Water Storm

The Elements of Kamdaria #9

by Kay L. Moody

In the most dangerous part of the empire, Talise’s survival has never been in greater jeopardy.

And her heart has never been broken so completely.

When she discovers something is poisoning the land, the pursuit of it provides ample distraction from her aching heart. But the conflict in Kamdaria is only just beginning. Now she must choose whose side she’s really on.

Choosing one side could mean treason but choosing the other could mean death.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy

198 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 30, 2020

About the author

Kay L. Moody is proud to be an epic fantasy romance author who gets to create worlds for a living. 😉 Her books feature strong female characters, court intrigue, royalty, magic, and slow burn romance with men who fall first.

With 17 romantasy books across 4 complete series, she’s no stranger to hidden princesses, deadly competitions, or couples who go from enemies to lovers. Her books have sold more than 100,000 copies worldwide and have earned accolades including Best Fantasy Book (Many Books, Dec 2023) and Bestseller: Fantasy (BookRaid, Apr 2024).

Her favorite non bookish things are pizza, summertime, the color pink, and having pretty nails. She lives in the western USA with her husband and four sons. Follow her on social media to stay in touch (@kaylmoody).

Visit her website to learn more. KayLMoody.com

Reviews

[Julie - One Book More]

When Talise and her small band of friends return to the Storm, the most dangerous and deprived part of the empire, things are worse than she remembered. People are starving and hopeless with little chance of prosperity and lack the basic necessities to live. As she and her friends work to bring water, greenhouses, and hope to the people, Talise realizes that something is poisoning the land and people.

Talise strives to find out more about the poison, and when her suspicions are realized, she must decide who the real enemy is. She must also face her breaking heart and feelings for the men who hurt her. With so much at stake, Talise has everything to lose.

I love that Talise continues to learn from her mistakes and from the issues she encounters along her journey. Talise has several epiphanies about her father, her enemies, her relationships, and herself throughout the story. She finally comes to terms with the man that her father is and continues to process her turbulent feelings for all of the main men in her life. She is deeply wounded by betrayal and finds it hard to forgive and move forward, especially when she has to face her feelings for Clay and Aaden. Luckily, she has Wendy to support her and offer guidance.

Wendy shines in this book. Smart, talented, and fiercely loyal, she’s the one person who has stood by Talise from the beginning. She shows such strength of character and loyalty to Talise – not the cause or kingdom, just to her best friend. I love her character, and this book really highlights the wonderful and deep friendship between Talise and Wendy. She is also Talise’s advisor and often offers wisdom and clarity, which I love! The women in this series are strong, wise, and fierce!

Like the other books in this series, Water Storm is filled with unexpected twists and turns. As they travel through the Storm, malnutrition, starvation, and desperation is evident. Talise and her small band of followers encounter new and shocking obstacles, and alliances change. I feel like just when I think I know which direction the story is heading, Moody changes paths in the most intriguing and thought-provoking way. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book as alliances continue to shift, and Talise has to face feelings of betrayal, guilt, and more.

Thanks so much to Marten Press and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

[Caesara]

I haven't realized how much I missed Talise until I started reading Water Gate.
It's been so long 🥺

This time Talise is helping the people from the Storm grow food and even teaches a little girl how to shape.
Besides helping the people she uncovers a plan to poison the water and earth in the Storm and she makes an unexpected alliance.

I'm so glad Aaden has returned but he still has to work hard to get her back. It was nice to see how they react to each other and how well they work together. They make a perfect team and I believe that in the future their connection will be even stronger ❤️

Thank you Marten Press for the eARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Scott]

What can you say about this series that hasn't been said , lol . This series is fantastic , and Water Storm by Kay L Moody is another winner .
The main characters have grown from the start and Kay's writing makes you care about these characters and what happens good or bad .
The world building is fantastic and you feel as if you are a part of the story .
So if you haven't started this series yet then you are missing out on an incredible story with characters you can't help but care for , so go buy this series you will love it .

[Debbie Eyre]

I am loving this series! I love the incredible world that this author has built, I love the storyline that continues to grow and change and I love the characters that have grown and develop as we have journeyed with them. Once again I found myself totally engrossed and enthralled as Talise battles with betrayal and other emotions as she makes her way back to Storm and their troubles. If you haven’t read the other books then I truly and highly recommend them, you will not be disappointed!

[Sara Lawson]

What I hate the most about Kay's books (this series in particular) is that I lose sleep every time she sends me a new book. They are simply unputdownable! I was particularly excited for this book because Aaden was back. We all needed him to be back. This book covered Talise dealing with her recent betrayal and struggling to trust Aaden again, while simultaneously doing what she always does, bringing help and hope to those most in need - this time in the Storm.
A couple things I totally loved about this book. In the first chapter, there is this thought by Talise, "She had no time to be worried about romance or kisses or frustrating young men." I remember reading The Hunger Games and thinking, they're in the middle of a war, why is Katniss always thinking about boys. So happy that this was acknowledged and pushed aside. They are also in the middle of a war.
Second, we finally get some sense of the emperor's agenda. And whether or not he is a good guy (although his strategy was never in question). In my opinion, the not knowing had dragged out way too long, to the point that I didn't even care if he was good or bad - I just wanted to know! So now we know. At least until Kay throws another twist at us in the next book.
Finally, Aaden. I have always loved Aaden and had a hard time believing he had betrayed Talise. Regardless of everything, he just didn't seem the type. But I love how this book shows even more clearly the type of person he is and everything he has going for him. I love that he is for Talise no matter what she decides, even if that means defying his father and the emperor and everyone else. I love that while he may have had little choice in the decision he made, he still regrets making it. And I love what Wendy, the ultimate best friend says to Talise when she is still struggling to trust Aaden. "It's okay... You'll learn to trust again; you just need more time to heal. But you should know, I trust Aaden." And I also have faith that Talise will come to trust and fully love Aaden again. I can't wait for the next book. Please write faster!
I received a free ARC from the author and have reviewed it willingly.

[Kreela]

It was bound to happen at some point: Talise was destined to return to the Storm. Her mother is buried there, and the grave is unmarked. But Talise needed to remind herself of her roots. This time, however, she is not an outcast, and she brings friends.

What amazes me most is that Talise is in a storm of emotions (so poetic) as she grows up and deals with betrayals from family, lovers, and her own citizens. In the Storm, everything seems worse, and I love how the descriptions portray the situation. Kids in the streets don't play, they aim stones. People steal water and food. I am surprised the well is not tolled by an armed Gangleader. But wait! The well is dry.

The land is becoming infertile, the water drying up...it is an environmental catastrophe. However, Talise develops an extremely clever and imaginative way to help the poor help themselves. After all, give the poor a fish and it lasts one meal. Give them the tools to fish and skills to use, and they can sustain themselves a lifetime.

All the supporting characters each have clever additions to help the Storm citizens. Yes, Aaden proves he has always acted in her interest, but she is so torn up by multiple betrayals that she is having difficulty accepting him until the end. Claye is supportive, too, despite being her enemy now. Rio (a personal fave as well), is the solid meta-organizer that puts her ideas into the tasks by person.

I hope the love triangle continues; I could totally see her in an alliance required by the Kessoku with Claye as consort, and Aaden as partner. Who knows, though? To be continued...

This whole series feels like a serial, and each episode can take about 4 hours of my time. Despite being involved in two other ARCs, I absconded and read this one instead. What a unique, entertaining, and clever fantasy!

[Lillian]

I received an eARC of this book via the author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.

Talise and her friends are entering the lowest circle of the empire in Kay L. Moody's latest release Water Storm, the 9th installment in The Elements of Kamdaria. This serial series is addictive! I love the bite sized novellas. Each one tells a story of its own while expanding the series arc. Please note that while I do my best to avoid spoilers, there may be spoilers to previous installments in this review. In Water Storm, Talise must learn to trust her own judgment after a devastating betrayal and loss at the Ember Gate.

