The Dark Forest: The Revelations of Oriceran

Soul Stone Mage #2

by Sarah Noffke, Martha Carr, Michael Anderle

The Kingdom of Virgo has lived in peace for thousands of years…until now.

Azure’s world flips when she discovers her father is the emperor of Terran. Wait…was the emperor.

Now the two are prisoners in the Land of Terran.

Azure must escape and locate her mother’s soul stone. The virus that stole the queen’s magic is going after her very life, and the soul stone is her only hope.

Azure must save her mother. Create alliances with savage beasts. And win her people’s favor to keep the crown.

However, Princess Azure now has a taste for adventure. If being queen means she must sit on a throne, then to hell with that.

Welcome to The Revelations of Oriceran.

A magical world tied to Earth, and nothing like it.

*NOTE: There’s cursing in this book because these witches and wizards are just rude like that. If cursing isn’t for you, then this might not be for you.

Genres: Fantasy, Witches, Magic, Paranormal

ebook

Published September 20, 2017

About the author

Sarah Noffke is a prolific USA Today Best-Selling Author, who writes YA and NA science fiction, fantasy, paranormal and urban fantasy. Most of her stories draw on her experiences living on the West Coast, growing up in Texas or traveling the world.

Her passion for art, culture and literature drives her to create stories that are full of whimsey, humor and philosophy. Her books appeal to readers who enjoy an escape, a bit of magic mixed with science and the unexpected--like a dragon who tells bad jokes and has a video game addiction, but fights for justice.

Noffke's books are top rated and best-sellers on Amazon. Her books are available in paperback, audio and in Spanish, Portuguese, German, Dutch and Italian.

To stay up to date with Sarah, please visit her website and subscribe to her newsletter: www.sarahnoffke.com

For a complete list of books by Sarah and a suggested reading order, please see: www.sarahnoffke.com/reading-guide/

Reviews

[Ms. Just One More Book (Kris Miller) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long ago, humans came through a portal to Oriceran, where they peacefully shared the land with Witches, Orcs and other magical creatures. When a greedy Emperor came upon the throne in the human territory of Terran, that peace was shattered. Years later, the war still rages on. Richard -- the Emperor of Terran -- has been imprisoned by his own brother Phillip, the Duke of Terran. His crime is treason, by marrying and secretly producing a child with the Queen of Virgo; land of the witches. Azure had been reluctantly prepared to take the throne as the new Queen of Virgo, until it was uncovered that she is only half witch; the other half being human. Then came another startling discovery; her mother had been infected with a virus and is dying. Now she finds herself in the same prison cells as her father, Richard, former Emperor of Terran. Azure must find a way to break free, steal the soul stone back from Phillip to save her mother's life and win the heart's of her people. These seasoned authors manage to walk the fine line between dangerous journey and whimsical fantasy effortlessly. A strong heroine leads the well rounded cast of fun and sassy characters, including the lovable, witty and oft mischievous Queen mother. Filled with magic, adventure and enchanted creatures, THE DARK FOREST: The Revelations of Oriceran will have you spellbound from captivating beginning to wondrous end.

~ Kris Miller, certified TopShelf Reviewer. TopShelf Magazine does not offer 'paid review services’ and TopShelf Reviewers are not compensated for their reviews.

[Kitlina · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review!*

Wow, Ms. Noffke pops up books faster than I can read them. And that's a feat.
This is my second foray into the world of Oriceran and it proves to be an incredible one. I am just fascinated by this alternate universe, with its beings, it's landscape and it's magic.
In this second book readers are being presented with Princess Azure's evolution. I love seeing characters grow into their destined roles and assuming responsibility for their actions. Azure does a wonderful job of becoming her destiny.
The gang is as always amazing to observe. Their interactions are funny and flowing effortlessly. Let me just say Monet and Ever in Walmart. That was a roll on the floor moment. As well as rescuing Draco, the second time. Poor orc, his hide was all blisters. I love how the two male characters seem to bond. Monet's trickster nature and Ever's tranquil and happy demeanor complement each other to perfection. Not to mention Gillian's grumpiness and loathing of being of help. They make a real fun gang bent on saving their world.
Azure's grandmother is a handful. She is certifiable. I love her to bits. How she loves to be in the know but not take even a little bit of responsibility. That is bad ass granny right there.
The evil mastermind, Duke Phillip, is really well constructed as a truly despicable character, one which you loath on principle.
I liked Frederick, or Emperor Frederick now. He seemed a good fella aside his naivete and airhead manner. I hope he will take the rains a little bit from his evil uncle. I don't want him to be like his father and let that walking disaster rule, I want him to involve himself more.
I'll just have to wait and see what the future has in store.
But I love what I'm reading right now.
I also should point out that this is a totally YA appropriate read, there is no adult content whatsoever aside from some rare mild swearing.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. There are so many characters and they are all amazing. The Queen Mother Sari is by far my favourite but Monet is also loveable and mischievous. There are witches and wizards, dwarfs, elf and orcs and of course evil humans. Azure has saved her father and been crowned Queen but can the witches and wizards really defeat Duke Phillip and his evil plans. I guess we need the next book to see what happens.

[Ishieta Chopra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I LOVE Sarah Noffke!
This is a new series, and i am absolutely loving it! i love the strong character, the banter!
OH THE BANTER! its hilarious and the people are adorable! There were times i re-read sections just coz it was so funny or just so well written!
i am looking forward to the next installment in this series!

[Beverly Laude · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by the amazing Sarah Noffke! Her writing just keeps getting better and better. No matter what she is writing, she has a way with words, a way with world building and a way with character development!

Azure's adventures continue as she goes in search of her father and her mother's soul stone. As she journeys through the Dark Forest, she encounters many other species: a light elf, a gnome, unicorns, a pixie, mermaids, Orcs, and harpies. Each of these species comes alive in Ms. Noffke's capable hands.

There is plenty of adventure, harrowing encounters, and loads of snark (which I have come to expect from Ms. Noffke!). I love the addition of the world of Terran, where the people try a little too hard to be like humans on Earth. The just slightly off things that they have constructed while trying to be just like Earth are wonderful! And, I just had to have a bag of Cheetos while I finished up this wonderful book! Can't wait for the next adventure involving Azure and her friends!

[Rabid Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second book in the Soul Stone Mage series is even more enjoyable than book one. There is lots of danger, battles, adventure, new friendships and the whole story is laced with effortless humour. I love Monet's attitude, he is funny, mischievous and hides his loyalty, talent and commitment behind rhetoric. All the characters in this story have great individual personalities, from Ever's calm, intelligent demeanour, to Sari's pushy, interfering nature, Gillian's grumpiness and the evil that is Duke Philip; you can not help but be captivated by them all. Azure evolution from a child to a leader is even more evident in this story, as she battles to save her mother and keep the rest of Oriceran safe from the wicked machination of the Duke. With a variety of great creatures, exciting battles and constant threat, this story pulls you in more with each book and leaves you wanting the next in the series

[Bonnie Dale Keck · Rating 2 out of 5]

Kindle Unlimited, just read the 3 stone mage oriceran books out, and eh not really feeling it much, my favorite of these is Leira Chronicles ones and just read the Midwest Witch one most recently and rather liked that one. I do have an issue with the 'language', not because it's used but because it is used so much that there doesn't even seem to be any real reason any more; it made sense in the Liera ones but sheesh give it a rest {look at how many connected but not really connected books there are out already or will be. It is the same as book 1 of this series. Yes, it says *NOTE: There’s cursing in this book because these witches and wizards are just rude like that. If cursing is a problem, then this might not be for you. -- NOT POINT -- the point is that the cursing is ever so many lines, but to what POINT, it's not adding ANYthing to the STORY LINE.

The Kingdom of Virgo has lived in peace for thousands of years…until now.
Azure’s world flips when she discovers her father is the emperor of Terran. Wait…was the emperor. Now the two are prisoners in the Land of Terran. Azure must escape and locate her mother’s soul stone. The virus that stole the queen’s magic is going after her very life, and the soul stone is her only hope. Azure must save her mother. Create alliances with savage beasts. And win her people’s favor to keep the crown. However, Princess Azure now has a taste for adventure. If being queen means she must sit on a throne, then to hell with that.


House of Enchanted: The Revelations of Oriceran (Soul Stone Mage, #1)
The Dark Forest: The Revelations of Oriceran (Soul Stone Mage, #2)
Mountain of Truth: The Revelations of Oriceran (Soul Stone Mage, #3)
Soul Stone Mage Book 4:

Quest For Magic - Prequel to Waking Magic: The Revelations of Oriceran (The Leira Chronicles Book 0)
Waking Magic: The Revelations of Oriceran (The Leira Chronicles Book 1)
Release Of Magic: The Revelations of Oriceran (The Leira Chronicles Book 2)
Protection of Magic: The Revelations of Oriceran (The Leira Chronicles Book 3)
Rule of Magic: The Revelations of Oriceran (The Leira Chronicles Book 4)

The Midwest Witch: The Revelations of Oriceran (Midwest Magic Chronicles #1)

Descendant: The Revelations of Oriceran (The Kacy Chronicles Book 1)
Ascendant: The Revelations of Oriceran (The Kacy Chronicles Book 2)

Glow: The Revelations of Oriceran (The Fairhaven Chronicles Book 1), Book 2: Shimmer Book 3: Ember
Book 4: Nightfall Book 5: Blaze Book 6: Smolder Book 7: Glare Book 8: Ignite Book 9: Gleam Book 10: Luster Book 11: Glint Book 12: Radiance

[Bec · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good middle book in the series but it didn't pack the same punch as the first book. In The Dark Forest Azure continues on her quest to get her mother's soul stone and return it to her before it's too late. Of course there is alot of danger to get through. We learned more about Azure's sidekicks who we met in the first book: Monet, Gillian and Ever. They were as fun as ever. And let's not forget the witches and wizards of Virgo do not want a half human as their Queen. Will Azure win them over?
I can't wait for book 3.

[Marie Maguire-Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adventures and mystery

The second in this series is better than the first or maybe I have just been drawn into a new mysterious world and find that the characters are people that I want to know better. Oriceran is a world in would like to live in!

[Ann Zdunczyk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

I love these stories and can't wait for more. What will happen next. The cabinet she picks is different than any other. Can they stop Duke Phillip!!

[natalie sue king · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great

Enjoyed both 1&2 waiting for #3
A flourishing series with engaging characters
Well done continue the good work
Thank you

[George Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great continuation of the story

Good story gets better. Big adventure in the dark forests and by the end we are how powerful Azure actually is. Looking forward to the next installment.

[Gretel · Rating 3 out of 5]

The dialogue was awful. Other than that annoying little bit, the dark forest was an entertaining sequel. Book 2 was a seamless continuation of book 1, and I'm actually having a hard time remembering EXACTLY where the break between the end of book 1 and the beginning of book 2 takes place. I'm also having a hard time remembering exactly how book 2 ended -- so there probably isn't an infuriating cliff hanger to this one. It's a solid, easy, predictable, escape.

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s not an easy feat, but The Dark Forest managed to be just as exciting House of Enchanted. Throughout the book, there’s action, adventure, and suspense, and Noffke minimizes the downtime by presenting Azure with one challenge after another.

Plot:
When she and Richard are imprisoned by Phillip, Azure must find a way to escape and return her mother’s soul stone before it’s too late.

Characters:
Much like in House of Enchanted, Azure faces some incredibly challenging circumstances but manages to stay strong without being cynical. She’s very logical and doesn’t expect anyone to save her; she would rather be the savior. That inner strength shows in everything she does and earns her the respect of just about everyone she meets.

Speaking of her friends, I still love how she and Monet constantly bicker, but I also like how Ever and Gillian keep her grounded. I’m also warming up to Richard. He may not be strong-willed enough to lead his people, but he really does seem to care about everyone’s best interest.

Writing:
Noffke did a wonderful job of building the different worlds. She’s very creative and descriptive, so the reader can actually envision everything that Azure sees. That ability to visualize is really important because throughout the whole book, Azure meets so many characters, each with their own special characteristics.

In terms of mechanics, The Dark Forest is very well-edited, which I always appreciate. If I had to rate the book, I think I’d probably give it a PG-13. There’s little to no violence or adult situations, but there is a lot of cursing, including the f-bomb.

The Bottom Line:
One of my favorite things about The Dark Forest is that everything has a purpose. Some authors just create small conflicts to use up a page or two. Noffke, on the other hand, ensures that everything Azure goes through has a purpose that ties in with her destiny, and all the experiences have made her a stronger leader. Be prepared though…. Once Azure’s plans seem to be falling into place, there’s another huge cliffhanger to throw a wrench in everything.

[Katy · Rating 5 out of 5]

These books just keep on getting better! Lol

There were so many really interesting things going on in this book. Azure has so much to deal with, and so many of the problems that need solving, can only be done by her.

But she does at least have a small company of disparate friends who are happy to accompany her on each of the journeys that she has to make, which turns out to be vitally important as each of them discover things that only they can help with.

I loved this particular book even more, because so much of what happened in it was a total surprise for me - especially the ending!

Wow! Now THAT was something I didn't see coming, until literally a few seconds before I read the paragraph!

Poor Azure! 😭

As usual, I couldn't put this down - although I actually had to, as family visited me unexpectedly, and they persuaded me to pop over the road to the local village Pub.

Despite my reluctance to put my book down, I thoroughly enjoyed the most delicious Vegetarian Lasagne I've ever had while there - although, I do have to confess that, if I'd gone there on my own, I would have taken my Kindle, to keep reading this wonderful story! Lol

But I've finished it now - and, as usual, at silly O'Clock in the morning (it's 4.15am right now).

So I'm going to set up book four: 'Land of Terran', on my Kindle, so that I'll be able to start reading it the moment I'm able to, after I've slept for a while.

Once I've done this, I'll catch you on the flip side, to let you know what I think of it. If it's anything like THIS book, it'll be a great read, I'm certain!

[Kelly Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What is going to happen next?! That is the question. Azure and her father, who is human and was the emperor of Terran) are imprisoned for treason. Azure has to find her mother’s soul stone or her mother is going to die. In the first book she made some new, quirky friends on her quest through the Dark Forest along with her best friend Monet. With the help of these guys she and her father are able to escape with her mother’s soul stone. Now the next part of her journey begins. Along her travels back through the Dark Forest she is foraging new alliances with other unlikely groups. She is faced with immense amounts of diversity and her true colors are shining through. She really is someone that wants to help all peoples and creatures of her planet but she wants to be proactive. Watching all of these characters develop has been amazing and quite inspirational. The characters definitely have their own personalities and each of their quirks have made this journey so much fun to follow. Monet, by far, has to be one of my favorite characters in this series so far. He can be such a baby but is super witty and really does have Azure’s best interests at heart. The banter with Monet will keep you laughing and rolling through this amazing adventure!

[holly hellenthal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot believe I've found this AMAZING SERIES !!! It By Pure Accident , But I Like to think it was the Book Fates !!

This series is just wonderful, I love all the characters and I especially love the fantastic writing by these three TERRIFIC AUTHORS !! I'm an avid reader , but let's be honest , I'm an admitted book reading addict. I really love to devour a good book, but a series is my Achilles heel. I haven't been this excited about a series since I started reading J. D. ROBB IN DEATH SERIES. This series has been such a wonderful rollercoaster of excitement and and anticipation and lots of laughs. The authors Gabe you into world unlike anything I've read before, I've just finished reading book two and cannot wait to start reading book three, I REALLY hope this is a LONG series, because with these characters and the different worlds and new characters in each book I can foresee all many different stories yet to come. This is a must read, that I promise you will fall in love with these characters and the talented writing... Oh !! the places they could go, with this series.... :)

[Poor Professor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Better and Better. Holy Cliffhanger!

This series in the Oriceran universe is absolutely wonderful! I can't wait to begin book three, which will be tomorrow, since I just stayed up insanely late finishing this book. Awesome cliffhanger on this one, I don't even want go to bed at all! Still amazing characters who have grown and deepened wonderfully, fantastic use of the magic and species of the Oriceran world, and incredible pacing and infuriatingly awesome suspense. I HIGHLY recommend this series. If you like fantasy, you will love this series. Small caveat, I do recommend reading the Keira Berens series by Martha Carr and Michael Anderle first to get well acquainted with this while Oriceran universe thing they've got going on. Not an absolute necessity, but I really do believe it would add greatly to your experience reading the Soul Stone series, which is just so great. Plus, every series I have read in the Oriceran universe (as I go through in chronological order,) has been well worth the read. Sarah Knoffke is killing it with this one. Just an absolute joy to read.

[Sydney · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 We've Randomly Chosen You Stars

The Dark Forest is the second book in the Soul Stone Mage series by Sarah Noffke, Martha Carr, and Michael Anderle.

Wow, Duke Phillip is going out of his way to show just how truly despicable he is. To his core he is a rotten husk of cruelty and greed. I can only hope that the now Emperor, Azure's half brother Frederick, will overcome his control and help to lead the humans of the Land of Terran into peace with Virgo. But my hope cannot rush this authors qenius, so I know when it does occur it will probably be many books from now.

Azure is a badass Queen. She is going to set an entirely new precedent for her kingdom. I have every faith that she is going to face death many times in the future, but she will risk her life for those around her and to advance her people beyond what they know now. One day the witches and wizards of Virgo will come to revere her even more for her insight, strength, and courage. She will become such a fount for change.

I wonder how she will come to work with the unicorns, since they have shown they are willing to be in her service. The most obvious, to me, is she will enlist their help in healing her people from the virus the Duke is about to spread throughout her domain. And later that they may invite new growth to the borders of the Dark Forest near Terran?

Still waiting for more talking Oriceran cats to show up, and be utilized in the cute prissy way as a spy network. (Fingers crossed).

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dark Forrest picks up right where we left off in House of Enchanted. I read the majority in one sitting because I was pulled right back in to the world of Oriceran. The whole 'let me finish this chapter, just one more, almost done, okay I finished the book' joke was a little too real as I finished the book in the middle of the night.
I love the group Azure has come to have at her side. The emotions of finding her own little family and learning about everything outside of Virgo. Sarah has a great way of creating true emotions and meaningful moments between characters without having to go in to crazy detail. I am having some major feelings for Ever at the moment... And of course, the scattered fbombs bring me life, as I can hardly speak without using 5 in one sentence.
I cannot wait to continue my adventure with Azure in saving her mother and Oriceran.

[Melinda ~ Twinsie Talk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

This series is becoming a favorite. The characters are phenomenal and the world is amazing. All the characters have such great quirks. I love Monet his addiction to Cheetos and his one liners makes him stand out.

Azure is a strong caring leader who is quick on her feet and is great at problem solving but with growing up around Monet and Queen Mother Sari I would expect nothing less. The way she makes her own rules and doesn’t follow past way is courageous. The pixie “Buzz Buzz” oh how I enjoyed watching Azure deal with her when she created disorder in Virgo.

This world has sucked me in and I want to know so much more about it and those in it. SO excited to see what Azure does next and where this story will go.

[Diane Diorio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the “new” queen

Characters that evolve that you truly root for fall in love with can’t wait to see what they do next or what happens to them next are my favorite you cry with them laugh with them and need to know what happens next the whole oriceran universe is amazing they all feel like family authors that can make me feel that way are the very best at their craft I want to know more and more about everyone please continue all of you

[Alastar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable

I found this story and the characters to be quite enjoyable. Watching Azure overcome many adversities and I still don't know how she puts up with Monet, I would be dumping him in the deepest pit I could find and sealing the top. The woman has endless patience. Long live the Queen 😎

[Sherry McCormick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Read!!!

Love this series...I absolutely love books about elves fairies etc. the fact that the country is named Virgo I love. Virgos are my favorite people. I’m a Cancer. Also I’m an astrologer. Write books based on astrology , I’d love to help with that. The books flow and are never monotonous. Always exciting. Thankyou, Thankyou.!!!

[Keith Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Winner

What's a nice badness doing in a universe like this? Trying to save everyone from themselves and each other, all while staying humble and sweet and engaging, and being a magnet for talented creatures who may or may not be so nice themselves. And a magnet for readers who love a good story and an awesome universe.

[Debra Stubbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must Read Series

There is always a character in a book that you have to hate to love and Monet takes the cake in this series. He is such a naughty character, the way he disses on Azure so much and then is absolutely frickin’ funny! Sarah Noffke has done an amazing job creating the characters of this series, bring on book 3!

[Lois Alston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this story

A great continuation of this wonderful story. Funny, exciting, lots of adventure, and growing up. Learning more about your life. Always seeing the good in others and helping as you can.

[Todd · Rating 1 out of 5]

Well, the literary world's most annoying character Monet is still up to his nonsense. And Drago, the Kilomea that Azure rescued from the pit in the first book is now an orc instead. Well below the standard set in the previous Oriceran books

[angie beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing wo

I love this kind of series. The in depth characters. The ever changing world is so great.I also enjoyed the family and strong friendships that make this unique wo.ld go around. I can't wait to read mo

[Veronica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evolving

Whew! What. A. Journey!!! Azure is growing and learning about herself, and I'm loving her crazy crew. Hints have been dropped for the next book, and what a cliffhanger! Time to start #3...