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The Elements of Kamdaria #5
River Gate
The people of Kamdaria are angry.
The empire is full of unrest. The aristocratic citizens of the Crown are angry at the emperor for lying about their enemy. The middle-class citizens of the Gate are angry at the state of their once great empire. And the poor, desperate citizens of the Storm are beginning to awake after years of oppression.
If Talise doesn't gain back their loyalty soon, it might be lost forever.
The empire is full of unrest. The aristocratic citizens of the Crown are angry at the emperor for lying about their enemy. The middle-class citizens of the Gate are angry at the state of their once great empire. And the poor, desperate citizens of the Storm are beginning to awake after years of oppression.
If Talise doesn't gain back their loyalty soon, it might be lost forever.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2020
17 people are currently reading
402 people want to read
About the author
Kay L. Moody
35 books861 followersKay L. Moody is the YA fantasy author of COURT OF BITTER THORN and THE ELEMENTS OF THE CROWN. Her books feature rich world building, slow burn romance, mythical creatures, and twisty plots.
As a lover of strong female characters, books, and the color pink, she enjoys diving into magical worlds where characters can overcome even their darkest struggles. She lives in the western United States with her husband and four sons. Connect with Kay directly when you follow her on social media @kaylmoody
Visit her website to learn more.
www.KayLMoody.com
As a lover of strong female characters, books, and the color pink, she enjoys diving into magical worlds where characters can overcome even their darkest struggles. She lives in the western United States with her husband and four sons. Connect with Kay directly when you follow her on social media @kaylmoody
Visit her website to learn more.
www.KayLMoody.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
March 15, 2020
Thoughts with side commentary:
🌊 Firstly, I'd like to thank the author/publisher with providing me a free copy to review. This does not affect my opinion.
🌊 This was a short book so I didn't get to take many notes on it
🌊 The emperor needs to die
🌊 I'd never thought I'd say this but...I kind of miss Aaden and his dumb goatee
🌊 I didn't need that ending without the next book having a release date 😑
🌊 Firstly, I'd like to thank the author/publisher with providing me a free copy to review. This does not affect my opinion.
🌊 This was a short book so I didn't get to take many notes on it
🌊 The emperor needs to die
🌊 I'd never thought I'd say this but...I kind of miss Aaden and his dumb goatee
🌊 I didn't need that ending without the next book having a release date 😑
March 15, 2020
Kay L. Moody has done it again . Her talents as an author never disappoint . This just keeps getting better and better . The world building is excellent and the way she draws you into it you feel as if you are there .
The main characters keep growing and along the way you the reader become vested into their story and you worry over choices they make And you have to keep reading to see how they turn out good or bad .
So do yourself a favor if you haven't read any of this series you then you are missing a fantastic series that you need to read .
Go buy this series sit back and enjoy and when your done come back and leave a review for this easy 5 star read .
The main characters keep growing and along the way you the reader become vested into their story and you worry over choices they make And you have to keep reading to see how they turn out good or bad .
So do yourself a favor if you haven't read any of this series you then you are missing a fantastic series that you need to read .
Go buy this series sit back and enjoy and when your done come back and leave a review for this easy 5 star read .
March 27, 2020
I adore this series so much! I love the storyline, it’s intriguing and exciting and I love Talise as she settles into her role, as she accepts her new responsibilities, she is totally kicking ass! The world this author has built continues to grow and develop as does the story and her characters and I eagerly await the next episode!
April 2, 2020
https://onebookmore.com/2020/03/21/re...
This is the fifth book in The Elements of Kamdaria Series, and I enjoyed it as much as the first four. The story focused on Talise and her relationships with her friends and the citizens of Kamdaria. It also delved more into her complicated relationship with the Emperor and explored her working toward making Kamdaria a better society for all citizens, despite the Emperor’s beliefs.
One aspect of the story that I really liked was how much growth Talise shows. Her maturation stems from her experiences in battle and captivity. She witnessed the assassination of most of her family when she was a child, and she was raised to lie and keep her identity a secret. She lived impoverished, went to school with few friends and one focus, and never had any money. She never left the confines of her school, and she fought for everything she had. Talise has lived a difficult life and survived in spite of it.
The one part of the story that I didn’t love was the absence of Aaden. At the end of the last book, Aaden left on a mission. This story doesn’t focus on Aaden at all – not his mission, not his return, nothing.
Not fair, Kay L. Moody! I need to know more!
