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Dragons Rising #2
Band of Breakers
Vahly is changed. Power sizzles beneath her skin.
The earth's heartbeat drums inside her, driving her to the distant western mountains and the sunken ruins of the last Earth Queen's city.
The earth's heartbeat drums inside her, driving her to the distant western mountains and the sunken ruins of the last Earth Queen's city.
Discover the series that fans of Tamora Pierce, Sarah J. Maas, Ursula K. LeGuin, and Christopher Paolini are raving about!
If you love elves, dragons, gryphons, magic, mages, wizards, and epic fantasy with a touch of slow burn romance, you'll love the Dragons Rising series.228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 19, 2019
259 people are currently reading
466 people want to read
About the author
Alisha Klapheke
51 books780 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Alisha Klapheke strives to write fantasy romance inspired by history and informed by her travel worldwide.
*Get a Deluxe Collector's Edition of Dragons Rising with faux leather, sprayed edges, and gold foil today https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/...
*Get a Deluxe Collector's Edition of Dragons Rising with faux leather, sprayed edges, and gold foil today https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
February 8, 2020
As much as I enjoyed the interactions between Vahly, Arc and Nix...then additionally Kyril, I didn’t like this book. The writing is well done and the pace is usually good. But many of the situations were so contrived, and brought about either unrealistically, or with no development, that I kept having to suspend my logic just to get through it. Then the random sweeping descriptions of things that really didn’t matter...it was way too short on content and way too long on filler. I’m curious about the end of the story but I’m no longer loving it. I was disappointed. Centuries old warriors aren’t idiots who never check a perimeter, are always caught unawares by foes and don’t know to keep an eye out during reconnaissance. So disappointing.
March 18, 2021
The world building gets better with each installment. The new creatures introduced in Band of Breakers add so much to the overall composition of the group. Vahly and Arc have such an interesting (and increasingly intense) relationship. I have to wonder why Vahly's journey to awakening her magic has her going all over Sugarrabota but it does give the reader the chance to really connect with the characters and the world. There are some hard times found here, but when you are trying to save the world, that's not much of a suprise.
August 31, 2020
Vahly has the earth magic at her fingertips, but the journey to claim it fully and become the Earth Queen is far from its end.
Emerging of the Earth Queen might have united the dragons and the elves on the surface, but there are still rogues who swore no fealty. Also, the enemy number one, the Sea Queen and her minions, are on their war path and won't stop until the world is flooded. Under such circumstances, Vahly would need all the luck and the best allies as her backup to at least survive.
Imaginative and fascinating world full of magic and wonders is pictured on the pages. I thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful places, amazing magic, powerful beasts, and strong bonds described in the book. The story developed quite nicely, and there were some really action-packed scenes. I still could not find a strong connection to the characters, they felt kind of flat and some of the interactions forced, yet the world building compensated nicely the shortcomings (in my view).
Emerging of the Earth Queen might have united the dragons and the elves on the surface, but there are still rogues who swore no fealty. Also, the enemy number one, the Sea Queen and her minions, are on their war path and won't stop until the world is flooded. Under such circumstances, Vahly would need all the luck and the best allies as her backup to at least survive.
Imaginative and fascinating world full of magic and wonders is pictured on the pages. I thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful places, amazing magic, powerful beasts, and strong bonds described in the book. The story developed quite nicely, and there were some really action-packed scenes. I still could not find a strong connection to the characters, they felt kind of flat and some of the interactions forced, yet the world building compensated nicely the shortcomings (in my view).
October 21, 2020
This book quickly launches into the action, picking up where the last book left off. Without the slower build that the first book necessarily needed to set the stage, I think I ended up liking this second book even better!
The stakes are raised as the little band of heroes tries to find a way to awaken the main girl's magic and save the entire world from being drowned underwater. I'm sooooo loving the slow build of the human-elf romance that is developing. I can't wait to see where they go from here!
And the cliff hanger at the end of the book...eeep! I really need the next book now!
Also, I listened to the audiobook version, which was really well done!
The stakes are raised as the little band of heroes tries to find a way to awaken the main girl's magic and save the entire world from being drowned underwater. I'm sooooo loving the slow build of the human-elf romance that is developing. I can't wait to see where they go from here!
And the cliff hanger at the end of the book...eeep! I really need the next book now!
Also, I listened to the audiobook version, which was really well done!
August 15, 2019
As usual, Alisha doesn’t disappoint. I devoured this in a few days. We see Vahly begin to come into her own as Earth Queen, and begin to get a sense of what she can do. It’s fast-paced, and the action just keeps unfolding. I love the comaraderie, humour, suspense, and clean romance. At the end it says: “Alisha won’t keep you waiting long to find out what happens next!” She’d better not! I received this as an ARC copy, with no obligation.
July 6, 2019
Fabulous! A wildly entertaining adventure full of danger around every corner. I loved the characters and enjoyed watching them interact with one another along. The various twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat and ending left me begging for more!
April 10, 2022
Review for “Band of Breakers” by Alisha Klapheke
It’s the second book from the “Dragons Rising” series written by Alisha Klapheke. The story focuses on Vahly’s quest to find the source of her magic to fulfill her destiny as the next Earth Queen along with her comrades, Nix and Arc.
The author attracts the readers through her unique writing style. The world created by her reminds us of Greek and Norse mythology, medieval legends and fairy tales. We will travel on air, land and sea with the main characters, overcoming obstacles and preparing for the battle against the Sea Queen.
One of the most important themes discussed in the novel is the rite of passage. Vahly has to leave her childish side behind and take her quest seriously. Not only that she will learn about her past, but a new member will join the group. It’s a legendary creature known to be the guardian of the divine and the symbol of pride, wisdom and divine power.
Grief is a topic explored throughout the storyline because memories of the departed loved ones flood the mind of various characters, making them lose focus on their tasks for a few minutes. Each manages to accept it and use it to strengthen him or her.
Like the Earth Queen, we have to follow our instinct from time to time and learn that there is always hope when we least expect it. She becomes determined, responsible, mature and powerful in the end.
The novel tackles serious issues like abuse, toxic parents, misinformation, racism, discrimination, overprotective mother, and freedom of speech, tyranny, and cruelty against animals like in the scene where Baz tries to kill a small griffin, the relationship between brother and sister and between parents and their children.
We will learn that nothing is what is seems and it depends on the information and education we receive through our lives. Bravery, honesty, confidence, wisdom, intellect, resourcefulness, friendship, forgiveness, generosity and other virtues are explored within the book.
However, astute readers will notice the small similarities with Richard H. Stephens’ “The Soul Forge Saga” and the “Legends of the Lurker” series, K. M. Jenkins’ “Tales of Ferres” series, Sophie Audouin-Mamikonian’s the “Tara Duncan” series, J. K. Rowling’s the “Harry Potter” series, J. R. R. Tolkien’s the “Lord of the Rings” series and Allison D. Reid’s the “Wind Rider Chronicles” series.
Vahly is afraid of spiders like Ron Weasley from the „Harry Potter” series. The Spirit of the Water that helps the trio in the first chapter reminds us of the Lady of the Lake from the Arthurian legends.
Nix’s character is similar to Fafnir’s from Sophie Audouin-Mamikonian’s „Tara Duncan” series, since both characters are edgy stubborn tough warriors with a sense of humor that often argue with their teammates.
Arc’s character is similar to Robin’s from the „Tara Duncan” series and Istan from the „Nightmares of Ferres” from the „Tales of Ferres” series by K. M. Jenkins, since the three characters are calm, wise, knowledgeable, fearless powerful elf warriors.
Amona is like Holy Wednesday and Holy Sunday from the Romanian fairy tales, good old ladies that help the main characters in their quest by giving them hints and sharing their wisdom with them. She is a mother figure to Vahly and like Harap Alb’s father; she cares deeply about her child and warns her about the dangers of the outside world.
The Watcher’s hag-like appearance and prophetic abilities reminds us of the Moirai or Fates from the Greek mythology, the Three Witches from William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” and the sea witch from Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Little Mermaid”. She speaks in riddles and gives cryptic explanations like Yoda from the “Star Wars” series.
Queen Astraea is an image of Karkon from “The Girl of the Sixth Moon” series by Moony Witcher, Dolores Umbridge and Lord Voldemort from the “Harry Potter” series due to her cruelty to others, even her followers, her thirst for power, obsession with world domination, and the fact that she mostly prefers to send others to do her dirty work regardless of the cost.
There are some things with symbolic meanings namely, green – harmony, nature, greed, prosperity, balance, materialism, possessiveness; purple – royalty, mystery, imagination, compassion, emotional, arrogance; white – innocence, simplicity, coldness; silver – strength, clarity, focus, the destruction of evil; gold – higher ideals, enlightening, knowledge, energy and power of the sun; jade – nobility, wealth, avarice and pride in the novel; lapis lazuli – royalty, honor, deity, power, spirit, vision, wisdom, truth, humility, discretion, sensitivity to the needs of others; olive tree – peace and friendship; oak tree – power, survival and ancient wisdom; cedar tree – strength, support, connection and hope; grapevine – sacrifice, love from the divine; water – grace, power, metamorphosis, motion, the undifferentiated chaos; earth – the great mother, fertility, strength, creativity, longevity; fire – passion, desire, destruction, rebirth and resurrection, hope, purification; air – life, communication, power of the mind, serenity etc.
Mystery, unexpected surprises, suspense, adventure, danger, love, magic, dragons, elves, griffins are the right words to describe this book.
Together with J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, J. K. Rowling, Laura S. Gotz, Sînziana Popescu, Miruna Ursache, Diana Geacăr, Moony Witcher, Elena Kedros, Rick Riordan, Emily Martha Sorensen, Katie Jenkins, Todd Fahnestock, Eileen Mueller, Richard H. Stephens, S. A. Patrick, Laura Daleo, B. K. Boes, Nicole Zoltack, A. G. Roemmers, Anabel Bright, Sarah K. L. Wilson, Joss Walker and R. L. Perez, Dani Hoots and many others, Alisha Klapheke revolutionized the fantasy genre with her imagination.
I recommend this book to readers 14+ because some scenes are too scary for younger readers.
Recenzie – “Banda de Rebeli” de Alisha Klapheke
Este al doilea volum din seria “Revolta Dragonilor” de Alisha Klapheke. Povestea se axează pe călătoria lui Vahly în căutarea sursei puterilor ei magice pentru a-și îndeplini destinul de Regină a Pământului alături de prietenii ei, Nix și Arc.
Autoarea îi atrage pe cititori prin stilul unic. Lumea creată de ea ne amintește de mitologia greacă și nordică, legendele medievale și basme. Vom călători pe calea aerului, uscatului și a apei alături de personajele principale, trecând peste obstacole și pregătindu-ne pentru lupta împotriva Reginei Mării.
Una dintre cele mai importante teme discutate în roman este ritul de trecere. Vahly trebuie să lase copilăria în urmă și să ia în serios călătoria. Nu numai că va învăța despre trecutul ei, dar un nou membru se va alătura grupului ei. Este un animal legendar cunoscut drept paznicul zeilor și întruchiparea mândriei, înțelepciunii și a puterii divine.
Mâhnirea este un subiect explorat de-a lungul acțiunii pentru că amintirile despre persoanele dragi decedate le inundă mintea diferitelor personaje, făcându-le să-și piardă concentrarea asupra sarcinilor pentru câteva minute. Fiecare reușește să o accepte și să o folosească să-l întărească.
Asemeni Reginei Pământului, trebuie să ne urmăm instinctul din când în când și să învățăm că mereu există speranță atunci când ne așteptăm mai puțin. Ea devine hotărâtă, responsabilă, matură și puternică în cele din urmă.
În roman sunt abordate probleme serioase ca abuzul, părinții toxici, dezinformarea, rasismul, discriminarea, mama “cloșcă”, libertatea de exprimare, tirania, cruzimea față de animale ca în scena în care Baz încearcă să ucidă un pui de grifon, relația frate-soră și părinți-copii.
Vom învăța că nimic nu este ceea ce pare și că totul depinde de informațiile și educația pe care le primim de-a lungul vieții. Curajul, sinceritatea, încrederea în sine, înțelepciunea, inteligența, ingeniozitatea, prietenia, iertarea, generozitatea și multe alte virtuți sunt explorate în carte.
Totuși, cititorii experimentați vor observa câteva asemănări cu seriile “Soul Forge Saga” și “Legendele lui Lurker” de Richard H. Stephens, seria „Povești din Pădurea Magică” de K. M. Jenkins, seria „Tara Duncan” de Sophie Audouin-Mamikonian, seria “Harry Potter” de J. K. Rowling, seria „Stăpânul Inelelor” de J. R. R. Tolkien și seria „Cronicile Călărețului Vânturilor” de Allison D. Reid.
Lui Vahly îi este frică de păianjeni asemeni lui Ron Weasley din seria „Harry Potter”. Spiritul din Apă care îi ajută pe cei trei călători în primul capitol ne aduce aminte de Doamna Lacului din legendele arthuriene.
Caracterul lui Nix este similar cu al lui Fafnir din seria „Tara Duncan” de Sophie Audouin-Mamikonian pentru că ambele personaje sunt războinice țâfnoase, încăpățânate și dure, cu un simț al umorului care mereu se ceartă cu ceilalți coechipieri.
Firea lui Arc este asemănătoare cu a lui Robin din seria „Tara Duncan” și a lui Istan din „Coșmarul din Pădurea Magică” din seria “Povești din Pădurea Magică” de K. M. Jenkins pentru că cele trei personaje sunt elfi războinici calmi, înțelepți, documentați, neînfricați și puternici.
Amona se aseamănă cu Sfânta Miercuri și Sfânta Duminică din basmele românești, bătrâne bune care ajută personajele principale în timpul călătoriei, oferindu-le indicii și împărtășind înțelepciunea cu acestea. Ea este imaginea mamei pentru Vahly, iar asemeni tatălui lui Harap Alb îi pasă foarte mult de copilul ei și o avertizează de pericolele din lumea exterioară.
Înfățișarea de femeie bătrână slută și abilitățile profetice de care dispune Bătrâna Vrăjitoare ne amintesc de Moiraele sau Ursitoarele din mitologia greacă, cele trei vrăjitoare din piesa shakespeariană „Macbeth” și vrăjitoarea din basmul „Mica Sirenă” de Hans Christian Andersen. Ea spune ghicitori și oferă explicații criptice asemeni lui Yoda din seria “Războiul Stelelor”.
Regina Astraea se aseamănă cu Karkon din seria „Fetița Celei de-a Șasea Luni” de Moony Witcher, Dolores Umbridge și Cap de Mort din seria „Harry Potter” întrucât se comportă urât cu toată lumea, inclusiv cu discipolii ei, este însetată de putere, este obsedată de cucerirea lumii și preferă în mare parte să-i pună pe alții să-i facă treburile murdare indiferent de urmări.
Există anumite lucruri cu semnificații aparte cum ar fi: verdele – armonie, natură, lăcomie, prosperitate, echilibru, materialism, posesivitate; movul – regalitate, mister, imaginație, compasiune, emotivitate, aroganță; albul – inocență, simplitate, răceală; argintiul – forță fizică, claritate, concentrare, distrugerea răului; aurul – idealuri mărețe/ importante, informativ, cunoaștere/ cunoștințe, energie și putere solară; jadul – noblețe, bogăție, avariție și mândrie în roman; lapis lazuli – regalitate, onoare, divinitate, putere, spirit, viziune, înțelepciune, adevăr, modestie, discreție, sensibilitate la nevoile celorlalți; măslinul – pace și prietenie; stejarul – putere, supraviețuire și înțeleciune străveche; cedrul – forță fizică, sprijin, conexiune și speranță; vița-de-vie – sacrificiu, dragoste divină, sfântă; apa – eleganță, milă, putere, metamorfoză, mișcare, haosul nediferențiat; pământul – mama divină, fertilitate, forță fizică, creativitate, longevitate; focul – pasiune, dorință, țel, râvnă, distrugere, renaștere și înviere, speranță, purificare; aerul – viață, comunicare, puterea minții, liniște etc.
Misterul, surprizele neașteptate, suspansul, aventura, pericolul, iubirea, magia, dragonii, elfii, grifonii sunt cuvintele potrivite pentru a descrie această carte.
Alături de J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, J. K. Rowling, Laura S. Gotz, Sînziana Popescu, Miruna Ursache, Diana Geacăr, Moony Witcher, Elena Kedros, Rick Riordan, Emily Martha Sorensen, Katie Jenkins, Todd Fahnestock, Eileen Mueller, Richard H. Stephens, S. A. Patrick, Laura Daleo, B. K. Boes, Nicole Zoltack, A. G. Roemmers, Anabel Bright, Sarah K. L. Wilson, Joss Walker și R. L. Perez, Dani Hoots și mulți alții, Alisha Klapheke a revoluționat proza fantastică cu imaginația ei.
Recomand această carte cititorilor 14+ pentru că există scene prea înfricoșătoare pentru cititorii mai mici.
It’s the second book from the “Dragons Rising” series written by Alisha Klapheke. The story focuses on Vahly’s quest to find the source of her magic to fulfill her destiny as the next Earth Queen along with her comrades, Nix and Arc.
The author attracts the readers through her unique writing style. The world created by her reminds us of Greek and Norse mythology, medieval legends and fairy tales. We will travel on air, land and sea with the main characters, overcoming obstacles and preparing for the battle against the Sea Queen.
One of the most important themes discussed in the novel is the rite of passage. Vahly has to leave her childish side behind and take her quest seriously. Not only that she will learn about her past, but a new member will join the group. It’s a legendary creature known to be the guardian of the divine and the symbol of pride, wisdom and divine power.
Grief is a topic explored throughout the storyline because memories of the departed loved ones flood the mind of various characters, making them lose focus on their tasks for a few minutes. Each manages to accept it and use it to strengthen him or her.
Like the Earth Queen, we have to follow our instinct from time to time and learn that there is always hope when we least expect it. She becomes determined, responsible, mature and powerful in the end.
The novel tackles serious issues like abuse, toxic parents, misinformation, racism, discrimination, overprotective mother, and freedom of speech, tyranny, and cruelty against animals like in the scene where Baz tries to kill a small griffin, the relationship between brother and sister and between parents and their children.
We will learn that nothing is what is seems and it depends on the information and education we receive through our lives. Bravery, honesty, confidence, wisdom, intellect, resourcefulness, friendship, forgiveness, generosity and other virtues are explored within the book.
However, astute readers will notice the small similarities with Richard H. Stephens’ “The Soul Forge Saga” and the “Legends of the Lurker” series, K. M. Jenkins’ “Tales of Ferres” series, Sophie Audouin-Mamikonian’s the “Tara Duncan” series, J. K. Rowling’s the “Harry Potter” series, J. R. R. Tolkien’s the “Lord of the Rings” series and Allison D. Reid’s the “Wind Rider Chronicles” series.
Vahly is afraid of spiders like Ron Weasley from the „Harry Potter” series. The Spirit of the Water that helps the trio in the first chapter reminds us of the Lady of the Lake from the Arthurian legends.
Nix’s character is similar to Fafnir’s from Sophie Audouin-Mamikonian’s „Tara Duncan” series, since both characters are edgy stubborn tough warriors with a sense of humor that often argue with their teammates.
Arc’s character is similar to Robin’s from the „Tara Duncan” series and Istan from the „Nightmares of Ferres” from the „Tales of Ferres” series by K. M. Jenkins, since the three characters are calm, wise, knowledgeable, fearless powerful elf warriors.
Amona is like Holy Wednesday and Holy Sunday from the Romanian fairy tales, good old ladies that help the main characters in their quest by giving them hints and sharing their wisdom with them. She is a mother figure to Vahly and like Harap Alb’s father; she cares deeply about her child and warns her about the dangers of the outside world.
The Watcher’s hag-like appearance and prophetic abilities reminds us of the Moirai or Fates from the Greek mythology, the Three Witches from William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” and the sea witch from Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Little Mermaid”. She speaks in riddles and gives cryptic explanations like Yoda from the “Star Wars” series.
Queen Astraea is an image of Karkon from “The Girl of the Sixth Moon” series by Moony Witcher, Dolores Umbridge and Lord Voldemort from the “Harry Potter” series due to her cruelty to others, even her followers, her thirst for power, obsession with world domination, and the fact that she mostly prefers to send others to do her dirty work regardless of the cost.
There are some things with symbolic meanings namely, green – harmony, nature, greed, prosperity, balance, materialism, possessiveness; purple – royalty, mystery, imagination, compassion, emotional, arrogance; white – innocence, simplicity, coldness; silver – strength, clarity, focus, the destruction of evil; gold – higher ideals, enlightening, knowledge, energy and power of the sun; jade – nobility, wealth, avarice and pride in the novel; lapis lazuli – royalty, honor, deity, power, spirit, vision, wisdom, truth, humility, discretion, sensitivity to the needs of others; olive tree – peace and friendship; oak tree – power, survival and ancient wisdom; cedar tree – strength, support, connection and hope; grapevine – sacrifice, love from the divine; water – grace, power, metamorphosis, motion, the undifferentiated chaos; earth – the great mother, fertility, strength, creativity, longevity; fire – passion, desire, destruction, rebirth and resurrection, hope, purification; air – life, communication, power of the mind, serenity etc.
Mystery, unexpected surprises, suspense, adventure, danger, love, magic, dragons, elves, griffins are the right words to describe this book.
Together with J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, J. K. Rowling, Laura S. Gotz, Sînziana Popescu, Miruna Ursache, Diana Geacăr, Moony Witcher, Elena Kedros, Rick Riordan, Emily Martha Sorensen, Katie Jenkins, Todd Fahnestock, Eileen Mueller, Richard H. Stephens, S. A. Patrick, Laura Daleo, B. K. Boes, Nicole Zoltack, A. G. Roemmers, Anabel Bright, Sarah K. L. Wilson, Joss Walker and R. L. Perez, Dani Hoots and many others, Alisha Klapheke revolutionized the fantasy genre with her imagination.
I recommend this book to readers 14+ because some scenes are too scary for younger readers.
Recenzie – “Banda de Rebeli” de Alisha Klapheke
Este al doilea volum din seria “Revolta Dragonilor” de Alisha Klapheke. Povestea se axează pe călătoria lui Vahly în căutarea sursei puterilor ei magice pentru a-și îndeplini destinul de Regină a Pământului alături de prietenii ei, Nix și Arc.
Autoarea îi atrage pe cititori prin stilul unic. Lumea creată de ea ne amintește de mitologia greacă și nordică, legendele medievale și basme. Vom călători pe calea aerului, uscatului și a apei alături de personajele principale, trecând peste obstacole și pregătindu-ne pentru lupta împotriva Reginei Mării.
Una dintre cele mai importante teme discutate în roman este ritul de trecere. Vahly trebuie să lase copilăria în urmă și să ia în serios călătoria. Nu numai că va învăța despre trecutul ei, dar un nou membru se va alătura grupului ei. Este un animal legendar cunoscut drept paznicul zeilor și întruchiparea mândriei, înțelepciunii și a puterii divine.
Mâhnirea este un subiect explorat de-a lungul acțiunii pentru că amintirile despre persoanele dragi decedate le inundă mintea diferitelor personaje, făcându-le să-și piardă concentrarea asupra sarcinilor pentru câteva minute. Fiecare reușește să o accepte și să o folosească să-l întărească.
Asemeni Reginei Pământului, trebuie să ne urmăm instinctul din când în când și să învățăm că mereu există speranță atunci când ne așteptăm mai puțin. Ea devine hotărâtă, responsabilă, matură și puternică în cele din urmă.
În roman sunt abordate probleme serioase ca abuzul, părinții toxici, dezinformarea, rasismul, discriminarea, mama “cloșcă”, libertatea de exprimare, tirania, cruzimea față de animale ca în scena în care Baz încearcă să ucidă un pui de grifon, relația frate-soră și părinți-copii.
Vom învăța că nimic nu este ceea ce pare și că totul depinde de informațiile și educația pe care le primim de-a lungul vieții. Curajul, sinceritatea, încrederea în sine, înțelepciunea, inteligența, ingeniozitatea, prietenia, iertarea, generozitatea și multe alte virtuți sunt explorate în carte.
Totuși, cititorii experimentați vor observa câteva asemănări cu seriile “Soul Forge Saga” și “Legendele lui Lurker” de Richard H. Stephens, seria „Povești din Pădurea Magică” de K. M. Jenkins, seria „Tara Duncan” de Sophie Audouin-Mamikonian, seria “Harry Potter” de J. K. Rowling, seria „Stăpânul Inelelor” de J. R. R. Tolkien și seria „Cronicile Călărețului Vânturilor” de Allison D. Reid.
Lui Vahly îi este frică de păianjeni asemeni lui Ron Weasley din seria „Harry Potter”. Spiritul din Apă care îi ajută pe cei trei călători în primul capitol ne aduce aminte de Doamna Lacului din legendele arthuriene.
Caracterul lui Nix este similar cu al lui Fafnir din seria „Tara Duncan” de Sophie Audouin-Mamikonian pentru că ambele personaje sunt războinice țâfnoase, încăpățânate și dure, cu un simț al umorului care mereu se ceartă cu ceilalți coechipieri.
Firea lui Arc este asemănătoare cu a lui Robin din seria „Tara Duncan” și a lui Istan din „Coșmarul din Pădurea Magică” din seria “Povești din Pădurea Magică” de K. M. Jenkins pentru că cele trei personaje sunt elfi războinici calmi, înțelepți, documentați, neînfricați și puternici.
Amona se aseamănă cu Sfânta Miercuri și Sfânta Duminică din basmele românești, bătrâne bune care ajută personajele principale în timpul călătoriei, oferindu-le indicii și împărtășind înțelepciunea cu acestea. Ea este imaginea mamei pentru Vahly, iar asemeni tatălui lui Harap Alb îi pasă foarte mult de copilul ei și o avertizează de pericolele din lumea exterioară.
Înfățișarea de femeie bătrână slută și abilitățile profetice de care dispune Bătrâna Vrăjitoare ne amintesc de Moiraele sau Ursitoarele din mitologia greacă, cele trei vrăjitoare din piesa shakespeariană „Macbeth” și vrăjitoarea din basmul „Mica Sirenă” de Hans Christian Andersen. Ea spune ghicitori și oferă explicații criptice asemeni lui Yoda din seria “Războiul Stelelor”.
Regina Astraea se aseamănă cu Karkon din seria „Fetița Celei de-a Șasea Luni” de Moony Witcher, Dolores Umbridge și Cap de Mort din seria „Harry Potter” întrucât se comportă urât cu toată lumea, inclusiv cu discipolii ei, este însetată de putere, este obsedată de cucerirea lumii și preferă în mare parte să-i pună pe alții să-i facă treburile murdare indiferent de urmări.
Există anumite lucruri cu semnificații aparte cum ar fi: verdele – armonie, natură, lăcomie, prosperitate, echilibru, materialism, posesivitate; movul – regalitate, mister, imaginație, compasiune, emotivitate, aroganță; albul – inocență, simplitate, răceală; argintiul – forță fizică, claritate, concentrare, distrugerea răului; aurul – idealuri mărețe/ importante, informativ, cunoaștere/ cunoștințe, energie și putere solară; jadul – noblețe, bogăție, avariție și mândrie în roman; lapis lazuli – regalitate, onoare, divinitate, putere, spirit, viziune, înțelepciune, adevăr, modestie, discreție, sensibilitate la nevoile celorlalți; măslinul – pace și prietenie; stejarul – putere, supraviețuire și înțeleciune străveche; cedrul – forță fizică, sprijin, conexiune și speranță; vița-de-vie – sacrificiu, dragoste divină, sfântă; apa – eleganță, milă, putere, metamorfoză, mișcare, haosul nediferențiat; pământul – mama divină, fertilitate, forță fizică, creativitate, longevitate; focul – pasiune, dorință, țel, râvnă, distrugere, renaștere și înviere, speranță, purificare; aerul – viață, comunicare, puterea minții, liniște etc.
Misterul, surprizele neașteptate, suspansul, aventura, pericolul, iubirea, magia, dragonii, elfii, grifonii sunt cuvintele potrivite pentru a descrie această carte.
Alături de J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, J. K. Rowling, Laura S. Gotz, Sînziana Popescu, Miruna Ursache, Diana Geacăr, Moony Witcher, Elena Kedros, Rick Riordan, Emily Martha Sorensen, Katie Jenkins, Todd Fahnestock, Eileen Mueller, Richard H. Stephens, S. A. Patrick, Laura Daleo, B. K. Boes, Nicole Zoltack, A. G. Roemmers, Anabel Bright, Sarah K. L. Wilson, Joss Walker și R. L. Perez, Dani Hoots și mulți alții, Alisha Klapheke a revoluționat proza fantastică cu imaginația ei.
Recomand această carte cititorilor 14+ pentru că există scene prea înfricoșătoare pentru cititorii mai mici.
April 9, 2021
The quest continues.
This was a very quick read. Total cliffhanger.
My predictions:
Ryton is the key to all of this. And his deceased sister. Astraea did something, I'm thinking...just not sure what yet.
So, Vahly has come into more magic! She's managed to find a gryphon egg, the ruins of a human city, a mortal enemy, and life long friends. Now, how long their lives will last is the question! Her earth magic is leading her around the continent on a mission of sorts. She has to collect all of the "checkmarks" in order for her full magic to ignite. Ignite might not be the best word but you know.
I liked the bit of steam between Vahly and Arc. Their relationship has slowly blossomed. Nix is not really herself; grief being a heavy cloak.
There's a sparse amount of profanities (2 that I can remember). No sex, some battle, no gore, some dark magic (creature included), that was gruesome to me, but mild compared to some other books I've read. Nothing else untoward. Definitely a YA.
On to the next!
This was a very quick read. Total cliffhanger.
My predictions:
Ryton is the key to all of this. And his deceased sister. Astraea did something, I'm thinking...just not sure what yet.
So, Vahly has come into more magic! She's managed to find a gryphon egg, the ruins of a human city, a mortal enemy, and life long friends. Now, how long their lives will last is the question! Her earth magic is leading her around the continent on a mission of sorts. She has to collect all of the "checkmarks" in order for her full magic to ignite. Ignite might not be the best word but you know.
I liked the bit of steam between Vahly and Arc. Their relationship has slowly blossomed. Nix is not really herself; grief being a heavy cloak.
There's a sparse amount of profanities (2 that I can remember). No sex, some battle, no gore, some dark magic (creature included), that was gruesome to me, but mild compared to some other books I've read. Nothing else untoward. Definitely a YA.
On to the next!
July 6, 2022
I am loving this series! Vahly and her friends set off to find other ways to gain her powers as the earth queen and find, among other things, an egg. And since there are already plenty of dragons, and so it can't be a dragon egg, we get a twist - a gryphon egg. Humans were known to love their pets after all. And this gryphon is everything we didn't know to hope for - just don't fight Vahly's love interest out of a misguided-yet-super-cute need to protect her! Complete with underwater adventures and a few "cons," this book is non-stop adventure from beginning to end. And of course, a cliff-hanger, making me thankful I have the entire series. You have been warned.
September 21, 2024
This is a reread but I'm not sure where my original review went, haha
But this book was such a great one! So much happens without feeling rushed, and the characters grow more and more as the story goes. I absolutely love the story, the characters, the setting, just all of it! Absolutely incredible read!
But this book was such a great one! So much happens without feeling rushed, and the characters grow more and more as the story goes. I absolutely love the story, the characters, the setting, just all of it! Absolutely incredible read!
April 26, 2021
Valhy is still on her quest with her closest friends
I listened to this book, voice was great, just like book 1.
Valhy has taken the first step in a series of steps to gain full access to her powers. She might have activated her Earth magic but there seems to be more to being the Earth Queen than merely activating those powers. She has no control over it. Yes, she feels the steady, powerful pulse of the earth and has moments she can do some things. And yes, it is quite handy that she has that activity right when it’s needed the most but with this you either see it as convenient or too easy and not worth your reading time but it can also be seen as her only being able to access that power instinctively and only when it is needed the most.
So mostly, she is lacking something or some action before she has total control or access. That can be seen as a means to drag out the storyline to some but to me, it suits the story, it can be seen as Valhy needing to activate her full power through bonding more and more with the earth and it’s -and her- magic. A nice change from the instant-power-gain that is in a lot of other books.
They don’t really know what to do beforehand, it’s just an instinctive pull that tucks at Valhy, pushing her forward towards the last Earth Queen’s city. Although sometimes that made me feel like I didn’t know whether I liked the story at that certain point but each time the story develops in a way that it truly overcomes those very, very short moments of insecurity.
Meanwhile the Sea Queen is still working towards her goal to flood the entire world. Which also means eliminating the Earth Queen before she becomes more powerful. The Sea Queen is a vicious cold-hearted “true villain” but there is a bit of insight in what motivates her that wouldn’t have been possible to achieve if this book or series where told from Valhy’s pov. The third-person point of view really tides this story together and makes for a steady, smooth reading pace.
All in all, I look forward to book 3!
I listened to this book, voice was great, just like book 1.
Valhy has taken the first step in a series of steps to gain full access to her powers. She might have activated her Earth magic but there seems to be more to being the Earth Queen than merely activating those powers. She has no control over it. Yes, she feels the steady, powerful pulse of the earth and has moments she can do some things. And yes, it is quite handy that she has that activity right when it’s needed the most but with this you either see it as convenient or too easy and not worth your reading time but it can also be seen as her only being able to access that power instinctively and only when it is needed the most.
So mostly, she is lacking something or some action before she has total control or access. That can be seen as a means to drag out the storyline to some but to me, it suits the story, it can be seen as Valhy needing to activate her full power through bonding more and more with the earth and it’s -and her- magic. A nice change from the instant-power-gain that is in a lot of other books.
They don’t really know what to do beforehand, it’s just an instinctive pull that tucks at Valhy, pushing her forward towards the last Earth Queen’s city. Although sometimes that made me feel like I didn’t know whether I liked the story at that certain point but each time the story develops in a way that it truly overcomes those very, very short moments of insecurity.
Meanwhile the Sea Queen is still working towards her goal to flood the entire world. Which also means eliminating the Earth Queen before she becomes more powerful. The Sea Queen is a vicious cold-hearted “true villain” but there is a bit of insight in what motivates her that wouldn’t have been possible to achieve if this book or series where told from Valhy’s pov. The third-person point of view really tides this story together and makes for a steady, smooth reading pace.
All in all, I look forward to book 3!
May 22, 2021
This is a great continuation of the series. The stakes get higher and higher, and Vahli comes into her magic more. I'm always on the edge of my seat with this series. A lot of stuff happens, but it's all spoilers so I can't really say much about it. What I can say is this was a really good progression of the story, and a lot of steps are taken to get Vahli to her final goal. I really like her familiar, and am excited to see him grow as a character. Once again, the relationships between Nix, Arc, and Vahli grow and are so great, and are a shining beacon in the darkness of this series.
There's a lot of action, and it's well written, and well paced. I'm always on the edge of my seat when something happens, as the author really has a knack for making a happy moment turn into something intense, and unexpected. There isn't really gore in this series, but the death toll is big considering this is a war we're in, and it feels real. You really feel the weight of it, and of what Vahli needs to do and that adds to the story as a whole.
One thing I didn't really like, was the spotlights on Queen Astraea. We get some of her back story in this, and it feels like we're supposed to feel a bit sorry for her. But to me, her past doesn't make up for all the horrible things she's done, and what she's trying to do and I think it just needed to be left out as she's a terrible person regardless. I hope she gets stopped, and Vahli can get revenge on her. Like I said, it just got me annoyed that we're supposed to possibly feel pity, when what she does is unjustifiable.
I enjoyed this book a lot. Good 2nd book in a series. What happened needed to happen, and I'm interested to see where the plot goes from here. On to book 3!
There's a lot of action, and it's well written, and well paced. I'm always on the edge of my seat when something happens, as the author really has a knack for making a happy moment turn into something intense, and unexpected. There isn't really gore in this series, but the death toll is big considering this is a war we're in, and it feels real. You really feel the weight of it, and of what Vahli needs to do and that adds to the story as a whole.
One thing I didn't really like, was the spotlights on Queen Astraea. We get some of her back story in this, and it feels like we're supposed to feel a bit sorry for her. But to me, her past doesn't make up for all the horrible things she's done, and what she's trying to do and I think it just needed to be left out as she's a terrible person regardless. I hope she gets stopped, and Vahli can get revenge on her. Like I said, it just got me annoyed that we're supposed to possibly feel pity, when what she does is unjustifiable.
I enjoyed this book a lot. Good 2nd book in a series. What happened needed to happen, and I'm interested to see where the plot goes from here. On to book 3!
July 7, 2019
In this the 2nd book in the Dragons Rising Series we travel with Vahly, Arcturus and Nix towards the Western Mountains going where Vahly’s magic was urging her to go before it was too late, but too late for what? All Vahly knew was that they had magic to follow and sea folk to overcome because once the flooding started no one knew how much time they had before the end began and Astraea, the Sea Queen was adamant on drowning all the land of Sugarrabota. So our trio of heroes travelled together following Valhi’s magic call, Nix is a dragon shifter and Arc is a Royal Elf and they had both sworn allegiance to Valhy as the Earth Queen, she was human but brought up by dragons and she was still new to her role and her magic was still very weak. They travelled to Bihotzetik, the last powerful hold of earth kind, hoping to find some clue there to fully wake her powers. Valhy had to survive her quest into the sea and make the risk they were all taking worthwhile, however General Ryton, Queen Astraea’s consort and the ocean’s fist was searching for Valhy and he was ruthless. I love the sense of danger and adventure in this novel, I also love Vahly’s little familiar who is such a darling and the fact that her two friends watch her back all the time, loyal to her and their cause. So much is resting on Vahly’s shoulders; can she overpower the arrogant and power hungry Sea Queen to save the three realms, that of human kynd, dragon kynd and elf kynd as she now gambles with her life and that of her friends? We will have to find out in the next book as this one leaves us hanging at the end, at a most precarious part of the book, thus clamouring for Book 3 in this very exciting series.
November 3, 2023
I was intrigued by the first in this series, I sped through the second in the series. It gained some of the depth that I was missing in the first novel, yet it kept the light YA feel that would make it attractive to younger readers as well. Vahly has started to unlock her Earth powers, but without several more steps she will never be able to challenge the Sea Queen. Her magic is leading her to a ruined city, long since taken over by the sea. It's a place no dragon can follow her, for the salt water is deadly to them.
Along with the additional depth, the characters here really started to come alive and aside from the obviously building romance between elf and human, I really enjoyed the dialogue between various characters and the relationships that were strengthening throughout. The sea scenes were also far less jarring in this novel as they felt more balanced and in keeping with the rest of the tone; it might just be there were more of them and we got to see the culture beneath the waves, not just tiny snapshots. I also loved the inclusion of the griffon egg and Vahly's new familiar. The world-building continues to be excellent and we get to see elements that were hinted at in the previous novel, yet not expanded on. I liked the glimpse we got of the Jade Dragon Call Breakers and the greater view of the undersea given how important it is to events.
In all, this is a great follow up to the first in the series and I'm excited to see where it goes next. It's clean and fairly light reading. There are some battles, dark magic and minor swears, but nothing that would be concerning.
Along with the additional depth, the characters here really started to come alive and aside from the obviously building romance between elf and human, I really enjoyed the dialogue between various characters and the relationships that were strengthening throughout. The sea scenes were also far less jarring in this novel as they felt more balanced and in keeping with the rest of the tone; it might just be there were more of them and we got to see the culture beneath the waves, not just tiny snapshots. I also loved the inclusion of the griffon egg and Vahly's new familiar. The world-building continues to be excellent and we get to see elements that were hinted at in the previous novel, yet not expanded on. I liked the glimpse we got of the Jade Dragon Call Breakers and the greater view of the undersea given how important it is to events.
In all, this is a great follow up to the first in the series and I'm excited to see where it goes next. It's clean and fairly light reading. There are some battles, dark magic and minor swears, but nothing that would be concerning.
February 2, 2023
I finally made it back to this series as I wanted a quest and some dragons and elves and humans trying to save the world.
In this second book we see the quest really starting with Vahly having to find answers that eventually might benefit all living things.
I found the story okay until I got to the end of this book.
There, I all of a sudden felt very satisfied with the story I had read.
What I really love about this series is the group of people, each of a different race, that have agreed to go onto this quest for the benefit eventually of all earth creatures. The sea and its people are amiss as they are the ones waging war towards anything that is not sea.
I love the banter, the kindness, the camaraderie as well as the emotions that are being discussed, as all have to deal with having lost people of their own kind in this ongoing situation of contention and the sea wanting to swallow it all up.
I also love the representation of nature and the care & love that is shown towards it, as there is a common awareness of being part of the earth and very much needing it in order to survive.
In this second book we see the quest really starting with Vahly having to find answers that eventually might benefit all living things.
I found the story okay until I got to the end of this book.
There, I all of a sudden felt very satisfied with the story I had read.
What I really love about this series is the group of people, each of a different race, that have agreed to go onto this quest for the benefit eventually of all earth creatures. The sea and its people are amiss as they are the ones waging war towards anything that is not sea.
I love the banter, the kindness, the camaraderie as well as the emotions that are being discussed, as all have to deal with having lost people of their own kind in this ongoing situation of contention and the sea wanting to swallow it all up.
I also love the representation of nature and the care & love that is shown towards it, as there is a common awareness of being part of the earth and very much needing it in order to survive.
July 20, 2019
I loved Fate of Dragons, the first book of Alisha Klapheke’s Dragons Rising series (separately reviewed). “Epic Fantasy” is an understatement. No surprise then that I’ve been eagerly awaiting Band of Breakers (Book 2), which is now out. Worth the wait? Yes indeed. Another understatement. The publisher’s blurb says that this book is designed for those who “... love elves, dragons, gryphons, magic, mages, wizards, and epic fantasy with a touch of slow burn romance...”. That’s so true, and it’s so me that I couldn’t help but loving this book as much as the first. Vahly May face danger, thrills, action, suspense and a bit of romance as she tries to master her earth magic, but we readers get the benefit. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to 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 the next book in this series.
August 9, 2020
Still Hooked Into the Story
*****Spoilers*****
Still middle of the road for me with this series but the cliff hanger on this one is enough to go to the next. Vahly trying her best to find her way to her magic is what drives the book and her quest. The gryphon hatches in this one and Vahly learns more what she can do with her magic on combination with Arc's wind magic and Nix's dragon fire. Even though she doesn't have full access to to of her powers, Vahly is learning to use it.
More death this book, the ally elf queen this time and the sea queen taking out Ryton's friend. Just doesn't seem to be a good reason the sea Queen's to want the domination she seeks.
Nothing is really straight forward in the book which isn't necessarily a bad thing but there was some urgency to the first book that isn't in this one it doesn't seem as much any way.
Ryton at the end captures Vahly instead of killing her when he had the chance. Oooookay. I wonder if that thing on his back will curse him to walk on land for the remainder of his days.
*****Spoilers*****
Still middle of the road for me with this series but the cliff hanger on this one is enough to go to the next. Vahly trying her best to find her way to her magic is what drives the book and her quest. The gryphon hatches in this one and Vahly learns more what she can do with her magic on combination with Arc's wind magic and Nix's dragon fire. Even though she doesn't have full access to to of her powers, Vahly is learning to use it.
More death this book, the ally elf queen this time and the sea queen taking out Ryton's friend. Just doesn't seem to be a good reason the sea Queen's to want the domination she seeks.
Nothing is really straight forward in the book which isn't necessarily a bad thing but there was some urgency to the first book that isn't in this one it doesn't seem as much any way.
Ryton at the end captures Vahly instead of killing her when he had the chance. Oooookay. I wonder if that thing on his back will curse him to walk on land for the remainder of his days.
March 8, 2020
(2nd "read")Audible review: I liked the story (my review of it is down below), and the narrator was good since she managed to convey the different emotions and nuances of the characters in her speech. However, I found it hard to differentiate between the voices of Arc and Vahly, and that in itself was kind of a turn off for me. If not for this issue, I'd probably be giving this audio a higher rating, since I liked Nix's deep voice, and Queen Astraea's cold one.
(1st read)Story review: Band of Breakers took me a while to get into (or past the first chapter) but when I eventually did, I couldn't put it down. I'm glad I decided to give this series a chance since there's much more character development than in the first book, and I enjoyed seeing the author's writing grow better too. I liked following Vahly, Arc, and Nix in this new adventure (or in the next part of the quest for her to gain her Earth Queen's powers fully). Of course, it's not all peachy, and there are some plot twists and dangers thrown in there for good measure.
All in all, this book needs to come with a warning: it ends with a cliffhanger, so, if you can, read this series as a whole, since either way you'll need to remember many details and/or names from previous books.
(1st read)Story review: Band of Breakers took me a while to get into (or past the first chapter) but when I eventually did, I couldn't put it down. I'm glad I decided to give this series a chance since there's much more character development than in the first book, and I enjoyed seeing the author's writing grow better too. I liked following Vahly, Arc, and Nix in this new adventure (or in the next part of the quest for her to gain her Earth Queen's powers fully). Of course, it's not all peachy, and there are some plot twists and dangers thrown in there for good measure.
All in all, this book needs to come with a warning: it ends with a cliffhanger, so, if you can, read this series as a whole, since either way you'll need to remember many details and/or names from previous books.
May 31, 2021
*Review of Audio edition.*
Band of Breakers is the second book in Alishia Klapheke's Dragons Rising series. go back and read the first book, Fate of Dragons, or be very confused.
Band of Breakers absolutely suffers from middle book syndrome. Meaning that it doesn't stand on it's own. You must have book one to explain things and you must have the next book to continue the story. Major cliff hanger warning.
so for those who are reading the series in order, good job. This installment has the same great character interaction, and adventure, as the first book. More clues are uncovered and a new adorable character is introduced.
Caitlin Davies reads once again, and brings the story to life with her vocal talents.
Band of Breakers is the second book in Alishia Klapheke's Dragons Rising series. go back and read the first book, Fate of Dragons, or be very confused.
Band of Breakers absolutely suffers from middle book syndrome. Meaning that it doesn't stand on it's own. You must have book one to explain things and you must have the next book to continue the story. Major cliff hanger warning.
so for those who are reading the series in order, good job. This installment has the same great character interaction, and adventure, as the first book. More clues are uncovered and a new adorable character is introduced.
Caitlin Davies reads once again, and brings the story to life with her vocal talents.
July 24, 2019
A wonderful continuation of the story
This is the second in The Dragon's Rising series, and the author did a nice job on this story. Where I found the first book a little slow moving this one had more action. We are following along with Vahly, Arc, and Nix as they try to figure out how to bring out Vahly's full Earth Queen magic. She has come across a new companion who may be the key to helping her preserve the lives of those on land. Just as she is beginning to grow in strength the are overtaken by their enemy who has, through magic, has been able to snatch Vahly from the grasp of her Breakers. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book. I would recommend this book
This is the second in The Dragon's Rising series, and the author did a nice job on this story. Where I found the first book a little slow moving this one had more action. We are following along with Vahly, Arc, and Nix as they try to figure out how to bring out Vahly's full Earth Queen magic. She has come across a new companion who may be the key to helping her preserve the lives of those on land. Just as she is beginning to grow in strength the are overtaken by their enemy who has, through magic, has been able to snatch Vahly from the grasp of her Breakers. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book. I would recommend this book
August 12, 2021
I’m still engaged with these characters. Lots of increasing tension and an added perspective from the villain to make that even more clear.
Yes, there is a cliffhanger ending. That’s why this is a four-star review instead of five. My rules on this are clear: the story problem must be resolved and no new trouble introduced as “bait” to make a reader continue. Authors trust the quality of your writing and the compelling characters you’ve created to keep your audience buying the next book.
Since I had purchased the entire series, I was able to continue reading right away. I recommend this for everyone.
Yes, there is a cliffhanger ending. That’s why this is a four-star review instead of five. My rules on this are clear: the story problem must be resolved and no new trouble introduced as “bait” to make a reader continue. Authors trust the quality of your writing and the compelling characters you’ve created to keep your audience buying the next book.
Since I had purchased the entire series, I was able to continue reading right away. I recommend this for everyone.
October 10, 2021
The fantastic adventure continues in Band of Breakers, book 2 in Alisha Klapheke's Dragons Rising Collection. Picking up where book 1 left off, Band of Breakers starts out with a bang and keeps on rolling. This installment will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time. The storyline is fast-paced and well written, filled with magic and mayhem, dragons, elves, seafolk, adventure, danger, murder, wonder, intrigue, subterfuge, politics and a little romance. The characters are well developed and engaging. Kyril is an absolute delight! I can't wait to read book 3 to see where this story goes next!
August 16, 2019
Overall rating: 4.7
Now that I have gotten a taste for this authors writing style, book 2 was a breeze for me and picked up the storyline perfectly. The MC travels with her companions on a journey to better her skills to be what all believe her to be, and she journeys to build her own confidence as well. Of course they encounter tragedies and heart wrenching moments, the very scenes which you as a reader will find yourself losing track of time as every great epic does. I got blindsided as you will too so fair warning! All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
Now that I have gotten a taste for this authors writing style, book 2 was a breeze for me and picked up the storyline perfectly. The MC travels with her companions on a journey to better her skills to be what all believe her to be, and she journeys to build her own confidence as well. Of course they encounter tragedies and heart wrenching moments, the very scenes which you as a reader will find yourself losing track of time as every great epic does. I got blindsided as you will too so fair warning! All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
September 18, 2020
Band of Breakers by Alisha Klapheke is the second book in the Dragons Rising series. Vahly’s powers are growing as her journey takes her to places where she gains new skills and a familiar. Arc and Nix are faithfully at her side. The chemistry between Vahly and Arc is still strong, but they don’t even kiss! Talk about a slow-burn romance! Sometimes there is over-explaining in the dialogue. The descriptions are vivid. There are plenty of action scenes. The Sea Queen is evil and her people are under her thumb. This book ends on a cliffhanger! If you like classic quests with adventure and a hint of romance, then you will enjoy this series!
I received an ARC of the box set (Books 1-3). This is my honest and voluntary review.
I received an ARC of the box set (Books 1-3). This is my honest and voluntary review.
April 27, 2025
This builds on the foundation of Fate of Dragons, adding some much-needed depth to the world and characters. Vahly’s journey toward mastering her earth magic gains momentum, and the stakes feel more tangible as rogue dragons close in.
The story still carries that light YA feel, accessible and easy to read. Which makes it great for younger fantasy fans, though I found myself wanting just a bit more complexity in certain areas. Still, this sequel steps up from book one and hints at bigger things ahead.
⭐ 3.25/5 — improving, with promise. A good pick for YA fantasy readers.
The story still carries that light YA feel, accessible and easy to read. Which makes it great for younger fantasy fans, though I found myself wanting just a bit more complexity in certain areas. Still, this sequel steps up from book one and hints at bigger things ahead.
⭐ 3.25/5 — improving, with promise. A good pick for YA fantasy readers.
December 2, 2019
I liked getting to know more about the undersea world. I would have liked a bit more connection to the characters but I loved the plot and can not wait for book three. Book two definitely ends leaving you wanting for more so beware.
The narrator is good and keeps the pace going well and has a good voice for listening. Defiantly an interesting read for anyone who loves a fantasy with unique fantasy types of characters.
The narrator is good and keeps the pace going well and has a good voice for listening. Defiantly an interesting read for anyone who loves a fantasy with unique fantasy types of characters.
February 4, 2020
Delightfully exciting and full of adventure.
If you loved the first one, get ready to fall in love with this book also. We find Vahly fighting to gain her earth powers while banding together with different kynds to save her world from the evil sea queen. This part of the journey is filled with excitement, adventure, magic, and love with an amazing ending. I'm ordering book three now and can't wait to read it.
If you loved the first one, get ready to fall in love with this book also. We find Vahly fighting to gain her earth powers while banding together with different kynds to save her world from the evil sea queen. This part of the journey is filled with excitement, adventure, magic, and love with an amazing ending. I'm ordering book three now and can't wait to read it.
February 15, 2020
Great fantasy tale
Great fun!! The second book in the trilogy and it ends on a crazy cliffhanger. Definitely an enthralling take that will bring out your inner child. Cannot wait for the conclusion of the series! If you love fantasy, give this series a read. You'll find the dragons, elves, and sea folk creatures you love with a unique story line that makes for an exciting read hard to put down.
Great fun!! The second book in the trilogy and it ends on a crazy cliffhanger. Definitely an enthralling take that will bring out your inner child. Cannot wait for the conclusion of the series! If you love fantasy, give this series a read. You'll find the dragons, elves, and sea folk creatures you love with a unique story line that makes for an exciting read hard to put down.
January 14, 2021
Cliff hanger is an understatement
This book in the series pants a brighter picture of how the books are split. It is as if the protagonist has a set number of quests before being able to complete a major battle. Each book is one of those quests. It kept me reading and I will read the text one. There is intersecting sadness from last memories, worries from grand responsibility, hope of a blooming love, and of course intrigue from the building action.
This book in the series pants a brighter picture of how the books are split. It is as if the protagonist has a set number of quests before being able to complete a major battle. Each book is one of those quests. It kept me reading and I will read the text one. There is intersecting sadness from last memories, worries from grand responsibility, hope of a blooming love, and of course intrigue from the building action.
August 5, 2024
Another quick fun read
I’m invested in these characters which is why I bought book 3 after reading this one.
We get to know a lot more about the sea queen. She’s quite a piece of work. We also get to see more of Ryton and get to know him better.
There is a decent amount of action and other things happening that drives the read forward. Our three main characters get a lot accomplished in this one. It’s quite cool to watch what these three are capable of doing.
I’m invested in these characters which is why I bought book 3 after reading this one.
We get to know a lot more about the sea queen. She’s quite a piece of work. We also get to see more of Ryton and get to know him better.
There is a decent amount of action and other things happening that drives the read forward. Our three main characters get a lot accomplished in this one. It’s quite cool to watch what these three are capable of doing.
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