Books matching: floating islands
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- #1
'The Floating Islands' by Rachel Neumeier follows the story of Trei, a young man who travels to the Floating Islands seeking refuge after losing his family in a volcanic eruption. The narrative alternates between Trei's journey to become a part of the Island flyers and his cousin Araene's struggle to pursue her dream of becoming a chef in a society that limits opportunities for girls. As the Floating Islands face the threat of invasion by the expansionist Empire, Trei and Araene find themselves caught between loyalties, leading to unexpected twists in the plot. is praised for its unique world-building, magical elements, and the character development of both protagonists, offering a refreshing take on traditional fantasy themes.
Trei was fourteen the first time he saw the Floating Islands. He had made the whole long voyage south from Rounn in a haze of loss and misery, not really noticing the harbors in which the ship sometim... - #2
The Floating Island follows the adventures of a young Nain named Ven Polypheme who finds himself on a shipbuilding family's vessel, embarking on a high-tailed adventure to a far-off land called Serendair. Along the way, Ven encounters Fire Pirates, mermaids, and danger, eventually landing on the Floating Island where he faces unexpected troubles and accusations. The book is described as a fantastic and fun read, comparable to Harry Potter but with a unique charm and engaging storyline that captivates readers.
The book is praised for being a great start to the Lost Journals of Ven Polypheme series, offering a nice prologue to Elizabeth Haydon's Symphony of Ages series. Readers appreciate the incorporation of fictional places and races from Haydon's adult series into this young readers series, making it an enjoyable read for both younger and older audiences alike.
Ven looked down the long wharf. Pepin Polypheme, a rather portly Nain of close to two hundred and fifty years, was hurrying toward him, puffing and wiping the sweat from his forehead with his pocket h... - #3
'The Bone Shard Daughter' by Andrea G. Stewart is a fantasy novel set in The Drowning Empire, where bone shard magic is used by the emperor to control constructs made from people's bones. The story follows multiple characters, including Lin, the emperor's daughter who lost her memories and is striving to prove herself, and Jovis, a smuggler searching for his missing wife while accompanied by a mysterious creature. The plot is filled with palace intrigue, rebellion, and a unique magic system that keeps the reader engaged. The writing style is described as fluid, immersive, and balanced, making it hard to put the book down once the reader becomes invested in the story.
He didn’t speak this disappointment when I answered his question. But he said it with narrowed eyes, the way he sucked on his already hollow cheeks, the way the left side of his lips twitched a little... - #4
'A Winter's Promise' by Christelle Dabos follows the story of Ophelia, a young woman with unique powers living in a world divided into celestial islands. Forced into an arranged marriage with Thorn, a mysterious man from a different Ark, Ophelia navigates through political intrigues and scandals in a complex world where magic and power play crucial roles. The narrative is described as whimsical, atmospheric, and bracing, with a focus on character development and world-building that sets it apart from traditional YA fantasy novels.
Dabos' writing style is praised for its intricate world-building and well-developed characters, particularly Ophelia, who defies clichés with her cleverness and adaptability in the face of adversities. presents a unique magic system and a complex political landscape, keeping readers engaged with its detailed descriptions and unpredictable plot twists. Despite being a translated piece, the book seamlessly immerses readers in a European-inspired setting, blending elements of dystopian sci-fi and gothic romance to create a captivating story.
The Family Archives building, for example, was forever in a foul mood. It spent its days cracking, creaking, dripping, and puffing to express its disgruntlement. It didn’t like the drafts that made do... - #5
An Alchemy of Masques and Mirrors by Curtis Craddock is a fantasy novel set in a world of floating islands, blood magic, and mirror projections. The story follows Princess Isabelle des Zephyrs, a polymath physically disabled princess, and her devoted musketeer, Jean Claude. Together, they navigate a world filled with complex villains, court intrigue, and political marriages. The writing style is described as fast-paced, intricate, and detailed, with a mix of adventure, intrigue, and witty banter reminiscent of The Three Musketeers.
Jean-Claude clung to the St. Marie’s guardrail with one hand and to his tether with the other. He wanted a word with Captain Jerome, who stood on the quarterdeck, an impossible distance away. Unfortun... - #6
The Lodestar of Ys by Amy Rae Durreson is a fantasy novella that follows the story of Prince Celyn of the floating islands known as Ys. Initially betrothed to a younger prince, Celyn finds himself spending time with an older prince, Sjurd, who seems to despise him. As the two princes must figure out a way to work together to save their countries from an invading Empire, they go from disliking each other to forming a marriage of convenience. The book delves into their journey of snarky banter, witty comebacks, and adventurous moments, all set against the backdrop of a devastating war and intricate world-building. The author's writing style captivates readers with engaging characters, cultural descriptions, and a slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance.
- #7
'Perelandra' by C.S. Lewis is the second installment in 'The Space Trilogy' series. It follows Dr. Ransom as he travels to the planet Perelandra, also known as Venus, where he encounters a world at the beginning of its time and meets the first woman of the planet, who is innocent and pure. Ransom faces a mission to confront temptation and protect the inhabitants from evil influences, culminating in a battle reminiscent of the Garden of Eden story.
The writing style of 'Perelandra' is described as imaginative, whimsical, and filled with spiritual imagery. presents a retelling of the Christian creation story, exploring themes of good versus evil, sacrifice, and the complexities of theological concepts in a science fiction setting. The allegorical nature of the narrative, combined with vivid descriptions of the planet's landscapes and characters, creates a compelling and thought-provoking reading experience.
As I left the railway station at Worchester and set out on the three-mile walk to Ransom’s cottage, I reflected that no one on that platform could possibly guess the truth about the man I was going to...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Space Trilogy ) - #8
Dragon Wing is the first book in The Death Gate Cycle series, set in a world with floating continents, racial tensions, and ancient wars. The plot follows an assassin hired to kill a young prince who teams up with a demigod to tip the world into war, all while exploring a world of airships, drought, and mysterious contraptions. The writing style is described as original and complex, with intricate world-building and a diverse cast of characters including elves, dwarves, humans, and wizards.
terrain, its iron wheels hitting every bump and pit in what passed for a road. The cart was being pulled by a tier, its breath snorting puffs in the chill air. It took one man to lead the stubborn and... - #9
Readers are introduced to a new series by David Dalglish, 'Skyborn', which ventures into a world different from the familiar settings of the author's previous works. The novel follows a story filled with aerial combat, unique world-building, and engaging action scenes. The book introduces readers to a world where warriors strap wings on their backs for combat, creating a creative and original concept that keeps readers interested throughout the entire book.
The barricade reached up to Kael’s waist, and after a moment’s hesitation, he climbed over, leaving behind smoothly worn cobbles for short grass and soft dirt. Beyond the barricade, there was nothing ... - #10
Skyfarer is an action-packed fantasy novel set in a world of floating islands and powerful mages. The story follows Aimee, a young magician's apprentice, who embarks on a dangerous voyage aboard the Elysium, facing perils and uncovering hidden dangers. Alongside Aimee is Lord Azrael, a tormented Dark Knight, leading the assault to obtain a powerful artifact for his malevolent boss, all while engaging in a compelling cat-and-mouse game with Aimee. The narrative unfolds through alternating perspectives, offering a complete tale while setting the stage for future sequels. The writing style is described as fast-paced, engaging, and reminiscent of classic JRPGs, with well-developed characters and intricate combat scenes that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Ishtier was beautiful. Purple rays of a setting sun vaulted off the crystalline structures of the port far below the skydock, and the riot of colored specks that made up the countless people basking i...