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The Broken Lands #2
Rise of the Storm
Two prophecies. Two heroes. Only one can be right.
Kostan sits upon a splintering throne. Savra huddles in a makeshift cell, awaiting the judgment of those she betrayed. The land grows dark with the blood of Prov and Atal alike.
But beyond the human struggles, a graver threat looms. Aided by the rogue mage, Havialo, the Breaking strains at the bones of the Empire. As the land shatters, a dark tide rises.
Two prophecies offer slim hopes for humanity. One names Savra as the Empire's savior. The other envisions Kostan leading the war against the darkness. Both can't be right. But if the coming war decides who survives, humanity may find it has murdered its last hope.
Kostan sits upon a splintering throne. Savra huddles in a makeshift cell, awaiting the judgment of those she betrayed. The land grows dark with the blood of Prov and Atal alike.
But beyond the human struggles, a graver threat looms. Aided by the rogue mage, Havialo, the Breaking strains at the bones of the Empire. As the land shatters, a dark tide rises.
Two prophecies offer slim hopes for humanity. One names Savra as the Empire's savior. The other envisions Kostan leading the war against the darkness. Both can't be right. But if the coming war decides who survives, humanity may find it has murdered its last hope.
- GenresFantasy
405 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2017
88 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 26, 2019
3.5 stars
November 16, 2018
You can check out this review and my other reviews at Writing the Universe
Title: Rise of the Storm
Author: Carrie Summers
Pub. Date: October 11, 2017
Rating: ♥♥♥♥ - 4.5
This will be a non-spoiler review.
This is the second book to the Broken Lands Series, and it picks up right where the first one left off. Kostan has ascended and is working hard to give the Provs their space. He offers them resources and aid, but they refuse. This backfires on him and while he struggles to rule over Atal, Savra is being held captive by Storm Shard to answer for her actions in saving Kostan.
Neither are sure of their futures, but they are fighters. Savra delves deeper into her power, Kostan realizes that he can’t be the ruler he wants to be, and Havialo is set on brining the Empire to its knees no matter the cost.
Rise of the Storm was just as good the first book Heart of the Empire, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved seeing how both Savra and Kostan grew as characters, and how no matter what, they continued to face down adversity.
So much happens in this book, but at the same time, it felt like a traditional middle-of-a-trilogy book which is just going to set up for the epic finale in the last book. If you’re looking for an action packed, character growth, plot-driven novel, with a hint of romance, then you want to check this out. Carrie Summer’s has such a way of creating this fantastical world and it’s so easy to get lost in it. She had me on the edge of my seat more than once during this book.
Savra never gives up, she fights for herself, her father, Kostan, and Storm Shard. She fights because if she doesn’t, that’s it, game over. Kostan is busy trying to rule the Empire, but rule it differently than his predecessors, and it’s not going well. With the weight of the impending doom of Atal, he does all he can to keep the Heart on the Throne.
Havialo is hell bent on tearing the Empire apart and will stop at nothing. His actions bring all the characters together, and what Kostan fears, may come to pass if they don’t succeed.
If you like Heart of the Empire, you need to read this and find out what happens next. Savra and Kostan’s fight is just getting started. Facing off against enemies is hard but facing off against friends – that might be impossible. Find out in Fate of the Drowned whether or not the two of them can save the Empire or lead it to catastrophic ruin. The fate of everyone’s lives are in their hands.
Title: Rise of the Storm
Author: Carrie Summers
Pub. Date: October 11, 2017
Rating: ♥♥♥♥ - 4.5
This will be a non-spoiler review.
This is the second book to the Broken Lands Series, and it picks up right where the first one left off. Kostan has ascended and is working hard to give the Provs their space. He offers them resources and aid, but they refuse. This backfires on him and while he struggles to rule over Atal, Savra is being held captive by Storm Shard to answer for her actions in saving Kostan.
Neither are sure of their futures, but they are fighters. Savra delves deeper into her power, Kostan realizes that he can’t be the ruler he wants to be, and Havialo is set on brining the Empire to its knees no matter the cost.
Rise of the Storm was just as good the first book Heart of the Empire, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved seeing how both Savra and Kostan grew as characters, and how no matter what, they continued to face down adversity.
So much happens in this book, but at the same time, it felt like a traditional middle-of-a-trilogy book which is just going to set up for the epic finale in the last book. If you’re looking for an action packed, character growth, plot-driven novel, with a hint of romance, then you want to check this out. Carrie Summer’s has such a way of creating this fantastical world and it’s so easy to get lost in it. She had me on the edge of my seat more than once during this book.
Savra never gives up, she fights for herself, her father, Kostan, and Storm Shard. She fights because if she doesn’t, that’s it, game over. Kostan is busy trying to rule the Empire, but rule it differently than his predecessors, and it’s not going well. With the weight of the impending doom of Atal, he does all he can to keep the Heart on the Throne.
Havialo is hell bent on tearing the Empire apart and will stop at nothing. His actions bring all the characters together, and what Kostan fears, may come to pass if they don’t succeed.
If you like Heart of the Empire, you need to read this and find out what happens next. Savra and Kostan’s fight is just getting started. Facing off against enemies is hard but facing off against friends – that might be impossible. Find out in Fate of the Drowned whether or not the two of them can save the Empire or lead it to catastrophic ruin. The fate of everyone’s lives are in their hands.
October 26, 2017
This is a story of tough choices, made by those whose fate it is to attempt, and possibly suffer for, what they believe in.
One of whom is Emperor Kostan. A young man who is completely new to the throne. He is trying to undo years of hardship and oppression which has been inflicted upon his people by previous Emperors. What do the terrifying visions that he has been having, mean? Where have these loathsome savage creatures that are killing his people, come from? And what do they want?
There is a strangely gifted girl, Savra Padmi. Her very life is on the line for an act that she believed with all her heart to be correct. Will she be able to prove that she acted wisely, or will her well meant actions seal her fate? Held by her people, awaiting the final judgement against her by the elders; she waits; seeking to make sense of what is happening to her.
And what is the purpose of the very elderly man who wanders the land, seeking a red haired girl?
This story is full of intrigue, twists and turns. Yet it is also full of honesty and a strong compassion for others. I like that in a book.
I found myself engrossed in its pages as the story pulled me along, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
The quality of writing was superb and the plot was really gripping. Plus the characters were well written and likeable or dislikable according to the authors design for them.
However, I feel that the quality of the dialogue is quite flat, which was a real shame. This doesn't detract from the book as a whole though.
The only other thing I disliked about it was the way it meandered along and took a long time to get anywhere. It just didn't get on with the story.
This book is very much like the first book in the series. With the same rolling plot and captivating characters but this books dialogue is smewhat flat and a bit dull.
Apart from those details, it was a very good read.
One of whom is Emperor Kostan. A young man who is completely new to the throne. He is trying to undo years of hardship and oppression which has been inflicted upon his people by previous Emperors. What do the terrifying visions that he has been having, mean? Where have these loathsome savage creatures that are killing his people, come from? And what do they want?
There is a strangely gifted girl, Savra Padmi. Her very life is on the line for an act that she believed with all her heart to be correct. Will she be able to prove that she acted wisely, or will her well meant actions seal her fate? Held by her people, awaiting the final judgement against her by the elders; she waits; seeking to make sense of what is happening to her.
And what is the purpose of the very elderly man who wanders the land, seeking a red haired girl?
This story is full of intrigue, twists and turns. Yet it is also full of honesty and a strong compassion for others. I like that in a book.
I found myself engrossed in its pages as the story pulled me along, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
The quality of writing was superb and the plot was really gripping. Plus the characters were well written and likeable or dislikable according to the authors design for them.
However, I feel that the quality of the dialogue is quite flat, which was a real shame. This doesn't detract from the book as a whole though.
The only other thing I disliked about it was the way it meandered along and took a long time to get anywhere. It just didn't get on with the story.
This book is very much like the first book in the series. With the same rolling plot and captivating characters but this books dialogue is smewhat flat and a bit dull.
Apart from those details, it was a very good read.
October 16, 2017
Carrie Summers is an extraordinary epic fantasy author! This second book in the series is nonstop action and suspense with a tiny bit of possible romance thrown in. As told by various POVs the reader gets to see and feel as they do. But Ms Summers is able to write them such that you are never confused as to which POV you are feeling and seeing through. This adds an excellent dimension to the overall story. Excellently written with the characters fully fleshed out. Each scene is so fully depicted it never defies one’s imagination. I struggled along with Savra as she matured and learned sometimes the hard way how to control her talents. She has many acquaintances along the way to help her but also enemies who try to thwart her progress. Emperor Kostan struggles to understand his visions and bring some semblance of peace to his warring subjects. Havialo’s hatred for what happened to his daughter becomes increasingly dark. As suggested by the title of this book, the storm is definitely rising and is not done yet. Hopefully, we the readers of this series can find some satisfying answers in the next installment. I’m thankful that Ms Summers has seen fit to provide me with an ARC copy of this book for which I have given my totally honest and heartfelt review. It goes without saying that I can highly recommend this series to all lovers of high epic fantasy.
September 21, 2018
Carrie Summers’ Rise of the Storm (The Broken Lands Book 2) is indeed aptly named. While Savra and Kostan continue to grow and develop, with Savra learning more about who she really is and her powers, and Kostanassumes his imperial throne, the battle against the forces of evil (human, and supernatural) out to destroy the Empire, and really the entire world, is building. The storm is indeed rising but I have faith in our heroes. For we readers this means yet another powerfully good book with a well-written strong plot that continues to the developing overall story arc, and superb characters, both good and bad (special kudos to Havialo and Parveld). Frankly, but for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review my husband from my hospital bed, I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to Fate of the Drowned, the next book in this series.
November 11, 2017
I love Carrie Summers’ writing, everything is well thought out, the characters are loveable (well, a few exeptions but those are consistently written so they’re wonderful as well) and the events are captivating.
Savra and Kostan each follow their paths, Stormshard, Parveld and Havialo play out their parts as well and everything fits perfectly within the story.
There were even a few moments that I paused myself so I could mentally applaud Carrie Summers for the way she has constructed her enthralling story. That is not something I normally do but with ‘Heart of the Empire’ and now ‘Rise of the Storm’ I felt the need to express that.
With just the right amount of details, this is a fast paced read that will surely keep many readers yearning for more.
I know I’ll be waiting for the sequel. Waiting impatiently, that is.
I highly recomment this series to anyone who loves epic fantasy (of course you’d best start with Heart of the Empire).
Savra and Kostan each follow their paths, Stormshard, Parveld and Havialo play out their parts as well and everything fits perfectly within the story.
There were even a few moments that I paused myself so I could mentally applaud Carrie Summers for the way she has constructed her enthralling story. That is not something I normally do but with ‘Heart of the Empire’ and now ‘Rise of the Storm’ I felt the need to express that.
With just the right amount of details, this is a fast paced read that will surely keep many readers yearning for more.
I know I’ll be waiting for the sequel. Waiting impatiently, that is.
I highly recomment this series to anyone who loves epic fantasy (of course you’d best start with Heart of the Empire).
December 10, 2017
Brilliantly written epic fantasy, full of action, magic, and extraordinary characters.
I read this book basically in one breath. From the first pages, I could not stop, my nose dug into the book everywhere I went (including work, lol). The changing views added new dimension to the story, offering fresh and unique views from every angle. The jumps weren´t confusing, on the other side, they helped to better understand the whole situation. With fast developing plot, many twists, lots of action and suspense, and magical elements, this book was truly an experience. I loved the promise of possible future romance, the complicated yet very realistic relationship, and absolutely believable characters. Watching them grow in front of my eyes secured the attachments I already created in the first book (and added some new ones). Great follow-up to the first installment, and I am looking forward to read the next book in this series.
I read this book basically in one breath. From the first pages, I could not stop, my nose dug into the book everywhere I went (including work, lol). The changing views added new dimension to the story, offering fresh and unique views from every angle. The jumps weren´t confusing, on the other side, they helped to better understand the whole situation. With fast developing plot, many twists, lots of action and suspense, and magical elements, this book was truly an experience. I loved the promise of possible future romance, the complicated yet very realistic relationship, and absolutely believable characters. Watching them grow in front of my eyes secured the attachments I already created in the first book (and added some new ones). Great follow-up to the first installment, and I am looking forward to read the next book in this series.
December 14, 2017
This is the second installment to The Broken Lands Series. It continues the story of Savra a young woman with strange and unfathomable powers and Emperor Kostan. Both are trying to help their troubled, crumbling world through conflicting strategies all the while under a yoke of a terrifying prophecy.
Once again, Ms. Summers sweeps us into a world of traitors, crazed monsters and powerful magics that in a fight for the foundations of a world. Massive armies and last minute escapes keep the pages flying in this exciting sequel to The Heart of the Empire.
I am personally anxious to get my hands on the last of the trilogy as the story sets itself up for a battle royale of epic proportions. One Hell of a ride.
I was given an Advanced Reading Copy of Heat of the Empire in exchange for an honest review.
Once again, Ms. Summers sweeps us into a world of traitors, crazed monsters and powerful magics that in a fight for the foundations of a world. Massive armies and last minute escapes keep the pages flying in this exciting sequel to The Heart of the Empire.
I am personally anxious to get my hands on the last of the trilogy as the story sets itself up for a battle royale of epic proportions. One Hell of a ride.
I was given an Advanced Reading Copy of Heat of the Empire in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2017
Really great reading!!! Highly recommend!!!
Exciting and fun story of our heroine Savra and her adventures. We see Savra mature in many ways, not the least of which are her magical abilities. Meanwhile, Scion Kostan struggles to fight for what he believes is the right course and assume his throne. Separately, and together, they battle the forces of evil, both human, and supernatural, that are trying to destroy not only the empire, but the very world they live in. Not only are the story and characters interesting, and entertaining, the quality of writing is excellent. You'll not be disappointed with this book. Happy Reading!!!
Tim
Exciting and fun story of our heroine Savra and her adventures. We see Savra mature in many ways, not the least of which are her magical abilities. Meanwhile, Scion Kostan struggles to fight for what he believes is the right course and assume his throne. Separately, and together, they battle the forces of evil, both human, and supernatural, that are trying to destroy not only the empire, but the very world they live in. Not only are the story and characters interesting, and entertaining, the quality of writing is excellent. You'll not be disappointed with this book. Happy Reading!!!
Tim
May 14, 2020
Book 2 was just as good if not better than book 1.
We basically pick up where book 1 left off. The war between the Provs & Atla reaches its peak. However, that is not the only enemy!
Savra & Kostan continue on their own adventures that eventually lead them back to each other.
Another journey book. However, there is a lot more battle and action in this one.
I'm very sad about what happens to Parveld. While it makes sense, he's one of my favorite characters. I'm eager to see if he is destroyed or if salvation is an option in book 3.
Some gore in this one, one profanity, no sex/sensual themes.
On to book 3!
I have to say, I'm very glad I gave Carrie Summers another chance!!
We basically pick up where book 1 left off. The war between the Provs & Atla reaches its peak. However, that is not the only enemy!
Savra & Kostan continue on their own adventures that eventually lead them back to each other.
Another journey book. However, there is a lot more battle and action in this one.
I'm very sad about what happens to Parveld. While it makes sense, he's one of my favorite characters. I'm eager to see if he is destroyed or if salvation is an option in book 3.
Some gore in this one, one profanity, no sex/sensual themes.
On to book 3!
I have to say, I'm very glad I gave Carrie Summers another chance!!
October 17, 2017
Captivating and suspenseful, a absolutely awesome addition to the series. The characters are great and the non stop action will keep you turning the pages. Once in this turbulent world full of twists, you won't want to leave. I can't wait for the next book.
December 10, 2017
Thos conitues the story after Kostan takes up his new position and the destruction of one of the rebel camps. Thos follows the beginning of Kostan rule and the plotting of the rebellion to free the people from a ruler at all. This os a great epic fatasy that is action packed and thrilling.
December 26, 2017
The parallel stories of Savra and Kostan were riveting by the end of this book. Could they force fate to take a different direction, bring opposing factions together, save the world? I want to start the third book as soon as I can.
May 3, 2018
Okay
This book seemed to drag on to much. I was impatient for Savra and Kostan to find each other again. It wasn't interesting anticipation. I was bored; however, I'm hoping for more in the next book so I will finish the series.
This book seemed to drag on to much. I was impatient for Savra and Kostan to find each other again. It wasn't interesting anticipation. I was bored; however, I'm hoping for more in the next book so I will finish the series.
March 13, 2018
Good, but dragged on a bit towards the end.
March 29, 2018
Amazing fantasy story of fate and fighting for your beliefs. Couldn’t put down this first book for me by this outstanding author. Hope to read many more.
April 12, 2019
Disappointing
I had such high hopes. But it's slow and choppy . Slow, choppy, and slow and choppy . Disappointing. I couldn't even get through full chapters
I had such high hopes. But it's slow and choppy . Slow, choppy, and slow and choppy . Disappointing. I couldn't even get through full chapters
October 25, 2017
Rise of the Storm, book 2 in the Broken Lands series by Carrie Summers. It's a incredibly fantastic story!! Rise of the Storm continues from where we left off in Heart of the Empire. We follow Savra and Kostan and all the others! It's full of action and it's written from various POV's. Which makes for a lot of angst!!
I can't wait for the next book, to read the final end, and how the battle is going down!
I thank the author for providing a copy to voluntarily review.
I can't wait for the next book, to read the final end, and how the battle is going down!
I thank the author for providing a copy to voluntarily review.
April 19, 2018
I wanted to love this book as much as I did book one but, that just didn't happen. This one really drug on for me. I want to see Kostan and Savra together but, that didn't happen until the end and don't get me started on what happens with Parveld. 😒 Sadly this book suffered a case of second book syndrome.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews