Cast in Ruin

Chronicles of Elantra #7

by Michelle Sagara, Michelle Sagara West

Seven corpses are discovered in the streets of a Dragon's fief. All identical, down to their clothing.

Kaylin Neya is assigned to discover who they were, who killed them—and why. Is the evil lurking at the borders of Elantra preparing to cross over?

At least the investigation delays her meeting with the Dragon Emperor. And as the shadows grow longer over the fiefs, Kaylin must use every skill she's ever learned to save the people she's sworn to protect. Sword in hand, dragons in the sky, this time there's no retreat and no surrender…

Genres: Fantasy, Magic, Dragons, Urban Fantasy, Fiction, Paranormal, Science Fiction Fantasy

457 pages, Paperback

First published September 20, 2011

About the author

See 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).

Reviews

[Denisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cried again!


Gah, this series has a way of making me cry almost every time!

It wasn't as fast-paced as the previous one, but nonetheless, it was awesome! Officially,it's the best series I've read this year.
Can't wait to see what's next!

[Scooper Speaks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite Lines: "It was true: hope could be unkind. You opened yourself up to the worst of wounds because you wanted to believe that something good could finally happen. But if you didn't? You missed this. This intense and perfect moment in which, while the world was almost literally going to hells all around you, hope and reality blended in a single, perfect note." (p. 394, egalley)

Cast in Ruin (Chronicles of Elantra, Book 7) is the book I've been waiting for. I've loved every book in the series, but Cast in Ruin is right up there with the first two books, which were my favorites. Do not attempt to jump into the series now; there is no way you'll understand everything that has taken place.

Sagara's world building is excellent and each book has covered a different aspect of her world. Book seven focuses on giving us information about dragons, fiefs and Kaylin. It answers a ton of questions and whets the appetite for book eight. (There is also a novella which appeared in the Harvest Moon anthology.)

I know some people weren't thrilled with book six, because they felt like Kaylin wasn't growing as a character. Well that definitely cannot be said about book seven. We get another glimpse into Kaylin's past, while she investigates the darkness invading the fiefs and it's something that was hinted at, but never quite was said. One of the most important things to remember about Sagara's Chronicles of Elantra Series is that the events of each book are taking place back to back. There aren't years separating Kaylin's adventures. There are weeks.

When I received Cast in Ruin I stayed up all night until I finished it. Despite reading the book mid-week I was ready to re-read the book by the weekend. It was that good. The magic, the way the characters stay true to the qualities they were introduced with in book one and the pacing, set Cast in Ruin above other book. It is my absolute favorite fantasy series. I know each book will be well written, thought inducing and a book that I will come back to time and time again. The Chronicles of Elantra is one of the only series I can auto buy and know that I'm getting quality work.

Cast in Ruin has two of my favorite characters, Severn and Nightshade. Of course Severn has more page coverage than Nightshade, but I felt like I was being teased for a book where the opposite will be true. I can't wait for that day. Psst...If you want to know what Kaylin feels for Nightshade and Severn, this is the book you need to read.

Heads up! We're getting closer to the day Kaylin meets the emperor. Sagara said she is contracted to write four more books in the series for LUNA. (OMG, I'm gonna freakin' crap when I read the final book!) The next book is Cast in Peril; it'll be released next year.
Scooper Speaks

[Monty Cupcake ☠ Queen of Bloodshed ☠ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one gets more stars than the lady because new characters and more dragons. I'm loving the Arkon showing up more and more. He's the grouchy old man with impunity we all wish we could be.

[Estara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm continually fascinated how intricate some plots can go and how fast the development while I as the reader still can follow along without getting hopelessly lost.

Like the most recent Foreigner trilogy in C.J. Cherryh's series this particular book is set over only a couple of days at most, starting directly after the last book finished. Plotwise I am getting the impression we are nearing the all-out confrontation with the darkness inside Ravellon, but personally I'm hoping it will slow down some - I want to spend more time with the developing Kaylin and the various new strands to the empire.

While this is NOT the dragon court book, I would call it the dragon book - we get a lot of creation story and explanation story in here. On the personal front, Kaylin and Severn have a talk that was years overdue and unavoidable after what happened in the previous book. I'm sure a few of the Team Nightshade readers will be unhappy - but I agree with Kaylin's judgement about his feelings towards her, I also can understand what her reservations about Severn are.

I adored the fact that now that Kaylin has more of an idea about where her powers come from and what a Chosen is, that she is able to ... I want to say level-up in her use of true words - as can bee seen in her accepting Maggoren's name and midwifing Bellusdeo (by the way bellus dei translates into God's War in Latin, deo is the dative case, though). I totally enjoyed the focus on the various dragon interactions, getting to know Diarmad and more in Tiamaris fief and with the new People, the Norannir.

MSW has said that the next book will be in the Western March, so we'll actually leave Elantra. That should be fascinating. There's also still the egg that Kaylin is trying to hatch. But by far the most fun development was Bellusdeo adopting Kaylin (and being annoyed at the lack of general respect towards the Chosen) - especially as it looks like Bellusdeo is an immortal version of Kaylin in her views on life and respect and customs, one that the Dragon Emperor can't afford to annoy, at that ^^. The book really needed those extra pages after the dramatic climax and I'm very happy we got them.

Of course, I want to read the next one NOW!
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2nd read: After reading Silence, I just didn't want to separate from MSW's voice and I realised that she is a surefire comfort read for me because the one story that is always at least one focus of all her books and a lot of the time the main focus (Haven't read all of The Sundered and I'm not sure if it works for the Hunter's Oath duology, apart from Evayne a'Nolan maybe) is a woman who has an incredible power (which she either desires - The Terafin - or for some reason has thrust upon her - Emma - or inherits - Diora, Jewel -) and uses it to keep her family safe, get revenge for her family, make a new family and keep that safe.
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3rd read: Bellusdeo's isolated situation was something I focussed on more this time, and I think I could grasp the pyrotechnics for her midwifing even better than before.

Kaylin didn't quite get out of that talk with Severn, but it did get pushed aside somewhat. With regard to him, I really do believe that he will survive not being with her, as long as he knows she is safe somewhere.

I stillhope the second Western Marches book will finally explain about the one Wolf who is a Barrani Lord (and whom I expect to have given the chain blades to Severn while he was in the Marches).

[Maria Dimitrova · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was great! I loved the new developments and all the new information regarding the dragons and their biology. Kaylin still needs to get her head out of her a@@ but she's trying hard these days. I love the scenes with Diarmat (or however his name is spelled), they're always hilarious. But if someone could cure Kaylin of her perpetual lateness it's him! Also I can't wait to meet the Dragon Emperor even if it would probably end up with Kaylin fried to a crisp.

Nightshade's machinations promise an interesting next instalment of Kaylin indeed gets to go with him to the West Marsh. However, I dislike his ownership approach of her. In his mind she belongs to him and that bothers me. He is very ambiguous character and I like that while he is mostly on Kaylin's side he is not to be entirely trusted.

All in all this series is a good one and I'm glad I kept reading after the second book.

[Nichole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Kaylin has been seconded to the Imperial Palace to help with an investigation. She is to go to the fief of Tiamaris and investigate 7 bodies found there. What she finds is 7 identical bodies. This investigation has many unusual attributes, so unusual that The Arkon is going to leave his Library to help. As with the previous books in this series, I will repeat, I love this series!!

[Sho · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my last reread of the series for now. There are no more to read in this series! I really cannnot wait to read the next book.

By re-reading I finally understood that althougth there are more dragons, there are only few that are actually awake and functioning in the dragon court. Don't know how I could have missed that in the first reading but there it is. And Kaylin knows almost all of them except for two that includes the emperor! I have to say if Sannabalis has "grey" hair, it would be all silver by now due to his two most troublsome students. At the same time I am sure he is enjoying his
challanging experiences with them.

There is a classic Japanese traveling series called YajiKita traveling journals. Yaji and Kita, the Japanese Edo period version of the odd couple, go on a journey across Japan's main island. I want to read someting like that with Kaylin and Bellusdeo going to the gathering...Well, Nightshade can come too if he wants too and we cannot forget Severn, of course..

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This book didn't have as much court intrigue nor the frantic pace as the other books, instead it had wealth of imagery and knowledge about dragon true names and how they are given and could be taken.I cannot tell you how much I wished for a better creative mind to paint the picture of what Kaylin was seeing when she was helping the female Dragon. THe descriptions alone were fascinating but my god I really would have liked to see it.

Also we get to see Kaylin finally coming to accept and take action as the "chosen." That I was very glad to see. I think we are finally seeing what the words on her body mean. Nightshade also makes a short but a meaningful appearance in this book. I have a feeling that the next book will be at the gathering(?) but I'm wondering if Bellusdeo will insist going with her...Now THAT I would like to read LOL.

Finding out what Kaylin is scared of in a relationship is understandable but I hope she will overcome it. I am amazed at how patient Severn is, considering his age. In a way his patience is "non-human" and his love for her is admirable. I would love to see where Severn looses it, though. I think he deserves a break. Everybody else had a chance to "loose it," why not him? I gave him a secret name "Andre" from my all time favorite manga Rose of Versailles 　

I really look forward to reading the next book soon, I hope?

[Phaedra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm going to be honest, it took me a little bit to get into this installment of Kaylin and company. Partially because I'm used to the style of writing to be a bit more abrupt but also because I didn't fully remember the events of the last book.

However, after reading the blurb about the book I had an idea of what would be in it. What I love about this author was that the book fulfilled everything that the back said but in a way that I never would have expected. Yes, there were murders... sort of. Yes, her meeting with Emperor is delayed... but not because of murders. Yeah, she's got a sword... but not her own. The new characters are hard to relate to or like, but that's part of the point because they are alien and unknown.

I did like that there was a lot more that we as readers learned about dragons. I also think it's a credit to the author that after 7 books the fact that Kaylin keeps dodging meeting the Emperor isn't farcial or annoying. It just seems like a very good idea.

As I said before, the writing style wasn't as abrupt as it usually is. I really liked the style for Kaylin, but I think that as she grows her narrative flows more and becomes less about snipping out parcels of information. The only part that felt uncomfortable to me were the (short) discussions on Kaylin and Severn's relationship. The dialogue, while genuine and in character, also felt extraneous and clunky. I guess that's an issue that has to be dealt with eventually, I guess I just didn't expect it to be delivered in such an up front manner.

And as always, it makes me want more. Now. *shakes book* More?

[Katyana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the way the story is evolving, and the way we're seeing the Immortal races impacted. I love watching Kaylin grow.

The only thing that I'm unhappy about is... well, frankly, exactly what Bellusdeo is unhappy about: they don't respect Kaylin at all. I'm going to be honest, I shouted at the book when Lord Diar-douchecake said, about Kaylin, that "respect is earned." What the fuck does she have to do to earn it? She's saved everyone more times than I can count - and not from problems of HER making. She's also, arguably, now saved the entire race of dragons by saving the only female dragon. He's right, respect is earned. And he's earned none. The only dragons who have earned any respect are, imo, Tiamaris, Sanabalis, and perhaps the Arkon (when he sets aside his ego). And Kaylin (and Severn) have put them all to shame. What else should she do for you assholes? Kill the Outcaste? Since, you know, you dragons can't seem to do it, I guess Kaylin should clean up your mess for you, right?

Like always.

That's the only thing I'm struggling with. Because at this point, her loyalty and respect for these Immortals when they treat her as a speaking cockroach that they can barely tolerate, is hurting her character. I'm glad that it seems some major character is now going to speak up about the disgraceful way they treat her. She's not their slave, nor their doormat.

Next time she should tell them to solve their own damn problems.

[Paradoxical · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am extraordinarily fond of this series, but at the same time I have to admit that sometimes it seems that the author is just throwing things out at the reader and hoping that it'll stick. Don't get me wrong, it's still fun and a blast to read, but it's also a little jumbled and confusing and sometimes I wish that things... well, that things hurried up a little or something. Not that I know what I want hurried up, but I'm still left feeling this way.

Part of it is probably because while we get crumbs of new information (or a good amount of new information--as in about the species that live in Elantra), we never get much in the way of answers for Kaylin. Her marks? Still mysterious. Her chosen status? There and still mysterious. The only people who might shed a little more light about the chosen stay silent about it and it's driving me up a wall.

Still, it's a fun read. Each book has a solid, contained story. The only real downside is that the continuing story, the story about Kaylin, is very slow. This is a bit difficult to fathom since all of the books take place in the span of days (this one, for instance, has a time elapse of about a week from the last book and still takes place over only a few days).

Kaylin is in Tiamaris on the insistence of Sanabalis, and she gets caught up in the deaths of several women who are all identical. Not only that, but they don't seem quite human, and there are shadows creeping along the borders. The plot of this story takes a while to warm up, and it only really gets rolling along the middle towards the end, but it's decent. The ending was, like all of the books in the series, a giant, exciting rush to the end, even if it's always a bit messy.

I like the series. I really, really do. I just wish that we get more--Kaylin actually wanting to learn how to do the things she can do (instead of somehow stumbling over it when most needed and winging it), or even just more insight into what Kaylin is. Still, the books are fun, and I do enjoy reading them. 3 stars.

[Anne Osterlund · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kaylin knows only a smattering about dragons. They’re immortal. They’re LOUD. Their eyes tend to turn gold. And it’s better not to tick them off.

She has yet to meet a female dragon or to consider the implications of the scarcity. Until multiple identical corpses begin appearing in the fife of Tiamaris--female corpses in ostensibly human form. But with gold eyes.

Loved this one and the way it unravels, along with the personality of a certain new heroine. Kaylin and Severn must have the slowest burning romance within any series I’m currently reading. But I can forgive Michelle Sagara as long it keeps burning.

[TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5.0

Lovely, wonderful, and completely addicting!! Everything I love in a great fantasy. In this installment, the characters stay in the “real” world (as we know it), Yay!! But, they still must deal with the Outcaste dragon and the shadows. We have a great twist, however, there is a brand new lady dragon introduced! AND, she is very much like Kaylin. *Rubbing hands together deliciously*

My only quibble is in the way Kaylin is still treated by those she has saved numerous times. It is infuriating that she is still a Private, she still doesn’t earn much and is still relegated to basically nothing in society’s eyes. Yet, SHE is the one who has repeatedly saved that society! It is getting really old at this point. She absolutely should be getting more respect and at least a promotion and a pay raise!

I also am getting a bit impatient with the way she treats Severn. But, we’ll see how that goes going forward.

[BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme · Rating 5 out of 5]

No one can insert their foot into mouth like Private Kaylin Neya. She is truly gifted at how she can drive the stick further up the asses of these pompous and arrogant Dragons. It's truly a delight to watch her struggle against saying what is on her mind. While she's becoming better at biting her tongue, her body language is as loud as a Dragon conversation. Poor Kaylin!

In this latest installment, the "People" are settling down into their new world. These giant 8 feet tall "other" scare those in Elantra. Their help in holding strong against the Shadow is welcome. Now there is something new happening in Lord Tiamaris' fife aka his hoard. The same woman has been found dead, seven times. With Kaylin's help, it is discovered they are not human. It has the Dragon Lords in an uproar.

It's amusing to see these male dragons posture and beat their proverbial chests. Kaylin is the one toy they all want a piece of, for their own agenda. Sometimes, the agendas align. Most often, they do not. For a Chosen, Kaylin is treated more like a gutter rat than someone special. The magic she welds is amazing. She is pure magic in some senses. There is no teaching her what to do. She does it all through gut instinct. Sometimes it goes very well; other times it's utter chaos. LOVE IT!

Ms. Sagara West created another wonderful addition to the Elantra series. This one reveals more of the Dragon world - as it was before the wars. The arrival of Bellusdeo is a masterful stroke. It's the tie in which is much needed and not completely unexpected. Still, when the events fold, the world Ms. Sagara West created is enhanced another couple of layers. Her construction of this world is a beautiful work of art. It is reminiscent of Mercedes Lackey's Valdemar world, except in this one, there is more darkness. It's almost a mix of Valdemar and Obsidian Mountain Series in a complex blend of perfect harmony. Ms. Sagara West's writing voice and words is a full orchestra with her pen as the conductor's baton. The melody is hauntingly sad in a minor key. Each book in this series is an Act which highlight specific instruments in orchestra. If there is one section which represents Cast in Ruins, it would be the percussion. Between the drumming of the Norannir and the kettle drums bellows of the dragons, this book is leading us to the climax which no reader should miss. This book is recommended for Urban Fantasy lovers who enjoy depth of character and a mellifluous world.

[k reads · Rating 2 out of 5]

This review first appeared at So I Read This Book... at http://www.soireadthisbook.com/2011/10/quick-dirty-reviews-say-hello-to.html

I’ve been a fan of the Chronicles of Elantra for quite some time and I thought the series hit a new high with book five, Cast in Silence. So I was really looking forward to the newest entry in the continuing saga of Private Kaylin Neya. Unfortunately, this installment failed to satisy. I found the writing style convoluted, even clunky at times, something I have not noticed with the earlier books. This may have had to do with the fact that I wasn’t engaged by the story of Cast in Ruin and. at points, was not completely sure what was happening. Plus, after seven books, I’m getting tired of the scrappy little Hawk, who despite being super powerful and the designated “Chosen” of this world,is still only a private. For a private, she sure gets around. She’s the friggin savior to all – the Tha’alani, the Barani, the Leotine, the People, and now, the Dragons. After seven books, I need more forward motion – not the baby steps I feel like I’m getting. I want Kaylin to smarten up. I want her to stop avoiding her responsibilities and stop acting like an adolescent. It’s easy to understand why everyone else gets so frustrated with her. I know I am. It’s time for us to learn a little more about her powers and what exactly being “The Chosen” means. So far, it seems like her powers are assigned solely by the needs of the story. First there is some sort of magical conflict and then, lo and behold, Kaylin discovers a previously unknown magical ability that allows her, and only her, to overcome the threat. Well, yay for her.
I will say that I truly enjoyed the last 60 pages and the things we learned there could potentially make things very interesting in the next book. However, I’ll be taking a break from the series.

[Felicia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't have much to say about this, but felt compelled to add it to the stack for completionist sake. I am just so confused about where this series is going, I thought Cast in Silence was pretty good, and the first couple were just BRILLIANT, but I dunno. And Kaylin continues to be soooo emotionally messed up, I just want her to grow a bit (and get with Nightshade, but looking at this book it doesn't look good.)

Ah well.

[Paraphrodite · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars.

Nov 2024 - re-listened.
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Nov 2023 - re-listened. I've had to upp'd the speed to 1.75 for this re-listen.
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Re-listened August 2021
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Re-listened 2020. With this series, I have to admit I don't always understand the explanations. But nevertheless, I do like the introduction of Bellusdeo to the cast. I like her irrelevance and arrogance, not unlike Teela (who has been solely missed in the last couple of books!)

[Kathy Davie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seventh in the Chronicles of Elantra fantasy series for young adults revolving around a feisty young lady with a heart of gold.

My Take
This has turned into a series that I just can't wait to get my hands — and eyes — on. In spite of the whining ahead...*grin*

Sagara is retreating to her previous confusing wording in this story. I'll read sections over and over trying to figure out what she's saying...and it doesn't work. I just keep hoping that eventually I'll come across a section that does explain it. Whether it's in this story or the next.

Kaylin is up for possible promotion AND a raise. If she can behave herself. And I'm impressed at how well she does do. I'd be spitting mad and showing it if I learned someone had been spying on my every move! I think Diarmat is trying to get a rise out of Kaylin so he can eat her. Meanwhile Sanabalis comes to the rescue. Twice — the second time is with the Arkon's help! Oh, yeah, things are going to get even more interesting…!

It's odd how intent Sagara is on the embezzlement issue, but there's no real sense of urgency in it. It's all talk. Or should I say tell. I am confused as to how the exchequer embezzlement has anything to do with how Tiarmaris is finding the money to rebuild his fief. I was under the impression that the fiefs are completely separate from the Emperor and his hoard.

It's names again. Their importance, how Dragons earn them, whether they can be separated that concerns Kaylin. And those bloody "superior" Dragons are just too reluctant to spill any information. Too bad for them that Tiamaris is now independent of the Emperor and that Tara can speak Dragon — hee-hee-hee.

A very telling remark from Lord Nightshade on what he feels about Ravellon. Remarkably similar to what he felt about Barren in Cast in Silence , 5.

We learn yet more of the history of the Norannir people, of the Shadows, of dragons, of the evolution of the Emperor's laws. I also think we gain some insight to a part of the Dragon birthing process. Sanabalis believes that Tiamaris is young enough to have learned to appreciate humans, that he was influenced by the Emperor and his care.

Sagara is delving into Kaylin's feelings about Nightshade and Severn; it's a fine line she's walking here. Those etiquette lessons are not quite what I was expecting. They'll be getting yet more interesting now that Bellusdeo, Kaylin's champion, will be attending in future.

The Story
The fallout from Cast in Chaos , 6, has caused more and greater attacks by the Shadows on Tiamaris' fief and dead bodies are popping up all over the place. The same exact one.

A greater terror — for Kaylin — are those etiquette lessons which she is finally forced to attend.

And she still has the egg.

The Characters
Private Lord Kaylin Neya of the Hawks sure is in demand. Something goes weirdly wrong and it's her name that's called upon to investigate. The tattoos on her body are what make her special — she is the Chosen. It's been noticed that Corporal Lord Severn Handred is an ideal partner for Kaylin, for he is so much more diplomatic.

Lord Tiamaris, a Dragon, is the fieflord of Tiamaris with Tara, the Tower, the Lady, a very hands-on Avatar, especially compared to other fiefs. She does love to garden. Morse is Tiamaris and Tara's second-in-command; she was the former fieflord's second as well and protected Kaylin then. Susa is a child within the fief with information.

The Norannir refugees from Cast in Chaos call themselves the People
They have pledged to Tiamaris and his fief, willing to battle the shadows on his borders. Effaron, the traveler, is still the only one able to speak to Kaylin. Merjah leads the refugees; she was trained like an Ascendant but could never be one. Maggaron is an Ascendant, one of the Norannir children chosen centuries ago to learn and protect.

Bellusdeo is the Dragon Queen, who went above and beyond in attempting to protect. The future should be most interesting — Bellusdeo is very much like Kaylin!

Lord Sanabalis is one of four Dragon lords at the Imperial Court and is granting Kaylin a stay of her magic studies while the Hawks deal with an influx of 3,000+ refugees. I think he enjoys her outbursts. Lord Diarmat is Commander of the Imperial Guard and ordered to teach Kaylin etiquette. Yeah, it goes over about that well. The Arkon is the oldest Dragon at court, and while he hasn't left the palace library in thousands of years, he's making up for lost time; Bellusdeo knew him as Lannagaros. The Dragon Emperor "was born during the wars between the Barrani and the Dragon flights" and is anxious for Kaylin to pass her etiquette lessons. She's a wild card in his hoard with a great deal of power. Although, by the end of this story, he feels he owes her one. He considers Elantra his hoard.

Garavan Larienne is the Chancellor of the Exchequer under investigation for embezzlement; he has sought refuge with the Human Castelord.

The Hawks include:
The Hawks are the investigators headed up by Lord Grammayre, the Hawklord who has a soft spot for Kaylin; Hanson is the secretary with a long memory. Sergeant Marcus Kassan, a.k.a., Ironjaw, a Leontine, is back and cursing up a storm over the paperwork generated by the world almost ending. Nor does he intend to suffer alone as he's pulled in just about every Hawk to do desk duty in taking down the public's complaints. Kaylin has her own questions about the "conspiracy of evil chickens". Caitlin is his unofficial second-in-command and she does a great job of funneling most of the paperwork away from Marcus. Teela and Tain are Barrani who have been pulled into the embezzlement investigation. Clint, an Aerian whose feathers Kaylin loves to ruffle, and Tanner, human who is still laughing at Kaylin's expense, always seem to pull guard duty. Red (don't call him Reginald!) is the medical examiner who is not as comfortable with Dragons as Kaylin.

Lord Nightshade is an outcaste Barrani fieflord who wishes to make a deal with the Hawklord in return for Kaylin's time. Lord Andellen is the Barrani guard who has become a part of Kaylin's life.

Makuron the Black is the Outcaste Dragon Lord living in the heart of the fiefs, in Ravellon. Nightshade has his own theories as to how independent this Outcaste is.

The various divisions within Elantra include:
The Aerians are birdmen with wings who can fly, but they are not shifters. Barrani are the upper class in this society, although not the uppermost. The Leontine are lion shifters. Arcanists are mages who work independently of the Dragon Emperor while the Mages owe him their allegiance. The fiefs in this story — Tiamaris, Nightshade, and Ravellon — are only three out of seven criminal neighborhoods around Elantra. The beings who rule fiefs are the fieflords who provide the name of the fief itself, shape its existence, and protect its boundaries from the Shadows.

The Cover
This is my favorite cover so far — I think it's the runes on the blade of the sword. Of course, the leather-clad Kaylin is looking remarkably pretty as well wearing the silver bracer and poised with Maggaron's sword, tattoos running up her arms. The background appears to be a ruin, possibly a scene from Tiamaris' fief.

The title could apply to so many possibilities in this story, that it's just scary: Tiamaris' fief is practically destroyed, there's the threat of the Shadows, and the reappearance of Bellusdeo. All are or could result in a Cast in Ruin.

[Mimi Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

DRAGONS! Finally, we learn more about dragons’ society, and also about the world-hopping strangers that settled in Tiamaris. There’s a series of very mysterious murders in the fief that might indicate Shadows are stirring in subtle ways.

Loved all the new details about the races, and the mystery was a perfect way in. I am enchanted by the new fief, its leaders, and what it is shaping up to be. Kaylin interacts with the Dragon Court quite a bit here, and it was interesting to see how each one responded to the major events and to Kaylin herself.

Kaylin gets long-lauded etiquette lessons and a new (very fun) roommate! I believe Kaylin is also learning how to navigate around powerful people better, and why it matters.

[Shelley · Rating 3 out of 5]

*Genre* Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5

*Review*

“Cast in Ruin” picks up right where “Cast in Chaos” left off. The Norannir (The People) are living within Lord Tiamaris’s Fief but not everything is running smoothly. There is the natural progression of learning the language of Elantra, as well as being useful against the Shadows that continue to appear within in Tiamari’s Fief causing problems for the residents.

Then there’s the fact that seven identical female corpses suddenly appear in the Fief causing numerous questions as to where the bodies came from.
Private Kaylin Neya and her partner Corporal Severn Handred are once again called to duty to investigate. At the same time, Kaylin learns that the Dragon Court has been keeping a keen eye on her every movement and her activities including those at the Foundling Hall. Kaylin is also expected to be at etiquette classes with a Dragon she despises (Lord Diarmat), and putting up with Arkon’s continued bantering and putting her down at every turn. Yes, you could say that I have issues with the way that Kaylin is treated by those who are supposed to be her betters.

Since picking up this series several months ago, Kaylin has been an interesting character for me to follow and connect with. It all starts with the fact that she carries many different tattoos on her body that still haven’t been explained. She grew up in Nighshade Fief struggling to survive, and finally doing whatever she needed to do in order to become a Hawk and make a name for herself.

At times, Kaylin flies by the seat of her pants, and at other times, you just know that she’s doing the best job that she knows how to regardless of whether or not it makes your eyes roll in your head or upsets those that she answers to. She’s been labeled as the Chosen, yet, she doesn’t particularly understand her powers, abilities, or what it means in the long term. Yet, time after time she finds ways to stop catastrophes from happening, and finds ways to help when others lack the desire or knowledge to do so.

Since Cast in Chaos, Kaylin has been keeping a mysterious egg in her one room apartment that was given to her before the People arrived in Elantra. The mystery behind the egg appears to be heading for a revelation in the next installment and for that I am actually giddy with excitement. Usually it takes a while for certain mysteries to play themselves out like the bond between Lord Nightshade and Kaylin and the fact that Severn and Kaylin seem to continue to have feelings for the other.

Cast in Ruin is a decent enough addition to the Chronicles of Elantra series. Sagara’s world building continues to impress. I actually liked the addition of the Female Dragon Bellusdeo who has a soft spot for Kaylin as well as the fact that she seems to have the same disposition as Kaylin when it comes to meeting with the Dragon Emperor or learning which fork to use.

[Sharon Tyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cast in Ruin by Michelle Sagara West is the seventh book in the Chronicles of Elantra series. It is scheduled for release on September 29 2011. Fans of the series will enjoy this installment, particularly the growth that Kaylin continues to demonstrate and a plot line that is full of excitement and important details of the larger story arch. The series keeps getting better, and I am looking forward to Cast in Peril, and the three unnamed books that Sagara has mentioned on her blog. I do not recommend the book to readers new to the series, instead I suggest that those that are intrigued go back and start with Cast in Shadow, the first book in this series.

Cast in Ruin picks up where Cast in Chaos left off. The refugees are living in the Dragon Lord's Fief, but things are not exactly setting down. The human inhabitants are weary of their new neighbors, that they are huge and armed to the teeth does not assuage their fears, but the fact that they are actively fighting the shadows does. Things only get more complicated as seven identical corpses are found in the streets of the fief. Kaylin receives a reprieve from more intense etiquette lessons when she is assigned to investigate the bodies; who they were, who killed them, and why. Are shadows breaching the boarders or is it something more ominous? Kaylin must embrace everything she has learned, and all of her gifts, in order to protect the people she has promised to protect. There is no available retreat, and surrender is not a viable option. Metaphysical and intensely physical battles await, as do lessons in manners and relationship questions that still need examining.

I enjoyed Cast in Ruin, and the series thus far. However, this is not a series that I recommend starting in the middle. This is not because the story would not but enjoyable without the background information, but because the full growth and development of the characters and world is a gripping part of the story that you would miss without fully understanding what has happened in the previous books. Sagara does do a great job of reminding readers of the important points, and letting new readers in on what they have missed, but the full import of some of the events cannot be appreciated without reading the previous six books, starting with Cast in Shadow.

[WillowBe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was gratified to see Kaylin maturing in this book and give the author kudos for letting Kay voice her ambivalence about what she wants and to explain it fully. Even acknowledging she may want Nightshade, just alittle, though not so much for himself, but bec Severn is a dangerous choice for her heart. And for Sev to be a real person saying- hey, I'll wait for now, but not forever, showing a bit of impatient desire but also that he will always be her friend and supporter. He was very cool asking her what she really wants with no judgement and no pressure. Talk about a fantasy man! Very mature scene and maintains the integrity of the the dynamics of this relationship. So, good job with that.

Loved that kiss with Nightshade- sigh. That maybe the only reason he's in the running for her desire- Nightshade-3 kisses, Sev-0. I predict Sev will continue to give only deep searching looks until she says, it's him and noone else. Then he'll let it roll. he doesn't play around.

I CANNOT WAIT for Cast in Peril. I was so disappointed to realize that I had outread the series! I thought Peril was coming soon to an ebookstore near me. Now to hear I have to wait til practically my birthday in October? Of course, I could be really disappointed with the direction it takes. But I don't see how in the heck Ns is going to get into the Elven, oops, I mean, the Barrani Gathering in the West March even with Kaylin leading the way. I am dying to know what he did to become Outcaste. I'm hoping that the Wolf Lord will insist that Sev come over for some special shadow assignment that only he can do, and it's just Kay and Ns with Teela and Tain as bristling accompaniment disapproving of Ns and trying to protect her. Then Sev pops back in at the most inopportune time making her feel like a two-timing heel. Love the slow burn he does when he sees Ns making blatant plays for Kay. He seems twice as dangerous at those moments than even when he is swinging that enchanted chain.

So, I am happy with the progress and the realism. The story itself- kind of weird. I am glad they didn't leave us hanging about what happens with Dulcedeo. and AT LAST- Kaylin will get a decent place to live!!!!! I predict after Cast in Peril, it will be about Kay finall making it to the Dragon Court. I am going to re-read Cast in Shadow again. I think it's time.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've posted on several of the books in the Chronicles of Elantra series, and it still rates as one of my favorites. Cast in Ruin is the most recent publication, and unlike some series, each new title is as fantastic as the last.

Elantra is a fantasy world filled with strange people groups, including people with wings, people who resemble lions, elf-type people with a superiority complex, and dragons who can make themselves look like people. And there are some humans, too. In the last book, a new race entered Elantra through some kind of portal after losing their home to the same shadowy menace that plagues the outer fiefs of Elantra.

Private Kaylin Neya works as a sort of police officer/detective upholding the Dragon Emperor's laws, and when she's not walking her beat and investigating crimes, she tends to save the world a lot. Mysterious tattoos cover her body and allow her do work magic that no one understands and no one is able to duplicate. This magic generally means she's the first, last, and best line of defense against the aforementioned shadowy menace.

These books read, to me, like a procedural drama. You follow along as Kaylin goes from one place to the next, investigating the current mayhem and acting instinctively against the threats to Elantra (which is a good thing, since she knows just as little about the markings and her gifts as anyone else - and possibly less than some). And while it's not incredibly fast pace, it does have a consistent pace, and I had a hard time putting it down.

In Cast in Ruin, Kaylin is sent to investigate 7 identical dead bodies, and not identical as in twins, but identical as in everything about the corpses is exactly the same. And with the shadows encroaching on the fief, Kaylin doesn't have a lot of time to figure it out.

I would totally recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy novels or is looking to test the fantasy waters. They are awesome!

[drey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Kaylin, and I love watching her growth in Michelle Sagara’s Chronicles of Elantra series.


drey’s thoughts:
She started out in this series an awkward young woman, on the beat for the Halls of Law, irreverent and impetuous, and known more for being late than anything else. With each installment Kaylin Neya’s grown a bit more–either in her magic, or her understanding of it. Of course, it’s still in dribs and drabs, considering that there’s nobody around who could tell her about her magic…

In Cast in Ruin, Kaylin’s back at lessons. Etiquette lessons, which she needs if she’s to survive a meeting with the Emperor, because apparently dragons don’t have any sense of humor at all… And if you’ve followed Kaylin’s journey, you know she’s not very good at lessons. It’s almost a miracle she’s still alive, actually…

Lessons aren’t the only thing Kaylin has to do in this installment, of course. She’s called to Tiamaris’ fief to do some investigating when bodies start appearing. Seven identical bodies, to be exact. And nobody knows who they are or where they’ve come from.

What follows is a tale of epic proportions, complete with backstory, a villain, a hero, and a damsel. Of sorts. And Kaylin, of course–even if she’s gotten a hold of her irreverence (or at least attempts to not verbalize it) and sometimes checks her impetuousness at the door. I love the new characters introduced in Cast in Ruin, and I loved that Severn and Kaylin’s relationship hasn’t changed much, even with a few more things out in the open. I love the dialog and the action, too. And I love how things worked out, which isn’t something I can always say about a book in a fantasy series! I’m looking forward to the next installment, Cast in Peril, even though I have no clue when it’ll be out. Please make it soon!!

drey’s rating: Outstanding! If you haven’t read this series (yet), start with Cast in Shadow.

[Alexandria Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragons Abound

******Spoilers*****

The best part of this book for me was close to the end when we get to meet Bellusdeo. Though the majority of the tale is eclipsed by revelations, and the female dragon only takes form toward the end, it's still my favorite. Bellusdeo is and I think will do for Kaylin what those around her seem not to appreciate enough. Though she's been doing well and had saved countless lives, she has not given the respect or gratitude that I believe is due her in the capacity in which she has been of service. I hope that the female dragon will be able to advocate on Kaylin's behalf in a way that she cannot do herself as a mortal. Even so, I like Bellusdeo since she's a miniature Kaylin in temperament and voices similar gripes despite her audience which is refreshing when most people around Kaylin speak around answers instead of getting to the point. Bellusdeo does not and I'm hopeful she will not cede too much in the way of her personality, that she's not Queen in the Empire is not enough of a reason for her to change too much.

Kaylin has done a great job of feeling her way through much of the potential disasters and this book is no different. But what is slowly emerging in Kaylin is a trust for self and a beginning where she can hold her own in the face of immortal beings. It's glossed over some in this book but I can guess at her experience in Barren when it comes to her sexual education enough to be disgusted and understanding of the lack in the story so far. Hopefully for Kaylin's sake, she's able to get to a point where she can work through it like most challenges she's faced about herself so far.

Looking forward to the next book but a bit anxious about who Kaylin will be at the end of these stories. As she loses more words for various reasons, I fear that she'll lose them all at some point and since they're who she is, so will she.

[S.E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Plot-wise, things heats up pretty fast in “Cast in Ruin”. First, we have identical corpses turning up in the fief of Tiamaris. The mystery ties in with the Shadows threat that looms large again. During a fight with the shadows, Kaylin takes possession of a sword which appears to be sentient, and the storms on the borders of Tiamaris, since Tara’s awakening, have never been as fierce or consistent. And in the midst of all these problems are the ongoing investigations into the embezzlement issue within the Imperial Exchequer that involves the Arcanists.

With all these happenings, readers can expect a lot more headway in the storytelling. The pacing was right, the plotlines converged smoothly and the whys of all these occurrences kept me from putting the book down. Consider it a bonus that we are finally treated to a more or less detailed history of the war between the Dragons and Barrani, which explained why female Dragons were hitherto not seen or heard; also, how the various races eventually settled down in Elantra under the rule of the Dragon Emperor, and how the Halls of Law came about. Much appreciated, because it made for more involved reading.

Over the seven books, Kaylin has definitely grown in maturity, self-restraint and magic control. A creditable heroine, but one who still curses too much. As for the romance, I am not even going to mention anything because there wasn’t much to go on. But whatever little was given was still better than the previous books.

Seriously, after the last few books, I wasn’t expecting much. I am just glad that “Cast in Ruin” revived my interest in this whole series.

[Alyssa Louie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book felt surprisingly short, for a Michelle Sagara book, though not short for almost anyone else. ;) We learned a lot about the Dragons in this book; not so much about the workings of the Dragon Court, per se, but about the mechanics of the Dragon species. I'm still waiting to hear more about the history of how the Emperor became the Emperor. A new, highly entertaining character was introduced, and the long mystery of the apparently all-male Dragon court was discussed. There was also some good stuff about Ravellon and Makkuron, which I'm always excited about.

Nightshade fans, however, will be disappointed as he makes only a very brief, and mostly scoldy, appearance in this book. However he does seem to set up a much more expanded role for himself in the plot of Cast in Peril, and I'm very much looking forward to that. Also Kaylin and Severn have a nice talk about "feelings" that I can't help but wonder if it was thrown in to quell the continuing confusion in Michelle's discussion group over just what exactly happened to Kaylin in Barren and how that effects her ability to love anyone. A bit on the nose for some fans perhaps, but I APPRECIATED IT. ;)

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy this series more every book, and if I try to analyze why I come up with: it alternates between esoteric discussions about magical theory and incredibly uncomfortable social interactions. Occasionally they're the same thing. (The only thing worse than interrogating a Dragon about his reproductive habits is the Dragon knowing that answering is important.) And this is awesome! I don't know why. It's related to the Covenant thing, actually. It's the "heroine pulls out a new magic power every book" trope done *not* as deus ex magicwand, but as "oh my god, what complexities have I mired myself in this time, what have I made myself responsible for". And the complexities are now, what, seven books deep? and the author has not dropped the ball.

Also, Kaylin Neya is now perceptibly a grownup. She'll always do what she needs to do, and when that includes talking to other people like a grownup, she does that. This may be why she's my hero. Must learn this trick.

[Laura (Kyahgirl) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5; 4 stars; A-

I enjoyed this book quite a bit. The huge scope of the story that the author is weaving is becoming more clear as bits and pieces of the history of the worlds are revealed. I thought it was interesting to see the dragons more or less working together with Kaylin, Severn, and the Tower.

The way the history of the Norannir race was interwined with the main plot line of this book was well done and very interesting.

[Rose L · Rating 5 out of 5]

excelente desarrollo me encanta esta serie... Bellusdeo es un personaje complejo, me atrae leer las diferentes tonalidades que la autora le brinda

[Amélie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review first published at http://fansofmsw.com/

Summary:

In Cast in Chaos, the Norannir have come to Elantra from another world and have settle in the fief of Tiamaris. In the beginning of Cast in Ruin, we learn that they are some difficulties with their integration inside the fief, as its human inhabitants are quite intimidated by the armed giant wondering around… In addition, identical bodies are starting to appear inside the fief and Kaylin and Severn are delegated to the dragon court to investigate.

My opinion:

Once again, this book starts with an excellent first chapter; Michelle really has a talent with those. I love the conspiracy of evil chicken :). We also finally see those famous Etiquette lessons, the first of which don’t really go as expected. I can really sympathize with Kaylin there; sure she is a bit ignorant, self-indulgent and didn’t make a lot of effort to learn, well, nearly anything; but each time, I really feel insulted on her behalf when Diarmat is present. He is really too arrogant and rude toward her considering all that she has done for the Empire. He is a great character as he forces Kaylin to grow, but I really don’t like his manners.

The discussion between Kaylin and Lord Diarmat about the foundation of the Halls of Laws is interesting and it gives us more information about the Emperor. I love the comparison between mortals and apples :).

In this book, we see a lot of the dragon Court and the dragons are some of my favorite characters – even Lord Diarmat. The scene where the Arkon breaths fire on Sanabilis was priceless :). We also learn more about dragons and the female of the species, something I had been wondering for a while. So apparently we have seen all the dragons present in Elantra and the only ones missing are all those who are asleep. Considering the extend of the Empire and the history of both dragons and Barrani with those lands, I don’t think that there are lots of them who have decided to go on exile when the Empire was founded. Sleep doubtless appear more seducing to them, apart for those as young as Tiamaris; after all it won’t make any drastic differences for them, they will be able to start again their live when they awake and won’t have to deal with any unpleasantness with the Emperor. So Bellusdeo is the last female dragon in Elantra and thus represent the future of their race. One thing that surprises me is the small number of dragons present in Elantra and the fact that the Barrani have decided to bow to the Emperor’s rule. Is one dragon that much more powerful than one Barrani? Because Barrani have such a huge number advantage on the dragons, I have difficulties understanding their decisions. Now, they don’t want to destroy the city of Elantra, a thing that is almost certain to happen if there is a fight, but before? Anyway, I can really understand the Barrani’s fear concerning new baby dragons as even one of them will cause such a shift in the power balance.

Bellusdeo is introduced in this book. I think that she is a great character, because so often she says what Kaylin is thinking but can’t say. Sometimes it’s because it’s impolite or because it’s reflecting immaturity or ignorance, but sometimes it’s only because Kaylin is human. For me, Bellusdeo really highlight some of the racism present in Elantra between the mortal and immortal races, which is most personified by Lord Diarmat. I really love the fact that Bellusdeo decides to ignore the wishes of the Court and to stick with Kaylin. It’s also really funny that she has to assist to Kaylin’s Etiquette lessons as well; it’s a nice way to oblige Diarmat to show Kaylin more respect while maintaining the power balance.

Maggaron and Bellusdeo’s interactions are really interesting; Bellusdeo really views mortal differently from most immortal. I really get the impression that they were in love with each other and I wonder if Bellusdeo will ever accept to have children with the Emperor (I don’t think that the Emperor will accept that she has some with any other dragon). We know that dragons don’t view children the same way as human did, so it wouldn’t be illogical if they didn’t see mating in the same way too, yet I can’t see her having children with the Emperor when Maggaron is still around. About Maggaron, I think that he is immortal now that he has his own name, but I wonder if his immortality is link to Bellusdeo’s, that’s too say that if she dies, he’ll die too.

Another good point is that Kaylin’s relationships with Severn and Nightshade continue to progress if only slowly. It was good to see that Kaylin is oblige to acknowledge the feelings they express in Cast in Chaos and that she is not able to ignore it like she does in the previous book (when Nightshade kisses her in Cast in Secret for example, she shows no reaction at all and behaves as if nothing happened). And we see the consequence of Nighsthade’s promise that now he will interfere in her live without restriction :). I’m a bit disappointed that we don’t see more of him in this book and that Severn is present during their exchange, preventing any intimacy between them, but Nighsthade’s proposition is really interesting and we know just enough about his intention to be able to speculate.

And Kaylin learn her first curse word in Barrani :).

We also learn that Illien is still in the fief and that he is Tiamaris’ guest. I wonder what will happen to him; will he play a part in the final battle against Makkuron and the shadows and is that why he hasn’t left? It’s strange that after trying for so long to break free from the tower, he still chooses to stay.