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3.79 AVERAGE
3.79 AVERAGE
After seeing that I could be part of the blog tour for The Crow Rider, I was really excited because I had heard some really good things about The Storm Crow. All of this was really great as I enjoyed both books in the series and it is definitely a duology that I recommend.
I think that one of the things that I enjoyed about this book, is that it builds on The Storm Crow. Thia and her depression was something that I found really interesting about the first book and was happy that this was something that continued in the second book. This was also something that is explored in another character as well so I am glad that this was explored especially in a fantasy book.
I would be lying if I was in love with the romance in the first book but I think that once we discover some things about the secondary love interest. (I do wonder if he is coded as asexual but I don't think it is mentioned by name. If this is the case, it would be one of the only male asexual characters in a book.) I also think that the relationship between the main love interest is well-developed and I enjoyed it more this time.
I also really liked the main characters. I think that we Thia grow a lot in this book and over the two books and I really liked that. The books are also really great with the female characters as they are quite complex and all of them are given a chance to express and find themselves, for better or for worse.
The world is also explored in this one and I really do love the setting and by travelling to many different areas, I think it was great to then explore other themes and ideas that are explored in the book. We also get to explore Res and the magic system more and I think that Kalyn did a great job making Res such as real and likeable character. For a crow, Res definitely has a personality that comes off the page. I also love the law with crows as it is so new and I have never read a series like this before.
As someone who wants to be a writer, I always find action scenes so hard to write but I think that throughout both books I really loved reading about the fight and action scenes. I think that they were well-written and added to the story so much. I could really picture them in my head and I just wanted to mention it.
I read the whole duology in about a week, so it is safe to say that I was immersed in the world and the characters. I think they are easy to get into and fly through which is a testament to Kalyn's writing and the fantasy world that she crafted. If you are looking for a new and different fantasy series that is quite short, I definitely recommend this one!
The Verdict:
The Crow Rider is a satisfying and intense sequel and an end to the series that makes it worth the read.
I think that one of the things that I enjoyed about this book, is that it builds on The Storm Crow. Thia and her depression was something that I found really interesting about the first book and was happy that this was something that continued in the second book. This was also something that is explored in another character as well so I am glad that this was explored especially in a fantasy book.
I would be lying if I was in love with the romance in the first book but I think that once we discover some things about the secondary love interest. (I do wonder if he is coded as asexual but I don't think it is mentioned by name. If this is the case, it would be one of the only male asexual characters in a book.) I also think that the relationship between the main love interest is well-developed and I enjoyed it more this time.
I also really liked the main characters. I think that we Thia grow a lot in this book and over the two books and I really liked that. The books are also really great with the female characters as they are quite complex and all of them are given a chance to express and find themselves, for better or for worse.
The world is also explored in this one and I really do love the setting and by travelling to many different areas, I think it was great to then explore other themes and ideas that are explored in the book. We also get to explore Res and the magic system more and I think that Kalyn did a great job making Res such as real and likeable character. For a crow, Res definitely has a personality that comes off the page. I also love the law with crows as it is so new and I have never read a series like this before.
As someone who wants to be a writer, I always find action scenes so hard to write but I think that throughout both books I really loved reading about the fight and action scenes. I think that they were well-written and added to the story so much. I could really picture them in my head and I just wanted to mention it.
I read the whole duology in about a week, so it is safe to say that I was immersed in the world and the characters. I think they are easy to get into and fly through which is a testament to Kalyn's writing and the fantasy world that she crafted. If you are looking for a new and different fantasy series that is quite short, I definitely recommend this one!
The Verdict:
The Crow Rider is a satisfying and intense sequel and an end to the series that makes it worth the read.
and if this reigns as one of my favourite sequels, what then? holy shit this was so amazing and fast-paced and challenging, i was nervous the whole way through.
I really enjoyed this finale!! (Honestly, I really enjoyed this duology overall.) It's definitely not a favorite series ever, but I genuinely would recommend this, and felt it stuck out (in a good way) from other YA fantasy series out there!
My review of The Storm Crow really went into detail on what this book/series does differently from other YA fantasy books, and after finishing its sequel, I can safely say that most of those features continued well into this book!
First, I absolutely love how the romance was resolved in this book. While it did end up falling into a love triangle, it solidly ended one relationship (and in a great way! they're still friends! and it all makes sense instead of it just being from drama) before moving on to the next. Additionally, even though the romance did become the one stereotypically expected from this kind of set-up, it still played the same role in the story as the other one did instead of taking over like most romances do in YA. Other relationships and friendships in the story remained just as vital to Thia, and I just loved seeing that in this book.
Second, I feel like this series is the absolute perfect length. Many fantasy series go on for books and books (or are at least trilogies), and it leads to some books feeling less important than others, especially second books. This series could have easily been stretched out to a third book, but instead we now have two books that are evenly paced, are both just as exciting, and didn't feel like they dragged on at all. The pacing of the overall story between the two books also worked extremely well, with enough twists and action in both. It made the story feel seamless, something I noticed since I read these two back to back.
I also ended up really enjoying the plot and characters. The plot, while semi-predictable at points, kept my interest the entire time. The action/battle scenes were also extremely well-written, and I was definitely on the edge of my seat during many of them. I also liked where the story went, and the choices Thia struggled with (fulfill her need for revenge or stop it's never ending cycle?). It overall felt like the plot and characters directly affected each other, with important events having lasting effects on characters (that they couldn't just brush off). I also just really grew to love Thia, especially as an MC. She's far from the 'badass woman who can do everything', but we've honestly had so many of this kind of MCs lately. She has flaws and weaknesses, and constantly struggles with PTSD and depression from past trauma, and none of it is dealt with lightly. It's not just there for drama, but actually impacts her actions and choices, and we see Thia constantly struggle with it. It felt real and raw, not just a 'character trait.'
Overall, I really enjoyed this series, and I'm excited to see what else Kalyn writes next!
My review of The Storm Crow really went into detail on what this book/series does differently from other YA fantasy books, and after finishing its sequel, I can safely say that most of those features continued well into this book!
First, I absolutely love how the romance was resolved in this book. While it did end up falling into a love triangle, it solidly ended one relationship (and in a great way! they're still friends! and it all makes sense instead of it just being from drama) before moving on to the next. Additionally, even though the romance did become the one stereotypically expected from this kind of set-up, it still played the same role in the story as the other one did instead of taking over like most romances do in YA. Other relationships and friendships in the story remained just as vital to Thia, and I just loved seeing that in this book.
Second, I feel like this series is the absolute perfect length. Many fantasy series go on for books and books (or are at least trilogies), and it leads to some books feeling less important than others, especially second books. This series could have easily been stretched out to a third book, but instead we now have two books that are evenly paced, are both just as exciting, and didn't feel like they dragged on at all. The pacing of the overall story between the two books also worked extremely well, with enough twists and action in both. It made the story feel seamless, something I noticed since I read these two back to back.
I also ended up really enjoying the plot and characters. The plot, while semi-predictable at points, kept my interest the entire time. The action/battle scenes were also extremely well-written, and I was definitely on the edge of my seat during many of them. I also liked where the story went, and the choices Thia struggled with (fulfill her need for revenge or stop it's never ending cycle?). It overall felt like the plot and characters directly affected each other, with important events having lasting effects on characters (that they couldn't just brush off). I also just really grew to love Thia, especially as an MC. She's far from the 'badass woman who can do everything', but we've honestly had so many of this kind of MCs lately. She has flaws and weaknesses, and constantly struggles with PTSD and depression from past trauma, and none of it is dealt with lightly. It's not just there for drama, but actually impacts her actions and choices, and we see Thia constantly struggle with it. It felt real and raw, not just a 'character trait.'
Overall, I really enjoyed this series, and I'm excited to see what else Kalyn writes next!
“Survival took strength, and I had survived. Moving forward took strength, and I had forged a new path.
Forgiveness took strength, and I would not let Razel take that from me.
I would not become her.”
The last time I read the first book of the series was in 2019.
It took me a while to read the sequel because of the mixed reviews it was receiving.
I enjoyed the first book so much and didn't want to face the disappointment of a sequel.
I felt like because it was a duology, the depth and wrapping up the series was bringing a confusion of should we make this a face read while there are still world building, history and character development to dive into.
During the beginning, it felt like the read pick up quick and action was happening.
Then it took a step back and really took its time for world building, character friendship and Thia's character development on her own journey of magic, crow and politics.
I enjoy the character development it took, but it felt like the author was unsure which too focused on and what should be the main of the plotline.
The storyline got quite predictable, and the romance wasn't making me interested.
"I'd listened, and I'd believed him. But I understood now. Ericen might be a better person than his mother. He might not believe in the ways of his people that led them to wage war and conquer nations, to spill blood in the name of their god. But he was still the prince of Illucia, and he would not betray that."
Forgiveness took strength, and I would not let Razel take that from me.
I would not become her.”
The last time I read the first book of the series was in 2019.
It took me a while to read the sequel because of the mixed reviews it was receiving.
I enjoyed the first book so much and didn't want to face the disappointment of a sequel.
I felt like because it was a duology, the depth and wrapping up the series was bringing a confusion of should we make this a face read while there are still world building, history and character development to dive into.
During the beginning, it felt like the read pick up quick and action was happening.
Then it took a step back and really took its time for world building, character friendship and Thia's character development on her own journey of magic, crow and politics.
I enjoy the character development it took, but it felt like the author was unsure which too focused on and what should be the main of the plotline.
The storyline got quite predictable, and the romance wasn't making me interested.
"I'd listened, and I'd believed him. But I understood now. Ericen might be a better person than his mother. He might not believe in the ways of his people that led them to wage war and conquer nations, to spill blood in the name of their god. But he was still the prince of Illucia, and he would not betray that."
I can't wait for this! I don't know how im going to last till next year its like im waiting for the next marvel movie to come out.
Welcome to The Crow Rider Blog Tour, Wayfaring friends! Firstly, my apologies for the delay in getting this posted – I was unwell and couldn’t manage it before now. I hope you still check out the rest of the bloggers and follow the tour (linked below). Secondly, I must say, this may be my top fantasy duology of 2020 – even if The Storm Crow released last year…. Kalyn Josephson has crafted a beautiful and empowering storyline in Thia’s journey to restore the crows to her home and defeat the monstrous queen who is bent on destroying their way of life. There was so much happening in this book and I Could. Not. Put. It. Down! I really identified with Thia in a way I haven’t in many other fantasy stories. You see, she, alongside several other characters, battles depression and sometimes it gets the better of her, but she never lets it get her down for long. Even when she is mid-journey and has several successes behind her, there are times that sneaky snake coils around her; however, she learns to send it away and reclaim her mind. Though it’s not easy. I haven’t seen very many stories with this rep, and it’s an important one to include as there are so many who suffer with it. The rep throughout the duology is pretty inclusive! I loved reading about all the different characters and their preferences.
Another thing in The Crow Rider I loved is the amount of forgiveness and trust Thia exhibits. She is a kind, yet fierce soul. She, quite obviously, would go to the ends of the earth for those she loves and it makes her a hell of a character. Even all this time after reading her adventure, I am a bit sensitive from it because I loved it that much! I highly recommend you pick this up as soon as you can because it’s equal amounts heartwarming, adventure, and magic. Phenomenal read!
Another thing in The Crow Rider I loved is the amount of forgiveness and trust Thia exhibits. She is a kind, yet fierce soul. She, quite obviously, would go to the ends of the earth for those she loves and it makes her a hell of a character. Even all this time after reading her adventure, I am a bit sensitive from it because I loved it that much! I highly recommend you pick this up as soon as you can because it’s equal amounts heartwarming, adventure, and magic. Phenomenal read!
I so hope we get to see more from this world one day. I absolutely love the crows and the magic system in this incredible world!
“Survival took strength, and I had survived. Moving forward took strength, and I had forged a new path.
Forgiveness took strength, and I would not let Razel take that from me.
I would not become her.”
The last time I read the first book of the series was in 2019.
It took me a while to read the sequel because of the mixed reviews it was receiving.
I enjoyed the first book so much and didn't want to face the disappointment of a sequel.
I felt like because it was a duology, the depth and wrapping up the series was bringing a confusion of should we make this a face read while there are still world building, history and character development to dive into.
During the beginning, it felt like the read pick up quick and action was happening.
Then it took a step back and really took its time for world building, character friendship and Thia's character development on her own journey of magic, crow and politics.
I enjoy the character development it took, but it felt like the author was unsure which too focused on and what should be the main of the plotline.
The storyline got quite predictable, and the romance wasn't making me interested.
"I'd listened, and I'd believed him. But I understood now. Ericen might be a better person than his mother. He might not believe in the ways of his people that led them to wage war and conquer nations, to spill blood in the name of their god. But he was still the prince of Illucia, and he would not betray that."
Forgiveness took strength, and I would not let Razel take that from me.
I would not become her.”
The last time I read the first book of the series was in 2019.
It took me a while to read the sequel because of the mixed reviews it was receiving.
I enjoyed the first book so much and didn't want to face the disappointment of a sequel.
I felt like because it was a duology, the depth and wrapping up the series was bringing a confusion of should we make this a face read while there are still world building, history and character development to dive into.
During the beginning, it felt like the read pick up quick and action was happening.
Then it took a step back and really took its time for world building, character friendship and Thia's character development on her own journey of magic, crow and politics.
I enjoy the character development it took, but it felt like the author was unsure which too focused on and what should be the main of the plotline.
The storyline got quite predictable, and the romance wasn't making me interested.
"I'd listened, and I'd believed him. But I understood now. Ericen might be a better person than his mother. He might not believe in the ways of his people that led them to wage war and conquer nations, to spill blood in the name of their god. But he was still the prince of Illucia, and he would not betray that."
2.5 stars rounded up.
This was a decent finale for the duology and I really liked how it ended but I encountered some issues that prevented me from rating this higher.
So here's a brain dump! May also contain spoilers so beware! Obvs no hate, this are just what I felt while reading.
-The court proceedings feels childish to me
-Caylus suddenly revealing that he doesn't feel "that way" to Thia feels forced and came out like an excuse so that Thia and Ericen can be together
-Ericen and Shearen has so much chemistry and unresolved tension like PLEASE what's going on out there??
-The Sellas was supposed to be powerful like Gods but poof they were so easy to kill
-The other princess being cool with Thia after one fight and a few words was lowkey cringe, I'm sorry.
-Overall, I think this has a problem on pacing. I have no more brain cells so I can't elucidate.
Anywayssss I screamed in that part whrere ericen saved Thia from drowning like AHHH I SCREAMED I LOVE that scene.
This was a decent finale for the duology and I really liked how it ended but I encountered some issues that prevented me from rating this higher.
So here's a brain dump! May also contain spoilers so beware! Obvs no hate, this are just what I felt while reading.
-The court proceedings feels childish to me
-Caylus suddenly revealing that he doesn't feel "that way" to Thia feels forced and came out like an excuse so that Thia and Ericen can be together
-Ericen and Shearen has so much chemistry and unresolved tension like PLEASE what's going on out there??
-The Sellas was supposed to be powerful like Gods but poof they were so easy to kill
-The other princess being cool with Thia after one fight and a few words was lowkey cringe, I'm sorry.
-Overall, I think this has a problem on pacing. I have no more brain cells so I can't elucidate.
Anywayssss I screamed in that part whrere ericen saved Thia from drowning like AHHH I SCREAMED I LOVE that scene.
“Decisions take courage. It’s so much easier to just let things happen.”