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Wilderlore #3
The Ever Storms
Barclay and his friends find new dangers and fresh adventure when they encounter mysterious sandstorms in the Desert in this “engaging, dragon lover’s fantasy” (School Library Journal) that’s the third book of the New York Times bestselling Wilderlore series.
After saving the Sea, Barclay and his fellow apprentices are eager to take part in a new kind of adventure—the Symposium, a set of courses that all apprentices of the Lore Keeper Guild need to pass before they can take their licensing exam. Barclay is excited to travel to the Desert to study at the University of Al Faradh, the most respected school in all the Wilderlands, and to reunite with the new friends he made at the Sea.
He’s slightly less excited about the Tourney, the traditional, good-natured prank war between the various apprentice tracks. As an Elsie, he’s pretty sure he’ll have enough on his hands keeping up with the Symposium without having to worry about stink bombs and slime warfare.
But as mysterious, unnatural sandstorms start to appear around the Desert, there are more than just exams and bragging rights at stake. And the appearance of an exclusive, magical library might just be the key to everything…
After saving the Sea, Barclay and his fellow apprentices are eager to take part in a new kind of adventure—the Symposium, a set of courses that all apprentices of the Lore Keeper Guild need to pass before they can take their licensing exam. Barclay is excited to travel to the Desert to study at the University of Al Faradh, the most respected school in all the Wilderlands, and to reunite with the new friends he made at the Sea.
He’s slightly less excited about the Tourney, the traditional, good-natured prank war between the various apprentice tracks. As an Elsie, he’s pretty sure he’ll have enough on his hands keeping up with the Symposium without having to worry about stink bombs and slime warfare.
But as mysterious, unnatural sandstorms start to appear around the Desert, there are more than just exams and bragging rights at stake. And the appearance of an exclusive, magical library might just be the key to everything…
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2023
96 people are currently reading
1069 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Foody
23 books3,029 followersAmanda Foody is the New York Times, USA Today, and indie bestselling author of All of Us Villains (with C.L. Herman), the Wilderlore series, the Shadow Game series, and more. Her work has appeared in publications including Buzzfeed, Popsugar, Culturess, and Amazon selected All of Us Villains as the Best Young Adult Book of 2021. Originally from Pennsylvania, she lives in Boston, MA with her partner and their orange tabby, Jelly Bean. When not writing, she unironically loves to cook.
The Night Compass, the fourth installment in the Wilderlore series, releases on March 5, 2024. A Fate So Cold, her next novel with C.L. Herman, follows in Fall 2024.
The Night Compass, the fourth installment in the Wilderlore series, releases on March 5, 2024. A Fate So Cold, her next novel with C.L. Herman, follows in Fall 2024.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
December 14, 2022
Y'all are sleeping on the Wilderlore series, I swear. We're 3 books in now and they just keep getting better and BETTER! Barclay and his cohort enter the desert where mysterious storms are sweeping through, but they've got a Symposium to deal with first. Between an age-old prank war, mastering his wind Lore, and rumors of a mystical library, Barclay Thorne has a lot going on. I loved seeing the new apprentices and beasts, plus the riddles and puzzles! This series feels like one giant D&D campaign and I adore it. As time goes on, the books do become slightly darker and just more tense in general, but it really builds a sense of danger that suits the series. And with the ending of this one... trust me, I'm waiting for the next with bated breath.
October 14, 2023
2023 reads: 297/350
this is the third book in the wilderlore series.
barclay and his fellow apprentices are starting their journey with the symposium, a set of courses they need to pass before taking their licensing exam. but as they study at the university of al faradh, they can’t only worry about their courses, but the prank war between apprentices as well. plus, unnatural sandstorms begin to appear around the desert…
i love how each book in this series has its own different environment! the desert was different and came with its own challenges but was still fun to read about. i loved the plot and all of the different relationships between the characters and the animals. eagerly anticipating book four!
this is the third book in the wilderlore series.
barclay and his fellow apprentices are starting their journey with the symposium, a set of courses they need to pass before taking their licensing exam. but as they study at the university of al faradh, they can’t only worry about their courses, but the prank war between apprentices as well. plus, unnatural sandstorms begin to appear around the desert…
i love how each book in this series has its own different environment! the desert was different and came with its own challenges but was still fun to read about. i loved the plot and all of the different relationships between the characters and the animals. eagerly anticipating book four!
January 12, 2026
My kids have all really enjoyed this series... so much so that we're going through it a second time in less than a year!
April 30, 2024
This installment really leaned into the Pokémon vibes and I am HERE for it. :D (wish I’d realized there was a beast index before the book was over. Would’ve been nice to know so I could keep better track of the beasts. Still petitioning for art of all the beasts.)
Magical labyrinthine library, scary sandstorms, an adorable fennec fox with glass lore, prank wars, a Professor Trelawney-esque character (like Perdita from Wizards of Once—maybe I just see Trelawney in everyone?), Viola’s stepdad who rescues and adopts a ton of injured beasts, cool landmarks, strange riddles… where can you go wrong??? At first I thought the labyrinth library part was kind of unresolved and was disappointed but don’t worry, it gets resolved. Just keep reading. Also, I loved how Cecily started off struggling in school but she worked her butt off and ended up doing really well. I’m so proud of her. <3 and I loved Shazi’s bigger role in this book. I love how she controls her prosthesis with her metal lore. (I’m a little scared of her metal scorpion, though.)
WHERE IS MY BOOK FOUR. I NEED MY BOOK FOUR. Also does anyone know what Wilderland book four will be set in??
Edit: BOOK FOUR IS HERE!!!! Tundra time :D
Magical labyrinthine library, scary sandstorms, an adorable fennec fox with glass lore, prank wars, a Professor Trelawney-esque character (like Perdita from Wizards of Once—maybe I just see Trelawney in everyone?), Viola’s stepdad who rescues and adopts a ton of injured beasts, cool landmarks, strange riddles… where can you go wrong??? At first I thought the labyrinth library part was kind of unresolved and was disappointed but don’t worry, it gets resolved. Just keep reading. Also, I loved how Cecily started off struggling in school but she worked her butt off and ended up doing really well. I’m so proud of her. <3 and I loved Shazi’s bigger role in this book. I love how she controls her prosthesis with her metal lore. (I’m a little scared of her metal scorpion, though.)
WHERE IS MY BOOK FOUR. I NEED MY BOOK FOUR. Also does anyone know what Wilderland book four will be set in??
Edit: BOOK FOUR IS HERE!!!! Tundra time :D
August 14, 2023
I didn't like this one as much as the previous two. The first half was introducing a ton of new characters and new beasts, and I felt like the cast was just too big. I kept forgetting who was who and what their Lore was. The second half was good tho, and I will read the next one.
April 3, 2023
Rep: bi mc, Black side characters, side character with ADHD, Arab side character with a prosthetic limb, South Asian side character
March 10, 2023
This third book in the Wilderlore series came off better than The Weeping Tide. The desert setting was immersive, the school was a nice change in pace from the first two books, the world building and magic system are well-thought out and fun. I don't see how this wouldn't be a hit with kids, and it's one of the better MG series I've read in a while.
I liked Cyril's growing role in the series; his growing relationship with the kids, and possible repair of his friendship (or something else, I won't complain if that happens) with Runa.
There is a nice thread of found family throughout the series, and especially in this book, as the kids and their respective teachers get closer together, as most of them either don't have a traditional family or are separated from them frequently.
I did sometimes struggle keeping some of the kids not in the trio straight, though.
I don't know if I'm complaining about this or not, but this first book gave off some Harry Potter vibes, the second one less so, and this one returned to the HP vibes in a strong way. It's not like it's copying it really, cos it is quite a bit different, but for some reason, I can't help but find comparisons between the two.
Bit disappointed that Barclay is interested in both girls and boys, but thankfully on both ends, his interest is very minor and only briefly mentioned a couple times. Not looking forward to seeing this play out in later books, as it seems like they are moving at about 6 months to a year passing by from book to book and teen romance will likely come more into play over the course of the next projected 4 books.
I liked Cyril's growing role in the series; his growing relationship with the kids, and possible repair of his friendship (or something else, I won't complain if that happens) with Runa.
There is a nice thread of found family throughout the series, and especially in this book, as the kids and their respective teachers get closer together, as most of them either don't have a traditional family or are separated from them frequently.
I did sometimes struggle keeping some of the kids not in the trio straight, though.
I don't know if I'm complaining about this or not, but this first book gave off some Harry Potter vibes, the second one less so, and this one returned to the HP vibes in a strong way. It's not like it's copying it really, cos it is quite a bit different, but for some reason, I can't help but find comparisons between the two.
Bit disappointed that Barclay is interested in both girls and boys, but thankfully on both ends, his interest is very minor and only briefly mentioned a couple times. Not looking forward to seeing this play out in later books, as it seems like they are moving at about 6 months to a year passing by from book to book and teen romance will likely come more into play over the course of the next projected 4 books.
May 2, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up. Really enjoying this series full of magic that continues to get more and more interesting as it unfolds even more, the bonds of friendships between both people and beasts and the sense of adventure in the pages. I liked the school setting in this book and discovering the different types of lore keepers broadening this magical world. So much fun and I can’t wait to share with my daughter!
July 11, 2024
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series - The Ever Storms followed the trend and left me excited to see what is next as the crew continues to learn, grow, and go up against a gnarly adversary.
One thing to highlight - I love the amount of intergenerational communication (and also conflict) that is shown in these books. The adults are not simply distant figures who are unchanging throughout the story, but are flawed and evolving people who are wrong at times - and they can also admit this. Very refreshing.
One thing to highlight - I love the amount of intergenerational communication (and also conflict) that is shown in these books. The adults are not simply distant figures who are unchanging throughout the story, but are flawed and evolving people who are wrong at times - and they can also admit this. Very refreshing.
April 2, 2023
My third grader has been loving this series so we had to pick up the new one as soon as it came out and we've been slowly working our way through it over the past two months. I must say this is my least favorite of the three so far and feels like a slight step back from the second installment. The Accidental Apprentice had a cute setup with an easy to follow Pokemon-meets Harry Potter storyline. The Weeping Tide was a huge step forward making the Wilderlore world feel wholly original, introduced new, memorable characters, and made this series seem like one that was really going to stand out in middle grade fantasy.
In The Ever Storms we stick with many of the characters we met in the previous book and add many more - too many - to the point where it became hard to keep them straight. In addition to the apprentices and guardians we'd already gotten to know we add parents (and step-parents), about a half-dozen faculty members, and lots of new students. This meant not only did we not establish much about them, but we got little time with old favorites like Runa or Viola.
This also felt more derivative of Harry Potter than either of the two previous books. The initial setup was Potter-esque with an orphan boy being suddenly integrated into a world of magic he didn't previously know existed, but the second one did a good job creating a new setting that felt original. In The Ever Storms they basically go to Hogwarts to study for their OWLs. Even the villain now has a "special connection" to Barclay because they are both outsiders in the magical world.
I hope the next installment is more like the 2nd book than this one as this still has some excellent writing that kids will love.
In The Ever Storms we stick with many of the characters we met in the previous book and add many more - too many - to the point where it became hard to keep them straight. In addition to the apprentices and guardians we'd already gotten to know we add parents (and step-parents), about a half-dozen faculty members, and lots of new students. This meant not only did we not establish much about them, but we got little time with old favorites like Runa or Viola.
This also felt more derivative of Harry Potter than either of the two previous books. The initial setup was Potter-esque with an orphan boy being suddenly integrated into a world of magic he didn't previously know existed, but the second one did a good job creating a new setting that felt original. In The Ever Storms they basically go to Hogwarts to study for their OWLs. Even the villain now has a "special connection" to Barclay because they are both outsiders in the magical world.
I hope the next installment is more like the 2nd book than this one as this still has some excellent writing that kids will love.
November 11, 2024
As an HP super-fan, I am loving a new magical series with a trio of young heroes and beasts!
May 9, 2025
This series just keeps getting better and better.
It just makes me want to keep going.
Best children’s book series.
It just makes me want to keep going.
Best children’s book series.
February 7, 2025
like around 4.5 stars, I liked it more than the 2nd one, but kinda the same as the first one or I liked the first one slightly more 👍
April 2, 2024
Terminé et j'ai passé un bon moment ! Pour moi, il est un peu en dessous des deux premiers tomes, mais j'ai pris un énorme plaisir à retrouver cette bande d'amis qui ne cesse d'évoluer avec le temps ! Je suis très curieuse de lire le tome 4 et évidemment, je serais au rendez-vous !
February 10, 2023
Amanda Foody is on my list of auto-buy authors. I don’t read a ton of middle grade books, but when she made the leap to that genre a few years ago, I followed her.
This series is an absolute delight. I’ve read all three books, and they only continue to get better. Thirteen-year-old Barclay Thorne is part of a wonderfully diverse cast of characters who include his fellow Lore Keeper Guild apprentices Viola and Tadg. The Beasts they’re bonded to are just as diverse – Root, Barclay’s loyal lufthund, Mitzi, Viola’s sparkly-loving dragon, and Mar-Mar, Tadg’s nathermara.
Barclay and his friends are attending the Symposium, a set of courses all apprentices need to pass before their licensing exam. He’s excited to see friends he made in the previous book, but also nervous about keeping up with his classes. The pranks war among the four apprentice tracks are just a distraction for him – he’s got more serious things to focus on. During the Symposium, dangerous, unnatural sandstorms appear around the Desert. What’s causing them? Who’s behind them? And what’s up with the magical library only certain people can see?
I like how the author includes a more personal theme in each book, and this one is family. Orphaned Barclay feels lonely and left out when the parents of several of his friends make appearances in this story. He has Root, but still misses his parents. Over the course of the story he learns that family isn’t just made of blood, but also the people you choose to include in your life and those who love you. He’s part of a family he didn’t realize he had.
Exciting action sequences, magical powers, magnificent world-building, and loveable characters make this a must read MG series. I enjoy seeing these characters grow and mature with each new book, and I’m thrilled more are coming.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This series is an absolute delight. I’ve read all three books, and they only continue to get better. Thirteen-year-old Barclay Thorne is part of a wonderfully diverse cast of characters who include his fellow Lore Keeper Guild apprentices Viola and Tadg. The Beasts they’re bonded to are just as diverse – Root, Barclay’s loyal lufthund, Mitzi, Viola’s sparkly-loving dragon, and Mar-Mar, Tadg’s nathermara.
Barclay and his friends are attending the Symposium, a set of courses all apprentices need to pass before their licensing exam. He’s excited to see friends he made in the previous book, but also nervous about keeping up with his classes. The pranks war among the four apprentice tracks are just a distraction for him – he’s got more serious things to focus on. During the Symposium, dangerous, unnatural sandstorms appear around the Desert. What’s causing them? Who’s behind them? And what’s up with the magical library only certain people can see?
I like how the author includes a more personal theme in each book, and this one is family. Orphaned Barclay feels lonely and left out when the parents of several of his friends make appearances in this story. He has Root, but still misses his parents. Over the course of the story he learns that family isn’t just made of blood, but also the people you choose to include in your life and those who love you. He’s part of a family he didn’t realize he had.
Exciting action sequences, magical powers, magnificent world-building, and loveable characters make this a must read MG series. I enjoy seeing these characters grow and mature with each new book, and I’m thrilled more are coming.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 14, 2023
Kind characters and a nuanced perspective on human conflict and the impact it has on children, makes this sweet fantasy series one of my favorites. Foody creates more interesting interpersonal conflict than the majority of other books I read. Readers of all ages will love what she is creating.
I think this one has the best pacing of the series so far and I am so excited for the future adventures of Barclay and his found family!
I think this one has the best pacing of the series so far and I am so excited for the future adventures of Barclay and his found family!
April 6, 2023
A step backwards in what has been a fun series so far. Going to school seems completely random and only when the plot demands it. Barkley is bi now too. I was more interested in his coming to terms with not having a family and also not following a villainous path, so this book just seems stuck. The story is at its best when describing creatures.
June 10, 2025
my fav yet I must say
August 29, 2023
This really is a fun and exciting series with totally unique settings, beasts and creatures. It’s fun to see the young characters grow and develop. These are suitable books for any readers.
February 2, 2023
NOTE: I received an ARC through Amanda Foody's newsletter giveaway. Thank you so much Amanda!
The Accidental Apprentice was my first read in 2022. It was only fitting that The Ever Storms was my first read for 2023. Amanda Foody has been an auto buy author for me with her YA novels, but I think I am a bigger fan of her middle grade Wilderlore series! So The Ever Storms has been an anticipated release of mine since I finished The Weeping Tide last year.
It picks up after the adventure at the Sea. Barclay, Viola, and Tadg along with their mentor, Runa, are headed to the Desert for the annual Symposium. There is an awesome school in this story that I would totally love to wander around and underground! However, Runa has a hidden agenda. They are also here because of the unnatural, never-ending storms that are similar to tornados which have randomly erupted and no one knows the why or the how. Runa has her own idea of the who, but can't prove it. After the events at the Sea, we all know who. When they arrive at school, they learn that Cyril is the resident Guardian, so it's heart-warming to see the three apprentices reunite with their friends - Shazi, Hasu, and Cecily. They experience the Symposium and the current dangers of the Desert together. Not only do they learn more about the Wilderlands, but their lore becomes stronger. The relationship between Barclay and Root, Viola and her second beast, and Tadg and Toadles were wonderful to see. The mystery behind the ever storms kept me turning the page, I couldn't put this one down! I would also totally love being lost in the labyrinth of the Libray of Asfour.
The main reason why I love this series is because with each book, we are seeing the characters grow and mature within themselves, their magic, and with each other. More than that, this story contains found families, which is beautiful. Barclay lost his mother and father, but he found his family with Root, his fellow apprentices, and Runa. Tadg lost his father and has had Runa since then, but he is expanding with the others. Viola has her own beautiful mix family along with her apprentices. I was also so excited to learn more about the Grand Keeper, Leopold, and to see the interactions with him and Viola, but also his previous apprentices - Runa and Cyril. It was such a delight to be reacquainted with old characters, learn more about side characters, and meet new characters.
I cannot wait to see where the next adventure leads! (My guess is: we are going to the Jungle!)
The Accidental Apprentice was my first read in 2022. It was only fitting that The Ever Storms was my first read for 2023. Amanda Foody has been an auto buy author for me with her YA novels, but I think I am a bigger fan of her middle grade Wilderlore series! So The Ever Storms has been an anticipated release of mine since I finished The Weeping Tide last year.
It picks up after the adventure at the Sea. Barclay, Viola, and Tadg along with their mentor, Runa, are headed to the Desert for the annual Symposium. There is an awesome school in this story that I would totally love to wander around and underground! However, Runa has a hidden agenda. They are also here because of the unnatural, never-ending storms that are similar to tornados which have randomly erupted and no one knows the why or the how. Runa has her own idea of the who, but can't prove it. After the events at the Sea, we all know who. When they arrive at school, they learn that Cyril is the resident Guardian, so it's heart-warming to see the three apprentices reunite with their friends - Shazi, Hasu, and Cecily. They experience the Symposium and the current dangers of the Desert together. Not only do they learn more about the Wilderlands, but their lore becomes stronger. The relationship between Barclay and Root, Viola and her second beast, and Tadg and Toadles were wonderful to see. The mystery behind the ever storms kept me turning the page, I couldn't put this one down! I would also totally love being lost in the labyrinth of the Libray of Asfour.
The main reason why I love this series is because with each book, we are seeing the characters grow and mature within themselves, their magic, and with each other. More than that, this story contains found families, which is beautiful. Barclay lost his mother and father, but he found his family with Root, his fellow apprentices, and Runa. Tadg lost his father and has had Runa since then, but he is expanding with the others. Viola has her own beautiful mix family along with her apprentices. I was also so excited to learn more about the Grand Keeper, Leopold, and to see the interactions with him and Viola, but also his previous apprentices - Runa and Cyril. It was such a delight to be reacquainted with old characters, learn more about side characters, and meet new characters.
I cannot wait to see where the next adventure leads! (My guess is: we are going to the Jungle!)
April 10, 2023
Love this world - this story - though this one did feel a bit too Harry Potter for me - even the kids pointed it out - all the parallels (even solving puzzles with all the keys, the villain with a special connection, studying for exams, pranks, a ). But my favorite part was the library - I mean a library that appears to those who are worthy with riddles to solve to enter? Yes, please. And I could just listen to the little sand cat and her . Barclay's continued journey, the deeper unraveling of his trauma from losing his parents feels authentic and adds to the character development. I can't wait to see how this series continues. (We listened to the audio book of this).
October 17, 2021
This is my favorite ongoing middle grade series! Each book gets better and better <3
December 17, 2025
Asher and I both agree that this series is a bit redundant, so we're going to hold off a while before reading #4.
April 1, 2023
🌄⌛🌵The Ever Storms🌵⏳🌄
3.5 Stars
Barclay and his friends are now visiting the Desert. Viola is hoping she will bond with one of the powerful mythical creatures from the Desert. As the apprentices of Runa attend a boarding school filled with apprentices from all over Wilderland, the Tourney begins. The Tourney is a competition of wits and skill where the apprentices play pranks on each other using their Lore and tricks. Barclay worries he won't be able to keep up being one of the few Elsie's. Soon his attention is diverted elsewhere when he discovers a library that only allows a select few inside. Inside the library lie clues and messengers sent by the enemy, who hopes to bring Barclay to his side. When a man and his apprentice, who used to be Barclay's friend, set out to bond with one of the strongest beasts. It's up to the apprentices to stop their plans, but will they be able to reach Shakulah in time?
The Ever Storms was an atmospheric and exciting addition to the Wilderlore series. I've read one book from this series each year, and I stick to my claim that this series could be the next Harry Potter. Amanda Foody crafts such atmospheric and gripping settings. The first book was set in a forest lush with creatures and plants. The second book takes place near or in the sea with sea creatures that are elusive and mystical. The third book takes place in the desert, with shifting sand dunes and powerful sand storms. I must admit the sand setting was my least favourite in general because deserts aren't places I like. I still loved getting lost in this story.
Amanda Foody's ability to craft a world is phenomenal. The world-building is detailed and easy to understand despite the loads of information that the reader learns. The creatures, places, magic system, and character relationships are some of the easiest-to-understand pieces of information because of the way she writes them. I love all the mythical creatures, as well as the concept of bonding with them. Barclay is an Elsie, someone who has little knowledge of magic and the magic system and lives outside of the Wilderlands among people who hate those who use magic. As he grows to love this new world he discovers, the reader gets to explore this new world as well.
The first half of the story was a lot more about the Tourney. It was interesting to see the bigger overall conflict get introduced near the end of the story. I prefer a story with big stakes the whole way, but this book had a lot more of a boarding school, playing tricks, and doing tests vibe to it. It was quite fun to see Barclay study for tests and study in class. The ending was satisfying, and the relationship between Cyril and Runa was interesting. I enjoyed how this book tied characters from books two and three together. I loved the interesting dynamic between Yasha and Barclay.
In conclusion, I am excited to continue reading this series as each book comes out.
✅PLOT
✅PLOT TWISTS
✅CHARACTERS
3.5 Stars
Barclay and his friends are now visiting the Desert. Viola is hoping she will bond with one of the powerful mythical creatures from the Desert. As the apprentices of Runa attend a boarding school filled with apprentices from all over Wilderland, the Tourney begins. The Tourney is a competition of wits and skill where the apprentices play pranks on each other using their Lore and tricks. Barclay worries he won't be able to keep up being one of the few Elsie's. Soon his attention is diverted elsewhere when he discovers a library that only allows a select few inside. Inside the library lie clues and messengers sent by the enemy, who hopes to bring Barclay to his side. When a man and his apprentice, who used to be Barclay's friend, set out to bond with one of the strongest beasts. It's up to the apprentices to stop their plans, but will they be able to reach Shakulah in time?
The Ever Storms was an atmospheric and exciting addition to the Wilderlore series. I've read one book from this series each year, and I stick to my claim that this series could be the next Harry Potter. Amanda Foody crafts such atmospheric and gripping settings. The first book was set in a forest lush with creatures and plants. The second book takes place near or in the sea with sea creatures that are elusive and mystical. The third book takes place in the desert, with shifting sand dunes and powerful sand storms. I must admit the sand setting was my least favourite in general because deserts aren't places I like. I still loved getting lost in this story.
Amanda Foody's ability to craft a world is phenomenal. The world-building is detailed and easy to understand despite the loads of information that the reader learns. The creatures, places, magic system, and character relationships are some of the easiest-to-understand pieces of information because of the way she writes them. I love all the mythical creatures, as well as the concept of bonding with them. Barclay is an Elsie, someone who has little knowledge of magic and the magic system and lives outside of the Wilderlands among people who hate those who use magic. As he grows to love this new world he discovers, the reader gets to explore this new world as well.
The first half of the story was a lot more about the Tourney. It was interesting to see the bigger overall conflict get introduced near the end of the story. I prefer a story with big stakes the whole way, but this book had a lot more of a boarding school, playing tricks, and doing tests vibe to it. It was quite fun to see Barclay study for tests and study in class. The ending was satisfying, and the relationship between Cyril and Runa was interesting. I enjoyed how this book tied characters from books two and three together. I loved the interesting dynamic between Yasha and Barclay.
In conclusion, I am excited to continue reading this series as each book comes out.
✅PLOT
✅PLOT TWISTS
✅CHARACTERS
January 11, 2026
🏜️ Wilderlore #3 – The Ever Storms by Amanda Foody 🏜️
✨ What to Expect ✨
📚 Academic trials & licensing pressure 🏜️ A richly imagined desert biome 🌪️ Unnatural sandstorms & rising stakes 😄 Playful rivalries and prank-filled chaos 🐉 New beasts, upgraded lores & legendary creatures 🗝️ A mysterious, labyrinthine magical library 🤝 Friendship, growth, and quietly evolving relationships
📖 Synopsis
After saving the Sea, Barclay and his fellow apprentices step into a new chapter of their journey—the Symposium, a series of rigorous courses required by the Lore Keeper Guild before the licensing exam. Barclay is thrilled to travel to the Desert and study at the prestigious University of Al Faradh, the most respected institution in the Wilderlands, and to reunite with friends he met at the Sea.
What he’s less thrilled about? The Tourney—a long-standing, supposedly good-natured prank war between apprentice tracks. As an Elsie, Barclay already has his hands full surviving the Symposium, without adding stink bombs and slime warfare to the mix.
But when mysterious, unnatural sandstorms begin sweeping the Desert, it becomes clear that far more than grades and bragging rights are at stake. And the sudden emergence of an exclusive, magical library may hold the key to everything…
🌟 Review
This was such a fun and rewarding third installment. Wilderlore is one of those rare series I eagerly wait for, and it has yet to disappoint. The world-building continues to be exceptional—so many Wilderlands, so many biomes, each brimming with atmosphere, and the desert setting here is spot-on.
The architectural elements are breathtaking: floating aqueducts, carrier dragons, and beasts that feel like a full evolutionary upgrade. The Tourney adds a brilliant comedic layer, introducing a wave of new characters and fascinating beast lores. The labyrinthine library, steeped in secrets and unspoken dangers, was an absolute highlight. And the legendary beast Shakulah? Utterly unforgettable—from its chilling presence to the laugh that predestines death, and its illusion-based lore. Spine-tingling.
Barclay’s growth really shines in this book, alongside Root. Viola and Tadg remain the same steadfast, wonderful friends. Watching Runa Asgar and Cyril Harrow’s relationship develop—inch by inch—was deeply satisfying. New additions like Hasu, Shazi (the chancellor’s daughter), and Cecily are brave, endearing, and instantly lovable.
Simply put: I loved this book.
⭐ Rating
5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✨ What to Expect ✨
📚 Academic trials & licensing pressure 🏜️ A richly imagined desert biome 🌪️ Unnatural sandstorms & rising stakes 😄 Playful rivalries and prank-filled chaos 🐉 New beasts, upgraded lores & legendary creatures 🗝️ A mysterious, labyrinthine magical library 🤝 Friendship, growth, and quietly evolving relationships
📖 Synopsis
After saving the Sea, Barclay and his fellow apprentices step into a new chapter of their journey—the Symposium, a series of rigorous courses required by the Lore Keeper Guild before the licensing exam. Barclay is thrilled to travel to the Desert and study at the prestigious University of Al Faradh, the most respected institution in the Wilderlands, and to reunite with friends he met at the Sea.
What he’s less thrilled about? The Tourney—a long-standing, supposedly good-natured prank war between apprentice tracks. As an Elsie, Barclay already has his hands full surviving the Symposium, without adding stink bombs and slime warfare to the mix.
But when mysterious, unnatural sandstorms begin sweeping the Desert, it becomes clear that far more than grades and bragging rights are at stake. And the sudden emergence of an exclusive, magical library may hold the key to everything…
🌟 Review
This was such a fun and rewarding third installment. Wilderlore is one of those rare series I eagerly wait for, and it has yet to disappoint. The world-building continues to be exceptional—so many Wilderlands, so many biomes, each brimming with atmosphere, and the desert setting here is spot-on.
The architectural elements are breathtaking: floating aqueducts, carrier dragons, and beasts that feel like a full evolutionary upgrade. The Tourney adds a brilliant comedic layer, introducing a wave of new characters and fascinating beast lores. The labyrinthine library, steeped in secrets and unspoken dangers, was an absolute highlight. And the legendary beast Shakulah? Utterly unforgettable—from its chilling presence to the laugh that predestines death, and its illusion-based lore. Spine-tingling.
Barclay’s growth really shines in this book, alongside Root. Viola and Tadg remain the same steadfast, wonderful friends. Watching Runa Asgar and Cyril Harrow’s relationship develop—inch by inch—was deeply satisfying. New additions like Hasu, Shazi (the chancellor’s daughter), and Cecily are brave, endearing, and instantly lovable.
Simply put: I loved this book.
⭐ Rating
5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
December 21, 2023
Moving on to the third Wilderlore book, this one finds our heroes and their friends in the Desert, with a whole different direction but still full of dangers, adventures and mystery. So how was it?
Overall, this was another fun and enjoyable one. I was surprised by the time skip between last book and this one, and the desert setting as well as Barclay and friends now having to go to school for their next step into their journey as Lore Keepers was a welcome addition to this world building, it was cool having a different setting and end goal. We got new dangers and mysteries as well, wih the Ever Storms being an intriguing concept, and we also get new characters that I liked, especially Viola's family and other Lore Keeper youths.
Unfortunately, there was a downside to the book, in that I feel it tried to have too many things and do too much, and as such, some stuff felt rather ncomplete. There was still fun action, but not as much as in the first two books, and thus, not as engaging. This also meant that a bunch of characters went very underutilized, especially the Beasts and the new kids. It was still nice to see the Beasts around and display a bit more personality, but it still doesn't feel like they get enough, which is a bummer since they're the main draw of the whole thing for me, the bond between the Lore Keepers and their Beasts, but the Beasts feel quite underutilized when compared to the human characters. Then there were the new kids, and while we got to know Rohan decently well, we barely got to learn anything about Deirdre, Zenzi and Fen, plus we barely got a glimpse of each of their Beasts, and we weren't even shown each one's Lore except for Rohan's, and it's especially rough when we don't even know if we'll ever see these new kids again in future books.
Overall, I quite liked this book, and the series remains strong, but because of trying to do too much, and interesting new characters not getting enough time to shine, I feel I have to rate this a 4 instead of a 5 like I did the first two books. Still very enjoyable, though, and I'm looking forward to the 4th book.
Overall, this was another fun and enjoyable one. I was surprised by the time skip between last book and this one, and the desert setting as well as Barclay and friends now having to go to school for their next step into their journey as Lore Keepers was a welcome addition to this world building, it was cool having a different setting and end goal. We got new dangers and mysteries as well, wih the Ever Storms being an intriguing concept, and we also get new characters that I liked, especially Viola's family and other Lore Keeper youths.
Unfortunately, there was a downside to the book, in that I feel it tried to have too many things and do too much, and as such, some stuff felt rather ncomplete. There was still fun action, but not as much as in the first two books, and thus, not as engaging. This also meant that a bunch of characters went very underutilized, especially the Beasts and the new kids. It was still nice to see the Beasts around and display a bit more personality, but it still doesn't feel like they get enough, which is a bummer since they're the main draw of the whole thing for me, the bond between the Lore Keepers and their Beasts, but the Beasts feel quite underutilized when compared to the human characters. Then there were the new kids, and while we got to know Rohan decently well, we barely got to learn anything about Deirdre, Zenzi and Fen, plus we barely got a glimpse of each of their Beasts, and we weren't even shown each one's Lore except for Rohan's, and it's especially rough when we don't even know if we'll ever see these new kids again in future books.
Overall, I quite liked this book, and the series remains strong, but because of trying to do too much, and interesting new characters not getting enough time to shine, I feel I have to rate this a 4 instead of a 5 like I did the first two books. Still very enjoyable, though, and I'm looking forward to the 4th book.
September 19, 2023
Runa's apprentices, Barclay, Viola, and Madg, are headed for their first Symposium. They will get more formal education that will eventually lead to them being guild-licensed in a few years...if they can pass the exams. Barclay is worried that being from the Elsewheres puts him at a huge disadvantage and he's studying like mad. Viola is much more interested in the unofficial prank competition between the different branches of study called the Tourney. But strange dust storms in the Desert are causing problems and Barclay, Runa, and others are concerned it could be a sign that Keyes is in the area trying to bond to another beast and grow his powers.
It was fun to take the apprentices to a magical boarding school for a while in this book. The apprentices get to meet up with some old friends their ages and make some new ones. The Ever Storms present an interesting mystery and problem to be tackled, and being in the capitol allows Foody to flesh out more of the political situation in the world (and we get to meet Viola's family). Overall, this is a fun fantasy adventure that continues to build the world of Wilderlore.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. There are some magic battles but no one is permanently hurt badly.
It was fun to take the apprentices to a magical boarding school for a while in this book. The apprentices get to meet up with some old friends their ages and make some new ones. The Ever Storms present an interesting mystery and problem to be tackled, and being in the capitol allows Foody to flesh out more of the political situation in the world (and we get to meet Viola's family). Overall, this is a fun fantasy adventure that continues to build the world of Wilderlore.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. There are some magic battles but no one is permanently hurt badly.
March 24, 2026
This was a very enjoyable read! This time, Barclay and is fellow apprentices enroll in a school in a big city in the middle of the desert section of the Wilderlands. Their whole goal is to study to pass the exams (which is one step closer to getting their license) and to refine their skills as they work with their beasts. Of course, there is also something called the Tourney which is basically about who can pull the biggest prank. And while all of this is happening, something dangerous and puzzling is afoot. Never ending storms (ever storms) keep popping up in the desert and they don’t know why.
I thought this was well written and fun. I enjoyed meeting new apprentices and beats, and getting to know other characters better. The personality of the desert and its beasts was an enjoyable learning experience as well. I’m always a fan of mysterious libraries, so that was a plus too.
For those who might be curious about these things:
Barclay might have a crush on someone this time but it is hardly mentioned and nothing is pursued. That’s as much romance as you’ll get with this book.
Barclay continues write letters back home and that librarian going home to her wife is mentioned again. It’s only once and you can treat it as a typo if desired. It’s somewhere in the middle of the book.
No inappropriate language.
While there is action and people get hurt occasionally, nothing is super descriptive, disgusting, or gory.
I thought this was well written and fun. I enjoyed meeting new apprentices and beats, and getting to know other characters better. The personality of the desert and its beasts was an enjoyable learning experience as well. I’m always a fan of mysterious libraries, so that was a plus too.
For those who might be curious about these things:
Barclay might have a crush on someone this time but it is hardly mentioned and nothing is pursued. That’s as much romance as you’ll get with this book.
Barclay continues write letters back home and that librarian going home to her wife is mentioned again. It’s only once and you can treat it as a typo if desired. It’s somewhere in the middle of the book.
No inappropriate language.
While there is action and people get hurt occasionally, nothing is super descriptive, disgusting, or gory.
August 12, 2024
I am trying to shake my irritation that (on purpose, I'm sure) this reminds me so much of Pokemon (or Digimon, Neopets, whatever other similar thing you want to compare it to), but aside from that, I really like it! Actually, it's exactly because of that similarity that I think this series would make an excellent comic book, video game, or animated series.
The characters have a surprising amount of depth and I really appreciate how the adult characters are just as conflicted and complex as the kids. (I mean, in reality, of course adults are generally more complex than kids, simply because maturity and time add complexity, but in terms of characters in YA novels, adults are frequently just plot elements, not fully fledged characters.) There's a lot of empathy in these books in general; the main character frequently makes mistakes with fellow humans, or observes other people making them, and nobody is a black and white type of character. Even the villains have depth and internal conflict. I'm actually most irritated that clearly I won't get to know the end of this story for at least 3 more years, and that sucks.
The characters have a surprising amount of depth and I really appreciate how the adult characters are just as conflicted and complex as the kids. (I mean, in reality, of course adults are generally more complex than kids, simply because maturity and time add complexity, but in terms of characters in YA novels, adults are frequently just plot elements, not fully fledged characters.) There's a lot of empathy in these books in general; the main character frequently makes mistakes with fellow humans, or observes other people making them, and nobody is a black and white type of character. Even the villains have depth and internal conflict. I'm actually most irritated that clearly I won't get to know the end of this story for at least 3 more years, and that sucks.
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