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Chronicles of Pelenor #3
Order of Valxiron
Saradon rules Pelenor with an iron fist. The Court of Tournai is beholden to him. A new Order, loyal to the Dark One of Altarea, rises under his dominion.
Trapped under his control, Harper and Dimitri are forced to ally to survive, but neither can protect the other from Saradon's orders. Harper finds herself drawn into a darkness from which she cannot escape. Love and friendship endure even in the darkest times, but they may not be enough to turn the tide. Her former companions cannot hope to save her, stranded in the dwarven realm of Valtivar. Korrin is determined to wrest control of the mountains back from Saradon and the goblin scourge, but the cost will be high, and the dwarves cannot prevail alone. Ragnar must decide where his loyalties lay; with the family he has chosen, or the kin bound to him by blood.
The companions know Erendriel's edicts; the only scraps of faint hope any of them can cling to, but Pelenor is without allies and falls from within. Aedon only sees one choice. He must journey far to beseech help from an unlikely ally - one who would sooner see Aedon dead than treat with him.
War comes for Pelenor. The Dark One of Altarea will have his dominion. Will Pelenor be the first to fall, or can Harper and her far-flung companions somehow avert catastrophe?
Trapped under his control, Harper and Dimitri are forced to ally to survive, but neither can protect the other from Saradon's orders. Harper finds herself drawn into a darkness from which she cannot escape. Love and friendship endure even in the darkest times, but they may not be enough to turn the tide. Her former companions cannot hope to save her, stranded in the dwarven realm of Valtivar. Korrin is determined to wrest control of the mountains back from Saradon and the goblin scourge, but the cost will be high, and the dwarves cannot prevail alone. Ragnar must decide where his loyalties lay; with the family he has chosen, or the kin bound to him by blood.
The companions know Erendriel's edicts; the only scraps of faint hope any of them can cling to, but Pelenor is without allies and falls from within. Aedon only sees one choice. He must journey far to beseech help from an unlikely ally - one who would sooner see Aedon dead than treat with him.
War comes for Pelenor. The Dark One of Altarea will have his dominion. Will Pelenor be the first to fall, or can Harper and her far-flung companions somehow avert catastrophe?
276 pages, ebook
Published August 30, 2019
54 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
Meg Cowley
60 books202 followers✒️ Romantic Fantasy with courageous heroines, protective heroes, and endearing found families to sweep you away... ✨️
Meg Cowley is a USA Today bestselling fantasy author from England. Meg writes slow burn steamy epic fantasy romances with courageous and vulnerable heroines, protective and brooding heroes, and lovable and welcoming found family in stories that will steal your heart long after the last page.
Meg's favourite past times are reading, hiking, and cooking. She can usually be found curled up with a cup of tea and a riveting fantasy romance book, cooking up a fantasy-book worthy feast, or out walking the wild, windswept moors of Yorkshire dreaming up her next story.
Visit www.megcowley.com to find out more, discover Meg’s books, find exclusive reader bonus content, and join her Romantasy Fellowship newsletter.
Meg Cowley is a USA Today bestselling fantasy author from England. Meg writes slow burn steamy epic fantasy romances with courageous and vulnerable heroines, protective and brooding heroes, and lovable and welcoming found family in stories that will steal your heart long after the last page.
Meg's favourite past times are reading, hiking, and cooking. She can usually be found curled up with a cup of tea and a riveting fantasy romance book, cooking up a fantasy-book worthy feast, or out walking the wild, windswept moors of Yorkshire dreaming up her next story.
Visit www.megcowley.com to find out more, discover Meg’s books, find exclusive reader bonus content, and join her Romantasy Fellowship newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
August 14, 2022
The annals of history may never know what we did, we may never be more than villains, but we both vowed to stop this as much as we gave our word to him. I must be as abhorrent as my role dictates.
Well, now I have doomed myself to wait...I should've read these books slower.
I adore this series. Fast-paced, fantastical, filled with ride or die friendships, intrigue and politics. Honestly, each book in this series is better than the last.
Dimitri & Harper
...breathing in the sweet, citrus scent of her hair and clothes–the smell of home to him.
His sweet, citrus scent mingled with the pines, surrounding her in a blanket of what felt like safety and familiarity.
Right from the start, it was obvious from the start that there was a connection between these two, however, subtle. For a majority of the book, neither of them acknowledges this fact but eventually it becomes undeniable.
“It doesn't matter. I've done enough terrible things, mistakes or otherwise, to never be forgiven. Or accepted.”
He slipped her arm from his and turned away.
“I accept you,” she said in a low voice.
An equal the likes of whom he had never seen. Never afraid to challenge him, or accept him. No matter that she had no special gift to see them through the dark times, her hope continuously burned, her grit shining through.
These two are perfect for each other.
*More detailed review to come*
Well, now I have doomed myself to wait...I should've read these books slower.
I adore this series. Fast-paced, fantastical, filled with ride or die friendships, intrigue and politics. Honestly, each book in this series is better than the last.
Dimitri & Harper
...breathing in the sweet, citrus scent of her hair and clothes–the smell of home to him.
His sweet, citrus scent mingled with the pines, surrounding her in a blanket of what felt like safety and familiarity.
Right from the start, it was obvious from the start that there was a connection between these two, however, subtle. For a majority of the book, neither of them acknowledges this fact but eventually it becomes undeniable.
“It doesn't matter. I've done enough terrible things, mistakes or otherwise, to never be forgiven. Or accepted.”
He slipped her arm from his and turned away.
“I accept you,” she said in a low voice.
An equal the likes of whom he had never seen. Never afraid to challenge him, or accept him. No matter that she had no special gift to see them through the dark times, her hope continuously burned, her grit shining through.
These two are perfect for each other.
*More detailed review to come*
April 25, 2021
Order of Valxiron is the third book in the Chronicles of Pelenor quadrilogy, written by Meg Cowley. Harper is dealing with the fact that she suddenly has a heritage she didn’t expect, powers beyond what she could ever imagine, and that she is now bound to the most evil person in the lands. Dimitri is slowly trying to figure out how to deal with Saradin, but he is not really getting anywhere, as he has no idea what to do. We get a flurry of new side characters and sideplots, and the dwarven and elven kingdoms are starting to realize that an old evil has woken up.
While the writing itself is quite the same as in the previous two entries, the story is finally opening up somewhat, with an influx of new characters, places, and cultures, which suits it a lot. The third entry in the series also takes a much darker tone, which also something I enjoyed.
Unfortunately, every introduction of new place or concept is always very shallowly described, akin to my critique of the previous books, where I felt chapter introductions and setting shifts, were always lacking. This gives the reader the feeling of there being a much larger world, which is finally starting to diverge from the completely standard Tolkien world, but that we are merely left with tidbits of why these new things are being introduced and how interesting they are. They are introduced because they serve a function in the story, not because they are part of a larger fantasy world, and that is a real pity.
Coupled with a very slow plot in the first half of the book with a severe lack of tension, I was left with a story that wasn’t that interesting. Harper is a whiny main character, who doesn’t learn from experiences, and who seem to be completely oblivious to her role in the world, to the point where she actively seeks out things that you know will go bad. On top of that, you know that she won’t be hurt by the main bad guy, because he clearly states it so, and all tension is removed.
Coupled with even more bad guys, who are clearly just evil for the sake of being evil, it really lacked in the deep character department. One dimensional bad guys (Especially the main bad guy), coupled with a main character which is about as likeabel and interesting as an overripe tomato, it just didn’t cut it for me. And while we hear a lot about the main characters, who are not in danger, we are left with many questions on what is going on in the rest of the world? This is addressed much more specifically in the second part of the book, but here we have even more bad guys introduced, this time elves, who also seem evil just for the sake of being evil.
One of the main problems, which I first really realized in the second part of book three, is that the author is really not very good at writing action. The vast majority of action is written from a narrators point of view, so there’s again the distinct lack of tension from the main characters view points. And he even goes as far as writing a section with literal “swish, slash, stab” etc., which is horrible writing! I really hope he improves in this area.
The audiobook narration was good as previously, so nothing to complain about there.
Overall, did you enjoy the previous entries, you will definitely also like this one. The book turns more complex and dark, which is good, but it is also shallow and messy as a result. While the first two books (Unintentionally I assume) relied on readers knowing exactly what they were getting, just from the fact that the world is a complete phenocopy of Tolkien’s Middleearth, it severely lacks from more background descriptions, and tension with regards to the main characters. Had it been 25% longer with a better flow and deeper descriptions and world building, then I definitely think it would be the best in the series! At least it finishes with a very open ending, which will leave you asking for the final book.
I received this audiobook for free in return for a review. I have no affiliation with the author, the narrator, the publisher, or their pets (Although I am sure the latter are quite nice!).
While the writing itself is quite the same as in the previous two entries, the story is finally opening up somewhat, with an influx of new characters, places, and cultures, which suits it a lot. The third entry in the series also takes a much darker tone, which also something I enjoyed.
Unfortunately, every introduction of new place or concept is always very shallowly described, akin to my critique of the previous books, where I felt chapter introductions and setting shifts, were always lacking. This gives the reader the feeling of there being a much larger world, which is finally starting to diverge from the completely standard Tolkien world, but that we are merely left with tidbits of why these new things are being introduced and how interesting they are. They are introduced because they serve a function in the story, not because they are part of a larger fantasy world, and that is a real pity.
Coupled with a very slow plot in the first half of the book with a severe lack of tension, I was left with a story that wasn’t that interesting. Harper is a whiny main character, who doesn’t learn from experiences, and who seem to be completely oblivious to her role in the world, to the point where she actively seeks out things that you know will go bad. On top of that, you know that she won’t be hurt by the main bad guy, because he clearly states it so, and all tension is removed.
Coupled with even more bad guys, who are clearly just evil for the sake of being evil, it really lacked in the deep character department. One dimensional bad guys (Especially the main bad guy), coupled with a main character which is about as likeabel and interesting as an overripe tomato, it just didn’t cut it for me. And while we hear a lot about the main characters, who are not in danger, we are left with many questions on what is going on in the rest of the world? This is addressed much more specifically in the second part of the book, but here we have even more bad guys introduced, this time elves, who also seem evil just for the sake of being evil.
One of the main problems, which I first really realized in the second part of book three, is that the author is really not very good at writing action. The vast majority of action is written from a narrators point of view, so there’s again the distinct lack of tension from the main characters view points. And he even goes as far as writing a section with literal “swish, slash, stab” etc., which is horrible writing! I really hope he improves in this area.
The audiobook narration was good as previously, so nothing to complain about there.
Overall, did you enjoy the previous entries, you will definitely also like this one. The book turns more complex and dark, which is good, but it is also shallow and messy as a result. While the first two books (Unintentionally I assume) relied on readers knowing exactly what they were getting, just from the fact that the world is a complete phenocopy of Tolkien’s Middleearth, it severely lacks from more background descriptions, and tension with regards to the main characters. Had it been 25% longer with a better flow and deeper descriptions and world building, then I definitely think it would be the best in the series! At least it finishes with a very open ending, which will leave you asking for the final book.
I received this audiobook for free in return for a review. I have no affiliation with the author, the narrator, the publisher, or their pets (Although I am sure the latter are quite nice!).
August 27, 2019
Wow! I admit I read Court of Shadows and Order of Valxiron back to back so I was fully engrossed in the world of these characters; and boy do I want to find out how this whole story wraps up!
After the first book, Heart of Dragons, I was surprised to put Dimitri and Harper at the top of my list for favorite characters, with Ragnar close behind; then Aedon... quickly followed by Brand and Erika. Now, having finished Order of Valxiron, I have to think that I had it right from the start: I love Dimitri as much as I do Harper! The more of his history that gets revealed, the more I empathize with Dimitri and the more my heart goes out to him. Watching his growth and seeing his emotional progress just makes me love him more; with all that he has experienced and how he got to the place he was at at the beginning of book one, to now see him letting Harper into his heart and making choices based on what is the right thing to do is really heartwarming! And Harper really seems to be coming into her own; no longer the naive, innocent young girl she appeared to be at the start, she now seems to have a worldliness about her. It feels like she is much more capable and is exhibiting a strength and instinctive intelligence that enable her to survive in this new world she landed in mere months before. She also remains incredibly compassionate and kind to all those around her, while maintaining her integrity and morals. She's so strong and so loyal and so kind-hearted and with her magic progressing, she's just amazing! I can't wait to see how the prophecy ends up being fulfilled!
And as for Ragnar and Aedon, Brand and Erika... they had a lot of action in this last book, showing their strengths, skills and dedication to not only their group, but to all the peoples of their world. It was truly endearing and engaging seeing how it was all playing out and now I can't wait to see how Ms. Cowley develops the rest of their stories and wraps it all up! I mean, I love how the relationship between Brand and Erika is progressing, yet we still haven't learned her back story; and with her people on their way to the center of the action, I imagine that will be fleshed out. I'd love to know more about how she became the woman she is. Similarly with Brand, we learned a bit about his past, but his people and lands have not really played a part yet and I would so love to learn about them!
Ragnar and Aedon have had quite major roles so far and have been developing so nicely, again I just can't wait to see how everything gets wrapped up! I'm loving Ragnar's story with respect to his family and land, yet I'm excited for him to reunite with his band of friends and hope he doesn't need to be permanently separated from them! And I'm enjoying watching Aedon emotionally mature and put things into perspective; I'll be super curious to see how everything goes for him in his relationships as well as with his commitment to Solanaceae!
All in all, I'm finding this to be an amazing series with great characters, an exciting plot and lots of intrigue. For probably the tenth time now, I have to say I just can't wait to see how it all wraps up!!!! I hope it's not long before the next book gets released....
After the first book, Heart of Dragons, I was surprised to put Dimitri and Harper at the top of my list for favorite characters, with Ragnar close behind; then Aedon... quickly followed by Brand and Erika. Now, having finished Order of Valxiron, I have to think that I had it right from the start: I love Dimitri as much as I do Harper! The more of his history that gets revealed, the more I empathize with Dimitri and the more my heart goes out to him. Watching his growth and seeing his emotional progress just makes me love him more; with all that he has experienced and how he got to the place he was at at the beginning of book one, to now see him letting Harper into his heart and making choices based on what is the right thing to do is really heartwarming! And Harper really seems to be coming into her own; no longer the naive, innocent young girl she appeared to be at the start, she now seems to have a worldliness about her. It feels like she is much more capable and is exhibiting a strength and instinctive intelligence that enable her to survive in this new world she landed in mere months before. She also remains incredibly compassionate and kind to all those around her, while maintaining her integrity and morals. She's so strong and so loyal and so kind-hearted and with her magic progressing, she's just amazing! I can't wait to see how the prophecy ends up being fulfilled!
And as for Ragnar and Aedon, Brand and Erika... they had a lot of action in this last book, showing their strengths, skills and dedication to not only their group, but to all the peoples of their world. It was truly endearing and engaging seeing how it was all playing out and now I can't wait to see how Ms. Cowley develops the rest of their stories and wraps it all up! I mean, I love how the relationship between Brand and Erika is progressing, yet we still haven't learned her back story; and with her people on their way to the center of the action, I imagine that will be fleshed out. I'd love to know more about how she became the woman she is. Similarly with Brand, we learned a bit about his past, but his people and lands have not really played a part yet and I would so love to learn about them!
Ragnar and Aedon have had quite major roles so far and have been developing so nicely, again I just can't wait to see how everything gets wrapped up! I'm loving Ragnar's story with respect to his family and land, yet I'm excited for him to reunite with his band of friends and hope he doesn't need to be permanently separated from them! And I'm enjoying watching Aedon emotionally mature and put things into perspective; I'll be super curious to see how everything goes for him in his relationships as well as with his commitment to Solanaceae!
All in all, I'm finding this to be an amazing series with great characters, an exciting plot and lots of intrigue. For probably the tenth time now, I have to say I just can't wait to see how it all wraps up!!!! I hope it's not long before the next book gets released....
November 8, 2019
Here we have yet another fantastically brilliant entry in the Pelenor series that I couldn't help rushing through!
Despite my desire to take my time and savor the experience.
This is yet another example of why Jack Voraces has been very close to the top of my favorite narrators list since I discovered him!
His voices are brilliant, even his female voices are true to source and believable. His control of vocal inflections is second to none, and his tempo shifts throughout the book almost perfectly convey the tension of any given scene.
Oh my, after the ending to Court of Shadows I was really nervous about where this would go but super excited to dig into this story!
We meet a couple of new faces, one of them VERY interesting and with a fascinating background connection to Aidyn.
As of it wasn't strong enough before, I now have an even deeper connection with Harper and it was wonderful to see a very different side to Demitrius.
Early in the series, I really disliked him. But now, the more I read of him the more he grows on me!
And before you start thinking this book is all character study, let me disabuse you of that notion right now. We have action, intrigue, romance, conflicted emotions, battles, treachery, you name it!
The closest thing I have to a criticism is there are two or three events in which I would have really enjoyed seeing more details and taking a bit more time to get to where it goes.
That said, I love the deepening of the characters and the world. There are still a few things I'm speculating on that I really hope get answered, but all in all I couldn't ask for more from this book.
In fairness, the ending to this one isn't quite as epic as that of the previous two, but it more than makes up for this in sheer potential for epicness at the conclusion of this series.
In spite of that, though, and the close of this tale being a tad abrupt, everything comes together brilliantly with just enough closure to keep me happy.
I'm now anxiously awaiting the next book!
Despite my desire to take my time and savor the experience.
This is yet another example of why Jack Voraces has been very close to the top of my favorite narrators list since I discovered him!
His voices are brilliant, even his female voices are true to source and believable. His control of vocal inflections is second to none, and his tempo shifts throughout the book almost perfectly convey the tension of any given scene.
Oh my, after the ending to Court of Shadows I was really nervous about where this would go but super excited to dig into this story!
We meet a couple of new faces, one of them VERY interesting and with a fascinating background connection to Aidyn.
As of it wasn't strong enough before, I now have an even deeper connection with Harper and it was wonderful to see a very different side to Demitrius.
Early in the series, I really disliked him. But now, the more I read of him the more he grows on me!
And before you start thinking this book is all character study, let me disabuse you of that notion right now. We have action, intrigue, romance, conflicted emotions, battles, treachery, you name it!
The closest thing I have to a criticism is there are two or three events in which I would have really enjoyed seeing more details and taking a bit more time to get to where it goes.
That said, I love the deepening of the characters and the world. There are still a few things I'm speculating on that I really hope get answered, but all in all I couldn't ask for more from this book.
In fairness, the ending to this one isn't quite as epic as that of the previous two, but it more than makes up for this in sheer potential for epicness at the conclusion of this series.
In spite of that, though, and the close of this tale being a tad abrupt, everything comes together brilliantly with just enough closure to keep me happy.
I'm now anxiously awaiting the next book!
August 18, 2019
This 3rd book in the series, Chronicles of Pelenor turns really dark as we see Sarandon take over Pelenor, ruling with a hard fist all who cross him, and doing so for the evil dark one who has taken him over, Valxiron himself. The order of Valxiron has risen once again and Harper, designated the heir of Saradon is initiated into the order being forced to learn dark magic by the Grandmaster of the Order Khyrion who would do anything to get his filthy hands on her. She lived with Dimitrius, former spymaster to the King, who was now dead, and learnt the ways of the court from him. Her friends were scattered all over the realm doing their best to right the wrongs Saradon had already inflicted on their people. Ragnar was fighting by his brethren to overcome the goblin horde and take back Afnirheim whilst Aedon, Brand and Erika try to make an ally out of Queen Solanaceae of the woodland realm of Tur-Na-Alathea but she was an enemy of Aedon so entering her realm was no mean feat and extremely dangerous. Thus Harper finds herself alone as her friends are scattered all over the realm doing her best to unravel the prophecy given to her by Erendriel in order to bring down Saradon. She had said that the heart of a dragon had resurrected him and the heart of a dragon would cast him down but Harper and Dimitri could not locate the dragonhearts horde which used to belong to the King. Can the friends rally round and help one another to bring peace and order to Pelenor once again as they rid the realm from the evil which has beset them? Wow this series just gets more and more exciting and for those who love grimdark fantasy this is a novel you will surely enjoy!
September 3, 2019
Dark but very enjoyable Sword & Sorcery Epic fantasy book. Even though it is already the third book in the series, and it is definitely a big advantage to have read the first two book prior to picking up this one, the reader is able to enjoy the book as a stand alone, too, even though some details and connections can be lost and it takes a bit of time in the beginning to grasp the complex story firm, to get into it fully. Descriptions of dark magic, the machinery of political machinations and power quests, action-packed scenes, and lots of hard decisions or difficult challenges drive the story forward with each chapter, never letting the reader to rest. Harper is an admirable character, easy to connect with and allowing the reader to get her know better, to understand better with every act. I really enjoyed this reading experience.
August 20, 2019
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review, so here it is!
This series just gets better and better! A little darker than the previous 2 books in the series, which is to be expected given the story.
I began the series rooting for Aedon and while I'm still rooting for him along with his awesome friends (Brand, Erica and Ragnar) I've also found myself drawn more and more towards Dimitrius (Dimi- love it!).
If I were into the whole 'shipping ' thing is be rooting for 'Har-di ' (Harper and Dimitrius for those other oldies like me - I have teenagers!).
I've just finished reading (literally!) And am already dying to read the next instalment!
Meg has done an incredible job with the series so far and I have no doubt that the finale will be just as epic!
This series just gets better and better! A little darker than the previous 2 books in the series, which is to be expected given the story.
I began the series rooting for Aedon and while I'm still rooting for him along with his awesome friends (Brand, Erica and Ragnar) I've also found myself drawn more and more towards Dimitrius (Dimi- love it!).
If I were into the whole 'shipping ' thing is be rooting for 'Har-di ' (Harper and Dimitrius for those other oldies like me - I have teenagers!).
I've just finished reading (literally!) And am already dying to read the next instalment!
Meg has done an incredible job with the series so far and I have no doubt that the finale will be just as epic!
August 30, 2019
Good news and bad news about Meg Cowley’s Order of Valxiron: A Sword & Sorcery Epic Fantasy (Chronicles of Pelenor Book 3). The bad news is that I’ve missed the prior two books. The good news is that this is a great novel which I was able to read - and thoroughly enjoy- as s stand-alone. Filled with a fantastic cast of characters from Harper on down, this is a complex yet thrilling novel that’s well written and a heck of a fun ride. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises. The book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely going to need to read the other books in this series.
August 28, 2019
Another highly anticipated and enjoyable read.
I said that Court of Shadows was even more riveting and action packed than Heart of Dragons which was awesome! So it is no surprise I found Order of Valxiron another page turner.
Evil is ruling Pelenor and the group of outcasts are separated but still trying to endure and find a way to triumph.
Harper and Dimitri find themselves caught in the middle of Saradon's machinations. Now they not only have him to worry about, but the whole Order of Valxiron as well. I highly recommend reading all three books of the Chronicles of Pelenor.
I said that Court of Shadows was even more riveting and action packed than Heart of Dragons which was awesome! So it is no surprise I found Order of Valxiron another page turner.
Evil is ruling Pelenor and the group of outcasts are separated but still trying to endure and find a way to triumph.
Harper and Dimitri find themselves caught in the middle of Saradon's machinations. Now they not only have him to worry about, but the whole Order of Valxiron as well. I highly recommend reading all three books of the Chronicles of Pelenor.
August 30, 2019
What a story. Full of all the great adventure you expect from Meg. Life is definitely not turning out as Dimitri thought it would when he awaken Saradon. The goblins have overrun a dwarf city, Harper and her friends become separated, the Dragon Riders have left the city behind remaining in their stronghold. What is the best way to beat the evil that is permeating the country. Grab yourself a copy and join in the wonderful world of Meg Cowley’s Imagination. Highly recommend.
September 7, 2019
It just keeps getting better and darker
This series is so good! I loved this book!!! The first half focused mostly on Harper and Dimitri and everything happening in the capital and then as the storyline progressed we start seeing all of the other characters we love. I can’t believe book 1 of the series was basically a bunch of happy go lucky misfits on a journey to save a village and now things have gotten much more dark and intense...and I’ve loved all of it.
This series is so good! I loved this book!!! The first half focused mostly on Harper and Dimitri and everything happening in the capital and then as the storyline progressed we start seeing all of the other characters we love. I can’t believe book 1 of the series was basically a bunch of happy go lucky misfits on a journey to save a village and now things have gotten much more dark and intense...and I’ve loved all of it.
August 27, 2019
A great fantasy adventure with a good storyline in a world of imagination. Book three picks up smoothly where book two left off. Great characters exist in this story with excellent detailed settings. As the series gets more exciting the book is hard to put down. A highly recommended book and series.
August 30, 2019
This series keeps on getting better and better. Meg writes great stories with characters that pull you in both because of their complex natures, as well as their unpredictability. Dimitri is one that plays with your emotions, and Harper has such strength of character. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book of this series. I did receive an advance review copy.
August 31, 2019
Continuing the story of Harper and Dimitri, this book is truly excellent! I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and found myself completely immersed in the details and action. As always, the writing is excellent and everything comes together seamlessly. If you haven't gotten into this series, you're really missing out!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
August 22, 2019
Harper and friends are in ** serious ** trouble now !!
Separated, captured and all in deadly danger, they must
use every bit of ingenuity and wiliness in their considerable
arsenal...but will this be enough ?
Read and enjoy !!
Phyllis S.
Separated, captured and all in deadly danger, they must
use every bit of ingenuity and wiliness in their considerable
arsenal...but will this be enough ?
Read and enjoy !!
Phyllis S.
August 23, 2019
Order of Valxiron: Chronicles of Pelenor, Book 3, my seventh read from author Meg Cowley. Picking up seamlessly from where book 2 left off, wonderful characters, detailed settings. Very good read! (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
August 29, 2019
Magical epic adventure.
Evil has returned to Pelenor. Our wonderful friends are separated and on their own dangerous missions trying to return Pelenor to peace. Detailed settings and characters that grow with each book. Wonderful series, looking forward to the next book.
Evil has returned to Pelenor. Our wonderful friends are separated and on their own dangerous missions trying to return Pelenor to peace. Detailed settings and characters that grow with each book. Wonderful series, looking forward to the next book.
June 10, 2020
Here I am, at the end of the third book. It was such a spellbinding read.
I can't say enough how Meg Cowley is tallented at story telling. Everything flow smoothly from chapter to chapter!
Sometime, when you read a book you can feel how the character are bent to follow a story. Wich is not the case with this series. You can feel how every decision the characters make are shaping their adventure, this is how you know you are reading a great book.
When I read the first book, the fourth book wasn't out yet. Last week, when I decided I would resume reading (because my dog ate my glasses, but I had enough of waiting for a new pair) I went to see if I could purchase the last book. Well, guess what? I forgot I bought it in pre-order! Yay me! Surprise book for me haha.
And now whit the end so near, I know I will be crying. I dont't know if the end is a good one or not, but I know that I will miss the heck out of the series! I will be broken hearted from parting whit them. I already started my search for a rebound series haha. I will need Something new the get over the book hangover :p.
See you all on the next volume's page!
I can't say enough how Meg Cowley is tallented at story telling. Everything flow smoothly from chapter to chapter!
Sometime, when you read a book you can feel how the character are bent to follow a story. Wich is not the case with this series. You can feel how every decision the characters make are shaping their adventure, this is how you know you are reading a great book.
When I read the first book, the fourth book wasn't out yet. Last week, when I decided I would resume reading (because my dog ate my glasses, but I had enough of waiting for a new pair) I went to see if I could purchase the last book. Well, guess what? I forgot I bought it in pre-order! Yay me! Surprise book for me haha.
And now whit the end so near, I know I will be crying. I dont't know if the end is a good one or not, but I know that I will miss the heck out of the series! I will be broken hearted from parting whit them. I already started my search for a rebound series haha. I will need Something new the get over the book hangover :p.
See you all on the next volume's page!
September 27, 2020
Another book in this series that seemed to be filled with wasted time while really not moving the story forward much at all.
For example, the world is burning and people are dying. Others are starving and/or having their families torn apart. But, sure, let’s read about Harper’s dance lesson and her new fancy clothes. It just seemed to me that we spent chapters on nonsense filler that didn’t deserve more than a paragraph or a page. And frankly, nothing in this book made the heroine even slightly more interesting. Harper is still the least interesting of all the main characters, and yet she is the one prophesied to save the world.
On the positive side, the goblin part of the story is great and makes significant progress. It’s too bad that only one of our main characters was involved.
There is also a new interesting character introduced. And, the villains are written really well - better than our main character honestly. Being three books into this series, I’m committed to seeing it through to the end. But, I really hope I can give more than 3 stars to at least one book in the series.
For example, the world is burning and people are dying. Others are starving and/or having their families torn apart. But, sure, let’s read about Harper’s dance lesson and her new fancy clothes. It just seemed to me that we spent chapters on nonsense filler that didn’t deserve more than a paragraph or a page. And frankly, nothing in this book made the heroine even slightly more interesting. Harper is still the least interesting of all the main characters, and yet she is the one prophesied to save the world.
On the positive side, the goblin part of the story is great and makes significant progress. It’s too bad that only one of our main characters was involved.
There is also a new interesting character introduced. And, the villains are written really well - better than our main character honestly. Being three books into this series, I’m committed to seeing it through to the end. But, I really hope I can give more than 3 stars to at least one book in the series.
March 26, 2020
Fantastic read
Harper, found herself bound to Saradon, unable to escape, she must endure the darkness, as it seeps in to her very heart, she sees light, in the spy master, but all he sees is twisted darkness, self-loathing darkness for his past sins.
Harper somehow shows him the light, and despite his reservations makes it his mission to keep her alive.
I enjoyed this book as I did the others, my only thing is I felt it went on a tad too long, towards the end I found myself lousing attention to the book.
However I cant stress this enough, its’ a fantastic read and cant wait for the next one..
Harper, found herself bound to Saradon, unable to escape, she must endure the darkness, as it seeps in to her very heart, she sees light, in the spy master, but all he sees is twisted darkness, self-loathing darkness for his past sins.
Harper somehow shows him the light, and despite his reservations makes it his mission to keep her alive.
I enjoyed this book as I did the others, my only thing is I felt it went on a tad too long, towards the end I found myself lousing attention to the book.
However I cant stress this enough, its’ a fantastic read and cant wait for the next one..
May 9, 2021
Wow! I liked this one so much more than the first two. Dimitri has been my favorite thus far. Looking forward to the 4th book.
Now, it's still only three stars because I found it still lacking. Sometimes it feels like a copy of many other books and their themes...but, eh. I'm still intrigued by the story as a whole.
Harper still gets on my nerves but that's expected at this point.
I wish there were better explanations for things. And even though terrible things are going on I really don't feel deeply for the characters. Dimitri would be the only one I would miss if he was killed off.
Now, it's still only three stars because I found it still lacking. Sometimes it feels like a copy of many other books and their themes...but, eh. I'm still intrigued by the story as a whole.
Harper still gets on my nerves but that's expected at this point.
I wish there were better explanations for things. And even though terrible things are going on I really don't feel deeply for the characters. Dimitri would be the only one I would miss if he was killed off.
