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The Arc of Radiance is failing, and the kingdom must unite if it is going to survive...

Owyn and Zara, both serving the interests of their orders, reunite to find themselves in the service of the king himself. However, not everything is as it seems in the royal palace.

Dunmar City, the hidden stronghold of the Nightingales, awaits them as they attempt to broker peace. The survival of the human race depends on their success - if they fail, the civil war will be but an echo of what is to come...

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About the author

Blake Arthur Peel

21 books73 followers
Blake Arthur Peel has been coming up with stories ever since he was a kid. He inflicted his scribblings on family members and friends throughout his youth, always drawing maps in the back of notebooks and daydreaming when he probably should have been paying attention. It wasn’t until he was out of college that he finally decided to get serious about pursuing his career as a fantasy author.

His favorite stories have always been about good conquering evil, about fantastic worlds and wondrous magic systems. The works that have most inspired him are The Lord of the Rings, The Dragonlance Chronicles, The Riftwar Saga, The Stormlight Archive, and The Wheel of Time, among many others.

Blake was born and raised in Hemet, California. He loves playing games, being outside, and spending time with his wife and two sons.

Follow him at facebook.com/blakearthurpeel

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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Jas.
1,026 reviews
August 18, 2024
The story picks up not long after the events of book 2, in which Zara thwarted the plans of the Harbingers through a series of very cunning, daring, and oft, just very lucky events. Not only did she stop the assassination of the High Magus, but she also worked out other aspects of their plans and stopped that as well, alerting members of the Conclave to what was happening. At the start of War Echoes, we find Zara being spoken to about her actions, and, as a result of them, being raised to the level of Seeker by the High Magus Sylvania. She also receives a summons to come before the King.
Meanwhile, Owyn is still coming to terms with the events from the previous book, in which he was pivotal in uncovering that the Master Warden was actually under the control of the Demons, and that Advisor Creed had been taking money to act against the Rangers Oath, and killing in cold blood, causing unrest in the North. If it were not for Owyn and First Warden Tamara, this would never have been uncovered, and as it was, many Rangers died, and, unfortunately, an entire village of unarmed women and children were slain by Creed before he could be stopped.
Tamara has now been named Master Warden in a vote of the Rangers, to replace Thorne now he is dead. Elias is still missing, and Owyn has been summoned before the King. Talon has said since he has no master, he will go with Owyn, and Master Warden Tamara, in her new position, gives them her approval, as well as a Ranger guard.
As with the other books, the story is told from the point of view of Owyn and Zara. The two of them meet to see the King, and from there, are told to go and meet with the Nightingales, to try and bring them into the fold, as the kingdom will need all the warriors it has to survive the Demon threat. To assist them, they are provided with someone who used to be a Nightingale to take them to Dunmar City and meet the Protector.
This is a fascinating book, one with a lot of treachery, deception, mystery, and some outstanding character interplay. The Political scheming that is going on, between the King, the Nightingales, the Rangers, and the Conclave is incredibly complex, as each is not only trying to vie for power, but also try to make sure that someone else does not wipe them out. It is a very strategic game, in that each of the major players is not strong enough to rule the Kingdom on its own, each of them needs at least 1 other Party, preferably two. What started out initially with the King having both the Rangers and the Conclave under his banner has quickly changed, and they have become separate entities on their own, each of them a powerful entity within their own right. And suddenly the entire Kingdom has become unstable at a time when it needs to be at its most stable, right when the threat from the R’laar is at its greatest.
Owyn and Zara head off to Dunmar city, with a small force, including a pompous knight who works for the King. It is here that the character work is really exceptional, as we get to learn (without giving too much away), more about Owyn’s past, and how the Nightingale’s have impacted on it, and how he really struggles between having such strong prejudice, but also his loyalties to not only the Rangers, but to Zara as well. For Zara is not just a powerful and clever Magus, she is also a skilled diplomat, her high intelligence allows her to see things others do not, and she uses these to her (and her friends) best advantage.
In Dunmar City, there are all sorts of fascinating things that happen that make this a really intriguing story, one that is not just great for the story arc, but it is really good for the development of the main characters as well.
Overall, this is an outstanding addition to the series in that it sets up the next book brilliantly, but it also does a wonderful job of developing both the characters and the world around them. This is a must read for those that are into the series, and for those thinking about it, the quality of this book will make you want to get into the series.
Profile Image for OldBird.
1,837 reviews
April 7, 2021
This is a young adult fantasy series that only gets better. A middle book is always a tricky proposition - is there enough plot to go round? Will the characters grow in a realistic way? And most importantly, is it still exciting to read? The answer when it comes to this book is yes to all three.

Both Owyn and Zara have made some dark discoveries at the heart of the orders, but thankfully they and their new allies have managed to stop them... For now at least. With the Mages and Rangers occupied with the fallout and the threat of the demons still kept under wraps, our two young heroes are summoned to the court of King Aethelgar. He wants to propose a truce with the rebels known as the Nightingales, and believes that they should be the the ones to deliver the message in person. Even with the return of old friends and the promise of new allies, Dunmer City is fraught with danger - and betrayal.

Oh, how I didn't see some of those twists coming. Some were really surprising, others maybe not given the circumstances, but they all make perfect sense and really draw you in to the story. The pacing is quite slow, but never felt like a drag to read. I couldn't wait to find out just what challenges the rebel enclave was going to hold for Zara and Owyn, especially now that they've been reunited and have Talon along as the perfect laddish companion. His humour helps to balance out our lead characters' serious natures. I'm also glad to see the return of Elias and to find out what he's been up to.

Another thing I love is the setting. While the previous book looked at the rangers and mages factions, here we see the opulence of the much mentioned monarchy and the mysterious stronghold of the rebels who stand against his heavy-handed excess. Dunmer City is one of those wonderful fantasy settings that this series has always done so well; vivid and beautifully imagined.

These two kids attract trouble, but it pales in comparison to what's in store if that ending's anything to go by. It wrapped up so beautifully, but that hook... I'm going to be waiting with baited breath!

-I received an ARC copy of this ebook from the author-

Profile Image for Jas.
1,026 reviews
September 21, 2020
The story picks up not long after the events of book 2, in which Zara thwarted the plans of the Harbingers through a series of very cunning, daring, and oft, just very lucky events. Not only did she stop the assassination of the High Magus, but she also worked out other aspects of their plans and stopped that as well, alerting members of the Conclave to what was happening. At the start of War Echoes, we find Zara being spoken to about her actions, and, as a result of them, being raised to the level of Seeker by the High Magus Sylvania. She also receives a summons to come before the King.
Meanwhile, Owyn is still coming to terms with the events from the previous book, in which he was pivotal in uncovering that the Master Warden was actually under the control of the Demons, and that Advisor Creed had been taking money to act against the Rangers Oath, and killing in cold blood, causing unrest in the North. If it were not for Owyn and First Warden Tamara, this would never have been uncovered, and as it was, many Rangers died, and, unfortunately, an entire village of unarmed women and children were slain by Creed before he could be stopped.
Tamara has now been named Master Warden in a vote of the Rangers, to replace Thorne now he is dead. Elias is still missing, and Owyn has been summoned before the King. Talon has said since he has no master, he will go with Owyn, and Master Warden Tamara, in her new position, gives them her approval, as well as a Ranger guard.
As with the other books, the story is told from the point of view of Owyn and Zara. The two of them meet to see the King, and from there, are told to go and meet with the Nightingales, to try and bring them into the fold, as the kingdom will need all the warriors it has to survive the Demon threat. To assist them, they are provided with someone who used to be a Nightingale to take them to Dunmar City and meet the Protector.
This is a fascinating book, one with a lot of treachery, deception, mystery, and some outstanding character interplay. The Political scheming that is going on, between the King, the Nightingales, the Rangers, and the Conclave is incredibly complex, as each is not only trying to vie for power, but also try to make sure that someone else does not wipe them out. It is a very strategic game, in that each of the major players is not strong enough to rule the Kingdom on its own, each of them needs at least 1 other Party, preferably two. What started out initially with the King having both the Rangers and the Conclave under his banner has quickly changed, and they have become separate entities on their own, each of them a powerful entity within their own right. And suddenly the entire Kingdom has become unstable at a time when it needs to be at its most stable, right when the threat from the R’laar is at its greatest.
Owyn and Zara head off to Dunmar city, with a small force, including a pompous knight who works for the King. It is here that the character work is really exceptional, as we get to learn (without giving too much away), more about Owyn’s past, and how the Nightingale’s have impacted on it, and how he really struggles between having such strong prejudice, but also his loyalties to not only the Rangers, but to Zara as well. For Zara is not just a powerful and clever Magus, she is also a skilled diplomat, her high intelligence allows her to see things others do not, and she uses these to her (and her friends) best advantage.
In Dunmar City, there are all sorts of fascinating things that happen that make this a really intriguing story, one that is not just great for the story arc, but it is really good for the development of the main characters as well.
Overall, this is an outstanding addition to the series in that it sets up the next book brilliantly, but it also does a wonderful job of developing both the characters and the world around them. This is a must read for those that are into the series, and for those thinking about it, the quality of this book will make you want to get into the series.
73 reviews3 followers
May 3, 2019
Book 3 in the Arc of Radiance series might just be the best one yet. The first two were action packed and filled to the brim with excitement and while book 3 is no different, the way the author has constructed the world and the growth of the characters throughout not just this book but the entire series to this point, makes this the best in the series.

Right from the beginning we are thrown into action. Both Owyn and Zara have a summons delivered to go and have an audience with the King of Tarsynium. The discoveries alone in these first few scenes are enough to grab you by the pants and force you to read further. There is no way that I would have seen coming what happens in this interaction. The one thing I loved about the beginning is we can finally start to see the affection the Owyn and Zara have for each other even though they're still in a very awkward, young romance phase and it's fantastic to view from the outside. I loved finally finding out what Elias had been up to and getting reintroduced to his character. We start to see some real emotions from him and I think this really helps his character grow in this story, as well as, helping Owyn grow a bit too as we find out some of his past through Elias which was a wonderful edition. Owyn is a hard headed boy but I think he is finally starting to show what he truly could end up being. We see more of Talon and just how insufferable he really is but at the same time he gives some light heartedness to the whole situation that really adds to the story. I think there is some real promise for this band of three going forward.

The main setting of this story is absolutely amazing, just as the rest of the world that the author has constructed. Between the Emberwood, Dunmar City, and the City of Tarsynium, I don't think there could be better descriptions for where the characters are staying. It is all very vividly imagined and you can really put yourself in the place of the characters and feel like you're actually walking in their shoes. You feel their emotions and you feel their pains.

The battle scenes that we get towards the end are epic! They are exciting, they are fun, they are gripping. It will remind you and put you in the mindset of some of the best fantasy battles in recent memory. There are some really heart stopping scenes and the ending is just amazing. I loved how Owyn, throughout all of his internal struggles, actually did what was right in the end and overcame his hatred.

Overall, I think this was an excellent edition to the series. I would highly encourage you to continue on and read book 3 if you've read the first 2 as the action does not stop. I think the author has set us up for some really amazing things to happen in book 4. I received an ARC of this book from the author and have decided to leave an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Lana.
2,769 reviews59 followers
March 11, 2019
This book 3 in the series must be my very favourite so far, it is a gripping book from start to finish, full of action, awesome battles, lots of treachery and betrayal but also a lot of loyalty and courage. Our heroes Zara and Owyn are summoned by the King who wants to hear their version of the demons they encountered, but also to send them as representatives to broker an alliance with the rebel faction known as the nightingales, so that they can present a united front when facing the R'laar and Asmodeaus the Prince of Darkness who is intent on entering their world and bringing it to its end. The end of days was coming and the Prophet and his zealots were trying their best to make contact with the evil outside the Arc of Radiance, and the arc was failing fast. The world building which went into the description of Dunmar city, the hidden and secured city inside the mountain of the nightingales is nothing if not awesome. One thing I really hated was the fact that Owyn finds it so difficult to let go of his prejudices and his hatred, he is always on the defensive and full of mistrust even of people who have looked out for him forever like Elias who he should know for the righteous man that he always was. However in the end Owyn did all he could to help the nightingales so he quite redeemed himself in my eyes as he showed great courage and perseverance. I had to read this book almost at one go as I just could not put it down especially towards the end and the epilogue makes me cry out for book 4!
Profile Image for Andres Rodriguez.
Author 3 books24 followers
March 1, 2024
The third book of the series felt more filler than relevance. It lacked the main problem which was presented in book one. It also had none of the detective mystery intrigue from book 2. Instead, this book revolved around a battle. I'm sure it was supposed to be a major battle but, majority of the story was a build up with a quick battle, and a sad build up it was.

Profile Image for coolwind.
425 reviews3 followers
May 21, 2022
Frankly I am quite disappointed on this book. Seems too many problems on the plots: 1. Owyn is too stupid in this book on his way dealing with his master, his unreasonable hatred to the rebels, his inaction when he noticed the hidden conversations of king’s men. I think for a novel, the main character can sometimes be blindfolded, but can not be stupid. Otherwise reading the book only gives feeling of frustration. Zara is ok. 2. Elias seems weird. He is obviously taken as an enemy of the king, and yet he doesn’t seems respected or recognized as their own person by rebels. What happens here? 3. This king’s group just get stuck at rebel’s city, the protector doesn’t discuss or make a decision for many days and just let this group freely wander around until bad things happen. What sort of leadership the so call protector has?

The first two books are quite ok. But this third one is a disaster. Let’s see how book 4 works out.
Profile Image for Hrishabh.
351 reviews3 followers
May 2, 2024
The ridiculousness continues

**spoilers**
Zara and Owen are back together.
Elias *surprise, surprise* comes back to take them on a new adventure to the Rebel city.

A kindgom has 2 cities. Rebels control one for generations. Why are they still considered Rebels and not another kindgom?

Rebels capture the king's messengers and show them all the hidden paths to their city. Paths they haven't shown anyone in generations. Brilliant move!

One of the king's spies escapes after killing guards. And the main characters hang out and chill for weeks doing absolutely nothing while waiting for the King's army to come.

Again, the climax is the worst. Talon loses his arm. But just before Owen or Zara can get a scratch on them, Rangers swoop into the hidden, secret fortress (how? They just did) and defeat a much larger force (how? They just did). And the shock and awe of their arrival makes the larger army just give up and surrender. Brilliant!
**spoilers**
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for C.J. Santiago.
479 reviews4 followers
January 7, 2021
Wow....

Owyn and Zara have come together and separated. Elias is something more than what anyone knows. He left Owyn to handle a situation of his own, but he never returned. Talon is the newest addition to Owyns little band of misfits and he fits well. With and Sara are summoned to the king after Owyn discovers that the leader of the rangers is something different. The enemy of the people is closer than they think.

Life will never be the same for this group and when Elias is handed over to them, in chains they finally realize the significance of the situation. The enemy is within. Battles begin, alliances are made. Life ends for so many.

It's an interesting story and I find myself engaging with the characters. It's pretty darned cool.

Read on my friends
Profile Image for Blaine Bentley.
296 reviews
June 19, 2022
This is my least favorite so far. The plot slowed down significantly. It isn’t all a bad thing, but it was quite the change in pace. I do feel with this slower pace, the general build up to the conflict at the end was done a lot better than the other books. However, with the slower plot, it didn’t seem to be as fast of a read as the first two books. 
I think the biggest thing I didn’t like about this book was it felt too much like a subplot. There wasn’t as much going on with the bigger picture conflict in this book, which left me feeling the way I did. 
Overall, it was still quite good, but just didn’t live up to the other two books in my opinion.
147 reviews3 followers
November 4, 2020
Exciting Action, Great Read

As the story continues the excellence in storytelling gets better and better. It’s imperative to have read the two previous books in order to fully attain the excellence of the tale and surmise where it’s going. Artfully told, excellently written, and exciting right up to the conclusion which has provided hours of great enjoyment. I readily recommend this book to anyone who likes great fantasy, exciting action sequences and a bit of mystery all thrown into one woven tale.
Profile Image for BobA707.
821 reviews18 followers
July 2, 2022
Summary: Coming of age, a fairly straight forward premise, at least initially (more to be learnt), interesting magic, reasonable plot, but some convoluted actions to make things work out as needed. Writing is easy and enjoyable, light reading but recommended. Book 3 extends the theme, we learn more ...

Plotline: Fairly straight forward, moves along nicely, engaging the 2 main characters as it does

Premise: Nice little world, lots more to learn

Writing: Descriptive, light, reader is right there in the action

Ending: All good, next book lined up

Pace: Never a dull moment!
Profile Image for Sean Helms.
325 reviews7 followers
May 6, 2021
Thus far, this book was the best of the bunch. The characters showed growth as the rebels were forced to defend their mountain home from the king's army.
One thing the author needs to work on is characters who are purely black and white. The good guys are great and the bad guys are completely without redeeming qualities, and I'm not referring to just the demons.
The good news is that the story has improved from its rocky start.
Profile Image for Pieter van der Ploeg.
103 reviews
May 10, 2024
4 stars for this book....but....

I read books to enjoy and relax, and this whole series met my requirements...until the end.
The end; Was it really necessary to wrap it up like that?
What a downer. Extremely unsatisfactory!!
I bet this was done to p*s people off.
191 reviews1 follower
May 29, 2020
Exciting

This book was without anything else but mindbogling chapter to chapter Around every corner is new adventure and relationships growing and learning about each other
Profile Image for Vaun Fiedler.
215 reviews3 followers
January 1, 2021
War Happens

A corrupt king; self serving, glory seeking military officers: lead to unnecessary war among men. Demons are next... must read!
19 reviews
March 20, 2021
Great read.

I am really enjoying this series. I feel it draws you into the book so you become involved with the characters.
5 reviews1 follower
April 6, 2022
Action Packed

Well written with continuous action. Hard to put down. The characters are well presented and interesting. The background world is well written and detailed ���
Profile Image for Justin Illum.
15 reviews
July 2, 2022
This story line was rough, felt like it was dragging a lot of the time
150 reviews1 follower
February 6, 2024
A good read, another good story. Makes you want to keep on reading to see how it will end.
Profile Image for Olivia Marie Clark.
326 reviews10 followers
September 12, 2018
I love this series. Each book just gets better and better and I find myself just holding my breath to wait and see what comes! The characters are great and well rounded, there’s lots of action and a bit of romance, and of course there’s magic! More than anything, this book reminds me of Lord of the Rings. If the Night’s Watch from Game of Thrones met the Orcs of Mordor from Lord of the Rings, you would have this amazing series!
167 reviews7 followers
October 1, 2018
Just gonna say this is a thrill ride ..the main characters are slowly becoming what you expect them to become and the action and the magic is great and the world building is great...if you haven't read this or his previous two novels then you need to start reading this series now... it's a must read...🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟😀😀
620 reviews18 followers
September 16, 2018
Awesome

Awesome read with treachery abounding while struggles continue within the realms of good versus vengeance among the people and use of magic.
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