Throughout the story, while trying to help those in need, Talise mourns the loss of Aaden and feels a supreme sense of betrayal. This was the one part of Talise that frustrated me. She does not have enough faith in Aaden and his love for her. After all they went through in the previous books, I find it hard to believe that he would just leave her and never return. I don’t understand her thinking, especially considering where he is and how it relates to his past (I don’t want to give too much away here).
That being said, I understand why Moody chose this plot path. Aaden’s absence evokes feelings of hurt, grief, and loss in Talise. It reminds her of her family and the many other losses she’s had to face. I love the way Moody describes Talise’s grief for Aaden and her family:
“So much nothing. But if it was nothing, then why did it hurt so much…It was an interesting thing living with such deep pain. It never went away or felt less painful. The ache always hid right there under the surface of her skin. But she’d been living with it for years now and had learned to make it a part of her.”
This is such a powerful, insightful, and truthful perspective on grief. She goes on to say more about the pain of loss, and the enormity of grief. Theses relatable feelings put a real authenticity to the thoughts and feelings of the characters.
“And there it was again, just as fresh as the day they died. It came at her from all sides, crashing down in waves. Suffocating the tiny light that dared to glow inside of her…It still shredded her and tore her apart from the inside out.”
This week marks the tenth anniversary of my beloved mother’s death, and I understand Talise’s feelings completely in this scene. They are raw and true and difficult, and it added such dimension to her character. She is strong and powerful, but she is also vulnerable and sensitive.
This is a powerful and poignant addition to The Elements of Kamdaria Series. I love how Talise is witnessing and trying to help her people, and I love that she is starting to see people for who they really are.
This is the fifth book in The Elements of Kamdaria Series, and I enjoyed it as much as the first four. The story focused on Talise and her relationships with her friends and the citizens of Kamdaria. It also delved more into her complicated relationship with the Emperor and explored her working toward making Kamdaria a better society for all citizens, despite the Emperor’s beliefs.
One aspect of the story that I really liked was how much growth Talise shows. Her maturation stems from her experiences in battle and captivity. She witnessed the assassination of most of her family when she was a child, and she was raised to lie and keep her identity a secret. She lived impoverished, went to school with few friends and one focus, and never had any money. She never left the confines of her school, and she fought for everything she had. Talise has lived a difficult life and survived in spite of it.
The one part of the story that I didn’t love was the absence of Aaden. At the end of the last book, Aaden left on a mission. This story doesn’t focus on Aaden at all – not his mission, not his return, nothing.
Not fair, Kay L. Moody! I need to know more!
Throughout the story, while trying to help those in need, Talise mourns the loss of Aaden and feels a supreme sense of betrayal. This was the one part of Talise that frustrated me. She does not have enough faith in Aaden and his love for her. After all they went through in the previous books, I find it hard to believe that he would just leave her and never return. I don’t understand her thinking, especially considering where he is and how it relates to his past (I don’t want to give too much away here).
That being said, I understand why Moody chose this plot path. Aaden’s absence evokes feelings of hurt, grief, and loss in Talise. It reminds her of her family and the many other losses she’s had to face. I love the way Moody describes Talise’s grief for Aaden and her family:
“So much nothing. But if it was nothing, then why did it hurt so much…It was an interesting thing living with such deep pain. It never went away or felt less painful. The ache always hid right there under the surface of her skin. But she’d been living with it for years now and had learned to make it a part of her.”
This is such a powerful, insightful, and truthful perspective on grief. She goes on to say more about the pain of loss, and the enormity of grief. Theses relatable feelings put a real authenticity to the thoughts and feelings of the characters.
“And there it was again, just as fresh as the day they died. It came at her from all sides, crashing down in waves. Suffocating the tiny light that dared to glow inside of her…It still shredded her and tore her apart from the inside out.”
This week marks the tenth anniversary of my beloved mother’s death, and I understand Talise’s feelings completely in this scene. They are raw and true and difficult, and it added such dimension to her character. She is strong and powerful, but she is also vulnerable and sensitive.
This is a powerful and poignant addition to The Elements of Kamdaria Series. I love how Talise is witnessing and trying to help her people, and I love that she is starting to see people for who they really are.
March 7, 2020
Picture this:
I'm sitting at my computer. My mind drifts and then I wonder, "When is River Gate coming out? I miss those books."
Out of the Heavens, accompanied by a choir of angels, Kay L Moody descends on a golden cloud, delivering unto me an E-ARC for my unworthy hands to receive and my mortal eyes to read.
My response: But where is book 6? My greed knows no bounds.
I'm sitting at my computer. My mind drifts and then I wonder, "When is River Gate coming out? I miss those books."
Out of the Heavens, accompanied by a choir of angels, Kay L Moody descends on a golden cloud, delivering unto me an E-ARC for my unworthy hands to receive and my mortal eyes to read.
My response: But where is book 6? My greed knows no bounds.
February 5, 2021
"Her eyelids felt like hammers as she blinked."
I'm sorry, her what?
I have a lot of thoughts. One of them being that I spent a l o t of time reporting content errors, which made my reading experience a bit tiring.
But all that can wait because I'm procrastinating.
I'm sorry, her what?
I have a lot of thoughts. One of them being that I spent a l o t of time reporting content errors, which made my reading experience a bit tiring.
But all that can wait because I'm procrastinating.
March 7, 2020
**Disclaimer: I was given a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review from the publisher.**
Title River Gate (The Elements of Kamdaria 5)
Author Kay L. Moody
Release Date March 10, 2020
Description from Amazon
The empire is full of unrest. The aristocratic citizens of the Crown are angry at the emperor for lying about their enemy. The middle-class citizens of the Gate are angry at the state of their once great empire. And the poor, desperate citizens of the Storm are beginning to awake after years of oppression.
If Talise doesn’t gain back their loyalty soon, it might be lost forever.
Initial Thoughts
I’ve been waiting to read this installment of the Elements of Kamdaria since (what seems like forever), but is really since December. I was super excited when Kay and her publisher offered me the chance to read and review an ARC of this book.
Some Things I Liked
Economics as a featured point. I absolutely love that the conflicts in this series are not black and white. There is no simple solution to the many issues that plague Kamdaria and I was especially excited to see an economic problem featured so prominently.
Claye. I loved his character and I was so glad to finally see more of him. Although, I do feel terrible for him in certain parts, I really enjoyed what his character represented and I thought he was a great voice of reason to help Talise.
Series Value
I can’t wait to read the next book, Smoke Gate, when it comes out. I love this series and I, somewhat surprisingly, love that I have to wait for the installments. I’m all about binge-reading series but the fact that Kay L. Moody makes me wait between installments gives me just the right amount of time to digest the previous installment before diving into the next. Also, the waiting and shorter length of these novellas creates high re-read value in this series.
Final Thoughts
While I missed Aedan in this book, I really enjoyed the characters that we did get to see as well as the new developments in the story. Talise’s character growth is amazing and I also really enjoyed the pacing of the timeline. I can’t wait to continue with this series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recommendations for Further Reading
Smoke Gate by Kay L. Moody – I haven’t read the next installment of this series, but I definitely will once it’s available.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins – if you enjoyed the competition component, the class and economic issues, and the moral grey-ness in the conflicts, try this series by Suzanne Collins.
Title River Gate (The Elements of Kamdaria 5)
Author Kay L. Moody
Release Date March 10, 2020
Description from Amazon
The empire is full of unrest. The aristocratic citizens of the Crown are angry at the emperor for lying about their enemy. The middle-class citizens of the Gate are angry at the state of their once great empire. And the poor, desperate citizens of the Storm are beginning to awake after years of oppression.
If Talise doesn’t gain back their loyalty soon, it might be lost forever.
Initial Thoughts
I’ve been waiting to read this installment of the Elements of Kamdaria since (what seems like forever), but is really since December. I was super excited when Kay and her publisher offered me the chance to read and review an ARC of this book.
Some Things I Liked
Economics as a featured point. I absolutely love that the conflicts in this series are not black and white. There is no simple solution to the many issues that plague Kamdaria and I was especially excited to see an economic problem featured so prominently.
Claye. I loved his character and I was so glad to finally see more of him. Although, I do feel terrible for him in certain parts, I really enjoyed what his character represented and I thought he was a great voice of reason to help Talise.
Series Value
I can’t wait to read the next book, Smoke Gate, when it comes out. I love this series and I, somewhat surprisingly, love that I have to wait for the installments. I’m all about binge-reading series but the fact that Kay L. Moody makes me wait between installments gives me just the right amount of time to digest the previous installment before diving into the next. Also, the waiting and shorter length of these novellas creates high re-read value in this series.
Final Thoughts
While I missed Aedan in this book, I really enjoyed the characters that we did get to see as well as the new developments in the story. Talise’s character growth is amazing and I also really enjoyed the pacing of the timeline. I can’t wait to continue with this series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recommendations for Further Reading
Smoke Gate by Kay L. Moody – I haven’t read the next installment of this series, but I definitely will once it’s available.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins – if you enjoyed the competition component, the class and economic issues, and the moral grey-ness in the conflicts, try this series by Suzanne Collins.
March 10, 2020
Another stellar instalment to this series!! It just keeps getting better.
We pick up where we left off at the end of book 4. Talise is back at the palace but the people are not impressed with the emperor one bit. As Talise tries to smooth things out he continues to be a thorn in her side until an idea comes to his mind. The emperor charges Talise with the task of winning the people over-which means she has to reveal who she really is to everyone.
The characters continue to grow and they work together as a unit even more now. I do feel a fierce loyalty to Talise and I hope things work out-they do get a bit dicey! The details are impeccable and it is so easy to imagine the world they are in. The writing flows so well and I can not see any fault in it!!
This book will have you in the edge of your seat the whole time and that ending!!!! Oh!! I need book six now lol.
We pick up where we left off at the end of book 4. Talise is back at the palace but the people are not impressed with the emperor one bit. As Talise tries to smooth things out he continues to be a thorn in her side until an idea comes to his mind. The emperor charges Talise with the task of winning the people over-which means she has to reveal who she really is to everyone.
The characters continue to grow and they work together as a unit even more now. I do feel a fierce loyalty to Talise and I hope things work out-they do get a bit dicey! The details are impeccable and it is so easy to imagine the world they are in. The writing flows so well and I can not see any fault in it!!
This book will have you in the edge of your seat the whole time and that ending!!!! Oh!! I need book six now lol.
March 6, 2020
I love this book and series so much.
Talise is trying to find out the problems in each city and help the people if she can. The River Gate is full of angry people and Talise has to choose what will help the most. The dam between River Gate and The Storm is causing the most problems and can she do what is right? She wants to help and bring the people’s loyalty back to the Crown.
I totally recommend this book and series.
Talise is trying to find out the problems in each city and help the people if she can. The River Gate is full of angry people and Talise has to choose what will help the most. The dam between River Gate and The Storm is causing the most problems and can she do what is right? She wants to help and bring the people’s loyalty back to the Crown.
I totally recommend this book and series.
March 28, 2020
Kay L Moody’s River Gate (The Elements of Kamdaria #5) is captivating. In this story, Talise sets out to gain back the loyalty of the citizens of Kamdaria. It takes place following her escape from being kidnapped and imprisoned by Kessoku. This novel is suitable for young adults.
Kay L Moody does a great job building onto this series. Talise is dealing with the heartbreak of Aaden leaving to spy for the emperor. Throw in the unrest of the citizens. Talise undergoes a lot in this book. She continues to mature and strengthen her power. I appreciated how she does not cower to her grandfather and does what she feels is best for her people. The story was exciting throughout.
River Gate had an intriguing ending that left me curious to read the next book in the series, Smoke Gate. I would love to see this series developed into a movie or television series. It would make a visual appealing experience. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Kay L Moody does a great job building onto this series. Talise is dealing with the heartbreak of Aaden leaving to spy for the emperor. Throw in the unrest of the citizens. Talise undergoes a lot in this book. She continues to mature and strengthen her power. I appreciated how she does not cower to her grandfather and does what she feels is best for her people. The story was exciting throughout.
River Gate had an intriguing ending that left me curious to read the next book in the series, Smoke Gate. I would love to see this series developed into a movie or television series. It would make a visual appealing experience. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
April 3, 2020
I received an eARC of this book from the author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.
River Gate by Kay L. Moody is the fifth installment of her novella series The Elements of Kamdaria. I have needed this book like I need air since finishing the first four in December. The series follows Talise, a Master Shaper from the Storm, as she works directly under the emperor to protect the people of Kamdaria. Please note: I will do my best to make this review as spoiler free as possible. However there may be spoilers to previous installments in this review.
Talise is angry and hurt at the beginning of River Gate. Aaden is on a mission, infiltrating the rebel faction that kidnapped Talise in the previous installment. She begged him not to go, but he still went, and now she questions his loyalty to her and the emperor. Talise isn’t one to trust easily. She has few friends, however those she counts as friends she’s fiercely loyal to….at her own detriment. During the previous books, we learn an important secret about Talise. That secret plays a big role in River Gate. It is no longer a secret, and Talise must come to terms with her new role.
This secret along with the secret the emperor kept comes to light. The citizens’ reaction is the catalyst for this story. Talise is sent by the emperor to the Gate (the middle ring of Kamdaria, where most of the citizens live) to win back the loyalty of the people lest they side with the rebel faction. I found this element of the story fascinating. It is the first glimpse the readers have gotten of the socioeconomic status of Kamdaria. We’ve been given hints along the way of how bad it is, but this is the first time we see it through Talise’s eyes. I love this world-building as it adds so much to the story and gives weight to what the rebels are doing.
Overall I really enjoyed River Gate, finishing it in just over a day. Each installment of the series is just over a hundred pages, making for quick, action-packed reads. River Gate is no exception. While the author had introduced us to Talise’s friends Claye and Wendy in the previous installments, they play a larger role here. I loved learning more about both of them and their interactions with Talise, Claye in particular. If you enjoy dystopia and fantasy, I highly recommend you grab a copy of this one.
River Gate by Kay L. Moody is the fifth installment of her novella series The Elements of Kamdaria. I have needed this book like I need air since finishing the first four in December. The series follows Talise, a Master Shaper from the Storm, as she works directly under the emperor to protect the people of Kamdaria. Please note: I will do my best to make this review as spoiler free as possible. However there may be spoilers to previous installments in this review.
Talise is angry and hurt at the beginning of River Gate. Aaden is on a mission, infiltrating the rebel faction that kidnapped Talise in the previous installment. She begged him not to go, but he still went, and now she questions his loyalty to her and the emperor. Talise isn’t one to trust easily. She has few friends, however those she counts as friends she’s fiercely loyal to….at her own detriment. During the previous books, we learn an important secret about Talise. That secret plays a big role in River Gate. It is no longer a secret, and Talise must come to terms with her new role.
This secret along with the secret the emperor kept comes to light. The citizens’ reaction is the catalyst for this story. Talise is sent by the emperor to the Gate (the middle ring of Kamdaria, where most of the citizens live) to win back the loyalty of the people lest they side with the rebel faction. I found this element of the story fascinating. It is the first glimpse the readers have gotten of the socioeconomic status of Kamdaria. We’ve been given hints along the way of how bad it is, but this is the first time we see it through Talise’s eyes. I love this world-building as it adds so much to the story and gives weight to what the rebels are doing.
Overall I really enjoyed River Gate, finishing it in just over a day. Each installment of the series is just over a hundred pages, making for quick, action-packed reads. River Gate is no exception. While the author had introduced us to Talise’s friends Claye and Wendy in the previous installments, they play a larger role here. I loved learning more about both of them and their interactions with Talise, Claye in particular. If you enjoy dystopia and fantasy, I highly recommend you grab a copy of this one.
March 16, 2020
Wherein focus shifts from learning about Talise to learning about Kamdaria. Up to this point in the series most if the attention has been on Talise, who she is, her relationships, and what she can do. In the River Gate, we learn more about her people and see Gate for the first time. Talise does a lot of growing up in this book as she sees with new eyes both sides of the conflict in her nation and starts to understand the underlying pressures and influences.
It was a nuanced, balanced approach to the situation. Nothing is truly black and white. We all know history is written by the winners, who use their brush to paint with a broad stroke the villains and heroes. Reality is rarely so clear, as both sides are generally fighting hard to protect and preserve something valuable to them against an enemy they see as acting in a way that is unreasonable. Talise begins to see all these distinct motivations, and learns in a very personal way about the law of unintended consequences.
This is book 5 in a series of novellas that just keeps getting better. They are chronological and build on each other, later books are definitely spoilers for earlier ones. Start with the Ice Crown, it is an adventure you will enjoy traveling.
It was a nuanced, balanced approach to the situation. Nothing is truly black and white. We all know history is written by the winners, who use their brush to paint with a broad stroke the villains and heroes. Reality is rarely so clear, as both sides are generally fighting hard to protect and preserve something valuable to them against an enemy they see as acting in a way that is unreasonable. Talise begins to see all these distinct motivations, and learns in a very personal way about the law of unintended consequences.
This is book 5 in a series of novellas that just keeps getting better. They are chronological and build on each other, later books are definitely spoilers for earlier ones. Start with the Ice Crown, it is an adventure you will enjoy traveling.
March 27, 2020
I love Talise so much! I had forgotten how much I love Talise! She is fearless. She is strong. And she is kind. She stands in sharp contrast to the emperor who is so fixated on this war that he seems to have forgotten why he is fighting. Talise, struggling with the continued absence of Aaden, shines as she consistently fights for what she believes is right, regardless of her father's demands. She is also learning to step into her role as a princess and future ruler while listening to the nobility and the people. In this book, more than ever before, Talise reminded me of Katniss from the Hunger Games. She accepts the high cost of caring for others, even at the risk of her own personal safety.
In River Gate, Talise stands up against the emperor and is tasked with changing the people's view of the royal family. As she hears their needs, she grows more frustrated with the emperor's focus on the war and the way his economic policies seem to be for the good of the upper class rather than all of his citizens. As a result, she begins to visit the people in their home villages in order to offer solutions to their problems.
There were a couple of unique things about this book. Aaden never appeared and there was no new information about him or his absence. Despite his being constantly in her thoughts, his absence is neither an excuse nor a hindrance to Talise's actions. I also felt like I got to know several of the side characters (and their motivations) a bit more deeply. And while the story is complete on its own, it definitely helps to know the story leading up to this one. I am eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.
I received a free ARC of this book from the author and have reviewed it willingly.
In River Gate, Talise stands up against the emperor and is tasked with changing the people's view of the royal family. As she hears their needs, she grows more frustrated with the emperor's focus on the war and the way his economic policies seem to be for the good of the upper class rather than all of his citizens. As a result, she begins to visit the people in their home villages in order to offer solutions to their problems.
There were a couple of unique things about this book. Aaden never appeared and there was no new information about him or his absence. Despite his being constantly in her thoughts, his absence is neither an excuse nor a hindrance to Talise's actions. I also felt like I got to know several of the side characters (and their motivations) a bit more deeply. And while the story is complete on its own, it definitely helps to know the story leading up to this one. I am eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.
I received a free ARC of this book from the author and have reviewed it willingly.
March 10, 2020
The people of Kamdaria are angry.
The empire is full of unrest. The aristocratic citizens of the Crown are angry at the emperor for lying about their enemy. The middle-class citizens of the Gate are angry at the state of their once great empire. And the poor, desperate citizens of the Storm are beginning to awake after years of oppression.
If Talise doesn't gain back their loyalty soon, it might be lost forever.
River Gate is episode 5 of The Elements of Kamdaria. Don't miss the other books in this novella series.
Episode 1: Ice Crown
Episode 2: Wind Crown
Episode 3: Dust Crown
Episode 4: Flame Crown
Episode 5: River Gate
Episode 6: Smoke Gate
Episode 7: Vine Gate
More episodes to come...
This is a wonderful addition to this thrilling series!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and this is my honest review.
The empire is full of unrest. The aristocratic citizens of the Crown are angry at the emperor for lying about their enemy. The middle-class citizens of the Gate are angry at the state of their once great empire. And the poor, desperate citizens of the Storm are beginning to awake after years of oppression.
If Talise doesn't gain back their loyalty soon, it might be lost forever.
River Gate is episode 5 of The Elements of Kamdaria. Don't miss the other books in this novella series.
Episode 1: Ice Crown
Episode 2: Wind Crown
Episode 3: Dust Crown
Episode 4: Flame Crown
Episode 5: River Gate
Episode 6: Smoke Gate
Episode 7: Vine Gate
More episodes to come...
This is a wonderful addition to this thrilling series!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and this is my honest review.
June 4, 2020
Book Title: River Gate(The Elements of Kamdaria Book 5)
Author: Kay L Moody
My rating 1-5
Edit quality:5
World Building:4
Characters : Main character 5 ; Supporting Characters 4
My attempt at a summary:
This is the 5th book in the series. It just keeps getting better and better and as always Talise never disappoints as the lead character. She's strong as you would expect her to be, vulnerable showing she has heart. It's a joy watching her develop and fill the role that she needs to fulfill.
Apparently now, you dont know friend from foe and who she should trust and who to fight. It's pretty much in the air who the Antagonist could be, pick a card any card lol. Although one ideal in this book remains true, that's her duty to help the people suffering under the Emperor's rule.
Spoilers and Suggestions
If Aaden isnt starved or imprisoned, he has a lot to answer for.
Love this series, I would reread it all over again and love it just as much as the first time. Now! To the next!
Author: Kay L Moody
My rating 1-5
Edit quality:5
World Building:4
Characters : Main character 5 ; Supporting Characters 4
My attempt at a summary:
This is the 5th book in the series. It just keeps getting better and better and as always Talise never disappoints as the lead character. She's strong as you would expect her to be, vulnerable showing she has heart. It's a joy watching her develop and fill the role that she needs to fulfill.
Apparently now, you dont know friend from foe and who she should trust and who to fight. It's pretty much in the air who the Antagonist could be, pick a card any card lol. Although one ideal in this book remains true, that's her duty to help the people suffering under the Emperor's rule.
Spoilers and Suggestions
If Aaden isnt starved or imprisoned, he has a lot to answer for.
Love this series, I would reread it all over again and love it just as much as the first time. Now! To the next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2020
If you haven't started this serie you have no idea what you are missing. Each book is not too long so go ahead and start from the beginning. You will love it!
In this chapter our heroine, Talise, is finally discovering what is really happening in her country. I'm still second guessing every character ulterior motives but things are getting more defined.
Talise is growing up and finding and accepting her role. Soon we will discover who her real friends are. A storm is on the horizon and I can't wait for the next book.
I am a total fan of this story and of Kay's writing style. This story covers so many important and serious subjects in a clever way, under the camouflage of a fantasy story - in my opinion this series should become a classic to be read in every school, be it in Philosophy, English or even Economic classes. My fingers are crossed!
In this chapter our heroine, Talise, is finally discovering what is really happening in her country. I'm still second guessing every character ulterior motives but things are getting more defined.
Talise is growing up and finding and accepting her role. Soon we will discover who her real friends are. A storm is on the horizon and I can't wait for the next book.
I am a total fan of this story and of Kay's writing style. This story covers so many important and serious subjects in a clever way, under the camouflage of a fantasy story - in my opinion this series should become a classic to be read in every school, be it in Philosophy, English or even Economic classes. My fingers are crossed!
March 21, 2022
Talise is a freaking bad ass and I adore her!!!!! She is amazing. She grew so much in this book. From the scared girl to master shaper to the princess she was always meant to be. She still has fears and her world is rife with betrayals, but she is learning to let go and trust some people. My only issues with this book, is no Aaden. I'm terribly concerned. I'm terrified he betrayed her. But I'm also afraid Claye is a traitor. I hope hope hope he doesn't take her rejection and decide he doesn't want to be loyal to her. Talise is a great person, learning and growing, but she'll make a great Queen. She cares about the people and it's obvious in the decisions she makes. Marmie would be so proud of her ❤❤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2020
I really liked this story. Many secrets the Crown has been hiding for a few years are revealed a the end of the last book. And this one really shows the mood of the people as Talise and the rest of the Kingdom come to terms with what really has been going on. Talise was amazing to watch come into herself and her new role. I thought a few things that occurred will become important in the future stories. But I still liked the story and the setup. I loved and hated the characters throughout this book. My love hate relationship with the King and his advisor is going strong. Just a good story in itself and for the series.
April 2, 2020
✏ I was given a copy of this book in an exchange for an honest review 💭 but all thoughts and opinions are mine.
✏ Continuing the tale of the young Princess who has to carry so much weight in order to save her people, herself and her sanity, to save her people's future.
This series is good. No plot holes, well written, well kept. Ideal for the reader to get engrossed into the story without any distractions. The reader is focused where he must be.
Claye, I am really sorry for him... 😍
I genuinely have begun to hate the emperor.
And Tempest although I get the why, can't help it.
Well done! Highly recommend 😄
✏ Continuing the tale of the young Princess who has to carry so much weight in order to save her people, herself and her sanity, to save her people's future.
This series is good. No plot holes, well written, well kept. Ideal for the reader to get engrossed into the story without any distractions. The reader is focused where he must be.
Claye, I am really sorry for him... 😍
I genuinely have begun to hate the emperor.
And Tempest although I get the why, can't help it.
Well done! Highly recommend 😄
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2020
After reading this book, I wanted to write and post this review to share my honest experiences toward the story.
This was a quick and amazing read, following Talise in her tale as the lost princess. Talise herself goes through some development in this particular episode as it focuses on having her learn to be a ruler. That doesn’t mean that there isn’t any action or adventure ...these come part and parcel with the story. It was an incredible tale that ended on a suspenseful note, I honestly cannot wait to see how this series will continue.
This was a quick and amazing read, following Talise in her tale as the lost princess. Talise herself goes through some development in this particular episode as it focuses on having her learn to be a ruler. That doesn’t mean that there isn’t any action or adventure ...these come part and parcel with the story. It was an incredible tale that ended on a suspenseful note, I honestly cannot wait to see how this series will continue.
March 20, 2020
River Gate is a really fun continuation of the series! The story was completely unexpected for me, but I absolutely loved it! In this book, the people of Kamdaria are very angry. The emperor doesn't have time to deal with it, so he asks Talise to help them and to gain their trust back. In the meantime, there's always the threat of the Kessoku soldiers. As with the previous books, I like the characters a lot, but maybe not the emperor of course. The world-building is still really good as well. I can't wait for the next book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 26, 2020
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Wow, Talise continues to grow into an amazing young woman with a heart and love for her country.
