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The Shield, Sword, and Crown #2
Sword of Waters
"I'D LIKE YOU TO FIND THE SWORD FOR ME. DO YOU THINK YOU COULD HANDLE THAT?"
Arisa isn't certain how to respond when her mother, the Falcon, formerly a dangerous bandit but now lord commander of the army and navy of Deorthas, entrusts her with this extremely special mission.
Everything changed for Arisa when she and her friend Weasel stumbled upon the ancient shield rumored to bestow power upon whoever holds it. With the shield, the Falcon was able to gain her new station, bringing Arisa into a world of royalty Arisa isn't even sure she enjoys. Now the Falcon wants Arisa to get close to young Prince Edoran, and join with Edoran and Weasel to search for the legendary sword that matches the shield.
As Arisa's search progresses, however, she realizes she may be in danger from a deadly stranger. Worse -- she and her friends may be in even graver danger from someone they know all too well!
Critically acclaimed fantasy author Hilari Bell continues the captivating trilogy begun in Shield of Stars with another thrilling, surprising, and wholly satisfying novel.
Arisa isn't certain how to respond when her mother, the Falcon, formerly a dangerous bandit but now lord commander of the army and navy of Deorthas, entrusts her with this extremely special mission.
Everything changed for Arisa when she and her friend Weasel stumbled upon the ancient shield rumored to bestow power upon whoever holds it. With the shield, the Falcon was able to gain her new station, bringing Arisa into a world of royalty Arisa isn't even sure she enjoys. Now the Falcon wants Arisa to get close to young Prince Edoran, and join with Edoran and Weasel to search for the legendary sword that matches the shield.
As Arisa's search progresses, however, she realizes she may be in danger from a deadly stranger. Worse -- she and her friends may be in even graver danger from someone they know all too well!
Critically acclaimed fantasy author Hilari Bell continues the captivating trilogy begun in Shield of Stars with another thrilling, surprising, and wholly satisfying novel.
384 pages, Paperback
First published November 25, 2008
7 people are currently reading
411 people want to read
About the author
Hilari Bell
100 books649 followersAs far as writing is concerned, I call myself the poster child for persistence. Songs of Power, the first novel I sold, was the 5th novel I'd written. When it sold I was working on novel #13. The next to sell, Navohar, was #12, and the next, A Matter of Profit, was #9. The Goblin Wood was #6, and the first Sorahb book, Flame (later renamed Farsala: Fall of a Kingdom), will be #15. You get the picture.
My reviews: Mea culpa! I got onto Goodreads years ago, and haven't been reviewing--but I now mean to start! I should add that as writer, I tend to read a bit more critically. Or at least, when I think a book is going off the rails I usually see technical, writer problems with it. In short, any time a book stops working for me, that author becomes an honorary member of my writing critique group--whether they want to or not! So I apologize in advance for any technical critiques my fellow writers may recieve.
Biography: My personal life? I was born in Denver in 1958—you can do the math. I'm single and live with my mother, brother and sister-in-law. I used to be a part time reference librarian for a mid-sized public library, but in the beginning of ’05 I achieved a writer’s dream and quit the day job. Librarian turned writer is a very schizophrenic state—when I try to urge people to buy my books, I have to beat down a lifetime of professional reflexes demanding that I tell them to check them out at the library instead.
I enjoy board gaming and fantasy gaming, both table top and live. But my favorite thing to do is the decadent version of camping my mom and I practice. We have a pop-up trailer with a fridge, a sink, a stove and (if electrical hookups are available) a space heater, heating pads and a toaster. Our motto is "No unnecessary work." We don't cook, we don't wash dishes, we don't...you name it. What we do is spend all day, every day, reading and hiking and reading some more. Camping is the only time I can get in enough reading. Well, I take that back—when it comes to reading, there's no such thing as enough.
My reviews: Mea culpa! I got onto Goodreads years ago, and haven't been reviewing--but I now mean to start! I should add that as writer, I tend to read a bit more critically. Or at least, when I think a book is going off the rails I usually see technical, writer problems with it. In short, any time a book stops working for me, that author becomes an honorary member of my writing critique group--whether they want to or not! So I apologize in advance for any technical critiques my fellow writers may recieve.
Biography: My personal life? I was born in Denver in 1958—you can do the math. I'm single and live with my mother, brother and sister-in-law. I used to be a part time reference librarian for a mid-sized public library, but in the beginning of ’05 I achieved a writer’s dream and quit the day job. Librarian turned writer is a very schizophrenic state—when I try to urge people to buy my books, I have to beat down a lifetime of professional reflexes demanding that I tell them to check them out at the library instead.
I enjoy board gaming and fantasy gaming, both table top and live. But my favorite thing to do is the decadent version of camping my mom and I practice. We have a pop-up trailer with a fridge, a sink, a stove and (if electrical hookups are available) a space heater, heating pads and a toaster. Our motto is "No unnecessary work." We don't cook, we don't wash dishes, we don't...you name it. What we do is spend all day, every day, reading and hiking and reading some more. Camping is the only time I can get in enough reading. Well, I take that back—when it comes to reading, there's no such thing as enough.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
July 15, 2016
Ahh this was amazing! The perfect follow-up to Shield of Stars. I cannot wait to read the next book! (except it'll also be the last book, which is extremely sad).
Picking up where the previous book left off with in an uneasy power alliance, Sword of Waters has dramatic shift in tone and context from Shield of Stars. Where the first book is a quest, told from Weasel's point of view, this book is a court intrigue (and a bit of a mystery), told from Arisa's point of view.
Arisa was an interesting character from the beginning, but I really liked how she was developed further in this book--I think we get to see a bit more of her heart, her motivations, as well as the various flaws that make her strength that much more impressive. Through her eyes, we also get to see another side to Weasel (still my favorite character) and overall the characters become deeper and more complex. The Falcon is both a better, and a worse, person than she seemed; Holis's awesomeness comes more fully to light, and although Prince Edoran remains a mystery, he's an increasingly interesting one.
The court intrigues were a step down in pace from the first book, but no less interesting for that.
The plot twist at the end was foreshadowed perfectly, though I never saw it coming. The way Arisa, Weasel and Edoran each stepped up to their plate in turn made me admire every one of them so much. Though a bit of a cliffhanger plot-wise, it was extremely emotionally satisfying :)
Absolutely loved it!
Picking up where the previous book left off with in an uneasy power alliance, Sword of Waters has dramatic shift in tone and context from Shield of Stars. Where the first book is a quest, told from Weasel's point of view, this book is a court intrigue (and a bit of a mystery), told from Arisa's point of view.
Arisa was an interesting character from the beginning, but I really liked how she was developed further in this book--I think we get to see a bit more of her heart, her motivations, as well as the various flaws that make her strength that much more impressive. Through her eyes, we also get to see another side to Weasel (still my favorite character) and overall the characters become deeper and more complex. The Falcon is both a better, and a worse, person than she seemed; Holis's awesomeness comes more fully to light, and although Prince Edoran remains a mystery, he's an increasingly interesting one.
The court intrigues were a step down in pace from the first book, but no less interesting for that.
The plot twist at the end was foreshadowed perfectly, though I never saw it coming. The way Arisa, Weasel and Edoran each stepped up to their plate in turn made me admire every one of them so much. Though a bit of a cliffhanger plot-wise, it was extremely emotionally satisfying :)
Absolutely loved it!
August 17, 2012
Summary
Arisa, or Ris, is asked to find a legendary item for her mother and befriend the prince to a kingdom. She has to do all this while being thrust into a new world that is very different from the one she grew up in, while trying to untangle betrayals and figuring out where her loyalties lie.
Story
This is a young adult book, and young adult books are really starting to get on my nerves. I find it illogical and unbelievable that 13 and 14 year olds can save the kingdom, world, or fight legions. Thankfully, Bell only has these 13 year olds involved in political intrigue and coming of age type questions. They just happen to overlay with saving a kingdom. All the really big stuff they have adults help them with.
All in all, it is a unique story, in a comfortably familiar setting so it's not that much of a stretch of imagination. It's easy to get into the world and the story. It's going to be a really good book for some, others will not like it too much. Since it is aimed at the young adult crowd and middle schoolers, I would say this hit it's mark well. It will give the people reading it a sense of hope, show that it takes courage to stand up for what you believe in, and actually addresses hard questions.
Characters
I found it hard to get into the characters. This could be because I didn't read the first book (yet), or could be because the storyline overwhelmed the characters for me. However, they were still pretty good. The children: Arisa, Weasel, and the Prince were portrayed as 13 - 14 year olds in their situation would. It was quite believable. They were stubborn, pains in the butts, as only a young teen can be.
The adults were not really a main feature of the book. They were secondary, and were really only there to set the stage, give direction to the story, and be there to fulfil adult rolls as caretakers of the kids. It is purely the kids' stories, not the adults. This is the way it should be for books aimed at kids markets.
Arisa, or Ris, is asked to find a legendary item for her mother and befriend the prince to a kingdom. She has to do all this while being thrust into a new world that is very different from the one she grew up in, while trying to untangle betrayals and figuring out where her loyalties lie.
Story
This is a young adult book, and young adult books are really starting to get on my nerves. I find it illogical and unbelievable that 13 and 14 year olds can save the kingdom, world, or fight legions. Thankfully, Bell only has these 13 year olds involved in political intrigue and coming of age type questions. They just happen to overlay with saving a kingdom. All the really big stuff they have adults help them with.
All in all, it is a unique story, in a comfortably familiar setting so it's not that much of a stretch of imagination. It's easy to get into the world and the story. It's going to be a really good book for some, others will not like it too much. Since it is aimed at the young adult crowd and middle schoolers, I would say this hit it's mark well. It will give the people reading it a sense of hope, show that it takes courage to stand up for what you believe in, and actually addresses hard questions.
Characters
I found it hard to get into the characters. This could be because I didn't read the first book (yet), or could be because the storyline overwhelmed the characters for me. However, they were still pretty good. The children: Arisa, Weasel, and the Prince were portrayed as 13 - 14 year olds in their situation would. It was quite believable. They were stubborn, pains in the butts, as only a young teen can be.
The adults were not really a main feature of the book. They were secondary, and were really only there to set the stage, give direction to the story, and be there to fulfil adult rolls as caretakers of the kids. It is purely the kids' stories, not the adults. This is the way it should be for books aimed at kids markets.
May 25, 2018
Arisa, Weasel, and Prince Edoran are searching for the missing fabled sword of King Regalis, and they uncover a secret plot involving a kidnapper, a silent assassin, and a fiery tavern keeper. Unable to trust anyone in the palace, the three friends unravel the mystery of the sword while keeping one step ahead of the traitors in their midst.
I am falling more and more in love with this series! The awkward and adorable friendship between Arisa, Weasel, and Prince Edoran makes me smile in every chapter! I especially like that they don't always get along. They have misunderstandings, they call each other names, and they get angry at times, but the thing that binds them together is that they can be real and honest and true with each other, instead of having to pretend and perform and be on their best behavior like they do with the rest of the world. I just adore everything about these characters!
The plot kept me guessing on every page, and I loved all the wild plot twists. The characters are so endearing and approachable. I love the depth and background of each character, and how their personalities develop through the story. The circumstances of the plot and the complexity of the connections between people, their political alliances, and their family past, really serves to bring forward the emotional relationships and the consequences of every turn of the plot. It's all so beautifully woven together!
The writing is excellent, and really draws you into the story, until you forget that you are reading!
I am falling more and more in love with this series! The awkward and adorable friendship between Arisa, Weasel, and Prince Edoran makes me smile in every chapter! I especially like that they don't always get along. They have misunderstandings, they call each other names, and they get angry at times, but the thing that binds them together is that they can be real and honest and true with each other, instead of having to pretend and perform and be on their best behavior like they do with the rest of the world. I just adore everything about these characters!
The plot kept me guessing on every page, and I loved all the wild plot twists. The characters are so endearing and approachable. I love the depth and background of each character, and how their personalities develop through the story. The circumstances of the plot and the complexity of the connections between people, their political alliances, and their family past, really serves to bring forward the emotional relationships and the consequences of every turn of the plot. It's all so beautifully woven together!
The writing is excellent, and really draws you into the story, until you forget that you are reading!
January 27, 2013
The sequel to Shield of Stars focuses on Arisa instead of Weasel. It is slow moving and only picks up it's pace towards the end. I missed hearing more about Weasel, whom I had enjoyed reading in the first book. I would have liked more interaction between him and Arisa as this friendship was part of what made the first book good. The prince could also have played a bigger role instead of being reduced to a minor character. I think a development of a relationship (not necessarily romantic; even a growing friendship) between Edoran and Arisa would have helped the story. Bell has a friendship budding between them but it never truly comes to anything.
Arisa herself understandably struggles with her identity now that she is no longer a bandit's daughter but a castle lady, but what was a strong take-charge, kick-butt girl in book one, is suddenly a frightened, indecisive and somewhat mean (especially towards the prince) girl. She lacks self-control so she gets into a fist fight at court. (Would a girl who worked for the Falcon her entire life really do that?) Even her knife fighting skills, which were so incredible in book one, are reduced.
All in all this book feels like a throw-away. It could and should have been better based on the promise of book one.
Arisa herself understandably struggles with her identity now that she is no longer a bandit's daughter but a castle lady, but what was a strong take-charge, kick-butt girl in book one, is suddenly a frightened, indecisive and somewhat mean (especially towards the prince) girl. She lacks self-control so she gets into a fist fight at court. (Would a girl who worked for the Falcon her entire life really do that?) Even her knife fighting skills, which were so incredible in book one, are reduced.
All in all this book feels like a throw-away. It could and should have been better based on the promise of book one.
October 8, 2009
Just as fun as the first.
October 7, 2017
Arisa, the young, female protagonist, has gotten over the glitter and pomp that life at court requires. So much so, that she allows her mother, the realm's military commander, to tempt her with fencing lessons. The catch? Arisa has to befriend the spoiled prince, Edoran. Except...he's not as spoiled as she thought. Is he? One thing's for sure. He's weird! But the more time she spends with him, the more Arisa sees that he didn't have any fun becoming the way he is.
When chance leads Arisa to a possible den of traitors, she leaps at the chance to investigate on her own. In fact, I got the distinct impression that she prefers scrubbing tavern floors to the dancing lessons! The investigation takes a dangerous turn, forcing her to confide in the adults in her life. And that's when things get really bad. The return of the Sword of Waters only complicates things further. At the end of the book, Arisa is between the proverbial rock and hard spot, and there's no squirming out of it.
When chance leads Arisa to a possible den of traitors, she leaps at the chance to investigate on her own. In fact, I got the distinct impression that she prefers scrubbing tavern floors to the dancing lessons! The investigation takes a dangerous turn, forcing her to confide in the adults in her life. And that's when things get really bad. The return of the Sword of Waters only complicates things further. At the end of the book, Arisa is between the proverbial rock and hard spot, and there's no squirming out of it.
January 26, 2018
This second book of the trilogy has our two young heroes ensconced in relative luxury at the palace. Arisa, the tomboy daughter of a former highwayman (actually, a highway woman), is now a fixture at the palace, and her mother is head of the Navy. Weasel, former pickpocket and clerk, is still her companion and a good friend of young Prince Edoran. But all is not bliss. There has been a murder, and there is a long lost sword, and secret meetings, and lurkers in the shadows, and other strange goings on. The plot takes some interesting and unexpected twists—unexpected by me, anyway, which is probably what made them interesting. The magic doesn't overshadow the story or the characters, which though still engaging, somehow seem to lack the strong personalities I felt they had in the first book. It's still a great read.
September 10, 2020
While perhaps not as good as the first one, the intrigue and twisty plot in this second book in the series elevates The Sword of Waters to equal status. I love how the author rounds out the characters and builds the cast. The focus shifts a bit to more political conflict, but there's still plenty of swashbuckling sword-play. The adventurous spirit channels the late great Lloyd Alexander as the main characters get in and out of scrapes in a desperate attempt to fulfill their quest. Plenty of closure and yet lots of loop holes for the third installment. A great read!
April 6, 2022
This was a sweet book, with a good story! I was interested in the characters and never bored. Good book!
September 16, 2023
Bell's writing transcends age categories. So good.
March 14, 2024
Great sequel, the new pov works really well.
June 21, 2011
The second book in Hilari Bell's Shield, Sword and Crown trilogy turns the focus from reformed pickpocket Weasel (who was featured in Shield of Stars) to Arisa Benison, his friend and fellow adventurer. As the daughter of the infamous former bandit and rebel the Falcon, Arisa finds her life has changed dramatically in recent months. Since the Falcon was made Lord Commander of the Army and Navy, Arisa has moved into the palace and struggles every day against those who would teach her to be a proper lady. Her mother would like her to befriend Prince Edoran, as Weasel seems to have done so easily, but Arisa has little use for the spoiled, self-centered young royal. She longs for something real to do, a task that is truly meaningful. Even so, when the Falcon asks Arisa to find the Sword of Waters, one of the legendary symbols of Deorthas's power and the King's right to rule, Arisa isn't sure how to respond. It's not clear that anyone can locate the Sword, which vanished from history several hundred years ago. Then again, Weasel stumbled upon the Shield of Stars quite by accident, so it is entirely possible that the Sword still exists.
Once Arisa agrees to undertake the search, she realizes she'll need help from both Weasel and Prince Edoran. As she gets to know the Prince a little better, Arisa admits that, every once in a while at least, he isn't that bad. But the trio have barely begun their research when politics and jealousies threaten to overtake them. When Arisa uncovers a pair of secret plots and a deadly threat to the Kingdom's peace, a conspiracy that could shake Deorthas to its very foundations, she learns that not all dangers come from outside the palace walls.
As she did with Weasel's story in Shield of Stars, Hilari Bell has delivered a top notch fantasy novel in Sword of Waters. Fast-paced and dynamic, the wonderful plot compels readers to keep the pages turning. While the action is exciting and the intrigues suitably tense, it is Ms. Bell's characters that make this middle story of the trilogy shine. No one personality in this book is purely good or purely evil, they are all composed of multi-faceted shades of gray and their actions are shaped by their individual pasts, as well as the larger events of the present. The heroes and heroines can be petulant and jealous from time to time and the villains have moments of kindness and self-sacrifice. The depth of the characters is matched by Ms. Bell's brilliant world-building. Deorthas is so real you can see it your mind's eye. All of this combines to bring the story of Sword of Waters wonderfully to life.
Once Arisa agrees to undertake the search, she realizes she'll need help from both Weasel and Prince Edoran. As she gets to know the Prince a little better, Arisa admits that, every once in a while at least, he isn't that bad. But the trio have barely begun their research when politics and jealousies threaten to overtake them. When Arisa uncovers a pair of secret plots and a deadly threat to the Kingdom's peace, a conspiracy that could shake Deorthas to its very foundations, she learns that not all dangers come from outside the palace walls.
As she did with Weasel's story in Shield of Stars, Hilari Bell has delivered a top notch fantasy novel in Sword of Waters. Fast-paced and dynamic, the wonderful plot compels readers to keep the pages turning. While the action is exciting and the intrigues suitably tense, it is Ms. Bell's characters that make this middle story of the trilogy shine. No one personality in this book is purely good or purely evil, they are all composed of multi-faceted shades of gray and their actions are shaped by their individual pasts, as well as the larger events of the present. The heroes and heroines can be petulant and jealous from time to time and the villains have moments of kindness and self-sacrifice. The depth of the characters is matched by Ms. Bell's brilliant world-building. Deorthas is so real you can see it your mind's eye. All of this combines to bring the story of Sword of Waters wonderfully to life.
February 20, 2017
This second book was very interesting. Especially at the end where they found the sword but how the falcon was still on her mission. And that was a didn't see that coming. And how the 3rd book starts right back in the ballroom scene.
July 5, 2016
I’m not quite sure what to make of Sword of Waters. I didn’t find it as interesting or as charming as Shield of Stars, and I had too many problems with the plot and with the characters to really enjoy it. I thought it was a decent follower to the first book, but it didn’t improve on anything.
I thought the plot dragged in the middle, especially since at the beginning of the book Arisa promises her mother that she’ll find the sword and then spends most of the rest of the book going to class, bickering with Edoran, and not even thinking about the sword at all until the last third of the book when the plot demands that it be found.
Probably some of my disinterest in the book was Arisa, who was annoying. She’s the sort of character who thinks she’s in the right and will scoff at everybody else but is so completely wrong that it’s frustrating. I hated her stubbornness, her rashness, and most of how she treated Edoran, especially at the end when the poor guy is trying to get some good suggestions out and Arisa keeps interrupting him and calling him an idiot. And then she goes off and takes the sword and shield at the end, whereupon I almost started yelling at a book.
I still found the book endearing, for the most part, and even though I didn’t really like Arisa I did like most of her interactions with other people. I found it rather telling that Arisa refers to her mother as “the Falcon” rather than as, you know, “Mother.” And I really like Edoran and I’m looking forward to having his viewpoint in the next book.
I do wish, though, that all this confusion about whether or not the sword and shield are magical would have been cleared up. So far they just seem like antiques with a symbolic history, which is okay, I guess, but it doesn’t really match how people view them.
I thought the plot dragged in the middle, especially since at the beginning of the book Arisa promises her mother that she’ll find the sword and then spends most of the rest of the book going to class, bickering with Edoran, and not even thinking about the sword at all until the last third of the book when the plot demands that it be found.
Probably some of my disinterest in the book was Arisa, who was annoying. She’s the sort of character who thinks she’s in the right and will scoff at everybody else but is so completely wrong that it’s frustrating. I hated her stubbornness, her rashness, and most of how she treated Edoran, especially at the end when the poor guy is trying to get some good suggestions out and Arisa keeps interrupting him and calling him an idiot. And then she goes off and takes the sword and shield at the end, whereupon I almost started yelling at a book.
I still found the book endearing, for the most part, and even though I didn’t really like Arisa I did like most of her interactions with other people. I found it rather telling that Arisa refers to her mother as “the Falcon” rather than as, you know, “Mother.” And I really like Edoran and I’m looking forward to having his viewpoint in the next book.
I do wish, though, that all this confusion about whether or not the sword and shield are magical would have been cleared up. So far they just seem like antiques with a symbolic history, which is okay, I guess, but it doesn’t really match how people view them.
April 18, 2015
You know, I'm really starting to see what people mean when they say that Weasel is basically just an early version of Fisk. I mean, I love him - and I love all of the characters, basically - but, wow, Bell's got a thing for that type. Kavi (though he's got a different sort of thing going on), Fisk, Weasel - morally ambiguous 'former' thieves, the lot of them.
That aside, I really did enjoy this, like I enjoy basically all of Bell's work. This series doesn't have the amount of worldbuilding that some of her other books do, though there was some really interesting religious things mentioned in this one, as well as some history, and I really enjoyed that. One thing that I do want to mention is that I finally figured out one of the mysteries. Is this a middle grade book? Yes. Am I still proud of this? Maybe.
But the thing is that I have never figured out one of her mysteries before. Not in Knight & Rogue, not in the first book of this trilogy - she's really good at weaving everything together and I got it! But the plot was really good. I really enjoyed how it progressed, and I guessed the mystery and I'm just so happy about that.
Reading from Arisa's POV was interesting, because she's not really anything like any of the other female characters that Bell has ever written. She's a completely new experience, and I really did enjoy reading from her perspective. I also liked how Prince Edoran was developed - we learned a lot more about him in this book, and the way that his and Weasel's little friendship just blossomed was something completely beautiful.
Overall - can't wait to finish off this trilogy! It should be a fun time.
That aside, I really did enjoy this, like I enjoy basically all of Bell's work. This series doesn't have the amount of worldbuilding that some of her other books do, though there was some really interesting religious things mentioned in this one, as well as some history, and I really enjoyed that. One thing that I do want to mention is that I finally figured out one of the mysteries. Is this a middle grade book? Yes. Am I still proud of this? Maybe.
But the thing is that I have never figured out one of her mysteries before. Not in Knight & Rogue, not in the first book of this trilogy - she's really good at weaving everything together and I got it! But the plot was really good. I really enjoyed how it progressed, and I guessed the mystery and I'm just so happy about that.
Reading from Arisa's POV was interesting, because she's not really anything like any of the other female characters that Bell has ever written. She's a completely new experience, and I really did enjoy reading from her perspective. I also liked how Prince Edoran was developed - we learned a lot more about him in this book, and the way that his and Weasel's little friendship just blossomed was something completely beautiful.
Overall - can't wait to finish off this trilogy! It should be a fun time.
July 15, 2015
*WARNING: THIS REVIEW CONTAINS MILD SPOILERS*
The Sword of Waters was an intriguing and fascinating novel.
I really like the fact that Arisa was once a bandit, now a lady. But not any lady! Arisa was such an excellent character and she was developed well.
But I especially enjoyed reading about Edoran. There's something about the prince that just hooks me in. He may be described as a coward, but I feel he's more than just that. It's like he can be 'wise beyond his years' and sometimes life is just too hard to fight back. So he fights back differently than other people, than people like Arisa. I liked watching Arisa learn this throughout the book. Edoran can also be 'arrogant' but really, I don't blame him. When you're raised by servants hired by your enemy, and you've got no parents to help show you what's wrong and right, as well as the fact that he's got a responsibility as the prince of the kingdom, then yes, I can understand this arrogance.
Weasel is also an important part of the story, as a former expert buglar. He's the one who also helps make the story happen; helps Arisa break into houses, can read quickly, etc.
I have but one complaint. The moment Arisa, ah, noticed the sword, was just too simple, too quick, just a snap of the fingers. I'd have preferred it was more elongated, but that's just what I think.
But I really, really like that sort of 'betrayals moment' at the end. It was a good twist of the story and showed us more about Arisa.
The Sword of Waters was a fascinating and delightful read. I enjoyed the character development best in this novel, but the plot was also a fun read. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
The Sword of Waters was an intriguing and fascinating novel.
I really like the fact that Arisa was once a bandit, now a lady. But not any lady! Arisa was such an excellent character and she was developed well.
But I especially enjoyed reading about Edoran. There's something about the prince that just hooks me in. He may be described as a coward, but I feel he's more than just that. It's like he can be 'wise beyond his years' and sometimes life is just too hard to fight back. So he fights back differently than other people, than people like Arisa. I liked watching Arisa learn this throughout the book. Edoran can also be 'arrogant' but really, I don't blame him. When you're raised by servants hired by your enemy, and you've got no parents to help show you what's wrong and right, as well as the fact that he's got a responsibility as the prince of the kingdom, then yes, I can understand this arrogance.
Weasel is also an important part of the story, as a former expert buglar. He's the one who also helps make the story happen; helps Arisa break into houses, can read quickly, etc.
I have but one complaint. The moment Arisa, ah, noticed the sword, was just too simple, too quick, just a snap of the fingers. I'd have preferred it was more elongated, but that's just what I think.
But I really, really like that sort of 'betrayals moment' at the end. It was a good twist of the story and showed us more about Arisa.
The Sword of Waters was a fascinating and delightful read. I enjoyed the character development best in this novel, but the plot was also a fun read. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
May 21, 2015
Note: I changed the read dates to this read so it'll count for the challenge. I really did read this before now!
Forgot how genius this book is. When reading it this time, I was amazed by just how excellently done Arisa's whole character arc was in this book. At the beginning, she's frustrated and just wants out of the lady-in-the-palace situation. In the middle, she's beginning to question everything around her, and yet, she doesn't want to believe the conclusions she's coming to. When we finally reach the end, she's forced to choose between her loyalties and everything she's ever known and justice.
The book has an excellent plot as well, that ties into itself in various ways I never expected the first time through this (and even forgot enough of, in places, to not realize what was happening until I was nearly upon it). But I think it was Arisa who truly made the book for me. She's such a well-rounded character--she's strong and feisty and yet compassionate and vulnerable and hurting and despairing at times, and this story really brought out all the facets of her and forced her into a corner where she had to choose between them. I only hope someday I can do this half as well in my own writing.
Seriously, this trilogy may be middle-grade and familiar at points, but it's worth reading no matter the age.
Forgot how genius this book is. When reading it this time, I was amazed by just how excellently done Arisa's whole character arc was in this book. At the beginning, she's frustrated and just wants out of the lady-in-the-palace situation. In the middle, she's beginning to question everything around her, and yet, she doesn't want to believe the conclusions she's coming to. When we finally reach the end, she's forced to choose between her loyalties and everything she's ever known and justice.
The book has an excellent plot as well, that ties into itself in various ways I never expected the first time through this (and even forgot enough of, in places, to not realize what was happening until I was nearly upon it). But I think it was Arisa who truly made the book for me. She's such a well-rounded character--she's strong and feisty and yet compassionate and vulnerable and hurting and despairing at times, and this story really brought out all the facets of her and forced her into a corner where she had to choose between them. I only hope someday I can do this half as well in my own writing.
Seriously, this trilogy may be middle-grade and familiar at points, but it's worth reading no matter the age.
May 11, 2011
The Sword of Waters is the second book in the Shield, Sword, and Crown trilogy by Hilari Bell. It takes place shortly after the first book but, where the first book was from the point of view of Weasel, this book is Arisa's story.
14-year-old Arisa hates court life, she hates the fancy dresses, the corsets, the balls, the other girls, but, most of all, she hates that Weasel is now best friends with Prince Edoran who she also hates. Her mother, the Falcon and now commander of the navy, suggests that she try to find the sword, which, like the shield of the first story, is seen as an important symbol by the country folk and is still missing. Soon, she, Weasel, and the prince are caught up in conspiracies which could bring down the new regent, the prince and even the kingdom.
This book is a YA fantasy but can easily be enjoyed by adults. It's fast-paced, fun, and the characters are likable. My only quibble is that old buggaboo of fantasy and horror stories - why didn't they tell someone. I spent large parts of the story annoyed that the three adolescents didn't tell any one of the several adults they trusted - so much could have been prevented. But, that aside, the story is charming enough that I was able to overlook this enough to still enjoy the adventure.
14-year-old Arisa hates court life, she hates the fancy dresses, the corsets, the balls, the other girls, but, most of all, she hates that Weasel is now best friends with Prince Edoran who she also hates. Her mother, the Falcon and now commander of the navy, suggests that she try to find the sword, which, like the shield of the first story, is seen as an important symbol by the country folk and is still missing. Soon, she, Weasel, and the prince are caught up in conspiracies which could bring down the new regent, the prince and even the kingdom.
This book is a YA fantasy but can easily be enjoyed by adults. It's fast-paced, fun, and the characters are likable. My only quibble is that old buggaboo of fantasy and horror stories - why didn't they tell someone. I spent large parts of the story annoyed that the three adolescents didn't tell any one of the several adults they trusted - so much could have been prevented. But, that aside, the story is charming enough that I was able to overlook this enough to still enjoy the adventure.
July 7, 2011
I have to say, this was one of the best books I've read in a long time. I don't give 5 stars reviews to books that much, but this definitely deserves them!
I know they all say "Don't judge a book by its cover", but that's what I did when I borrowed this book. Sort of. I also liked the title. Reading the inside flap convinced me this would be one good read. And so it was; besides the nice cover, good title, and awesome font, the story was fascinating, interesting, and had me going until the end. As I was reading the last few pages, I thought: "Dang it! It's almost over! Now what do I do?"
Arisa's character and personality was predictable and expected, as was Edoran and the Weasel. However, this did not "spoil" the book, unlike some other novels I've read recently.
I enjoyed the suspenseful plot, full of unexpected turns of events. I also liked the parts about the arcana cards, and I especially liked how the first page of each chapter is devoted to an illustration of a card, and a short description of it.
This was a fascinating read, and I can't wait to get my hands on the sequel!
I know they all say "Don't judge a book by its cover", but that's what I did when I borrowed this book. Sort of. I also liked the title. Reading the inside flap convinced me this would be one good read. And so it was; besides the nice cover, good title, and awesome font, the story was fascinating, interesting, and had me going until the end. As I was reading the last few pages, I thought: "Dang it! It's almost over! Now what do I do?"
Arisa's character and personality was predictable and expected, as was Edoran and the Weasel. However, this did not "spoil" the book, unlike some other novels I've read recently.
I enjoyed the suspenseful plot, full of unexpected turns of events. I also liked the parts about the arcana cards, and I especially liked how the first page of each chapter is devoted to an illustration of a card, and a short description of it.
This was a fascinating read, and I can't wait to get my hands on the sequel!
February 15, 2012
Another great book by Hilari Bell. The first ended pretty resolved, but this follow up in the aftermath of the Falcon's "victory" shows how power is always precarious. I like that the story was told from Arisa's point-of-view and how moving to the castle to play princess is not what every girl dreams of. Still, I missed Weasel and relished when he was brought to the forefront for the use of his talents, towards the end. The Prince must not be too bad if Weasel has befriended him, but jealousy keeps Arisa from getting to know him at first. I'm interested in knowing more about his mysterious power. It's too bad he had to grow up so alone in a court full of people.
Have the third book ready when you read this... you're going to want it right away. I've already begun.
Have the third book ready when you read this... you're going to want it right away. I've already begun.
September 29, 2009
You might like the book sword of waters. If you like medieval book. It’s about a girl that was raised in a bandit camp. Her mother is a bandit camp commander. Then her mother sent her on a mission to find the hidden sword. She haves to talk to the prince for some information about the sword. Her friend helps her on the way. There is lots of interesting history about the kings. This book haves lots of detail and fun to read. Then she gets in a fight with her maid. The book series have three books this one is the second book. The shield, the Sword, The Crown. I hope you like this book
August 13, 2010
When her mom, the Falcon, became a military commander for Regent Hollis, Arisa didn't expect all the fancy rules and clothes that came with it. She doesn't even want to be a court lady. The corsets are too tight, the dresses are ridiculously impractial, and she doesn't get along with the other girls her age (turns out, ladies fight in a different way--who would've known?)
Worse, Weasel seems to be having a great time being the prince's best friend. And that was before Arisa started getting suspicious...and of her mother, of all people!
Worse, Weasel seems to be having a great time being the prince's best friend. And that was before Arisa started getting suspicious...and of her mother, of all people!
April 3, 2012
I choose this book because I wanted to find out if Arisa and Weasel found the sword. The book "The Sword of Waters,By Hilari Bell is about Arisa, Weasel and Prince Edoran are on a quest on finding the sword. While going through the quest Arisa is really shocked on the who the traitor was. There really wasn't a quote that I liked. The author's writing style was amazing as the first book, it has the same type of twist to it. I would recommend this book to people who read the first book and liked it.
July 14, 2010
This story picked up where the first, Shield of Stars, left off. Unlike some trilogies, it didn't leave too much time in between where you start wondering what happened in your absence. But it picks up with everyone in place at the palace already, so the story doesn't get pulled down by in-between events.
The ending, however, is a cliff-hanger, and it looks like it should be closely followed up by the third book.
The ending, however, is a cliff-hanger, and it looks like it should be closely followed up by the third book.
August 26, 2019
Unlike the first book of The Shield Sword and Crown trilogy this one is from the point of view of a teenage girl Arisa. It was a little tough to switch voices in what feels like all one story but much of the mystery is shouldered by this young woman and therefore it has to be in her point of view. It’s even more of a page turner than the first once the clues begin to be shown. I’m definitely going to read the next book!
February 9, 2010
I love this author, who consistently writes solid fantasies with great female characters and people that I care about. As I usually say when I read a series title, it probably would have served me well to brush up on the first book before I read this. I'm looking forward to reading the third in the trilogy.
March 9, 2009
I really enjoyed this book. However, if you're thinking of reading the trilogy, you should be aware that the third book doesn't come out until fall of 2009, and the end of this book leaves you feeling about the same as you do at the end of Empire Strikes Back or Fellowship of the Ring.
I really want the next book to come out!!!
I really want the next book to come out!!!
June 4, 2009
Another nice surprise, though it follows the pattern of Second Books of Series and drops you off a cliff at the end which often just irritates me unless the next book is already out.
Interesting possibilities for theological discussion, as well as some more touchy ideas about revenge and the difference between being a patriot-rebel-hero and a terrorist.
Interesting possibilities for theological discussion, as well as some more touchy ideas about revenge and the difference between being a patriot-rebel-hero and a terrorist.
August 24, 2009
A quick read (about 2 hours) and a good sequel to Shield of Stones. In the 1st book the kids seemed younger than the ages they were supposed to be, but this one fits their ages better, although they still seem to be a tad bit younger. Some surprising plot twists in here too - looking forward to the third book.
December 17, 2014
Buzzwords: Justice, court life, freedom/lack of freedom, rebellion, friendship, trust, war, ingenuity, kick-butt girl
The first book of the trilogy was in Weasel's voice - now Arisa takes up the tale. It's interesting to see her different perspective (though the events are new, her memories inform the past as well). Recommended.
The first book of the trilogy was in Weasel's voice - now Arisa takes up the tale. It's interesting to see her different perspective (though the events are new, her memories inform the past as well). Recommended.
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