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wisecraic's review
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
leslieisreading's review
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
gtgirl1's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
tinynavajo's review
5.0
I received an ARC from NetGalley. This in no way affects my thoughts on the book or the following review.
An excellent introduction into a world where people have Songs that granted them the ability to manipulate the elements, Darvyn and Kyara are on opposite sides of a war, where Songs are prohibited and stolen from the people to augment the powers of a corrupted king. As Darvyn works to free his people and stand up against those who are oppressing the commoners, Kyara is the king's top assassian, a woman whose Song is so very different from those around her. Instead of life, her Song creates death. And without full control, Kyara's Song has catastrophic consequences.
As they come together and work to free each other from their chains, we see the world through the eyes of others and how the very minutiae of this world's political aspects has devastating consequences for all those involved.
This book was so good, and it being the second in a series, I had no troubles or issues following along with the story, the world that was created, or the characters. I loved how well-rounded Darvyn and Kyara were, as well as being able to see the world through the eyes of others who are involved in some way, shape, or form. They don't all interact with one another, but you do see a ripple effect come through when a character does one thing that affects another.
Because of this book, I do wish to read the first one now, as well get my hands on whenever the third one comes out.
An excellent introduction into a world where people have Songs that granted them the ability to manipulate the elements, Darvyn and Kyara are on opposite sides of a war, where Songs are prohibited and stolen from the people to augment the powers of a corrupted king. As Darvyn works to free his people and stand up against those who are oppressing the commoners, Kyara is the king's top assassian, a woman whose Song is so very different from those around her. Instead of life, her Song creates death. And without full control, Kyara's Song has catastrophic consequences.
As they come together and work to free each other from their chains, we see the world through the eyes of others and how the very minutiae of this world's political aspects has devastating consequences for all those involved.
This book was so good, and it being the second in a series, I had no troubles or issues following along with the story, the world that was created, or the characters. I loved how well-rounded Darvyn and Kyara were, as well as being able to see the world through the eyes of others who are involved in some way, shape, or form. They don't all interact with one another, but you do see a ripple effect come through when a character does one thing that affects another.
Because of this book, I do wish to read the first one now, as well get my hands on whenever the third one comes out.
sparklingreader's review
4.0
WHISPERS OF SHADOW & FLAME is a second installment in the Earthsinger Chronicles. This is a world filled with magic, primarily Earthsong, which is a natural magical ability connected to life, allowing people to have some level of healing and other power. There is also blood magic, which is unnatural and Nethersong, the magical ability connected to death.
The “True Father” rules the land of the Lagrimar and takes Earthsong from his citizens in a mandatory tribute. The Keepers who live in Elsira are working against him, and the Shadowfox is the most famous among them with his/her mastery for Earthsong. When intel reaches the True Father about where the Shadowfox will be, he has his Cantor send Kyara, known as the Poison Flame, to capture him and bring him back alive. Kyara has an ability over Nethersong that is used to kill at the True Father’s whim. She is controlled by a powerful blood spell that forces her to follow orders.
As Kyara seeks out the Shadowfox, she must infiltrate the Keepers to learn which is the Shadowfox, and in the process, she gets closer to Darvyn and learns more about them/him. At the same time, we also follow a slave/servant, Zeli, who had given tribute in the past and works in the house of one of the nobility under the True Father’s reign. There is also a Sleeping Queen who seems to be connected to the Elsira. The Keepers are trying to save everyone from the True Father and return the Sleeping Queen to her throne. I think. Note: the book, like most fantasies, contains subjects of abuse, torture, kidnapping, and other unsavory elements.
This book is part of an epic fantasy series. Though I have not read others in this series, if they are as strong in world and character building, I will probably take a look at some time. Though I would assume that some of the things I didn’t understand, I would if I’d read the first book before this one. As it is with all books in series.
Things I liked: the characters are well-developed and realistic with problems and strengths. The world-building is very well done and believable. I find the combination of medieval-like setting mixed with gas-powered vehicles, radios, and other “modern” conveniences interesting—if a little surprising in the beginning. It was unexpected and almost off-putting, but added a different and unique element to the story.
Things I didn’t like: the occasional changeover to what seemed a minor character at first that also changes to third person/present tense POV. It was disconcerting. Also, the story ends with a cliffhanger – which I do *not* like. Yes, some threads came to an end, but a huge one was left dangling which means you *have* to buy the next book to find out what happens. A marketing ploy, but I understand that. I don’t like it, but I understand it. I just wish I’d known ahead of time.
Recommendations: An interesting series, but I’d definitely recommend picking up the first book first so you understand what’s going on. Although this book (from what I’ve read elsewhere) follows different characters, the background may help you understand what’s going on better. If you like fantasy with a unique twist, I’d pick this one up.
Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
The “True Father” rules the land of the Lagrimar and takes Earthsong from his citizens in a mandatory tribute. The Keepers who live in Elsira are working against him, and the Shadowfox is the most famous among them with his/her mastery for Earthsong. When intel reaches the True Father about where the Shadowfox will be, he has his Cantor send Kyara, known as the Poison Flame, to capture him and bring him back alive. Kyara has an ability over Nethersong that is used to kill at the True Father’s whim. She is controlled by a powerful blood spell that forces her to follow orders.
As Kyara seeks out the Shadowfox, she must infiltrate the Keepers to learn which is the Shadowfox, and in the process, she gets closer to Darvyn and learns more about them/him. At the same time, we also follow a slave/servant, Zeli, who had given tribute in the past and works in the house of one of the nobility under the True Father’s reign. There is also a Sleeping Queen who seems to be connected to the Elsira. The Keepers are trying to save everyone from the True Father and return the Sleeping Queen to her throne. I think. Note: the book, like most fantasies, contains subjects of abuse, torture, kidnapping, and other unsavory elements.
This book is part of an epic fantasy series. Though I have not read others in this series, if they are as strong in world and character building, I will probably take a look at some time. Though I would assume that some of the things I didn’t understand, I would if I’d read the first book before this one. As it is with all books in series.
Things I liked: the characters are well-developed and realistic with problems and strengths. The world-building is very well done and believable. I find the combination of medieval-like setting mixed with gas-powered vehicles, radios, and other “modern” conveniences interesting—if a little surprising in the beginning. It was unexpected and almost off-putting, but added a different and unique element to the story.
Things I didn’t like: the occasional changeover to what seemed a minor character at first that also changes to third person/present tense POV. It was disconcerting. Also, the story ends with a cliffhanger – which I do *not* like. Yes, some threads came to an end, but a huge one was left dangling which means you *have* to buy the next book to find out what happens. A marketing ploy, but I understand that. I don’t like it, but I understand it. I just wish I’d known ahead of time.
Recommendations: An interesting series, but I’d definitely recommend picking up the first book first so you understand what’s going on. Although this book (from what I’ve read elsewhere) follows different characters, the background may help you understand what’s going on better. If you like fantasy with a unique twist, I’d pick this one up.
Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
basicallybisaha's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
mamaroe93011's review
5.0
This story felt completely different than the first one, but I liked it. It was a little hard at times to keep the storylines from this and the first one straight since they happened at the same time, but it was a unique way to write it that I enjoyed. This book had more main characters than the first one and I was drawn into all of their stories. The Earthsong and Nethersong aspects are well thought out and really fascinating. I’m definitely excited to read the third one when it comes out!
annieb123's review
4.0
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Whispers of Shadow & Flame is the second book in the Earthsinger Chronicles by L. Penelope. Released 1st Oct 2019 by Macmillan on their St. Martin's Griffin imprint, it's 496 pages and available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
Even though it's the second book in the series (there's also a novella in addition), it works well as a standalone. I hadn't read any other work by this author and I had no trouble following the plot or the wonderfully complex and rich world building and magical systems. The author is gifted, especially with her descriptive prose and dialogue. I wasn't yanked out of the story one single time by clunky or unbelievable dialogue.
There is explicit (consensual) sexual content, so that should be taken into consideration. There's also quite a lot of violence. I liked that the book's female protagonist is strong, practical, and intelligent (despite being a coerced assassin). The book ends on a teeth gnashingly frustrating cliffhanger, so bear that in mind. Despite the frustration, I'm glad I read it and look forward to the next installment.
For readers who prefer their speculative fiction romance-free, this book does include a significant romance subplot. The writing is superlative however, and the included romance element wasn't cringe-worthy or badly written at all.
Four stars. This is a gifted author with an intelligent and immersive story to tell.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Whispers of Shadow & Flame is the second book in the Earthsinger Chronicles by L. Penelope. Released 1st Oct 2019 by Macmillan on their St. Martin's Griffin imprint, it's 496 pages and available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
Even though it's the second book in the series (there's also a novella in addition), it works well as a standalone. I hadn't read any other work by this author and I had no trouble following the plot or the wonderfully complex and rich world building and magical systems. The author is gifted, especially with her descriptive prose and dialogue. I wasn't yanked out of the story one single time by clunky or unbelievable dialogue.
There is explicit (consensual) sexual content, so that should be taken into consideration. There's also quite a lot of violence. I liked that the book's female protagonist is strong, practical, and intelligent (despite being a coerced assassin). The book ends on a teeth gnashingly frustrating cliffhanger, so bear that in mind. Despite the frustration, I'm glad I read it and look forward to the next installment.
For readers who prefer their speculative fiction romance-free, this book does include a significant romance subplot. The writing is superlative however, and the included romance element wasn't cringe-worthy or badly written at all.
Four stars. This is a gifted author with an intelligent and immersive story to tell.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
raven_nivhaar's review
3.0
I won an uncorrected proof/ARC of this book through a Goodreads giveaway, so the things that I have noted in this review may or may not be in the finished novel.