She continues to face hurdles, challenges and obstacles and doesn't back down. She truly is a force to be reckoned with.
Her heart is still broken over Aaden, but she - and her friends - doesn't let that stop her.
I love how Ms. Moody is developing this character. I loved her in the other books, but this one, this book..... Wow! I have so much respect and admiration for her. I can't wait to see what happens next!
Wow, Talise continues to grow into an amazing young woman with a heart and love for her country.
She continues to face hurdles, challenges and obstacles and doesn't back down. She truly is a force to be reckoned with.
Her heart is still broken over Aaden, but she - and her friends - doesn't let that stop her.
I love how Ms. Moody is developing this character. I loved her in the other books, but this one, this book..... Wow! I have so much respect and admiration for her. I can't wait to see what happens next!
March 27, 2020
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I am a big fan of this series, and this book was right up there with the rest of the series.
It’s fast paced, action packed, and a quick read. Talise is fast becoming the warrior the empire needs and wants, but it’s definitely harder for her to achieve when she doesn’t have the support of those around her.
Aaden’s presence was missed in this book, and I do really hope that we haven’t seen the last of him.
Bring on book 6, I am addicted to this series!
I am a big fan of this series, and this book was right up there with the rest of the series.
It’s fast paced, action packed, and a quick read. Talise is fast becoming the warrior the empire needs and wants, but it’s definitely harder for her to achieve when she doesn’t have the support of those around her.
Aaden’s presence was missed in this book, and I do really hope that we haven’t seen the last of him.
Bring on book 6, I am addicted to this series!
March 18, 2020
Kay L Moody did it again! River Gate, the fifth book in the Elements of Kamdaria Series is stunning, as always! Once I started, I couldn't stop reading. This time Talise outs herself as the princess and tries to help the people in the Gate. But her father, Kessoku and the people there make it really hard for her. Will she succeed and win over the people again or will they join Kessoku? Continue to read the series and find out. It's definitely worth it!
March 29, 2020
I love than in this story the heartbreak doesn't stop our heroine from continuing her journey. Talise is finally known as the Princess of Kamdaria publicly and now is in the middle between the Kesoku that wants her dead and the Emperor that wants her locked. Will she be enough to save Kamdaria from the slavery of the Emperor her own father and the revenge of the Kesoku? I guess I'll find out in the next book.
Read
March 31, 2020Once again, Kay L Moody did not disappoint me with her story. This is an amazing sequel to the Elements of Kamdaria series. I have loved seeing Talise grow through this adventure, and hope that it is just as amazing in the next installation. The world-building is phenomenal, and drags you in. I will be sad to see this story ending in the next couple of installations, but it’s been a ride I won’t forget.
April 6, 2020
I have read all 4 books before this and loved them, this was no exception. There are many action packed scenes to read, and twists in the book that keep you on the edge wondering what will happen. It ends on a note that the book seemed to build towards without you realizing it and leaves you wanting to know more.
This author really knows how to get the readers attention and hold it until the end and still leave them wanting more. I hope to continue to reading this series till the end.
This author really knows how to get the readers attention and hold it until the end and still leave them wanting more. I hope to continue to reading this series till the end.
April 16, 2020
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
I’m loving Talise in this book. She’s really grown into her role, and I like that others are seeing a less self-centered side of her. It’s neat to follow her journey to win over her people and to be a good leader. I also appreciated that romance wasn’t a main focus for this book. Talise’s character development took center stage and very well done.
I’m loving Talise in this book. She’s really grown into her role, and I like that others are seeing a less self-centered side of her. It’s neat to follow her journey to win over her people and to be a good leader. I also appreciated that romance wasn’t a main focus for this book. Talise’s character development took center stage and very well done.
October 31, 2020
River Gate
This book wasn't as action packed, which I guess balanced it out since the last book was. There was still a lot going on, and things happened fast. We get to see a lot of unrest in Kamdaria's citizens and Talise continues to navigate her way through her personal problems. I didn't enjoy this book as much as the others but it's still a solid 4 star for me. Also not as big of a cliffhanger this time, but that could be considered a good thing!
This book wasn't as action packed, which I guess balanced it out since the last book was. There was still a lot going on, and things happened fast. We get to see a lot of unrest in Kamdaria's citizens and Talise continues to navigate her way through her personal problems. I didn't enjoy this book as much as the others but it's still a solid 4 star for me. Also not as big of a cliffhanger this time, but that could be considered a good thing!
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