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The Elemental #7
Destroyer
My name is Larkspur, and I am an Elemental.
My people use the power of the earth to sustain life and defy our enemies. I should be at my father's side as a royal princess. But as a half-breed, bastard child, that isn't going to happen.
Taken away by the last Spirit Walker, I am mean to train with him so that I can finally stop the false mother goddess and her plans to rule both humans and elementals. I am meant to train so that I can meet her on even ground, but training takes time.
Time is not something we have. The world is coming apart at the seams as the humans rain down destruction upon their own kind and the supernatural world. The false mother goddess is hunting down the most powerful elementals to take the last of their power, and through it all, the secrets of who I truly am begin to spill upward.
I must find the strength to stop the mother goddess, and to save our world, but which aspect of my heart will hold me up and what will it cost me in the end?
Blood of the earth. . . .
Child of Spirit. . . .
Bastard Princess . . .
Ender . . .
Protector . . .
Destroyer.
My people use the power of the earth to sustain life and defy our enemies. I should be at my father's side as a royal princess. But as a half-breed, bastard child, that isn't going to happen.
Taken away by the last Spirit Walker, I am mean to train with him so that I can finally stop the false mother goddess and her plans to rule both humans and elementals. I am meant to train so that I can meet her on even ground, but training takes time.
Time is not something we have. The world is coming apart at the seams as the humans rain down destruction upon their own kind and the supernatural world. The false mother goddess is hunting down the most powerful elementals to take the last of their power, and through it all, the secrets of who I truly am begin to spill upward.
I must find the strength to stop the mother goddess, and to save our world, but which aspect of my heart will hold me up and what will it cost me in the end?
Blood of the earth. . . .
Child of Spirit. . . .
Bastard Princess . . .
Ender . . .
Protector . . .
Destroyer.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2017
1605 people are currently reading
1695 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Mayer
153 books7,267 followersA long time ago, in a galaxy far away, I was born into a family of Star Wars nuts. I have a lot of siblings (somewhere I lost count but I think there was more than could be numbered on one hand) and being one of the young padawans I was subjected to Star Wars marathons, on a regular basis. If you've read any of my books you'll see there is often a reference to said movies as a small homage to my upbringing. May the force be with you and all that jazz.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 312 reviews
October 21, 2017
Worst. Ending. Ever. **Spoiler Alert**
I was so confused by the time jump before the last book, then this one goes on to mention characters that were never introduced in this series (only in the spin-off, which just feels like a really shady marketing scheme to make you buy other books just so you know what's happening). But you know what? I could get past that. Here's what I can't get over:
These people (Raven, Cassava, Talan...) have done terrible, unspeakable, really f-ing awful things to Lark, yet she just... Understands? Gets over it? TRUSTS them? Then, after reaching this... "understanding"... Everyone -- and I do mean everyone -- DIES!!! But wait! Somehow it's just all okay because Lark is a spirit and can check in on her remaining friends and family from the afterlife... as a bird of some kind. And, oh, yeah, Peta becomes a flipping bird, too, so they can fly together! ARE YOU KIDDING ME??? In this moment, I'm really wishing I hadn't even picked up the first book to start this series. In my opinion, Shannon Mayor had a great thing going and totally ruined it. What a waste!!!
I was so confused by the time jump before the last book, then this one goes on to mention characters that were never introduced in this series (only in the spin-off, which just feels like a really shady marketing scheme to make you buy other books just so you know what's happening). But you know what? I could get past that. Here's what I can't get over:
These people (Raven, Cassava, Talan...) have done terrible, unspeakable, really f-ing awful things to Lark, yet she just... Understands? Gets over it? TRUSTS them? Then, after reaching this... "understanding"... Everyone -- and I do mean everyone -- DIES!!! But wait! Somehow it's just all okay because Lark is a spirit and can check in on her remaining friends and family from the afterlife... as a bird of some kind. And, oh, yeah, Peta becomes a flipping bird, too, so they can fly together! ARE YOU KIDDING ME??? In this moment, I'm really wishing I hadn't even picked up the first book to start this series. In my opinion, Shannon Mayor had a great thing going and totally ruined it. What a waste!!!
February 3, 2020
3.5 A bit anticlimactic
All in all, I really enjoyed this series and I'd recommend it to anyone who's looking for a fun, engaging, but pretty light UF.
The plot got more and more complex and it kept me hooked. It was fast-paced and interesting, and the characters were fun.
This last book, though... Well, it's really hard, I'd say, to write the full ending to a 7-book series in just 200 pages. It's (almost) impossible to tie up all the loose ends, to satisfy all your readers' wishes and desires, but I had big hopes, I really like this author.
Don't get me wrong, it was a good ending, and all the loose ends were indeed tied, but it felt rushed. It felt like 'I can't wait to finish this series'. It felt like the characters had more to say, do you know what I mean?
Anyway, still worth reading. And the last book still gives you closure, although maybe not what I (and most people, judging by the reviews) would have wanted
*** BIG, BIG SPOILER!
I'd still tell you to read it though, so go ahead! Try it!
All in all, I really enjoyed this series and I'd recommend it to anyone who's looking for a fun, engaging, but pretty light UF.
The plot got more and more complex and it kept me hooked. It was fast-paced and interesting, and the characters were fun.
This last book, though... Well, it's really hard, I'd say, to write the full ending to a 7-book series in just 200 pages. It's (almost) impossible to tie up all the loose ends, to satisfy all your readers' wishes and desires, but I had big hopes, I really like this author.
Don't get me wrong, it was a good ending, and all the loose ends were indeed tied, but it felt rushed. It felt like 'I can't wait to finish this series'. It felt like the characters had more to say, do you know what I mean?
Anyway, still worth reading. And the last book still gives you closure, although maybe not what I (and most people, judging by the reviews) would have wanted
*** BIG, BIG SPOILER!
I'd still tell you to read it though, so go ahead! Try it!
May 18, 2017
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
As the title suggests, Shannon Mayer wreaks havoc on her ELEMENTAL universe in DESTROYER, the final installment. Characters die, the world is laid to waste, and the truths exposed rock Lark to her very core. There is no happily-ever-after, not for everyone at least, but life always finds a way to prevail, so there is hope for the few left standing because every ending is also a chance to start again.
The pacing took a beating in the first quarter of this book because there were too many threads that needed to be dealt with prior to moving forward with the actual story. The conclusion to a series is where an author’s approach to writing becomes obvious—are they a plotter or a panser? Mayer is a bit of both, so although the opening chapters left something to be desired, the later ones were all about the long game.
Lark finds herself allied with two antagonists, and discovers that there’s more to Cassava. The heroine’s entire existence has been one big chess match building towards a moment in time, and check is about to be called. The protagonist is of course outraged, and does regain control of her destiny to a certain extent, but ultimately when you’re out on a ledge, and the only thing left to do is jump… Can that really be called a choice?
The origin of Elementals is revealed, and it made a whole lot of sense. I felt that the resolution was too easy in some respects however, the price was steep, so it kind of evened out. I liked that we caught glimpses of most of the secondaries, and that Peta played an integral part in the outcome, but seeing how this novel is the last of this series + two other, an epilogue would have been nice, especially for Alex & Pam’s sake.
DESTROYER will play pinball with your emotions, and leave you raw.
As the title suggests, Shannon Mayer wreaks havoc on her ELEMENTAL universe in DESTROYER, the final installment. Characters die, the world is laid to waste, and the truths exposed rock Lark to her very core. There is no happily-ever-after, not for everyone at least, but life always finds a way to prevail, so there is hope for the few left standing because every ending is also a chance to start again.
The pacing took a beating in the first quarter of this book because there were too many threads that needed to be dealt with prior to moving forward with the actual story. The conclusion to a series is where an author’s approach to writing becomes obvious—are they a plotter or a panser? Mayer is a bit of both, so although the opening chapters left something to be desired, the later ones were all about the long game.
Lark finds herself allied with two antagonists, and discovers that there’s more to Cassava. The heroine’s entire existence has been one big chess match building towards a moment in time, and check is about to be called. The protagonist is of course outraged, and does regain control of her destiny to a certain extent, but ultimately when you’re out on a ledge, and the only thing left to do is jump… Can that really be called a choice?
The origin of Elementals is revealed, and it made a whole lot of sense. I felt that the resolution was too easy in some respects however, the price was steep, so it kind of evened out. I liked that we caught glimpses of most of the secondaries, and that Peta played an integral part in the outcome, but seeing how this novel is the last of this series + two other, an epilogue would have been nice, especially for Alex & Pam’s sake.
DESTROYER will play pinball with your emotions, and leave you raw.
January 15, 2018
So where to begin. The review for this book essentially covers the review for the series, because I have always believed an opinion isn't final until the end and all pieces are known. The surprises and knowledge gained in this one book was more than the first six put together. A lot of it was good, some of it I absolutely hated. Specifically the reveal of Bramley's fate. This was one of the points that resulted in a lower review. You go through the book thinking he is dead, but then learning there is a chance that he may yet live, only to find, no he is dead. A complete waste of time. Then learning her entire life and miseries were all so that she would be a hard assed bitch who would kill people and then die at the end. All of those people who hurt her were there to mold her into someone who would save the world with a huge absence of love for her.
And then you have Ash, this hope that she would get him back was all for nought and he dies. Words can't describe the emotions this left me with, but none of them were good. I had a hope that the impossible girl could bring him back but... Sure they end up together, literally in Spirit, in the end, but her dream of a golden-haired son doesn't seem like a possibility any more and she can't grow with her family. All of the other deaths of good people like Finley, Samara, Shazer, the Original Elementals, really made it seem like not a happy ending. And while the books may have been good and followed a path I haven't come across before, my ratings will always be based on my happiness at the end. i know that not all stories end happily, but I really dont need that from a book, leave it to real life to provide all of the unhappiness i need. Lastly, this book seemed so rushed. All of the other books proceeded slowly and entertained me, then this one has her in a new location every couple of pages and stuff happening left and right. Never underestimate the power of a pace reduction from time to time to let everything seep in.
So a 2, very close to a 1, but it was better than the final book of the Black Mage series and I saw it through to the end. My other gripe was the lost time of Lark's due to her appearance in the Rylee Adamson series. which i now have little desire to read. First since I now know how it ends, and secondly because it says she loses her gift which has always been anathema to me. Maybe I will come back to it, but I honestly can't say. There are plenty of series I have read that I would read in repeat before the mood to start a new series from Shannon will overcome me. Nothing against her and her books, just her writing style isn't for me.
The funny thing is, my reviews always get longer the more a book pisses me off, see the Black Mage, or some of the reviews I did for Jeff Wheeler's books. All good but I hate it when my emotions are played with.
And then you have Ash, this hope that she would get him back was all for nought and he dies. Words can't describe the emotions this left me with, but none of them were good. I had a hope that the impossible girl could bring him back but... Sure they end up together, literally in Spirit, in the end, but her dream of a golden-haired son doesn't seem like a possibility any more and she can't grow with her family. All of the other deaths of good people like Finley, Samara, Shazer, the Original Elementals, really made it seem like not a happy ending. And while the books may have been good and followed a path I haven't come across before, my ratings will always be based on my happiness at the end. i know that not all stories end happily, but I really dont need that from a book, leave it to real life to provide all of the unhappiness i need. Lastly, this book seemed so rushed. All of the other books proceeded slowly and entertained me, then this one has her in a new location every couple of pages and stuff happening left and right. Never underestimate the power of a pace reduction from time to time to let everything seep in.
So a 2, very close to a 1, but it was better than the final book of the Black Mage series and I saw it through to the end. My other gripe was the lost time of Lark's due to her appearance in the Rylee Adamson series. which i now have little desire to read. First since I now know how it ends, and secondly because it says she loses her gift which has always been anathema to me. Maybe I will come back to it, but I honestly can't say. There are plenty of series I have read that I would read in repeat before the mood to start a new series from Shannon will overcome me. Nothing against her and her books, just her writing style isn't for me.
The funny thing is, my reviews always get longer the more a book pisses me off, see the Black Mage, or some of the reviews I did for Jeff Wheeler's books. All good but I hate it when my emotions are played with.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2017
I voluntarily received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. When Shannon told her fan base that she would be wrapping up the Elemental series in book seven instead of 9 books that were originally planned I was bummed. It is hard to say goodbye to characters you love, and honestly, it is a bit anxiety inducing to see how the series will end.
Like all of Shannon’s books, Lark is a take no names kick ass chick and with Destroyer, we finally get to see the extent of her power and what she can truly do. She is iconic in her strength, loyalty, and love. Lark is a character who has sacrificed her entire life in order to be who she needs to be to save the world. She is selfless to the end.
The issues I had with this story is it just felt rushed. I know there is another spin-off in the works and other stories that need to be told and it felt like Shannon was just ready to be done with Lark, Lark didn’t feel done to me. All of the loose ends were tied up in messy bows so this story arc could come to a completion and I wasn’t satisfied. I didn’t like how Lark ended, I want more.
Destroyer was fast-paced, gripping read that kept me glued to the pages. I am beyond sad to see the end this series because it was one of my favorites. I am giving it 3 Boundless Stars.
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Like all of Shannon’s books, Lark is a take no names kick ass chick and with Destroyer, we finally get to see the extent of her power and what she can truly do. She is iconic in her strength, loyalty, and love. Lark is a character who has sacrificed her entire life in order to be who she needs to be to save the world. She is selfless to the end.
The issues I had with this story is it just felt rushed. I know there is another spin-off in the works and other stories that need to be told and it felt like Shannon was just ready to be done with Lark, Lark didn’t feel done to me. All of the loose ends were tied up in messy bows so this story arc could come to a completion and I wasn’t satisfied. I didn’t like how Lark ended, I want more.
Destroyer was fast-paced, gripping read that kept me glued to the pages. I am beyond sad to see the end this series because it was one of my favorites. I am giving it 3 Boundless Stars.
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December 30, 2024
Rylee Adamson was a fantastic series and so I was hoping this would be good too. Larkspur is a great character that you are behind 100%. It is an intriguing, suspenseful, and mysterious thriller filled with tension. The story includes alliances, threats, betrayal, riddles, and plots, all infused with a touch of humour to keep the pages turning. Shannon weaves a tangled web that leaves you in need of more.
July 18, 2017
4.5 Epic Adventure Stars... An outstanding conclusion to a fantastic series...an action packed adventure from start to finish with so many twists and turns that left me incapable of guessing the conclusion... I loved the connection amongst the many characters both in this series as well as the "Rylee Adamson Series"; their interwoven lives were so complex and complicated, yet the beauty in their relationship resonated to the core... I gravitated to the deeper meaning that Shannon Mayer depicted in this series regarding the need to respect the Earth and the power of all the elements and their impact on our future... a truly beautiful story that I enjoyed immensely...thank you for the adventure:)
April 25, 2018
Ahh last book blues. It's always sad when you have to break up with the characters of a book you've invested a lot of time into.
Overall: I really did like this series! I always love a badass female protagonist. -- They are my favorite!! However......there were a LOT of holes in this story. I already stated previously for one of the other books that I didn't like how it was WAY too connected to Mayer's other series, "Rylee Adamson." But also, in this book as well as the one before, so many of the character personalities just completely flip flopped!!! The extreme flip flops just made me not trust the author while also making me very critical of her storyline.
We also have Lark's siblings. We hear so much about Belladonna, but she makes her one sister soulless and then the other one just keeps getting passed over as having a weak heart. What?? There has to be more back story.
I felt like as Mayer was trying to close, all of her crazy loose ends (that I only BEGAN to write about) became GLARINGLY obvious. The book was just not complete to me. I was definitely left confused, and wishing Mayer had made herself more believable and credible with a stronger series backstory.
Overall: I really did like this series! I always love a badass female protagonist. -- They are my favorite!! However......there were a LOT of holes in this story. I already stated previously for one of the other books that I didn't like how it was WAY too connected to Mayer's other series, "Rylee Adamson." But also, in this book as well as the one before, so many of the character personalities just completely flip flopped!!! The extreme flip flops just made me not trust the author while also making me very critical of her storyline.
We also have Lark's siblings. We hear so much about Belladonna, but she makes her one sister soulless and then the other one just keeps getting passed over as having a weak heart. What?? There has to be more back story.
I felt like as Mayer was trying to close, all of her crazy loose ends (that I only BEGAN to write about) became GLARINGLY obvious. The book was just not complete to me. I was definitely left confused, and wishing Mayer had made herself more believable and credible with a stronger series backstory.
July 17, 2017
This series started solid, but Book 6 marked a departure that left me just not caring anymore.
One of the hardest things to do in a paranormal series is maintaining the leveling-up process: you want your hero to be facing steadily greater threats with the ability to handle them, but there's a danger in overpowering them to a point where they're just facerolling through their challenges. Jim Butcher has done a masterful job in the Dresden Files in growing from paranormal street crime to existential threats; Mayer's missed the mark badly for my tastes.
We skip forward ten years, after action that takes place *in another book series.* The main character has a string of new abilities -gained apparently in that other series - and seems to be pulling out new powers at random to defeat everything that comes her way.
After the time jump, I found I lost all my investment in the characters and their situations. Abandoned in place.
One of the hardest things to do in a paranormal series is maintaining the leveling-up process: you want your hero to be facing steadily greater threats with the ability to handle them, but there's a danger in overpowering them to a point where they're just facerolling through their challenges. Jim Butcher has done a masterful job in the Dresden Files in growing from paranormal street crime to existential threats; Mayer's missed the mark badly for my tastes.
We skip forward ten years, after action that takes place *in another book series.* The main character has a string of new abilities -gained apparently in that other series - and seems to be pulling out new powers at random to defeat everything that comes her way.
After the time jump, I found I lost all my investment in the characters and their situations. Abandoned in place.
May 9, 2019
I ended up really liking this series. Lark was a fantastic heroine, and there were a crazy amount of twists and turns. I think this is a series you need to go back and re-read so you can catch all the bread crumbs you missed the first time as peoples motives are constantly turned on their heads. The one thing I think that wasn't executed as well as the Rylee series is Lark and Ash. I think she set them up perfectly at the start, and then he basically disappears in the series until the last few pages in this book (in terms of them being together). It wasn't enough for me. Peta kept telling Lark that Ash was the one for her, but the only thing he did for her really was survive until he didn't. He was a liability to be honest. And any sort of HEA was pushed to a few lines at the end where it is up to the reader to think for themselves how that will go (assuming Mayer doesn't continue on with them, which it does not appear that is happening). So while I love the main story, the plot, the world building, the twists and turns, Lark, Peta and even Bella, I didn't love the pushed aside (forgotten until it was convenient) romance, and I didn't like how casually rape and incest is breezed over here (even if some of the twists make some of that less creepy later on). I mean, after reading Ash's book, what was the point in tricking him into thinking he was sleeping with Lark? Hadn't he been raped enough at that point? It brought nothing to the story except to add more trauma to him.
Anyway, I'd still recommend fans of Shannon's Rylee series to read this series. Other than the romance side of things, there is a similar pattern that if you loved Rylee's attitude and overcoming all the many obstacles thrown in her way, then you'll love Lark and this series, too.
Anyway, I'd still recommend fans of Shannon's Rylee series to read this series. Other than the romance side of things, there is a similar pattern that if you loved Rylee's attitude and overcoming all the many obstacles thrown in her way, then you'll love Lark and this series, too.
November 11, 2018
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62 points/100 (3 ¼ stars/5)
The world is ending, and Larkspur is going to be the one that brings destruction for she is the Destroyer. Only, not everything is as it appears. There are more sides, more enemies, and more things to find than Lark could have dreamed possible.
My god, I was just so angry while reading Destroyer. I was mad for what the character is going through. I was angry at the story. I was upset that the ending was probably going to go the way I didn't want. This was a rough book for me to read.
I was feeling the rage that Larkspur was feeling, that she has a right to be feeling. Everyone is trying to use her for her own goals. They have ruined her entire life. They have been in the shadows, fucking everything up just to make her stronger for shit they themselves are going to do to her. I'm just so pissed off at everything these characters have done to her just to play their dumb fucking games.
Then I was mad at the author because I just wanted to yell at everything to stay still. It is a constant game of "guess who is going to switch positions now!". This character is an enemy! NO AN ALLY? Nope, definitely an enemy. Oh look at this other character, totally an ally. NO WAY AN ENEMY? Oh my god I just didn't care anymore at a certain point I just wanted it over. There is only so many times an author can pull that "surprise" and have the reader still care that it is happening, and for me I stopped caring like four books ago.
We as readers also finally figure out everything that is happening. Which thank goodness, since this is the last book in the series! It only has to uproot everything we know yet again and add in more things that we couldn't possibly have known since the beginning of the series. It isn't just the people that switch around constantly. Everything does it, including the way the elemental world functions and what exactly Larkspur is supposed to do. So frustrating.
The ending actually is the ending the series deserved. I'm glad. I was worried all throughout the book that the author would pull the cheap happily ever after method of ending a series. Yet this took the hard, dirty, bitter road. I'm really actually glad for it. I thought to myself while reading that the only way this series could possibly end is the way it actually ended, because everything else just wouldn't fit. Well, it fit. It is a hard ending, with the possibility of crossover by any further spinoffs by this author.
62 points/100 (3 ¼ stars/5)
The world is ending, and Larkspur is going to be the one that brings destruction for she is the Destroyer. Only, not everything is as it appears. There are more sides, more enemies, and more things to find than Lark could have dreamed possible.
My god, I was just so angry while reading Destroyer. I was mad for what the character is going through. I was angry at the story. I was upset that the ending was probably going to go the way I didn't want. This was a rough book for me to read.
I was feeling the rage that Larkspur was feeling, that she has a right to be feeling. Everyone is trying to use her for her own goals. They have ruined her entire life. They have been in the shadows, fucking everything up just to make her stronger for shit they themselves are going to do to her. I'm just so pissed off at everything these characters have done to her just to play their dumb fucking games.
Then I was mad at the author because I just wanted to yell at everything to stay still. It is a constant game of "guess who is going to switch positions now!". This character is an enemy! NO AN ALLY? Nope, definitely an enemy. Oh look at this other character, totally an ally. NO WAY AN ENEMY? Oh my god I just didn't care anymore at a certain point I just wanted it over. There is only so many times an author can pull that "surprise" and have the reader still care that it is happening, and for me I stopped caring like four books ago.
We as readers also finally figure out everything that is happening. Which thank goodness, since this is the last book in the series! It only has to uproot everything we know yet again and add in more things that we couldn't possibly have known since the beginning of the series. It isn't just the people that switch around constantly. Everything does it, including the way the elemental world functions and what exactly Larkspur is supposed to do. So frustrating.
The ending actually is the ending the series deserved. I'm glad. I was worried all throughout the book that the author would pull the cheap happily ever after method of ending a series. Yet this took the hard, dirty, bitter road. I'm really actually glad for it. I thought to myself while reading that the only way this series could possibly end is the way it actually ended, because everything else just wouldn't fit. Well, it fit. It is a hard ending, with the possibility of crossover by any further spinoffs by this author.
January 29, 2020
I am so glad that Destroyer was the intense, fast-paced, and exciting journey that was the first three books! There was a ton of adventure, and a ton of intense moments where you weren't sure what Lark would do (though we all know she always goes for the most challenging). There were also many surprises that you would have never guessed would happen from reading the first six books.
Lark becomes what the title of this book is, and what Queen Aria dubbed her back in Windburn. I love the relationship and teamwork between her, Shazer, Peta, and the unexpected . They stuck by her and supported her every step of the way. But Mayer did a great job in showing us that someone was still missing, Lark's golden eagle, Ash.
What I loved about Destroyer was that Mayer found a way to bring the story almost full circle. We get to see Norm again, and we go back to each place that make Lark, well, Lark! The Rim, The Pit, The Eyrie, The Deep, the Himalayan mountains, the island where she brought the giant tidal wave, Death Valley, the hot springs, and even (what was once) The Veil.
Now what I hated... even though technically it was a happy ending, I'm going to try to not spoil this as much as possible. Remember how mad we were at the ending of the Divergent series in Allegiant? Well be prepared to feel that way again. Although I was happy that Lark is finally reunited with Ash, I mean, AT WHAT COST??? I was in tears by the end of Lark's story. But I really wish we had more to go on. Ash was absent from her life from how many books? It felt unfair that this was all we got.
Overall, I think Destroyer was great in bringing the story full circle and bringing characters back together, in whatever way possible. I really wish that Windburn and Rootbound were better written, and I still wish that Mayer didn't skip those 26 years of Lark's life!
Lark becomes what the title of this book is, and what Queen Aria dubbed her back in Windburn. I love the relationship and teamwork between her, Shazer, Peta, and the unexpected . They stuck by her and supported her every step of the way. But Mayer did a great job in showing us that someone was still missing, Lark's golden eagle, Ash.
What I loved about Destroyer was that Mayer found a way to bring the story almost full circle. We get to see Norm again, and we go back to each place that make Lark, well, Lark! The Rim, The Pit, The Eyrie, The Deep, the Himalayan mountains, the island where she brought the giant tidal wave, Death Valley, the hot springs, and even (what was once) The Veil.
Now what I hated... even though technically it was a happy ending, I'm going to try to not spoil this as much as possible. Remember how mad we were at the ending of the Divergent series in Allegiant? Well be prepared to feel that way again. Although I was happy that Lark is finally reunited with Ash, I mean, AT WHAT COST??? I was in tears by the end of Lark's story. But I really wish we had more to go on. Ash was absent from her life from how many books? It felt unfair that this was all we got.
Overall, I think Destroyer was great in bringing the story full circle and bringing characters back together, in whatever way possible. I really wish that Windburn and Rootbound were better written, and I still wish that Mayer didn't skip those 26 years of Lark's life!
May 30, 2017
Destroyer is the 7th installment in the Elemental Series and what can I say about this book except it's the ride of a lifetime, and the end of the series featuring Lark, Peta, Ash and so many other beloved characters. If you've been following along withe the prior books, this one is well worth the read.
What I liked about this book- so much good stuff! I like Lark, I like seeing how threads from crossovers play into the story. I like trying to second guess Ms. Mayer and where she's going with the story, and, well, failing :) I like seeing my favorite supporting players come into their own. I like seeing the backstory revealed. As bittersweet as it is, I liked the end. The wrap of the series can always be a tricky thing, but this was very well done. So much action that you find yourself reading fast, heart pounding...then going back and re-reading to make sure you didn't miss things.
What I didn't like- that its the end of the series. Characters die. Betrayal and loss of trust for characters which hits so close to my heart since I've been invested in these people from the beginning of the series.
And that people, is a wrap!
What I liked about this book- so much good stuff! I like Lark, I like seeing how threads from crossovers play into the story. I like trying to second guess Ms. Mayer and where she's going with the story, and, well, failing :) I like seeing my favorite supporting players come into their own. I like seeing the backstory revealed. As bittersweet as it is, I liked the end. The wrap of the series can always be a tricky thing, but this was very well done. So much action that you find yourself reading fast, heart pounding...then going back and re-reading to make sure you didn't miss things.
What I didn't like- that its the end of the series. Characters die. Betrayal and loss of trust for characters which hits so close to my heart since I've been invested in these people from the beginning of the series.
And that people, is a wrap!
January 24, 2025
Honestly wtf
August 12, 2018
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
This is the conclusion to the Elemental series by Shannon Mayer. There were a lot of answers and explanations built into this fast-paced novel. Destroyer explains Cassava’s true part in the series and shows Lark’s ultimately destiny as determined by the true Mother Goddess. This novel is filled with death and destruction and constant pain for Larkspur, but even though I have been with this series for a while now and have grown attached to the characters, I did not feel moved or attached in this story. I felt like Destroyer was missing something; it might have been that I wanted Ash to have a larger part or just that it was hard to believe some of the alliances and explanations. I will say that it was worth it to read the conclusion and to fill in some of the blanks on backstories and why things happened the way that they did. This was not the best series or the most well written, but I enjoyed the journey and will not regret going on it with Larkspur.
This is the conclusion to the Elemental series by Shannon Mayer. There were a lot of answers and explanations built into this fast-paced novel. Destroyer explains Cassava’s true part in the series and shows Lark’s ultimately destiny as determined by the true Mother Goddess. This novel is filled with death and destruction and constant pain for Larkspur, but even though I have been with this series for a while now and have grown attached to the characters, I did not feel moved or attached in this story. I felt like Destroyer was missing something; it might have been that I wanted Ash to have a larger part or just that it was hard to believe some of the alliances and explanations. I will say that it was worth it to read the conclusion and to fill in some of the blanks on backstories and why things happened the way that they did. This was not the best series or the most well written, but I enjoyed the journey and will not regret going on it with Larkspur.
June 8, 2017
This is the conclution to Shannon Mayer Elemental Series and it is an emotional rollercoaster defiantly a 3 hankie read but also a wonderful conclution to a great series with plenty of crossover from her Rylee Adamson series. While this is an ending tothis series and she has an all new series in the work there is a pretty big door left open for us to get more books set in this world. If you want to read this as a stand alone you can but to really enjoy it you need to at least have read the others in the series.This review was originally posted on Books In Brogan
April 27, 2021
A great series; I couldn't put the books down even if I wanted to, they just kept me hooked. I love the characters and the plotline but what I truly connected with were the shades of gray that permeated the books. I don't want to say too much to avoid spoilers but well worth reading. Looking forward to reading the other books in this world!
March 12, 2023
Wow. Just. Wow. I thought I was ready for this ending after having read the Rylee Adamson series, but nope nope nope. This book was filled with excitement, action, drama, and a little humor. Without a doubt I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it.
June 2, 2019
Incredible Series - Sad to see it end!
I couldn't put this series down! It has been the perfect escape from reality at a time I needed to feel lost in an adventure! Thank you for that <3
I couldn't put this series down! It has been the perfect escape from reality at a time I needed to feel lost in an adventure! Thank you for that <3
June 11, 2019
An excellent wrap up to an amazing series!
Thank you Shannon for pulling it all together.
Thank you Shannon for pulling it all together.
August 5, 2020
I loved every single, solitary second of this book, and I am sorry that the series ended. But I just didn't enjoy it a full 100% the way it ended. Some scenes stretched too far with fillers and endless scenes also the relation between Larkspur and Ash felt off. Being stuck as a bird. Larkspur locked in a box for a long time. They only have been together for one time.... SO it this really a foundation to keep hoop al those years and save yourself for that person? Hoe good do you know somebody like that?
June 13, 2025
Great series ending
This book was full of adventure, laughs and tears.
The many twists and turns made this a great series ender.
This book was full of adventure, laughs and tears.
The many twists and turns made this a great series ender.
July 26, 2018
ooooh unexpected plot twist!
June 21, 2017
I have taken a whole day to think seriously about this review. The author had my seatbelt it in and buckle for a wild ride for books 1 through four. By book 5 we had hit a wall books 6 really didn't have much to do with the series but was added in as what I'm going to say a lame attempt to help fudge over a 30 year gap in storytelling. I sat and invested in this book set and ready each one after the other and I can honestly say that I believe with all my heart that the author rushed through books 56 and seven in order to fill out another series actually there are two series of books that will fill you in on The fragmented storyline of the series. On one hand I believe that harsh criticism of an author that works so hard and is obviously very talented is unfair I also believe it is unfair to Rob money from those of us who invested in this ride. The tail end of the book is very good and I will not give it away to anyone but I do want to say that when it's all said and done I feel ripped off the story felt falls to me. Oh yes I know it is not true it is a fantasy novel of sorts, I am no longer fully invested in this author and I will not read any more books in any of her series because I feel like I was taken advantage of. So to not believe in the storyline in the end of the book really kind of tells you that to me he crashed and burned in book 5. I am so sorry I know how hard you work and I felt bad about writing it but that is the truth. The only good thing is that not a lot of people will read this review and I will not put it on Amazon because I am not fully supportive and I don't want to feel guilty for hurting her sales. Disappointed.
August 17, 2018
I don’t know how I feel about this book. I’ve really struggled with this series, but wanted to read it because of its tie-in to the Rylee Adamson series. After a slow start with book 1, I increasingly enjoyed the next few books until book 5. Since then I’ve been kind of disappointed. I really wanted more Ash. I endured a ton of Cactus pissing me off and just wanted some Ash to balance that out. So I was really hoping to have something real from him in this book. I love Lark and Peta’s characters and love their bond, but I just wanted to actually see Lark and Ash happy for more than half a second.
With that said, now for the good of DESTROYER. There’s lots of action in the book and lots of answers. I liked the turn with the original elementals and how characters I did and didn’t trust ended up surprising me. I thought the final battle was kind of anti-climactic, but considering all Lark lost I’m fine with that. I liked that Raven seemed more like the brother we met in the first couple books.
I did not particularly like all the death of characters I cared about. I’m also not real big on the ending, even if it has some semblance of a HEA. After finishing this book, I just feel like Lark never really had the chance to just live and be happy. Don’t get me wrong, I love how badass she is, but she’s had to fight like her whole life. I am looking forward to seeing her cameo appearances in future books, but I just feel kind of meh about how this series ended.
With that said, now for the good of DESTROYER. There’s lots of action in the book and lots of answers. I liked the turn with the original elementals and how characters I did and didn’t trust ended up surprising me. I thought the final battle was kind of anti-climactic, but considering all Lark lost I’m fine with that. I liked that Raven seemed more like the brother we met in the first couple books.
I did not particularly like all the death of characters I cared about. I’m also not real big on the ending, even if it has some semblance of a HEA. After finishing this book, I just feel like Lark never really had the chance to just live and be happy. Don’t get me wrong, I love how badass she is, but she’s had to fight like her whole life. I am looking forward to seeing her cameo appearances in future books, but I just feel kind of meh about how this series ended.
June 10, 2017
Unsure
I was sad to have this be the "ending" or wrap up of this series. I have absolutely loved Lakspur and her gumption and grit. She never quit despite whatever was thrown at her.
In some ways that is what i despised abt her in this book. So many instances where i wanted to shake Lakspur and just get her to Listen.
While i wasn't satisfied with the book or the ending i still think this is a must read. Action packed and you aren't left w a cliff hanger. So many elements are revealed and closed.
Loved that we get the whole crew back again. Althougg i wish we spent less time with Talan and Raven.
You learn the true purpose of Lakspur and her love for her family and friends is remarkable. I finished this the same day i got it lol. I don't know if its the fact that as some mentioned this feels rushed but i just didn't get the same Yessss feeling I normally do at the end of the series.
I was sad to have this be the "ending" or wrap up of this series. I have absolutely loved Lakspur and her gumption and grit. She never quit despite whatever was thrown at her.
In some ways that is what i despised abt her in this book. So many instances where i wanted to shake Lakspur and just get her to Listen.
While i wasn't satisfied with the book or the ending i still think this is a must read. Action packed and you aren't left w a cliff hanger. So many elements are revealed and closed.
Loved that we get the whole crew back again. Althougg i wish we spent less time with Talan and Raven.
You learn the true purpose of Lakspur and her love for her family and friends is remarkable. I finished this the same day i got it lol. I don't know if its the fact that as some mentioned this feels rushed but i just didn't get the same Yessss feeling I normally do at the end of the series.
May 21, 2019
HUH
That is literally my response to the end of this book. Huh.
While Mayer seems to produce these unexpected twists and turns with ease, the ending for this series was utterly cheap.
And to be perfectly honest, the weird time jump set up between books 4 and 5 really threw off everything. Don't get me wrong, it's always fun to have multiple series live in the same universe, but not at the sake of destroying plots and timelines.
Needless to say, this ending was utter baloney. It was a weird wrap-up and left more holes than anything.
That is literally my response to the end of this book. Huh.
While Mayer seems to produce these unexpected twists and turns with ease, the ending for this series was utterly cheap.
And to be perfectly honest, the weird time jump set up between books 4 and 5 really threw off everything. Don't get me wrong, it's always fun to have multiple series live in the same universe, but not at the sake of destroying plots and timelines.
Needless to say, this ending was utter baloney. It was a weird wrap-up and left more holes than anything.
December 22, 2023
The last book for me felt rushed and too tangled " I trust them I don't trust them " and if I ever hear the word "spirit" again I won't have any left. Also what happened to cactus? Which in my opinion she treated badly. Did he get his happy ending with a girl who didnt string him along only to refuse to help heal his burns when she healed everyone else and he had come to save herThen she forgave raven cassava ,talan who supposed to be her uncle as are his siblings but they touch her up when they are dead abd she holds thier spirit. THEN they all die and fly away
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2025
3.5 stars. This was really good. The best book out of the series. It sucks that the best written book had to be the last book in the series. If only this writing was applied since the beginning, then I would have definitely love this series more.
My favorite character has to be Talan. His methods of training may have been questionable and he definitely could've taken a whole different approach for Lark to actually listen to him and he may be an asshole, but for some reason I gravitate towards him. I wish he could've acted better towards Lark and see what they have could've truly done together, but he was set and stone that his way was the best way and no one was going to change his mind on that. But there was a certain charm to Talan that I always liked, despite his ways.
I also have come to like Raven a lot. In this book, they acted like siblings and I love their relationship. I wished it would've been repaired sooner so I could see more of them as siblings than enemies.
I am shocked by how good this book turned out. The writing improved immensely and the author has improved on her pacing. Everything was as long as it needed to be and as short as it needed to be. I was a bit confused at the beginning with the Veil since I didn't read the book pertaining to the characters involved in that, but it did prove to be important later on. Lark's training with Talan. Saving the original elementals. Her improved relationship with Raven. The pacing on all of that was perfect. I am also very glad that we finally get answers to Talan, Cassava, Viv, and the past. Finally all that time and the answers were sufficient.
I can't believe I'm saying this, but I teared up towards the end. All those deaths and sacrifices had a purpose to build Lark to who she is now, even if it was painful. The deaths of really hit me the hardest. With the other characters that have died, I didn't care too much and it didn't make much of a difference, but with those deaths, they really pained me. I could now finally feel the pain that Lark suffered through throughout the years. The finale to this series proved to be a more of a shock and better than I could ever imagine. I am kinda glad that I didn't give up reading this series.
My favorite character has to be Talan. His methods of training may have been questionable and he definitely could've taken a whole different approach for Lark to actually listen to him and he may be an asshole, but for some reason I gravitate towards him. I wish he could've acted better towards Lark and see what they have could've truly done together, but he was set and stone that his way was the best way and no one was going to change his mind on that. But there was a certain charm to Talan that I always liked, despite his ways.
I also have come to like Raven a lot. In this book, they acted like siblings and I love their relationship. I wished it would've been repaired sooner so I could see more of them as siblings than enemies.
I am shocked by how good this book turned out. The writing improved immensely and the author has improved on her pacing. Everything was as long as it needed to be and as short as it needed to be. I was a bit confused at the beginning with the Veil since I didn't read the book pertaining to the characters involved in that, but it did prove to be important later on. Lark's training with Talan. Saving the original elementals. Her improved relationship with Raven. The pacing on all of that was perfect. I am also very glad that we finally get answers to Talan, Cassava, Viv, and the past. Finally all that time and the answers were sufficient.
I can't believe I'm saying this, but I teared up towards the end. All those deaths and sacrifices had a purpose to build Lark to who she is now, even if it was painful. The deaths of really hit me the hardest. With the other characters that have died, I didn't care too much and it didn't make much of a difference, but with those deaths, they really pained me. I could now finally feel the pain that Lark suffered through throughout the years. The finale to this series proved to be a more of a shock and better than I could ever imagine. I am kinda glad that I didn't give up reading this series.
March 12, 2020
Pure fantasy at its finest. I would say this is less urban fantasy though than the Rylee Adamson series. Even though it's set in the same world, the Elementals keep to themselves making this a lot more removed from the "normal" world. I think for some readers it will be hard to move between the series - for me personally, I'm a massive "classic" fantasy fan before all else so reading this was like coming home and gave me the same warm fuzzy feelings.
The series isn't really anything new in the genre, the same old fantasy tropes (The Chosen One, quest through different lands, evil foe who has spread through the land and must be defeated, etc) appear throughout - but Mayer hits all the right notes with her portrayal.
Destroyer is the conclusion to the Elemental series and follows Lark as she comes to the culmination of the deep game everyone around her is playing. Although this series is supposed to stand alone it really doesn't beyond Windburn, maybe even before. The characters entwine too closely with the Rylee Adamson gang to be able to. Particularly with Destroyer, the Rylee Epilogues are fairly necessary to understand what the hell is going on. And as they're epilogues, it's kind of necessary to read the Rylee Adamson series first. So there's a lot of reading ahead. On the other hand, they're really good books.
Destroyer was intense. Good guys. Bad guys. Who the hell knows who any of them are. I was happy with the ending in some ways, a little disappointed in other ways. Still great, action packed read with fantastic characters and a riveting plot.
The series isn't really anything new in the genre, the same old fantasy tropes (The Chosen One, quest through different lands, evil foe who has spread through the land and must be defeated, etc) appear throughout - but Mayer hits all the right notes with her portrayal.
Destroyer is the conclusion to the Elemental series and follows Lark as she comes to the culmination of the deep game everyone around her is playing. Although this series is supposed to stand alone it really doesn't beyond Windburn, maybe even before. The characters entwine too closely with the Rylee Adamson gang to be able to. Particularly with Destroyer, the Rylee Epilogues are fairly necessary to understand what the hell is going on. And as they're epilogues, it's kind of necessary to read the Rylee Adamson series first. So there's a lot of reading ahead. On the other hand, they're really good books.
Destroyer was intense. Good guys. Bad guys. Who the hell knows who any of them are. I was happy with the ending in some ways, a little disappointed in other ways. Still great, action packed read with fantastic characters and a riveting plot.
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