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Books of Caledan #0.5
The First Crown
It's easy to kill a man. It's hard to kill a dragon. Is it impossible to kill a god?
Bahr, the god of Fire and War, is terrorising the land, annihilating men, Eldarkind and dragons alike. Nothing can stand before him and Beren, chief amongst men, faces everything he loves being lost to Bahr’s fickle fires.
After witnessing Bahr’s devastating power, Beren despairs, until the mysterious king of the Eldarkind offers him one glimmer of hope – but it comes at great cost. To have any chance of success, Beren must have faith in the enigmatic Eldarkind, set aside his lifelong differences with the dragons, and place his trust in the enemy who has destroyed his home and family. Unless he does so, they are all doomed.
As Bahr’s vengeful eye turns to their hostile alliance, their differences threaten to divide man, Eldarkind, and dragon. Can Beren forge the strongest allies from his bitterest enemies before Bahr destroys them all?
Discover how the epic fantasy tale begins in this prequel, The First Crown: A Caledan Novelette. If you liked The Lord of the Rings, The Inheritance Cycle, or the Books of Pellinor, then you’ll love the Books of Caledan series.
Bahr, the god of Fire and War, is terrorising the land, annihilating men, Eldarkind and dragons alike. Nothing can stand before him and Beren, chief amongst men, faces everything he loves being lost to Bahr’s fickle fires.
After witnessing Bahr’s devastating power, Beren despairs, until the mysterious king of the Eldarkind offers him one glimmer of hope – but it comes at great cost. To have any chance of success, Beren must have faith in the enigmatic Eldarkind, set aside his lifelong differences with the dragons, and place his trust in the enemy who has destroyed his home and family. Unless he does so, they are all doomed.
As Bahr’s vengeful eye turns to their hostile alliance, their differences threaten to divide man, Eldarkind, and dragon. Can Beren forge the strongest allies from his bitterest enemies before Bahr destroys them all?
Discover how the epic fantasy tale begins in this prequel, The First Crown: A Caledan Novelette. If you liked The Lord of the Rings, The Inheritance Cycle, or the Books of Pellinor, then you’ll love the Books of Caledan series.
40 pages, Paperback
First published January 13, 2017
11 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
Meg Cowley
60 books202 followers✒️ Romantic Fantasy with courageous heroines, protective heroes, and endearing found families to sweep you away... ✨️
Meg Cowley is a USA Today bestselling fantasy author from England. Meg writes slow burn steamy epic fantasy romances with courageous and vulnerable heroines, protective and brooding heroes, and lovable and welcoming found family in stories that will steal your heart long after the last page.
Meg's favourite past times are reading, hiking, and cooking. She can usually be found curled up with a cup of tea and a riveting fantasy romance book, cooking up a fantasy-book worthy feast, or out walking the wild, windswept moors of Yorkshire dreaming up her next story.
Visit www.megcowley.com to find out more, discover Meg’s books, find exclusive reader bonus content, and join her Romantasy Fellowship newsletter.
Meg Cowley is a USA Today bestselling fantasy author from England. Meg writes slow burn steamy epic fantasy romances with courageous and vulnerable heroines, protective and brooding heroes, and lovable and welcoming found family in stories that will steal your heart long after the last page.
Meg's favourite past times are reading, hiking, and cooking. She can usually be found curled up with a cup of tea and a riveting fantasy romance book, cooking up a fantasy-book worthy feast, or out walking the wild, windswept moors of Yorkshire dreaming up her next story.
Visit www.megcowley.com to find out more, discover Meg’s books, find exclusive reader bonus content, and join her Romantasy Fellowship newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
February 15, 2017
EPIC prequel to what promises to be a great series!
Cowley spins a Tolkien-esque tale of an epic battle between humans, elderkind, dragons and a seemingly unconquerable god. Great description and a great introduction to the coming series.
Can't wait to read more!
Cowley spins a Tolkien-esque tale of an epic battle between humans, elderkind, dragons and a seemingly unconquerable god. Great description and a great introduction to the coming series.
Can't wait to read more!
March 11, 2017
This ending is unfair. I shipped Falykas and Beren what is this
July 16, 2019
As short prequels go, this one is several steps above the norm!
First, and this is important, it is a complete story that stands on its own. So many prequels rely on the main books to make sense but you won't find that problem here.
I could feel the tension in the air as I read about these 3 iconic characters who came together in peace for (presumably) the first time.
