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The Elder Empire: Sea #2
Of Dawn and Darkness
Calder has survived the battle on the Gray Island, and escaped the Heart of Nakothi with his sanity intact. The Empire is without a leader, and he's perfectly placed to take the reins himself.
But he is not Emperor yet. The world is divided between those who support Imperial tradition and those who believe no one can take the throne. Calder must do everything he can to hold the Empire together, even as the Elders lurk in the shadows, ready to devour mankind. Meanwhile, Shera and her Consultant's Guild are stronger than ever. If Calder doesn't stop them soon, he may never get another chance.
In the shadows, a woman seeks to divide mankind.
On the seas, a man fights to save it.
But he is not Emperor yet. The world is divided between those who support Imperial tradition and those who believe no one can take the throne. Calder must do everything he can to hold the Empire together, even as the Elders lurk in the shadows, ready to devour mankind. Meanwhile, Shera and her Consultant's Guild are stronger than ever. If Calder doesn't stop them soon, he may never get another chance.
In the shadows, a woman seeks to divide mankind.
On the seas, a man fights to save it.
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published December 6, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
July 10, 2023
The Empire is leaderless, in turmoil, and fracturing in two. The Imperialists hope to hold it together with a new Emperor. Calder Marten is determined to be that man and the Imperialists are ready for Calder to be seated on the throne as soon as possible. The threats to the Empire didn't die with the previous Emperor and humanity needs every weapon it can get to defend itself.
Of Dawn and Darkness was a solid sequel. I find the story engaging and the characters somewhat interesting. The scope of the Elder Empire and the events the Elders have put into place are likely the best parts. Seeing moments where Kelarac was unhappy was simply delightful. The sad part is despite all that, Calder is clearly in over his head.
The biggest thought I find myself having is that everyone involved with the Guild Civil War is being idiotic. Humanity has an opponent with power that dwarfs their own. Their best fighters have to become Soulbound to the power of Kameira and the Elders to even have a chance. I don't understand why the people who want to defend humanity can't come to an agreement outside of murdering one another. They should always be training and inventing new ways to strengthen humanity to face the onslaught. If that means the Empire splits in two, then so be it as long as they vow to come to one another's aid. Everyone is too focused on gaining or keeping their power to have enough foresight to be fully prepared.
Of Dawn and Darkness is a well written story overall and I thought it was slightly better after I re-read it.
3.5 out of 5 stars
Of Dawn and Darkness was a solid sequel. I find the story engaging and the characters somewhat interesting. The scope of the Elder Empire and the events the Elders have put into place are likely the best parts. Seeing moments where Kelarac was unhappy was simply delightful. The sad part is despite all that, Calder is clearly in over his head.
The biggest thought I find myself having is that everyone involved with the Guild Civil War is being idiotic. Humanity has an opponent with power that dwarfs their own. Their best fighters have to become Soulbound to the power of Kameira and the Elders to even have a chance. I don't understand why the people who want to defend humanity can't come to an agreement outside of murdering one another. They should always be training and inventing new ways to strengthen humanity to face the onslaught. If that means the Empire splits in two, then so be it as long as they vow to come to one another's aid. Everyone is too focused on gaining or keeping their power to have enough foresight to be fully prepared.
Of Dawn and Darkness is a well written story overall and I thought it was slightly better after I re-read it.
3.5 out of 5 stars
February 2, 2016
A strong cast of character propels this forward, but not without faults. This series is told in tandem with another series by Wight, set at the same time but following a different cast of characters. It sorta-kinda worked for book one, but for book two, this book relied too heavily on knowledge gained from its counterpart to make much sense. The only reason the first half of the book didn't bore the ever-loving snot out of me was because I knew what was going on in the other plotline.
This felt less like a companion novel and more like half a story. Add to that some pointless backstory (really all we needed was a flashback to their time in the library) and this book was clearly the weakest by far. Sad, because I find the characters in this series so much more entertaining than the characters in the other.
Great setting, interesting characters, but some flawed execution put this series on notice for me.
This felt less like a companion novel and more like half a story. Add to that some pointless backstory (really all we needed was a flashback to their time in the library) and this book was clearly the weakest by far. Sad, because I find the characters in this series so much more entertaining than the characters in the other.
Great setting, interesting characters, but some flawed execution put this series on notice for me.
January 19, 2021
Book 1: 4*
Book 2: 4*
I think I liked book 1 slightly more but still a great continuation of the story and definitely a series people should checkout. Looking forward to the last book and companion series.
Book 2: 4*
I think I liked book 1 slightly more but still a great continuation of the story and definitely a series people should checkout. Looking forward to the last book and companion series.
April 26, 2021
Rating: 4.2/5
Review: I am getting a definite impression that this world is part of the greater “Cradle” firmament series. Perhaps another world protected by the Judges.
This installment is rife with movement and character interaction. Calder’s desire for the Crown leaks down the pages as does Jyrine’s desire for Elder interaction. Petal, Urzaiah and Foster steal the show and we say goodbye to a beloved character.
A great read that ends too quick.
Review: I am getting a definite impression that this world is part of the greater “Cradle” firmament series. Perhaps another world protected by the Judges.
This installment is rife with movement and character interaction. Calder’s desire for the Crown leaks down the pages as does Jyrine’s desire for Elder interaction. Petal, Urzaiah and Foster steal the show and we say goodbye to a beloved character.
A great read that ends too quick.
May 28, 2020
So, I'm breaking from tradition on this series. This book gets a 4 star from me.
I still have some issues with the format, at times it feels unnecessary to have split the 'POV' into two separate books. By going through many of the same events from different POVs there is some rehashing of story which feels bad if you're reading the books back to back. Occasionally feels like re-reading a chapter.
However this book has the least number of times that occurs. I'd say only one and a half times ;).
Meanwhile, the story is great, this is the meat of the Calder back story and I wish I hadn't had to read 4 books to get it, but I'll take it because it was super good. With Shera the most interesting part of her backstory happens in her early life, and then her teenage/young adult life is a bit dull [by comparison]. So for Shera I liked her book 1 POV better than her book 2 POV. For Calder I feel the reverse is true, his early life is a bit dull and his teenage/young adult POV so much more interesting.
In the end I'm a sucker for authors that have huge sprawling interconnected worlds, even when this series completely stands alone, it's neat for me to see how it fits into the overall world of Cradle [another of this authors series].
This book left me wanting more, I will be reading the next book in the series soonish.
I still have some issues with the format, at times it feels unnecessary to have split the 'POV' into two separate books. By going through many of the same events from different POVs there is some rehashing of story which feels bad if you're reading the books back to back. Occasionally feels like re-reading a chapter.
However this book has the least number of times that occurs. I'd say only one and a half times ;).
Meanwhile, the story is great, this is the meat of the Calder back story and I wish I hadn't had to read 4 books to get it, but I'll take it because it was super good. With Shera the most interesting part of her backstory happens in her early life, and then her teenage/young adult life is a bit dull [by comparison]. So for Shera I liked her book 1 POV better than her book 2 POV. For Calder I feel the reverse is true, his early life is a bit dull and his teenage/young adult POV so much more interesting.
In the end I'm a sucker for authors that have huge sprawling interconnected worlds, even when this series completely stands alone, it's neat for me to see how it fits into the overall world of Cradle [another of this authors series].
This book left me wanting more, I will be reading the next book in the series soonish.
July 2, 2024
Another solid read in the series! Probably my least favorite between the three I’ve read, but still very enjoyable.
Once again, the biggest thing I loved here was the worldbuilding. The magic is a bit less involved this time around, probably because it was already explained in book one, but even then it felt a bit less prevalent. Still, seeing it used was very interesting, and I loved the deeper lore that is discussed in regards to the Great Elders. I really enjoyed the plot as well, which was once again split between present and flashback, both of which I enjoyed. There was some really interesting stuff in here about someone taking up the mantle of leading an Empire. The characters were well done also, and had some very entertaining interactions. Lastly, I absolutely loved the ending of this book; the last handful of chapters were maybe my favorite part of the series. It takes a very Lovecraftian-esque turn in terms of the worldbuilding and entities, which is saying something because the Great Elders are already quite overt in their similarities to Lovecraft. Seeing this sort of thing in this type of fantasy book is a really unique combo and, as a fantasy fan and a Lovecraft fan, I need more!
As for negatives, the main thing is that I didn’t find certain parts of the plot too compelling. I enjoyed the ideas here and certain sequences, but as a whole I think it was a bit slow. This does change over time though, as the plot does speed up and get more exciting towards the end.
Overall this was another solid entry. I’m very excited to see where things go in the final entries of this series.
Rating: 8/10
Once again, the biggest thing I loved here was the worldbuilding. The magic is a bit less involved this time around, probably because it was already explained in book one, but even then it felt a bit less prevalent. Still, seeing it used was very interesting, and I loved the deeper lore that is discussed in regards to the Great Elders. I really enjoyed the plot as well, which was once again split between present and flashback, both of which I enjoyed. There was some really interesting stuff in here about someone taking up the mantle of leading an Empire. The characters were well done also, and had some very entertaining interactions. Lastly, I absolutely loved the ending of this book; the last handful of chapters were maybe my favorite part of the series. It takes a very Lovecraftian-esque turn in terms of the worldbuilding and entities, which is saying something because the Great Elders are already quite overt in their similarities to Lovecraft. Seeing this sort of thing in this type of fantasy book is a really unique combo and, as a fantasy fan and a Lovecraft fan, I need more!
As for negatives, the main thing is that I didn’t find certain parts of the plot too compelling. I enjoyed the ideas here and certain sequences, but as a whole I think it was a bit slow. This does change over time though, as the plot does speed up and get more exciting towards the end.
Overall this was another solid entry. I’m very excited to see where things go in the final entries of this series.
Rating: 8/10
May 7, 2020
Man these books are entertaining. Will Wight does some good writing. So, this is book 4 (?) of Wight's Elder Empire series in which he is following two separate but intertwined storylines of the same over-arching plot in separate books released originally simultaneously, but now just very close together.
This is the continuation of the Calder storyline, and, like the other books, has flashbacks to expound upon Calder's backstory, culminating in a major turning point in his life. In his first book, we found out about his Father and why he hated the Emperor so much. In this book, we find out how he ended up with the crown and how his crew was assembled. In the current time line, Calder is dealing with the fallout from the last book. He's now Emperor, or Regent, but without any real power thus far. There are the 4 regents that have split governing the Empire that he has to deal with one way or another. And it becomes increasingly clear that there is a larger plot underway, possibly since the Emperor was killed. What that plot is and what it means to humanity is incredibly murky. Again, it's difficult to know who's side you should be on in this book.
Wight writes (oy) with a fantastic sense of humor and wryness that I have loved since I first picked up House of Blades. It's not over the top, but there's enough that, even though these books have some serious horror elements to it, it stays fairly light. Seriously, the man has talent. I really liked Traveler's Gate, and this new series is not a letdown at all. Thanks Will!
This is the continuation of the Calder storyline, and, like the other books, has flashbacks to expound upon Calder's backstory, culminating in a major turning point in his life. In his first book, we found out about his Father and why he hated the Emperor so much. In this book, we find out how he ended up with the crown and how his crew was assembled. In the current time line, Calder is dealing with the fallout from the last book. He's now Emperor, or Regent, but without any real power thus far. There are the 4 regents that have split governing the Empire that he has to deal with one way or another. And it becomes increasingly clear that there is a larger plot underway, possibly since the Emperor was killed. What that plot is and what it means to humanity is incredibly murky. Again, it's difficult to know who's side you should be on in this book.
Wight writes (oy) with a fantastic sense of humor and wryness that I have loved since I first picked up House of Blades. It's not over the top, but there's enough that, even though these books have some serious horror elements to it, it stays fairly light. Seriously, the man has talent. I really liked Traveler's Gate, and this new series is not a letdown at all. Thanks Will!
October 8, 2022
Well, it appears that this series is indeed part of the Abidan world. The prison Iteration maybe?
On the one hand, the possibility makes me happy, on the other hand it makes me disappointed, because I'm not all that interested in this story or the characters. I'm glad I didn't buy them, it's more of a slog to get through them.
I think the jumpiness of the timeline really breaks up the story and makes it harder to get into. Also, the characters know more than the reader does, but don't act on their knowledge so it's weird. Usually it's the reader who knows more than the character does, and that brings in a large level of interest. I'm not sure if Will is just playing with that writing trope or what, but it's not really working for me. I'm glad I'm on the second to last book.
On the one hand, the possibility makes me happy, on the other hand it makes me disappointed, because I'm not all that interested in this story or the characters. I'm glad I didn't buy them, it's more of a slog to get through them.
I think the jumpiness of the timeline really breaks up the story and makes it harder to get into. Also, the characters know more than the reader does, but don't act on their knowledge so it's weird. Usually it's the reader who knows more than the character does, and that brings in a large level of interest. I'm not sure if Will is just playing with that writing trope or what, but it's not really working for me. I'm glad I'm on the second to last book.
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October 18, 2024I love the world the author has built. The magic system of readers, soul bonds and alchemy were things I found really interesting to read, that was almost enough for me to give the book a 5 star, but I'm always more focused on characters.
The character Calder Martin is my only problem with this book, his actions are without any form of finesse and most times annoying.
How can you create a character who fumbles through everything, never makes a concrete plan of action and is very incompetent both in strength and wit.
Every character has his or her own strength. There's Andel who is a member of Calder's crew. He is smart, a great adviser and level headed.
We have Dalton foster. He's a grumpy and old man but also an irreplaceable renowned gunsmith.
Even petal who we rarely get to see, has a position as a self thought alchemist .
we also have Urzaia the champion, one of the strongest humans in the empire and also a member of Calder's crew.
Each of these characters have something going for them even the main character, but he manages to seem less than he should be.
Granted that Calder is a navigator and a soul bound individual bonded with his ship "the testament", he doesn't carry himself as a serious individual, you'd expect that he'd be able to hold his own when on that ship but he has failed in the first and second book to impress.
He has only survived through the two books because he had either been spared by the enemy or just by dumb luck. It's crazy that even on his own ship, people have come on and threatened and acted against him without him being able to put on a fight.
Now in the first book Urzaia, a member of Calder's crew was killed, this person is as close to family and has worked with Calder for years. In this book we got a look into their shared past and got to see how they met.
So it is actually painful to see that Calder has made no plans to see his death avenged and he barely acknowledges his death in this book. He had captured a member of the crew that was complicit in the murder of his teammate but he spared her life and made the stupid decision of bringing an enemy who is more powerful than he on any of his team onto his ship. As you'd expect his decision backfired and he was again laid low and spared death.
More surprising is that this character "Calder" who has shown not an ounce of wit proclaimed his longtime plan to become emperor ( a plan that was going nowhere had it not become paramount that someone had to be the emperor) and surprisingly this incompetent character was accepted , only because it would be easier to instate a weak figurehead as one.
There is another trilogy aside from this one on the same timeline and the same world, the main character in that book appeals more to me because she, despite her flaws is at least good at the one thing she was trained to do, I would have loved her more if I started with that trilogy but because I began with this one, I'm unable to view her as anything but the enemy.
The character Calder Martin is my only problem with this book, his actions are without any form of finesse and most times annoying.
How can you create a character who fumbles through everything, never makes a concrete plan of action and is very incompetent both in strength and wit.
Every character has his or her own strength. There's Andel who is a member of Calder's crew. He is smart, a great adviser and level headed.
We have Dalton foster. He's a grumpy and old man but also an irreplaceable renowned gunsmith.
Even petal who we rarely get to see, has a position as a self thought alchemist .
we also have Urzaia the champion, one of the strongest humans in the empire and also a member of Calder's crew.
Each of these characters have something going for them even the main character, but he manages to seem less than he should be.
Granted that Calder is a navigator and a soul bound individual bonded with his ship "the testament", he doesn't carry himself as a serious individual, you'd expect that he'd be able to hold his own when on that ship but he has failed in the first and second book to impress.
He has only survived through the two books because he had either been spared by the enemy or just by dumb luck. It's crazy that even on his own ship, people have come on and threatened and acted against him without him being able to put on a fight.
Now in the first book Urzaia, a member of Calder's crew was killed, this person is as close to family and has worked with Calder for years. In this book we got a look into their shared past and got to see how they met.
So it is actually painful to see that Calder has made no plans to see his death avenged and he barely acknowledges his death in this book. He had captured a member of the crew that was complicit in the murder of his teammate but he spared her life and made the stupid decision of bringing an enemy who is more powerful than he on any of his team onto his ship. As you'd expect his decision backfired and he was again laid low and spared death.
More surprising is that this character "Calder" who has shown not an ounce of wit proclaimed his longtime plan to become emperor ( a plan that was going nowhere had it not become paramount that someone had to be the emperor) and surprisingly this incompetent character was accepted , only because it would be easier to instate a weak figurehead as one.
There is another trilogy aside from this one on the same timeline and the same world, the main character in that book appeals more to me because she, despite her flaws is at least good at the one thing she was trained to do, I would have loved her more if I started with that trilogy but because I began with this one, I'm unable to view her as anything but the enemy.
October 5, 2024
I'm not sure I can express how much disappointment I have in this sequel. I absolutely loved the first book. Devoured it. Put it on my favorites list. This one is absolutely subpar in contrast.
There seem to be nothing but plot holes. For example, why did the great elder want Calder to sit on the throne, but then surround the entire thing with thick flesh, conveniently blocking anybody including him from getting to it? Then putting his wife as sentinel to kill anybody that comes through the door?
Why does Calder keep letting his wife live, when clearly she's able to escape any prison, and is taking orders from the great elders?
Why didn't he have her earring removed the second he saw her the first time in the dungeons?
It just doesn't make any sense in the narrative.
I also don't understand why he thinks or thought that he could be emperor. We are told many times that it's some thing that he's always wanted, something that he thought he could achieve. Why? He's literally the captain of the ship. That's it. He doesn't have noble blood. He's not in line for anything… Why did he think it would ever be a
possibility? They never really explain that.
Plus we get all these flashbacks. Unlike the first book, they have nothing to do with the story. In fact, a significant number of them have to do with a crew member that died in the first book. So why do I care about their history? How they met?
I don't. That story is over.
Which is unfortunate, because Resiah probably my favorite character from the first book next to shuffles… (Who also barely makes an appearance in this book.)
Also something I don't understand in the flashbacks…if Resiah was THAT insanely strong as they literally take entire chapters to explain… spent four years in an arena fighting off literally doesn't upon dozens of trained fighters,chimera the size of the house etc.…
And we're expected to believe he was defeated by one girl assassin? With daggers?????
That's ridiculous.
I mean he spends absolute paragraphs, chapters, talking about how the champions are unbeatable, about how LEGENDS were written about them, one guy taking on an entire army that kind of thing. About how impressed Calder is and can barely breathe when he stands in the presence of a champion.
They are practically gods, immune to poison, and can rip apart the largest enemy with their bare hands. But somehow the consultants are more powerful. The consultants appear to be the Mary Sue. They're the best at EVERYTHING .
The navigators are the ship builders and have spent their entire lives on the ocean? Oh the consultant are better. The Champions spend their entire lives conditioning and are quite literally gods on earth in battle? Oh well the consultant assassins are better. It's just super annoying to have characters like that.
And I don't really care about any of the characters in the story. Frankly it feels like half a story. All of the flashbacks filling in because the author didn't have enough material to fill out an entire book.
There seem to be nothing but plot holes. For example, why did the great elder want Calder to sit on the throne, but then surround the entire thing with thick flesh, conveniently blocking anybody including him from getting to it? Then putting his wife as sentinel to kill anybody that comes through the door?
Why does Calder keep letting his wife live, when clearly she's able to escape any prison, and is taking orders from the great elders?
Why didn't he have her earring removed the second he saw her the first time in the dungeons?
It just doesn't make any sense in the narrative.
I also don't understand why he thinks or thought that he could be emperor. We are told many times that it's some thing that he's always wanted, something that he thought he could achieve. Why? He's literally the captain of the ship. That's it. He doesn't have noble blood. He's not in line for anything… Why did he think it would ever be a
possibility? They never really explain that.
Plus we get all these flashbacks. Unlike the first book, they have nothing to do with the story. In fact, a significant number of them have to do with a crew member that died in the first book. So why do I care about their history? How they met?
I don't. That story is over.
Which is unfortunate, because Resiah probably my favorite character from the first book next to shuffles… (Who also barely makes an appearance in this book.)
Also something I don't understand in the flashbacks…if Resiah was THAT insanely strong as they literally take entire chapters to explain… spent four years in an arena fighting off literally doesn't upon dozens of trained fighters,chimera the size of the house etc.…
And we're expected to believe he was defeated by one girl assassin? With daggers?????
That's ridiculous.
I mean he spends absolute paragraphs, chapters, talking about how the champions are unbeatable, about how LEGENDS were written about them, one guy taking on an entire army that kind of thing. About how impressed Calder is and can barely breathe when he stands in the presence of a champion.
They are practically gods, immune to poison, and can rip apart the largest enemy with their bare hands. But somehow the consultants are more powerful. The consultants appear to be the Mary Sue. They're the best at EVERYTHING .
The navigators are the ship builders and have spent their entire lives on the ocean? Oh the consultant are better. The Champions spend their entire lives conditioning and are quite literally gods on earth in battle? Oh well the consultant assassins are better. It's just super annoying to have characters like that.
And I don't really care about any of the characters in the story. Frankly it feels like half a story. All of the flashbacks filling in because the author didn't have enough material to fill out an entire book.
September 26, 2021
Storygraph rating: 4 stars
Okay, so this one felt significantly less crammed than its immediate predecessor! That’s nice. Finally got some depth to go with the breadth, and I feel we’re beginning to plumb the eldritch secrets of the world of this series. Very fun entry, glad to have read it.
———————————————————————————
Guide to my Rating Scale, based on the Storygraph Rating:
* 5 Stars: This book was more or less flawless. One of the best things I’ve ever read.
* 4.75 through 4.25 Stars: This book had slight flaws, but I REALLY loved it. Marked as 4 stars on Goodreads.
* 4 Stars: This book had slight flaws, but I loved it.