October 25, 2020
Really liking the relationship development between Dimitri and Harper. Definite slow-burn with lots of tension. In fact, I wanted to just read their scenes and would somewhat skim over the other scenes in the book to get back to what they were up to, haha.
*My toxic trait is becoming hyperfixated on romance in books, so not that the other chapters weren't interesting, but I just wanted to read about Dimitri.* ;)
*My toxic trait is becoming hyperfixated on romance in books, so not that the other chapters weren't interesting, but I just wanted to read about Dimitri.* ;)
October 3, 2020
I enjoyed this book, especially the development of Dimitrius's character and his relationship with Harper. I wished something was solved with this novel. I feel like more problems were created without solving something to make a satisfying ending for this book.
March 22, 2023
Continues to get better. Sad I don't have book 4. Will have to hunt it up. It's set up well, characters have settled, and the writing doesn't seem to be trying so hard. I have no idea how they're going to win. I'm definitely enjoying Dimitri.
June 23, 2023
4.5/5
This book is where this series truly shines. You finally see a lot of character growth for many of the characters, whose POVs are present through books 1 and 2. I loved getting a deep dive into Harper and Dimitri's individual stories and their relationship together.
Additionally, the plot explodes in this one and sucks you in. You start to see an even larger narrative that is hurtling toward the fiery ending of the book. It will leave you scrambling for the final book in the series.
This book is where this series truly shines. You finally see a lot of character growth for many of the characters, whose POVs are present through books 1 and 2. I loved getting a deep dive into Harper and Dimitri's individual stories and their relationship together.
Additionally, the plot explodes in this one and sucks you in. You start to see an even larger narrative that is hurtling toward the fiery ending of the book. It will leave you scrambling for the final book in the series.
September 2, 2019
Unlike the previous two books, Harper is separated from her friends for the entire story. Saradon is keeping both her and Dimitri under his grasp and has presented Harper as his heir. As a result, Dimitri is tasked with training her, and begins to unmask before her. While I still found many of his choices questionable and unthinkable, Meg helps us begin to see him as human and perhaps redeemable. Saradon, on the other hand, has called up minions and powers darker and more foreboding than the goblins he had fighting for him in the previous book. This brings back the questions I posed after reading book one. Who is Saradon? Is there anything good that can come of his rise to power or is he going to bring about the downfall of the entire world? And is his intention to bring about this downfall or is in an unfortunate byproduct of his way of ruling and viewing those weaker than him.
As Dimitri teaches Harper and tries to provide as much protection as he can, he begins to fall for her and she for him. If Aedon truly cared for her, he may be too late. At the same time, Dimitri is unable to completely protect her. Will he be able to help her escape? Does he even want to? And is their new bond as real as it feels, or the result of feeling that they are two people against the world.
Ragnar is separated from his group of friends for most of the book as well and relearning his place with his dwarven kin. I love how he doesn’t cave and isn’t tempted by even the most generous of his cousin’s offers, but knows who he is, what he wants, and where his deepest loyalty lies. It may be tested even more severely in the future, but I am not worried about him. Brand and Erika, despite their individual struggles, continue to travel with Aedon, returning to the elvin queen who most hates him (remember the theft of the dragon heart at the beginning of book one?). There, he faces slavery at best and death at worst on the slightest chance that she will agree to help.
Landry and Raedon are more tragic characters, demonstrating the result of true good without guile. Landry loses part of his family and risks more. Raedon loses the kingdom he has long served unselfishly. Both find themselves on the wrong side of the new forces of power and have to hide in very different ways in order to save themselves and those in their charge. But it’s a fine, dangerous line they are walking.
In the end, there are many noble choices made, all of which come with great cost and personal sacrifice. Still, seeing how many people haven’t yet given up under the reign of the greatest evil they could have never imagined, brings hope that there may yet be a way of defeating Saradon…although they haven’t found it yet…
As Dimitri teaches Harper and tries to provide as much protection as he can, he begins to fall for her and she for him. If Aedon truly cared for her, he may be too late. At the same time, Dimitri is unable to completely protect her. Will he be able to help her escape? Does he even want to? And is their new bond as real as it feels, or the result of feeling that they are two people against the world.
Ragnar is separated from his group of friends for most of the book as well and relearning his place with his dwarven kin. I love how he doesn’t cave and isn’t tempted by even the most generous of his cousin’s offers, but knows who he is, what he wants, and where his deepest loyalty lies. It may be tested even more severely in the future, but I am not worried about him. Brand and Erika, despite their individual struggles, continue to travel with Aedon, returning to the elvin queen who most hates him (remember the theft of the dragon heart at the beginning of book one?). There, he faces slavery at best and death at worst on the slightest chance that she will agree to help.
Landry and Raedon are more tragic characters, demonstrating the result of true good without guile. Landry loses part of his family and risks more. Raedon loses the kingdom he has long served unselfishly. Both find themselves on the wrong side of the new forces of power and have to hide in very different ways in order to save themselves and those in their charge. But it’s a fine, dangerous line they are walking.
In the end, there are many noble choices made, all of which come with great cost and personal sacrifice. Still, seeing how many people haven’t yet given up under the reign of the greatest evil they could have never imagined, brings hope that there may yet be a way of defeating Saradon…although they haven’t found it yet…
September 13, 2019
Woo buddy! That's what I've got to say as I lay this book down. What an exciting adventure this has turned into. Book three came and knocked us all out! I could not get enough of this continuation of the Harper and her friends journey. Meg Cowley has written yet again another masterpiece!
Where to begin, where to begin? Well, as we pick up a little ahead of where we left off, Harper and her friends are separated and we do not see them together at all in this story.... Well, not totally at all, just mostly at all. I like this style and how the author still brings their stories together. It helps to develop the characters and their personalities and strengths and weaknesses. There is plenty of action still, it just comes in waves and in different ways. There is one big battle scene that is fantastic and was such a great read! There is more romance in this book than I care to usually have in the books I read but it didn't take away from the main story or plot. The deceit and treachery is apparent and I love how the main characters try their best to figure out their plan of attack and.... Make stupid stupid mistakes! Gah! Some things are so frustrating! But that's what makes this such a great book!
If you liked the previous 2 in this series, this is a fantastic continuation and I would highly recommend it. I would not recommend reading this book if it is your first in the series as you need the background of the first books to understand this one. I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and have voluntarily left a review.
Where to begin, where to begin? Well, as we pick up a little ahead of where we left off, Harper and her friends are separated and we do not see them together at all in this story.... Well, not totally at all, just mostly at all. I like this style and how the author still brings their stories together. It helps to develop the characters and their personalities and strengths and weaknesses. There is plenty of action still, it just comes in waves and in different ways. There is one big battle scene that is fantastic and was such a great read! There is more romance in this book than I care to usually have in the books I read but it didn't take away from the main story or plot. The deceit and treachery is apparent and I love how the main characters try their best to figure out their plan of attack and.... Make stupid stupid mistakes! Gah! Some things are so frustrating! But that's what makes this such a great book!
If you liked the previous 2 in this series, this is a fantastic continuation and I would highly recommend it. I would not recommend reading this book if it is your first in the series as you need the background of the first books to understand this one. I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and have voluntarily left a review.
September 4, 2019
ONE THRILLING ADVENTURE!!!
Holy crap! Meg really stepped up the game when it comes to imagination and insight on spinning a story so realistic it blows you away. A rollercoaster ride of vexing circumstances and swirling emotions that will rock you to the core. With your world crumbling all around you in epic proportions your forced deeper into this tangled web of intrigue and survival. In a race against time you resort to drastic measures while trying to stay one step ahead and losing ground. In a race against time you resort to drastic measures while trying to stay one step ahead and losing ground. This is one action packed, hard hitting, pulse racing, heart pounding, page turning thriller that catapult this astonishing jewel roaring to life beautifully. The characters are authentic and realistic with such depth and individual qualities you have no trouble relating. The scenes are so graphically detailed its easy visualize each scenario as they play off one another perfectly. All the drama, uncertainty, danger and suspense increases while tension spirals. An impressive storyline and solid plot with all the twists and turns, glitches and a few bumps bring this baby together stunningly. Exceptional job Meg, thanks for sharing.
Holy crap! Meg really stepped up the game when it comes to imagination and insight on spinning a story so realistic it blows you away. A rollercoaster ride of vexing circumstances and swirling emotions that will rock you to the core. With your world crumbling all around you in epic proportions your forced deeper into this tangled web of intrigue and survival. In a race against time you resort to drastic measures while trying to stay one step ahead and losing ground. In a race against time you resort to drastic measures while trying to stay one step ahead and losing ground. This is one action packed, hard hitting, pulse racing, heart pounding, page turning thriller that catapult this astonishing jewel roaring to life beautifully. The characters are authentic and realistic with such depth and individual qualities you have no trouble relating. The scenes are so graphically detailed its easy visualize each scenario as they play off one another perfectly. All the drama, uncertainty, danger and suspense increases while tension spirals. An impressive storyline and solid plot with all the twists and turns, glitches and a few bumps bring this baby together stunningly. Exceptional job Meg, thanks for sharing.
September 6, 2019
Before starting "The Order of Valxiron", I decided to binge-read the whole series so far, in order to get into the mood again, and refresh my memory of what has happened so far. Oh boy, what a ride that was!!! As soon as I started the third book, it was clear as day that this one is a lot more darker than the previous two, as well as it should be. Saradon has risen, but is it really Saradon or someone more sinister? Each hero has their own cross to bear, so to speak, and we follow their struggles from chapter to chapter with baited breath. New characters enter the scene, some good, some evil. A new prophecy gives hope, but before it comes to pass a lot must happen.
I really loved Meg Cowley's portrayal of each main character, as they develop and grow with each passing page. Harper is not the innocent and naive girl she used to be, Dimitrius is not the villain he appeared to be, Aedon has more depth than the lighthearted elf we've come to know. Each and every one of them have a part to play in the greater scheme of things, and I'm definitely anxious to read what comes next. The ending and Harper's and Dimitrius' separation, just as they've started to develop their relationship, left me heartbroken. I sincerelly hope the next installment comes soon!!!
I really loved Meg Cowley's portrayal of each main character, as they develop and grow with each passing page. Harper is not the innocent and naive girl she used to be, Dimitrius is not the villain he appeared to be, Aedon has more depth than the lighthearted elf we've come to know. Each and every one of them have a part to play in the greater scheme of things, and I'm definitely anxious to read what comes next. The ending and Harper's and Dimitrius' separation, just as they've started to develop their relationship, left me heartbroken. I sincerelly hope the next installment comes soon!!!
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