makes it YA....a tough fence to straddle.
First off, thank you so much to Carrie Ann Ryan & to Entangled Teen Publishing for sending me this book ahead of release for me to review!
I feel bad for DNFing this one, it has so much potential. The background of a girl who doesn’t know she has magic and is destined to save a world she didn’t know existed is becoming more common in YA, and when executed properly, can make for quite an interesting story. However, I don’t think this one hit the mark. There are portions of “day to day life” that are a bit boring, followed by HUGE expositional dumps of information, followed by over-explained nuances.
I feel like this book would be more appropriate for a Middle Grade audience based on the writing style, but the content makes it YA....a tough fence to straddle.
March 7, 2019
Wow. I didn't think I could be more of a fan of this authors writing, but she went and wrote a YA novel that I was unable to stop while reading. A page turned full of magic and plot twists with a cast of characters that I fell for.
The friendships in this story were just as important as the plot itself. You aren't sure what to invest yourself in with this read, but the one thing you can trust is that you are invested in finishing it.
Then things pick dup and I was yelling at my book.
Page after page I couldn't stop once these friends began their adventure. This is one of those YA novels that you lose time while reading. It was well developed and full of small twists and enveloping chapters that you love page after page.
I want more, so much more from this world. From these characters. I love CAR's words and now I have a whole new world to read.
June 13, 2020
My first time reading from this author and I am eager to read more from Carrie Ann Ryan! From Breath and Ruin is the beginning of the new "Elements of Five" series, which is also her first YA series. Greatly enjoyed all the strong and well developed characters; fascinating journey through intricate dreams and a new world; intriguing and awesome magic; many plot twists; and complex relationships. It was fantastic and I loved reading it!! I cannot wait to read the second book!!
I won this ebook advance copy from Goodreads Book Giveaway, and voluntarily reviewed this book.
I won this ebook advance copy from Goodreads Book Giveaway, and voluntarily reviewed this book.
May 23, 2019
Not a very unique YA fantasy. very tropey. But if that's what your looking for, it did it well. The writing was more than decent. And the characters were intriguing. The romance was heavy and a little much for me personally. But I'm sure teenagers will love it. Interested to see how the author's writing style and voice changes in the future.
March 10, 2019
From Breath and Ruin starts off with your average high school graduate, Lyric, trying to map her future and feeling pressured by her parents. But Lyric’s world view is about to be blown to smithereens. In a realm she didn’t know existed she wants to help rescue her new friend and maybe much more.
This mythology is handed out piecemeal so I was constantly looking for clues and totally absorbed in Lyric’s journey. The Maison Realm is brought to vivid reality as well as the inhabitants or elemental wielders. But just as I thought I had a handle on the plot direction I was thrown for a loop by an unforeseen twist. Left with more questions than answers I can’t wait for the next book.
This mythology is handed out piecemeal so I was constantly looking for clues and totally absorbed in Lyric’s journey. The Maison Realm is brought to vivid reality as well as the inhabitants or elemental wielders. But just as I thought I had a handle on the plot direction I was thrown for a loop by an unforeseen twist. Left with more questions than answers I can’t wait for the next book.
March 5, 2019
WOW what an amazing start to what promises to be another fabulous series.
I immersed myself totally into this book. From the outset I was gripped and engaged with Lyric, Braelynn and Emory and the dynamics of their friendships and the paths that they were going to take.
But then all hell breaks loose and I found myself right there next to them as they went on their adventure and I was standing with them as they fought their fight.
I cried, I cheered and I shouted at the ereader more than once.
I felt every emotion as fiercely as only Carrie Ann Ryan can make me feel. She's a genius in bringing her world's and her characters into sharp focus and making me feel her characters emotions. Amazing.
I immersed myself totally into this book. From the outset I was gripped and engaged with Lyric, Braelynn and Emory and the dynamics of their friendships and the paths that they were going to take.
But then all hell breaks loose and I found myself right there next to them as they went on their adventure and I was standing with them as they fought their fight.
I cried, I cheered and I shouted at the ereader more than once.
I felt every emotion as fiercely as only Carrie Ann Ryan can make me feel. She's a genius in bringing her world's and her characters into sharp focus and making me feel her characters emotions. Amazing.
March 18, 2019
This is such a great start to a new series, I can hardly wait to see what happens next. I was quickly drawn into this story and didn’t want to put it down. The plot is tightly woven, the characters complex and intriguing. This is a great book and I look forward to reading what happens next.
October 15, 2020
DNF. Main character is annoying, clumsy, and stupidly lovesick. 😡
March 6, 2019
I was excited to read From Breath and Ruin because of the premise but it didn't work for me for a few reasons. I struggled with getting into the story and being invested in the characters. I felt like they went over the same things especially at the beginning and I couldn't get a read on Lyric's personality. That said there were things that intrigued me so much so that I am interested to see where the author is going with it. I'm trumping this up to first book in a series syndrome and hoping that things flow more smoothly in the second book.
Copy provided by author
Copy provided by author
Want to read
January 2, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (6/18/2020)! 🎁
March 20, 2019
Book 1 of Elements of Five From Breath and Ruin by Carrie Anne Ryan.
I’ve got to admit I struggled getting into this book as a ebook but then started the audiobook and couldn’t turn it off. I devoured the first 16 chapters in no time.
Lyric is a just about to go to college kid that still hasn’t figured out what she wants to do with her life but everyone around her seems to have there life sorted.
Lyric has been having horrible nightmares that feel like they are trying to tell her something but she just misses the mark.
Lyric bumps into her old school friend that suggests they go on a walk in mountains but after an accident Lyric becomes aware of other worldly beings and that her crush Rhodes and his sister Rosamond aren’t what she thought and there telling Lyric she is the lost Spirit Priestess that could unite the other Kingdoms.
A lot goes on in this book with fighting other wielders people and trying to get to Rosamond but losing people on way but also trying to introduce a new world sand series is difficult.
I did feel at time like Lyric was becoming annoying with always explaining she didn’t know what was going on or that she didn’t know how to use her magic or be useful but the ending of this book got very interesting and developed really quickly. I was a little disappointed with ending with Lyric but absolutely gutted over her bff Braelynn but hopefully that becomes very interesting in next book.
Differently a winner but get the feeling next books in series are better.
I’ve got to admit I struggled getting into this book as a ebook but then started the audiobook and couldn’t turn it off. I devoured the first 16 chapters in no time.
Lyric is a just about to go to college kid that still hasn’t figured out what she wants to do with her life but everyone around her seems to have there life sorted.
Lyric has been having horrible nightmares that feel like they are trying to tell her something but she just misses the mark.
Lyric bumps into her old school friend that suggests they go on a walk in mountains but after an accident Lyric becomes aware of other worldly beings and that her crush Rhodes and his sister Rosamond aren’t what she thought and there telling Lyric she is the lost Spirit Priestess that could unite the other Kingdoms.
A lot goes on in this book with fighting other wielders people and trying to get to Rosamond but losing people on way but also trying to introduce a new world sand series is difficult.
I did feel at time like Lyric was becoming annoying with always explaining she didn’t know what was going on or that she didn’t know how to use her magic or be useful but the ending of this book got very interesting and developed really quickly. I was a little disappointed with ending with Lyric but absolutely gutted over her bff Braelynn but hopefully that becomes very interesting in next book.
Differently a winner but get the feeling next books in series are better.
March 20, 2019
Book 1 of Elements of Five From Breath and Ruin by Carrie Anne Ryan.
I’ve got to admit I struggled getting into this book as a ebook but then started the audiobook and couldn’t turn it off. I devoured the first 16 chapters in no time.
Lyric is a just about to go to college kid that still hasn’t figured out what she wants to do with her life but everyone around her seems to have there life sorted.
Lyric has been having horrible nightmares that feel like they are trying to tell her something but she just misses the mark.
Lyric bumps into her old school friend that suggests they go on a walk in mountains but after an accident Lyric becomes aware of other worldly beings and that her crush Rhodes and his sister Rosamond aren’t what she thought and there telling Lyric she is the lost Spirit Priestess that could unite the other Kingdoms.
A lot goes on in this book with fighting other wielders people and trying to get to Rosamond but losing people on way but also trying to introduce a new world sand series is difficult.
I did feel at time like Lyric was becoming annoying with always explaining she didn’t know what was going on or that she didn’t know how to use her magic or be useful but the ending of this book got very interesting and developed really quickly. I was a little disappointed with ending with Lyric but absolutely gutted over her bff Braelynn but hopefully that becomes very interesting in next book.
Differently a winner but get the feeling next books in series are better.
I’ve got to admit I struggled getting into this book as a ebook but then started the audiobook and couldn’t turn it off. I devoured the first 16 chapters in no time.
Lyric is a just about to go to college kid that still hasn’t figured out what she wants to do with her life but everyone around her seems to have there life sorted.
Lyric has been having horrible nightmares that feel like they are trying to tell her something but she just misses the mark.
Lyric bumps into her old school friend that suggests they go on a walk in mountains but after an accident Lyric becomes aware of other worldly beings and that her crush Rhodes and his sister Rosamond aren’t what she thought and there telling Lyric she is the lost Spirit Priestess that could unite the other Kingdoms.
A lot goes on in this book with fighting other wielders people and trying to get to Rosamond but losing people on way but also trying to introduce a new world sand series is difficult.
I did feel at time like Lyric was becoming annoying with always explaining she didn’t know what was going on or that she didn’t know how to use her magic or be useful but the ending of this book got very interesting and developed really quickly. I was a little disappointed with ending with Lyric but absolutely gutted over her bff Braelynn but hopefully that becomes very interesting in next book.
Differently a winner but get the feeling next books in series are better.
March 21, 2019
I voluntarily offered to review this book with no obligations and my opinions are honest!
It was a great book !
I have to be honest and say that I was a little confuse at the beginning of the book.
As I read the book, then I understood what the book was about.
Lyric is supposed to be the Spirit Priestess reincarnated or chosen like Buffy.
She is supposed to unite all the kingdoms into 1 like it used to be.
She doesn't know all of that, because she grew up on the Earth realm.
She was not aware that magic even existed.
Rhodes + Rosamond were sent to Earth to find the Spirit Priestess.
When they meet Lyric, both thought that she was the one.
Can Lyric fulfill her destiny?
Loved the characters + the storytelling!
I need to know what happens next!
It has all the ingredients that you need for a great book!
I can't wait for the next book in this series.
It was a great book !
I have to be honest and say that I was a little confuse at the beginning of the book.
As I read the book, then I understood what the book was about.
Lyric is supposed to be the Spirit Priestess reincarnated or chosen like Buffy.
She is supposed to unite all the kingdoms into 1 like it used to be.
She doesn't know all of that, because she grew up on the Earth realm.
She was not aware that magic even existed.
Rhodes + Rosamond were sent to Earth to find the Spirit Priestess.
When they meet Lyric, both thought that she was the one.
Can Lyric fulfill her destiny?
Loved the characters + the storytelling!
I need to know what happens next!
It has all the ingredients that you need for a great book!
I can't wait for the next book in this series.
March 12, 2019
Wow! I love the world Carrie has created! It's full of magic, other worlds and realms, the girl who can't find her place - not knowing who she really is, or what she is capable of and what she means to thousands in the other realms. As Lyric is drawn into the war between the realms, she begins to find herself, even as sh doubts she the answer to the Prophecy. She learns not only are things not as they seem. neither are her friends. This is pulse pounding beginning to the series that left me breathless and wanting more!!!I absolutely loved it!!
March 10, 2019
Love Lyric and Rhodes so ready for more.Such an action packed exciting amazing story.
March 7, 2021
HOLY MOLY!!! Carrie Ann Ryan you have done it once again, another FANTABULOUS book. I am a HUGE fan of your work but you have blown my mind with this story. I know you are new and worried about writing a YA book but you have done an ABSOLUTE FANTASTIC job. I really don’t know what to say that can honestly do justice with how wonderfully you have done with this book.
Lyric thought she was a typical 18 year old stressing about what she would be majoring in college, she never would have thought that her nightmares would become apart of her life. Since an little girl Lyric has always had nightmares of shadowy figures, getting to the point that during the day she is also seeing shadows in the corner of her eyes.
Rhodes is the Prince to the Lumière Kingdom and a wielded of Air and water, he and his sister Rosamond who is a Seer have been sent to earth to search amongst the humans to find the Spirit Priestess. The Spirit Priestess is someone that can wield all 5 elements; Air, Water, Fire, Earth and Spirit, she is also the person that will be able to bring the two kingdoms; Lumière (Light) and Obscurité (Dark) back together and end the 500 year old war.
After an accident when out hiking with Rhodes, Rosamond and Braelynn, Lyric starts to have all these questions that she believes that only Rhodes and Rosamond can answer. So after discussing her concerns about the accident with her best friend Braelynn they both decide to go and ask the siblings, but before they get a chance to ask anything they are attacked by the ‘shadows’ and life as Lyric knew is never going to be the same. Rhodes, Lyric and Braelynn make a plan to go to Maison to get back Rosamond after she was kidnapped by the Neg (shadows).
I was seriously hooked from the beginning of this book all the way to the end, but I was disappointed that it finished. I was sucked in and hooked on every word that I read, I never wanted it to end. Yes I know that there is going to be a sequel as this is just the beginning of Lyric’s story but I wasn’t ready for the book to end. I can’t wait for book 2 to release. Thank you Carrie for what you do and please never stop putting your words down on paper, as the worlds you create are so much better than going on a holiday.
Lyric thought she was a typical 18 year old stressing about what she would be majoring in college, she never would have thought that her nightmares would become apart of her life. Since an little girl Lyric has always had nightmares of shadowy figures, getting to the point that during the day she is also seeing shadows in the corner of her eyes.
Rhodes is the Prince to the Lumière Kingdom and a wielded of Air and water, he and his sister Rosamond who is a Seer have been sent to earth to search amongst the humans to find the Spirit Priestess. The Spirit Priestess is someone that can wield all 5 elements; Air, Water, Fire, Earth and Spirit, she is also the person that will be able to bring the two kingdoms; Lumière (Light) and Obscurité (Dark) back together and end the 500 year old war.
After an accident when out hiking with Rhodes, Rosamond and Braelynn, Lyric starts to have all these questions that she believes that only Rhodes and Rosamond can answer. So after discussing her concerns about the accident with her best friend Braelynn they both decide to go and ask the siblings, but before they get a chance to ask anything they are attacked by the ‘shadows’ and life as Lyric knew is never going to be the same. Rhodes, Lyric and Braelynn make a plan to go to Maison to get back Rosamond after she was kidnapped by the Neg (shadows).
I was seriously hooked from the beginning of this book all the way to the end, but I was disappointed that it finished. I was sucked in and hooked on every word that I read, I never wanted it to end. Yes I know that there is going to be a sequel as this is just the beginning of Lyric’s story but I wasn’t ready for the book to end. I can’t wait for book 2 to release. Thank you Carrie for what you do and please never stop putting your words down on paper, as the worlds you create are so much better than going on a holiday.
March 15, 2019
Wow! I need book 2 like now!
I was so excited to get an early copy of From Breath and Ruin. I could not put this down. The book was so enchanting from beginning to end. I absolutely fell in love with the characters and story.
Lyric was a teenage girl who like most of us at that age felt lost. Graduation was approaching and it was time to make a decision on what college to go to, what major to choose, and what career you wanted to have for the rest of your life. Lyric always struggled with finding her place in the world. She didn't seem to fit in anywhere. But things changed when she agreed to go on a hike with twins, Rhodes and Rosamond.
Lyrics friend Braelynn joins them and this is a day to remember. Lyric has an accident but she has no pain. Braelynn believes that something happened and they both go to see Rosamond and Rhodes for answers.
Turns out that Rhodes and Rosamond are from a different realm and Lyric is destined to help their people. She is supposedly the Spirit Priestess, one who can wield all 5 elements. She is said to be the person to bring peace among their kingdoms.
There are many ups and downs to this story. It was so magical and thrilling that it is easy to get swept up in the story. There is also romance added to the story. This book has something for everything.
Expect to be amazed at the magic and power of the 5 elements, swoon at the love interests, cry at the loss that is inevitable, and end with the feeling of satisfaction.
I give From Breath and Ruin 5 stars. It was a captivating paranormal romance that is guaranteed to leave you wanting more in the series. It will keep you guessing and on your toes while adding romantic and thrilling elements that take this story to the next level.
I was so excited to get an early copy of From Breath and Ruin. I could not put this down. The book was so enchanting from beginning to end. I absolutely fell in love with the characters and story.
Lyric was a teenage girl who like most of us at that age felt lost. Graduation was approaching and it was time to make a decision on what college to go to, what major to choose, and what career you wanted to have for the rest of your life. Lyric always struggled with finding her place in the world. She didn't seem to fit in anywhere. But things changed when she agreed to go on a hike with twins, Rhodes and Rosamond.
Lyrics friend Braelynn joins them and this is a day to remember. Lyric has an accident but she has no pain. Braelynn believes that something happened and they both go to see Rosamond and Rhodes for answers.
Turns out that Rhodes and Rosamond are from a different realm and Lyric is destined to help their people. She is supposedly the Spirit Priestess, one who can wield all 5 elements. She is said to be the person to bring peace among their kingdoms.
There are many ups and downs to this story. It was so magical and thrilling that it is easy to get swept up in the story. There is also romance added to the story. This book has something for everything.
Expect to be amazed at the magic and power of the 5 elements, swoon at the love interests, cry at the loss that is inevitable, and end with the feeling of satisfaction.
I give From Breath and Ruin 5 stars. It was a captivating paranormal romance that is guaranteed to leave you wanting more in the series. It will keep you guessing and on your toes while adding romantic and thrilling elements that take this story to the next level.
December 20, 2019
What would you do if someone told you that not only was there another plane of existence, you and all the other people that were from that plane were magic, but you were also the salvation for that other world?
Lyric may have needed to take a deep breathe and make sure she wasn't loosing touch with reality, but she was a whole lot braver than I know I could ever be. Going on this great adventure to Maison with Lyric, Rhodes, Braelynn, and Luken has left me wanting so much more. I can't wait to find out what comes next in their journey to right the kingdoms, and what is in store for Lyric and her powers.
Lyric may have needed to take a deep breathe and make sure she wasn't loosing touch with reality, but she was a whole lot braver than I know I could ever be. Going on this great adventure to Maison with Lyric, Rhodes, Braelynn, and Luken has left me wanting so much more. I can't wait to find out what comes next in their journey to right the kingdoms, and what is in store for Lyric and her powers.
March 26, 2019
The world building in this book is awesome. The magic wielding was epic. I loved the concept of the book. Most of the characters grew on me and I liked them. However, I found the main character, Lyric, fell short for me. She was whiny. She didn't know what she wanted. She constantly complained about not knowing where she fit in. I am going to stick with this series though and hope Lyric's character grows more in the next chapter of this book.
March 23, 2019
I received a free copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
3 Stars.
Carrie Ann Ryan is a new-to-me author.
From Breath and Ruin is the first installment in the Elements of Five series. Even though Lyric is eighteen, on the cusp of adulthood between high school and college, it easily fits into the Young Adult genre, suitable for those 12+. Lyric is an adult, the genre is young adult, but I feel younger teens would enjoy this book the most.
Coming-of-age, Lyric doesn't know what she wants to do with the rest of her life, finding the pressure of making a life-changing decisions suffocating. How at eighteen, with no experiences, is Lyric to know what major in college she should choose? She's never excelled in anything, but been good at academics, so it's not as if she can play into her strengths. I felt this would be a comfort to younger readers, as well as resonating with older readers, as most of us have been in such a state of terrifying indecision.
I did struggle at the start of the novel (the first 20% or so), as it was laden with inner monologues about the state of her life, her controlling ex now being her friend, and the dreams. Her indecision resonated with me, the fear of her dreams evoked real emotions within me, but Lyric also came off as a Suzy do-gooder, who never made mistakes, did as she was told, and that comes off as both judgmental in its goodness by comparison, as it does boring. Mousy generally doesn't lend well to a strong heroine. I couldn't wrap my mind around Lyric calling Rhodes 'dreamy', since that's phrasing someone over 70 used in their youth.
I also never had Lyric firm in my mind. At one point, I thought Lyric was described as being shorter and overly curvy, which I took to mean a bit chubby. I was thrilled by this and being bisexual, as both aren't often used to describe teenage girls in the young adult genre. She describers herself as not being athletic, yet she runs continuously as a hobby. A large portion of the beginning quarter of the novel focused on Lyric jogging. While I knew what color and type of sports bra she had beneath her tanks tops and windbreaker, I never got an accurate image of the heroine affixed in my head, as what I thought she would look like contradicted other descriptions.