* 3.75 through 3.25 Stars: This book had significant flaws, but I REALLY liked it. Marked as 3 stars on Goodreads.
* 3 Stars: This book had significant flaws, but I liked it just fine.
* 2.75 through 2.25 Stars: This book was extremely flawed, but I thought it had some merit. Marked as 2 stars on Goodreads.
* 2 Stars: This book was extremely flawed, but I didn’t actively dislike it. It was a waste of my time but not odious.
* 1.75 through 1.25 Stars: This book was irreparably flawed, and I actively disliked it. Marked as 1 star on Goodreads.
* 1 Star: This book was irreparably flawed. I actively hated this book and am worse off for having read it.
Okay, so this one felt significantly less crammed than its immediate predecessor! That’s nice. Finally got some depth to go with the breadth, and I feel we’re beginning to plumb the eldritch secrets of the world of this series. Very fun entry, glad to have read it.
———————————————————————————
Guide to my Rating Scale, based on the Storygraph Rating:
* 5 Stars: This book was more or less flawless. One of the best things I’ve ever read.
* 4.75 through 4.25 Stars: This book had slight flaws, but I REALLY loved it. Marked as 4 stars on Goodreads.
* 4 Stars: This book had slight flaws, but I loved it.
* 3.75 through 3.25 Stars: This book had significant flaws, but I REALLY liked it. Marked as 3 stars on Goodreads.
* 3 Stars: This book had significant flaws, but I liked it just fine.
* 2.75 through 2.25 Stars: This book was extremely flawed, but I thought it had some merit. Marked as 2 stars on Goodreads.
* 2 Stars: This book was extremely flawed, but I didn’t actively dislike it. It was a waste of my time but not odious.
* 1.75 through 1.25 Stars: This book was irreparably flawed, and I actively disliked it. Marked as 1 star on Goodreads.
* 1 Star: This book was irreparably flawed. I actively hated this book and am worse off for having read it.
September 28, 2021
2.5⭐ - Not a bad series by any means, I'm just not as interested in it as I want to be. Most of the story tends to move a lot slower than I would like. It picks up toward the end, but not enough to save it for me.
The actual storyline is not bad and I do like the parallel novels angle with Calder and Shera. I haven't decided if I'm going to continue the series or not. I'll most likely decide on a whim.
The actual storyline is not bad and I do like the parallel novels angle with Calder and Shera. I haven't decided if I'm going to continue the series or not. I'll most likely decide on a whim.
September 10, 2023
I didn't enjoy it as much as Sea 1 or Shadow 1. But it might be simply because I was reading this book while I was suffering from a bad reading slump. Not much happens in this book in terms of action, but there is a lot of setup and world-building. Nonetheless, this book had the right amount of banter and camaraderie that had been missing from Sea 1.
The book doesn't have Shera, so I think that would make reading Shadow 2 more fruitful since I have no idea what it is going to be about. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed; I hope this series does get better and ends on a great note.
Rating: 3.75/5.
Detailed review to come shortly.
The book doesn't have Shera, so I think that would make reading Shadow 2 more fruitful since I have no idea what it is going to be about. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed; I hope this series does get better and ends on a great note.
Rating: 3.75/5.
Detailed review to come shortly.
April 14, 2023
As always, the pacing of this book was spot on. It kept me engaged with the story the whole time. Great second book to the series - can't wait to read the antagonist's point of view in Of Darkness and Dawn.
April 3, 2025
You're screwed, Calder. You CANNOT let that happen to Shera's conscious.
March 12, 2023
not sure what to say about it, I was confused by the present storyline and wasn’t that interested in it. However, I loved the chapters talking about the past, they were heartwarming and sad at the same time :(
Also, I was waiting for some characters to appear and see their perspective, but it seems like the author has forgotten them entirely?
Also, I was waiting for some characters to appear and see their perspective, but it seems like the author has forgotten them entirely?
July 18, 2020
Will Wight delivers a story that is a bit slower in pace that picks up in the end.
It was a well written story, but given the length is a epic scope and it is a parallel story to another it feels as if a little less was actually accomplished in this book. still half the book is a flashback to the previous years of The Testament and Captain Martin's crew. We get to see how he picked up each one and why they were as close as they were in the original book.
Overall the story is fun if a bit slower in pace. They are some pretty dramatic events that I was not expecting and one twist that for those who read the parallel story hits pretty hard. The present storyline needed the past storyline to make up for the slower pace as the events unfold to set up the third book of the series. Given that our favorite gardener in the other series does not make an appearance at least on page it made this story and the other stand apart from each other more so than the first books of the series.
While I enjoyed the story it was close to getting a four-star rating. The treatment of Jerri, Calder's wife, makes her feel a bit of a flat character. Only the past story fills her out enough to to make her the least bit sympathetic. Otherwise she really is a crazy Elder cultist LOL. The more sluggish present storyline and the fact that the present storyline is not as much as a traveling adventure as in the first book did have me putting down the story a few times to come back to it. Still I read the entire work in pretty much one weekend day.
Will Wight was just getting his legs under him I think with this series but it's still is interesting enough that I'm glad I purchased it and we'll end up reading it several times in the years to come. But perhaps not as much as other series he has written given that basically each book of Epic Fantasy links but still comprises only one half of the story we get in the timeline. This makes the pacing feel that much slower. also to be honest I'm really looking forward to the next book in the Cradle series and I'm afraid that having to write two books in this series will make me wait that much longer.
Still for anyone who is looking into reading the series as a whole you will not be disappointed if you enjoy great world building, Epic Fantasy length and depth, as well as otherworldly power and beings. So far the series does remain appropriate for young teens and above.
It was a well written story, but given the length is a epic scope and it is a parallel story to another it feels as if a little less was actually accomplished in this book. still half the book is a flashback to the previous years of The Testament and Captain Martin's crew. We get to see how he picked up each one and why they were as close as they were in the original book.
Overall the story is fun if a bit slower in pace. They are some pretty dramatic events that I was not expecting and one twist that for those who read the parallel story hits pretty hard. The present storyline needed the past storyline to make up for the slower pace as the events unfold to set up the third book of the series. Given that our favorite gardener in the other series does not make an appearance at least on page it made this story and the other stand apart from each other more so than the first books of the series.
While I enjoyed the story it was close to getting a four-star rating. The treatment of Jerri, Calder's wife, makes her feel a bit of a flat character. Only the past story fills her out enough to to make her the least bit sympathetic. Otherwise she really is a crazy Elder cultist LOL. The more sluggish present storyline and the fact that the present storyline is not as much as a traveling adventure as in the first book did have me putting down the story a few times to come back to it. Still I read the entire work in pretty much one weekend day.
Will Wight was just getting his legs under him I think with this series but it's still is interesting enough that I'm glad I purchased it and we'll end up reading it several times in the years to come. But perhaps not as much as other series he has written given that basically each book of Epic Fantasy links but still comprises only one half of the story we get in the timeline. This makes the pacing feel that much slower. also to be honest I'm really looking forward to the next book in the Cradle series and I'm afraid that having to write two books in this series will make me wait that much longer.
Still for anyone who is looking into reading the series as a whole you will not be disappointed if you enjoy great world building, Epic Fantasy length and depth, as well as otherworldly power and beings. So far the series does remain appropriate for young teens and above.
February 9, 2020
This is the second book in the Sea series focussing on Calder. It weaves back and forth between the present (where the Guilds are at war) and the past (showing how Calder met his crew). You definitely need to have read the first book, and I would really recommend having read the sister to the first book (Shadow #1) to understand Meia. We spend a little more time learning about Jerri in this one, and the author seems to be setting her up for a larger role in the future.
