When Kiva is attacked by a group of masked men within the walls of her desert city, she is given a choice: leave, or risk the lives of her loved ones. They are the Order of the Red Sons, and they are determined to return Madina Basin to a time before female windwalkers.
As the Order's influence spreads, Kiva discovers that no one is immune to their rhetoric, not even those closest to her. But the danger goes beyond the hearts and minds of her people, for a far more insidious purpose lurks in the heart of their leader--one that could spell disaster for every last soul in Madina Basin.
H.G. Chambers is a huge nerd. I mean, you should see this guy’s collection of Zelda, Star Wars, D&D, and Tolkien nonsense! He’s also written a few books, I’m told, though chances are they’re equally nerdy. So unless you’re fluent in Klingon and enjoy painfully drawn out conversations about obscure Elden Ring lore, maybe don’t ask what he’s into. Despite what should be a catastrophic social handicap, he’s managed to find an awesome wife and has two implausibly awesome kids (talk about beating the odds). H.G.C. lives out his pathetically nerdy life on Vancouver Island, Canada, where people are polite, and the geese are complete jerks. Seriously…don’t mess with the geese, they will end you.
My biggest regret? Not finishing this book so much more sooner! I actually started this book back in September 2019 and for some reason I placed it on hold. I'm not sure what was happening at the time, perhaps final assignment deadlines, or maybe I was on a YA/fantasy reading slump. But ever since I heard H. G. Chambers will be releasing book 4, the final book of the series in July this year, I got the motivation I needed to finish the book!
And boy I'm sure glad I finished it! This was everything I expected from Chambers and so much more. It has action, it has suspense, betrayal, family connections, secrets and of course a good splash of humour and romance.
Kiva is our main character, she has become the very first female windwalker in her basin, she has served and saved the basin many times from the Sharun, the evil ones wanting to destroy them but she has fought against them and won. Now the Sharun is planning to attack again, and with it a new threat emerges, an Order that has been around for centuries and now they are about to strike. Kiva must find out who this new Order of the Red Sons are and what they want to accomplish. But due to the traditionalists who still see Kiva as a traitor for going against what females should be doing, they make things for Kiva extremely difficult. How can she fight for a people who see her as a threat? Who are these Red Sons? Kiva must do what she can do protect those she loves, what she doesn't know is she will have to face battles with people who she thought she could trust with her heart...
If you haven't read this series, I urge you to do so! Harold is perhaps one of my favourite authors and will most likely read anything he releases. He is that good, this is definitely a series worth reading and binging during our current crisis.
Received a copy from the author himself, for an honest review, thank you!
I absolutely love the Windwalker series, but I do believe that HG Chambers has excelled himself with this his 3rd book. Our heroine Kiva is growing from strength to strength, her courage knows no bounds as is her loyalty to her people, those of the Sahra in the Madina Basin. She is the first female windwalker who has managed to bond with a kiraeen and the conservative faction of men in the basin are angry and feel under threat because Kiva has inspired other women to attempt to infiltrate the other protector sects. Women were until that day leaders of sects to do with healing and catering for the community needs but never considered fit to be protectors. The Sahra was a strong patriarchal society and those who saw kiva as a threat in turn became a huge threat to her and her loved ones. They attempted to frighten her into submission but when this did not happen they attempted to kill her. They did not consider how headstrong she was and that she would keep on pushing the boundaries till the women were free. This book is full of action which left me breathless at times because of its daring and high risk ventures out in the sand fighting the Sharun, the people of the Ramal, and the men of the Order of the Red Sons who were her own people. This fact was what hurt Kiva the most that the people who she fought for so valiantly were the ones to pose a threat to her. Their betrayal nearly broke her but not quite, she knew that the enemies within were at the moment even more dangerous than those without, because they were religious fanatics willing to follow Fasad, the God of Corruption and do his bidding. Greed for power as always was at the base of this order but Kiva fought them with tooth and claw, literally. Enjoy this amazing book, I know I did and look forward to the next Windwalker adventure as I am sure we are going to see great changes taking place in the Madina Basin.
What a fascinating story this is becoming! This is the third book in the series, in which our heroine, Kiva, has to fight old fashioned, deeply entrenched attitudes for the emancipation of young women in her world and, on a personal level, to find out whether she has what it takes to become a leader. In the midst of this, we find out more of the backstory of Kiva's people, which might surprise the reader, and also find out about another, very deep threat to this world. Of course, the real heroine of this entire series is Kiva's kiraeen, Noor, who is most wonderfully sarcastic, and I wish there was more of her in these novels!
Once again Chambers draws us in to Kiva's life in Madina Basin, the hidden Sahra' home deep in the Miralaja wasteland. Kiva is settling in as a Windwalker and about to start a female sect to mirror the male-only one. But when she is viciously attacked on her way home by members of the Order of the Red Sons, who appear to want to return the basin to a time before females being members of the formerly male-only sects, a warning is issued: she must either leave the basin or those close to her will be in danger.
I enjoyed this book very much. We learned more of the Sahra' people's past, and of ancient threats to their existence. The characters are all well developed - as is the world - and it is a pleasure to read such a well-written story. This is truly a fascinating world Chambers has created, and I love being able to return to it.
Kiva is still the only female Windwalker, and she has enemies. They've threatened her, and anyone she is close to, and they aren't kidding around! Meanwhile, Kiva is starting to train other females to take the trials and possibly create a new sect – the female Windwalker sect. They also have enemies.
There's also a new order in town – Order of the Red Sons. They are a secret order, known to only the members, a very few others, and Kiva. They intend to take over the community, and replace of the council. Even Kiva's brother, Amir, is a member of the Order.
The story revolves around Kiva's efforts to create the new sect; to protect those endangered by the Order of the Red Sons; and to protect the council. And for most of the book, she's on her own! It's a good read. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Received as an ARC, this is an honest review. For the people of Madina Basin, their ancient enemy, the Sharun, was something they could handle; but something darker is sweeping towards them. Potentially corrupting the people themselves, allowing a far more deadly force to rise to power. Kiva must discover the answers behind the rising darkness to succeed while struggling who to trust and her own doubts as a leader to protect her people. This is the best one yet of this series: adventurous, profound, complex and an absolutely realistic story plot. Highly recommended.
I've been looking forward to a continuation fo the series since I finished the last one, and this does not disappoint at all! I was left eager for more, but not in an infuriating super-cliff-hanger way. I suppose the book could stand on its own, but it's much better to have read the previous books. The society is nicely fleshed out, and believable, with characters you can relate to and understand. Kiva in particular is a strong protagonist, and not in a pandering "strong female protagonist" way. She just IS. All in all, I recommend this book, and of course the rest of the series!
This is the most involved and complex Windwalker story yet! The writing is riveting, and the twists and turns in the plot are intriguing. I really how the characters are maturing and dealing with the different challenges they face. I also enjoy the supernatural elements that have become a central theme of the story. I received an ARC copy of the book but this review is unsolicited and entirely my own opinion.
Super cool story about an insane faction trying to take over the Medina Basin. Alliances are forged, betrayal uncovered and Kiva finds herself fighting for her very life. Some aspects of this story are shocking, may bring on the tears, but much good happens as well. I can tell you no more without spoilers, but if you enjoy well written stories and the Windwalker world this is a must read! You will not be disappointed!
Another wonderful book by H.G. Chambers!! This story continues the challenges of Kivanya ("Kiva") Fariq, her family and those who reside in Madina Basin. I really can't say enough, without giving spoilers. It is well written, with characters that are finely developed. The plot kept me interested and intrigued, and it was a pleasure to read!!
If you are interested in fantasy with good, strong female leads, then you might want to try this book/series!!
A lot to like. My only complaint is having to wait for the next book to be released! I generally no longer start a series until it is complete after having been disappointed too many times by those that were never finished. With this one I gladly make an exception. The stories are well written and edited, and each comes to a satisfying conclusion.
I love how the story of Kiva and the basin has continued. So many have matured and grown. One of the best world builds I have seen in a long time. H.G. Chambers writes so creative and gives you the adventure you crave. I liked the danger and the fighting that happened in the story with the climax of a few scenes that were awesome.
I received a free copy of this book and opted to share a review.
Kiva's story continues as the inhabitants of the Basin find themselves fighting enemies from within and without. I've been looking forward to a continuation fo the series since I finished the last one, and this book does not disappoint. Although this is the 3rd book in the series, it can be read without having read the first two.
The 3rd book in the series. The main focus is on the town with a conflict that has been building for some time. Past history is revealed with some character growth of the main character. Enjoyed the book. Looking forward to a next book.
Windwalker: Order of the Red Sons by H.G. Chambers was gifted to me and I wrote this review voluntarily. Wow. What an epic adventure for Kiva. I loved this book for the vivid characters who took me on a journey. Mr Chambers is a great storyteller that will keep you entertained for days.
I know it's the old cliche but even so: this series keeps getting better and better. What started out as a well-written coming-of-age fantasy full of the usual tropes has fast evolved into an epic young adult adventure story that challenges your expectations and pushes the boundaries of true YA fantasy/sci-fi. I'm reminded of Phillip Reeve and Garth Nix, although there's something a bit Legend of Korra in there too.
In this third outing we're reunited with Kiva and her kiraeen Noor as they encounter difficulties from within their home of the Madina Basin. A secretive organisation known as the Red Sons make it plain they do not wish for females to step up in society. Having survived hoards of mysterious Sharun warriors and the wrath of a goddess, Kiva's horrified to find that when faced with hostility from her own people she's unable to fight back. But there's more at work here than just some angry men defending the patriarchy. The Red Sons are no more a new threat than the Sharun; their origins go far back to before the exodus of the Sahra' from their old world, back in a time of magic and gods and betrayal. To save her people, Kiva must first learn the secrets of the past.
I really love Kiva. She's not your average YA girl full of sass (and herself). She has strengths and weakness, she doubts herself, and in a rare turn her appearance isn't something she worries much about. If you need snark, there's Noor to dish out plenty even if her dry observations about humankind are more unknowingly amusing. We revisit the cast we've already met, but get to see more of side characters like Kiva's brother Amir as well as a whole new cast of girls looking to change their futures. Good, bad, indifferent; characters are painted as morally grey for the most part, which is refreshing in and of itself for mid-age-range YA. It makes you consider their actions and motivations, often spelled out for you but left open for the reader to judge.
Now the Reeve/Nix connection, fantastical imaginings aside, also comes from how relationships are handled. Quite simply, they happen. It's not hormonal raving stuff. It's chaste and sweet, believably so in the society it's set in and for a younger end of YA audience to appreciate. This allows the action/adventure to remain the focus, and boy does it deliver.
We learn so much in this book about the backstory of the Sahra' people. It's not a happy unicorns-and-rainbows history; gods are demanding, enemies unflinching, deeds dark and dastardly. The tiny seeds sown in book one have grown into a mighty forest of lore and legend. There's grit, but no graphic gore or scenes unsuitable for YA despite the many battles (both epic swords-&-sandles type as well as the personal-emotional kind) depicted. Kiva's adventures are full of proper breath-stealing moments and surprising revelations.
And also can we get a little love for the recap section right at the start? Perfect series refresher to get you back in the reading zone.
The ending is... Well, it's closed-but-open and begs for answers. Desert history is littered with gods and monsters, but what do the sins of the past mean for the future of Kiva's people? I can't wait to find out.
-I received a free ARC copy of this ebook from the author. I was under no obligation to enjoy it as much as I did nor review it as I just have-
Windwalker book 3 is an absolute gem of a book and has everything a good book should have: extensive world building, amazing characters and edge of your seat scenes. H G Chambers is a gifted writer who certainly does not disappoint his readers. His diligence in attention to detail is exemplary. World building is superb in that one can easily imagine being present in any circumstance or scene and live alongside the key characters e.g. Kiva who struggles to protect her people and Jonas who is dedicated to Kiva and all that she is loyal to. Order of the Red Sons is a book that is difficult to put down and has earned the term 'Epic Fantasy at it's very Best'. I cannot give it a high enough recommendation, as I loved reading every single page. The author deserves a huge commendation for a job well done. A book that I would highly recommend to any Fantasy lover, you will not be disappointed. EK
As with the previous books in this series, I really enjoyed the way this author breathed life into the World of the Medina Basin and gave depth to the characters and creatures that live there.
You can’t help but get involved in the Basin’s culture and form opinions on what is right or wrong. And you find yourself cheering as Kiva and Noor deal with the battle against the Sharum and take on the challenges they have to face in dealing with the Red Suns.
And for those who love romance, the romance between Kiva and Jonah adds a lovely dimension.
This book is full of excitement, adventure and surprising twists and I would highly recommend this series to all fantasy readers. The writing is a credit to the author who continues to evidence his creative skills in crafting thoroughly enjoyable novels.
The further exciting adventures of Kiva, a young woman who had bonded Noor, a flying bird kiraeen steed. The first female to succeed in the Windwalker trials she was bound by her sense of duty and love of her community to fight the evils besetting her race. They had come to the desert from an alternate world and evil had snuck over with them. Despite opposition from those on the male dominated sect she was an inspiration to the other females who felt held back by traditional roles. Her attempts to build female sects equal to the male’s were meeting fierce opposition at the same time she was trying to train younger girls as future female kiraeen riders
H.G.'s writing gets better with each book. Full of excitement, the third book in the Windwalker series is definitely an excellent addition, and well worth reading. I have yet to read anything by this author that I don't like (I've read all his books). The story continues the tale of the people of Medina Basin, with the characters staying true to who they are in the previous books. The author ties up the story well, but leaves you ready for the next story to come. This is well written, well edited, and enjoyable from beginning to end. The whole series is worth reading, and I'm pretty certain will continue to be so with each new tale!
Kiva, the windwalker, gets captured by a group of masked men representing the Red Sons. They tell her that she is not wanted and if she does not leave, her family will be killed. Her family and friends convince her to stay and fight. Elam attempts to over throw the council and take over with his plan. This is another page turner that keeps you wanting more.
The third book in chambers Windwalker series, Order of the Red Sons continues the story of Kiva and her battle against enemies both supernatural and human. As always, Chambers world building is superb, allowing you to slip seamlessly into the dessert world of Madina Basin. I was slightly disappointed with the direction Kiva is taken in at the start of the book, with Damsel in Distress theme coming though, but this initial irritation was quickly lost as the book found its feet. Chambers does a very good job of building characters; the multitude of characters on display are brilliantly well thought out and have their own distinct personalities. Even the ‘bad guys’ are well thought through with clear motivations. There is a very good overarching plot with a lot of things going on around the side to keep the book moving along at a great pace. A real page turner of a book, I genuinely struggled to put it down. The biggest complaint I can level against it is that I was under the mistaken belief that this was part of a trilogy (I’m not sure why) and was thoroughly irked when I got to the end and everything wasn’t wrapped up nicely in a little bow. After counting to 10 I realised that this means there will be another book and I can look forward to revisiting Kiva and Co in the future. I gave the book 4.7 stars, so definitely highly recommended!
Another fantastic story. Kiva is told to leave or risk harming her family. Trying to do away with female Windwalkers. Held my interest until the end. Kiva is a strong character. Don’t miss out.
In "Order of the Red Sons" we return to Madina Basin and continue the story of its inhabitants' fight with the Sharun. I liked this part more than "Relic of the Dead", maybe because it felt more like a continuation than a weird side-story. We're back in the setting that caught my attention in the first place, discovering more about the Sahra's old world as well as the origin of their greatest enemy. At the same time, we can witness a serious unease within the Basin itself and while I generally liked the idea, the enemies felt a bit flat, their reasons unconvincing or confusing. Paradoxically the best mortal foe was the one we knew least about. But there were also immortal forces at work and I'm really looking forward to learning more about them. I take one star because the main character, Kiva is still annoying and full of herself and some of her reactions are not very convincing. But it brought me perverse pleasure to see her fail every once in a while, and people not immediately falling in love with her. And she grows up near the end and starts working with others, so there's hope.
What an exciting book! I want to thank Mr Chambers for sending me this book to review first off. I find it quite a privilege to be able to read and review authors books and look forward to Mr Chambers books. He has become one of my favorite fantasy/sci-fi authors and this story is no exception. We are brought back to his world of giant bird-like predators where some have bonded with a human and become one of the main protectors of a nation of desert people. The incredible bond of one young woman, Kiva, and her kiraeen, Noor once again are our hero’s. We are sent through a story with all the important aspect that keep us reading with everything from mystery, intrigue, and even a bit of romance added. It is perfect for those who want clean romance however the violence may be a bit hard for younger readers to take and I would say mid to upper teens are okay. Adults who like this form of sci-fi/fantasy would not be disappointed eighteenths. The only issue I would warn of would be the minor occult issues for those who would be offended, but they are important to the story-line. With that I would definitely recommend this book to the growing list of good books Mr. Chambers has written and look forward to his next tale he will weave.
When the going gets tough This third book in the Windwalker series blew me away. Kiva's adventurous path to adulthood keeps you hooked. Again the author succeeded in surprising me with unexpected new twists and turns. I kept rooting for the main character, sometimes even out loud, forgetting about our world and living with Kiva in hers. What more can you ask for in a fantasy novel?
Hard to follow at times because of the sudden introduction of a memory that isn’t connected to anything else. Emotions are forced and some actions make no sense. Some things are just thrown in that don’t have any introduction, which makes it difficult to follow.
Great third installment once again you are transported Kiva's world and follow her adventures as see tries to discover what and who the Red Son's are. She must fight to save her family and the community from a deadly force. Would definitely recommend this series
Kiva faces many challenges, both personal and threats to her people. Human greed and an incredible fantasy world with non-stop action and intrigue. What more can you want besides another book in the series. I'm already reading book 4.
The story of how the tribe moved to this new world has been missing from the archives since the library burned before most alive can remember. Now the story is needed as an old enemy has resurfaced and needs to be defeated again. Good Read.