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Crown of Three #1
Crown of Three
Family secrets combine with fantasy in this epic tale of battle, magic, strange creatures, power, and fate—a Game of Thrones for a younger audience.
Toronia, a kingdom composed of three realms, is wracked with civil war. King Brutan rules with an iron fist. Cruelty and suffering abound. The kingdom’s only hope comes in the form of Brutan’s illegitimate triplets, prophesied to kill the king and rule together in peace. But the road to the throne is long and bloody. Separated at birth and scattered throughout the realms, the triplets face a desperate fight to secure their destiny. Will they survive long enough to rule? - See more at: http://books.simonandschuster.com/Cro...
Toronia, a kingdom composed of three realms, is wracked with civil war. King Brutan rules with an iron fist. Cruelty and suffering abound. The kingdom’s only hope comes in the form of Brutan’s illegitimate triplets, prophesied to kill the king and rule together in peace. But the road to the throne is long and bloody. Separated at birth and scattered throughout the realms, the triplets face a desperate fight to secure their destiny. Will they survive long enough to rule? - See more at: http://books.simonandschuster.com/Cro...
416 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2015
44 people are currently reading
1360 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Rinehart
6 books29 followersJ.D. Rinehart is the pseudonym used by author Graham Edwards to write the middle grade series The Crown of Three.
Read his blog post on the series here: https://graham-edwards.com/2016/01/26...
Read his blog post on the series here: https://graham-edwards.com/2016/01/26...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
June 17, 2019
This book really took me by surprise. Although I love middle grade books, they are usually a bit simpler yet elegant in their plot. But this book? Oh no honey. This book is like Game of Thrones, but even better and so much more unpredictable and coherent. I love GoT, but the books were often difficult to follow because of the various POVs.
I'll get into a full review later, but this underrated masterpiece deserves to be recognised for its clever twist on the classic "prophecy" story as well as its wonderful characters, character development, dialogue and so much more. I really can't place what age group this book fits into - in stores you'd find it at the middle grade section, but the copious number of deaths, beheadings, nihilistic characters and friggen White Walker type zombies had me absolutely stunned. This book reminds me of
, and is no less enticing.
This is definitely an underrated gem of a fantasy. This story of triplets destined to kill their usurper of a father and take theIron throne had me immersed all the way to the end, baby!
And now onto book 2!
I'll get into a full review later, but this underrated masterpiece deserves to be recognised for its clever twist on the classic "prophecy" story as well as its wonderful characters, character development, dialogue and so much more. I really can't place what age group this book fits into - in stores you'd find it at the middle grade section, but the copious number of deaths, beheadings, nihilistic characters and friggen White Walker type zombies had me absolutely stunned. This book reminds me of
, and is no less enticing.This is definitely an underrated gem of a fantasy. This story of triplets destined to kill their usurper of a father and take the
And now onto book 2!
June 11, 2017
HALO HALO!!!Nový fantasy příběh pro PIDI i maxi čtenáře! (založený na otřepaně znějícím proroctví).
Jste připraveni na krvavou vzpouru proti vládě a "krutopřísnou" válku o korunu země-jejíž-jméno-si-nepamatuji? Potkáte duchy; zombiky; hodně hloupého krále, ještě hloupějšího zaskakujícího krále; dívku, co z hloupého chování vyroste; něco jako Tarzana a OBŘÍ KUPU MRTVOLEK!!!
Autor se opravdu NEBÁL zabíjet ve velkém a to i ty postavy, jejichž jméno si sice pamatuji, ale jejich smrt mě nezasáhla (ono vlastně mohl zemřít kdokoliv a bylo by to jen na *pokrčení rameny*). Tím chci říct, že jsem se nebyla schopna vcítit ani do jednoho hrdiny. *fňuk*
V praxi to znamená:
Co se píše?
"..se v jeho náruči vzepjal, prohnul se v zádech a z úst mu vytryskl proud krve."
Co si představuji?
• Původně to vypadalo jako solidní krok bokem, za který jsem si chtěla natlouct do palice.
• Pak mě jakýmsi způsobem osvítilo, zvládla jsem se začíst a chvílemi jsem to ani nechtěla odložit.
• Konec se zombíkama byl zase jako bramborová kaše s horou pažitky. Proč tam lidi tu pažitku strkají? Takže vyšprtat pažitku a užívat si lahodnou chuť dobroty.
btw. Hádejte, co mám k obědu.
Ve výsledku ALE MUSÍM UZNAT, ŽE JSEM ZVĚDAVÁ, CO BUDE DÁL.
♫ jenom vítr, áááá ♫
Jste připraveni na krvavou vzpouru proti vládě a "krutopřísnou" válku o korunu země-jejíž-jméno-si-nepamatuji? Potkáte duchy; zombiky; hodně hloupého krále, ještě hloupějšího zaskakujícího krále; dívku, co z hloupého chování vyroste; něco jako Tarzana a OBŘÍ KUPU MRTVOLEK!!!
Autor se opravdu NEBÁL zabíjet ve velkém a to i ty postavy, jejichž jméno si sice pamatuji, ale jejich smrt mě nezasáhla (ono vlastně mohl zemřít kdokoliv a bylo by to jen na *pokrčení rameny*). Tím chci říct, že jsem se nebyla schopna vcítit ani do jednoho hrdiny. *fňuk*
V praxi to znamená:
Co se píše?
"..se v jeho náruči vzepjal, prohnul se v zádech a z úst mu vytryskl proud krve."
Co si představuji?
• Původně to vypadalo jako solidní krok bokem, za který jsem si chtěla natlouct do palice.
• Pak mě jakýmsi způsobem osvítilo, zvládla jsem se začíst a chvílemi jsem to ani nechtěla odložit.
• Konec se zombíkama byl zase jako bramborová kaše s horou pažitky. Proč tam lidi tu pažitku strkají? Takže vyšprtat pažitku a užívat si lahodnou chuť dobroty.
btw. Hádejte, co mám k obědu.
Ve výsledku ALE MUSÍM UZNAT, ŽE JSEM ZVĚDAVÁ, CO BUDE DÁL.
January 1, 2016
There isn't anything really outstanding here, but equally there's nothing really bad. Triplets, hidden from the world so that they can grow and fulfill a prophecy, magic, evil queens, battles and fantastical creatures will all appeal to the middle grade reader. My biggest complaint is that the female triplet (Elodie) is pretty much a brat and needs to grow more than her two brothers. Why that was needed is beyond me - making her a more likeable character wouldn't have been difficult.
ARC provided by publisher.
ARC provided by publisher.
August 26, 2019
4,5/5*
September 26, 2015
3,5 Stars
Style and Language
J. D. Rinehart uses a simple, clear and sometimes very opulent language and his style is on most of the pages very tedious. No question, his various landscapes are great and the way he brings the story to the reader by an invisible storyteller, is absolutely perfect for his novel. But this book is nothing more and nothing less but average. A nice read, sure, but nothing out of the ordinary.
What the dragons are in Game of Thrones, are the Thorrods – kind of huge birds – in this novel that are very dedicated to Tarlan, one of the royal triplets which have to fulfill the prophecy.
Characters
The author doesn´t bother to give you long and detailed descriptions about his figures. He is more the one who lets them come close to the reader by their actions. There is a sick Heir to the Throne, a king who loves to kill, a queen which is cold and bitter and some other figures. But most of all you see Tarlan. He is a nice young boy with a huge heart and his way of seeing things and doing things is just great.
Result
In my opinion too bloody and way too brutal for a childrens book that claims to be for a 10 year old reader. Yes, it is most of the time a nice read and well written, but it contains also too many barbaric scenes and so I can only give a restricted recommendation.
Style and Language
J. D. Rinehart uses a simple, clear and sometimes very opulent language and his style is on most of the pages very tedious. No question, his various landscapes are great and the way he brings the story to the reader by an invisible storyteller, is absolutely perfect for his novel. But this book is nothing more and nothing less but average. A nice read, sure, but nothing out of the ordinary.
What the dragons are in Game of Thrones, are the Thorrods – kind of huge birds – in this novel that are very dedicated to Tarlan, one of the royal triplets which have to fulfill the prophecy.
Characters
The author doesn´t bother to give you long and detailed descriptions about his figures. He is more the one who lets them come close to the reader by their actions. There is a sick Heir to the Throne, a king who loves to kill, a queen which is cold and bitter and some other figures. But most of all you see Tarlan. He is a nice young boy with a huge heart and his way of seeing things and doing things is just great.
Result
In my opinion too bloody and way too brutal for a childrens book that claims to be for a 10 year old reader. Yes, it is most of the time a nice read and well written, but it contains also too many barbaric scenes and so I can only give a restricted recommendation.
October 29, 2021
Ergen kitabı,ortaokul ...ama bolca öldürme vs vs var
February 26, 2016
Didn't get very far.
It had a decent premise, but it got gory and disgusting quickly.
It wasn't worth wading through that to get to the end.
It had a decent premise, but it got gory and disgusting quickly.
It wasn't worth wading through that to get to the end.
August 4, 2016
OK, first, let me say that I probably wouldn't have as many problems with this book if it wasn't marketed as "Game of Thrones for the younger readers". Which is something that is blatantly staring at me from the cover.
Only that this and Game of Thrones have about as much in common as Harry Potter and Cinderella. You will see some similarities if you squint hard enough. But otherwise, these are two completely different things.
Onto the actual book. The main problem I had that since page one until the very end, I kept trying to figure out what the book was actually supposed to be built on. The story? Certainly not. The story brings nothing new: a prophecy, three siblings predestined to do great things and rule a kingdom, a magician who vanished, a tyrant king - we've already had all that many times. The problem with this book is that the author has managed to find pretty much every cliché that exists in the entire universe, and put it in this story.
Onto the characters, then. The three siblings have different storylines, as they grew up apart and don't have any idea about the existence of the others (another trope). Galf is an acrobat traveling with a troupe, Elodie is a noble lady, and the only one who knows about her origins, and Tarlan lives with some witch in a land of ice. All three also possess some special abilities.
Let me say that out of these three, only Tarlan's storyline was interesting to me - his relationship with animals and his way of thinking somehow similar to them (protecting the pack) was at least really believable and moving. The way he perceives people and is generally mistrustful of everyone is also quite realistic for someone who grew up in the wild, but he has some lucidity and common sense in him. Yes, I could root for Tarlan here.
Elodie is an extremely annoying character. I know that she is supposed to be just that at the beginning, only that it doesn't get any better. Also, her "progress" is a bit too fast and unlikely. The author is letting her learn the hard way, that is true, but nevertheless, she is simply a thirteen years old girl who has never seen an army before, nor has received any kind of tutoring in that field. At the beginning, all she cares about are pretty things and clothes, and mere days/weeks later, she is leading an army, thinking up war strategies and charming people and ghosts alike. She certainly didn't charm me, and I tend to warm up to the female protagonists more than to the male if I have to decide. This was not the case.
Galf for me was a rather blunt character. The most annoying thing about him is that he always knows that the people around him are exploiting him, he knows that what is going on is wrong, but he goes with it nevertheless. Because he "will figure it out later", only that "later" is too late. Overall, he does behave in a believable way, only that he does dumb things. I could live with that, but I couldn't root for him.
The classical tyrant king. The problem with this tyrant king is that Brutan is simply said to be the villain, and he behaves like a villain, but he totally has no other purpose. Why is he evil? Why is everyone hoping he will be dethroned? What is he even doing to the people? We don't know. We only know that he married the right woman for him because Queen Magritte is actually Brutan in female form.
I won't even mention the wizards in here because one of them appears in the prolog, and then on the last page, and the other is just chaotically running around.
What bothers me most about this book is that when something important happens, it happens too fast and too easily. The characters often get trapped, but they manage to escape without much drama or difficulties (Tarlan is an expert in this), the villains are dumb or incompetent idiots (looking at you, Lord Vicerin), there is no surprise whatsoever - we know who the siblings are, we know who the villains are, we pretty much figure out who Fessan's father is so no surprise here either. The only BAM!moment is
My other problem was the language/style of writing. At the beginning, it felt like reading a fairy tale. The dialogues sounded like the characters were retarded (especially all dialogues between Galf and Nynus, that was literally painful to read). And still I felt like I was reading a book for younger children, but is it really a book for younger children? I mean, people die in there, in big quantities and sometimes in a gruesome way (that's probably the only similarity to the Game of Thrones). Should young kids read something like this? They probably can, but if this is the only thing they will remember from the book, which they most likely will, I'd recommend them something with a better message.
Overall, I struggled with this book, and I only finished it because I kept on hoping it would get better. It didn't. Will I read the sequels? No. I read this mainly because I wanted to recommend the kids I teach something that would embody the type of fantasy the Game of Thrones is (because they are too young to read that), but I will certainly not make this book an example.
Only that this and Game of Thrones have about as much in common as Harry Potter and Cinderella. You will see some similarities if you squint hard enough. But otherwise, these are two completely different things.
Onto the actual book. The main problem I had that since page one until the very end, I kept trying to figure out what the book was actually supposed to be built on. The story? Certainly not. The story brings nothing new: a prophecy, three siblings predestined to do great things and rule a kingdom, a magician who vanished, a tyrant king - we've already had all that many times. The problem with this book is that the author has managed to find pretty much every cliché that exists in the entire universe, and put it in this story.
Onto the characters, then. The three siblings have different storylines, as they grew up apart and don't have any idea about the existence of the others (another trope). Galf is an acrobat traveling with a troupe, Elodie is a noble lady, and the only one who knows about her origins, and Tarlan lives with some witch in a land of ice. All three also possess some special abilities.
Let me say that out of these three, only Tarlan's storyline was interesting to me - his relationship with animals and his way of thinking somehow similar to them (protecting the pack) was at least really believable and moving. The way he perceives people and is generally mistrustful of everyone is also quite realistic for someone who grew up in the wild, but he has some lucidity and common sense in him. Yes, I could root for Tarlan here.
Elodie is an extremely annoying character. I know that she is supposed to be just that at the beginning, only that it doesn't get any better. Also, her "progress" is a bit too fast and unlikely. The author is letting her learn the hard way, that is true, but nevertheless, she is simply a thirteen years old girl who has never seen an army before, nor has received any kind of tutoring in that field. At the beginning, all she cares about are pretty things and clothes, and mere days/weeks later, she is leading an army, thinking up war strategies and charming people and ghosts alike. She certainly didn't charm me, and I tend to warm up to the female protagonists more than to the male if I have to decide. This was not the case.
Galf for me was a rather blunt character. The most annoying thing about him is that he always knows that the people around him are exploiting him, he knows that what is going on is wrong, but he goes with it nevertheless. Because he "will figure it out later", only that "later" is too late. Overall, he does behave in a believable way, only that he does dumb things. I could live with that, but I couldn't root for him.
The classical tyrant king. The problem with this tyrant king is that Brutan is simply said to be the villain, and he behaves like a villain, but he totally has no other purpose. Why is he evil? Why is everyone hoping he will be dethroned? What is he even doing to the people? We don't know. We only know that he married the right woman for him because Queen Magritte is actually Brutan in female form.
I won't even mention the wizards in here because one of them appears in the prolog, and then on the last page, and the other is just chaotically running around.
What bothers me most about this book is that when something important happens, it happens too fast and too easily. The characters often get trapped, but they manage to escape without much drama or difficulties (Tarlan is an expert in this), the villains are dumb or incompetent idiots (looking at you, Lord Vicerin), there is no surprise whatsoever - we know who the siblings are, we know who the villains are, we pretty much figure out who Fessan's father is so no surprise here either. The only BAM!moment is
My other problem was the language/style of writing. At the beginning, it felt like reading a fairy tale. The dialogues sounded like the characters were retarded (especially all dialogues between Galf and Nynus, that was literally painful to read). And still I felt like I was reading a book for younger children, but is it really a book for younger children? I mean, people die in there, in big quantities and sometimes in a gruesome way (that's probably the only similarity to the Game of Thrones). Should young kids read something like this? They probably can, but if this is the only thing they will remember from the book, which they most likely will, I'd recommend them something with a better message.
Overall, I struggled with this book, and I only finished it because I kept on hoping it would get better. It didn't. Will I read the sequels? No. I read this mainly because I wanted to recommend the kids I teach something that would embody the type of fantasy the Game of Thrones is (because they are too young to read that), but I will certainly not make this book an example.
March 22, 2020
In einem Rutsch durch gelesen ... und für sehr gut befunden! Bestell mir direkt die nächsten Bände
December 15, 2024
Έχω διαβάσει και άλλα βιβλία του συγγραφέα και η αλήθεια είναι πως έχει πάρα πολύ καλή πένα. Τα κείμενά του είναι εύκολα, αλλά όχι πρόχειρα, διαβάζονται χωρίς δυσκολία ακόμα κι από αναγνώστες που δεν είναι ακριβώς το είδος τους, δεν σε κουράζει με πράγματα τα οποία δεν γνωρίζεις ή που προσπαθεί να περιγράψει υπερβολικά... φανταζύ προς χάριν εντυπωσιασμούς. Αυτό ακριβώς συμβαίνει και με το εν λόγω κείμενο που είναι καλογραμμένο, ευκολοδιάβαστο και ευχάριστο από τις πρώτες κιόλας σελίδες.
Έχει δράση, περιπέτεια, μυστήριο, αλλά και λίγη δόση μαγείας όλα τα απαραίτητα δηλαδή συστατικά που απαιτούνται προκειμένου μια ιστορία όπως αυτή, να γίνει επιτυχία. Προσωπικά, δεν βρίσκω κάποια διαφορά -σε ποιότητα κειμένου αλλά και ιστορίας- από αυτήν που είχε ο “Harry Potter” και τι εννοώ με αυτό. Ότι ναι μεν είναι ένα βιβλίο που στην πρώτη του τουλάχιστον αυτή μορφή, απευθύνεται σε εφηβικό-νεανικό κοινό, δεν αποκλείει ωστόσο τον ενήλικο αναγνώστη. Είναι ένα βιβλίο που εγώ θα αγόραζα, όπως και τόσοι άλλοι φίλοι του fantasy.
Το όλο concept με την προφητεία, ok... δεν είναι και ότι πιο ευφάνταστο έχει γραφτεί ποτέ -μάλλον ως ιδέα είναι τετριμμένη και πολυχρησιμοποιημένη- ωστόσο, ο συγγραφέας την αξιοποιεί όμορφα μέσα στο κείμενο, κάνοντάς την δικιά του και προσφέροντάς μας κάποιο στοιχείο έκπληξης και ανατροπής. Και πάλι δεν θα ισχυριστώ πως δεν περιμένεις ορισμένα πράγματα από αυτά που συμβαίνουν, αλλά το γεγονός της μεταστροφής του νεαρού γιου του βασιλιά και νόμιμου διαδόχου του θρόνου, είναι έξυπνο και πολύ ωραίο ως προς την απόδοσή του.
Αυτό που είναι επίσης ένα μεγάλο συν στην όλη ιστορία, είναι το ψυχογράφημα των χαρακτήρων. Φαίνεται πως η πρόθεση του συγγραφέα δεν ήταν απλά και μόνο να αφηγηθεί μια περιπετειώδη ιστορία, αλλά να περάσει και ορισμένα μηνύματα μέσω αυτής. Μηνύματα που αφορούν την οικογένεια και τους δεσμούς που αναπτύσσονται -ή και μη- μέσα σε αυτή, για την φιλία, το καθήκον, την συντροφικότητα, την εκδίκηση. Ουσιαστικά, παρουσιάζει εντελώς διαφορετικούς χαρακτήρες μεταξύ τους, αλλά και το πως αυτού εξελίχθηκαν και διαμόρφωσαν συμπεριφορά και χαρακτήρα, ανάλογα με αυτά που εισέπραξαν σε όλη τους την πορεία μέχρι το σημείο που βρίσκονται σήμερα, και που θα καθορίσει και το μέλλον τους.
Άλλο ένα στοιχείο που μπορείς να χαρακτηρίσεις ως προτέρημα, είναι πως ενώ έχει κάποια σκληρά, ίσως και βίαια στοιχεία, δεν τα δίνει στον αναγνώστη με τρόπο που να μην μπορεί να τα διαχειριστεί ή και που να τον ενοχλούν, ειδικά τις πιο νεαρές ηλικίες. Και διαβάζοντας λίγο την περίληψη των επόμενων βιβλίων, αντιλαμβάνομαι ότι αυτό ναι μεν θα ενταθεί, αλλά όχι για να προκαλέσει, αλλά εξυπηρετώντας μια σημαντική σκοπιμότητα μέσα στο κείμενο.
Το μοναδικό στοιχείο που μπορώ να σκεφτώ ότι ίσως αποτελεί μειονέκτημα, είναι το γεγονός ότι η ιστορία έχει πάρα πολλούς δευτερεύοντες χαρακτήρες κατά συνέπεια, πάρα πολλά κι ενίοτε, δύσκολα ονόματα. Υπάρχουν παρόμοιες περιπτώσεις που ακόμα κι ενήλικοι αναγνώστες δυσκολεύονται ή δυσανασχετούν εξαιτίας αυτού, όχι όμως ότι δεν το ξεπερνάνε στην πορεία.
(Αναλυτικό review αν τελικά κυκλοφορήσει...)
Έχει δράση, περιπέτεια, μυστήριο, αλλά και λίγη δόση μαγείας όλα τα απαραίτητα δηλαδή συστατικά που απαιτούνται προκειμένου μια ιστορία όπως αυτή, να γίνει επιτυχία. Προσωπικά, δεν βρίσκω κάποια διαφορά -σε ποιότητα κειμένου αλλά και ιστορίας- από αυτήν που είχε ο “Harry Potter” και τι εννοώ με αυτό. Ότι ναι μεν είναι ένα βιβλίο που στην πρώτη του τουλάχιστον αυτή μορφή, απευθύνεται σε εφηβικό-νεανικό κοινό, δεν αποκλείει ωστόσο τον ενήλικο αναγνώστη. Είναι ένα βιβλίο που εγώ θα αγόραζα, όπως και τόσοι άλλοι φίλοι του fantasy.
Το όλο concept με την προφητεία, ok... δεν είναι και ότι πιο ευφάνταστο έχει γραφτεί ποτέ -μάλλον ως ιδέα είναι τετριμμένη και πολυχρησιμοποιημένη- ωστόσο, ο συγγραφέας την αξιοποιεί όμορφα μέσα στο κείμενο, κάνοντάς την δικιά του και προσφέροντάς μας κάποιο στοιχείο έκπληξης και ανατροπής. Και πάλι δεν θα ισχυριστώ πως δεν περιμένεις ορισμένα πράγματα από αυτά που συμβαίνουν, αλλά το γεγονός της μεταστροφής του νεαρού γιου του βασιλιά και νόμιμου διαδόχου του θρόνου, είναι έξυπνο και πολύ ωραίο ως προς την απόδοσή του.
Αυτό που είναι επίσης ένα μεγάλο συν στην όλη ιστορία, είναι το ψυχογράφημα των χαρακτήρων. Φαίνεται πως η πρόθεση του συγγραφέα δεν ήταν απλά και μόνο να αφηγηθεί μια περιπετειώδη ιστορία, αλλά να περάσει και ορισμένα μηνύματα μέσω αυτής. Μηνύματα που αφορούν την οικογένεια και τους δεσμούς που αναπτύσσονται -ή και μη- μέσα σε αυτή, για την φιλία, το καθήκον, την συντροφικότητα, την εκδίκηση. Ουσιαστικά, παρουσιάζει εντελώς διαφορετικούς χαρακτήρες μεταξύ τους, αλλά και το πως αυτού εξελίχθηκαν και διαμόρφωσαν συμπεριφορά και χαρακτήρα, ανάλογα με αυτά που εισέπραξαν σε όλη τους την πορεία μέχρι το σημείο που βρίσκονται σήμερα, και που θα καθορίσει και το μέλλον τους.
Άλλο ένα στοιχείο που μπορείς να χαρακτηρίσεις ως προτέρημα, είναι πως ενώ έχει κάποια σκληρά, ίσως και βίαια στοιχεία, δεν τα δίνει στον αναγνώστη με τρόπο που να μην μπορεί να τα διαχειριστεί ή και που να τον ενοχλούν, ειδικά τις πιο νεαρές ηλικίες. Και διαβάζοντας λίγο την περίληψη των επόμενων βιβλίων, αντιλαμβάνομαι ότι αυτό ναι μεν θα ενταθεί, αλλά όχι για να προκαλέσει, αλλά εξυπηρετώντας μια σημαντική σκοπιμότητα μέσα στο κείμενο.
Το μοναδικό στοιχείο που μπορώ να σκεφτώ ότι ίσως αποτελεί μειονέκτημα, είναι το γεγονός ότι η ιστορία έχει πάρα πολλούς δευτερεύοντες χαρακτήρες κατά συνέπεια, πάρα πολλά κι ενίοτε, δύσκολα ονόματα. Υπάρχουν παρόμοιες περιπτώσεις που ακόμα κι ενήλικοι αναγνώστες δυσκολεύονται ή δυσανασχετούν εξαιτίας αυτού, όχι όμως ότι δεν το ξεπερνάνε στην πορεία.
(Αναλυτικό review αν τελικά κυκλοφορήσει...)
July 31, 2015
A thousand years of war have left the people of Toronia longing for peace. And a prophecy promises peace will come when three stars rise, and three children are born of King Brutan. The king is less fond of this prophecy, since it also predicts his death at their hands. So when the triplets are born, they are scattered and hidden. But now the time is coming that the three of them are drawing together at last . . .
This was interesting in the sense that it bucked a lot of what I was expecting. Evil king? Dead after a couple of chapters. So the book is a lot more about introducing the children and the powers they each possess, and leading them to each other and the probable throne. Until it all goes south in a most unexpected way.
I liked Tarlan and his bond with animals, as well as the three giant birds that help him out. He's naive but not stupid, and much quicker than the other two at figuring out who should be trusted. I wasn't nearly as fond of the other two siblings. Gulph starts well, but his character arc quickly becomes "listening when other people tell me what to do, even when I know it isn't right." Or doing very little. Elodie was even worse---I didn't buy her character transformation and I question if she'll actually be someone you'd want in charge of a country. I'm still not sure why Fessen, who has kept the rebel army alive in the face of violent opposition, thinks it's a good idea for a girl who can't even swing a sword to command his army, prophecy or no. All she really managed was to get a lot of them killed, but they're fanatically loyal (mostly). It would make a lot more sense to allow her to direct the general goals and leave the specifics up to the people who actually know what they're doing.
Overall I thought this had some good ideas, but I wasn't sold on the execution. It's a little odd that the siblings are instantly best friends when they didn't even know they had siblings. I liked Samail better than Elodie (well, hopefully he'll continue to accompany her). Still, I'll probably read the sequel whenever it comes out, if only to see more of Tarlan and his birds. I rate this book Recommended.
See my reviews and more at http://offtheshelfreviews.wordpress.com
This was interesting in the sense that it bucked a lot of what I was expecting. Evil king? Dead after a couple of chapters. So the book is a lot more about introducing the children and the powers they each possess, and leading them to each other and the probable throne. Until it all goes south in a most unexpected way.
I liked Tarlan and his bond with animals, as well as the three giant birds that help him out. He's naive but not stupid, and much quicker than the other two at figuring out who should be trusted. I wasn't nearly as fond of the other two siblings. Gulph starts well, but his character arc quickly becomes "listening when other people tell me what to do, even when I know it isn't right." Or doing very little. Elodie was even worse---I didn't buy her character transformation and I question if she'll actually be someone you'd want in charge of a country. I'm still not sure why Fessen, who has kept the rebel army alive in the face of violent opposition, thinks it's a good idea for a girl who can't even swing a sword to command his army, prophecy or no. All she really managed was to get a lot of them killed, but they're fanatically loyal (mostly). It would make a lot more sense to allow her to direct the general goals and leave the specifics up to the people who actually know what they're doing.
Overall I thought this had some good ideas, but I wasn't sold on the execution. It's a little odd that the siblings are instantly best friends when they didn't even know they had siblings. I liked Samail better than Elodie (well, hopefully he'll continue to accompany her). Still, I'll probably read the sequel whenever it comes out, if only to see more of Tarlan and his birds. I rate this book Recommended.
See my reviews and more at http://offtheshelfreviews.wordpress.com
February 16, 2021
A prophecy states that the downfall of the cruel king of Toronia will be at the hands of triplets, so when witch boy Tarlan, performer Agulphus, and princess Elodie find themselves caught up in a war for the crown, they strive to find one another and bring peace to their home - if they can survive long enough to meet. Rinehart begins an intriguing tale of mystery and twists that will hook fantasy fans with its engaging cast and plentiful action. Can three children of such differing upbringings truly be so deeply bonded?
October 19, 2016
Did. Not. Finish. Drab, daft, disconnected and also dull. All of these ideas have been done much better by other people, throwing them together into a triplet book is just a cheap repackaging, and it's not done well at all.
December 18, 2022
This one took Lil and I a while to get into as a read-aloud. We have picked it up now and then to catch up with this story and the characters, but we’re not super drawn read the other 2 books of the trilogy.
Read
January 1, 2018I enjoyed this book.
March 2, 2019
Maybe 2,5. This was not bad, but I have read others middle grade books that are so much better and which I love.
And I really disliked one of the main characters.
And I really disliked one of the main characters.
March 30, 2019
Read this book with my 10 yr old son and we both liked it.
It is the first book in a trilogy of a set of triplets who were separated at birth and each one finds out that they are part of a prophecy, and that is to rule the Kingdom of Toronia together. As they each find their way in the world and to each other, Elodie, Tarlan, and Gulph find people along the way that they can either trust or not and help them with their journey. We will be reading the rest of the series to find out what happens to the triplets and if they are able to fulfill their prophecy.
It is the first book in a trilogy of a set of triplets who were separated at birth and each one finds out that they are part of a prophecy, and that is to rule the Kingdom of Toronia together. As they each find their way in the world and to each other, Elodie, Tarlan, and Gulph find people along the way that they can either trust or not and help them with their journey. We will be reading the rest of the series to find out what happens to the triplets and if they are able to fulfill their prophecy.
June 8, 2015
Crown of Three is a ride that is suspenseful, a little scary at times, on edge, humorous, and poetic. The cover of the book, combined with the title, caught my eye and now I am very glad I decided to pick it up and open the pages. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys juvenile literature, but especially to grades 4-6. Possibly some mature third graders would also enjoy and comprehend this book, as well. I can't wait for the next installment!
September 18, 2017
I liked it, but it wasn't anything spectacular. Honestly, if it wasn't the only book I had along with me on a long car ride, it probably would have sat unfinished on my shelf for a while. A bit difficult to get into, but had occasional decent moments throughout. Most of the characters weren't overly likeable, but I did enjoy certain aspects of some of them. My favorite was definitely Tarlan with his birds and other animals. I may read the next one eventually.
March 3, 2016
This, along with Fuzzy Mud and Masterminds were an awesome trio of fast paced books whipped through by both me and the 12 yo boy in the household. Very exciting. . . and seeing a little zombie/fantasy crossover here. . .
April 25, 2019
Nowhere near the best book ever written, but a great easy read. And more importantly a great fantasy book for older children who want something "grownup" the crown of three doesn't shy away from dead and war but still makes sure it stays appropriate for younger teens.
August 5, 2015
Reuniting triplets that were separated at birth is the key to fulfilling the prophecy that will save Toronia. Cliffhanger ending so there will be more. :)
March 7, 2016
Tweens who are too young for Game of Thrones, but who are looking for a book with similar elements will enjoy this. It's a bit on the violent side, so recommended for 10 and up.
August 9, 2016
A bit graphically violent for the younger crowd, IMHO, but great for fifth grade readers. Strong plot, fun characters, and good merging of the various tales of the three main characters.
January 23, 2017
the storyline was good. it was a bit on the graphic violence side. I listened to the audio version of this and got tired of the narrator always yelling.
November 9, 2017
With only 416 pages, J.D Rinehart’s Crown of Three will leave you wanting more.
Mr. Rinehart has written only one series, the Crown of Three Collection which has three books within, this certain book being the first. Living a quiet life, Rinehart lives with his Great Dane, Sir Galahad in his humble home in Nottinghamshire, England. Also, on special occasions, he will care for and raise falcons in need thanks to his undeniable love for falconry.
Being a Fantasy Fiction book, it is safe to say it is jammed packed with fantasy, adventure, and family secrets, this book’s theme is the perfect demonstration of a land controlled by power and influenced by a little fate. Interestingly, this book describes a prophecy about three stars and triplets that creates a war where power is fought and won with a lot of bloodshed on the side. Triplets, Tarlan, Elodie, and Gulph, who were hidden from each other right from the start, struggle against numerous problems in the hopes one day they can reunite and take their rightful place on the throne. Also, the main conflict of this book is the prophecy that these triplets follow thanks to the fact that this one prediction of destiny ends up throwing the lives of these siblings into the clutches of danger and havoc.
This novel reminds me of another book I have read in the past which happens to be Unhooked by Lisa Maxwell thanks to the many similarities in the plots. Both novels are based upon a struggle in a fantasy world while incorporating some aspects of reality. Also, the life of the protagonist(s) in both books is taken from a world of order and safety and tossed into the hands of danger and the unknown. In general, the way that both books were written made the plot more thrilling for the reader. Specific passages within the book like the following are excellent representations of the author’s style considering the first quote shows power, while the second hope that the prophecy is true and love, and the last revolved around pure uncertainty and fear.
“And you will use your powers to serve the king!”
“No true wizard would ever do what you ask. To bring down the Idilliam Bridge is to bring down Toronia.”
“I ask nothing of you, wizard! I command! Upon the king’s order, you will destroy the bridge!”
“If it is destruction that you desire, King-of-the-Mask, then destruction will be upon you.” - Crown of Three
And…
“I didn’t want to believe you existed!” She laughed. Her voice sounded familiar. How could that be when they’d never met? “When I first heard about you, I was so angry…. Can you imagine? But since then…” Her face fell. “A lot has happened, Tarlan. Now that you’re here… I feel like I’ve found myself.” - Crown of Three
Also…
My name is Agulphus. My future is bound by fate. And: I have killed the king, my father. Nynus’s white face appeared at the door. “Ah, there you are, Gulph. Thought you could get away from me, eh?”
Somehow, from somewhere, Gulph found a smile.
“Me, King Nynus?” he said. “I’m not going anywhere.” - Crown of Three
Personally, I absolutely loved this novel and can’t wait to read the rest of the series because of the plot twists and the never-ending adventure. Also, the style in which this book was written was very beautiful and beneficial to the story itself because the constant switch in the triplet’s perspectives added that missing ingredient I found. Thankfully, I found no drifts within the plot where the author would waste chapters on one tiny aspect that didn’t even benefit the story. Therefore, I am very glad that I read this book. Honestly, this book would be one of the first books I would recommend to readers ages 11-17 because although it is mostly fantasy and mythical creatures, there's that occasional bloodshed throughout each chapter and simply the fact that this book is so well written, I already want to go back and read it all over again!
Mr. Rinehart has written only one series, the Crown of Three Collection which has three books within, this certain book being the first. Living a quiet life, Rinehart lives with his Great Dane, Sir Galahad in his humble home in Nottinghamshire, England. Also, on special occasions, he will care for and raise falcons in need thanks to his undeniable love for falconry.
Being a Fantasy Fiction book, it is safe to say it is jammed packed with fantasy, adventure, and family secrets, this book’s theme is the perfect demonstration of a land controlled by power and influenced by a little fate. Interestingly, this book describes a prophecy about three stars and triplets that creates a war where power is fought and won with a lot of bloodshed on the side. Triplets, Tarlan, Elodie, and Gulph, who were hidden from each other right from the start, struggle against numerous problems in the hopes one day they can reunite and take their rightful place on the throne. Also, the main conflict of this book is the prophecy that these triplets follow thanks to the fact that this one prediction of destiny ends up throwing the lives of these siblings into the clutches of danger and havoc.
This novel reminds me of another book I have read in the past which happens to be Unhooked by Lisa Maxwell thanks to the many similarities in the plots. Both novels are based upon a struggle in a fantasy world while incorporating some aspects of reality. Also, the life of the protagonist(s) in both books is taken from a world of order and safety and tossed into the hands of danger and the unknown. In general, the way that both books were written made the plot more thrilling for the reader. Specific passages within the book like the following are excellent representations of the author’s style considering the first quote shows power, while the second hope that the prophecy is true and love, and the last revolved around pure uncertainty and fear.
“And you will use your powers to serve the king!”
“No true wizard would ever do what you ask. To bring down the Idilliam Bridge is to bring down Toronia.”
“I ask nothing of you, wizard! I command! Upon the king’s order, you will destroy the bridge!”
“If it is destruction that you desire, King-of-the-Mask, then destruction will be upon you.” - Crown of Three
And…
“I didn’t want to believe you existed!” She laughed. Her voice sounded familiar. How could that be when they’d never met? “When I first heard about you, I was so angry…. Can you imagine? But since then…” Her face fell. “A lot has happened, Tarlan. Now that you’re here… I feel like I’ve found myself.” - Crown of Three
Also…
My name is Agulphus. My future is bound by fate. And: I have killed the king, my father. Nynus’s white face appeared at the door. “Ah, there you are, Gulph. Thought you could get away from me, eh?”
Somehow, from somewhere, Gulph found a smile.
“Me, King Nynus?” he said. “I’m not going anywhere.” - Crown of Three
Personally, I absolutely loved this novel and can’t wait to read the rest of the series because of the plot twists and the never-ending adventure. Also, the style in which this book was written was very beautiful and beneficial to the story itself because the constant switch in the triplet’s perspectives added that missing ingredient I found. Thankfully, I found no drifts within the plot where the author would waste chapters on one tiny aspect that didn’t even benefit the story. Therefore, I am very glad that I read this book. Honestly, this book would be one of the first books I would recommend to readers ages 11-17 because although it is mostly fantasy and mythical creatures, there's that occasional bloodshed throughout each chapter and simply the fact that this book is so well written, I already want to go back and read it all over again!
July 29, 2017
Review:
Protagonists: Tarlan, Elodie, and Agulphous are triplets born to the king that signal the beginning of an old prophecy. Split up, so that their evil father won't find them, they know nothing about each other, and only one child knows about their origins at the start of this book. I did really like all three triplets, each one has a fairly unique personality and due to their individual upbringings, they have vastly different life experiences. I think my favorite character for this book would be Elodie since she has the most character development over the course of the book. Though I do have to say that Tarlan's animal companions give him a LOT of street cred with me. I mean, I wish I could fly on the back of a giant sentient eagle!.
World Building: Well, I'm going to air my BIGGEST grievance with this books out here, and it's not even something that the author did but more the publisher. There's no map in this book! I mean, did I NEED a map, no, but it would have helped me enjoy this book more. Regardless, the author does a pretty great job at bringing this fantasy world to life. I really enjoyed seeing the various parts of this world and how this kingdom fit together. One of the things I really like about this book is that there is a good chunk of magic, but it's nothing huge or game changing. In fact, a huge portion of this world building talks about how magic is dying in this world, it's so interesting.
Predictability: So, when I first saw this book I was immediately swept away by the cover, but when I eventually read the synopsis, I was extremely underwhelmed. This book proposes a fairly cliched MG fantasy premise, I mean, an evil king, prophesied to be overthrown by kids, kids will reign in peace forevermore, I mean it's pretty standard. However, as I read this book the author began to subvert the tropes in his synopsis. By the end of the first Act, I knew that every snap judgment I made about this book was wrong. This author seems to like to have gotcha moments, where you think things are going to go one way, only for crazy stuff to happen and everything goes sideways.
Ending: This ending floored me. As the final climax of this story began to unfold, I had a pretty solid idea in mind for where this story would end, and what would be set up for the sequel. Then as I said before things in this book tend to go sideways, and they did. The final climax was pretty well executed, and honestly, I don't really know where this story is going to go next. I mean, big picture things sure, but anything not big picture, not really. The cliffhanger is what really floored me though. I mean, I knew sooner or later it would happen, but... not at the end of the first book.
Rating:
I was really impressed with this book and it did exceed my expectations, though they were set really low. I did really enjoy this book, it just didn't grip me in the way a five-star book should. I am still excited to continue the series though!
Protagonists: Tarlan, Elodie, and Agulphous are triplets born to the king that signal the beginning of an old prophecy. Split up, so that their evil father won't find them, they know nothing about each other, and only one child knows about their origins at the start of this book. I did really like all three triplets, each one has a fairly unique personality and due to their individual upbringings, they have vastly different life experiences. I think my favorite character for this book would be Elodie since she has the most character development over the course of the book. Though I do have to say that Tarlan's animal companions give him a LOT of street cred with me. I mean, I wish I could fly on the back of a giant sentient eagle!.
World Building: Well, I'm going to air my BIGGEST grievance with this books out here, and it's not even something that the author did but more the publisher. There's no map in this book! I mean, did I NEED a map, no, but it would have helped me enjoy this book more. Regardless, the author does a pretty great job at bringing this fantasy world to life. I really enjoyed seeing the various parts of this world and how this kingdom fit together. One of the things I really like about this book is that there is a good chunk of magic, but it's nothing huge or game changing. In fact, a huge portion of this world building talks about how magic is dying in this world, it's so interesting.
Predictability: So, when I first saw this book I was immediately swept away by the cover, but when I eventually read the synopsis, I was extremely underwhelmed. This book proposes a fairly cliched MG fantasy premise, I mean, an evil king, prophesied to be overthrown by kids, kids will reign in peace forevermore, I mean it's pretty standard. However, as I read this book the author began to subvert the tropes in his synopsis. By the end of the first Act, I knew that every snap judgment I made about this book was wrong. This author seems to like to have gotcha moments, where you think things are going to go one way, only for crazy stuff to happen and everything goes sideways.
Ending: This ending floored me. As the final climax of this story began to unfold, I had a pretty solid idea in mind for where this story would end, and what would be set up for the sequel. Then as I said before things in this book tend to go sideways, and they did. The final climax was pretty well executed, and honestly, I don't really know where this story is going to go next. I mean, big picture things sure, but anything not big picture, not really. The cliffhanger is what really floored me though. I mean, I knew sooner or later it would happen, but... not at the end of the first book.
Rating:
I was really impressed with this book and it did exceed my expectations, though they were set really low. I did really enjoy this book, it just didn't grip me in the way a five-star book should. I am still excited to continue the series though!
Read
November 4, 2023No one is who they seem to be or where they should be in this humdinger of a high adventure fantasy epic. Indeed, this high octane-adventure moves like Secretariat around the final turn at the Belmont Stakes.
King Brutan rules Toronia with an iron fist. But there is hope: An ancient prophecy tells of triplets who will overthrow the king and rule together in peace.
Separated at birth and scattered throughout the realms, siblings Tarlan, Elodie, and Agulphus have grown up under very different circumstances.
Tarlan knows only the frost witch who raised him and the animals who befriended him.
Gulph (Agulphus) was raised by a troupe of travelling performers.
Elodie was brought up knowing her heritage. And she never lets anyone forget. She’s a snob. (Think Stephanie Vanderkellen in Newhart.)
Agulphus suddenly finds himself thrust into the heart of Brutan’s court and the infamous “Vault of Heaven.” Here he meets Nynus, a young man of about the same age who’s spent his last ten years imprisoned in the vault, courtesy of the king. They become friends. Turns out Nynus has a secret, too…
But the road to the throne is long and bloody. Separated at birth and scattered throughout the realms, the triplets face a desperate fight to secure their destiny. Will they survive long enough to find each other, let alone rule?
By the way, each triplet has a special power. Elodie can talk to the dead. Tarlan communicates with animals. Gulph is a skilled acrobat. Without giving too much away, let’s just say these powers come in handy in a tight spot. There’s also the mysterious, enigmatic Simial. Elodie meets him in the Weeping Woods. Keep an eye on this dude. If you can.
Plot-wise, there are a lot of double-crosses going on. Here a cross. There a cross. Everywhere a cross, cross… And more plot twists and turns than the tilt-a-whirl at the county fair. Ditto lots of battles and dead people. There’s also a ghost army. An undead king who’s like, a major creepazoid.
Tightly written and expertly paced, the story unfolds in three acts. All are packed with colorful characters, magical realms, dastardly villains, family secrets, and lots of action. I especially loved the way an ensemble of seemingly random, unrelated characters all comes together toward the end.
I polished off this book in one day, start to finish. Couldn't put it down!
Crown of Three is Book 1 in the Crown of Three series. “We fly!” (You'll get that if you read the book.)
King Brutan rules Toronia with an iron fist. But there is hope: An ancient prophecy tells of triplets who will overthrow the king and rule together in peace.
Separated at birth and scattered throughout the realms, siblings Tarlan, Elodie, and Agulphus have grown up under very different circumstances.
Tarlan knows only the frost witch who raised him and the animals who befriended him.
Gulph (Agulphus) was raised by a troupe of travelling performers.
Elodie was brought up knowing her heritage. And she never lets anyone forget. She’s a snob. (Think Stephanie Vanderkellen in Newhart.)
Agulphus suddenly finds himself thrust into the heart of Brutan’s court and the infamous “Vault of Heaven.” Here he meets Nynus, a young man of about the same age who’s spent his last ten years imprisoned in the vault, courtesy of the king. They become friends. Turns out Nynus has a secret, too…
But the road to the throne is long and bloody. Separated at birth and scattered throughout the realms, the triplets face a desperate fight to secure their destiny. Will they survive long enough to find each other, let alone rule?
By the way, each triplet has a special power. Elodie can talk to the dead. Tarlan communicates with animals. Gulph is a skilled acrobat. Without giving too much away, let’s just say these powers come in handy in a tight spot. There’s also the mysterious, enigmatic Simial. Elodie meets him in the Weeping Woods. Keep an eye on this dude. If you can.
Plot-wise, there are a lot of double-crosses going on. Here a cross. There a cross. Everywhere a cross, cross… And more plot twists and turns than the tilt-a-whirl at the county fair. Ditto lots of battles and dead people. There’s also a ghost army. An undead king who’s like, a major creepazoid.
Tightly written and expertly paced, the story unfolds in three acts. All are packed with colorful characters, magical realms, dastardly villains, family secrets, and lots of action. I especially loved the way an ensemble of seemingly random, unrelated characters all comes together toward the end.
I polished off this book in one day, start to finish. Couldn't put it down!
Crown of Three is Book 1 in the Crown of Three series. “We fly!” (You'll get that if you read the book.)
May 12, 2018
This story is definitely action-packed. I liked that each of the three triplets has different special abilities. I also liked that one of them, Gulph, is described as not particularly attractive and in fact a bit odd-looking, which is a nice break from all of the over-attractive fantastical characters. The fast pace left very little time for characterization, so any changes the characters made often felt shallow and their character changes unbelievable, especially Elodie. I was also a bit annoyed that when the triplets were separated, the boys were sent into difficult situations to "strengthen them" while the girl was sent to "want for nothing". Personally, I enjoyed Tarjan's ability to talk with magical creatures the most. Also a personal opinion, I'm not impressed by zombies. So, it was a fun, light read, but not original enough, especially character-wise, to make a big impression.
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