Imprisoned on the dead moon of Bina, trapped at the bottom of the cold Hixom Sea, locked in a cell in the flooded Desa and blinded & defeated in the Eastern Provinces, the ruling class of Darracia is defeated without hope.
In the stunning conclusion of the Darracia saga, V’sair, Tulani, Zayden and Reminda must dig deep and find both strength and faith to rise from the depths of the impossible and restore order to their home planet from Lothen, Staf Nuen and the evil armies of Geva.
Prince V'sair has been captured. The battle seems over.
Just when the world seems bleakest - when the bad guys are closer than ever to winning and all hope seems lost - V'sair and his group must find it within themselves to continue fighting.
As far as the third book in a series goes, this one seems pretty good to me.
I liked following V'sair's character arc throughout the series and rather enjoyed watching him come into his destiny.
I somewhat felt like I saw the ending coming but at the same time, I was pleasantly surprised by how we got to that point. It was an interesting journey and I loved being along for the ride.
All in all, I rather enjoyed this series and I cannot wait to pick up another Michael Phillip Cash book!!
With thanks to the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review
Risen is the perfect conclusion to this fantastic series. Darracia appears to be in ruins and it’s every person for themselves. The ruling class has been left for dead (or worse) and evil beings are gorging on the planet. The Elements have been defeated by an evil goddess (or so it appears) and no one knows what to do. Like in life, when the chips are down, we must dig deep within ourselves to find the strength to overcome adversity.
The Elements reveal their true purpose and it is up to Reminda, V’Sair, Tulani and Zayden to act. Filled with incredible action scenes and turmoil, I read it all in one sitting. I closed my eyes and watched it play out like a movie, so vivid was the narration.
When I finished reading it, I didn’t want it to end. These characters had become a part of me. Michael Phillip Cash has written a gem here, filled with strong female and male characters. If you enjoyed the movies Avatar and The Abyss, you’ll love this space opera!
When we last visited Darracia, all was lost. The city was broken.
I finished reading the second book, Collision: The Battle for Darracia, and felt almost heartbroken wondering if and how things could ever rebound to the point of some semblance of happiness. My heart ached for characters that I have grown to love and friend over hundreds of pages and I wanted to reach out, join the battle, and find a resolution to fight evil and help good prevail. The second book was amazing but as I read the final words, I couldn’t figure out what direction author Michael Phillip Cash was going to go in and how he was going to leave his readers feeling satisfied. He did not disappoint.
One of the things that I love about Cash’s writing is how he is able to create worlds that are seemingly so different than ours but in all reality, they parallel the daily happenings on Earth. It begs the question, if we had more V’sair, Tulani, and Zayden in our world, just to name a few, would the world be a different and better place? If we remembered that for the most part we are all the same on the inside even though we may look different on the outside, would there be more love than war?
Also appealing to me is Cash’s ability to develop characters, to make them so realistic and inviting. There were moments when I felt as though I was on the battlefield, under the sea, and trapped in the castle awaiting an unknown fate. This … my friends, is brilliant and the sign of an amazing writer. Most of us tend to gravitate to the good guys but there were even moments when I understood the bad guys and was able to sympathize with their cause, their efforts. The worlds, the people, the wars, the pains are all very real and very intertwined. You have to read the book to understand. I assure you that you will appreciate the message.
Risen: The Battle for Darracia was written as a stand-alone novel; however, I highly recommend that you read the entire trilogy. Doing so will allow you to develop with the characters and storyline. It will also allow you the opportunity to appreciate the author, his technique, and the method behind his writing.
There is so much to learn from this series that I wish it wasn’t at an end. I am satisfied with the outcome but I love the characters and would enjoy reading more. Cash has a message, a message that is represented well throughout the novel, and I encourage you to pick up a copy of the trilogy as it may just change the way you look at things.
If you appreciate strong characters, science fiction, adventure, and adversity this is a must read. It had me captivated from page one and I was unwilling to put it down until the final word.
Battered and beaten down, Darracia is fully in the hands of evil, and hope is all but lost. Where are the warriors who would lead their people to victory? Resources are dwindling and the waste of those in power is wreaking havoc as this once great empire is now falling to ruins.
V’sair, once the object of ridicule, has been swallowed by the sea, but is he dead or has he been given a second chance at life, a chance to learn the true meaning of being a leader, of having inner strength and trusting in himself, his instincts? Zayden has been taken in by some of the races who, once enemies had become allies in hiding from the destruction of their lands and their people. Broken, battered and defeated, Zayden has become a drunkard, but does the heart of a warrior still burn within him?
Separated, alone and defeated none of the heroes of Darracia have a chance to overpower the forces who have taken their lands. Is it possible that acceptance of others, trust and camaraderie has risen from these depths of despair? Will allies be found in unexpected places? Only a battle of epic proportions will defeat Staf Nuen, the power hungry traitor who is in league with evil itself, Lothen and the foul armies of Geva. Will this be the final battle, the last standoff, and the last chance to raise Darracia to new heights?
From the darkness of the first page to the intensity of the last, once again, Michael Phillip Cash held me captive with Risen: the Battle for Darracia. Each scene is brilliantly set, with feeling and atmosphere, as well as a sense of darkness as each hero must determine if they have what it takes to persevere. Mr. Cash does not allow his characters to wallow in their pain; he pushes them beyond their limits, raising the bar for each to rise to. As page after page flies by, there is a swell of emotion that grows as hope is slowly being rekindled. Michael Phillip Cash took me out of my world and put me in his, a witness to his characters inner growth. He writes with the power of one who loves his subject and it shows in every twist, every turn and every word. Mr. Cash knows his craft and can create fantasy that mimics life as we know it, making his tale even more believable. Highly recommended trilogy! If you’ve never tried an action-packed fantasy, you are in for a special ride.
Series: The Darracia Saga - Book 3 Publication Date: July 3, 2014 Publisher: Red Feather Publishing Genre: Fantasy/Sci-fi/Action Ages: Age Level: 10 - 18 or even 80 Currently Available from: Amazon
I had read the previous books in this trilogy and true to fashion Michael Philip Cash did not disappoint but instead got better and better with each book. This one "Risen- The Battle For Darracia" is my favorite from all of The Darracia Saga. In all honesty I truly believe "Risen- The Battle For Darracia" is my favorite book, of all Michael Philip Cash's books that I have read so far - and I have read all but one of his books.
When I came onto Amazon.com I was torn between this book and finishing out the Saga or getting BroodX, I am so happy I choose "Risen" because I enjoyed this book so much that I had it read within 5 hours. Michael Philip Cash not only can write a tale which captivates the reader to the point of forgetting the hour of the day, but he mixes important messages within his stories and I find this so interesting and captivating.
One of the most important messages I noticed first with in "Risen" which had me doing the "OH YEAH - That is a piece of history and here it is written in his book!" then my next thought was, it is happening today on this planet too, perhaps we should have more people read this book and maybe wake up and take notice.
Imagine this conversation going on between Geronimo and President Obama or more still God and the human race.
"You are destroyers. You don't give back to the planet. Take, take, take - always making changes. Why wasn't the land good enough for you? Instead you had to build cities in the sky. Taking crystals, making everyone work for them, always improving...."
"Improving is a good thing"
"To what purpose? Can one simply exist? Look, see my daughter, (the original people), she swims every day. She protects the all of Earth and all her creatures. We take only what we need to survive. We replenish what we take. We live alongside all creatures, not oppressing or trying to change them."
Yes I know Michael's book is fantasy but I believe such as the above few paragraphs are not.
If you are looking for a really good book to read and have a taste for some fun fantasy.
Risen starts straight after the last book, Collision, and much has happened. V’sair has been thrown into the sea to drown, Zayden has been blinded, Lothen is in charge of the planet and is stripping it of most of its resources, Staf Nuen is going to become a father again and is dealing with a dangerous addiction, most of the Quyroo have been slaughtered, the Darracians have become slaves, and Reminda has been shipped off to another world to be enslaved. Basically everything has gone to pot.
I’ll start with the things that I didn’t like, so I can end on a high note.
This was similar to the first book in the trilogy, Schism, in the way that it was too fast paced. Sometimes it was necessary due to what was happening, but quite a lot it seemed as if time passed too quickly. This, combined with the multitude of sub-plots which seemed to dominate the entire book, made it hard to follow along.
What I did like was the fact that this seemed much more gritty, with more sensitive subjects that emphasised the dark times the protagonists were in. I also liked how the struggles of the Quyroo were portrayed, as it wasn’t something that brought them together – unlike how most YA portray it as. Instead they were very downtrodden and distrustful, making it more realistic.
Another aspect I liked were the paths the characters took in this book, the most interesting of which was Naje’s, the woman who was carrying the evil uncle, Staf Nuen’s, baby. I like the fact that she was incredibly selfish and not in anyway altruistic. She just wanted power and to survive, which was different from pretty much every other character, as they were all in some way thinking about other people.
Overall the ending was decent, although rushed. It was a bit overly complicated for such a short book, but that doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Mr. Cash has penned some very good books. With his descriptions of the characters, you can relate to them. The reader is pulled into the plot more and more as you turn the pages. You will be interested even if you don't like sci-fi. His vivid imagination and his look into the future. I have read his other books, Brood X, Stillwell, The Hanging Tree, Schism and Collison. This book is the third and final of the Darracia saga. You don't have to read Schism and Collision first since Mr. Cash lets the reader into all the important parts and characters that are in the first two books. He brings forth value of friends, second chances and the strength within oneself. The book may start out with a darkness in the pages but as a reader I was hooked. I couldn't let go. The author sets each scene with much feeling and how the characters survive and overcome. When the reader thinks the character has reached their limits of their capabilities, Mr. Cash lifts the limits that we as the reader has set for each character and their triumph when reaching that limit. The author sets the plot of Good vs. Evil and how love can help overcome anything.
I would recommend all of Mr. Cash's books. They have all been good reads to me.
I received a complimentary copy of RISEN from the author, Michael Phillip Cash for my view of the book. I received no other compensation.
Imprisoned on the dead moon of Bina, trapped at the bottom of the cold Hixom Sea, locked in a cell in the flooded Desa and blinded & defeated in the Eastern Provinces, the ruling class of Darracia is defeated without hope.
In the stunning conclusion of the Darracia saga, V’sair, Tulani, Zayden and Reminda must dig deep and find both strength and faith to rise from the depths of the impossible and restore order to their home planet from Lothen, Staf Nuen and the evil armies of Geva.
About the Author:
Born and raised on Long Island, Michael has always had a fascination with horror writing and found footage films. He wanted to incorporate both with his debut novel, Brood X. Earning a degree in English and an MBA, he has worked various jobs before settling into being a full-time author. He currently resides on Long Island with his wife and children.
My Review:
No one knows where V'sair is, truth be told neither does he, he awakens to find himself under water?! At the bottom of the cold Hixom Sea, V'sair fights to find the Strength to come against his captors. Tulani, that was trapped in a prison, is released by Seren, who in turn, has a plan of his own. Zayden, is blinded yet with the help of a few others he fights to return to the old Zayden he was. Zayden the warrior!
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
We last saw our heroes scattered, seriously injured and lost. Lothen is now in control of the planet, the people have either been murdered or turned into slaves. Everything looks lost, broken, and people have given up on everything. V’sair is going to have to learn the true meaning of being a leader to save his people. Zayden, he may be injured and drowning in his defeat, but can he find his true self and save those he cares about?
This is a dark story and a perfect end to this series. All hope is gone, there are no more fighters for the people. The people are dead, broken, slaves, and have no hope. They don’t even have enough to want to join together to fight for. But when everything is gone, that is when you either let it defeat you or you pick yourself up and find a way to keep fighting.
I love how Zayden, at his lowest learns that his disability is not the end of the world. And V’sair, although lost under the sea grows to be a great leader. This is a great story and an amazing series. If you are looking for a great series look no further. This series has everything in it from love to loss and good to evil. Make sure to get your copy today.
I received all three books (Schism, Collide, and Risen individually and as the Battle for Darracia Collection) for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The final book in the trilogy, Risen, is aptly titled V'sair truly rises, from the sea itself (unknowingly having gills really comes in handy, I guess)to help to lead a three pronged invasion, each one unwittingly beginning at the same time, to retake his planet. Now don't get me wrong -- I really liked this book. However, Cash ties it up just a little too neatly. All of the main characters survive (even Drakko keeps showing up as a spirit), and when they do encounter adversity -- even Zayden's loss of sight -- it only serves to make them stronger and to teach them, the other characters, and of course the reader a LESSON. The lessons are a little heavy handed. I guess I didn't need Lothen's wanton destruction of the planet to know that decimating any ecosystem wrecks havoc on other ecosystems, everything being connected and all. Nor did I need to explicitly hear that denying one part of a population equal rights and representation will serve to hurt all parts of the population. However, the reading level is probably only 6th or 7th grade so, while the lessons seemed excessive to me, I'm sure the average 12 year old might learn a thing or two. But if you are an adult, read these anyway. Cash is a really good writer and his books are fun and interesting reads.
A Fantasy-filled masterpiece, with a conclusion that will take you on a stormy journey from the deepest parts of the sea to the inner-most parts of the solar system. The suspense of who will walk away with what, and the mystery behind it all, will keep the reader anticipating, what unspeakable act could be just beyond the next page? An appropriate title, “Risen: The Battle For Darracia,” a stunning beginning that captured my heart and mind and held me prisoner until the end. The wonderful and valiant warriors gave of themselves so freely; a setting so colorful that I felt myself there fighting alongside those remarkable characters, and an action-filled plot that just would not quit. With Reminda held prisoner on Bina, fighting for her life, Zayden locked in a cell in the Desa, and V’sair’s enemies, thinking they have outwitted, and left him for dead in the Hixom Sea, continue their fight for Darracia. Who will snatch up the throne of victory in this epic tale of power? Will the elements help Darracia rise once more, but under another rule of unfavorable control? Is all hope gone for all Darracians?
This is the third and final book in this YA series. These books should be read in order as this is a continuing saga. The first two Risen: The Battle for Darraciaare:
Schism-The Battle for Darracia
Collision-The Battle for Darracia
What a wonderful finale to this series! Not only is there plenty of action but there are also lots of lessons being taught as well which adults as well as teens should learn. One is disabilities are only disabilities if you allow them to be and never under estimate the other senses we were born with. Another and perhaps the most important is that all people are the same whether they are red, blue or green. Adversity, even the worst kind can be overcome when we all come together as one. Peace on this planet shall reign supreme when we realize that not only is there a connection between the earth, air and water-there is a connection between us all.
The author has done an excellent job of bringing everything to fruition the way it should be. Each of the characters are forced to face themselves and the adversity they face. They must find a way to overcome that adversity if they are to save themselves, their people, and the issues they fought so hard for. We see things come full circle. The author made sure we saw how flawed each of the characters were. This is what made them so realistic to us. I’m not sure many of my middle school students would enjoy this series. It is maybe a little too mature for them. However, I have a friend who teaches at the high school level. I am sure she and her friends would definitely enjoy this series and so it will be sent her way. I can think of nothing better to do than to share a series when you find one you really think is top notch. I definitely feel that way about this book.
I received a copy to help facilitate my review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
The final book in the Darracia Saga continues the captivating story from where Collision left off. At the end of the last book, all seemed lost and your heart broke for the adversity and devastation the characters had faced. This third book does not disappoint, the many sub-plots, that seemed so diverse, come together nicely forming a satisfying end to the series. The narration in the audiobook is great, he brings the characters to life and the various voices fit their personalities perfectly. This final book reinforces the discreet social messages that Cash has imbedded in the series well; it makes you pause and take a look at your own actions and how things are around you. It is fast paced and exciting, with strong appealing characters, plenty of action and a plot that keeps you turning the pages to the very end. I received the audiobook & ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book for the purpose of a fair review.
Overview: V’sair and the rest of Darracia have a surprise planned for his uncle. Lothen thinks that he won Darracia, but he isn’t ready for the uprising that is marching to his doorstep.
Likes: The final book of the trilogy, Mr. Cash has kept quite a bit of hope alive in this one. The people of Darracia were willing to fight for their homes and lives against one of the worst despots that they could imagine. Even Staf Nuen realized his mistakes.
Dislikes: Seren and Naje make this round of dislikes. I detest traitors, and Naje thought she was so powerful that her actions wouldn’t have consequences.
Conclusion: This is a terrific book, and a perfect end to a terrific trilogy. If you can get past the first book, even a fantasy fan should enjoy it.
This is the third of the trilogy and I have also read and reviewed the first two, Schism and Collision. While this is a standalone book, I recommend reading the three in order. It will help to understand the growth of the characters and will keep the flow of the story. This isn’t the genre I usually read, but Michael Phillip Cash writes books that are easily readable with a style that crosses genre.
All three books present stories of adventure, mystery, and interesting characters. Risen is no different, and the book this trilogy concludes with a satisfying ending. Through all of the struggles, war, and captivity, there is a message of hope and encouragement.
Once again Michael Phillip Cash did it again except with 3 books. I couldn't put them down. V'sair has to prove himself to his people with a constant struggle against him. He has no idea where his brother is, no idea when his love will return, and dealing with the loss of his father. He wants to make everything right once again and make The Elements whole. I can go on but if I do it spoils the riches you get after finishing the book.
Whyyyy does it to have to end. The characters were awesome and I hate to see them go but I am really happy with the ending. I do hope there will be more in the future and I do encourage other people to read it this series. It’s soo good!!!!!