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The Elementals #1
The Elementals
Upon unifying the seven warring states under one banner, the First Emperor of China began solidifying power for what he envisioned as a thousand-year reign.
Using those he conquered, the Emperor began a series of arduous projects, including the first Great Wall, the Linqu Canal, and a national system of highways. Ignoring the physical and emotional toll exacted upon the people, his insatiable desire to further his own power has led to a growing, and secretive insurgency.
One such organization is the Dragon's Spite who wishes to usurp control of the throne by nearly any means. But first they must marshal their forces strewn throughout the kingdom. More importantly they seek out three extraordinary girls who hold vast supernatural powers that can tip the balance in their favor. But do these unknowing heroines realize the talents that they possess? Will the Dragon's Spite reach them before the agents of the Emperor?
Using those he conquered, the Emperor began a series of arduous projects, including the first Great Wall, the Linqu Canal, and a national system of highways. Ignoring the physical and emotional toll exacted upon the people, his insatiable desire to further his own power has led to a growing, and secretive insurgency.
One such organization is the Dragon's Spite who wishes to usurp control of the throne by nearly any means. But first they must marshal their forces strewn throughout the kingdom. More importantly they seek out three extraordinary girls who hold vast supernatural powers that can tip the balance in their favor. But do these unknowing heroines realize the talents that they possess? Will the Dragon's Spite reach them before the agents of the Emperor?
- GenresFantasy
372 pages, Paperback
First published October 18, 2012
2 people are currently reading
482 people want to read
About the author
Troy Jackson
1 book17 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
January 28, 2013
I LOVED this book! I read it so fast that it never even made it on my "currently reading" list. (Which is probably why I forgot to post my review. My apologies Mr. Jackson.)
I received a copy of this book from the author, Troy Jackson. I agreed to read it and post an honest review. I was not previously acquainted with Mr. Jackson or his writing.
This story is full of action. The characters are so well formed and the story is so well written that I could not put it down. I had never read anything like it. (I've only recently discovered this genre.)
You will find yourself rooting for the main characters and easily become enrapt in their story.
I am anxiously awaiting the next book as the story continues.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story with alot of action, some romance and the ongoing battle of good versus evil.
I received a copy of this book from the author, Troy Jackson. I agreed to read it and post an honest review. I was not previously acquainted with Mr. Jackson or his writing.
This story is full of action. The characters are so well formed and the story is so well written that I could not put it down. I had never read anything like it. (I've only recently discovered this genre.)
You will find yourself rooting for the main characters and easily become enrapt in their story.
I am anxiously awaiting the next book as the story continues.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story with alot of action, some romance and the ongoing battle of good versus evil.
June 23, 2013
I'm really not sure where to begin with my review of this book, but as I always choose to hear bad news first, I suppose I'll just start there.
As of late, I have grown increasingly aware of typos, grammar mistakes, et cetera in publications, although I'm not quite sure whether that is the result of increased perception on my part or of publication "catching up" with the falling standards I so often observe in our spoken language. Whatever the case, the errors within this novel were far in excess of those I have previously encountered. A great many of them were clearly just typos, but a fair number weren't. All of them, though, were blindingly obvious and ought to have been caught with a simple reading prior to publication. The best example that I can select for this sort of error (without spoiling anything) reads, "Workers buzzed up and down nearly every hallway with various building and decorating materials, and Lady Yang found herself occasionally dodging them on occasion" (Jackson 262).
Also in the "bad news" section of this review is the fact that I found myself failing to understand some of the main ideas in the story. .
Furthermore, there was the issue that the plot seemed to stagnate itself for well over half the book. Once things did pick up, some of the characters started pulling powers out of nowhere. . And after all that, the ending just felt really forced to me. To a certain extent, I found myself trying to ignore these plot issues, given that this is to be the first book in a series, but in the end, it was just too big of a problem to ignore.
On the positive side, I think that the author really did have a great idea here. As bad as I thought it was, I think that a little bit of editing really could have made it a fantastic novel. At times it seemed more like it was a first draft rather than a finished product. It really pains me to have to give it two stars, but I can’t, in all honesty to myself, give it anything more than that in its present state.
I received this book through Goodreads First Reads.
As of late, I have grown increasingly aware of typos, grammar mistakes, et cetera in publications, although I'm not quite sure whether that is the result of increased perception on my part or of publication "catching up" with the falling standards I so often observe in our spoken language. Whatever the case, the errors within this novel were far in excess of those I have previously encountered. A great many of them were clearly just typos, but a fair number weren't. All of them, though, were blindingly obvious and ought to have been caught with a simple reading prior to publication. The best example that I can select for this sort of error (without spoiling anything) reads, "Workers buzzed up and down nearly every hallway with various building and decorating materials, and Lady Yang found herself occasionally dodging them on occasion" (Jackson 262).
Also in the "bad news" section of this review is the fact that I found myself failing to understand some of the main ideas in the story. .
Furthermore, there was the issue that the plot seemed to stagnate itself for well over half the book. Once things did pick up, some of the characters started pulling powers out of nowhere. . And after all that, the ending just felt really forced to me. To a certain extent, I found myself trying to ignore these plot issues, given that this is to be the first book in a series, but in the end, it was just too big of a problem to ignore.
On the positive side, I think that the author really did have a great idea here. As bad as I thought it was, I think that a little bit of editing really could have made it a fantastic novel. At times it seemed more like it was a first draft rather than a finished product. It really pains me to have to give it two stars, but I can’t, in all honesty to myself, give it anything more than that in its present state.
I received this book through Goodreads First Reads.
February 6, 2013
Looking for something to read? I can help you out. Try The Elementals besides the kickass name what else isn't there to draw your attention.
Genre: Teen, YA Fiction. Total fantasy.
The Nitty Gritty:How I love the nitty gritty.Okay so this book os about friendship , China's culutre and a fantasy read combined into one .If you are a fan of Fire Horse Girl, you ought to read this book. Imagine this, China is at war.People are panic and there is this group called Dragon's spite, who are basically like radicals / think like Weather Underground, they want the throne. But
At this point
Keep in Mind that these girls are totally innocent.
It's a race against time, mind my cliche but who will grab these girls first. The emperor or the group of radicals, this book is one word . Creative. It's like a smack in the face, I recieved this book from the author and his publisher and by no means am I patronizing this book (I've given some awful books bad reviews).
What you should know: If you are a fan of anime, or history or just culutre in general read about this.Keep reading on.This book is a touch of graphic imagery thta is like a time machine. YOU WILL ENJOY THAT ASPECT.
What I loved: Compelling read.The whole historical aspect, if you guys know me, you know I am a historical bluff. I love it and I can't get enough, this was right up my alley while I am picky about what countries I read about. This book appealed to me, during the fith chapter.
What I didn't love: Some of you may find the begginning a little random like tossing a bunch of ingreiants in a bowl. That's why I gave it four stars not five. If I would have to pick characters that I really liked from this book.
Stand out Characters: Mu Fang and Jiao Ai, Cai and Shi Lin.
This book will make anyone who lves anime read it, it's a real novel , nonanime fans but it will appeal to both crowds.
Personally, I highly recommend this for fans of historical novels who love a clash of paranormal, as well as those who would like to read a different kind of young adult fantasy!Do you love historical fantasy like Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare. then I would reccomend this book.
February 24, 2013
Qin Shi Huangdi, the first emperor of China, could have been a hero for bringing peace to his country. Instead he chose to enslave many of his people to create grandiose projects, such as The Great Wall, pandering to his own ego. Fortunately, his force for evil is opposed by a group called The Dragon’s Spite, a group intent on seeing him overthrown. In order to face each other, each side must gather those with the power of the elements to fight on their side. The Dragon’s Spite’s best hope is three young women who might use their supernatural powers to fight for good – but only if the emperor doesn’t get to them first.
Although I was excited about the unusual choice to set a fantasy book in ancient China, it took me a little while to get into The Elementals. The plot is fairly complicated and we meet at least six different characters in the first seven chapters. As you might imagine, this made it hard to get to know everyone. The writing and dialogue were also a tiny bit stiff and the occasional odd word usage distracted me from the story. However,I was quickly involved enough in the story that all that changed. As we got to know the characters, the plot stopped being hard to get into and became enjoyably complex (far too fun for slightly unpolished writing to distract me!). I loved the way each of the characters stories connected to each other and when separate, the different plots lines meant something exciting was always happening.
The setting also turned out to be as appealing as I had hoped. I love when author’s merge historical figures and events with a complementary fantasy world and this author did a great job. The glossary including pronunciations of names was a nice touch and made it easier to get into the foreign setting. By the grand, climatic ending of this action-packed adventure, I couldn’t put the book down. Fortunately, the author left room for a sequel, but wrapped up the plot of this book enough to give a satisfying sense of closure. Hopefully the next book well receive slightly better editing, because I know I’m going to pick up the sequel to this impressive debut novel.
This review first published at Doing Dewey.
Although I was excited about the unusual choice to set a fantasy book in ancient China, it took me a little while to get into The Elementals. The plot is fairly complicated and we meet at least six different characters in the first seven chapters. As you might imagine, this made it hard to get to know everyone. The writing and dialogue were also a tiny bit stiff and the occasional odd word usage distracted me from the story. However,I was quickly involved enough in the story that all that changed. As we got to know the characters, the plot stopped being hard to get into and became enjoyably complex (far too fun for slightly unpolished writing to distract me!). I loved the way each of the characters stories connected to each other and when separate, the different plots lines meant something exciting was always happening.
The setting also turned out to be as appealing as I had hoped. I love when author’s merge historical figures and events with a complementary fantasy world and this author did a great job. The glossary including pronunciations of names was a nice touch and made it easier to get into the foreign setting. By the grand, climatic ending of this action-packed adventure, I couldn’t put the book down. Fortunately, the author left room for a sequel, but wrapped up the plot of this book enough to give a satisfying sense of closure. Hopefully the next book well receive slightly better editing, because I know I’m going to pick up the sequel to this impressive debut novel.
This review first published at Doing Dewey.
November 15, 2012
Read other book reviews at Book Junkie Joint.
The Elementals is a well-made blend of young adult fantasy, China’s colorful culture and history, enlightening Confucian beliefs, and a tale of friendship, hope and bravery amidst hardships.
What I liked about the book is that it blended history with a touch of fantasy. The result is a very engaging read which not only carries the reader to a different time and place, but also teaches wisdom through the application of Chinese (mostly Confucian) proverbs throughout the story.
Also, it is very well-written. I could literally picture out each scene playing in my head like I was transported to another place even though I’m only sitting at my desk. Secondly, the events in this story were also well-planned and well-placed. Although the events may seem like a random mish-mash of scenes at the beginning, everything falls into place at the end.
If I would have to pick characters that I really liked from this book, I would pick Li Jun and Mu Fang, because they are awesome and insanely strong! Then again, I also admire the three heroines, Jiao Ai, Cai and Shi Lin, because they were able to set aside their hate and fight for the good instead.
Personally, this story reminded of the animated Nickolodeon series, Avatar – The Last Airbender. Both touched on Asian culture and imparted wisdom through their storylines. Both also involved the control of elements and the fight against an oppressive ruler.
I highly recommend this for fans of historical novels, as well as those who would like to read a different kind of young adult fantasy!
The Elementals is a well-made blend of young adult fantasy, China’s colorful culture and history, enlightening Confucian beliefs, and a tale of friendship, hope and bravery amidst hardships.
What I liked about the book is that it blended history with a touch of fantasy. The result is a very engaging read which not only carries the reader to a different time and place, but also teaches wisdom through the application of Chinese (mostly Confucian) proverbs throughout the story.
Also, it is very well-written. I could literally picture out each scene playing in my head like I was transported to another place even though I’m only sitting at my desk. Secondly, the events in this story were also well-planned and well-placed. Although the events may seem like a random mish-mash of scenes at the beginning, everything falls into place at the end.
If I would have to pick characters that I really liked from this book, I would pick Li Jun and Mu Fang, because they are awesome and insanely strong! Then again, I also admire the three heroines, Jiao Ai, Cai and Shi Lin, because they were able to set aside their hate and fight for the good instead.
Personally, this story reminded of the animated Nickolodeon series, Avatar – The Last Airbender. Both touched on Asian culture and imparted wisdom through their storylines. Both also involved the control of elements and the fight against an oppressive ruler.
I highly recommend this for fans of historical novels, as well as those who would like to read a different kind of young adult fantasy!
March 1, 2013
Overall Feedback: I found this a bit stiff in the beginning but enjoyable as I got into the story. There were times when I was lost but overall the characters grew on me and the plot became easier to follow. If you can make it through the first 3 or 4 chapters you will enjoy this read. How many chances do you get to read a fantasy novel set in ancient China?
Point of View: There were so many characters infused within the first few chapters that I lost sight of the point of view. However, once you get into the book the point of view is irrelevant.
Voice: Not a bad debut book for an author and I look forward to reading more. I am not sure the author has found a voice yet but maybe that will be the next thing he works on.
Character Development: Again you are introduced to characters so fast that it is hard to relate and keep them straight. But the author does do a fine job developing these characters and making it an enjoyable read.
Plot: The plot is a bit stiff but overall is convincing enough to make it enjoyable.
Dialogue: This was hard to judge. The author seemed a bit stiff overall but again not a bad debut book.
Pacing: If you can make it past the first 4 chapters you will find the story riveting and enjoyable. The pace is within the realm of a fantasy novel.
Setting: I found the setting the most intriguing. A fantasy in ancient China.
Continuity: Other than the stiffness of the writing, I found no errors that would cause a reader to not finish this one.
Point of View: There were so many characters infused within the first few chapters that I lost sight of the point of view. However, once you get into the book the point of view is irrelevant.
Voice: Not a bad debut book for an author and I look forward to reading more. I am not sure the author has found a voice yet but maybe that will be the next thing he works on.
Character Development: Again you are introduced to characters so fast that it is hard to relate and keep them straight. But the author does do a fine job developing these characters and making it an enjoyable read.
Plot: The plot is a bit stiff but overall is convincing enough to make it enjoyable.
Dialogue: This was hard to judge. The author seemed a bit stiff overall but again not a bad debut book.
Pacing: If you can make it past the first 4 chapters you will find the story riveting and enjoyable. The pace is within the realm of a fantasy novel.
Setting: I found the setting the most intriguing. A fantasy in ancient China.
Continuity: Other than the stiffness of the writing, I found no errors that would cause a reader to not finish this one.
February 20, 2013
This is a departure for me. I read everything, and enjoy fantasy and epic adventures but I was unfamiliar with Chinese folklore. Troy fixed that for me with this engrossing book about three young women with incredible powers that they are unaware of for most of their young lives. This tale begins (I hope!) a series of good versus evil against the an evil emperor of China that has brought all of the nations together, not in peace but through cruelty.
Troy pulled me in and never let go - try this one and learn something completely new. You'll enjoyt it! And thanks for the glossary at the end, but I waited and read it last!
Troy pulled me in and never let go - try this one and learn something completely new. You'll enjoyt it! And thanks for the glossary at the end, but I waited and read it last!
stalled
October 29, 2015I got this through Goodreads on the stipulation that I review it. Sadly, that was a few years ago and this got pushed to the back of the shelf and I forgot about it. The concept of the story interests me but the writing had me confused just a few chapters in which made it hard to pick back up whenever I had to set it down to go to work or do chores around the house. In the end, I didn`t pick it back up. Maybe someday I will give it another try.
March 24, 2013
Too much back story not enough conclusion. It felt like it took a very long time for anything to happen and it still feels like we are only skimming the top. I really love the characters and what they stand for. Maybe after the next book I will feel better about the whole.
January 2, 2013
I absolutely enjoyed this book. Starting with the cover all the way till the last page, you will not be disappointed. I cannot wait to read the rest of the Elementals books.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews