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The Elemental #5
Rootbound
My name is Larkspur, and I am an Elemental.
My people use the power of the earth to sustain life and defy our enemies. I am the half-breed bastard child of a king. I was not meant to survive the trials cast my way. Yet, here I stand.
The world has deteriorated in the years I was banished. The Elemental families are rife with deception, violence, and madness more than ever before.
A voice I know all too well calls me to do her bidding. A voice I no longer wish to hear. The mother goddess begs me to save the four families, and stop my nemesis. To do it, I must face each of the Elemental leaders and take from them the power they hold close: the stones I once entrusted to them.
Now, the secrets I unearth as I pursue the stones shatter everything I know about my world, and everything I was taught.
Yet, I am not the naïve girl I once was. If I am to see this through, I must completely embrace the new reality of my life and all its obstacles while forging ahead.
Four stones abused.
Four families broken.
A half-breed princess as their only hope.
Through it all, the one I love waits for me to find him. When I do, will he, like everything else in my world, not be what he once was?
My people use the power of the earth to sustain life and defy our enemies. I am the half-breed bastard child of a king. I was not meant to survive the trials cast my way. Yet, here I stand.
The world has deteriorated in the years I was banished. The Elemental families are rife with deception, violence, and madness more than ever before.
A voice I know all too well calls me to do her bidding. A voice I no longer wish to hear. The mother goddess begs me to save the four families, and stop my nemesis. To do it, I must face each of the Elemental leaders and take from them the power they hold close: the stones I once entrusted to them.
Now, the secrets I unearth as I pursue the stones shatter everything I know about my world, and everything I was taught.
Yet, I am not the naïve girl I once was. If I am to see this through, I must completely embrace the new reality of my life and all its obstacles while forging ahead.
Four stones abused.
Four families broken.
A half-breed princess as their only hope.
Through it all, the one I love waits for me to find him. When I do, will he, like everything else in my world, not be what he once was?
ebook
First published June 7, 2016
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About the author
Shannon Mayer
149 books7,109 followersA long time ago, in a galaxy far away, I was born into a family of Star Wars nuts. I have a lot of siblings (somewhere I lost count but I think there was more than could be numbered on one hand) and being one of the young padawans I was subjected to Star Wars marathons, on a regular basis. If you've read any of my books you'll see there is often a reference to said movies as a small homage to my upbringing. May the force be with you and all that jazz.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
June 9, 2016
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
ROOTBOUND’s blurb mentions Lark’s “banishment” and even though it’s not critical that the novella, ELEMENTALLY PRICELESS, be read before this next installment, it does help to set the tone. Out of the four locales, I found that the Eyrie didn’t get its due, as such I was very happy that this plot had the protagonist retracing her previous steps because it made up for WINDBURN’s shortcomings, and also advanced the series’ story arc wonderfully which means that book 5 is now tied for first place for my favourite ELEMENTAL novel.
While definitely not the focal point, there’s been an on-going love triangle between Lark, Cactus and Ash; however that finally gets laid to rest in this latest addition. That’s not to say that Shannon Mayer tied the romance up in a neat bow because that actually couldn’t be farther from the truth, but the heroine has picked a team, and that’s half of the battle in my option. We’re still left hanging as to the fate of the winning candidate. Nevertheless, I was satisfied with how the author settled the other suitor’s thread.
A lot of twists involving a surprising amount of characters get tossed our way in this volume. Most of them are kind of spoiler-y, thus I’m going to abstain from going into too much detail. Yet, I will go so far as to add that someone important in Lark’s inner circle kicks the bucket while as it appears as though the protagonist (and readers) may have been misled with regards to the fate of another key person who had a big influence on her life’s course. What does it all mean? I guess we’ll just have to stay tuned for the next installment!
Peta and the heroine’s relationship was put to the test in this book, and I loved not only seeing how far they’ve come, but also watching them prevail over this latest obstacle. Shazer really proved his worth this time around, and I liked the way that he linked up with the main story line. I have a feeling that his loyalty may be challenged next, and it’ll be interesting to see if he fares as well as Lark’s familiar did. The most shocking aspect of this novel was the storyline involving the mother goddess—I absolutely did NOT see that one coming.
ROOTBOUND will leave you screaming at Shannon Mayer to write faster! ~ 4.5 Stars
ROOTBOUND’s blurb mentions Lark’s “banishment” and even though it’s not critical that the novella, ELEMENTALLY PRICELESS, be read before this next installment, it does help to set the tone. Out of the four locales, I found that the Eyrie didn’t get its due, as such I was very happy that this plot had the protagonist retracing her previous steps because it made up for WINDBURN’s shortcomings, and also advanced the series’ story arc wonderfully which means that book 5 is now tied for first place for my favourite ELEMENTAL novel.
While definitely not the focal point, there’s been an on-going love triangle between Lark, Cactus and Ash; however that finally gets laid to rest in this latest addition. That’s not to say that Shannon Mayer tied the romance up in a neat bow because that actually couldn’t be farther from the truth, but the heroine has picked a team, and that’s half of the battle in my option. We’re still left hanging as to the fate of the winning candidate. Nevertheless, I was satisfied with how the author settled the other suitor’s thread.
A lot of twists involving a surprising amount of characters get tossed our way in this volume. Most of them are kind of spoiler-y, thus I’m going to abstain from going into too much detail. Yet, I will go so far as to add that someone important in Lark’s inner circle kicks the bucket while as it appears as though the protagonist (and readers) may have been misled with regards to the fate of another key person who had a big influence on her life’s course. What does it all mean? I guess we’ll just have to stay tuned for the next installment!
Peta and the heroine’s relationship was put to the test in this book, and I loved not only seeing how far they’ve come, but also watching them prevail over this latest obstacle. Shazer really proved his worth this time around, and I liked the way that he linked up with the main story line. I have a feeling that his loyalty may be challenged next, and it’ll be interesting to see if he fares as well as Lark’s familiar did. The most shocking aspect of this novel was the storyline involving the mother goddess—I absolutely did NOT see that one coming.
ROOTBOUND will leave you screaming at Shannon Mayer to write faster! ~ 4.5 Stars
May 11, 2017
There was no Ash. Ash is, mostly, the reason I read this series, so no Ash, mean no like. The book was boring, even though lots happened. I ended up with just skimming it...
May 29, 2016
I was provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review. One of the things that I liked right from the start is, this book explains how Rootbound takes place 25 years after Elementally Priceless, which is a Rylee Adamson novel. What it doesn’t tell you is, Rootbound picks up several months after Blood of the Lost, another Rylee book. Needless to say; these series intertwine pretty frequently, and if you haven’t read Rylee, are you mad? It is totally awesome! You must add it to you TBR now!
Lark once again finds herself called upon by the mother goddess to do her bidding; to save the four Elemental family from the stones of power, yet after years of being banished in total isolation from everything, including her elements, Lark isn’t the same person she once was. Family and friends are learning this with shocking clarity.
“What does he think? That I could survive tow oubliettes and remain unchanged?” “That I could survive the last battle that nearly ended our world and remain the weak maiden he knew as a child?”
“I am my own hero. I will slay the dragons. I need no one to save me.”
Yet, the task Lark is sent on is met with obstacles right from the start; she has forces working against her, and nothing is going to be easy. At the same time, nothing is really as it appears.
“The feeling that I was missing something integral, something I needed to understand, yet couldn’t see was overwhelming.”
Once again Mayer has given us a non-stop action packed adventure that starts on page one, and doesn’t slow down until the end. This is one of those series that leaves you hungry for the next word, page, chapter, and now, the next book. We are once again left in breathless anticipation for what comes next for Lark....Sara
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Lark once again finds herself called upon by the mother goddess to do her bidding; to save the four Elemental family from the stones of power, yet after years of being banished in total isolation from everything, including her elements, Lark isn’t the same person she once was. Family and friends are learning this with shocking clarity.
“What does he think? That I could survive tow oubliettes and remain unchanged?” “That I could survive the last battle that nearly ended our world and remain the weak maiden he knew as a child?”
“I am my own hero. I will slay the dragons. I need no one to save me.”
Yet, the task Lark is sent on is met with obstacles right from the start; she has forces working against her, and nothing is going to be easy. At the same time, nothing is really as it appears.
“The feeling that I was missing something integral, something I needed to understand, yet couldn’t see was overwhelming.”
Once again Mayer has given us a non-stop action packed adventure that starts on page one, and doesn’t slow down until the end. This is one of those series that leaves you hungry for the next word, page, chapter, and now, the next book. We are once again left in breathless anticipation for what comes next for Lark....Sara
http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com
https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews
September 22, 2019
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71 points/100 (3 ¾ stars/5)
It has been years since Larkspur has been banished and the world isn't the same. She has been locked away, she has gotten into trouble - and she has helped save the world. Now it is time to return to the journey she was already on. Lark has to correct some wrongs and she has to find the thread of truth in all the lies.
Holy time jump! Rootbound takes place a full twenty-five years after the end of Windburn. I expected a time jump, I didn't expect that. We actually skip all the way across the timeline until after the events of Blood of the Lost in the Rylee Adamson series. Which is annoying, because unless you read that series you will be extremely confused for the first part of Rootbound.
To be fair to Shannon Mayer, nothing about the events in the Rylee Adamson series really are necessary to know for this book. The events of this do not hinge on the events of that. But, with the time jump you're just going to be left reeling without the knowledge of the events. I highly, highly recommend reading the novella Elementally Priceless. It takes place during the events that are skipped. If nothing else, you'll be less confused why Lark is punished again, which you only get told about in passing here and may leave readers confused.
The plot of Rootbound felt like it was working the series backwards. We took all the progress we had made through Windburn, and then just go and undo it. Apparently, everything we've strived for so far has been "Whoops, I shouldn't have done that!" Which is really, really frustrating. I mean, I know I've complained about this series continuously making it so nothing sticks but.... to erase all progress like that because apparently it was a "bad thing" is just annoying.
On top of that, the entirely of Rootbound was basically a game of running around collecting power ups. I don't really like reading about characters running around collecting things. It reminds me of children's books. And also bad memories of MMOs. Turns out, handing those gems out to everyone was a bad idea. With bad consequences. And everyone has gone crazy with power again because of them. Who knew? Fantastic.
Larkspur is being pulled in a bunch of directions by just about everyone in this series. It is actually impossible to figure out who is enemy and who is ally. Mostly because enemies end up being "allies" and allies, and allies end up being enemies. It is a huge mess. I'm actually not certain why I'm supposed to care about pretty much anyone in this series when everything is just going to change in a hundred pages anyway.
The best part of Rootbound was Peta's verbal bitchslap of Cactus. And also of Lark telling him to fuck off. Cactus being the character everyone told wasn't right for Larkspur and he started to go off the handle about it. Cactus is such a selfish dick. He doesn't give a shit but for his possession of Lark. He wants to own her. I love Peta right now.
Goooo Peta!
71 points/100 (3 ¾ stars/5)
It has been years since Larkspur has been banished and the world isn't the same. She has been locked away, she has gotten into trouble - and she has helped save the world. Now it is time to return to the journey she was already on. Lark has to correct some wrongs and she has to find the thread of truth in all the lies.
Holy time jump! Rootbound takes place a full twenty-five years after the end of Windburn. I expected a time jump, I didn't expect that. We actually skip all the way across the timeline until after the events of Blood of the Lost in the Rylee Adamson series. Which is annoying, because unless you read that series you will be extremely confused for the first part of Rootbound.
To be fair to Shannon Mayer, nothing about the events in the Rylee Adamson series really are necessary to know for this book. The events of this do not hinge on the events of that. But, with the time jump you're just going to be left reeling without the knowledge of the events. I highly, highly recommend reading the novella Elementally Priceless. It takes place during the events that are skipped. If nothing else, you'll be less confused why Lark is punished again, which you only get told about in passing here and may leave readers confused.
The plot of Rootbound felt like it was working the series backwards. We took all the progress we had made through Windburn, and then just go and undo it. Apparently, everything we've strived for so far has been "Whoops, I shouldn't have done that!" Which is really, really frustrating. I mean, I know I've complained about this series continuously making it so nothing sticks but.... to erase all progress like that because apparently it was a "bad thing" is just annoying.
On top of that, the entirely of Rootbound was basically a game of running around collecting power ups. I don't really like reading about characters running around collecting things. It reminds me of children's books. And also bad memories of MMOs. Turns out, handing those gems out to everyone was a bad idea. With bad consequences. And everyone has gone crazy with power again because of them. Who knew? Fantastic.
Larkspur is being pulled in a bunch of directions by just about everyone in this series. It is actually impossible to figure out who is enemy and who is ally. Mostly because enemies end up being "allies" and allies, and allies end up being enemies. It is a huge mess. I'm actually not certain why I'm supposed to care about pretty much anyone in this series when everything is just going to change in a hundred pages anyway.
The best part of Rootbound was Peta's verbal bitchslap of Cactus. And also of Lark telling him to fuck off. Cactus being the character everyone told wasn't right for Larkspur and he started to go off the handle about it. Cactus is such a selfish dick. He doesn't give a shit but for his possession of Lark. He wants to own her. I love Peta right now.
Peta didn’t move, but a long low growl slipped out of her. “Prick, you push too far. Just like you always do because you are a selfish shit. She tells you the truth and you ignore her. Demand that she change her mind. Try to ply her with the emotions she does have for you. That is not love. That is manipulation and an attempt to control her.”
Goooo Peta!
June 14, 2017
Okay so page three and I’m already completely lost and extremely mad about it. Shannon does give you a nice little blurb before the start that says it’s 25 years after Windburn and Lark’s story does connect over to her other Rylee series. The stories are connected, how cool. Authors do it all the time so I didn’t think anything of it. Typically a crossover doesn’t impact a storyline too much. SO MUCH HAPPENED in either the crossover Riley books or in some novella she published between Windburn and Rootbound that Amazon doesn't mention. You do get a summary of a bit of what happened but every book lover knows that a summary does not cut it. They’re nice as a refresher but you can’t condense an entire novel down to three paragraphs and have it make up for what was missed. Nor does it tell you why/how anything happened. I can already tell that this is going to be detrimental to being able to enjoy this book. I have so many questions about so many things. Actually, I’ll just make a list..
Things you learn in chapter 1: (I don’t think I can count these as spoilers because apparently you should already know about them)
1) Lark is seriously messed up emotionally, like hasn’t spoken in months.
2) Her, Cactus and Peta met back up at some point. (When or how I have no idea).
3) There was a big demon war that Lark got all the elementals to fight in. Lots of people died.
4) Her father punished Lark by putting her back in an another oubliette for years. (but for what I’m not sure)
5) Lark’s going back to the Rim. (not sure on how or why as last i knew she was banished)
6) Ash was banished. (Why??)
7) Bella became queen. (what happened to her dad?)
8) Ash was unbanished but is still missing, possibly dead.
Most of which isn’t even in the “summary” but just stated as simple fact which, quite honestly, just leaves me more confused and irritated. This sounds like AT LEAST one entire book. Not some crossover meeting up of Lark and Rylee for a Rylee adventure. Or some short novella story. Apparently to know what happened I also have to read 10 other books from a different series. That just doesn’t seem fair to me.
So much so that I skimmed the rest of Rootbound. It seemed like it was probably okay. It could have been fantastic. I’ll never know. I just wanted to know what happened to Ash or I probably would not have bothered even with the skim.
Things you learn in chapter 1: (I don’t think I can count these as spoilers because apparently you should already know about them)
1) Lark is seriously messed up emotionally, like hasn’t spoken in months.
2) Her, Cactus and Peta met back up at some point. (When or how I have no idea).
3) There was a big demon war that Lark got all the elementals to fight in. Lots of people died.
4) Her father punished Lark by putting her back in an another oubliette for years. (but for what I’m not sure)
5) Lark’s going back to the Rim. (not sure on how or why as last i knew she was banished)
6) Ash was banished. (Why??)
7) Bella became queen. (what happened to her dad?)
8) Ash was unbanished but is still missing, possibly dead.
Most of which isn’t even in the “summary” but just stated as simple fact which, quite honestly, just leaves me more confused and irritated. This sounds like AT LEAST one entire book. Not some crossover meeting up of Lark and Rylee for a Rylee adventure. Or some short novella story. Apparently to know what happened I also have to read 10 other books from a different series. That just doesn’t seem fair to me.
So much so that I skimmed the rest of Rootbound. It seemed like it was probably okay. It could have been fantastic. I’ll never know. I just wanted to know what happened to Ash or I probably would not have bothered even with the skim.
June 6, 2016
We are back in business with ROOTBOUND. WINDBURN wasn't my favorite book in the Elemental series, so I was really hoping ROOTBOUND would pick up and really rock and it did.
ROOTBOUND made me think that most of the book would stay focused on the rim, but that couldn't be farther from the truth. ROOTBOUND visits every elemental home base and major things happen in all.
On the romance side. We know that Lark has been torn between Cactus and Ash. She loves them both, but she had to choose someone eventually. I can't tell you where her heart leads her, but I will say that I have been waiting and waiting for the situation with Cactus to come to a head and Mayer didn't disappoint with how things played out. I liked a lot about ROOTBOUND, but I have to say this part of the storyline was at the top of my list.
The action is off the wall and Larks enemies continue to come out of the woodwork. I love Peta and I love the relationship between the two. I guesses some things before they happened, but I was still pleasantly surprised on the way they ended up playing out. Larks story isn't over and I look forward to continuing it.
* This book was provided free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
ROOTBOUND made me think that most of the book would stay focused on the rim, but that couldn't be farther from the truth. ROOTBOUND visits every elemental home base and major things happen in all.
On the romance side. We know that Lark has been torn between Cactus and Ash. She loves them both, but she had to choose someone eventually. I can't tell you where her heart leads her, but I will say that I have been waiting and waiting for the situation with Cactus to come to a head and Mayer didn't disappoint with how things played out. I liked a lot about ROOTBOUND, but I have to say this part of the storyline was at the top of my list.
The action is off the wall and Larks enemies continue to come out of the woodwork. I love Peta and I love the relationship between the two. I guesses some things before they happened, but I was still pleasantly surprised on the way they ended up playing out. Larks story isn't over and I look forward to continuing it.
* This book was provided free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2016
I've been trying to come up with something to write for this review for weeks and I'm still not quite sure.
The Mother Goddess is back and she has a mission for Lark. This mission involves her heading to the four heads of the families and asking for something back that she'd given them. But trouble seems to follow Lark wherever she goes.
I'm also not sure what's going on with Cactus's character and hopefully we figure it out soon. We get a glimpse of Ash that left me annoyed. I'll be glad when the events surrounding what happened to him during Lark's banishment are revealed. I was back and forth between I just like this book and really liked it. I can't put my finger on it exactly but I wasn't as excited as the first three books of the series. That being said I still have enough lingering questions for the series that I'm happy to continue. Hopefully the next one brings back that feeling of sitting on the edge of my seat in rapid fascination.
The Mother Goddess is back and she has a mission for Lark. This mission involves her heading to the four heads of the families and asking for something back that she'd given them. But trouble seems to follow Lark wherever she goes.
I'm also not sure what's going on with Cactus's character and hopefully we figure it out soon. We get a glimpse of Ash that left me annoyed. I'll be glad when the events surrounding what happened to him during Lark's banishment are revealed. I was back and forth between I just like this book and really liked it. I can't put my finger on it exactly but I wasn't as excited as the first three books of the series. That being said I still have enough lingering questions for the series that I'm happy to continue. Hopefully the next one brings back that feeling of sitting on the edge of my seat in rapid fascination.
October 7, 2019
Ok, what in the absolute world happened? Going through the series, ended Windburn and then coming straight to Rootbound....did I miss something? I went back to Windburn and made sure I truly finished the book (since it was and ebook) but there was nothing left....I am 100% confused. If you're going to mention all of this stuff about Rylee and another book series in the first couple of pages of the book, maybe there should be a warning? If it changed the fundamental personality of the character, I feel as though there should definitely be a warning that you should read whatever books that first few pages took part in. It absolutely boggles my mind and feel like I just missed several big pictures and key books.
June 5, 2017
So confusing
I was reading this series and now I am just so confused. 25 years have passed and events passed that I have no clue about. It was hard to follow and ultimately I feel like I am missing a huge chunk of the plot of the entire series. While the writing was good I just can't understand what happened and who Rylee is other than the baby from Windburn. I am assuming the girl grew up but again still can't wrap my mind around it all in what happened before this and wibfburn
I was reading this series and now I am just so confused. 25 years have passed and events passed that I have no clue about. It was hard to follow and ultimately I feel like I am missing a huge chunk of the plot of the entire series. While the writing was good I just can't understand what happened and who Rylee is other than the baby from Windburn. I am assuming the girl grew up but again still can't wrap my mind around it all in what happened before this and wibfburn
December 30, 2024
Rylee Adamson was a fantastic series and so I was hoping this would be good too. Larkspur is a great character that you are behind 100%. It is an intriguing, suspenseful, and mysterious thriller filled with tension. The story includes alliances, threats, betrayal, riddles, and plots, all infused with a touch of humour to keep the pages turning. Shannon weaves a tangled web that leaves you in need of more.
July 18, 2016
I'm too far in now and I want to know what happens so I'm going to keep reading the series, but I feel like each book has gotten worse. Mostly I've noticed that the author seems to get lazy and skip ahead, and give vague language as to what happened during that time skipped. And I get confused and have to go back and see if I missed something.
July 15, 2017
4.5 Fantastic Fantasy Stars...We continue traveling with Larkspur, Peta, and Shazer as they continue on their journey towards fulfilling their destinies....this story takes place twenty-five years after "Windburn", and although not necessary, it helps to have read "The Rylee Adamson Series" to fully understand the extent of the occurrences that happened in the interim... we watch as Larkspur battles her emotional trauma resulting from her time in the oubliette as well as the final battle with Orion...her character seems to come full circle in this story learning to balance her powers as well as fully understanding the source of them...perceived enemies become allies and known allies become enemies in the action packed magical addition to the series...looking forward to the dramatic conclusion in "Destroyer":)
May 14, 2022
As lark grows darker we see who actually is evil and who is morally grey.
This book is set about 6 months after blood of the lost (rylee adamson series)
We see more loss, people changing sides, and both old and new characters.
Lark is back with Bella, the bastard, peta and cactus within the first half of this book and is on the hunt for the stones she gave to the elemental leaders as they are driving them mad. We find out what’s happened to ash and who is friend and foe.
Bring on the next book.
This book is set about 6 months after blood of the lost (rylee adamson series)
We see more loss, people changing sides, and both old and new characters.
Lark is back with Bella, the bastard, peta and cactus within the first half of this book and is on the hunt for the stones she gave to the elemental leaders as they are driving them mad. We find out what’s happened to ash and who is friend and foe.
Bring on the next book.
March 6, 2023
Just when you think there is no way for Shannon Mayer to throw another monkey wrench into this series, she steps back, grins, and says "Hold my beer." I swear this woman is more mental than any other author with how she twists and turns the plot to keep the reader on the edge of the seat. LOVE IT!!!!
March 5, 2023
A big chunk missing
So this starts off 25 years after the last, with a paragraph saying you should read the novella "elementally priceless" first. It becomes apparent fairly quickly that you should have read all of Rylee's stories before. I didn't. There is no point now as it the story ending is dished out here. Pretty poor planning for people who discovered this series first (like me), but whatever. The story is interesting enough to keep me reading.
So this starts off 25 years after the last, with a paragraph saying you should read the novella "elementally priceless" first. It becomes apparent fairly quickly that you should have read all of Rylee's stories before. I didn't. There is no point now as it the story ending is dished out here. Pretty poor planning for people who discovered this series first (like me), but whatever. The story is interesting enough to keep me reading.
March 27, 2017
It's difficult for me to say this but... I May just love the Lark books more than Rylee's (don't cut my head off with a sword!) I love that we've had lots of time with this character to see how she's grown and changed. I did go back and read the Lark parts in the Rylee installments to make it flow better, and I recommend it, it helps the understanding of not only the story, but where this character is. Physically, mentally, and emotionally, she has been through hell. I adore her. She admits she has more to learn and has more growing and changing ahead of her and I admire that. I can't wait to see where she's headed next. I'm also glad she said some things she needed to to certain individuals! Without spoiling anything, I'll just say Listen To Peta!!
September 4, 2017
Larkspur never dissapoints!
Another amazing, fast paced, page turning adventure that runs you through every emotion and leaves you wanting more. Lark and Peta continue to ban together to put the world right, when so many seek to manipulate and control the outcome. The anticipation to know who is right, and who is lying, will have you turning pages late into the night
Another amazing, fast paced, page turning adventure that runs you through every emotion and leaves you wanting more. Lark and Peta continue to ban together to put the world right, when so many seek to manipulate and control the outcome. The anticipation to know who is right, and who is lying, will have you turning pages late into the night
June 20, 2016
Very weak 3 stars
I thought I would find some beautiful gif about spirit (since Lark is a spirit user) but instead I found these
So my plans for this review went into the dumps straight away but that hasn't deterred me before (HAH!). I had some problems with this book
1) It plays out 25 years in the future. What happened in between? Seems like that question has its answers in the Rylee series
2) Viv
3) The ending. Big time problems.
4) The book order. I feel as if I was a bit duped and that I now have to read the Rylee series which is not the way I would like to feel reading something new. It should feel exciting and yet it doesn't.
Despite all the problems I still gave it three stars. Why you ask? . The plot was nice if not a bit rushed at times. The world building: two stars at best. The character development with Lark is something that would contribute to it being three stars. She has grown up a lot having to take the consequences of her actions however harsh they may be. She has also grown very hard. Being isolated for so many years have made her colder and more ruthless.
I didn't appreciate the ending because I thought that this was the last book in the series and I don't think that the author intends to leave the series on that cliffhanger. It would've also been appreciated if a reading order of some sort could've been put into place beforehand so that the spinoff series ending wasn't spoiled in just a couple of sentences.
I thought I would find some beautiful gif about spirit (since Lark is a spirit user) but instead I found these
So my plans for this review went into the dumps straight away but that hasn't deterred me before (HAH!). I had some problems with this book
1) It plays out 25 years in the future. What happened in between? Seems like that question has its answers in the Rylee series
2) Viv
3) The ending. Big time problems.
4) The book order. I feel as if I was a bit duped and that I now have to read the Rylee series which is not the way I would like to feel reading something new. It should feel exciting and yet it doesn't.
Despite all the problems I still gave it three stars. Why you ask? . The plot was nice if not a bit rushed at times. The world building: two stars at best. The character development with Lark is something that would contribute to it being three stars. She has grown up a lot having to take the consequences of her actions however harsh they may be. She has also grown very hard. Being isolated for so many years have made her colder and more ruthless.
I didn't appreciate the ending because I thought that this was the last book in the series and I don't think that the author intends to leave the series on that cliffhanger. It would've also been appreciated if a reading order of some sort could've been put into place beforehand so that the spinoff series ending wasn't spoiled in just a couple of sentences.
June 8, 2016
This is the best story in the series so far! So many secrets revealed and new questions left to explore.
Lark thinks she's finally in a position to begin moving on with her life; whatever that means considering all she's been through, but she is asked to save the world once again. There are a ton of surprises in this story. Hold on to your seat.
*I received this as an ARC in return for an honest review*
Lark thinks she's finally in a position to begin moving on with her life; whatever that means considering all she's been through, but she is asked to save the world once again. There are a ton of surprises in this story. Hold on to your seat.
*I received this as an ARC in return for an honest review*
August 12, 2016
These books seem to be getting darker and more depressing with each addition to the series. Is the author allergic to happy endings, or at least hopeful ones? I felt like none of the old dangers got resolved in this book and new dangers were added. Ugh.
June 7, 2016
WOW! This book was AMAZING. Lark has grown so much throughout her journey, and I love where she's going. I can not WAIT to read the next one! Gimmie gimmie gimmie!
August 6, 2018
Audiobook review: I can’t stop. This series has its hooks in me. Lark has been through too much.
December 1, 2019
Great Read!
I love this book and series both. The characters and storyline are so captivating! I can't wait till Lark and Ash are back together though!!!
I love this book and series both. The characters and storyline are so captivating! I can't wait till Lark and Ash are back together though!!!
March 9, 2020
Pure fantasy at its finest. I would say this is less urban fantasy though than the Rylee Adamson series. Even though it's set in the same world, the Elementals keep to themselves making this a lot more removed from the "normal" world. I think for some readers it will be hard to move between the series - for me personally, I'm a massive "classic" fantasy fan before all else so reading this was like coming home and gave me the same warm fuzzy feelings.
The series isn't really anything new in the genre, the same old fantasy tropes (The Chosen One, quest through different lands, evil foe who has spread through the land and must be defeated, etc) appear throughout - but Mayer hits all the right notes with her portrayal.
Rootbound follows Lark as she is sent on a quest to recollect the Elemental stones that are now in the possession of the Elemental rulers. The stones have proven to be controlling the rulers, making them paranoid and psycho and Lark is sent to get them back and make things right. This was intense. Lots of action and drama. Lark is not as forgiving as she once was, her banishment (which can be read about in Elementally Priceless) and the events of Blood of the Lost hardening her heart.
Rootbound has me questioning everything I thought I knew. Some which I had expected, other reveals - not so much.
Peta was still awesome. She's got her work cut out for her to help Lark remember her love for the world. There were appearances by new and old favourite characters - although none from Rylee's gang this time.
I can't wait to read the next one to find out what happens to Ash.
The series isn't really anything new in the genre, the same old fantasy tropes (The Chosen One, quest through different lands, evil foe who has spread through the land and must be defeated, etc) appear throughout - but Mayer hits all the right notes with her portrayal.
Rootbound follows Lark as she is sent on a quest to recollect the Elemental stones that are now in the possession of the Elemental rulers. The stones have proven to be controlling the rulers, making them paranoid and psycho and Lark is sent to get them back and make things right. This was intense. Lots of action and drama. Lark is not as forgiving as she once was, her banishment (which can be read about in Elementally Priceless) and the events of Blood of the Lost hardening her heart.
Rootbound has me questioning everything I thought I knew. Some which I had expected, other reveals - not so much.
Peta was still awesome. She's got her work cut out for her to help Lark remember her love for the world. There were appearances by new and old favourite characters - although none from Rylee's gang this time.
I can't wait to read the next one to find out what happens to Ash.
September 10, 2025
Wow I am impressed by this book. Something in this series actually turned out good for once. This book takes place 25 years after the last book. There is another book that covers the event from the last 25 years, but I did not read it. Despite not reading it, the author does give a general summary of what happen in that book. It does seem like those events change Lark in some ways, but it's not too drastic that I felt the need to read it to truly understand her.
As usual the book is fast-pace, but the time transition were written well. After the banishment, Mother Goddess gives Lark another mission. To collect all the stones so it does not land in Raven's hands otherwise he will destroy the world which is the main plotline in this book. However, there are other things going on that troubles Lark. The first, what happened to Ash? And the second, though not as prevalent, where is Bramley if he isn't truly dead? I'm more curious to the answer to the second question. After all this, he is brought up. What role does he play in this series?
Each place that Lark travels to is intriguing and fun. However, I will complain that the action scenes are a bit too short for my liking. Not as good as the last book's action scenes (even if they were cobbled together). But nonetheless, the adventures felt like adventures and it felt high-stakes compared to the previous books. In addition, since the relationship between Lark and the rulers have been established for some time now, the conflict between them actually makes sense compared to if they just met for the first time. I'm also intrigued by Talen. I'm already loving him. I look forward to him in the next book.
In the last book, I complained that whatever the Mother Goddess has planned better be worth it and it kinda is. I'm just glad that Lark saw through the façade and wasn't naïve until the end. With this new enemy arising, I just felt like the build up to it was a bit disappointing. I mean, I liked the long game they played, but it just didn't felt justified enough to the actual truth. The background is a bit lacking compared to the game she played. That is pretty much the only thing I would complain about.
As usual the book is fast-pace, but the time transition were written well. After the banishment, Mother Goddess gives Lark another mission. To collect all the stones so it does not land in Raven's hands otherwise he will destroy the world which is the main plotline in this book. However, there are other things going on that troubles Lark. The first, what happened to Ash? And the second, though not as prevalent, where is Bramley if he isn't truly dead? I'm more curious to the answer to the second question. After all this, he is brought up. What role does he play in this series?
Each place that Lark travels to is intriguing and fun. However, I will complain that the action scenes are a bit too short for my liking. Not as good as the last book's action scenes (even if they were cobbled together). But nonetheless, the adventures felt like adventures and it felt high-stakes compared to the previous books. In addition, since the relationship between Lark and the rulers have been established for some time now, the conflict between them actually makes sense compared to if they just met for the first time. I'm also intrigued by Talen. I'm already loving him. I look forward to him in the next book.
In the last book, I complained that whatever the Mother Goddess has planned better be worth it and it kinda is. I'm just glad that Lark saw through the façade and wasn't naïve until the end. With this new enemy arising, I just felt like the build up to it was a bit disappointing. I mean, I liked the long game they played, but it just didn't felt justified enough to the actual truth. The background is a bit lacking compared to the game she played. That is pretty much the only thing I would complain about.
January 22, 2020
Rootbound was fast-paced like the others, but in a less enjoyable way.
I found it to be comparable to Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame, because Lark is tracing back in her steps to collect... you guessed it,
Her presence in each place was just way too forced and rushed. Should her journey have been THIS easy? I don't think so. I feel like realistically (and yes, I do know this is fantasy fiction), but realistically in this world, she would have struggled a lot more. No matter how much stronger she had gotten over 26 years.
Like other readers, this was also less enjoyable because the absence of Ash. I posted an update while I was reading this, that I think Shannon Mayer made a big mistake in skipping 26 of Lark's life and expecting us to catch on. Regardless of if you have read Elementally Priceless or not, or the entire Rylee series. If The Elemental Series is one series, you cannot just go and skip 26 years of this timeline and expect the readers to not be confused or continue to go along. And mistake number two that Mayer made was that in Recurve, she established Ash as pretty much our secondary main character. You don't just lose another main character over the course of what, two whole books so far? Two and a half? Really lost me there.
Rootbound was just all over the place, and IMO, not in a good way.
What I liked about this book, and what warranted me still giving it three stars despite how disappointed I was, is that we are finally given some big twists to the story. These upped the dramatic factor and I think it's all reason why I kept reading. I'm hoping the next book, Ash's story, and the last make up for what a mess this one was.
I found it to be comparable to Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame, because Lark is tracing back in her steps to collect... you guessed it,
Her presence in each place was just way too forced and rushed. Should her journey have been THIS easy? I don't think so. I feel like realistically (and yes, I do know this is fantasy fiction), but realistically in this world, she would have struggled a lot more. No matter how much stronger she had gotten over 26 years.
Like other readers, this was also less enjoyable because the absence of Ash. I posted an update while I was reading this, that I think Shannon Mayer made a big mistake in skipping 26 of Lark's life and expecting us to catch on. Regardless of if you have read Elementally Priceless or not, or the entire Rylee series. If The Elemental Series is one series, you cannot just go and skip 26 years of this timeline and expect the readers to not be confused or continue to go along. And mistake number two that Mayer made was that in Recurve, she established Ash as pretty much our secondary main character. You don't just lose another main character over the course of what, two whole books so far? Two and a half? Really lost me there.
Rootbound was just all over the place, and IMO, not in a good way.
What I liked about this book, and what warranted me still giving it three stars despite how disappointed I was, is that we are finally given some big twists to the story. These upped the dramatic factor and I think it's all reason why I kept reading. I'm hoping the next book, Ash's story, and the last make up for what a mess this one was.
June 22, 2020
Disquieted, Distrustful & So Changed!!😔😒😢💔
4.5 Scary Stars 🌟
(Read using Kindle Unlimited)
Rootbound: The Elemental Series #5
Lark has been released from the oubliette by Rylee, 5 years after they met in Vegas. They've had the devastating battle against the Demon hordes (Rylee Adamson series) where so many have perished & she's now on her way back to the Rim, heavy with grief & burdened by her past, especially her punishments!!💔😭 Her sister Bella now sits on the throne & she goes to her to hear of news about Ash.🙏 It's devastating.💔💥
Peta encourages her to go into hot spring under the Spiral to help heal. The Mother Goddess gives her yet another task. She's so weary but the fate of the entire world is at stake!🌎😲 She must retrieve all of the power stones she gave out 25 years ago, thinking it was the right thing to do. They've been used to corrupt & manipulate each of them though, so they may have become crazed like Cassava!💍🌱🌊🔥⚡ Seeking Bella first it becomes clear that this is true & she's barely worn hers!!🙈😳 This isn't going to be easy!!😔
Deception, betrayal, lies & hard truths are all in Larks future. She keeps hardening her heart & it scares Bella, Peta eventually has words with her!😍Lark is so different from when she was first chosen by Mother Goddess, harder & definitely more powerful. Once her task is complete she has to leave everyone behind, again, except Peta & her Pegasus, to go & train with Talan in spirit so she's strong enough for what's ahead!!🙏 *Gulp*
Debbie, 1970, UK
4.5 Scary Stars 🌟
(Read using Kindle Unlimited)
Rootbound: The Elemental Series #5
Lark has been released from the oubliette by Rylee, 5 years after they met in Vegas. They've had the devastating battle against the Demon hordes (Rylee Adamson series) where so many have perished & she's now on her way back to the Rim, heavy with grief & burdened by her past, especially her punishments!!💔😭 Her sister Bella now sits on the throne & she goes to her to hear of news about Ash.🙏 It's devastating.💔💥
Peta encourages her to go into hot spring under the Spiral to help heal. The Mother Goddess gives her yet another task. She's so weary but the fate of the entire world is at stake!🌎😲 She must retrieve all of the power stones she gave out 25 years ago, thinking it was the right thing to do. They've been used to corrupt & manipulate each of them though, so they may have become crazed like Cassava!💍🌱🌊🔥⚡ Seeking Bella first it becomes clear that this is true & she's barely worn hers!!🙈😳 This isn't going to be easy!!😔
Deception, betrayal, lies & hard truths are all in Larks future. She keeps hardening her heart & it scares Bella, Peta eventually has words with her!😍Lark is so different from when she was first chosen by Mother Goddess, harder & definitely more powerful. Once her task is complete she has to leave everyone behind, again, except Peta & her Pegasus, to go & train with Talan in spirit so she's strong enough for what's ahead!!🙏 *Gulp*
Debbie, 1970, UK
May 13, 2017
OWhiners stop complaining
Really, all these whiners and low stars need to stop. Truth is, Elementally Priceless should actually be read before this book, as the author suggests in the forward. It isn't Rylees story, it is actually both Rules and Lark's. As Rylee was introduced here, then that book is actually a perfect fit. And yes, there is some missing time with the Demon War, but the author told you enough for it not to interfere with the story. Fact is, if you like this series, you would absolutely love the Rylee series, which is completed by the way. I actually like it better than this one. It has so much heart in it from book 3 on, whereas, this series is struggling to give us that heart. The Rylee series is available in Kindle Unlimited and if you buy instead, like I did, they are extremely affordable and WELL worth the price. Me. Mayer is an outstanding writer and I don't think she could write a bad book if she tried. I actually discovered her by reading her Sundered zombie series and I was so blown away with it, I started The Celtic Legacy series, then Rylee and now this one and I will be reading the Venom one next. How can anyone whine about reading anything by this author? She is one of my top five and that is a lofty list. But, that said, you can read this without reading Rylee, but if you are waiting for that last book to come out, I would suggest reading Rylee. You won't be sorry, I promise!
Really, all these whiners and low stars need to stop. Truth is, Elementally Priceless should actually be read before this book, as the author suggests in the forward. It isn't Rylees story, it is actually both Rules and Lark's. As Rylee was introduced here, then that book is actually a perfect fit. And yes, there is some missing time with the Demon War, but the author told you enough for it not to interfere with the story. Fact is, if you like this series, you would absolutely love the Rylee series, which is completed by the way. I actually like it better than this one. It has so much heart in it from book 3 on, whereas, this series is struggling to give us that heart. The Rylee series is available in Kindle Unlimited and if you buy instead, like I did, they are extremely affordable and WELL worth the price. Me. Mayer is an outstanding writer and I don't think she could write a bad book if she tried. I actually discovered her by reading her Sundered zombie series and I was so blown away with it, I started The Celtic Legacy series, then Rylee and now this one and I will be reading the Venom one next. How can anyone whine about reading anything by this author? She is one of my top five and that is a lofty list. But, that said, you can read this without reading Rylee, but if you are waiting for that last book to come out, I would suggest reading Rylee. You won't be sorry, I promise!
April 21, 2018
So when I read books, I listen to Audible. I have to drive a lot, so Audible books keep me awake, and let me continue my book fever.
With that said, I fell upon the Elemental Series, and it sounded interesting. I have loved every book, and definitely enjoyed all the twists and turns. But this book made me SO MAD!!!!!!! Thanks for that small "blurb" about the 25 freakin years that are passed over!!! Then continue to bring up again and again and again and again and again who has died, what specifically happened, and the people who were involved in a COMPLETELY DIFFERENT BOOK SERIES!!!!!!
Shannon Mayer, you are an amazing author! And I even love it when two series interlock a little bit, but this was TOO MUCH. Because I had never heard of you before. I did NOT read the Rylee Adamson series before this one. But not only did you make me feel like I missed entire book of events for Larkspur, but you DISCOURAGED ME from even wanting to read your Rylee Adamson series now. Why would I? I know what happens!
Other than the entire 25 years that I felt were stolen from me without me realizing till I was driving down the road saying, "What?! Are you serious??" multiple times, I did enjoy this book. I really hope your Destroyer book makes up for my frustration, but so help me! I pray I don't hear any more about this demon fight!! Because I did not get to read about it, and I did NOT know I was supposed to read that series first!
With that said, I fell upon the Elemental Series, and it sounded interesting. I have loved every book, and definitely enjoyed all the twists and turns. But this book made me SO MAD!!!!!!! Thanks for that small "blurb" about the 25 freakin years that are passed over!!! Then continue to bring up again and again and again and again and again who has died, what specifically happened, and the people who were involved in a COMPLETELY DIFFERENT BOOK SERIES!!!!!!
Shannon Mayer, you are an amazing author! And I even love it when two series interlock a little bit, but this was TOO MUCH. Because I had never heard of you before. I did NOT read the Rylee Adamson series before this one. But not only did you make me feel like I missed entire book of events for Larkspur, but you DISCOURAGED ME from even wanting to read your Rylee Adamson series now. Why would I? I know what happens!
Other than the entire 25 years that I felt were stolen from me without me realizing till I was driving down the road saying, "What?! Are you serious??" multiple times, I did enjoy this book. I really hope your Destroyer book makes up for my frustration, but so help me! I pray I don't hear any more about this demon fight!! Because I did not get to read about it, and I did NOT know I was supposed to read that series first!
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March 30, 2023Not quite ready to give it a star, I'm on the fence. I almost quit beginning of first book but made myself hang in there. And it seemed to pickup and have a flow. But now it's book five and they're re- doing the same exact things they've did in the last few books. It's like here we go again, looking for the bad rings, AGAIN, boring, been there done that long quest /journey before. And now book five hey let's re-do that same old journey. With possessed type people, cuz voila, the samr boring rings all over again, for me it's like when the 80's called and wants their leg warmers back kinda thing. It's just played out now. Ok, teleport jump but no not this time, we have to ride a horse, and then we can teleport back. And blah blah blah, dry as heck. That's just my opinion. I feel at this point I can stop this book now and just skip to last chapter in the last book just to see how this neverending boring quest ends and that would work for me. Otherwise I have to replay all the sneaking around, all the ring ring danger ring, same enemy name, then oh yeah, fire, water, wind yada yada, look lol. It's dry now and I barely started, already feels like I just read this same book, two books ago. Just too repetitive for my taste. Probably a better fit for someone else. I mean the Lord of the rings managed to stretch the whole ring thing out for a while and that was amazing. Maybe this too will change a bit
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