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Crown of Sand & Sea
PRINCE. PRODIGAL. PIRATE.
What kind of elf would cut his hair, wear a beard, and break all ties to the luxuries he was given by birth? For years, Captain Coren has sailed the seas and ventured across foreign lands. Hated by the corrupt, hero to the unfortunate, and…misunderstood by his own family.
After the rescue of the crown prince, Leoren, steward of Aselvia, is forced to reconsider all his concerns about his wandering son and discover the story he’s never had the courage to hear. A story of raiding ships, surviving plagues, and rescuing slaves. A story of how one man’s unconventional life changed the course of thousands.
This is a companion novella to MOONSCRIPT. Reading MOONSCRIPT first is recommended.
100% of Kindle sales* will be donated to ministries to fight human trafficking and restore the hurting. *Not including Kindle Unlimited.
What kind of elf would cut his hair, wear a beard, and break all ties to the luxuries he was given by birth? For years, Captain Coren has sailed the seas and ventured across foreign lands. Hated by the corrupt, hero to the unfortunate, and…misunderstood by his own family.
After the rescue of the crown prince, Leoren, steward of Aselvia, is forced to reconsider all his concerns about his wandering son and discover the story he’s never had the courage to hear. A story of raiding ships, surviving plagues, and rescuing slaves. A story of how one man’s unconventional life changed the course of thousands.
This is a companion novella to MOONSCRIPT. Reading MOONSCRIPT first is recommended.
100% of Kindle sales* will be donated to ministries to fight human trafficking and restore the hurting. *Not including Kindle Unlimited.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2022
11 people are currently reading
192 people want to read
About the author
H.S.J. Williams
6 books314 followersFrom the beginning, H. S. J. Williams has loved stories and all the forms they take. Whether with word, art, or costume, she has always been fascinated with the magic of imagination. She lives in a real fantastical kingdom, the beautiful Pacific Northwest, with her very own array of animal friends and royally loving family. Williams taught Fantasy Illustration at MSOA. She may also be a part-time elf.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Want to read
May 29, 2022😍😍😍
August 18, 2022
She’s done it again guys.
Turned character development into a story of intrigue and wonder.
You can’t help but fall in love with Corren (and Zizian) in this perky novella.
Through past and present adventures we get to see Corren’s life story. His journey from a broken and hurt boy to a desperate young man ready to right the evil in the world. Until finally he stops running from the hard relationships and we get to see restoration within his family.
It’s an immersive and captivating tale. With rich description and heart racing tension. And maybe a little bit of romance.
A cute side story/companion to Moonscript and I absolutely cannot wait for Collision. 💖✨
**DISCLAIMER** I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. My review is not affected by this, nor am I affiliated with the author.
Turned character development into a story of intrigue and wonder.
You can’t help but fall in love with Corren (and Zizian) in this perky novella.
Through past and present adventures we get to see Corren’s life story. His journey from a broken and hurt boy to a desperate young man ready to right the evil in the world. Until finally he stops running from the hard relationships and we get to see restoration within his family.
It’s an immersive and captivating tale. With rich description and heart racing tension. And maybe a little bit of romance.
A cute side story/companion to Moonscript and I absolutely cannot wait for Collision. 💖✨
**DISCLAIMER** I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. My review is not affected by this, nor am I affiliated with the author.
August 13, 2022
I loved it so much!! It’s crazy how quickly Coren has become one of my all time favorite fictional characters. Reading his story was an absolute delight. My only lament is that I devoured it far too quickly and want MORE. :D
May 21, 2022
This story is a sweet, heartfelt, real, and beautiful tale, told by Coren himself to an unexpected visitor. The characters, already known and loved from MOONSCRIPT, only grow more real and lovable throughout this story. There's plenty of moments to make you smile, and others to challenge your heart, in perfect balance!
In short, I adore this story. A must-read for lovers of MOONSCRIPT!
In short, I adore this story. A must-read for lovers of MOONSCRIPT!
August 19, 2022
I enjoyed this, I liked Moonscript more, but it was fun to learn about Coren and Zizain! I just love Coren's character! And I really enjoyed this read! And that cover...man, I love that cover! It is so gorgeous! Like even if I hadn't thought enjoyed this book I'd buy it just so I could stare at the cover...lol...I love the cover! Okay, I did really enjoy the book, even if I liked Moonscript more.
Coren and Zizain are the kind of characters you can't not like...if you know what I mean.
Coren and Zizain are the kind of characters you can't not like...if you know what I mean.
Read
August 12, 2022Thank you to all my readers for your patience and support as I write!
This story takes place after Moonscript (so Moonscript is recommended to read first if you want to avoid spoilers), but in it, Coren reflects on his past, so we will finally learn more about this mysterious red-headed rogue!
As of right now, Crown is only on Kindle, but that may change in the future. ☺️
This story takes place after Moonscript (so Moonscript is recommended to read first if you want to avoid spoilers), but in it, Coren reflects on his past, so we will finally learn more about this mysterious red-headed rogue!
As of right now, Crown is only on Kindle, but that may change in the future. ☺️
August 26, 2022
Crown of Sand & Sea tells the story of how Coren went from an elf prince with too much energy and passion to a hero living as a human and rescuing slaves. Coren's story is told in flash backs within a frame story where Coren and his father reconnect after years of tension. I was SO here for both the flash back stories and the elf father-son bonding time.
Coren is such a fun character. Red-haired elf prince? So much YES.
If you are looking for books about elves with major Lord of the Rings vibes and the found family trope, then you'll love this book and this series!
Coren is such a fun character. Red-haired elf prince? So much YES.
If you are looking for books about elves with major Lord of the Rings vibes and the found family trope, then you'll love this book and this series!
December 3, 2022
A heartfelt and thrilling adventure about a restless soul and what it means to help others.
AUTHOR: H.S.J. Williams
RATING: 5/5
AGE RAGE: 14+
SYNOPSIS:
PRINCE. PRODIGAL. PIRATE.
What kind of elf would cut his hair, wear a beard, and break all ties to the luxuries he was given by birth?
For years, Captain Coren has sailed the seas and ventured across foreign lands. Hated by the corrupt, hero to the unfortunate, and…misunderstood by his own family.
After the rescue of the crown prince, Leoren, steward of Aselvia, is forced to reconsider all his concerns about his wandering son and discover the story he’s never had the courage to hear. A story of raiding ships, surviving plagues, and rescuing slaves. A story of how one man’s unconventional life changed the course of thousands.
MY REVIEW:
First can we admire that gorgeous cover? *sighs happily* Ok, thank you. You’ll likely want to read Moonscript first if you have not, which I also highly recommend because it is an amazing book! Elves, tortured heroes, glorious battles between light and dark and all that wonderful stuff. I have been waiting for Crown of Sand and Sea for almost two years now and H.S.J. Willaims did not disappoint! The story, as told by the main character, follows Corin, an elf prince turned pirate. A very different type of pirate.
Plot and Worldbuilding:
Swashbuckling Corin sails us from the peaceful forest mountains of his childhood to colorful islands of the south to the ruthless but exotic streets of Oolum. While I have already traveled much of the world in Moonscript it was exciting to explore them more deeply beside a thrill-seeking elf. I loved the complexity between the lands and the salt whipped sea that carried you there.
The story starts a few years after the events in Moonscript when Corin hosts an unexpected visitor, his father. Corin then recounts his tale of how he became good-hearted merchant and eventually, the terror of slavers. His search for purpose and meaning in a dark world is inspiring and lights a spark in your soul.
Characters:
Of course, we have Corin as our main character who is a secondary character in Moonscript so it was quite delightful to learn more about him. I love his story arc as he goes from rebel youth to learning to use his quick mind, daring soul and charming personality to help change the evil in his world.
Then we have Zizain. Confidant, bold, and calculating. After Corin helps her out of a tough situation and betrayal, she decides to stick around. She becomes his partner in crime and together they change the lives of the people of Oolum.
Throughout Corin’s telling of his past, we encounter his father. Corin’s father never understood his son’s wild side and desire for adventure. Corin grew up believing his father scorned him. When the story ends, Corin forgives his father, and his father realizes his son’s passion is destined to challenge evil.
Conclusion:
Crown of Sand and Sea is an inspiring and well written (I get happy chills whenever I read H.S.J. William’s work, sometimes I secretly wonder if she is Tolkien’s granddaughter) novella about forgiveness, hope, and selflessness. Whether you want swashbuckling adventures or just a story with a good moral for once, I suggest you give this book and its companion a try. You won't regret it.
"Sometimes purpose is something we give ourselves... You can't just sit on a shore and watch your prize bob out on the ocean, hoping the waves will guide it to you. You've got to swim for it. Grasp it. Never let it go." - Crown of Sand and Sea
*I received an ARC book copy from the author; however, my review and opinion are my own*
AUTHOR: H.S.J. Williams
RATING: 5/5
AGE RAGE: 14+
SYNOPSIS:
PRINCE. PRODIGAL. PIRATE.
What kind of elf would cut his hair, wear a beard, and break all ties to the luxuries he was given by birth?
For years, Captain Coren has sailed the seas and ventured across foreign lands. Hated by the corrupt, hero to the unfortunate, and…misunderstood by his own family.
After the rescue of the crown prince, Leoren, steward of Aselvia, is forced to reconsider all his concerns about his wandering son and discover the story he’s never had the courage to hear. A story of raiding ships, surviving plagues, and rescuing slaves. A story of how one man’s unconventional life changed the course of thousands.
MY REVIEW:
First can we admire that gorgeous cover? *sighs happily* Ok, thank you. You’ll likely want to read Moonscript first if you have not, which I also highly recommend because it is an amazing book! Elves, tortured heroes, glorious battles between light and dark and all that wonderful stuff. I have been waiting for Crown of Sand and Sea for almost two years now and H.S.J. Willaims did not disappoint! The story, as told by the main character, follows Corin, an elf prince turned pirate. A very different type of pirate.
Plot and Worldbuilding:
Swashbuckling Corin sails us from the peaceful forest mountains of his childhood to colorful islands of the south to the ruthless but exotic streets of Oolum. While I have already traveled much of the world in Moonscript it was exciting to explore them more deeply beside a thrill-seeking elf. I loved the complexity between the lands and the salt whipped sea that carried you there.
The story starts a few years after the events in Moonscript when Corin hosts an unexpected visitor, his father. Corin then recounts his tale of how he became good-hearted merchant and eventually, the terror of slavers. His search for purpose and meaning in a dark world is inspiring and lights a spark in your soul.
Characters:
Of course, we have Corin as our main character who is a secondary character in Moonscript so it was quite delightful to learn more about him. I love his story arc as he goes from rebel youth to learning to use his quick mind, daring soul and charming personality to help change the evil in his world.
Then we have Zizain. Confidant, bold, and calculating. After Corin helps her out of a tough situation and betrayal, she decides to stick around. She becomes his partner in crime and together they change the lives of the people of Oolum.
Throughout Corin’s telling of his past, we encounter his father. Corin’s father never understood his son’s wild side and desire for adventure. Corin grew up believing his father scorned him. When the story ends, Corin forgives his father, and his father realizes his son’s passion is destined to challenge evil.
Conclusion:
Crown of Sand and Sea is an inspiring and well written (I get happy chills whenever I read H.S.J. William’s work, sometimes I secretly wonder if she is Tolkien’s granddaughter) novella about forgiveness, hope, and selflessness. Whether you want swashbuckling adventures or just a story with a good moral for once, I suggest you give this book and its companion a try. You won't regret it.
"Sometimes purpose is something we give ourselves... You can't just sit on a shore and watch your prize bob out on the ocean, hoping the waves will guide it to you. You've got to swim for it. Grasp it. Never let it go." - Crown of Sand and Sea
*I received an ARC book copy from the author; however, my review and opinion are my own*
July 25, 2022
As a fan of Moonscript, I was thrilled when given the opportunity to read Crown of Sand & Sea. H.S.J. Williams has spun another intriguing tale, this time about the backstory of Captain Coren and how he found purpose serving others where not many else would extend a helping hand. I enjoyed watching Coren’s character develop over the course of the story, as well as his relationship with Zizain, which was one of my favorite parts of Moonscript. The writing in this short story immediately pulled me in, even when I wasn’t in a mood for reading, and the plot was well-developed and kept me emotionally involved while rooting for the sympathetic characters and their cause.
*I received an ARC book copy from the author; however, my review and opinion are my own*
*I received an ARC book copy from the author; however, my review and opinion are my own*
October 11, 2022
Moar Coren!!
This was a lovely interlude about Coren. Understanding his history and getting to see more of him in the present(post-Moonscript) as well. It was chock full of his charm, wit, and golden heart, and I really loved the way it was framed between the past and him telling his father the story in the present. I'm even more excited for the next installment in the series now!
This was a lovely interlude about Coren. Understanding his history and getting to see more of him in the present(post-Moonscript) as well. It was chock full of his charm, wit, and golden heart, and I really loved the way it was framed between the past and him telling his father the story in the present. I'm even more excited for the next installment in the series now!
Want to read
May 20, 20225/20/22
That cover is so beautiful!! I am ridiculously excited for this book 🙌🏻 I'm still so excited that I got to help out with this cover reveal over on Instagram. woot woot!
___
eeeeeee it's on Goodreads!!!
I'll be back later for more updates :)
That cover is so beautiful!! I am ridiculously excited for this book 🙌🏻 I'm still so excited that I got to help out with this cover reveal over on Instagram. woot woot!
___
eeeeeee it's on Goodreads!!!
I'll be back later for more updates :)
March 31, 2023
Coren and Zizain were among my favorite characters in Moonscript, so when HSJ Williams announced a novella about Coren's past, my response was an immediate, "yes, please!" The only reason I didn't read it the second it came out was because it was ebook only. My only ereader at the time was on my phone and I struggle to read anything longer than a short story on that. (Arg, the eye strain.) But this year I finally caved and bought an actual Kindle, (yay, no eye strain, I should have bought one sooner) and I knew this had to be the first book I read on it.
It was great seeing Coren's early days and how he came to be someone who smuggled people out of bondage and into freedom. I especially enjoyed his and Zizain's early interactions and seeing one of the first times that they rescued a person from slavery. The whole thing was exciting, sweet, and just a thoroughly enjoyable story, albeit a short one.
My one tiny little disappointment was that I thought maybe this would be the story where we'd see the moment Coren and Zizain declared their love for each other, but I was wrong and I still wanna see it. XD If Ms. Williams should want to write that out someday, I'm here for it. I'm here for anything else she writes, too. :)
Content Advisory:
This story is YA in tone and mentions of brothels, harems, and "sensual slavery" make it most appropriate for teens and adults. However, there are no gritty details about this topic. The book simply acknowledges that these things exist and are wrong and Coren and Zizain have a heart for rescuing people from those situations.
It was great seeing Coren's early days and how he came to be someone who smuggled people out of bondage and into freedom. I especially enjoyed his and Zizain's early interactions and seeing one of the first times that they rescued a person from slavery. The whole thing was exciting, sweet, and just a thoroughly enjoyable story, albeit a short one.
My one tiny little disappointment was that I thought maybe this would be the story where we'd see the moment Coren and Zizain declared their love for each other, but I was wrong and I still wanna see it. XD If Ms. Williams should want to write that out someday, I'm here for it. I'm here for anything else she writes, too. :)
Content Advisory:
This story is YA in tone and mentions of brothels, harems, and "sensual slavery" make it most appropriate for teens and adults. However, there are no gritty details about this topic. The book simply acknowledges that these things exist and are wrong and Coren and Zizain have a heart for rescuing people from those situations.
May 25, 2022
I first fell in love with H.S. J. Williams's writing when I encountered Fairest Son; which is still my favorite Snow White retelling of all time (and I read a lot of those). And though I still haven't read Moonscript (don't ask, I think I just feel like I need to wait for the *perfect* time to read it because once I've read it...that's it, I've read it... no more longing stares as it sits next to my bed *sigh*), I was honored to be accepted as a beta reader for Crown of Sand & Sea.