For such a short story, it has an incredible amount of character depth and sets up some awesome world history and events that will surely become legendary as time passes.
Each character felt unique, with their own voice, mannerisms, goals, and motivations; another rarity in a book so short.
Contrary to my expectations, the author put together a fantastic ending with a great twist that reframes much of what we thought we knew.
If you're looking for an easy, low-commitment way to dip your toe into a new author, you can't go wrong with this one
First, and this is important, it is a complete story that stands on its own. So many prequels rely on the main books to make sense but you won't find that problem here.
I could feel the tension in the air as I read about these 3 iconic characters who came together in peace for (presumably) the first time.
For such a short story, it has an incredible amount of character depth and sets up some awesome world history and events that will surely become legendary as time passes.
Each character felt unique, with their own voice, mannerisms, goals, and motivations; another rarity in a book so short.
Contrary to my expectations, the author put together a fantastic ending with a great twist that reframes much of what we thought we knew.
If you're looking for an easy, low-commitment way to dip your toe into a new author, you can't go wrong with this one
February 22, 2017
Cute little book, just long enough to satisify and short enough to use as a mental or coffee break. Would LOVE if the entire forthcoming series (easy guess that there WILL be one, it's addictive) were comprised of similar lengths. Epic Tomes are great to read, hard to remember well enough to review. Not that I *mind* the tomes... :)
Wonderful lead in to what is sure to be an epic series;
Reminds me very much of Anne McCaffrey's works.
As always, when differing creatures (let alone cultures) conspire.. eventually it comes apart. At least in THIS book of the series, we get to see the coming together and peaceful agreements upheld. What future additions will bring, who knows?
But I can't wait to find out!
Wonderful lead in to what is sure to be an epic series;
Reminds me very much of Anne McCaffrey's works.
As always, when differing creatures (let alone cultures) conspire.. eventually it comes apart. At least in THIS book of the series, we get to see the coming together and peaceful agreements upheld. What future additions will bring, who knows?
But I can't wait to find out!
December 11, 2018
The races of men, dragons and Eldar (elves) have long been at odds. But with the demon god Bahr settings his sights on their world, can they work together to save the day?
Pretty good. Reads like a myth as opposed to a prequel, but nonetheless sets the scene for future books. I'll definitely check out more of the series.
Pretty good. Reads like a myth as opposed to a prequel, but nonetheless sets the scene for future books. I'll definitely check out more of the series.
June 16, 2018
This book is a prequel to the Trilogy The Books of Caledan and the events take place about a thousand years before but this story just needed to be read as it filled in so well the history of Pandora and Caledan. It describes the forging of the truce between the three actors in the game of survival as they agreed to defeat their biggest foe. Brithilca the visir and leader of the dragons, Falykas the head of the Elderkind and Beren chief amongst men agreed to stop their wars and fight to defeat their common enemy, Bahr of the fire, an elemental of war who was destroying them and all their lands. Brithilca ended up bound as the guardian of Bahr but he was willing to sacrifice himself for peace to reign once again, as long as the Elderkind withdrew in isolation and men kept the truce forged on the fated day. This short novel was a must read after reading the beautiful Caledan Trilogy as everything made more sense after this book was read, it brought the forging of this most important truce to life. Another great book by Meg Cowley even if it was too short a read!
March 27, 2017
I like this story. Although there's plenty of action, there's also plenty of actual character development going on as well. I'm always happy to read tales where differences are not magically set aside, and you can actually see some of the progress of building respect and accord. I definitely want to read more stories in this world.
Full disclosure: I did receive this story for free. My opinion remains my own.
Full disclosure: I did receive this story for free. My opinion remains my own.
February 12, 2017
This was a gripping introduction to the series and to the world! I was hooked from beginning to end. The author has a great knack for description and she did an excellent job building a compelling universe. I'll definitely be picking up the rest of the series once it is released.
February 17, 2017
A gripping introduction to the new fantasy series.
It was well written, without unnecessary soapiness, built up the scene and introduced future characters.
Can't wait to read "The Tainted Crown" and next books in the series!
It was well written, without unnecessary soapiness, built up the scene and introduced future characters.
Can't wait to read "The Tainted Crown" and next books in the series!
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May 13, 2018I quite enjoyed this short story and plan on reading the trilogy now.
August 14, 2018
A great prequel! Short and sweet, this book tells a story that is mentioned in the original trilogy. I don't think this should be read before the trilogy - it would spoil some of the last book.
May 20, 2017
*I received a free copy of The First Crown novelette via Kevin Potter’s Magic Through the Ages event.*
The First Crown is the novelette prequel to the Caledan series, of which The Tainted Crown is the first novel. It tells the history of a pact between warring races in order to defeat a greater threat, and as an introduction to Meg Cowley’s writing it couldn’t be better.
The story is well-paced with plenty of action and excitement, but with enough narrative detail to not feel too rushed. The story she tells here fits perfectly in the novelette form and stands alone as a great quick fantasy read. Of course, it does end on a teaser which leads neatly into the first book of the main series…!
I would definitely recommend reading this, and would recommend reading it before The Tainted Crown, in order to have a better context for the overarching plotline of the series.
The First Crown is the novelette prequel to the Caledan series, of which The Tainted Crown is the first novel. It tells the history of a pact between warring races in order to defeat a greater threat, and as an introduction to Meg Cowley’s writing it couldn’t be better.
The story is well-paced with plenty of action and excitement, but with enough narrative detail to not feel too rushed. The story she tells here fits perfectly in the novelette form and stands alone as a great quick fantasy read. Of course, it does end on a teaser which leads neatly into the first book of the main series…!
I would definitely recommend reading this, and would recommend reading it before The Tainted Crown, in order to have a better context for the overarching plotline of the series.
July 21, 2017
A very short story that explains how an Elemental named Bahr whom the race of men worship as a God, is angry with another Elemental named Arandules and takes it out on the beings they created, Dragons, Men and Eldarkind. A battle ensues to bind the Elemental so he can do no more harm to his creations. The 3 races who were themselves battling have no choice but to join forces. It also included a introduction to The Tainted Crown the first boo in the Caedan series. I enjoyed both of these ta
The First Crown by Meg Cowley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A very short story that explains how an Elemental named Bahr whom the race of men worship as a God, is angry with another Elemental named Arandules and takes it out on the beings they created, Dragons, Men and Eldarkind. A battle ensues to bind the Elemental so he can do no more harm to his creations. The 3 races who were themselves battling have no choice but to join forces. It also included a introduction to The Tainted Crown the first boo in the Caedan series. I enjoyed both of these tales.
View all my reviews
les.
The First Crown by Meg CowleyMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
A very short story that explains how an Elemental named Bahr whom the race of men worship as a God, is angry with another Elemental named Arandules and takes it out on the beings they created, Dragons, Men and Eldarkind. A battle ensues to bind the Elemental so he can do no more harm to his creations. The 3 races who were themselves battling have no choice but to join forces. It also included a introduction to The Tainted Crown the first boo in the Caedan series. I enjoyed both of these tales.
View all my reviews
les.
June 29, 2017
Beren, chief amongst men, Falykas, king of the Eldarkind, Brithilca-visir is clan leader of the dragons
Verses Bahr, the god of Fire and War. A fitting cast for the intro the Books of Caledan.
Meg Cowley has crafted a wonderful series of books in high fantasy. This is a taste of what is to come, it forms the basis of what will follow. Read it, winner!
Verses Bahr, the god of Fire and War. A fitting cast for the intro the Books of Caledan.
Meg Cowley has crafted a wonderful series of books in high fantasy. This is a taste of what is to come, it forms the basis of what will follow. Read it, winner!
February 17, 2017
Evidently an introduction into the series, which doesn't seem to be up on amazon anywhere at least not yet. Very much the fantasy world of older books where the events/plot and characters actually carry an actual story.
May 22, 2017
The First Crown, even though a novelette, reads like a battle from an epic fantasy. Meg Cowley has certainly done an excellent job of creating an interesting world with great leaders in five short chapters. I haven't read the Books of Caledan series, but it's a good start!
July 17, 2017
After reading The First Crown...I am so looking forward to reading The Tainted Crown as soon as I finish writing this review.
If you are a fan of The Lord of The Rings then you will most definately love this series.
Meg Cowley did one hell of a job with this series.
If you are a fan of The Lord of The Rings then you will most definately love this series.
Meg Cowley did one hell of a job with this series.
June 4, 2017
Love it! <3
January 29, 2018
A highly recommended series!
Such an enticing story. Well described, great characters full of depth, not easy in such a short intro to the history of this world. The pivotal events that led to a lasting peace.
Spectacularly good scene where the three races, Eldarkind, man and dragon join together in their attempt to defeat the rampaging God of Fire and War, Bahr.
Always so pleasing to find a more than competent author who exhibits quality, polished work. Needless to say, I have read the entire trilogy and it certainly doesn't disappoint!
Such an enticing story. Well described, great characters full of depth, not easy in such a short intro to the history of this world. The pivotal events that led to a lasting peace.
Spectacularly good scene where the three races, Eldarkind, man and dragon join together in their attempt to defeat the rampaging God of Fire and War, Bahr.
Always so pleasing to find a more than competent author who exhibits quality, polished work. Needless to say, I have read the entire trilogy and it certainly doesn't disappoint!
August 28, 2017
Very interesting story that I think any young adult with a vivid imagination would love. The Humans, Eldarkind and the dragons decide to join forces to stop the feuding elemental Gods. They are trying to move into each others area and killing every living soul on their way. The joined forces need to stop them or all life is at jeopardy. This story is about fighting Bahr, the elemental God of fire. They all have to trust and work together to bring Bahr down. Can they, after decades of fighting and hate?
This is the type of story I liked to read to my son at night. It's full of danger and fighting and heroes. Brave men and fierce dragons always make for an exiting read.
This is the type of story I liked to read to my son at night. It's full of danger and fighting and heroes. Brave men and fierce dragons always make for an exiting read.
June 18, 2017
A short read but it does a good job introducing the series. Definitely enjoyed it and looking forward to reading more.
June 23, 2017
The first crown what a book love all the aspects of this story get this book
August 31, 2017
Great book. Lots of action. 5 stars!
August 27, 2017
If you like lord of the rings you will love this series! I can't wait to read Tainted Crown! I like that Meg wrote a prequel to the series and I read that first. It explains how things came to be in Pandora. I was given a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review.
July 8, 2017
A short story that's the perfect length for lunch hour or waiting in the Doctor's office. Lots of fantasy and surprise and dragons galore. Well written with an interesting story line and great characters. I received an advance copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
August 2, 2017
I love the world Meg has created with this prequel. It transported me to a time and place where magic, dragons and men all exist together. I truly enjoyed this book, it is a fast, fun and easy read that left me wanting more. I look forward to reading the series and I highly recommend this book and the upcoming series to everyone who enjoys reading fantasy!
March 10, 2017
Short, succinct, packed with intense action and characters. I'm in! I will begin this series with anticipation of further satisfying my insatiable reading desire for this genre. I am glad to have "met" this author, glad I took a chance, I encourage you to continue, Meg. I am a fan. Strong writing, crisp interaction between characters, imaginative world building, intense action scenes, well done. Thank you.
January 31, 2018
I was pleasantly surprised that such a short book provided an excellent setup for what promises to be an epic tale.
Men, Eldarkind, and dragons must set aside their differences in order to conquer a greater enemy. This alliance would require a great sacrifice from all involved as well as a great deal of trust. Can they achieve what they set out to do? And even if they succeed, is lasting peace between them possible?
I found myself quickly liking the characters, understanding their hesitancy to trust each other, and admiring their willingness to work together anyway. While there wasn't time to really develop characters and it would have been nice to be given a bit more of the backstory of both the dragons and Eldarkind, the story itself was brought to the forefront and was told the way we might retell our legends of old. And despite comparisons to other epic stories, it feels like Cowley has brought something new to the world of fantasy. I look forward to reading more of her work.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Men, Eldarkind, and dragons must set aside their differences in order to conquer a greater enemy. This alliance would require a great sacrifice from all involved as well as a great deal of trust. Can they achieve what they set out to do? And even if they succeed, is lasting peace between them possible?
I found myself quickly liking the characters, understanding their hesitancy to trust each other, and admiring their willingness to work together anyway. While there wasn't time to really develop characters and it would have been nice to be given a bit more of the backstory of both the dragons and Eldarkind, the story itself was brought to the forefront and was told the way we might retell our legends of old. And despite comparisons to other epic stories, it feels like Cowley has brought something new to the world of fantasy. I look forward to reading more of her work.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2017
This book draws you in and holds your attention superbly. It's set in a world of wonder and DRAGONS! It is well worth the read and will give you a world of adventure!
April 3, 2017
Great action from start to finish. A brilliant taste of more to come - fast paced & action packed, I loved this. Can't wait to read the next instalment of the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews