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Imperial Rand #2
The Forgotten Realms
The sweeping saga of Rand continues.
Her time at Falcon’s Keep over, Savannah comes into her full power as the wielder of the sacred medallion. She seeks help in Arcadia to interpret the Prophecy Chart, the black magic spell that divides the Forgotten Realms from the rest of Rand. As well as having to battle sorcery to bring down the Wall, she faces the nearly impossible task of persuading the fierce Bramble Hawks to come out of their mountains.
Meanwhile, the chief Dreamer, courtesan Jezzine, is assigned to protect Princess Fern, heir to the Arcadian throne, from the Crow assassins. But other evil forces are in play in Arcadia, for the Dark Hollow Wizards have a hidden agenda in the realm.
Pela, now Supreme Commander, readies Rand’s armies for the invasion after centuries of peace. And as the world edges closer to war, fates are inextricably woven together, new alliances forged, and fabled Queens rise.
Her time at Falcon’s Keep over, Savannah comes into her full power as the wielder of the sacred medallion. She seeks help in Arcadia to interpret the Prophecy Chart, the black magic spell that divides the Forgotten Realms from the rest of Rand. As well as having to battle sorcery to bring down the Wall, she faces the nearly impossible task of persuading the fierce Bramble Hawks to come out of their mountains.
Meanwhile, the chief Dreamer, courtesan Jezzine, is assigned to protect Princess Fern, heir to the Arcadian throne, from the Crow assassins. But other evil forces are in play in Arcadia, for the Dark Hollow Wizards have a hidden agenda in the realm.
Pela, now Supreme Commander, readies Rand’s armies for the invasion after centuries of peace. And as the world edges closer to war, fates are inextricably woven together, new alliances forged, and fabled Queens rise.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2022
45 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
February 6, 2022
An Advanced Copy was sent to me by the author for review! It is currently available RIGHT NOW!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09RMQDW2N/
On Kindle Unlimited!
A great time to go back to Book 1: Rand and do a reread to familiarise yourself, or to try it for the first time, since it is also on Kindle Unlimited.
We hit the ground running with Savannah looking to recruit some special people in order to unite the land of Rand, and prepare for the evil that is coming! I love that we got to investigate a wide range of the communities and locations of Rand during these parts and be introduced to more characters and their own stories and also some connections to characters we have already met in book 1. There is excellent world-building and introduction of so many communities and animals, and their royals and workings. Plus magics and powers, too. It was truly captivating.
Savannah is so savvy and confident, and has really stepped up in her role as 'Chosen One'. But she's never arrogant, and always thinking of others. We get lots of lovely moments of her bonding with citizens and discovering the world, and also with the horses (sweet Sunflower stole my heart!) and just all around endearing herself to everyone she meets, while thwarting danger.
Her and Pela's love is steaming away in between all the little moments captured between dangers and duty. We also have a new romance for a certain courtesan we had met in the last book, and more secret connections and powers to discover for many characters. Everyone has their role to play, and needs to be prepared for the evil coming.
But trying to join all the long separated and proud kingdoms across Rand together in peace will take a lot of special people and hard work. But Each character is up for the challenge and it's so feel-good to see them work together.
This is truly what fantasy stories are about, in my mind. This story has really captured that special feeling you got when as a young person you read a roving fantasy plot in a magical land, with many great characters and got those farm fuzzies and really felt like you were along for the ride with them!
I'd highly recommend it to fantasy and fairytale lovers, who are looking to rekindle their love of the genre and feel that spark from when we were young! It's a solid installment, and a timeless classic tale that still felt fresh and unique, yet also familiar in the best ways.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09RMQDW2N/
On Kindle Unlimited!
A great time to go back to Book 1: Rand and do a reread to familiarise yourself, or to try it for the first time, since it is also on Kindle Unlimited.
We hit the ground running with Savannah looking to recruit some special people in order to unite the land of Rand, and prepare for the evil that is coming! I love that we got to investigate a wide range of the communities and locations of Rand during these parts and be introduced to more characters and their own stories and also some connections to characters we have already met in book 1. There is excellent world-building and introduction of so many communities and animals, and their royals and workings. Plus magics and powers, too. It was truly captivating.
Savannah is so savvy and confident, and has really stepped up in her role as 'Chosen One'. But she's never arrogant, and always thinking of others. We get lots of lovely moments of her bonding with citizens and discovering the world, and also with the horses (sweet Sunflower stole my heart!) and just all around endearing herself to everyone she meets, while thwarting danger.
Her and Pela's love is steaming away in between all the little moments captured between dangers and duty. We also have a new romance for a certain courtesan we had met in the last book, and more secret connections and powers to discover for many characters. Everyone has their role to play, and needs to be prepared for the evil coming.
But trying to join all the long separated and proud kingdoms across Rand together in peace will take a lot of special people and hard work. But Each character is up for the challenge and it's so feel-good to see them work together.
This is truly what fantasy stories are about, in my mind. This story has really captured that special feeling you got when as a young person you read a roving fantasy plot in a magical land, with many great characters and got those farm fuzzies and really felt like you were along for the ride with them!
I'd highly recommend it to fantasy and fairytale lovers, who are looking to rekindle their love of the genre and feel that spark from when we were young! It's a solid installment, and a timeless classic tale that still felt fresh and unique, yet also familiar in the best ways.
February 6, 2022
What a wonderful epic fantasy story. I enjoyed it very much. Can‘t wait to read the next book.
February 3, 2022
Rand is an epic tale of two parallel worlds, our earth and Rand, with magic, Monsters, female warriors, winged horses, witches and demons. There are not one, but two lesbian romances here, that of the main heroine, Savannah, who’s been promised her dream woman by a vision, that saved her from certain death in a sandstorm in the Sahara, and that of the warrior woman, who comes to find her and take her “home” to Rand, Tamasin and her wife.
In volume 2 we even get treated to a third lesbian romance, as Savannah truly takes charge of her role as the chosen one and her romance with Pela moves to a new level, on her way to recruit soldiers and find new allies she meets another “bookworm”/historian, Princess Fern, the cousin of Luna.
As more dark forces plot their own schemes in Arcadia, the new protector of the queen to be, a siren, and Princess Fern fall in love. Beginning to unravel the mysteries of the past Savannah gets herself in more trouble than she expects, while Tamasin and Pela both struggle to organise the defence against the enemy they don’t even know yet.
The epic tale of Rand continues along the same lines as volume one and the plot thickens. Don’t read this one without volume one, you won’t have a clue of what they’re dealing with without it. As a volume two it is as gripping and and fantastic as volume one and the romances spice the action/adventure bits up nicely. I enjoyed this continuation of the tale very much.
In volume 2 we even get treated to a third lesbian romance, as Savannah truly takes charge of her role as the chosen one and her romance with Pela moves to a new level, on her way to recruit soldiers and find new allies she meets another “bookworm”/historian, Princess Fern, the cousin of Luna.
As more dark forces plot their own schemes in Arcadia, the new protector of the queen to be, a siren, and Princess Fern fall in love. Beginning to unravel the mysteries of the past Savannah gets herself in more trouble than she expects, while Tamasin and Pela both struggle to organise the defence against the enemy they don’t even know yet.
The epic tale of Rand continues along the same lines as volume one and the plot thickens. Don’t read this one without volume one, you won’t have a clue of what they’re dealing with without it. As a volume two it is as gripping and and fantastic as volume one and the romances spice the action/adventure bits up nicely. I enjoyed this continuation of the tale very much.
April 2, 2022
So good!!!
I hate series that haven't ended or at least have a few books under it but I just couldn't wait to continue this one. The crew keeps growing and with every addition of characters comes another puzzle falling into place of the war ahead. If you haven't read the Rand you need to before picking up this book and then immediately pick this one up and read it. It has more action, more development of the world and the story, and answers followed by more questions.
I absolutely love this series
I hate series that haven't ended or at least have a few books under it but I just couldn't wait to continue this one. The crew keeps growing and with every addition of characters comes another puzzle falling into place of the war ahead. If you haven't read the Rand you need to before picking up this book and then immediately pick this one up and read it. It has more action, more development of the world and the story, and answers followed by more questions.
I absolutely love this series
January 21, 2024
5 Stars!!!
I didn’t know this saga could get any richer!!! The genius of this story is that no matter how many characters the author conjured up, their characterisation and their role enhanced the story, fit in perfectly and blended into the core of the story. It wasn’t a distraction or bogged the story one bit. There was no lull in any part or chapter. Everything and everyone had its place in the story and it was written wonderfully!
I didn’t know this saga could get any richer!!! The genius of this story is that no matter how many characters the author conjured up, their characterisation and their role enhanced the story, fit in perfectly and blended into the core of the story. It wasn’t a distraction or bogged the story one bit. There was no lull in any part or chapter. Everything and everyone had its place in the story and it was written wonderfully!
February 6, 2022
This was fucking awesome. I love these people.
I held off starting the series 'cause I didn't want to wait between books, but I couldn't help myself... and now I have to wait for the third book in the Imperial Rand series. Dang it!
I held off starting the series 'cause I didn't want to wait between books, but I couldn't help myself... and now I have to wait for the third book in the Imperial Rand series. Dang it!
March 7, 2022
Sad to say I didn't enjoy this one nearly as much as the first. Savannah with all her magic is ludicrously overpowerful compared to everybody else and just spends the whole time being outrageously brilliant, lucky, and magical. Complicated situations are continuously set up only to be immediately and easily resolved. The budding relationship we're meant to get excited over is pretty lackluster and it isn't ever clear why the couple isn't already together, meanwhile Savannah and Pela have zero development. There are still warrior women and magic and flying telepathic horses etc, so it is still a fun light hearted read. I think there's just so much plot development crammed into one volume that there isn't enough time spent with the characters that made book 1 so charming.
February 28, 2024
The plot thickens. Another very entertaining read that I sped through.
February 4, 2022
Epic book. This is an excellent follow up to Rand, and as enjoyable. The story expands as the action moves to other parts of the world. More characters are introduced and I have to commend the author for giving the time to introduce each, thus making them so easy to follow. Never once did I have to flick back to see who they were.
In this book, Savannah reaches her full potential as the wielder of the ancient magic. Her task now is to free the magical people in the Forgotten Realms and persuade the Bramble Hawks to help in the war. Of course, both of these tasks are fraught with danger as we soon learn. Princess Fern of Arcadia is the second POV in the novel, and a lot of the early action is in Arcadia. There is a fresh romance, quite lovely, but I won’t give anything away.
Pela and Tamasin are there preparing for the coming invasion. I do like Pela. What a great character!
There are lots of surprises and action, but we are given time to get to know all the characters. The flying horses play a bigger part in this book and one can’t help loving Sunflower.
A great fantasy which everyone should enjoy.
In this book, Savannah reaches her full potential as the wielder of the ancient magic. Her task now is to free the magical people in the Forgotten Realms and persuade the Bramble Hawks to help in the war. Of course, both of these tasks are fraught with danger as we soon learn. Princess Fern of Arcadia is the second POV in the novel, and a lot of the early action is in Arcadia. There is a fresh romance, quite lovely, but I won’t give anything away.
Pela and Tamasin are there preparing for the coming invasion. I do like Pela. What a great character!
There are lots of surprises and action, but we are given time to get to know all the characters. The flying horses play a bigger part in this book and one can’t help loving Sunflower.
A great fantasy which everyone should enjoy.
February 12, 2022
This series has easily jumped to my absolute favorite, meaning I have both the Kindle and the regular books. I just needed to own them twice. Maybe one day I'll be able to get them signed! Anyways, this story of Savannah keeps getting better and better. The world building is still phenomenal. I loved Fern's role in everything and how the puzzle is slowly coming together. Ohhh and Jezzine. Just a hard Yes. Superb writing, I just couldn't get enough. I'll be waiting on the edge of my seat to see what's in store for Savannah and the people of Rand!
February 13, 2022
I love this series!
The third book needs to come out now, please. I absolutely love everything about this series. It is enthralling high fantasy, and I recommend the series.
The third book needs to come out now, please. I absolutely love everything about this series. It is enthralling high fantasy, and I recommend the series.
March 27, 2022
Oh my God
My emotions can't take this... I was excited to turn the page only to find the story had ended! I'm so in love with this world and story. The chosen one is without a doubt my favorite person ever! then Sunflower is a good a second, then Pela, the Supreme queen for sure and, Tam 100% without her we have no story. I'm not too sure about the ice queen because I'm all about Valeria but so far she's been great.
I'm not looking forward to the war! I love this world too much
My emotions can't take this... I was excited to turn the page only to find the story had ended! I'm so in love with this world and story. The chosen one is without a doubt my favorite person ever! then Sunflower is a good a second, then Pela, the Supreme queen for sure and, Tam 100% without her we have no story. I'm not too sure about the ice queen because I'm all about Valeria but so far she's been great.
I'm not looking forward to the war! I love this world too much
September 1, 2025
4.5 stars
This was exactly what I needed. I binge read this book in one day. I just couldn't put it down. This reminds me of some of the classic fantasy books I used to read when I was younger. This story is told from Savannah and a new character Fern's POV. It was nice having a new POV, especially since it added another new aspect of the world to explore.
I would put this on par with the first book, which I loved. But just like the first book, the story moves at a fast pace and doesn't leave much room for down moments with the characters. It's the only critique I have of the series. I wish the story would take those slower moments for the characters to provide self-reflection and character growth.
Otherwise, this was an enjoyable read and I cannot wait until the third book! I highly recommend it for those who enjoyed the first book.
This was exactly what I needed. I binge read this book in one day. I just couldn't put it down. This reminds me of some of the classic fantasy books I used to read when I was younger. This story is told from Savannah and a new character Fern's POV. It was nice having a new POV, especially since it added another new aspect of the world to explore.
I would put this on par with the first book, which I loved. But just like the first book, the story moves at a fast pace and doesn't leave much room for down moments with the characters. It's the only critique I have of the series. I wish the story would take those slower moments for the characters to provide self-reflection and character growth.
Otherwise, this was an enjoyable read and I cannot wait until the third book! I highly recommend it for those who enjoyed the first book.
February 21, 2022
Flying Blue Fjords, Bramble Hawks, Sirens, Dark Hollow Wizards, Time Guardians and Mind Walkers to name but a few; book two in the Rand series sees readers embark upon an epic quest into the heart of the long ago Forgotten Realms of Rand.
A continuation of book one, The Forgotten Realms is no less magical than it’s predecessor. The journey begins in Arcadia, as Savannah searches for the help she needs to unravel the black magic spell entwined within the Prophecy Chart. Her aim in doing so? To bring down the Wall that divides the magical and enchanting Forgotten Realms from the rest of Rand.
But all is not as it seems and not all those who have been abandoned by their brethren, wish to re-take their places within Rand’s society.
The unravelling of the secrets surrounding the Circle of Sheda continues to be an arduous and dangerous task for Savannah and whilst she battles the evil forces who would wage war on Rand, readers are treated to the blossoming of new Queens, new Consorts and new love!
Throughout The Forgotten Realms there is a depth to Shaw’s writing which wholeheartedly succeeds in captivating the reader. Whilst old favourites such as Savannah and Pela (and let’s not forget Sunflower) make a return, numerous new characters are introduced, each with their own back story and an integral part to play in this ever expanding fantasy puzzle.
Whilst Savannah may have found herself being drawn through a portal from Earth to Rand, one thing’s for sure – Shaw equally knows how to ensure her readers fall deeply into the pages of her stories. It’s been a pleasure to get lost in yet another installment of this fantastic series and i sincerely can’t wait for the next one!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A continuation of book one, The Forgotten Realms is no less magical than it’s predecessor. The journey begins in Arcadia, as Savannah searches for the help she needs to unravel the black magic spell entwined within the Prophecy Chart. Her aim in doing so? To bring down the Wall that divides the magical and enchanting Forgotten Realms from the rest of Rand.
But all is not as it seems and not all those who have been abandoned by their brethren, wish to re-take their places within Rand’s society.
The unravelling of the secrets surrounding the Circle of Sheda continues to be an arduous and dangerous task for Savannah and whilst she battles the evil forces who would wage war on Rand, readers are treated to the blossoming of new Queens, new Consorts and new love!
Throughout The Forgotten Realms there is a depth to Shaw’s writing which wholeheartedly succeeds in captivating the reader. Whilst old favourites such as Savannah and Pela (and let’s not forget Sunflower) make a return, numerous new characters are introduced, each with their own back story and an integral part to play in this ever expanding fantasy puzzle.
Whilst Savannah may have found herself being drawn through a portal from Earth to Rand, one thing’s for sure – Shaw equally knows how to ensure her readers fall deeply into the pages of her stories. It’s been a pleasure to get lost in yet another installment of this fantastic series and i sincerely can’t wait for the next one!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2022
I was so excited to see this book was out while browsing for my next read. The first book was one of the top books I read last year so seeing book 2 made my jump for joy.
I was not disappointed. We see a lot of old faces, and meet a lot of new characters this time. I really enjoyed meeting Fern. Jezzine was a surprise. Savannah continued to kick Butt.
Savannah and Pela spend a lot of the book apart. Normally, I might be disappointed, but it just worked so well here. Savannah is such a fun character to read. Her intelligence and resourcefulness is such a treat.
I don’t usually like reading a series before everything has already been released, but this time, it’s just too good to wait.
I was not disappointed. We see a lot of old faces, and meet a lot of new characters this time. I really enjoyed meeting Fern. Jezzine was a surprise. Savannah continued to kick Butt.
Savannah and Pela spend a lot of the book apart. Normally, I might be disappointed, but it just worked so well here. Savannah is such a fun character to read. Her intelligence and resourcefulness is such a treat.
I don’t usually like reading a series before everything has already been released, but this time, it’s just too good to wait.
January 15, 2023
This book, the second in the trilogy, is possibly even more enchanting than its predecessor.
The characters grow on you, going from interesting to multi-layered and complex. You get a much better feel for the land and the struggles of the Forgotten Realms.
By the end, you aren't ready to leave. There are political machinations at work here and secrets to discover the truth of.
I'm ready to move to Rand. Can I have my own Blue Fjord?
The characters grow on you, going from interesting to multi-layered and complex. You get a much better feel for the land and the struggles of the Forgotten Realms.
By the end, you aren't ready to leave. There are political machinations at work here and secrets to discover the truth of.
I'm ready to move to Rand. Can I have my own Blue Fjord?
February 16, 2022
Quite the adventure
I have very much enjoyed reading this story. It’s well put together and it’s fun trying to figure things out with Savannah. I am excited for the next book
I have very much enjoyed reading this story. It’s well put together and it’s fun trying to figure things out with Savannah. I am excited for the next book
September 25, 2023
Brilliant follow-up to Rand, a very tightly-plotted sequel. I had a ton of fun with this.
February 12, 2022
Fantastic! Great characters and storyline. Five big stars.
February 10, 2022
top book. The story flowed so well and kept me entralled to the end. The characters were fabulous and I felt there really was a world of Rand out there somewhere. Can't wait for the finale of the series.
February 6, 2022
Awesome!!
February 5, 2022
Incredible book. Marvellous world full of magic. Hands down the best fantasy series I've read for a long time.
September 15, 2022
I loved this book: the story, the characters, the relationships, the world. Why, then, am I giving it 3 stars? Two words: bad writing.
As much as I’m going to talk this book down, I want people to read it, the story is interesting and the characters are cool (a little flat sometimes, but that’s besides the point). I really want to read the next book. It’s just… Miss Shaw, if your reading this, I mean no offense or disrespect, take this as constructive criticism mixed with the frustrated rant of a fan that wants to read a book without feeling like the story is rewinding every few pages to something she’s already seen. I wish I could give it a better rating, but as much as I enjoyed it, that enjoyment was always cut short by my own frustrated screams.
When I read the first book, I fell in love with it; granted, it had flaws, like everything else in this world, but it was awesome. This one… it seems like Shaw took everything she did wrong with the first, and multiplied it. So many unnecessary explanations, so many long winded spiels that could be summarized or completely avoided incredibly easily. Every time Savannah reveals she’s the chosen one, everyone reacts EXACTLY THE SAME! “It is back in Rand!” “It is back in Rand!” “It is back in Rand!” And then everyone kneels, and someone has to touch the medallion; something magical happens, and then they have to explain what it showed them, making sure to mention that there’s something that they can’t say but not to worry because it’ll be revealed later!
And the only time this isn’t the reaction, the book actually states it: “This time it wasn’t the usual cry of ‘It has come back to Rand’,”. It’s so tacky, so unnecessary. So many things are in this book. I was tempted to DNF it 5 separate times. There were times I was so frustrated that I groaned out loud, and then ranted to my poor dog (who couldn’t care less) for at least 10 minutes.
Like, if you’re following a character’s train of thought that they then have to explain to another character, you don’t have to write it twice; one is enough! If you want to make sure the readers know all the characters are aware of what’s happening, you don’t have to write it again and again and again! Just say something like, “she brings them up to speed” or “she explains what’s been going on”! Telling the same thing over and over and over again is incredibly frustrating to the reader, because we already know! You don’t need to repeat it! We remember! You said it 10 pages ago!
And also, there are things that the other characters don’t need to know! The queens don’t care that you arrived “mounted on a deer”, they don’t care HOW you got here, you’re here now, let’s get on with it! The entire kingdom doesn’t need to know WHY this chick’s hair is golden now, it just is, let’s MOVE. ON!!!
(There was even once that I couldn’t resist skipping a few pages, and it honestly didn’t matter because they repeated everything that happened in the next chapter. This was my face when I realized what I was reading, btw: 😩)
Ok, I’m done. Feel free to share with me your own thoughts.
As much as I’m going to talk this book down, I want people to read it, the story is interesting and the characters are cool (a little flat sometimes, but that’s besides the point). I really want to read the next book. It’s just… Miss Shaw, if your reading this, I mean no offense or disrespect, take this as constructive criticism mixed with the frustrated rant of a fan that wants to read a book without feeling like the story is rewinding every few pages to something she’s already seen. I wish I could give it a better rating, but as much as I enjoyed it, that enjoyment was always cut short by my own frustrated screams.
When I read the first book, I fell in love with it; granted, it had flaws, like everything else in this world, but it was awesome. This one… it seems like Shaw took everything she did wrong with the first, and multiplied it. So many unnecessary explanations, so many long winded spiels that could be summarized or completely avoided incredibly easily. Every time Savannah reveals she’s the chosen one, everyone reacts EXACTLY THE SAME! “It is back in Rand!” “It is back in Rand!” “It is back in Rand!” And then everyone kneels, and someone has to touch the medallion; something magical happens, and then they have to explain what it showed them, making sure to mention that there’s something that they can’t say but not to worry because it’ll be revealed later!
And the only time this isn’t the reaction, the book actually states it: “This time it wasn’t the usual cry of ‘It has come back to Rand’,”. It’s so tacky, so unnecessary. So many things are in this book. I was tempted to DNF it 5 separate times. There were times I was so frustrated that I groaned out loud, and then ranted to my poor dog (who couldn’t care less) for at least 10 minutes.
Like, if you’re following a character’s train of thought that they then have to explain to another character, you don’t have to write it twice; one is enough! If you want to make sure the readers know all the characters are aware of what’s happening, you don’t have to write it again and again and again! Just say something like, “she brings them up to speed” or “she explains what’s been going on”! Telling the same thing over and over and over again is incredibly frustrating to the reader, because we already know! You don’t need to repeat it! We remember! You said it 10 pages ago!
And also, there are things that the other characters don’t need to know! The queens don’t care that you arrived “mounted on a deer”, they don’t care HOW you got here, you’re here now, let’s get on with it! The entire kingdom doesn’t need to know WHY this chick’s hair is golden now, it just is, let’s MOVE. ON!!!
(There was even once that I couldn’t resist skipping a few pages, and it honestly didn’t matter because they repeated everything that happened in the next chapter. This was my face when I realized what I was reading, btw: 😩)
Ok, I’m done. Feel free to share with me your own thoughts.
December 24, 2022
I enjoyed this book, which is just full of incidents and moves at what is an almost rushed pace.
I did have some concerns, especially when the author started taking some real liberties with the story, some of the incidents were very contrived and the way some of the characters reacted in certain situations wasn’t always believable.
If possible I would have given 3.5 stars.
I did have some concerns, especially when the author started taking some real liberties with the story, some of the incidents were very contrived and the way some of the characters reacted in certain situations wasn’t always believable.
If possible I would have given 3.5 stars.
June 30, 2022
I liked the world, I liked the characters, but the book suffers greatly from the break-neck speed at which everything happens. Everyone is catapulted from one event to the next in the space of a few pages. They do their thing, whether it's killing a wizard, finding the next clue to whatever puzzle needs solving, or whatever it is the medallion tells Savannah to do, and off they go to the next event.
There is barely to no space for the characters to sit down, talk about events, or for the story be allowed to go a little more in-depth. It's go-go-go until the end.
I honestly feel that less would have been more when it comes to the world and the chain of events. There are many mystical creatures, but we learn almost nothing about them. They are just there to be crossed off from a shopping list of events that need to happen.
And Savannah is dangerously close to being a Mary Sue character. She solves everything and anything, defeats everyone and everything and it gets a bit tiresome. What I also noticed was that there are several conflicts erupting, and the fighting starts and then it seems the author didn't know how to proceed further, so something strange/weird/untoward/unexpected happens, and the crisis is averted. It happens at least four times.
There is also barely any room for romances to develop. The main couple in this book barely spend any time together,
There is barely to no space for the characters to sit down, talk about events, or for the story be allowed to go a little more in-depth. It's go-go-go until the end.
I honestly feel that less would have been more when it comes to the world and the chain of events. There are many mystical creatures, but we learn almost nothing about them. They are just there to be crossed off from a shopping list of events that need to happen.
And Savannah is dangerously close to being a Mary Sue character. She solves everything and anything, defeats everyone and everything and it gets a bit tiresome. What I also noticed was that there are several conflicts erupting, and the fighting starts and then it seems the author didn't know how to proceed further, so something strange/weird/untoward/unexpected happens, and the crisis is averted. It happens at least four times.
There is also barely any room for romances to develop. The main couple in this book barely spend any time together,
January 29, 2023
3.5
this book suffers incredibly from second book syndrome and not only that but it also has second book separation (a phrase i use when an author decides the best course of action to take is to separate the two love interests in the second book).
the book starts with savannah in arcadia (new place unlocked!) and we spend the majority of the book here with the rest of our time being in the forgotten realms.
this book felt like the author was just moving pieces into place ready for the next book with no real stakes. savannah is incredibly OP in this book, like i’m pretty sure someone could’ve dropped a building on her and she’d have gotten up and walked away.
then, because she spends the whole book separated from pela there’s no development of their relationship at all.
there is a new sapphic couple on the block though in this book which comes in the form of jez and fern. in the last book i didn’t care for either of these characters but i’ve grown to love jez. fern, however, is meant to be in her thirties but is so incredibly juvenile it’s hard to remember her age at points.
savannah is also forced to run the gauntlet which is meant to be impossible, so for a girl from another world who is pretty useless without her magic to win and not struggle in the slightest was so unbelievable i almost laughed.
in the next book i expect higher stakes and more development from characters and relationships because otherwise i will be thoroughly disappointed.
this book suffers incredibly from second book syndrome and not only that but it also has second book separation (a phrase i use when an author decides the best course of action to take is to separate the two love interests in the second book).
the book starts with savannah in arcadia (new place unlocked!) and we spend the majority of the book here with the rest of our time being in the forgotten realms.
this book felt like the author was just moving pieces into place ready for the next book with no real stakes. savannah is incredibly OP in this book, like i’m pretty sure someone could’ve dropped a building on her and she’d have gotten up and walked away.
then, because she spends the whole book separated from pela there’s no development of their relationship at all.
there is a new sapphic couple on the block though in this book which comes in the form of jez and fern. in the last book i didn’t care for either of these characters but i’ve grown to love jez. fern, however, is meant to be in her thirties but is so incredibly juvenile it’s hard to remember her age at points.
savannah is also forced to run the gauntlet which is meant to be impossible, so for a girl from another world who is pretty useless without her magic to win and not struggle in the slightest was so unbelievable i almost laughed.
in the next book i expect higher stakes and more development from characters and relationships because otherwise i will be thoroughly disappointed.
March 10, 2022
With the Silvia Shaw books, you definitely get an epic, exciting story that will draw you in every time! This book, coming in at 374 pages will keep you up as you try to figure out what's going to happen next. But, you must first read book one - which is even longer - in order to properly understand the world building that's going on throughout.
"The Forgotten Realms" continues where "Rand" left off. I don't feel that I missed a day in their preparations for the War that is sure to start at the turn of the 10th moon.
So much to do: Understand the Prophecy Chart that Savannah found in Book One, Bring down the Wall that separates the Forgotten Realms from the rest of Rand, Somehow get Pela's Bramble Hawks to fight with them, and find time for a new romance to develop between the Heiress to the Queen and a Courtesan. How this all happens is why my sleep is so deprived.
To me, it's not just the surprises on each page that made this book so enjoyable to read, but it's the characters. I care about them and I'm with them all the way to the end.
I can hardly wait for the next book! In case you had any doubts, this book is highly recommended!
"The Forgotten Realms" continues where "Rand" left off. I don't feel that I missed a day in their preparations for the War that is sure to start at the turn of the 10th moon.
So much to do: Understand the Prophecy Chart that Savannah found in Book One, Bring down the Wall that separates the Forgotten Realms from the rest of Rand, Somehow get Pela's Bramble Hawks to fight with them, and find time for a new romance to develop between the Heiress to the Queen and a Courtesan. How this all happens is why my sleep is so deprived.
To me, it's not just the surprises on each page that made this book so enjoyable to read, but it's the characters. I care about them and I'm with them all the way to the end.
I can hardly wait for the next book! In case you had any doubts, this book is highly recommended!
August 26, 2024
This book was just as good as the first one I feel. We continue to spend time with Savannah, though there is much less time with Pela or with Tamasin and Valeria. We also get new characters in Fern and Jezzine. Oh my gosh, they were such a cute couple. And completely oblivious to their mutual pining going on. But both make great additions to the cast of characters. They were the epitome of adorable and compassionate.
The romance between Savannah and Pela is explored in a more subdued way. Their interactions happened less frequently and more off page than previously. The romance between Fern and Jezzine was fun. They were both pretty useless lesbian cliches. Mutually pining and sending each other mixed signals. I was curious about, but they never got into why they had the initial disconnect where Jezzine thought Fern didn't approve of her, and Fern thought Jezzine would never be interested.
There is no third act breakup. The new couple don't get together until toward the end of the book. Sooner than what happened with Pela and Savannah though. There is plenty of drama and will they/won't they going on though.
The romance between Savannah and Pela is explored in a more subdued way. Their interactions happened less frequently and more off page than previously. The romance between Fern and Jezzine was fun. They were both pretty useless lesbian cliches. Mutually pining and sending each other mixed signals. I was curious about, but they never got into why they had the initial disconnect where Jezzine thought Fern didn't approve of her, and Fern thought Jezzine would never be interested.
There is no third act breakup. The new couple don't get together until toward the end of the book. Sooner than what happened with Pela and Savannah though. There is plenty of drama and will they/won't they going on though.
August 30, 2022
Starting off right where Rand left off, The Forgotten Realms continues Savannah's tale as the Chosen One as she tries to unite all of the lands together to win the upcoming war against an unknown.
Very much an enjoyable read, it flows just like the previous book, engaging and engrossing the story is weaved, and as more location in the fantasy realm are visited. The world building is excellent, the mystery enticing as we learn more about, well, everything, and I have definitely enjoyed seeing more of Savannah and Pela's relationship (and the others that also develop during the story). While there is a little romance in this story, the real focus is on the overarching plot and the whole cast of characters, and it is paced well.
This book (and its prequel) are a solid and worthwhile fantasy read, and I look forward to reading the third book when it is released.
Very much an enjoyable read, it flows just like the previous book, engaging and engrossing the story is weaved, and as more location in the fantasy realm are visited. The world building is excellent, the mystery enticing as we learn more about, well, everything, and I have definitely enjoyed seeing more of Savannah and Pela's relationship (and the others that also develop during the story). While there is a little romance in this story, the real focus is on the overarching plot and the whole cast of characters, and it is paced well.
This book (and its prequel) are a solid and worthwhile fantasy read, and I look forward to reading the third book when it is released.
March 24, 2024
An excellent continuation from the previous book. Here, we delve deeper into the history and past of the world, meeting new people, friends or foe. Throughout this magical journey, we learn more about Savannah and Sheda. We also have a different pov,fern. And i love her. I like the changing povs from the previous book to this one, with the shift in focus, like from the city of Iona to the forgotten realms, there is also a shift in povs.
I love the multiple romances that are going on in the book. It gives me a break from the politics and fighting, like a short reprieve.
The development of the whole entire plot is engaging and easy to read. There isn't any stalling. However , i do feel like some fights and journeys are over too fast, making the pacing a bit iffy.
But nonetheless, i love this book and thoroughly enjoy it.
5 stars.
I love the multiple romances that are going on in the book. It gives me a break from the politics and fighting, like a short reprieve.
The development of the whole entire plot is engaging and easy to read. There isn't any stalling. However , i do feel like some fights and journeys are over too fast, making the pacing a bit iffy.
But nonetheless, i love this book and thoroughly enjoy it.
5 stars.
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