All it took for me to know that I wanted this story is the first three words of the blurb:
Prince. Prodigal. Pirate.
That's all it took. And then I saw the cover and all but fell in love.
Meeting and getting to know Coren was a very charming experience. I loved the pacing of this novella and the flip-flopping between past and present. Coren is such a noble elf with a spunky attitude to back his decisions. Williams's writing is just as captivating as I remember as she paints Coren's life of adventure, risk, and passion out onto the pages.
I really loved reading this and recommend it to pirate lovers in the mood for a quick read.
All it took for me to know that I wanted this story is the first three words of the blurb:
Prince. Prodigal. Pirate.
That's all it took. And then I saw the cover and all but fell in love.
Meeting and getting to know Coren was a very charming experience. I loved the pacing of this novella and the flip-flopping between past and present. Coren is such a noble elf with a spunky attitude to back his decisions. Williams's writing is just as captivating as I remember as she paints Coren's life of adventure, risk, and passion out onto the pages.
I really loved reading this and recommend it to pirate lovers in the mood for a quick read.
November 5, 2022
Loved getting to see more of Coren's backstory and get another glimpse into the world first shown in Moonscript.
I will admit, this book didn't feel the same as William's usual style, which maybe is because of the type of story it is, but either way I was surprised. It was still good, but just didn't feel the same at all.
I did, however, love the story's message and getting to find out when Coren and Zizian first met. That was very special. I love when authors show the little stories that make up the big stories.
I will admit, this book didn't feel the same as William's usual style, which maybe is because of the type of story it is, but either way I was surprised. It was still good, but just didn't feel the same at all.
I did, however, love the story's message and getting to find out when Coren and Zizian first met. That was very special. I love when authors show the little stories that make up the big stories.
July 30, 2023
I loved Moonscript and when one of the gals that I did a read-along with mentioned there was a novella about Captain/Prince Coren, I was soooo excited and snagged it from KU immediately!
I hope Williams does a few more of these novellas - Rendar, Leoren...even Casara! She has a beautiful world that she built up in Moonscript and I can't be the only one who would love to get to know Aselvia's occupants more.
I would definitely say that you NEED to read Moonscript before reading this as the beginning is an absolute spoiler. If you don't care about things like that, that's cool!
Crown of Sand & Sea is Coren's life story that he shares with his father, Leoren, who he has been mostly estranged from for years. Well, him and his mother, Casara. We do learn something about Leoren that is not mentioned in Moonscript, but absolutely makes sense about why Coren does the things that he does. It was also great to learn about Zizain's backstory as well!
Overall, a quick and easy read that brings us more into the fantastic world that Williams has created.
I hope Williams does a few more of these novellas - Rendar, Leoren...even Casara! She has a beautiful world that she built up in Moonscript and I can't be the only one who would love to get to know Aselvia's occupants more.
I would definitely say that you NEED to read Moonscript before reading this as the beginning is an absolute spoiler. If you don't care about things like that, that's cool!
Crown of Sand & Sea is Coren's life story that he shares with his father, Leoren, who he has been mostly estranged from for years. Well, him and his mother, Casara. We do learn something about Leoren that is not mentioned in Moonscript, but absolutely makes sense about why Coren does the things that he does. It was also great to learn about Zizain's backstory as well!
Overall, a quick and easy read that brings us more into the fantastic world that Williams has created.
August 7, 2023
A good look into how Coren became the man he was. There was no real plot line—just a history. I wish there was more content that tied into the events of Moonscript, but I am glad to have read this.😊
August 30, 2024
So glad the physical copy of this book came out! The added illustrations are such an added bonus!!!
April 9, 2023
I love it. I love it so much. If you've read Moonscript, you have to read this novella. I'm so glad I saved it for the end of vacation and not a moment sooner.
Well... Guess I have no choice but to reread Moonscript before Collusion comes out 👀
Well... Guess I have no choice but to reread Moonscript before Collusion comes out 👀
January 1, 2025
This seemed far shorter than Moonscript or Collusion- and the fact that I blazed through it so fast speaks volumes on that… but who cares? It’s COREN!!!! I think I’m not alone in the fandom who would buy and read even a limerick about this lovable elven pirate.
And what a fun way to go, as Coren has all day and night to tell his dad about his escapades while they wait for Zizain and Zoren to arrive home after visiting a friend.
Coren’s first job signing on as a ship hand, the adventures along the way foiling the slave trade and then striking on his own and eventually saving Zizain from her louse of a boyfriend… I could swoon over how good a man he is.
Please, please, please keep bringing him back for more stories! I really could handle a further adventures of Captain Coren in my future!
Even if you haven’t read both Moonscript or Collusion, you could still enjoy this as a stand-alone story, but don’t deprive yourself of all the Coren you can get… read all three because he is totally worth it.
And what a fun way to go, as Coren has all day and night to tell his dad about his escapades while they wait for Zizain and Zoren to arrive home after visiting a friend.
Coren’s first job signing on as a ship hand, the adventures along the way foiling the slave trade and then striking on his own and eventually saving Zizain from her louse of a boyfriend… I could swoon over how good a man he is.
Please, please, please keep bringing him back for more stories! I really could handle a further adventures of Captain Coren in my future!
Even if you haven’t read both Moonscript or Collusion, you could still enjoy this as a stand-alone story, but don’t deprive yourself of all the Coren you can get… read all three because he is totally worth it.
August 30, 2022
Crown of Sand and Sea offers the reader a wonderful glimpse into the backstory of Coren, of how he set off from Aselvia and eventually ended up in Oolum, where we know from Moonscript he met dear Zizain. The characters are all wonderful, the good guys genuinely trying to what is good and the villains are truly villainous. And I won't give any spoilers, but there are some wonderful things that happen in the 'present' part of the story, involving Leoren, Coren, Zizain, and a new character. The humor is also great in this story and lightens up the story, but at the same time, the subject of the story is taken very seriously and handled in a tasteful way. The themes behind Crown of Sand and Sea are so important, and I am very grateful that Williams addresses these issues, to bring them to light and to spread awareness. You see, Crown of Sand and Sea brings awareness to the horror that is trafficking and slavery, and Willaims reminds us that this too happens in our world, and there are many out there who need help.
Give Crown of Sand Sea a read (preferably after reading Moonscript, to have a better appreciation of the characters and plot). I think you'll be quite happy you decided to give this dear book a try.
Give Crown of Sand Sea a read (preferably after reading Moonscript, to have a better appreciation of the characters and plot). I think you'll be quite happy you decided to give this dear book a try.
May 29, 2022
This novella was fantastic!
I read it as a beta-reader, so I must thank the author for giving me this opportunity.
I loved the format of the story and how all of Coren's stories from his past tied together.
I just LOVED Coren, he's such a fun character and loved to discover more about his past and how it shaped him. And the interactions between him and Zizian were just BEAUTIFUL.
To keep it short, this book was an easy five stars (just like Moonscript), and you should totally read it as soon as it's official released!
I read it as a beta-reader, so I must thank the author for giving me this opportunity.
I loved the format of the story and how all of Coren's stories from his past tied together.
I just LOVED Coren, he's such a fun character and loved to discover more about his past and how it shaped him. And the interactions between him and Zizian were just BEAUTIFUL.
To keep it short, this book was an easy five stars (just like Moonscript), and you should totally read it as soon as it's official released!
August 11, 2022
This novella was amazing! I love how it fills everything in an entertaining way. And Coren and Zizain were as adorable as ever! I’m glad I took the time to read this clean novella.
*I received an ARC, but the opinions expressed are my own*
*I received an ARC, but the opinions expressed are my own*
January 31, 2025
Agh, how do I even begin this review?????
I absolutely loved reading about Coren's backstory and how he first left Aselvia and met Zizain. It makes me love his character even more! I do wish I had read this before Collusion, but better late than never. And that one plot twist! Even though I knew All in all, if you liked Moonscript I highly recommend checking out this book!
Content to be aware of: The slave trade, mentions of r*pe that happened long before the book begins, prostitution (nothing graphic), fortune telling, some innuendo comments, alcohol and drinking, some fighting and injuries, and a nasty disease.
I absolutely loved reading about Coren's backstory and how he first left Aselvia and met Zizain. It makes me love his character even more! I do wish I had read this before Collusion, but better late than never. And that one plot twist! Even though I knew All in all, if you liked Moonscript I highly recommend checking out this book!
Content to be aware of: The slave trade, mentions of r*pe that happened long before the book begins, prostitution (nothing graphic), fortune telling, some innuendo comments, alcohol and drinking, some fighting and injuries, and a nasty disease.
February 15, 2023
Content:
Language: None.
Violence: mild-moderate peril.
Sexual: mild. This book deals a lot with slave trafficking, including sex trafficking. It is handled gently and with care.
TW: This book again, deals heavily with slave trade, sex trafficking, etc. The author is exceptionally good at not graphically describing things to the point of nausea. The point of the story is the mission to improve and help those caught in deplorable situations. The hope is there always.
I've been hanging onto this book for months now, knowing I was going to love it, and wanting to save it for down the road to enjoy. I read it in one sitting and at the end of the last page, I had a warm smile on my face, my heart light and full at once. The care and time taken to write this book shows in every line. I loved learning about Corren and how he came to be where we found him in Moonscript. He is a gem among the elves, a different sort of prince that is absolutely amazing.
The fact that this is told through Corren relating his life to his father, Leoren, whom is a sweet if too disciplined man, was so wonderful. Having been estranged for so long, seeing this father and son sit down to try to understand one another was beautiful. That message, along with the one that Corren represents, made this book more than just a good story. It showed the goodness of people alongside the desperation, the hope in the darkness.
Needless to say, I loved seeing Corren's journey. And I can't wait to see more of Aselvia, and the world Ms. Williams has created that highlights faith, hope, and redemption.
Language: None.
Violence: mild-moderate peril.
Sexual: mild. This book deals a lot with slave trafficking, including sex trafficking. It is handled gently and with care.
TW: This book again, deals heavily with slave trade, sex trafficking, etc. The author is exceptionally good at not graphically describing things to the point of nausea. The point of the story is the mission to improve and help those caught in deplorable situations. The hope is there always.
I've been hanging onto this book for months now, knowing I was going to love it, and wanting to save it for down the road to enjoy. I read it in one sitting and at the end of the last page, I had a warm smile on my face, my heart light and full at once. The care and time taken to write this book shows in every line. I loved learning about Corren and how he came to be where we found him in Moonscript. He is a gem among the elves, a different sort of prince that is absolutely amazing.
The fact that this is told through Corren relating his life to his father, Leoren, whom is a sweet if too disciplined man, was so wonderful. Having been estranged for so long, seeing this father and son sit down to try to understand one another was beautiful. That message, along with the one that Corren represents, made this book more than just a good story. It showed the goodness of people alongside the desperation, the hope in the darkness.
Needless to say, I loved seeing Corren's journey. And I can't wait to see more of Aselvia, and the world Ms. Williams has created that highlights faith, hope, and redemption.
August 24, 2022
I loved Moonscript and have read it several times since it came out, so I was a little unsure of what to think about a novella revolving around characters that had certainly had a good amount of presence in the story, but were not exactly main characters. But oh my, Crown of Sand and Sea made me fall in love with Coren and Zizain and now I want to go back and read Moonscript with this new information I have about them! They are exactly the Coren and Zizain I knew from the first book, but after understanding their story more, I just love them so much! HSJ Williams ability to weave a story and make me fall even more in love with the characters is better than ever and I cannot recommend this book enough to Moonscript lovers who want to delve deeper in to the world of Aselvia and the land surrounding it. I read it almost straight through in one afternoon and couldn't stop reading it!
Once again HSJ Williams tackles a very serious theme (human trafficking) in a very tasteful way that makes you think and really care about the victims in the story. The problem of human trafficking is an issue that is close to my heart, so I appreciated the links to real life foundations at the back of the book that help human trafficking victims in our own realm.
Once again HSJ Williams tackles a very serious theme (human trafficking) in a very tasteful way that makes you think and really care about the victims in the story. The problem of human trafficking is an issue that is close to my heart, so I appreciated the links to real life foundations at the back of the book that help human trafficking victims in our own realm.
May 27, 2023
H.S.J. Williams is an exceptional author and Crown of Sand & Sea is yet more evidence of that. I highly recommend reading Moonscript before reading this so that you can get a good grasp on the world and characters (plus there are quite a few spoilers for Moonscript in this novella).
I loved exploring Coren's world, even the broken parts. Of course, having Zizian in the story was a nice plus! She is an awesome female character and imagining her accent had me grinning! It was also nice to see Leoren reaching out to his son (glasses sound very fashionable on him😊) and Ah'daava Leoren was very cute.
Seeing more of Aselvia was fantastic! The world building is so interesting. When rereading, I noticed a few suspicious bits.
This novella is wonderful and worth the few dollars to read. I hear a physical copy is in the works, so I'm eagerly waiting for that.😁
I loved exploring Coren's world, even the broken parts. Of course, having Zizian in the story was a nice plus! She is an awesome female character and imagining her accent had me grinning! It was also nice to see Leoren reaching out to his son (glasses sound very fashionable on him😊) and Ah'daava Leoren was very cute.
Seeing more of Aselvia was fantastic! The world building is so interesting. When rereading, I noticed a few suspicious bits.
This novella is wonderful and worth the few dollars to read. I hear a physical copy is in the works, so I'm eagerly waiting for that.😁
March 16, 2023
My rating: 3.5 put of 5 stars
When I read "Moonscript," about 3 years ago I quickly grew to like one of the side characters named Coren. When I heard we were getting a novella were he was the main character I was so excited.
I'm glad to say that I enjoyed it.
"Crown of Sand & Sea," gives us a insight into how Coren became the freedom fighting captain that he is. Coren is honestly an amazing rolemodel. We should all strive to give of ourselves like he does!
I do wish this novella was just a wee bit longer. The pacing was so fast and the story didn't feel one hundred percent complete.
I guess what I mean to say is that I could have read a full length novel where Coren and Zizian are the main characters haha.
I hope that we will get more books in the Kings of Aselvia series in the near future!
When I read "Moonscript," about 3 years ago I quickly grew to like one of the side characters named Coren. When I heard we were getting a novella were he was the main character I was so excited.
I'm glad to say that I enjoyed it.
"Crown of Sand & Sea," gives us a insight into how Coren became the freedom fighting captain that he is. Coren is honestly an amazing rolemodel. We should all strive to give of ourselves like he does!
I do wish this novella was just a wee bit longer. The pacing was so fast and the story didn't feel one hundred percent complete.
I guess what I mean to say is that I could have read a full length novel where Coren and Zizian are the main characters haha.
I hope that we will get more books in the Kings of Aselvia series in the near future!
August 18, 2022
I’ve been greatly anticipating this novella—it’s hard not to when it’s a side story about Captain Coren of the Solitary Star, pirate of Oolum, cousin of the Aselvian throne! I loved this dude from the first time we met back in Moonscript, with his peppy charisma and humor, so it was great being able to explore more of his background and how he got from elven prince to Niarian pirate and freedom fighter. And how he met the intrepid Zizain! There is also a strong thread of reconnecting with his estranged father, bringing together his family in faith, love, and forgiveness, which gave it a feeling of home—and I do love me a homecoming story!
September 12, 2022
I received an ARC of this book. I was not required to leave a review and all opinions are my own.
Ah, Coren, our good-hearted pirate! I was so excited to be back in the Moonscript world. I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about Coren and Zizain. The story was fun, exciting, and my only complaint is that I wanted more! Highly recommended for anyone who loved Moonscript!
Ah, Coren, our good-hearted pirate! I was so excited to be back in the Moonscript world. I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about Coren and Zizain. The story was fun, exciting, and my only complaint is that I wanted more! Highly recommended for anyone who loved Moonscript!
May 17, 2025
This little book that goes between Moonscript and Collusion was wonderful! I loved getting to sit down with Coren and his father and hear about how he came to be a pirate and smuggler - and a family man :) I look forward to reading more of the tales taking place in Aselvia and its neighboring lands!
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