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Kingdom of the White Sea #3
The Hidden Kingdom
The perilous and provocative world of Kingdom of the White Sea, by USA Today bestselling fantasy author Sarah M. Cradit, comes to a startling conclusion in The Hidden Kingdom.
A kingless crown will fall. A crownless kingdom will rise.
It all began with a desperate demand from a broken crown. Four brides. Four Reaches. Unquestionable and absolute fealty from the mothers and fathers who were given no choice but to comply. A startling sequence of events followed, with stunning repercussions that reached across the entire realm.
Now, the king is dead. The would-be brides have forged their own destinies—some for the better, others for worse. Not all who started this dance will finish it. Those left will wear the lingering scars with a mix of pride and remorse.
From his stolen throne, Oldwin rules with a hand that grows shakier by the hour, as his once unparalleled magic dwindles. His grasp on power is reliant upon his truths remaining hidden by the shadows, just beyond the reach of the fraught kingdom.
But Oldwin is not the only powerful sorcerer in the kingdom. There are others who would see the terrible circle of their traitorous past come to a decisive end. Their moonlight maneuvering saved the life of Dain Rhiagain, and from his line the last sprig of hope remains: a chance to save the kingdom... to save all the worlds.
Dain’s three children, each raised in obliviousness, must now prepare to confront the staggering truth of why they were born, and what they must now do, if the kingdom is to survive the final days ahead.
But theirs is not the only sacrifice required. The dying words of an old man will stir one man and his Reach toward a new destiny, one that will decide the fate of all the worlds...
A kingless crown will fall. A crownless kingdom will rise.
It all began with a desperate demand from a broken crown. Four brides. Four Reaches. Unquestionable and absolute fealty from the mothers and fathers who were given no choice but to comply. A startling sequence of events followed, with stunning repercussions that reached across the entire realm.
Now, the king is dead. The would-be brides have forged their own destinies—some for the better, others for worse. Not all who started this dance will finish it. Those left will wear the lingering scars with a mix of pride and remorse.
From his stolen throne, Oldwin rules with a hand that grows shakier by the hour, as his once unparalleled magic dwindles. His grasp on power is reliant upon his truths remaining hidden by the shadows, just beyond the reach of the fraught kingdom.
But Oldwin is not the only powerful sorcerer in the kingdom. There are others who would see the terrible circle of their traitorous past come to a decisive end. Their moonlight maneuvering saved the life of Dain Rhiagain, and from his line the last sprig of hope remains: a chance to save the kingdom... to save all the worlds.
Dain’s three children, each raised in obliviousness, must now prepare to confront the staggering truth of why they were born, and what they must now do, if the kingdom is to survive the final days ahead.
But theirs is not the only sacrifice required. The dying words of an old man will stir one man and his Reach toward a new destiny, one that will decide the fate of all the worlds...
736 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2021
36 people are currently reading
1047 people want to read
About the author
Sarah M. Cradit
99 books899 followersSarah is the USA Today and International Bestselling Author of over forty contemporary and epic fantasy stories, and the creator of the Kingdom of the White Sea and Saga of Crimson & Clover universes.
Born a geek, Sarah spends her time crafting rich and multilayered worlds, obsessing over history, playing her retribution paladin (and sometimes destruction warlock), and settling provocative Tolkien debates, such as why the Great Eagles are not Gandalf's personal taxi service. Passionate about travel, she's been to over twenty countries collecting sparks of inspiration, and is always planning her next adventure.
Sarah and her husband live in a beautiful corner of SE Pennsylvania with their three tiny benevolent pug dictators.
Connect with Sarah:
sarahmcradit.com
Instagram: @sarahmcradit
Facebook: @sarahmcradit
Born a geek, Sarah spends her time crafting rich and multilayered worlds, obsessing over history, playing her retribution paladin (and sometimes destruction warlock), and settling provocative Tolkien debates, such as why the Great Eagles are not Gandalf's personal taxi service. Passionate about travel, she's been to over twenty countries collecting sparks of inspiration, and is always planning her next adventure.
Sarah and her husband live in a beautiful corner of SE Pennsylvania with their three tiny benevolent pug dictators.
Connect with Sarah:
sarahmcradit.com
Instagram: @sarahmcradit
Facebook: @sarahmcradit
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 29, 2021
Well. That was quite some journey! All the questions I had were answered to my complete satisfaction. There was such a large cast to this series that it took almost half of this book to wrap up all the loose ends and I’m pleased to say there were more happy endings than I’d hoped for! Epic fantasy- this is how to do it!
January 19, 2022
The Hidden Kingdom is the third and final installment of the Kingdom of the White Sea series. Each book was a massive beast to slay and devour. The journey was long and filled with many opportunities and characters to meet. If I'm being honest, I couldn't keep track of everyone and their betrayals. There was just too much for me to remember after finishing each one.
It doesn't mean that I didn't enjoy the ride because I definitely did. I was an emotional hot mess for many parts in any of the books. Especially when it came to certain people that I shipped together. Oh man, I think I may have screamed or something when certain things happened in this book. Screamed of pure joy and excitement. Then anger and sadness.
I also feel like I got all my questions answered but again, couldn't be completely sure. With each chapter and twist, I feel like I kept second guessing myself and changing my questions and theories.
So, in the end, the battle was great, and conclusion made me happy. I feel like I ran a marathon with these books. Definitely happy that I got the time to enjoy these.
It doesn't mean that I didn't enjoy the ride because I definitely did. I was an emotional hot mess for many parts in any of the books. Especially when it came to certain people that I shipped together. Oh man, I think I may have screamed or something when certain things happened in this book. Screamed of pure joy and excitement. Then anger and sadness.
I also feel like I got all my questions answered but again, couldn't be completely sure. With each chapter and twist, I feel like I kept second guessing myself and changing my questions and theories.
So, in the end, the battle was great, and conclusion made me happy. I feel like I ran a marathon with these books. Definitely happy that I got the time to enjoy these.
August 3, 2021
“The Hidden Kingdom” is the last book in the Kingdom of the White Sea trilogy, and oh my gosh, it does nOT disappoint! It starts where book two left off, with sorcerer Oldwin sitting upon the throne he stole, desperately trying to maintain control while the Four Reaches rally against him. Everything gets wrapped up in this one, and I could not be more pleased with the way Cradit ended things. In particular, I loved what happened to Esmeralda, Emberley, Lisbet, and Ravenna. I think all the loose ends were tied up beautifully, and I was definitely crying at some parts. This book was absolutely amazing, and you will not regret reading it. Kudos to Cradit for creating such a complex, enchanting world! I completely recommend this book, the trilogy, and Sarah M. Cradit as an author.
July 31, 2021
I received an ARC of this book, the final installment of the Kingdom of the White Sea trilogy. To be honest, I think it could have been broken into more books, as each one is quite long. I highly recommend reading them back-to-back because, after several months, I had forgotten the names of some of the characters. This book would benefit from having the same list found at the beginning of book one. Although the author has been living with these characters and has grown to know them intimately, most readers are also reading other books in between and could benefit from a refresher after some time has passed. Having the list of characters and relationships listed again at the beginning of each sequel would be very helpful for readers like myself. I even looked online, thinking the list might be available on her website, but I couldn’t find anything there.
As mentioned earlier, this is the conclusion of the series, and as such, it ties up all loose ends. It also leaves open the possibility of further adventures with some of the characters. Whereas the other books were filled with adventure and building the foundations for the characters, this one focuses on the growth of those characters—emotionally, physically, mentally, and so forth. The relationships between the various characters have changed with the deaths and disappearances of those who had been close to them. Some deaths are especially heartbreaking. They learn things they didn’t know about themselves and persevere despite tragedy and hardship.
Every significant character experiences a hero’s journey. It’s hard enough to create a compelling story for one character, but to do so for so many is truly astounding. Sarah Cradit uses the skills she honed through her Crimson and Clover series to weave a supernatural and otherworldly fantasy that is immersive and, unbelievably, plausible. There is just enough familiarity to make the reader feel like he or she could be a part of this world. And there are so many moving parts! I’m in awe of her ability to keep it all straight and keep the story moving forward at a pace that is perfectly geared toward compelling the reader to keep reading as she switches from one character to the next.
If I had to compare the series to anything else I have read, I would choose The Lord of the Rings series. It is a story that will live on in my memory, even if I do forget some of the names. Overall, this is one epic read, with a compelling story and engaging characters, and I highly recommend it.
As mentioned earlier, this is the conclusion of the series, and as such, it ties up all loose ends. It also leaves open the possibility of further adventures with some of the characters. Whereas the other books were filled with adventure and building the foundations for the characters, this one focuses on the growth of those characters—emotionally, physically, mentally, and so forth. The relationships between the various characters have changed with the deaths and disappearances of those who had been close to them. Some deaths are especially heartbreaking. They learn things they didn’t know about themselves and persevere despite tragedy and hardship.
Every significant character experiences a hero’s journey. It’s hard enough to create a compelling story for one character, but to do so for so many is truly astounding. Sarah Cradit uses the skills she honed through her Crimson and Clover series to weave a supernatural and otherworldly fantasy that is immersive and, unbelievably, plausible. There is just enough familiarity to make the reader feel like he or she could be a part of this world. And there are so many moving parts! I’m in awe of her ability to keep it all straight and keep the story moving forward at a pace that is perfectly geared toward compelling the reader to keep reading as she switches from one character to the next.
If I had to compare the series to anything else I have read, I would choose The Lord of the Rings series. It is a story that will live on in my memory, even if I do forget some of the names. Overall, this is one epic read, with a compelling story and engaging characters, and I highly recommend it.
July 20, 2021
Since this is the last book in the series, I am writing a review for the series as a whole. Not just the for The Hidden Kingdom.
When I got the next instalment, my mind went AAAAA. Literally. After reading the first two books in the series, you obviously cannot hide the excitement for the third.
At the start of the book, there is a list of characters and for this one, I skipped through it. I didn’t feel the need to. I knew the characters well enough. I had connected with them. If they were real, I’d know them like family. That’s what I love about Sarah’s writing. She makes you comfortable. She tells you to grab a beverage, find a comfortable place because you’re going to be reading for hours. You can’t stop reading it. Try it, I dare you.
There is a new plot in every instalment—even though it’s a solid continuation— and each has its best moments. They don’t feel like one big story, cut into pieces, with unnecessary details thrown in.
The Hidden Kingdom by far was my favourite. After Oldwin’s rise, there was so much havoc. There was so much left to uncover. The final part is filled with action, drama and sacrifice. Usually, authors slack around the third part. It gets boring. The conclusion is never up to the mark. But I could only feel the writing improving and characters growing. There is a lot of attention given to details and you can sense it all the way.
You don’t have to write characters with a huge turn around. It’s unrealistic and boring. The slow burn works well. The character arc is an important part of the story. It shows the purpose of the plot. If you’re characters haven’t learned anything, the story becomes meaningless. Each of the characters have found a way to grow and I love that, even if it’s something small.
I’ve already mentioned this earlier. I don’t usually read High Fantasy, mostly because of the many characters it features. I haven’t even read Game Of Thrones. But this series had me from the beginning. At the end of each book, I just couldn’t wait for the next one to come out. When the second book was left with a cliffhanger, I just wanted to get my hands on the next.
It’s sad that we’ve reached the end because I’m really going to miss the Blackwoods and and the Derahams, and most of all Ravenna. After the end of the second book, I needed more of Ravenna. Her character is so strong and powerful. You just have to love her.
I hope that Sarah takes the hint and gives us some spinoffs. Sarah, please. I need them. Till then, I’m going to go and re-read the series as a whole.
I can’t wait to see what Sarah has in store for us. And I hope I can be a part of that as well!
When I got the next instalment, my mind went AAAAA. Literally. After reading the first two books in the series, you obviously cannot hide the excitement for the third.
At the start of the book, there is a list of characters and for this one, I skipped through it. I didn’t feel the need to. I knew the characters well enough. I had connected with them. If they were real, I’d know them like family. That’s what I love about Sarah’s writing. She makes you comfortable. She tells you to grab a beverage, find a comfortable place because you’re going to be reading for hours. You can’t stop reading it. Try it, I dare you.
There is a new plot in every instalment—even though it’s a solid continuation— and each has its best moments. They don’t feel like one big story, cut into pieces, with unnecessary details thrown in.
The Hidden Kingdom by far was my favourite. After Oldwin’s rise, there was so much havoc. There was so much left to uncover. The final part is filled with action, drama and sacrifice. Usually, authors slack around the third part. It gets boring. The conclusion is never up to the mark. But I could only feel the writing improving and characters growing. There is a lot of attention given to details and you can sense it all the way.
You don’t have to write characters with a huge turn around. It’s unrealistic and boring. The slow burn works well. The character arc is an important part of the story. It shows the purpose of the plot. If you’re characters haven’t learned anything, the story becomes meaningless. Each of the characters have found a way to grow and I love that, even if it’s something small.
I’ve already mentioned this earlier. I don’t usually read High Fantasy, mostly because of the many characters it features. I haven’t even read Game Of Thrones. But this series had me from the beginning. At the end of each book, I just couldn’t wait for the next one to come out. When the second book was left with a cliffhanger, I just wanted to get my hands on the next.
It’s sad that we’ve reached the end because I’m really going to miss the Blackwoods and and the Derahams, and most of all Ravenna. After the end of the second book, I needed more of Ravenna. Her character is so strong and powerful. You just have to love her.
I hope that Sarah takes the hint and gives us some spinoffs. Sarah, please. I need them. Till then, I’m going to go and re-read the series as a whole.
I can’t wait to see what Sarah has in store for us. And I hope I can be a part of that as well!
July 13, 2021
The king is now dead and the would-be brides have taken control and made their own destinies. Any that are left wear scars - some with pride and some with remorse. Sorceror Oldwin is in the stolen throne but that is becoming shaky and it currently relies on truth remaining hidden from the kingdom. Other sorcerers are working to make the past become just that and they have already saved Dain Rhiagain and therefore there is hope in his line that they can save the kingdom and therefore all of the worlds. Can Dain's three children who were raised in ignorance of their parentage and skills confront so that the kingdom can survive the final days ahead? But theirs is not the only sacrifice required. The dying words of an old man will stir one man and his Reach toward a new destiny, one that will decide the fate of all the worlds.
This is definitely an action-packed final instalment of the series that will give readers some surprises, some long-awaited answers to questions that I'm sure we all had, and at the end a sense of closure. There are as usual for this author a lot of intertwined events and some cause and effect happening throughout the story that in places I recommend reading them more than once in order to pick up the nuances. This is definitely a book that you have to have read the previous ones first as you will need to background. In my mind, I can see a series of post-it notes on a large board with string between them so that the connections are all documented. This might be the last book in the trilogy, but I can guarantee that there are more books that are set in this world to be written and issued yet. Well written, easy to read and understand. Contains some violence and sexual content. Definitely a prime example of the Epic Fantasy genre.
This is definitely an action-packed final instalment of the series that will give readers some surprises, some long-awaited answers to questions that I'm sure we all had, and at the end a sense of closure. There are as usual for this author a lot of intertwined events and some cause and effect happening throughout the story that in places I recommend reading them more than once in order to pick up the nuances. This is definitely a book that you have to have read the previous ones first as you will need to background. In my mind, I can see a series of post-it notes on a large board with string between them so that the connections are all documented. This might be the last book in the trilogy, but I can guarantee that there are more books that are set in this world to be written and issued yet. Well written, easy to read and understand. Contains some violence and sexual content. Definitely a prime example of the Epic Fantasy genre.
July 27, 2021
The Hidden Kingdom is like falling down the rabbit hole twisting and turning like I have never known. The emotions in this story take you on a wild ride as well. I cried and laughed with the characters. It seemed so real and like I was in this realm. That speaks volumes for the writer and is the bases that makes the reading experience so much more amazing. This book was just as amazing as the first of this trilogy!
In a world that has been turned on it's axis the love and loss that happens pulls at the heart strings. Knowing that nobody is safe and that what awaits around the next corner could be your worst nightmare. Will anything be the same again? Is going back to what was, a good idea? Is the unknown future be just what is needed. No one's fate is truly written stone or is it? Step into this realm you won't regret it! I highly recommend the entire Kingdom of the White Sea Trilogy!
In a world that has been turned on it's axis the love and loss that happens pulls at the heart strings. Knowing that nobody is safe and that what awaits around the next corner could be your worst nightmare. Will anything be the same again? Is going back to what was, a good idea? Is the unknown future be just what is needed. No one's fate is truly written stone or is it? Step into this realm you won't regret it! I highly recommend the entire Kingdom of the White Sea Trilogy!
July 27, 2021
Sarah Cradit masterfully crafts a series that has changed the expressive style of epic fantasy! Weaving magical words and worlds, leaving readers spellbound.
This tragic, haunting, alluring, and magical series has come to an end and its bittersweet.
What a journey this series has been! I’m not ready to let go. I don’t want to say goodbye to these characters who have become friends. We have been through so much! The roads traveled, horrors endured, death, most of all, survival. All of that has led us to the end.
This series is addicting! I highly recommend it. Skip adding it to your TBR and read it NOW! I give this 5 stars.
This tragic, haunting, alluring, and magical series has come to an end and its bittersweet.
What a journey this series has been! I’m not ready to let go. I don’t want to say goodbye to these characters who have become friends. We have been through so much! The roads traveled, horrors endured, death, most of all, survival. All of that has led us to the end.
This series is addicting! I highly recommend it. Skip adding it to your TBR and read it NOW! I give this 5 stars.
July 17, 2021
The sorcerer Oldwin has taken over the crown. Many are torn asunder as they try to defeat evil and right wrongs. There is love, loss, and awakenings that come to pass. No one is safe and the unexpected is just around the corner. What will become of those that fight? Will their world be the same or become something else entirely?
The final installment of the Kingdom of the White Sea is everything I hoped it would be and more! Sarah M. Cradit has a way of surprising her readers and cultivating a captivating story from start to finish! There were many twists and turns that I did not see coming. I have laughed and cried with these characters. I’m sad to see it end but I know that we can expect so much more from some of them. I’m excited to see which characters she decides to follow, as there are a couple possibilities with how everything played out.
The final installment of the Kingdom of the White Sea is everything I hoped it would be and more! Sarah M. Cradit has a way of surprising her readers and cultivating a captivating story from start to finish! There were many twists and turns that I did not see coming. I have laughed and cried with these characters. I’m sad to see it end but I know that we can expect so much more from some of them. I’m excited to see which characters she decides to follow, as there are a couple possibilities with how everything played out.
July 27, 2021
This is the end of the trilogy and what an ending. Questions answered story lines completed those who survived didn't all come out unscathed but that is the way in these situations and I love that it's not just an all happy everyone lives ending. Love the way Sarah pulls all the individual story lines into this great grand adventure that we never want to end. Looking forward to the spin off books.
July 27, 2021
Oh man, this book took my heart on such a ride! Sarah does such a beautiful job of weaving the story in perfect detail and making her characters come alive. Though I was brought to tears many times, the ending is wrapped up so well and all of the characters came to where they needed to be. I'm only sad the tale is done. I hope to see many more stories from this world in the future!
July 27, 2021
The finale to this trilogy is beyond epic!! This magical world and it’s characters suck you into the fantasy and urge you to lose yourself in the story. Twists at every turn will keep you on the edge of your seat to the very.last.word! Definitely a fantasy jewel.
July 28, 2021
Riveting throughout!
The ending of the trilogy couldn't be better. Full of twists you'd never see coming and you'll love every minute of it. Sarah pulls the reader in yet again! The gripping storyline surpasses my already high expectations. Fabulous read
The ending of the trilogy couldn't be better. Full of twists you'd never see coming and you'll love every minute of it. Sarah pulls the reader in yet again! The gripping storyline surpasses my already high expectations. Fabulous read
July 31, 2021
Sarah M Cradit is a star she has made me love High Fantasy with this series. I enjoyed the characters and the challenges they faced. I hope I can find more books like the Kingdom of the White Sea trilogy
September 8, 2021
5 CRANKY STARS
This was certainly a great end to this trilogy. Lots of things that I didn't see coming. The land is at war and those children are starting to return home. There is currently no king and the sorcerer, Oldwin of Ilynglass has claimed that position. He is slowly losing his powers and is pushing the kingdom harder and harder as he searches for the doorway through the veil. He has started a war with no prisoners.
All he wants is the power of the "Light". The Southern Reach has always been the "defender of the veil" but that got lost in their history. No one even knows what it means and has always thought of the veil as a myth. Now they must find a way to keep Oldwin from discovering the "door". If he succeeds, the life they know will be over. Such is his greed.
This has been a remarkable journey in fantasy. If you enjoyed the books that "Game of Thrones" is based on, you'll find these just as entertaining and much easier to understand.
This was certainly a great end to this trilogy. Lots of things that I didn't see coming. The land is at war and those children are starting to return home. There is currently no king and the sorcerer, Oldwin of Ilynglass has claimed that position. He is slowly losing his powers and is pushing the kingdom harder and harder as he searches for the doorway through the veil. He has started a war with no prisoners.
All he wants is the power of the "Light". The Southern Reach has always been the "defender of the veil" but that got lost in their history. No one even knows what it means and has always thought of the veil as a myth. Now they must find a way to keep Oldwin from discovering the "door". If he succeeds, the life they know will be over. Such is his greed.
This has been a remarkable journey in fantasy. If you enjoyed the books that "Game of Thrones" is based on, you'll find these just as entertaining and much easier to understand.
January 9, 2022
It's rare to get a *mostly* satisfying ending to a trilogy and this was 3.5. stars for that. Lots of loose ends tied up, but theres also a lot that still can be exolored; I feel this will go the way of the Grishaverse with the epilogue spinning off other stories.
Was it perfect? No. For a long book some things were super rushed. But it filled my GoT void. Doesn't mean I don't have issues with things..
My gripes
- Every potential non hetero romance ended up in a throuple (very Broken Earth Trilogy)
- Christian had like the stupidest reason for being a total dick to anyone and everyone and his deep dark secret should have been way better. But I'm glad his wife was like dude that's not a good enough reason for this personality transplant you've undergone
- Maeryn was...wtf was that even? This poor woman allowed herself to be debased and abused ultimately for nothing?
- Ash is a virile man I'll give him that
- No one in this world was ok with a single lady doing anything even though they did like everything
- how powerful were these sorcerers? Their grand plan seemed kind of fuzzy at the end there
- What was burning a hole in Ryan's pocket? What did he know and was continually pissed about? I can't not know. I must have missed something.
Was it perfect? No. For a long book some things were super rushed. But it filled my GoT void. Doesn't mean I don't have issues with things..
My gripes
- Every potential non hetero romance ended up in a throuple (very Broken Earth Trilogy)
- Christian had like the stupidest reason for being a total dick to anyone and everyone and his deep dark secret should have been way better. But I'm glad his wife was like dude that's not a good enough reason for this personality transplant you've undergone
- Maeryn was...wtf was that even? This poor woman allowed herself to be debased and abused ultimately for nothing?
- Ash is a virile man I'll give him that
- No one in this world was ok with a single lady doing anything even though they did like everything
- how powerful were these sorcerers? Their grand plan seemed kind of fuzzy at the end there
- What was burning a hole in Ryan's pocket? What did he know and was continually pissed about? I can't not know. I must have missed something.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2021
You need to read this series.
August 3, 2022
The Hidden Kingdom is the glorious end to The Kingdom of the White Sea, an epic trilogy that is criminally underrated. It broke my heart in so many ways that I'm still trying to pick up the pieces as I write this review. I picked this series later than I meant to, and I regret waiting this long to read it. This book concluded each of the complex and expertly layered character arcs. It read like a movie and, at times, made me forget that I was reading.
Each character was compelling. The heroes were flawed enough to feel like real people and the villains complex enough to be almost understood, though in many cases still unredeemable. Their sacrifice and selfishness made this series feel so painfully real that I almost forgot it was fiction. For a while, I genuinely believed that I was seeing the lives of actual people unfolding around me. The Kingdom of the White Sea throws trauma after trauma at the characters, and I wanted to weep alongside them for their suffering. I liked the characters to differing degrees at differing times, but I never lost interest in their journeys.
If you enjoyed Game of Thrones or The Witcher with all their violence and flaws, this series is for you.
NOT YA and TRIGGER WARNINGS: Although The Kingdom of the White Sea is for whatever reason classified as YA in the Goodreads listings, it is, as far as I am concerned, not. Although this series is a marvel of the written word, it also deals, sometimes very graphically, with horrific instances of rape, death, and torture. Although I highly recommend this series, I would not recommend it to those who might find any of the above triggering.
Each character was compelling. The heroes were flawed enough to feel like real people and the villains complex enough to be almost understood, though in many cases still unredeemable. Their sacrifice and selfishness made this series feel so painfully real that I almost forgot it was fiction. For a while, I genuinely believed that I was seeing the lives of actual people unfolding around me. The Kingdom of the White Sea throws trauma after trauma at the characters, and I wanted to weep alongside them for their suffering. I liked the characters to differing degrees at differing times, but I never lost interest in their journeys.
If you enjoyed Game of Thrones or The Witcher with all their violence and flaws, this series is for you.
NOT YA and TRIGGER WARNINGS: Although The Kingdom of the White Sea is for whatever reason classified as YA in the Goodreads listings, it is, as far as I am concerned, not. Although this series is a marvel of the written word, it also deals, sometimes very graphically, with horrific instances of rape, death, and torture. Although I highly recommend this series, I would not recommend it to those who might find any of the above triggering.
April 9, 2024
I'm glad I finished the series. The ending is pretty good and there were a few unexpected twists. The characters had also grown on me, so knowing how things ended was worthwhile. For the most part, I'm content with the plot.
Although most of the issues I had with the first two books in this trilogy were mostly less bothersome here, I still found it sometimes hard to keep up with all the switches in perspective because it wasn't ever predictable who's point of view would be next. Additionally, I found the magic system a little too "deus ex machina". Even those who had no training in their magic could simply do things because they "needed" it done. Bam. Problems ended. That was a bit of a let-down for me, and detracted from everything all the characters had to go through to just resolve it all with magic they didn't even need to learn how to wield. There was also the case of death not being final, TWICE! It cheapened the emotional impact of those moments.
Overall, I find this series tries to re-create the epic vastness and courtly intrigue of the A Song of Ice and Fire series, but fell short. It's good enough, but not great, and I overall give the whole series 3.5 stars.
Although most of the issues I had with the first two books in this trilogy were mostly less bothersome here, I still found it sometimes hard to keep up with all the switches in perspective because it wasn't ever predictable who's point of view would be next. Additionally, I found the magic system a little too "deus ex machina". Even those who had no training in their magic could simply do things because they "needed" it done. Bam. Problems ended. That was a bit of a let-down for me, and detracted from everything all the characters had to go through to just resolve it all with magic they didn't even need to learn how to wield. There was also the case of death not being final, TWICE! It cheapened the emotional impact of those moments.
Overall, I find this series tries to re-create the epic vastness and courtly intrigue of the A Song of Ice and Fire series, but fell short. It's good enough, but not great, and I overall give the whole series 3.5 stars.
June 21, 2022
This series had a lot of….. questionable and controversial parts, but some of the scenes made up for that. I liked the ending it was cute, however I hate how dirty the author did Ryan, Maeryn, and Anabella. Like I was waiting for Maeryn to show everyone how bad ass she was but she became the “traitor” AND DIED, OOF THAT MADE ME SO MAD. Ryan deserved better. Everyone started attackkkkkking him just because he lost his memory, this is everyone “bro why did you lose your memory, you hurt Esme get your memory back it’s not that hard, I miss the old you😡” LIKE OKKKKKKK?!(!?!?!?! WE GET IT SHUT UP. Anabella was done so DIRTY. She went through this treacherous journey to go to Darrick AND SHE DIES. IKR I WAS LIKE THIS BITCH DID NOT JUST DIE. WHOEVER MADE THIS TROOP DESERVES NO RIGHTS. The end of my rant goodbye
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2024
I'm so glad I found this series! I just finished book 3 and I wish I hadn't read them so fast. I think I understand why this book had some lower ratings: It's not for the faint of heart! Anyone that exclusively reads Fantasy/Romance and likes their HEA tied up with a Pinterest-perfect bow will hate these books! If Fourth Wing is on your favorites list, skip this series it's not for you.
I wouldn't say the violence and gore is excessive but it's dark, graphic and the heroines don't always escape unscathed- check the trigger warnings! Check this series out if you're a fan of adult fantasy with evil sourcerers, swords and castles, magical realism, and a side of romance sprinkled in. This series has a large cast of interesting, likeable characters with plotlines that are both action and character-driven throughout the series that all together deserves a solid 4.5⭐ rating.
I wouldn't say the violence and gore is excessive but it's dark, graphic and the heroines don't always escape unscathed- check the trigger warnings! Check this series out if you're a fan of adult fantasy with evil sourcerers, swords and castles, magical realism, and a side of romance sprinkled in. This series has a large cast of interesting, likeable characters with plotlines that are both action and character-driven throughout the series that all together deserves a solid 4.5⭐ rating.
February 26, 2023
It took a long while for me to finish this massive tome, and oh, what a stunning conclusion of the trilogy! I can't find the right words to describe how incredibly underrated this series!
Sarah delivered a twisted tale of the entire White Kingdom, full of sorrow, drama and the ending which just states the closure of one dark epoch yet the hope for the future. I had many favourite characters in this saga and felt devastated learning how they found their end. It was emotional read, and could not be otherwise after getting enchanted by author's writing language.
If you like high, dark fantasy, I strongly recommend you to read this trilogy. You won't be disappointed!
Sarah delivered a twisted tale of the entire White Kingdom, full of sorrow, drama and the ending which just states the closure of one dark epoch yet the hope for the future. I had many favourite characters in this saga and felt devastated learning how they found their end. It was emotional read, and could not be otherwise after getting enchanted by author's writing language.
If you like high, dark fantasy, I strongly recommend you to read this trilogy. You won't be disappointed!
December 4, 2021
Beyond the veil
What a thrilling conclusion to this amazing trilogy. The worlds, the adventure, and heartbreak, the sacrifices, and the love. What a complex tale Sarah Cradit has created with so many characters whose lives were intertwined. Some made sacrifices for the greater good. Some of the characters were lost to us, but the ones who survived were ready to take on the challenge of a new world.
I, for one, am quite happy to see that there will be more stories from this world full of magic and adventure. Sarah has created quite a legacy.
What a thrilling conclusion to this amazing trilogy. The worlds, the adventure, and heartbreak, the sacrifices, and the love. What a complex tale Sarah Cradit has created with so many characters whose lives were intertwined. Some made sacrifices for the greater good. Some of the characters were lost to us, but the ones who survived were ready to take on the challenge of a new world.
I, for one, am quite happy to see that there will be more stories from this world full of magic and adventure. Sarah has created quite a legacy.
February 27, 2023
Awesome End to Series!
The Hidden Kingdom, written by Sarah M. Cradit, is the third/final book in the Kingdom of the White Sea three book series. In this fast paced, multifaceted adventure, Ms. Cradit did a great job of addressing all the many characters in this world, answering the abundant amount of questions accumulated throughout the first two books, and bringing this story to a very satisfactory ending. This trilogy was a pleasure to read and I plan to enjoy more of Ms. Cradit's creative work in the near future.
The Hidden Kingdom, written by Sarah M. Cradit, is the third/final book in the Kingdom of the White Sea three book series. In this fast paced, multifaceted adventure, Ms. Cradit did a great job of addressing all the many characters in this world, answering the abundant amount of questions accumulated throughout the first two books, and bringing this story to a very satisfactory ending. This trilogy was a pleasure to read and I plan to enjoy more of Ms. Cradit's creative work in the near future.
March 12, 2025
Id give 3.5 if I could. I found the first 2/3 of this book quite uninspired, I felt like quite a slog at times. But once the last 1/3 came along it started to ramp up all the build up and the stories from the previous 2 books and came to quite a good conclusion. My other quibble is that the battles/confrontations throughout this series seemed to be over before they began. Build up to certain characters meeting tened to be done in a paragraph or so. Overall though,
I enjoyed the series and will definitely be checking out the other books of the wider universe.
I enjoyed the series and will definitely be checking out the other books of the wider universe.
May 14, 2024
Honestly, this should have been a DNF, but after putting in so much time and energy into reading this series, I just wanted to know how it all ended, and it was possibly one of the most disappointing endings to a series I've ever read. For a book with so many characters and things in motion, not much actually happened, and even less was answered. Left a lot of the storylines open for a future series, so there is no real closure.
June 21, 2022
The end of the trilogy. This epic fantasy was well written and I'm surprised that it doesn't have more reviews. I was quite enthralled with all the story lines throughout the trilogy. There seemed to be more sex scenes in this book than the previous ones and there was still a kinky factor. I'm not a fan of this stuff in books. There was some language with f-bombs.
September 15, 2022
The Hidden Kingdom
There were so many story lines that seemed to go different directions, only to wind up in similar places. Each character 'transformed' into something more than they were.
There were so many story lines that seemed to go different directions, only to wind up in similar places. Each character 'transformed' into something more than they were.
March 19, 2023
A lot of good stuff in most of the book, but the end was just so twisted and fast it feels unfinished. I don’t like Esmeralda. It was so lame. But I felt like author forced everyone’s happy ending. I just don’t know why she screwed Khallum over so bad. He didn’t deserve his ever after.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2022
I really liked the first book. Disappointed in the second book and this one just did not hold my attention. I had to force myself to finish it.
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