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The Elements of Kamdaria #2
Wind Crown
The title of Master Shaper isn’t given, it’s earned. Let the trials begin.
The competition has arrived. Talise is the clear winner before it even starts. But Aaden has a much deeper desire to win than she ever realized. When he sabotages her demonstration, they are both punished.
Because of their talent, they are given a chance to earn the title of Master Shaper. But they must prove their honor and skill through a series of trials. In some areas, Talise excels. In others, she is woefully unprepared.
The emperor puts great value on wielding a sword and Talise has exactly none of the skill she needs. Of course, Aaden is a natural and easily impresses the emperor. Despite her best efforts to improve, the emperor seems increasingly disappointed in her abilities.
The emperor has threatened her with life in the dungeons before. If she doesn’t pass the trials, she can only guess what lengths he’ll go to in order to keep her out of the way.
At every turn, Aaden seems to be the only one who can help her. But she fears that trusting him could lead to far worse consequences… maybe even death.
The competition has arrived. Talise is the clear winner before it even starts. But Aaden has a much deeper desire to win than she ever realized. When he sabotages her demonstration, they are both punished.
Because of their talent, they are given a chance to earn the title of Master Shaper. But they must prove their honor and skill through a series of trials. In some areas, Talise excels. In others, she is woefully unprepared.
The emperor puts great value on wielding a sword and Talise has exactly none of the skill she needs. Of course, Aaden is a natural and easily impresses the emperor. Despite her best efforts to improve, the emperor seems increasingly disappointed in her abilities.
The emperor has threatened her with life in the dungeons before. If she doesn’t pass the trials, she can only guess what lengths he’ll go to in order to keep her out of the way.
At every turn, Aaden seems to be the only one who can help her. But she fears that trusting him could lead to far worse consequences… maybe even death.
178 pages, Paperback
Published August 24, 2019
46 people are currently reading
489 people want to read
About the author
Kay L. Moody
35 books859 followersKay L. Moody is the YA fantasy author of COURT OF BITTER THORN and THE ELEMENTS OF THE CROWN. Her books feature rich world building, slow burn romance, mythical creatures, and twisty plots.
As a lover of strong female characters, books, and the color pink, she enjoys diving into magical worlds where characters can overcome even their darkest struggles. She lives in the western United States with her husband and four sons. Connect with Kay directly when you follow her on social media @kaylmoody
Visit her website to learn more.
www.KayLMoody.com
As a lover of strong female characters, books, and the color pink, she enjoys diving into magical worlds where characters can overcome even their darkest struggles. She lives in the western United States with her husband and four sons. Connect with Kay directly when you follow her on social media @kaylmoody
Visit her website to learn more.
www.KayLMoody.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
September 13, 2021
I cannot decide if this is worse than the first book in matters of writing, but they are pretty on par.
The main problem is that the way the "mystery" of the plot is portrayed is very forced; adults act like petulant teenagers, people behave in ways that really want to hint at secrets but instead it is just annoyingly obvious, people avoiding answers and conveniently ignoring that fact... For example, the Kessoku, who is the big baddie in the series... They managed to get inside the palace many years ago and murder the emperor's family, but somehow both Aaden and Talise are convinced by the emperor's current words that they are just a "nuisance" now. Really? REALLY?
The sense of urgency is very weird with having the emperor in flashbacks being all so chill playing games with a huge threat waiting for him and act as a teenager when talking to the actual teenagers... Going as far as to cover any hint of actual danger, because... Because what???
Main characters are the same, just even more annoying. Talise cannot decide if she wants to jump Aaden or not just be cause he was mildly nice to her at the beginning and can barely hold herself from kissing him. One major issue is the lack of Aaden's perspective because right now we see him as a douche, who turned extremely nice and will always help Talise to the point of patronizing her, no questions asked. Their development and budding romance is problematic at the very least.
I am kind of curious about how it is going to be, but every twist up to now has been either fairly predictable or lackluster.
The main problem is that the way the "mystery" of the plot is portrayed is very forced; adults act like petulant teenagers, people behave in ways that really want to hint at secrets but instead it is just annoyingly obvious, people avoiding answers and conveniently ignoring that fact... For example, the Kessoku, who is the big baddie in the series... They managed to get inside the palace many years ago and murder the emperor's family, but somehow both Aaden and Talise are convinced by the emperor's current words that they are just a "nuisance" now. Really? REALLY?
The sense of urgency is very weird with having the emperor in flashbacks being all so chill playing games with a huge threat waiting for him and act as a teenager when talking to the actual teenagers... Going as far as to cover any hint of actual danger, because... Because what???
Main characters are the same, just even more annoying. Talise cannot decide if she wants to jump Aaden or not just be cause he was mildly nice to her at the beginning and can barely hold herself from kissing him. One major issue is the lack of Aaden's perspective because right now we see him as a douche, who turned extremely nice and will always help Talise to the point of patronizing her, no questions asked. Their development and budding romance is problematic at the very least.
I am kind of curious about how it is going to be, but every twist up to now has been either fairly predictable or lackluster.
August 22, 2019
This was even better than book 1!!! Though I was really upset when I reached the end on a huge cliffhanger. I startled my husband with my cry of despair... and it's 1 am lol. Oops.
This book had me hanging onto every page like no other. I adore it. The building romance is awesome, the characters are exceptional, and the story is easily one of my favorites. I'm absolutely DYING to read book 3.
I have a feeling I'm going to be putting my life on hold to binge it in one sitting the instant I get it!!
This book had me hanging onto every page like no other. I adore it. The building romance is awesome, the characters are exceptional, and the story is easily one of my favorites. I'm absolutely DYING to read book 3.
I have a feeling I'm going to be putting my life on hold to binge it in one sitting the instant I get it!!
October 14, 2019
Book two suffers from the same problems as book one: too short for proper development, needs more fleshing out, somewhat predictable, and poor editing.
August 6, 2021
the emperor is such an asshole, but I can't help but feel like it's a part of his plan
September 4, 2019
If I could I would give it 10 stars . Kay L. Moody has outdone herself with this release and I can not wait for Dust Crown .
This book is exciting and keeps you the reader drawed into this world and makes vested into the main characters to the point your cheering for them to succeed as your reading it and you notice the looks people are giving you since you cheered them on out loud lol or maybe that was just me .
If you haven't started this series yet stop right now and go buy this book and Ice Crown you will be so happy you did . Go get it now . Stop reading this and go ...
This book is exciting and keeps you the reader drawed into this world and makes vested into the main characters to the point your cheering for them to succeed as your reading it and you notice the looks people are giving you since you cheered them on out loud lol or maybe that was just me .
If you haven't started this series yet stop right now and go buy this book and Ice Crown you will be so happy you did . Go get it now . Stop reading this and go ...
September 2, 2019
Title Wind Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria II)
Author Kay L. Moody
Description from Amazon
THE TITLE OF MASTER SHAPER ISN’T GIVEN, IT’S EARNED. LET THE TRIALS BEGIN.
The competition has arrived. Talise is the clear winner before it even starts. But Aaden has a much deeper desire to win than she ever realized. When he sabotages her demonstration, they are both punished.
Because of their talent, they are given a chance to earn the title of Master Shaper. But they must prove their honor and skill through a series of trials. In some areas, Talise excels. In others, she is woefully unprepared.
The emperor puts great value on wielding a sword and Talise has exactly none of the skill she needs. Of course, Aaden is a natural and easily impresses the emperor. Despite her best efforts to improve, the emperor seems increasingly disappointed in her abilities.
The emperor has threatened her with life in the dungeons before. If she doesn’t pass the trials, she can only guess what lengths he’ll go to in order to keep her out of the way.
At every turn, Aaden seems to be the only one who can help her. But she fears that trusting him could lead to far worse consequences… maybe even death.
Initial Thoughts
I completely stumbled upon this novella series on Instagram two weeks ago and I’m so glad I did. As soon as I finished Ice Crown, I wanted to read Wind Crown.
Some Things I Liked
The length – I loved that this was a shorter novel, coming in at around 100 pages. It was a super quick read and I loved that.
The slow burn of the romance between Aedan and Talise. I think it’s more realistic for their characters.
The competition setting. I don’t read many books where a competition serves as the main background for the plot and I think this setting is really well done.
One Thing I Wasn’t Crazy About
Talise and Aedan’s role reversal – in the first book, Talise was always trying to do the right thing and Aedan was kind of a brat but in this book, total 180. All Aedan wanted was to help Talise and she was such a brat in some parts! I get that she’s confused about her feelings for him, but did she need to be so annoyingly bratty about it?? I hope Talise pulls herself together for the next book.
Series Value
This series has me totally hooked! I can’t wait for the next volume, Dust Crown, coming out in two weeks. Wind Crown really expanded on the backstory of the Emperor and painted the political landscape that was hinted at in Ice Crown. I am very excited to see what else Kay L. Moody has in store for her readers.
Final Thoughts
I love that this is a novella series and I love the progression of each installment. This series has tons of potential and I could easily see it evolving into more. I can’t wait to continue reading.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recommendations for Further Reading
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins – if you liked the dystopian vibes and the competition setting, definitely give this series a try.
Frostblood by Elly Blake – if you liked the elemental magic components and the enemies to lovers feelings, give this series a try.
Snow Like Ashes by Sara Raasch – again, if you like elemental magic, definitely give this series a try.
Author Kay L. Moody
Description from Amazon
THE TITLE OF MASTER SHAPER ISN’T GIVEN, IT’S EARNED. LET THE TRIALS BEGIN.
The competition has arrived. Talise is the clear winner before it even starts. But Aaden has a much deeper desire to win than she ever realized. When he sabotages her demonstration, they are both punished.
Because of their talent, they are given a chance to earn the title of Master Shaper. But they must prove their honor and skill through a series of trials. In some areas, Talise excels. In others, she is woefully unprepared.
The emperor puts great value on wielding a sword and Talise has exactly none of the skill she needs. Of course, Aaden is a natural and easily impresses the emperor. Despite her best efforts to improve, the emperor seems increasingly disappointed in her abilities.
The emperor has threatened her with life in the dungeons before. If she doesn’t pass the trials, she can only guess what lengths he’ll go to in order to keep her out of the way.
At every turn, Aaden seems to be the only one who can help her. But she fears that trusting him could lead to far worse consequences… maybe even death.
Initial Thoughts
I completely stumbled upon this novella series on Instagram two weeks ago and I’m so glad I did. As soon as I finished Ice Crown, I wanted to read Wind Crown.
Some Things I Liked
The length – I loved that this was a shorter novel, coming in at around 100 pages. It was a super quick read and I loved that.
The slow burn of the romance between Aedan and Talise. I think it’s more realistic for their characters.
The competition setting. I don’t read many books where a competition serves as the main background for the plot and I think this setting is really well done.
One Thing I Wasn’t Crazy About
Talise and Aedan’s role reversal – in the first book, Talise was always trying to do the right thing and Aedan was kind of a brat but in this book, total 180. All Aedan wanted was to help Talise and she was such a brat in some parts! I get that she’s confused about her feelings for him, but did she need to be so annoyingly bratty about it?? I hope Talise pulls herself together for the next book.
Series Value
This series has me totally hooked! I can’t wait for the next volume, Dust Crown, coming out in two weeks. Wind Crown really expanded on the backstory of the Emperor and painted the political landscape that was hinted at in Ice Crown. I am very excited to see what else Kay L. Moody has in store for her readers.
Final Thoughts
I love that this is a novella series and I love the progression of each installment. This series has tons of potential and I could easily see it evolving into more. I can’t wait to continue reading.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recommendations for Further Reading
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins – if you liked the dystopian vibes and the competition setting, definitely give this series a try.
Frostblood by Elly Blake – if you liked the elemental magic components and the enemies to lovers feelings, give this series a try.
Snow Like Ashes by Sara Raasch – again, if you like elemental magic, definitely give this series a try.
September 3, 2019
The title of Master Shaper isn’t given, it’s earned. Let the trials begin.
The competition has arrived. Talise is the clear winner before it even starts. But Aaden has a much deeper desire to win than she ever realized. When he sabotages her demonstration, they are both punished.
Because of their talent, they are given a chance to earn the title of Master Shaper. But they must prove their honor and skill through a series of trials. In some areas, Talise excels. In others, she is woefully unprepared.
The emperor puts great value on wielding a sword and Talise has exactly none of the skill she needs. Of course, Aaden is a natural and easily impresses the emperor. Despite her best efforts to improve, the emperor seems increasingly disappointed in her abilities.
The emperor has threatened her with life in the dungeons before. If she doesn’t pass the trials, she can only guess what lengths he’ll go to in order to keep her out of the way.
At every turn, Aaden seems to be the only one who can help her. But she fears that trusting him could lead to far worse consequences… maybe even death.
I don't know how but this one is even better than the first one.
Action abounds in this one with some twists I didn't see coming.
Wonderful characters that I am enjoying following.
Well written plot and story line that is keeping me hanging on the edge of my seat.
Oh I can't wait to see what is in store in the next installment!!!
Recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The competition has arrived. Talise is the clear winner before it even starts. But Aaden has a much deeper desire to win than she ever realized. When he sabotages her demonstration, they are both punished.
Because of their talent, they are given a chance to earn the title of Master Shaper. But they must prove their honor and skill through a series of trials. In some areas, Talise excels. In others, she is woefully unprepared.
The emperor puts great value on wielding a sword and Talise has exactly none of the skill she needs. Of course, Aaden is a natural and easily impresses the emperor. Despite her best efforts to improve, the emperor seems increasingly disappointed in her abilities.
The emperor has threatened her with life in the dungeons before. If she doesn’t pass the trials, she can only guess what lengths he’ll go to in order to keep her out of the way.
At every turn, Aaden seems to be the only one who can help her. But she fears that trusting him could lead to far worse consequences… maybe even death.
I don't know how but this one is even better than the first one.
Action abounds in this one with some twists I didn't see coming.
Wonderful characters that I am enjoying following.
Well written plot and story line that is keeping me hanging on the edge of my seat.
Oh I can't wait to see what is in store in the next installment!!!
Recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
August 29, 2019
Kay L Moody blew me away with WIND CROWN (The Elements of Kamdaria #2). This story takes place following book one, ICE CROWN. Talise and Aaden must undergo a series of trials to prove their honor and skills are worthy of being a Master Shaper.
WIND CROWN was an exciting and fast paced book. We learned a lot more about the characters. They continue to grow and become more complex. I surprisingly started to like Aaden. The story had numerous unexpected twists. This is a book that is hard to put down. It would make an excellent movie or television series.
I’m anxiously awaiting the release of book three, DUST CROWN, expected to come out on September 9, 2019. I recommend this series to people who enjoy young adult fantasies. I also recommend reading the books in order. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
WIND CROWN was an exciting and fast paced book. We learned a lot more about the characters. They continue to grow and become more complex. I surprisingly started to like Aaden. The story had numerous unexpected twists. This is a book that is hard to put down. It would make an excellent movie or television series.
I’m anxiously awaiting the release of book three, DUST CROWN, expected to come out on September 9, 2019. I recommend this series to people who enjoy young adult fantasies. I also recommend reading the books in order. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
August 24, 2019
This book is even better than the first one! Talise and Aaden have both been named Master Shapers, but now they must take part in trials to prove their worth to the emperor. If they don’t do well enough they may just lose everything. Wind Crown is a non-stop read, full of action as Talise and Aaden train for the trials and as they start to fall for one another. The emperor is not telling them everything and seems to be up to some sort of scheme. Not everything is as it seems... I loved the characters and the magic of shaping in this story! I can’t wait to see where it will go next! After the twist at the end and the cliffhanger, book 3 can’t come soon enough!
I received an ARC from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review.
September 8, 2019
Love it! I can't wait for book three.
I'm actually rooting for a romance to happen (a rarity for me).
I only wish these books were longer.
I'm actually rooting for a romance to happen (a rarity for me).
I only wish these books were longer.
June 4, 2020
Book Title: Wind Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 2)
Author: Kay L Moody
My rating 1-5
Edit quality:5
World Building:4
Characters : Main character 5 ; Supporting Characters 4
My attempt at a summary:
This is the second book of the series and it begins pretty much where the first left off. A lot more character development and depth in this story and I loved it. One, the lead character Talise is flawed and its frustrating because you want to yell into the book for her to knock it off , but that's what makes her believable and relatable.
It is pretty difficult to write believable fight scenes and descriptions with magic use, but I felt that she did a great job with it.
There is more that goes along with the "Antagonist"(s) Aaden and the Emporer and it's fun for conjecture as I'm reading to see what may happen or unfold the way I hypothesize. Trying to piece it together. I like how I couldnt figure it out until the end. I feel like there is more direction on how the author is weaving us to feel about these characters, more so than the first book.
(Spoilers and Suggestions)
Speaking of endings, this is the only author that just leaves the story hanging the way she does. I dont know how to explain it, it's not a cliffhanger just stops the story during plot twist. Maybe that's a cliffhanger?? but if you want a finished story you need to make sure you have all the books available. I didnt mind, it was just different?
All in all. I will subscribe to this author for future books. She knows how to tell a story, how to engage the audience, and leaves you wanting more.
Author: Kay L Moody
My rating 1-5
Edit quality:5
World Building:4
Characters : Main character 5 ; Supporting Characters 4
My attempt at a summary:
This is the second book of the series and it begins pretty much where the first left off. A lot more character development and depth in this story and I loved it. One, the lead character Talise is flawed and its frustrating because you want to yell into the book for her to knock it off , but that's what makes her believable and relatable.
It is pretty difficult to write believable fight scenes and descriptions with magic use, but I felt that she did a great job with it.
There is more that goes along with the "Antagonist"(s) Aaden and the Emporer and it's fun for conjecture as I'm reading to see what may happen or unfold the way I hypothesize. Trying to piece it together. I like how I couldnt figure it out until the end. I feel like there is more direction on how the author is weaving us to feel about these characters, more so than the first book.
(Spoilers and Suggestions)
Speaking of endings, this is the only author that just leaves the story hanging the way she does. I dont know how to explain it, it's not a cliffhanger just stops the story during plot twist. Maybe that's a cliffhanger?? but if you want a finished story you need to make sure you have all the books available. I didnt mind, it was just different?
All in all. I will subscribe to this author for future books. She knows how to tell a story, how to engage the audience, and leaves you wanting more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2020
Wind Crown picks up immediately after the first novella, giving Talise her chance to impress the emperor with her shaping and win her escape from the Storm. However, as Talise has learned, nothing in life comes easy, and the win she expected at the end of the trial was simply the beginning to another set of tests.
The action kept a good pace as Talise continued through her next trials, though I found myself rather upset at the surrounding characters and the lack of explanation about their motives. I assume that things will become more apparent going forward, but the frenemy vibe that was slowly leaning romantic felt a little more rushed than it should've. The butterflies and nervousness that was beginning between a pair of characters that were constantly thrown together felt almost rather forced because of the opposition that had been built into their relationship from the start. That change in stance between them didn't feel as organic as it could have.
Having said that, this was still an interesting build towards a bigger story. These "books" have all been parts of a whole, and the action and attention to detail have held my interest throughout. While the twist at the end wasn't surprising, I am curious to see how things unfold.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The action kept a good pace as Talise continued through her next trials, though I found myself rather upset at the surrounding characters and the lack of explanation about their motives. I assume that things will become more apparent going forward, but the frenemy vibe that was slowly leaning romantic felt a little more rushed than it should've. The butterflies and nervousness that was beginning between a pair of characters that were constantly thrown together felt almost rather forced because of the opposition that had been built into their relationship from the start. That change in stance between them didn't feel as organic as it could have.
Having said that, this was still an interesting build towards a bigger story. These "books" have all been parts of a whole, and the action and attention to detail have held my interest throughout. While the twist at the end wasn't surprising, I am curious to see how things unfold.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2022
Still a really short book, so it's not enough to really build up these characters and build up the plot. But, the twist at the end is pretty amazing. I got really frustrated at Talise and all the questions she was asking that was pissing off the emperor. Now that I've gotten to the end, I can see why she did. She's smart and knew something was up. She's extremely observant. And I really hope Wendy's brother is OK. It would be crappy if he wasn't. I absolutely adore the chemistry between Aaden and Talise. She's trying so hard not to like him, but she's failing. I like Aaden so far. I really hope he's not going to betray them. And he's trying hard not to fall head over heels for Talise.
October 29, 2020
Things Heat Up
Another exciting read, starting us right where the last book left us. A lot of new things happen in this book. We get to learn more about Aaden and we get a little slow burn romantic tension along the way, which I am all for! That didn't detract from the main story though. Though it's a little slow going at first, the ending is WOW and I have to go straight onto reading the next book now because I need to know what happens next!
Another exciting read, starting us right where the last book left us. A lot of new things happen in this book. We get to learn more about Aaden and we get a little slow burn romantic tension along the way, which I am all for! That didn't detract from the main story though. Though it's a little slow going at first, the ending is WOW and I have to go straight onto reading the next book now because I need to know what happens next!
May 1, 2020
I loved the first book in the series and when I read this title I thought it would be about something different but in the end it is explained and it was so interesting reading the timeline of the story and how Talise and Aaden progress with the trials that they have in store for them.
This book was given to me for free by the author and these are my honest thoughts on the book.
This book was given to me for free by the author and these are my honest thoughts on the book.
March 24, 2020
I was given a copy of this book in an exchange of an honest review•all thoughts and opinions are mine though ◻
It was really nice as are the rest of the books .
I highly recommend them 😁
Nice covers 😄
Better though to get the Elements of the crown that has all of them 😁
It was really nice as are the rest of the books .
I highly recommend them 😁
Nice covers 😄
Better though to get the Elements of the crown that has all of them 😁
March 17, 2021
I did not like the suspicion about Aaden, it did not fit Talise, or who I thought Talise was and what she believes, especially because she even dared to question the emperor about punishing a child for a wrong his parents did.
December 1, 2021
I like the story, just wished it was a tad more believable. Not the controlling of the elements, but her actions.
Example: who does she think she is questioning the Emperor like they're family. Rolling up to the man's private suite like it's nothing. LOL.
Little things like that.
Example: who does she think she is questioning the Emperor like they're family. Rolling up to the man's private suite like it's nothing. LOL.
Little things like that.
May 5, 2020
I like how Moody made these "Episodes" instead of novels, it makes the series less intimidating. She doesn't use too much description & doesn't linger too long on different scenes. Very nice!
November 14, 2020
Loved this!
This was better than the first book. There were a few typos and that always drives me a bit crazy but I can’t wait to read the next book.
This was better than the first book. There were a few typos and that always drives me a bit crazy but I can’t wait to read the next book.
November 17, 2020
Cool short story
June 25, 2021
4 stars
October 31, 2022
Talise is improving her magic powers in this along with the sword practices. I loved this book.
Aeden's character is more likeable. I'd like to see more from his POV.
And for the Emperor, i think there's a hidden agenda for why is treating talise in such a way, maybe to push through her limits.
Aeden's character is more likeable. I'd like to see more from his POV.
And for the Emperor, i think there's a hidden agenda for why is treating talise in such a way, maybe to push through her limits.
April 14, 2024
DNF at 104 pages..
July 15, 2020
I enjoyed the conflict between the two highest ranking students. The author has built a believable world. A certain surprise at the end felt too illogical, though. Requiring some bad judgment on the part of characters who should know better.
February 23, 2020
Wind Crown follows on straight from it's predecessor.
You can tell Moody is trying to built some mystery but it fails due to the shortness of the book.
The characters are half baked and Moody trying to push this strange romance between the MCs?
I probably would have read the whole series if I was able to find a copy of 'The Elements of the Crown' which includes all 4 novellas in 1 book but I don't think I will carry on this series.
You can tell Moody is trying to built some mystery but it fails due to the shortness of the book.
The characters are half baked and Moody trying to push this strange romance between the MCs?
I probably would have read the whole series if I was able to find a copy of 'The Elements of the Crown' which includes all 4 novellas in 1 book but I don't think I will carry on this series.
September 20, 2019
I received a digital arc in exchange for an honest review. This is simply my opinion on the book and is not influenced by any external factor.
Before I dive into the review, it’s important to note that this is part of a novella series, where all the installments are shorter than the standard novel. Despite this, the story contains so much action, suspense and excitement – as much as a full-length novel would.
Here’s what you can expect while reading Wind Crown:
• Again, amazing worldbuilding and character development. You will get some backstory on Aadan and his motivations to win the competition. At some points, Aaden and Talise will have to work together in order to get past certain obstacles, which explores their relationship in a different light than just as rivals.
• Our characters get involved in different situations this time around, without spoiling anything, regarding the outcome of the tournament.
• I felt an element of favouritism/office politics which can be relatable in real life.
• When reading this, I hated the emperor. I won’t spoil anything for you, but you’ll realize why at the end of the book.
• Hardly any romance (however, one seems to be budding), no bad language or adult content – suitable for younger readers.
• It ends on a cliffhanger which will make you really want to read the next book.
• Very well-written and exciting.
Overall, just as exciting and great as the first, it’s really amazing how the author has managed to capture so much and present it in such a short book while still retaining its value and importance. Really looking forward to seeing how the series continues.
Before I dive into the review, it’s important to note that this is part of a novella series, where all the installments are shorter than the standard novel. Despite this, the story contains so much action, suspense and excitement – as much as a full-length novel would.
Here’s what you can expect while reading Wind Crown:
• Again, amazing worldbuilding and character development. You will get some backstory on Aadan and his motivations to win the competition. At some points, Aaden and Talise will have to work together in order to get past certain obstacles, which explores their relationship in a different light than just as rivals.
• Our characters get involved in different situations this time around, without spoiling anything, regarding the outcome of the tournament.
• I felt an element of favouritism/office politics which can be relatable in real life.
• When reading this, I hated the emperor. I won’t spoil anything for you, but you’ll realize why at the end of the book.
• Hardly any romance (however, one seems to be budding), no bad language or adult content – suitable for younger readers.
• It ends on a cliffhanger which will make you really want to read the next book.
• Very well-written and exciting.
Overall, just as exciting and great as the first, it’s really amazing how the author has managed to capture so much and present it in such a short book while still retaining its value and importance. Really looking forward to seeing how the series continues.
September 5, 2019
I must say I'm disappointed with this sequel to Ice Crown...
I gave 4 stars to the previous book based on the potential of the world-building, even if it felt too rushed, it's a novella after all. But in this one, I was expecting some closure, more backstory for the characters (we had some for Aeden, but almost none for Talise), and more world-building.
Instead, I found this book to be a bit... Childish, I guess. Why? I'll try to explain without spoiling it:
1. The introduction of the romance into the story was rushed, no build-up.
2. Talise, someone that comes from the Storm and therefore has some relative who did something bad to get her there, suspects someone isn't trustworthy because of a crime their father committed. What??
3. The emperor seems to behave as childishly as Talise. There's no context whatsoever as to why he dislikes Talise, he is sometimes portrayed as kind and others as cruel...
4. Two teenagers are thrown into a life-threatening situation and told that it's just a test??
Too many things didn't make much sense for me, which made this book less enjoyable than the previous one...
I'm still going to read the next one though, and I'm still hoping that in the future these novellas will be transformed into books, with a bit more world-building, character backstory and description put into them.
I gave 4 stars to the previous book based on the potential of the world-building, even if it felt too rushed, it's a novella after all. But in this one, I was expecting some closure, more backstory for the characters (we had some for Aeden, but almost none for Talise), and more world-building.
Instead, I found this book to be a bit... Childish, I guess. Why? I'll try to explain without spoiling it:
1. The introduction of the romance into the story was rushed, no build-up.
2. Talise, someone that comes from the Storm and therefore has some relative who did something bad to get her there, suspects someone isn't trustworthy because of a crime their father committed. What??
3. The emperor seems to behave as childishly as Talise. There's no context whatsoever as to why he dislikes Talise, he is sometimes portrayed as kind and others as cruel...
4. Two teenagers are thrown into a life-threatening situation and told that it's just a test??
Too many things didn't make much sense for me, which made this book less enjoyable than the previous one...
I'm still going to read the next one though, and I'm still hoping that in the future these novellas will be transformed into books, with a bit more world-building, character backstory and description put into them.
December 10, 2019
After a fantastic beginning in Ice Crown, I wasn't sure Wind Crown would be able to measure up. I was delighted to find it did. In Ice Crown, Talise had to compete for the honor and salvation of becoming the Master Shaper. But in Wind Crown, she learns the competition is not over. Now she is competing not against others but against herself to see if she can learn fast enough and become powerful enough to truly earn the position.
While there were definite moments reminiscent of The Hunger Games and The Goblet of Fire, as the trials test different skills and strategies. There were also points that reminded me of The Selection, particularly with Talise trying to win the emperor's approval, but not being sure what the rules actually were (and breaking a lot of them in the process). There was plenty of suspense as what she thought she knew was challenged by the emperor, Aaden, and herself. The characters don't seem flat at all, but there are still many things left to discover about them. I still don't like the emperor, but I am beginning to suspect, as he told Talise, that he does know exactly what he is doing (which still may not make me like him, but it is too early in the story to tell). I love Talise and her friends. Aaden is fascinating and I am so curious about his relationship with his grandfather as well as what his end game actually is. I think he can be trusted, but that also remains to be seen. I can't wait to see where the story goes next.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and have reviewed it freely.
While there were definite moments reminiscent of The Hunger Games and The Goblet of Fire, as the trials test different skills and strategies. There were also points that reminded me of The Selection, particularly with Talise trying to win the emperor's approval, but not being sure what the rules actually were (and breaking a lot of them in the process). There was plenty of suspense as what she thought she knew was challenged by the emperor, Aaden, and herself. The characters don't seem flat at all, but there are still many things left to discover about them. I still don't like the emperor, but I am beginning to suspect, as he told Talise, that he does know exactly what he is doing (which still may not make me like him, but it is too early in the story to tell). I love Talise and her friends. Aaden is fascinating and I am so curious about his relationship with his grandfather as well as what his end game actually is. I think he can be trusted, but that also remains to be seen. I can't wait to see where the story goes next.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and have reviewed it freely.
August 24, 2019
The competition for Master Shaper may be over but the trials have only just begun! Aaeden and Talise have both been picked to
fill the role of master shaper-an unprecedented move on behalf of the Emperor. Now they have to learn to put aside any differences and work together. Only once they do that will they finally see that they compliment each other perfectly and make one hell of a team. As they are set on trials that test not just their powers but their individual selfs, truths come out and the biggest test will make or break them. As the kingdom comes under attack can these two get past their personal differences and put their powers to better use
This was an excellent follow up book to its predecessor! The twists and turns that were parked in were detailed out perfectly. This book also held an incredible amount of suspense that kept me turning page after page. And that ending, oh my goodness my head was reeling from the surprise that was there!
I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to see how the next one turns out! Kay L Moody has delivered an incredible book and this series gets better with each book! I highly recommend this book to fans of magic and intrigue.
fill the role of master shaper-an unprecedented move on behalf of the Emperor. Now they have to learn to put aside any differences and work together. Only once they do that will they finally see that they compliment each other perfectly and make one hell of a team. As they are set on trials that test not just their powers but their individual selfs, truths come out and the biggest test will make or break them. As the kingdom comes under attack can these two get past their personal differences and put their powers to better use
This was an excellent follow up book to its predecessor! The twists and turns that were parked in were detailed out perfectly. This book also held an incredible amount of suspense that kept me turning page after page. And that ending, oh my goodness my head was reeling from the surprise that was there!
I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to see how the next one turns out! Kay L Moody has delivered an incredible book and this series gets better with each book! I highly recommend this book to fans of magic and intrigue.
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