This book will be released on October 1st 2019
One thing I did want to say before I get into my (hopefully) non-spoilery thoughts is that I have NOT read the first book, so I have no idea how much it influenced this one, if at all.
I was not aware that this was a sequel when I entered the giveaway, but I didn't feel lost while reading, so I feel like, at least where this one is concerned, you can jump right in without being too confused about the world, other than the time period, which I do discuss briefly.
First of all, I did enjoy this book, though I did find a few issues which I will jump into:
-The Time Period
This book didn't appear to know what time period it wanted to be in, sometimes it felt more modern, other times medieval. There were essentially CARS for crying out loud. It was quite jarring to have them be around all of this medieval stuff, and then have something like electricity (which I believe they had, but please correct me if I'm wrong) and vehicles be thrown into the mix.
-Magic
I did like the idea of their magic being called Songs, I felt it was unique among books with magic for that reason. Though I didn't quite understand how the Nethersong was so rare, while Earthsong was abundant, because you would think that the world would need the balance, but it was probably just something that bothered me personally lol.
-Pacing/World
I will say, though, that this is NOT a fast-paced book. It's not that it dragged, but it was just very slow, with not a lot of action. And when something DID happen, it was over with quickly, almost abruptly. The overall pacing of the novel, however, felt quite monotonous for most of it, though some of the action scenes did lend a bit of color, as stated earlier, they were over quite quickly. I also felt that there was quite a bit of telling when I would have preferred a bit more visuals, though the visuals we got were nice and clear, they were kind of drowned out by the overall tone of the novel.
-Characters
The characters were... interesting, if a bit one-dimensional at times. You could definitely tell the people who were important, and who were just... there. The story has three main view points, Darvyn, Kyara, and Zeli, with an occasional fourth, but honestly, I really didn't care for Zeli's story-line, however I am curious as to whether or not it will intersect with Darvyn's and Kyara's in a future novel.
though I also felt like the romance in this book was a little on the weak side, to the point where it felt forced. I didn't feel anything between the two love interests to warrant the things they do for one another.
Other than those points, I don't really have much to say (non-spoiler wise anyway) beyond the fact that, while this book wasn't perfect, I still enjoyed it. And even though it was slow, I didn't necessarily feel bored while reading, and I think that L. Penelope has a clear voice.
I will say again, that this is an UNCORRECTED PROOF that I received, so there is a strong chance that the things that I took issue with will be changed for the finished product.
This book will be released on October 1st 2019
One thing I did want to say before I get into my (hopefully) non-spoilery thoughts is that I have NOT read the first book, so I have no idea how much it influenced this one, if at all.
I was not aware that this was a sequel when I entered the giveaway, but I didn't feel lost while reading, so I feel like, at least where this one is concerned, you can jump right in without being too confused about the world, other than the time period, which I do discuss briefly.
First of all, I did enjoy this book, though I did find a few issues which I will jump into:
-The Time Period
This book didn't appear to know what time period it wanted to be in, sometimes it felt more modern, other times medieval. There were essentially CARS for crying out loud. It was quite jarring to have them be around all of this medieval stuff, and then have something like electricity (which I believe they had, but please correct me if I'm wrong) and vehicles be thrown into the mix.
-Magic
I did like the idea of their magic being called Songs, I felt it was unique among books with magic for that reason. Though I didn't quite understand how the Nethersong was so rare, while Earthsong was abundant, because you would think that the world would need the balance, but it was probably just something that bothered me personally lol.
-Pacing/World
I will say, though, that this is NOT a fast-paced book. It's not that it dragged, but it was just very slow, with not a lot of action. And when something DID happen, it was over with quickly, almost abruptly. The overall pacing of the novel, however, felt quite monotonous for most of it, though some of the action scenes did lend a bit of color, as stated earlier, they were over quite quickly. I also felt that there was quite a bit of telling when I would have preferred a bit more visuals, though the visuals we got were nice and clear, they were kind of drowned out by the overall tone of the novel.
-Characters
The characters were... interesting, if a bit one-dimensional at times. You could definitely tell the people who were important, and who were just... there. The story has three main view points, Darvyn, Kyara, and Zeli, with an occasional fourth, but honestly, I really didn't care for Zeli's story-line, however I am curious as to whether or not it will intersect with Darvyn's and Kyara's in a future novel.
though I also felt like the romance in this book was a little on the weak side, to the point where it felt forced. I didn't feel anything between the two love interests to warrant the things they do for one another.
Other than those points, I don't really have much to say (non-spoiler wise anyway) beyond the fact that, while this book wasn't perfect, I still enjoyed it. And even though it was slow, I didn't necessarily feel bored while reading, and I think that L. Penelope has a clear voice.
I will say again, that this is an UNCORRECTED PROOF that I received, so there is a strong chance that the things that I took issue with will be changed for the finished product.