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Books of Caledan #2
The Brooding Crown
Soren has defeated his usurping uncle and the semblance of peace has returned to Caledan, but surrounded by the twelve noble houses of Caledan, King Soren can trust few. In the shadows, treasonous thoughts grow. When news of Zaki’s presence in Roher reaches Soren, can he ally all of Caledan to his cause – and keep them?
Zaki has not given up on his plans to regain Caledan’s throne. First he must prove himself to Harad, the mighty king of Roher, but Zaki will stop at nothing to gain the support of Roher’s army, march on Caledan’s borders and take back the throne of the dragon kings.
War returns to Caledan, but a greater threat looms. The pact is broken. The Eldarkind are fading. The dragons war amongst themselves. A power too terrible to name grows in the North, and He seeks revenge. Only Eve stands in His way – but can she stop magic as old as time?
Zaki has not given up on his plans to regain Caledan’s throne. First he must prove himself to Harad, the mighty king of Roher, but Zaki will stop at nothing to gain the support of Roher’s army, march on Caledan’s borders and take back the throne of the dragon kings.
War returns to Caledan, but a greater threat looms. The pact is broken. The Eldarkind are fading. The dragons war amongst themselves. A power too terrible to name grows in the North, and He seeks revenge. Only Eve stands in His way – but can she stop magic as old as time?
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
130 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Meg Cowley
60 books202 followers✒️ Romantic Fantasy with courageous heroines, protective heroes, and endearing found families to sweep you away... ✨️
Meg Cowley is a USA Today bestselling fantasy author from England. Meg writes slow burn steamy epic fantasy romances with courageous and vulnerable heroines, protective and brooding heroes, and lovable and welcoming found family in stories that will steal your heart long after the last page.
Meg's favourite past times are reading, hiking, and cooking. She can usually be found curled up with a cup of tea and a riveting fantasy romance book, cooking up a fantasy-book worthy feast, or out walking the wild, windswept moors of Yorkshire dreaming up her next story.
Visit www.megcowley.com to find out more, discover Meg’s books, find exclusive reader bonus content, and join her Romantasy Fellowship newsletter.
Meg Cowley is a USA Today bestselling fantasy author from England. Meg writes slow burn steamy epic fantasy romances with courageous and vulnerable heroines, protective and brooding heroes, and lovable and welcoming found family in stories that will steal your heart long after the last page.
Meg's favourite past times are reading, hiking, and cooking. She can usually be found curled up with a cup of tea and a riveting fantasy romance book, cooking up a fantasy-book worthy feast, or out walking the wild, windswept moors of Yorkshire dreaming up her next story.
Visit www.megcowley.com to find out more, discover Meg’s books, find exclusive reader bonus content, and join her Romantasy Fellowship newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 22, 2018
Soren overthrows his usurping uncle from the throne of Caledan, which should have been the young prince's greatest challenge. But now he has to rule a kingdom filled with treacherous nobles, and the rumours of Zaki's return.
I bought a signed copy from the author at last year's UK Indie Lit Fest, which was pretty awesome. I had meant to read this earlier, but I moved house and a lot of my books are still in boxes (appalling, I know)!
This is the second book in the Caledan trilogy. It has several narrators, but the main ones are Soren, the rightful King of Caledan, trying to establish his rule; his cousin Eve embraces her magic and a new challenge; and evil Uncle Zaki licks his wounds, and plots in the background.
The Brooding Crown is a perfect description, as our main characters realise that, just because they won one battle, it does not mean everything will be smooth-sailing afterwards.
Soren struggles to balance who to trust, with his dependency on the noble families. Despite having already fought a major battle, the young man knows there will be further conflict.
Eve is torn between her duty to her father, and her desire to follow her own path. Following tradition, she is expected to marry a suitor of her father's choosing; but Eve cannot forget Luke, or the life of freedom she experienced when training in magic.
I found this book stronger than the first in the series, as you get to see the characters develop. They become more than the standard trope.
Soren struggles with the pressure of kingship, as it becomes clear that his strong morals are going to have to bend, unless he wants to hand the crown back to his uncle and his hidden supporters.
Zaki, in particular, became a much fuller character, no longer a caricature of evilness. I was pleasantly surprised that I started to enjoy his sections, as the spoilt would-be-king wallows in his failure. He continues to make dubious decisions, as he bides his time.
In some aspects it was a weaker book. It definitely felt like the middle of a trilogy, where everyone deals with what happened in book 1, and sets up for book 3.
There are some big moments scattered throughout the story, but a lot of the book has the feeling of waiting.
On the whole, the story came across a little rushed, as though even the author was keen to get on with the final book.
Overall, this was a 3.5 out of 5 for me. I will be continuing with The Shattered Crown.
I bought a signed copy from the author at last year's UK Indie Lit Fest, which was pretty awesome. I had meant to read this earlier, but I moved house and a lot of my books are still in boxes (appalling, I know)!
This is the second book in the Caledan trilogy. It has several narrators, but the main ones are Soren, the rightful King of Caledan, trying to establish his rule; his cousin Eve embraces her magic and a new challenge; and evil Uncle Zaki licks his wounds, and plots in the background.
The Brooding Crown is a perfect description, as our main characters realise that, just because they won one battle, it does not mean everything will be smooth-sailing afterwards.
Soren struggles to balance who to trust, with his dependency on the noble families. Despite having already fought a major battle, the young man knows there will be further conflict.
Eve is torn between her duty to her father, and her desire to follow her own path. Following tradition, she is expected to marry a suitor of her father's choosing; but Eve cannot forget Luke, or the life of freedom she experienced when training in magic.
I found this book stronger than the first in the series, as you get to see the characters develop. They become more than the standard trope.
Soren struggles with the pressure of kingship, as it becomes clear that his strong morals are going to have to bend, unless he wants to hand the crown back to his uncle and his hidden supporters.
Zaki, in particular, became a much fuller character, no longer a caricature of evilness. I was pleasantly surprised that I started to enjoy his sections, as the spoilt would-be-king wallows in his failure. He continues to make dubious decisions, as he bides his time.
In some aspects it was a weaker book. It definitely felt like the middle of a trilogy, where everyone deals with what happened in book 1, and sets up for book 3.
There are some big moments scattered throughout the story, but a lot of the book has the feeling of waiting.
On the whole, the story came across a little rushed, as though even the author was keen to get on with the final book.
Overall, this was a 3.5 out of 5 for me. I will be continuing with The Shattered Crown.
August 21, 2018
This is the second book in the series, and it is aptly named, as much of the book is focused on exploring problems associated with various characters nursing their unhappiness about the situation that they are in. King Soren epitomizes this perspective as he broods over marriage, alliances, his evil uncle and his court without clearly taking ownership of running his kingdom.
From a plot perspective, the novel follows a pattern often seen in trilogies, as the second books are focused on setting the stage for the final novel where all of the really exciting things happen. Here's hoping that the final book in the series will be stronger. The writer indicated that she wrote this book in three months, versus the 6 years that it took her for the first book. Perhaps that is why the book seemed a bit thinner and less well developed than the first book in the series?
From a plot perspective, the novel follows a pattern often seen in trilogies, as the second books are focused on setting the stage for the final novel where all of the really exciting things happen. Here's hoping that the final book in the series will be stronger. The writer indicated that she wrote this book in three months, versus the 6 years that it took her for the first book. Perhaps that is why the book seemed a bit thinner and less well developed than the first book in the series?
July 8, 2019
Here we have a nice character driven story that focuses largely on court politics and intrigue.
As I've come to expect, Jack Voraces gives a fantastic performance with a brilliantly voiced cast, almost always spot on vocal inflections, and near perfect tempo adjustments.
On a side note, although it took a bit of getting used to the first time, I absolutely love the echo effect he uses for internal monologue. Makes it super easy to differentiate between what's being said and what is private thoughts.
One of the things I loved about The Tainted Crown was that it hit the ground running from page one.
In this book we have a slower start that gives us a deeper dive into the character of our three main players (Eve, Soren, and Zaki). Each of them gets plenty of time to really explore their personalities and motivations.
Where in the first book I identified most strongly with Soren and Edmund, this time around I find my strongest affinity is for Eve and (oddly, especially since I would say she barely merits status as a major character) Demara.
As a father, I can't make sense of Karn's position regarding Eve and her impending betrothal. Which I suppose fuels my affinity for her. Given his status as cousin to the king, it would be almost impossible for Eve to marry up. And with her being his only heir, wouldn't it make more sense to keep her closer to home?
I realize it's not within the scope of this story, but I really would have liked to see an exploration of what's driving Karn in his choice for Eve's future husband and why he's so against allow her to follow her heart. After all, that was what he did.
Though it takes her quite a bit of time (and some pretty tragic circumstances), I love the transformation Eve goes through over the course of the book.
And Demara. In the first book she seemed like little more than a set piece, but here we get to see her turn into a fully developed character with her own challenges, motivations, and goals.
It was a little surprising to see that she was never, in actuality, an entirely willing participant in Zaki's schemes. And that, within the framework of being from an entirely different culture, she actually is what I would call an honorable and devoted woman.
The fact that she remains so even after all she's been through is a testament to her strength and I can't wait to see what happens with her in the final book.
Now, I have to admit to not fully comprehending the pact that holds Bahr in place.
I have read The First Crown and I feel like I remember it reasonably well. Having read that and these two books, I'm left at a bit of a loss for why events in the first book are breaking down the pact that holds Bahr in his prison.
Especially considering that what seems to have caused it can't be unheard of. Banishment seems to be a fairly common punishment for a dragon who commits major transgressions, after all.
I'm hoping this is spelled out more explicitly in the third book.
As I've come to expect from Meg Cowley, the writing itself is smooth and skillful. My one real critique for this book is that some of the dialogue is a bit... on the nose.
At last, in the final third of the book several plot threads come together and the story really picks up. Eve's arc in particular gets very interesting and takes us on a wild ride.
I loved how things came together at the end, especially where we end on a note that is simultaneously a satisfying close and also a hugely suspenseful "oh #@$*" moment!
Needless to say, I am anxiously awaiting the final volume! I can't wait to see what's going to happen!
As I've come to expect, Jack Voraces gives a fantastic performance with a brilliantly voiced cast, almost always spot on vocal inflections, and near perfect tempo adjustments.
On a side note, although it took a bit of getting used to the first time, I absolutely love the echo effect he uses for internal monologue. Makes it super easy to differentiate between what's being said and what is private thoughts.
One of the things I loved about The Tainted Crown was that it hit the ground running from page one.
In this book we have a slower start that gives us a deeper dive into the character of our three main players (Eve, Soren, and Zaki). Each of them gets plenty of time to really explore their personalities and motivations.
Where in the first book I identified most strongly with Soren and Edmund, this time around I find my strongest affinity is for Eve and (oddly, especially since I would say she barely merits status as a major character) Demara.
As a father, I can't make sense of Karn's position regarding Eve and her impending betrothal. Which I suppose fuels my affinity for her. Given his status as cousin to the king, it would be almost impossible for Eve to marry up. And with her being his only heir, wouldn't it make more sense to keep her closer to home?
I realize it's not within the scope of this story, but I really would have liked to see an exploration of what's driving Karn in his choice for Eve's future husband and why he's so against allow her to follow her heart. After all, that was what he did.
Though it takes her quite a bit of time (and some pretty tragic circumstances), I love the transformation Eve goes through over the course of the book.
And Demara. In the first book she seemed like little more than a set piece, but here we get to see her turn into a fully developed character with her own challenges, motivations, and goals.
It was a little surprising to see that she was never, in actuality, an entirely willing participant in Zaki's schemes. And that, within the framework of being from an entirely different culture, she actually is what I would call an honorable and devoted woman.
The fact that she remains so even after all she's been through is a testament to her strength and I can't wait to see what happens with her in the final book.
Now, I have to admit to not fully comprehending the pact that holds Bahr in place.
I have read The First Crown and I feel like I remember it reasonably well. Having read that and these two books, I'm left at a bit of a loss for why events in the first book are breaking down the pact that holds Bahr in his prison.
Especially considering that what seems to have caused it can't be unheard of. Banishment seems to be a fairly common punishment for a dragon who commits major transgressions, after all.
I'm hoping this is spelled out more explicitly in the third book.
As I've come to expect from Meg Cowley, the writing itself is smooth and skillful. My one real critique for this book is that some of the dialogue is a bit... on the nose.
At last, in the final third of the book several plot threads come together and the story really picks up. Eve's arc in particular gets very interesting and takes us on a wild ride.
I loved how things came together at the end, especially where we end on a note that is simultaneously a satisfying close and also a hugely suspenseful "oh #@$*" moment!
Needless to say, I am anxiously awaiting the final volume! I can't wait to see what's going to happen!
September 19, 2021
3.5 stars***
This was the second installment of the trilogy. Overall it was enjoyable to read. I thought the characters were still a little flat and the dialogue felt a bit off. The plot of the book picked up where the first left off and continues the story. I did find a few typos in the kindle edition. These might have been corrected in alter versions, but when I find them it makes me feel like it needs to be polished more. Overall good book and I plan to finish the trilogy
This was the second installment of the trilogy. Overall it was enjoyable to read. I thought the characters were still a little flat and the dialogue felt a bit off. The plot of the book picked up where the first left off and continues the story. I did find a few typos in the kindle edition. These might have been corrected in alter versions, but when I find them it makes me feel like it needs to be polished more. Overall good book and I plan to finish the trilogy
March 16, 2017
Great storytelling in this second installment of the Caledan trilogy. The author packs in the action with different threads of the narrative weaving around each other to create a complex, yet compelling web. The Brooding Crown develops some of the secondary characters from The Tainted Crown, as well as following Soren in his ongoing battle to retain his position against a vengeful Zaki. The book is peppered with beautifully vivid descriptions of the settings and world of Caledan; try and take them in as you're carried through the face-paced chapters to an exciting climax.
March 22, 2017
Continuing the saga of Caledan, a year has passed and Soren has consolidated his rein.
But his uncle is still out for blood. Get ready for an epic battle, the loss of some key characters and more dragons (never get enough dragons).
Another great tale from Meg. Bring on book 3 I say.
But his uncle is still out for blood. Get ready for an epic battle, the loss of some key characters and more dragons (never get enough dragons).
Another great tale from Meg. Bring on book 3 I say.
March 15, 2017
Just finished reading the Brooding Crown lots of strong characters.epic battles.Magic and Dragons.
A brilliant piece of fantasy you won't want to put down till you have read this book.
Definitely a book I will read again and can't wait for the third book in this not to be missed epic tale.
After reading this book you will want to be a part of Megs fantasy world again.
A brilliant piece of fantasy you won't want to put down till you have read this book.
Definitely a book I will read again and can't wait for the third book in this not to be missed epic tale.
After reading this book you will want to be a part of Megs fantasy world again.
March 31, 2017
An enthralling adventure! The young heroes starting out as innocents evolving into formidable foes. Their mission ,to protect their kingdoms and their loved ones.
May 29, 2017
*I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.*
The Brooding Crown is the second in the Caledan series and the strongest so far. I feel you would definitely need to have read the first book, The Tainted Crown first, and strongly recommend reading the short prequel, The First Crown too, as that sets the legendary history behind the whole plot.
While The Tainted Crown introduced us to the main players and their initial challenges, The Brooding Crown develops them much further, rounding them out into deeper and more complex people, and thereby making their reactions to their new situations less predictable. In this novel, Soren has apparently suceeded in his mission from book 1, but rests uneasy and has to fight for what he already thought he had won, whilst finding out that there is more behind ruling than simply winning and wearing the crown. Eve has to face the consequences of being a female in a patriarchal society as she is matched up with a suitable husband and has to decide whether to follow her heart to the man she truly loves, or follow her heart to the strength and freedom that comes from realising her own true potential: much more interesting than the old head vs. heart battle!
We also see a deepening in the character of Zaki in this installment. Previously he was somewhat of an evil cypher (I compared him to Jafar from Disney’s Aladdin!), but with more of his point of view coming through we get to understand him much better, and whilst he remains thoroughly unpleasant, the greater understanding unavoidably creates more empathy towards him. This in turn made me question the character’s labelling of Bahr as purely evil: is anyone truly ‘pure evil’ once we can see through their eyes and understand their feelings and motivations?
I was interested that rather than mirroring each other this time round, Soren and Eve’s stories seemed to be on opposite paths; with the odds turning against Eve’s fight as they improved for Soren. However both suffered great losses in their journeys, and it is becoming clearer that the fate of Caledan will rest on their individual endeavours without as much support as they hope for or even need…which makes it all the more nerve-wracking; especially as we see the ‘older and wiser’ societies of their allies, the dragons and the Eldarkind, respectively splintering and fading.
Overall this is a great second installment in the Caledan series and really moves things along in terms of plot and character, whilst also stepping it up a notch: tougher decisions, bigger dangers, more complex morality. I look forward to the climax of this series with great excitement.
The Brooding Crown is the second in the Caledan series and the strongest so far. I feel you would definitely need to have read the first book, The Tainted Crown first, and strongly recommend reading the short prequel, The First Crown too, as that sets the legendary history behind the whole plot.
While The Tainted Crown introduced us to the main players and their initial challenges, The Brooding Crown develops them much further, rounding them out into deeper and more complex people, and thereby making their reactions to their new situations less predictable. In this novel, Soren has apparently suceeded in his mission from book 1, but rests uneasy and has to fight for what he already thought he had won, whilst finding out that there is more behind ruling than simply winning and wearing the crown. Eve has to face the consequences of being a female in a patriarchal society as she is matched up with a suitable husband and has to decide whether to follow her heart to the man she truly loves, or follow her heart to the strength and freedom that comes from realising her own true potential: much more interesting than the old head vs. heart battle!
We also see a deepening in the character of Zaki in this installment. Previously he was somewhat of an evil cypher (I compared him to Jafar from Disney’s Aladdin!), but with more of his point of view coming through we get to understand him much better, and whilst he remains thoroughly unpleasant, the greater understanding unavoidably creates more empathy towards him. This in turn made me question the character’s labelling of Bahr as purely evil: is anyone truly ‘pure evil’ once we can see through their eyes and understand their feelings and motivations?
I was interested that rather than mirroring each other this time round, Soren and Eve’s stories seemed to be on opposite paths; with the odds turning against Eve’s fight as they improved for Soren. However both suffered great losses in their journeys, and it is becoming clearer that the fate of Caledan will rest on their individual endeavours without as much support as they hope for or even need…which makes it all the more nerve-wracking; especially as we see the ‘older and wiser’ societies of their allies, the dragons and the Eldarkind, respectively splintering and fading.
Overall this is a great second installment in the Caledan series and really moves things along in terms of plot and character, whilst also stepping it up a notch: tougher decisions, bigger dangers, more complex morality. I look forward to the climax of this series with great excitement.
September 3, 2017
This is definitely an epic series! And, as stated in the blurb, compares to Game of Thrones but suitable for younger readers. Meg Cowley truly does an amazing job of world building and character development that keeps you engaged in the story. A lot happens in this second book of the series which in many instances are totally unpredictable. I was cheering on some of my favorite characters and hoping the worst for those I came to despise but Ms Cowley knows how to twist the story into something totally different and unexpected. My hopes were dashed in some instances, but even so, enough was told to still give me hope that the story would yet be turned around. And, although some of the more despicable characters got their justified end, it was the kind of end that was unforseeable. Some of the good guys also suffered the same fate which left me very saddened. Not many stories I have read can evoke these emotions from me which makes Ms Cowley's talent and imagination that much more notable. I highly recommend reading this series. I feel fortunate that I received this book as an ARC reader and have given my completely honest review.
September 18, 2017
Zaki has finally made it to the homeland of his wife Damara , the daughter and only heir of King Harad of Roher. After being saved from the prison of Pandora in the land of Caledan by his father in law he was forced to run like the coward he truly was through the scorching desert, many men perished along the route to safety.
Eve is promised to a man she doesn't know and agrees to the union in hopes her father will let her return to her mother's land, where the Eldar Kind dwell so she can learn to control her magic,
Soren is now King upon the Dragon's throne of Caledan in the city of Pandora, all seems well in this realm, but is it. Soren has nightmare that his Uncle the usurper of his throne will rise again against him.
Bahr of the fire is still bound in his cold icy prison. There is a change in atmosphere , those who are fueled with magic feel it, and their Queen is ill.
The emotions this story touched in me are deep, in a land where betrayal is common, hero's fall and evil rises to snatch away all hope for the future of Men, Eldar Kind and Dragons my mind reeled. Love means nothing and entitlement , royalty , and duty are above all else. I leave this tale with heavy heart, not knowing if I wish to continue with this fantastic but sad saga. At times I wanted to weep , instead I took break , sat back , and let my emotions fade. I loved this book but was deeply saddened by some of the events that took place.
Eve is promised to a man she doesn't know and agrees to the union in hopes her father will let her return to her mother's land, where the Eldar Kind dwell so she can learn to control her magic,
Soren is now King upon the Dragon's throne of Caledan in the city of Pandora, all seems well in this realm, but is it. Soren has nightmare that his Uncle the usurper of his throne will rise again against him.
Bahr of the fire is still bound in his cold icy prison. There is a change in atmosphere , those who are fueled with magic feel it, and their Queen is ill.
The emotions this story touched in me are deep, in a land where betrayal is common, hero's fall and evil rises to snatch away all hope for the future of Men, Eldar Kind and Dragons my mind reeled. Love means nothing and entitlement , royalty , and duty are above all else. I leave this tale with heavy heart, not knowing if I wish to continue with this fantastic but sad saga. At times I wanted to weep , instead I took break , sat back , and let my emotions fade. I loved this book but was deeply saddened by some of the events that took place.
March 15, 2020
Meg Cowley has done it again another amazing sequel I swear there was a few parts that I was on the edge of my seat screaming don't do it! All I'm going to say is screw you, Zaki, and Soren you're kind of a dummy. Over all this book is a must listen / read if you like fantasy Jack Voraces does an absolute fantastic job with his book just like the others so just do you self a favor and get this book.
July 20, 2017
Wonderful!
Meg Cowley has done an excellent job at weaving this 2nd story of Caledan. Reading more of Soren's story has been great. I have so enjoyed all the characters and the plot. Off to read book 3!!!
Meg Cowley has done an excellent job at weaving this 2nd story of Caledan. Reading more of Soren's story has been great. I have so enjoyed all the characters and the plot. Off to read book 3!!!
April 22, 2017
Continues excitement
The energy and intrigue keeps you wanting more as realms are in peril while rogue dragons only makes matters worse.
The energy and intrigue keeps you wanting more as realms are in peril while rogue dragons only makes matters worse.
May 28, 2017
The great fantasy continues
Book 2 is as great as book 1 so If you like great fantasy with dragons, elves and lots of action. You must read this set.
Book 2 is as great as book 1 so If you like great fantasy with dragons, elves and lots of action. You must read this set.
July 12, 2019
The Brooding Crown is a a great fantasy adventure and the second book in the Caledan series. As Soren takes control of Caledan and Zaki turns up in Roher, both will struggle to determine who is on their side and who seeks to betray them for their own reasons.
Full disclosure, I have not read the first book in the series, The Tainted Crown yet, a tragedy I will look to remedy soon after listening to this book. It made it a little more difficult to piece together what had taken place in the previous book, but not too much. That's a credit to Meg and her excellent story telling. She writes in enough details so you can follow along without feeling like you're receiving all of the information at once. I was able to follow along and really enjoyed the story even without having read the first book. However, if at all possible, I would recommend reading the first book before diving into this one. It's just easier.
The characters and their arcs were great in this book. Soren is someone you want to root for, but he's got a big task in front of him as he struggles to figure out who supports his rule of Caledan and who is likely to side with his rotten uncle, Zaki. Speaking of which, Zaki is truly despicable, which is what I enjoy in my villains. I love those villains who you know are truly bad and you want to see them get what's coming to them. Zaki is conniving as he tries to plot and scheme his way back into power over Caledan. Eve also gets some lead time as she struggles through an impossible fate, but will play a big role in the bigger battle that is coming. Throw in a feud between the dragons and a little bit of magic and you've got a book filled to the brim with adventure and character plot lines.
I love Meg Cowley's fantasy adventures. She does a great job at world-building and juggling character arcs throughout her books. Even with not reading the first book in the series, I still had little trouble getting caught up and definitely still enjoyed this listen. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series and am sure I will enjoy them just as much.
Full disclosure, I have not read the first book in the series, The Tainted Crown yet, a tragedy I will look to remedy soon after listening to this book. It made it a little more difficult to piece together what had taken place in the previous book, but not too much. That's a credit to Meg and her excellent story telling. She writes in enough details so you can follow along without feeling like you're receiving all of the information at once. I was able to follow along and really enjoyed the story even without having read the first book. However, if at all possible, I would recommend reading the first book before diving into this one. It's just easier.
The characters and their arcs were great in this book. Soren is someone you want to root for, but he's got a big task in front of him as he struggles to figure out who supports his rule of Caledan and who is likely to side with his rotten uncle, Zaki. Speaking of which, Zaki is truly despicable, which is what I enjoy in my villains. I love those villains who you know are truly bad and you want to see them get what's coming to them. Zaki is conniving as he tries to plot and scheme his way back into power over Caledan. Eve also gets some lead time as she struggles through an impossible fate, but will play a big role in the bigger battle that is coming. Throw in a feud between the dragons and a little bit of magic and you've got a book filled to the brim with adventure and character plot lines.
I love Meg Cowley's fantasy adventures. She does a great job at world-building and juggling character arcs throughout her books. Even with not reading the first book in the series, I still had little trouble getting caught up and definitely still enjoyed this listen. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series and am sure I will enjoy them just as much.
July 16, 2021
A fast pace read
Fast pace read.
Soren is now King. Zaki still wants the throne, Zaki is known as the Beggar king, in a foreign land he seeks to convince the foreign king to help him to overthrow Soren.
However, things do not go according to plan for Zaki, he is beneath the King only gets so far because he is married to the king’s daughter. Zaki has a mistress and his wife dose not take kindly to this.
There are things in the book I didn’t agree with, Zaki for all the bad he did, I felt like there should have been more to his final moments, it was too quick and left me feeling, like Soren should have dealt a heavy hand.
Soren, struggles with the fear of Zaki being on the loose, the poor man cannot trust anyone, there is even treason inside of the palace.
Word gets to Soren that Zaki plans to invade, with the help of another king’s army.
Soren Is thrust upon the battlefield he has to deal with losing his most trusted of people. He is still a young king and lacks the wisdom needed in the heat of battle.
Will he be able to defend his home land against Zacki? Or will he fail?
Eve, is my favourite person, she is forced in to marrying a man she does not love, by her father, she attempts to escape but is captured and brought, back.
Her father has to go and fight against Zaki, so he sends Eve to the Elderkind, there she learns to harness her Magic, and set off on a journey of her own, to see if an ancient being is still bound. But she doesn’t know that she is the key to freeing him and was tricked into going there.
I really enjoyed this book; the fight scenes were epic. Especially the dragons.
Perhaps a little rushed at the end but, I kinda understand why. On to the next book.
Fast pace read.
Soren is now King. Zaki still wants the throne, Zaki is known as the Beggar king, in a foreign land he seeks to convince the foreign king to help him to overthrow Soren.
However, things do not go according to plan for Zaki, he is beneath the King only gets so far because he is married to the king’s daughter. Zaki has a mistress and his wife dose not take kindly to this.
There are things in the book I didn’t agree with, Zaki for all the bad he did, I felt like there should have been more to his final moments, it was too quick and left me feeling, like Soren should have dealt a heavy hand.
Soren, struggles with the fear of Zaki being on the loose, the poor man cannot trust anyone, there is even treason inside of the palace.
Word gets to Soren that Zaki plans to invade, with the help of another king’s army.
Soren Is thrust upon the battlefield he has to deal with losing his most trusted of people. He is still a young king and lacks the wisdom needed in the heat of battle.
Will he be able to defend his home land against Zacki? Or will he fail?
Eve, is my favourite person, she is forced in to marrying a man she does not love, by her father, she attempts to escape but is captured and brought, back.
Her father has to go and fight against Zaki, so he sends Eve to the Elderkind, there she learns to harness her Magic, and set off on a journey of her own, to see if an ancient being is still bound. But she doesn’t know that she is the key to freeing him and was tricked into going there.
I really enjoyed this book; the fight scenes were epic. Especially the dragons.
Perhaps a little rushed at the end but, I kinda understand why. On to the next book.
March 22, 2017
The Brooding Crown, the second book in the Caledan series starts right off where the first book left off throwing the reader back into the mix of things and catching up with our characters.
The characters in this book, for the most part, are enjoyable. So, enjoyable that I am very much interested and invested in their fates, even if I despise a character, I still find myself reading on in anticipation and interest. Even if it's me wondering when their sweet demise will come. What sets this series apart is that Dragons! Yes, Dragons, get their own POV. I love the fact that the author not only just added dragons into this backstabbing and feuding world, but gave them clear personalities, lives, objectives, and motives. That for me, is the best part of this series!
The author has a Keen ability in describing settings. Whether it is a room, a Castle, or an outdoor landscape, myself, as a reader, is transported there and I can clearly see in my head the surroundings where these characters are at that moment.
I like the fact that each chapter does not carry on for too long. This helps in pacing. Even though this is an average length novel, I feel I am able to read brusquely through it because of this reason. Nothing feels forced or drawn out.
Each Scene/ chapter feels flows in the sense that you know where you are at. You know the scene has changed, but you are able to keep up with it and get confused.
The strength of this novel are its characters! With all their strengths and weaknesses, they still come out strong because, they are human (and Dragons with human characteristics and personalities) and THAT is what makes them so. It wouldn't be realistic otherwise and the author gave them depth, and THAT... is refreshing.
The characters in this book, for the most part, are enjoyable. So, enjoyable that I am very much interested and invested in their fates, even if I despise a character, I still find myself reading on in anticipation and interest. Even if it's me wondering when their sweet demise will come. What sets this series apart is that Dragons! Yes, Dragons, get their own POV. I love the fact that the author not only just added dragons into this backstabbing and feuding world, but gave them clear personalities, lives, objectives, and motives. That for me, is the best part of this series!
The author has a Keen ability in describing settings. Whether it is a room, a Castle, or an outdoor landscape, myself, as a reader, is transported there and I can clearly see in my head the surroundings where these characters are at that moment.
I like the fact that each chapter does not carry on for too long. This helps in pacing. Even though this is an average length novel, I feel I am able to read brusquely through it because of this reason. Nothing feels forced or drawn out.
Each Scene/ chapter feels flows in the sense that you know where you are at. You know the scene has changed, but you are able to keep up with it and get confused.
The strength of this novel are its characters! With all their strengths and weaknesses, they still come out strong because, they are human (and Dragons with human characteristics and personalities) and THAT is what makes them so. It wouldn't be realistic otherwise and the author gave them depth, and THAT... is refreshing.
May 30, 2018
I did not find this, the second book in the series to be as great as the first book was especially in the first half of the book, I thought that Soren was acting as such a weak king, fearful and haunted by his nightmares to almost be acting like a child, whilst Eve after being so courageous in the first book was now being dominated by her father and having to succumb to a marriage she did not want and the brave dragons where being exiled from their clan for acting on the behalf of Soren to regain the throne for Caledan, so all in all i was quite disappointed but over in Rohir we find that Zaki lives on and is still planning to return and fight for the throne and when he does return the battle scenes are once again captivating and the courage displayed and the loyalty are to be admired! We get to see quite a few losses from characters the reader gets to love but in the end the book once again gains in strength! For me the one true hero in this book was Luke who was steadfast in his love and loyalty to Eve till the bitter end and of course Myrkdaga who sacrificed his life for his clan. Am now dying to read the third book in the trilogy and hoping to see some loose ends neatly tied up and some happy endings maybe!!
August 7, 2019
This book worked fairly well for me, the main baddie was a bit less of a caricature and the main female character continued to be interesting, but the main male character still doesn't interest me enough and his storyline feels like it occupies a larger proportion of the book than he merits.
The narrator puts in another strong performance that enhances the book with a varied and distinctive range of voices for all the main and supporting characters.
Overall, this is a solid second book in this series, but probably didn't increase my interest in the series beyond the level it already was after the enjoyable first book.
[Note - I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.]
The narrator puts in another strong performance that enhances the book with a varied and distinctive range of voices for all the main and supporting characters.
Overall, this is a solid second book in this series, but probably didn't increase my interest in the series beyond the level it already was after the enjoyable first book.
[Note - I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.]
February 15, 2018
wow this book was truly amazing.
normally the second book in a trilogy is not so good, but Meg cowley truly did it. Book 2 is even better then book 1, a lot of excitement and intens. The tension in the story was easy to feel when you are reading and I loved it. The shock and the love throughout puts you on the edge and makes you almost impossible to put the book down. Also a great use of fire and water about how different they are and what they can do to eachother.
The dragons again soo amazing, my absolute favorite stays Myrkdraga and I truly became angry for what happened when he returned. This book also made me hate Cies for siding on the bad side and his use of trickery.
normally the second book in a trilogy is not so good, but Meg cowley truly did it. Book 2 is even better then book 1, a lot of excitement and intens. The tension in the story was easy to feel when you are reading and I loved it. The shock and the love throughout puts you on the edge and makes you almost impossible to put the book down. Also a great use of fire and water about how different they are and what they can do to eachother.
The dragons again soo amazing, my absolute favorite stays Myrkdraga and I truly became angry for what happened when he returned. This book also made me hate Cies for siding on the bad side and his use of trickery.
Read
August 23, 2019Soren is growing into his role as king. He is learning that sometimes for the greater good, he has to bend his morals. His cousin Eve is having a rough time of things and is learning that many things are not always what they seem or what one expects. Luke is developing into a very interesting character. The lives of the Elves and Dragons are in turmoil. This book is great. The narrator did a good job. The characters are dynamic. The story flows well. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Read
July 4, 2019I didn’t actually finish this book: it’s a classic sword and sorcery fantasy set in a made up universe...where the characters celebrate Christmas (literally, not just ‘generic Christmas-looking winter holiday transposed to fantasy world; I mean literal actual it’s called Christmas).
Apparently that’s a no-go for me, so I’m putting it down and moving on. The first book wasn’t bad and I was interested in how the story continued, but I just couldn’t after that.
Apparently that’s a no-go for me, so I’m putting it down and moving on. The first book wasn’t bad and I was interested in how the story continued, but I just couldn’t after that.
July 7, 2018
The second installment in the trilogy is not disappointing. Highly impacted by the actions of the crown and those trying to take the crown, this story continues to keep the pages turning. Unleashed to bring the world as they know it to an end, Bahr, the elemental of fire and destruction comes to play. I must go now and read the final installment: The Shattered Crown.
August 13, 2019
I did not care for this book. The first one was good but in this one the characters are developing but it's going so slowly but I just kept putting it down. I'm very disappointed because I expected so much more out of this. I don't know if I'm going to read the third one after this. I have heard such good things about her next series in the same world that I do think I'm going to try those.
February 21, 2018
From the opening pages of the first book, you could tell this was an epic in the making. This, the second book continues seamlessly from the first book. Wonderful characters, detailed settings, multiple intricate plotlines, think a cleaner Game of Thrones). Excellent read!
May 20, 2018
poor copy editing.
December 3, 2018
Not as much action as the first book, but still an enjoyable read.
October 10, 2019
A great continuation of the series, wraps things up nice and tidy but also leaves you wanting...I was disappointed when I saw I didn't have book 3 ready and waiting for me on my audible account.
March 10, 2017
Again a book full of power, magic, Dragons, Elves and Humans. This does not disappoint in regards to the continued adventures promised with the first book. I was swept up from the beginning and found it hard to put down. A battle was fought against the pretender with the loss of some favourite characters. In the end there was a few loose ends to be completed in the next book. I am so looking forward to the next book, April can not happen fast enough. Thank you Meg for another great book.
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