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Elemental Academy #6
The Chaos Rises
The Draasin Lord is captured but a greater threat remains.
Now that Tolan knows the secret of the Draasin Lord, he recognizes more needs to be done. As a student, he’s not in a position to be able to do more, but as a master shaper, he’d be free to travel as he feels necessary.
When another attack targets the academy, Tolan knows his unique abilities might make him the only shaper able to respond.
He must survive crossing the waste, but even if he does, how can he stop the chaos where none can shape the elements and where no elementals can survive?
Now that Tolan knows the secret of the Draasin Lord, he recognizes more needs to be done. As a student, he’s not in a position to be able to do more, but as a master shaper, he’d be free to travel as he feels necessary.
When another attack targets the academy, Tolan knows his unique abilities might make him the only shaper able to respond.
He must survive crossing the waste, but even if he does, how can he stop the chaos where none can shape the elements and where no elementals can survive?
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 5, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 30, 2020
Well, now we near the end and the pace is picking up. Our hero Tolan is now a master shaper (a long way from when he was just a guy who appeared to be on the road for having no ability at all!) and of course the world is about to come to an end. So he must cross a barren wasteland where his recently acquired skills and education may be completely useless in the fight to save all he holds dear.
Another entry in the series that seems to feel like it's finally starting to gel together. More action happens and it feels like the author got to the good parts. Again, it's not a terrible series but it has been one where it's best to read each book in one go rather than picking up the stories here and there and not allowing too much time to pass between books.
Some of the problems in the previous books remain here. It felt like the author needed much stronger editing (even though as mentioned, the story finally feels like it's coming together) and guidance to have been hammered into an omnibus or a trilogy, etc. Seven books is arguably too much and it took a little too long to finally reach the climax.
Still, as a "light" read for me where I just want to spend a little time somewhere else I'll continue on. It helped that it's currently available via Kindle Unlimited--I can respect if you prefer paper versions (as do I!) but I wouldn't have continued this if I had to wait for new books to be either published at all or via library holds.
On to the end!
Another entry in the series that seems to feel like it's finally starting to gel together. More action happens and it feels like the author got to the good parts. Again, it's not a terrible series but it has been one where it's best to read each book in one go rather than picking up the stories here and there and not allowing too much time to pass between books.
Some of the problems in the previous books remain here. It felt like the author needed much stronger editing (even though as mentioned, the story finally feels like it's coming together) and guidance to have been hammered into an omnibus or a trilogy, etc. Seven books is arguably too much and it took a little too long to finally reach the climax.
Still, as a "light" read for me where I just want to spend a little time somewhere else I'll continue on. It helped that it's currently available via Kindle Unlimited--I can respect if you prefer paper versions (as do I!) but I wouldn't have continued this if I had to wait for new books to be either published at all or via library holds.
On to the end!
July 25, 2023
Midway thru... ahrg...but just keep on going.
Okay, so I love this author's books and have read a handful of the series in two different worlds. But this book and the previous (5 & 6) were a little rough for me. Not the storyline, mind you. The story itself is great and is the only reason I kept trudging through it. I don't know what was going on with the author or if he was sick or just super SUPER preoccupied, but there are missing or misplaced words sprinkled throughout both 5 and 6. That's not so bad, I can easily just overlook that. The issue I had was the names getting mixed up or with contradictory thoughts and sentences. This book was heavy on contradictions of various kinds. Sometimes in the same sentence even! I only really noticed it towards the middle of the book. So much so, that I started marking them at 41% until 44%. They may have happened at other times, but didn't seem exceedingly bad until then. It got on my nerves a bit. It's like there was absolutely no proofreading done whatsoever. Just pound it out, whatever comes to mind, that's the story, and there it goes. I don't know.... maybe it was just preoccupations or something during those parts of the final revision. Mistakes happen, he's only human.
But the storyline itself is great! By all means, you should read this and continue on the journey with Tolen! I just wanted to forewarn people so they wouldn't encounter these things and give up.
Okay, so I love this author's books and have read a handful of the series in two different worlds. But this book and the previous (5 & 6) were a little rough for me. Not the storyline, mind you. The story itself is great and is the only reason I kept trudging through it. I don't know what was going on with the author or if he was sick or just super SUPER preoccupied, but there are missing or misplaced words sprinkled throughout both 5 and 6. That's not so bad, I can easily just overlook that. The issue I had was the names getting mixed up or with contradictory thoughts and sentences. This book was heavy on contradictions of various kinds. Sometimes in the same sentence even! I only really noticed it towards the middle of the book. So much so, that I started marking them at 41% until 44%. They may have happened at other times, but didn't seem exceedingly bad until then. It got on my nerves a bit. It's like there was absolutely no proofreading done whatsoever. Just pound it out, whatever comes to mind, that's the story, and there it goes. I don't know.... maybe it was just preoccupations or something during those parts of the final revision. Mistakes happen, he's only human.
But the storyline itself is great! By all means, you should read this and continue on the journey with Tolen! I just wanted to forewarn people so they wouldn't encounter these things and give up.
March 9, 2026
3 - 3.5 Stars
The Chaos Rises is the sixth book in the Elemental Academy series by D.K. Holmberg. This is an engaging blend of magic, mystery, and character growth that will definitely appeal to fans of YA academy-style fantasy, with a twist. D.K. Holmberg crafts a world where elemental magic is both a gift and a danger, and where the line between friend and foe is often blurred.
At the heart of the story is Tolan Ethar, who begins his journey without the shaping abilities that define most students at the Academy. Tolan’s struggles are not just about mastering magic, but about proving his worth in a world that underestimates him. As the plot unfolds, the stakes rise from personal challenges to large-scale threats involving rogue elementals, ancient secrets, and the survival of the Academy itself.
The elemental magic system feels well thought out, with clear rules and creative applications that keep battles and problem-solving fresh. The series also balances its magical conflicts with themes of resilience, loyalty, and the search for identity.
Some readers might find the pacing in the early books a bit slow compared to the later, high-intensity installments, but this gradual build-up allows for deeper world-building and character development.
If you enjoy academy fantasy with a determined underdog hero, inventive magic, and a mix of danger and camaraderie, then ‘The Elemental Academy’ series just might be worth diving into.
Happy Reading…
The Chaos Rises is the sixth book in the Elemental Academy series by D.K. Holmberg. This is an engaging blend of magic, mystery, and character growth that will definitely appeal to fans of YA academy-style fantasy, with a twist. D.K. Holmberg crafts a world where elemental magic is both a gift and a danger, and where the line between friend and foe is often blurred.
At the heart of the story is Tolan Ethar, who begins his journey without the shaping abilities that define most students at the Academy. Tolan’s struggles are not just about mastering magic, but about proving his worth in a world that underestimates him. As the plot unfolds, the stakes rise from personal challenges to large-scale threats involving rogue elementals, ancient secrets, and the survival of the Academy itself.
The elemental magic system feels well thought out, with clear rules and creative applications that keep battles and problem-solving fresh. The series also balances its magical conflicts with themes of resilience, loyalty, and the search for identity.
Some readers might find the pacing in the early books a bit slow compared to the later, high-intensity installments, but this gradual build-up allows for deeper world-building and character development.
If you enjoy academy fantasy with a determined underdog hero, inventive magic, and a mix of danger and camaraderie, then ‘The Elemental Academy’ series just might be worth diving into.
Happy Reading…
March 20, 2020
DNF 41%
This series started off interesting, but after 5 books and part way through book 6 there's yet to be any character development. Tolan has the same personality he did in book 1. This is despite constant abuse from his teachers, peers and . An interesting premise that I grew less and less interested in through the last three books.
This series started off interesting, but after 5 books and part way through book 6 there's yet to be any character development. Tolan has the same personality he did in book 1. This is despite constant abuse from his teachers, peers and . An interesting premise that I grew less and less interested in through the last three books.
June 14, 2024
This book was action-packed, keeping me thrilled and excited until the very end of the series. While many questions remain unanswered, there have been significant revelations as well. Tolan's mother is revealed to be purely evil and power-hungry. I hope they find her partner and bring an end to the war. Tolan has truly become an overpowered main character. The progress and improvement he has shown from the beginning are both impressive and a little frightening.
I laughed when Draln discovered that Tolan and Ferrah were already Master Shapers while he still remained a third-level student shaper. It certainly hit his cocky pride hard. I hope he never gets the chance to take the Master Shaper test.
I am excited to start the last book and eventually conclude the series.
I laughed when Draln discovered that Tolan and Ferrah were already Master Shapers while he still remained a third-level student shaper. It certainly hit his cocky pride hard. I hope he never gets the chance to take the Master Shaper test.
I am excited to start the last book and eventually conclude the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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!
July 6, 2020
More interesting development. Fun and interesting read, but not as much character. I must have misread a few things here and there because I hit continuity issues on minor details, but I expect that was my fault. Not sure how the others got out of the waste that one time. (The new bondars. Guess it was closer than I’d thought.) I missed the sense of character from the minor characters. Looking forward to the last book, and other books by this author.
3 stars is my typical rating.
3 stars is my typical rating.
June 2, 2021
Elemental Warrior Series book 6
This has been a fun adventure reading this series. I have one more book left to read. The skills and power that Tolan has learned will hold him well to defeat or subdue what he is to encounter.
This has been a fun adventure reading this series. I have one more book left to read. The skills and power that Tolan has learned will hold him well to defeat or subdue what he is to encounter.
March 10, 2020
Yes Great
I loved the way Tolan has grown with power and understanding. The mom twist is very good. The bond with his girlfriend grows.
I loved the way Tolan has grown with power and understanding. The mom twist is very good. The bond with his girlfriend grows.
December 13, 2020
Much more plot development and progress in this book. Glad we are over the repetition of the same ideas over and over again
December 20, 2020
Wonderful
Tolan‘s journey is not done yet. His mother escaped again, but at least the guardian was restored. Now Tolan can focus on what’s next.
Tolan‘s journey is not done yet. His mother escaped again, but at least the guardian was restored. Now Tolan can focus on what’s next.
March 14, 2021
losing coherence
April 1, 2021
It's a good read
I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to anyone that like magic with plot twist and lots of action
I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to anyone that like magic with plot twist and lots of action
April 27, 2021
I love these books!
Hooked from the get go. Fantastic story, characters, development and ending. Will be moving onto the last one now! Can't wait.
Hooked from the get go. Fantastic story, characters, development and ending. Will be moving onto the last one now! Can't wait.
October 25, 2021
Fast action and more things take place to help create a better understanding and a need to read more.
December 16, 2023
I liked this series. The story is building up and give you the draw to get on. And when this I was done and learned about the next series in the same world I went on to that right away
November 8, 2019
Nice
Another fun book to read but the plot twists are finally becoming a bit like work to keep track of. The series could have ended just fine here but one more book is ok.
Another fun book to read but the plot twists are finally becoming a bit like work to keep track of. The series could have ended just fine here but one more book is ok.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews