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The Heir of Windacre
“They say that crowns are reserved for those born to rule. That jewels are the realm of those to whom they have been willed. But in Windacre, that has never been true.”
As the only kingdom in Naimonet without a hereditary kingship, Windacre is unique. For centuries it has been a powerful kingdom made rich by trade routes and alliances, a place where loyalty is a valuable commodity.
Every eighteen years a tournament is held to choose the next heir of Windacre. But the King of Windacre has died unexpectedly, and a tournament must be held to decide who will take the crown, but as the preparations are made and the contestants are chosen it becomes obvious that this is no ordinary tournament, and the winner will be no ordinary ruler.
A choice must be made, but a battle between those who were previously deemed unworthy breaks out, and the strongest among them must complete for the right to rule.
Reina Sharpe was never supposed to compete, but when a twist of fate lands her in the middle of the tournament, she finds herself in a battle for the crown, and her life.
From the sunny shores of Rayterre to the bitter snows of Rosfaill, Naimonet is waiting for you…
Enter the world of Naimonet where fantasy, loyalty, cunning, and adventure will sweep you away. Continue your journey through the islands with The Heir of Windacre: Book 3 of the Tales of Naimonet.
This 75,000 word epic fantasy novel is suitable for all ages. It can be read as a standalone and contains no cliffhanger.
As the only kingdom in Naimonet without a hereditary kingship, Windacre is unique. For centuries it has been a powerful kingdom made rich by trade routes and alliances, a place where loyalty is a valuable commodity.
Every eighteen years a tournament is held to choose the next heir of Windacre. But the King of Windacre has died unexpectedly, and a tournament must be held to decide who will take the crown, but as the preparations are made and the contestants are chosen it becomes obvious that this is no ordinary tournament, and the winner will be no ordinary ruler.
A choice must be made, but a battle between those who were previously deemed unworthy breaks out, and the strongest among them must complete for the right to rule.
Reina Sharpe was never supposed to compete, but when a twist of fate lands her in the middle of the tournament, she finds herself in a battle for the crown, and her life.
From the sunny shores of Rayterre to the bitter snows of Rosfaill, Naimonet is waiting for you…
Enter the world of Naimonet where fantasy, loyalty, cunning, and adventure will sweep you away. Continue your journey through the islands with The Heir of Windacre: Book 3 of the Tales of Naimonet.
This 75,000 word epic fantasy novel is suitable for all ages. It can be read as a standalone and contains no cliffhanger.
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2019
1 person is currently reading
19 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
August 14, 2019
I received a digital arc in exchange for an honest review. This is simply my opinion on the book and is not influenced by any external factor.
This was the first book by Thalia Blake I have read. I loved the writing style, the awesome characters and the amazing story. Although this is listed as Book 3, this story reads as a standalone, and does well to integrate new readers to the world of Windacre and Naimonet.
Here’s what you can expect while reading The Heir of Windacre:
• This is a fantasy dystopia series, but also a mystery – reminds me of The Hunger Games. You will see the underlying themes of friendship, justice and actions reminiscent of commonplace office politics.
• The worldbuilding was amazing, and does not slow the progress of the story. From page one, it is easy to be immersed in the story. The story itself was addicting because you keep expecting certain things to happen and for the main character to change her mind, but the story turns in a way you would not expect.
• A very strong heroine who does not rely on others to help her. Not only is she the breadwinner of the family, but she also supports her mother and younger sister.
• No adult content and very minimal cursing and swearing. Bonus points as there is no romance in the story!!
• Very quick read. The ending progressed a little too quickly for my liking, but nonetheless still a great read that did not leave any loose ends.
• From reading books like the Hunger Games, I had my suspicions about tow the plot of the story would progress; I can say I was surprised in a good way.
• That twist near the end - totally unexpected and made the story itself all the more exciting.
Overall, this was a great read, and I look forward to exploring other books in this series.
Rating: 4.5/5 (rounded to the nearest full star).
This was the first book by Thalia Blake I have read. I loved the writing style, the awesome characters and the amazing story. Although this is listed as Book 3, this story reads as a standalone, and does well to integrate new readers to the world of Windacre and Naimonet.
Here’s what you can expect while reading The Heir of Windacre:
• This is a fantasy dystopia series, but also a mystery – reminds me of The Hunger Games. You will see the underlying themes of friendship, justice and actions reminiscent of commonplace office politics.
• The worldbuilding was amazing, and does not slow the progress of the story. From page one, it is easy to be immersed in the story. The story itself was addicting because you keep expecting certain things to happen and for the main character to change her mind, but the story turns in a way you would not expect.
• A very strong heroine who does not rely on others to help her. Not only is she the breadwinner of the family, but she also supports her mother and younger sister.
• No adult content and very minimal cursing and swearing. Bonus points as there is no romance in the story!!
• Very quick read. The ending progressed a little too quickly for my liking, but nonetheless still a great read that did not leave any loose ends.
• From reading books like the Hunger Games, I had my suspicions about tow the plot of the story would progress; I can say I was surprised in a good way.
• That twist near the end - totally unexpected and made the story itself all the more exciting.
Overall, this was a great read, and I look forward to exploring other books in this series.
Rating: 4.5/5 (rounded to the nearest full star).
July 15, 2019
I have read the other books in this series as well as the prequel, and I have quite enjoyed the stories that this author has spun for the imaginary world that she has created in Naimonet. This book is a worthy addition to the series. It definitely has a Hunger Games vibe, but the author has definitely given it her own spin. Windacre is the only principality in Naimonet that doesn't have a hereditary kingship. A new king is chosen every 18 years by tournament; the final one standing is the new ruler. Reina is a young girl who works hard at a lumber mill to support her family. At the beginning of the book, it is clear that she is weighted down by this responsibility, as her father is gone and her mother is an unrepentant money spender. Despite all the things that happen to her in the book--and there are plenty--Raina is strong, brave, and willing to do what it takes to survive but not go so far as to jeopardize her integrity. In this book, she has a lot of hard choices, and she doesn't always make the right one; she always does have the best intentions. There's an interesting cast of characters besides Reina, and the tournament certainly shows both the good and bad in people. I enjoyed the story, finding it to be quite the page-turner as I wanted to find out what Reina would be up against next and how she would handle it.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
July 11, 2019
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story was the most thrilling even though I knew what the outcome was at the end of the story. But that didn't matter, the way it was written, was so exciting that I read it in one day. I was taken by the beautiful landscape in Windcare and the world of the logging of trees, the business and the sawmill. I love that Reina is given an important job in a man's world and that she could stand her ground.
But all is not well when terrible news comes that their King has died. Here in this land, you don't become king by being born into it.A tournament is held to choose the next King and all children of eligible age must choose if they want to participate in this tournament. Reina is determined not to participate because she needs to take care of her family now that her father has died in a logging accident. Her best friend who has a twin brother participates in the tournament and are getting ready. Reina gets a job to deliver the timber to the city, but it doesn't go well when Reina tries to warn their friends of an upcoming danger. She is thrown into the tournament against her will, will she survive, with so little practise done?
I love the plot twists and the action, it keeps you on your toes and wonder what will happen to Reina.
Thanks for taking me on this magical journey.
This story was the most thrilling even though I knew what the outcome was at the end of the story. But that didn't matter, the way it was written, was so exciting that I read it in one day. I was taken by the beautiful landscape in Windcare and the world of the logging of trees, the business and the sawmill. I love that Reina is given an important job in a man's world and that she could stand her ground.
But all is not well when terrible news comes that their King has died. Here in this land, you don't become king by being born into it.A tournament is held to choose the next King and all children of eligible age must choose if they want to participate in this tournament. Reina is determined not to participate because she needs to take care of her family now that her father has died in a logging accident. Her best friend who has a twin brother participates in the tournament and are getting ready. Reina gets a job to deliver the timber to the city, but it doesn't go well when Reina tries to warn their friends of an upcoming danger. She is thrown into the tournament against her will, will she survive, with so little practise done?
I love the plot twists and the action, it keeps you on your toes and wonder what will happen to Reina.
Thanks for taking me on this magical journey.
June 11, 2022
This was a really fun read! In Windacre, a new monarch is chosen every 18 years, by a tournament that anyone of the right age can compete in. This gives the book a Hunger Games feel to it, but it definitely isn’t the same. Ever since her father died, Reina has worked hard at a lumberyard to make enough money to keep food on the table for her family. It’s a lot of responsibility for a 16 year old, but she promised her father she’d take care of her mother and younger sister, so that’s just what she’ll do. She never meant to enter the tournament to become the new ruler - what would become of her family if something happened to her? But when chance forces her to take part, it’ll take all her wits and strength to make it out alive.
