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Esme #2
Esme's Gift
Terror was within. Terror was without. Like her mother, she was at the water's mercy.
In the enchanted world of Aeolia, fifteen-year-old Esme Silver is faced with her hardest task yet. She must master her unruly Gift – the power to observe the past – and uncover the secrets she needs to save her mother, Ariane.
In between attending school in the beguiling canal city of Esperance, Esme and her friends – old and new – travel far and wide across Aeolia, gathering the ingredients for a potent magical elixir.
Their journey takes them to volcanic isles, sunken ruins and snowy eyries, spectacular places fraught with danger, where they must confront their deepest fears and find hope in the darkest of places.
Esme’s Gift, the second instalment in the Esme trilogy, is an enthralling fantasy adventure for readers 12 years and over.
Winner of a 2020 IPPY medal for best YA fiction AND a Purple Dragonfly Book Award for best fantasy!
In the enchanted world of Aeolia, fifteen-year-old Esme Silver is faced with her hardest task yet. She must master her unruly Gift – the power to observe the past – and uncover the secrets she needs to save her mother, Ariane.
In between attending school in the beguiling canal city of Esperance, Esme and her friends – old and new – travel far and wide across Aeolia, gathering the ingredients for a potent magical elixir.
Their journey takes them to volcanic isles, sunken ruins and snowy eyries, spectacular places fraught with danger, where they must confront their deepest fears and find hope in the darkest of places.
Esme’s Gift, the second instalment in the Esme trilogy, is an enthralling fantasy adventure for readers 12 years and over.
Winner of a 2020 IPPY medal for best YA fiction AND a Purple Dragonfly Book Award for best fantasy!
266 pages, Paperback
First published November 30, 2019
2 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Foster
2 books240 followersElizabeth lives in Sydney, Australia, where much of her inspiration comes from nature, especially the ocean. Her series, for kids aged 10–14, has been well-received by readers around the world. Esme's Wish was honoured with a Purple Dragonfly award, an award which recognizes excellence in children's literature. Esme’s Gift, the sequel to Esme’s Wish, won an IPPY medal for best YA fiction, as well as a second Purple Dragonfly award. Esme’s Voice, the final book in the Esme series, is complete and soon to be published by Odyssey Books. Elizabeth is currently working on a dystopian novel for teens aged 14 and up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
March 16, 2021
This is a middle grade book. It is the 2nd book in the Esme Series. I have to say I liked this one better then the first one, but I still did not love it. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher or author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. (*)
June 25, 2020
Esme's Gift takes up Esme's story from where we left off in book one. It was a real pleasure to return to Aeolia and meet up with old friends and new ones as well. Plus there were dragons! Lots of them with real characters and even the hatching of a baby one. I always enjoy a good dragon story.
In this second book Esme is searching for a cure for her mother's sickness and it develops into a quest for all the separate ingredients which are needed to make up a potion. There are many exciting moments along the way and Esme begins to understand the usefulness of her gift. I liked the idea of the gifts very much and it was fun to see different individuals developing theirs. They appear suddenly and randomly and can cause some funny situations.
The ending was heart warming and rounded this book off well. I believe (and hope) that there is another book to come and I can see a few threads there that the author might be planning to pick up (for example where is Seth?). Looking forward to more Aeolia in the future.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book
In this second book Esme is searching for a cure for her mother's sickness and it develops into a quest for all the separate ingredients which are needed to make up a potion. There are many exciting moments along the way and Esme begins to understand the usefulness of her gift. I liked the idea of the gifts very much and it was fun to see different individuals developing theirs. They appear suddenly and randomly and can cause some funny situations.
The ending was heart warming and rounded this book off well. I believe (and hope) that there is another book to come and I can see a few threads there that the author might be planning to pick up (for example where is Seth?). Looking forward to more Aeolia in the future.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book
January 5, 2020
Fifteen-year-old Esme Silver’s shock was great when she saw the condition her beloved father was in. She also felt the menace and vindictiveness of her father’s new wife and her sister. Esme had been away for some time – now she knew her father didn’t believe her, and she was in danger of being institutionalized if she remained, so with a heavy heart she returned to the magical world she’d just arrived from – Aeolia.
Her good friends, Daniel and Lillian helped Esme enroll in her new school, which was set on the canals, and although it was school, she enjoyed most of her subjects. Learning to master her Gift with Augustine was special and it wasn’t long before she was able to call it up at will. Her special Gift of travelling back to the past meant she could search for the secrets which could help bring her mother out of the coma she’d been in for a long time. But there was danger lurking. Would Esme find what she needed before it was too late?
Esme’s Gift is the 2nd in the Esme Trilogy by Aussie author Elizabeth Foster and I thoroughly enjoyed it. A follow on from Esme's Wish, it continues in Esperance, in the magical world of Aeolia. The intelligence of the dragons; the various Gifts of all the characters (fascinating) and the book’s cover with Kendra the dragon and Esme on the edge of Mt Asha is beautifully and imaginatively done. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Her good friends, Daniel and Lillian helped Esme enroll in her new school, which was set on the canals, and although it was school, she enjoyed most of her subjects. Learning to master her Gift with Augustine was special and it wasn’t long before she was able to call it up at will. Her special Gift of travelling back to the past meant she could search for the secrets which could help bring her mother out of the coma she’d been in for a long time. But there was danger lurking. Would Esme find what she needed before it was too late?
Esme’s Gift is the 2nd in the Esme Trilogy by Aussie author Elizabeth Foster and I thoroughly enjoyed it. A follow on from Esme's Wish, it continues in Esperance, in the magical world of Aeolia. The intelligence of the dragons; the various Gifts of all the characters (fascinating) and the book’s cover with Kendra the dragon and Esme on the edge of Mt Asha is beautifully and imaginatively done. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2020
4☆ An Enchanting and Endearing YA Fantasy Read.
Esme’s Gift is the second book in the series and I think it best read in order as there is backstory that carries through where book 1 left off.
I don't want to go into too much detail about the plot incase you haven't yet read the first book, I don't want to give anything away!
Esme is back in Aeolia searching for answers and a cure to help her mum.
She also learns more about her special gift and how to Control her Magical Ability and use it to her advantage.
Esme’s Gift is a magical adventure with Danger, Drama, Mystery, Friendship, Magical Creatures, quirky characters and some humorous moments.
It's an Endearing and Enchanting story of Discovery, Friendship, Strength and Not Giving Up.
I loved how this time round the Author has taken the readers further into the magical world of Aeolia learning more about gifts, potions, cures and magic.
If you love YA Fantasy, Danger and Adventure, Magical Abilities and relatable characters,then you will love Esme's Gift.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
Esme’s Gift is the second book in the series and I think it best read in order as there is backstory that carries through where book 1 left off.
I don't want to go into too much detail about the plot incase you haven't yet read the first book, I don't want to give anything away!
Esme is back in Aeolia searching for answers and a cure to help her mum.
She also learns more about her special gift and how to Control her Magical Ability and use it to her advantage.
Esme’s Gift is a magical adventure with Danger, Drama, Mystery, Friendship, Magical Creatures, quirky characters and some humorous moments.
It's an Endearing and Enchanting story of Discovery, Friendship, Strength and Not Giving Up.
I loved how this time round the Author has taken the readers further into the magical world of Aeolia learning more about gifts, potions, cures and magic.
If you love YA Fantasy, Danger and Adventure, Magical Abilities and relatable characters,then you will love Esme's Gift.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
June 24, 2020
Definitely much better than the first book and the story is much sturdier too. The issue of things being solved conveniently is still present but not as much as before as well as the characters being there but not speaking. New characters are introduced and the prospect of romance being in the next book thrills me. One thing I can’t forgive in this book is how stupid Mare was in dealing with Esme and the water.
The beginning of the book starts with Esme going back to Picton and I loved the suspense with dealing with her father and his new wife. I honestly enjoyed the few pages of this whole ordeal sometimes more than the first half of when she was in Aeolia.
Overall, I loved every adventure they went to and every entry of the compendium as well as the school setting. The characters have more depth to them and I can’t wait for what the next book will be about! I’m very interested to see how the author will deal with the whole reveal of how the wars happened in the past.
Thank you BookSirens and Netgalley for providing me with a digital copy for an honest review.
The beginning of the book starts with Esme going back to Picton and I loved the suspense with dealing with her father and his new wife. I honestly enjoyed the few pages of this whole ordeal sometimes more than the first half of when she was in Aeolia.
Overall, I loved every adventure they went to and every entry of the compendium as well as the school setting. The characters have more depth to them and I can’t wait for what the next book will be about! I’m very interested to see how the author will deal with the whole reveal of how the wars happened in the past.
Thank you BookSirens and Netgalley for providing me with a digital copy for an honest review.
March 21, 2020
Book Review by Pauline Reid 🌊 Esme's Gift by Elizabeth Foster
🌊
What This Book Is About
This is a continuation of book 1 (Esme's Wish). Esme's Gift is about a fifteen year old girl, Esme, who has found her mother and her mother is alive, but in a trance, her gift has been tampered with. We are now in Pierpont where Esme has found out that she is about to start college along with other friends. This is of another world where Esme's school mates all have a gift, which some have trouble controlling. The task ahead is to master their skills using them to help Esme find the secret ingredient to help her mother. Can she do this? A few other surprises awaits as Esme's friends and herself, go on a journey they are unlikely to forget.
🌊
My Thoughts On This Book
Firstly I would like to sincerely thank Elizabeth Foster for giving me this book in exchange for a honest review.
🌊
I was pleasantly surprised when I opened the book and find illustrations that fascinated me, first of all there is the map of Esperance and then there is a brief outline of a school dairy, and a school guide. I love the feel of this book too, it felt like velvet and when I put it down on a slippery surface, it just stayed there, it grips. I loved the dynamics in this book. I loved Esme, a typical 15 year old teenager, sharp and speaks her mind and never misses a beat. In the real world, Esme has a father who is a bit of a drunken lout, and I loved the dynamics between the so called "family" I also love Elizabeth's writing, it's so dreamy and very imaginative. I've put my favourite quotes at the end of this book review, so you can look at them and ponder over in your own time. Now, back to the fantasy world, I enjoyed being thrown into the teenage years again and I thought how lovely it would be to attend the school of Pierpont, where most of Esme's school friends were just developing their gifts, ok, so some of them had issues controlling them, but with control and patience the desired results would prove rewarding.
🌊
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars
🌊
I recommend this book to any Harry Potter fans, and anyone who love fantasy fiction.
🌊
Quotes
The busker was only half-there.
A disembodied leg, hip, arm, and shoulder protruded from the claret-coloured wall. The arm held a violin, across which a bow moved gracefully. The rest of the busker's body, however, was firmly stuck in the stucco.
.
Wearing a blazer over your everyday clothes does not constitute a uniform. Remember, too, that while piercings, dyed hair, and tattoos are acceptable, unenclosed shoes are not, for safety reasons.
.
The alley's long walls were splashed with psychedelic street art: rainbow-tailed mermaids, paradisiacal forests, and an enormous blue-haired Zeus.
.
In a meditative state, slipping into the past is as easy as slipping into a dream.
.
Dip your hand into the water and don't think about what might go wrong. Once your mind is a blank slate, urge the water to show you something. If all goes well, the magic within you will wake.
🌊
What This Book Is About
This is a continuation of book 1 (Esme's Wish). Esme's Gift is about a fifteen year old girl, Esme, who has found her mother and her mother is alive, but in a trance, her gift has been tampered with. We are now in Pierpont where Esme has found out that she is about to start college along with other friends. This is of another world where Esme's school mates all have a gift, which some have trouble controlling. The task ahead is to master their skills using them to help Esme find the secret ingredient to help her mother. Can she do this? A few other surprises awaits as Esme's friends and herself, go on a journey they are unlikely to forget.
🌊
My Thoughts On This Book
Firstly I would like to sincerely thank Elizabeth Foster for giving me this book in exchange for a honest review.
🌊
I was pleasantly surprised when I opened the book and find illustrations that fascinated me, first of all there is the map of Esperance and then there is a brief outline of a school dairy, and a school guide. I love the feel of this book too, it felt like velvet and when I put it down on a slippery surface, it just stayed there, it grips. I loved the dynamics in this book. I loved Esme, a typical 15 year old teenager, sharp and speaks her mind and never misses a beat. In the real world, Esme has a father who is a bit of a drunken lout, and I loved the dynamics between the so called "family" I also love Elizabeth's writing, it's so dreamy and very imaginative. I've put my favourite quotes at the end of this book review, so you can look at them and ponder over in your own time. Now, back to the fantasy world, I enjoyed being thrown into the teenage years again and I thought how lovely it would be to attend the school of Pierpont, where most of Esme's school friends were just developing their gifts, ok, so some of them had issues controlling them, but with control and patience the desired results would prove rewarding.
🌊
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars
🌊
I recommend this book to any Harry Potter fans, and anyone who love fantasy fiction.
🌊
Quotes
The busker was only half-there.
A disembodied leg, hip, arm, and shoulder protruded from the claret-coloured wall. The arm held a violin, across which a bow moved gracefully. The rest of the busker's body, however, was firmly stuck in the stucco.
.
Wearing a blazer over your everyday clothes does not constitute a uniform. Remember, too, that while piercings, dyed hair, and tattoos are acceptable, unenclosed shoes are not, for safety reasons.
.
The alley's long walls were splashed with psychedelic street art: rainbow-tailed mermaids, paradisiacal forests, and an enormous blue-haired Zeus.
.
In a meditative state, slipping into the past is as easy as slipping into a dream.
.
Dip your hand into the water and don't think about what might go wrong. Once your mind is a blank slate, urge the water to show you something. If all goes well, the magic within you will wake.