Lyric has dreams, nightmares really, that show her insight into her life that has been kept from her. As usual in the young adult, fantasy genre, Lyric doesn't know she has powers, thinking herself below average, not knowing how she fits into the world, but then finds out she is rather extraordinary instead. The boy (even though Rhodes is over 21) is the one with the information Lyric needs.
Where I had issue with the magic system and world-building... it was glossed over, same as with Lyric's appearance, the characters' personalities jumping all over the place, and their motivations were muddy, yet I can remember what foods were in the burritos, washing of the sheets on a daily basis, the color and material of the sports bras, the number of tank tops beneath the highly detailed mesh windbreaker, the color of the leggings, and the type of shoes. What I needed explained never was to my satisfaction.
From a young adult's standpoint, no doubt they will be intrigued and find enjoyment in this novel and the series. I do believe the plot, the way the characters interacted with one another, this is far younger than the 18-20+ age-range of the characters, more like 12-14 in their behavior and dialogue. I did struggle with this, as it didn't read as adults in the novel- I wish their ages had been nudged to be younger.
Writing this review from my adult standpoint, I must admit I didn't enjoy this as much as I hoped I would. In a nutshell, everything felt forced. The flow, the direction the plot took, the connections the characters had with one another, all of it felt forced.
While I do recommend this novel to young adults, I'm not sure how it will be received by adults. I won't be continuing on with the series.
3 Stars.
Carrie Ann Ryan is a new-to-me author.
From Breath and Ruin is the first installment in the Elements of Five series. Even though Lyric is eighteen, on the cusp of adulthood between high school and college, it easily fits into the Young Adult genre, suitable for those 12+. Lyric is an adult, the genre is young adult, but I feel younger teens would enjoy this book the most.
Coming-of-age, Lyric doesn't know what she wants to do with the rest of her life, finding the pressure of making a life-changing decisions suffocating. How at eighteen, with no experiences, is Lyric to know what major in college she should choose? She's never excelled in anything, but been good at academics, so it's not as if she can play into her strengths. I felt this would be a comfort to younger readers, as well as resonating with older readers, as most of us have been in such a state of terrifying indecision.
I did struggle at the start of the novel (the first 20% or so), as it was laden with inner monologues about the state of her life, her controlling ex now being her friend, and the dreams. Her indecision resonated with me, the fear of her dreams evoked real emotions within me, but Lyric also came off as a Suzy do-gooder, who never made mistakes, did as she was told, and that comes off as both judgmental in its goodness by comparison, as it does boring. Mousy generally doesn't lend well to a strong heroine. I couldn't wrap my mind around Lyric calling Rhodes 'dreamy', since that's phrasing someone over 70 used in their youth.
I also never had Lyric firm in my mind. At one point, I thought Lyric was described as being shorter and overly curvy, which I took to mean a bit chubby. I was thrilled by this and being bisexual, as both aren't often used to describe teenage girls in the young adult genre. She describers herself as not being athletic, yet she runs continuously as a hobby. A large portion of the beginning quarter of the novel focused on Lyric jogging. While I knew what color and type of sports bra she had beneath her tanks tops and windbreaker, I never got an accurate image of the heroine affixed in my head, as what I thought she would look like contradicted other descriptions.
Lyric has dreams, nightmares really, that show her insight into her life that has been kept from her. As usual in the young adult, fantasy genre, Lyric doesn't know she has powers, thinking herself below average, not knowing how she fits into the world, but then finds out she is rather extraordinary instead. The boy (even though Rhodes is over 21) is the one with the information Lyric needs.
Where I had issue with the magic system and world-building... it was glossed over, same as with Lyric's appearance, the characters' personalities jumping all over the place, and their motivations were muddy, yet I can remember what foods were in the burritos, washing of the sheets on a daily basis, the color and material of the sports bras, the number of tank tops beneath the highly detailed mesh windbreaker, the color of the leggings, and the type of shoes. What I needed explained never was to my satisfaction.
From a young adult's standpoint, no doubt they will be intrigued and find enjoyment in this novel and the series. I do believe the plot, the way the characters interacted with one another, this is far younger than the 18-20+ age-range of the characters, more like 12-14 in their behavior and dialogue. I did struggle with this, as it didn't read as adults in the novel- I wish their ages had been nudged to be younger.
Writing this review from my adult standpoint, I must admit I didn't enjoy this as much as I hoped I would. In a nutshell, everything felt forced. The flow, the direction the plot took, the connections the characters had with one another, all of it felt forced.
While I do recommend this novel to young adults, I'm not sure how it will be received by adults. I won't be continuing on with the series.
March 20, 2019
My first thoughts after finishing From Breath and Ruin: decent, curious, and I definetly want more. From Breath and Ruin is a chosen one story about Lyric a young woman who has just graduated high school. Her biggest problem should be trying to figure out her major when she goes to college in the fall. But, then the shadows from Lyric’s nightmares become real and she finds herself in another realm fighting in a war that has been going on for centuries. Oh, and she also has magic powers in this other realm.
I thought From to Breath was a pretty good start to series about a young woman finding out she is a chosen one. I will admit that for me the story does start out a little slow. I thought there might have a little too many chapters about Lyric and her internal battle with her college major. But, once the story does get going it was definitely full of action.
I liked that Lyric is bisexual and that her parents don’t even bat an eyelash at her. But, like her dad, I am not sure I could be friends with my ex girlfriend. Lyric made the decision to date one her best friends and keep her in life. Lyric has two best friend sidekicks in this story: her ex girlfriend and her friend since Kindergarten. So, of course, when Lyric goes into another realm her best friends go with her. I do agree with some other reviews I have seen that her friends are a little two dimensional because this story is about Lyric and what these characters can do to help her grow.
All in all, From Breath and Ruin is definitely a cheesy chosen one story. But, I am curious to to find out where the story is going. I am curious to find out how the characters keep developing especially with Lyric's best friends because I have feeling there is more to their story too. I will admit there was a lot of set up in this first book but I did like the world and direction the story was headed. So, I know I will be picking up the next book in this series.
I thought From to Breath was a pretty good start to series about a young woman finding out she is a chosen one. I will admit that for me the story does start out a little slow. I thought there might have a little too many chapters about Lyric and her internal battle with her college major. But, once the story does get going it was definitely full of action.
I liked that Lyric is bisexual and that her parents don’t even bat an eyelash at her. But, like her dad, I am not sure I could be friends with my ex girlfriend. Lyric made the decision to date one her best friends and keep her in life. Lyric has two best friend sidekicks in this story: her ex girlfriend and her friend since Kindergarten. So, of course, when Lyric goes into another realm her best friends go with her. I do agree with some other reviews I have seen that her friends are a little two dimensional because this story is about Lyric and what these characters can do to help her grow.
All in all, From Breath and Ruin is definitely a cheesy chosen one story. But, I am curious to to find out where the story is going. I am curious to find out how the characters keep developing especially with Lyric's best friends because I have feeling there is more to their story too. I will admit there was a lot of set up in this first book but I did like the world and direction the story was headed. So, I know I will be picking up the next book in this series.
March 24, 2019
I wasn't sure what to expect from this one. I've read both Paranormal and Contemporary romances from this author, but YA was something new. In fact the only reason I read the book was because of the author.
I wasn't disappointed. Lyric was a heroine that I could relate to. An 18 year old on the cusp of adulthood, feeling like she's floundering. She's going to college, but only because she doesn't have anything else to do. She doesn't know what she wants to do, but is feeling pressured by her well meaning parents. Her two best friends, Braelynn and Emory, have their futures mapped out. Then there are the weird dreams she's having. She hasn't had a good nights sleep in a while because of them.
The three girls lives are turned upside down when on a hike with two of the stranger members of their community, Rhodes, who Lyric has a crush on, and his sister Rosamond. Lyric has an accident and Rosamond is captured and they enter a different realm to save her. One with with separate warring kingdoms, the lands of Earth, Fire, Water and Air. They meet new people, see new type of creatures and learn that things are not always as they seem. Lyric has a special function in this new realm and she must navigate the territories, unlock her new powers and unite the kingdoms. Of course, she is in denial, but by the end, she can't deny her role anymore.
This book has ups and downs. I cheered out loud during battles, and cried at deaths. I think the end came so that the reader could step back and take a deep breath. It has drawn me in and captured my imagination. I was surprised quite often and I have to say that although I can usually pick out a plot, I totally didn't expect what happened. I'm now impatiently waiting for the next book in this series.
I wasn't disappointed. Lyric was a heroine that I could relate to. An 18 year old on the cusp of adulthood, feeling like she's floundering. She's going to college, but only because she doesn't have anything else to do. She doesn't know what she wants to do, but is feeling pressured by her well meaning parents. Her two best friends, Braelynn and Emory, have their futures mapped out. Then there are the weird dreams she's having. She hasn't had a good nights sleep in a while because of them.
The three girls lives are turned upside down when on a hike with two of the stranger members of their community, Rhodes, who Lyric has a crush on, and his sister Rosamond. Lyric has an accident and Rosamond is captured and they enter a different realm to save her. One with with separate warring kingdoms, the lands of Earth, Fire, Water and Air. They meet new people, see new type of creatures and learn that things are not always as they seem. Lyric has a special function in this new realm and she must navigate the territories, unlock her new powers and unite the kingdoms. Of course, she is in denial, but by the end, she can't deny her role anymore.
This book has ups and downs. I cheered out loud during battles, and cried at deaths. I think the end came so that the reader could step back and take a deep breath. It has drawn me in and captured my imagination. I was surprised quite often and I have to say that although I can usually pick out a plot, I totally didn't expect what happened. I'm now impatiently waiting for the next book in this series.
March 20, 2019
From Breath and Ruin is the first book in the Elements of Five series by Carrie Ann Ryan. This is not your usual CAR book though. This is a YA book where we barely get any kisses. Also, this is not a stand-alone novel and Lyric's story will continue on book 2. Despite some WTF moments, I had in the beginning, I must say that From breath and Ruin was a great book, with a lot of action and a good introduction to this new universe. Our heroine (and narrator) is not aware of the supernatural world and she slowly finds more and more about it. That means that we only know what she knows, which is not much, to be honest.
The review below might seem like a negative one, but it's not. I loved From Breath and Ruin and I will read the rest of the books even if I have to buy them (No, I am not a pirate, I got an ARC). I got very invested in the series and I want to see where Lyric's journey will take her.
Carrie Ann Ryan decided to write a different genre and this book was the result. I feel like it came from hell. I don't think I have read a book of hers that managed to ruin me in so many ways. Since this is the first book in the series, I was expecting something light and not so wrecking. I wasn't expecting half of the things that happened. My shipper's heart was crushed beyond repair. In my mind, I had 3 couples that I thought were perfect and only one of them has a chance now. I haven't had my hopes crashed so hard in a long time. Rhodes is my man and the last few chapters crashed me. He is a true YA paranormal book boyfriend and he was swoon-worthy. Emory of the other hand was someone I disliked from the very first page, so I hope that she won't be Lyric's endgame. She could be a casualty for all I care. I can't shake the feeling that someone we know is shady and could be on the bad guys' side. I hope am wrong though.
I am trying to hard not to say much because this is the kind of book where you don't want to read any kind of spoilers. I am hurting though and I need someone to talk to after finishing the story, so I suggest to buddy read this one if you can. Or find someone to "rant" to.
The review below might seem like a negative one, but it's not. I loved From Breath and Ruin and I will read the rest of the books even if I have to buy them (No, I am not a pirate, I got an ARC). I got very invested in the series and I want to see where Lyric's journey will take her.
Carrie Ann Ryan decided to write a different genre and this book was the result. I feel like it came from hell. I don't think I have read a book of hers that managed to ruin me in so many ways. Since this is the first book in the series, I was expecting something light and not so wrecking. I wasn't expecting half of the things that happened. My shipper's heart was crushed beyond repair. In my mind, I had 3 couples that I thought were perfect and only one of them has a chance now. I haven't had my hopes crashed so hard in a long time. Rhodes is my man and the last few chapters crashed me. He is a true YA paranormal book boyfriend and he was swoon-worthy. Emory of the other hand was someone I disliked from the very first page, so I hope that she won't be Lyric's endgame. She could be a casualty for all I care. I can't shake the feeling that someone we know is shady and could be on the bad guys' side. I hope am wrong though.
I am trying to hard not to say much because this is the kind of book where you don't want to read any kind of spoilers. I am hurting though and I need someone to talk to after finishing the story, so I suggest to buddy read this one if you can. Or find someone to "rant" to.
August 23, 2019
Ebook provided by NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.
Our world, today: Lyric believes to be a normal girl, and why wouldn’t she. Rhodes and Rosamond are brother and sister and decide to invite Lyric, her ex and her best friend to a hiking trip. Something sinister happens, Lyric thinks she is crazy. Other things happen and she is suddenly transported in a parallel universe in which she discovers to be someone important to the brothers and for the world’s safety.
Not a lot to say because, man, this was an adventure. Beautifully written, characters that actually behave the way I would, and the relationships are put at risk. Braelynn is a beautiful supporting character, one of my favorites of all time, and I think her story was the most interesting of all. Rhodes is everyone’s dream coming true, the boy I would love to have beside me. The thing that I loved the most was not the relationship between Rhodes and Lyric but the friendship, amazing and oh so real friendship, between Lyric and Braelynn.
The only critic I have to move is about the finale, it was a bit fast. I could understand everything, I just wished it was a little bit longer, and some things more detailed.
Final vote: 4/5
Our world, today: Lyric believes to be a normal girl, and why wouldn’t she. Rhodes and Rosamond are brother and sister and decide to invite Lyric, her ex and her best friend to a hiking trip. Something sinister happens, Lyric thinks she is crazy. Other things happen and she is suddenly transported in a parallel universe in which she discovers to be someone important to the brothers and for the world’s safety.
Not a lot to say because, man, this was an adventure. Beautifully written, characters that actually behave the way I would, and the relationships are put at risk. Braelynn is a beautiful supporting character, one of my favorites of all time, and I think her story was the most interesting of all. Rhodes is everyone’s dream coming true, the boy I would love to have beside me. The thing that I loved the most was not the relationship between Rhodes and Lyric but the friendship, amazing and oh so real friendship, between Lyric and Braelynn.
The only critic I have to move is about the finale, it was a bit fast. I could understand everything, I just wished it was a little bit longer, and some things more detailed.
Final vote: 4/5
March 19, 2019
This is a brand new series in the YA genre for an author that normally writes PNR and Contemporaries. I am always a little iffy about reading YA books because they seem to either be absolutely great or I hate them no matter how much I try to feel differently. But I love the way this author writes and all her other books are great so I figured, why not? And I am so beyond glad that I did! Lyric is a character that I found easy to love and want to know more about. The side characters keep you wanting to know more about their different relationships and how they all came about and how they will evolve with time. I would absolutely make sure that you pay attention because there are a lot of details involved with this first story and they help build the whole world and the bigger story, but if you aren't paying attention you may miss some things (I did LOL) and have to go back and reread part of it so that it makes sense to you. For me, this book is the best start to this series. And with the way it goes and how much I didn't want it to end? It reminded me of how I felt while reading Harry Potter and The Hunger Games! I can't wait to see where the other books in this series takes us!
March 16, 2019
Before reading this I didn't think I was much of a fantasy fan and was a little leary about reading this. I LOVED the Dante's Circle series, so I'm not really sure where this doubt came from. All of those doubts melted away after the first two chapters. I was instantly hooked and incredibly curious. I had to know what this was all about. What did these dreams mean and what did all of these people have to do with anything. I don't know if was my curiosity, or if the writing was just that good, but I just HAD to go on.
One of the beautiful and amazing things about Carrie Ann's writing is the amount of detail she uses. From the scenery to the characters themselves, she has the PERFECT amount of detail. Throughout the whole story I could truly picture everything that Lyric saw. In addition to the detail, she always use the perfect amount of emotions. I was constantly feeling something, it was almost as if I were one with Lyric. There's just something about Carrie Ann's writing that is so special. You almost feel as if you are in the world she's writing about, like you're watching a movie, not reading a book.
Now, it's talk about these amazing characters. I ADORE Braelynn and Lyric, but I HATED Emory from the beginning. She was such a damn downer. Then we also have Rhodes and Rosamond, I knew they were special and I loved the connection they had with Lyric. I am soooo big on supporting characters, I think that Braelynn and the addition of Luken, made for such great supporting characters. We got to see just enough of them to keep it interesting, and we really got to have a special connection with them because of their connection with Lyric and Rhodes. Add to all of this these minor love stories, the mysteriousness of this new world and the battles these amazing characters are facing, it equals one hell of an amazing tale.
I'm so glad that I didn't let me "thoughts" deter me from reading this book. I loved every single minute of it. It's such a fantastically written story, and I really hope others enjoy it also!
One of the beautiful and amazing things about Carrie Ann's writing is the amount of detail she uses. From the scenery to the characters themselves, she has the PERFECT amount of detail. Throughout the whole story I could truly picture everything that Lyric saw. In addition to the detail, she always use the perfect amount of emotions. I was constantly feeling something, it was almost as if I were one with Lyric. There's just something about Carrie Ann's writing that is so special. You almost feel as if you are in the world she's writing about, like you're watching a movie, not reading a book.
Now, it's talk about these amazing characters. I ADORE Braelynn and Lyric, but I HATED Emory from the beginning. She was such a damn downer. Then we also have Rhodes and Rosamond, I knew they were special and I loved the connection they had with Lyric. I am soooo big on supporting characters, I think that Braelynn and the addition of Luken, made for such great supporting characters. We got to see just enough of them to keep it interesting, and we really got to have a special connection with them because of their connection with Lyric and Rhodes. Add to all of this these minor love stories, the mysteriousness of this new world and the battles these amazing characters are facing, it equals one hell of an amazing tale.
I'm so glad that I didn't let me "thoughts" deter me from reading this book. I loved every single minute of it. It's such a fantastically written story, and I really hope others enjoy it also!
March 24, 2019
From the moment I started reading this book, I just could not put it down. I wasn't sure what to expect, Ryan is well known for her erotic romance and paranormal. This is a completely new and different kind of book and genre from what I'm used to reading from her. There is such a natural and unhurried flow to the characters and the story progression that you can't help but be brought into the story and feel as if you are witnessing it first hand.
Lyric is a young woman, fresh out of high school, who after an accident sets off on a quest to find out what she really is and what her role is in this new world she knew nothing of.
I can't say much else because when I get excited about a new book, I risk giving spoilers away. Suffice it to say that I absolutely loved Lyric's story and cannot wait for book 2.
Lyric is a young woman, fresh out of high school, who after an accident sets off on a quest to find out what she really is and what her role is in this new world she knew nothing of.
I can't say much else because when I get excited about a new book, I risk giving spoilers away. Suffice it to say that I absolutely loved Lyric's story and cannot wait for book 2.
April 8, 2019
I normally really like this author, but this book ended up being a bit meh…for me. I had a hard time buying into Lyric being the one to save everyone in the alternate universe. I would have liked to know how Lyric managed to have these powers when most people on Earth were mundane non magic users. I also had a hard time with what happened to those that went on the trip with Lyric and had a hard time buying into the romance angle. At this point I’m not sure if I’m going to keep reading this series, maybe if it shows up at my library.
March 13, 2019
From Breath and Ruin is Book 1 in a new YA series by Carrie Ann Ryan. I don't typically read a lot of YA (it seems a bit creepy to be reading about characters that are my kids' ages LOL) but I love everything else this author has written so I thought "why not?".
The back story is a tad bit on the complex side so I found that I really had to read closely and a bit slower than I normally do in order to stay focused and engaged. At about the halfway mark, however, I caught the groove and it was smooth sailing after that.
Overall I enjoyed the strange new world that Lyric and her friends found themselves within. Lots of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait to see how it all plays out. Looking forward to Book 2.
The back story is a tad bit on the complex side so I found that I really had to read closely and a bit slower than I normally do in order to stay focused and engaged. At about the halfway mark, however, I caught the groove and it was smooth sailing after that.
Overall I enjoyed the strange new world that Lyric and her friends found themselves within. Lots of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait to see how it all plays out. Looking forward to Book 2.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 205 reviews