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The Immortal Descendants #4
Waging War
”This series has time travel, vampires, shape shifters, but most importantly the best characters! Saira is one kick butt heroine that falls in the Katniss category. And I basically dare you not to fall in love with Ringo.” Updated with new epilogues for the 10th Anniversary editions of the series.
War is being waged against the Descendants and Saira Elian is desperate to stop the Mongers’ savage bid for power …
Saira’s search for kidnapped mixed-bloods draws her into the Mongers’ stronghold, revealing the horrible truth behind the irresistible Monger ring and the vile plan to cleanse Family bloodlines … permanently.
Under threat of a brutal massacre, Saira and Ringo travel back to Bletchley Park during World War II where they team up with Archer from the past to crack a Nazi code and expose a Monger intent on changing the course of history. They join forces with a female commando from the French resistance to hunt down an elite unit of Monger soldiers – Hitler’s Werewolves – before the terror squad can strike a fatal blow at the heart of the Allied war effort.
Their manhunt drags Saira, Archer, and Ringo into the London Underground on the eve of a Nazi bombing raid where they come face-to-face with a Monger assassin on a suicide mission. With the lives of all mixed-bloods in peril, Saira must make a sacrifice that even Time may never forgive.
War is being waged against the Descendants and Saira Elian is desperate to stop the Mongers’ savage bid for power …
Saira’s search for kidnapped mixed-bloods draws her into the Mongers’ stronghold, revealing the horrible truth behind the irresistible Monger ring and the vile plan to cleanse Family bloodlines … permanently.
Under threat of a brutal massacre, Saira and Ringo travel back to Bletchley Park during World War II where they team up with Archer from the past to crack a Nazi code and expose a Monger intent on changing the course of history. They join forces with a female commando from the French resistance to hunt down an elite unit of Monger soldiers – Hitler’s Werewolves – before the terror squad can strike a fatal blow at the heart of the Allied war effort.
Their manhunt drags Saira, Archer, and Ringo into the London Underground on the eve of a Nazi bombing raid where they come face-to-face with a Monger assassin on a suicide mission. With the lives of all mixed-bloods in peril, Saira must make a sacrifice that even Time may never forgive.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 16, 2016
189 people are currently reading
925 people want to read
About the author
April White
31 books1,139 followersAPRIL WHITE has been a film producer, private investigator, bouncer, teacher and screenwriter. She has climbed in the Himalayas, survived a shipwreck, and lived on a gold mine in the Yukon. She and her husband share their home in Southern California with two extraordinary boys and a lifetime collection of books.
Her first novel, Marking Time is the 2016 winner of the Library Journal Indie E-Book Award for YA Literature, and all five books in the Immortal Descendants series are on the Amazon Top 100 lists in Time Travel Romance and Historical Fantasy. Code of Conduct is an RWA Vivian Award finalist for romantic suspense, a Next Generation Award finalist for romance, and RONE Award finalist for suspense. And Death's Door is a Grand Prize winner of the Next Generation Award, and a Foreword Reviews Award finalist. More information and her blog can be found at www.aprilwhitebooks.com.
Her first novel, Marking Time is the 2016 winner of the Library Journal Indie E-Book Award for YA Literature, and all five books in the Immortal Descendants series are on the Amazon Top 100 lists in Time Travel Romance and Historical Fantasy. Code of Conduct is an RWA Vivian Award finalist for romantic suspense, a Next Generation Award finalist for romance, and RONE Award finalist for suspense. And Death's Door is a Grand Prize winner of the Next Generation Award, and a Foreword Reviews Award finalist. More information and her blog can be found at www.aprilwhitebooks.com.
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January 26, 2016
It's LIVE and available at all major e-book retailers:
Amazon – http://amzn.to/1lQewK1
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And just in case you missed the short story set between Changing Nature and Waging War, you can find it here: http://aprilwhitebooks.blogspot.com/p...
Amazon – http://amzn.to/1lQewK1
iTunes – http://apple.co/1Ipis9f
Barnes & Noble – http://bit.ly/21llJSA
Kobo – http://bit.ly/1NhCHLM
And just in case you missed the short story set between Changing Nature and Waging War, you can find it here: http://aprilwhitebooks.blogspot.com/p...
August 15, 2020
This is The Continual Fight...
Between Good and Evil...
And What Could Be...
The Evil of All Evil...
The Fight of World War II
Against Hitler and the Nazi Force...
The Level is Now Involving...
Nazi Werewolves Mongers Against...
The Immortal Descendants...
Saira, Archer, with Ringo...
Fighting for the Allied War Effort...
And with the Time Split Risked...
Our Descendants Are...
Waging War (The Immortal Descendants, #4)
Marking Time (The Immortal Descendants, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Tempting Fate (The Immortal Descendants #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Changing Nature (The Immortal Descendants #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Waging War (The Immortal Descendants #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Cheating Death (The Immortal Descendants #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Immortal Descendants (The Immortal Descendants #1-3) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Between Good and Evil...
And What Could Be...
The Evil of All Evil...
The Fight of World War II
Against Hitler and the Nazi Force...
The Level is Now Involving...
Nazi Werewolves Mongers Against...
The Immortal Descendants...
Saira, Archer, with Ringo...
Fighting for the Allied War Effort...
And with the Time Split Risked...
Our Descendants Are...
Waging War (The Immortal Descendants, #4)
Marking Time (The Immortal Descendants, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Tempting Fate (The Immortal Descendants #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Changing Nature (The Immortal Descendants #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Waging War (The Immortal Descendants #4) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Cheating Death (The Immortal Descendants #5) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Immortal Descendants (The Immortal Descendants #1-3) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
April 5, 2016
4.5 stars
For the last couple of years I’ve been a big fan of the Immortal Descendants series! It’s been really fun watching the series evolve and mature over the years!
I love the main characters and the premise for the story so when Waging War came out I naturally agreed to review it!
This has been an absolutely wonderful series full of complex plot lines and developing characters. As I’ve mentioned before in some of my reviews about this series, the first book does a great job setting the world up, covering the history and background, and the second and third books follows suit but with more action. This book is also similar in pattern……brief background and re-cap from previous books and then right into the action which I completely appreciate.
It’s nice to have this formula because sometimes it’s easy to forget parts of the previous books and some people might pick this book up not knowing it’s a series…..I highly recommend NOT doing that but if you do then the author at least provides basic background so the reader isn’t terribly lost. I know I appreciated some of the recap from the previous book because I had forgotten some of the issues between the Mongers and Clockers and the ‘pure blood’ stuff.
Then it’s also nice that the author doesn’t spend too long on the whole background situation and goes right into action because I like to get right into the story (especially a series) and White doesn’t disappoint! This book, like the others, starts with a lot of action!
One thing I noted in the last book was that the relationship between Archer and Saira was kind of stagnant however in this book a lot of things change and progress. I won’t give away anything but I was happy that their relationship is evolving, changing, and progressing even in unexpected ways…..at least SOMETHING is happening now. The first two books a lot changed and progressed and then with the third book, nothing…..but this one will leave the reader satisfied. In this book we get more of Archer’s voice and I really really enjoyed that aspect and change in the series. It was nice to know how he thought of things etc.
I really love Saira as a main character. She isn’t one of those leading ladies that ‘finds herself’ in the series……she already is so strong and knows who she is to begin with but as the book progresses she continues to build on those traits to become this great leading lady that many readers could admire. I love that the whole series isn’t about her’finding herself’ like so many of the YA novels are….it’s more about how she deals with adverse situations and how she continues to grow and mature into a young lady. I love that about this series.
And can we talk for a minute about the attention to historic detail?! Every book takes the reader and characters to a new time period. Sometimes authors have a specific time period that they like to remain in….but in this book it’s almost impossible to stay in just one period. But sometimes authors have more historic knowledge about one period or another but for White……her historical knowledge period to period is phenomenal! I am impressed with her knowledge and attention to detail with each book! It’s clear that she does her research before sending her characters into a new ‘world’ or ‘time’.
This series is a great fun to read. It’s a little YA, a little romance, a little supernatural, a little adventure, a little mystery, and a little historical fiction…..fans of many genres will find this series appealing. I always look forward to the next book and where Saira and her friends will end up next!
See my full review here
For the last couple of years I’ve been a big fan of the Immortal Descendants series! It’s been really fun watching the series evolve and mature over the years!
I love the main characters and the premise for the story so when Waging War came out I naturally agreed to review it!
This has been an absolutely wonderful series full of complex plot lines and developing characters. As I’ve mentioned before in some of my reviews about this series, the first book does a great job setting the world up, covering the history and background, and the second and third books follows suit but with more action. This book is also similar in pattern……brief background and re-cap from previous books and then right into the action which I completely appreciate.
It’s nice to have this formula because sometimes it’s easy to forget parts of the previous books and some people might pick this book up not knowing it’s a series…..I highly recommend NOT doing that but if you do then the author at least provides basic background so the reader isn’t terribly lost. I know I appreciated some of the recap from the previous book because I had forgotten some of the issues between the Mongers and Clockers and the ‘pure blood’ stuff.
Then it’s also nice that the author doesn’t spend too long on the whole background situation and goes right into action because I like to get right into the story (especially a series) and White doesn’t disappoint! This book, like the others, starts with a lot of action!
One thing I noted in the last book was that the relationship between Archer and Saira was kind of stagnant however in this book a lot of things change and progress. I won’t give away anything but I was happy that their relationship is evolving, changing, and progressing even in unexpected ways…..at least SOMETHING is happening now. The first two books a lot changed and progressed and then with the third book, nothing…..but this one will leave the reader satisfied. In this book we get more of Archer’s voice and I really really enjoyed that aspect and change in the series. It was nice to know how he thought of things etc.
I really love Saira as a main character. She isn’t one of those leading ladies that ‘finds herself’ in the series……she already is so strong and knows who she is to begin with but as the book progresses she continues to build on those traits to become this great leading lady that many readers could admire. I love that the whole series isn’t about her’finding herself’ like so many of the YA novels are….it’s more about how she deals with adverse situations and how she continues to grow and mature into a young lady. I love that about this series.
And can we talk for a minute about the attention to historic detail?! Every book takes the reader and characters to a new time period. Sometimes authors have a specific time period that they like to remain in….but in this book it’s almost impossible to stay in just one period. But sometimes authors have more historic knowledge about one period or another but for White……her historical knowledge period to period is phenomenal! I am impressed with her knowledge and attention to detail with each book! It’s clear that she does her research before sending her characters into a new ‘world’ or ‘time’.
This series is a great fun to read. It’s a little YA, a little romance, a little supernatural, a little adventure, a little mystery, and a little historical fiction…..fans of many genres will find this series appealing. I always look forward to the next book and where Saira and her friends will end up next!
See my full review here
July 15, 2017
Wow. Just wow. This was my favorite in the series so far, which is a big statement because I love them all so, so much. From page one, I couldn't stop reading. So much is happening in the past and the present. The emotion is raw. I loved how the characters became even more open. It's so much fun watching them grow, seeing how they face the difficult things in life.
And this one was definitely for my romantic heart. As always, we get more pieces to Saira and Archer's journey. He's had me from the start of this series. Though this isn't necessarily a "romance" book, Archer definitely has his place on my list of book boyfriends. He's very close to the top.
Ringo is just a star. Without him, these stories wouldn't be the same. He's the voice of reason, comic relief, and his eagerness to learn any and everything he can is refreshing and contagious. I love how loyal he is to Saira and Archer. He may not have been properly educated, but he's wise and so intuitive. That guy makes me smile.
Fair warning---this one ends on a cliffhanger. But that's okay because you can immediately start the next book when you finish. :)
And this one was definitely for my romantic heart. As always, we get more pieces to Saira and Archer's journey. He's had me from the start of this series. Though this isn't necessarily a "romance" book, Archer definitely has his place on my list of book boyfriends. He's very close to the top.
Ringo is just a star. Without him, these stories wouldn't be the same. He's the voice of reason, comic relief, and his eagerness to learn any and everything he can is refreshing and contagious. I love how loyal he is to Saira and Archer. He may not have been properly educated, but he's wise and so intuitive. That guy makes me smile.
Fair warning---this one ends on a cliffhanger. But that's okay because you can immediately start the next book when you finish. :)
March 4, 2016
4.5/5
What a fantastic book! I didn't know what to expect because I did not read the synopsis beforehand (this being a series I'm a huge fan of, no synopsis was necessary), so it was a huge surprise when Saira and Ringo went back into Second World War. Without Archer, but to Archer (or his past self).
The war is described brutally. My stomach was churning at some scenes, and I'm glad April White managed to capture all the horrible things both sides did, not just the Germans. Because of the atmosphere of fear and hatred in the background, Saira and Archer's relationship.and her friendship with Ringo are really strong and beautiful.
This is an unusual book because we are getting a different side to Archer we know. Not only he is his older version, there is a switch in narration to describe how modern Archer receives all the memories while everything happens in the past between him and Saira. I really enjoyed his voice, and actually what was happening with him in the present was no less intense than what was happening in the past.
Nancy was a strong character and a real historical figure, and I think those of you admiring kickass women will truly appreciate her. Saira also grows up more in this book and overcomes some of her fears, but I unfortunately can not say more without giving you some spoilers. Let's just say that there are some wonderful and terrifying moments, and the ending leaves us more than puzzled and dying to know what happens next. Very much recommended. Excellent, strong, entertaining series.
What a fantastic book! I didn't know what to expect because I did not read the synopsis beforehand (this being a series I'm a huge fan of, no synopsis was necessary), so it was a huge surprise when Saira and Ringo went back into Second World War. Without Archer, but to Archer (or his past self).
The war is described brutally. My stomach was churning at some scenes, and I'm glad April White managed to capture all the horrible things both sides did, not just the Germans. Because of the atmosphere of fear and hatred in the background, Saira and Archer's relationship.and her friendship with Ringo are really strong and beautiful.
This is an unusual book because we are getting a different side to Archer we know. Not only he is his older version, there is a switch in narration to describe how modern Archer receives all the memories while everything happens in the past between him and Saira. I really enjoyed his voice, and actually what was happening with him in the present was no less intense than what was happening in the past.
Nancy was a strong character and a real historical figure, and I think those of you admiring kickass women will truly appreciate her. Saira also grows up more in this book and overcomes some of her fears, but I unfortunately can not say more without giving you some spoilers. Let's just say that there are some wonderful and terrifying moments, and the ending leaves us more than puzzled and dying to know what happens next. Very much recommended. Excellent, strong, entertaining series.
February 13, 2016
April White brings history to life with another fantastic addition to The Immortal Descendants series.
I love reading about Saira's adventures into the past. Time isn't always easy, but Saira is always willing to dive into danger to save those she cares about and stop those that are out to hurt her and her friends. There are some HUGE advancements for Saira and Archer in WAGING WAR. I was particularly shocked with a few of them because Saira has always seemed to hold back a bit, but it all felt so right that the shock was a very happy and delighted shock.
The world building is always fantastically done in The Immortal Descendants series. I can picture every place the characters visit and I always feel like I am right there with them. Not only are the characters well developed, but they always have a tremendous amount of personal growth with each book. I am heavily invested in each one of them and I hate when bad things happen to them and delighted when good things come around.
The ending just about killed me. I can't believe with all the things that happened in WAGING WAR to advance the storyline and Saira and Archer's relationship that it would end in the way it did. I am DYING to read the next book and am so sad that it isn't ready for me to devour yet. I will be impatiently waiting until it is.
* This book was provided free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I love reading about Saira's adventures into the past. Time isn't always easy, but Saira is always willing to dive into danger to save those she cares about and stop those that are out to hurt her and her friends. There are some HUGE advancements for Saira and Archer in WAGING WAR. I was particularly shocked with a few of them because Saira has always seemed to hold back a bit, but it all felt so right that the shock was a very happy and delighted shock.
The world building is always fantastically done in The Immortal Descendants series. I can picture every place the characters visit and I always feel like I am right there with them. Not only are the characters well developed, but they always have a tremendous amount of personal growth with each book. I am heavily invested in each one of them and I hate when bad things happen to them and delighted when good things come around.
The ending just about killed me. I can't believe with all the things that happened in WAGING WAR to advance the storyline and Saira and Archer's relationship that it would end in the way it did. I am DYING to read the next book and am so sad that it isn't ready for me to devour yet. I will be impatiently waiting until it is.
* This book was provided free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2017
Check out my blog, One Man Book Club
The Value of a Star: Ratings Explained
These are a few of my favorite things...
I can’t remember what made me pick up Marking Time, the first book of The Immortal Descendants series. Whatever the reason, it was most certainly a moment of brilliant insight on my part. Way to go me!
Each book in the series has been great fun to read, and Waging War didn't disappoint. Time travelers, good guys, bad guys, shape shifters, vampires, action, drama, love, happiness, sadness, highs, lows, history, WWII, code breaking, Bletchley Park...seriously, it’s like taking all the coolest things and putting them into one book!
Hmm…
…I wonder if I could talk April into working in some kind of original advanced magic system and sending everyone into space?
Probably not.
With or without magic and space travel, The Immortal Descendants series is great fun. Start with Marking Time, and then get to Waging War as quickly as possible. I’m certain book 5, Cheating Death, isn't far away. At least, it had better not be—not with that ending! (Can you really have a true cliff hanger when your book is about time travel? Just saying.)
Did I mention Marking Time is free? Seriously people. This isn't a hard decision.
Click here and then email me to say thanks:
http://amzn.com/B009ZC6666
Happy reading friends!
The Value of a Star: Ratings Explained
These are a few of my favorite things...
I can’t remember what made me pick up Marking Time, the first book of The Immortal Descendants series. Whatever the reason, it was most certainly a moment of brilliant insight on my part. Way to go me!
Each book in the series has been great fun to read, and Waging War didn't disappoint. Time travelers, good guys, bad guys, shape shifters, vampires, action, drama, love, happiness, sadness, highs, lows, history, WWII, code breaking, Bletchley Park...seriously, it’s like taking all the coolest things and putting them into one book!
Hmm…
…I wonder if I could talk April into working in some kind of original advanced magic system and sending everyone into space?
Probably not.
With or without magic and space travel, The Immortal Descendants series is great fun. Start with Marking Time, and then get to Waging War as quickly as possible. I’m certain book 5, Cheating Death, isn't far away. At least, it had better not be—not with that ending! (Can you really have a true cliff hanger when your book is about time travel? Just saying.)
Did I mention Marking Time is free? Seriously people. This isn't a hard decision.
Click here and then email me to say thanks:
http://amzn.com/B009ZC6666
Happy reading friends!
February 8, 2016
Completely gobsmacked! Love this series, enjoy all the twists and turns of the tale and the various time periods we're treated to. Fabulous characters, wonderful intertwining of history, and love stories too. Who could ask for more? Cannot wait for the next episode.
February 1, 2016
This was the best one yet! Each book is better than the last. I wish the next book was already out!!
February 3, 2016
OMG...I loved it...I was devastated with how I thought it was ending, but now I can't wait for the next one to come out. Tomorrow would be fine with me! I can hardly wait!!!
June 22, 2019
“Have you ever asked yourself, do monsters make war, or does war make monsters?”
― Laini Taylor, Daughter of Smoke & Bone
First off if you haven’t read from the beginning of the series then my review will most likely make no sense at all.
Book 4 in the Descendants series and I am distraught after that ending. I feel as if everything is coming to a head but there are still so many open questions which I will not go in to detail here. Choices are made, hard choices and in the end what happens that isn’t meant to happen? Time splits.
Saira & Ringo go back to 1944 to the codebreaking in London World War II is in full swing but they are looking for Tom. If you want to know all about Tom read book 3, lol.
We are still on with the prophecy.
“Fated for one, born to another
The child must seek to claim the Mother
The stream shall split and branches will fight
Death will divide, and lovers unite
The child of opposites will be the one
To heal the Dream that War’s undone”
Want to know more about the prophecy? Then read book 1 & 2. Lol.
Getting back to the time split it has all seriously gone haywire but why have one prophecy when you can have two?
“Because out of the ashes the phoenix will rise.
The truth will be born, where before there were lies.
And one line will live when the other one dies.”
Well the way I see it is that in the last and final book Ms. White has got a lot to take on to give me the ending that I want and quite frankly need.
On another note I take my hat off to the author when it comes once again to the history of the book she has done a fantastic job in her research and depicting the sides and emotions for everyone in such difficult times. The writing is exceptional, gripping and it sucks you into the story not matter how hard you try to not be so emotionally involved.
I have informed the hubby and son that for book 5 there is no time for me to be social.
P.S. There is a romance element here between Saira & Archer and it was getting good. So don't ruin it for me lady.
― Laini Taylor, Daughter of Smoke & Bone
First off if you haven’t read from the beginning of the series then my review will most likely make no sense at all.
Book 4 in the Descendants series and I am distraught after that ending. I feel as if everything is coming to a head but there are still so many open questions which I will not go in to detail here. Choices are made, hard choices and in the end what happens that isn’t meant to happen? Time splits.
Saira & Ringo go back to 1944 to the codebreaking in London World War II is in full swing but they are looking for Tom. If you want to know all about Tom read book 3, lol.
We are still on with the prophecy.
“Fated for one, born to another
The child must seek to claim the Mother
The stream shall split and branches will fight
Death will divide, and lovers unite
The child of opposites will be the one
To heal the Dream that War’s undone”
Want to know more about the prophecy? Then read book 1 & 2. Lol.
Getting back to the time split it has all seriously gone haywire but why have one prophecy when you can have two?
“Because out of the ashes the phoenix will rise.
The truth will be born, where before there were lies.
And one line will live when the other one dies.”
Well the way I see it is that in the last and final book Ms. White has got a lot to take on to give me the ending that I want and quite frankly need.
On another note I take my hat off to the author when it comes once again to the history of the book she has done a fantastic job in her research and depicting the sides and emotions for everyone in such difficult times. The writing is exceptional, gripping and it sucks you into the story not matter how hard you try to not be so emotionally involved.
I have informed the hubby and son that for book 5 there is no time for me to be social.
P.S. There is a romance element here between Saira & Archer and it was getting good. So don't ruin it for me lady.
February 1, 2016
How I do wish that there were the X a Million option on this star count for ratings!!!
Having read the previous books in this series, I was aware of just what happens when I get caught up in an adventure with these characters. I knew that the suspense and excitement were contagious. The reading gets more intense, right along with the plot and action. April White's ability to create a world within a world, with time and space defied, is breathtaking. It is magical. That she also manages to include dialogue-dialogue and inner-dialogue that defies the expectations of the reader...also breathtaking and magical.
So, I set out with a new goal in mind. I would read this new installment for the Immortal Descendants at a slow and even pace. Rather than the hyper-oh,my gosh, this book is amazing-pace from the earlier books. Much like Mozart's Piano Sonata No. 14, the intensity of emotion and the building suspense were heightened and made richer with a slow and meaningful pace. I limited myself to a maximum of 2 chapters per day. In the beginning, this was MOST DIFFICULT because oh, my gosh, this book was amazing! However, as I progressed, I did appreciate the opportunity to imagine/reflect on the chapter at a deeper and more vivid level each evening. I am so happy to have stuck to my guns on this plan of action! Of course, now I will have to go back and apply this method to the other books.
April White's stories are layered with such rich detail in the scenery AND both scientific and historical facts. They have all brought wonderment to this mature reader's soul. Also, cobwebs from the days of academic learning have been cleared away. Huzzah for dusting the shelves in my brain! I am grateful beyond words that she continues to devote the same level of attention to continuing with the flow and content. Her vast knowledge is indicated within the innumerable details. Obviously, this lady has done a lot of exploring and researching in her lifetime! I can almost "see" Bletchley Park.
The characters have grown, organically, with the progression of this series. Again, that slow and meaningful Mozart pace for telling a very emotional tale. In Waging War, Saira learned some very valuable lessons about being on both the receiving and the giving end of a committed relationship. The fact that she is such a strong and fiercely independent young woman (also, a total sassy-pants) causes much of this "learning stuff" to be balked at, as it involves the acceptance of sometimes allowing herself to be vulnerable in order that she might receive the love and affection of her tribe. This has been a recurring theme in the Immortal Descendants. With each book, Saira has gained a higher understanding of teamwork and relationship. It makes perfect sense that her relationship maturity would happen in baby steps. That is logical and authentic. There were a few awesome "leaps", as well <--that is a hint, by the way, not a give away. ;)
All of the intrigue and adventure that I anticipate with this series was found in Waging War. It was spectacular! There was a significantly higher level of heartache for this reader with this installment because of the events of WWII. That era is the most shocking and horrific time period in our history and there have been many shocking and horrific times in history AND today. Maybe we should be having more dialogue about WWII. Maybe we should be keeping it fresh in order that we might actively be doing something to prevent a nightmare of that magnitude ever happening again. That adds something special to this book. This book will cause, at the very least, some soul-searching or re-learning of history. Hopefully, some meaningful dialogue will result with the readers and their respective tribes. Which...can only be a good thing.
I am very excited to read the next book in this series. VERY VERY EXCITED!!!!
Now...back to Marking Time for me! (Slowly, Amy, slowly)
Having read the previous books in this series, I was aware of just what happens when I get caught up in an adventure with these characters. I knew that the suspense and excitement were contagious. The reading gets more intense, right along with the plot and action. April White's ability to create a world within a world, with time and space defied, is breathtaking. It is magical. That she also manages to include dialogue-dialogue and inner-dialogue that defies the expectations of the reader...also breathtaking and magical.
So, I set out with a new goal in mind. I would read this new installment for the Immortal Descendants at a slow and even pace. Rather than the hyper-oh,my gosh, this book is amazing-pace from the earlier books. Much like Mozart's Piano Sonata No. 14, the intensity of emotion and the building suspense were heightened and made richer with a slow and meaningful pace. I limited myself to a maximum of 2 chapters per day. In the beginning, this was MOST DIFFICULT because oh, my gosh, this book was amazing! However, as I progressed, I did appreciate the opportunity to imagine/reflect on the chapter at a deeper and more vivid level each evening. I am so happy to have stuck to my guns on this plan of action! Of course, now I will have to go back and apply this method to the other books.
April White's stories are layered with such rich detail in the scenery AND both scientific and historical facts. They have all brought wonderment to this mature reader's soul. Also, cobwebs from the days of academic learning have been cleared away. Huzzah for dusting the shelves in my brain! I am grateful beyond words that she continues to devote the same level of attention to continuing with the flow and content. Her vast knowledge is indicated within the innumerable details. Obviously, this lady has done a lot of exploring and researching in her lifetime! I can almost "see" Bletchley Park.
The characters have grown, organically, with the progression of this series. Again, that slow and meaningful Mozart pace for telling a very emotional tale. In Waging War, Saira learned some very valuable lessons about being on both the receiving and the giving end of a committed relationship. The fact that she is such a strong and fiercely independent young woman (also, a total sassy-pants) causes much of this "learning stuff" to be balked at, as it involves the acceptance of sometimes allowing herself to be vulnerable in order that she might receive the love and affection of her tribe. This has been a recurring theme in the Immortal Descendants. With each book, Saira has gained a higher understanding of teamwork and relationship. It makes perfect sense that her relationship maturity would happen in baby steps. That is logical and authentic. There were a few awesome "leaps", as well <--that is a hint, by the way, not a give away. ;)
All of the intrigue and adventure that I anticipate with this series was found in Waging War. It was spectacular! There was a significantly higher level of heartache for this reader with this installment because of the events of WWII. That era is the most shocking and horrific time period in our history and there have been many shocking and horrific times in history AND today. Maybe we should be having more dialogue about WWII. Maybe we should be keeping it fresh in order that we might actively be doing something to prevent a nightmare of that magnitude ever happening again. That adds something special to this book. This book will cause, at the very least, some soul-searching or re-learning of history. Hopefully, some meaningful dialogue will result with the readers and their respective tribes. Which...can only be a good thing.
I am very excited to read the next book in this series. VERY VERY EXCITED!!!!
Now...back to Marking Time for me! (Slowly, Amy, slowly)
February 15, 2016
Things heat up in this installment of The Immortal Descendants and there is a great sense of urgency that felt even more consuming and dangerous than previous adventures (and considering all they have gone through I didn’t think it possible). Saira is and for the most part always in danger and that doesn’t change. What changes is how she handles it and those around her. As always she has grown from her past experiences. She matures and show consideration for what others have to say of her actions and doesn’t act as a petulant child (she grew so much in the other books I didn’t realize it was possible to have her mature even more but we are shown that there is always room for growth). It enables a love for Saira that wouldn’t be there otherwise.
So as the title suggests there is a lot of war brewing in this book. April White gives us a glimpse to a small part of World War II and does give an education to us readers on nuances from that era in a story telling way that doesn’t make you feel like you are being taught but you really are. The scenes came alive before my mind’s eye and I saw it all as she revealed it for me. I loved learning about code breaking and Wrens, about advance computers in a time when you would think there were none.
So I know you all who follow the story want to know though about a certain relationship, one of the Archer & Saira variety. Don’t read further if you want no knowledge of anything, but if you want a little taste (like very small taste) proceed.
To sum up:
-Amazing historical immersion and education.
-Advancement in Archer and Saira’s relationship.
-Even more growth on Saira’s part.
-Even more great side character interactions (RINGO!).
-Keeps you attached to your reader.
-Ends such that you will be stalking April White for that final book. (AKA, cliffy to end all cliffies)
The ending was just, I don’t know how they will get out of the predicament that they find themselves in. My heart my head, everything spins.
Once again April writes with such beauty and wisdom that I can’t wait for more people to find her words and this series and fall in love as much as I have.
More reviews, style, life and teaser at: Back Off My Books
Graphics by Jenn @ Back Off My Books & Duet Literary Designs
January 30, 2017
Book reviewer Tourettes: Argh! Amazing! Nooooooo! WTF?
There is so much going on in this book I don't know where to start.
I hesitated to start reading this as I definitely classify this as a YA book, also Archer's old-fashioned views about sex and marriage felt a little Twilight to me (although TBH I didn't see anything wrong with Edward's views in Twilight until I read other people's comments anyway). But honestly I don't know why I felt any trepidation.
The adventures start when Archer gets a message from his old colleague Ravi, of course Ravi thinks that Archer is the grandson of his old friend, named after him, rather than his old friend miraculously looking exactly the same as he did in the 1940s. A secret room has been discovered at Bletchley Park (the English top secret code-breaking centre responsible for decoding Nazi war messages) with a scrap of an old message decrypted during World War II.
In an unusual twist Saira and Archer are separated - Saira Clocks back to 1944, just before D-Day, to try to save/ stop Tom whilst Archer stays in the present in order to try to rescue the mixed-blood descendants who have been kidnapped by the Mongers. Mixed up with all this are races with bears and wolves, meetings with old friends, making new friends, a potential cure for vampirism, fencing lessons, bicycle lessons, the Elgin marbles, violent deaths, bombs and deserted underground train stations.
If you liked the previous books I feel sure you will like this one too. Although Saira and friends don't Clock as far back in time as in the other books the period detail is just as compelling.
I would say that you should read the previous books first in order to understand what Clocking means, who are the Mongers, how Archer, Saira, Saira's family, Ringo etc met and became friends. However, if a reader was prepared to accept that they wouldn't understand some of the background/ terminology I think they would be able to read and enjoy this as a stand-alone.
Ah well, settle down for a wait until the next book ... hey, wait isn't there a short story free on April White's website that I haven't read? Why yes there is.
There is so much going on in this book I don't know where to start.
I hesitated to start reading this as I definitely classify this as a YA book, also Archer's old-fashioned views about sex and marriage felt a little Twilight to me (although TBH I didn't see anything wrong with Edward's views in Twilight until I read other people's comments anyway). But honestly I don't know why I felt any trepidation.
The adventures start when Archer gets a message from his old colleague Ravi, of course Ravi thinks that Archer is the grandson of his old friend, named after him, rather than his old friend miraculously looking exactly the same as he did in the 1940s. A secret room has been discovered at Bletchley Park (the English top secret code-breaking centre responsible for decoding Nazi war messages) with a scrap of an old message decrypted during World War II.
In an unusual twist Saira and Archer are separated - Saira Clocks back to 1944, just before D-Day, to try to save/ stop Tom whilst Archer stays in the present in order to try to rescue the mixed-blood descendants who have been kidnapped by the Mongers. Mixed up with all this are races with bears and wolves, meetings with old friends, making new friends, a potential cure for vampirism, fencing lessons, bicycle lessons, the Elgin marbles, violent deaths, bombs and deserted underground train stations.
If you liked the previous books I feel sure you will like this one too. Although Saira and friends don't Clock as far back in time as in the other books the period detail is just as compelling.
I would say that you should read the previous books first in order to understand what Clocking means, who are the Mongers, how Archer, Saira, Saira's family, Ringo etc met and became friends. However, if a reader was prepared to accept that they wouldn't understand some of the background/ terminology I think they would be able to read and enjoy this as a stand-alone.
Ah well, settle down for a wait until the next book ... hey, wait isn't there a short story free on April White's website that I haven't read? Why yes there is.
April 8, 2016
Original review at Whatever You Can Still Betray.
There are no words.
There are no words.
January 26, 2016
April White has masterfully created a fantastical world you can't help but to get lost in. Waging War begins shortly after Changing Nature ends and Saira, Archer, and Ringo are dealing with what has been set in motion by the Mongers in the previous books.
It is very fitting that Saira has to travel to 1944 Europe as the parallels between then and the power struggle with the Immortal Descendants families is very spot on.
Waging War, however is not just about war. We also get my beloved Ringo whose wiser beyond his years and sweet friendship provides a lovely lightheartedness. Quite frankly I hope he'll get his own spin-off series because the world needs more Ringo.
And then there is Archer. I don't want to give any spoilers away but that walled garden scene damn near melted my heart.
This series has made its way into my heart and I can not wait until the rest of the world reads it.
It is very fitting that Saira has to travel to 1944 Europe as the parallels between then and the power struggle with the Immortal Descendants families is very spot on.
Waging War, however is not just about war. We also get my beloved Ringo whose wiser beyond his years and sweet friendship provides a lovely lightheartedness. Quite frankly I hope he'll get his own spin-off series because the world needs more Ringo.
And then there is Archer. I don't want to give any spoilers away but that walled garden scene damn near melted my heart.
This series has made its way into my heart and I can not wait until the rest of the world reads it.
January 28, 2016
I started reading this series last year with Marking Time and quickly purchased Tempting Fate and Changing Nature which came out in January of 2015. These books are a fast paced, well written, wild ride through time and emotion. You find yourself rooting for the characters and wanting to yell at them out loud! Waging War doesn't hold back... it starts fast and keeps going right up to the cliff at the end. If you don't learn at least one thing about history you didn't know before reading these books then you're doing it wrong. April has developed a stunning alternate reality and populated it with real, engaging characters. Do yourself a favor and read The Immortal Descendants! I really can't wait to read Cheating Death!!!
February 3, 2016
I love this series!
This book is just as good as the other 3! I love how your on the edge of your seat with every turn of the page! I highly recommend this series to anyone! It's so awesome! I can't wait for the next book in the series!
This book is just as good as the other 3! I love how your on the edge of your seat with every turn of the page! I highly recommend this series to anyone! It's so awesome! I can't wait for the next book in the series!
February 1, 2016
Too short!-I have waited for this book for so long...and then I read it in two days.
Waging war is very good, as all the saga, but now I'm waiting for the last book...
I'm already missing Saira, Archer and Ringo :-)
Waging war is very good, as all the saga, but now I'm waiting for the last book...
I'm already missing Saira, Archer and Ringo :-)
December 8, 2022
Amazing book
I waited with great excitement for this book and I wasn't disappointed. The story of Saira, archer and Ringo continues and only gets better. Can't wait for the next book that will hopefully complete their story as we wait to see how it all comes together in the end.
I waited with great excitement for this book and I wasn't disappointed. The story of Saira, archer and Ringo continues and only gets better. Can't wait for the next book that will hopefully complete their story as we wait to see how it all comes together in the end.
January 18, 2016
can't wait to review this. Alas, right now i've had a glass of wine and that would lead to severely inappropriate use of .gifs and possible (read: probable) spelling errors.
January 17, 2023
So good! I could not put it down!
January 23, 2025
4.5+ I started this series in 2015 and still keep enjoying them. Not sure why it's taken so long to read this far! Maybe it because I am sure that I am not the target demographic 😊😊 and they are not my "normal" reads. I already own book 5 and 6 so I will not wait too long until I dip back in and finish the series off.
February 7, 2018
This book contains a cliffhanger! I am not a cliffhanger girl!! I want my HEA or at least some closure.
I'm not sure anyone reads my reviews anyway, but if you do I am sorry the bulk of this review will have to be done at a later date! Right now I am pretty sure my heart has been through a meat grinder! In all fairness to Ms. White it wasn't only this book. I read a book a book before this one that was like a punch to the heart. After reading "Waging War" I feel like I have been hit with a one, two punch.
2/7/18 It has been over two years since I read this story the first time. Even knowing in advance how this book would end it I am wrecked! I also gave the story the fifth star it deserves. It takes great art to wreck you. Like a Monet painting that looks like small dots on the canvas when viewed up close you must step back to see the whole picture.
I am thinking I may never be able to give this book a written review that does it justice.
I'm not sure anyone reads my reviews anyway, but if you do I am sorry the bulk of this review will have to be done at a later date! Right now I am pretty sure my heart has been through a meat grinder! In all fairness to Ms. White it wasn't only this book. I read a book a book before this one that was like a punch to the heart. After reading "Waging War" I feel like I have been hit with a one, two punch.
2/7/18 It has been over two years since I read this story the first time. Even knowing in advance how this book would end it I am wrecked! I also gave the story the fifth star it deserves. It takes great art to wreck you. Like a Monet painting that looks like small dots on the canvas when viewed up close you must step back to see the whole picture.
I am thinking I may never be able to give this book a written review that does it justice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2016
So many feels! Love Bas, hate Doran. Just want to smack Doran's smug little face. ****spoiler**** Time has split? Oh sh*t, here we go again...
Best Laughs:
"Because...boys"
"I've been replaced by a leprechaun, I guess"
"[He's] The adultest adult. Better at adulting than anyone I know"
Favorite Quotes:
"You're mine"
"If I have my way, you'll call me husband"
"You're safe here and I'll keep you warm"
"It's not just who we decide to be. It's who the world sees when they look at us. Do they respect us? respect ourselves?"
"When are we enough for ourselves?"
"Let us begin this acquaintance that we be strangers no more"
"The choices I make about who I am have the greatest meaning, and come from the most selfless place, when they are inspired by my love for her".
"It is wonderful to be among friends"
Best Laughs:
"Because...boys"
"I've been replaced by a leprechaun, I guess"
"[He's] The adultest adult. Better at adulting than anyone I know"
Favorite Quotes:
"You're mine"
"If I have my way, you'll call me husband"
"You're safe here and I'll keep you warm"
"It's not just who we decide to be. It's who the world sees when they look at us. Do they respect us? respect ourselves?"
"When are we enough for ourselves?"
"Let us begin this acquaintance that we be strangers no more"
"The choices I make about who I am have the greatest meaning, and come from the most selfless place, when they are inspired by my love for her".
"It is wonderful to be among friends"
February 9, 2016
Book Throwing Good!!!
Why would anyone want to throw a book? I know. It's strange. But when I get so wrapped up in an amazing story , so emotionally charged, that when I reach a point in a book that I knew was coming but read on anyway...that's the part when feelings rise and nothing short of tossing the book against the wall, then immediately running to pick it up to finish reading, that's it! That's when you know it has you and that's what makes this series so amazing. The heroine grows so much from the beginning and with each installment you are left wanting more. Each one is better than the last. I would have thrown this book but I am reading on a kindle and that would be bad if I couldn't continue due to damage. Haha. Keep 'm coming April
Why would anyone want to throw a book? I know. It's strange. But when I get so wrapped up in an amazing story , so emotionally charged, that when I reach a point in a book that I knew was coming but read on anyway...that's the part when feelings rise and nothing short of tossing the book against the wall, then immediately running to pick it up to finish reading, that's it! That's when you know it has you and that's what makes this series so amazing. The heroine grows so much from the beginning and with each installment you are left wanting more. Each one is better than the last. I would have thrown this book but I am reading on a kindle and that would be bad if I couldn't continue due to damage. Haha. Keep 'm coming April
February 20, 2016
THE BEST IN THE SERIES! Unfortunately, I now have to wait 9-12 months for the fifth. The personal growth of the characters continue to amaze me. It's like watching my daughter's grow to adulthood all over again. Everything from teen angst to independence to bone searing love for friends, family and partner rings true. My biggest complaint, as well as my biggest joy, is the wisdom and maturity reached by the young age of 18 by Saira. I think it is jealousy really. It took me over 50 years and I still don't have it like she does! And now I am looking forward to finding out more about Doran. Possibly someone's son? Write faster, Ms. White!
January 31, 2016
Another winner! Highly Recommend! April White is an amazing author and knows how to pull you in and keep you interested. She has great, interesting strong characters and I love how her stories are intertwined with history. This book left me wanting more, like RIGHT NOW.... but then again.....I always do after reading her books. I anxiously await for Book #5 and hope that I will not need a box of tissues. BTW....Logan's abilities are simply amazing....I so envy what he's able to do!
February 3, 2016
I love this series! The characters are very real and I like how this world works. There's a good balance of action and interaction, with humor among the characters that fits in perfectly with their personalities. This is #4 and I can't wait for #5!
I've listened to the first two books in audio. I hope the third will be coming out soon, as well as the fourth.
I've listened to the first two books in audio. I hope the third will be coming out soon, as well as the fourth.
February 6, 2016
Have fun storming the castle...
Wow.
I am still at a bit of a loss for words regarding the roller coaster ride through history again. So much goings on! At least this Pandora's box didn't close tightly..... There's still Hope.
I'm sure I'll re-read the series again... If only to shrink the time between being left with a hopeful despair... And Cheating Death.
Again,... Wow.
Wow.
I am still at a bit of a loss for words regarding the roller coaster ride through history again. So much goings on! At least this Pandora's box didn't close tightly..... There's still Hope.
I'm sure I'll re-read the series again... If only to shrink the time between being left with a hopeful despair... And Cheating Death.
Again,... Wow.
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