January 3, 2020
Esme's Gift was the perfect followup to the first novel! I had to go back and skim to remember what happened but book 2 also summarized a tiny bit to help us along.
There was so much wonderful magic in this book. My favorites were all the ghosts, the baby dragon sneezing sparks, Kendra, and the reunion at the end. It was so fast paced.
I almost wonder if there will be a book 3, I wonder what happened to Seth.
I just love the characters and the writing style and the editing, it's a perfect middle grade fantasy book that 100% makes my clean read list!
There was so much wonderful magic in this book. My favorites were all the ghosts, the baby dragon sneezing sparks, Kendra, and the reunion at the end. It was so fast paced.
I almost wonder if there will be a book 3, I wonder what happened to Seth.
I just love the characters and the writing style and the editing, it's a perfect middle grade fantasy book that 100% makes my clean read list!
March 20, 2020
*https://theburgeoningbookshelf.blogsp...
Esme’s Gift carries straight on from Esme’s Wish. Esme returns home to try and convince her father to return to Aeolia with her. Fearing for her mental health he makes an appointment with a psychiatrist. Esme flees to Aeolia in a last bid effort to save her mother.
I really enjoyed Esme’s Wish and the second book in the trilogy didn’t disappoint.
Esme joins again with friends, Lillian and Daniel, on a dangerous quest to find the rare ingredients for an elixir to save her mother’s life. There are people that do not want Esme to complete her quest and she must decide who she can and cannot trust.
The city of Esperance, with it’s magic now returned, is preparing for a mayoral election. The magic gifts bestowed upon the citizens were imaginative and unique. There was also plenty of humour as the school students were learning to control their gifts.
The story has plenty of action and danger with splashes of humour interspersed throughout. As well as magic a slight paranormal element is introduced into the story.
The city of Esperance is well developed and exquisitely described.
Esme’s Gift is another enthralling installment in the Esme series and I’m hoping for more inclusion of the dragons in the next book.
*I received my copy from the author
Esme’s Gift carries straight on from Esme’s Wish. Esme returns home to try and convince her father to return to Aeolia with her. Fearing for her mental health he makes an appointment with a psychiatrist. Esme flees to Aeolia in a last bid effort to save her mother.
I really enjoyed Esme’s Wish and the second book in the trilogy didn’t disappoint.
Esme joins again with friends, Lillian and Daniel, on a dangerous quest to find the rare ingredients for an elixir to save her mother’s life. There are people that do not want Esme to complete her quest and she must decide who she can and cannot trust.
The city of Esperance, with it’s magic now returned, is preparing for a mayoral election. The magic gifts bestowed upon the citizens were imaginative and unique. There was also plenty of humour as the school students were learning to control their gifts.
The story has plenty of action and danger with splashes of humour interspersed throughout. As well as magic a slight paranormal element is introduced into the story.
The city of Esperance is well developed and exquisitely described.
Esme’s Gift is another enthralling installment in the Esme series and I’m hoping for more inclusion of the dragons in the next book.
*I received my copy from the author
April 17, 2020
ESME'S GIFT is the perfect book to sit, and read right now. You can immerse yourself in the unforgettable world of. Esperance.
Currently, our entire world is on 'pause.' The Coronavirus dubbed Covid19 has caused a worldwide phenomenon called "Social Distancing.' Health authorities all over the planet are asking (or demanding) people stay home to avoid catching and/or spreading the virus. The one good thing that has happened because of Covid19, is that we now have the time to read those books that we have all been wishing we had time for.
Physical bookstores may be closed right now, but just about every bookseller is allowing customers to order online and have your books delivered straight to your door. My suggestion is that you place an order for ESME'S WISH and ESME'S GIFT written by the Mega-Talented Author, Elizabeth Foster. I guarantee you will love these books and will find that time flies by because you will become immersef in this tale of magic, mystery, family ties, dragons and the fascinating and scintillating world of Aeolia.
Elizabeth Foster truly has a talent and a gift for creating fantastic worlds that readers will wish they were able to experience firsthand. Elizabeth does for water what J.K. Rowling did for Platform 9 3/4 at the train station.
In "Esme's Gift," the fifteen year old title character returns from the magical world of Aeolia with the intention of convincing her father that his wife, Esme's mother, Ariane, is alive (although currently in a magical coma) in the enchanted city of Esperance. She wants to convince him to travel to Aeolia with her so that he can see for himself.
He reacts the way most of us would react if told that our daughter who had been missing for weeks, shows up one day and says that she had been in a magical city that exists only through an underwater portal. He does not believe her (can you really blame him?) Esme overhears the plan to have her checked out by doctors at a mental hospital and flees back to Aeolia.
Upon her early return, she discovers that there has been no change in her mother's condition. But, there is hope. If she can procure the ingredients necessary for a special potion, then maybe, just maybe, her mother will awaken from her coma.
The rest of the story follows the quest for the potion's ingredients. Esme and her friends have several crazy adventures along the way ... even including a mistakenly cast spell with harrowing consequences.
Anyone who loved the Harry Potter series will enjoy this book series. It is planned as a trilogy and I am going to be eagerly awaiting the next and final installment.
The descriptions of the magical city of Esperance are so vividly rendered that it is easy to picture it in your mind. The characters are not just superficial, they are realistic and have flaws and foibles just like everyone does. These characters will draw you in and you will find them 100% unforgettable.
If you choose to read only one young adult fantasy fiction series this year, you need to ensure it is THE ESME SERIES.
Without hesitation, I rate ESME'S GIFT AS 5 OUT OF 5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
*** Thank you to the Author for providing me with a free copy of this book. ***
Currently, our entire world is on 'pause.' The Coronavirus dubbed Covid19 has caused a worldwide phenomenon called "Social Distancing.' Health authorities all over the planet are asking (or demanding) people stay home to avoid catching and/or spreading the virus. The one good thing that has happened because of Covid19, is that we now have the time to read those books that we have all been wishing we had time for.
Physical bookstores may be closed right now, but just about every bookseller is allowing customers to order online and have your books delivered straight to your door. My suggestion is that you place an order for ESME'S WISH and ESME'S GIFT written by the Mega-Talented Author, Elizabeth Foster. I guarantee you will love these books and will find that time flies by because you will become immersef in this tale of magic, mystery, family ties, dragons and the fascinating and scintillating world of Aeolia.
Elizabeth Foster truly has a talent and a gift for creating fantastic worlds that readers will wish they were able to experience firsthand. Elizabeth does for water what J.K. Rowling did for Platform 9 3/4 at the train station.
In "Esme's Gift," the fifteen year old title character returns from the magical world of Aeolia with the intention of convincing her father that his wife, Esme's mother, Ariane, is alive (although currently in a magical coma) in the enchanted city of Esperance. She wants to convince him to travel to Aeolia with her so that he can see for himself.
He reacts the way most of us would react if told that our daughter who had been missing for weeks, shows up one day and says that she had been in a magical city that exists only through an underwater portal. He does not believe her (can you really blame him?) Esme overhears the plan to have her checked out by doctors at a mental hospital and flees back to Aeolia.
Upon her early return, she discovers that there has been no change in her mother's condition. But, there is hope. If she can procure the ingredients necessary for a special potion, then maybe, just maybe, her mother will awaken from her coma.
The rest of the story follows the quest for the potion's ingredients. Esme and her friends have several crazy adventures along the way ... even including a mistakenly cast spell with harrowing consequences.
Anyone who loved the Harry Potter series will enjoy this book series. It is planned as a trilogy and I am going to be eagerly awaiting the next and final installment.
The descriptions of the magical city of Esperance are so vividly rendered that it is easy to picture it in your mind. The characters are not just superficial, they are realistic and have flaws and foibles just like everyone does. These characters will draw you in and you will find them 100% unforgettable.
If you choose to read only one young adult fantasy fiction series this year, you need to ensure it is THE ESME SERIES.
Without hesitation, I rate ESME'S GIFT AS 5 OUT OF 5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
*** Thank you to the Author for providing me with a free copy of this book. ***
December 28, 2019
4.5 stars
Although this is a fantasy book with dragons and other fantastical creatures/monsters, the focus of this story is more on Esme and her search for the ingredients fo a possible cure for her mother. And it does not disappoint in that respect. After the restoration of the pearl to the city (first book), Esme's friends and classmates start to discover their gifts, which all play different roles in this episode. We also find out more about Esme's Gift (which is the same as her mother's) and what Mare may have done when he messed with their gift. Basically, she learns from Augustine how to use her gift and it allows them to figure out the recipe and find the ingredients for the elixir. She searches these out with the help of her friends and at the same time finds out more important things about Aeolia's past. One of my favorite scenes was with Kendra and Argus (no spoilers). That whole scene was wonderfully written full of emotion in the right places. The only reason this is not fully 5 stars for me is that I wanted a little bit more of Daniel, and I also wanted to find out how the history professor was going to react to her paper. And of course, I want to know how the election turns out, but of course I'm sure that's being saved for the 3rd book. But I loved this book and ended up reading it in one sitting. I can't wait for the next one!
Special thanks to #ElizabethFoster, #BookSirens and #OdysseyBooks for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Although this is a fantasy book with dragons and other fantastical creatures/monsters, the focus of this story is more on Esme and her search for the ingredients fo a possible cure for her mother. And it does not disappoint in that respect. After the restoration of the pearl to the city (first book), Esme's friends and classmates start to discover their gifts, which all play different roles in this episode. We also find out more about Esme's Gift (which is the same as her mother's) and what Mare may have done when he messed with their gift. Basically, she learns from Augustine how to use her gift and it allows them to figure out the recipe and find the ingredients for the elixir. She searches these out with the help of her friends and at the same time finds out more important things about Aeolia's past. One of my favorite scenes was with Kendra and Argus (no spoilers). That whole scene was wonderfully written full of emotion in the right places. The only reason this is not fully 5 stars for me is that I wanted a little bit more of Daniel, and I also wanted to find out how the history professor was going to react to her paper. And of course, I want to know how the election turns out, but of course I'm sure that's being saved for the 3rd book. But I loved this book and ended up reading it in one sitting. I can't wait for the next one!
Special thanks to #ElizabethFoster, #BookSirens and #OdysseyBooks for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 2, 2020
4,5/5
A HUGE thanks to Elizabeth Foster for sending me a review ecopy of the second book of this wonderful trilogy!
I am so exhausted so a full review will come later but for now you’ll have to be content with me screaming at you all how much I love this series, and how I loved the sequel even more!
ASHDHAGDHAGDJAGAGDHDHAHSG
Bring on book 3!
---------------
I already loved Esme's Wish, and we all know sequels have a terrible reputation; The Middle Book Syndrome. Well, I can safely and gladly say this book does not fit into this syndrome! In fact, I prefer it to the first book, as the world building part no longer needs to be done and we get a full book of story!
And what a story. Esme goes back to her home, to try and convince her dad to come with her. When there, she discovers something about her stepmother- and aunt. She also sees how her dad has fallen into despair over her disappearance, thinking she had died as well as her mother.
When things don't go as she had hoped (and honestly that was to be expected), she flees back to Aeolia, where her mother is still unconscious.
She enrolls school, meets new people, an awfully prejudiced teacher, and a new 'quest' arises. Adventures follow, with our beloved trio, as Esme tries to save her mother and work on her History project; both of which of course end up intertwining.
It's once again an easy read, and I got swept away into this magical world all over again. I still want to go so badly! Basically, after never getting my Hogwarts letter, or a painted door, I will now have to lament I never found a magic portal rock pool and got a Gift. Such a shame.
I love these characters so much, and their relationships to each other, including the new characters. Especially Seth! I can't wait for book 3 for him alone! One of the things I love most about this series is that there is no romantic plot, not really. I have a feeling that'll change in the final book, but I hope that it'll still be a side plot only, besides the fantasy and adventure!
The reason why it's not a full 5 stars is because of the naivity of the characters, who are about 16 years old at this point. They read much younger, and some things were so obvious, I feel they should have realized/known/seen it coming. It got to be quite frustrating at times.
But that is truly all I can fault it, and I wish this series was more known and loved! I am reccing it whenever I can, in the hopes more people will read it!
A HUGE thanks to Elizabeth Foster for sending me a review ecopy of the second book of this wonderful trilogy!
I am so exhausted so a full review will come later but for now you’ll have to be content with me screaming at you all how much I love this series, and how I loved the sequel even more!
ASHDHAGDHAGDJAGAGDHDHAHSG
Bring on book 3!
---------------
I already loved Esme's Wish, and we all know sequels have a terrible reputation; The Middle Book Syndrome. Well, I can safely and gladly say this book does not fit into this syndrome! In fact, I prefer it to the first book, as the world building part no longer needs to be done and we get a full book of story!
And what a story. Esme goes back to her home, to try and convince her dad to come with her. When there, she discovers something about her stepmother- and aunt. She also sees how her dad has fallen into despair over her disappearance, thinking she had died as well as her mother.
When things don't go as she had hoped (and honestly that was to be expected), she flees back to Aeolia, where her mother is still unconscious.
She enrolls school, meets new people, an awfully prejudiced teacher, and a new 'quest' arises. Adventures follow, with our beloved trio, as Esme tries to save her mother and work on her History project; both of which of course end up intertwining.
It's once again an easy read, and I got swept away into this magical world all over again. I still want to go so badly! Basically, after never getting my Hogwarts letter, or a painted door, I will now have to lament I never found a magic portal rock pool and got a Gift. Such a shame.
I love these characters so much, and their relationships to each other, including the new characters. Especially Seth! I can't wait for book 3 for him alone! One of the things I love most about this series is that there is no romantic plot, not really. I have a feeling that'll change in the final book, but I hope that it'll still be a side plot only, besides the fantasy and adventure!
The reason why it's not a full 5 stars is because of the naivity of the characters, who are about 16 years old at this point. They read much younger, and some things were so obvious, I feel they should have realized/known/seen it coming. It got to be quite frustrating at times.
But that is truly all I can fault it, and I wish this series was more known and loved! I am reccing it whenever I can, in the hopes more people will read it!
June 12, 2020
This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Esme's Gift
Esme’s mother lies in a coma. The only way to wake her is to make a magical elixir, but using it comes with a high cost. If it isn’t mixed correctly, Esme may lose her mother forever. Esme must master her gift to look back in time to save her mother. She must find all the ingredients as she races against the clock. But gifts are running wild now that the balance of Esperance has been restored. And there’s a new boy in town that brings back awful memories of Nathan Mare. Can Esme find all the ingredients in time? Or will she once again lose her mother?
Esme will travel to new areas of Aeolia, expanding on the world-building Elizabeth Foster so artfully crafted in the first book. Readers will be swept away by the magic as Esme faces her toughest obstacles yet. But she isn’t alone. Best friends Daniel and Lillian will be right beside her, lending their strength and the use of their newfound gifts.
While the first book hinted at why Esme and her stepmother, Penelope, didn’t get along, Esme’s Gift expands on her stepmother’s behavior. Readers will see how Penelope acts towards Esme and her true intentions. I am glad that Esme had the world of Aeolia to turn to when things took a turn for the worst at home. Though I felt bad for Esme as her father refused to believe Esperance was real, I found comfort in the fact that she had a group of friends waiting for her in Aeolia who would do anything to help her.
I could not put this book down as Esme and her friends found themselves in new situations that forced them to grow as characters. There was so much more tension and conflict as they learned about Aeolia’s dark past and faced down new challenges. And all the while there was a clock ticking in the background as Esme’s mother continued to fade away. Rest assured, readers will find a mix of action, adventure, and mystery in this novel.
And there is so much left to tell of Esme’s story! I can’t wait for another addition to this series!
Esme’s mother lies in a coma. The only way to wake her is to make a magical elixir, but using it comes with a high cost. If it isn’t mixed correctly, Esme may lose her mother forever. Esme must master her gift to look back in time to save her mother. She must find all the ingredients as she races against the clock. But gifts are running wild now that the balance of Esperance has been restored. And there’s a new boy in town that brings back awful memories of Nathan Mare. Can Esme find all the ingredients in time? Or will she once again lose her mother?
Esme will travel to new areas of Aeolia, expanding on the world-building Elizabeth Foster so artfully crafted in the first book. Readers will be swept away by the magic as Esme faces her toughest obstacles yet. But she isn’t alone. Best friends Daniel and Lillian will be right beside her, lending their strength and the use of their newfound gifts.
While the first book hinted at why Esme and her stepmother, Penelope, didn’t get along, Esme’s Gift expands on her stepmother’s behavior. Readers will see how Penelope acts towards Esme and her true intentions. I am glad that Esme had the world of Aeolia to turn to when things took a turn for the worst at home. Though I felt bad for Esme as her father refused to believe Esperance was real, I found comfort in the fact that she had a group of friends waiting for her in Aeolia who would do anything to help her.
I could not put this book down as Esme and her friends found themselves in new situations that forced them to grow as characters. There was so much more tension and conflict as they learned about Aeolia’s dark past and faced down new challenges. And all the while there was a clock ticking in the background as Esme’s mother continued to fade away. Rest assured, readers will find a mix of action, adventure, and mystery in this novel.
And there is so much left to tell of Esme’s story! I can’t wait for another addition to this series!
December 20, 2019
Esme's Gift continues Esme's wish after she decides to resurface to her village and ask her father to accompany her to Aolia.
As Esme struggles through her relationship with her father , school and getting remedy for her mom , Esme's Gift continues to shine the importance of friendship.
I read Esme's wish through Booksirens because it promised dragons , Atlantis-like-cities , mermaids , sirens + worldbuilding with unique abilities.
I dove into the book without much expectations and except for a few predictable knots , Esme's wish did manage to satisfy me.
Let's talk characters ,
Esme , our protagonist with her ability to see through memories just by getting in contact with water , has a lot of responsibilities including her mother's life on stake.
Daniel , our lovely dragon rider , didn't really have as much space as Esme's wish . So not much.
Seth , the mysterious character who has gotta get introduced in the book to confuse Esme , has played his stereotype without much effort.
Lillian , has gone through a lot of changes in this book and remains my favorite character.
Augustine and the ghost remain as vivid as possible with a lot more to devote to the plot .
And then comes , the plot
This is where I got disappointed. After Esme's wish , I assumed this would be a lengthy series with a lot more detailed world building. But the plot didn't venture into the world building or the school or anything.. really. This book is just about saving Ariana and searching for clues. A . Lot.
The writing was pretty much the same with Esme's wish , except for some stereotypical & clique characters .
Esme's wish is a lot more fun than Esme's gift. But as a sequel to an amazing book , it doesn't disappoint.
I thank Booksirens for my ARC . I've left this review voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
As Esme struggles through her relationship with her father , school and getting remedy for her mom , Esme's Gift continues to shine the importance of friendship.
I read Esme's wish through Booksirens because it promised dragons , Atlantis-like-cities , mermaids , sirens + worldbuilding with unique abilities.
I dove into the book without much expectations and except for a few predictable knots , Esme's wish did manage to satisfy me.
Let's talk characters ,
Esme , our protagonist with her ability to see through memories just by getting in contact with water , has a lot of responsibilities including her mother's life on stake.
Daniel , our lovely dragon rider , didn't really have as much space as Esme's wish . So not much.
Seth , the mysterious character who has gotta get introduced in the book to confuse Esme , has played his stereotype without much effort.
Lillian , has gone through a lot of changes in this book and remains my favorite character.
Augustine and the ghost remain as vivid as possible with a lot more to devote to the plot .
And then comes , the plot
This is where I got disappointed. After Esme's wish , I assumed this would be a lengthy series with a lot more detailed world building. But the plot didn't venture into the world building or the school or anything.. really. This book is just about saving Ariana and searching for clues. A . Lot.
The writing was pretty much the same with Esme's wish , except for some stereotypical & clique characters .
Esme's wish is a lot more fun than Esme's gift. But as a sequel to an amazing book , it doesn't disappoint.
I thank Booksirens for my ARC . I've left this review voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
December 15, 2019
Elizabeth Foster is such a talented writer! I received this as an ARC and read it in one afternoon with a cup of tea. I got caught up in the world building and felt everything was well put together. I am a fan of YA works and always glad to see an author put something out that will be read by all age groups.
March 10, 2020
Huge thanks to @elizabethfoster_ for sending me the second novel in the Esme trilogy. I read Esme’s Wish at the end of 2018 and have been wanting to return to Aeolia and the city of Esperance ever since. Fifteen-year-old Esme is trying to master her newfound Gift, the ability to focus on the past through contact with water. Now living in Esperance, she starts at Pierspont college together with a class of other teens whose uncontrolled Gifts are also starting to emerge often with disastrously comic results. However, there is one person that Esme loves that needs to be severed from their Gift in order to survive. Esme and friends Lillian and Daniel travel together across Aeolia to gather the ingredients for the Severance Elixir. The watery world of Aelia enchanted me again in Esme’s Gift with its dragons, songspells, magical origami and painted portals. I want to visit Spindrift Island, and Delfino’s: Stationers to Royalty. I want to go to a school with lessons on the rearing of Dragon’s and where leaping sirens chase your boat in sailing lessons. Esme’s world has become brighter and more detailed in this second novel and I can’t wait for book three!
May 15, 2020
Here's an excerpt from a review by Readers' Favorite.
Esme's Gift explores a grittier, darker, and at times more beautiful Aeolia. Elizabeth Foster's strong world-building cultivates a story that's even more mysterious and layered than Esme's first swim into Aeolia. While a thriller element is woven into the fantasy plot in a way that kept me on the edge of my seat at times, where the book really stands out is in the characters.
Upping the action a bit from the first book, Esme, Daniel, and Lillian take on a lot of personal growth tasks suitable to their ages, from majestic dragons to terrifying oracles, medical secrets, Aeolia's violent history--and the ghosts who tell it--and the sometimes accident-prone development of their own special Gifts. Esme's Gift captures the angst, growing pains, and courage of adolescents while threading in some gentle moments of true friendship and affection.
Esme's Gift explores a grittier, darker, and at times more beautiful Aeolia. Elizabeth Foster's strong world-building cultivates a story that's even more mysterious and layered than Esme's first swim into Aeolia. While a thriller element is woven into the fantasy plot in a way that kept me on the edge of my seat at times, where the book really stands out is in the characters.
Upping the action a bit from the first book, Esme, Daniel, and Lillian take on a lot of personal growth tasks suitable to their ages, from majestic dragons to terrifying oracles, medical secrets, Aeolia's violent history--and the ghosts who tell it--and the sometimes accident-prone development of their own special Gifts. Esme's Gift captures the angst, growing pains, and courage of adolescents while threading in some gentle moments of true friendship and affection.
August 27, 2020
I love this story. I love how strong Esme is and how loyal her friends are. All the magical characters and creatures are very intriguing.
The characters are well-developed and their emotions are easy to feel.
The story flows well from chapter to chapter and is easy to follow along.
It is a great story for young adults as well as adult readers.
The characters are well-developed and their emotions are easy to feel.
The story flows well from chapter to chapter and is easy to follow along.
It is a great story for young adults as well as adult readers.
January 8, 2021
ARC received via BookSirens in exchange for my honest review.
This is a bit of a difficult review. As the second book in the Esme Series, the expectation for Esme's Gift is that it would ramp up what the first book laid the foundation for, and while it did so in some ways, it fell short in others.
On the plus side, I could see definite growth for Esme and the side characters, and this installment felt less of a midpoint between middle grade and YA fiction than the first one, with both feet now planted quite firmly in YA territory. The world building also broadened beautifully, building on the ideas hinted at in the first book.
However, issues I had with pacing in the first book were exacerbated in this one, with the climactic moments falling a bit flat or being followed by additional climaxes way too soon to be really resolved. Additionally, I can't find any information about a third book in the works, but I honestly hope there is one. If not, too many threads will have been left loose for Esme's Gift to really be a satisfying conclusion to the series.
I'd love for this series to continue, and with that, Esme's growth. I feel like there's potential for her character and the story to grow from something that's still quite wholesome and simple to something carrying more depth and weight, closer to modern YA fiction. Fingers crossed for a third book!
This is a bit of a difficult review. As the second book in the Esme Series, the expectation for Esme's Gift is that it would ramp up what the first book laid the foundation for, and while it did so in some ways, it fell short in others.
On the plus side, I could see definite growth for Esme and the side characters, and this installment felt less of a midpoint between middle grade and YA fiction than the first one, with both feet now planted quite firmly in YA territory. The world building also broadened beautifully, building on the ideas hinted at in the first book.
However, issues I had with pacing in the first book were exacerbated in this one, with the climactic moments falling a bit flat or being followed by additional climaxes way too soon to be really resolved. Additionally, I can't find any information about a third book in the works, but I honestly hope there is one. If not, too many threads will have been left loose for Esme's Gift to really be a satisfying conclusion to the series.
I'd love for this series to continue, and with that, Esme's growth. I feel like there's potential for her character and the story to grow from something that's still quite wholesome and simple to something carrying more depth and weight, closer to modern YA fiction. Fingers crossed for a third book!
August 30, 2020
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DISCLAIMER : Thank you, Prism Book Tours for providing me with an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Esme's Gift is the second book in the Esme series. This book was so much fun, and I loved reading this. Getting lost in the parallel world of Aeolia was exciting and intriguing. I wanted to see how the series continued from Esme's Wish. It didn't disappoint and delivered a wonderful and enchanting ride through new adventures, uncovering of mysteries from the past, and fascinating fantastical creatures. I had so much fun in joining Esme, Lillian, and Daniel through their school and new missions. Exploration of Esme's gift plays a central role in this book. Esme has protected the Pearl from getting into the wrong hands. Now after rescuing her mom she has to inform her father of all the happenings. With hope and excitement, she decides to leave the enchanted world and meet her dad. After finding out that situations have worsened back home, she is forced to return to Esperance to find out that her mother's life might be in more of a danger than originally perceived. Getting the recipe for a life-changing Elixir will be the goal and Esme should find out how to prepare it by all means. Life throws a few curveballs her way and now she and her friends have to find ways to dodge the problems coming her way and succeeding in helping her mom return to life.
The idea of right Vs wrong, using power rightfully, cons of greed, and resilience are some of the major themes explored in the book. Love of family and friendships are stronger and explored more in the story. The world is enchanting with beautiful writing, adventures for the young readers, exciting fantastical creatures, and mystery all come together to bring about a well-written middle-grade to early YA fantasy. The story is enjoyable and engaging. I gave the book 4.5 stars and highly recommend checking it out. If you love dragons and adventures, young, strong, resilient, and determined protagonists you will enjoy this book.
SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL : YOUTUBE
FOLLOW ME ON : TWITTER INSTAGRAM
FR REVIEW :
DISCLAIMER : Thank you, Prism Book Tours for providing me with an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Esme's Gift is the second book in the Esme series. This book was so much fun, and I loved reading this. Getting lost in the parallel world of Aeolia was exciting and intriguing. I wanted to see how the series continued from Esme's Wish. It didn't disappoint and delivered a wonderful and enchanting ride through new adventures, uncovering of mysteries from the past, and fascinating fantastical creatures. I had so much fun in joining Esme, Lillian, and Daniel through their school and new missions. Exploration of Esme's gift plays a central role in this book. Esme has protected the Pearl from getting into the wrong hands. Now after rescuing her mom she has to inform her father of all the happenings. With hope and excitement, she decides to leave the enchanted world and meet her dad. After finding out that situations have worsened back home, she is forced to return to Esperance to find out that her mother's life might be in more of a danger than originally perceived. Getting the recipe for a life-changing Elixir will be the goal and Esme should find out how to prepare it by all means. Life throws a few curveballs her way and now she and her friends have to find ways to dodge the problems coming her way and succeeding in helping her mom return to life.
The idea of right Vs wrong, using power rightfully, cons of greed, and resilience are some of the major themes explored in the book. Love of family and friendships are stronger and explored more in the story. The world is enchanting with beautiful writing, adventures for the young readers, exciting fantastical creatures, and mystery all come together to bring about a well-written middle-grade to early YA fantasy. The story is enjoyable and engaging. I gave the book 4.5 stars and highly recommend checking it out. If you love dragons and adventures, young, strong, resilient, and determined protagonists you will enjoy this book.
September 19, 2020
Esme’s Gift is the sequel to Esme’s Wish, a delightful middle-grade fantasy series. Esme has been reunited with her mother at last, but her adventures in Esperance are far from over. Not only does she have to convince her father that Esperance exists and attend magic school, Esme must also go on a dangerous quest to help her mother wake up. This story has a little bit of everything, from magic school, friendship, to dragons!
Esme, Lillian, and Daniel come into their gifts and work together as they collect spell ingredients to save Esme’s mother. Sinister villains, beautiful descriptions, and lovable characters made this a thoroughly enjoyable read. Esme’s Gift is imaginative and action-packed. The magic system is a continuous delight and the world-building is expertly expanded upon. I really loved spending time in Esme’s world and I’m so glad that this is a trilogy! If you loved Esme’s Wish then you should absolutely pick up Esme’s Gift. Esme’s Gift is available now! Thank you to Elizabeth Foster, BooksGoSocial, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Esme, Lillian, and Daniel come into their gifts and work together as they collect spell ingredients to save Esme’s mother. Sinister villains, beautiful descriptions, and lovable characters made this a thoroughly enjoyable read. Esme’s Gift is imaginative and action-packed. The magic system is a continuous delight and the world-building is expertly expanded upon. I really loved spending time in Esme’s world and I’m so glad that this is a trilogy! If you loved Esme’s Wish then you should absolutely pick up Esme’s Gift. Esme’s Gift is available now! Thank you to Elizabeth Foster, BooksGoSocial, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2020
Esme’s Gift follows 16-year-old Esme as she and her friends travel around Aeolia tracking down ingredients for a magical elixir to try and save her mother. We see Esme’s gift (magical ability) develop further and she her learn to control it just in time. Esme and her friends all must use their varied gifts to figure out the correct ingredients for the elixir, collect them and outsmart the bad guy.
There was even more dragon riding in this the second book and who doesn’t love a story that involves dragons and the characters getting to ride them!!
The founders of Aeolia were refugees from Ancient Greece and the stories architectural backdrop reflects this bit of Foster’s world-building. The world of Aeolia is familiar enough for the reader to feel at home, yet unique enough to keep you entertained. As with the first book, the writing followed well, was well-paced and easy to read.
I thoroughly enjoyed journeying with Esme and her friends again. I found this book to be like a good long hug from an old friend. It lifted my spirits immensely.
Esme’s Gift is a well-rounded fantasy tale with a satisfying ending, and yet enough is left untold to keep you looking forward to the next installment. - We still need to catch Mare and find out what happened to Seth!
Esme’s Gift is a story of friendship, a story of love, a story of never giving up and never losing hope.
I would recommend the Esme series to any #LoveOzYA aficionados and lovers of YA fantasy like Harry Potter, Percy Jackson and The Medoran Chronicles.
There was even more dragon riding in this the second book and who doesn’t love a story that involves dragons and the characters getting to ride them!!
The founders of Aeolia were refugees from Ancient Greece and the stories architectural backdrop reflects this bit of Foster’s world-building. The world of Aeolia is familiar enough for the reader to feel at home, yet unique enough to keep you entertained. As with the first book, the writing followed well, was well-paced and easy to read.
I thoroughly enjoyed journeying with Esme and her friends again. I found this book to be like a good long hug from an old friend. It lifted my spirits immensely.
Esme’s Gift is a well-rounded fantasy tale with a satisfying ending, and yet enough is left untold to keep you looking forward to the next installment. - We still need to catch Mare and find out what happened to Seth!
Esme’s Gift is a story of friendship, a story of love, a story of never giving up and never losing hope.
I would recommend the Esme series to any #LoveOzYA aficionados and lovers of YA fantasy like Harry Potter, Percy Jackson and The Medoran Chronicles.
August 17, 2023
'A parade of craft cruised the lagoon: gilt-edged ferries and gondolas in jewel-like colours - dazzling blues, crimsons, emerald greens. Sea dragons looped above the rooftops, twisting their sinuous forms ... . Esme's Gift Ch. 3.'
Oh dear, our world is not in its finest shape right now, is it. Wouldn't it be wonderful to be elsewhere. Fortunately, I have to hand Esme's Gift, the sequel to Esme's Wish, and I can plunge once more into another world and see again the towers of the city of Esperance and the siren islands of Aeolia.
Esme returns to Aeolia after her failed attempt to convince her father to join her. The evil Nathan Mare is at large and intent on finding the secret knowledge entrusted to her.
Esme must gather the strange ingredients of the only elixir that can save her mother. To obtain these elements takes all her courage and all the combined gifts and powers of her friends. But some people are not who they seem to be, and the tension never lets up.
The Esme Trilogy is written by Elizabeth Foster with the 'Young Adult' audience in mind. But if you happen to be an older reader who loves a beguiling fantasy world and tales of ghosts and of quests into dark caverns guarded by monsters and ghouls, and if you also don't object to dragons .. The books of the Esme trilogy will be a real treat for you.
Oh dear, our world is not in its finest shape right now, is it. Wouldn't it be wonderful to be elsewhere. Fortunately, I have to hand Esme's Gift, the sequel to Esme's Wish, and I can plunge once more into another world and see again the towers of the city of Esperance and the siren islands of Aeolia.
Esme returns to Aeolia after her failed attempt to convince her father to join her. The evil Nathan Mare is at large and intent on finding the secret knowledge entrusted to her.
Esme must gather the strange ingredients of the only elixir that can save her mother. To obtain these elements takes all her courage and all the combined gifts and powers of her friends. But some people are not who they seem to be, and the tension never lets up.
The Esme Trilogy is written by Elizabeth Foster with the 'Young Adult' audience in mind. But if you happen to be an older reader who loves a beguiling fantasy world and tales of ghosts and of quests into dark caverns guarded by monsters and ghouls, and if you also don't object to dragons .. The books of the Esme trilogy will be a real treat for you.
December 15, 2019
From the first page I fell back into the wonderful world of Aeolia and was eagerly watching on as Esme fought to save her mother. The tiny details added depth to the story, like a school library on the pier that used old boats as shelves and the Winter Parade that helped bring the water city of Esperance to life in full technicolour. Filled with well rounded characters, it drew me in and left me wanting more. I loved Esme and her determination to do whatever it took to save her mother from a Gift that had gone horribly wrong, seeking to master her own magic and uncover the truth. As the clues were unravelled and the danger increased, it was great to see Esme and her loyal friends, Lillian and Daniel, rising up to the challenges they faced. This is a story that would appeal to any fantasy loving teen as well as adult readers as its whimsical and enchanting world building is sure to delight. There is plenty of action for the adventure seeker, and even a touch of humour and romance to even things out. It really does have a little bit of everything, all wrapped up in a story that kept me turning the pages and wondering what was going to happen next for Esme and her family and friends. I will be eagerly waiting for the next book so I can return to Aeolia once more.
February 17, 2020
In this exciting sequel to Esme's Wish, Esme decides to return to Aeolia and leave her Dad to his fate. As she tries to fit into Aeolian life by going to school and mastering her own Gift she also sets off on a quest to find ingredients for an elixir that will help her mother Ariane wake from the trance she has fallen into. Her trusted friends Lillian and Daniel are, as always, beside her but we also meet some new friends with some pretty cool Gifts!
I really enjoyed this sequel, the story was well-paced and interesting and I am totally in love with Esperance and the fantasy world or Aeolia that Elizabeth Foster has brought to life.
For tweens and teens (and even adults!) that love fantasy and adventure this trilogy ticks all the boxes and more.
I really enjoyed this sequel, the story was well-paced and interesting and I am totally in love with Esperance and the fantasy world or Aeolia that Elizabeth Foster has brought to life.
For tweens and teens (and even adults!) that love fantasy and adventure this trilogy ticks all the boxes and more.
May 10, 2020
I will not include the synopsis of the book considering most of the other reviews reiterate the GoodReads description.
The opportunity to read Esme’s Wish and Esme’s Gift one after another is something for which I am grateful! Esme’s Wish introduced Esme’s and us to magic while Esme’s Gift dove deep into the the magical world with deeper understanding of “gifts,” time travel, an evil scientist, sorcerers, and more. I thoroughly enjoyed more explanation and role of the dragons in this book and reading Esme getting to know her gift much more intimately.
If there’s a third book, I would love to read the characters of Ariane, Aaron, and Lillian with more depth.
The opportunity to read Esme’s Wish and Esme’s Gift one after another is something for which I am grateful! Esme’s Wish introduced Esme’s and us to magic while Esme’s Gift dove deep into the the magical world with deeper understanding of “gifts,” time travel, an evil scientist, sorcerers, and more. I thoroughly enjoyed more explanation and role of the dragons in this book and reading Esme getting to know her gift much more intimately.
If there’s a third book, I would love to read the characters of Ariane, Aaron, and Lillian with more depth.
October 12, 2019
From dragons diving into volcaneos, Esme and her friends portalling out of art class and deep under water adventures, Esme’s gift is quite simply a thrilling and exciting read. I especially loved the magical venetian atmosphere of Esperance, which is expressed via vivid descriptions sprinkled throughout the story. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys being taken away to a beautifully creative fantasy world coupled with an equally as creative magic system all backed up by a fascinating gang of characters.
September 17, 2019
I was super fortunate to be able to read an advanced reader copy for the second book in this series. Esme's Gift took me for an absolutely amazing ride! I was so enthralled with the book, that on my way home from work, I actually missed my train stop! The world and character development is so well balanced and you are getting the full picture throughout! Even though this is a fantasy, the reactions are so realistic and well thought out! I highly recommend this series! Well done!
March 22, 2020
Esme’s Gift is much more action packed than its successor, Esme’s Wish, but still doesn’t lose the enchanting feel. Fans of Harry Potter will love this book for its similar themes. More of the magical city of Esperance is described in detail and just makes you yearn to live there! The genuine friendship of the characters make this book a satisfying read, and hints at romance in the next book. The conclusion of the trilogy will be greatly anticipated!
I received an ARC from the author
I received an ARC from the author
September 29, 2019
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this book and couldn't put it down! It takes everything that was great about book 1 and makes it better. With a well developed whimisical world and heroes you can cheer for, this series has more than earned its place alongside Nevermoor.
March 21, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
It is rare that the sequel of a book is as good as or better than the first. I consider this a happy exception. This book really got me engrossed in the series. I knew fairly early one what the story was going to entail, and I enjoyed that. It felt like a quest, much more unified than the first book.
The writing style... it was great! My only complaint is that the "romance" aspect of the story, as well as some other subplots, weren't integrated as well as I'd like. It didn't feel natural (though I love all the ships and will stan them till the end of time). I needed more subtle gestures and slow burn goodness where maybe they don't understand what they're feeling for a while and have to figure it out. A lot of people reading these books are children, preteens, or even teens that are just starting to understand that tingly, butterfly feeling of first love. It would nice to see that explored while still not taking up the main part of the story.
I'm really surprised the story ended so nicely rather than on a cliffhanger, especially when there was something cliffhanger-worthy I'm pretty sure is going to happen at the beginning of the second book anyway. I personally don't mind the lack of a cliffhanger, but it might not be good for sales and keeping kids hooked.
And just for the record - I know there is an unexpected traitor here! We all saw the betrayal in this book coming but I know there is one "good" character in the midst that is hiding something. I don't know who it is but I'm watching you all! Trust no one!
Four out of five cows. A higher rating than the first book because I love when books have me conspiring over possible twists and turns, and this book had me putting on my tinfoil hat and making mental maps the entire time!
It is rare that the sequel of a book is as good as or better than the first. I consider this a happy exception. This book really got me engrossed in the series. I knew fairly early one what the story was going to entail, and I enjoyed that. It felt like a quest, much more unified than the first book.
The writing style... it was great! My only complaint is that the "romance" aspect of the story, as well as some other subplots, weren't integrated as well as I'd like. It didn't feel natural (though I love all the ships and will stan them till the end of time). I needed more subtle gestures and slow burn goodness where maybe they don't understand what they're feeling for a while and have to figure it out. A lot of people reading these books are children, preteens, or even teens that are just starting to understand that tingly, butterfly feeling of first love. It would nice to see that explored while still not taking up the main part of the story.
I'm really surprised the story ended so nicely rather than on a cliffhanger, especially when there was something cliffhanger-worthy I'm pretty sure is going to happen at the beginning of the second book anyway. I personally don't mind the lack of a cliffhanger, but it might not be good for sales and keeping kids hooked.
And just for the record - I know there is an unexpected traitor here! We all saw the betrayal in this book coming but I know there is one "good" character in the midst that is hiding something. I don't know who it is but I'm watching you all! Trust no one!
Four out of five cows. A higher rating than the first book because I love when books have me conspiring over possible twists and turns, and this book had me putting on my tinfoil hat and making mental maps the entire time!
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