This book is well written, and I didn’t want to put it down, especially since the action and intrigue built up as the story progressed! I really liked Reina. She had a strong sense of responsibility, and would do anything to help her family. I really enjoyed the scenes when she was negotiating prices of wood with the timbermaster; she made sure she got the price she needed. I also really liked the connection she had to the forest. I loved the world of Naimonet! It’s very well built, and I’ll definitely have to read the rest of the books in the series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is well written, and I didn’t want to put it down, especially since the action and intrigue built up as the story progressed! I really liked Reina. She had a strong sense of responsibility, and would do anything to help her family. I really enjoyed the scenes when she was negotiating prices of wood with the timbermaster; she made sure she got the price she needed. I also really liked the connection she had to the forest. I loved the world of Naimonet! It’s very well built, and I’ll definitely have to read the rest of the books in the series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2019
This was the first book that I have read by Thalia Blake but it certainly won’t be the last!
There is a very strong comparison to the Hunger Games series so anyone that is a fan of that genre will love this book. The great thing about it though are the differences- those differences are what kept my attention rapt and hooked into the story!
Reina is a very strong, headstrong main character. She is a great role model for young girls- she is stubborn but she knows her mind and she looks after her family. Knowing what’s right and what’s wrong her judgement does play a major part in the story.
The world building was impeccable. I felt completely transported to this whole new realm and it’s done with such ease and finesse. I was able to imagine everything from the saw mill to the woods and back to the palace. This was such a wonderful read and it was easy to follow along and let the rest of the world disappear.
Absolutely loved this book, and I highly recommend it to everyone that loves anything YA , medieval and/or dystopian! I can’t wait to dive into Thalia Blakes other books!!
There is a very strong comparison to the Hunger Games series so anyone that is a fan of that genre will love this book. The great thing about it though are the differences- those differences are what kept my attention rapt and hooked into the story!
Reina is a very strong, headstrong main character. She is a great role model for young girls- she is stubborn but she knows her mind and she looks after her family. Knowing what’s right and what’s wrong her judgement does play a major part in the story.
The world building was impeccable. I felt completely transported to this whole new realm and it’s done with such ease and finesse. I was able to imagine everything from the saw mill to the woods and back to the palace. This was such a wonderful read and it was easy to follow along and let the rest of the world disappear.
Absolutely loved this book, and I highly recommend it to everyone that loves anything YA , medieval and/or dystopian! I can’t wait to dive into Thalia Blakes other books!!
June 30, 2019
Overall rating: 4.6
This amazing tales gives you all the same suspense that you first experienced with the hunger games. I completely saw quite a bit of parallels but it’s the differences that kept me flipping these pages eagerly. I realize there are many readers that don’t like storylines that are similar to other works, but for me, I relish the creativity it takes from the author to add their own unique style and flair. Reina is the epitome of the empowered female, reluctant as she was throughout her ordeal. Nevertheless, Reina remained true to herself. I truly will enjoy reading this over and over again and I believe my YA grandchild will also love this tale. All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
This amazing tales gives you all the same suspense that you first experienced with the hunger games. I completely saw quite a bit of parallels but it’s the differences that kept me flipping these pages eagerly. I realize there are many readers that don’t like storylines that are similar to other works, but for me, I relish the creativity it takes from the author to add their own unique style and flair. Reina is the epitome of the empowered female, reluctant as she was throughout her ordeal. Nevertheless, Reina remained true to herself. I truly will enjoy reading this over and over again and I believe my YA grandchild will also love this tale. All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
July 18, 2019
Reina a young girl who works in her familys windmill gets drawn into a political tournament, the winner of this tournament is crowned king or queen.
This book was such a fun read, I liked Reina as a MC, she does at times reminds me of Katniss, who I love to death, but the story does struggle and is a little slow in the begining. But the story starts rolling after about a third of the way. The side characters were also enjoyable, allthough some are a little annoying, hehe
I would absolutly pick this book up, it is a wellwritten book with an interesting plot. Always endorse female empowement!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was such a fun read, I liked Reina as a MC, she does at times reminds me of Katniss, who I love to death, but the story does struggle and is a little slow in the begining. But the story starts rolling after about a third of the way. The side characters were also enjoyable, allthough some are a little annoying, hehe
I would absolutly pick this book up, it is a wellwritten book with an interesting plot. Always endorse female empowement!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2019
This is the second book by Thalia Blake that I have had the opportunity to read. The Heir of Windacre follows Reina, a sassy and strong willed young woman, as she fights for her survival. After the passing of her father, she is the only provider for her family. She shows courage, determination, and a solid work ethic. A few twists of fate provide her with the opportunity to change the course of her future - as long as she can survive the challenges before her.
July 13, 2019
Good addition to the series. In this book and kingdom rulership is chosen in a unique way, which sets the stage for the story. The main character is strong and won't let anything stop her from remaining true to herself and taking care of her family.
July 21, 2019
This was a great addition to the series. The story is well written with great characters. Reina Is a great female character. Such a great series and highly recommend reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 22, 2019
action packed.. fast paced.. with action and intrigue... good characters.. strong and sexy characters.. and all around a good story.
July 8, 2020
I received this from BookSprout about a year ago and am finally leaving a voluntary review.
It took me a really, really, long time to finish this book. I don't blame the book for this, but rather my intense book slump I have had over the last year. Please keep in mind for my review there was a large time gap between starting and finishing this book. Note that this is also the only book I've read by this author.
That being said, the main reason I didn't rate this book higher is just that it felt like it took far too long to get to the point. I love some good character building, some backstory, etc, etc. But there was a large chunk of this book that was just... boring... The main character doesn't involve herself in the excitement happening on purpose. She doesn't WANT to be part of any of it. She wants to remain at home, working at the mill yard, and going about her business. Meanwhile all the action and fun is happening elsewhere and we don't get to see any of it until MUCH LATER.
And then when we are finally placed in the action, it is insanely short-lived. We hardly get to experience any of the side characters, competitors, etc. Any villains are briefly touched upon but not enough to really care about them, or be threatened by them. I could hardly tell the difference between the twins.. or why it was important for 10 competitors to be there for her, but not later in the story when an accident happens to another competitor... There were so many inconsistencies.
Essentially, far to much time was spent talking about wood. Smelling wood, what wood is used for, trading wood, and traveling to trade wood, when it should have been spent developing characters, villains included. This story had a LOT of potential, and a great cover (seriously beautiful cover wow) but overall I didn't really enjoy it, and I'm super sad about it.
I still think plenty of others would find enjoyment out of this though, and I would be up for giving this author another shot in the future. Hoping for the best for her future works.
It took me a really, really, long time to finish this book. I don't blame the book for this, but rather my intense book slump I have had over the last year. Please keep in mind for my review there was a large time gap between starting and finishing this book. Note that this is also the only book I've read by this author.
That being said, the main reason I didn't rate this book higher is just that it felt like it took far too long to get to the point. I love some good character building, some backstory, etc, etc. But there was a large chunk of this book that was just... boring... The main character doesn't involve herself in the excitement happening on purpose. She doesn't WANT to be part of any of it. She wants to remain at home, working at the mill yard, and going about her business. Meanwhile all the action and fun is happening elsewhere and we don't get to see any of it until MUCH LATER.
And then when we are finally placed in the action, it is insanely short-lived. We hardly get to experience any of the side characters, competitors, etc. Any villains are briefly touched upon but not enough to really care about them, or be threatened by them. I could hardly tell the difference between the twins.. or why it was important for 10 competitors to be there for her, but not later in the story when an accident happens to another competitor... There were so many inconsistencies.
Essentially, far to much time was spent talking about wood. Smelling wood, what wood is used for, trading wood, and traveling to trade wood, when it should have been spent developing characters, villains included. This story had a LOT of potential, and a great cover (seriously beautiful cover wow) but overall I didn't really enjoy it, and I'm super sad about it.
I still think plenty of others would find enjoyment out of this though, and I would be up for giving this author another shot in the future. Hoping for the best for her future works.
October 20, 2019
For a young adult novel I loved it. It wasn't brash and in your face. It flowed really well to me and kept me reading into the night, when I should of been asleep haha. Can't wait to see what this author has up her sleeves for novels to come.
Reina Sharpe is just your average millrat. But very good at her job helping the boss with paper work and counting lumber. She's hearing rumors of the king may not be doing good. But she really doesn't care. She'll just say no to the tournament and no for a chance to fight for the crown. She has her family to take care of. But what happens when you stick your nose in business it doesn't belong...
Reina Sharpe is just your average millrat. But very good at her job helping the boss with paper work and counting lumber. She's hearing rumors of the king may not be doing good. But she really doesn't care. She'll just say no to the tournament and no for a chance to fight for the crown. She has her family to take care of. But what happens when you stick your nose in business it doesn't belong...
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews