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Air Awakens #1-5
Air Awakens: The Complete Series
All Vhalla wanted for her seventeenth birthday was a book... What she got was the attention of a dark and fiery prince and a rare elemental magic.
After unknowingly saving the life of the crown prince with powers she's not supposed to have, Vhalla must make a choice:
Embrace her sorcery and leave the quiet life she's known, or eradicate her magic entirely.
But the choice isn't hers alone. Powerful forces who want to use her magic for their own gain lurk in the shadows, and the only ally Vhalla may have is the cut-throat Crown Prince Aldrik. He's everything she's been taught to fear - a sorcerer and royalty - but beneath his harsh exterior is the heart of a tortured man she finds herself dangerously drawn to.
He may be the last person she ever wanted. But he's the one person she needs. And, with his training, she'll show the Empire what a quiet library girl is truly capable of.
This *omnibus edition* contains all five books in the Air Awakens series by USA Today bestselling author Elise Kova.
After unknowingly saving the life of the crown prince with powers she's not supposed to have, Vhalla must make a choice:
Embrace her sorcery and leave the quiet life she's known, or eradicate her magic entirely.
But the choice isn't hers alone. Powerful forces who want to use her magic for their own gain lurk in the shadows, and the only ally Vhalla may have is the cut-throat Crown Prince Aldrik. He's everything she's been taught to fear - a sorcerer and royalty - but beneath his harsh exterior is the heart of a tortured man she finds herself dangerously drawn to.
He may be the last person she ever wanted. But he's the one person she needs. And, with his training, she'll show the Empire what a quiet library girl is truly capable of.
This *omnibus edition* contains all five books in the Air Awakens series by USA Today bestselling author Elise Kova.
1190 pages, Paperback
Published August 12, 2020
4369 people are currently reading
3274 people want to read
About the author
Elise Kova
49 books17.6k followersJoin Elise's mailing list to never miss a giveaway, release, sale, and more: https://elisekova.com/subscribe/
ELISE KOVA is a USA Today bestselling author. She enjoys telling stories of fantasy worlds filled with magic and deep emotions. She lives in Florida and, when not writing, can be found playing video games, drawing, chatting with readers on social media, or daydreaming about her next story.
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ELISE KOVA is a USA Today bestselling author. She enjoys telling stories of fantasy worlds filled with magic and deep emotions. She lives in Florida and, when not writing, can be found playing video games, drawing, chatting with readers on social media, or daydreaming about her next story.
Say Hello!
INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | FACEBOOK | TWITTER
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 329 reviews
October 28, 2022
Overall, absolutely excellent.
4.5/ 5⭐
1/5 🌶️
I loved the ending and final book of this series! Every book had twists, turns, and a roller coaster ride of emotions! But this book is what I had been waiting for all along! Great read! And a great conclusion!
The epilogue is what pushed me to the 4.5 star for this series! So good! And worth it
Air Awakens ★★★★ | 4.5 stars
Fire Falling ★★★★ | 4.5 stars
Earth's End ★★★★ | 4.75 stars
Water's Wrath ★★★★ | 4.5 stars
Crystal Crowned ★★★★ | 4 stars
Quotes:
“Every chance worth taking will make you a little scared. That means you’re taking a risk. And where there is risk, there is reward.”
“The woman sitting in the saddle now had to find a heart crafted of black steel. She had to survive if for no other reason than to spite the world.”
“Love is far better to know, even if it slips from your grasp or doesn't bear fruit like you'd hoped. People who say they regret love, true love, are just bitter liar.”
“It would be torture. But it would be the most beautiful torture they had ever known.”
“I wish I could hate you, you frustrating man,” she breathed hopelessly. “And I wish I could stop loving you, my frustrating woman.”
“She was tired of being a symbol. Symbols were stagnant, frozen, representative, and spurring of action but never the action itself.”
“She was drowning, and they all still thought she was breathing.”
“Vhalla held her tongue that "backward and barbaric" were often times only used when one culture didn't properly understand another.”
4.5/ 5⭐
1/5 🌶️
I loved the ending and final book of this series! Every book had twists, turns, and a roller coaster ride of emotions! But this book is what I had been waiting for all along! Great read! And a great conclusion!
The epilogue is what pushed me to the 4.5 star for this series! So good! And worth it
Air Awakens ★★★★ | 4.5 stars
Fire Falling ★★★★ | 4.5 stars
Earth's End ★★★★ | 4.75 stars
Water's Wrath ★★★★ | 4.5 stars
Crystal Crowned ★★★★ | 4 stars
Quotes:
“Every chance worth taking will make you a little scared. That means you’re taking a risk. And where there is risk, there is reward.”
“The woman sitting in the saddle now had to find a heart crafted of black steel. She had to survive if for no other reason than to spite the world.”
“Love is far better to know, even if it slips from your grasp or doesn't bear fruit like you'd hoped. People who say they regret love, true love, are just bitter liar.”
“It would be torture. But it would be the most beautiful torture they had ever known.”
“I wish I could hate you, you frustrating man,” she breathed hopelessly. “And I wish I could stop loving you, my frustrating woman.”
“She was tired of being a symbol. Symbols were stagnant, frozen, representative, and spurring of action but never the action itself.”
“She was drowning, and they all still thought she was breathing.”
“Vhalla held her tongue that "backward and barbaric" were often times only used when one culture didn't properly understand another.”
Read
April 11, 2021This was honestly such a rollercoaster to be on.
When you first start out you have no idea how it’s going to turn out; from character development, to wars raging on, to crying in your pillows at 3am.
It all starts when you meet Vhalla, a librarian apprentice. She accidentally saves the crown prince with magic she didn’t know she had.
That’s basically where the story begins.
Boy, when I tell you I cried, I mean it.
It was worse than the epilogue of Clockwork princess. But a book that makes me feel is a good book. Even though it’s from heartache or just general PAIN.
But overall, this series is 100% worth it and i’m really excited to start the golden guard trilogy because JACKS AND DANIEL AND BALDAIR.
When you first start out you have no idea how it’s going to turn out; from character development, to wars raging on, to crying in your pillows at 3am.
It all starts when you meet Vhalla, a librarian apprentice. She accidentally saves the crown prince with magic she didn’t know she had.
That’s basically where the story begins.
Boy, when I tell you I cried, I mean it.
It was worse than the epilogue of Clockwork princess. But a book that makes me feel is a good book. Even though it’s from heartache or just general PAIN.
But overall, this series is 100% worth it and i’m really excited to start the golden guard trilogy because JACKS AND DANIEL AND BALDAIR.
February 23, 2024
✅ Gorgeous covers
✅ Angsty (at times) and cute romance
✅ Characters
✅ Magic
✅ World-building
✅ Plot and pace
✅ Action
❗️❗️Trigger warning: miscarriage, amputation, death and gore, brief mention of alcoholism and attempted suicide, mild PTSD (mostly nightmares)
Overall rating: 4.5
I've read this series twice, and I greatly enjoyed it both times. The books are quick and engaging reads, and the characters are just too easy to love. 😍
Air Awakens ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fire Falling ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Earth's End ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Water's Wrath ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Crystal Crowned ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
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✅ Angsty (at times) and cute romance
✅ Characters
✅ Magic
✅ World-building
✅ Plot and pace
✅ Action
❗️❗️Trigger warning: miscarriage, amputation, death and gore, brief mention of alcoholism and attempted suicide, mild PTSD (mostly nightmares)
Overall rating: 4.5
I've read this series twice, and I greatly enjoyed it both times. The books are quick and engaging reads, and the characters are just too easy to love. 😍
Air Awakens ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fire Falling ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Earth's End ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Water's Wrath ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Crystal Crowned ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
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September 11, 2021
What a delightful series! I liked this story much better than "A Deal with the Elf King" because it felt more real despite the fantasy genre, magic and almost-like fairytale setting. Vhalla Yarl, a young and modest library apprentice, suddenly awakens as a great mage that possesses rare affinity in Solaris Empire. She is a Windwalker and a potentially powerful force that can wipe out the Empire enemies and bring a victory in the North to the Emperor.
Vhalla Bonded to the crown prince Aldrik, another powerful mage with Firebearer affinity. I loved that Elise Kova took a different approach in developing a love story between the main characters. If, for example, in Maas books, the protagonists should realise that they're made for each other during the plot development, in Elise Kova books, they know it from the beginning but are forced to face numerous difficulties preventing them from being together.
These books are bitter-sweet stories, as Vhalla lives in a cruel world that divides nobility and commoners into a harsh hierarchy. Vhalla takes heavy steps for earning her rightful place among Aldrik. Not everyone is happy to give her a cheerful welcome just because she saved the prince, the Emperor and the army on numerous occasions, thanks to her magic abilities. It is a long journey and a high price for her happiness.
Solid five stars for all five books, and I look forward to reading the Vortex series about Aldrik and Vhalla's daughter Vi. So excited!
Vhalla Bonded to the crown prince Aldrik, another powerful mage with Firebearer affinity. I loved that Elise Kova took a different approach in developing a love story between the main characters. If, for example, in Maas books, the protagonists should realise that they're made for each other during the plot development, in Elise Kova books, they know it from the beginning but are forced to face numerous difficulties preventing them from being together.
These books are bitter-sweet stories, as Vhalla lives in a cruel world that divides nobility and commoners into a harsh hierarchy. Vhalla takes heavy steps for earning her rightful place among Aldrik. Not everyone is happy to give her a cheerful welcome just because she saved the prince, the Emperor and the army on numerous occasions, thanks to her magic abilities. It is a long journey and a high price for her happiness.
Solid five stars for all five books, and I look forward to reading the Vortex series about Aldrik and Vhalla's daughter Vi. So excited!
March 2, 2017
Writing is good but the MCs and plot feel sophmoric. I didn't finish water's wrath and i dont think i'll start crystal crowned.
June 12, 2021
I just read this series for the first time this week, and I already am rereading it!! That is how amazing this book series is!!! Im so glad I got this complete edition with all 5 books!!
January 31, 2021
This is spectacular! I love having this beautiful edition. It's stunning! Vhalla and her journey throughout this series will leave an everlasting impression. This is one of the series that I'm always recommending. Be good to yourself and purchase this!!
April 28, 2021
A beautiful and brutal slow-burn fantasy series. Be committed because the story doesn't end in book 5.
March 14, 2019
This review is going to be different from how I am going to write my other reviews, and that is for a good reason.
One recurring theme in this series is mental health issues. Through the series, we encounter characters that deals with various forms and degrees of mental health issues. And it is not portrayed as something odd or unusual. It truly can happen to everyone. Everyone handles it differently, both in the short and long term.
The reason I bring this up is because this series was initially released while I was going through the absolutely toughest part i my life. It was a time where some days, I felt like there was almost no light at the end of the tunnel. This series would be something I would have loved to read during that time. In many ways, I feel like this series was speaking to me personally in this regard.
The fifth book, Crystal Crowned, has a couple moment that in my opinion argues for the fact that escapism can be a healthy thing (done in moderation of course, but the same can be said for other things as well). The exact moments is a massive spoiler, but as someone that reads mainly for escapism and relaxation, I found myself agreeing with the book very much.
It is not often I say this, but thank you Elise Kova for writing this series. As someone that still deals with mental health issues (it is moving in the right direction though and everything is much better now than it was a couple of years ago), I was really happy with how you portrayed it in the series. It also gave me the courage to start talking about it publicly.
One recurring theme in this series is mental health issues. Through the series, we encounter characters that deals with various forms and degrees of mental health issues. And it is not portrayed as something odd or unusual. It truly can happen to everyone. Everyone handles it differently, both in the short and long term.
The reason I bring this up is because this series was initially released while I was going through the absolutely toughest part i my life. It was a time where some days, I felt like there was almost no light at the end of the tunnel. This series would be something I would have loved to read during that time. In many ways, I feel like this series was speaking to me personally in this regard.
The fifth book, Crystal Crowned, has a couple moment that in my opinion argues for the fact that escapism can be a healthy thing (done in moderation of course, but the same can be said for other things as well). The exact moments is a massive spoiler, but as someone that reads mainly for escapism and relaxation, I found myself agreeing with the book very much.
It is not often I say this, but thank you Elise Kova for writing this series. As someone that still deals with mental health issues (it is moving in the right direction though and everything is much better now than it was a couple of years ago), I was really happy with how you portrayed it in the series. It also gave me the courage to start talking about it publicly.
September 12, 2023
These books all feel like a dream/nightmare. Everything is so well told. Each of the characters are so well developed and they have a lot of depth throughout the series. I didn't always love the characters and I don't think you always should. I found the two main characters very annoying at times because what other reviewers had mentioned with their mood swings, but I think that makes them more realistic. They are the friends that you roll your eyes at because their problems aren't really problems, they are just different and they are making a mountain of a mole hill.
I found myself having to stop reading for a day because everything else just felt so dull. That's how good the writing was! Though there was a scene during a war that I felt was not necessary. Other than that this series was superb!
I found myself having to stop reading for a day because everything else just felt so dull. That's how good the writing was! Though there was a scene during a war that I felt was not necessary. Other than that this series was superb!
May 15, 2020
Overall its a pretty good series, although there were some parts like where Vhalla comes up with all the war strategies when there were veterans in the room and also Aldrik who was supposed to be trained to rule from the time he was born made me say really!!??.. and , I was hoping she would realize she had been fooled way earlier on the way but no it was disappointing how it ended. The fifth book was the one I was least impressed with, where Vhalla just acts haughtily ignoring Aldrik's counsel and does things her way (I know this was to show her more connected to the common people) when he was the one well versed with dealing with the nobility and to rule in general. But I liked the series well enough to make me want to read the sequel.
July 4, 2020
I didn't think I liked this series at first
I was fairly meh on the characters at first, the simplistic idea of reader girl meets handsome brooding Prince seemed a little trite at first.
But as I got into it, the complexities of their relationship drew me in and kept me going, and as the story unfolded from a simple cross class romance to the twisted use of magic I found myself rooting for them and their friends.
There was a lot that could have been polished, I wanted to know why the emperor did what he did, and I really want to know more about the crystals and how they can be used for good or ill. But the very fact that the raw edges also drew me in speak to good writing and a solid story.
There were some great things as well, such as the way sexual consent was handled, that I truly liked. I'm looking forward to reading more in this world.
I was fairly meh on the characters at first, the simplistic idea of reader girl meets handsome brooding Prince seemed a little trite at first.
But as I got into it, the complexities of their relationship drew me in and kept me going, and as the story unfolded from a simple cross class romance to the twisted use of magic I found myself rooting for them and their friends.
There was a lot that could have been polished, I wanted to know why the emperor did what he did, and I really want to know more about the crystals and how they can be used for good or ill. But the very fact that the raw edges also drew me in speak to good writing and a solid story.
There were some great things as well, such as the way sexual consent was handled, that I truly liked. I'm looking forward to reading more in this world.
September 2, 2022
3.75 stars
If you’re wanting to give this series a try, do NOT judge the whole series based on the first book. It really was the worst and it only gets better after that. It starts to pick up in that second book and continues to get better from there.
The third, fourth and fifth book just felt like a one really long book because it was so packed with so much going on. The first 2 books were definitely the only ones with a slow pace.
The series was full of magic, adventure, love, found family, battle, heartache, and just an overwhelming amount of emotion.
I may not have rated it a 5 star read, but it’s one of those series that I’ll always remember because of how epic in proportion is was. Really amazing.
If you’re wanting to give this series a try, do NOT judge the whole series based on the first book. It really was the worst and it only gets better after that. It starts to pick up in that second book and continues to get better from there.
The third, fourth and fifth book just felt like a one really long book because it was so packed with so much going on. The first 2 books were definitely the only ones with a slow pace.
The series was full of magic, adventure, love, found family, battle, heartache, and just an overwhelming amount of emotion.
I may not have rated it a 5 star read, but it’s one of those series that I’ll always remember because of how epic in proportion is was. Really amazing.
February 8, 2020
Me ha encantado el mundo de magia que Elise ha creado, la historia de amor dentro de la guerra por el poder, los personajes entrañables y la evolución que tienen a lo largo de los 5 libros.
Me inspira la tesón de Vhalla, el amor de Aldrik, la lealtad de Jax, la sagacidad de Elacia, la amistad de Fitch y el sacrificio de Baldair; me los quedo todos en mi corazón.
I loved the world of magic that Elise has created, the love story in the war for power, the endearing characters and the evolution they have throughout the 5 books.
I am inspired by Vhalla's tenacity, Aldrik's love, Jax's loyalty, Elacia's sagacity, Fitch's friendship and Baldair's sacrifice; I keep them all in my heart.
Me inspira la tesón de Vhalla, el amor de Aldrik, la lealtad de Jax, la sagacidad de Elacia, la amistad de Fitch y el sacrificio de Baldair; me los quedo todos en mi corazón.
I loved the world of magic that Elise has created, the love story in the war for power, the endearing characters and the evolution they have throughout the 5 books.
I am inspired by Vhalla's tenacity, Aldrik's love, Jax's loyalty, Elacia's sagacity, Fitch's friendship and Baldair's sacrifice; I keep them all in my heart.
Currently reading
December 7, 2021Air Awakens: The Complete Series
An impressive series, the struggle of an empire at war. Characters are well developed and the range is broad. Chap is the main character as a library assistant in the main library where her mind is a steel trap of information! But as she begins to get notes from an unseen tutor the tale unfolds. Five volumes hold a modern day epic of old with plots within plots. Enjoyable from beginning to end.
An impressive series, the struggle of an empire at war. Characters are well developed and the range is broad. Chap is the main character as a library assistant in the main library where her mind is a steel trap of information! But as she begins to get notes from an unseen tutor the tale unfolds. Five volumes hold a modern day epic of old with plots within plots. Enjoyable from beginning to end.
July 27, 2019
Overall I love this series! Of course there are some times when things drag and I cannot wait for the next adventure but I love the world and characters Elise Kova has built. I am so glad it continues into her next series because I am so not done with the Air Awakens world. If you loved Throne of Glass, you will love these books!
June 1, 2018
Predictably wonderful
While elements of the series were predictable to those who read these types of novels, the author has written the series in such a way as to truly remain captivating. I loved it!
While elements of the series were predictable to those who read these types of novels, the author has written the series in such a way as to truly remain captivating. I loved it!
April 22, 2019
**Looks at when I started these books**
**Looks at when I finished**
**SOBS**
RTC - but actually. I'm writing the review right now on an email draft
**Looks at when I finished**
**SOBS**
RTC - but actually. I'm writing the review right now on an email draft
February 10, 2021
Enthralling and twisty and heart breaking. The first books were better than the later ones, but still kept me on the edge of my seat til the end.
September 8, 2025
If I could wipe my mind completely clean and experience a series as if it were the very first time, it would be this one, without hesitation.
To be fair, my memory is trash, so every reread does feel a little like the first time. But nothing will ever compare to that original rush when every twist, every character, and every reveal left me reeling.
This series is the one that started my book-collecting downfall and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m utterly obsessed, needing not only to read the story but also have a trophy copy.
The magic system is intricate and compelling, the world-building is immersive, and the emotions it stirs are intense. It’s the kind of series that digs its claws into you and lingers.
I reread this series frequently and will always recommend it to anyone who will listen.
To be fair, my memory is trash, so every reread does feel a little like the first time. But nothing will ever compare to that original rush when every twist, every character, and every reveal left me reeling.
This series is the one that started my book-collecting downfall and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m utterly obsessed, needing not only to read the story but also have a trophy copy.
The magic system is intricate and compelling, the world-building is immersive, and the emotions it stirs are intense. It’s the kind of series that digs its claws into you and lingers.
I reread this series frequently and will always recommend it to anyone who will listen.
January 29, 2022
Wow this story really surprised me. I enjoyed getting to know the different characters and the inner workings of this kingdom. Vhalla was a kind, loyal, hard-working girl that ended up getting becoming something she never expected or wanted. Aldrik was the prince, at first when we met him he was a rude, selfish, jaded man. The more he was around Vhalla the more he opened up, the more he started to change. Prince Baldair was kind to Vhalla but at the same time his kindness seem selfish. A major event occurs that changes Vhalla’s life forever and it was the one part of the book where I could not stop crying, I was so angry and sad. I don’t know what’s going to happen in the next book but Vhalla needed to make it through so certain people wouldn’t get what they devised to do.
This second book was good but at times super hard to read. Vhalla is going to war and has no combat training at all. This is all with the hope that she never returns. People that she has come to love stood by her. The relationship between Vhalla and Aldrik is still a slow burn, back and forth. We are introduced to Elecia, she is rude and cocky, it takes forever to find out who she is. It was great reading about Daniel and Craig being on the march, they treated Vhalla with kindness during that horrible trial and now during the march. Each of them worked with Vhalla trying to teach her some combat. Aldrik worked with Vhalla on her channels for her magic. These two together are torture, I just want them to admit their feelings already and my wish is granted. Vhalla shows multiple times how truly strong she is especially when it is for love. Something devastating happens and my heart breaks. I cannot stand the Emperor, he is evil. So many out to kill the wind walker. I love a quote that Aldrik says to Vhalla when she is worried about others seeing what they are to each other “Let them say something, let one person say something and give me a reason to burn it all”. I will say one thung the whole Serien thing is strange to me but whatever. How Vhalla is treated by the Emperor is horrific. Then another major story point happens and the tears are just flowing. My heart was breaking for a second time in this book.
The start of this book was so good, Vhalla was amazing, it was so detailed and exciting to read the quest she had to go on and it showed how much she truly loved Aldrik. As usual the emperor was once again a horrible person even when someone was trying to save his son. We got to meet some new people, some I liked and some ad evil as the man they followed. The battle was exciting because we got to witness the true joining of Aldrik amd Vhalla. I was so happy with what Aldtik gave Vhalla but most of this book was pretty difficult to get through, so tired of people treating Vhalla badly, the emperor was such an evil person and how he spoke to her and treated her was disgusting, why she ever saved him makes no sense. Then how Aldrik decided to handle what his father did broke my heart. In the end the Emperor got his way, he got what he wanted in a big way. I hope the next book is better, no more people treating her like trash but I will miss Aldrik and her.
I liked this book a lot on one hand because we didn’t have to put up with people constantly putting Vhalla down left and right, we didn’t have to put up with the evil emperor more than a couple times but on the other hand this book had so much heartbreak I don’t know how many times I cried, at one point I did the ugly cry. We didn’t have to deal with the emperor much but we did have to end up dealing with someone else who wad a whole different kind of evil and I was shocked at what happened to Vhalla. I will say there were two things that made this book the best to me one was Vhalla was one tough chick, she took down these men that tried to hurt her and then she stood up to all of the other men who constantly tried to lie and imprison her and the other reason I loved this book so much was how Aldrik acted, he was so wonderful to her, so loving, their love is a true love. I almost forgot about this other weird part that I just cannot believe the author put in this book, everyone will know what I mean when I say the deal they made with the Northerner, I was disappointed with that decision. I can’t even imagine what’s going to happen in the next book.
This last book took me longer to read, there were so many horrific descriptions of what happened to others that I started skimming them but then took a break. My heart broke for some of the things people were going through. The whole fate thing at the crossroads bothered me. This book was long and I kind of wish it had been a little shorter, some parts dragged on. There was alot that I loved though also. Vhalla was a strong, smart, feisty woman that would not give up and the author really put her front and center. I loved how Aldrik stepped back many times to allow Vhalla to start acting her role and others to start taking her seriously. I loved reading about the way they all did battle together when they moved south, the flow of them together was wonderful as usual. The final showdown with Victor was action packed, nerve racking, and worrisome. A familiar person from the crossroads came to visit in just the nick of time. The ending was a shocker and I am really curious what it means. I have to admit this was a long series and I will be taking a break and reading something else before I start the Vortex Visions.
This second book was good but at times super hard to read. Vhalla is going to war and has no combat training at all. This is all with the hope that she never returns. People that she has come to love stood by her. The relationship between Vhalla and Aldrik is still a slow burn, back and forth. We are introduced to Elecia, she is rude and cocky, it takes forever to find out who she is. It was great reading about Daniel and Craig being on the march, they treated Vhalla with kindness during that horrible trial and now during the march. Each of them worked with Vhalla trying to teach her some combat. Aldrik worked with Vhalla on her channels for her magic. These two together are torture, I just want them to admit their feelings already and my wish is granted. Vhalla shows multiple times how truly strong she is especially when it is for love. Something devastating happens and my heart breaks. I cannot stand the Emperor, he is evil. So many out to kill the wind walker. I love a quote that Aldrik says to Vhalla when she is worried about others seeing what they are to each other “Let them say something, let one person say something and give me a reason to burn it all”. I will say one thung the whole Serien thing is strange to me but whatever. How Vhalla is treated by the Emperor is horrific. Then another major story point happens and the tears are just flowing. My heart was breaking for a second time in this book.
The start of this book was so good, Vhalla was amazing, it was so detailed and exciting to read the quest she had to go on and it showed how much she truly loved Aldrik. As usual the emperor was once again a horrible person even when someone was trying to save his son. We got to meet some new people, some I liked and some ad evil as the man they followed. The battle was exciting because we got to witness the true joining of Aldrik amd Vhalla. I was so happy with what Aldtik gave Vhalla but most of this book was pretty difficult to get through, so tired of people treating Vhalla badly, the emperor was such an evil person and how he spoke to her and treated her was disgusting, why she ever saved him makes no sense. Then how Aldrik decided to handle what his father did broke my heart. In the end the Emperor got his way, he got what he wanted in a big way. I hope the next book is better, no more people treating her like trash but I will miss Aldrik and her.
I liked this book a lot on one hand because we didn’t have to put up with people constantly putting Vhalla down left and right, we didn’t have to put up with the evil emperor more than a couple times but on the other hand this book had so much heartbreak I don’t know how many times I cried, at one point I did the ugly cry. We didn’t have to deal with the emperor much but we did have to end up dealing with someone else who wad a whole different kind of evil and I was shocked at what happened to Vhalla. I will say there were two things that made this book the best to me one was Vhalla was one tough chick, she took down these men that tried to hurt her and then she stood up to all of the other men who constantly tried to lie and imprison her and the other reason I loved this book so much was how Aldrik acted, he was so wonderful to her, so loving, their love is a true love. I almost forgot about this other weird part that I just cannot believe the author put in this book, everyone will know what I mean when I say the deal they made with the Northerner, I was disappointed with that decision. I can’t even imagine what’s going to happen in the next book.
This last book took me longer to read, there were so many horrific descriptions of what happened to others that I started skimming them but then took a break. My heart broke for some of the things people were going through. The whole fate thing at the crossroads bothered me. This book was long and I kind of wish it had been a little shorter, some parts dragged on. There was alot that I loved though also. Vhalla was a strong, smart, feisty woman that would not give up and the author really put her front and center. I loved how Aldrik stepped back many times to allow Vhalla to start acting her role and others to start taking her seriously. I loved reading about the way they all did battle together when they moved south, the flow of them together was wonderful as usual. The final showdown with Victor was action packed, nerve racking, and worrisome. A familiar person from the crossroads came to visit in just the nick of time. The ending was a shocker and I am really curious what it means. I have to admit this was a long series and I will be taking a break and reading something else before I start the Vortex Visions.
December 6, 2024
Overall, a solid YA fantasy that, like Throne of Glass, slips toward NA, which I’m finding I like. It blends elements of epic fantasy, Romantasy, coming of age, even dark academia. Could it have been polished up a bit more? Sure. Were parts of it frustrating? Yes. Did I want more? You bet. I loved it enough that I will be exploring the rest of the world through Kova’s other series set there.
Super work for an indie author! I am impressed and can’t wait to see where we go from here.
Super work for an indie author! I am impressed and can’t wait to see where we go from here.
December 27, 2024
I read this series a few years ago and wanted to reread it; and gosh, it is just so good.
My best friend and I jokingly call it the Last Airbender, and certainly in the first book it REALLY is reminiscent of that. But it does get CRAZY! It’s such a fun read.
My best friend and I jokingly call it the Last Airbender, and certainly in the first book it REALLY is reminiscent of that. But it does get CRAZY! It’s such a fun read.
July 26, 2024
This series was too much of a struggle to get through for what is ultimately a colonialism-glorifying, poorly written rip off of ATLA and throne of glass
May 8, 2021
I read this entire series back-to-back so I honestly would not be able to review the books separately, apart from the first one. Thus this review will mostly focus on my thoughts on the series as a whole.
When I started the first book, I was definitely entertained but not exactly impressed. Vhalla wasn't the most interesting main character at first and the writing was quite unpolished (I still believe the book could have really done with another round of editing). The story was interesting, though, so I was never bored and did not consider abandoning the series (which is saying a lot, I suppose, as I much prefer standalone books to series).
The simple fact is that the first book in no way, shape, or form prepared me for what the series would later become. As I read books two and three it was if I could feel the crescendo, the rising tensions and stakes, the plot widening as the same time as it became tighter and more focused. The writing improved significantly as well, the author quite clearly settling more comfortably into the story she was telling and into the mind of her main character.
If I thought Vhalla was bland at first, the impression did not stick for long — throughout the series her character arc is such a joy to experience, you see with your own eyes how she grows into a woman and deals with all the conflicting shades of her pyche. She makes mistakes big and small, shoulders guilt that is hers and also guilt that isn't, and reflects at every turn on herself and her actions as she tries to carve a place for herself in the harsh world she has been thrust in. She cries, she fears, she loves and fights for herself, for her friends, and for the right thing. I was touched by her inner journey as much as I was intrigued by her outer journey.
Aldrik is layers and layers deep, wonderfully complex and wholly imperfect. It is no sugarcoated, effortless relationship between him and Vhalla; they wound each other, cut themselves on the other's sharp edges, they break open and break apart; they love deeply and hurt from it. It is the raw, messy, tender kind of love we recognize outside of fairy tales.
The secondary characters did not disappoint, either — I was delighted every time a new character was introduced which I thought would be easy to categorize, but they instead bloomed and surprised me at every turn with their different dimensions. Elise Kova painted characters that seek to weave a path of light through the darkness while attempting to hold fast to their humanity, and her tale is as beautiful as it is heartbreaking.
I absolutely never expected to think so highly of this series. While it wasn't perfect, it absolutely is a story that impacts you and makes you feel and think about sacrifice, duty, and love.
When I started the first book, I was definitely entertained but not exactly impressed. Vhalla wasn't the most interesting main character at first and the writing was quite unpolished (I still believe the book could have really done with another round of editing). The story was interesting, though, so I was never bored and did not consider abandoning the series (which is saying a lot, I suppose, as I much prefer standalone books to series).
The simple fact is that the first book in no way, shape, or form prepared me for what the series would later become. As I read books two and three it was if I could feel the crescendo, the rising tensions and stakes, the plot widening as the same time as it became tighter and more focused. The writing improved significantly as well, the author quite clearly settling more comfortably into the story she was telling and into the mind of her main character.
If I thought Vhalla was bland at first, the impression did not stick for long — throughout the series her character arc is such a joy to experience, you see with your own eyes how she grows into a woman and deals with all the conflicting shades of her pyche. She makes mistakes big and small, shoulders guilt that is hers and also guilt that isn't, and reflects at every turn on herself and her actions as she tries to carve a place for herself in the harsh world she has been thrust in. She cries, she fears, she loves and fights for herself, for her friends, and for the right thing. I was touched by her inner journey as much as I was intrigued by her outer journey.
Aldrik is layers and layers deep, wonderfully complex and wholly imperfect. It is no sugarcoated, effortless relationship between him and Vhalla; they wound each other, cut themselves on the other's sharp edges, they break open and break apart; they love deeply and hurt from it. It is the raw, messy, tender kind of love we recognize outside of fairy tales.
The secondary characters did not disappoint, either — I was delighted every time a new character was introduced which I thought would be easy to categorize, but they instead bloomed and surprised me at every turn with their different dimensions. Elise Kova painted characters that seek to weave a path of light through the darkness while attempting to hold fast to their humanity, and her tale is as beautiful as it is heartbreaking.
I absolutely never expected to think so highly of this series. While it wasn't perfect, it absolutely is a story that impacts you and makes you feel and think about sacrifice, duty, and love.
August 10, 2021
World Building: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Overall, absolutely excellent.
When the main female character was already obsessing over a man, none the less a prince, by page 2, I began to worry that I had picked up another sappy romance novel. Not that their is anything wrong with the genre- I simply had gotten my fill of them recently and was looking for something with more meat to it. I'm glad that I continued to read despite my doubts, because it didn't take me very long at all to decide I had picked up what was possibly one of the best high fantasy series I had picked up in quite some time. I was completely invested in this story and finished all 5 books in less than a week. It was thoroughly captivating, and I had difficulty putting it down. It's taken me a few days to look over my highlights, notes and thoughts to put together this review as there was just so much to absorb.
Kova created a world full of unique customs and traditions, while still managing to comment on issues that humans face on Earth every day. I was especially a fan of how she approached mental health issues such as depression, alcoholism, and abortion. The plot is heavy at times; the characters are dealing with war, death, and the pressure of making decisions that will affect thousands of their subjects, and Kova's characters face these problems realistically. She does not allow the over arching theme of magic ability to soften the realities of how these issues can affect one mentally, as well as discussing them in a way that makes it approachable to a younger reader. While much of the plot is a love story, it is much deeper than your typical "Romeo & Juliet" star-fated lovers and explores the nuances of a relationship through the good and bad. I enjoyed how the characters evolved through the series, and you never really know how it is going to end until you get there.
For all the time it took to absorb, I don't have an awful lot to say about it- except that you should absolutely give it a try for yourself.
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Overall, absolutely excellent.
When the main female character was already obsessing over a man, none the less a prince, by page 2, I began to worry that I had picked up another sappy romance novel. Not that their is anything wrong with the genre- I simply had gotten my fill of them recently and was looking for something with more meat to it. I'm glad that I continued to read despite my doubts, because it didn't take me very long at all to decide I had picked up what was possibly one of the best high fantasy series I had picked up in quite some time. I was completely invested in this story and finished all 5 books in less than a week. It was thoroughly captivating, and I had difficulty putting it down. It's taken me a few days to look over my highlights, notes and thoughts to put together this review as there was just so much to absorb.
Kova created a world full of unique customs and traditions, while still managing to comment on issues that humans face on Earth every day. I was especially a fan of how she approached mental health issues such as depression, alcoholism, and abortion. The plot is heavy at times; the characters are dealing with war, death, and the pressure of making decisions that will affect thousands of their subjects, and Kova's characters face these problems realistically. She does not allow the over arching theme of magic ability to soften the realities of how these issues can affect one mentally, as well as discussing them in a way that makes it approachable to a younger reader. While much of the plot is a love story, it is much deeper than your typical "Romeo & Juliet" star-fated lovers and explores the nuances of a relationship through the good and bad. I enjoyed how the characters evolved through the series, and you never really know how it is going to end until you get there.
For all the time it took to absorb, I don't have an awful lot to say about it- except that you should absolutely give it a try for yourself.
October 29, 2022
Suit up!
Oy! You better be battle ready to conquer this masterpiece. I've just finished Vhalla's journey and I'm exhausted. So well written that you will feel everything. All the good, the bad, the heavy, the soul crushing, the hope, the pain, the suffering and the relief. Oh I could go on and on. You are flooded by so many emotions. Drowning in feelings and as much as I love a well written book, I was ill prepared for this grueling and beautiful journey. Character growth, relationship development, sound characters and great resolve, it's all there. You will battle with yourself, your friends, your trusted ones, your enemy, your frenemy and your love. When you don't think you possibly endure any more, you find that our little heroine can. It is buckle up, hang on and don't forget your helmet good. I got all the way through book 4 when we are finally on the crux of the story and I had to take a break. I needed to breathe easy, gather my thoughts and polish my armor so to speak. I knew if book 5 was going to bring the fight to a closure then I needed to get ready. It was absolutely awesome all the way to the end. I'm surprised Vhalla and Aldrick had to go through their deal with the North considering what happened in the Crossroads. I would have thought that agreement was null and void.
Oy! You better be battle ready to conquer this masterpiece. I've just finished Vhalla's journey and I'm exhausted. So well written that you will feel everything. All the good, the bad, the heavy, the soul crushing, the hope, the pain, the suffering and the relief. Oh I could go on and on. You are flooded by so many emotions. Drowning in feelings and as much as I love a well written book, I was ill prepared for this grueling and beautiful journey. Character growth, relationship development, sound characters and great resolve, it's all there. You will battle with yourself, your friends, your trusted ones, your enemy, your frenemy and your love. When you don't think you possibly endure any more, you find that our little heroine can. It is buckle up, hang on and don't forget your helmet good. I got all the way through book 4 when we are finally on the crux of the story and I had to take a break. I needed to breathe easy, gather my thoughts and polish my armor so to speak. I knew if book 5 was going to bring the fight to a closure then I needed to get ready. It was absolutely awesome all the way to the end. I'm surprised Vhalla and Aldrick had to go through their deal with the North considering what happened in the Crossroads. I would have thought that agreement was null and void.
September 18, 2021
Couldn't put it down
The world and characters Elise Kova built in the Air Awakens is breathtaking. My heart broke so many times through these 5 books, and every time it was restored something else would happen. It was an amazing roller-coaster ride of emotions that left me smiling, nearly in tears, laughing out loud, and talking out loud to the pages before me one chapter to the next. I cannot recommend this series enough and have only good things to say. I am typically a very fast reader but it took me 2 weeks to read all 5 books. I would find myself reading till 3 in the morning only to stop at a moment of heartbreak in the story and the pull on my own emotions would have me taking a day away from the books before I could read on to what would come next. As I neared the end I also found myself reading a chapter then trying to busy myself with another chore or task just to draw out what time I had left with Vallah, Aldrik, and all their companions. I didn't want it to end. Now I am sure my next read will be the Vortex Chronicles as I am not yet ready to end my time with the Solaris Empire and as Vi said, "The Vortex still spins."
The world and characters Elise Kova built in the Air Awakens is breathtaking. My heart broke so many times through these 5 books, and every time it was restored something else would happen. It was an amazing roller-coaster ride of emotions that left me smiling, nearly in tears, laughing out loud, and talking out loud to the pages before me one chapter to the next. I cannot recommend this series enough and have only good things to say. I am typically a very fast reader but it took me 2 weeks to read all 5 books. I would find myself reading till 3 in the morning only to stop at a moment of heartbreak in the story and the pull on my own emotions would have me taking a day away from the books before I could read on to what would come next. As I neared the end I also found myself reading a chapter then trying to busy myself with another chore or task just to draw out what time I had left with Vallah, Aldrik, and all their companions. I didn't want it to end. Now I am sure my next read will be the Vortex Chronicles as I am not yet ready to end my time with the Solaris Empire and as Vi said, "The Vortex still spins."
November 4, 2021
What a wonderful read.
I rated this book 4stars in what I consider the fantasy romance genre. The romance is hot enough to make your heart beat for the characters but oh there is so much more in this book set. Character growth is fantastic and realistic and the other non-romantic relationships in the series are just as special as the romantic relationships. As always upon finishing a great series I am left feeling wrecked at what to read next, and not capable of letting these characters go quite yet.
I rated this book 4stars in what I consider the fantasy romance genre. The romance is hot enough to make your heart beat for the characters but oh there is so much more in this book set. Character growth is fantastic and realistic and the other non-romantic relationships in the series are just as special as the romantic relationships. As always upon finishing a great series I am left feeling wrecked at what to read next, and not capable of letting these characters go quite yet.
September 21, 2025
An entire series, free to read with Kindle, and I couldn’t get past the first book without skimming through it. There was a lot of telling, not showing; to be fair, I do that, too, some people like it and others don’t; looks like I don’t particularly like over explanations even though I write them. Also, it was hella boring.
Update: I’ve recently read all of the books, and honestly forgot I attempted to read them before. I’m gonna keep this review; “blast” from the past. The update review will be found on the individual books.
Update: I’ve recently read all of the books, and honestly forgot I attempted to read them before. I’m gonna keep this review; “blast” from the past. The update review will be found on the individual books.
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