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Conquest of the Veil #4
Cavern of The Veil Queen
An Enduring Love Affair Against the Backdrop of A Thousand Year Conflict
The Empire of Meredith has waged war against the Veil Queen for over a thousand years. However, the struggle is unequal. Protected by the Veil, an impenetrable boundary of magic, the Veil Queen preys on the Empire’s citizens. The ceaseless raids have allowed her to build an enormous army of melds, monstrous creatures who are a fusion of humans and beasts.
Then a way is found through the magical partition. An invasion is launched to defeat the Dark Queen. But she’s had centuries to plot treachery. Is the open portal real or a misdirection, another of her evil schemes?
Alexandria’s new husband, Prince Tal, has wielded his formidable magic repeatedly in the struggle. But the key to victory may not lie with his power, but with Alex’s wild and unpredictable magic. If she can discover a way to control it, they have a chance to end the war and destroy the Veil. It requires only two things.
Find the Veil Queen…and kill her.
The Empire of Meredith has waged war against the Veil Queen for over a thousand years. However, the struggle is unequal. Protected by the Veil, an impenetrable boundary of magic, the Veil Queen preys on the Empire’s citizens. The ceaseless raids have allowed her to build an enormous army of melds, monstrous creatures who are a fusion of humans and beasts.
Then a way is found through the magical partition. An invasion is launched to defeat the Dark Queen. But she’s had centuries to plot treachery. Is the open portal real or a misdirection, another of her evil schemes?
Alexandria’s new husband, Prince Tal, has wielded his formidable magic repeatedly in the struggle. But the key to victory may not lie with his power, but with Alex’s wild and unpredictable magic. If she can discover a way to control it, they have a chance to end the war and destroy the Veil. It requires only two things.
Find the Veil Queen…and kill her.
352 pages, Paperback
Published July 28, 2022
2 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Michael Scott Clifton
10 books256 followersMulti Award-Winning Author Michael Scott Clifton, a public educator for over 38 years as a teacher, coach, and administrator, currently lives in Mount Pleasant, Texas with his wife, Melanie and family cat. An avid gardener, reader, and movie junkie, he enjoys all kinds of book and movie genres. His books contain aspects of all the genres he enjoys...action, adventure, magic, fantasy, and romance. His fantasy novels, The Janus Witch and The Open Portal, received 5-Star reviews from the prestigious Readers' Favorite Book Reviews, and he has been a finalist in a number of short story contests with Edges of Gray winning First Place in the Texas Authors Contest. Professional credits include articles published in the Texas Study of Secondary Education Magazine. Clifton's latest book, The Open Portal, won The Feathered Quill Book Finalist Award, and launches the fantasy book series, Conquest of the Veil.
He is not only an author, but also a blogger and speaker as well.
He is not only an author, but also a blogger and speaker as well.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 9, 2022
I haven't been reading a lot of fantasy lately - my reading goes in cycles, and for some reason this has been the summer of historicals - but I was happy to revisit Michael Scott Clifton's work with this book, Cavern of the Veil Queen, especially since I loved another book from this author, The Janus Witch, which I reviewed in 2018. This novel completes the series begun with The Open Portal, and while I have not read the first two entries in this collection, I did read and enjoy book three, A Witch's Brew. I did not find myself at a loss because I hadn't read the whole series, and this book works quite well as a stand-alone novel, which, to me, is a sign of excellent storytelling.
While the magic system in this novel is certainly unique, I am typically more drawn to characters and story than setting. That said, world-building is an important component of any story that doesn't take place on contemporary Earth, and Clifton has a deft hand in his construction. I felt like the Empire of Meredith was a real place that is just a bit sideways from my own world, and reading this book is very like a visit there. The world in the Conquest of the Veil novels is rich and vibrant, replete with interesting characters whether human, beast, or something in between.
My favorite part of the story, however, is the relationship between Alexandria (Alex) and her new husband Tal. Starting a relationship is easy; sustaining one, as any married person knows, takes patience, kindness, and hard work. All of those are in evidence in the way these characters and their relationship is depicted, and watching them work together to overcome their struggles, and help Alex learn to control her magic was something I really enjoyed. Alex and Tal are so authentic and interesting, that I'd love to be a guest at their table, or have them as guests at mine.
As the final book in a series, this book did not disappoint. The climax was brilliantly unexpected, and the aftermath was satisfying, but also left the door open a crack, just in case another visit to Meredith suits the author's fancy in the future.
Bottom line: This is a great stand-alone read, though reading the three previous books would enhance the experience.
Goes well with: a grouper reuben, hand-cut fries, and sweet tea.
While the magic system in this novel is certainly unique, I am typically more drawn to characters and story than setting. That said, world-building is an important component of any story that doesn't take place on contemporary Earth, and Clifton has a deft hand in his construction. I felt like the Empire of Meredith was a real place that is just a bit sideways from my own world, and reading this book is very like a visit there. The world in the Conquest of the Veil novels is rich and vibrant, replete with interesting characters whether human, beast, or something in between.
My favorite part of the story, however, is the relationship between Alexandria (Alex) and her new husband Tal. Starting a relationship is easy; sustaining one, as any married person knows, takes patience, kindness, and hard work. All of those are in evidence in the way these characters and their relationship is depicted, and watching them work together to overcome their struggles, and help Alex learn to control her magic was something I really enjoyed. Alex and Tal are so authentic and interesting, that I'd love to be a guest at their table, or have them as guests at mine.
As the final book in a series, this book did not disappoint. The climax was brilliantly unexpected, and the aftermath was satisfying, but also left the door open a crack, just in case another visit to Meredith suits the author's fancy in the future.
Bottom line: This is a great stand-alone read, though reading the three previous books would enhance the experience.
Goes well with: a grouper reuben, hand-cut fries, and sweet tea.
September 7, 2022
An Explosive Ending With A Wonderful Twist!
Cavern of the Veil Queen is the fourth and final installment of the Conquest of the Veil series by Author Michael Scott Clifton. I have now read all four, each as they came out. I have been waiting with baited breath for this last adventure. I would definitely start the series with book one and read them in order.
The world of Meredith is full of magic and turmoil. Forces have gathered on both sides, and the final battle ignites into one explosive scene after another in this final installment! Follow along with Alexandria, Tal, and the residents of Meredith as they fight for their lives against the Veil Queen!
Clifton creates a storyline that allows you to be easily absorbed into the action. He conceives creatures, conducts scenes, and the individual personalities he generates within his characters will allow you to easily fall into the story head first. He detonates explosive action with the fusion of a world of magic, suspense, and fantastic scenes that will boggle your mind. Clifton did this series amazing justice with a phenomenal ending that does not disappoint.
If you are a fan of Middle Earth (Lord of the Rings), this is a series you have to read!
Cavern of the Veil Queen is the fourth and final installment of the Conquest of the Veil series by Author Michael Scott Clifton. I have now read all four, each as they came out. I have been waiting with baited breath for this last adventure. I would definitely start the series with book one and read them in order.
The world of Meredith is full of magic and turmoil. Forces have gathered on both sides, and the final battle ignites into one explosive scene after another in this final installment! Follow along with Alexandria, Tal, and the residents of Meredith as they fight for their lives against the Veil Queen!
Clifton creates a storyline that allows you to be easily absorbed into the action. He conceives creatures, conducts scenes, and the individual personalities he generates within his characters will allow you to easily fall into the story head first. He detonates explosive action with the fusion of a world of magic, suspense, and fantastic scenes that will boggle your mind. Clifton did this series amazing justice with a phenomenal ending that does not disappoint.
If you are a fan of Middle Earth (Lord of the Rings), this is a series you have to read!
September 9, 2022
Without a doubt, Cavern of the Veil Queen has one of the best climaxes I’ve ever read! And why shouldn’t it? It’s really the climax for the series. (Or is it?)
In this fourth book in the Conquest of the Veil series, Princess Alex and Prince Tal continue their wedded bliss - still newlyweds - amid the army’s continued preparation for war with the evil Veil Queen. However, just as things are looking up and the army is able to move their personnel and supplies through the open portal quicker than before, something happens to quash their optimism. Something terrible that no one could see coming. Their only hope is to kill the Veil Queen before she kills them.
As soon as their optimism is squashed - about midway through the book - the race to the climax begins! I’ve never read a climax so well-planned as to keep me pinned to the edge of my seat for so long. I wanted to take breaks from the reading, but I couldn’t. If the characters I so enjoyed couldn’t take breaks, then neither would I. I read the final two-thirds of the book in one sitting.
Aside from the pacing, the incredible pacing, the characters become even more endearing. I suppose that’s something that’s only possible in a series. The characters - both good and bad - can be more refined. With royals and gnomes and wizards, the characters are very diverse, yet all come together to challenge the Veil Queen.
Once the climax begins, the story is told on several fronts. One front is Waldez, the symbolic outpost meant to blunt any attack by the Veil Queen’s army, and the other is the main castle fortress at Wheel. The author brings the reader to the brink of something, and he then changes to the other location. The back-and-forth continue throughout the climax.
The character arcs are long yet refreshing. It was interesting to see how the main characters changed throughout the story. If you read any of the prior books, the character arcs can be sewn together to create incredible extended arcs.
After the climax, and after things have settled down a bit, the story took a turn that completely floored me. It was quite unexpected, but it was, in my opinion, the perfect way to end this incredible series!
I gleefully give this book (and this series) my highest recommendation!
In this fourth book in the Conquest of the Veil series, Princess Alex and Prince Tal continue their wedded bliss - still newlyweds - amid the army’s continued preparation for war with the evil Veil Queen. However, just as things are looking up and the army is able to move their personnel and supplies through the open portal quicker than before, something happens to quash their optimism. Something terrible that no one could see coming. Their only hope is to kill the Veil Queen before she kills them.
As soon as their optimism is squashed - about midway through the book - the race to the climax begins! I’ve never read a climax so well-planned as to keep me pinned to the edge of my seat for so long. I wanted to take breaks from the reading, but I couldn’t. If the characters I so enjoyed couldn’t take breaks, then neither would I. I read the final two-thirds of the book in one sitting.
Aside from the pacing, the incredible pacing, the characters become even more endearing. I suppose that’s something that’s only possible in a series. The characters - both good and bad - can be more refined. With royals and gnomes and wizards, the characters are very diverse, yet all come together to challenge the Veil Queen.
Once the climax begins, the story is told on several fronts. One front is Waldez, the symbolic outpost meant to blunt any attack by the Veil Queen’s army, and the other is the main castle fortress at Wheel. The author brings the reader to the brink of something, and he then changes to the other location. The back-and-forth continue throughout the climax.
The character arcs are long yet refreshing. It was interesting to see how the main characters changed throughout the story. If you read any of the prior books, the character arcs can be sewn together to create incredible extended arcs.
After the climax, and after things have settled down a bit, the story took a turn that completely floored me. It was quite unexpected, but it was, in my opinion, the perfect way to end this incredible series!
I gleefully give this book (and this series) my highest recommendation!
September 12, 2022
Cavern of the Veil Queen picks up where Witch’s Brew, third in the series, left off. Alexandria and Tal are enjoying life as newlyweds, but Tal in particular also has responsibilities to the kingdom to consider. Preparation for war continues, and efforts to move troops through the mysterious breach in the Veil and take the battle to the Veil Queen are ongoing, if not moving as quickly as might be hoped.
If y’all have read my review of Witch’s Brew, you know that I felt a little sorry for bad girl and fearsome warrior Maggie. She does make an appearance in this book, and finds herself facing new difficulties. Not only does she finally have to make her peace with the fact that Tal loves Alex and can never feel that way about her, she also finds herself facing emotional turmoil of a very different kind. My heart ached for her when I was reading the events that brought this turmoil about, and I really hope Clifton returns to this universe in other books. I want to know what happens with Maggie’s story!
I won’t say there’s action on every page, but there’s enough magic flung about and enough clashes of swords and weapons and the Veil Queen’s freakish melds (part human, part other creature, all hideous) and people to get the blood of even the most laid-back reader pumping. There are schemes to be hatched and dangers to be faced, and some of those dangers are not at all what people were expecting.
And it’s not just action and adventure. Clifton tells a good, engaging story that’s relatable no matter what world it’s set in. Alex and Tal are happy newlyweds, but they bicker. They face difficulties and have to find ways to work past them. You know, just like regular people. They may inhabit a fantasy world, but they’re very believable characters. Clifton draws all of his characters in such a way that you care about them. You’re invested in them. You may wish them well, like Alex and Tal, or you may wish them dead, like the loathsome Mance. But you’re pulled in to their orbit.
The ending to the story was just about perfect. I can’t think of any way it could have turned out other than it did. The closer I got to the end of the book, the harder it was to tear myself away from it. I finished up while I was fixing dinner – cooking with one hand, reading with the other! It’s THAT good. And there’s enough of a loose thread that maybe – just maybe – we’ll get some more stories in the universe of Wheel. I hope so!
Cavern of the Veil Queen is in the running to be one of my favorites of 2022. If you like high fantasy and sword and sorcery, with action and intrigue and romance, you need to get your hands on this series and read it. Five stars, no question.
If y’all have read my review of Witch’s Brew, you know that I felt a little sorry for bad girl and fearsome warrior Maggie. She does make an appearance in this book, and finds herself facing new difficulties. Not only does she finally have to make her peace with the fact that Tal loves Alex and can never feel that way about her, she also finds herself facing emotional turmoil of a very different kind. My heart ached for her when I was reading the events that brought this turmoil about, and I really hope Clifton returns to this universe in other books. I want to know what happens with Maggie’s story!
I won’t say there’s action on every page, but there’s enough magic flung about and enough clashes of swords and weapons and the Veil Queen’s freakish melds (part human, part other creature, all hideous) and people to get the blood of even the most laid-back reader pumping. There are schemes to be hatched and dangers to be faced, and some of those dangers are not at all what people were expecting.
And it’s not just action and adventure. Clifton tells a good, engaging story that’s relatable no matter what world it’s set in. Alex and Tal are happy newlyweds, but they bicker. They face difficulties and have to find ways to work past them. You know, just like regular people. They may inhabit a fantasy world, but they’re very believable characters. Clifton draws all of his characters in such a way that you care about them. You’re invested in them. You may wish them well, like Alex and Tal, or you may wish them dead, like the loathsome Mance. But you’re pulled in to their orbit.
The ending to the story was just about perfect. I can’t think of any way it could have turned out other than it did. The closer I got to the end of the book, the harder it was to tear myself away from it. I finished up while I was fixing dinner – cooking with one hand, reading with the other! It’s THAT good. And there’s enough of a loose thread that maybe – just maybe – we’ll get some more stories in the universe of Wheel. I hope so!
Cavern of the Veil Queen is in the running to be one of my favorites of 2022. If you like high fantasy and sword and sorcery, with action and intrigue and romance, you need to get your hands on this series and read it. Five stars, no question.
September 12, 2022
"We have to accept there are forces at play we may never understand."
Cavern of the Veil Queen by Michael Scott Clifton is book four in the Conquest of the Veil series, thrilling and chilling the reader all the way to the end. I guarantee it. Not sure how he does it, but the author has the uncanny ability to build the tension and action to a fever pitch, without stretching it out for too long. The pacing and plot advancement are spot on. If you think the first three books are great, then you will be delighted how book four brings this series to an apparent close with a gigantic bang. If you have not yet read any books in this wonderful series, what are you waiting for?
All four books in this series read as one long story, with superb character and plot development; therefore, reading them in order, while not entirely necessary, is highly recommended. With that said, in Cavern of the Veil Queen, everything comes rushing to a head as the Veil Queen finally unleashes all the putrid evil she has been creating and stockpiling for years. The ensuing battle is an absolute nail biter, but the intricate build up to all this final action actually starts in book one, The Open Portal, and picks up speed across the entire series. To reap all the enjoyment, grab all four books and settle in for one amazing trip to another world that is like no other.
By now, Alexandria is firmly entrenched in her new identity on Meredith but still retains occasional wisps of Mona Parker, the long-shed persona from her life on Earth. In Cavern of the Veil Queen, Alex gracefully steps into her new role as Prince Tal’s wife, but never for one minute should you think that she will allow her husband to put her in the corner to keep her out of harm’s way when the battle with the villainous Veil Queen and her evil forces finally begins. Oh, no, Alex is too strong of a woman to allow that, complete with her own endless supply of dazzling magic, stubbornness, and secrets. This couple’s relationship is both physically and emotionally provocative and sweet, and watching Alex and Tal grow into their own, starting in book one, is quite enjoyable. While all the characters are memorable, several will no doubt merit the status of favorite, with mine being Alabaster John, Pulpit, Pandathaway Pandergast, and even feisty and fearless Maggie.
Michael Scott Clifton is clearly a masterful worldbuilder, creating a phantasmal ecosystem of magic, monsters, and humanity, all cloaked in ingenuity, bravery, betrayal, and malevolence. Nothing is left out of this fantasy, yet everything flows together seamlessly and with striking prowess. Cavern of the Veil Queen is an excellent choice for readers of all genres because the entire series has a little bit of something for everyone: romance, good versus evil, coming of age, and plenty of action and intrigue. Even if you prefer your fiction firmly anchored on planet Earth, you cannot go wrong with Michael Scott Clifton’s books because the exhilaration level is out of this world.
As Cavern of the Veil Queen slides to a close, the overall story of Mona Parker/Alexander Duvalier comes full circle, knitted together with strands of faith, hope, love, and a fair amount of courage, with the story’s sphere brimming with Christian allegory, if you have a mind to read it that way. But is this really the end? Is the circle truly closed for good? I personally would love more, but either way, the final chapter of Cavern of the Veil Queen is creative, brilliant, unexpected, and completely perfect. Bravo!
I received a free copy of this book from Lone Star Book Blog Tours in exchange for my honest review.
Cavern of the Veil Queen by Michael Scott Clifton is book four in the Conquest of the Veil series, thrilling and chilling the reader all the way to the end. I guarantee it. Not sure how he does it, but the author has the uncanny ability to build the tension and action to a fever pitch, without stretching it out for too long. The pacing and plot advancement are spot on. If you think the first three books are great, then you will be delighted how book four brings this series to an apparent close with a gigantic bang. If you have not yet read any books in this wonderful series, what are you waiting for?
All four books in this series read as one long story, with superb character and plot development; therefore, reading them in order, while not entirely necessary, is highly recommended. With that said, in Cavern of the Veil Queen, everything comes rushing to a head as the Veil Queen finally unleashes all the putrid evil she has been creating and stockpiling for years. The ensuing battle is an absolute nail biter, but the intricate build up to all this final action actually starts in book one, The Open Portal, and picks up speed across the entire series. To reap all the enjoyment, grab all four books and settle in for one amazing trip to another world that is like no other.
By now, Alexandria is firmly entrenched in her new identity on Meredith but still retains occasional wisps of Mona Parker, the long-shed persona from her life on Earth. In Cavern of the Veil Queen, Alex gracefully steps into her new role as Prince Tal’s wife, but never for one minute should you think that she will allow her husband to put her in the corner to keep her out of harm’s way when the battle with the villainous Veil Queen and her evil forces finally begins. Oh, no, Alex is too strong of a woman to allow that, complete with her own endless supply of dazzling magic, stubbornness, and secrets. This couple’s relationship is both physically and emotionally provocative and sweet, and watching Alex and Tal grow into their own, starting in book one, is quite enjoyable. While all the characters are memorable, several will no doubt merit the status of favorite, with mine being Alabaster John, Pulpit, Pandathaway Pandergast, and even feisty and fearless Maggie.
Michael Scott Clifton is clearly a masterful worldbuilder, creating a phantasmal ecosystem of magic, monsters, and humanity, all cloaked in ingenuity, bravery, betrayal, and malevolence. Nothing is left out of this fantasy, yet everything flows together seamlessly and with striking prowess. Cavern of the Veil Queen is an excellent choice for readers of all genres because the entire series has a little bit of something for everyone: romance, good versus evil, coming of age, and plenty of action and intrigue. Even if you prefer your fiction firmly anchored on planet Earth, you cannot go wrong with Michael Scott Clifton’s books because the exhilaration level is out of this world.
As Cavern of the Veil Queen slides to a close, the overall story of Mona Parker/Alexander Duvalier comes full circle, knitted together with strands of faith, hope, love, and a fair amount of courage, with the story’s sphere brimming with Christian allegory, if you have a mind to read it that way. But is this really the end? Is the circle truly closed for good? I personally would love more, but either way, the final chapter of Cavern of the Veil Queen is creative, brilliant, unexpected, and completely perfect. Bravo!
I received a free copy of this book from Lone Star Book Blog Tours in exchange for my honest review.
October 26, 2022
2.5
cavern of the veil queen is the fourth and final sequel to the epic fantasy series—the conquest of the veil. It had everything that I love in a fantasy series; cruel, nasty monsters, dirty strategies, betrayal, fierce warriors, witchcraft and of course, magic.
Now that we are done with the soft talking and sweet whisperings why not I tell you why I rated it low? Don't get me wrong, i appreciated all what i read and so whatever i wrote above is a pure compliment. But i don't have it in me get over stuff i found pathetic and absolutely, non-acceptable (to me atleast)
I loved Tal UNTIL that one cursed chapter. After that, all what I read was just to reach the end and get this over with. WHAT DO YOU MEAN LETS PRETEND ITS JUST YOU & ME?? WHAT DID YOU FUCKING MEAN??
Would you sleep with every female who fights like you and you see a possibility that you could have loved her had you met her before, JUST BECAUSE SHE LOVES YOU??? JUST BECAUSE SHE CAN SAVE THE WOMAN YOU LOVE YOU CAN SLEEP WITH HER?? I’m sorry lads. This is not it. I may be hyperventilating here, but cheating is CHEATING. TAL CHEATED ON ALEX and you know what's the worst part?? HE DIDNT EVEN TELL HER
I'd have seriously loved to know what she’d have thought of him and if she still would have decided to be with him. Cuz I have a serious question here—Would Tal have accepted if some bastard had slipped a “love potion ” into Alex’s wine and got her pregnant?? cuz nope. I don't freaking think so!!! He’d have slaughtered him like a pig and would not have blinked twice. Tal still can't see that mongoose Maggie used him. There's nothing he'd say that can ever justify what he did!!! I was stupid to think his reckless behaviour and bold promises were enticing and admirable cuz yknow what?? they are fucking not! Because he obviously didn’t kid when he said he'd sleep with Maggie if it meant to save his empire. I'd rather my enemy kill me than knowing the man I loved with all my heart had to sleep with a crazy jealous bitch just because only she can save me.
Here's the thing, even if I overlook the fact he did what he did for alex’s safety, did he remorse it? If the roles were reversed and the woman had to save her husband by sleeping with another man, obviously she’d have done so. But I don’t think she’d have balls to go to him and live like everything's okay and nothing ever happened because that’s what our precious Talmund did. I would have very much preferred had they had that conversation. And if we’re on it, WHAT HAPPENED TO GILLIAM IF DARE ASK?? I thought he'd come back or something and that circle would be full cuz he was the singular reason why i was overlooking the dumb ass move that mongoose maggie made throughout the book! Cuz if the last book ended the way it did, it cancels out the whole love triangle thing and it was just a stupid move to charm the readers into going on. And i hate it even more because it worked on me. Of course it worked on me. I knew Alex and Tal were the endgame but i’m just very very unsatisfied with the ending. There are many loose holes left unaddressed and the characters??? They had so much potential but it’s all dust in my eyes because i can never overlook how shallow it made tal look when....god i can't even say it. I’m sorry.
Yes, he loves Alex. Of course he loves Alex. But the truth is he’ll never deserve her. Never deserve her love. For all I care he should've died by the end and never came back. I would have been happy because better Alexandria stay alone rather than living with a man who can never stand her pureness.
cavern of the veil queen is the fourth and final sequel to the epic fantasy series—the conquest of the veil. It had everything that I love in a fantasy series; cruel, nasty monsters, dirty strategies, betrayal, fierce warriors, witchcraft and of course, magic.
Now that we are done with the soft talking and sweet whisperings why not I tell you why I rated it low? Don't get me wrong, i appreciated all what i read and so whatever i wrote above is a pure compliment. But i don't have it in me get over stuff i found pathetic and absolutely, non-acceptable (to me atleast)
I loved Tal UNTIL that one cursed chapter. After that, all what I read was just to reach the end and get this over with. WHAT DO YOU MEAN LETS PRETEND ITS JUST YOU & ME?? WHAT DID YOU FUCKING MEAN??
Would you sleep with every female who fights like you and you see a possibility that you could have loved her had you met her before, JUST BECAUSE SHE LOVES YOU??? JUST BECAUSE SHE CAN SAVE THE WOMAN YOU LOVE YOU CAN SLEEP WITH HER?? I’m sorry lads. This is not it. I may be hyperventilating here, but cheating is CHEATING. TAL CHEATED ON ALEX and you know what's the worst part?? HE DIDNT EVEN TELL HER
I'd have seriously loved to know what she’d have thought of him and if she still would have decided to be with him. Cuz I have a serious question here—Would Tal have accepted if some bastard had slipped a “love potion ” into Alex’s wine and got her pregnant?? cuz nope. I don't freaking think so!!! He’d have slaughtered him like a pig and would not have blinked twice. Tal still can't see that mongoose Maggie used him. There's nothing he'd say that can ever justify what he did!!! I was stupid to think his reckless behaviour and bold promises were enticing and admirable cuz yknow what?? they are fucking not! Because he obviously didn’t kid when he said he'd sleep with Maggie if it meant to save his empire. I'd rather my enemy kill me than knowing the man I loved with all my heart had to sleep with a crazy jealous bitch just because only she can save me.
Here's the thing, even if I overlook the fact he did what he did for alex’s safety, did he remorse it? If the roles were reversed and the woman had to save her husband by sleeping with another man, obviously she’d have done so. But I don’t think she’d have balls to go to him and live like everything's okay and nothing ever happened because that’s what our precious Talmund did. I would have very much preferred had they had that conversation. And if we’re on it, WHAT HAPPENED TO GILLIAM IF DARE ASK?? I thought he'd come back or something and that circle would be full cuz he was the singular reason why i was overlooking the dumb ass move that mongoose maggie made throughout the book! Cuz if the last book ended the way it did, it cancels out the whole love triangle thing and it was just a stupid move to charm the readers into going on. And i hate it even more because it worked on me. Of course it worked on me. I knew Alex and Tal were the endgame but i’m just very very unsatisfied with the ending. There are many loose holes left unaddressed and the characters??? They had so much potential but it’s all dust in my eyes because i can never overlook how shallow it made tal look when....god i can't even say it. I’m sorry.
Yes, he loves Alex. Of course he loves Alex. But the truth is he’ll never deserve her. Never deserve her love. For all I care he should've died by the end and never came back. I would have been happy because better Alexandria stay alone rather than living with a man who can never stand her pureness.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2022
First off, I’ll admit that I’m normally not a fan of fantasy stories. Not that there’s anything wrong with them, I just find other genres more my style and there’s only so much time for reading. Since I’d read and enjoyed one of Clifton’s other books, The Janus Witch, also on a review request, I thought I’d give this one a try.
I’m glad I did.
The magic was fun. The battle scenes were dramatic, well executed and full of incredible action. The characters were interesting and one can’t help but get pulled into their lives, worrying for them as they face the challenges of the evil queen and her dark magic.
Action takes place in different parts of this fantasy world.
The Empire of Meredith where Alex and Tal reside most of the time, while Alex figures out how to control her magic and this whole newly-wed thing.
The Wheel, where the breach in the veil exists, and they hope to move enough troops through to attack the Dark Queen, which is the first plan to subvert her wickedness until that plan goes awry.
And the secret place where the little people have found safety from the Veil Queen. She has used her deadly magic to generate these creatures called melds, a combination of human and animals, and there is an army of thousands of them. Horrid creatures who are sent forth to overrun and destroy the Empire and everyone in it.
As Tal and the others fight to protect Meredith against the brutal attacks, he’s joined by Maggie, who is as fierce a fighter as Tal. They have a shared past that plays into the current story seamlessly.
The aerial battles are fought from the backs of flying horses, and my imagination went into overdrive, taking to the sky with the characters. For a little while I was that child who used to pretend to be one of the beloved characters in the stories I read.
In this story, I wanted to be Maggie. She is such a strong woman, aggressive in battle, while on a personal level struggling to overcome a devastating loss. The connection she has to Tal is complex, and she has to find a way to accept the fact that he loves Alex on a deeper level than he can ever love her, despite their history together. Good emotional stuff.
Connecting to readers through their hearts, as well as their imaginations, is the mark of a good story teller. Clifton succeeds admirably on both levels.
And I must say the illustrations were superb. Even adult readers can appreciate the value of a picture-book with an image that comes just at the right time to help us see as well as imagine. The final battles of magic against magic, as well as the amazing ending, were so compelling, it was hard not to finish the last third of the book in one sitting. I read primarily at meal times, but I stretched a couple of lunch breaks a little longer than normal.
This a good stand-alone read, although reading the series in order might be a wise choice for fans of fantasy.
I’m glad I did.
The magic was fun. The battle scenes were dramatic, well executed and full of incredible action. The characters were interesting and one can’t help but get pulled into their lives, worrying for them as they face the challenges of the evil queen and her dark magic.
Action takes place in different parts of this fantasy world.
The Empire of Meredith where Alex and Tal reside most of the time, while Alex figures out how to control her magic and this whole newly-wed thing.
The Wheel, where the breach in the veil exists, and they hope to move enough troops through to attack the Dark Queen, which is the first plan to subvert her wickedness until that plan goes awry.
And the secret place where the little people have found safety from the Veil Queen. She has used her deadly magic to generate these creatures called melds, a combination of human and animals, and there is an army of thousands of them. Horrid creatures who are sent forth to overrun and destroy the Empire and everyone in it.
As Tal and the others fight to protect Meredith against the brutal attacks, he’s joined by Maggie, who is as fierce a fighter as Tal. They have a shared past that plays into the current story seamlessly.
The aerial battles are fought from the backs of flying horses, and my imagination went into overdrive, taking to the sky with the characters. For a little while I was that child who used to pretend to be one of the beloved characters in the stories I read.
In this story, I wanted to be Maggie. She is such a strong woman, aggressive in battle, while on a personal level struggling to overcome a devastating loss. The connection she has to Tal is complex, and she has to find a way to accept the fact that he loves Alex on a deeper level than he can ever love her, despite their history together. Good emotional stuff.
Connecting to readers through their hearts, as well as their imaginations, is the mark of a good story teller. Clifton succeeds admirably on both levels.
And I must say the illustrations were superb. Even adult readers can appreciate the value of a picture-book with an image that comes just at the right time to help us see as well as imagine. The final battles of magic against magic, as well as the amazing ending, were so compelling, it was hard not to finish the last third of the book in one sitting. I read primarily at meal times, but I stretched a couple of lunch breaks a little longer than normal.
This a good stand-alone read, although reading the series in order might be a wise choice for fans of fantasy.
September 14, 2022
The Conquest of the Veil series is a saga of magic passed down through generations. Michael Clifton uses two worlds, modern contemporary and magical fantasy, to capture the hearts and imagination of readers. The Empire of Meredith’s champions, Princess Alexandria and Prince Tal, explore their blossoming romance of early marriage. Tal’s potent magic seems invincible as he leads the army through the portal hole against the Veil Queen’s dark magic. Love isn’t the only enchantment between this couple. Alexandria taps into her powers of magic and love in fits and starts without embracing all her abilities before the darkness overwhelms her confidence.
The good versus evil division reflects in the distinct details of the characters within Cavern of the Veil Queen. The expansive cast of wizards, warriors, and willful royals are painted with the brush of realism complimented by the vivid scenes of the varied locations, battles, and heartbreaks. Readers follow the evolution of the roles portrayed, whether on the dark or light side of magic, compelled to keep turning the pages. All the senses get awakened in this world, making the tendrils of one’s mind wrap around the twists and turns as the reader picks their favorites to live or get destroyed.
I’ve read the first three books in the series and was familiar with the characters and world’s beginnings. However, I believe this tale is satisfying on its own. Alexandria and Tal’s relationship began with a passionate all-consuming connection, but their ability to accept each’s abilities and failings requires working together to help meet their challenges. Their united front may be the only way Alexandria can learn to control her magic, but it may come at a higher price than envisioned.
I highly recommend Cavern of the Veil Queen and the Conquest of the Veil series for fans of magical fantasy underlined with YA coming-of-age elements. The unexpected ending is satisfying yet allows for a lingering desire to peek into Meredith for a glimpse into the vibrant world that will remain in your mind forever. Well done, Michael Clifton.
The good versus evil division reflects in the distinct details of the characters within Cavern of the Veil Queen. The expansive cast of wizards, warriors, and willful royals are painted with the brush of realism complimented by the vivid scenes of the varied locations, battles, and heartbreaks. Readers follow the evolution of the roles portrayed, whether on the dark or light side of magic, compelled to keep turning the pages. All the senses get awakened in this world, making the tendrils of one’s mind wrap around the twists and turns as the reader picks their favorites to live or get destroyed.
I’ve read the first three books in the series and was familiar with the characters and world’s beginnings. However, I believe this tale is satisfying on its own. Alexandria and Tal’s relationship began with a passionate all-consuming connection, but their ability to accept each’s abilities and failings requires working together to help meet their challenges. Their united front may be the only way Alexandria can learn to control her magic, but it may come at a higher price than envisioned.
I highly recommend Cavern of the Veil Queen and the Conquest of the Veil series for fans of magical fantasy underlined with YA coming-of-age elements. The unexpected ending is satisfying yet allows for a lingering desire to peek into Meredith for a glimpse into the vibrant world that will remain in your mind forever. Well done, Michael Clifton.
September 16, 2022
I spend a lot of time, enthralled, while binge watching fantasy series and movies on television. It is, by far, my favorite type of escapism. Reading provides many hours of pure entertainment for me, too but I’ve become so spoiled to the superlative visual effects that can be created these days that most written words just cannot compare to the moving images on screen.
As such, I wish Cavern of the Veil Queen was available on to watch on tv. This amazing fantasy romance series would be as much of a feast for the eyes as it has been for my brain.
But fear not – author, Michael Scott Clifton has the incredible ability to make you see visual images as you read because his stories flow so effortlessly and are so imaginatively described. The veil queen’s melds – monstrous creatures who are a fusion of humans and beasts – reminded me of trolls, orcs and balrogs from the Lord of the Rings books and movies.
One of the most memorable characters in the story, for me, was the blue-skinned forest mother. She was a nine foot tall cyclops with a pearl-white horn in the center of her forehead but somehow she evoked memories of Ents, also from Lord of the Rings, sentient tree-like creatures tasked with tending and protecting forests. She was not evil like the melds but she did bring tragedy with every visit.
The romance between Alexandria and Prince Tal is as memorable as that of Edward and Bella of the Twilight Series. The magic wielded by all of the magical characters in the story run the gamut from purely innocent (think Roald Dahl’s Matilda) to uniquely macabre (Lord of Illusions by Clive Barker).
This 4 book series has all of that and more. The author says The Veil Series is now complete but I truly hope he writes at least one more as I really want to know more about the forest mother and a certain little prince. I highly recommend The Veil series to all fantasy lovers.
As such, I wish Cavern of the Veil Queen was available on to watch on tv. This amazing fantasy romance series would be as much of a feast for the eyes as it has been for my brain.
But fear not – author, Michael Scott Clifton has the incredible ability to make you see visual images as you read because his stories flow so effortlessly and are so imaginatively described. The veil queen’s melds – monstrous creatures who are a fusion of humans and beasts – reminded me of trolls, orcs and balrogs from the Lord of the Rings books and movies.
One of the most memorable characters in the story, for me, was the blue-skinned forest mother. She was a nine foot tall cyclops with a pearl-white horn in the center of her forehead but somehow she evoked memories of Ents, also from Lord of the Rings, sentient tree-like creatures tasked with tending and protecting forests. She was not evil like the melds but she did bring tragedy with every visit.
The romance between Alexandria and Prince Tal is as memorable as that of Edward and Bella of the Twilight Series. The magic wielded by all of the magical characters in the story run the gamut from purely innocent (think Roald Dahl’s Matilda) to uniquely macabre (Lord of Illusions by Clive Barker).
This 4 book series has all of that and more. The author says The Veil Series is now complete but I truly hope he writes at least one more as I really want to know more about the forest mother and a certain little prince. I highly recommend The Veil series to all fantasy lovers.
September 14, 2022
I have enthusiastically awaited the final and fourth book Cavern of the Veil Queen in Michael Clifton’s fantasy saga. Wowzah! Clifton delivered a phantasmagorical Rockstar ending to this series. I was blown away and was left with a huge smile as the story drew to a close.
Without a doubt, the Conquest of the Veil is a phenomenal series. Cavern of the Veil Queen draws to a close this fantasy saga with exceptional storytelling and writing by Clifton.
I have loved this series with its mix of elements of magic, gargoyles, gnomes, and flying horses, as well as romance. Thrown in this menagerie are people who are fighting for their lives against an evil wicked woman who loves crafting weird creatures from others. Alex and Tal are the principal characters driving this story that kept me engaged and immersed in another world. By the end, I was like YES, Clifton nailed the perfect ending.
Cavern of the Veil Queen concentrates on a war being waged by the Veil Queen. Loyalties and love are tested in this final story.
One of my favorite aspects of reading a book is reaching a point where I simply do not want to walk away from it or put it down. Cavern of the Veil Queen is that category of unputdownable books.
This book is definitely not a stand-alone book since this story concludes this fantasy saga. Fans of imitate plots, intrigue with mythical creatures, and magic will embrace this series.
I also want to give special recognition to the artist, Nancy E. Durham for her illuminating black and white illustrations in this book. Her designs are incisive. The alligator’s personality jumps off the page in this last book.
Thank you, Mr. Clifton, for a fantabulous ending. Thank you, for this series.
Without a doubt, the Conquest of the Veil is a phenomenal series. Cavern of the Veil Queen draws to a close this fantasy saga with exceptional storytelling and writing by Clifton.
I have loved this series with its mix of elements of magic, gargoyles, gnomes, and flying horses, as well as romance. Thrown in this menagerie are people who are fighting for their lives against an evil wicked woman who loves crafting weird creatures from others. Alex and Tal are the principal characters driving this story that kept me engaged and immersed in another world. By the end, I was like YES, Clifton nailed the perfect ending.
Cavern of the Veil Queen concentrates on a war being waged by the Veil Queen. Loyalties and love are tested in this final story.
One of my favorite aspects of reading a book is reaching a point where I simply do not want to walk away from it or put it down. Cavern of the Veil Queen is that category of unputdownable books.
This book is definitely not a stand-alone book since this story concludes this fantasy saga. Fans of imitate plots, intrigue with mythical creatures, and magic will embrace this series.
I also want to give special recognition to the artist, Nancy E. Durham for her illuminating black and white illustrations in this book. Her designs are incisive. The alligator’s personality jumps off the page in this last book.
Thank you, Mr. Clifton, for a fantabulous ending. Thank you, for this series.
September 11, 2022
Book four in the Conquest of the Veil series, Cavern of the Veil Queen is an epic action-packed, young adult fantasy with hints of Lord of the Rings and the Cinderella story.
In book one, a guardian angel offers lonely, bullied and unattractive Mona Parker a new life in the technology-free world of Meredith. There, she was transformed into the beautiful Alexandria, daughter of a duke. Alex’s world is one of magic, flying horses, gnomes, wizards and magic. In this fourth installment, she is married to Prince Tal, heir to the Kingdom of Meredith. Prince Tal wields a powerful magic, as does Alex, although hers is wild and untamed. In Cavern of the Veil Queen, the battle with their evil enemy comes to a head. Alex and Tal must defeat her or lose everything.
With a quick pace, this high fantasy story zips along. Much of the narrative is taken up with battles and the occasional timeout for Alex and Tal to ‘work’ on their relationship. It’s a fun, adventurous story with lots of imaginative characters and creatures. The main characters are engaging and straightforward, the ending is a foregone conclusion, but the fun is in the getting there. It’s well written with wonderful descriptions that bring the world of Meredith alive. If you enjoy high fantasy with fantastic world building, lots of mythical creatures and epic battles, you’ll love this book.
In book one, a guardian angel offers lonely, bullied and unattractive Mona Parker a new life in the technology-free world of Meredith. There, she was transformed into the beautiful Alexandria, daughter of a duke. Alex’s world is one of magic, flying horses, gnomes, wizards and magic. In this fourth installment, she is married to Prince Tal, heir to the Kingdom of Meredith. Prince Tal wields a powerful magic, as does Alex, although hers is wild and untamed. In Cavern of the Veil Queen, the battle with their evil enemy comes to a head. Alex and Tal must defeat her or lose everything.
With a quick pace, this high fantasy story zips along. Much of the narrative is taken up with battles and the occasional timeout for Alex and Tal to ‘work’ on their relationship. It’s a fun, adventurous story with lots of imaginative characters and creatures. The main characters are engaging and straightforward, the ending is a foregone conclusion, but the fun is in the getting there. It’s well written with wonderful descriptions that bring the world of Meredith alive. If you enjoy high fantasy with fantastic world building, lots of mythical creatures and epic battles, you’ll love this book.
April 24, 2023
Well written book!
Great writing. A page Turner. I usually read inspirational books. But this is a very creative, thought-out and well written book. I like less gore and evilness in my books. But the author did a great job.
Great writing. A page Turner. I usually read inspirational books. But this is a very creative, thought-out and well written book. I like less gore and evilness in my books. But the author did a great job.
June 20, 2023
I read this whole series in a month. I just really couldn’t put the books down! I was reading them from sun up to sun down. So good very impressed!!
September 25, 2023
Wonderful!
His imagination is lovely, or terrifying, or maybe both. The story was not predictable which is greatly appreciated. There was also value in the story. So many books now just go for "shock" value with no actual value in the story. This book has it all!
His imagination is lovely, or terrifying, or maybe both. The story was not predictable which is greatly appreciated. There was also value in the story. So many books now just go for "shock" value with no actual value in the story. This book has it all!
November 21, 2023
Great series. I hope he plans to do another series continuing the story.
November 11, 2022
Featured on Lone Star Book Blog Tours. Lone Star Blogger Team average rating: 4.9.
September 27, 2022
Featured on Lone Star Book Blog Tours. Lone Star Blogger Team average rating: 4.9.
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