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The Firebird Chronicles #4
Facets of Revolution
The line between loyalty and betrayal has never been so fine.
Chasing the trail of the woman who was once considered her best friend, Kira Forrest returns to the planet of her birth. When a near deadly incident jeopardizes her arrival, Kira will find the secrets she’s worked so hard to hide bubbling to the surface one by one.
Her only hope to control her destiny and protect the ones she loves is to embark on a dangerous rite of passage that may require far more of her than she’s willing to pay. For a hidden menace stalks her from the shadows—it's target those closest to her.
With the help of her lover and the allies she's made, Kira will have to fight for her future—and her past.
A reckoning is coming. The Phoenix will have to rise from her ashes to decide once and for all where she belongs.
Chasing the trail of the woman who was once considered her best friend, Kira Forrest returns to the planet of her birth. When a near deadly incident jeopardizes her arrival, Kira will find the secrets she’s worked so hard to hide bubbling to the surface one by one.
Her only hope to control her destiny and protect the ones she loves is to embark on a dangerous rite of passage that may require far more of her than she’s willing to pay. For a hidden menace stalks her from the shadows—it's target those closest to her.
With the help of her lover and the allies she's made, Kira will have to fight for her future—and her past.
A reckoning is coming. The Phoenix will have to rise from her ashes to decide once and for all where she belongs.
499 pages, Paperback
First published September 27, 2022
279 people are currently reading
1720 people want to read
About the author
T.A. White
25 books3,569 followersWriting is my first love. Even before I could read or put coherent sentences down on paper, I would beg the older kids to team up with me for the purpose of crafting ghost stories to share with our friends. This first writing partnership came to a tragic end when my coauthor decided to quit a day later, and I threw my cookies at her head. Today, I stick with solo writing, telling the stories that would otherwise keep me up at night.
Most days (and nights) are spent feeding my tea addiction while defending the computer keyboard from my feline companion, Loki, who would like to try her paw at typing.
Most days (and nights) are spent feeding my tea addiction while defending the computer keyboard from my feline companion, Loki, who would like to try her paw at typing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 476 reviews
October 18, 2022
4.5 stars
I was so unimpressed by the previous book that I was nervous this series was going down hill. I am thrilled to report I was dead wrong about that. This book was fantastic and this series is back to being everything I love about it: Constant page turning action. Funny banter. Surprisingly deep secondary character development. Romance. Big reveals. An overarching plot that just keeps getting better with each new twist.
Was this book perfect? No. I’m still not sure how/why some things happened (major spoiler warning! ) But in some ways these unanswered questions just makes me want to read the next book even more whenever it comes out.
I was so unimpressed by the previous book that I was nervous this series was going down hill. I am thrilled to report I was dead wrong about that. This book was fantastic and this series is back to being everything I love about it: Constant page turning action. Funny banter. Surprisingly deep secondary character development. Romance. Big reveals. An overarching plot that just keeps getting better with each new twist.
Was this book perfect? No. I’m still not sure how/why some things happened (major spoiler warning! ) But in some ways these unanswered questions just makes me want to read the next book even more whenever it comes out.
January 8, 2026
EPIC!!! I am so in love with this series. Every time I start a new book, I just want to devour it. I also want to slow down because I don't want it to end.
I honestly don't know how this series has not reached more readers. I'm completely baffled because of how amazing this series is. If you are ever going to listen to anything I say in a review, it needs to be this....read this series. It's epically amazing!
I won't keep repeating what I love some much about Kira, Graydon and all the many side characters. You can see that in my review of the first book. What I will say is it keeps getting better and better. This author must be a magician because I don't know how she keeps topping her brilliance with each new book.
We learn more in this book and yet there is still more to come. I seriously can not wait. If I could ever dive into a world created, it would be this one. Amazing! Simply amazing!
I honestly don't know how this series has not reached more readers. I'm completely baffled because of how amazing this series is. If you are ever going to listen to anything I say in a review, it needs to be this....read this series. It's epically amazing!
I won't keep repeating what I love some much about Kira, Graydon and all the many side characters. You can see that in my review of the first book. What I will say is it keeps getting better and better. This author must be a magician because I don't know how she keeps topping her brilliance with each new book.
We learn more in this book and yet there is still more to come. I seriously can not wait. If I could ever dive into a world created, it would be this one. Amazing! Simply amazing!
February 13, 2024
(I apologize if these updates are annoying. I'm just desperate to get my hands on THIS book and can't help but share the wonderful news 🤪❤️)
‼️WE HAVE A DATE‼️ I REPEAT‼️ WE HAVE A DATE‼️
‼️September 27, 2022‼️
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
OH MY GOSH!!! WE HAVE A COVER!!! 😱
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
🤩😍🤩 From T.A. White's FB page 🤩😍🤩
( 8/10/22)
Blurb is written. Cover is done. Finn's short is written. Now, I need to start addressing some of those edits.
(Seriously!!! I can't stop trolling T.A. White's FB page and Blog. This is getting ridiculous 😅
ME:
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
‼️🥳🧨🎉 Draft End 🎉🧨🥳‼️
From T.A. White's blog:
(Monday, July 18, 2022)
"Facebook and Twitter people already know that I finished the second draft of Firebird 4 on Friday. I probably should have announced that via the blog as well but I was so exhausted I pretty much shut down for an entire weekend. Literally--I did nothing.
The book tops out at 146,071 words. 5600 of them were written on Friday. By the time I typed the last word my wrists, elbows, and shoulders were telling me they were also done.
Before you get too excited and think Firebird 4 is coming out next week, you should know it still needs one more pass before I can release to betas and editors. Too much has changed from the original and I need to make sure the edits I made actually work. Not to mention, my ending needs another run. As epic as it is, I was flying through the narrative for the last 10,000 or so. There are a few things that need to be fleshed out.
After the third pass, it'll be out of my hands and off to betas and the editor.
For now, I'm resisting the urge to dive back in immediately and start working. Sometimes rest is needed no matter how much your mind is screaming that this needs to be done NOW!
That means today (and possibly tomorrow) will be spent on admin tasks. Maybe I'll figure out the title so I can contact the cover designer. Definitely need to contact the editor and get that set up.
It seems even when a draft is done there is so much to do."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
🤩🤩🤩 From T.A. White's FB page 🤩🤩🤩
(Yesterday 7/15/22 at 2:51 PM)
"I am done. I am done. I am done. Laughs giddily to myself. Firebird 4 is currently 146,071 words long, and it is done."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
‼️ Rough estimate for Firebird 4 ‼️
From T.A. White's blog:
(May 25, 2022 at 6:39 AM)
"I'm hoping by August but it really depends on how fast I can get the rewrite done."
@T.A White...
to make this happen 🤞🙏😍
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
❤️ Random snippet - Firebird 4 ❤️
From T.A. White's Blog:
(Tuesday, May 24, 2022)
Snippet awesomeness because I'm in an amazingly good mood today.
“I find the fact you consider me dangerous enough to be wary of highly flattering.”
Kira scowled. “Who said anything about me being wary?”
A teasing look settled on Graydon’s face. “You would only take precautions if you thought I was a threat. I’m gratified to know I’ve made such a good impression.”
Kira stared at Graydon like she thought he’d lost his mind. “Most people would feel sad to know their lover considered them dangerous.”
Graydon leaned forward. “Those people are not Tuann.”
😂❤️😍😏
@Graydon
‼️WE HAVE A DATE‼️ I REPEAT‼️ WE HAVE A DATE‼️
‼️September 27, 2022‼️
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
OH MY GOSH!!! WE HAVE A COVER!!! 😱
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
🤩😍🤩 From T.A. White's FB page 🤩😍🤩
( 8/10/22)
Blurb is written. Cover is done. Finn's short is written. Now, I need to start addressing some of those edits.
(Seriously!!! I can't stop trolling T.A. White's FB page and Blog. This is getting ridiculous 😅
ME:
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
‼️🥳🧨🎉 Draft End 🎉🧨🥳‼️
From T.A. White's blog:
(Monday, July 18, 2022)
"Facebook and Twitter people already know that I finished the second draft of Firebird 4 on Friday. I probably should have announced that via the blog as well but I was so exhausted I pretty much shut down for an entire weekend. Literally--I did nothing.
The book tops out at 146,071 words. 5600 of them were written on Friday. By the time I typed the last word my wrists, elbows, and shoulders were telling me they were also done.
Before you get too excited and think Firebird 4 is coming out next week, you should know it still needs one more pass before I can release to betas and editors. Too much has changed from the original and I need to make sure the edits I made actually work. Not to mention, my ending needs another run. As epic as it is, I was flying through the narrative for the last 10,000 or so. There are a few things that need to be fleshed out.
After the third pass, it'll be out of my hands and off to betas and the editor.
For now, I'm resisting the urge to dive back in immediately and start working. Sometimes rest is needed no matter how much your mind is screaming that this needs to be done NOW!
That means today (and possibly tomorrow) will be spent on admin tasks. Maybe I'll figure out the title so I can contact the cover designer. Definitely need to contact the editor and get that set up.
It seems even when a draft is done there is so much to do."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
🤩🤩🤩 From T.A. White's FB page 🤩🤩🤩
(Yesterday 7/15/22 at 2:51 PM)
"I am done. I am done. I am done. Laughs giddily to myself. Firebird 4 is currently 146,071 words long, and it is done."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
‼️ Rough estimate for Firebird 4 ‼️
From T.A. White's blog:
(May 25, 2022 at 6:39 AM)
"I'm hoping by August but it really depends on how fast I can get the rewrite done."
@T.A White...
to make this happen 🤞🙏😍
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
❤️ Random snippet - Firebird 4 ❤️
From T.A. White's Blog:
(Tuesday, May 24, 2022)
Snippet awesomeness because I'm in an amazingly good mood today.
“I find the fact you consider me dangerous enough to be wary of highly flattering.”
Kira scowled. “Who said anything about me being wary?”
A teasing look settled on Graydon’s face. “You would only take precautions if you thought I was a threat. I’m gratified to know I’ve made such a good impression.”
Kira stared at Graydon like she thought he’d lost his mind. “Most people would feel sad to know their lover considered them dangerous.”
Graydon leaned forward. “Those people are not Tuann.”
😂❤️😍😏
@Graydon
October 3, 2022
I'm sad that I didn't love this installment as much as the previous books.
First the positive:
This series has blown me away from the beginning. Books 1-3 got a rare five star rating from me. I purchased the ebooks and the paperbacks. I inhaled them, loved all the twists and turns. It felt like I was slowly putting together a puzzle without any idea of what the finished product would look like...and I didn't care because THESE BOOKS WERE THAT GOOD.
I absolutely love an underdog story! Kira and Jin certainly fall firmly into that category. However with book four, it's beginning to feel more like Kira is simply a unicorn. As each chapter progressed, I could have anticipated what would come next. Unfortunately, we see this burnout quite often in pnr series books. Think Anita Blake, Kate Daniels, and Mercy Thompson.
A majority of the story was this:
➖Kira will sacrifice herself to save someone, and get hurt
➖Powerful rulers will be impressed
➖Jin will manipulate equipment to secretly spy on people
➖Jin is hilarious (seriously, I adore him)
➖Kira will have a snarky conversations with people
➖People underestimate her, she kicks ass
➖At some point Kira will almost die but somehow survive
➖Graydon is the perfect silent warrior boyfriend
➖There is yet another physical/mental trial/battle (how many of these do we need??!)
The last 20% was amazing. It made the slog of the first part redeemable. Four stars because of the ending twist. Because I love Kira and Jin's bond SO MUCH. Because the story (even the repetitive parts) were very well written. Because I love this universe T.A. White has created.
There is a giant depressing cliffhanger which didn't bother me because it was moving the story back where it needed to go.
*Please note, this series MUST be read in order.*
First the positive:
This series has blown me away from the beginning. Books 1-3 got a rare five star rating from me. I purchased the ebooks and the paperbacks. I inhaled them, loved all the twists and turns. It felt like I was slowly putting together a puzzle without any idea of what the finished product would look like...and I didn't care because THESE BOOKS WERE THAT GOOD.
I absolutely love an underdog story! Kira and Jin certainly fall firmly into that category. However with book four, it's beginning to feel more like Kira is simply a unicorn. As each chapter progressed, I could have anticipated what would come next. Unfortunately, we see this burnout quite often in pnr series books. Think Anita Blake, Kate Daniels, and Mercy Thompson.
A majority of the story was this:
➖Kira will sacrifice herself to save someone, and get hurt
➖Powerful rulers will be impressed
➖Jin will manipulate equipment to secretly spy on people
➖Jin is hilarious (seriously, I adore him)
➖Kira will have a snarky conversations with people
➖People underestimate her, she kicks ass
➖At some point Kira will almost die but somehow survive
➖Graydon is the perfect silent warrior boyfriend
➖There is yet another physical/mental trial/battle (how many of these do we need??!)
Our history is littered with those who’ve abused that which was given. That is why the adva ka exists.“ Graydon paused, his gaze landing on Kira as if his next words were meant for her alone. “Prove you are worthy. Prove you can survive.”Hasn't she already done this in every single book?
The last 20% was amazing. It made the slog of the first part redeemable. Four stars because of the ending twist. Because I love Kira and Jin's bond SO MUCH. Because the story (even the repetitive parts) were very well written. Because I love this universe T.A. White has created.
There is a giant depressing cliffhanger which didn't bother me because it was moving the story back where it needed to go.
*Please note, this series MUST be read in order.*
December 31, 2023
The wait is killing me!!!!!
But maybe a re-read is in order :D
But maybe a re-read is in order :D
April 14, 2025
Well holy shit.
I blitzed through this, sacrificing way too much sleep after it landed on my Kindle at 10pm last night. And now I'm left reeling. That ending...I am dying here. I hope the next book comes fast.
I think I'm going to reread right away because I'm sure there are details I missed as I wolfed it down in less than 24 hours. I'll write a better review then.
Immediate re-read (2022)
Alright, so I finished a slower re-read to really absorb all the details. I'm now emotionally traumatized all over again, but I regret nothing.
I loved watching Kira's relationship with Graydon, Harlow, Finn, Raider, Devon, Joule, Elena, and Wren continue to evolve. This series has such a fantastic core cast. And fascinating secondary characters, like Torvald - man would I love to get a peek into his head.
I want to talk about some of the things we learned in this book, so the rest goes in spoiler tags.
Next book now pleeeeeease.
I blitzed through this, sacrificing way too much sleep after it landed on my Kindle at 10pm last night. And now I'm left reeling. That ending...I am dying here. I hope the next book comes fast.
I think I'm going to reread right away because I'm sure there are details I missed as I wolfed it down in less than 24 hours. I'll write a better review then.
Immediate re-read (2022)
Alright, so I finished a slower re-read to really absorb all the details. I'm now emotionally traumatized all over again, but I regret nothing.
I loved watching Kira's relationship with Graydon, Harlow, Finn, Raider, Devon, Joule, Elena, and Wren continue to evolve. This series has such a fantastic core cast. And fascinating secondary characters, like Torvald - man would I love to get a peek into his head.
I want to talk about some of the things we learned in this book, so the rest goes in spoiler tags.
Next book now pleeeeeease.
September 29, 2022
it was good, but could we go somewhere with this?
I could do without the constant cliffhangers.
While the writing is really good, the plot in this book didn’t feel like it moved forward. We got maybe a inch or three.
Kira and Jin once again showed how talented they are, and what an incredible team they make. And as is a screaming theme in these books are they met with bigotry, secrets and hate. Frankly I am unimpressed by the forward movement on plot. The boggyman is at the door stealing, hurting, and hunting their children and yet these people ignore the traitors. I found very little surprised me in this convoluted work. Some characters who are said to be plotters and planners seem stupid, and the follow through negligible. Even the reveal and culmination of an character was uninspiring and lackluster. I openly admit I loathe works of hardship upon greater hardship, upon hopelessness. And somehow this is where we are, with no real movement. How ? I have no idea.
Will I read the next? I honestly don’t know. The driving plot in this was abandoned and we were thrust into the next plot line. What was the point of this novel? A window into how the Houses and Empire are bureaucratic joke?
I could do without the constant cliffhangers.
While the writing is really good, the plot in this book didn’t feel like it moved forward. We got maybe a inch or three.
Kira and Jin once again showed how talented they are, and what an incredible team they make. And as is a screaming theme in these books are they met with bigotry, secrets and hate. Frankly I am unimpressed by the forward movement on plot. The boggyman is at the door stealing, hurting, and hunting their children and yet these people ignore the traitors. I found very little surprised me in this convoluted work. Some characters who are said to be plotters and planners seem stupid, and the follow through negligible. Even the reveal and culmination of an character was uninspiring and lackluster. I openly admit I loathe works of hardship upon greater hardship, upon hopelessness. And somehow this is where we are, with no real movement. How ? I have no idea.
Will I read the next? I honestly don’t know. The driving plot in this was abandoned and we were thrust into the next plot line. What was the point of this novel? A window into how the Houses and Empire are bureaucratic joke?
October 4, 2022
So, this book was dropped in the middle of my busiest week. Needless to say it took me one week to find the time to finish it.
And the verdict is this. There's a lot of stuffs happened in here. The action was at time high. The exposition is plentiful. It was a fun time! (mostly)
However, I do think it was aimless and meandering for quarter part of this 590 pages of a book. Like, we know what a badass heroine Kira is, so those showy scenes with her, could easily be condensed and integrated with other scenes. With that out of the way, I also wish there were more individual character development (aside of Kira's and Jin's) because I'm having a hard time relating to any of these side characters right now (Graydon included).
Overall, I think this is the plot-heavy book and in my case, it has that middle of the series syndrome book where too much of incidents were packed in, that I couldn't enjoy the story as smoothly as I like. This book is definitely the book you have to reread again to properly enjoy the whole world building and huge cast of characters it offered.
-----------------
We have a date!!! September 27th!
Okay, anyone wants to read this whole series with me in September? Because I truly don't remember a damn thing about book 1 to 3.
And the verdict is this. There's a lot of stuffs happened in here. The action was at time high. The exposition is plentiful. It was a fun time! (mostly)
However, I do think it was aimless and meandering for quarter part of this 590 pages of a book. Like, we know what a badass heroine Kira is, so those showy scenes with her, could easily be condensed and integrated with other scenes. With that out of the way, I also wish there were more individual character development (aside of Kira's and Jin's) because I'm having a hard time relating to any of these side characters right now (Graydon included).
Overall, I think this is the plot-heavy book and in my case, it has that middle of the series syndrome book where too much of incidents were packed in, that I couldn't enjoy the story as smoothly as I like. This book is definitely the book you have to reread again to properly enjoy the whole world building and huge cast of characters it offered.
-----------------
We have a date!!! September 27th!
Okay, anyone wants to read this whole series with me in September? Because I truly don't remember a damn thing about book 1 to 3.
November 5, 2024
5 stars
★★★★★
1st reread: June 2023
2nd reread: Januray 2024
3rd reread: November 2024
The The Firebird Chronicles series reviews:
#1 Rules of Redemption: ★★★★★
#2 Age of Deception: ★★★★★
#3 Threshold of Annihilation: ★★★★★
#4 Facets of Revolution: ★★★★★
#5 Trials of Conviction: ★★★★★
✧ September 2022 ✧
screaming, crying, throwing up and jumping off a building
I will never emotionally recover from this.
I am a shell of a person.
Life has lost meaning.
I no longer want mortal pleasures.
I feel physically ill.
I shall hibernate for a year until book 5 comes out.
☞ Trigger warnings: *contains spoilers* .
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October 19, 2022
The universe and the main plot of this series are great. The characters are excellent, for the most part. But this series has no competent editor. The logical flaws in the story are immense, and cause the story to lose all credibility.
Like a copyist monk of the Middle Ages, the author draws the line to the point of absurdity : so many words for so little progress in the main story...
With retention of information as sole narrative principle, which only generates frustration (and never suspense), the author ends up producing nothing but emptiness. The few semi-revelations whose author gives us alms, after so much retention, are only wet firecrackers.
Most of the endless scenes are interrupted by a pirouette as we approach a revelation. The initiation rite which constitutes the body of the story has no meaning and will not be completed. Besides, nothing goes to its end in this story. Fundamental information is within reach of the characters but they never seem interested in obtaining it. Fundamental information is concealed in a totally artificial way (no description of the tormentors of the children abducted during the "Sorrowing", of which nothing is still known, while Kira's memories are broadcast on a giant screen...)
The book ends with a climax, the only worthy of the name of the whole book, which finally suggests a breakthrough in the main plot of the story.
A hope that will most likely be nipped in the bud at the start of the next volume by a sadistic author, whose objective is probably to sell us 65 volumes of a story that should never have exceeded a trilogy.
Like a copyist monk of the Middle Ages, the author draws the line to the point of absurdity : so many words for so little progress in the main story...
With retention of information as sole narrative principle, which only generates frustration (and never suspense), the author ends up producing nothing but emptiness. The few semi-revelations whose author gives us alms, after so much retention, are only wet firecrackers.
Most of the endless scenes are interrupted by a pirouette as we approach a revelation. The initiation rite which constitutes the body of the story has no meaning and will not be completed. Besides, nothing goes to its end in this story. Fundamental information is within reach of the characters but they never seem interested in obtaining it. Fundamental information is concealed in a totally artificial way (no description of the tormentors of the children abducted during the "Sorrowing", of which nothing is still known, while Kira's memories are broadcast on a giant screen...)
The book ends with a climax, the only worthy of the name of the whole book, which finally suggests a breakthrough in the main plot of the story.
A hope that will most likely be nipped in the bud at the start of the next volume by a sadistic author, whose objective is probably to sell us 65 volumes of a story that should never have exceeded a trilogy.
September 27, 2022
This series is low-key trying to kill me. I’ve never been more obsessed with a book, its characters, and this amazing-frustrating-unforgettable plot.
Facets of Revolution does not pull any punches and I am feeling so beat up after finishing the last chapter. Tears were pouring down my face for the last 10 chapters but that last couple almost did me in. This is a series that will emotionally wreck you in the best way possible.
The growth seen in Kira in this book alone has really changed the trajectory of where I thought this series was headed. I’m so glad that the author is developing her character and not continuing on the same routine that was established in book one and two. Kira is not running from her history, not running from her family and friends, and is ready to face the society she tried to reject. This character development is unmatched because it makes sense with the journey Kira has taken and the people she has let into her inner circle.
Not only is the character development off the charts - but the snippets into Kira and Jin’s past really add more depth into their personalities and decisions. Every action previously that I questioned or didn’t understand is answered in this book because of these small glimpses into their history. And yet I still want more - I would love to see a prologue book that was just focused on the curs or even focused on Kira and Jin after she comes out of her coma. Or maybe even a book on Elise and her actions. Basically I just want more of these characters and their story.
During my re-read of the series in preparation for or this book being released, I made sure to highlight all of the the things that I had questions about or would foreshadow something in this book. And boy did I get so many answers, like so many answers I need to start writing them down so I don’t loose track. I had my own theories about who Fin’s previous Swords were and how the 43 felt about Jin and Kira. I LOVE the way it played out in this book and the insight given from different characters perspectives instead of just relying on Kira or Jin’s interpretation.
Seriously obsessed with the relationships developing as the series progresses. The relationship I am MOST EXCITED about is of course the one between Kira and Grayson. The tension between them has been building (to say the least), but I think most important is the trust that they have put in each other. It gives me chills to compare where they are in this book compared to book one. I really enjoyed the glimpses from Graydon’s perspective because he has this absolute trust and adoration in Kira that melts my heart.
After reading book three, I was really unsure of where this series would head because there were so many options available and so much chaos in book three that needed to be addressed. I should have known that nothing I could imagine would be as amazing as what T.A. White could come up with. This book was so much more than I could have hoped for as it took these characters on a path of impact (or revolution hehe) and really forced themselves to grow and make difficult choices.
AND THAT ENDING…
I’M STILL UPSET…
I don’t think I will ever get over that ending. My warning would be to not finish this book right before a work meeting because someone might ask why your voice is scratchy because you may or may not have just finished sobbing and now have to explain to your work group why you sound like you’ve been crying and to say that it was over fictional characters is not something people always get because they aren’t in the cool kids club that gets upset over fictional characters. Just a fictional scenario that definitely did not happen in real life.
Anyways…
To recap:
- This book is amazing
- This book has ruined me for other books
- I will not recover after reading that ending
- I will probably need to re-read this book in a few days to make sure I didn’t miss anything because T.A. White is sneaky with the foreshadowing and reveals
- I will probably not be able to pick up another book after this for a while because of the book hangover I am currently experiencing
Facets of Revolution does not pull any punches and I am feeling so beat up after finishing the last chapter. Tears were pouring down my face for the last 10 chapters but that last couple almost did me in. This is a series that will emotionally wreck you in the best way possible.
The growth seen in Kira in this book alone has really changed the trajectory of where I thought this series was headed. I’m so glad that the author is developing her character and not continuing on the same routine that was established in book one and two. Kira is not running from her history, not running from her family and friends, and is ready to face the society she tried to reject. This character development is unmatched because it makes sense with the journey Kira has taken and the people she has let into her inner circle.
Not only is the character development off the charts - but the snippets into Kira and Jin’s past really add more depth into their personalities and decisions. Every action previously that I questioned or didn’t understand is answered in this book because of these small glimpses into their history. And yet I still want more - I would love to see a prologue book that was just focused on the curs or even focused on Kira and Jin after she comes out of her coma. Or maybe even a book on Elise and her actions. Basically I just want more of these characters and their story.
During my re-read of the series in preparation for or this book being released, I made sure to highlight all of the the things that I had questions about or would foreshadow something in this book. And boy did I get so many answers, like so many answers I need to start writing them down so I don’t loose track. I had my own theories about who Fin’s previous Swords were and how the 43 felt about Jin and Kira. I LOVE the way it played out in this book and the insight given from different characters perspectives instead of just relying on Kira or Jin’s interpretation.
Seriously obsessed with the relationships developing as the series progresses. The relationship I am MOST EXCITED about is of course the one between Kira and Grayson. The tension between them has been building (to say the least), but I think most important is the trust that they have put in each other. It gives me chills to compare where they are in this book compared to book one. I really enjoyed the glimpses from Graydon’s perspective because he has this absolute trust and adoration in Kira that melts my heart.
After reading book three, I was really unsure of where this series would head because there were so many options available and so much chaos in book three that needed to be addressed. I should have known that nothing I could imagine would be as amazing as what T.A. White could come up with. This book was so much more than I could have hoped for as it took these characters on a path of impact (or revolution hehe) and really forced themselves to grow and make difficult choices.
AND THAT ENDING…
I’M STILL UPSET…
I don’t think I will ever get over that ending. My warning would be to not finish this book right before a work meeting because someone might ask why your voice is scratchy because you may or may not have just finished sobbing and now have to explain to your work group why you sound like you’ve been crying and to say that it was over fictional characters is not something people always get because they aren’t in the cool kids club that gets upset over fictional characters. Just a fictional scenario that definitely did not happen in real life.
Anyways…
To recap:
- This book is amazing
- This book has ruined me for other books
- I will not recover after reading that ending
- I will probably need to re-read this book in a few days to make sure I didn’t miss anything because T.A. White is sneaky with the foreshadowing and reveals
- I will probably not be able to pick up another book after this for a while because of the book hangover I am currently experiencing
October 19, 2022
Screaming, crying, laughing, raging, baffled, shocked, hopeful – I don’t know if I can even catalogue the all the emotions I’m feeling right now.
That… was a journey. I loved this book! You need to read this immediately. I feel like I got everything I wanted and at the same time more than I wanted. And ugh that ending, it was so good, but also how am I supposed to go on like this? Wait another year? Another year, while I, myself, am spiraling with emotions from this book?
I think the best books make you feel something. This made me feel everything. Full review to come.
That… was a journey. I loved this book! You need to read this immediately. I feel like I got everything I wanted and at the same time more than I wanted. And ugh that ending, it was so good, but also how am I supposed to go on like this? Wait another year? Another year, while I, myself, am spiraling with emotions from this book?
I think the best books make you feel something. This made me feel everything. Full review to come.
July 12, 2025
My life has been consumed by this series.
September 30, 2022
Lame
A shitty ending after a lot of bumbling around, this book feels like the author lost interest in the series. The space-elvs turn from an ancient and advanced civilisation to a bunch of childten in adult bodies, becoming ridiculously cartoonish at the end, the super strong emperor just sits and does nothing, the whole ending is so forced it's cringy and to top it all off there's going to be another book in the series for which you'll have to wait a long time in the hope the author somehow manages to save this clusterF. After THIS, I'm done with the series and this author. What a waste of time.
A shitty ending after a lot of bumbling around, this book feels like the author lost interest in the series. The space-elvs turn from an ancient and advanced civilisation to a bunch of childten in adult bodies, becoming ridiculously cartoonish at the end, the super strong emperor just sits and does nothing, the whole ending is so forced it's cringy and to top it all off there's going to be another book in the series for which you'll have to wait a long time in the hope the author somehow manages to save this clusterF. After THIS, I'm done with the series and this author. What a waste of time.
February 21, 2025
I want to give it 10 stars!!!! Each book of this series has replaced the previous one as my favourite upon its release and this does not disappoint, even if it made me cry the most. We waited almost 2 years for this book and it was worth it in every sense. Arguably this could be my favourite series, not just this genre but my number 1 full stop. It is 100% my comfort read and I’ll never stop rereading. This story and these characters are firmly lodged deep in my heart.
Throughout the entire series, there is not a scene or chapter that is unnecessary or could be considered a filler. Each and every one is vital to the plot or the relationships between the characters (which I all love, they are so rich and beautifully complex). There is something to be gleaned from every word. Everything is pivotal to progressing the plot line, even the smallest of things, and it is all utterly enjoyable to read. And that is to say nothing of how friendships, alliances and relationships develop and blossom.
White has created something so special with The Firebird Chronicles, it will stick me with through the rest of my reading years. If only one series could be adapted for the screen, I would want it to be this one and I want it adapted word for word!!! Plus any bonus content available <3
The world building in this series continues to impress; I love seeing more of the planet (both wild and the city), the different roles and politics and learning more about the ki and Mea’Ave. The fashion and the architecture are fantastic, as of course are the weapons!!
As with the rest of the series, I don’t believe it ends on a cliffhanger but a hook/starting point for the next instalment. The dilemma of this book is wrapped up and the stones are laid for book 5. This one may be slightly more painful than those prior but it is to be expected as we reach the story’s peak. As much as I want to know how it all ends and see my favourites get their happy ending, I don’t want to leave these worlds and this story anytime soon. It will be painful waiting for book 5 but as with this one it will be worth it, however long it takes. A book like this, one of White’s calibre, is worth waiting years for. Though I hope it won’t be (:
!!!Spoilers below!!!
The subplot/problem to be solved from this book is satisfyingly resolved, to an extent since it plays into the overarching struggle but I think it is all done really well. It was really interesting to see more of the Tuann house politics and also see which houses are traitors and working in the shadows. I can’t wait to see House Danai annihilated and all its minor houses too (Votair, Remie, Dethos). The glances between the two overlords in the last scene definitely incriminate Danai and that’s without the fact the guy is a massive asshole. Karma is coming and I hope it’s bloody.
Kira Kira Kira. I love her more with every book. I love that she’s collecting special marks and that she is so clearly a bright light for the Tuann even if some don’t see it. I loved seeing her open up more to her friends and allies and grow and heal. Her development is written so well, it’s natural and you can emphasis so deeply with her. I loved the way the oshota, Caius, Wren and Harlow welcomed and accepted her as heir. The bowing, my poor heart!!!
“the heir of Roake, daughter of our House, beloved to the Mea’Ave and the lu-ong”
I missed Harlow in the last book and I was so happy with every appearance he made here! He’s so soft with Kira even when he’s not visibly showing it or saying something. The hair ruffle!! And the scene in the bedroom!! So cute and so heartbreaking. I love their relationship. It’s obvious he supports her in everything and when he disagrees it is for her protection and benefit. I mean he was totally ready to commit treason to protect her. And I love that he loves her for who she is, he isn’t trying to push her into anything or change her. He’s the perfect uncle for her and the perfect father figure even if he isn’t trying to intrude on Harding’s memory.
It is for a similar reason I love Grayson so much and think he’s the perfect match for Kira. He accepts her fully as she is and loves every aspect of her. Also the way he accepted and protected Jin was so special. We finally learnt about what he said back in Luatha, and I was just so soft during the whole scene! I love them. They’re soulmates and the perfect balance for each other. Some of my favourite moments in this book between them are then just silently comforting each other with an embrace. Him needing to hold her after the Wanderer crashed and all that followed that, he needs her to breathe and I’m so soft for them! Kira giving him the oath too was heartbreaking and so was him saying he was finally able to protect her, so much pain and tears reading that. I loved the final line of the book and am dying to see more of them soon!
“I see your pain,” Graydon whispered. “I can feel it burning in my chest.” Emotion moved through his gaze. Tenderness and love as he pressed his forehead against hers.
“From this second forward, you shall not know fear or sorrow. For I am with you. Your shield and your sword. Defender and protector. The shelter in the storm.
I loved seeing Kira interact with more of the leadership within Roake (Maida!) and with the emperor! I hope he comes to see her as a sort of daughter. Especially with how many times she’s saved Devon and obviously with Jin.
Finally finding out how Jin was turned into a drone was so sad omg! I cried so much for the children they were. She was everything to him even then and he gave everything to save her !!! White describes it perfectly, they’re platonic soulmates. They couldn’t live without each other.
“I forgot that. You were the most beautiful thing I’d ever seen,” Jin reminisced. “An avenging goddess that I’d given up hoping for.”
“Don’t regret it,” Jin told her in a fierce voice. “If this was the price for saving you, it’s one I was and will forever be willing to pay.”
“I’m with you to the end.” No matter what that entailed.
#sobbing
I loved meeting Pallas, what an epic entrance and totally a loveable psycho, and learning more about how the 43 are different. I think it’s really good that the Tuann now know and I can’t wait to see how the 43 turn things over in the society. Alexander and Selene!!! I was right and they’re so cute. Seeing Selene in action and teaching Joule was amazing! I knew there was more to Alexander, love love him and his monster even if he is mean to Kira. You can tell he cares for her even if he doesn’t agree with her actions.
Also, learning how the 43 have loved and supported Kira & Jin from afar was so nice and so sad. They’re the best of them and the 43 see that and protect them as they can. I think and hope that the 43 make their own house and build a new neutral and welcoming planet with the Lenacht. I love their vow of neutrality to one another.
Elise is a polarising character. I can see how she did what she had to do to survive and cannot leave behind the General’s children or her own and any of the 43’s. But I’m not sure I particularly like her or think her forgiveness will come anytime soon or easily. I wouldn’t be surprised if she didn’t survive but I also think that would be very harsh for Raider, Elena and Kira. We’ve been very lucky, no one we deeply care for has died yet but I’m waiting for the other stone to drop. This is war and I just hope it isn’t Graydon or Harlow or Finn or Raider. Ok anyone Kira cares for, which happily is becoming more and more people.
So interesting and satisfying to find out about the Generals finally and the meaning behind Aeron’s words. Weirdly I kind of like him more than Elise. I hope the good Generals and their children can be saved and the Tuann learn to accept them. I am on the edge of my seat again to know who these evil masters are and how they came to be. How they came to have the Tuann as their slaves and what sick experiments they have done both to the remaining Tuann, the 43 and other species. I can’t wait to learn more about the Sye. The comments about which children were able to survive and why, and about the possible eggs and genetics they stole are very interesting and I have tons of questions now. What are the masters looking for, other than a super-soldier.
While I hope the next book is the last, there is still so much to uncover despite gaining a lot of answers in this book.
Things that stuck out and I loved:
- Tinsley and Kira meeting and the heartbreaking discussion. Also Graydon’s reaction!!
- Devon knowing Jin is his brother and trying to defend him.
- House Asanth! Respectful and decent. I’d like to see more and how they interact with Alexander. also interested to see more of Kashori.
- Alexander as a lawyer and I want to know more about these humans still in Tuann prisons.
- The whole scene with the paintings and then the beautiful place Kira gets to rest in during the Adva Ka.
- The lenacht!
- The lu-ong as usual. I knew they healed her and I love how they treasure her.
- Maksym is a hilarious highlight and total big brother bear to Kira. Even Quillion made himself more loveable, totally loved his recommendation of just killing them instead.
- The memories/illusions of Bayside and some of the Curs. Tears and pain! Like Kira I can’t decide if I hope they survive. I don’t think so since they were human, what use would the masters have sadly.
- Harlow giving Kira an escape, Finn ready to run with her, Wren having her back, even Auralyn removing the last barrier and Caius moving his troops into position to support! Roake is forever the best. They’re with Kira all the way.
- Ziva, aw she has my heart. Her being a mini Finn was so cute and she’s so brave in this book. I love that Kira collects little followers that admire her so much.
- Tierni! I love her message. Kira’s line in the sand is Jin and the Haldeel are willing to go to war with their oldest ally to protect them!! The line about them being happy to take them as citizens!!! If someone won’t see Kira and Jin as the gems that they are, there are others ready to treasure and protect them.
I give it no more than a week before I read this again! This is my favourite series (if you couldn’t tell by the endless rambling) and I want it to have the recognition it so deeply deserves.
Throughout the entire series, there is not a scene or chapter that is unnecessary or could be considered a filler. Each and every one is vital to the plot or the relationships between the characters (which I all love, they are so rich and beautifully complex). There is something to be gleaned from every word. Everything is pivotal to progressing the plot line, even the smallest of things, and it is all utterly enjoyable to read. And that is to say nothing of how friendships, alliances and relationships develop and blossom.
White has created something so special with The Firebird Chronicles, it will stick me with through the rest of my reading years. If only one series could be adapted for the screen, I would want it to be this one and I want it adapted word for word!!! Plus any bonus content available <3
The world building in this series continues to impress; I love seeing more of the planet (both wild and the city), the different roles and politics and learning more about the ki and Mea’Ave. The fashion and the architecture are fantastic, as of course are the weapons!!
As with the rest of the series, I don’t believe it ends on a cliffhanger but a hook/starting point for the next instalment. The dilemma of this book is wrapped up and the stones are laid for book 5. This one may be slightly more painful than those prior but it is to be expected as we reach the story’s peak. As much as I want to know how it all ends and see my favourites get their happy ending, I don’t want to leave these worlds and this story anytime soon. It will be painful waiting for book 5 but as with this one it will be worth it, however long it takes. A book like this, one of White’s calibre, is worth waiting years for. Though I hope it won’t be (:
!!!Spoilers below!!!
The subplot/problem to be solved from this book is satisfyingly resolved, to an extent since it plays into the overarching struggle but I think it is all done really well. It was really interesting to see more of the Tuann house politics and also see which houses are traitors and working in the shadows. I can’t wait to see House Danai annihilated and all its minor houses too (Votair, Remie, Dethos). The glances between the two overlords in the last scene definitely incriminate Danai and that’s without the fact the guy is a massive asshole. Karma is coming and I hope it’s bloody.
Kira Kira Kira. I love her more with every book. I love that she’s collecting special marks and that she is so clearly a bright light for the Tuann even if some don’t see it. I loved seeing her open up more to her friends and allies and grow and heal. Her development is written so well, it’s natural and you can emphasis so deeply with her. I loved the way the oshota, Caius, Wren and Harlow welcomed and accepted her as heir. The bowing, my poor heart!!!
“the heir of Roake, daughter of our House, beloved to the Mea’Ave and the lu-ong”
I missed Harlow in the last book and I was so happy with every appearance he made here! He’s so soft with Kira even when he’s not visibly showing it or saying something. The hair ruffle!! And the scene in the bedroom!! So cute and so heartbreaking. I love their relationship. It’s obvious he supports her in everything and when he disagrees it is for her protection and benefit. I mean he was totally ready to commit treason to protect her. And I love that he loves her for who she is, he isn’t trying to push her into anything or change her. He’s the perfect uncle for her and the perfect father figure even if he isn’t trying to intrude on Harding’s memory.
It is for a similar reason I love Grayson so much and think he’s the perfect match for Kira. He accepts her fully as she is and loves every aspect of her. Also the way he accepted and protected Jin was so special. We finally learnt about what he said back in Luatha, and I was just so soft during the whole scene! I love them. They’re soulmates and the perfect balance for each other. Some of my favourite moments in this book between them are then just silently comforting each other with an embrace. Him needing to hold her after the Wanderer crashed and all that followed that, he needs her to breathe and I’m so soft for them! Kira giving him the oath too was heartbreaking and so was him saying he was finally able to protect her, so much pain and tears reading that. I loved the final line of the book and am dying to see more of them soon!
“I see your pain,” Graydon whispered. “I can feel it burning in my chest.” Emotion moved through his gaze. Tenderness and love as he pressed his forehead against hers.
“From this second forward, you shall not know fear or sorrow. For I am with you. Your shield and your sword. Defender and protector. The shelter in the storm.
I loved seeing Kira interact with more of the leadership within Roake (Maida!) and with the emperor! I hope he comes to see her as a sort of daughter. Especially with how many times she’s saved Devon and obviously with Jin.
Finally finding out how Jin was turned into a drone was so sad omg! I cried so much for the children they were. She was everything to him even then and he gave everything to save her !!! White describes it perfectly, they’re platonic soulmates. They couldn’t live without each other.
“I forgot that. You were the most beautiful thing I’d ever seen,” Jin reminisced. “An avenging goddess that I’d given up hoping for.”
“Don’t regret it,” Jin told her in a fierce voice. “If this was the price for saving you, it’s one I was and will forever be willing to pay.”
“I’m with you to the end.” No matter what that entailed.
#sobbing
I loved meeting Pallas, what an epic entrance and totally a loveable psycho, and learning more about how the 43 are different. I think it’s really good that the Tuann now know and I can’t wait to see how the 43 turn things over in the society. Alexander and Selene!!! I was right and they’re so cute. Seeing Selene in action and teaching Joule was amazing! I knew there was more to Alexander, love love him and his monster even if he is mean to Kira. You can tell he cares for her even if he doesn’t agree with her actions.
Also, learning how the 43 have loved and supported Kira & Jin from afar was so nice and so sad. They’re the best of them and the 43 see that and protect them as they can. I think and hope that the 43 make their own house and build a new neutral and welcoming planet with the Lenacht. I love their vow of neutrality to one another.
Elise is a polarising character. I can see how she did what she had to do to survive and cannot leave behind the General’s children or her own and any of the 43’s. But I’m not sure I particularly like her or think her forgiveness will come anytime soon or easily. I wouldn’t be surprised if she didn’t survive but I also think that would be very harsh for Raider, Elena and Kira. We’ve been very lucky, no one we deeply care for has died yet but I’m waiting for the other stone to drop. This is war and I just hope it isn’t Graydon or Harlow or Finn or Raider. Ok anyone Kira cares for, which happily is becoming more and more people.
So interesting and satisfying to find out about the Generals finally and the meaning behind Aeron’s words. Weirdly I kind of like him more than Elise. I hope the good Generals and their children can be saved and the Tuann learn to accept them. I am on the edge of my seat again to know who these evil masters are and how they came to be. How they came to have the Tuann as their slaves and what sick experiments they have done both to the remaining Tuann, the 43 and other species. I can’t wait to learn more about the Sye. The comments about which children were able to survive and why, and about the possible eggs and genetics they stole are very interesting and I have tons of questions now. What are the masters looking for, other than a super-soldier.
While I hope the next book is the last, there is still so much to uncover despite gaining a lot of answers in this book.
Things that stuck out and I loved:
- Tinsley and Kira meeting and the heartbreaking discussion. Also Graydon’s reaction!!
- Devon knowing Jin is his brother and trying to defend him.
- House Asanth! Respectful and decent. I’d like to see more and how they interact with Alexander. also interested to see more of Kashori.
- Alexander as a lawyer and I want to know more about these humans still in Tuann prisons.
- The whole scene with the paintings and then the beautiful place Kira gets to rest in during the Adva Ka.
- The lenacht!
- The lu-ong as usual. I knew they healed her and I love how they treasure her.
- Maksym is a hilarious highlight and total big brother bear to Kira. Even Quillion made himself more loveable, totally loved his recommendation of just killing them instead.
- The memories/illusions of Bayside and some of the Curs. Tears and pain! Like Kira I can’t decide if I hope they survive. I don’t think so since they were human, what use would the masters have sadly.
- Harlow giving Kira an escape, Finn ready to run with her, Wren having her back, even Auralyn removing the last barrier and Caius moving his troops into position to support! Roake is forever the best. They’re with Kira all the way.
- Ziva, aw she has my heart. Her being a mini Finn was so cute and she’s so brave in this book. I love that Kira collects little followers that admire her so much.
- Tierni! I love her message. Kira’s line in the sand is Jin and the Haldeel are willing to go to war with their oldest ally to protect them!! The line about them being happy to take them as citizens!!! If someone won’t see Kira and Jin as the gems that they are, there are others ready to treasure and protect them.
I give it no more than a week before I read this again! This is my favourite series (if you couldn’t tell by the endless rambling) and I want it to have the recognition it so deeply deserves.
October 6, 2022
4.5/5.0
**A little Heads-up** Since it has been a loooong two years since the last book in this series was written, I’d highly suggest re-reading or at least reviewing “Threshold of Annihilation ”before diving into this one. I didn’t and by about the 10% mark, I was so frustrated trying to remember all the characters, relationships and intrigues that I had to give up, go back and re-read that previous book, then begin this book again. It was well worth the time and effort!
Absolutely LOVE this series (I think I’m becoming redundant but there are just no other words)! There are some books where you look at your progress wondering when you will be done and there are a few books where you look, dreading every page turned because you don’t ever want it to end - this is the second! AND it is not a small book, coming in at over 500 pages, I was amazed at how fast the time flew and how sad I was to finish. Now, that’s a hallmark of a great read!
The science fiction and action aspects of the story are absolute top-notch, one never overwhelming the other but both working together to create those page-turning, nail-biting reads we all crave. The whole adva ka did drag on for what seemed like forever, and felt weirdly reminiscent of an earlier challenge in a previous book, but was still too exciting to put down. I especially love Graydon and his love and devotion to Kira.
Yep, I think this series has won top honors in my book for best EVEH Sci-fi wonderful-ness!
**A little Heads-up** Since it has been a loooong two years since the last book in this series was written, I’d highly suggest re-reading or at least reviewing “Threshold of Annihilation ”before diving into this one. I didn’t and by about the 10% mark, I was so frustrated trying to remember all the characters, relationships and intrigues that I had to give up, go back and re-read that previous book, then begin this book again. It was well worth the time and effort!
Absolutely LOVE this series (I think I’m becoming redundant but there are just no other words)! There are some books where you look at your progress wondering when you will be done and there are a few books where you look, dreading every page turned because you don’t ever want it to end - this is the second! AND it is not a small book, coming in at over 500 pages, I was amazed at how fast the time flew and how sad I was to finish. Now, that’s a hallmark of a great read!
The science fiction and action aspects of the story are absolute top-notch, one never overwhelming the other but both working together to create those page-turning, nail-biting reads we all crave. The whole adva ka did drag on for what seemed like forever, and felt weirdly reminiscent of an earlier challenge in a previous book, but was still too exciting to put down. I especially love Graydon and his love and devotion to Kira.
Yep, I think this series has won top honors in my book for best EVEH Sci-fi wonderful-ness!
October 19, 2022
I'm sorry to rate this book so low... but I just cannot rate it higher. It fell so flat for me.
I picked it up without rereading 1-3 and perhaps that is part of the problem. As it started, I was kind of intrigued by Selene and hoped it was a book from her point of view--perhaps that was part of the problem too.
It's just.... nothing happened! Which is a ridiculous thing to say in such a plot-driven book, but nothing happened character wise, it seemed to me. Kira is still Kira--pushing more toward perfect, always being a wild card but having it all turn out fine. Always being able to win the day, be the heroine, but of course, reluctantly and with a chip on her shoulder that seems less and less defined.
Without rereading the first three, I couldn't really keep the players that straight. The 43, .... all of Kira's backstory, the Curs she lost--her coma. All so compelling in book one... now.... what? Kira wonders if she's wrong about them... yawn. Jin goes off and gets in trouble... is in danger for being seen as soul bound... and nothing. yawn. He's the emperor's eldest son... but nothing comes of it... yawn. Graydon loves her.... okay? The only tension there is that they're not together the whole book. The missing Elise is around .... somewhere... oh wait, something will happen right at the end of the book--cliff hanger!
It just felt like the second half maybe of some other book? Where I cared about these characters and what happened to them? It absolutely does not stand alone, and didn't remind me of the stakes or why I cared about these characters in the first place. If Kira ever had 'voice' -and I think she must have--its gone now. There's so much perspective change---she'll walk out of a room and we're in Graydon's head thinking essential 'what a woman'.... blah.
I'm disappointed but kind of not surprised. TA White has done this for me before. I get so engaged in a great premise and a strong female character and then by book three... it just unravels.
I picked it up without rereading 1-3 and perhaps that is part of the problem. As it started, I was kind of intrigued by Selene and hoped it was a book from her point of view--perhaps that was part of the problem too.
It's just.... nothing happened! Which is a ridiculous thing to say in such a plot-driven book, but nothing happened character wise, it seemed to me. Kira is still Kira--pushing more toward perfect, always being a wild card but having it all turn out fine. Always being able to win the day, be the heroine, but of course, reluctantly and with a chip on her shoulder that seems less and less defined.
Without rereading the first three, I couldn't really keep the players that straight. The 43, .... all of Kira's backstory, the Curs she lost--her coma. All so compelling in book one... now.... what? Kira wonders if she's wrong about them... yawn. Jin goes off and gets in trouble... is in danger for being seen as soul bound... and nothing. yawn. He's the emperor's eldest son... but nothing comes of it... yawn. Graydon loves her.... okay? The only tension there is that they're not together the whole book. The missing Elise is around .... somewhere... oh wait, something will happen right at the end of the book--cliff hanger!
It just felt like the second half maybe of some other book? Where I cared about these characters and what happened to them? It absolutely does not stand alone, and didn't remind me of the stakes or why I cared about these characters in the first place. If Kira ever had 'voice' -and I think she must have--its gone now. There's so much perspective change---she'll walk out of a room and we're in Graydon's head thinking essential 'what a woman'.... blah.
I'm disappointed but kind of not surprised. TA White has done this for me before. I get so engaged in a great premise and a strong female character and then by book three... it just unravels.
October 16, 2022
Summary of the book: Kira does reckless things. Featuring: five million side characters. Also featuring a love interest that is becoming increasingly unappealing the more time they spend with each other (it's not often that I skim sex scenes but.. nope). The plot and the individual motivations were super messy.
June 28, 2023
It took me nearly a year to get back to this review that’s how bad the ending of this book left me in shambles 😭😭
One thing I’d like to mention besides the plot is how perfect the length of this book is. As the series goes on each book is a bit bigger then the next and with the amount of storylines we’re currently following, I really appreciate that everyone/everything is given a spotlight as a reader.
Okay so Kira my girl you will always be famous. Beyond everything else Kira, as a character, is without a doubt one of the best characters I’ve come across. She’s damaged, hurt, suspicious, stubborn but she’s also loyal, kind, protective, smart and willing to change! And Badass! I love her so much.
This book starts off with one my fav scene an interaction with one of the forty-three. Can I say what a cool group of ppl, the Tuann have nothing on them. And the ending of this book introducing yet another one of them? I was so hype.
This book answered so many of my questions I don’t even know where to start. Why Finn is the way he is, Elise’s motivation, the history of the tuann, the importance of the houses etc etc.
The first half of the book was a slow build up but with so much heart too. The way Roake embraced Kira as the heir, tears in my eyes fr. Selene and Alexander pretending not to care about Kira and Jin but doing everything for them 🥹
The fight scenes were immaculate. Kira no longer has a hamper on her Ki so she showed us what she made of and wow. The scene were Selene used the shields as a platform and the way Kira and Alexander maneuvered throughout, chefs kiss, I felt like I was there.
Ugh and Graydon he could literally kill someone and I’ll say he’s right 😭 idc best ml ever especially next to Kira. Ultimately the scene that made me sob was about Jin and Kira my god what a sad beginning for both of them 😭 and what a heartbreaking conclusion for Kira on multiple fronts.
It’s an understatement to say I love this series, that cliffhanger ending is beyond criminal and I cannot wait for the next book!
———————————————————————————
I am inconsolable *currently crying myself to sleep*
I have a lot to say but first let me process that ending 🚶🏽♀️
One thing I’d like to mention besides the plot is how perfect the length of this book is. As the series goes on each book is a bit bigger then the next and with the amount of storylines we’re currently following, I really appreciate that everyone/everything is given a spotlight as a reader.
Okay so Kira my girl you will always be famous. Beyond everything else Kira, as a character, is without a doubt one of the best characters I’ve come across. She’s damaged, hurt, suspicious, stubborn but she’s also loyal, kind, protective, smart and willing to change! And Badass! I love her so much.
This book starts off with one my fav scene an interaction with one of the forty-three. Can I say what a cool group of ppl, the Tuann have nothing on them. And the ending of this book introducing yet another one of them? I was so hype.
This book answered so many of my questions I don’t even know where to start. Why Finn is the way he is, Elise’s motivation, the history of the tuann, the importance of the houses etc etc.
The first half of the book was a slow build up but with so much heart too. The way Roake embraced Kira as the heir, tears in my eyes fr. Selene and Alexander pretending not to care about Kira and Jin but doing everything for them 🥹
The fight scenes were immaculate. Kira no longer has a hamper on her Ki so she showed us what she made of and wow. The scene were Selene used the shields as a platform and the way Kira and Alexander maneuvered throughout, chefs kiss, I felt like I was there.
Ugh and Graydon he could literally kill someone and I’ll say he’s right 😭 idc best ml ever especially next to Kira. Ultimately the scene that made me sob was about Jin and Kira my god what a sad beginning for both of them 😭 and what a heartbreaking conclusion for Kira on multiple fronts.
It’s an understatement to say I love this series, that cliffhanger ending is beyond criminal and I cannot wait for the next book!
———————————————————————————
I am inconsolable *currently crying myself to sleep*
I have a lot to say but first let me process that ending 🚶🏽♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2023
I took forever to finish this one, only because I knew it was going to end on a big CLIFFHANGER.
Ugh. I'm dying for the next book that won't be released for months!
So lots of action and reveals. Not enough reveals though darnit.
I'm still loving the characters, even Raider (the jackass).
Graydon is an awesome hero, Her sidekick and bestie, Tinman and all the growing cast of side characters are there and filling the pages with intrigue and action.
Can't wait for the next book!
Ugh. I'm dying for the next book that won't be released for months!
So lots of action and reveals. Not enough reveals though darnit.
I'm still loving the characters, even Raider (the jackass).
Graydon is an awesome hero, Her sidekick and bestie, Tinman and all the growing cast of side characters are there and filling the pages with intrigue and action.
Can't wait for the next book!
October 2, 2022
This was everything I wanted and more. It made me laugh, it made me cry and was just amazing in it's entirety.
So much has happened and not the way I wanted it to. Nevertheless the wait for book 5 is real.
So much has happened and not the way I wanted it to. Nevertheless the wait for book 5 is real.
December 19, 2022
The last book was a real step up for White. Her writing improved; the action was tight; the world was lit up in technicolor; the sex scenes—unusually (for the genre) cringe-free.
The latest instalment is a bit of a regression. The busy faces have returned with a vengeance (I said, the corners of my mouth curling into a menacing smile), and the action isn’t as streamlined—mucky even.
There was only one ‘harrumph’ in this volume, but the dialogue still has that cat-detective-in-a-retirement-community vibe from time to time.
Still, I’m in it for the long haul. I’ve invested in the characters and the universe. I’m in it, Detective Puss in Shady Pines and all.
White writes quickly, so it won’t be a long wait. And I will be waiting, I said, my eyebrow arching and crawling around my face until it settled on my upper lip.
The latest instalment is a bit of a regression. The busy faces have returned with a vengeance (I said, the corners of my mouth curling into a menacing smile), and the action isn’t as streamlined—mucky even.
There was only one ‘harrumph’ in this volume, but the dialogue still has that cat-detective-in-a-retirement-community vibe from time to time.
Still, I’m in it for the long haul. I’ve invested in the characters and the universe. I’m in it, Detective Puss in Shady Pines and all.
White writes quickly, so it won’t be a long wait. And I will be waiting, I said, my eyebrow arching and crawling around my face until it settled on my upper lip.
September 27, 2022
Amazing! I love this series so much!!! I simultaneously want all of the books to be finished now while also wanting the series to never end. If you’ve read my past reviews, you know T.A. White is one of my absolute favorite authors and I pretty much recommend her stuff whenever I get the chance. With that said, I always get a bit nervous with her new releases because the more you love an author, the higher the expectations. Fortunately, this book was everything I hoped for and more.
Facets of Revolution is definitely heavier than the first three. I actually cried during a couple of the scenes. That’s not to say that it’s turned into endless drama, but with as far as we are into the storyline, I am invested in these characters and everything that happens to them!!! As the story progresses, more details from the past are being revealed and not everyone is who we thought they were. The strife these characters experience is escalating and there were times I was yelling, “No, no, no!” At my Kindle. This installment does end on a cliffy but it was such a good read and the ending just made me want more! Readers will definitely enjoy this one!
Facets of Revolution is definitely heavier than the first three. I actually cried during a couple of the scenes. That’s not to say that it’s turned into endless drama, but with as far as we are into the storyline, I am invested in these characters and everything that happens to them!!! As the story progresses, more details from the past are being revealed and not everyone is who we thought they were. The strife these characters experience is escalating and there were times I was yelling, “No, no, no!” At my Kindle. This installment does end on a cliffy but it was such a good read and the ending just made me want more! Readers will definitely enjoy this one!
January 1, 2023
I want to start by saying I like this series and I enjoyed parts of this book, there were even several aspects I thought were great, but I did have some issues, not least the poor ending.
It’s been nearly two years since the last book and it took me a few chapters to pick up the story again. It didn’t help that the first major incident descended into the realms of fantasy. I found I had to re-read chunks of the book, as parts of the story were so illogical they didn’t really make sense. The second half of the book concentrates on the 'Adva ka’, the test to decide if you are an adult. Again this turned out to be senseless and its main function seemed to be adding some pointless mayhem into the story, I suppose it did add some light relief even if it did get a bit tedious.
Over the three books the author has developed an interesting 'Universe’ with a range of characters, abilities, skills technology and rules. My problem is quite a few are ridiculous and she often manipulates them to suit the situation, regardless of what has happened before and whether they make sense. You might say this is her prerogative, but it means that I kept questioning how something had happened, because it really shouldn’t have. Even simple timings and distances often get distorted to the point of being nonsensical.
I always knew I wasn't the target audience for these books, to start with I'm not female, but I do like strong independent heroines, like Kira. Perhaps I am too used to reading ‘hard’ Science Fiction and struggle to get my head around the 'soft rules’ in this 'Universe’. Unfortunately I am also not that interested in arrogant, controlling 'pretty boys’, that most of the readers seem to like.
I would have liked to have given four stars for the overall story, but the details were often annoying, but I was prepared to give three, until the final few pages when my rating dropped to just being OK.
It’s been nearly two years since the last book and it took me a few chapters to pick up the story again. It didn’t help that the first major incident descended into the realms of fantasy. I found I had to re-read chunks of the book, as parts of the story were so illogical they didn’t really make sense. The second half of the book concentrates on the 'Adva ka’, the test to decide if you are an adult. Again this turned out to be senseless and its main function seemed to be adding some pointless mayhem into the story, I suppose it did add some light relief even if it did get a bit tedious.
Over the three books the author has developed an interesting 'Universe’ with a range of characters, abilities, skills technology and rules. My problem is quite a few are ridiculous and she often manipulates them to suit the situation, regardless of what has happened before and whether they make sense. You might say this is her prerogative, but it means that I kept questioning how something had happened, because it really shouldn’t have. Even simple timings and distances often get distorted to the point of being nonsensical.
I always knew I wasn't the target audience for these books, to start with I'm not female, but I do like strong independent heroines, like Kira. Perhaps I am too used to reading ‘hard’ Science Fiction and struggle to get my head around the 'soft rules’ in this 'Universe’. Unfortunately I am also not that interested in arrogant, controlling 'pretty boys’, that most of the readers seem to like.
I would have liked to have given four stars for the overall story, but the details were often annoying, but I was prepared to give three, until the final few pages when my rating dropped to just being OK.
January 18, 2023
The first 50% is a slog, then it picks up a bit. But the plot is still too complicated, the character gallery too sprawling (a bartender who is in one single scene is given both name and backstory!), and as everyone is epic (the fastest, strongest, smartest, or most fierce), no one is. The romance plot is also underserved, and I skipped the only smexy scene as it felt so out of place - the foundation of the romantic entanglement lies in previous books, but that is too far away to matter in this one.
But my biggest gripe is Jin, who has gone from one of my favorite characters to incredibly annoying. He (and many other characters, come to think of it) acts rashly and stupidly, often counter to his own interests and those of other people. But because the plot demands that he and Kira come out on top, there are rarely any consequences. He spies and gets caught, he steals for millions, he joins a sacred maturity ritual without being invited. No consequences. He DOES get caught and (almost) punished, but for who he is, not what he has done. It is extremely unsatisfying.
I still give it three stars, because I really needed to finish the last 10% - it is a lot of things, but not boring.
But my biggest gripe is Jin, who has gone from one of my favorite characters to incredibly annoying. He (and many other characters, come to think of it) acts rashly and stupidly, often counter to his own interests and those of other people. But because the plot demands that he and Kira come out on top, there are rarely any consequences. He spies and gets caught, he steals for millions, he joins a sacred maturity ritual without being invited. No consequences. He DOES get caught and (almost) punished, but for who he is, not what he has done. It is extremely unsatisfying.
I still give it three stars, because I really needed to finish the last 10% - it is a lot of things, but not boring.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2022
I’ve been waiting for this book for so long and I was so disappointed! Despite the large word count, everything felt rushed and superficial. Too many things were squished together with abandon, and even the humor didn’t land as well. There were a lot of good moments, but nothing great or world shaking or even that surprising (though there was an unexpected twist, it also felt. Flat and contrived). So much of the character depth that we’ve seen previously felt painted over and simplified for the purpose of shoving more action scenes into the book. Typical cliffhanger ending left me really wanting the next book.
September 27, 2022
So..those answers you've been waiting for? They're here in this book. And it's SO GOOD. I can't get enough of this series and this is another must-read addition. It jumps right in where the last book ended and it doesn't let you go. T.A. White knows how to keep readers engaged and then leave them wanting more. If at any point you think about stopping, think again, because the ending of this book is the best part and you'll never see it coming. It's so good, I just keep reading it again and again.
As an avid reader, nothing makes me happier than finding a series that keeps me engaged and invested book after book. T.A. White is an absolute master of world-building and this is another feather in her cap. I know I'll be re-reading this book many times in the future and am already waiting impatiently for the next. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As an avid reader, nothing makes me happier than finding a series that keeps me engaged and invested book after book. T.A. White is an absolute master of world-building and this is another feather in her cap. I know I'll be re-reading this book many times in the future and am already waiting impatiently for the next. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2022
Aaaahhhhhhhh!!! I need the next one stat!
October 10, 2022
Ahhh!! That ending???!
Reread one week later…yep…that ending still got me.
Reread one week later…yep…that ending still got me.
January 9, 2023
Kira is back in Tuann. She’s officially declared as the Roake heir and is on her way to participate in the Adva Ka, a competition of sorts to prove a Tuann’s independence. In the meantime she needs to keep both Jin’s and Elena’s presence under wraps, as both are considered abominations to the Tuann. As the Avda Ka heats up, the Tsavitee and Elena’s sister Elise are working in the background to re-enslave the Tuann.
First- that book had no right to be that long. Too many pages were spent explaining unnecessary battle scenes where Kira butts in where she’s not supposed to while also almost killing herself and just barely escaping with her life. As someone we’re supposed to believe is a great warrior, she is often hanging onto a thread of life in each conflict. Second- as the supposed ‘leader’ Kira is often outmaneuvered and outplayed by every single person she encounters. It’s hard to believe she is going to be able to save everyone when she cannot save herself and continues to fall into the traps of her enemies and the politics of the Tuann as well. Along similar lines, Kira is naive as heck. She continues to believe in Elise and is SHOCKED, when she betrays her. Miss ma’am. Did we not learn our lessons from the previous book? I am CONFUSED, why you are confused? Third- was there any plot development? Truly did anything actually happen in the first 400 pages?
Every installment of the series continues to be a bit of a letdown, and drawing out the story longer than it needs.
First- that book had no right to be that long. Too many pages were spent explaining unnecessary battle scenes where Kira butts in where she’s not supposed to while also almost killing herself and just barely escaping with her life. As someone we’re supposed to believe is a great warrior, she is often hanging onto a thread of life in each conflict. Second- as the supposed ‘leader’ Kira is often outmaneuvered and outplayed by every single person she encounters. It’s hard to believe she is going to be able to save everyone when she cannot save herself and continues to fall into the traps of her enemies and the politics of the Tuann as well. Along similar lines, Kira is naive as heck. She continues to believe in Elise and is SHOCKED, when she betrays her. Miss ma’am. Did we not learn our lessons from the previous book? I am CONFUSED, why you are confused? Third- was there any plot development? Truly did anything actually happen in the first 400 pages?
Every installment of the series continues to be a bit of a letdown, and drawing out the story longer than it needs.
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