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Lorden Awakening #1
Lorden Awakening
Magic has not existed for three centuries, and the world is dying because of it.
Anaver has never seen the sun through the foggy dome that surrounds the island of Tamrose. She's heard tales of other lands and magic, but no one can prove that such things ever existed.
When fate pulls her from her home and places her in a land of sun and starlight, she discovers that she harbors a power that can awaken the earth's dormant magic.
Rothrin has watched as the world around him fades away. The elements have long lost their state of Lorden, or harmony, which has caused a decades-long famine to sweep over the continent.
All seems lost until he meets Anaver, and the elements begin to awaken. They set out on a quest in a land on the brink of collapse and starvation to unleash the earth's power before time runs out.
Anaver has never seen the sun through the foggy dome that surrounds the island of Tamrose. She's heard tales of other lands and magic, but no one can prove that such things ever existed.
When fate pulls her from her home and places her in a land of sun and starlight, she discovers that she harbors a power that can awaken the earth's dormant magic.
Rothrin has watched as the world around him fades away. The elements have long lost their state of Lorden, or harmony, which has caused a decades-long famine to sweep over the continent.
All seems lost until he meets Anaver, and the elements begin to awaken. They set out on a quest in a land on the brink of collapse and starvation to unleash the earth's power before time runs out.
- GenresFantasy
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2021
13 people are currently reading
597 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 26, 2021
Love and magic found here!
5/5 Flower Review!
🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼
Krislee Ellsworth has taken us to a world where love and magic exist! This is a story about a girl named Anaver and a boy named Rothrin. I believe it is their love that fuels the magic. This story is so well designed. The characters and the places that you are taken to are so detailed, that the book is visually playing out in your mind as you read. I was so impressed! This book can be read by all ages. I am excited for the next book. Bravo Krislee Ellsworth!
5/5 Flower Review!
🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼
Krislee Ellsworth has taken us to a world where love and magic exist! This is a story about a girl named Anaver and a boy named Rothrin. I believe it is their love that fuels the magic. This story is so well designed. The characters and the places that you are taken to are so detailed, that the book is visually playing out in your mind as you read. I was so impressed! This book can be read by all ages. I am excited for the next book. Bravo Krislee Ellsworth!
December 28, 2020
I really enjoyed this book a lot. I had to restart a few times because it was hard for me to keep the unusual names of people and places straight. To be fair, that could be because I have several kids which means I have lots of distractions. I felt like the characters and the story were well thought out. I am eager for book 2 to come out so I can find out what’s going to happen.
January 3, 2021
This book is such a good read! I ended up finishing it in 2 days because I didn't want to put it down. Anyone that has an interest in adventure, magic, and good stories should give this book a try. It's an easy world to get sucked into and you'll definitely enjoy your time there. I'm already impatient waiting for the second one!
March 26, 2021
The Story:
A long time ago, the land was split and lost its magic. The water separated the two parts, and Fog dwelt above. Each side wanted to know more about the other, but centuries passed, and all hope to regain magic disappeared.
Anaver's restless spirit prompts her to go on, what is perceived by all around her, a dangerous journey. Despite uncertainty and fear, she sails on the ship through Fog to visit the place on the other side of the water. The tales are true, and as danger lurks from the unknown, the waves intensify and soon Fog swallows the ship. The crew and its passengers are gone - dead. All except one. (You are right, it's Anaver!)
Rothrin and his villagers saw and heard the shipwreck. They are searching for any debris from it when Rothrin stumbles upon a young girl's dead body. Without letting anyone know, he carries her to his uncle's place and together with his uncle, they hide her. (Why, you ask? Let me tell you.)
On the brink of death, Anaver needs to rest. If the townsmen knew about a survivor, they would question her, which could lessen her anyway small chances of survival. However, to their surprise, Anaver recovers within a day. How is that possible? Who is she? Has the magic returned?
As Rothrin and Anaver embark on the adventure of their lives, they form a strong friendship.
Trials tested their friendship.
You are right; what doesn't break you makes you stronger - or something like that.
Over time, as their relationship becomes stronger, it grows into a romance.
The Review:
Lorden Awakening is a wonderful tale filled with excitement right from the start. Ellsworth delivers the adventure and entertainment and carries it through to the end.
I enjoyed reading about Anaver and Rothin's venture, even though I had a bit of trouble remembering all the names (that's because they are unusual, and I am a slow reader.) Nevertheless, for the MG and YA lovers of fantasy and adventure, with better memory and speedier reading, that would not be a problem. The unusual names make the magical world all that more real.
The characters are well-formed. The bond between Anaver and Rothrin is real - every young person would love to bond like that with someone special. Their romance unfolds naturally.
I would strongly recommend Lorden Awakening to everyone. It is a lovely, entertaining and clean read.
Kudos to you, Krislee, keep them coming!
A long time ago, the land was split and lost its magic. The water separated the two parts, and Fog dwelt above. Each side wanted to know more about the other, but centuries passed, and all hope to regain magic disappeared.
Anaver's restless spirit prompts her to go on, what is perceived by all around her, a dangerous journey. Despite uncertainty and fear, she sails on the ship through Fog to visit the place on the other side of the water. The tales are true, and as danger lurks from the unknown, the waves intensify and soon Fog swallows the ship. The crew and its passengers are gone - dead. All except one. (You are right, it's Anaver!)
Rothrin and his villagers saw and heard the shipwreck. They are searching for any debris from it when Rothrin stumbles upon a young girl's dead body. Without letting anyone know, he carries her to his uncle's place and together with his uncle, they hide her. (Why, you ask? Let me tell you.)
On the brink of death, Anaver needs to rest. If the townsmen knew about a survivor, they would question her, which could lessen her anyway small chances of survival. However, to their surprise, Anaver recovers within a day. How is that possible? Who is she? Has the magic returned?
As Rothrin and Anaver embark on the adventure of their lives, they form a strong friendship.
Trials tested their friendship.
You are right; what doesn't break you makes you stronger - or something like that.
Over time, as their relationship becomes stronger, it grows into a romance.
The Review:
Lorden Awakening is a wonderful tale filled with excitement right from the start. Ellsworth delivers the adventure and entertainment and carries it through to the end.
I enjoyed reading about Anaver and Rothin's venture, even though I had a bit of trouble remembering all the names (that's because they are unusual, and I am a slow reader.) Nevertheless, for the MG and YA lovers of fantasy and adventure, with better memory and speedier reading, that would not be a problem. The unusual names make the magical world all that more real.
The characters are well-formed. The bond between Anaver and Rothrin is real - every young person would love to bond like that with someone special. Their romance unfolds naturally.
I would strongly recommend Lorden Awakening to everyone. It is a lovely, entertaining and clean read.
Kudos to you, Krislee, keep them coming!
March 10, 2021
It's been a long time I stepped into fantasy world which could entertain me. I was looking for a book like this and luckily I got one. The book is called "Lorden Awakening". Here's my experience.
Starting with the title of the book "Lorden Awakening" is a very relevant title to the story of the book. When it comes to the other qualities other than relevance it is easy to understand and remember. Also it is a unique one. Talking about the cover of the book, it has characters printed on it which enhances the outer appearance of the book and for a first time viewer it is very appealing.
Talking about the plot of the book, being a fairy tale it is full of magic, an amazing storyline and with some attaching characters. I crave for stories like these because they connect to reader on a very emotional and fantasy level. The fun ia doubled when someone you know reads the same book and you discuss your theories relating to the story of the book. This is one of those books which I would want you all to read it and ask your family and friends to read it. Talking about some specifics. Anaver was never able to see the sun through the foggy dome that covers Tamrose Island. She has heard legends of other lands and sorcery, but no one can prove that there ever was such a thing. With dignity and without all the behind-the-hand sneering at her immaturity, Anavar makes youthful errors. She's not excessively stressed or hopelessly needy. Rothrin watched as the world faded away around him. For a long time, the elements lost their state of Lorden, or peace, which caused decades of drought to spread across the continent. There's much more to the storyline and as soon as you start reading you would actually forget about the reality. The storyline is so attractive that it becomes a page turner trust me the book is worth it. So what exactly are you guys waiting for go grab your copy fast.
Starting with the title of the book "Lorden Awakening" is a very relevant title to the story of the book. When it comes to the other qualities other than relevance it is easy to understand and remember. Also it is a unique one. Talking about the cover of the book, it has characters printed on it which enhances the outer appearance of the book and for a first time viewer it is very appealing.
Talking about the plot of the book, being a fairy tale it is full of magic, an amazing storyline and with some attaching characters. I crave for stories like these because they connect to reader on a very emotional and fantasy level. The fun ia doubled when someone you know reads the same book and you discuss your theories relating to the story of the book. This is one of those books which I would want you all to read it and ask your family and friends to read it. Talking about some specifics. Anaver was never able to see the sun through the foggy dome that covers Tamrose Island. She has heard legends of other lands and sorcery, but no one can prove that there ever was such a thing. With dignity and without all the behind-the-hand sneering at her immaturity, Anavar makes youthful errors. She's not excessively stressed or hopelessly needy. Rothrin watched as the world faded away around him. For a long time, the elements lost their state of Lorden, or peace, which caused decades of drought to spread across the continent. There's much more to the storyline and as soon as you start reading you would actually forget about the reality. The storyline is so attractive that it becomes a page turner trust me the book is worth it. So what exactly are you guys waiting for go grab your copy fast.
January 6, 2021
I’m going to start with what I wasn’t crazy about - but stay with me on this because there’s much good!
The beginning of the book was rough for me. I had to reread the first 3-4 chapters because of all the new characters, places, and terminology that comes along with a new adventure. I felt it was all crammed too much at the beginning. It almost read more like a history book at first because of all the explaining of the land and the magic, etc. I wish it flowed a little better in the beginning by maybe slowly introducing us instead of just throwing us in. I had to really concentrate and reread to grasp it all.
That being said - I really loved this book! Once you get comfortable with terminology and characters from the beginning, you will thoroughly enjoy the storyline and characters. It was a clean fantasy read with romance enough to satisfy you but not in your face that the story was all about a couples relationship. Rothrin and Anaver will capture your heart and mind (but beware the reavers - nasty buggers sneak in and spoil EVERYTHING!).
I don’t like reviews that give spoilers so I’ll wrap it up before I start talking about climax and antagonists. Know that this is worth the read and I can’t wait for the next one! Make sure to plan out time because you won’t want to put it down. Hopefully we’ll get a trilogy! Well done Krislee!
The beginning of the book was rough for me. I had to reread the first 3-4 chapters because of all the new characters, places, and terminology that comes along with a new adventure. I felt it was all crammed too much at the beginning. It almost read more like a history book at first because of all the explaining of the land and the magic, etc. I wish it flowed a little better in the beginning by maybe slowly introducing us instead of just throwing us in. I had to really concentrate and reread to grasp it all.
That being said - I really loved this book! Once you get comfortable with terminology and characters from the beginning, you will thoroughly enjoy the storyline and characters. It was a clean fantasy read with romance enough to satisfy you but not in your face that the story was all about a couples relationship. Rothrin and Anaver will capture your heart and mind (but beware the reavers - nasty buggers sneak in and spoil EVERYTHING!).
I don’t like reviews that give spoilers so I’ll wrap it up before I start talking about climax and antagonists. Know that this is worth the read and I can’t wait for the next one! Make sure to plan out time because you won’t want to put it down. Hopefully we’ll get a trilogy! Well done Krislee!
February 14, 2021
Anaver has always felt like she doesn't belong in her simple life. Like there's something more she is meant to do. So when she washes up in a new realm and is told she is meant to revive magic, she feels like she has finally found her purpose and destiny. Teaming up with Rothrin, a man whose fate is also tied to reviving magic, they set off to save the world.
It took me a while to get into the story and connect to the characters, but from the very beginning I admired the compelling descriptions and rich world building. And with a bit of romance and humor sprinkled in, it is a good choice for lovers of fantasy.
Enter an exquisite new fantasy world and embark on a magical adventure as Anaver and Rothrin seek to restore harmony to the world. Ellsworth's world building is impressive and her description beautiful. With vivid histories and a fresh take on elemental magic, this world comes to life and provides a stunning backdrop to this first installment of Anaver's story.
It took me a while to get into the story and connect to the characters, but from the very beginning I admired the compelling descriptions and rich world building. And with a bit of romance and humor sprinkled in, it is a good choice for lovers of fantasy.
Enter an exquisite new fantasy world and embark on a magical adventure as Anaver and Rothrin seek to restore harmony to the world. Ellsworth's world building is impressive and her description beautiful. With vivid histories and a fresh take on elemental magic, this world comes to life and provides a stunning backdrop to this first installment of Anaver's story.
March 25, 2021
I can't believe it's over, I need the next book!
I won this copy of Lorden Awakening in a Goodreads giveaway and I'm so happy that I did! Otherwise,it may have been a long time before I got the chance to enjoy this story.
So many times while reading Lorden Awakening, I had the feeling I was missing something. I loved the characters and enjoyed every sentence as I read through. But at the same time, I often found myself wishing for "more." It's not that I was missing anything, it's just that I loved the world and characters so much that I literally wanted to be filled in on more of everything around them, about them, and their stories. This is NOT a normal thing for me! I'm normally that reader who can't wait to get through the "boring" or "unimportant" parts. I usually think there's too much detail that I could do without, but I couldn't get enough while reading through Lorden Awakening ! Definitely recommend reading it!!!!
I won this copy of Lorden Awakening in a Goodreads giveaway and I'm so happy that I did! Otherwise,it may have been a long time before I got the chance to enjoy this story.
So many times while reading Lorden Awakening, I had the feeling I was missing something. I loved the characters and enjoyed every sentence as I read through. But at the same time, I often found myself wishing for "more." It's not that I was missing anything, it's just that I loved the world and characters so much that I literally wanted to be filled in on more of everything around them, about them, and their stories. This is NOT a normal thing for me! I'm normally that reader who can't wait to get through the "boring" or "unimportant" parts. I usually think there's too much detail that I could do without, but I couldn't get enough while reading through Lorden Awakening ! Definitely recommend reading it!!!!
January 30, 2021
Front up, this is an enjoyable book with a captivating story to tell. To me it seems increasingly difficult to find fantasy books with a creative universe, but Krislee creates a world of her own here. In all honesty, it took me a bit to get into the book. It usually takes a while for something to pique my interest. But do not stop just a couple of chapters in! Things start to fall into place and you find that the first chapters were crucial in building the foundation that this world rests on. There's a wonderful story to be told with this series so give it an honest shot. An additional note here that I find the book family friendly. Some of the names and concepts are more complicated, but it's a book you can feel comfortable putting into the hands of your kids...if you can get it out of your own hands first!
February 12, 2021
(Given ARC to read on pdf)
I haven’t been able to finish because of my schedule, but what I have read has been interesting and engaging. The magic system is fresh with enough differences to the norm to be interesting but not overwhelming (at least to me) and the characters are entertaining but not annoying. I actually laughed out loud a few times, which is usually a good sign. It reads well, though like many fantasy books there is a learning curve with the names and understanding the world. It would help to have a map, but I think that might be coming out with the release (I also just really like maps).
Overall, I would recommend this to any fans of fantasy, wether YA or adult. It’s nice to see protagonists that are adults, but they’re still relatable enough I feel for younger audiences.
I haven’t been able to finish because of my schedule, but what I have read has been interesting and engaging. The magic system is fresh with enough differences to the norm to be interesting but not overwhelming (at least to me) and the characters are entertaining but not annoying. I actually laughed out loud a few times, which is usually a good sign. It reads well, though like many fantasy books there is a learning curve with the names and understanding the world. It would help to have a map, but I think that might be coming out with the release (I also just really like maps).
Overall, I would recommend this to any fans of fantasy, wether YA or adult. It’s nice to see protagonists that are adults, but they’re still relatable enough I feel for younger audiences.
January 9, 2021
Absolutely LOVED IT!! Lorden Awakening checked all the boxes for me as a reader. Relatable characters: check! Riveting plot with a fun twist: Check! Action-packed but still with room for conversation: Check!!
I also especially loved the message that Lorden brings. As a person of faith, the idea of Lorden in this novel really hit home and inspired me. You’ll have to read it to see what I mean! :)
And to those who consider themselves to be “slow readers”: I am definitely a slow reader myself, but Lorden Awakening was so fun and easy to read! Not too dense with worldbuilding, but definitely has enough information to get you started in your imagination. I found myself even staying up late to try to finish reading just one more chapter!
I also especially loved the message that Lorden brings. As a person of faith, the idea of Lorden in this novel really hit home and inspired me. You’ll have to read it to see what I mean! :)
And to those who consider themselves to be “slow readers”: I am definitely a slow reader myself, but Lorden Awakening was so fun and easy to read! Not too dense with worldbuilding, but definitely has enough information to get you started in your imagination. I found myself even staying up late to try to finish reading just one more chapter!
March 30, 2021
I’m just going to start out by saying I LOVED this book
The first 5-6 chapters were a bit difficult and had to be reread a couple of times to fully grasp the new names and terminologies used but once I got a handle on everything I could not put this book down
It introduces a new and original view on the magical world.
The characters are likeable and make you want to be there besides them
There’s a great balance of action, suspense, a little bit of romance and whole heap of magic
I can not wait to see what happens in the next book, this is a series that I hope will have many more instalments to come
The first 5-6 chapters were a bit difficult and had to be reread a couple of times to fully grasp the new names and terminologies used but once I got a handle on everything I could not put this book down
It introduces a new and original view on the magical world.
The characters are likeable and make you want to be there besides them
There’s a great balance of action, suspense, a little bit of romance and whole heap of magic
I can not wait to see what happens in the next book, this is a series that I hope will have many more instalments to come
December 30, 2020
I received an ARC of this book. Lorden Awakening is a wonderful book by an exciting debut author. The story moves along at a really good pace and does a superb job of worldbuilding without lecturing. I'm already looking forward to the second one, to see what happens next with these characters I've grown to like immensely and this world that I've grown to care about. In the sequel, please include a map! I'd love to be able to see the adventure that they go on. I'm sure my wife is happy that I've finished, now I can turn the light off at a decent hour tonight.
March 7, 2021
This first time author surprised me with the perfect balance of adventure, magic and love. The battle of elements against the selfish monarchy drew me in from the start and the constant discoveries that put the puzzle together at the end, gave me goosebumps. This is a great book for any age but would definitely be good for young adult readers as it does not have foul language or erotic content. The ending left me hanging and wanting to know more but I will wait patiently for the sequel. I read this on Kindle but definitely need a copy for my home library. Read it. You won't regret it!
March 10, 2021
This was a fun adventure! I'm not usually into high fantasy, so it was hard for me at first. However, once I kept going, the story amped up and I was really invested in the magic and the characters. The visuals are nicely described, so I could almost play this book in my head like a movie. I love Anaver And Rothrin's friendship that evolves over time, and the magic system is so interesting and unique. I'll save most of the details so I don't spoil anything, but it was a wonderful ride... and I'm ready for book two!
March 19, 2021
I was compelled to read this book just because of the stunning cover alone. Once I started reading, however, the story itself kicked off and before I knew it I was swept up in this magical world. With beautiful and descriptive writing, and captivating characters I could barely put this book down. My only request is that this becomes a series because I am dying to know what happens next for these characters.
April 1, 2021
This is such a fun book, well developed characters, lots of action and set in a magical medieval like setting. Definitely give it a go if you enjoy Leigh Bardugo or Sarah J Maas books,
Join us for a spoiler filled author interview on my YouTube channel to discuss the world, characters and magic : https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=1d_NJQp...
Join us for a spoiler filled author interview on my YouTube channel to discuss the world, characters and magic : https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=1d_NJQp...
December 19, 2020
Loved the book. I am already looking forward to the next book. The characters are very likeable and you can't help but get sucked into their world. Some parts were a little rushed but overall it was well written. Would absolutely recommend this book. We all need a little magic in our lives.
January 31, 2021
Well written and intriguing! With my busy schedule I got through a decent chunk of the book, but haven’t finished. But I love the characters, the setting, the atmosphere and lore that has been created! I cannot wait to finish it when I find the time! Worth a read!!!
March 27, 2021
A fantastical adventure into Lorden!
What a great start to a fantasy epic! I was pulled into this novel through every chapter! The twists and turns kept me guessing the whole way! This was original in every sense of the word. I can't wait to see what happens next!
What a great start to a fantasy epic! I was pulled into this novel through every chapter! The twists and turns kept me guessing the whole way! This was original in every sense of the word. I can't wait to see what happens next!
December 8, 2020
(Very mild spoilers... I won't go into detail; it's more of premise setup)
This is a good book. The characters were believable and (mostly) likeable, the plot was interesting (though rushed at times), and the premise is incredible.
I can see this story expanding greatly in the next book; the first book, as always, give us a little taste of the world/magic/characters/etc., but the sequel will have the opportunity to really root us in Weirlyn and the world of Lorden they are trying to build.
I love the idea of Lorden. Lorden, according to the book, is a word to describe a state of harmony in the world that is maintained between man, creature, and nature. When Lorden exists, people and creatures are able to interact with the elements/nature (also known as magic).
At the start of the story, the world hasn't seen a state of Lorden for 300 years, and since this world needs magic to survive, there is a great famine spreading across the main continent, starting in the north and south and spreading toward the middle.
People think that Lorden will never return, because while magic has been taken away before, it always returned within a few years. Lorden/magic can be returned by a woman (it is always a woman) who is a Healer. Healers have a source within them, a source of life power of sorts.
Some have even begun to doubt if it ever existed, and many believe that if it does exist, it shouldn't return, because man's corruption is inevitable, therefore no one should be trusted with such powers.
This is where our main character, Anaver, comes in. She is from an island several miles off the coast of the continent called Tamrose. Tamrose was split from the main continent when magic was last taken away, and a dome of Fog surrounded it, blocking off the sunlight and any views of the sea beyond. Because Anaver's people have only known foggy skies for 300 years, they don't believe in magic or that anything beyond their island exists.
But Anaver get out, and it turns out she is a Healer.
This is a good book. The characters were believable and (mostly) likeable, the plot was interesting (though rushed at times), and the premise is incredible.
I can see this story expanding greatly in the next book; the first book, as always, give us a little taste of the world/magic/characters/etc., but the sequel will have the opportunity to really root us in Weirlyn and the world of Lorden they are trying to build.
I love the idea of Lorden. Lorden, according to the book, is a word to describe a state of harmony in the world that is maintained between man, creature, and nature. When Lorden exists, people and creatures are able to interact with the elements/nature (also known as magic).
At the start of the story, the world hasn't seen a state of Lorden for 300 years, and since this world needs magic to survive, there is a great famine spreading across the main continent, starting in the north and south and spreading toward the middle.
People think that Lorden will never return, because while magic has been taken away before, it always returned within a few years. Lorden/magic can be returned by a woman (it is always a woman) who is a Healer. Healers have a source within them, a source of life power of sorts.
Some have even begun to doubt if it ever existed, and many believe that if it does exist, it shouldn't return, because man's corruption is inevitable, therefore no one should be trusted with such powers.
This is where our main character, Anaver, comes in. She is from an island several miles off the coast of the continent called Tamrose. Tamrose was split from the main continent when magic was last taken away, and a dome of Fog surrounded it, blocking off the sunlight and any views of the sea beyond. Because Anaver's people have only known foggy skies for 300 years, they don't believe in magic or that anything beyond their island exists.
But Anaver get out, and it turns out she is a Healer.
February 18, 2021
Lorden Awakening was a perfect fairytale adventure! It hit that sweet spot of being delightful and fun and magical, but still having high enough stakes to keep you turning pages with heart racing at all the key points.
Anaver is a delightfully real woman. I’m inclined to call her a woman, though I guess she’s still young. So many authors write teenagers so condescendingly, but this book lets Anavar make youthful mistakes with grace and without all the behind-the-hand sneering at her immaturity. She’s neither overly angsty nor helplessly needy, which was so refreshing and which made her so much more relatable than most YA female protagonists. She’s afraid but capable, determined but doesn’t always known what the next step should be. Her romance was sweet and simple and all the more beautiful for it.
The rest of the cast of characters were equally well done, particularly Rothrin (Rothrin is almost too mature for this book!). Each and every mentioned person seemed to have a real life behind them––from the woman at the sparring grounds to the bored guard watching the street.
The story is a little predictable, but the characters were well done enough that I always felt eager to see their reactions to the events despite whether those events were anticipated.
This book seems aimed at YA, but could easily be read by both younger and older audiences that are fans of a solid adventure or fairytale (fans of Shannon Hale would particularly like this, I think). I loved it, and I’m 25, and I have a lot of nieces, from age 10-19, who I’m thinking would appreciate this as a birthday present.
Can’t wait for the sequel!
Anaver is a delightfully real woman. I’m inclined to call her a woman, though I guess she’s still young. So many authors write teenagers so condescendingly, but this book lets Anavar make youthful mistakes with grace and without all the behind-the-hand sneering at her immaturity. She’s neither overly angsty nor helplessly needy, which was so refreshing and which made her so much more relatable than most YA female protagonists. She’s afraid but capable, determined but doesn’t always known what the next step should be. Her romance was sweet and simple and all the more beautiful for it.
The rest of the cast of characters were equally well done, particularly Rothrin (Rothrin is almost too mature for this book!). Each and every mentioned person seemed to have a real life behind them––from the woman at the sparring grounds to the bored guard watching the street.
The story is a little predictable, but the characters were well done enough that I always felt eager to see their reactions to the events despite whether those events were anticipated.
This book seems aimed at YA, but could easily be read by both younger and older audiences that are fans of a solid adventure or fairytale (fans of Shannon Hale would particularly like this, I think). I loved it, and I’m 25, and I have a lot of nieces, from age 10-19, who I’m thinking would appreciate this as a birthday present.
Can’t wait for the sequel!
March 10, 2021
I was impressed, the story was solid, the characters were relatable and the world was one that I could immerse myself in. I judge a book by how fast the mental movies starts up in my head. If an authors words go from just being words to an mental movie and then they can hold it there throughout the story, I will read or should I say devour everything that author writes, this story delivers!
The first few chapters were a little hard to get into, but that is the case with all first books, you need to set the stage. I won't reveal any spoilers, but I will ask that you give this story a real hard look.
Now I just have to patiently wait for the next book. My only suggestion is that once Krislee is done with this story line that she goes back and does a prequel. I would love to see this world she created before this story line took place. 5 STARS ALL THE WAY.
The first few chapters were a little hard to get into, but that is the case with all first books, you need to set the stage. I won't reveal any spoilers, but I will ask that you give this story a real hard look.
Now I just have to patiently wait for the next book. My only suggestion is that once Krislee is done with this story line that she goes back and does a prequel. I would love to see this world she created before this story line took place. 5 STARS ALL THE WAY.
December 28, 2020
I got an advanced copy of this book and devoured it!
I.
LOVE.
THIS.
BOOK.
It’s new, it’s original... the romance isn’t overdone...(pointed look at Sarah J Maas) in fact, the romance in this novel is so tactfully done that I can’t help fall in love with the characters myself (is that weird?)
Since the book isn’t out quite yet, I won’t give any spoilers, but I will tell you to read this book when it comes out. READ IT!
I.
LOVE.
THIS.
BOOK.
It’s new, it’s original... the romance isn’t overdone...(pointed look at Sarah J Maas) in fact, the romance in this novel is so tactfully done that I can’t help fall in love with the characters myself (is that weird?)
Since the book isn’t out quite yet, I won’t give any spoilers, but I will tell you to read this book when it comes out. READ IT!
April 4, 2021
** I received this book through a Goodreads Giveaway
I was very disappointed with this novel, especially considering the numerous glowing reviews. Overall, it really just didn’t feel like anything special, and the enjoyable elements of the story were dragged down by clunky and repetitive writing, forced and superficial exposition, and cookie-cutter characters.
Here are a few of the issues I had with this novel:
The Exposition
The world building and lore are just shoved down our throats. The majority of the exposition in the first few chapters is provided through info dumps that completely interrupt the flow of the narrative. The story simply stops for a paragraph or more so that the author can inform us of some custom or history. It is extremely jarring and completely halts all of the forward movement of the book. We are teased with extensive world-building without actually getting any of it. There are snippets here and there (primarily through the aforementioned info dumps) that make it seem like this could be a very fleshed-out world, but then the story reverts to the immediate surroundings of our characters and leaves us with very superficial descriptions and lore.
The Relationships
All interactions and relationships among the characters feel extremely forced and superficial. The friendship and subsequent attraction between Anaver and Rothrin is so sudden and unnatural. Imagine being shipwrecked in a foreign land that you never imagined you would see, after a traumatic accident where everyone around you likely died, and then being rescued by a stranger and taken to his home. I think traumatized or terrified would be apt descriptions for anyone in this situation. We are told from time to time that this is really hard for Anaver or that she is affected by the events, but the actual character development just shows her becoming immediately comfortable with Rothrin and his uncle. I mean, they are immediately best buddies, and they even reminisce after some disagreements later on that they wish they could return to their easy, fun interactions at the cottage. This was so unbelievable because they literally knew each other for a few days and they’re acting like they are missing their childhood best friend???
Then, of course, there is the obligatory attraction between the two protagonists because they are main boy and main girl, and thus they must fall in love. I didn’t feel like they had any chemistry, and their interactions didn’t really reveal any attachment beyond basic friendship. Again, we are TOLD they are developing feelings without actually seeing it in the story itself. This telling without showing extends to the friendships and alliances-at one point Rothrin and Quin are working together and we get this description:
Okay, but you can’t just SAY that. You need to develop a relationship beforehand. Imagine how much better this would have been if instead of inserting a sentence telling the reader that the two had a blooming bromance, Ellsworth had simply added a scene where we saw them bonding over a shared interest, like feeding the refugees forced to live in misery outside the walls, or even the mismanagement of the king that they both seemingly dislike.
The Writing
One more aspect that took away from the story is the clunky and repetitive writing. Look at the sentence structure in this paragraph:
He set…keeping his senses.. He dodged… letting his Windsoul... He stepped… not wanting to alert...
Just changing how you organize your sentences could have made that a lot more fun to read. The story is rife with repetition, both in the word choice and the structure.
The Story
The plot is really nothing new, and I found it to be slightly predictable. There’s nothing wrong with rehashing ideas and tropes-that’s basically all we do in fiction, really. But the development here is surface level and uninspired. Stop me if you’ve heard this one before: “chosen one” character, elemental magic, evil ruler, established government refusing to do the right/good thing in order to maintain power…
Again, there is nothing inherently bad with using these ideas. You can write a fantastic, gripping novel with tropes and structures that have been rehashed thousands of times. The issue is when you rely on these old ideas and present them with poor writing and organization. Unfortunately, there is really nothing particularly special to make the tropes and storyline memorable.
One of my biggest pet peeves in fiction is when a character is just naturally a master of reading body language. To me, anytime someone determines exactly what a character is thinking just by gaging the “sparkle in the eye”, it simply feels like the author really wanted us to know something the non-narrative character was thinking, or further their character development, but did so in a very lazy and, again, forced way.
Then, of course, we have the quintessential:
Finally, there is a reveal about halfway through the book that I thought was so blatantly obvious. from the moment the mystery is set up in the first few chapters I could already see the entire build-up and reveal, simply because I had already seen it a thousand times.
The Magic System
The magic system could be interesting but the characters become experts so immediately that it makes sit incredibly unnatural and lazy. I know that the “soul” is like a part of the character, or an extension of their body, but that doesn’t mean they should be able to wield it five minutes after finding out it exists. If you grew a third leg you would struggle to walk, even if that leg was part of your body and under your control. You still have to get used to it. The characters often say that they need to master their power or learn how to use it, but, again, only TELLING us instead of SHOWING isn’t going to work when every time they try to use the they excel immediately.
I was very disappointed with this novel, especially considering the numerous glowing reviews. Overall, it really just didn’t feel like anything special, and the enjoyable elements of the story were dragged down by clunky and repetitive writing, forced and superficial exposition, and cookie-cutter characters.
Here are a few of the issues I had with this novel:
The Exposition
The world building and lore are just shoved down our throats. The majority of the exposition in the first few chapters is provided through info dumps that completely interrupt the flow of the narrative. The story simply stops for a paragraph or more so that the author can inform us of some custom or history. It is extremely jarring and completely halts all of the forward movement of the book. We are teased with extensive world-building without actually getting any of it. There are snippets here and there (primarily through the aforementioned info dumps) that make it seem like this could be a very fleshed-out world, but then the story reverts to the immediate surroundings of our characters and leaves us with very superficial descriptions and lore.
The Relationships
All interactions and relationships among the characters feel extremely forced and superficial. The friendship and subsequent attraction between Anaver and Rothrin is so sudden and unnatural. Imagine being shipwrecked in a foreign land that you never imagined you would see, after a traumatic accident where everyone around you likely died, and then being rescued by a stranger and taken to his home. I think traumatized or terrified would be apt descriptions for anyone in this situation. We are told from time to time that this is really hard for Anaver or that she is affected by the events, but the actual character development just shows her becoming immediately comfortable with Rothrin and his uncle. I mean, they are immediately best buddies, and they even reminisce after some disagreements later on that they wish they could return to their easy, fun interactions at the cottage. This was so unbelievable because they literally knew each other for a few days and they’re acting like they are missing their childhood best friend???
Then, of course, there is the obligatory attraction between the two protagonists because they are main boy and main girl, and thus they must fall in love. I didn’t feel like they had any chemistry, and their interactions didn’t really reveal any attachment beyond basic friendship. Again, we are TOLD they are developing feelings without actually seeing it in the story itself. This telling without showing extends to the friendships and alliances-at one point Rothrin and Quin are working together and we get this description:
“The two had developed a brotherly companionship after Quin’s earthsinging ability had been revealed.”
Okay, but you can’t just SAY that. You need to develop a relationship beforehand. Imagine how much better this would have been if instead of inserting a sentence telling the reader that the two had a blooming bromance, Ellsworth had simply added a scene where we saw them bonding over a shared interest, like feeding the refugees forced to live in misery outside the walls, or even the mismanagement of the king that they both seemingly dislike.
The Writing
One more aspect that took away from the story is the clunky and repetitive writing. Look at the sentence structure in this paragraph:
“He set the hot kettle aside and bounded to the front door, keeping his senses focused on the wind movement as he made his way around to the back of the dwelling. He dodged the flower bushes and vegetable plants that populated the garden around the dwelling, letting his Windsoul flare to help him navigate his way. He stepped lightly, not wanting to alert the lone guard that stood watch on the street corner a couple dwellings down.”
He set…keeping his senses.. He dodged… letting his Windsoul... He stepped… not wanting to alert...
Just changing how you organize your sentences could have made that a lot more fun to read. The story is rife with repetition, both in the word choice and the structure.
“It will be hard to keep it a secret.” “We really do have to keep it a secret,” Rothrin asserted, “at least for now. Maybe one day we won’t have to be so careful about it, but for now...”
The Story
The plot is really nothing new, and I found it to be slightly predictable. There’s nothing wrong with rehashing ideas and tropes-that’s basically all we do in fiction, really. But the development here is surface level and uninspired. Stop me if you’ve heard this one before: “chosen one” character, elemental magic, evil ruler, established government refusing to do the right/good thing in order to maintain power…
Again, there is nothing inherently bad with using these ideas. You can write a fantastic, gripping novel with tropes and structures that have been rehashed thousands of times. The issue is when you rely on these old ideas and present them with poor writing and organization. Unfortunately, there is really nothing particularly special to make the tropes and storyline memorable.
One of my biggest pet peeves in fiction is when a character is just naturally a master of reading body language. To me, anytime someone determines exactly what a character is thinking just by gaging the “sparkle in the eye”, it simply feels like the author really wanted us to know something the non-narrative character was thinking, or further their character development, but did so in a very lazy and, again, forced way.
Then, of course, we have the quintessential:
“Rothrin released a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding.”
Finally, there is a reveal about halfway through the book that I thought was so blatantly obvious. from the moment the mystery is set up in the first few chapters I could already see the entire build-up and reveal, simply because I had already seen it a thousand times.
The Magic System
The magic system could be interesting but the characters become experts so immediately that it makes sit incredibly unnatural and lazy. I know that the “soul” is like a part of the character, or an extension of their body, but that doesn’t mean they should be able to wield it five minutes after finding out it exists. If you grew a third leg you would struggle to walk, even if that leg was part of your body and under your control. You still have to get used to it. The characters often say that they need to master their power or learn how to use it, but, again, only TELLING us instead of SHOWING isn’t going to work when every time they try to use the they excel immediately.
April 27, 2021
Loved the imaginative lore of this book, sweeping and magical. Anaver is unique, fierce and ready to come into her own as the female lead. The romance is well paced but not the driving force behind the plot which I so appreciated. The magical system is well designed and thought out. Loved it and ready for book two. Ellsworth does a beautiful job of building her world and giving her characters depth. She separates herself from the YA fantasy bunch (SJM and Clare) Ellsworth has shown she deserves her place in the world of YA fantasy. Well done!
March 31, 2021
This is an incredible book! The magic system is pretty cool, and the possibilities with such magic make for continued discoveries and excitement as you learn more and more of the main characters abilities.
April 1, 2021
Anavar just wants to get close to the fog. She ends up shipwrecked and goes thru it. The adventure begins and it is an amazing one. Filled with intrigue,, betrayal, murder, magic and love. It is a MUST read...I loved this well written book and will read the next one the instant I can!!
April 20, 2021
Very entertaining read
I enjoyed reading this book very much and would recommend it to anyone that like magic with lots of action.
I enjoyed reading this book very much and would recommend it to anyone that like magic with lots of action.
October 28, 2021
Don’t go into the fog! Love that! I was impressed by the unique and well-developed fantasy world that Krislee Ellsworth created, where nature is active and getting more active. Cool premise! This world is running out of time and the powers that be are failing the people. There is a chance at salvation but will those people in charge allow that to happen? A few will step up to take on the responsibility of saving the world. A solid story with no gaps and relate-able characters. There is romance, action and plenty of unique powers and weapons to discover. A good read, and I would recommended for young teens as well.
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