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The Sunset Lands Beyond #2
Aerisia: Gateway To The Underworld
Discovering she is another world’s prophesied heroine was not something Hannah Winters could have ever predicted. However, having accepted the mantle of Aerisia’s Artan, Hannah must now move beyond the pain of the past and conquer her magic in order to save this land. Will the pitfalls awaiting her—suspicion, rumors, lies, betrayal, murder, warfare—halt her quest? Who is Hannah’s ally, and who only appears to be? Will shocking revelations about her heritage push her away or convince her that she’s walking the right path? With the Dark Powers growing bolder every day, Hannah’s pursuit of answers leads her to the Underworld, a place where even immortals dare not tread, on a journey from which she may not return…
* * * * * *
THE SUNSET LANDS BEYOND TRILOGY
Book 1 ~ Land Beyond the Sunset
Book 2 ~ Gateway to the Underworld
Book 3 ~ Field of Battle (Coming soon)
* * * * * *
THE SUNSET LANDS BEYOND TRILOGY
Book 1 ~ Land Beyond the Sunset
Book 2 ~ Gateway to the Underworld
Book 3 ~ Field of Battle (Coming soon)
- GenresFantasyYoung AdultMagic
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2014
54 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Ashwood
25 books942 followers Don't believe all the hype. Sarah Ashwood isn't really a gladiator, a Highlander, a fencer, a skilled horsewoman, an archer, a magic wielder, or a martial arts expert. That's only in her mind. In real life, she's a genuine Okie from Muskogee, who grew up in the wooded hills outside the oldest town in Oklahoma, USA, and holds a B.A. in English from American Military University. She now lives (mostly) quietly at home with her husband and four children, where she tries to sneak in a daily run or workout to save her sanity and keep her mind fresh for her next story.
For a complete list of all Sarah's works and the links to find them, as well as her social media contacts and newsletter sign up, visit her website at www.sarahashwoodauthor.com.
For a complete list of all Sarah's works and the links to find them, as well as her social media contacts and newsletter sign up, visit her website at www.sarahashwoodauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 2, 2015
Even though this installment of the trilogy answered most of my questions from the first book, it made me even more disconnected from the main character. I give it a 3.4 out of five stars.
In truth, there are flashes in the book where the narrative comes alive. A paragraph here or there during the first-person scenes helps me connect with the main character. In most cases, her portions are either shallow or immature. I keep forgetting she is 20-something, is learning powerful magic and is expected to save this imaginary Aerisia from the Dark. Most of the time her thoughts sound like something I'd expect from a 16-year-old.
Most of the plot feels forced rather than one event flowing organically into the next thing. The ending is completely out of place. The Underworld? What? Where? This is the first we've even heard of it in two books but for some reason the Artan needs to travel there alone? What about the war they planned a few pages before? She's just going to desert all those soldiers who signed up to follow her?
Instead of moving on to the third book, I threw up my hands. There are other books beckoning from my "to be read" pile. I'm not investing more money in this series at the moment.
In truth, there are flashes in the book where the narrative comes alive. A paragraph here or there during the first-person scenes helps me connect with the main character. In most cases, her portions are either shallow or immature. I keep forgetting she is 20-something, is learning powerful magic and is expected to save this imaginary Aerisia from the Dark. Most of the time her thoughts sound like something I'd expect from a 16-year-old.
Most of the plot feels forced rather than one event flowing organically into the next thing. The ending is completely out of place. The Underworld? What? Where? This is the first we've even heard of it in two books but for some reason the Artan needs to travel there alone? What about the war they planned a few pages before? She's just going to desert all those soldiers who signed up to follow her?
Instead of moving on to the third book, I threw up my hands. There are other books beckoning from my "to be read" pile. I'm not investing more money in this series at the moment.
September 29, 2020
We Get Answers
*****Spoilers*****
This one is more interesting than the first and moves along more swiftly. We find out why the Artesians were certain of Hannah's powers and it turns out that Rittean and Risean are her family as her father came from Aresia. Good thing Hannah embraced her role and is accepting of the war she must now join. Hannah wields her powers in a display to convince her followers after dark agents spread rumors about her legitimacy. It was a little hard to believe the dark ones sowed so much discontent so easily but thankfully Hannah was able to prove who she was.
The Simathe were just as silent and capable in this book but there's a hint of a traitor possible in their ranks. I don't understand why Hannah gets so angry and doesn't want to believe one couple be a traitor right off of leaning of the infiltration of the dark ones in the palace and surrounding land.
There's another extremely powerful fairy and others introduced, including giants. Hannah learns that certain details about attacks by dark ones have been kept from her and the being killed trying to rape her may be able to inhabit another dead body. Gross. Thankfully a lot of answers in this book, now it's figuring out what Hannah is doing in the Underworld while the fairy keeps her Joined from going after her there. Hopefully the fairy is able to cut off the Simathe mind speak or she may have more than just the Simathe High Lord to deal with.
*****Spoilers*****
This one is more interesting than the first and moves along more swiftly. We find out why the Artesians were certain of Hannah's powers and it turns out that Rittean and Risean are her family as her father came from Aresia. Good thing Hannah embraced her role and is accepting of the war she must now join. Hannah wields her powers in a display to convince her followers after dark agents spread rumors about her legitimacy. It was a little hard to believe the dark ones sowed so much discontent so easily but thankfully Hannah was able to prove who she was.
The Simathe were just as silent and capable in this book but there's a hint of a traitor possible in their ranks. I don't understand why Hannah gets so angry and doesn't want to believe one couple be a traitor right off of leaning of the infiltration of the dark ones in the palace and surrounding land.
There's another extremely powerful fairy and others introduced, including giants. Hannah learns that certain details about attacks by dark ones have been kept from her and the being killed trying to rape her may be able to inhabit another dead body. Gross. Thankfully a lot of answers in this book, now it's figuring out what Hannah is doing in the Underworld while the fairy keeps her Joined from going after her there. Hopefully the fairy is able to cut off the Simathe mind speak or she may have more than just the Simathe High Lord to deal with.
March 28, 2023
This is the second story in the series, and for the most part can be read as standalone. As far as the plot and background, I didn't feel lost at all, however, there's a very slowburn romance between Hannah and Ilgard that develops a little throughout the book.
Personally, I didn't get her attraction to, or love for, him. Maybe if I had seen their relationship progress through the first book it would have been different. As it stood in this story, it was a lot of him telling her he knew best, not to worry her pretty little head about the things he didn't think she needed to know. She came to terms with that, but I am still indignant on her behalf. :)
From the title, I expected the story to take place at least in partly in the Underworld, but it doesn't.
Despite those things, I enjoyed getting to know Hannah and watching her learn how to use her magic in order to grow into the hero the people need. She came across as intelligent, resiliant, and adaptable to her circumstances, and it was realistic to me that she missed her home.
There is good world building, and several secrets are revealed.
Ruthie Bowles did a nice job with the story. She portrayed all the characters with different voices so I always knew who was speaking, and her tone conveyed their emotions well.
Personally, I didn't get her attraction to, or love for, him. Maybe if I had seen their relationship progress through the first book it would have been different. As it stood in this story, it was a lot of him telling her he knew best, not to worry her pretty little head about the things he didn't think she needed to know. She came to terms with that, but I am still indignant on her behalf. :)
From the title, I expected the story to take place at least in partly in the Underworld, but it doesn't.
Despite those things, I enjoyed getting to know Hannah and watching her learn how to use her magic in order to grow into the hero the people need. She came across as intelligent, resiliant, and adaptable to her circumstances, and it was realistic to me that she missed her home.
There is good world building, and several secrets are revealed.
Ruthie Bowles did a nice job with the story. She portrayed all the characters with different voices so I always knew who was speaking, and her tone conveyed their emotions well.
July 16, 2018
I am so totally bingeing on Sarah Ashwood’s The Sunset Lands Beyond Series. I just finished both books 1 (Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset) and 2 (Aerisia: Gateway to the Underworld). They were simply that addictive. I’ve separately reviewed book 1 so now it’s Gateway’s turn. What can I say about this book? Hannah Winters continues to be a fantastic lead character. She’s now truly come into her role as Aerisia’s foretold Artan and is growing in power - but the Dark Powers are growing ever more bold. How she handled this - which requires passing through the Gateway to the Underworld - makes for both a wonderful story in itself and a great contribution to the series. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
July 16, 2018
I am so totally bingeing on Sarah Ashwood’s The Sunset Lands Beyond Series. I just finished both books 1 (Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset) and 2 (Aerisia: Gateway to the Underworld). They were simply that addictive. I’ve separately reviewed book 1 so now it’s Gateway’s turn. What can I say about this book? Hannah Winters continues to be a fantastic lead character. She’s now truly come into her role as Aerisia’s foretold Artan and is growing in power - but the Dark Powers are growing ever more bold. How she handled this - which requires passing through the Gateway to the Underworld - makes for both a wonderful story in itself and a great contribution to the series. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
September 16, 2024
Aerisia: Gateway to the Underworld continues Hannah's journey in a thrilling second installment. Sarah Ashwood doesn't miss a beat, plunging us deeper into Aerisia's rich mythology and political intrigue. Hannah's struggle to master her newfound powers and navigate the complexities of this fantastical world kept me captivated. The action scenes are intense, and the emotional depth of the characters is moving.
However, the plot occasionally felt a bit convoluted, with multiple storylines vying for attention. I also craved a bit more exploration of the Underworld itself, as the setting felt somewhat underdeveloped compared to the vivid descriptions of Aerisia in the first book.
Overall, Aerisia: Gateway to the Underworld is a worthy sequel that builds upon the foundation laid in the first book. While it has a few minor flaws, the engaging characters, thrilling plot, and immersive world-building make it a satisfying read for fans of epic fantasy.
However, the plot occasionally felt a bit convoluted, with multiple storylines vying for attention. I also craved a bit more exploration of the Underworld itself, as the setting felt somewhat underdeveloped compared to the vivid descriptions of Aerisia in the first book.
Overall, Aerisia: Gateway to the Underworld is a worthy sequel that builds upon the foundation laid in the first book. While it has a few minor flaws, the engaging characters, thrilling plot, and immersive world-building make it a satisfying read for fans of epic fantasy.
October 11, 2018
This series has such good covers, my goodness! And I liked the story as well. I'm afraid I didn't grow more attached to Hannah. She still has moments where she acts like a teenager, but I did like her becoming more proactive in this book as she accepts the role as Artan . Ilgard is just fascinating and I kept on reading just to learn more about this guy.
The title is rather misleading, though. It takes quite some time before the gateway shows up.
The title is rather misleading, though. It takes quite some time before the gateway shows up.
June 26, 2021
Very interesting story
Hanna was swept away to a parallel world. Ilgard is a being of that place, a high chief over his armed forces. She is the Artan..The one prophetized to rid the world of the dark powers that seek to destroy it. Although she didn't believe it at first, she finally gets proof of who she is. She is bonded to Ilgard, not by choice but by necessity. What's to happen now?
The darkness is voming, sooner or later. And Hannah must learn to harness the power within her if she is to succeed. But someone wants the people to doubt she is who they think she is. Rumors flow. What happens next will surprise you.
Read on my friends
Hanna was swept away to a parallel world. Ilgard is a being of that place, a high chief over his armed forces. She is the Artan..The one prophetized to rid the world of the dark powers that seek to destroy it. Although she didn't believe it at first, she finally gets proof of who she is. She is bonded to Ilgard, not by choice but by necessity. What's to happen now?
The darkness is voming, sooner or later. And Hannah must learn to harness the power within her if she is to succeed. But someone wants the people to doubt she is who they think she is. Rumors flow. What happens next will surprise you.
Read on my friends
September 1, 2025
This book is so much better than the first! I really enjoyed watching Hannah grow into her role as Aerisia’s prophesied heroine, and the romance between her and Ilgard adds a lovely layer to the story. The plot keeps you guessing with betrayal, lies, and shocking revelations about her heritage, it definitely keeps things interesting.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did a good job bringing the characters and story to life. My only small critique is that parts of the pacing felt a bit slow at times, but overall, it was an engaging read with a rich world and plenty of intrigue. I can’t wait to see where Hannah’s journey goes next!
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did a good job bringing the characters and story to life. My only small critique is that parts of the pacing felt a bit slow at times, but overall, it was an engaging read with a rich world and plenty of intrigue. I can’t wait to see where Hannah’s journey goes next!
June 1, 2020
Amazing!
If you're a fan of fantasy, this is definitely worth the teas. In the first book, Hannah was often seen as dependent and weepy and weak. She had strength but was still very much so discovering herself and her purpose. In this book, we get to witness Hannah truly figuring out who she is and reconciling the expectations of being a leader with who she is as an individual. The love story continues to blossom slowly and I loved reading about it. The way the characters begin to develop and mature is truly amazing and the story and world building are amazing.
If you're a fan of fantasy, this is definitely worth the teas. In the first book, Hannah was often seen as dependent and weepy and weak. She had strength but was still very much so discovering herself and her purpose. In this book, we get to witness Hannah truly figuring out who she is and reconciling the expectations of being a leader with who she is as an individual. The love story continues to blossom slowly and I loved reading about it. The way the characters begin to develop and mature is truly amazing and the story and world building are amazing.
April 2, 2023
Audiobook: I was entertained by book 2 of "The Sunset Lands Beyond Series". Hannah has grown as a character as the story progressed. As she learned to accept her role in the world of Aerisia, she had new obstacles to overcome and new decisions to make. There were some surprises and some twists that kept the story interesting. The story ended on a cliffhanger. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. Ruthie Bowles' narration enhanced the story's entertainment. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
March 28, 2020
Three=60%
Three, yes, but if I was a teenager I'm sure it would have been at least a four. It reads a lot like a soapie, nevertheless I'm glad I bought it. It seems to me that events are building towards a crescendo, if only I bought one more book. I'm aware that it takes skilful editions writing to give that effect. The author has done well. Hannah is on her way to discovering her power. I'm sure she will find a serious opponent soon.
Three, yes, but if I was a teenager I'm sure it would have been at least a four. It reads a lot like a soapie, nevertheless I'm glad I bought it. It seems to me that events are building towards a crescendo, if only I bought one more book. I'm aware that it takes skilful editions writing to give that effect. The author has done well. Hannah is on her way to discovering her power. I'm sure she will find a serious opponent soon.
January 7, 2019
Not bad
I would put the Second in this series as a solid meh. It moved the story, grew characters, and progressed towards the end. But the middle got kind of repetitive and boring. That's not to say you shouldn't read it if you have read the first. And I will be continuing on. But its not a must read now story.
I would put the Second in this series as a solid meh. It moved the story, grew characters, and progressed towards the end. But the middle got kind of repetitive and boring. That's not to say you shouldn't read it if you have read the first. And I will be continuing on. But its not a must read now story.
June 20, 2024
This series continues where it left off in book 1, and it’s just getting better and better! We find out more about Hannah and where she actually descends from, plus why and how she ended up in Aerisia to begin with. Another cliffhanger though so I cannot wait to get into book three and continue the story!
May 16, 2022
Just gets better!
The story line keeps moving forward with more explanations of how & why Hannah is the Artan. Read the series for more intrigue & mystery. It's the only way to get the answers!
The story line keeps moving forward with more explanations of how & why Hannah is the Artan. Read the series for more intrigue & mystery. It's the only way to get the answers!
July 30, 2022
More things are happening!!! I totally think Ilgard is crush-worthy haha so I'm pleased to see Hannah starting to think so as well ;) Lots happens in this book and it leaves on such a cliff-hanger! I look forward to seeing how the heck things go in the trilogy finale!
April 19, 2023
A good magic listen.
I really liked this new world I've been thrown into. It felt as though I was there. The characters are well thought out and the plot made for an interesting read.
*Read on Audible
I really liked this new world I've been thrown into. It felt as though I was there. The characters are well thought out and the plot made for an interesting read.
*Read on Audible
March 24, 2018
Loved this second edition of the Sunset Lands Beyond series. Excellent characters, plot, and development.
March 27, 2019
Great book
February 5, 2020
I love this series! One I will re-read numerous times. I laugh, cry, and bite my nails. Can't put it down.
November 16, 2020
Enchanting. Captivating.
May 30, 2021
Interesting book
So much action. Quick paced. Magical. Can't wait to read more. Good story line . Interesting characters. Quick read. Fun
So much action. Quick paced. Magical. Can't wait to read more. Good story line . Interesting characters. Quick read. Fun
April 1, 2023
Excellent. Hannah is really coming into her own. And the slow burn is growing, as is the danger. Really enjoying this series.
February 28, 2020
I enjoyed seeing Hannah grow into her role, despite doubts and setbacks from herself and others. Great cast of side characters and fresh worldbuilding. Will definitely re-read.
October 18, 2018
now i am hooked. This was such a great, easy and creative book. i was hooked after the first page.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
March 9, 2016
Hannah returns as the reluctant heroine of an entire world in this remarkable fantasy tale of classic good versus evil, but set in a reality parallel to our own -- in the magical land of Aerisia.
Author Sarah Ashwood recreates the enchanted domain and peoples it once more with all the depthless characters from Book One: the wondrous fairy Aureeyah, Hannah's young friend Rittean, and, of course, her chief protector and smoldering love interest, Lord Ilgarth.
In this book, Hannah simmers as she speculates about her role as The Artan -- legendary savior of the Aerisians, long foretold in lore and song. She doubts the prophecy's veracity -- until she's handed a legendary blade one day. With it in her hand, she comes close to defeating Ilgard in what was -- at first -- a harmless trial of her dexterity with the weapon. She "Becomes" the blade, fighting with a manic zeal and level of accomplishment far beyond anyone's expectations.
What follows is Hannah's slow acceptance of her destiny: to defeat The Evil that threatens the very existence of Aerisia.
After returning to the city of Laytii, Hannah begins months of training to learn control of her newfound powers. Then, the arrival of a mysterious delegation of hooded folk set off alarm bells for Hannah and a few others. Their fears are quickly realized as The Artan sweeps into battle, fighting alongside Ilgard and other members of the storied Simathe guard.
The world-building here is once again first-class, with highly accomplished writing and impeccable editing that swiftly sweep the reader into the dual universe, caring deeply for the heroes and dreading each encounter with evil. In one particularly moving scene, Ilgard huskily vows his devotion to Hannah:
"Aye, lass," he promised, voice earnest, low. "Though the Dark One himself appear, I will fight with you through whatever this night may bring."
Across the Singing Bridge, and accompanied by unlikely giant allies, Hannah pursues her destiny with deceptive vulnerability and rare good grace. The action flows fast toward an ending that is at once satisfying and conclusive, yet leaving room for delicious speculation about what's coming up in Book Three.
Five stars to Aerisia: Gateway to the Underworld. Stay tuned for the sequel -- the final installment in this standout fantasy franchise.
Author Sarah Ashwood recreates the enchanted domain and peoples it once more with all the depthless characters from Book One: the wondrous fairy Aureeyah, Hannah's young friend Rittean, and, of course, her chief protector and smoldering love interest, Lord Ilgarth.
In this book, Hannah simmers as she speculates about her role as The Artan -- legendary savior of the Aerisians, long foretold in lore and song. She doubts the prophecy's veracity -- until she's handed a legendary blade one day. With it in her hand, she comes close to defeating Ilgard in what was -- at first -- a harmless trial of her dexterity with the weapon. She "Becomes" the blade, fighting with a manic zeal and level of accomplishment far beyond anyone's expectations.
What follows is Hannah's slow acceptance of her destiny: to defeat The Evil that threatens the very existence of Aerisia.
After returning to the city of Laytii, Hannah begins months of training to learn control of her newfound powers. Then, the arrival of a mysterious delegation of hooded folk set off alarm bells for Hannah and a few others. Their fears are quickly realized as The Artan sweeps into battle, fighting alongside Ilgard and other members of the storied Simathe guard.
The world-building here is once again first-class, with highly accomplished writing and impeccable editing that swiftly sweep the reader into the dual universe, caring deeply for the heroes and dreading each encounter with evil. In one particularly moving scene, Ilgard huskily vows his devotion to Hannah:
"Aye, lass," he promised, voice earnest, low. "Though the Dark One himself appear, I will fight with you through whatever this night may bring."
Across the Singing Bridge, and accompanied by unlikely giant allies, Hannah pursues her destiny with deceptive vulnerability and rare good grace. The action flows fast toward an ending that is at once satisfying and conclusive, yet leaving room for delicious speculation about what's coming up in Book Three.
Five stars to Aerisia: Gateway to the Underworld. Stay tuned for the sequel -- the final installment in this standout fantasy franchise.
December 31, 2015
I loved this book! This one picked up where the first one left off and the action went strong all throughout the book. It was a great sequel- there was a lot more being introduced about Aerisia that was interesting to read about: New characters were introduced, especially new races like Giants, the Doriun, mountain faery, etc and we get more information about The Evil One and the Dark Side.
I really liked the way Hannah was written in this book. It was an improvement, her character development was huge in the fact Hannah slowly changed and accepted the fact that she was truly the Artan, the deliver, the savior and hero. When Hannah finally became the Artan herself, we got to learn more about the Artan and Aerisian history and about how truly evil the Dark Side is and what is happening to the rest of the world.
There were a few times in the story, when the action slowed down and she had time to think and contemplate on her life, that she mentioned how much she missed and wanted to go back to earth. After the second time reading this, and thinking it was going to be a thing and I thought would be annoying but actually it was understandable and I could see how even though you get used to being in a new place, you'll always get homesick, and that's exactly what was happening to Hannah and I understood what she was going through. But while she's sad about this fact, as Hannah gains new powers and understanding of herself, she also learns about her lineage and her new family in Aerisia! Finally things are starting to look brighter for Hannah and it's about time since she needs to keep her head on straight if she's to fight against the Dark Side and the Evil One to save all of Aerisia.
The only downside I found was that I felt mislead by the title, the underworld isn't mentioned until the last chapter. Like quite literally Chapter 39 (out of 39 chapters)
Plus a little hint of romance was thrown here and there .
I really liked the way Hannah was written in this book. It was an improvement, her character development was huge in the fact Hannah slowly changed and accepted the fact that she was truly the Artan, the deliver, the savior and hero. When Hannah finally became the Artan herself, we got to learn more about the Artan and Aerisian history and about how truly evil the Dark Side is and what is happening to the rest of the world.
There were a few times in the story, when the action slowed down and she had time to think and contemplate on her life, that she mentioned how much she missed and wanted to go back to earth. After the second time reading this, and thinking it was going to be a thing and I thought would be annoying but actually it was understandable and I could see how even though you get used to being in a new place, you'll always get homesick, and that's exactly what was happening to Hannah and I understood what she was going through. But while she's sad about this fact, as Hannah gains new powers and understanding of herself, she also learns about her lineage and her new family in Aerisia! Finally things are starting to look brighter for Hannah and it's about time since she needs to keep her head on straight if she's to fight against the Dark Side and the Evil One to save all of Aerisia.
The only downside I found was that I felt mislead by the title, the underworld isn't mentioned until the last chapter. Like quite literally Chapter 39 (out of 39 chapters)
Plus a little hint of romance was thrown here and there .
November 6, 2015
Aerisia: Gateway to the Underworld is a continuation of Hannah’s Winter’s quest in the magical lands of Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset. In this book, as the last, we follow our heroine as she navigates the dangerous waters of a strange land, preparing to take her place as their fabled heroine. But will she discover who her true allies are and be successful against an encroaching and growing evil, or will she fail in her quest…
Now, I have to say that while I liked the first book in the series, I loved the second. Hannah is a heroine with a unique voice and clear motivations and I really like her arc. While I’m a huge sci-fi and fantasy fan I really enjoyed the elements within, but strangely it was the romance that gives the story heart. Like any book it’s the people within that propel the reader, and I think that’s what makes this series stand out, and inspire such loyalty (check the other reviews, they’re all from long time fans like me).
One thing that does sort of rankle me though is the cliffhangers. I like a story to be tied up nicely at the end, even if there’s a few threads hanging that can be used to weave later, but this is easily forgivable because like I said, I’m happily invested in the story and look forward to reading the next!
Now, I have to say that while I liked the first book in the series, I loved the second. Hannah is a heroine with a unique voice and clear motivations and I really like her arc. While I’m a huge sci-fi and fantasy fan I really enjoyed the elements within, but strangely it was the romance that gives the story heart. Like any book it’s the people within that propel the reader, and I think that’s what makes this series stand out, and inspire such loyalty (check the other reviews, they’re all from long time fans like me).
One thing that does sort of rankle me though is the cliffhangers. I like a story to be tied up nicely at the end, even if there’s a few threads hanging that can be used to weave later, but this is easily forgivable because like I said, I’m happily invested in the story and look forward to reading the next!
November 24, 2015
This book was just as awesome as the first. I really enjoyed exploring the changing relationship between Ilgard and Hannah. He is a pillar of strength in her time of need.
I am fond of the way their relationship is playing out. Considering all of the trials and obstacles they have weathered, I would say the bond they are building is very realistic.
I also enjoyed how there is more explanation of the prophecies in this book. They are timed really well and add weight and merit to each new event that occurs.
The world building continues to impress me. I really enjoyed how much more of Aerisia is brought to light. This is an intricate world and the author does a great job of introducing pieces of it in ways that aren’t overwhelming to the reader.
I abhorred the aversion the Aerisian people showed the Simanthe. I was very happy to see that resolved.
Don’t even get me started on the ending. You will be sitting on the edge of your seat!
To see my full review, check out my blog https://alliesopinions.wordpress.com/...
I am fond of the way their relationship is playing out. Considering all of the trials and obstacles they have weathered, I would say the bond they are building is very realistic.
I also enjoyed how there is more explanation of the prophecies in this book. They are timed really well and add weight and merit to each new event that occurs.
The world building continues to impress me. I really enjoyed how much more of Aerisia is brought to light. This is an intricate world and the author does a great job of introducing pieces of it in ways that aren’t overwhelming to the reader.
I abhorred the aversion the Aerisian people showed the Simanthe. I was very happy to see that resolved.
Don’t even get me started on the ending. You will be sitting on the edge of your seat!
To see my full review, check out my blog https://alliesopinions.wordpress.com/...
November 27, 2015
***THIS BOOK WAS PROVIDED TO NERD GIRL IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW***
Hannah Winters went for a walk near her home in Colorado, and ended up in a Fairytale.
Only unlike any Fairytale she remembers. In this one, She is the hero, and everyone looks to her to save Aerisia.
Bound by Joining with a large scary man whose every thought is hidden behind a stalwart façade, Hanah encounters all manner of strange creatures, and takes a trip to the Underworld in her efforts to learn to become The Artan.
Sarah Ashwoods world is so detailed, you can almost feel the light. I cannot wait to find out what happens next.
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fan Site: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.NG***
Hannah Winters went for a walk near her home in Colorado, and ended up in a Fairytale.
Only unlike any Fairytale she remembers. In this one, She is the hero, and everyone looks to her to save Aerisia.
Bound by Joining with a large scary man whose every thought is hidden behind a stalwart façade, Hanah encounters all manner of strange creatures, and takes a trip to the Underworld in her efforts to learn to become The Artan.
Sarah Ashwoods world is so detailed, you can almost feel the light. I cannot wait to find out what happens next.
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fan Site: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.NG***
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