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The second installment in The Elvish Trilogy is a heart-wrenching tale of lies, love and a world on the brink of war.
In the wake of Queen Rishiana's death, everything is changing. With Farah in power and the southerners growing ever stronger, Ellina must learn to navigate her new position in Farah's court, all while hiding her true intentions; namely, passing information to the northern resistance without anyone, including Venick, ever knowing.
Heartbroken by Ellina's seeming betrayal, Venick is finally returning home—this time, with a band of northern elves in his company. Yet as Venick works to unite humans and northerners against Farah's army, he can't help but feel like he's missing something. He's been wrong about Ellina before. How can he trust himself to separate her truths from her lies?
As the war escalates, Venick and Ellina soon discover that their enemies' plots are even darker than they imagined. But this time, winning will come at a cost—one with a price neither is prepared to pay.
In the wake of Queen Rishiana's death, everything is changing. With Farah in power and the southerners growing ever stronger, Ellina must learn to navigate her new position in Farah's court, all while hiding her true intentions; namely, passing information to the northern resistance without anyone, including Venick, ever knowing.
Heartbroken by Ellina's seeming betrayal, Venick is finally returning home—this time, with a band of northern elves in his company. Yet as Venick works to unite humans and northerners against Farah's army, he can't help but feel like he's missing something. He's been wrong about Ellina before. How can he trust himself to separate her truths from her lies?
As the war escalates, Venick and Ellina soon discover that their enemies' plots are even darker than they imagined. But this time, winning will come at a cost—one with a price neither is prepared to pay.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2020
About the author
S.G. Prince
6 books371 followersS.G. Prince is a character-driven fantasy writer and the author of The Elvish Trilogy and To Poison a King. Her stories feature outcasts who become swept up in magic, dark plots, and forbidden love. S.G. uses Goodreads to recommend her favorite novels. (All recommendations get five stars).
To stay up to date on book news and recommendations, follow her here on Goodreads.
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To stay up to date on book news and recommendations, follow her here on Goodreads.
For information on releases, appearances, ARCs, giveaways, and exclusive content, sign up for the newsletter at http://sgprince.com.
Instagram: @sgprince.books
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
March 10, 2020
UPDATE 3/10/2020: Happy Elder publish day! Elder is finally out in the world and I'm so excited to share it with you.
UPDATE 1/12/2020: Elder will be released March 10, 2020 and is currently available for preorder here! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083LLVQLQ
Knee-deep in book two. I think you guys are going to love it :)
UPDATE 1/12/2020: Elder will be released March 10, 2020 and is currently available for preorder here! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083LLVQLQ
Knee-deep in book two. I think you guys are going to love it :)
October 13, 2023
This second installment was filled with ambition, treachery, and unexpected twists; and at the heart of the story is the revelation of the intention of the true antagonist, Farrah, so far, she’s defied expectations with her sinister ambitions.
Farrah's villainous determination to not only conquer the Elvish kingdom but also the human mainland expresses her ruthless demeanour, which was also exemplified by her chilling act of matricide, in her ascension to the throne as the new Elven queen.
I loved how Elliana and Venick, each play a pivotal role in the battle against Farrah's tyranny. Elliana operating from within the palace, navigating the treacherous political landscape, while Venick rallies support from across the kingdom. In a world where alliances are fragile, loyalties are tested, and the stakes are higher than ever.
I enjoyed the book very much. 4.5 stars.
Farrah's villainous determination to not only conquer the Elvish kingdom but also the human mainland expresses her ruthless demeanour, which was also exemplified by her chilling act of matricide, in her ascension to the throne as the new Elven queen.
I loved how Elliana and Venick, each play a pivotal role in the battle against Farrah's tyranny. Elliana operating from within the palace, navigating the treacherous political landscape, while Venick rallies support from across the kingdom. In a world where alliances are fragile, loyalties are tested, and the stakes are higher than ever.
I enjoyed the book very much. 4.5 stars.
March 11, 2020
We have a title! And a BLURB!!!
Update (March 2020) - YOU GUYS. Oh wow oh wow. I loved the first book and I was honestly a little worried because I didn't know how anyone could top that, but I LOVED the second. We follow two separate plots here as Venick returns home for the first time in four years while Ellina works as a (secret) spy for Venick's cause. We meet a few new characters as well, including Harmon (still undecided about her lol she's good but also...?), and of course the Elder. I really don't know what I was expecting with him seeing as the book is named after him, I don't want to give too much away but as usual, it wasn't what I was expecting.
I think what I really admire about this series is that no character is ever perfectly good or perfectly evil. Even Venick isn't wholly good (I mean he killed his father in a fit of rage after all, and he often makes mistakes). And Ellina too. She struggles with her sense of identity and you guys let me tell you I struggled with her.
Overall, I feel like the author really upped their game. There's everything I loved about the first book (the strife! The slow burn! The feelings!) as well as some unexpectedly new plot action. Elder takes a more serious and darker turn and it's yet again a fresh and unique take on fantasy/elves. I've read plenty of elven books in my day, but this is a breath of fresh air and has got to be one of my favorites. Read it. Love it. Repeat.
Update (March 2020) - YOU GUYS. Oh wow oh wow. I loved the first book and I was honestly a little worried because I didn't know how anyone could top that, but I LOVED the second. We follow two separate plots here as Venick returns home for the first time in four years while Ellina works as a (secret) spy for Venick's cause. We meet a few new characters as well, including Harmon (still undecided about her lol she's good but also...?), and of course the Elder. I really don't know what I was expecting with him seeing as the book is named after him, I don't want to give too much away but as usual, it wasn't what I was expecting.
I think what I really admire about this series is that no character is ever perfectly good or perfectly evil. Even Venick isn't wholly good (I mean he killed his father in a fit of rage after all, and he often makes mistakes). And Ellina too. She struggles with her sense of identity and you guys let me tell you I struggled with her.
Overall, I feel like the author really upped their game. There's everything I loved about the first book (the strife! The slow burn! The feelings!) as well as some unexpectedly new plot action. Elder takes a more serious and darker turn and it's yet again a fresh and unique take on fantasy/elves. I've read plenty of elven books in my day, but this is a breath of fresh air and has got to be one of my favorites. Read it. Love it. Repeat.
March 3, 2020
All I can say is woah. In Elder, the plot gets deeper, the stakes get higher and everything comes to a head. Venick must fight to unite the northern elves and the humans against the Dark Army, while Ellina works in secret to spy for the resistance (all while keeping her role a secret from everyone, even Venick). The heartbreak I felt for the two of them was just too much to bear. Sometimes I was reading and just thinking, JUST TELL HIM ALREADY. I won't give too much more away, but everything comes to a huge close that we built up for the entire time. This book is so many things: poetic, action-packed, heart wrenching, even funny at times. You really feel for the characters in the worst and best possible way. Elder is a must must read.
March 2, 2020
Wowow. I feel like all of Elvish was just a big set up for this book. The plot is grittier, the pace is faster and there's so much that happens. I feel like the author has also really improved their style, I'm just blown away! I also feel like we really got to know Ellina even better in this book, and Dourin too, you get a bit more of their backstory and really start to learn about what makes them tick. And gahhh the ending just had me in tears. If you loved Elvish just hold on tight, you're really going to love the sequel.
March 10, 2020
ELDER IS OUT TODAY!!
Goodness, that was an intense sequel! Kept having to tell myself to slow down while reading because I was speeding though. We pick up where Elvish left off in this one where Venick thinks Ellina betrayed him and to say things are tense is an understatement. I’m thoroughly enjoying their character developments and can’t wait for the third and final book. I need this slow burn to come to fruition though ASAP 🔥.
Goodness, that was an intense sequel! Kept having to tell myself to slow down while reading because I was speeding though. We pick up where Elvish left off in this one where Venick thinks Ellina betrayed him and to say things are tense is an understatement. I’m thoroughly enjoying their character developments and can’t wait for the third and final book. I need this slow burn to come to fruition though ASAP 🔥.
February 29, 2020
I loved venick in the first book and I love him even more in the sequel. And the relationship between him and Dourin is too funny. I have to say that Prince is one of my new favorite authors, I so love their style and what they did with this plot! I kind of forgot what happened in book one but quickly remembered as I started reading. Really excited for Ember@!
February 29, 2020
I waited for what felt like forever for the sequel to Elvish and it DID NOT disappoint! I love this book, this series and this author so much. Also, Venick and Ellina are my heart. Elder is even faster-paced than Elvish and we get into some darker territory. I can't wait for book three!
August 23, 2023
I already enjoyed the first book quite a lot but the second book was even better. Some trilogies suffer from middle book syndrome, however, this certainly does not. It got treason, spies, magic, fights, politics, great characters, unpredictable twists and turns…. Basically everything I want in a good fantasy book 🥹
I’m really enjoying these books so far and I think more people should read them! I think you’ll enjoy these books too if you’ve read the Folk of the Air series by Holly Black or even the ACOTAR series (especially A Court of Wings and Ruin) by Sarah J. Maas 🫣
I’m really enjoying these books so far and I think more people should read them! I think you’ll enjoy these books too if you’ve read the Folk of the Air series by Holly Black or even the ACOTAR series (especially A Court of Wings and Ruin) by Sarah J. Maas 🫣
June 23, 2021
Katie's Book Report - Contains Spoilers - For my own failing memory...
I read the first book of The Elvish Trilogy last year and something about it didn't resonate with me. At the time, I couldn't quite put my finger on what it was, but I knew there was just something about it that was not my preference. But I'm also a sucker for elves, and so despite my feelings about Elvish, I intended to revisit the trilogy and read Elder.
Given the fact that I also gave Elder two stars, it's pretty obvious I had the same reaction to the second book as I did to the first, and with the help of a few friends that read excerpts of the book, I think I'm now able to better articulate what it is that is throwing me off in this books. First and foremost? It's the prose. The writing is extremely fragmented. I understand that everyone's style of prose is different, but this particular style is not my preference. There are commas everywhere, sentence fragments galore, and a lot of paragraph breaks, all of which created fragmented and difficult-to-read prose that disconnects the reader from the story. I think this prose style was used in an effort to create a sense of tension and urgency, and to pull the reader into the mind of the two POV characters. Unfortunately, for this reader, it had the opposite effect; it pulled me out of the story as I focused on parsing the language, distracted by how I was meant to read the content given all the punctuation and paragraphs. And this is not isolated to certain scenes or parts of the book. The prose is like this throughout the entirety of the first two books. So, if this style of writing doesn't work for you, I think you will struggle with these books as I did.
Second? The romance. There are three things that bother me and put me off in romance, and unfortunately this series to date has all of them: (1) insta-love, (2) a lack of chemistry, and (3) pining and whining. In book one, there is no build up before the two MC's fall in love; it happens almost instantly and with no substantive reason. They get to know each other and have interactions after they have decided they have feelings for one another. And then on top of that those interactions lacked chemistry. I didn't feel it. At all. Probably in part because of the insta-love. I want to know why there is an attraction, what is pulling these two characters together, and this series doesn't really have that beyond: they fell for each other. And finally the pining and whining. The characters kissed once in book 1 and their internal monologues have been dominated by pining for the other and whining about the circumstances that are keeping them apart. It is repetitive and no action is taken toward resolution. In other words, the plot portion of this romance is incredibly weak, and since this series is touted as a romance, I would have expected there to be more substantive romantic plot.
Even though I am now able to articulate what has been throwing me off about these books, I have to admit that I do in fact plan on reading the third and final installment of this series - Ember - which comes out next month. Like I said, I'm a sucker for elves, and now that I've invested this much time in this series, I'd like to see how it closes out.
I read the first book of The Elvish Trilogy last year and something about it didn't resonate with me. At the time, I couldn't quite put my finger on what it was, but I knew there was just something about it that was not my preference. But I'm also a sucker for elves, and so despite my feelings about Elvish, I intended to revisit the trilogy and read Elder.
Given the fact that I also gave Elder two stars, it's pretty obvious I had the same reaction to the second book as I did to the first, and with the help of a few friends that read excerpts of the book, I think I'm now able to better articulate what it is that is throwing me off in this books. First and foremost? It's the prose. The writing is extremely fragmented. I understand that everyone's style of prose is different, but this particular style is not my preference. There are commas everywhere, sentence fragments galore, and a lot of paragraph breaks, all of which created fragmented and difficult-to-read prose that disconnects the reader from the story. I think this prose style was used in an effort to create a sense of tension and urgency, and to pull the reader into the mind of the two POV characters. Unfortunately, for this reader, it had the opposite effect; it pulled me out of the story as I focused on parsing the language, distracted by how I was meant to read the content given all the punctuation and paragraphs. And this is not isolated to certain scenes or parts of the book. The prose is like this throughout the entirety of the first two books. So, if this style of writing doesn't work for you, I think you will struggle with these books as I did.
Second? The romance. There are three things that bother me and put me off in romance, and unfortunately this series to date has all of them: (1) insta-love, (2) a lack of chemistry, and (3) pining and whining. In book one, there is no build up before the two MC's fall in love; it happens almost instantly and with no substantive reason. They get to know each other and have interactions after they have decided they have feelings for one another. And then on top of that those interactions lacked chemistry. I didn't feel it. At all. Probably in part because of the insta-love. I want to know why there is an attraction, what is pulling these two characters together, and this series doesn't really have that beyond: they fell for each other. And finally the pining and whining. The characters kissed once in book 1 and their internal monologues have been dominated by pining for the other and whining about the circumstances that are keeping them apart. It is repetitive and no action is taken toward resolution. In other words, the plot portion of this romance is incredibly weak, and since this series is touted as a romance, I would have expected there to be more substantive romantic plot.
Even though I am now able to articulate what has been throwing me off about these books, I have to admit that I do in fact plan on reading the third and final installment of this series - Ember - which comes out next month. Like I said, I'm a sucker for elves, and now that I've invested this much time in this series, I'd like to see how it closes out.
March 2, 2020
I. Freaking. Loved. This. Book. I was so excited to be included in the prerelease copy, and I have to say it did not disappoint. You always think you know where S.G. Prince is going to take her stories and then you're wrong. If you loved the first book I would so highly recommend the second, now I'm going to have to try to distract myself until the third comes out!
March 4, 2020
I’m really enjoying this series. It’s very captivating to see character and plot development. Definitely an easy series for anyone to enjoy. It has interesting concepts that make you think and the characters are relatable.
November 30, 2018
I can't wait :))))
March 9, 2020
Some mild spoilers...
Elder is the much anticipated (by me) follow up to S.G.Prince’s ‘Elvish’ from last year. The book has violence, battles, betrayals, escapes, and much more action as the story develops and yet if I had to choose just one word to describe the book that would be ‘Thoughtful’.
Ellina and Venick – the two main characters - both think things through as they try and process the very difficult situations they are in both personally and politically. This may frustrate those who are looking for ‘swords, swords and more swords’ in the books they read but I find the contrast between the two works very well. The thoughtfulness does lead to one dramatic breakthrough in the Plot as Venick, through a lengthy thought process, is able to work out how to rescue Ellina from the dungeons of Elf Palace – how he does so, you will have to read and find out about for yourselves!
I was also pleased to see that my prediction in the review I gave for the first volume concerning Verick’s future status was 100% correct and I am looking forward to reading the final volume and see how he and Ellina take on the evil Farah and her enormous army of Dark Elves…
I was given a Preview copy by the author for reviewing, but I shall be purchasing a copy as I really enjoyed reading it.
Elder is the much anticipated (by me) follow up to S.G.Prince’s ‘Elvish’ from last year. The book has violence, battles, betrayals, escapes, and much more action as the story develops and yet if I had to choose just one word to describe the book that would be ‘Thoughtful’.
Ellina and Venick – the two main characters - both think things through as they try and process the very difficult situations they are in both personally and politically. This may frustrate those who are looking for ‘swords, swords and more swords’ in the books they read but I find the contrast between the two works very well. The thoughtfulness does lead to one dramatic breakthrough in the Plot as Venick, through a lengthy thought process, is able to work out how to rescue Ellina from the dungeons of Elf Palace – how he does so, you will have to read and find out about for yourselves!
I was also pleased to see that my prediction in the review I gave for the first volume concerning Verick’s future status was 100% correct and I am looking forward to reading the final volume and see how he and Ellina take on the evil Farah and her enormous army of Dark Elves…
I was given a Preview copy by the author for reviewing, but I shall be purchasing a copy as I really enjoyed reading it.
Read
March 9, 2020Elder, the second book of the Elvish trilogy, examines the lives of its characters on many levels. The forbidden love story between royal elf Ellina and human Venick continues, but betrayal has divided the two. War among elvish factions is imminent. Ellina and Venick have parts to play, but sibling rivalry has put Ellina in an impossible position.
Although often reminiscent of race relations in our own world, Elder does not seek to teach or preach. Instead, S.G. Prince has brought her readers another enthralling tale that’s fun to read and hard to put down. The writing is as spotless as ever. If you haven’t read Elvish yet, Elder might have some confusing bits at first, but read on—this tale stands alone on its own merit.
Waiting for Book 3!
Although often reminiscent of race relations in our own world, Elder does not seek to teach or preach. Instead, S.G. Prince has brought her readers another enthralling tale that’s fun to read and hard to put down. The writing is as spotless as ever. If you haven’t read Elvish yet, Elder might have some confusing bits at first, but read on—this tale stands alone on its own merit.
Waiting for Book 3!
March 4, 2020
Again S. G. Prince doesn’t disappoint with intrigue and twisting plots and story lines. Ellina is spying on her evil sister while Venick is trying to create an army of allies of humans elves to defend themselves against the dark elves. Ellina finds out what level of darkness her sister has really fallen into and how insurmountable the task seems to be able to defeat Farrah and her army. Venick will stop at nothing to defend humans and his newfound elf allies, to the point of sacrificing his own will to better the chance of more help and success by aligning himself with the Highlanders. When Venick finally learns the truth of Ellina’s lies he goes to rescue Ellina and finds her not only weak injured and starved but her voice has been stolen from her. The tension between Ellina and Venick is palpable there are still so many walls between them and apprehension, I kept wanting them to just fall into each other’s arms instantly and get back to where they were in the everpool. The slow burn between them builds. I hope they can move past their walls and find their way back to each other. . . I loved this second installment of the Elvish series and can’t wait for the third book and hopefully lots of kissing between Ellina and Venick!!❤️🧝🏼♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2022
Note: My reviews are written as a personal note to myself about the plot and the story just incase I ever want to reexperience it. If Goodreads had the option of making them private, I would. So please, do not take them seriously and scroll down to a better review which is undoubtedly much more coherent than mine and makes much more sense. Me? I'm just gonna ramble my heart out.
Post-Read
It was a decent book. I did prefer the first one, because the conflicts here seemed to drag out, but I liked it well enough. Venick became cooler and got his own army. Their misunderstanding got resolved.
It felt like a lot of the plot and the angst was happening because the characters just refused to talk to each other. Lots of new characters were introduced.
It seems I greatly misjudged Raffan as a character.
I love Dourin. He's the best.
Quotes and Excerpts I loved
“You’re supposed to be with Harmon.”
Yes, that had been the plan. Ellina was to leave the city with Harmon and their armies while Venick dealt with the Elder alone, undefended and—she looked him over—unarmored. The fool.
“I know, I know.” Venick waved her off. “I’m a fool. So, what? You chose to stay behind in case things took a turn for the worse?” He rubbed his forehead. “Where were you then? Hiding in the rafters?”
Ellina smiled, and Venick looked horrified. “That was supposed to be a joke"
Real-Time Thoughts,
Chapter 16
These two. Are terrible at communication. In the last book, it was understandable. Ellina has sworn an oath not to tell anybody about her sister. And venick was scared for his life.
But now? Her reason for keeping the whole truth is... What? That he'd do something stupid? Idk, maybe she's trying to run away from her own feelings.
There's lots of plot going on.
Firstly, the fact that Farah knew about the human-elven alliance. Is it Venick's mother who has betrayed them? But that would make little sense. Hm.
Venick's mother is a mystery too. She is powerful and she is angry at her son. For some time i had considered that maybe his mother didn't hate him. Maybe it was grief making her distance herself from him. Maybe she understood why he did what he did.
But no.
Although she did not immediately call for his execution. So that's a plus?
Also, i love the worldbuilding in the city of Irek. How it's stood on stilt Stock sticks and how the neighbours tie ropes despite it being a stupid idea.
Oh also i think Dourin will die. It will make me sad, but like. He made that whole swear-on-your-life promise with Ellina. There are all the signs. He was my favourite character. I hope he doesn't.
Queen Rishiana got her backstory. I'd thought that Ara was the kind one amongst them and their fight was about the laws Rishiana made. But apparently not.
I did suspect some more to her backstory. I thought that maybe she had loved a human once but then was forced to give it up or something. But i had not thought her completely innocent.
Lots of new characters were introduced.
Rahven
The scholar/chronicler
Youvan
Person who blinded a servant. Conjeror who is antagonistic and watchful with Ellina.
Rafan
Not a new character but we're seriously getting more sides to this guy? I was under the impression he liked punishing Ellina. That's why he let her get away with so much. But maybe there is a different reason.
Livila
Servant of Ellina whose father dies. Very young. Update: nvm her father does not die.
Ch19
Man, characters really have a tendency to tell Dourin everything about their lives. He's playing wingman.
Ch22
Oh.
Rahven is the spy.
I'm an idiot. I should have guessed that. But hm. I feel like there's more to it than that. Double agent maybe? He might even be someone who can tell lies in Elvish.
Ch24
“Our deal,” Ellina started slowly, hating to even mention their bargain for fear of drawing attention to it, yet hating more the thought of leaving it alone. “It still stands. I will travel to Irek. I will help uncover what happened to Rahven. But no harm will come to those humans.”
“Our deal,” Farah said absently. “Of course.”
Hm
I wonder if Farah can also lie in Elvish.
Afterwards, i stopped keeping track of the chapters:
- Bruuhhhh, Venick's mother's death was so unsatisfying. I wanted them to actually talk about their feelings.
- Damn. The resistance is found. Ellina's treachery is discovered. We're in the darkest hour.
... The darkest hour just became darker. Ellina's tongue is cut off? How are they going to.. hm.
- I knew Dourin would die. But now i think that maybe he won't. After all, never trust off-screen character deaths is a rule of cinema. And books.
-Aww, that last scene was adorable.
Post-Read
It was a decent book. I did prefer the first one, because the conflicts here seemed to drag out, but I liked it well enough. Venick became cooler and got his own army. Their misunderstanding got resolved.
It felt like a lot of the plot and the angst was happening because the characters just refused to talk to each other. Lots of new characters were introduced.
It seems I greatly misjudged Raffan as a character.
I love Dourin. He's the best.
Quotes and Excerpts I loved
“Traegar told us everything. I did not believe it. I did not want to believe it. Ellina.” Dourin’s eyes lifted to hers. “What are you doing?”
“Spying for the resistance,” Ellina replied simply. Dourin blinked. His anger evaporated.
“No.”
“Yes.”
“I did not think…” He pressed
both palms to his eyes. “I should have known.”
“It is better that you did not. I need to appear loyal.”
“I doubted you.” Dourin spoke from behind his hands. “I should not have. Forgive me.”
Ellina gripped Dourin’s wrists, pulling his hands free. “There is nothing to forgive.”
He did not believe her
“You’re supposed to be with Harmon.”
Yes, that had been the plan. Ellina was to leave the city with Harmon and their armies while Venick dealt with the Elder alone, undefended and—she looked him over—unarmored. The fool.
“I know, I know.” Venick waved her off. “I’m a fool. So, what? You chose to stay behind in case things took a turn for the worse?” He rubbed his forehead. “Where were you then? Hiding in the rafters?”
Ellina smiled, and Venick looked horrified. “That was supposed to be a joke"
Real-Time Thoughts,
Chapter 16
These two. Are terrible at communication. In the last book, it was understandable. Ellina has sworn an oath not to tell anybody about her sister. And venick was scared for his life.
But now? Her reason for keeping the whole truth is... What? That he'd do something stupid? Idk, maybe she's trying to run away from her own feelings.
There's lots of plot going on.
Firstly, the fact that Farah knew about the human-elven alliance. Is it Venick's mother who has betrayed them? But that would make little sense. Hm.
Venick's mother is a mystery too. She is powerful and she is angry at her son. For some time i had considered that maybe his mother didn't hate him. Maybe it was grief making her distance herself from him. Maybe she understood why he did what he did.
But no.
Although she did not immediately call for his execution. So that's a plus?
Also, i love the worldbuilding in the city of Irek. How it's stood on stilt Stock sticks and how the neighbours tie ropes despite it being a stupid idea.
Oh also i think Dourin will die. It will make me sad, but like. He made that whole swear-on-your-life promise with Ellina. There are all the signs. He was my favourite character. I hope he doesn't.
Queen Rishiana got her backstory. I'd thought that Ara was the kind one amongst them and their fight was about the laws Rishiana made. But apparently not.
I did suspect some more to her backstory. I thought that maybe she had loved a human once but then was forced to give it up or something. But i had not thought her completely innocent.
Lots of new characters were introduced.
Rahven
The scholar/chronicler
Youvan
Person who blinded a servant. Conjeror who is antagonistic and watchful with Ellina.
Rafan
Not a new character but we're seriously getting more sides to this guy? I was under the impression he liked punishing Ellina. That's why he let her get away with so much. But maybe there is a different reason.
Livila
Servant of Ellina whose father dies. Very young. Update: nvm her father does not die.
Ch19
Man, characters really have a tendency to tell Dourin everything about their lives. He's playing wingman.
Ch22
Oh.
Rahven is the spy.
I'm an idiot. I should have guessed that. But hm. I feel like there's more to it than that. Double agent maybe? He might even be someone who can tell lies in Elvish.
Ch24
“Our deal,” Ellina started slowly, hating to even mention their bargain for fear of drawing attention to it, yet hating more the thought of leaving it alone. “It still stands. I will travel to Irek. I will help uncover what happened to Rahven. But no harm will come to those humans.”
“Our deal,” Farah said absently. “Of course.”
Hm
I wonder if Farah can also lie in Elvish.
Afterwards, i stopped keeping track of the chapters:
- Bruuhhhh, Venick's mother's death was so unsatisfying. I wanted them to actually talk about their feelings.
- Damn. The resistance is found. Ellina's treachery is discovered. We're in the darkest hour.
... The darkest hour just became darker. Ellina's tongue is cut off? How are they going to.. hm.
- I knew Dourin would die. But now i think that maybe he won't. After all, never trust off-screen character deaths is a rule of cinema. And books.
-Aww, that last scene was adorable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2022
It would've been 5 stars if the events weren't slow in the first half of the book.
I wish Venick knew the truth about Ellina sooner, and I just know the Elder is up to no good... really excited for the final part of this trilogy
I wish Venick knew the truth about Ellina sooner, and I just know the Elder is up to no good... really excited for the final part of this trilogy
March 2, 2020
Received as an ARC, this is an honest review. The epic trilogy enters a whole new stage with Elder; the world that Venick and Ellina is terrifyingly shattered by the violent coup by Ellina's sister Farah, leaving both to precariously navigate to survive. With Farah and her army of southern elves desiring to claim the world as their own; Venick along with allied elves of the north fight to prevent their plans from happening. He cannot stop wondering if Ellina has truly betrayed him and her people or is it all an elaborate act to fool Farah and win the brewing war. Everything is teetering on the edge of a precipice and there's no turning back. Wonderfully immersive with a deep emotional narrative, Elder is a non stop epic read. Highly recommended.
March 3, 2020
It was so worth the wait. There is so much going on throughout this book that it was difficult to put it down. Plot twists, anguish, heartache, deceit, revelations, sacrifice etc. Our hero goes through an emotional rollercoaster, all while trying to save all those he cares for. Following the events in Evov and the murder of the queen, Ellina must make impossible choices and risk everything if she is to help Venick and a budding resistance fight back against her sister and her Southern Elves allies. Meanwhile, Venick must find a way to warn his homeland of the impending danger without forfeiting his life.
Just sorry I can't go straight into the next book. Wonderful!
Just sorry I can't go straight into the next book. Wonderful!
March 2, 2020
If you enjoyed the first book, this is a step up, in my humble opinion. The story telling has been turned up, along with the intrigue. Venick is back and forming alliances, and our favorite lovable elf Dourin is in tow! Ellina is helping in the best way she can, also. A wonderful read. You can really tell the author has improved herself from the first book and knows the direction she's wanting to go in.
February 28, 2020
I enjoyed Elvish and have been anticipating S.G. Prince’s second installment in this series. Elder does not disappoint! The story is well developed, the characters have depth and the action is fast paced. I finished the book and immediately wanted more. Love this series and I am now anticipating the next book!
February 25, 2020
I was on edge reading this book! As with the first book, I was transported in the story! I felt like I was the characters. Could not put this book down. I love how S. G. Prince pulls me in to her fantasy with her writing! Her writing is beyond what I expect from an author. By far my number one favorite new author. This book, as with the first book, is a must read!
May 24, 2020
I loved this second book. Just like the first one it is very well written. The plot works very well and it shows the strengths and the weaknesses of all the main characters without being too annoyingly perfect. I also liked that the book does not end with a cliffhanger, I sometimes get the feeling that authors are afraid that if you don't end your book with a useless cliffhanger (which usually gets resolved within the first chapter of the following book) your readers are not going to get the next book. I believe instead that if the story is good and well planned we'll be dying to get our grabby hands on the next book. Like in this case! Can hardly wait for the battle to start and to learn more about a couple of secondary characters that I get the feeling are hiding more than what they're saying.
August 20, 2020
Fascinating, well written, good narration. This is the second installment and apparently there is at least a third to come.
The writing is straight forward yet touched with beautifully written phrases, which is a bit like finding a treasure in the current sea of very average books available these days.
Though the story is about the struggle of war, it does not overwhelm the human (and elven) stories. The side characters are varied and very likable. The main characters are full of depth, and the story, its characters and their relationships unfold naturally and believably. Though I now must wait for the next book which is a bit painful.
The writing is straight forward yet touched with beautifully written phrases, which is a bit like finding a treasure in the current sea of very average books available these days.
Though the story is about the struggle of war, it does not overwhelm the human (and elven) stories. The side characters are varied and very likable. The main characters are full of depth, and the story, its characters and their relationships unfold naturally and believably. Though I now must wait for the next book which is a bit painful.
July 7, 2020
This is very very good. The stakes are real and there are CONSEQUENCES for things. Wow does this war feel real, and WOW I didn’t see a lot of this coming. Harmon is amazing and I love her. Ellina is a boss and we stan. Our V-Man is a noble leader and a dummy. Can’t wait for book three!
January 19, 2024
3.75 rounded up
This book was so angsty and I usually avoid such but I weirdly enjoyed this. Most of my highlights are in blue because there were so many sad, achy moments in this but there were also such funny, lighthearted ones as well. Every character in this series is complex and deeply flawed. Venick loves and feels too deeply and is prone irrationality and brashness, Ellina gives slight Aelin vibes in making plans and not necessarily including people. She definitely tries to save everyone that matters to her and though she’s clever, doesn’t always make smart decisions. In fact I could argue she was decidedly stupid in many chapters of this book but her intentions are always pure. It’s lovely to see her learn to feel emotions but gosh was she out through the wringer here. Even the side characters like Dourin, Harmon, Raffan and Lira had depth and substance.
I was expecting more development for Farah but we still don’t know her motivations beyond ‘I’m queen now’. This made her an erratic villain, often prone to the whims of those around her or only acting in the way to bring the most devastation to our characters. I need more from Farah in book 3. Like world domination okay and? She seems to lack any personal incentive in this war beyond glory and though this can be a compelling reason for any villain, I’m not sold on it with her. I’m interested in the dynamics between her and the southerners and I would love to see how she convinced them and what even led to that. I was disappointed at how the storyline between her and a character hinted at in book one didn’t really come to anything in this book. What were all the hints for then?? Because they seem to have little relationship now.
I went into this book expecting romance and our main couple is separated and in turmoil for most of the book and for the first time in a while I’m not too annoyed by that, maybe because there was a lot going on plot wise. I definitely think the issue(s) between them could have been resolved with simple communication but I understand their respective reasoning. However I’d be pissed if they don’t sort out their remaining issues quickly in the next book. It’s enough. I need to be slapped with the romance to make up for the drought that was this one.
Also SG Prince really beat these characters up emotionally in this book. The minute they got over one hurdle there were three more betrayals, discoveries or assassination attempts waiting. They need a long vacation after this war.
I forgot to add the northerners seem severely underpowered compared to the southerners. One group is controlling shadows, weather and disabling people and the other is lying in an ancient language??? Huh??! Will lying save you from a dagger in the neck? Please give them more power in book three please and thanks.
Overall I just want my babies Ellina, Venick and Dourin happy and peaceful. And a lot less foolish.
This book was so angsty and I usually avoid such but I weirdly enjoyed this. Most of my highlights are in blue because there were so many sad, achy moments in this but there were also such funny, lighthearted ones as well. Every character in this series is complex and deeply flawed. Venick loves and feels too deeply and is prone irrationality and brashness, Ellina gives slight Aelin vibes in making plans and not necessarily including people. She definitely tries to save everyone that matters to her and though she’s clever, doesn’t always make smart decisions. In fact I could argue she was decidedly stupid in many chapters of this book but her intentions are always pure. It’s lovely to see her learn to feel emotions but gosh was she out through the wringer here. Even the side characters like Dourin, Harmon, Raffan and Lira had depth and substance.
I was expecting more development for Farah but we still don’t know her motivations beyond ‘I’m queen now’. This made her an erratic villain, often prone to the whims of those around her or only acting in the way to bring the most devastation to our characters. I need more from Farah in book 3. Like world domination okay and? She seems to lack any personal incentive in this war beyond glory and though this can be a compelling reason for any villain, I’m not sold on it with her. I’m interested in the dynamics between her and the southerners and I would love to see how she convinced them and what even led to that. I was disappointed at how the storyline between her and a character hinted at in book one didn’t really come to anything in this book. What were all the hints for then?? Because they seem to have little relationship now.
I went into this book expecting romance and our main couple is separated and in turmoil for most of the book and for the first time in a while I’m not too annoyed by that, maybe because there was a lot going on plot wise. I definitely think the issue(s) between them could have been resolved with simple communication but I understand their respective reasoning. However I’d be pissed if they don’t sort out their remaining issues quickly in the next book. It’s enough. I need to be slapped with the romance to make up for the drought that was this one.
Also SG Prince really beat these characters up emotionally in this book. The minute they got over one hurdle there were three more betrayals, discoveries or assassination attempts waiting. They need a long vacation after this war.
I forgot to add the northerners seem severely underpowered compared to the southerners. One group is controlling shadows, weather and disabling people and the other is lying in an ancient language??? Huh??! Will lying save you from a dagger in the neck? Please give them more power in book three please and thanks.
Overall I just want my babies Ellina, Venick and Dourin happy and peaceful. And a lot less foolish.
June 24, 2023
5 stars
After Farah killed her mother, queen Rishiana and took the throne, both Venick and Ellina are in precarious positions: Venick has managed to escape with a few other elves while Ellina, with her new found ability to lie in elvish decided to stay by Farah side and spy for the resistance.
I just can't argue about how much I loved this book, a lot more than the first one, to be honest. The angst, the pain, the romance, the politics, the plot twists, the battle scenes, the characters, the characters' development, the arcs, the espionage mission, Venick's pain, his journey, how he settled into his new role, Elliana's choices, how she was lead by logic and her head while she wanted to only listen to her heart and tell Venick the truth... I could go on and on forever.
This book has a different theme than the first, while yes, the forbidden angsty romance is still there, this book focuses on Venick finding allies, Ellina trying to discover Farah's plots and secrets, we see that this war is not as simple as we thought: there aren't just 2 sides, but 5: the northern elves, the southern elves, the highlanders, lowlanders and plainspeople and at least 4 need to be convinced to join our prontagonists. But all are united by two different goals: to save their homelands or conquer the world (you know, the usual stuff, nothing better than an afternoon tea while you plot conquering the entire world). There is betrayal, plot twists, characters sending very confusing signals to the reader (if you know, you know, I had absolutely no idea on what side that guy (you know who) was, which actually makes it really funny when he's on the page cause you never really know if he is trying to warn our prontagonist or playing games and setting traps).
In many cases, the second books in series, especially trilogies are the weakest; it's always, in fantasy the same path in trilogies: book one is the new world, a very big exposition as well as the discovery of our antagonists and villains, book two is gathering allies and the darkest part of the story, the moment where hope is lost and despair takes over and the third and final book is the hope is found again, final battle and the new normal book. That's always going to happen, it's for the author to write the second book in a manner that won't bore the reader or just feel rushed or like a list where we have to check specific points to reach to our real conflict: the third book. In my opinion, S.G. Prince managed to write an amazing second book for this trilogy, but that's, of course, like this entire review, my own opinion.
After Farah killed her mother, queen Rishiana and took the throne, both Venick and Ellina are in precarious positions: Venick has managed to escape with a few other elves while Ellina, with her new found ability to lie in elvish decided to stay by Farah side and spy for the resistance.
I just can't argue about how much I loved this book, a lot more than the first one, to be honest. The angst, the pain, the romance, the politics, the plot twists, the battle scenes, the characters, the characters' development, the arcs, the espionage mission, Venick's pain, his journey, how he settled into his new role, Elliana's choices, how she was lead by logic and her head while she wanted to only listen to her heart and tell Venick the truth... I could go on and on forever.
This book has a different theme than the first, while yes, the forbidden angsty romance is still there, this book focuses on Venick finding allies, Ellina trying to discover Farah's plots and secrets, we see that this war is not as simple as we thought: there aren't just 2 sides, but 5: the northern elves, the southern elves, the highlanders, lowlanders and plainspeople and at least 4 need to be convinced to join our prontagonists. But all are united by two different goals: to save their homelands or conquer the world (you know, the usual stuff, nothing better than an afternoon tea while you plot conquering the entire world). There is betrayal, plot twists, characters sending very confusing signals to the reader (if you know, you know, I had absolutely no idea on what side that guy (you know who) was, which actually makes it really funny when he's on the page cause you never really know if he is trying to warn our prontagonist or playing games and setting traps).
In many cases, the second books in series, especially trilogies are the weakest; it's always, in fantasy the same path in trilogies: book one is the new world, a very big exposition as well as the discovery of our antagonists and villains, book two is gathering allies and the darkest part of the story, the moment where hope is lost and despair takes over and the third and final book is the hope is found again, final battle and the new normal book. That's always going to happen, it's for the author to write the second book in a manner that won't bore the reader or just feel rushed or like a list where we have to check specific points to reach to our real conflict: the third book. In my opinion, S.G. Prince managed to write an amazing second book for this trilogy, but that's, of course, like this entire review, my own opinion.
July 19, 2022
Second book has dark moments but hopeful ending
The author really puts the characters through a lot! I was quite concerned how terrible things would get, but I peeked at the blurb for the third book and heaved a sigh of relief. There’s hope for our protagonists that things will work out.
There are some dark moments in this book as the heroes struggle with the consequences of their choices. There is violence, loss of a new character, and yet progress is made to thwart the approaching evil horde.
Some plot questions: What’s the deal with the book of potions? Seems sort of forced into play and not well developed. Same with the history of Dourin’s past relations.
The bad guys have a little more of their motivations revealed in this second book, but it seems to be coming too late, as an afterthought.
There are lots of other details that are very effectively woven into the story so that when things are revealed, the reader readily accepts them.
Overall, the writing continues to be excellent, and the tension continues to increase! There are some good plot twists as well.
The author really puts the characters through a lot! I was quite concerned how terrible things would get, but I peeked at the blurb for the third book and heaved a sigh of relief. There’s hope for our protagonists that things will work out.
There are some dark moments in this book as the heroes struggle with the consequences of their choices. There is violence, loss of a new character, and yet progress is made to thwart the approaching evil horde.
Some plot questions: What’s the deal with the book of potions? Seems sort of forced into play and not well developed. Same with the history of Dourin’s past relations.
The bad guys have a little more of their motivations revealed in this second book, but it seems to be coming too late, as an afterthought.
There are lots of other details that are very effectively woven into the story so that when things are revealed, the reader readily accepts them.
Overall, the writing continues to be excellent, and the tension continues to increase! There are some good plot twists as well.
August 12, 2024
The book was fairly easy to jump back into even after finishing the first in the series awhile back. I really enjoyed the book, but do have some minor critiques. My main issue is a lot of the plot points are fairly easy to guess. If you have a hunch about what is about to happen, then that is probably correct. Not a lot of twists or turns.
My other main complaint is a big trope that I dislike. It is the "if the main characters just talked to each other a lot of the conflict would be resolved" trope. It felt like that trope was kind of carrying this book.
The plot points this book built are interesting, so I am excited about book 3. But I feel like this book will probably be more a transitionary tale between books 1 and 3.
Also the travel felt a bit weird. Sometimes going between cities would take a long time. Other times it felt like we just teleported between one area to the next. Or that a character or army could travel between areas almost overnight. I think this was a way to speed up the pace of the book, but even if a chapter began with "after X days/weeks of travel we are now at location Y" it would have made more sense.
My other main complaint is a big trope that I dislike. It is the "if the main characters just talked to each other a lot of the conflict would be resolved" trope. It felt like that trope was kind of carrying this book.
The plot points this book built are interesting, so I am excited about book 3. But I feel like this book will probably be more a transitionary tale between books 1 and 3.
Also the travel felt a bit weird. Sometimes going between cities would take a long time. Other times it felt like we just teleported between one area to the next. Or that a character or army could travel between areas almost overnight. I think this was a way to speed up the pace of the book, but even if a chapter began with "after X days/weeks of travel we are now at location Y" it would have made more sense.
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