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Chronicles of Elantra #3
Cast in Secret
Still avoiding magic whenever possible, Corporal Kaylin Neya relished investigating a regular theft once again. Until she found out the mysterious box was taken from Elani Street, where the mages and charlatans mingled, and it was sometimes hard to tell the difference between the two. But she was hoping this might be a mundane case-- --when in a back room Kaylin saw a lost-looking girl in a reflective pool...who called out Kaylin's name.
Shaken, Kaylin tried to stay focused on the case at hand. But since the stolen item was ancient, without a keyhole, and held tremendous darkness inside, Kaylin knew unknown forces were again playing with her destiny--and her life....
Shaken, Kaylin tried to stay focused on the case at hand. But since the stolen item was ancient, without a keyhole, and held tremendous darkness inside, Kaylin knew unknown forces were again playing with her destiny--and her life....
521 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2007
214 people are currently reading
2553 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Sagara
53 books1,794 followersSee also:
Michelle Sagara West
Michelle West
Michelle is an author, bookseller, and lover of literature based in Toronto. She writes fantasy novels as both Michelle Sagara and Michelle West (and sometimes as Michelle Sagara West). You can find her books at fine booksellers.
She lives in Toronto with her long-suffering husband and her two children, and to her regret has no dogs.
Reading is one of her life-long passions, and she is sometimes paid for her opinions about what she’s read by the venerable Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction. No matter how many bookshelves she buys, there is Never Enough Shelf space. Ever.
She has published as Michelle Sagara (her legal name), as Michelle West (her husband's surname), and as Michelle Sagara West (a combination of the two).
Michelle Sagara West
Michelle West
Michelle is an author, bookseller, and lover of literature based in Toronto. She writes fantasy novels as both Michelle Sagara and Michelle West (and sometimes as Michelle Sagara West). You can find her books at fine booksellers.
She lives in Toronto with her long-suffering husband and her two children, and to her regret has no dogs.
Reading is one of her life-long passions, and she is sometimes paid for her opinions about what she’s read by the venerable Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction. No matter how many bookshelves she buys, there is Never Enough Shelf space. Ever.
She has published as Michelle Sagara (her legal name), as Michelle West (her husband's surname), and as Michelle Sagara West (a combination of the two).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 309 reviews
March 27, 2020
Actual rating: 2.5 stars.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: this is one of the richest, most interesting, original Fantasy worlds I've ever come across. And yet…
Yep, that's right. Because there is only so much boredom I can take. And Bloody Fantastic Elantra (BFE™) or not, I've had it. I've had it with the incessant, irrelevant blah-blah-blah-ing. And with the non-stop, unnecessary, uninteresting info dumping. And with the painfully slow pace. And with the ever-jumbled plot that makes me feel like a harebrained nitwit. And with the total and utter lack of character development. Kaylin, my dear, you could have made it into my Cool Chicks Harem, but you keep blabbering like an immature teenager just like you did in the first instalment, and I've had enough. I have been anxiously waiting to know more about you and the mysteriously mysterious symbols on your body since book one, but you know what? I have no patience left. And I don't give a bloody damn anymore.
Come to think of it, this whole world and the characters in it seem to have stopped their progression/evolution at the end of book 1. Nothing new or exciting has happened since Cast in Shadow, and it feels like the author hit the freeze button on her writing remote ← don't ask me what a writing remote is supposed to be, I have no freaking idea. I usually love it when authors take their time to develop the world they created (not too much time though, I am, after all, little
» And the moral of this Crappy Non Review is: I. AM. DONE.
· Book 0.5: Cast in Moonlight ★★★★
· Book 1: Cast in Shadow ★★★★★
· Book 2: Cast in Courtlight ★★★★ (make that 3.5 stars. Because I was in a good mood when I wrote the Crappy Non Review.)
November 7, 2017
Welp, Kaylin is still a stumbling, bumbling idiot who refuses to learn jack and somehow is still alive, despite her nonstop nonsense talking. She doesn't annoy me enough to hate these books, but she definitely brings them down.
This time around is about the Thal'anni, the mind reader people with tentacles on their head. One of their kids goes missing and Kaylin has to find the child. Right up her usual alley.
Highlights: more dragons, Severn, Evanton, the Oracles, Everly, and all the very interesting elementals.
I think this book seemed shorter than the others, which is good because I'm not super interested in the tentacle people. Severn is still hot and I'm still wondering why he likes Kaylin. Nightshade is still in the picture, in the weird crush triangle going on. I'd say love triangle, but there's no romance, it's kind of like "I could maybe have a crush on you." I like Nightshade, he's all odd and mysterious + you know he's only talking to Kaylin for his own angles.
The ending was interesting, could've been more bloody and murderous; I'm underwhelmed on that part. Fingers crossed the next book gets more stabby.
This time around is about the Thal'anni, the mind reader people with tentacles on their head. One of their kids goes missing and Kaylin has to find the child. Right up her usual alley.
Highlights: more dragons, Severn, Evanton, the Oracles, Everly, and all the very interesting elementals.
I think this book seemed shorter than the others, which is good because I'm not super interested in the tentacle people. Severn is still hot and I'm still wondering why he likes Kaylin. Nightshade is still in the picture, in the weird crush triangle going on. I'd say love triangle, but there's no romance, it's kind of like "I could maybe have a crush on you." I like Nightshade, he's all odd and mysterious + you know he's only talking to Kaylin for his own angles.
The ending was interesting, could've been more bloody and murderous; I'm underwhelmed on that part. Fingers crossed the next book gets more stabby.
March 24, 2017
These books read like police procedurals with a smart-mouthed officer with a blinding weakness for children, but in a world overflowing with mysterious magic and cool species. So not really action-oriented, but gripping if you enjoy investigations that involve talking to witnesses and putting the pieces together. All of that builds to the end, when I find myself reading so fast I forget to blink. All without swords! (However, there are knives.)
The investigations are centered on crimes, but the more fascinating mysteries are the magic and world with its multiple species, and these really take center stage. Each book so far has illuminated a new aspect of the world and magic, becoming more intriguing as the picture clears. I don't always understand everything at first, but I get a general idea and carry on, and it becomes more clear as it goes. I love that it feels like there's so much left to learn in future books, too.
This book in particular illuminates the Tha'alani, one of the mortal races. I really enjoyed them much more than I expected!
Kaylin is still impulsive and driven mostly by instinct when it comes to magic, but she's learning. She's also learning to keep her mouth shut occasionally. To say anymore than that would be to spoil it, so I won't. Enjoy.
The investigations are centered on crimes, but the more fascinating mysteries are the magic and world with its multiple species, and these really take center stage. Each book so far has illuminated a new aspect of the world and magic, becoming more intriguing as the picture clears. I don't always understand everything at first, but I get a general idea and carry on, and it becomes more clear as it goes. I love that it feels like there's so much left to learn in future books, too.
This book in particular illuminates the Tha'alani, one of the mortal races. I really enjoyed them much more than I expected!
Kaylin is still impulsive and driven mostly by instinct when it comes to magic, but she's learning. She's also learning to keep her mouth shut occasionally. To say anymore than that would be to spoil it, so I won't. Enjoy.
March 13, 2017
I don't know exactly what it is about these books, but I really find them enjoyable to read. The fantasy world created by Sagara is incredibly rich and original, and I like the way she adds to the world with each installment. I also appreciate how each book works as a complete story by itself, but also adds pieces to the larger story arc that is developing in the series.
This time we got to learn a lot more about the Tha'alani, a mortal race of telepaths that Kaylin has previously been fearful of. It was interesting to see Kaylin face her racial prejudice, and her process of trying to understand and overcome it. I would have liked a bit more of Severn, who continues to be a great character, but there are so many interesting characters that I was happy to spend time with others as well. Once again the parts where magic is used were very well written, and there was a nice balance between mystery and action.
I'm so curious to see where the story goes next in Cast in Fury.
This time we got to learn a lot more about the Tha'alani, a mortal race of telepaths that Kaylin has previously been fearful of. It was interesting to see Kaylin face her racial prejudice, and her process of trying to understand and overcome it. I would have liked a bit more of Severn, who continues to be a great character, but there are so many interesting characters that I was happy to spend time with others as well. Once again the parts where magic is used were very well written, and there was a nice balance between mystery and action.
I'm so curious to see where the story goes next in Cast in Fury.
January 12, 2011
I enjoyed the first book in this series because it was different, compelling, and interesting. I enjoyed the second one because it was similar, but some of the things that bothered me about the first book started to get to me in the second book. Now, the things that annoyed me in previous books are all that I see, and I'm about finished giving this series a chance. The worst thing about Cast in Secret is that it doesn't give any reason to continue the series. In the other books there were secrets waiting to be uncovered and characters that were compelling, this book is just a long drawn out mystery. All of the things that have been wrong with the series since the beginning are still present. First, the characters. Kaylin is immature and has not progressed one bit. I would say she is dim witted, but I can't follow the events that are occurring any better than she can. Everyone knows more than the main character and they are not willing to share their information with her. It's extremely frustrating. The secondary characters don't appeal because no new information was gained about them in this book. I'd love to know more about Lord Nightshade but he's not sharing. As for the oracles and people with moth feelers on their heads, I couldn't care less. I've come to the point where the world is no longer new and exciting, the mysteries are convoluted and painful to follow, and the characters aren't as interesting as they once were. I'd love to know more about the symbols Kaylin has on her body, and about Nightshade. It doesn't seem like that will happen anytime soon, but I may continue just for that. Another problem I have is the writing style. The dialogue consists a of very short sentence from one character, followed by a one word reply from another character. For example:
"Water," he said. "Tell me what you think."
She knew she was chewing on her lower lip. "Well," she said at last, "you can drown in it."
"Yes."
"And the storms at sea-"
"Yes."
"But if you don't drink it, you die."
"Very good."
Or this:
"If he's involved in this-"
"Yes."
"He never stopped."
"No."
"Severn?"
"Yes?"
"Did the Wolves hunt him?"
He didn't answer...
I'm starting to think this book was written with no real purpose. The other books hinted at things to come, this one stayed in the present and gave us very little new information. I like when authors plan out their series instead of just throwing a book together around a mystery and some elementals. I would like to think this series is going somewhere instead of just stagnating. I would like to think something important will happen instead of just throwing Kaylin into quests she isn't intelligent enough to handle intelligently. Who knows what the next book would bring. I know that I'm sick of the writing style, the characters, the plot, the mystery, and everyone knowing things they never share.
"Water," he said. "Tell me what you think."
She knew she was chewing on her lower lip. "Well," she said at last, "you can drown in it."
"Yes."
"And the storms at sea-"
"Yes."
"But if you don't drink it, you die."
"Very good."
Or this:
"If he's involved in this-"
"Yes."
"He never stopped."
"No."
"Severn?"
"Yes?"
"Did the Wolves hunt him?"
He didn't answer...
I'm starting to think this book was written with no real purpose. The other books hinted at things to come, this one stayed in the present and gave us very little new information. I like when authors plan out their series instead of just throwing a book together around a mystery and some elementals. I would like to think this series is going somewhere instead of just stagnating. I would like to think something important will happen instead of just throwing Kaylin into quests she isn't intelligent enough to handle intelligently. Who knows what the next book would bring. I know that I'm sick of the writing style, the characters, the plot, the mystery, and everyone knowing things they never share.
November 17, 2015
**** 3.75 ****
I really like this series, the world building and the legend and mythology it creates! I would have given if a higher rating, but this particular case was quite slow to start, dragged in the middle, and the end was somewhat anticlimactic... I think I didn't get enough of the lion people and Kaylin acted like a bratty child most of the time. All of the supporting characters are telling her what I want to scream at her - IGNORANCE IS NOT COOL! Nor is it helpful... So, the author is aware of this and I am hoping she is going to grow little with every book, so I am going to be patient and wait, because the books are very compelling and have great potential!!!
I really like this series, the world building and the legend and mythology it creates! I would have given if a higher rating, but this particular case was quite slow to start, dragged in the middle, and the end was somewhat anticlimactic... I think I didn't get enough of the lion people and Kaylin acted like a bratty child most of the time. All of the supporting characters are telling her what I want to scream at her - IGNORANCE IS NOT COOL! Nor is it helpful... So, the author is aware of this and I am hoping she is going to grow little with every book, so I am going to be patient and wait, because the books are very compelling and have great potential!!!
November 1, 2023
Stars: 4 out of 5.
This is my favorite book of the series so far.
I like how in each new book, we uncover another side of this very complex world. It is hinted in the first book that Elantra is built on the ruins of previous civilizations. And the second book show us a little bit about what those were, as well as why the Barani have to have a strong presence in the city (hint: they are containing an even bigger evil).
I also like that Kaylin has to confront her own preconceptions in each consecutive book, which often changes her whole opinion about a situation, or in this case, an entire race of people. Last book it was the Barani, this time we learn more about the Thal'anni, a race of telepaths that Kaylin absolutely abhorred in the previous books because she only considered what they could do to her - break into her mind and discover her worst secrets. She never stopped to think the price they paid for that ability.
I loved this exploration of the origins of an entire race and the decisions that led to this particular race choosing to be peaceful, when they had the means and the ability to dominate this world (not to mention destroy it). In fact, they almost did just that once, a long time ago.
Kaylin had to confront the toll mind reading exerts from the Thal'anni, and realize that they don't do it willingly at all. Those Thal'anni working for the Emperor are a tribute the race has to pay for being left in peace. And those tributes often come back damaged by the experiences they are forced to pry out of the minds of the people they interrogate.
While Kaylin still irritates me most of the time, because she behaves like a teenager younger than the 17 years she is supposed to be in this book, I love her unwavering loyalty to children in need. Protecting children who can't protect themselves is at the core of her being. It defines her ever since her little family in Nightshade. It's the murder of those children that she couldn't forgive Severn for, or herself. So her trying to care for the children in the Foundling Hall, or do everything in her power to save women in difficult labor is what defines her character. And you know what? I can stand behind that. And I can forgive a lot of her other quirks and stupid knee jerk decisions she makes because of that.
Especially since she get a little bit more character growth in this book. She learns that she was wrong hating a race of people because of a bad experience with one of them. And that experience wasn't even that interrogator's fault. She acknowledges her wrong and manages to grow past it. To see individual people where before she saw monsters. That's a very mature step to take that not many adults are capable of even in our world.
As it stands, I want to learn more about this world. Every book gives me a little glimpse into it and keeps me hooked. I also want to learn more about the forces behind the marks on Kaylin's arms and what it all means for the world of Elantra. Onward to book 4.
If you liked this review, check out my blog.
This is my favorite book of the series so far.
I like how in each new book, we uncover another side of this very complex world. It is hinted in the first book that Elantra is built on the ruins of previous civilizations. And the second book show us a little bit about what those were, as well as why the Barani have to have a strong presence in the city (hint: they are containing an even bigger evil).
I also like that Kaylin has to confront her own preconceptions in each consecutive book, which often changes her whole opinion about a situation, or in this case, an entire race of people. Last book it was the Barani, this time we learn more about the Thal'anni, a race of telepaths that Kaylin absolutely abhorred in the previous books because she only considered what they could do to her - break into her mind and discover her worst secrets. She never stopped to think the price they paid for that ability.
I loved this exploration of the origins of an entire race and the decisions that led to this particular race choosing to be peaceful, when they had the means and the ability to dominate this world (not to mention destroy it). In fact, they almost did just that once, a long time ago.
Kaylin had to confront the toll mind reading exerts from the Thal'anni, and realize that they don't do it willingly at all. Those Thal'anni working for the Emperor are a tribute the race has to pay for being left in peace. And those tributes often come back damaged by the experiences they are forced to pry out of the minds of the people they interrogate.
While Kaylin still irritates me most of the time, because she behaves like a teenager younger than the 17 years she is supposed to be in this book, I love her unwavering loyalty to children in need. Protecting children who can't protect themselves is at the core of her being. It defines her ever since her little family in Nightshade. It's the murder of those children that she couldn't forgive Severn for, or herself. So her trying to care for the children in the Foundling Hall, or do everything in her power to save women in difficult labor is what defines her character. And you know what? I can stand behind that. And I can forgive a lot of her other quirks and stupid knee jerk decisions she makes because of that.
Especially since she get a little bit more character growth in this book. She learns that she was wrong hating a race of people because of a bad experience with one of them. And that experience wasn't even that interrogator's fault. She acknowledges her wrong and manages to grow past it. To see individual people where before she saw monsters. That's a very mature step to take that not many adults are capable of even in our world.
As it stands, I want to learn more about this world. Every book gives me a little glimpse into it and keeps me hooked. I also want to learn more about the forces behind the marks on Kaylin's arms and what it all means for the world of Elantra. Onward to book 4.
If you liked this review, check out my blog.
September 29, 2024
4.5/5.0
I’ve seen this series described as a police procedural, and that is very accurate, IF that moniker is placed in a fantasy realm and seen through the eyes of that world. It is methodical in its unraveling of the mystery in each book but there is SO much more! There is a virtual multitude of layers within each story that it never gets boring (as some procedurals can do).
I absolutely love the world and the characters. They are unique yet very nuanced. There are so many different factions within each race that the possibilities are endless and interesting - and Kaylin, Severn and the rest keep us delightfully entertained, as well. My only complaint is that Kaylin’s character REALLY needs to develop more at this point! This is the third book and she is still stuck refusing to learn and realize her potential. It is past time for the character growth to begin. Also, it is also way past time to see at least a little romance between her and Severn!
I’ve seen this series described as a police procedural, and that is very accurate, IF that moniker is placed in a fantasy realm and seen through the eyes of that world. It is methodical in its unraveling of the mystery in each book but there is SO much more! There is a virtual multitude of layers within each story that it never gets boring (as some procedurals can do).
I absolutely love the world and the characters. They are unique yet very nuanced. There are so many different factions within each race that the possibilities are endless and interesting - and Kaylin, Severn and the rest keep us delightfully entertained, as well. My only complaint is that Kaylin’s character REALLY needs to develop more at this point! This is the third book and she is still stuck refusing to learn and realize her potential. It is past time for the character growth to begin. Also, it is also way past time to see at least a little romance between her and Severn!
March 19, 2017
I really like each, episodic story, all the while exploring the world of Elantra and Kaylin.
One complaint. When are we going to see the romance that is just bubbling away under the surface?? I'm going to be sad if it never materialises.
One complaint. When are we going to see the romance that is just bubbling away under the surface?? I'm going to be sad if it never materialises.
September 18, 2017
It seems that there's a pattern to these book. With each new instalment we get to know one of the races better. I wonder what will happen once we're out of races.
I really liked the Thaalani. I also understand why Kaylin and most of the other people in the Empire fear them. I value my privacy way too much appreciated someone who can randomly get in my head. At the same time I'm pretty sure that had I had a similar power I would turn hermit. Just seeing the utter stupidity people do and put on the internet makes me doubt that humanity should exists.
The history of the Thaalani and their connection to the elements was really fascinating. The seers and their hall, the way it was organized to take care of beings who are unable due to their gifts to take care of themselves, is another thing that I liked. Basically I liked everything except Kaylin.
Kaylin's continued insistence on staying ignorant, especially in the face of constantly needing someone to educate her on things she would have known had she listened at least a little during her classes gets me riled up each time. I just want to crawl into the book and slap her and then drag her to a school and chain her to a desk until she learns at least the basics of the world she lives in. She's not only not in the fiefs anymore but she's also one of the major players and she isn't dumb enough not to realize it. She might be in a state of denial but deep down she knows it. Just like every other character in the series knows it. So Kaylin, please stop acting like a juvenile and grow the f@ck up!
I really liked the Thaalani. I also understand why Kaylin and most of the other people in the Empire fear them. I value my privacy way too much appreciated someone who can randomly get in my head. At the same time I'm pretty sure that had I had a similar power I would turn hermit. Just seeing the utter stupidity people do and put on the internet makes me doubt that humanity should exists.
The history of the Thaalani and their connection to the elements was really fascinating. The seers and their hall, the way it was organized to take care of beings who are unable due to their gifts to take care of themselves, is another thing that I liked. Basically I liked everything except Kaylin.
Kaylin's continued insistence on staying ignorant, especially in the face of constantly needing someone to educate her on things she would have known had she listened at least a little during her classes gets me riled up each time. I just want to crawl into the book and slap her and then drag her to a school and chain her to a desk until she learns at least the basics of the world she lives in. She's not only not in the fiefs anymore but she's also one of the major players and she isn't dumb enough not to realize it. She might be in a state of denial but deep down she knows it. Just like every other character in the series knows it. So Kaylin, please stop acting like a juvenile and grow the f@ck up!
December 26, 2019
As of its third volume, the Chronicles of Elantra has fallen into a sort of groove for me. The beginning is always interesting, the end is great, and the middle is very much a mixed bag.
Cast in Secret largely deals with the telepathic Th'alani and the element of water . I love the worldbuilding and descriptions in these books, especially when magic comes into play. The elemental grove behind Evanton's shop is a fascinating place, and the "basement" of Nightshade's castle was fun, too. New power is dangled in front of Kaylin, and because she is who she is, she tries to deny it rather than grabbing it with both hands, as most people would.
I've become more accepting of Severn's role in these novels. He might act all Wolf-y and draw his weapon now and then, but what he's really there for is to be Kaylin's bulwark, to be her backup wherever she goes. The reader has to put up with a lot of "Severn said nothing" along the way. It'd be nice if he asserted himself beyond being a silent presence now and then.
On the whole, these aren't action-packed books, though, and things have mellowed considerably since the first one, when characters--who are fairly docile now--literally threatened to kill one another almost as a matter of greeting. This one's almost on the cozy side, despite the epic-fantasy style world-threatening enemy .
It was tempting to give this volume, and the previous one, better ratings because of their endings, both of which were moving and well-done. But I don't because of what I perceive as lackluster editing that lets so many repetitions of very tired phrases slip by. Don't create a drinking game around "He raised a brow" or somebody stomping on Kaylin's foot to get her to shut up....
My attraction to this series, and my frustrations with it, continue. It has a unique vibe that I'll certainly be back to enjoy more of, and I'll try to be strong and not throw the next book against the wall when somebody raises their brow for the millionth damn time, or when the worldbuilding through dialogue goes on and on and on.
Cast in Secret largely deals with the telepathic Th'alani and the element of water . I love the worldbuilding and descriptions in these books, especially when magic comes into play. The elemental grove behind Evanton's shop is a fascinating place, and the "basement" of Nightshade's castle was fun, too. New power is dangled in front of Kaylin, and because she is who she is, she tries to deny it rather than grabbing it with both hands, as most people would.
I've become more accepting of Severn's role in these novels. He might act all Wolf-y and draw his weapon now and then, but what he's really there for is to be Kaylin's bulwark, to be her backup wherever she goes. The reader has to put up with a lot of "Severn said nothing" along the way. It'd be nice if he asserted himself beyond being a silent presence now and then.
On the whole, these aren't action-packed books, though, and things have mellowed considerably since the first one, when characters--who are fairly docile now--literally threatened to kill one another almost as a matter of greeting. This one's almost on the cozy side, despite the epic-fantasy style world-threatening enemy .
It was tempting to give this volume, and the previous one, better ratings because of their endings, both of which were moving and well-done. But I don't because of what I perceive as lackluster editing that lets so many repetitions of very tired phrases slip by. Don't create a drinking game around "He raised a brow" or somebody stomping on Kaylin's foot to get her to shut up....
My attraction to this series, and my frustrations with it, continue. It has a unique vibe that I'll certainly be back to enjoy more of, and I'll try to be strong and not throw the next book against the wall when somebody raises their brow for the millionth damn time, or when the worldbuilding through dialogue goes on and on and on.
July 12, 2010
wishing kaylin wasn't so bewitched by Lord Nightshade and that there weren't so many secrets. Something needs to happen with severn, SOON. Give me something to hang onto Michelle!!! TOO moany secrets to make this an enjoyable read. gotta give me something soon or i might just get too frustrated...
Okay. I'm finished with the book now, and I'm really disliking the fact that the endings are always so FLIPPIN AWESOME. I'm so frustrated throughout the whole book because I don't understand ANYTHING, and then the end comes and the last few chapters are amazing. FRUSTRATING, but effective. I don't know how long Michelle Sagara will be able to hold my attention if her next book takes just as long to engage me. I almost quit this one a couple times. I REALLY HOPE that the next one (Cast in Fury) gives a little bit more.
I'm starting to not like Kaylin. She's a little too NOT curious for my taste. A little too unconcerned about NOT KNOWING ANYTHING THAT HAS TO DO WITH A LIFE-OR-DEATH MATTER! I'm having a hard time respecting her, because she doesn't know anything!!!!!! And doesn't try to understand anything!!!!!
Gee, can you tell I'm frustrated? Good job, Michelle, on creating such an interesting cast and world. I would've given it 2 stars until I read the end. Now it only gets 3.
Okay. I'm finished with the book now, and I'm really disliking the fact that the endings are always so FLIPPIN AWESOME. I'm so frustrated throughout the whole book because I don't understand ANYTHING, and then the end comes and the last few chapters are amazing. FRUSTRATING, but effective. I don't know how long Michelle Sagara will be able to hold my attention if her next book takes just as long to engage me. I almost quit this one a couple times. I REALLY HOPE that the next one (Cast in Fury) gives a little bit more.
I'm starting to not like Kaylin. She's a little too NOT curious for my taste. A little too unconcerned about NOT KNOWING ANYTHING THAT HAS TO DO WITH A LIFE-OR-DEATH MATTER! I'm having a hard time respecting her, because she doesn't know anything!!!!!! And doesn't try to understand anything!!!!!
Gee, can you tell I'm frustrated? Good job, Michelle, on creating such an interesting cast and world. I would've given it 2 stars until I read the end. Now it only gets 3.
October 25, 2009
There's a couple of things I'd like to say about this book:
1. I really liked the story and all of the supporting characters. I like how new characters are being introduced and how we get more interactions with ones we already know. I felt like we got a good ways into the meat of the story. I would really like to see what happens next.
2. Big plot hole-"omg everyone is going to die!" so lets just send 2 people to investigate it. umm...I think a few more people might have been a good idea. What, were the other investigators too busy down at the donut shop?
3. To sum up about 100 conversations in the book: "This is really important, but I can't just spell it out for you. You'll have to concentrate your little pea brain and figure it out yourself." Why do we have to be subjected to this over and over?!? The way we obtain information is not important! Working hard to discover something only gives us appreciation for it. She doesn't need to appreciate it-she needs it to save the world, so stop posturing and tell her what she freaking needs to know before my head explodes!
4. I hate how Kaylin seems to be stuck in stasis. All of these wild experiences happen and it doesn't seem to change her at all. And don't get me started on how she can't keep her mouth shut and has zero manners. Really? I think the author is confused, these are not good characteristic for someone to have. It shows that she is not only ignorant but crass too. She's supposed to be the hero. It aggravates me even more when everyone is so accepting of it. "oh that's just Kaylin, yuck-yuck!" I just want to yell at the book "smack her a good one and maybe she'll remember to think before she speaks next time-geez!" I mean really-how old is she? 8 years old? cause she acts like it.
I think the whole genre "my lead character is a strong woman cause she can't keep her mouth shut and runs blindly into dangerous situations" is getting ever so freaking old. A strong woman can can be smart and careful. Just because she has a mouth she can't keep shut, doesn't make her a hero, it makes her irritating. And that's not a compliment.
~I don't usually get so emotional in my reviews-but this series could be so good and it's being held back by stupid mistakes. It makes me crazy.
1. I really liked the story and all of the supporting characters. I like how new characters are being introduced and how we get more interactions with ones we already know. I felt like we got a good ways into the meat of the story. I would really like to see what happens next.
2. Big plot hole-"omg everyone is going to die!" so lets just send 2 people to investigate it. umm...I think a few more people might have been a good idea. What, were the other investigators too busy down at the donut shop?
3. To sum up about 100 conversations in the book: "This is really important, but I can't just spell it out for you. You'll have to concentrate your little pea brain and figure it out yourself." Why do we have to be subjected to this over and over?!? The way we obtain information is not important! Working hard to discover something only gives us appreciation for it. She doesn't need to appreciate it-she needs it to save the world, so stop posturing and tell her what she freaking needs to know before my head explodes!
4. I hate how Kaylin seems to be stuck in stasis. All of these wild experiences happen and it doesn't seem to change her at all. And don't get me started on how she can't keep her mouth shut and has zero manners. Really? I think the author is confused, these are not good characteristic for someone to have. It shows that she is not only ignorant but crass too. She's supposed to be the hero. It aggravates me even more when everyone is so accepting of it. "oh that's just Kaylin, yuck-yuck!" I just want to yell at the book "smack her a good one and maybe she'll remember to think before she speaks next time-geez!" I mean really-how old is she? 8 years old? cause she acts like it.
I think the whole genre "my lead character is a strong woman cause she can't keep her mouth shut and runs blindly into dangerous situations" is getting ever so freaking old. A strong woman can can be smart and careful. Just because she has a mouth she can't keep shut, doesn't make her a hero, it makes her irritating. And that's not a compliment.
~I don't usually get so emotional in my reviews-but this series could be so good and it's being held back by stupid mistakes. It makes me crazy.
January 2, 2009
As with Cast In Courtlight, I really struggled to like this book. I read it primarily because I'd purchased it WITH Cast In Courtlight, after being so enthralled with the story of Cast In Shadow. Well, by Book #3 of the series, the heroine (Kaylin) hasn't developed an iota of common sense, which drives me absolutely batty. Supposedly in this book, the world's fate hangs on her ability to solve a mystery ... and everyone else seems to have crucial pieces of the puzzle, but they all persist in letting her find things out on her own, with these long-drawn-out "Ah, I wondered when you'd figure that out, Kaylin" speeches. When I can feel myself growing irritated and my brow furrowing in frustration that yet AGAIN, she can't seem to refrain from doing something idiotic, and AGAIN, others seem to feel it's crucial to enable her, and AGAIN, she learns not a damned thing about it ... it's time to move on to a different author!
July 29, 2021
This was another good book in the series. The characters get both easier and harder the longer the series is. I’m at least familiar with about 90% of the regulars now. Of course new characters also get added...
I like that Kaylin got past her prejudice. She is really growing and I love that.
I also love her love of children. The fact she will sacrifice almost anything for them. 💕
The kiss with Nightshade currently confuses me. Probably because Kaylin herself is confused.
Edit: July 2021
It was interesting to add the elements into this book. I am still so confused about a lot of things but I love that each book so far is a different 'race'. This one was a lot more about the Thalani.
I dislike the Arcanum. Why is everyone there horrible???
The fact that water talked to Kaylin is still weird but cool.
I'm glad the little girl was saved at the end.
The old man who's name escapes me. Everton??? (Sp) was interesting I wonder how long he will be around?
I like that Kaylin got past her prejudice. She is really growing and I love that.
I also love her love of children. The fact she will sacrifice almost anything for them. 💕
The kiss with Nightshade currently confuses me. Probably because Kaylin herself is confused.
Edit: July 2021
It was interesting to add the elements into this book. I am still so confused about a lot of things but I love that each book so far is a different 'race'. This one was a lot more about the Thalani.
I dislike the Arcanum. Why is everyone there horrible???
The fact that water talked to Kaylin is still weird but cool.
I'm glad the little girl was saved at the end.
The old man who's name escapes me. Everton??? (Sp) was interesting I wonder how long he will be around?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2019
As opposed to the severe info-dumping in the last book; I was a little hesitant to undertake this installment. Where the hell is this plot going?
The action picked up, and I was mollified for now. I'll continue with the series when the next one is in the library.
The action picked up, and I was mollified for now. I'll continue with the series when the next one is in the library.
December 30, 2024
Third in the Chronicles of Elantra fantasy series revolving around Kaylin, a young Hawk whom many fear should be killed.
My Take
I don't get why the Quartermaster would even imagine that Kaylin would be able to get through a day without rips, tears, and bloodshed. He must know the situations she or any of the other Hawks go into…
Eew, eeeewww, spit, wipe, rub, just eewww. That is definitely an honor I could do without….ewwwwww….
It's a case in which Kaylin learns the truth about the Tha'alani. She also learns Nightshade's lesson about how to retrieve information from others. He does make a good point. She also learns a great deal about the past. What the Tha'alani did, what the Dragons did.
Whoa, Sagara keeps letting out these bits and pieces about how lucky Kaylin is to have survived this far. From her first appearance outside the fief with the tattoos, the words, on her arms, she has been an intense topic of discussion with many protectors.
And, yet another, whoa, LOL. Sagara is good at this. I keep being surprised that this is only the third installment as I feel I know so much about Kaylin and the others. This particular surprise is Castle Nightshade's rejection of Kaylin. Especially when it's practically sucked her in every other time. A rejection which leads her in an unexpected path to a visual of Tha'alani history and a way to save her own.
Andellen has some words of warning regarding her status as Erenne. Whew.
Oh, yeah. It's what I love about Kaylin. She just says whatever, wherever, and has no clue that she's being rude. When she does learn it, she is embarrassed, but not enough to take care. It certainly leads to interesting situations.
I think this is my favorite of the series so far. Sagara has such great insight and plays it well. It's a story of bigotry and what Kaylin learns. About herself and others.
The Story
Festival is over. Thank the gods. But criminal action is forever as Kaylin and Severn learn at Evanton's shop.
It is in the oldest of the libraries that the action really takes off when Kaylin encounters the skeleton of a not-dead Dragon, for the city is under threat by an element and a renegade mage.
The Characters
Private Lord Kaylin Neya is not only a Hawk, but a lord, "a title granted her by the Lord of the Barrani High Court. And, ooh, does that ever tick Kaylin off! It's the metaphysical tattoos on her arms that have catapulted Kaylin into this life of hers. And it's only going to get more interesting.
Corporal Lord Severn Handred earned his title as well. Only, nobody teases him about it, much to Kaylin's irritation.
Lord Sanabalis is a Dragon mage who will continue to teach Kaylin how to use her powers. Really, he's all that stands between her and the Emperor. Lord Tiamaris is the Dragon who worked with Kaylin and Severn in Cast in Shadow (1); today, he will return to the Hawks. Teyaragon is the oldest of his line, and he accepted a mighty duty to his people. The Imperial Libraries and galleries are Arkon's hoard; the Empire is the Emperor's.
Evanton is much more than a spells and potion seller. Turns out he's the Keeper of a truly powerful oasis within the city. An elemental garden not governed by the Barrani or the Dragon Emperor.
The Hawks include:
Iron Jaw, more formally known as Sergeant Marcus Kassan, a Leontine Hawk, hands out the assignments and growls at everyone. Caitlin is his human assistant and essentially his second-in-command. She only passes Marcus the reports he absolutely must see. They all fear Caitlin's wrath. Tanner and Clint (of the enticing flight feathers!) are Aerians. Constant Mallory is in charge of Missing Persons, and he has a Barrani-like acquaintance with truth.
The Tha'alani.
The Tha'alani, a.k.a., Truthseekers, are psychics, mind readers. Their touch is NOT delicate. and their entire society is open about everything---you can't hide what everyone can see anyway. Ybelline Rabon'alani is the Emperor's Tha'alani and the leader of her people. She's also the Tha'alani who made Kaylin realize how wrong she was. Draalzyn is the Tha'alani at Missing Persons who passes on Ybelline's message. Epharim is a guard at the Tha'alani compound. Kaylin's first encounter where she realizes how insular (and why) the Tha'alani are. Mayalee is a missing Tha'alani child. Grethan is one who was born without the Tha'alani gifts. A handicap so horrible that he fled to the outside world. Nevaron and Onnay are his friends. Uriel was a major figure in Tha'alani history.
Master Sabrai is in charge of the Oracle Hall. Everly is one of the Oracles; his visions are expressed in his paintings. It's the one of Kaylin that is most disturbing.
Lord Nightshade is an outcaste Barrani fieflord, a crime lord, who has lent his name to his fief where Severn and Kaylin once lived. And he recalls Grethan's time in his fief. Lord Andellen was one of the Barrani guards with Kaylin in Cast in Courtlight (2).
The Lord of the Green is the new castelord, the Lord of the High Halls, with a personal request for Kaylin. His brother, Lirienne, the Lord of the West March, still considers Kaylin his kyuthe and likes her very much.
Donalan Idis was a member of the Arcanum, who worked with the Inquisitorial Services---just one of the reasons why the Tha'alani despise him. The Wolves have been trying to track him down for years.
There are three peacekeeping forces and three Lords of Law: the Lord of Hawks, Lord Grammayre, the Hawklord, heads up the Hawks---the investigators; the Lord of Swords and his men are the peacekeepers---the street cops, if you will; and, Lord Merlin, the Lord of Wolves and his people are its black ops with the Shadow Wolves the "darkest face the Law could turn on the populace".
Think of the Aerians as birdmen, but not shifters. Barrani are the upper class in this society, although not the uppermost. Vicious, cruel, and they seem to have the appearance of what I would consider Fey. The Leontine are lion shifters. Arcanists are mages who work independently of the Dragon Emperor. Fieflords are independent rulers of large neighborhoods outside the city proper.
The Cover
The cover is shades of pink and Indiana Jones with its doubled-in-life-size ancient statues and a leather-clad Kaylin poised to spring into action.
The title refers to the history, the evil done that was Cast in Secret.
My Take
I don't get why the Quartermaster would even imagine that Kaylin would be able to get through a day without rips, tears, and bloodshed. He must know the situations she or any of the other Hawks go into…
Eew, eeeewww, spit, wipe, rub, just eewww. That is definitely an honor I could do without….ewwwwww….
It's a case in which Kaylin learns the truth about the Tha'alani. She also learns Nightshade's lesson about how to retrieve information from others. He does make a good point. She also learns a great deal about the past. What the Tha'alani did, what the Dragons did.
Whoa, Sagara keeps letting out these bits and pieces about how lucky Kaylin is to have survived this far. From her first appearance outside the fief with the tattoos, the words, on her arms, she has been an intense topic of discussion with many protectors.
And, yet another, whoa, LOL. Sagara is good at this. I keep being surprised that this is only the third installment as I feel I know so much about Kaylin and the others. This particular surprise is Castle Nightshade's rejection of Kaylin. Especially when it's practically sucked her in every other time. A rejection which leads her in an unexpected path to a visual of Tha'alani history and a way to save her own.
Andellen has some words of warning regarding her status as Erenne. Whew.
Oh, yeah. It's what I love about Kaylin. She just says whatever, wherever, and has no clue that she's being rude. When she does learn it, she is embarrassed, but not enough to take care. It certainly leads to interesting situations.
"Don't hate what you can't be
Don't hate what you can't have.
I think this is my favorite of the series so far. Sagara has such great insight and plays it well. It's a story of bigotry and what Kaylin learns. About herself and others.
The Story
Festival is over. Thank the gods. But criminal action is forever as Kaylin and Severn learn at Evanton's shop.
It is in the oldest of the libraries that the action really takes off when Kaylin encounters the skeleton of a not-dead Dragon, for the city is under threat by an element and a renegade mage.
The Characters
Private Lord Kaylin Neya is not only a Hawk, but a lord, "a title granted her by the Lord of the Barrani High Court. And, ooh, does that ever tick Kaylin off! It's the metaphysical tattoos on her arms that have catapulted Kaylin into this life of hers. And it's only going to get more interesting.
Corporal Lord Severn Handred earned his title as well. Only, nobody teases him about it, much to Kaylin's irritation.
Lord Sanabalis is a Dragon mage who will continue to teach Kaylin how to use her powers. Really, he's all that stands between her and the Emperor. Lord Tiamaris is the Dragon who worked with Kaylin and Severn in Cast in Shadow (1); today, he will return to the Hawks. Teyaragon is the oldest of his line, and he accepted a mighty duty to his people. The Imperial Libraries and galleries are Arkon's hoard; the Empire is the Emperor's.
Evanton is much more than a spells and potion seller. Turns out he's the Keeper of a truly powerful oasis within the city. An elemental garden not governed by the Barrani or the Dragon Emperor.
The Hawks include:
Iron Jaw, more formally known as Sergeant Marcus Kassan, a Leontine Hawk, hands out the assignments and growls at everyone. Caitlin is his human assistant and essentially his second-in-command. She only passes Marcus the reports he absolutely must see. They all fear Caitlin's wrath. Tanner and Clint (of the enticing flight feathers!) are Aerians. Constant Mallory is in charge of Missing Persons, and he has a Barrani-like acquaintance with truth.
The Tha'alani.
The Tha'alani, a.k.a., Truthseekers, are psychics, mind readers. Their touch is NOT delicate. and their entire society is open about everything---you can't hide what everyone can see anyway. Ybelline Rabon'alani is the Emperor's Tha'alani and the leader of her people. She's also the Tha'alani who made Kaylin realize how wrong she was. Draalzyn is the Tha'alani at Missing Persons who passes on Ybelline's message. Epharim is a guard at the Tha'alani compound. Kaylin's first encounter where she realizes how insular (and why) the Tha'alani are. Mayalee is a missing Tha'alani child. Grethan is one who was born without the Tha'alani gifts. A handicap so horrible that he fled to the outside world. Nevaron and Onnay are his friends. Uriel was a major figure in Tha'alani history.
Master Sabrai is in charge of the Oracle Hall. Everly is one of the Oracles; his visions are expressed in his paintings. It's the one of Kaylin that is most disturbing.
Lord Nightshade is an outcaste Barrani fieflord, a crime lord, who has lent his name to his fief where Severn and Kaylin once lived. And he recalls Grethan's time in his fief. Lord Andellen was one of the Barrani guards with Kaylin in Cast in Courtlight (2).
The Lord of the Green is the new castelord, the Lord of the High Halls, with a personal request for Kaylin. His brother, Lirienne, the Lord of the West March, still considers Kaylin his kyuthe and likes her very much.
Donalan Idis was a member of the Arcanum, who worked with the Inquisitorial Services---just one of the reasons why the Tha'alani despise him. The Wolves have been trying to track him down for years.
There are three peacekeeping forces and three Lords of Law: the Lord of Hawks, Lord Grammayre, the Hawklord, heads up the Hawks---the investigators; the Lord of Swords and his men are the peacekeepers---the street cops, if you will; and, Lord Merlin, the Lord of Wolves and his people are its black ops with the Shadow Wolves the "darkest face the Law could turn on the populace".
Think of the Aerians as birdmen, but not shifters. Barrani are the upper class in this society, although not the uppermost. Vicious, cruel, and they seem to have the appearance of what I would consider Fey. The Leontine are lion shifters. Arcanists are mages who work independently of the Dragon Emperor. Fieflords are independent rulers of large neighborhoods outside the city proper.
The Cover
The cover is shades of pink and Indiana Jones with its doubled-in-life-size ancient statues and a leather-clad Kaylin poised to spring into action.
The title refers to the history, the evil done that was Cast in Secret.
October 26, 2015
the ending always brings me to tears
It's a book about resentment, about fear and the suffering it causes...and it's a book about hope and forgiveness and joy, things that mark us even more deeply than the pain, if we let them. Kaylin and Severn's relationship feels more ordinary, here. It's less constrained by horror and bitter hate on Kaylin's side, and by guilt, grief and anger on Severn's. The everyday-ness of their interchanges helps balance their work in unraveling the catastrophe that threatens their city. Kaylin does a huge amount of growing up in this book, though being Kaylin, she does it with little grace and lots of resentment. She does work her way through her own limitations in the end, and finds her way to grace. Some of the strongest parts of the book for me were Kaylin's encounters with the primal elements. Although their destructive power and grandeur are clearly evident in Sagara's writing, she speaks even more touchingly of their quieter strength in ordinary human life. This book marks a major turning point for Kaylin as she begins to see and understand maturity (at least in other people) and starts to see that her own distorted definition of it offers a disservice to herself and her work. Of course, Kaylin is still Kaylin, and refuses to learn anything too quickly, so don't expect her to change overnight, but by the end of this book she's started to value other people and their experience in ways she has not yet been able to do.
It's a book about resentment, about fear and the suffering it causes...and it's a book about hope and forgiveness and joy, things that mark us even more deeply than the pain, if we let them. Kaylin and Severn's relationship feels more ordinary, here. It's less constrained by horror and bitter hate on Kaylin's side, and by guilt, grief and anger on Severn's. The everyday-ness of their interchanges helps balance their work in unraveling the catastrophe that threatens their city. Kaylin does a huge amount of growing up in this book, though being Kaylin, she does it with little grace and lots of resentment. She does work her way through her own limitations in the end, and finds her way to grace. Some of the strongest parts of the book for me were Kaylin's encounters with the primal elements. Although their destructive power and grandeur are clearly evident in Sagara's writing, she speaks even more touchingly of their quieter strength in ordinary human life. This book marks a major turning point for Kaylin as she begins to see and understand maturity (at least in other people) and starts to see that her own distorted definition of it offers a disservice to herself and her work. Of course, Kaylin is still Kaylin, and refuses to learn anything too quickly, so don't expect her to change overnight, but by the end of this book she's started to value other people and their experience in ways she has not yet been able to do.
December 2, 2008
Reviewing this is hard, mainly because I can't tell exactly what it is that I DON'T like about these books, but something nags at me.
Perhaps it's the heroine's(Kaylin Neya) near-inability to mature. She's capable of these insane leaps of instinctual emotional and magical maturity, but behaves like a stubborn 16 yr old the other 80 % of the time.
That being said, the world is well crafted with 4 main races (2 immortal - Dragons and Baranni {oh, just admit they're elves already...} and 2 mortal - man and the Tha'alani.) This book focuses on the Tha'alani - who are telepathic humanoids - who have stalks on their heads that can read everyone else's minds through physical contact.
I should point out (for personal friends reading this) that this is the 3rd in the series, and the politics of the world are well crafted and (annoyingly) secretive. A lot of questions WON'T be answered, but that's typical given Kaylin's stubborn and shortsighted perspective. Oh well.
There's action and magic, lots of emotion - it's thinking man's brain candy.
Hardly a proper review, but I'm not amazon.com. I like it, I'll keep reading them. Though I hope the author branches out into other perspectives after this series ends, I'd like to get out of Kaylin's head for a while.
Perhaps it's the heroine's(Kaylin Neya) near-inability to mature. She's capable of these insane leaps of instinctual emotional and magical maturity, but behaves like a stubborn 16 yr old the other 80 % of the time.
That being said, the world is well crafted with 4 main races (2 immortal - Dragons and Baranni {oh, just admit they're elves already...} and 2 mortal - man and the Tha'alani.) This book focuses on the Tha'alani - who are telepathic humanoids - who have stalks on their heads that can read everyone else's minds through physical contact.
I should point out (for personal friends reading this) that this is the 3rd in the series, and the politics of the world are well crafted and (annoyingly) secretive. A lot of questions WON'T be answered, but that's typical given Kaylin's stubborn and shortsighted perspective. Oh well.
There's action and magic, lots of emotion - it's thinking man's brain candy.
Hardly a proper review, but I'm not amazon.com. I like it, I'll keep reading them. Though I hope the author branches out into other perspectives after this series ends, I'd like to get out of Kaylin's head for a while.
July 12, 2014
By this point in the series I was seriously hoping to see a change for the better in the writing. Hello, editor, where were you on this one? I did not enjoy being told the same information over and over, and over again. Especially while other parts of the story that could have been of interest were underdeveloped. Another beef I had with this one was that there was a whole lot of talking and thinking but you couldn't always be sure who it was coming from and their message was often not clearly conveyed. Also, the author failed to adequately describe and put her characters into motion. What does Severn look like? Can't tell ya. But I know he's got dark eyes, a scar and some hair that sometimes hangs in his face. He doesn't move much either, or that is to say, there is no detail about how he moves. He just gets there. Most of the characters seem to have this problem on one or more occasion. When they should move they just stand or just sit. I was most annoyed by this in the case of Nightshade and Kaylin where in more than one scene their positioning was wrong for the movements described or there was a complete lack of descriptive movement for far to long.
December 19, 2022
I adore this series. Completely adore it.
Yes, the heroine is a little slow on the uptake (but less slow than everyone treats her... I can't tell if that's deliberate cleverness on her part - she let's them assume she's less bright than she is, because it makes her less than a threat - or if the author is just working hard to keep her feeling naive and thereby more lovable), but it doesn't bother me. I like the flow of intuition and instinct, that she doesn't always know logically what she's doing, but when she lets go and does what she feels she needs to, she's able to function best. I get that it means that we as the reader don't always directly understand what is happening, but I actually like that. I like it because I feel tied to Kaylin, as if her journey is my journey. The words, at those moments, breeze through me in an almost poetic way, and though I don't always grasp exactly what they mean, I feel their weight and rightness.
It is honestly an impressive thing for the author to be able to do.
I am worried for every single one of the main characters, and I can't wait to read onward.
Yes, the heroine is a little slow on the uptake (but less slow than everyone treats her... I can't tell if that's deliberate cleverness on her part - she let's them assume she's less bright than she is, because it makes her less than a threat - or if the author is just working hard to keep her feeling naive and thereby more lovable), but it doesn't bother me. I like the flow of intuition and instinct, that she doesn't always know logically what she's doing, but when she lets go and does what she feels she needs to, she's able to function best. I get that it means that we as the reader don't always directly understand what is happening, but I actually like that. I like it because I feel tied to Kaylin, as if her journey is my journey. The words, at those moments, breeze through me in an almost poetic way, and though I don't always grasp exactly what they mean, I feel their weight and rightness.
It is honestly an impressive thing for the author to be able to do.
I am worried for every single one of the main characters, and I can't wait to read onward.
April 22, 2025
4.5 stars
And the world gets bigger! A theft of a magical artifact and a kidnapping introduce us to Tha’alani of recent and ancient history (their culture, complicated relationship with the Empire), and also introduce new shades of magic when it comes to the elements. I am so enjoying learning more, and anticipating how much more there is to learn.
I think Michelle Sagara does a good job of portraying Kaylin as the 20 year that she is. She has power and she’s been through a lot, learned many painful lessons. However, she still has the impatience, short-sightedness of youth, and a lot of people looking out for her and (very patiently) trying to teach her.
Another thing that comes with age is empathy and the grayscale that the world becomes shaded by. I really appreciated that in this novel Kaylin is forced to confront her own hatred and prejudice regarding the Tha’alani. It was driven by fear, but it was also loud and extreme, and the Tha’alani met her with patience and understanding. Also, Kaylin started thinking more critically of the Law and Empire she’s so loyal to.
And the world gets bigger! A theft of a magical artifact and a kidnapping introduce us to Tha’alani of recent and ancient history (their culture, complicated relationship with the Empire), and also introduce new shades of magic when it comes to the elements. I am so enjoying learning more, and anticipating how much more there is to learn.
I think Michelle Sagara does a good job of portraying Kaylin as the 20 year that she is. She has power and she’s been through a lot, learned many painful lessons. However, she still has the impatience, short-sightedness of youth, and a lot of people looking out for her and (very patiently) trying to teach her.
Another thing that comes with age is empathy and the grayscale that the world becomes shaded by. I really appreciated that in this novel Kaylin is forced to confront her own hatred and prejudice regarding the Tha’alani. It was driven by fear, but it was also loud and extreme, and the Tha’alani met her with patience and understanding. Also, Kaylin started thinking more critically of the Law and Empire she’s so loyal to.
June 30, 2019
Corporal Kaylin Neya is my kind of character. With apologies to my niece for reading the last book in the series first though. It's likely that books # 1 and # 2 would have driven me bonkers because of her though so starting at the end worked in an odd sort of way. Sagara's writing style kept the story engrossing once I figured out who was who, what they were doing and why. Happy last day of June everyone!
May 4, 2021
kaylin neya, emotional support himbo
July 13, 2014
Cast in Secret follows on a few days after the second book in the series, Cast in Courtlight. In this instalment a prophetic dream so strong that all of the Oracles even the apprentices receive the same vision, the end of life itself. One very powerful Oracle focuses on Kaylin and begins painting a picture of her on his wall. He is so powerful that he is disabled by his gift. He doesn't speak, he doesn't sleep and he doesn't react like a normal person, his only form of expression is drawing and painting so Kaylin and co. have to determine who or what could be behind this and how to stop it.
Kaylin learns more about the Tha'alani, a telepathic race who can search a person's memory which most find unnerving including Kaylin, and to a lesser extent the Dragons and the Oracles. Kaylin sees Severn in a slightly different light as a Wolf instead of as a Hawk but also how he approaches the Tha'alani - without fear and with a little envy I think. She also learns more about herself, and of the others that have had the marks she has. We are introduced to the elements earth, air, fire and water with the emphasis on water but I won't go into this as I don't want to give anything away.
In every book so far (this is the third - the first being Cast in Shadow and the second, Cast in Courtlight) Kaylin has been working through her harrowing past and has been trying to move on. We see her grow not just in her power but as a person and that for me made this an interesting read.
There is still plenty of danger surrounding Kaylin especially since it looks like she will be meeting the Dragon Emperor soon. I really enjoyed learning about the Tha'alani, and their history as a people, they are a very interesting race. This series is progressing really well and I'm looking forward to reading the next book, Cast in Fury.
Kaylin learns more about the Tha'alani, a telepathic race who can search a person's memory which most find unnerving including Kaylin, and to a lesser extent the Dragons and the Oracles. Kaylin sees Severn in a slightly different light as a Wolf instead of as a Hawk but also how he approaches the Tha'alani - without fear and with a little envy I think. She also learns more about herself, and of the others that have had the marks she has. We are introduced to the elements earth, air, fire and water with the emphasis on water but I won't go into this as I don't want to give anything away.
In every book so far (this is the third - the first being Cast in Shadow and the second, Cast in Courtlight) Kaylin has been working through her harrowing past and has been trying to move on. We see her grow not just in her power but as a person and that for me made this an interesting read.
There is still plenty of danger surrounding Kaylin especially since it looks like she will be meeting the Dragon Emperor soon. I really enjoyed learning about the Tha'alani, and their history as a people, they are a very interesting race. This series is progressing really well and I'm looking forward to reading the next book, Cast in Fury.
August 5, 2011
Sometimes I wonder why I've stuck with this series for so long. I've never been particularly excited about it, but something about Kaylin and Elantra intrigues me. Plus, I've been reading so much urban fantasy/paranormal novels lately that something a little more high fantasy is welcome.
Cast in Secret picks up not long after the ending of Cast in Courtlight, and, just like in previous installments, Kaylin, the Hawk from Nightshade with the mysterious magical markings, must track down a missing girl. Meanwhile the city's Oracles predict that Elantra will be destroyed in two weeks. Kind of interesting, but tends to feel just a little cliche and somewhat like a retread of previous books.
While the writing has improved in Cast in Secret, the characters continue to feel incredibly stagnant, particularly Kaylin. While I understand that there are still more books in the series to come, there hasn't been any change or maturity in her character, which makes her feel unrealistic and hard to like.
I enjoyed this book for what it was and will probably continue the series just to see what happens next, but I wouldn't recommend it to readers who didn't enjoy the previous books.
Cast in Secret picks up not long after the ending of Cast in Courtlight, and, just like in previous installments, Kaylin, the Hawk from Nightshade with the mysterious magical markings, must track down a missing girl. Meanwhile the city's Oracles predict that Elantra will be destroyed in two weeks. Kind of interesting, but tends to feel just a little cliche and somewhat like a retread of previous books.
While the writing has improved in Cast in Secret, the characters continue to feel incredibly stagnant, particularly Kaylin. While I understand that there are still more books in the series to come, there hasn't been any change or maturity in her character, which makes her feel unrealistic and hard to like.
I enjoyed this book for what it was and will probably continue the series just to see what happens next, but I wouldn't recommend it to readers who didn't enjoy the previous books.
November 6, 2024
3.5 stars.
Oct 2024 - re-listened.
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Nov 2023 - re-listened.
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Re-listened July 2021. Last day of Lockdown #5.
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Re-listened Jan 2020. I liked that Ms Sagara gradually introduces us to the various species that make up the Elantra world. In the previous book, Cast in Courtlight it's all about the immortal Barrani and their secretive and deadly High Court. This one gives us (via Kaylin) an in-depth look at the seemingly scary Tha’alani with their antennae used by interrogators to delve into other people's minds. Then there is the Keeper of the Elementals (Air, Water, Fire and Earth) and we see the devastation that these Elementals can wrought on the world.
I liked that there weren't as many "words" in this one than the previous Barrani-centric one.
Oct 2024 - re-listened.
_________________
Nov 2023 - re-listened.
_________________
Re-listened July 2021. Last day of Lockdown #5.
_________________
Re-listened Jan 2020. I liked that Ms Sagara gradually introduces us to the various species that make up the Elantra world. In the previous book, Cast in Courtlight it's all about the immortal Barrani and their secretive and deadly High Court. This one gives us (via Kaylin) an in-depth look at the seemingly scary Tha’alani with their antennae used by interrogators to delve into other people's minds. Then there is the Keeper of the Elementals (Air, Water, Fire and Earth) and we see the devastation that these Elementals can wrought on the world.
I liked that there weren't as many "words" in this one than the previous Barrani-centric one.
May 30, 2011
This is a really strong installment of the Elantra books. It starts as a crime investigation of 2 seemingly unconnected missing persons cases and then dives into the elemental magic system, the nature of the oracles, and the world of the Tha'alani, a telepathic race that socially functions as a collective. I enjoyed the plot of this one much more than the 2nd book but didn't *really* enjoy it until the final climax, which I could barely read, it was so exciting.
And ok, after this book, I think I get the whole Nightshade thing, but I'm still all about Severn. Yes, he's overprotective and too guarded at times, but their history together is just so compelling. But I've read reviews of all 6 books that are out at this point, and I *cannot* believe nothing has happened with either of them yet!! What's up with that?
And ok, after this book, I think I get the whole Nightshade thing, but I'm still all about Severn. Yes, he's overprotective and too guarded at times, but their history together is just so compelling. But I've read reviews of all 6 books that are out at this point, and I *cannot* believe nothing has happened with either of them yet!! What's up with that?
July 1, 2014
I am still enjoying this series...the only thing that keeps this from being a 5-star is I'm not seeing much evidence that Kaylin is learning/growing from all of her experiences. In the moments where she is being magically tested, she exhibits a wisdom and intuitive sense that is encouraging. However in her everyday demeanor, she continues to be difficult. There's only so much foot-stomping petulance, naive bumbling, and willful ignorance that I can take before it gets tiresome. Although it was nice to see Kaylin conquer one of her prejudices in this story. There is a wonderful cast of characters surrounding Kaylin, and I really hope that she grows up soon. I continue to be fascinated with the world of Elantra, the magical places of the Old Ones, and getting more of a glimpse into the history of the Tha'alani and Dragon races.
August 29, 2016
Kaylin is sent to investigate a routine theft, but when she gets there, she can tell that it is anything but routine. It involves one of her least favorite things. Magic. After checking into the theft, she is summoned to a place she has never been, Ybelline's. The Tha'alani need help, and she is the only one they can turn to. I love these books! Kaylin is a complete mess until it becomes a life and death situation, then she pulls herself together. I loved how this book was more about the Tha'alani. They are very interesting!
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