As with the other books in the Elder series, it is dark, wonderful, beautifully-written and well-paced. I definitely recommend these books.
As with the other books in the Elder series, it is dark, wonderful, beautifully-written and well-paced. I definitely recommend these books.
December 29, 2015
One step forward one step back
The way that Will Wight chose to write these books has to be extremely difficult. This addition gives you as much backstory as it does move the story along in the present . It helps you to really get invested in the characters . I enjoyed it and look forward to the final additions of these twin series .
The way that Will Wight chose to write these books has to be extremely difficult. This addition gives you as much backstory as it does move the story along in the present . It helps you to really get invested in the characters . I enjoyed it and look forward to the final additions of these twin series .
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December 21, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (12/21/2019)! 🎁
July 28, 2020
A very enjoyable next chapter in the epic that is the Elder Empire split series. I'd really recommend reading Of Darkness and Dawn before this, as there are some events and characters of whom you will not give two hoots about without, but if you're really disinclined I think you can get away without knowing Shena's side of the story and not miss too much.
Following straight on from Of Sea and Shadow, we pick up Calder's tale which simmers along nicely. Oh, there are battles and whatnot, but it's a slow-pace story of revelations, so don't be expecting too much excitement on the high seas. It also picks up the flashbacks of Calder's past too, including a daring rescue (yes, another one) and yet more meddling from the mysterious Elders.
I actually really enjoyed this one, finding myself thinking about the unravelling mystery at the heart of the Empire even when I wasn't reading. Why did Calder put himself forward at the end of book one? What was his relationship with Jerri, and where did she come from? Why, despite being married, do they still have zero chemistry beyond being thick-as-thieves mates? What the heck are these crazy Guild Heads thinking? Calder's developing nicely from average roguish type (probably with heart of gold) found in fantasy to something more... ambitious. And you thought pirate Calder was morally dubious. Is a darkening main character still a hero?
I do think there are a few plot holes, unless they're going to be rapidly papered over later but generally I felt immersed by the story and character progression. The alternate chapter flashbacks were both a hook and immensely frustrating, because by the time I'd gotten involved in the present day actions, I'd then get into the past story, only to have forgotten how the last present day section had ended by the time I got back to it. I guess that's the danger of dual narratives like this.
Though... Should it be quadruple narratives? Shena isn't involved in this book, though characters from her Shadow story arc are. I'm in two minds about this split narrative series; smooshing them together into 3 Elder Empire volumes would have made for massive books, and yet I can't help but feel like I'm missing things still. Shena's side of the story would help me understand and/or care about some of the events and characters.
What I really liked here was getting to know Calder's crew. They got good character development and origins stories, and I could feel their roguish relationships full of the nautical fantasy equivalent of witty banter. Jerri is the only one I just don't get the point of; not in terms of story, because she's very important, but in terms of relationship. Beyond a slight flicker of "she's pretty" in his youth, there is nothing romantic about her relationship with Calder. I don't get why he's so miffed that "his wife" had secrets from him when, to be honest, she seemed more like just another member of the crew. If it had been "my best friend" I'd have felt it more. Also, Urzaia. I found his POV focus a bit dull in book one, and even when it's about him rather than from him, I still wanted to skip his story.
Whinges aside (be critical of the thing you love and all), I am really invested in this story and fascinated by the gritty, creepy fantasy world. I'm really looking forward to going back and reading Shena's half of the story before going further into Calder's madness. A slow but still exciting read.
Following straight on from Of Sea and Shadow, we pick up Calder's tale which simmers along nicely. Oh, there are battles and whatnot, but it's a slow-pace story of revelations, so don't be expecting too much excitement on the high seas. It also picks up the flashbacks of Calder's past too, including a daring rescue (yes, another one) and yet more meddling from the mysterious Elders.
I actually really enjoyed this one, finding myself thinking about the unravelling mystery at the heart of the Empire even when I wasn't reading. Why did Calder put himself forward at the end of book one? What was his relationship with Jerri, and where did she come from? Why, despite being married, do they still have zero chemistry beyond being thick-as-thieves mates? What the heck are these crazy Guild Heads thinking? Calder's developing nicely from average roguish type (probably with heart of gold) found in fantasy to something more... ambitious. And you thought pirate Calder was morally dubious. Is a darkening main character still a hero?
I do think there are a few plot holes, unless they're going to be rapidly papered over later but generally I felt immersed by the story and character progression. The alternate chapter flashbacks were both a hook and immensely frustrating, because by the time I'd gotten involved in the present day actions, I'd then get into the past story, only to have forgotten how the last present day section had ended by the time I got back to it. I guess that's the danger of dual narratives like this.
Though... Should it be quadruple narratives? Shena isn't involved in this book, though characters from her Shadow story arc are. I'm in two minds about this split narrative series; smooshing them together into 3 Elder Empire volumes would have made for massive books, and yet I can't help but feel like I'm missing things still. Shena's side of the story would help me understand and/or care about some of the events and characters.
What I really liked here was getting to know Calder's crew. They got good character development and origins stories, and I could feel their roguish relationships full of the nautical fantasy equivalent of witty banter. Jerri is the only one I just don't get the point of; not in terms of story, because she's very important, but in terms of relationship. Beyond a slight flicker of "she's pretty" in his youth, there is nothing romantic about her relationship with Calder. I don't get why he's so miffed that "his wife" had secrets from him when, to be honest, she seemed more like just another member of the crew. If it had been "my best friend" I'd have felt it more. Also, Urzaia. I found his POV focus a bit dull in book one, and even when it's about him rather than from him, I still wanted to skip his story.
Whinges aside (be critical of the thing you love and all), I am really invested in this story and fascinated by the gritty, creepy fantasy world. I'm really looking forward to going back and reading Shena's half of the story before going further into Calder's madness. A slow but still exciting read.
March 17, 2024
Book 2! I love this book for the same reasons as the first one.
The writing, as always, is impeccable and incredible. I particularly enjoyed Chapter 11 for the way it unnerved and terrified me, and books tend to lack that effect on me because of how they’re written. This worked though. Will Wight manages to invoke the feelings the reader is supposed to get when reading his books. Like, the moments that are supposed to be funny or amusing is funny and amusing, and I’m not sure that I have laughed out loud while reading a book before. I’ve acknowledged something is funny, yes, and I’ve smiled on the occasional humourous paragraph, but never an actual laugh.
Furthermore, when Will Wight needs you shocked, he can make you shocked. Chapter 14 had made me gasp so much that I had to comment out loud, in case anyone heard me gasping. That’s not the only such chapter to make visceral reactions out of me. I became hyped too that I ended up burning through several chapters within hours.
And Will Wight has continuously made me grieve for characters. A book after something sad happened and I still grieve that character. There are moments when I forget and when I remember, I just become instantly sad.
And as ever, I consider Will Wight to be a pro at writing fight scenes.
Of course, among the many other things that I love about this book is the worldbuilding. I’ve already talked about this in my review of Of Sea and Shadow and I hate to be repetitive with what I talk about. I just love how clever it all is, though. Like, the Optasia is such a cool aspect of this book. I’d love to gush but I want to keep this review largely spoiler-free.
And there are the characters—so well-written that I am attached to everyone, especially in this book when we come to know them more. Andel is my spirit animal and General Jarelys Teach can step on me, I guess. Obviously, Calder is a massive mood and I just love Urzaia. Foster and Petal are endearing while Jerri is conflicting. Also, the lack of Alsa Grayweather has me worried.
Will Wight also cleverly gradually introduced legendary figures to the readers through some of their quotes at the beginning of the chapters they were featured in. By the time these legendary figures made their first appearances, I understood the weight of their appearance as legends.
Let me end this review with a sentence I came to love from the moment I read it:
It was a heavy weight, and the loss of any life should deserve mourning.
And I just think that’s something to think about.
Needless to say, I love this book. Totally love the rollercoaster ride of emotions it threw me on.
The writing, as always, is impeccable and incredible. I particularly enjoyed Chapter 11 for the way it unnerved and terrified me, and books tend to lack that effect on me because of how they’re written. This worked though. Will Wight manages to invoke the feelings the reader is supposed to get when reading his books. Like, the moments that are supposed to be funny or amusing is funny and amusing, and I’m not sure that I have laughed out loud while reading a book before. I’ve acknowledged something is funny, yes, and I’ve smiled on the occasional humourous paragraph, but never an actual laugh.
Furthermore, when Will Wight needs you shocked, he can make you shocked. Chapter 14 had made me gasp so much that I had to comment out loud, in case anyone heard me gasping. That’s not the only such chapter to make visceral reactions out of me. I became hyped too that I ended up burning through several chapters within hours.
And Will Wight has continuously made me grieve for characters. A book after something sad happened and I still grieve that character. There are moments when I forget and when I remember, I just become instantly sad.
And as ever, I consider Will Wight to be a pro at writing fight scenes.
Of course, among the many other things that I love about this book is the worldbuilding. I’ve already talked about this in my review of Of Sea and Shadow and I hate to be repetitive with what I talk about. I just love how clever it all is, though. Like, the Optasia is such a cool aspect of this book. I’d love to gush but I want to keep this review largely spoiler-free.
And there are the characters—so well-written that I am attached to everyone, especially in this book when we come to know them more. Andel is my spirit animal and General Jarelys Teach can step on me, I guess. Obviously, Calder is a massive mood and I just love Urzaia. Foster and Petal are endearing while Jerri is conflicting. Also, the lack of Alsa Grayweather has me worried.
Will Wight also cleverly gradually introduced legendary figures to the readers through some of their quotes at the beginning of the chapters they were featured in. By the time these legendary figures made their first appearances, I understood the weight of their appearance as legends.
Let me end this review with a sentence I came to love from the moment I read it:
It was a heavy weight, and the loss of any life should deserve mourning.
And I just think that’s something to think about.
Needless to say, I love this book. Totally love the rollercoaster ride of emotions it threw me on.
August 19, 2020
Overall rating: 4
Characters: 4.5
Plot: 4.25
World-building: 4
In terms of plot, I felt this was a step-down from the previous installment in Sea, but it made up for it by better showcasing characters. Urzaia and Foster really carried the flashback sections of this book at a time where continuing with the flashback/flashforward format didn’t really seem to be aiding the story. It hardly seemed worth showing us how the characters all met after we had established their rapport with one another, and considering some of the characters aren’t even a part of the story any more, they seemed more like bonus chapters. Enjoyable, make no mistake, but largely unnecessary. That said, necessity notwithstanding, the pacing is still pulled off very well, and learning how they all came together was cool and culminates well. While I could see it being an actual problem for some, I do like a novel that gives itself some breathing room, and especially when we get it with characters we love, it can make the book all the more enjoyable. This one doesn’t really nail the balance of necessity, breathing room, and pacing, which is why plot only comes in at a 4.25 for me, and I’m being a little generous.
I still find myself enjoying Wight’s vivd characters that are larger than life and perfectly fine being more entertaining than philosophical. These books are popcorn reads, but they’re gourmet popcorn, drizzled in chocolate and peppermint bark with some M&Ms thrown in. It’s good stuff you’ll love coming back to, it’s just not the only thing you’ll want in your diet. I’ve already mentioned how well Urzaia and Foster carry their sections in the flashbacks, but it’s worth a second mention. Specifically in learning Urzaia’s story, and the line “Some even said I came out more sane than when I went in” really stood him apart from your typical “heavy” in my eyes. It’s one thing to have a mass murder that is maniacal in their slaughter, or a martial arts master that strives for perfection in their form, those are all overdone and a dime a dozen. But a heavy that’s just happy of his own volition and welcomes any challenge? That is incredibly endearing and while not necessarily unique, still a good sight less common. And Foster’s section isn’t far behind in quality. The surly artisan is much more of a trope, but it’s less common in general and needs less to make it stand out. Foster is a trope well done, and the last two words of that clause are the most important. We continue to get Calder, Bliss, Petal, and much more of Maya than I expected, and they are all entertaining and competently written as well, but this book belonged to the two I spent the bulk of this section discussing, IMHO.
Finally, I don’t consider myself a world-building guy. You can give me a bland fantasyland (TM) setting with really good characters and a middling plot, and I’ll likely be happy. Give me bland characters, a middling plot, and the best world ever conceived, I’m still not likely to finish the book. But when a novel is already doing characters and plot well, AND the world is fricken awesome, sign me up. We learn even more about the Elders in this book and see more into their aspects of the world, and it’s an improvement every time. If you ARE a world-building person, these are the books for you. I’ve tried to stay away from this comparison as much as possible, but Wight shows a lot of Sanderson influence in what I’ve read of his works, and I would put the Elder Empire between Mistborn and Stormlight in terms of how cool the world is. Wight can definitely scratch that Sanderson itch, and I honestly prefer him just because Sanderson often goes a little too epic for my tastes, but honestly, if Sanderson is your favorite author, I can’t imagine you not enjoying this series.
Overall, I found this one to be not as good as Of Shadow and Sea, and about the same as Of Sea and Shadow, with them showing more strength in different areas, but I’m still having a blast with the series and am fast-tracking them to hopefully finish within another week or two.
Characters: 4.5
Plot: 4.25
World-building: 4
In terms of plot, I felt this was a step-down from the previous installment in Sea, but it made up for it by better showcasing characters. Urzaia and Foster really carried the flashback sections of this book at a time where continuing with the flashback/flashforward format didn’t really seem to be aiding the story. It hardly seemed worth showing us how the characters all met after we had established their rapport with one another, and considering some of the characters aren’t even a part of the story any more, they seemed more like bonus chapters. Enjoyable, make no mistake, but largely unnecessary. That said, necessity notwithstanding, the pacing is still pulled off very well, and learning how they all came together was cool and culminates well. While I could see it being an actual problem for some, I do like a novel that gives itself some breathing room, and especially when we get it with characters we love, it can make the book all the more enjoyable. This one doesn’t really nail the balance of necessity, breathing room, and pacing, which is why plot only comes in at a 4.25 for me, and I’m being a little generous.
I still find myself enjoying Wight’s vivd characters that are larger than life and perfectly fine being more entertaining than philosophical. These books are popcorn reads, but they’re gourmet popcorn, drizzled in chocolate and peppermint bark with some M&Ms thrown in. It’s good stuff you’ll love coming back to, it’s just not the only thing you’ll want in your diet. I’ve already mentioned how well Urzaia and Foster carry their sections in the flashbacks, but it’s worth a second mention. Specifically in learning Urzaia’s story, and the line “Some even said I came out more sane than when I went in” really stood him apart from your typical “heavy” in my eyes. It’s one thing to have a mass murder that is maniacal in their slaughter, or a martial arts master that strives for perfection in their form, those are all overdone and a dime a dozen. But a heavy that’s just happy of his own volition and welcomes any challenge? That is incredibly endearing and while not necessarily unique, still a good sight less common. And Foster’s section isn’t far behind in quality. The surly artisan is much more of a trope, but it’s less common in general and needs less to make it stand out. Foster is a trope well done, and the last two words of that clause are the most important. We continue to get Calder, Bliss, Petal, and much more of Maya than I expected, and they are all entertaining and competently written as well, but this book belonged to the two I spent the bulk of this section discussing, IMHO.
Finally, I don’t consider myself a world-building guy. You can give me a bland fantasyland (TM) setting with really good characters and a middling plot, and I’ll likely be happy. Give me bland characters, a middling plot, and the best world ever conceived, I’m still not likely to finish the book. But when a novel is already doing characters and plot well, AND the world is fricken awesome, sign me up. We learn even more about the Elders in this book and see more into their aspects of the world, and it’s an improvement every time. If you ARE a world-building person, these are the books for you. I’ve tried to stay away from this comparison as much as possible, but Wight shows a lot of Sanderson influence in what I’ve read of his works, and I would put the Elder Empire between Mistborn and Stormlight in terms of how cool the world is. Wight can definitely scratch that Sanderson itch, and I honestly prefer him just because Sanderson often goes a little too epic for my tastes, but honestly, if Sanderson is your favorite author, I can’t imagine you not enjoying this series.
Overall, I found this one to be not as good as Of Shadow and Sea, and about the same as Of Sea and Shadow, with them showing more strength in different areas, but I’m still having a blast with the series and am fast-tracking them to hopefully finish within another week or two.
April 5, 2020
**spoilers, for my own records**
Loved finding out more about how Calder met his crew -- Andel, originally his supervisor, Petal, from a glorified dumpster behind an alchemist guild house, Foster, in an elder-occupied town, and Uzraia, on his way to serve punishment as a gladiator of sorts. Also loved reading the story of how they saved Uzraia, how they found out Calder was destined to be emperor from Achmagut (the knowledge-seeking elder), and how they found out about the emperor's death. Will be interesting to read Shera's POV of killing him.
In the present, we found out that Calder and Shera were both results of "deviations" - but while the elders are currently trying to manipulate Calder ("the King") for some reason, Shera ("the Killer") was meant to die after serving her purpose, but she's still alive. Wonder how that will affect the elders plans. Apparently, they were trapped in this world (by who?) and their main goal is to escape.
Was a shock when Jerri killed Lucan. She really is part of a cult. Where did Meia go after Lucan died? It is kind of weird how friendly Calder was with Meia, even though she saved his life, considering that she was part of killing Uzraia. Even if it was a kill or be killed situation and they're both united against the elders, it's weird that Calder doesn't harbor more resentment.
The battle to take the consultants island was cool, the champions decided to take Calder's side once he risked his life to fight against Jora curse breaker -- but the consultants still escaped on their navigator ship (using their bastion mist thingy). Kelarac the elder was the one to send the champions to Calder's aid though... Hmmmmm. There's also the emperors chair which can speak to the elders directly and magnify your intent. Wondering how that comes to play in the next book...
Loved finding out more about how Calder met his crew -- Andel, originally his supervisor, Petal, from a glorified dumpster behind an alchemist guild house, Foster, in an elder-occupied town, and Uzraia, on his way to serve punishment as a gladiator of sorts. Also loved reading the story of how they saved Uzraia, how they found out Calder was destined to be emperor from Achmagut (the knowledge-seeking elder), and how they found out about the emperor's death. Will be interesting to read Shera's POV of killing him.
In the present, we found out that Calder and Shera were both results of "deviations" - but while the elders are currently trying to manipulate Calder ("the King") for some reason, Shera ("the Killer") was meant to die after serving her purpose, but she's still alive. Wonder how that will affect the elders plans. Apparently, they were trapped in this world (by who?) and their main goal is to escape.
Was a shock when Jerri killed Lucan. She really is part of a cult. Where did Meia go after Lucan died? It is kind of weird how friendly Calder was with Meia, even though she saved his life, considering that she was part of killing Uzraia. Even if it was a kill or be killed situation and they're both united against the elders, it's weird that Calder doesn't harbor more resentment.
The battle to take the consultants island was cool, the champions decided to take Calder's side once he risked his life to fight against Jora curse breaker -- but the consultants still escaped on their navigator ship (using their bastion mist thingy). Kelarac the elder was the one to send the champions to Calder's aid though... Hmmmmm. There's also the emperors chair which can speak to the elders directly and magnify your intent. Wondering how that comes to play in the next book...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2023
Another decent book in the Duo-Trilogy, a fun read bogged down by having to read two book simultaneously. I still feel this book could have been merged with Of Darkness and Dawn to much better effect.
I think I prefer to follow Calder and his crew, as they each have individually more character that all the consultants put together.
The only things bringing this book down were the flashback chapters. In the companion book the flashbacks helped contextualize the present day narrative, where in this story they just gave the backstory of how each of Calder's crew were assembled. Interesting, but could have been put in the first book to much better use (plus knowing Urzaia has already died makes his part less enjoyable). The final act of the book was ramping up to be something fun, then a sudden and un-needed flashback chapter plops in and takes the wind out of its sails.
Jerri is the one character I am done with. Having her share Lucan's cell in the first book, and her truly loving Calder, I hoped would develop her character into one that was actually conflicted about something, ANYTHING, but she just kept being a whacko who isn't fun to read anymore.
Speaking of
It would have been fun if Meia did join Calder's crew, I think that would have been a fun dynamic. But I guess she had to back to "her" book (an example of things that can weaken the story by breaking it up in two books).
I generally liked this book better than its counterpart, and I'm not sure if reading them in tandem was a benefit or a hinderance.
I think I prefer to follow Calder and his crew, as they each have individually more character that all the consultants put together.
The only things bringing this book down were the flashback chapters. In the companion book the flashbacks helped contextualize the present day narrative, where in this story they just gave the backstory of how each of Calder's crew were assembled. Interesting, but could have been put in the first book to much better use (plus knowing Urzaia has already died makes his part less enjoyable). The final act of the book was ramping up to be something fun, then a sudden and un-needed flashback chapter plops in and takes the wind out of its sails.
Jerri is the one character I am done with. Having her share Lucan's cell in the first book, and her truly loving Calder, I hoped would develop her character into one that was actually conflicted about something, ANYTHING, but she just kept being a whacko who isn't fun to read anymore.
Speaking of
It would have been fun if Meia did join Calder's crew, I think that would have been a fun dynamic. But I guess she had to back to "her" book (an example of things that can weaken the story by breaking it up in two books).
I generally liked this book better than its counterpart, and I'm not sure if reading them in tandem was a benefit or a hinderance.
March 26, 2020
"Welcome, Reader. Right now, you’re reading the second book in the Elder Empire series. But it’s not the ONLY second book! Of Dawn and Darkness was written in parallel with Of Darkness and Dawn, which takes place at the same time from a different perspective... Welcome to the Elder Empire."
So yeah, as you can see Will Wight's back at it with this uniquely told tale, and, I happily dove back into the books, facing only one dilemma... which of the two books do I start with? Decisions, decisions... ummmm... I ended up choosing this one first as I had just finished another book narrated by Emily Woo Zeller and figured I'd break things up a bit.
I loved jumping back into Calder Marten's life, and found myself right back where the last book (Of Sea and Shadow) ended. We also get a lot more back story of Jyrine (Calder's wife), and each of his crew members aboard the Testament. I found that I was very satisfied as I reached the conclusion of the story... it probably didn't hurt to know I've another book to go! So Yay... Go me!
Travis Baldree's narration never fails to satisfy. All of the dialogue is well nuanced, with just the right touch of emotion each character deserves! Altogether, this series of books is simply Top Notch!
So yeah, as you can see Will Wight's back at it with this uniquely told tale, and, I happily dove back into the books, facing only one dilemma... which of the two books do I start with? Decisions, decisions... ummmm... I ended up choosing this one first as I had just finished another book narrated by Emily Woo Zeller and figured I'd break things up a bit.
I loved jumping back into Calder Marten's life, and found myself right back where the last book (Of Sea and Shadow) ended. We also get a lot more back story of Jyrine (Calder's wife), and each of his crew members aboard the Testament. I found that I was very satisfied as I reached the conclusion of the story... it probably didn't hurt to know I've another book to go! So Yay... Go me!
Travis Baldree's narration never fails to satisfy. All of the dialogue is well nuanced, with just the right touch of emotion each character deserves! Altogether, this series of books is simply Top Notch!
March 6, 2022
✰ 4.5 STARS ✰
After finishing this book, one thing is clear. I am definitely Team 'Sea'.
I loved the flashbacks in this one. The Testament's crew is one my favorite part of the story and I enjoyed reading about how they came together. It gives them so much more personality and we understand a little bit more (still not as much as I'd have liked, to be honest 😅) about why they are the way they are.
The world building, being already established in the first books, didn't expand much. But that was a good thing. It gave more time for us to absorb what we'd already learnt before and what little things we see added in this one. As opposed to the first book there's sure to be bit of confusion entering this intricate world.
There are definitely some issues with the pacing where we skip some important parts of the plot, which will be annoying if at all you've not read or not planning to read soon the corresponding book in the Shadow series.
Overall, this was going to be a 4 star for me, but the contrast in how much I enjoyed this one more than 'Of Darkness and Dawn' was glaring in my head. That tipped it into the upper rating. 🧡
After finishing this book, one thing is clear. I am definitely Team 'Sea'.
I loved the flashbacks in this one. The Testament's crew is one my favorite part of the story and I enjoyed reading about how they came together. It gives them so much more personality and we understand a little bit more (still not as much as I'd have liked, to be honest 😅) about why they are the way they are.
The world building, being already established in the first books, didn't expand much. But that was a good thing. It gave more time for us to absorb what we'd already learnt before and what little things we see added in this one. As opposed to the first book there's sure to be bit of confusion entering this intricate world.
There are definitely some issues with the pacing where we skip some important parts of the plot, which will be annoying if at all you've not read or not planning to read soon the corresponding book in the Shadow series.
Overall, this was going to be a 4 star for me, but the contrast in how much I enjoyed this one more than 'Of Darkness and Dawn' was glaring in my head. That tipped it into the upper rating. 🧡
September 30, 2020
Suggested reading order: Of Darkness and Dawn (The Elder Empire: Shadow, #2) followed by Of Dawn and Darkness (The Elder Empire: Sea, #2).
The second instalment of Sea is a fun, fast-paced read: Calder is now Emperor (well, Imperial Steward, but no need to split hairs), but he has never felt more of a puppet.
Meanwhile, the Guilds are at odds, and tensions escalate quickly.
Being a joint series, Sea #2 and Shadow #2 are meant to be read together - but that is not really feasible, is it? Unless you are planning to go through them side by side, I'd strongly suggest to start from Shadow #2. Admittedly, this particular section in Shera's side of the story is darker than Sea #2 and the somewhat disconnected flash-backs do little to lighten the mood (or smoothen the action), but paradoxically they are what makes this book essential in understanding Calder's plotline. I mean, Silverreach and the Optasia wouldn't make sense without the explanations provided in Shadow #2, no?
Anyway, fun read...and Urzaia is (provisionally) back! Need I say more?
The second instalment of Sea is a fun, fast-paced read: Calder is now Emperor (well, Imperial Steward, but no need to split hairs), but he has never felt more of a puppet.
Meanwhile, the Guilds are at odds, and tensions escalate quickly.
Being a joint series, Sea #2 and Shadow #2 are meant to be read together - but that is not really feasible, is it? Unless you are planning to go through them side by side, I'd strongly suggest to start from Shadow #2. Admittedly, this particular section in Shera's side of the story is darker than Sea #2 and the somewhat disconnected flash-backs do little to lighten the mood (or smoothen the action), but paradoxically they are what makes this book essential in understanding Calder's plotline. I mean, Silverreach and the Optasia wouldn't make sense without the explanations provided in Shadow #2, no?
Anyway, fun read...and Urzaia is (provisionally) back! Need I say more?
February 25, 2022
This is the third book of The Elder Empire series that I have read. It leaves off where the previous Sea book leaves off. Literally immediately after. Like, the first line of this book could have followed the last line in the previous book without missing a step.
As with the previous books, the chapters alternate between present day and the past. In the present, we get to see Calder and his attempts to become the next Emperor. In the past, we learn all about the crew, and how they all came to be part of Calder's crew.
I wasn't a big fan of the flashbacks in the previous books, but I really enjoyed them here. Now that I've had two full books to understand the world, this book was much easier to follow.
Books 1 and 2 had some Lovecraftian elements, that I didn't really consider at the time, and this book ranks cranks that up. I've always been a big fan of Lovecraft, so cosmic horrors are always a welcome addition to any story.
Overall it was a solid story. I'm still not sold on the whole parallel novels concept. Maybe the story would have been better served to combine the books.
As with the previous books, the chapters alternate between present day and the past. In the present, we get to see Calder and his attempts to become the next Emperor. In the past, we learn all about the crew, and how they all came to be part of Calder's crew.
I wasn't a big fan of the flashbacks in the previous books, but I really enjoyed them here. Now that I've had two full books to understand the world, this book was much easier to follow.
Books 1 and 2 had some Lovecraftian elements, that I didn't really consider at the time, and this book ranks cranks that up. I've always been a big fan of Lovecraft, so cosmic horrors are always a welcome addition to any story.
Overall it was a solid story. I'm still not sold on the whole parallel novels concept. Maybe the story would have been better served to combine the books.
June 27, 2020
WAY better than Of Sea and Shadow or Of Shadow and Sea. I was actually looking forward to reading the flashback chapters rather than loathing them.
It seems like Wight has found his groove finally. The character interaction and developments, the action, and plot all move forward at just the right pace. It reminds me of how well his Cradle series (which if you haven’t read it you should) progresses. The characters aren’t one-dimensional, their banter is fun, and they feel like they’re on an adventure with a goal rather than being there to move the plot forward.
If you don’t know, this trilogy is actually two trilogies in-tandem. The protagonist and antagonist from this book are swapped so you’re reading from the antagonist’s PoV in the other book. I’m excited to go through Of Darkness and Dawn next. We didn’t see or hear from the antagonist in this book at all, so it’ll be interesting to see what she’s up to.
It seems like Wight has found his groove finally. The character interaction and developments, the action, and plot all move forward at just the right pace. It reminds me of how well his Cradle series (which if you haven’t read it you should) progresses. The characters aren’t one-dimensional, their banter is fun, and they feel like they’re on an adventure with a goal rather than being there to move the plot forward.
If you don’t know, this trilogy is actually two trilogies in-tandem. The protagonist and antagonist from this book are swapped so you’re reading from the antagonist’s PoV in the other book. I’m excited to go through Of Darkness and Dawn next. We didn’t see or hear from the antagonist in this book at all, so it’ll be interesting to see what she’s up to.
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