Talise is once again unsure of herself after someone close to her betrayed her in the worst possible way. Confused and angry, she tries to push it out of her mind and instead focus on their immediate problem: the Storm. To escape Kessouku, Talise leads her friends into the Storm. What was once her childhood home, Talise now sees the Storm for what it truly is: a prison. Determined to make a difference while they are there, Talise enlists her friends’ help in finding a way to keep the citizens fed through the harsh winter ahead.

Aaden is back and full force. I missed him! He is such an integral character to the story and Talise. His quiet confidence is shaken slightly by Talise’s cold reception, but that doesn’t stop his own feelings. It was easy for me to forgive him, Talise not so much. They have a ways to go yet.

This installment focuses on what I believe to be the endgame for the series. New information makes it to Talise, and it rocks her to the core. Now she and her friends must decide who they can trust and a shaky alliance is formed. Water Storm is everything I’ve come to expect from the series: high stakes action, a touch of romance, and a dash of adventure. If you enjoy serial series or YA fantasy, I highly recommend it.

[Katie Cherry]

Talise has always been my favorite character, but I really have to give credit to Wendy in this one. Beyond the author acknowledging that this is a classic YA Fantasy with a war going on with the FMC been torn between love interests, Wendy explains why it's okay, and why we can all relate to it. Talise has a duty to Kamdaria, but she also has a duty to herself. Her happiness is just as important as everyone else's. Wendy can be so wise! I just really loved this scene <3 Self-care is so important, y'all!!

I love Aaden so much, he's so steady and loving, even if he is guarded. They're so perfect together I nearly died in the scene where they shape together. Ugh, I ship them so hard!

As with all the books, I'm amazed at the solutions they come up with for the problems they're faced with. It's NEVER what I would come up with, which surprises me every single time without fail lol. I freaking love it. It makes the characters so much more real to me when I can tell beyond a doubt that their minds work differently than mine does.

I have already jumped into the next one. I love this series so much! Oh, and it was a really long break before I jumped into this book, but Kay did a fantastic job recapping the previous books in a natural, undistracting way that made me comfortable to move on with this book without having to reread the previous 8. (Or two, for you folks new to the series lol)

[Kasey Connors-Beron]

This is Book 9 everyone! And while each is fairly short (198 pages for this one) they are all fantastic! Books 1-4 and 5-8 have been combined to create wonderfully long COHESIVE novels, THE ELEMENTS OF THE CROWN and THE ELEMENTS OF THE GATE.

WATER STORM was released on September 30, 2020

AIR STORM coming soon!

I love this series so so much. Really all of Kay L Moody’s writing is wonderful, but Talise has my heart. Her drive to do good no matter the cost is the best. Not that she doesn’t struggle is internal conflict over decisions, because she definitely does, but it seems like Kamdaria always wins.

I don’t want to say much plot-wise as so much happens in 200 pages (let alone the 1000+ before this) so I’m going to leave my review on the shorter side and urge you to go read them. Each book (the separate parts) is available on Kindle Unlimited so I don’t think there’s any reason NOT to. And if you don’t have Unlimited ICE CROWN (book 1) is $2.99. I actually think they all are.

If you still aren’t convinced you can read my review of the first combined novel here! This gives you more of a sense of what the story is about. But elemental magic, romantic tension, and trials by fire? Really amazingly done too!

What do you think? Have I raved enough for you to want to read it? Why haven’t you gone then?!

[Marjorie]

The previous book left Talise and her supporters fleeing to Storm - a place that might be even more dangerous than what they are running from. Once there they are shocked by what they find - not only are these people cut off from resources, they are being actively poisoned. Talise is again forced to evaluate who she can trust, who are her allies, who is the enemy. All while trying to convince the residents of Storm that she is not their enemy as they act out of desperation and self-preservation. Unlikely alliances are forged in this complex battle to save a fractured kingdom. As with previous books, I appreciate the thought given to unintended consequences. Even the best intentions can have grievous side effects and this series does not shy away from exploring those. Sometimes circumstances demand that the "best" choice is one our characters thought they would never entertain.

For #TeamAaden vs #TeamClaye.... yeah more drama. Talise has matured and is seeing both men through different eyes. She's more guarded, but her heart refuses to give up. Some nice moments of teamwork that hearken back to better times.

This is the first book in the Storm arc, but book 9 in the elements of Kamdaria. This series builds on previous books and really needs to be read in order as there is a lot of information from previous books that is necessary to understand this book.

[Brittany Smith]

In this installment of the Elements of Kamdaria, we join Talise and her friends into the Storm. They do have a mission to save her army and get the amulet back but as they travel through they realize how dire the Storm has gotten. They try to help the cities by making wells or growing their own food in secure places, but it's not that easy to gain their trust. To make matters more difficult someone or something is poisoning the land. To end the struggle they have to do things they never wanted to which includes making allies where they don't want to...

Water Storm is a quick and easy read full of suspense and drama. This series, especially this book, is full of action from the get-go and leaves you wanting more at the end! I love the dynamics of Talise and her friends, they are really fleshed out and you can really empathize with their fight to do what's right. I have high hopes for the next book and really hope Aaden gets the break that he deserves!!

[Susana Duarte]

This next book in Kamdaria series takes us to the Storm and Kay continue to show as what a great story teller she is.
I can't stress how much this story is addictive, epic and fantastic at the same time as touching themes that are so very serious and complex. A perfect book serie to read an reread at any age.
Talise is back in the asile with the poorest of her people. She can't be there indefinitely but as long as she is she, she will try to do good by them. The problem is all her efforts will be for nothing when she discovers her father is the reason the Storm is the way it is. Torn by this new realisation, she will have to turn to her enemies to defeat their comum treat - the king itself.
Negotiations are not easy and bring back painful memories. Will the treaty last?
Only the next book will tell.

[Raya Whitehouse]

Awesome series continues. I was given a free ARC copy to read and am so very glad to be able to do so. I have loved this whole series so far and am really happy to see it continue. This review is my own words and honest thoughts of it.

The book series follows Talise on her adventures. You will definitely want to read them all, and the cliff hangars they leave off on makes your imagination run trying to think what could happen next in the books.

I am only going to give one small spoiler without it actually being a spoiler. In this book, there is a little girl name Willow and I have to say that I loved her characteristics. Also the ending of this book was a great way to lead into the next book.

[Katharina]

Water Storm is the ninth book in the Elements of Kamdaria Series by Kay L Moody and it's as great as the others! This series seems to never get boring!
This time we accompany Talise and her friends into the Storm, where they try to help the cities getting water or growing their own food. But it's not that easy to gain their trust and that's not the only problem they face. Someone or something is poisoning the land and to end that they have to do things they never wanted to..
Water Storm is a great and fast read full of suspense and drama. I loved the dynamics of Talise and her friends and especially to see more of Aaden again. I couldn't put it down and I'm already excited for the next book!

[Charlotte]

Water Storm is the ninth book in the Elements of Kamdaria series. Now that Talise and her friends are in the Storm, they have to figure out their next step. Life is extremely difficult in the Storm. People are hungry and are violent because they think they can't do anything to improve their life. Talise proves them otherwise and this part of the story is what I loved most about this book. Especially how Talise proves them and how enthusiastic the people are afterwards. In the meantime, she discovers something is poisoning the land. She has to find a way to stop this. There are some twists and turns in this book and I loved the interactions between the characters once again. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Jessica Williams]

Ahhhhhhh

I love Kay L Moody. I love Talise, Aaden, Wendy, the magic system of Kamdaria. I can’t get enough of this story. I love that it’s clean and the romantic elements are subtle but they are still enough to make you want everything for Talise. She is such a great hearted mc. There is enough tension to keep the pages turning and enough surprises for it to stay interesting. The only negative I have is that these are novellas. Just as you’re 100% invested the pages run out and your stuck there trying to swipe for more like a dummy 🤣. Is that really a negative though??? Especially when they’re jam packed with all the things and come out super quick?!? I NEED more!!!

[Demi]

I received a copy of this book from the author, Kay L Moody, in exchange for an honest review.

I’ve been a big fan of this series right now the beginning. It’s been an absolute roller coaster of emotions and events that you wouldn’t expect. Number nine in the series still continues to throw unexpected curveballs, and I’m loving it.
The reappearance of Aaden has left a lot of mixed emotions for the rest of the group, and there’s still so much trust that needs to be built up again. I can’t wait to see Talise and Aaden work side by side again to fight in the upcoming war.
With an unexpected alliance, it’ll be interesting to see how it plays out in the next book!

[Lori Peterson]

The Storm... a harrowing place on the edge of Kamdaria's vast empire where to survive means fighting everyday for what resources they are in such a hostile environment. The place that Talise grew up in has only gotten worse... and it seems the very emperor ruling Kamdaria has been secretly destroying even the smallest of hope for people living in The Storm. As Talise and her friends work tirelessly to undo their emperor's cruelty he's done to the land; hope for a different future is slowly blossoming that in a place that has been overlooked and deeply undervalued for so long, may be just the place to reshape Kamdaria for all to prosper. Highly recommended.

[Jill Gauger]

Talise and her friends are in the Storm. It’s worse than when she lived there. They come to a small village and are attacked by the scared villagers and Talise decides to help them. Between her and Aaden they start digging a new well. The others pitch in and soon the villagers also help. One small step at a time and the well is finished and then they build a greenhouse. Something is still very wrong with the soil and the reasons throw Talise into a tailspin.
New fears are faced and unlikely alliances are formed. I love the characters and the progression of this story. Well written.

[Amelia (booksandtheblacktea)]

OMG yes this is a perfect continuation after Elements of the Gate!

As expected from this novella, it was full of actions and intrigues, plus my Talise x Aaden heart is glowing! 😍😍😍

You can expect twists from this novella, how Talise has to make some decisions with the helps of her friends (and Aaden) who really trust in her ability as a leader 💛

I’m so happy, I’m looking forward to the next novella 💛

[Paul Allard]

Interesting continuation tale in this YA series - engaging stuff.

Talise begins to help the inhabitants of the Storm, discovering how the Emperor treats them. This leads to unexpected action and results. The usual set of characters appear, bringing a bit of character development. Yet again it’s a short novel which is engaging and relatively fun to read. It works well, leading to a few more in the series.

[Sarah]

"No matter what happens between us, I will fight at your side until the very end."
.
Great continuation of the series. Kay L Moody never disappoints! There is always some action, some romance, and intrigue in every episode 🙌🏻This is our first visit to The Storm, which is a harsh poverty stricken part of Kamdaria. Talise has to decide which enemy is greater and possibly become allies. Lots of fun! Lots of Aaden 😁💕

[Natalie]

Water Storm

Apparently I accidentally skipped over reviewing for this book because I got too excited with reading the next one!! This book was really enlightening. We finally delve into more detail about the Storm and the harsh life that people who live there deal with. We come across some disturbing discoveries and see Talise's caring nature shine, as well as some WOW moments with her shaping.

[Tiffany]

Ms Moody has done it again - written another masterpiece I got totally absorbed in. I honestly missed these amazing characters and this epic plot while waiting for this one to come our, and it totally exceeded all expectations I had for it. Without spoilers, I will say that we are at the tensest part of the story, gearing for an epic battle. I for one will definitely be there to see how it unfolds.

[Billie]

This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and drama with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.

I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Rebecca Brown]

Another wonderful book by Author Kay L. Moody.
Talise is such a amazing character.
I love reading books by this author.
So much excitement in each one. Couldn't put it down.
I highly recommend reading any or all of her books...
I loved it.

[Cleocutie]

Just as good as the previous books in the series. Talise is back and facing even more challenges and hard choices in this book.

[Anita]

This book gave so much hope and is really changing direction! I enjoyed every single word!

[Debbie W.]

❤️. 📚. 👍. Fantastic book and will read again.

[Alisha Brook]

4 stars