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Kingfountain #4
The Hollow Crown
Following the downfall of a tyrant, years have passed in prosperity for the kingdom of Ceredigion. Now, as the time comes to celebrate the new king’s nuptials, the specter of a new enemy emerges to destroy all that has been painstakingly built in those years.
Tryneowy Kiskaddon has grown up learning military and diplomatic strategy from her father, one of the king’s closest advisors. She feels her destiny lies in defending the kingdom as a knight, not as a Wizr as her parents have decided, though no lady of the realm has taken up the sword in a century. As she seeks to understand her own Fountain-blessed powers, she studies in the tradition of her mother while training in secret and closely following the realm’s politics, alarmed by her mother’s vision of an impending clash and a devastating future.
But the pieces on fate’s game board are in motion, and on the eve of battle, a threatening force irrevocably changes the future of the kingdom and her own. Does Trynne have what it takes to maneuver Ceredigion’s key players into position and outsmart the kingdom’s enemies—even those still concealed in shadow?
Tryneowy Kiskaddon has grown up learning military and diplomatic strategy from her father, one of the king’s closest advisors. She feels her destiny lies in defending the kingdom as a knight, not as a Wizr as her parents have decided, though no lady of the realm has taken up the sword in a century. As she seeks to understand her own Fountain-blessed powers, she studies in the tradition of her mother while training in secret and closely following the realm’s politics, alarmed by her mother’s vision of an impending clash and a devastating future.
But the pieces on fate’s game board are in motion, and on the eve of battle, a threatening force irrevocably changes the future of the kingdom and her own. Does Trynne have what it takes to maneuver Ceredigion’s key players into position and outsmart the kingdom’s enemies—even those still concealed in shadow?
287 pages, Paperback
First published June 13, 2017
2639 people are currently reading
4785 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Wheeler
126 books5,225 followersWall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler took an early retirement from his career at Intel in 2014 to write full-time. He is a husband, father of five, and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jeff lives in the Rocky Mountains.
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 501 reviews
March 16, 2022
Recommended for fans of Throne of Glass
Yes, this book suffers from the crossover curse, in that the author has moved to the second generation while the reader has yet to relinquish their love for the primary characters. Notwithstanding, it was still a very good read.
June 7, 2017
Why do these books make me feel this way? I'm just reading along, everything is hunky dory and then BAM. It ends and I need a good cry. Wheeler does an excellent of job of making you care about his characters. He also puts them through hell and back which I think is what makes these books so emotional for me.
This book continues the Kingfountain series' Arthurian legend theme, with Owen's daughter Trynne being a reimagined Lancelot, the "King's Protector". Trynne, like her parents, is fountain blessed. Her gift seems similar in nature to Owen's. She is able to predict attacks and can thus defend herself against them, as well as sense other people's weaknesses. Her mother, Sinia, wants her to be a Wizr, but she wants to be an Oath Maiden. She wants to fight in the war like the men, and of course, in Kingfountain this has never been done before. She has an uphill battle ahead of her, but the Fountain is helping her out a little.
I absolutely loved Trynne. She's a no nonsense sort of girl, which fits perfectly with who her parents are. She is clever and determined, and refuses to let anything stand in the way of her destiny and her dreams. She also dual wields swords and daggers... which makes her just about the awesomest heroine ever. I don't know how realistic it is, but it's a fantasy. To hell with realistic. Dual wielding swords all the way.
We are introduced to new characters, new enemies and new kingdoms, and we also see many of the original characters in a less integral part of the plot. The storytelling and the writing are both excellent. Wheeler is wonderful at showing and not telling. He lets the reader decide for themselves what to think about other characters. He gives subtle clues as to where the story might be headed, but nothing is ever fully revealed. You want to trust certain characters, but you're never really sure if you should. It keeps you on your toes and turning the pages, looking for answers.
This book ends on a massive cliff hanger and with a huge twist. I can't stress this enough, I am DYING to get my hands on a copy of the next book. Thank goodness I only have to wait for August, and then it will be another few months until the next installment. The wait is already killing me.
I do want to leave a note about how this book fits in with the Kingfountain series in general. This book mostly happens about 15 years after the events of The King's Traitor. The plot of this story is not dependent upon the first three books, but many of the events and characters referenced as well as the fountain magic are explained in the first book. The author does not insult his readers with repetitive explanations or info dumps. Do I think you could read this book and get by okay? Yes. Do I recommend it? Absolutely not. The first three books are so magical anyway, you'd be doing yourself a disservice to skip them. There is also a prequel, The Maid's War, which I haven't read, but fully intend to pick up.
Thank you to 47North and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This book continues the Kingfountain series' Arthurian legend theme, with Owen's daughter Trynne being a reimagined Lancelot, the "King's Protector". Trynne, like her parents, is fountain blessed. Her gift seems similar in nature to Owen's. She is able to predict attacks and can thus defend herself against them, as well as sense other people's weaknesses. Her mother, Sinia, wants her to be a Wizr, but she wants to be an Oath Maiden. She wants to fight in the war like the men, and of course, in Kingfountain this has never been done before. She has an uphill battle ahead of her, but the Fountain is helping her out a little.
I absolutely loved Trynne. She's a no nonsense sort of girl, which fits perfectly with who her parents are. She is clever and determined, and refuses to let anything stand in the way of her destiny and her dreams. She also dual wields swords and daggers... which makes her just about the awesomest heroine ever. I don't know how realistic it is, but it's a fantasy. To hell with realistic. Dual wielding swords all the way.
We are introduced to new characters, new enemies and new kingdoms, and we also see many of the original characters in a less integral part of the plot. The storytelling and the writing are both excellent. Wheeler is wonderful at showing and not telling. He lets the reader decide for themselves what to think about other characters. He gives subtle clues as to where the story might be headed, but nothing is ever fully revealed. You want to trust certain characters, but you're never really sure if you should. It keeps you on your toes and turning the pages, looking for answers.
This book ends on a massive cliff hanger and with a huge twist. I can't stress this enough, I am DYING to get my hands on a copy of the next book. Thank goodness I only have to wait for August, and then it will be another few months until the next installment. The wait is already killing me.
I do want to leave a note about how this book fits in with the Kingfountain series in general. This book mostly happens about 15 years after the events of The King's Traitor. The plot of this story is not dependent upon the first three books, but many of the events and characters referenced as well as the fountain magic are explained in the first book. The author does not insult his readers with repetitive explanations or info dumps. Do I think you could read this book and get by okay? Yes. Do I recommend it? Absolutely not. The first three books are so magical anyway, you'd be doing yourself a disservice to skip them. There is also a prequel, The Maid's War, which I haven't read, but fully intend to pick up.
Thank you to 47North and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
January 9, 2017
This is a spoiler-free review. I received an advance copy of The Hollow Crown via a Twitter giveaway from the author.
I am a big fan of the first three novels in the Kingfountain series. The world building is deep and immersive. The cultures found therein are varied, and while some appear based in reality they never feel like tropes. The magic system is unique, a rarity when it comes to fantasy novels, and the magic in the Kingfountain universe comes at a cost to the user. The characters are lovable and believable, heroes and villains alike.
The real strength of the novels lies in balance. The magic system is balanced so that no one seems all-powerful. The plot lines have a thoughtful symmetry. The characters are balanced in a very sincere way. Heroes have faults, weaknesses and temptations while the black-hats are empathetic and relatable.
The ending of the first Kingfountain trilogy didn’t leave a lot of dangling threads, so I was thrilled to learn that the series would continue. The Hollow Crown is just as strong as its predecessors. The story is a compelling blend of reimagined Arthurian legend and history, freshened with the existing world of Kingfountain.
The cast of the previous stories returns in a way that will be satisfying to readers of the previous stories, but will not prevent new readers from engaging with the book. A new cast is introduced, and they are wonderful. Having finished the book, I find that I miss them already. I lament that it will be months before I can again spend time with Trynne, Fallon and the rest.
I loved the first three books in the series, but one thing always bothered me. I felt that the characters sometimes made choices that served to move the plot forward, but at the expense of that character’s...well, character. They made choices that, having come to know them, I didn’t believe they ever would have made.
The Hollow Crown corrects that. The story moves forward and takes unexpected twists and turns, but the characters never did something that I didn’t believe them capable of. The seeds of their actions are sown in a believable way.
I’ve never written a book, but I’ve read a whole lot of them, and I feel like it’s not an uninformed opinion when I say that Wheeler’s writing has matured. He’s taken risks with this series, particularly in terms of casting his protagonists and antagonists, and those risks have borne fruit.
The Hollow Crown was a book that I read at the expense of my responsibilities. I didn’t want to put it down for a moment. It’s a book that I will think of in idle moments for a long time. I will wonder what will happen next. I will think about the characters and hope that they are happy. I will close my eyes and listen for the whisper of the Fountain.
I am a big fan of the first three novels in the Kingfountain series. The world building is deep and immersive. The cultures found therein are varied, and while some appear based in reality they never feel like tropes. The magic system is unique, a rarity when it comes to fantasy novels, and the magic in the Kingfountain universe comes at a cost to the user. The characters are lovable and believable, heroes and villains alike.
The real strength of the novels lies in balance. The magic system is balanced so that no one seems all-powerful. The plot lines have a thoughtful symmetry. The characters are balanced in a very sincere way. Heroes have faults, weaknesses and temptations while the black-hats are empathetic and relatable.
The ending of the first Kingfountain trilogy didn’t leave a lot of dangling threads, so I was thrilled to learn that the series would continue. The Hollow Crown is just as strong as its predecessors. The story is a compelling blend of reimagined Arthurian legend and history, freshened with the existing world of Kingfountain.
The cast of the previous stories returns in a way that will be satisfying to readers of the previous stories, but will not prevent new readers from engaging with the book. A new cast is introduced, and they are wonderful. Having finished the book, I find that I miss them already. I lament that it will be months before I can again spend time with Trynne, Fallon and the rest.
I loved the first three books in the series, but one thing always bothered me. I felt that the characters sometimes made choices that served to move the plot forward, but at the expense of that character’s...well, character. They made choices that, having come to know them, I didn’t believe they ever would have made.
The Hollow Crown corrects that. The story moves forward and takes unexpected twists and turns, but the characters never did something that I didn’t believe them capable of. The seeds of their actions are sown in a believable way.
I’ve never written a book, but I’ve read a whole lot of them, and I feel like it’s not an uninformed opinion when I say that Wheeler’s writing has matured. He’s taken risks with this series, particularly in terms of casting his protagonists and antagonists, and those risks have borne fruit.
The Hollow Crown was a book that I read at the expense of my responsibilities. I didn’t want to put it down for a moment. It’s a book that I will think of in idle moments for a long time. I will wonder what will happen next. I will think about the characters and hope that they are happy. I will close my eyes and listen for the whisper of the Fountain.
December 30, 2024
"He who is not contented with what he has would not be contended with what he would like to have."
Review to come.
Review to come.
Revenge is drinking poison. One who is injured ought not return the injury, for on no account can it be right to do an injustice; and it is not right to do evil to any man, however much we have suffered from him.
April 27, 2018
So the focus on the children just didn't quite work for me. Neither did the reliance on prophecy related tellings and Fountain given gifts to push the story along. For the first point, the children are simply not as interesting as their parents. None of their characters gripped me in the same way and made me feel as though I had to be part of their story. This is perhaps because having spent three books with the parents they are, quite understandably, the focus of my attention... but they are not the authors.
On my second point, there was far less of a reliance on people figuring things out for themselves; it is replaced by knowledge from the Fountain, or visions of the future. This really impacted on the character development as Wheeler no longer uses the Fountain to supplement his characters but actively changes his characters based on generic data dumps from either the Fountain or the visions. Whereas the Fountain gifts had previously been used with subtlety, here there was all the tact and subtlety of an adolescent moose.
It's a lazy way of writing in short. In all of the previous novels, the people were more important than the powers. Here, the power changes the person completely. If you want your character to become a superb swordsman, then let her learn and train and damn well earn it... instead of getting to a middling level and then going the Fountain grants you awesomeness. It's a tactic that drives me mad when it is overly relied on, and it is relied on far too much here. There isn't any cleverness or wiliness to the characters and nobody has to work to get better at anything; the Fountain provides. There isn't any other description than this is lazy writing. This novel is the story of an author who has figured out how he can make a few more bucks from a story without being heavily invested in the characters. It reads in the way I would anticipate mediocre fanfiction to read, rather than a serious entry in a continued series.
My final issue is that the story stops halfway through. Essentially you could condense the first half the book and then whatever the sequel is to be - and there is definitely no. 5, no doubt about that - it should be the same book. This just stops rather than finishes and it shouldn't which is once more a sign of an author whose heart simply isn't in it. It leaves the story unfinished, closing on an inhale rather than an exhale. It's not even a proper cliff hanger, it just stops and leaves you dangling rather than hanging.
On my second point, there was far less of a reliance on people figuring things out for themselves; it is replaced by knowledge from the Fountain, or visions of the future. This really impacted on the character development as Wheeler no longer uses the Fountain to supplement his characters but actively changes his characters based on generic data dumps from either the Fountain or the visions. Whereas the Fountain gifts had previously been used with subtlety, here there was all the tact and subtlety of an adolescent moose.
It's a lazy way of writing in short. In all of the previous novels, the people were more important than the powers. Here, the power changes the person completely. If you want your character to become a superb swordsman, then let her learn and train and damn well earn it... instead of getting to a middling level and then going the Fountain grants you awesomeness. It's a tactic that drives me mad when it is overly relied on, and it is relied on far too much here. There isn't any cleverness or wiliness to the characters and nobody has to work to get better at anything; the Fountain provides. There isn't any other description than this is lazy writing. This novel is the story of an author who has figured out how he can make a few more bucks from a story without being heavily invested in the characters. It reads in the way I would anticipate mediocre fanfiction to read, rather than a serious entry in a continued series.
My final issue is that the story stops halfway through. Essentially you could condense the first half the book and then whatever the sequel is to be - and there is definitely no. 5, no doubt about that - it should be the same book. This just stops rather than finishes and it shouldn't which is once more a sign of an author whose heart simply isn't in it. It leaves the story unfinished, closing on an inhale rather than an exhale. It's not even a proper cliff hanger, it just stops and leaves you dangling rather than hanging.
October 18, 2017
I’d like to thank Jeff Wheeler, 47 North, and Netgalley for the free copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
This series continues to capture me through its covert connections to Medieval English history. This time we have a warrior queen similar to Bodicea and face painting with blue woad. These touches make this fantasy series so tantalizing to my mind.
In The Hollow Crown Wheeler allows the female characters to take the stage. Owen’s daughter is the lead, and she faces many trials. Courage does not only stem from a man’s heart. Due to an attack while still a small child half of Trynn’s face is paralyzed, similar to Bell’s Palsy. She feels ugly, but she she has a beautiful soul that must go up against some truly scummy people.
Of course Wheeler leaves the ending in the perfect place for the next book to pick up. In fact this may be his best ending yet. There is a war ahead. Who will lead the troops? Can the kingdom be saved?
This series continues to capture me through its covert connections to Medieval English history. This time we have a warrior queen similar to Bodicea and face painting with blue woad. These touches make this fantasy series so tantalizing to my mind.
In The Hollow Crown Wheeler allows the female characters to take the stage. Owen’s daughter is the lead, and she faces many trials. Courage does not only stem from a man’s heart. Due to an attack while still a small child half of Trynn’s face is paralyzed, similar to Bell’s Palsy. She feels ugly, but she she has a beautiful soul that must go up against some truly scummy people.
Of course Wheeler leaves the ending in the perfect place for the next book to pick up. In fact this may be his best ending yet. There is a war ahead. Who will lead the troops? Can the kingdom be saved?
December 28, 2018
I loved this one ♥
In book 4 - 6, we meet the second Generation at Kingfountain, I really like Trynne as the new main Character and it's nice to see most of the characters from the former books as well :)
In book 4 - 6, we meet the second Generation at Kingfountain, I really like Trynne as the new main Character and it's nice to see most of the characters from the former books as well :)
November 12, 2021
This is the first book of the second trilogy of the Kingfountain Series . Events enfold several years later and the main protagonist is the daughter of . The story evolved very slowly and was mostly happy and bliss-full reunions. Until - of course - there had to be a new thread, which in my opinion was a bit too forced (a savage horde?) and convenient . Finally, I disliked the Arthurian legend theme and was not convinced by the passages about equal rights. In summary, very ‘meh’! On the up side, these books are short and free, so, I’ll just quickly read through them – be warned though afterwards, I might need something bloody and devious (or maybe just some Sci-Fi to blend out the gallant knights and loyal damsels).
June 26, 2017
This, the 4th book in the Kingfountain series, begins several years after book 3 had left off. We have the same main characters but are now focused more on the lives of their children. Trynne, Daughter of Owen and Sania, is a beautifully written character. I so often read stories where the female lead is dependent, whining or not as developed as she should be. I enjoyed her character and was pleased that she was just as likeable as her Fathers male character was in the previous books. I found myself rooting for her and although her affliction is something she is embarrassed by she does not excessively dwell on it . I wish there was More and can not wait for the next book in the series. I will definitely look for more work from Jeff Wheeler.
October 14, 2017
Be sure to read the "Author's Note" at the conclusion of the book. This is another great book with a secret heroine and a secret villain. So much of this tale is brilliant with an eye toward Arthurian legend. It has its own story to tell and takes no back seat to any other. I listened to the Audible version while reading it with wonderful narration.
March 16, 2019
I have been enjoying this series of YA books based on a retelling of the Arthurian Legends.
January 20, 2018
No spoilers.
Book number four picks up approx. 12-14 years after the events of book three, creating a new arc in the series. Here we are presented with the children of the main characters we loved.
All is not well after the daughter, Tryneowy, of Owen Kiskaddon gets attacked by an unknown enemy, we realize that there is a force at work to bring down the kingdom and the world. Being the daughter of Owen she has grown up learning military strategy and diplomacy, and is also blessed with powers.
Can she with the aid of others, find and defeat the enemy???
Book number four picks up approx. 12-14 years after the events of book three, creating a new arc in the series. Here we are presented with the children of the main characters we loved.
All is not well after the daughter, Tryneowy, of Owen Kiskaddon gets attacked by an unknown enemy, we realize that there is a force at work to bring down the kingdom and the world. Being the daughter of Owen she has grown up learning military strategy and diplomacy, and is also blessed with powers.
Can she with the aid of others, find and defeat the enemy???
February 14, 2020
I am loving that the author has continued the series with the second generation. So many times you have a series that you love and you wish you knew what happened to the characters after the story ends. In this case you get to find out.
January 10, 2019
This review may contain spoilers for the first three books in the series!
I love reading Jeff Wheeler's books because they make me feel comfortable and they never disappoint. I've read books 1-3 in the Kingfountain series a while ago (the first book being The Queen's Poisoner) and fell in love with Wheeler's storytelling. So when I saw that he continued this series I knew I would pick it up for sure eventually.
The story of the second trilogy focuses mainly on Trynne, the daughter of the first trilogy's main character Owen and his wife Sinia. At the beginning of the story, young Trynne is attacked by one of Owen's old enemies and left with one side of her face paralysed. She grows up knowing that she is supposed to become her mothers heir as a powerful Wizr (or mage), but she would rather train to become a knight and protect the king. However, when evil forces try to invade Ceredigion and claim the crown, Trynne has to find the power to safe everyone.
I liked that we now get a female main protagonist instead of continuing with Owen's POV. However, it's great to see him and other characters from the first trilogy through the eyes of his daughter. Owen and Trynne are very close and similar in a lot of ways, but Trynne is definitely also her own character. Wheeler manages again to write great relationships, not only between Trynne and her family, but also between her and various characters such as her childhood friend Fallon or even the Queen, Fallon's sister. Even though the concept of writing a female lead that rather wants to take up a male role than what others have chosen for her isn't new, I always like seeing it and seeing it down well. Trynne is a fierce and loyal character who doesn't shy away from responsibility and has a lot to sacrifice in order to safe the people she loves and the kingdom she lives in. Even though some plot points felt a bit conveniently solved, I still enjoyed being back in this world immensely and can only recommend this series if you haven't picked it up yet!
I love reading Jeff Wheeler's books because they make me feel comfortable and they never disappoint. I've read books 1-3 in the Kingfountain series a while ago (the first book being The Queen's Poisoner) and fell in love with Wheeler's storytelling. So when I saw that he continued this series I knew I would pick it up for sure eventually.
The story of the second trilogy focuses mainly on Trynne, the daughter of the first trilogy's main character Owen and his wife Sinia. At the beginning of the story, young Trynne is attacked by one of Owen's old enemies and left with one side of her face paralysed. She grows up knowing that she is supposed to become her mothers heir as a powerful Wizr (or mage), but she would rather train to become a knight and protect the king. However, when evil forces try to invade Ceredigion and claim the crown, Trynne has to find the power to safe everyone.
I liked that we now get a female main protagonist instead of continuing with Owen's POV. However, it's great to see him and other characters from the first trilogy through the eyes of his daughter. Owen and Trynne are very close and similar in a lot of ways, but Trynne is definitely also her own character. Wheeler manages again to write great relationships, not only between Trynne and her family, but also between her and various characters such as her childhood friend Fallon or even the Queen, Fallon's sister. Even though the concept of writing a female lead that rather wants to take up a male role than what others have chosen for her isn't new, I always like seeing it and seeing it down well. Trynne is a fierce and loyal character who doesn't shy away from responsibility and has a lot to sacrifice in order to safe the people she loves and the kingdom she lives in. Even though some plot points felt a bit conveniently solved, I still enjoyed being back in this world immensely and can only recommend this series if you haven't picked it up yet!
December 4, 2021
Review to come soon!!
June 13, 2017
If you are looking for what I call a "fluff" book (one that you don't have to think about much and can usually finish in a couple of hours) then this isn't the book for you. If you want a book that will linger in your mind for days (or weeks) after you've finished it, and, when it's over make you feel as if you've spent time with a great friend then this IS the book for you.
I've been a fan of Jeff Wheeler for years. I was first captivated by his stories when I became friends with Lia in The Wretched of Muirwood. Her story, along with the pethet, Colvin, left me hungering for more. I devoured these books and have read them many times since. These stories are still some of my favorite books-ever. Having said that, I feel that Wheeler has really matured as a writer. I think he has really found his stride with the Kingsfountain series. I love the world that he's built and the magic that the Fountain gives to those blessed by it. Tales of magic have been around for generations, but no one does magic like Wheeler.
The Hollow Crown begins many years after The King's Traitor ends. King Drew has grown and matured on the throne and with his faithful advisor, Owen Kiskaddon, his kingdom has lived in relative peace and prosperity for years. Now, on the eve of his marriage, he and his people are faced with a new threat-unlike any they've ever seen before.
Owen's daughter, Tryneowy, has been blessed by the Fountain. With two powerful Fountain-blessed parents, much is expected of her. Though her parents wish her to follow in her mother's footsteps and become a Wizr, Trynne longs to be by her father's side studying battle stratum and learning to defend the kingdom. She wants to be obedient and please her parents but she feels this drive to be true to herself and go against tradition that says a woman can't fight to defend her home and country. As she listens to the whisperings of the Fountain she's swept away on a life altering course that just might change, and save, her world. I'll be waiting with baited breath to see how Trynne's world changes with her.
I received an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I've been a fan of Jeff Wheeler for years. I was first captivated by his stories when I became friends with Lia in The Wretched of Muirwood. Her story, along with the pethet, Colvin, left me hungering for more. I devoured these books and have read them many times since. These stories are still some of my favorite books-ever. Having said that, I feel that Wheeler has really matured as a writer. I think he has really found his stride with the Kingsfountain series. I love the world that he's built and the magic that the Fountain gives to those blessed by it. Tales of magic have been around for generations, but no one does magic like Wheeler.
The Hollow Crown begins many years after The King's Traitor ends. King Drew has grown and matured on the throne and with his faithful advisor, Owen Kiskaddon, his kingdom has lived in relative peace and prosperity for years. Now, on the eve of his marriage, he and his people are faced with a new threat-unlike any they've ever seen before.
Owen's daughter, Tryneowy, has been blessed by the Fountain. With two powerful Fountain-blessed parents, much is expected of her. Though her parents wish her to follow in her mother's footsteps and become a Wizr, Trynne longs to be by her father's side studying battle stratum and learning to defend the kingdom. She wants to be obedient and please her parents but she feels this drive to be true to herself and go against tradition that says a woman can't fight to defend her home and country. As she listens to the whisperings of the Fountain she's swept away on a life altering course that just might change, and save, her world. I'll be waiting with baited breath to see how Trynne's world changes with her.
I received an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2018
Received from Netgalley for honest read and review.
Another brilliant book in the Kingfountain series. I have loved the first three books and I was not sure if this would keep me entertained,but once again it was really entertaining and enjoyable.
Have already started the next one.
Recommend this one.
Another brilliant book in the Kingfountain series. I have loved the first three books and I was not sure if this would keep me entertained,but once again it was really entertaining and enjoyable.
Have already started the next one.
Recommend this one.
July 23, 2017
I won this Kindle edition through a Goodreads giveaway. Thank you!
This book was difficult for me to read. I so enjoyed the first three books of the Kingfountain series and it was hard for me to see those beloved characters relegated to barely-there side characters. Like I hated how Owen was constantly referred to as Tyrnne's father like he wasn't a main character in his own right. And I had a hard time with Tyrnne herself. She was the typical ya heroine and there wasn't anything that set her apart. I felt like this was a book that could have benefited from chapters being told through different characters' viewpoints.
While I like the reworking of the Arthurian legend, it also meant that of course I knew the whole time that Morwenna was going to betray everyone. I just kept waiting for when it was going to happen.
However, the ending of the book was its saving grace for me. I loved the battle scene and Owen's mysterious disappearance. The king Gahalatine and his powerful Wizrs and super soldiers were so intriguing, making me want to know more about them.
I'm looking forward to the next book and finding out how all that happened at the end of the book is going to play out.
This book was difficult for me to read. I so enjoyed the first three books of the Kingfountain series and it was hard for me to see those beloved characters relegated to barely-there side characters. Like I hated how Owen was constantly referred to as Tyrnne's father like he wasn't a main character in his own right. And I had a hard time with Tyrnne herself. She was the typical ya heroine and there wasn't anything that set her apart. I felt like this was a book that could have benefited from chapters being told through different characters' viewpoints.
While I like the reworking of the Arthurian legend, it also meant that of course I knew the whole time that Morwenna was going to betray everyone. I just kept waiting for when it was going to happen.
However, the ending of the book was its saving grace for me. I loved the battle scene and Owen's mysterious disappearance. The king Gahalatine and his powerful Wizrs and super soldiers were so intriguing, making me want to know more about them.
I'm looking forward to the next book and finding out how all that happened at the end of the book is going to play out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2017
I was thrilled to find a fourth volume in this series! Loving fantasy as I do, each of the books in the Kingfountain series has been a fun ride into total escapism! Starting with The King's Poisoner, we get to follow the Kiskadden family, especially Owen, through palace intrigue, war, peace, love, and the magic of The Fountain.
I can't wait for Book Five: The Silent Shield to be released on August 22. It's been pre-ordered, and on that day will magically appear for me to enjoy!
I can't wait for Book Five: The Silent Shield to be released on August 22. It's been pre-ordered, and on that day will magically appear for me to enjoy!
March 5, 2020
Outstanding.
The fourth book in The Kingfountain Series, ‘The Hollow Crown’ is another wonderful foray into the kingdom of Ceredigion and the surrounding lands.
This book changes the focus of the story from Owen Kiskaddon to his daughter, Tryneowy, and the reader is once again drawn into the intrigue and adventure of life among the noble families, wizrs, the fountain-blessed folk, and the villains who conspire against them. It is an exciting and enchanting tale in which the reader becomes deeply immersed. The storytelling is mesmerising and the settings and scenery are richly and vividly drawn.
Tryneowy’s story is both compelling and interesting. As she grows up, she becomes a young woman of strength and determination, guided by her ethics and loyal to her loved ones and the oaths she makes. She is a character that young women can admire, speaking up for equality in an era where women were not able to do all that men could, and showing that people should be valued for their integrity and abilities regardless of gender.
Readers who have not read the previous books in this series will find this to be a complete story on its own, and thoroughly enjoyable as such.
There is, however, a profound sense of being part of something much bigger—an overarching, ‘big picture’ narrative — and evening a sense of belonging that the reader develops throughout this most excellent series. This is the magic and allure of Wheeler’s writing and the world he has created with Kingfountain and the Kiskaddons at its centre.
The fourth book in The Kingfountain Series, ‘The Hollow Crown’ is another wonderful foray into the kingdom of Ceredigion and the surrounding lands.
This book changes the focus of the story from Owen Kiskaddon to his daughter, Tryneowy, and the reader is once again drawn into the intrigue and adventure of life among the noble families, wizrs, the fountain-blessed folk, and the villains who conspire against them. It is an exciting and enchanting tale in which the reader becomes deeply immersed. The storytelling is mesmerising and the settings and scenery are richly and vividly drawn.
Tryneowy’s story is both compelling and interesting. As she grows up, she becomes a young woman of strength and determination, guided by her ethics and loyal to her loved ones and the oaths she makes. She is a character that young women can admire, speaking up for equality in an era where women were not able to do all that men could, and showing that people should be valued for their integrity and abilities regardless of gender.
Readers who have not read the previous books in this series will find this to be a complete story on its own, and thoroughly enjoyable as such.
There is, however, a profound sense of being part of something much bigger—an overarching, ‘big picture’ narrative — and evening a sense of belonging that the reader develops throughout this most excellent series. This is the magic and allure of Wheeler’s writing and the world he has created with Kingfountain and the Kiskaddons at its centre.
December 2, 2017
The 4th book in this series jumps forward in time. The true heir is on the thrown, and we follow Trynne, Owen's fountain blessed daughter. She is smart and headstrong - very similar to Evie at that age - and wants to become a knight on the Wizr board instead of following her mother's footsteps as a Wizr. The realm, after years of relative peace, is faced with a new, more powerful threat from abroad. Trynne is charged with an important mission by the Fountain itself - she must become a knight and do it all in secret.
I read a lot of books to preview for our school library (K-8). While this series was not on my list for that purpose, I think it would be a great middle school read. There is no bad language, very little hormones or sex, and while there is some violence, it is typical of this genre and not overly graphic.
I read a lot of books to preview for our school library (K-8). While this series was not on my list for that purpose, I think it would be a great middle school read. There is no bad language, very little hormones or sex, and while there is some violence, it is typical of this genre and not overly graphic.
August 23, 2019
I love books that are in a world familiar to us but offer a fresh and exciting new storyline. The Hollow Crown continues the saga of Kingfountain through the eyes of Trynne, the daughter of Owen and Sinia. We get to experience new worlds, noble and devious characters, and even bigger threats than in the first three books. What a ride. I love it.
September 18, 2019
Yep! This series is definitely addictive! My whole family is listening to the series except Brent. The kids are enjoying them as much as me and keep telling me to listen faster. It was a little bit of a switch going from Owen being the main character to his daughter taking that spot. It is still engaging and a great story, it just took me a while to love Trynne like I love Owen.
January 8, 2020
Was okay. Wasn't as good as the first 3 books.
Following a new generation and a different charaters that could be why I felt it was meh.
Tryneow wants to be a soldier nor a wirs. She wants to save the King.
War is coming.
Betrayal is near.
Will continue on interested to see how the last few books go.
Following a new generation and a different charaters that could be why I felt it was meh.
Tryneow wants to be a soldier nor a wirs. She wants to save the King.
War is coming.
Betrayal is near.
Will continue on interested to see how the last few books go.
April 18, 2020
Well, sir, I am well and truly caught. The epilogue just killed me. The true test of a series is that you keep them buying the next volume to find out what happens, and you charge more for the book which they gladly pay. This story never pauses, never sleeps and never lets up. Thank you, Jeff, for another riveting tale.
January 9, 2026
3.5 Stars - rounded up because almost every other plot line remains interesting to me.
This was so close to being a 5 star read. And then the reveal in the epilogue just outraged me. It feels cliche and annoying and I’ll finish the series but I’m not going to be happy about this plot point and you can’t make me.
This was so close to being a 5 star read. And then the reveal in the epilogue just outraged me. It feels cliche and annoying and I’ll finish the series but I’m not going to be happy about this plot point and you can’t make me.
February 23, 2018
I enjoyed this new start of a trilogy. takes place many years after the first set, yet has some of the same people to help learn the new characters. love the King Arthur twist that is woven throughout the book. can't wait for #5!
February 8, 2020
4.5/5.0
I am in awe of how tightly written this entire series is. It's a clean, suspenseful ride without sinking into utter darkness.
This particular installment is both a continuation and a beginning. The world and characters spill over from the first three Kingfountain books but the characters are the next generation. And while the characters begin as young adults, they grow over the course of the books into adults so the experience is very rich and nuanced.
I am in awe of how tightly written this entire series is. It's a clean, suspenseful ride without sinking into utter darkness.
This particular installment is both a continuation and a beginning. The world and characters spill over from the first three Kingfountain books but the characters are the next generation. And while the characters begin as young adults, they grow over the course of the books into adults so the experience is very rich and nuanced.
June 25, 2017
EMOTIONS. THAT IS ALL.
October 12, 2017
So fun!
Loved the first three in the series, enjoyed the Maid side story, now enjoying the romp with the Fountain in a new trilogy. Only sad I cannot have all three books right now.
Loved the first three in the series, enjoyed the Maid side story, now enjoying the romp with the Fountain in a new trilogy. Only sad I cannot have all three books right now.
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