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The Biodome Chronicles #2
Elements
"Feelings are real. They often become one's reality. But they are not always based on truth..."
New Eden Township is more than a dungeon for Fillion Nichols. Sealed inside the experimental Mars colony, there is no escape from anyone, especially the young woman who has haunted his life for nearly six years. To preserve his sanity, he focuses on one goal: decoding the mystery behind the Watson deaths.
Meanwhile, to prove his worth to the Daughter of Earth, a young nobleman ventures beyond the walls of the biodome and experiences the Outside world for the first time. But his quest takes an unpredictable turn when he meets Lynden Nichols and Mack Ferguson, who draw him into their world--an underground community also confined and isolated by society.
As worlds converge, each young man faces a choice that will affect the survival of an entire community. And to save the generation they fight for, both men must defy the boundaries of everything they know.
Cultures collide as The Biodome Chronicles continues in a compelling quest for truth, forging an unforgettable story rich in mystery, betrayal, and love.
Are you ready to discover what is real?
New Eden Township is more than a dungeon for Fillion Nichols. Sealed inside the experimental Mars colony, there is no escape from anyone, especially the young woman who has haunted his life for nearly six years. To preserve his sanity, he focuses on one goal: decoding the mystery behind the Watson deaths.
Meanwhile, to prove his worth to the Daughter of Earth, a young nobleman ventures beyond the walls of the biodome and experiences the Outside world for the first time. But his quest takes an unpredictable turn when he meets Lynden Nichols and Mack Ferguson, who draw him into their world--an underground community also confined and isolated by society.
As worlds converge, each young man faces a choice that will affect the survival of an entire community. And to save the generation they fight for, both men must defy the boundaries of everything they know.
Cultures collide as The Biodome Chronicles continues in a compelling quest for truth, forging an unforgettable story rich in mystery, betrayal, and love.
Are you ready to discover what is real?
530 pages, ebook
First published September 9, 2015
51 people are currently reading
605 people want to read
About the author
Jesikah Sundin
21 books608 followersJESIKAH SUNDIN is a multi-award winning Fae Romantasy, Dystopian Punk Lit, and Historical Fantasy writer, a mom of three nerdlets, a faeriecore and elfpunk geek, tree hugger, nature photographer, and a helpless romantic who married her insta-love high school sweetheart. In addition to her family, she shares her home in Seattle, Washington with a rambunctious husky-chi and a collection of Doc Martens boots. She is addicted to coffee, GIFs, memes, potatoes, cheese, kilts, mossy forests, eyeliner on men, and artsy indie alt rock.
AUTHOR NAMES:
Jesikah Sundin: fae fantasy romance, dystopian
J. Sundin: reverse harem fantasy romance
Jae Dawson: contemporary new adult romance
AUTHOR NAMES:
Jesikah Sundin: fae fantasy romance, dystopian
J. Sundin: reverse harem fantasy romance
Jae Dawson: contemporary new adult romance
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
March 17, 2016
You can read this review and more on my blog:
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for and honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.
So far the Biodome Chronicles is a very fresh take on traditional plots. The first book focused mostly on setting things up, and in Elements the author focuses more on storytelling and progression rather than background and introducing new characters. For that reason, I enjoyed reading this more.
I do feel like Elements was longer than it needed to be and too descriptive about ordinary things, but the descriptions were well written and made it easy to feel transported to another world. That’s a good thing because the story takes place on what feels like two different planets.
At the end of the first book, Fillion, the bad boy from the “future” and Coal, the farm boy from the “past” swapped places, and this book switches back and forth between those two worlds. The last book focused more on the biodome world that is basically a very realistic and historical role play. They don’t have things like computers, electric lights, or even polished mirrors. So to say that Fillion finds the transition difficult is an understatement.
But as hard as the transition was for him, Coal’s “fish out of water” experience was much more severe. He was born in the biodome and has never even seen a clear reflection of his face so things like indoor plumbing, androids, and computers really throw him for a loop.
The stark contrast between the two worlds was highlighted by the way both young men interacted with their surroundings and the people they dealt with, and while I liked reading about both, I enjoyed Coal's overall journey more.
I also appreciated the amount of secrets that were revealed in Elements. The real story behind the biodome experiment is just as sick as it is interesting, and just when I didn’t think Fillion’s dad could get any creepier, he shattered my expectations. There was still a bit of a cliffhanger at the end, but our main characters are now armed with enough information to really make a difference in the subsequent books, and I am looking forward to that.
But by far the best thing about Elements was the romance. There are two relationships in particular that receive most of the focus and both were handled beautifully.
Fillion and Willow don’t quite pick up where they left off in the first book because she doesn’t actually know his true identity when he enters the dome. However, this doesn’t stop them from forming a bond that progresses into something more than mere friendship.
Coal’s romance, like his overall storyline, was my favorite. From the moment he met Fillion’s sister Lynden, I was hoping they would catch feelings for each other, but I was pleasantly surprised with how things played out. They had a chemistry and fire that was a great contrast to the more subdued relationship between Willow and Fillion. I love the way the author focused on both the strengths and the frustration of these two different types of romances.
Fillion and Willow had a very emotionally intimate and honest relationship, but very little physical contact; and, while Coal and Lynden did the kissing and cuddling thing well, they didn’t always communicate their feelings to one another with words.
Both these relationships were beautiful and fun to read for different reasons. It was some of the best romance I’ve read in a while, and considering the first book had very little romance, it was a pleasant surprise.
Although it was a little long at some points, Elements was a beautiful, original, and well-written second addition to this series, and if for some reason you were hesitating to continue the journey began in Legacy, let me put your mind at ease. Go read this now!
Because of language and mild sexual content, I would recommend this book for ages 15 and up.
This review was originally posted on Kookie Krysp Reads
So far the Biodome Chronicles is a very fresh take on traditional plots. The first book focused mostly on setting things up, and in Elements the author focuses more on storytelling and progression rather than background and introducing new characters. For that reason, I enjoyed reading this more.
I do feel like Elements was longer than it needed to be and too descriptive about ordinary things, but the descriptions were well written and made it easy to feel transported to another world. That’s a good thing because the story takes place on what feels like two different planets.
At the end of the first book, Fillion, the bad boy from the “future” and Coal, the farm boy from the “past” swapped places, and this book switches back and forth between those two worlds. The last book focused more on the biodome world that is basically a very realistic and historical role play. They don’t have things like computers, electric lights, or even polished mirrors. So to say that Fillion finds the transition difficult is an understatement.
But as hard as the transition was for him, Coal’s “fish out of water” experience was much more severe. He was born in the biodome and has never even seen a clear reflection of his face so things like indoor plumbing, androids, and computers really throw him for a loop.
The stark contrast between the two worlds was highlighted by the way both young men interacted with their surroundings and the people they dealt with, and while I liked reading about both, I enjoyed Coal's overall journey more.
I also appreciated the amount of secrets that were revealed in Elements. The real story behind the biodome experiment is just as sick as it is interesting, and just when I didn’t think Fillion’s dad could get any creepier, he shattered my expectations. There was still a bit of a cliffhanger at the end, but our main characters are now armed with enough information to really make a difference in the subsequent books, and I am looking forward to that.
But by far the best thing about Elements was the romance. There are two relationships in particular that receive most of the focus and both were handled beautifully.
Fillion and Willow don’t quite pick up where they left off in the first book because she doesn’t actually know his true identity when he enters the dome. However, this doesn’t stop them from forming a bond that progresses into something more than mere friendship.
Coal’s romance, like his overall storyline, was my favorite. From the moment he met Fillion’s sister Lynden, I was hoping they would catch feelings for each other, but I was pleasantly surprised with how things played out. They had a chemistry and fire that was a great contrast to the more subdued relationship between Willow and Fillion. I love the way the author focused on both the strengths and the frustration of these two different types of romances.
Fillion and Willow had a very emotionally intimate and honest relationship, but very little physical contact; and, while Coal and Lynden did the kissing and cuddling thing well, they didn’t always communicate their feelings to one another with words.
Both these relationships were beautiful and fun to read for different reasons. It was some of the best romance I’ve read in a while, and considering the first book had very little romance, it was a pleasant surprise.
Although it was a little long at some points, Elements was a beautiful, original, and well-written second addition to this series, and if for some reason you were hesitating to continue the journey began in Legacy, let me put your mind at ease. Go read this now!
Because of language and mild sexual content, I would recommend this book for ages 15 and up.
This review was originally posted on Kookie Krysp Reads
August 5, 2023
I’ve always had a fear of reading sequels. Most of the ones I’ve read ended up disappointing me, others were not as good as the first book in the series. You’d rarely get that one book that is better than its predecessor. I’m happy to let you know that Elements is one of those rare exceptions. Now, this is all my opinion. Some of you might not agree, but I’ll try to justify myself as best as I can.
I was afraid I’d end up not liking Elements so much. You can blame all those cheap Young Adult books I’ve read over the years. I was expecting a lot of drama revolving the love triangle, scandal over scandal because of Willow and Fillion’s attraction, and possibly a predictable cliffhanger ending. Well, Jesikah proving me wrong is an understatement.
The story was awesome, almost no predictability whatsoever. There still was a cliffhanger (grrrr) but it was a very nicely built and intense one. Is this good? Is it bad? Maybe bad because now I need book 3 and I got nothing. Otherwise it was a very good punch in the gut. I took it like a champ. Mostly.
Willow and Fillion didn’t get as much romance as I was expecting, but I think that can be considered a good thing. There’s always that point in a romance where the characters get together and pretty much lose their spark. Things between them get normal, and boring, a tad too fast. So I guess Willion getting a bit less screen time than expected served into keeping the romance tensed and still interesting.
Now for the big part. The Unholy Triangle. Did it suck? Did Guy #2 die in order to save Girl, leaving an open road for Guy #1 to be forever and ever with Girl?
Nah, that would be silly, wouldn’t it?
WOULDN’T IT??!
Guy #2, aka Coal, aka Mr. Awesome ended up becoming one of my favorite characters in the series. I know, I keep on adding more and more people to that list. But holy sh*t did the guy change. I’m speechless. I won’t spoil anything, but trust me when I say there’s no place like a book without a f*cking love triangle. That is all.
We also got a closer glimpse at the Outside world through the eyes of Mr.Six Pack Awesome, which was a very nice change from the peaceful New Eden, a lot more character development and a damn unpredictable book #3 setup.
Did I mention the pain that the cliffhanger caused me? No?
READ IT. And then DM me so that we can fangirl about it together.
I was afraid I’d end up not liking Elements so much. You can blame all those cheap Young Adult books I’ve read over the years. I was expecting a lot of drama revolving the love triangle, scandal over scandal because of Willow and Fillion’s attraction, and possibly a predictable cliffhanger ending. Well, Jesikah proving me wrong is an understatement.
The story was awesome, almost no predictability whatsoever. There still was a cliffhanger (grrrr) but it was a very nicely built and intense one. Is this good? Is it bad? Maybe bad because now I need book 3 and I got nothing. Otherwise it was a very good punch in the gut. I took it like a champ. Mostly.
Willow and Fillion didn’t get as much romance as I was expecting, but I think that can be considered a good thing. There’s always that point in a romance where the characters get together and pretty much lose their spark. Things between them get normal, and boring, a tad too fast. So I guess Willion getting a bit less screen time than expected served into keeping the romance tensed and still interesting.
Now for the big part. The Unholy Triangle. Did it suck? Did Guy #2 die in order to save Girl, leaving an open road for Guy #1 to be forever and ever with Girl?
Nah, that would be silly, wouldn’t it?
WOULDN’T IT??!
Guy #2, aka Coal, aka Mr. Awesome ended up becoming one of my favorite characters in the series. I know, I keep on adding more and more people to that list. But holy sh*t did the guy change. I’m speechless. I won’t spoil anything, but trust me when I say there’s no place like a book without a f*cking love triangle. That is all.
We also got a closer glimpse at the Outside world through the eyes of Mr.
Did I mention the pain that the cliffhanger caused me? No?
READ IT. And then DM me so that we can fangirl about it together.
July 7, 2015
Jesikah Sundin's first novel, Legacy, was like a rich dessert to be savored slowly. Its sequel, Elements, is no less sweet or delicious, but pulled me through the pages as quickly as a child gulping up ice-cream.
In Legacy we were introduced to the world of the Biodome with hints and glimmers of the outside world of the mid 21st century. In Elements, both worlds are woven together as characters from each explore what are to them foreign landscapes. The landscapes of the Biodome are luscious and enticing! As a lover of conservatories and greenhouses of any kind I was drawn in immediately by the idea of an enclosed Eden. Meanwhile, in the gritty outer world, unemployment abounds and disillusionment and social disconnection reign. Elements presents the most thoughtful, realistic vision of the near future I have seen in this genre so far.
A master of theme, Sundin winds rich symbolism throughout her plot like ivy. Everything is significant and interrelated, from the trees, to the fish tank in a character's room, to the quotes heading the chapters. When you read this book, prepare to be stimulated as well as entertained. Elements is a feast for the intelligent reader; it provokes all kinds of philosophical questions. The simple story holds a multitude of ideas within its petals; the reader who looks deeper will see them.
Elements is part murder mystery, part romance, part fantasy, part science fiction, part eco-punk, but the mix never feels contrived; Sundin blends these genres seamlessly. The characters are iconic and come to life on the page. They feel like real friends. I have a crush on pretty much every male character in this book. Except Hanley, Ewww! But especially Coal. Oui, Oui, speak French to me, please . . . The women of the biodome are strong as well as elegant, while the ones we get to know in the outside world are necessarily tough--but good-hearted.
I have one complaint about Elements: It ended. I hope Sundin produces the next book soon, because I for one will be waiting with bated breath!
In Legacy we were introduced to the world of the Biodome with hints and glimmers of the outside world of the mid 21st century. In Elements, both worlds are woven together as characters from each explore what are to them foreign landscapes. The landscapes of the Biodome are luscious and enticing! As a lover of conservatories and greenhouses of any kind I was drawn in immediately by the idea of an enclosed Eden. Meanwhile, in the gritty outer world, unemployment abounds and disillusionment and social disconnection reign. Elements presents the most thoughtful, realistic vision of the near future I have seen in this genre so far.
A master of theme, Sundin winds rich symbolism throughout her plot like ivy. Everything is significant and interrelated, from the trees, to the fish tank in a character's room, to the quotes heading the chapters. When you read this book, prepare to be stimulated as well as entertained. Elements is a feast for the intelligent reader; it provokes all kinds of philosophical questions. The simple story holds a multitude of ideas within its petals; the reader who looks deeper will see them.
Elements is part murder mystery, part romance, part fantasy, part science fiction, part eco-punk, but the mix never feels contrived; Sundin blends these genres seamlessly. The characters are iconic and come to life on the page. They feel like real friends. I have a crush on pretty much every male character in this book. Except Hanley, Ewww! But especially Coal. Oui, Oui, speak French to me, please . . . The women of the biodome are strong as well as elegant, while the ones we get to know in the outside world are necessarily tough--but good-hearted.
I have one complaint about Elements: It ended. I hope Sundin produces the next book soon, because I for one will be waiting with bated breath!
August 8, 2015
Secrets so many secrets are discovered in this book it is just amazing. I was basically like this the WHOLE time.
Nah i was more like this:
No words it was just stupendous, Elements had exactly what i expected and much more. We definitely got to see Oaklee and Fillion's relationship progress. And don't worry about hurricane Willow she still appeared from time to time. Willow was really strong and what she did to Timothy was well deserved. *hides grin* and might i mention that Fillion did get slapped by Willow in a very necessary situation. *snickers quietly*
Lynden, Fillion's sister is a character you can't hate at all she's funny and absolutely crazy but, under all that she hides pain. She feels like she doesn't really need anyone to love her, no "happily ever after" for her.
When Coal came into the story and he started showing some feelings for her it brought out a lot of "feels" for me. His growing love for her was astounding and funny to watch. The strawberry scene, lol. Don't hate me though, Willow is still my favorite character. but, i think i might change my mind and favor Fillion instead? Or maybe Coal?? ;) What? They both have grown on me, as well as Leaf. Laurel? Well she's just a cutie her love for her family and her child like mind is refreshing.
Anyway,I have to say i had so much hate for Hanely and Timothy growing as the book progressed and i found Dr.Nichols quite cold and detached at first. I didn't understand how Joel told his children before he died to find "Della," when she was pretty cold to Coal and an aloof mother to her children. But, then some secrets started coming out and i found some sort of "compassion" for her as i felt disgust for Hanely. The whole linden tree story was very interesting and a sweet but, bitter love story.
I will not reveal anymore secrets as i think iv'e said enough. In the end of it all, Elements was spectacular and the ending?? Oh goodness the ending, you truly killed me there Jesikah. I can't wait to read what's going to happen next. The revealed secrets, wow. I have to tell you that now anytime i am down i will say, "I am awesome."
;) Thank you Jesikah Sundin for this wonderful book and giving me a chance to read it. It was surely a happy read!
P.s More people should really start picking up this series to read. It's AMAZING and with an author like Jesikah of course it is. ;)
Nah i was more like this:
No words it was just stupendous, Elements had exactly what i expected and much more. We definitely got to see Oaklee and Fillion's relationship progress. And don't worry about hurricane Willow she still appeared from time to time. Willow was really strong and what she did to Timothy was well deserved. *hides grin* and might i mention that Fillion did get slapped by Willow in a very necessary situation. *snickers quietly*
Lynden, Fillion's sister is a character you can't hate at all she's funny and absolutely crazy but, under all that she hides pain. She feels like she doesn't really need anyone to love her, no "happily ever after" for her.
When Coal came into the story and he started showing some feelings for her it brought out a lot of "feels" for me. His growing love for her was astounding and funny to watch. The strawberry scene, lol. Don't hate me though, Willow is still my favorite character. but, i think i might change my mind and favor Fillion instead? Or maybe Coal?? ;) What? They both have grown on me, as well as Leaf. Laurel? Well she's just a cutie her love for her family and her child like mind is refreshing.
Anyway,I have to say i had so much hate for Hanely and Timothy growing as the book progressed and i found Dr.Nichols quite cold and detached at first. I didn't understand how Joel told his children before he died to find "Della," when she was pretty cold to Coal and an aloof mother to her children. But, then some secrets started coming out and i found some sort of "compassion" for her as i felt disgust for Hanely. The whole linden tree story was very interesting and a sweet but, bitter love story.
I will not reveal anymore secrets as i think iv'e said enough. In the end of it all, Elements was spectacular and the ending?? Oh goodness the ending, you truly killed me there Jesikah. I can't wait to read what's going to happen next. The revealed secrets, wow. I have to tell you that now anytime i am down i will say, "I am awesome."
;) Thank you Jesikah Sundin for this wonderful book and giving me a chance to read it. It was surely a happy read!
P.s More people should really start picking up this series to read. It's AMAZING and with an author like Jesikah of course it is. ;)
December 7, 2015
Oh my gosh ... this book! I can't even come up with words to describe its brilliance. So many unexpected twists and turns in two completely different worlds. The character depth and the world building were truly astounding. My only complaint is that I'm going to be pulling my hair out until the next book comes out ... Hanley better get it!! ;)
November 4, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book starts out exactly where it left the reader in the first book, LEGACY. It begins with a complete crash of two very different worlds. Jesikah Sundin perfectly executes that transition, fully developing the plot and characters in such a way that the readers are given a very realistic and emotional experience along with the characters, with the reader's attachment and emotion unique to each character's journey.
This book is essentially about people in two very different cultures, a community inside the biodome (tight-knit, family oriented, and filled with honor and sacrifice) and a future modern world outside the biodome (technology-ridden with a younger generation doomed for an unsustainable lifestyle), crashing together, forcing to adapt and even question their standing belief systems in order to bring life, truth, honor, and resolution to their loved ones and communities.
The story is filled with mystery and suspense, villainous psychological games, romance, deceit, role-playing, humor and violence... a full-on emotional roller coaster for the reader. It left me crying, laughing, yelling out in anger, yelling out in victory, and re-reading my favorite passages to experience it all over again. During reading it, I was not only left in suspense and awe throughout the entire story, but I also found myself becoming comfortable as I became close to the deepest desires of each character, snuggling right up with the intricate design of the story as a whole, not being able to put it down for the life of me. The mysteries of the past and present of each character's motives and plans were woven into the story beautifully, bringing me more and more questions and intrigue to the plot, while still bringing me answers and the gratification of finding out what's behind the mystery. It was a perfect balance and couldn't have been written more perfectly.
Sundin's writing style brings a vastly beautiful vocabulary and poetic descriptions, evoking such beauty and emotion to each situation and character development. Witty, addicting humor is riddled throughout the storyline and caused me to read certain parts of the book over and over again to continue with my laughter or tears, not wanting to let it go as I became attached, yet not being able to move forward in the story fast enough.
To mourn the ending of a book is one of my definite requirements for a 5-star review, and frankly I'm ready to pick it right back up again for round 2!
I am greatly looking forward for the third installment of The Biodome Chronicles, and I highly recommend this book as well as the first book, LEGACY, for all readers who are ready for an emotional, addicting, and thrilling adventure through multiple lifestyles and worlds. AMAZING book!
This book starts out exactly where it left the reader in the first book, LEGACY. It begins with a complete crash of two very different worlds. Jesikah Sundin perfectly executes that transition, fully developing the plot and characters in such a way that the readers are given a very realistic and emotional experience along with the characters, with the reader's attachment and emotion unique to each character's journey.
This book is essentially about people in two very different cultures, a community inside the biodome (tight-knit, family oriented, and filled with honor and sacrifice) and a future modern world outside the biodome (technology-ridden with a younger generation doomed for an unsustainable lifestyle), crashing together, forcing to adapt and even question their standing belief systems in order to bring life, truth, honor, and resolution to their loved ones and communities.
The story is filled with mystery and suspense, villainous psychological games, romance, deceit, role-playing, humor and violence... a full-on emotional roller coaster for the reader. It left me crying, laughing, yelling out in anger, yelling out in victory, and re-reading my favorite passages to experience it all over again. During reading it, I was not only left in suspense and awe throughout the entire story, but I also found myself becoming comfortable as I became close to the deepest desires of each character, snuggling right up with the intricate design of the story as a whole, not being able to put it down for the life of me. The mysteries of the past and present of each character's motives and plans were woven into the story beautifully, bringing me more and more questions and intrigue to the plot, while still bringing me answers and the gratification of finding out what's behind the mystery. It was a perfect balance and couldn't have been written more perfectly.
Sundin's writing style brings a vastly beautiful vocabulary and poetic descriptions, evoking such beauty and emotion to each situation and character development. Witty, addicting humor is riddled throughout the storyline and caused me to read certain parts of the book over and over again to continue with my laughter or tears, not wanting to let it go as I became attached, yet not being able to move forward in the story fast enough.
To mourn the ending of a book is one of my definite requirements for a 5-star review, and frankly I'm ready to pick it right back up again for round 2!
I am greatly looking forward for the third installment of The Biodome Chronicles, and I highly recommend this book as well as the first book, LEGACY, for all readers who are ready for an emotional, addicting, and thrilling adventure through multiple lifestyles and worlds. AMAZING book!
June 22, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I don't want to give too much away, so I won't include any spoilers or mention specific characters in this review.
Sundin packs more action and intrigue into this sequel to Legacy. From the first page, you are swept along with each new discovery the characters make. I love this series because it pushes one to think about the ethics and consequences of sealing people within a closed community, essentially freezing them inside a LARP time capsule while the outside world hurtles toward an unknown, destructive future. The author weaves a tale of artistry and romance with one of cold, psychological analysis and heart-breaking detachment. It was an enlightening and engaging read that left me in breathless suspense! I'm very eager to know if and how the lives of the younger generation in this unique tapestry will come together in the final installment.
Sundin packs more action and intrigue into this sequel to Legacy. From the first page, you are swept along with each new discovery the characters make. I love this series because it pushes one to think about the ethics and consequences of sealing people within a closed community, essentially freezing them inside a LARP time capsule while the outside world hurtles toward an unknown, destructive future. The author weaves a tale of artistry and romance with one of cold, psychological analysis and heart-breaking detachment. It was an enlightening and engaging read that left me in breathless suspense! I'm very eager to know if and how the lives of the younger generation in this unique tapestry will come together in the final installment.
September 25, 2015
what can I say. I have been waiting for this book with baited breath. It was quite different than the first one. Jesikah is incredibly imaginative and crazy good with the gaming and tech stuff. I really enjoyed that, but my heart is with the folks in New Eden. That's where I want to live...
Also this was so heartbreaking and emotionally frustrating. But hopefully book 3 will work it out.
Loved it..keep it up Jesikah. Write fast please!
Also this was so heartbreaking and emotionally frustrating. But hopefully book 3 will work it out.
Loved it..keep it up Jesikah. Write fast please!
February 21, 2018
*Recieved this book as part of Jesikah's ARC team in return for a honest review*
Jesikah did it again. Elements started off right where Legacy ended. From page 1 I was sucked back into the story. I loved that this book was as detailed as Legacy, lots of unexpected twists and turns. But I loved it!
The character development was really well done and this second book contained a little more action than the first one, both inside and outside. I loved it! I can't wait for the third book to be finished.
Keep up the awesome writing Jesikah!
Jesikah did it again. Elements started off right where Legacy ended. From page 1 I was sucked back into the story. I loved that this book was as detailed as Legacy, lots of unexpected twists and turns. But I loved it!
The character development was really well done and this second book contained a little more action than the first one, both inside and outside. I loved it! I can't wait for the third book to be finished.
Keep up the awesome writing Jesikah!
March 6, 2017
An exciting and creative take on current story tropes!
The Biodome Chronicles spins a tale of a medieval society living in a future setting, cut off from the rest of the world and only peripherally aware of it most times. Under the dome, New Eden Township has grown and evolved for years - a traditional society with no advanced technology. Where out in the modern world, mankind has progressed at the expected rate.
The world building is superb and utterly believable. Unlike so many other YA novels with ridiculous plotting and story elements. The Biodome Chronicles delivers a consistent and credible storyline. I never found myself pulled out of the world by illogical leaps. The author expertly mixes a bag of different genres - romance, fantasy, sci-fi, and mystery.
At the end of the last book, Legacy, two young men found themselves thrust into each others’ worlds. Fillion is forced to enter the dome and Coal is released into the modern world. Where the focus in Legacy was building the world and setting the stage, in Elements, the reader gets a much more detailed look at Fillion and Coal as they struggle to take control of their new lives. Here, the author finds creative ways to highlight the differences in both men’s life experiences. Everything is new and different for them. How will they cope? What changes when their lives are fundamentally the opposite of what they grew up with?
Mixed in are two good romantic interests. Fillion and Willow orbit around one another, trying to become something more than friends. Coal too finds love, but struggles with it as the story progresses.
The author kept things creepy and suspenseful as she left hints and clues to deeper plots and mysteries to come. There’s a good deal of setup for the next book.
The Biodome Chronicles spins a tale of a medieval society living in a future setting, cut off from the rest of the world and only peripherally aware of it most times. Under the dome, New Eden Township has grown and evolved for years - a traditional society with no advanced technology. Where out in the modern world, mankind has progressed at the expected rate.
The world building is superb and utterly believable. Unlike so many other YA novels with ridiculous plotting and story elements. The Biodome Chronicles delivers a consistent and credible storyline. I never found myself pulled out of the world by illogical leaps. The author expertly mixes a bag of different genres - romance, fantasy, sci-fi, and mystery.
At the end of the last book, Legacy, two young men found themselves thrust into each others’ worlds. Fillion is forced to enter the dome and Coal is released into the modern world. Where the focus in Legacy was building the world and setting the stage, in Elements, the reader gets a much more detailed look at Fillion and Coal as they struggle to take control of their new lives. Here, the author finds creative ways to highlight the differences in both men’s life experiences. Everything is new and different for them. How will they cope? What changes when their lives are fundamentally the opposite of what they grew up with?
Mixed in are two good romantic interests. Fillion and Willow orbit around one another, trying to become something more than friends. Coal too finds love, but struggles with it as the story progresses.
The author kept things creepy and suspenseful as she left hints and clues to deeper plots and mysteries to come. There’s a good deal of setup for the next book.
September 7, 2017
I could not put this book down. It was just as good as Legacy (the first book), if not better! We get to experience and learn more about both New Eden and Seattle 2054 through the journeys of Coal and Fillion. Sadly, this book ends on a HUGE cliffhanger, which is totally driving me nuts!
I can't wait for Gamemaster! :D
I can't wait for Gamemaster! :D
September 22, 2019
adventure in and out of biodome . . .
Overall 5 out of 5 stars
Performance 5 out of 5 stars
Story 5 out of 5 stars
I knew picking up this one that I as in for an adventure in to the sci-fi fantasy world with elements of original worlds, characters, settings, and more. The biodome was most certainly different. We follow a few characters and their journey in or out of the biodome and the differences to the world they once inhabited. I not going to sugar coat or give up the goods, but I will say that you need to have read/listened to book one of this series to fully enjoy all that book two has to offer.
This was a very well crafted story set many years to the future and essentially another world all together. There are things that our collection of characters need to make to the end of the long journey beginning with the courage to make that first step beyond what they know. The dangers, mystery, and the way that it is all handled makes the ride that much more enjoyable.
This was a family friendly read. I took the time to each night as family time share the journey of Fillion, Coal, and Willow. We were a bit put off that it was a somewhat cliffhanger at the end but that gave us time to plan for another time of bonding with a well written, well received tale with characters that we all were able to relate to at some point and time with in the story.
Our narrator did a fab job with given voice to a world that was open, closed, complex, detailed, mysteries, and more. The cadence. The pitch and tone setting were all just what was needed to set things up just right for visualizing the entire adventure.
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I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Jesikah Sundin. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Overall 5 out of 5 stars
Performance 5 out of 5 stars
Story 5 out of 5 stars
I knew picking up this one that I as in for an adventure in to the sci-fi fantasy world with elements of original worlds, characters, settings, and more. The biodome was most certainly different. We follow a few characters and their journey in or out of the biodome and the differences to the world they once inhabited. I not going to sugar coat or give up the goods, but I will say that you need to have read/listened to book one of this series to fully enjoy all that book two has to offer.
This was a very well crafted story set many years to the future and essentially another world all together. There are things that our collection of characters need to make to the end of the long journey beginning with the courage to make that first step beyond what they know. The dangers, mystery, and the way that it is all handled makes the ride that much more enjoyable.
This was a family friendly read. I took the time to each night as family time share the journey of Fillion, Coal, and Willow. We were a bit put off that it was a somewhat cliffhanger at the end but that gave us time to plan for another time of bonding with a well written, well received tale with characters that we all were able to relate to at some point and time with in the story.
Our narrator did a fab job with given voice to a world that was open, closed, complex, detailed, mysteries, and more. The cadence. The pitch and tone setting were all just what was needed to set things up just right for visualizing the entire adventure.
**********
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Jesikah Sundin. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
January 9, 2016
I received this copy free from Goodreads Giveaways. I had to buy the first book in order this read the second and I'm glad I did. I would like to thank the author because she wrapped the book up and I felt like I was opening a present. It was awesome and I loved the book marks. It was exciting and I truly appreciate the care she put into my giveaway. Being that she did that I read the e-book so I wouldn't mess it up. I don't know how she has done it because her characters are so vivid and remarkable. I laughed so many times and got frustrated right along with the characters. I had several people look strangely at me because I bursted out laughing. I didn't even realize I was making noises until someone shushed me. Lol. It goes to show how deep I was in this book. In both books really. Fillion caught my attention since book one. Who wouldn't love the dungeon master with a quirky personality and cocky attitude? So when I read he was going to new Eden, I was like "yes". I couldn't wait to see where things could possibly lead for him and Willow. Mack was a shock. I didn't see that coming but I definitely could see it along the lines of proving himself to Willow. I dont want to say too much so I'm gonna cut it short. This is a must read for gamers/ book lovers. I would like to know more about some other secondary characters. I love the fact it touches on some key concerns with today's society with technology. I would recommend this book to anyone and I'm excited and twisting my thumbs about a third book in this series. I can't wait to read what she has in store next!
February 15, 2016
Jesikah Sundin's first book in the Biodome Chronicles series, Legacy, set the table, presenting readers with an original bounty of visual futuristic landscapes, motifs, multi-layered plot lines, and complex compelling characters. In the sequel, Elements, all of these components are brought to life once again, and then some. I was totally immersed in this story, and loved reconnecting with these people, and with New Eden Township. As with Legacy, Elements delivers on all fronts. And if it's at all possible, Jesikah's writing has evolved to an even higher level in this installment, all while remaining true to the soul, path and technical detail of book one. The crispness and confidence with which the narrative is revealed, and how the characters are brought to life, is brilliant. The textures and visuals are vividly woven into the plot layers, all threaded together with Jesikah's masterful use of language and dialogue. Murder, mystery, love, betrayal, and a continued exploration of futuristic societal culture round out Elements as a worthy successor to Legacy. We continue to learn about Fillion, Coal, Willow Oak, among other characters, in this familiar, yet mysterious eco-punk world. The story satisfies, quenches, but leaves you thirsting for more. Excellent writing. Fantastic book.
November 8, 2015
Jesikah Sundin has done it again. Book 2 in the Biodome Chronicles captured me just as much as book 1. I usually don’t read squeals, but after Legacy, I had to know what happens between Fillion and Willow.
Elements is as original and detailed as Legacy. Fillion enters the biodome and experiences a bizarre, simple place that is nothing like his fast-paced modern world of the 2050s. At the same time, Coal leaves the safety of the biodome and enters the real world with shocking discoveries. The novel wonderfully contrasts the two worlds through each character’s experience. Not only are the details of the opposing worlds fascinating to read about, but each character also finds love with a girl from that world. ‘Opposites attract’ comes into play in the fabulously written love stories. In their new settings, the young men are exposed to the corruption that threatens the biodome community. Things are not as they seem and it takes courage to save those they love from injustice and danger.
Just like Legacy, I felt like I was actually there with the characters. Sundin knows how to write! With mystery, love, deception and just an intelligently crafted story, Elements a great read!
Elements is as original and detailed as Legacy. Fillion enters the biodome and experiences a bizarre, simple place that is nothing like his fast-paced modern world of the 2050s. At the same time, Coal leaves the safety of the biodome and enters the real world with shocking discoveries. The novel wonderfully contrasts the two worlds through each character’s experience. Not only are the details of the opposing worlds fascinating to read about, but each character also finds love with a girl from that world. ‘Opposites attract’ comes into play in the fabulously written love stories. In their new settings, the young men are exposed to the corruption that threatens the biodome community. Things are not as they seem and it takes courage to save those they love from injustice and danger.
Just like Legacy, I felt like I was actually there with the characters. Sundin knows how to write! With mystery, love, deception and just an intelligently crafted story, Elements a great read!
March 7, 2016
Elements picked up just where Legacy left off to the delight of this reader. Following the same rhythm to its predecessor, Elements highlights secondary characters to the forefront. A masterful move to the plot of the story.
We are given a better understanding of Coal, Son of Fire. Through his eyes and experience, we are given an in depth look at Fillion's world. Likewise, we get to really know Mack and Lynden and their impact on Fillion world. Both characters are given prominent roles in the story.
There was definitely character development with all the havoc going around in their respective environments. Without giving any spoilers away, the blossoming of certain relationships definitely appealed to my romantic side. The only drawback I had was the nickname "Mr. Awesome". My personal opinion was that it did not flow with the rest of the story, but it did not deflect from the overall plot.
Like before, the story is full of twists, suspense and romance leaving you wondering what will happen next.
I am anxiously looking forward for Transitions as I am sure it will not disappoint.
We are given a better understanding of Coal, Son of Fire. Through his eyes and experience, we are given an in depth look at Fillion's world. Likewise, we get to really know Mack and Lynden and their impact on Fillion world. Both characters are given prominent roles in the story.
There was definitely character development with all the havoc going around in their respective environments. Without giving any spoilers away, the blossoming of certain relationships definitely appealed to my romantic side. The only drawback I had was the nickname "Mr. Awesome". My personal opinion was that it did not flow with the rest of the story, but it did not deflect from the overall plot.
Like before, the story is full of twists, suspense and romance leaving you wondering what will happen next.
I am anxiously looking forward for Transitions as I am sure it will not disappoint.
August 28, 2015
I was given a copy of "Elements" in exchange for an honest review. This is book two in a series and I read book one quite a while ago, so I had to do a little back tracking to catch up. This is a great twist on sci fi/fantasy. A whole community of LARP'ers (Gamers who role play) are living in a biodome and the second generation have no idea that their world is make believe. I loved this one! Ton's of twists, romance, and we move from the biodome where they live like 15th century people, to outside, where it is the year 2054. Great characters, lots of humor, and an overall great YA Book. There is some mild swearing throughout and this one uses the "f-bomb" twice. No sexual content other than implied. I can recommend for teens and up. The bad news...book three isn't written yet.
Five stars from me.
Five stars from me.
September 13, 2015
I read the first book in this series last year, and I have been waiting impatiently for this one ever since. I was definitely not disappointed!
Once again, the book starts out a little slow, but it doesn't take long for it to pick up. When it does, the reader is in for a wild ride. The chapters alternate between the characters inside and outside the biodome, but after a while the two are so connected that the switches don't make a difference.
We learn so much more about The Code and its ramifications in this book. One of those ramifications leaves us with a cliffhanger (hurry up and write the third book, Jesikah!) which is going to prey on my mind for a long time to come.
One word of warning....this book is nearly 800 pages, so don't expect to read it all at once. :)
Once again, the book starts out a little slow, but it doesn't take long for it to pick up. When it does, the reader is in for a wild ride. The chapters alternate between the characters inside and outside the biodome, but after a while the two are so connected that the switches don't make a difference.
We learn so much more about The Code and its ramifications in this book. One of those ramifications leaves us with a cliffhanger (hurry up and write the third book, Jesikah!) which is going to prey on my mind for a long time to come.
One word of warning....this book is nearly 800 pages, so don't expect to read it all at once. :)
September 6, 2015
How do you start with cyber/steam punk and add mystery and romance, and complex characters?
I don't know either, but apparently Jesikah Sundin does.
This is a beautiful sequel to Elements (Book One) and it is also a coming-of-age for Leaf, Coal, Willow, and Fillion. There are more than enough twists and turns to keep anyone guessing. By the end of the story, I was emotionally wrung out. It leaves me hoping that Jesikah could release Book Three in the next two months.
Great work, Jes. I look forward to your next offering.
(I was given a copy of this book for an honest review)
I don't know either, but apparently Jesikah Sundin does.
This is a beautiful sequel to Elements (Book One) and it is also a coming-of-age for Leaf, Coal, Willow, and Fillion. There are more than enough twists and turns to keep anyone guessing. By the end of the story, I was emotionally wrung out. It leaves me hoping that Jesikah could release Book Three in the next two months.
Great work, Jes. I look forward to your next offering.
(I was given a copy of this book for an honest review)
October 8, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review, so here it is. Book two in the series continues right where book one left off, and I enjoyed every page just like the first. This book (and series, so far) fills a void in the popular fiction that is making the rounds today. I find myself seeing similarities to another popular young-adult world-inside-of-world series, but I've liked these books even more. As a geek who likes fantasy and science fiction, I feel like I'm the perfect audience for this series, and I can't wait for the third installation!
July 3, 2015
Elements was worth the wait! We are thrust back into this wonderfully written story and experience along with Coal the future world threw his eyes. The intrigue inside the dome continues to unfold as the true plot in slowly revealed. I loved it! Jesikah Sundin paints a visual landscape that awakens the mind and emotions. There were times I cried and then later laughed out loud, which drives my family crazy. Worth the read!
September 2, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. And she has done it again! Jesikah has a way of putting you into her world she has created immersing you with depth of detail and joy of discovering what will happen next. I was eager at the end of Legacy to enter the outside world and boy of boy she did not fall short.
September 7, 2015
I really enjoyed book 1 of this series, so I was hoping that this one would be at least as good. It turned out to be even better. The characters are well developed and the story is loaded with suspense and plot twists. The ending wraps up the storyline nicely while still leaving me longing to find out what happens next.
December 30, 2017
I LOVE THIS SO MUCH I NEED BOOK THREE YESTERDAY YES I'M SO HAPPY AHHHH (full review up soon)
October 20, 2019
This is not a book to read quickly. To fully grasp the imagery, story, and situations the people of New Eden are faced with, this must not be read but digested.
Watching Fillion grow into a better person, finding worth in himself and the value in that same worth to others had me in tears. Likewise watching Willow come to the realization of who she is as a young woman and finding the strength and the love within herself that she shares with Fillion made my heart ache.
Coal's change from "Martian" to "fully human" was very interesting to see. How the "real world" interacts is such a cold place to live. And yet he finds love in Lynden and gives up the life he once knew. Lynden growing, changing, and coming into her own person was a struggle to read. My heart hurt for her and rejoiced along with her when she and Coal finally came together.
There are so many secrets withheld from the people of New Eden. The threat to their way of life and potential ejection from the only home some of them have know is tearing me apart.
And yet the saga continues. I cannot wait to get lost within this journey again...
Thank you so much Jesikah Sundin for allowing me the pleasure of continuing this series and reviewing it for other readers.
Watching Fillion grow into a better person, finding worth in himself and the value in that same worth to others had me in tears. Likewise watching Willow come to the realization of who she is as a young woman and finding the strength and the love within herself that she shares with Fillion made my heart ache.
Coal's change from "Martian" to "fully human" was very interesting to see. How the "real world" interacts is such a cold place to live. And yet he finds love in Lynden and gives up the life he once knew. Lynden growing, changing, and coming into her own person was a struggle to read. My heart hurt for her and rejoiced along with her when she and Coal finally came together.
There are so many secrets withheld from the people of New Eden. The threat to their way of life and potential ejection from the only home some of them have know is tearing me apart.
And yet the saga continues. I cannot wait to get lost within this journey again...
Thank you so much Jesikah Sundin for allowing me the pleasure of continuing this series and reviewing it for other readers.
January 2, 2018
Wow! A great sequel that picks up the story where Legacy left off. Such complex worlds were created, and this book expands our understanding of them. The author really seems to have done her research, and it gives a real feeling of authenticity to both worlds, the biodome and the complications/implications of the closed system and closed society, even the details of daily living, and dying are well constructed; and the near future world with climate change impacts and the societal challenges of technological developement, and the expansion of the anime culture are extrapolated from todays world. The characters really grow in this book, mainly through experiencing hardship and challenges, and relationships grow and develope in a realistic manner. I found it to be intriguing, and hard to put down.
August 30, 2020
Having already read Legacy a year ago, I was familiar with the story, but I forgot how beautiful and completely engrossing Ms Sundin's world building was. Whereas we saw a lot of world building in book 1, book 2 is spun to show the fruit of that endeavour, resulting in a captivating storyline that keeps you grasping on and wanting to know more. True, it is a lengthy book, however with such a complex and intricate story, you will need a few more scenes to piece everything together. Definitely a hit for me, I enjoyed it more than the first. I think my favourite part would be Coal's initial Acclimitization to the real world - seeing his reaction to modern day appliances, conveniences and everyday things we take for granted. And the tension you will feel as the story progresses, heart pounding and pulse racing tension, will keep you hooked until the end.
January 11, 2018
Where do I begin?! I love Legacy. I was immediately sucked into the world and characters and was more than ready for the next upon completion.
But Elements? Elements blew any and all expectations I had from Legacy out of the water. I can't get enough of the delightful, versatile cast of characters. The story is constantly changing, an incredible blend of mystery, sci-fi, fantasy, and romance. Jesikah's writing style is smooth and enjoyable to read. And even with all the setup from the first book, I couldn't for the life of me predict how this book would end or where the next one will go. I can not wait for more!!!
But Elements? Elements blew any and all expectations I had from Legacy out of the water. I can't get enough of the delightful, versatile cast of characters. The story is constantly changing, an incredible blend of mystery, sci-fi, fantasy, and romance. Jesikah's writing style is smooth and enjoyable to read. And even with all the setup from the first book, I couldn't for the life of me predict how this book would end or where the next one will go. I can not wait for more!!!
October 23, 2018
Couldn't wait for the physical book
Even though Legacy (book 1) left you in a good place, I couldn't wait for Elements to arrive so I had to resort to Kindle (not my first choice in media). I gobbled this book up so fast that the physical book has still not arrived. I truly feel connected to the characters, each of them so truly their own being. As an ardent fan of Permaculture and user of same to the best of my understanding, this book (via Fillion's thoughts) has definitely raised some good questions in my head.
Even though Legacy (book 1) left you in a good place, I couldn't wait for Elements to arrive so I had to resort to Kindle (not my first choice in media). I gobbled this book up so fast that the physical book has still not arrived. I truly feel connected to the characters, each of them so truly their own being. As an ardent fan of Permaculture and user of same to the best of my understanding, this book (via Fillion's thoughts) has definitely raised some good questions in my head.
March 21, 2019
The Biodome Chronicles is a wonderful, angsty, fight-the-system coming of age story and this second installment, Elements, takes it to the next level. The characters are live in a world where things should not be so "life-and-death" anymore, and yet they are. Amidst the character traumas and dramas, there is also murder and plot and mystery to solve. Guaranteed to keep your heart aching and pounding, at the same time. The story is detailed and finely written. As a wannabe writer myself, I look on the words with jealousy, wondering if I could ever write this well.
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