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Sands of Theia #2
Under Stone and Shadow
Two months have passed since God-King Hovilan nearly tore Siddam apart trying to purge it of rogue thaumaturgy. Tirzah is once again traversing the wastes of Theia. Free from the gaze of the god-kings, she finds a place for herself among the denizens of the Aru Si caravan. Still considered an outcast, she has at least found some solace and safety among their numbers.
Though the wastes are almost entirely devoid of life, they are not devoid of their secrets. Confronted by the horrors of the desert, Tirzah and her companions are forced underground. There, they find remnants of a past the god-kings have long sought to obliterate from Theia’s history. Armed with this knowledge and escaping the depths of Theia, they must seek refuge in the city of Kahral, where the ruling god-king’s profane intentions threaten the lives of all of the city’s inhabitants.
Content Note: Please be aware that this work contains depictions of abuse, violence, and death/dying, as well as brief descriptions of and alluding to torture.
Though the wastes are almost entirely devoid of life, they are not devoid of their secrets. Confronted by the horrors of the desert, Tirzah and her companions are forced underground. There, they find remnants of a past the god-kings have long sought to obliterate from Theia’s history. Armed with this knowledge and escaping the depths of Theia, they must seek refuge in the city of Kahral, where the ruling god-king’s profane intentions threaten the lives of all of the city’s inhabitants.
Content Note: Please be aware that this work contains depictions of abuse, violence, and death/dying, as well as brief descriptions of and alluding to torture.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 14, 2021
1 person is currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
A.E. Bross
8 books45 followersA.E. Bross has also published under Adrienne Bross.
Born an April baby in New York, New York, Adrienne "A.E." Bross enjoyed everything from soccer to flute lessons to horror stories while she was growing up, but her real passion was writing. Soon, fantasy began to overtake horror in her repertoire, and with thoughts of dragons and magicians, she went to college and gained her BA in English Literature.
Regardless of how whimsical and amazing fictional fantasies are, they do not always pay the bills! However, an MS in Library and Information Sciences, and a steady job as Librarian, Keeper of the Secrets and Knowledge of the ages , would.
Now she wears many titles: spouse, friend, parent, writer, enby, reader, moviegoer, mother sibling, poet, offspring, gamer, pan-fabulous, video gamer, artist, photographer, blogger, enemy, friend, librarian, and probably a million others that (for the sake of brevity) shall not be named.
It's been a busy few years.
Born an April baby in New York, New York, Adrienne "A.E." Bross enjoyed everything from soccer to flute lessons to horror stories while she was growing up, but her real passion was writing. Soon, fantasy began to overtake horror in her repertoire, and with thoughts of dragons and magicians, she went to college and gained her BA in English Literature.
Regardless of how whimsical and amazing fictional fantasies are, they do not always pay the bills! However, an MS in Library and Information Sciences, and a steady job as Librarian, Keeper of the Secrets and Knowledge of the ages , would.
Now she wears many titles: spouse, friend, parent, writer, enby, reader, moviegoer, mother sibling, poet, offspring, gamer, pan-fabulous, video gamer, artist, photographer, blogger, enemy, friend, librarian, and probably a million others that (for the sake of brevity) shall not be named.
It's been a busy few years.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
April 22, 2021
In this continuation if the Sands of Theia saga, we follow Tirzah as she travels the desert with the Aru Si caravan in search of her sister, Naomi. The adventures and the adversities she encounters on her journey are as treacherous as the sands, and just as dangerous. With the help of her little found family she must face dark magic, a power-hungry god-king, and an old and familiar enemy from her past...
I adore the worldbuilding in this series, which is both intricate and simple. It's a world that holds endless mysteries, and yet has place for diversity and acceptance. The ensemble of characters was great too, though some of them remained an enigma, and I cannot wait to learn all about them in the next book. I think Green, with his reserved strength and a desire for learning, was my favorite of the bunch.
And of course, how can I get over the cameo of Stephan and Warren, the main characters of my The Castaway Prince series, or, rather, their Theian versions, Warren and Nafets! It was so heartwarming to see their story reimagined to fit the realities of this world and worked in as yet another strand into the colorful tapestry that is the world of Theia.
I will be eagerly awaiting the next chapter of Tirzah's adventures, because I know the best is yet to come...
I adore the worldbuilding in this series, which is both intricate and simple. It's a world that holds endless mysteries, and yet has place for diversity and acceptance. The ensemble of characters was great too, though some of them remained an enigma, and I cannot wait to learn all about them in the next book. I think Green, with his reserved strength and a desire for learning, was my favorite of the bunch.
And of course, how can I get over the cameo of Stephan and Warren, the main characters of my The Castaway Prince series, or, rather, their Theian versions, Warren and Nafets! It was so heartwarming to see their story reimagined to fit the realities of this world and worked in as yet another strand into the colorful tapestry that is the world of Theia.
I will be eagerly awaiting the next chapter of Tirzah's adventures, because I know the best is yet to come...
March 31, 2021
This was so good! I love a great second book in a series and Under Stone and Shadow is no exception.
I loved joining Tirzah on another adventure and meeting more of her found family as they traverse the desert in search of her beloved older sister Naomi.
The world building is beautifully woven into the story, and I love all the little setting details.
I also greatly adored one of the new characters, Green. I don’t want to give away too much about him, but I connected with him immediately. He’s such a pure character with so much heart.
There is plenty of action and twists and turns in this story, too. By the final act I was at the point of no return and dropped everything so I could read to the end.
I love the LGBTQ+ diversity in this series with nonbinary and ace rep done really well. It always makes me smile to read stories that feature characters with they/them pronouns.
Bross has created an incredible world and I’m so glad I had the privilege to explore with Tirzah again. I eagerly anticipate the third book and the next adventure.
I strongly recommend this book to fantasy fans and readers who enjoy a great story with a diverse cast. Get your copy on 4/14/21.
Thank you to the author and BookSprout for a digital ARC. This was my honest review.
I loved joining Tirzah on another adventure and meeting more of her found family as they traverse the desert in search of her beloved older sister Naomi.
The world building is beautifully woven into the story, and I love all the little setting details.
I also greatly adored one of the new characters, Green. I don’t want to give away too much about him, but I connected with him immediately. He’s such a pure character with so much heart.
There is plenty of action and twists and turns in this story, too. By the final act I was at the point of no return and dropped everything so I could read to the end.
I love the LGBTQ+ diversity in this series with nonbinary and ace rep done really well. It always makes me smile to read stories that feature characters with they/them pronouns.
Bross has created an incredible world and I’m so glad I had the privilege to explore with Tirzah again. I eagerly anticipate the third book and the next adventure.
I strongly recommend this book to fantasy fans and readers who enjoy a great story with a diverse cast. Get your copy on 4/14/21.
Thank you to the author and BookSprout for a digital ARC. This was my honest review.
April 21, 2021
Return to Theia
Another interesting instalments in this series. In particular, I enjoyed the new characters we were introduced to in this book, though it was also nice to get reacquainted with Tirzah & her sarcastic familiar :)
Another interesting instalments in this series. In particular, I enjoyed the new characters we were introduced to in this book, though it was also nice to get reacquainted with Tirzah & her sarcastic familiar :)
April 10, 2021
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Once again, another wonderfully diverse queer fantasy epic from A. E. Bross. What I love about their work is how many types of queer characters are seamlessly added to their world. That and the world building. There is a lot of nice texture in Under Stone and Shadow yet so much more left to be uncovered in future works.
The biggest draw though, is Xan, the disaster enby, and Green, the resident himbo. My personal favorite is green, and I look forward to coming back to Theia for more of Tirzuh, Green, and Xan's adventures in the future!
Once again, another wonderfully diverse queer fantasy epic from A. E. Bross. What I love about their work is how many types of queer characters are seamlessly added to their world. That and the world building. There is a lot of nice texture in Under Stone and Shadow yet so much more left to be uncovered in future works.
The biggest draw though, is Xan, the disaster enby, and Green, the resident himbo. My personal favorite is green, and I look forward to coming back to Theia for more of Tirzuh, Green, and Xan's adventures in the future!
April 14, 2021
A wonderful second book with Tirzah and friends, old and new. Bross has again written an imaginative but believable world filled with three-dimensional characters and a gripping journey across Theia.
The content warnings should be taken seriously; there are some pretty dark moments in the book, but they are not gratuitous and they do make sense for the characters and the story.
New characters introduced in this book were wonderful and I look forward to seeing more of them in future books, as well as seeing Tirzah's continued journey. Characters grew and developed in realistic ways throughout the story and, with Bross' gifted writing, I am certain they will continue to do so in fascinating ways in future. I also look forward to having some of Xan's past and abilities explored a little more because I loved them as a character and am just as interested in finding out who they are as they are.
The story had exactly the right amount of action, intrigue, and exploration, and I would highly recommend reading the Sands of Theia books, especially if you're looking for fantasy with LGBTQIA+ rep that is not romance.
The content warnings should be taken seriously; there are some pretty dark moments in the book, but they are not gratuitous and they do make sense for the characters and the story.
New characters introduced in this book were wonderful and I look forward to seeing more of them in future books, as well as seeing Tirzah's continued journey. Characters grew and developed in realistic ways throughout the story and, with Bross' gifted writing, I am certain they will continue to do so in fascinating ways in future. I also look forward to having some of Xan's past and abilities explored a little more because I loved them as a character and am just as interested in finding out who they are as they are.
The story had exactly the right amount of action, intrigue, and exploration, and I would highly recommend reading the Sands of Theia books, especially if you're looking for fantasy with LGBTQIA+ rep that is not romance.
June 8, 2021
Under Stone and Shadow boasts a perfect balance between intricate world-building, charismatic characters, action oriented scenes and sophisticated lore, making it easily one of my new favorite fantasy series bar none.
If you need great character development in your fiction, look no further. The characters are diverse in personality and well constructed. They’re each unique, dialogue and actions explicit to each character. Sometimes fantasy characters can either follow specific tropes, or end up homogenous, so I love that each of these characters, especially Green and Xan, really come to life in their own respective ways. I quickly fell in love with these two new characters in the story, especially Xan, who’s mysterious backstory has me incredibly intrigued.
The series is also very queer. A lot of the characters are LGBTQ+ in some way, spanning different gender identities and sexualities. This is handled in a ‘no muss no fuss’ way, rather than drawing attention to sexuality and gender differences as abhorrent or sinful. I always find this refreshing, to have a world where it’s the norm to simply be who you are and have no one bat an eye.
I had two very different experiences with The Roots That Clutch and Under Stone and Shadow, which I think is testament to the flexibility of Bross. In The Roots That Clutch, at points I had very visceral emotional reactions due to some of the losses Tirzah endures. It was at times a difficult read, because there was simply so much that she had to experience in her coming of age, and it mirrored a lot of my own struggles with trauma and grief.
On the other hand, Under Stone and Shadow is more action oriented and gets into the mystery of the world itself, and goes into forming relationships post loss; which is also something I can relate to. The strength it takes to create bonds knowing their temporariness and fragility is a theme that’s explored but not overdone in favor of an alternative theme: when to stop running away. This comes to a head later on in an unexpected way. I liked that Bross didn’t try to recreate The Roots That Clutch but let Under Stone and Shadow be its own manifestation of Theia.
The crux of it is that the testament to whether a sequel to a debut, or any second book in a series is successful, is whether the reader wants to know what happens next. I have so, so many questions I need answers to, and I’ve fallen in love with too many characters to stop here. Bross’s writing is flawless, the world is enchanting, the mystery of each reveal only draws me in further, the characters have charmed me, and I’m well and truly caught in the Sands of Theia.
Trigger Warnings:
If you need great character development in your fiction, look no further. The characters are diverse in personality and well constructed. They’re each unique, dialogue and actions explicit to each character. Sometimes fantasy characters can either follow specific tropes, or end up homogenous, so I love that each of these characters, especially Green and Xan, really come to life in their own respective ways. I quickly fell in love with these two new characters in the story, especially Xan, who’s mysterious backstory has me incredibly intrigued.
The series is also very queer. A lot of the characters are LGBTQ+ in some way, spanning different gender identities and sexualities. This is handled in a ‘no muss no fuss’ way, rather than drawing attention to sexuality and gender differences as abhorrent or sinful. I always find this refreshing, to have a world where it’s the norm to simply be who you are and have no one bat an eye.
I had two very different experiences with The Roots That Clutch and Under Stone and Shadow, which I think is testament to the flexibility of Bross. In The Roots That Clutch, at points I had very visceral emotional reactions due to some of the losses Tirzah endures. It was at times a difficult read, because there was simply so much that she had to experience in her coming of age, and it mirrored a lot of my own struggles with trauma and grief.
On the other hand, Under Stone and Shadow is more action oriented and gets into the mystery of the world itself, and goes into forming relationships post loss; which is also something I can relate to. The strength it takes to create bonds knowing their temporariness and fragility is a theme that’s explored but not overdone in favor of an alternative theme: when to stop running away. This comes to a head later on in an unexpected way. I liked that Bross didn’t try to recreate The Roots That Clutch but let Under Stone and Shadow be its own manifestation of Theia.
The crux of it is that the testament to whether a sequel to a debut, or any second book in a series is successful, is whether the reader wants to know what happens next. I have so, so many questions I need answers to, and I’ve fallen in love with too many characters to stop here. Bross’s writing is flawless, the world is enchanting, the mystery of each reveal only draws me in further, the characters have charmed me, and I’m well and truly caught in the Sands of Theia.
Trigger Warnings:
July 29, 2022
I am once again asking: where is the next book? :D
I loved to be submerged in this world again. Even with all the adversities the characters go through, there was just something deeply cozy and comforting in returning to Theia and these characters. Tirzah was great again (that comforting feeling is in great part thanks to her narration, I think), and we get another POV character, Green, whomstdv I love so much already, and I loved how his relationship with Tirzah and the others evolved through the novel. There's also Xan, and Xan is the cutest and I'm so excited to learn more about them even if I'm afraid it might not be that good (I mean, seeing as to where they were found and how and all).
Speaking of, I loved the underground parts, sooo moody and intriguing. And the last section was definitely harrowing and exciting and also sad and also wtf was happening there? There's a lot of things in this second book, I think, that are not yet directly explained and I feel like a lot of the connections between the events are hidden for the reader. Still, I never felt lost or annoyed by this - for now, following the characters along was enough, and I trust the author that I will get the info when it's important. I'm curious though! Especially with that ending, hello?
I love this series and I can't wait to return to it.
I loved to be submerged in this world again. Even with all the adversities the characters go through, there was just something deeply cozy and comforting in returning to Theia and these characters. Tirzah was great again (that comforting feeling is in great part thanks to her narration, I think), and we get another POV character, Green, whomstdv I love so much already, and I loved how his relationship with Tirzah and the others evolved through the novel. There's also Xan, and Xan is the cutest and I'm so excited to learn more about them even if I'm afraid it might not be that good (I mean, seeing as to where they were found and how and all).
Speaking of, I loved the underground parts, sooo moody and intriguing. And the last section was definitely harrowing and exciting and also sad and also wtf was happening there? There's a lot of things in this second book, I think, that are not yet directly explained and I feel like a lot of the connections between the events are hidden for the reader. Still, I never felt lost or annoyed by this - for now, following the characters along was enough, and I trust the author that I will get the info when it's important. I'm curious though! Especially with that ending, hello?
I love this series and I can't wait to return to it.
May 20, 2024
What I Did Like:
+The character dynamics are amazing. The way they interact and speak is natural and realistic. You have no trouble imagining the crew as people and they react as they should. Just a study in good characters!
+Found family is one of my favorite things in books and this has it in spades. The family Tirzah made in book 1 appears or is mentioned often and more members are strolling in.
+Dangerous. We kept hearing that it’s dangerous to be able to wield thauma in this world but this book SHOWS you why and how in multiple ways. It’s brilliantly done and will likely only strengthen the characters and storyline in future books.
Who Should Read This One:
-Fantasy fans who want found family, magical things, special gifts, outcasts, and danger will love this series. Start with The Roots that Clutch and enjoy!
My Rating: 4 stars
Beautiful characters, excellent world building, and an all around solid fantasy book.
For Full Review: https://alltherightreads.com/2024/05/...
+The character dynamics are amazing. The way they interact and speak is natural and realistic. You have no trouble imagining the crew as people and they react as they should. Just a study in good characters!
+Found family is one of my favorite things in books and this has it in spades. The family Tirzah made in book 1 appears or is mentioned often and more members are strolling in.
+Dangerous. We kept hearing that it’s dangerous to be able to wield thauma in this world but this book SHOWS you why and how in multiple ways. It’s brilliantly done and will likely only strengthen the characters and storyline in future books.
Who Should Read This One:
-Fantasy fans who want found family, magical things, special gifts, outcasts, and danger will love this series. Start with The Roots that Clutch and enjoy!
My Rating: 4 stars
Beautiful characters, excellent world building, and an all around solid fantasy book.
For Full Review: https://alltherightreads.com/2024/05/...
June 14, 2022
This second book in the series opens with main character Tirzah living with a caravan after fleeing the terrifying God-King Hovilan. Bross again ropes us into this well-developed, yet still mysterious, world as Tirzah and the caravan make their way across the desert. Along the way, we're introduced to a diverse cast of characters, some lovable and some deplorable but all intriguing. I don't want to say too much more and give things away, but I'm very much looking forward to the third book and reading about what happens next!
August 22, 2024
A.E. Bross knocks it out of the park yet again! I'm obsessed with this series and can't wait to start book 3!
February 5, 2023
I bought this book before I'd even finished the first in the series because I knew I'd be continuing. This book did not disappoint. Unlike its predecessor The Roots that Clutch, Under Stone and Shadow doesn't span years. It's a shorter journey for Tirzah and her new group of companions, but it's as hard-hitting, surprising, and as thorough. This book immerses you in the world without resorting to heavy world-building or info dumps. The narrative is subtle and strong, pulling you into the story with a gentle touch. I won't give away too much here, because it's worth reading for yourself. The third book is out soon, and I can't wait to get it!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews