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Elemental Academy #7
The Elements Bond
The key to finding the one responsible for the attack on Terndahl involves crossing the waste, but is Tolan willing to risk the tenuous peace they've achieved for revenge?
Now a master shaper, Tolan must serve the Academy but he understands the risk his mother poses. While others want to study the power out on the waste, Tolan sees the need to look beyond Terndahl. His mother remains at large, and they still don’t know her ultimate goal.
When a chance encounter while traveling with the Draasin Lord reveals something unexpected, Tolan realizes he must expedite the plan to explore beyond the waste. What he finds there changes everything he knows about the elements—and the elementals.
The final book in Elemental Academy series.
Now a master shaper, Tolan must serve the Academy but he understands the risk his mother poses. While others want to study the power out on the waste, Tolan sees the need to look beyond Terndahl. His mother remains at large, and they still don’t know her ultimate goal.
When a chance encounter while traveling with the Draasin Lord reveals something unexpected, Tolan realizes he must expedite the plan to explore beyond the waste. What he finds there changes everything he knows about the elements—and the elementals.
The final book in Elemental Academy series.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 18, 2019
625 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 23, 2019
Whole series was entertaining, even with typos, BUT it doesn't really go anywhere
The main issue I have with DK's books is that they feel like the book form of serialized TV. I.e., book after book which, while internally interesting and entertaining, aren't really going anywhere. Like this particular series: the last book, which you'd expect to be the conclusion of some major arc, doesn't really wrap anything up. It more or less just ends and attempts to send you forward to yet another series featuring The same character. Having another series featuring The same characters wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing IF the series had had a strong primary arc which was satisfactorily explored and resolved, with minor threads connecting this series to the next one. But that isn't the case here. Conflicts seem somewhat contrived to just motivate another book without having a meaningful reason to exist. I mean, yes, all the conflicts are obviously intended to develop the main character (and they do), but they don't organically spring from a feeling of a rich world populated by characters with opposed goals. Well, okay, some of them did, at first, but then there were the paper cutout villains (the Blood Priests), and then the Hjan started losing their sense of complexity too. In short the first few books felt like they were going somewhere BIGGER with a meaningful theme and outcome, but then it just petered out and I found myself skimming a lot since it constantly started rehashing what had previously occurred in the series. I won't continue to follow these characters in this world in the next series because (at this point) I have lost confidence that the narrative is going anywhere. Like serialized TV it feels like it'll go on and on and on until people stop reading and it gets "cancelled."
Following along (which is what this feels like) with a character's life gets tiresome if it feels like it's a contrived journey with lots of rehashing of previous events and musings. At some point it just becomes boring. Like this series really should have had her set up her network and use it to resolve some important problem in the world. Don't drag it out just to fill more books with words. Respect your readers time and attention.
This is the second series I've read by DK, and they both suffer from the same issues. I doubt I'll read more of the author's work because I don't want to continue to feel strung along... Like maaaybe some day, some book, some series there might eventually be a good conclusion to things...or maybe it'll just eventually end without any resolution at all.
It's clear to me that the author has the skill to create entertaining stories which conclude meaningfully, but just chooses to stretch them out into more books and series' then necessary... massively diluting the impact of the overall narrative. It's not a good business decision if it costs you long-term readers. Anyway, enough of my soap box.
The main issue I have with DK's books is that they feel like the book form of serialized TV. I.e., book after book which, while internally interesting and entertaining, aren't really going anywhere. Like this particular series: the last book, which you'd expect to be the conclusion of some major arc, doesn't really wrap anything up. It more or less just ends and attempts to send you forward to yet another series featuring The same character. Having another series featuring The same characters wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing IF the series had had a strong primary arc which was satisfactorily explored and resolved, with minor threads connecting this series to the next one. But that isn't the case here. Conflicts seem somewhat contrived to just motivate another book without having a meaningful reason to exist. I mean, yes, all the conflicts are obviously intended to develop the main character (and they do), but they don't organically spring from a feeling of a rich world populated by characters with opposed goals. Well, okay, some of them did, at first, but then there were the paper cutout villains (the Blood Priests), and then the Hjan started losing their sense of complexity too. In short the first few books felt like they were going somewhere BIGGER with a meaningful theme and outcome, but then it just petered out and I found myself skimming a lot since it constantly started rehashing what had previously occurred in the series. I won't continue to follow these characters in this world in the next series because (at this point) I have lost confidence that the narrative is going anywhere. Like serialized TV it feels like it'll go on and on and on until people stop reading and it gets "cancelled."
Following along (which is what this feels like) with a character's life gets tiresome if it feels like it's a contrived journey with lots of rehashing of previous events and musings. At some point it just becomes boring. Like this series really should have had her set up her network and use it to resolve some important problem in the world. Don't drag it out just to fill more books with words. Respect your readers time and attention.
This is the second series I've read by DK, and they both suffer from the same issues. I doubt I'll read more of the author's work because I don't want to continue to feel strung along... Like maaaybe some day, some book, some series there might eventually be a good conclusion to things...or maybe it'll just eventually end without any resolution at all.
It's clear to me that the author has the skill to create entertaining stories which conclude meaningfully, but just chooses to stretch them out into more books and series' then necessary... massively diluting the impact of the overall narrative. It's not a good business decision if it costs you long-term readers. Anyway, enough of my soap box.
January 30, 2020
We've reached the end of this particular story with Tolan, who must confront someone from his past--his own mother. In a final showdown Tolan must use everything he has learned, experienced, and accomplished thus far to protect those that he loves and all that he holds dear.
This particular book is a 3.5 as it feels like once the author found that it was time to finish the book, it all finally felt like it came together. That said, I understand the critical reviews of the book. Overall, this is a series that is best consumed all at once: don't put a book down too often and/or don't let too much time pass.
Why do I say that? For me the parts are there and I understand the story the author wants to tell but it feels like the story is not quite "mature" or fleshed out. I never felt I really understood the magical system, didn't particularly care for any of the characters, etc. Ultimately I binged-read a series but it was forgettable as soon as I completed each entry.
I enjoy stories that deal with elemental magic (see: 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' and Korra, the Codex Alera series by Jim Butcher, etc.) but this never quite got there for me.
I actually purchased a physical book version of another one of his series but after completing this one I'd say this author is not for me. But if you want some YA (I'd say it's YA or perhaps for a very advanced Middle Grade reader) with elemental magic and nothing resembling grimdark (there is violence and all that but it's not bloody and I somewhat doubt there's much that'd be objectionable unless you only stick to PG-rated movies, etc.).
Good as a binge-read that is fairly escapist but ultimately not a tale that will stick with you.
This particular book is a 3.5 as it feels like once the author found that it was time to finish the book, it all finally felt like it came together. That said, I understand the critical reviews of the book. Overall, this is a series that is best consumed all at once: don't put a book down too often and/or don't let too much time pass.
Why do I say that? For me the parts are there and I understand the story the author wants to tell but it feels like the story is not quite "mature" or fleshed out. I never felt I really understood the magical system, didn't particularly care for any of the characters, etc. Ultimately I binged-read a series but it was forgettable as soon as I completed each entry.
I enjoy stories that deal with elemental magic (see: 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' and Korra, the Codex Alera series by Jim Butcher, etc.) but this never quite got there for me.
I actually purchased a physical book version of another one of his series but after completing this one I'd say this author is not for me. But if you want some YA (I'd say it's YA or perhaps for a very advanced Middle Grade reader) with elemental magic and nothing resembling grimdark (there is violence and all that but it's not bloody and I somewhat doubt there's much that'd be objectionable unless you only stick to PG-rated movies, etc.).
Good as a binge-read that is fairly escapist but ultimately not a tale that will stick with you.
November 27, 2019
Tolan became more annoying the longer I read
Ultimately Tolan spent most of this book looking for knowledge and understanding while blindly ignoring everything around him. He was almost autistic in his social awkwardness. Then in just about every conflict he “senses power”, then “looks for answers”, finally adds Spirit (about every @#£ time and it always comes as a surprise) before searching even deeper inside himself for even more answers. Curiously he rarely actually asks anyone for answers, though in fairness when he does they tend to answer with something meaningless like “long time”. By the end of the book, this level of internal navel-gazing means he should have been looking out the soles of his feet!
He starts this book with. Self made warrior bondar sword that he confidently forgets about every time he goes into conflict.
[Spoiler]
I recognise that his mother was being set up for the classic Golem finish, but really. How many times does he have to get hit over the head to accept she’s a wrong’n?
And finally, in other books in the series, the ability to shape was in addition to physical action. In this book nobody just punched somebody on the nose. By the end of the book, my vote would be on Tolan.
Ultimately Tolan spent most of this book looking for knowledge and understanding while blindly ignoring everything around him. He was almost autistic in his social awkwardness. Then in just about every conflict he “senses power”, then “looks for answers”, finally adds Spirit (about every @#£ time and it always comes as a surprise) before searching even deeper inside himself for even more answers. Curiously he rarely actually asks anyone for answers, though in fairness when he does they tend to answer with something meaningless like “long time”. By the end of the book, this level of internal navel-gazing means he should have been looking out the soles of his feet!
He starts this book with. Self made warrior bondar sword that he confidently forgets about every time he goes into conflict.
[Spoiler]
I recognise that his mother was being set up for the classic Golem finish, but really. How many times does he have to get hit over the head to accept she’s a wrong’n?
And finally, in other books in the series, the ability to shape was in addition to physical action. In this book nobody just punched somebody on the nose. By the end of the book, my vote would be on Tolan.
March 27, 2022
Another Holmberg Masterpiece
I can't even remember now how many of these Holmberg Sagas I have read, and each one surprises me.
Why? I'm glad you asked! In each tale, he creates a world with magic and many characters. I'm surprised that hasn't duplicated ANYTHING! Not a magical Power (OK, one aspect of shaping is a little similar to sliding or traveling) not the name of a country, not a character, not a history... NOTHING.
I'm amazed at the imagination that continues to create all of this drama, suspense, action, and yes, even romance in so many different ways.
All I can hope is that D. K. Holmberg doesn't run out of ideas anytime soon!
I can't even remember now how many of these Holmberg Sagas I have read, and each one surprises me.
Why? I'm glad you asked! In each tale, he creates a world with magic and many characters. I'm surprised that hasn't duplicated ANYTHING! Not a magical Power (OK, one aspect of shaping is a little similar to sliding or traveling) not the name of a country, not a character, not a history... NOTHING.
I'm amazed at the imagination that continues to create all of this drama, suspense, action, and yes, even romance in so many different ways.
All I can hope is that D. K. Holmberg doesn't run out of ideas anytime soon!
January 14, 2021
The End sort of. (Spoiler alert)
Yeah, Loved the twist and turns of this series even in the end. Pleased Tolan is continuing in another series. My heart broke a bit with the end of Mom and Irina. I did find myself skimming and not as interested in this book as the others. More to me of being a bottom line type of person, I get board with to much detail. I will continue with the next series
Yeah, Loved the twist and turns of this series even in the end. Pleased Tolan is continuing in another series. My heart broke a bit with the end of Mom and Irina. I did find myself skimming and not as interested in this book as the others. More to me of being a bottom line type of person, I get board with to much detail. I will continue with the next series
December 5, 2019
Very satisfying, in almost every way.
The ending of this series of novels was exceptional. The only thing missing is being able to start reading the first book in the follow on books.
But, alas, all good things are worth waiting a short while to pass.
I know anyone who enjoys fantasy will agree.
The ending of this series of novels was exceptional. The only thing missing is being able to start reading the first book in the follow on books.
But, alas, all good things are worth waiting a short while to pass.
I know anyone who enjoys fantasy will agree.
December 15, 2019
Really needs an edit
The dialog was clunky, and a lot of it was repeated frequently enough that it seemed like the book never even got an initial edit, much less a professional one.
While it was a reasonably satisfying conclusion to the series, it was a slog to get through. I enjoyed the premise of the series but the quality took a pretty sharp decline as the series went on.
The dialog was clunky, and a lot of it was repeated frequently enough that it seemed like the book never even got an initial edit, much less a professional one.
While it was a reasonably satisfying conclusion to the series, it was a slog to get through. I enjoyed the premise of the series but the quality took a pretty sharp decline as the series went on.
May 18, 2020
Strong characters, with a great story makes this series a pleasure to read and enjoy. I have read most of this author's books and enjoyed them. I believe you will also. Unique world, strong characters and a story line that keeps you wanting to turn the next page, will make you a believer to. Great Reading Everyone!
June 19, 2021
Series with well developed characters
The story continues in another series following this one which was wrapped up nicely but since the last book got a bit verbose repeating itself and the required series of elements added a distraction to the story line. I can't continue to the next one.
The story continues in another series following this one which was wrapped up nicely but since the last book got a bit verbose repeating itself and the required series of elements added a distraction to the story line. I can't continue to the next one.
March 10, 2020
Great ending
Tolan and Ferrah are not finished I hope. Look forward to reading more of D K Holmberg stories. This was a great distraction from my studies. I lived through this series.
Tolan and Ferrah are not finished I hope. Look forward to reading more of D K Holmberg stories. This was a great distraction from my studies. I lived through this series.
December 24, 2020
Another wonderful series finished
As I’ve been saying throughout I have enjoyed this series. I am told that Tolan continues his adventures. I am looking forward to finding and starting that series. Enjoy
As I’ve been saying throughout I have enjoyed this series. I am told that Tolan continues his adventures. I am looking forward to finding and starting that series. Enjoy
June 7, 2021
Elemental Bond book 7
This was a fun series to read. I liked watching Tolan learn and develop the power to overcome what was thrown against him and succeed. Looking forward to reading the next step in his adventures.
This was a fun series to read. I liked watching Tolan learn and develop the power to overcome what was thrown against him and succeed. Looking forward to reading the next step in his adventures.
June 14, 2024
I would rate this 4.3, as I wasn't completely thrilled with the ending, but it still served as an epic conclusion to the series. There are still many issues that need to be addressed. All in all, I am satisfied.
November 21, 2019
Loved this series from DK Holmberg. Excited to hear that it will continue!
February 29, 2020
Entertaining Series
Enjoyed this gripping series. Great story of learning who you were meant to be and overcoming evil. Highly recommend this series
Enjoyed this gripping series. Great story of learning who you were meant to be and overcoming evil. Highly recommend this series
July 6, 2020
Satisfying ending.
Don’t know why Farrah stays with him. He as much as ignores her and we don’t get to know her very well.
A few proofreading errors.
Definitely plan to read more by this author.
Don’t know why Farrah stays with him. He as much as ignores her and we don’t get to know her very well.
A few proofreading errors.
Definitely plan to read more by this author.
October 11, 2020
Wow, DK has really outdone himself.
I started this series in reverse, reading the Elemental Warrior series first, then these. What a ride! Wanna see more from this universe.
I started this series in reverse, reading the Elemental Warrior series first, then these. What a ride! Wanna see more from this universe.
February 9, 2021
The Elements Bond
The seventh and final book in the Elemental Academy series. It s a fitting ending to the series as Tolan finally finds all the answers he has been looking for.
The seventh and final book in the Elemental Academy series. It s a fitting ending to the series as Tolan finally finds all the answers he has been looking for.
March 14, 2021
This is potentially a good series, but this was perhaps the worst edited book I ever read. So many repeats and just incoherence. Really needs a rewrite.
April 2, 2021
Very entertaining read
I enjoyed reading this book very much and would recommend it highly to anyone that like magic with plot twist and lots of action
I enjoyed reading this book very much and would recommend it highly to anyone that like magic with plot twist and lots of action
June 18, 2021
Pretty boring and anticlimactic for the last book in the series.
July 27, 2021
Fantastic read
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading these books. I am so immersed in them I am there fighting alongside Tolan. I so look forward to the next set of books.
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading these books. I am so immersed in them I am there fighting alongside Tolan. I so look forward to the next set of books.
September 12, 2021
Review of the elemental Academy.
I enjoyed the books very much the series was interesting. I am glad to see that a new series is starting.
I enjoyed the books very much the series was interesting. I am glad to see that a new series is starting.
August 6, 2022
Incredible read.
All I can say is, WOW! I read all 7 books and enjoyed how the characters kept growing in their powers. Spell binding is what it was.
All I can say is, WOW! I read all 7 books and enjoyed how the characters kept growing in their powers. Spell binding is what it was.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews