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Weather Warden #9
Total Eclipse
View our feature on Rachel Caine's Total Eclipse.
New York Times bestselling author of the Morganville Vampires novels
Weather Warden Joanne Baldwin, her husband, the djinn David, and the Earth herself have been poisoned by a substance that destroys the magic that keeps the world alive. The poison is destabilizing the entire balance of power, bestowing magic upon those who have never had it, and removing it from those who need it. It's just a matter of time before the delicate balance of nature explodes into chaos--and doom.
New York Times bestselling author of the Morganville Vampires novels
Weather Warden Joanne Baldwin, her husband, the djinn David, and the Earth herself have been poisoned by a substance that destroys the magic that keeps the world alive. The poison is destabilizing the entire balance of power, bestowing magic upon those who have never had it, and removing it from those who need it. It's just a matter of time before the delicate balance of nature explodes into chaos--and doom.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2010
73 people are currently reading
3552 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Caine
215 books19.2k followersRachel Caine is a pen name of Roxanne Longstreet Conrad.
She has also published as:
Roxanne Longstreet
Roxanne Conrad
Julie Fortune
Ian Hammell
Her Facebook page:
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She has also published as:
Roxanne Longstreet
Roxanne Conrad
Julie Fortune
Ian Hammell
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 281 reviews
August 28, 2024
That was one brutal finale, I tell ya. Humanity was brought to its knees and was barely left alive. I didn't expect it, honestly. Damn, Rachel Caine, you're ruthless. Not everyone made it and I even cried over a character I never imagined I'd care about. Not Ashan though, that fucker could rot in hell for all I care.
All in all a very satisfying ending to an entertaining series. Highly recommend!
Over and out
All in all a very satisfying ending to an entertaining series. Highly recommend!
Over and out
February 8, 2024
“Humanity had done stupid things in the name of its own blind survival, worse in the name of its own comfort. She’s not concerned with individuals, Lewis. She’s concerned with balance.”Total Eclipse ends Joanne’s story on frustratingly familiar grounds.
Firestorm had already dealt with the apocalyptic scenario of the Mother waking, so this redux already has diminishing returns. At the same time, this situation was kind of inevitable. Caine has been compulsively choosing world-ending scenarios for each book, one after the other, and there really isn’t a way to up the ante after a certain point.
Jo and David are regular humans for a decent portion of the book after the events of Cape Storm. I wish I could say this had a greater impact on the book, but it really didn’t. They get them back about halfway through.
I get this series is about Warden Joanne, but the idea of her remaining without powers for the entirety of the last book and beyond holds a fascination for me. David, included. It gives the series significant time to appreciate humanity without the bells and whistles of supernatural forces, but I understand that might not be as exciting.
How Jo and the Wardens deal with Mother Nature is so fittingly American I was cackling through it. The very earth is waking up and they deal with this emerging crisis by nuking Mother Earth.
It’s so appalling and yet, oddly, is never brought up for the rest of the book. When they finally do get an audience with the Mother, she doesn’t even bring it up. But I didn't even have enough time to be annoyed by that because how they get the Mother to listen is its own kind of natural disaster. Lewis seduces her using his extraordinary Earth powers.
There are several times in this book I stopped and thought, what the hell am I reading? That was the longest.
Going back to Joanne nuking Mother Earth. That was supposed to be another suicide mission for Jo — Lewis-approved as all of her suicide missions are, even the ones she didn’t personally sign up for. Seriously, Lewis wants Jo dead, or Jo’s continued survival from the jaws of certain death has become academic to him with how often he presses that button.
Anyway, Jo survives because the Djinn, acting like antibodies for the Mother, appear. They beat the shit out of her, which, you know, she nuked the Earth. Can’t argue with that. Honestly, she got off lightly.
Before Joanne can succumb to this beating, David appears and the story somehow becomes more batshit. He tosses Jo a bazillion bottles so she can go on a claiming spree of the surrounding Djinn. The crimes against humanity are mounting.
If you can’t tell, I hate this direction.
Caine wrote a series about Wardens enslaving Djinn for eons, eventually making it clear how despicable that is on multiple levels, and then has the Wardens enslave them again in the final fight — dismissing any concern over this as “politics”.
I cannot overstate how repugnant that is to me.
Odd side-note: In a series that’s been staunchly heteronormative, its kind of funny that Caine chooses the last book to have Joanne contemplate David’s potential bisexuality in her internal monologue.
It starts when David jokes about kissing Lewis, and Jo thinks, “knowing how ancient David was, I wasn’t entirely putting that kind of flexibility past him, either”. And then when ruminating over his relationship with Jonathan, she considers that they may have been more than “friends and brothers in arms” and never actually specifies.
We have no reason to interpret their relationship as romantic. There is definitely a loving devotion between them. My main point is just that this would have been more interesting coming from either David or Jonathan, and you know, while both of them were still playing an active role in the story.
Its a little silly having Jo theorise to herself about it after all this time.
I’ve really enjoyed the Weather Warden series. I think Caine was (she passed away in 2020) an imaginative, snappy writer with a specialty of serving up likeable characters, but I think her astounding productivity (she was writing three series at the same time, multiple instalments each year) often obscured that.
Total Eclipse feels like a natural reflection of that, for better and worse.
February 11, 2013
This review has been cross-posted on my Happy Indulgence Blog. Check it out for more reviews!
Inevitably, all good things must come to an end. Joanne Baldwin’s journey has been wrought with magic, fear, power struggles between Djinn and the forces of nature itself, some incredibly brave and charming people and with death itself. After following Jo since she discovered her weather warden powers to dating a Djinn who will go on and become one of the major players in the world, to coming back from near death and having to walk away from everything she’s ever known, you realise that a good character is someone who’s become as familiar as your closest friend. Reading Total Eclipse is a bittersweet experience, it’s sad to say goodbye to some of the finest characters (and book boyfriends) out there, but you’re glad to finally see them at peace.
Weather Warden series is one of the most epic I’ve ever read, and has definitely become one of my favourite series out there. No matter what, Rachel Caine seems to always keep on surprising you with the depth of emotion and plot twists so unique that you’d never see them coming. If you think about the unpredictable nature of the weather itself, that’s what your journey will be like experiencing this series. I won’t deliver any spoilers here, but this is probably one of the most satisfying endings you’ll ever encounter. Jo’s journey comes full circle at the conclusion of the Weather Warden series, as she faces the largest nemesis the wardens and Djinn together will ever encounter – Mother Nature herself.
As you’ve probably come to expect from Rachel Caine, Total Eclipse delivers everything that you would want it to, and more. The entire story arc to the series has been leading up to this final moment, and the climactic ending is emotional as is it heart-breaking and satisfying.
To some of the best characters in modern day fiction, I will miss you. You’ve opened my eyes to a world I would have never known, and for that I am thankful. For now, the story of Jo and David has finished, and I’ll move onto the Outcast series to discover Cassiel and Luis’s story.
I read this for a buddy read here. Check it out for our discussions on the plot.
Inevitably, all good things must come to an end. Joanne Baldwin’s journey has been wrought with magic, fear, power struggles between Djinn and the forces of nature itself, some incredibly brave and charming people and with death itself. After following Jo since she discovered her weather warden powers to dating a Djinn who will go on and become one of the major players in the world, to coming back from near death and having to walk away from everything she’s ever known, you realise that a good character is someone who’s become as familiar as your closest friend. Reading Total Eclipse is a bittersweet experience, it’s sad to say goodbye to some of the finest characters (and book boyfriends) out there, but you’re glad to finally see them at peace.
Weather Warden series is one of the most epic I’ve ever read, and has definitely become one of my favourite series out there. No matter what, Rachel Caine seems to always keep on surprising you with the depth of emotion and plot twists so unique that you’d never see them coming. If you think about the unpredictable nature of the weather itself, that’s what your journey will be like experiencing this series. I won’t deliver any spoilers here, but this is probably one of the most satisfying endings you’ll ever encounter. Jo’s journey comes full circle at the conclusion of the Weather Warden series, as she faces the largest nemesis the wardens and Djinn together will ever encounter – Mother Nature herself.
As you’ve probably come to expect from Rachel Caine, Total Eclipse delivers everything that you would want it to, and more. The entire story arc to the series has been leading up to this final moment, and the climactic ending is emotional as is it heart-breaking and satisfying.
To some of the best characters in modern day fiction, I will miss you. You’ve opened my eyes to a world I would have never known, and for that I am thankful. For now, the story of Jo and David has finished, and I’ll move onto the Outcast series to discover Cassiel and Luis’s story.
I read this for a buddy read here. Check it out for our discussions on the plot.
February 21, 2019
This ninth book wraps up the Weather Warden series with a finale bigger and badder than anything that’s come before it, and with a series following one main character this long, that’s the way it should be. There are definitely some familiar vibes—a cross-country road trip, chasing down Oracles, djinns under control of the Mother—but everything happens on such a jacked up platform, it doesn’t feel like a rehash. It feels like life or death.
The story begins with Joanne and David suffering the effects of the sacrifice they made to take down Bad Bob. They’re both human. On top of that, all the wardens and djinn with them are quickly diminishing as they rush to get out of the black corner they created. Of course, things only get worse when they get back to the real world. Mother Nature is now fully awake and she is on a rampage. She pulls the djinn into her thrall and begins systematically destroying the human race.
Our main couple is seriously handicapped by their humanity for the first half of the book. In time, their powers show up in unlikely hands –and eventually make their way back where they belong, but it’s a hard road. The silver lining is seeing the relationship between Jo and David as a human couple. It really brings a lovely dynamic to their love we’ve never seen before—and I kind of dug Human David.
You might think things would take a turn for the better when their powers are restored, but it only gets worse. We lose a major character… more than one. And Mother Nature makes for a much scarier adversary than we’ve ever seen before. It’s not just killer weather Joanne must fight. It’s not just the djinn. Not just the Oracles. It’s all those things at once, plus creatures natural and unnatural, ready to rip Joanne apart.
I enjoyed the breakneck pacing and the crazy obstacles in Joanne’s path. It felt suitably big and world-changing. But there were a few disappointments. Beware of spoilers ahead. Kevin’s death was so sad and unexpected. I know he was a flawed character, but I felt like he had a redemption arc working to an extent I could see him as a solid antihero one day. Not only did he die, which I considered a waste, it happened off page. That was number one. Number two was Lewis. He’s been hanging Jo out to dry for a while now.
And while the author makes it a point to show he does it despite his love for her, this book pushed his constant willingness to sacrifice her beyond what I could forgive. And then, the resolution of his story was supposed to be this big sacrifice and it didn’t pay off, at least not for me.
And then, there’s the resolution for Jo and David. Which just couldn’t feel like a real HEA with him as a djinn and her as a human. The epilogue paints a domestic-y picture, but I feel like he’s absent and the whole mortal vs immortal thing feels like an insurmountable issue.
Finally, we spend some time with Cassiel, the main character of the spinoff. I think her name was mentioned in the last book (maybe?) and we meet her here, but the author treats her like a character we should know already. This bugged the crap out of me, because it made me second guess myself to the point I wasted an hour Googling it. She seems like an interesting enough character; but would it be so hard to treat her like the new character she is?
I will probably give the Outcast books a try at some point—and I hear Caine is working on a book 10. I’m really curious to see where she takes this crazy world next. And maybe she’ll even the playing field between Joanne and David before everything is said and done. Here’s hoping.
The story begins with Joanne and David suffering the effects of the sacrifice they made to take down Bad Bob. They’re both human. On top of that, all the wardens and djinn with them are quickly diminishing as they rush to get out of the black corner they created. Of course, things only get worse when they get back to the real world. Mother Nature is now fully awake and she is on a rampage. She pulls the djinn into her thrall and begins systematically destroying the human race.
Our main couple is seriously handicapped by their humanity for the first half of the book. In time, their powers show up in unlikely hands –and eventually make their way back where they belong, but it’s a hard road. The silver lining is seeing the relationship between Jo and David as a human couple. It really brings a lovely dynamic to their love we’ve never seen before—and I kind of dug Human David.
You might think things would take a turn for the better when their powers are restored, but it only gets worse. We lose a major character… more than one. And Mother Nature makes for a much scarier adversary than we’ve ever seen before. It’s not just killer weather Joanne must fight. It’s not just the djinn. Not just the Oracles. It’s all those things at once, plus creatures natural and unnatural, ready to rip Joanne apart.
I enjoyed the breakneck pacing and the crazy obstacles in Joanne’s path. It felt suitably big and world-changing. But there were a few disappointments. Beware of spoilers ahead. Kevin’s death was so sad and unexpected. I know he was a flawed character, but I felt like he had a redemption arc working to an extent I could see him as a solid antihero one day. Not only did he die, which I considered a waste, it happened off page. That was number one. Number two was Lewis. He’s been hanging Jo out to dry for a while now.
And while the author makes it a point to show he does it despite his love for her, this book pushed his constant willingness to sacrifice her beyond what I could forgive. And then, the resolution of his story was supposed to be this big sacrifice and it didn’t pay off, at least not for me.
And then, there’s the resolution for Jo and David. Which just couldn’t feel like a real HEA with him as a djinn and her as a human. The epilogue paints a domestic-y picture, but I feel like he’s absent and the whole mortal vs immortal thing feels like an insurmountable issue.
Finally, we spend some time with Cassiel, the main character of the spinoff. I think her name was mentioned in the last book (maybe?) and we meet her here, but the author treats her like a character we should know already. This bugged the crap out of me, because it made me second guess myself to the point I wasted an hour Googling it. She seems like an interesting enough character; but would it be so hard to treat her like the new character she is?
I will probably give the Outcast books a try at some point—and I hear Caine is working on a book 10. I’m really curious to see where she takes this crazy world next. And maybe she’ll even the playing field between Joanne and David before everything is said and done. Here’s hoping.
December 5, 2012
This review is technically for the entire series as oppose to this last book.
There was a lot of problems I had with this entire series.
The never ending world-saving that goes on. One thing after another after another. The constant dying that the main character goes through. Like seriously how many times can you die and yet stay human. I think my favorite was when she was a Djinn. But too bad she died while being an immortal being only to come back alive as a human. And then from there it was pretty much dying in every book at one time or another. At some point it was like wow... I just want her to stay dead now.
Some of the side characters really annoyed me (or that I hated) too: Lewis (don't want to go into this because I could rant about this asshole for a while - it was really frustrating with this character because there were times when I generally like him or try to, but it was so frustrating - and his ending was WAY too good for what he really deserved - which is a smack down by David!), Ashan (I can't decide if I hate him more or less than Lewis - but I do just outright hate him), Paul (not as frustrating as Lewis but that same hate/like feeling), Bad Bob (yeah this dude gives me the creeps - but it has to be said, best villain of the whole series - so not as frustrating because I generally hate him), Sarah (Joanne's sister, total crazy bitch), Enmon (sp? forgot how his name was spelled, but Sarah's boyfriend and human psycho, dude gives me the creeps), and finally the Air Oracle (of all the douche supernatural beings, this one's one of the worst).
Characters I wished to see more of: Johnathan (funny enough, I kinda liked this bastard, he was complex and yet logical - wished he came out near the end, but he never came back... sad), Kevin (angst-filled trouble youth makes very interesting character, I want to smack him but he's still very likable in a weird way. Sad that he ended the way he did. Kept hoping that they would revive him in the end. I mean of all the characters I think he really deserved a second chance), the Fire Oracle (glad he made into this last book, I would definitely want him on my team near the end of the world), Imara (wish we've gotten to know her more before she became the Oracle), and finally Marion (bad ass Earth Warden that went a bit MIA after she got handicapped, wished we could have seen more of her).
Characters I really liked: Venna (enough said, this Djinn chick is awesome on so many levels, glad she got more involved as the series progressed), Rahel (funny enough she got less and less involved as the story progressed, but still liked her), Cherise (she was a badass human), and I guess Joanne. I mean if I didn't like the main character to some degree I would not be reading this whole series. I just wished at times she didn't die so much, or have such a freaking bleeding heart that pretty much lands her into the whole martyr/saint role like all the time. And that the author didn't have such a sadistic glee at torturing her.
Finally what made this whole series worth it, enduring all the never ending cycle of main character torture and world ending catastrophic... David. I totally adore David. He makes up for all the cons of this series and a lot more. He is worth it. David was complex and interesting. He of course was not flawless. There are times when I'm like David - what the hell. But he usually makes up for those moments right after. And of all the characters, David was the rock. He was always consistent. He really help held the series (not to mention the main character) together when everything seems to be in total chaos. David = adore ( = unrealistic standards for men in real life, LOL).
Anyways, I seriously think the reason I'm giving this a 4/5 instead of a 3/5 (or even a 2/5 - because I've really been contemplating it - at least for this last book) is because of David. So I guess the 4/5 is the overall rating for the entire series because it has a character like David.
With that being said though... probably won't be picking up this series to re-read any time soon (maybe like ever). But David I will always remembered. (He will go on my list of literary hotties.)
There was a lot of problems I had with this entire series.
The never ending world-saving that goes on. One thing after another after another. The constant dying that the main character goes through. Like seriously how many times can you die and yet stay human. I think my favorite was when she was a Djinn. But too bad she died while being an immortal being only to come back alive as a human. And then from there it was pretty much dying in every book at one time or another. At some point it was like wow... I just want her to stay dead now.
Some of the side characters really annoyed me (or that I hated) too: Lewis (don't want to go into this because I could rant about this asshole for a while - it was really frustrating with this character because there were times when I generally like him or try to, but it was so frustrating - and his ending was WAY too good for what he really deserved - which is a smack down by David!), Ashan (I can't decide if I hate him more or less than Lewis - but I do just outright hate him), Paul (not as frustrating as Lewis but that same hate/like feeling), Bad Bob (yeah this dude gives me the creeps - but it has to be said, best villain of the whole series - so not as frustrating because I generally hate him), Sarah (Joanne's sister, total crazy bitch), Enmon (sp? forgot how his name was spelled, but Sarah's boyfriend and human psycho, dude gives me the creeps), and finally the Air Oracle (of all the douche supernatural beings, this one's one of the worst).
Characters I wished to see more of: Johnathan (funny enough, I kinda liked this bastard, he was complex and yet logical - wished he came out near the end, but he never came back... sad), Kevin (angst-filled trouble youth makes very interesting character, I want to smack him but he's still very likable in a weird way. Sad that he ended the way he did. Kept hoping that they would revive him in the end. I mean of all the characters I think he really deserved a second chance), the Fire Oracle (glad he made into this last book, I would definitely want him on my team near the end of the world), Imara (wish we've gotten to know her more before she became the Oracle), and finally Marion (bad ass Earth Warden that went a bit MIA after she got handicapped, wished we could have seen more of her).
Characters I really liked: Venna (enough said, this Djinn chick is awesome on so many levels, glad she got more involved as the series progressed), Rahel (funny enough she got less and less involved as the story progressed, but still liked her), Cherise (she was a badass human), and I guess Joanne. I mean if I didn't like the main character to some degree I would not be reading this whole series. I just wished at times she didn't die so much, or have such a freaking bleeding heart that pretty much lands her into the whole martyr/saint role like all the time. And that the author didn't have such a sadistic glee at torturing her.
Finally what made this whole series worth it, enduring all the never ending cycle of main character torture and world ending catastrophic... David. I totally adore David. He makes up for all the cons of this series and a lot more. He is worth it. David was complex and interesting. He of course was not flawless. There are times when I'm like David - what the hell. But he usually makes up for those moments right after. And of all the characters, David was the rock. He was always consistent. He really help held the series (not to mention the main character) together when everything seems to be in total chaos. David = adore ( = unrealistic standards for men in real life, LOL).
Anyways, I seriously think the reason I'm giving this a 4/5 instead of a 3/5 (or even a 2/5 - because I've really been contemplating it - at least for this last book) is because of David. So I guess the 4/5 is the overall rating for the entire series because it has a character like David.
With that being said though... probably won't be picking up this series to re-read any time soon (maybe like ever). But David I will always remembered. (He will go on my list of literary hotties.)
June 2, 2022
This final novel in the warden series is PERFECTION! Fast paced, spell bounding, and just so well written. Rachel is definitely my favorite author. I finished the book feeling deeply satisfied.I'm glad to see Joanne Baldwin get a happy ending. She sure as hell earned it.
UPDATE 5/9/2022
Reading for the 2nd time
I freaking LOVE this series! Sheesh! Can't believe there'll never be another story... RIP Rachel
UPDATE 5/9/2022
Reading for the 2nd time
I freaking LOVE this series! Sheesh! Can't believe there'll never be another story... RIP Rachel
August 10, 2010
** Ok, at first I rated 1 star, but now I've calm down, I know it deserves more **
I loved this series, but I was hugely disappointed with the ending.
The beginning of this book was like deja vu! Driving around chasing the Oracles.. hasn't she done that in so many other books?
I so hate Lewis!!! How many times did Lewis have to make Joanne go and die?! By either talking her into doing something stupid (which was for nothing really), or keeping others from going to her rescue. I hated him so much by the end of book. Then he's all glorious and the saviour and the leader of the Djinn. Oh, he didn't deserve such a good ending for him.
And, after all the harm that he made on Jo, she goes and names her son after him?? Oh, come on!
And, I really don't see such happy ending where David is still Djinn and Jo is still human. What? She's going grow old and die, and he'll be left forever young??? Honestly, that's not a happy ending.
I like Rachel's writting. I like Jo's character, it had the potential to be awesome, but the story line just didn't work.
Urgh! So disappointing...
I loved this series, but I was hugely disappointed with the ending.
The beginning of this book was like deja vu! Driving around chasing the Oracles.. hasn't she done that in so many other books?
I so hate Lewis!!! How many times did Lewis have to make Joanne go and die?! By either talking her into doing something stupid (which was for nothing really), or keeping others from going to her rescue. I hated him so much by the end of book. Then he's all glorious and the saviour and the leader of the Djinn. Oh, he didn't deserve such a good ending for him.
And, after all the harm that he made on Jo, she goes and names her son after him?? Oh, come on!
And, I really don't see such happy ending where David is still Djinn and Jo is still human. What? She's going grow old and die, and he'll be left forever young??? Honestly, that's not a happy ending.
I like Rachel's writting. I like Jo's character, it had the potential to be awesome, but the story line just didn't work.
Urgh! So disappointing...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2011
As a series finale...I was kind of disappointed.
It's the end of the world as we know and...Joanne feels fine.
Seriously. How many times can a character die? And still be human? There was so much dying in the previous book that it got a little boring.
This one was no different. She blows up a nuclear plant? Really? *eyebrows rise*
The ending left me feeling a little meh. I mean...they've just basically ended life as we know it and it doesn't seem like anything is different.
My disbelief at the ending because Not to mention there's a sudden appearance of a non-djinn djinn named Cassiel who has a series of her own and it felt so...forced to have her in this series. She was introduced as if I should know who she is and I was all - haven't gotten to that series yet... gah.
I have to say I'm glad the series is over though. I'm exhausted. All that world ending...heroine dying...exhausting to read. It was a fantastic ride...until the final spin around the coaster track. I was just left wanting.
It's the end of the world as we know and...Joanne feels fine.
Seriously. How many times can a character die? And still be human? There was so much dying in the previous book that it got a little boring.
This one was no different. She blows up a nuclear plant? Really? *eyebrows rise*
The ending left me feeling a little meh. I mean...they've just basically ended life as we know it and it doesn't seem like anything is different.
My disbelief at the ending because Not to mention there's a sudden appearance of a non-djinn djinn named Cassiel who has a series of her own and it felt so...forced to have her in this series. She was introduced as if I should know who she is and I was all - haven't gotten to that series yet... gah.
I have to say I'm glad the series is over though. I'm exhausted. All that world ending...heroine dying...exhausting to read. It was a fantastic ride...until the final spin around the coaster track. I was just left wanting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2020
This is an intriguing and entertaining series, but for me it has run out of steam. I found myself indifferent to much of the storey and skipping numerous sections in the last two books. I still recommend the series. I love this author and will continue to seek out her work.
January 4, 2016
This series has had its ups and downs, and from the sounds of Red Hot Rain's Kickstarter it ended before Caine wanted it to, but I have to say that this final book is resoundingly satisfying.
To be sure, it treads some ground over again. We did the Oracle roadtrip back in book... what, five? That one also had the threat of Mother Earth waking up, which Total Eclipse brings back scaled up to 11. That said, there's some new territory here - major character death and, moreover, major population death. Jo is simultaneously at peak competency and in the most desperate straits she's ever been in, which makes for a nice combination of kicking ass and still struggling against overwhelming forces.
The thing that makes this a four-star read, for me, are some of the characterization moments. Cherise finally steps out of the line of fire in a scene that tells us, for once, how much fear she must have been pushing through to be in the thick of things, supporting Jo. Lewis, who is a far cry from the raw idealist he was back in Ill Wind, makes some heavy choices, not all of them for the best, but showing how strained he is. Jo points a gun at someone and pulls the trigger, and it shakes her to the core. As the world crumbles, so do our heroes - but what makes them heroic is the way they get back up to rebuild.
There are, of course, some weaknesses here, which I suspect may come from Caine ending the story before she wanted to. Jo's sister Sarah seemed lined up to be a major player, even a major antagonist, around the middle of the series, but she vanished completely for the back half. The epilogue is a little too familiar, a little too settled - it doesn't reflect a thoroughly changed world. (Perhaps Caine was concerned about seeming to get up on her soapbox advocating for environmentalism? but she had the perfect setup for it. She's not wrong, by the way: the planet really can and may shrug humanity off and carry on, though it's more likely to happen through ecosystem collapse we caused than magical disasters. That soapbox needs someone standing on it.)
Still, I finished the book feeling deeply satisfied. Like most series this long, the Weather Warden books aren't without flaws, but the world and story are enjoyable and dammit, I'm glad to see Joanne Baldwin get a happy ending. She earned it.
To be sure, it treads some ground over again. We did the Oracle roadtrip back in book... what, five? That one also had the threat of Mother Earth waking up, which Total Eclipse brings back scaled up to 11. That said, there's some new territory here - major character death and, moreover, major population death. Jo is simultaneously at peak competency and in the most desperate straits she's ever been in, which makes for a nice combination of kicking ass and still struggling against overwhelming forces.
The thing that makes this a four-star read, for me, are some of the characterization moments. Cherise finally steps out of the line of fire in a scene that tells us, for once, how much fear she must have been pushing through to be in the thick of things, supporting Jo. Lewis, who is a far cry from the raw idealist he was back in Ill Wind, makes some heavy choices, not all of them for the best, but showing how strained he is. Jo points a gun at someone and pulls the trigger, and it shakes her to the core. As the world crumbles, so do our heroes - but what makes them heroic is the way they get back up to rebuild.
There are, of course, some weaknesses here, which I suspect may come from Caine ending the story before she wanted to. Jo's sister Sarah seemed lined up to be a major player, even a major antagonist, around the middle of the series, but she vanished completely for the back half. The epilogue is a little too familiar, a little too settled - it doesn't reflect a thoroughly changed world. (Perhaps Caine was concerned about seeming to get up on her soapbox advocating for environmentalism? but she had the perfect setup for it. She's not wrong, by the way: the planet really can and may shrug humanity off and carry on, though it's more likely to happen through ecosystem collapse we caused than magical disasters. That soapbox needs someone standing on it.)
Still, I finished the book feeling deeply satisfied. Like most series this long, the Weather Warden books aren't without flaws, but the world and story are enjoyable and dammit, I'm glad to see Joanne Baldwin get a happy ending. She earned it.
May 19, 2018
We finally achieve a happy ending with this book! The power struggle between the djinn has been resolved, with
People die - including .
I liked the ending though - that people are working together and co-operating. Jo seems to be in charge of the Wardens, she's happily married with David and they have a son. It's a good ending.
People die - including .
I liked the ending though - that people are working together and co-operating. Jo seems to be in charge of the Wardens, she's happily married with David and they have a son. It's a good ending.
August 6, 2010
I am really sad that this series has ended. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It quickly became my favorite of all the series I read (and I read a lot of series.
There is a "happy and neat" ending but I was left wanting something unexpected. This is the third series ending where I was left not wanting the ending that I saw coming from book one but something that throws me for left field - an ending that if you re read the series you could piece together the clues. This series ended exactly as I thought it would and it's sort of dissapointing as well as bittersweet.
There is a "happy and neat" ending but I was left wanting something unexpected. This is the third series ending where I was left not wanting the ending that I saw coming from book one but something that throws me for left field - an ending that if you re read the series you could piece together the clues. This series ended exactly as I thought it would and it's sort of dissapointing as well as bittersweet.
January 18, 2023
Ok this series took me by surprise! I really struggled with book 1 and parts of 2 but once I got into book 3 I was HOOKED.
Each book got better and better and more INTENSE. 🤣 I laugh because that is kind of how all my review for this series has said intense. Each book has you on the edge of your seat or at least it did mine.
I think this was the worst of them all, my heart broke a few times, I won’t say it is fully mended but I am happy with the way it ended.
It really was a journey and I am glad I followed through.
The narration took me a while to get into but once I did I was fine with it.
Each book got better and better and more INTENSE. 🤣 I laugh because that is kind of how all my review for this series has said intense. Each book has you on the edge of your seat or at least it did mine.
I think this was the worst of them all, my heart broke a few times, I won’t say it is fully mended but I am happy with the way it ended.
It really was a journey and I am glad I followed through.
The narration took me a while to get into but once I did I was fine with it.
August 8, 2012
‘Total Eclipse’ is the ninth and last book, in Rachel Caine’s ‘Weather Warden’ series.
The ‘Weather Warden’ books are set in our world, but not as we know it. There is a covert organization of humans, called Weather Wardens, with special talents for commanding the elements: earth, fire, wind and water. They use these powers to control Mother Nature – from tornadoes to tidal waves. The Wardens work tirelessly and fearlessly to prevent and handle natural disasters, and save humanity from the worst of Mother Nature.
Helping the Wardens are Dijn, or as they are known in popular culture, genies. But don’t get them confused with the ‘I dream of‘ variety. These Dijn are badass and dangerous. They have claws, fangs and can control space and time.
At the centre of this series is earth Warden, Joanne ‘Jo’ Baldwin, and her Dijn husband, David Prince. These two have had an epic romance that has spanned death, aetheric planes, and conquered both Dijn and Warden’s who would keep them apart. But in ‘Total Eclipse’ Jo and David will face their worst battle yet, against Mother Nature herself.
Following the events of ‘Cape Storm’, Mother Nature has been wounded by Bad Bob’s attack and is now lashing out. The Mother is turning against the world, calling her Dijn home and preparing for battle against those who would destroy her – mainly, humanity.
The ‘Weather Warden’ series comes in the aftermath of the Boxing Day Tsunami, Hurricane Katrina and this year’s Haiti earthquake. We are more aware than ever of our tenuous place on this earth, and our treatment of it. This year has also seen one of the worst man-made disasters in BP’s oil leak off the Gulf of Mexico. Rachel Caine has really tapped into the devastation and fear of these natural disasters and human impacts, so it’s not hard to suspend disbelief in the ‘Weather Warden’ series. It’s not hard to believe that Mother Nature has had enough of our environmental foibles, and wants a reckoning;
“Excuse me,” Lewis said, a little too loudly. “Somebody want to clue me in?”
David was the one to say it, which was good, because I wasn’t sure I had it in me. “It’s the Mother,” he said. “It was her scream, echoing through the Dijn. She’s been hurt, and she’s angry. She gathered the Dijn to her. They’re in her power now.”
I watched Lewis’s face go very quickly pale. He put out a hand to steady himself. “You’re saying –”
“I’m saying that the Earth is awake,” David said. “At least, I believe she is coming awake. The Dijn serve her, and when she calls, they must come.”
The ‘Weather Warden’ books are a dark urban fantasy. This is one series in which the good guys occasionally get smacked down, and the bad guys triumph. The darkness is looming in this, the last book, making for a wonderfully eerie atmosphere. This is one book that, going into it, you really won’t know what to expect… Caine has thrown enough curve-balls around in this series that fans really should be on their toes and expect a complicated ending with plenty of angst, drama and an uncertain ‘happily ever after’ to cap off the series.
Caine writes with such scope – her action scenes live on the page, frenzied and furious scenes that get your heart-rate pumping and make your hands tremble as you read them. Caine revels in writing catastrophe and disaster – she sets up big impacts, writes huge explosions and death-defying battles. Fans have come to expect and delight in Jo’s epic crusades against nature, and Caine really pulls out all the stops in ‘Total Eclipse’ – fans will not be disappointed. Jo is her usual heroic self, standing on the front-lines of disaster and staring death in the face, ready with a quippy comeback. Jo is, without a doubt, the best thing about the ‘Weather Warden’ series. She is a heroine to admire – she gets beaten, disheartened, resentful and angry – but even when she’s down, she is never out. Jo is really at her fighting best in ‘Total Eclipse’, and fans will enjoy reading Jo’s last stand… it’s a doozy!
In this book Ms. Caine also writes a gentle reminder that while the ‘Weather Warden’ series is over, her spin-off ‘Outcast Season’ lives on. Cassiel and Luis Rocha, the main characters of ‘Outcast’, make a vital cameo in ‘Total Eclipse’, reminding fans that their story is still being told and will continue in the third book ‘Unseen’ (released February 2011).
I also loved the fact that in this book, Caine tips her hat to where it all began in ‘Ill Wind’. She writes no stone unturned, no issues unresolved and she brings back a cache of characters for the end. She also addresses pent-up personal problems that have been plaguing Jo (and readers) for 8 books now, mainly in the love triangle between Jo, David and head-honcho Warden, Lewis Orwell. There’s been a lot left unsaid between Jo and her first love, Lewis… I don’t want to give anything away, but fans will be pleased to know that their unrequited love is finally addressed.
I’m sad that ‘Weather Warden’ has come to a close (especially ending on book number 9 -why not a nice, round even 10?) but at the same time I can’t fault Caine’s finale. This whole series has been a grand-scale journey of epic proportions and emotions, and Caine delivers a last book that compliments all that have come before it. Rachel Caine doesn’t just let Jo and David go out on a bang… she gives them a ROARING send-off, one befitting this unique series.
The ‘Weather Warden’ books are set in our world, but not as we know it. There is a covert organization of humans, called Weather Wardens, with special talents for commanding the elements: earth, fire, wind and water. They use these powers to control Mother Nature – from tornadoes to tidal waves. The Wardens work tirelessly and fearlessly to prevent and handle natural disasters, and save humanity from the worst of Mother Nature.
Helping the Wardens are Dijn, or as they are known in popular culture, genies. But don’t get them confused with the ‘I dream of‘ variety. These Dijn are badass and dangerous. They have claws, fangs and can control space and time.
At the centre of this series is earth Warden, Joanne ‘Jo’ Baldwin, and her Dijn husband, David Prince. These two have had an epic romance that has spanned death, aetheric planes, and conquered both Dijn and Warden’s who would keep them apart. But in ‘Total Eclipse’ Jo and David will face their worst battle yet, against Mother Nature herself.
Following the events of ‘Cape Storm’, Mother Nature has been wounded by Bad Bob’s attack and is now lashing out. The Mother is turning against the world, calling her Dijn home and preparing for battle against those who would destroy her – mainly, humanity.
The ‘Weather Warden’ series comes in the aftermath of the Boxing Day Tsunami, Hurricane Katrina and this year’s Haiti earthquake. We are more aware than ever of our tenuous place on this earth, and our treatment of it. This year has also seen one of the worst man-made disasters in BP’s oil leak off the Gulf of Mexico. Rachel Caine has really tapped into the devastation and fear of these natural disasters and human impacts, so it’s not hard to suspend disbelief in the ‘Weather Warden’ series. It’s not hard to believe that Mother Nature has had enough of our environmental foibles, and wants a reckoning;
“Excuse me,” Lewis said, a little too loudly. “Somebody want to clue me in?”
David was the one to say it, which was good, because I wasn’t sure I had it in me. “It’s the Mother,” he said. “It was her scream, echoing through the Dijn. She’s been hurt, and she’s angry. She gathered the Dijn to her. They’re in her power now.”
I watched Lewis’s face go very quickly pale. He put out a hand to steady himself. “You’re saying –”
“I’m saying that the Earth is awake,” David said. “At least, I believe she is coming awake. The Dijn serve her, and when she calls, they must come.”
The ‘Weather Warden’ books are a dark urban fantasy. This is one series in which the good guys occasionally get smacked down, and the bad guys triumph. The darkness is looming in this, the last book, making for a wonderfully eerie atmosphere. This is one book that, going into it, you really won’t know what to expect… Caine has thrown enough curve-balls around in this series that fans really should be on their toes and expect a complicated ending with plenty of angst, drama and an uncertain ‘happily ever after’ to cap off the series.
Caine writes with such scope – her action scenes live on the page, frenzied and furious scenes that get your heart-rate pumping and make your hands tremble as you read them. Caine revels in writing catastrophe and disaster – she sets up big impacts, writes huge explosions and death-defying battles. Fans have come to expect and delight in Jo’s epic crusades against nature, and Caine really pulls out all the stops in ‘Total Eclipse’ – fans will not be disappointed. Jo is her usual heroic self, standing on the front-lines of disaster and staring death in the face, ready with a quippy comeback. Jo is, without a doubt, the best thing about the ‘Weather Warden’ series. She is a heroine to admire – she gets beaten, disheartened, resentful and angry – but even when she’s down, she is never out. Jo is really at her fighting best in ‘Total Eclipse’, and fans will enjoy reading Jo’s last stand… it’s a doozy!
In this book Ms. Caine also writes a gentle reminder that while the ‘Weather Warden’ series is over, her spin-off ‘Outcast Season’ lives on. Cassiel and Luis Rocha, the main characters of ‘Outcast’, make a vital cameo in ‘Total Eclipse’, reminding fans that their story is still being told and will continue in the third book ‘Unseen’ (released February 2011).
I also loved the fact that in this book, Caine tips her hat to where it all began in ‘Ill Wind’. She writes no stone unturned, no issues unresolved and she brings back a cache of characters for the end. She also addresses pent-up personal problems that have been plaguing Jo (and readers) for 8 books now, mainly in the love triangle between Jo, David and head-honcho Warden, Lewis Orwell. There’s been a lot left unsaid between Jo and her first love, Lewis… I don’t want to give anything away, but fans will be pleased to know that their unrequited love is finally addressed.
I’m sad that ‘Weather Warden’ has come to a close (especially ending on book number 9 -why not a nice, round even 10?) but at the same time I can’t fault Caine’s finale. This whole series has been a grand-scale journey of epic proportions and emotions, and Caine delivers a last book that compliments all that have come before it. Rachel Caine doesn’t just let Jo and David go out on a bang… she gives them a ROARING send-off, one befitting this unique series.
July 18, 2019
Great series I really enjoyed it
January 7, 2021
After reading all nine books and the various short stories, I've got to say that there's one character in particular that I really just don't like. Ugh.
Glad I finished the series, though!
Glad I finished the series, though!
October 4, 2021
This was such a great end to the series, it hurt a little, how it all ended up, but it was just such a great book!
September 6, 2022
Review on the way!
August 28, 2023
This book series is just my favourite of all time. Holds up very well 🥰 And made me cry at the end
January 30, 2011
Original Review HERE
**THIS REVIEW CONTAINS UNAVOIDABLE SPOILERS FOR THE FIRST EIGHT BOOKS IN THE WEATHER WARDEN SERIES. If you have not read the prior books and do not wish to be spoiled, look away! (Also, if you haven’t read the first eight books, you really should not be reading this review. But go out and buy Ill Wind. Seriously. NOW.)**
Joanne Baldwin, former Weather, Earth and Fire Warden, wife to leader of the new djinn, David, and sassy badass finds herself facing the end of the world. After defeating nemesis Bad Bob Biringanine for the second time, Jo and David find themselves completely and utterly human – without any warden or djinn powers. As the cruise ship carrying the wardens and a number of powerful djinn makes its way back to harbor, everyone on board find themselves locked in a “black corner” – an aetheric dead spot, sapping the energy and powers. Even worse, when the ship emerges from the black corner, the djinn – dying, frightened and bereft of power – disappear.
Mother Earth is waking up, and she is pissed.
The now all-too-human Jo must figure out a way to restore her own powers, and David’s, before the world itself ends in a blaze of fury.
A bit of a disclaimer – in an attempt to refrain from spoiling *anything* in this last book, I’m keeping this review much more emotional (and less about specific plot points). Total Eclipse was a difficult book for me to read, and nearly impossible for me to review – I’ve been with Joanne Baldwin and David for…years. Each impossible scenario, each death-defying experience, each cliffhanger ending, I’ve endured it all over the course of these nine books, so reading Total Eclipse was something of a crazy, emotional, cathartic experience (On a side note, why does it feel like everything is ENDING this year? 2010 is a cruel, cold-hearted bitch of a year – Lost is gone, Harry Potter is in its own climactic finale, the tragic Mockingjay hit shelves with a vengeance…). I’ve come to look forward to each August, with another insane installment in the very tried and tired Joanne Baldwin’s extraordinary life. And so, when I began Total Eclipse, it was with the knowledge that there would be no further adventure. This, for better or for worse, was the end of the line. So, you can understand, it took a great deal of mental preparation to start this ultimate Weather Warden book.
And…it was perfect.
Not that there was any doubt in my mind that this last book would be anything but fantastic (if you’re a die-hard fan of this series and have stuck with it through all the books, you know exactly what to expect, and Ms. Caine always delivers). All the threads of Jo’s life, everything she has gone through over the course of the series comes together in a dramatic whirlwind of action and power in this novel. Total Eclipse is Jo coming full circle in many ways – from familiar faces and locations to another treacherous ride through the desert in a sweet midnight blue mustang, There’s a thread of destiny, of some larger pattern of the universe at play, too, with the makeup of the Jo, David and Lewis relationship fully coming to fruition and understanding. I’ve always loved Lewis, and thought that the series would ultimately end with this particular development for his character. Another welcome character development was Cherise and her own journey of power and revelation in this book. And, of course, one of my favorite characters, Rahel, has a bit of facetime here too and makes an emotional (well, for a badass djinn) reveal of her own. I loved it all.
Of course, the heart and soul of the series lies with heroine Jo and her match in David – and good god, the stakes have never been higher. Jo’s hero complex takes a different form in Total Eclipse, and she’s forced to find a way to cope and try to save the world without the aid of her warden powers – of course she’s as resourceful (and sassy) as ever. And of course, then there’s David. Like I said earlier today, I’m not a huge romantic, but when I find a pair that *does* it for me, I am fiercely loyal and buy into the romance hook, line and sinker. Jo and David are one of those pairs for me, and their relationship in this final novel is every bit as complicated, sweet, and heartbreaking as it has ever been.
Was Total Eclipse a perfect book? Well…no. Certainly not by any literary or stand alone basis. But it is a fitting, beautiful ending, fraught with heartache and action and danger, to the series. And this is very much my summation for the Weather Warden oeuvre: I could not ask for anything more.
So, to you Joanne Baldwin, I say goodbye. I will miss you so very, very much, and I cannot think of a better way to end this incredible series.
It was one hell of a ride.
**THIS REVIEW CONTAINS UNAVOIDABLE SPOILERS FOR THE FIRST EIGHT BOOKS IN THE WEATHER WARDEN SERIES. If you have not read the prior books and do not wish to be spoiled, look away! (Also, if you haven’t read the first eight books, you really should not be reading this review. But go out and buy Ill Wind. Seriously. NOW.)**
Joanne Baldwin, former Weather, Earth and Fire Warden, wife to leader of the new djinn, David, and sassy badass finds herself facing the end of the world. After defeating nemesis Bad Bob Biringanine for the second time, Jo and David find themselves completely and utterly human – without any warden or djinn powers. As the cruise ship carrying the wardens and a number of powerful djinn makes its way back to harbor, everyone on board find themselves locked in a “black corner” – an aetheric dead spot, sapping the energy and powers. Even worse, when the ship emerges from the black corner, the djinn – dying, frightened and bereft of power – disappear.
Mother Earth is waking up, and she is pissed.
The now all-too-human Jo must figure out a way to restore her own powers, and David’s, before the world itself ends in a blaze of fury.
A bit of a disclaimer – in an attempt to refrain from spoiling *anything* in this last book, I’m keeping this review much more emotional (and less about specific plot points). Total Eclipse was a difficult book for me to read, and nearly impossible for me to review – I’ve been with Joanne Baldwin and David for…years. Each impossible scenario, each death-defying experience, each cliffhanger ending, I’ve endured it all over the course of these nine books, so reading Total Eclipse was something of a crazy, emotional, cathartic experience (On a side note, why does it feel like everything is ENDING this year? 2010 is a cruel, cold-hearted bitch of a year – Lost is gone, Harry Potter is in its own climactic finale, the tragic Mockingjay hit shelves with a vengeance…). I’ve come to look forward to each August, with another insane installment in the very tried and tired Joanne Baldwin’s extraordinary life. And so, when I began Total Eclipse, it was with the knowledge that there would be no further adventure. This, for better or for worse, was the end of the line. So, you can understand, it took a great deal of mental preparation to start this ultimate Weather Warden book.
And…it was perfect.
Not that there was any doubt in my mind that this last book would be anything but fantastic (if you’re a die-hard fan of this series and have stuck with it through all the books, you know exactly what to expect, and Ms. Caine always delivers). All the threads of Jo’s life, everything she has gone through over the course of the series comes together in a dramatic whirlwind of action and power in this novel. Total Eclipse is Jo coming full circle in many ways – from familiar faces and locations to another treacherous ride through the desert in a sweet midnight blue mustang, There’s a thread of destiny, of some larger pattern of the universe at play, too, with the makeup of the Jo, David and Lewis relationship fully coming to fruition and understanding. I’ve always loved Lewis, and thought that the series would ultimately end with this particular development for his character. Another welcome character development was Cherise and her own journey of power and revelation in this book. And, of course, one of my favorite characters, Rahel, has a bit of facetime here too and makes an emotional (well, for a badass djinn) reveal of her own. I loved it all.
Of course, the heart and soul of the series lies with heroine Jo and her match in David – and good god, the stakes have never been higher. Jo’s hero complex takes a different form in Total Eclipse, and she’s forced to find a way to cope and try to save the world without the aid of her warden powers – of course she’s as resourceful (and sassy) as ever. And of course, then there’s David. Like I said earlier today, I’m not a huge romantic, but when I find a pair that *does* it for me, I am fiercely loyal and buy into the romance hook, line and sinker. Jo and David are one of those pairs for me, and their relationship in this final novel is every bit as complicated, sweet, and heartbreaking as it has ever been.
Was Total Eclipse a perfect book? Well…no. Certainly not by any literary or stand alone basis. But it is a fitting, beautiful ending, fraught with heartache and action and danger, to the series. And this is very much my summation for the Weather Warden oeuvre: I could not ask for anything more.
So, to you Joanne Baldwin, I say goodbye. I will miss you so very, very much, and I cannot think of a better way to end this incredible series.
It was one hell of a ride.
December 16, 2024
Naprosto perfektni zakonceni serie, pripomnelo mi to, proc mam tuhle autorku i Jo s Davidem tak rada :) Malokdo umi serii takhle pekne uzavrit s tak napinavym pribehem.
November 4, 2010
Now that Joanne and David sacrificed their powers to stop Bad Bob, they have to set out to find a way to get them back. Unfortunately, the black corner they created becomes a problem as it starts to kill the Djinn that are on board the ship with them. Once they finally reach shore, Joanne realizes that although their mission is a suicide one, they must take the risk. They may just be the only hope at stopping Mother Earth from wiping all trace of humanity from the earth. There are more than a few bumps along the way, but what else can you expect for a danger magnet like Joanne.
I was really glad Joanne and David got to enjoy a little time together before they set out on this crazy journey. He was a little awkward at first since being human is completely different for him, but quickly got the "hang" of it. It was really sweet and nice to see them together completely as equals, something they have never experienced before. This time together seemed to give the little break they both needed before they set out on a path that almost guarantees their destruction.
When a series ends it almost always is bittersweet for me. It is really to see the characters finally get some resolution. However, it is always sad to have to say goodbye. I think this series ended at just the right time. I don't think Joanne could have suffered and recovered from much more without it being completely unbelievable. The resolution came as a bit of a surprise, but it worked well. It wasn't happily ever after for everyone, but that does make it a more realistic outcome, even if some things really stink. Joanne and David finally find their peace and get something they never thought they could have. All in all it was a great end to an absolutely great series.
Once again I'll say that this series is truly a must read. Its a long, crazy adventure that makes you care for the characters and root for their success and ultimate survival. You will be amazed at the things Joanne survives and how she holds to her integrity and determination to save others throughout even the worst of times. Two thumbs way up!
I was really glad Joanne and David got to enjoy a little time together before they set out on this crazy journey. He was a little awkward at first since being human is completely different for him, but quickly got the "hang" of it. It was really sweet and nice to see them together completely as equals, something they have never experienced before. This time together seemed to give the little break they both needed before they set out on a path that almost guarantees their destruction.
When a series ends it almost always is bittersweet for me. It is really to see the characters finally get some resolution. However, it is always sad to have to say goodbye. I think this series ended at just the right time. I don't think Joanne could have suffered and recovered from much more without it being completely unbelievable. The resolution came as a bit of a surprise, but it worked well. It wasn't happily ever after for everyone, but that does make it a more realistic outcome, even if some things really stink. Joanne and David finally find their peace and get something they never thought they could have. All in all it was a great end to an absolutely great series.
Once again I'll say that this series is truly a must read. Its a long, crazy adventure that makes you care for the characters and root for their success and ultimate survival. You will be amazed at the things Joanne survives and how she holds to her integrity and determination to save others throughout even the worst of times. Two thumbs way up!
January 26, 2012
Holy Moses On A Pogo Stick!!! That was by far the most exciting book of the series. Miss Caine most certainly out did herself with this one. I could not have thought of a better ending to such a thrilling series. This book had it all, Suspence, Love, Heartache, Passion, Wisdom, Bravery, Death and Birth. I loved this book, Joannes fight felt like my fight and I just held my breath until I nearly past out from lack of oxegen. This is the best series to read and is my second favourtie series ever :)
*SPOILER*
I think All the characters got a good ending; Joanne and David end with still being together and having another child called Lewis Kevin Prince. Imara is the Earth Oracle and lives on in peace. Cherise adopted the boy she and kevin saved and are still hanging with Joanne and David. Kevin (TEARS) did not make it and died as a hero and I must say I cried for like an hour and stopped reading cause it was so sad, especally when David is carrying his body in his arms. Ashan (Thank the Mother) is dead FINALLY!! we all cheer about that one, but than again i am gonna miss the old codfish :) Rahel is well... Rahel lol she lives on. And Finally, Lewis (TEARS) i stopped reading and threw the book across the room, Lewis dies to save humanity. I cried so hard for like two whole hours before my mum told me to finish the damn book and see what happens. So I did and MY GOD! was she right that I pick up the book again. Miss Caine brings back Lewis as a Djinn but no ordinary Djinn, He is the new condult for all the Djinn, New or Old. So he is the new Johnathan.
Oh and Cassiel and Luis make a apperence in this book to, but if you have not read the spin-off series called The Outcast season series (which FYI is in the same world as Joanne and David) you will not understand their importance.
So all in all, The best book in the series and a tarific way to end it :) I could not have wished for anything more and I would like to thank Miss Caine in writing such a fabulous series. I would reccommend that EVERYONE goes out and buys this series it is worth every cent and more.
*SPOILER*
I think All the characters got a good ending; Joanne and David end with still being together and having another child called Lewis Kevin Prince. Imara is the Earth Oracle and lives on in peace. Cherise adopted the boy she and kevin saved and are still hanging with Joanne and David. Kevin (TEARS) did not make it and died as a hero and I must say I cried for like an hour and stopped reading cause it was so sad, especally when David is carrying his body in his arms. Ashan (Thank the Mother) is dead FINALLY!! we all cheer about that one, but than again i am gonna miss the old codfish :) Rahel is well... Rahel lol she lives on. And Finally, Lewis (TEARS) i stopped reading and threw the book across the room, Lewis dies to save humanity. I cried so hard for like two whole hours before my mum told me to finish the damn book and see what happens. So I did and MY GOD! was she right that I pick up the book again. Miss Caine brings back Lewis as a Djinn but no ordinary Djinn, He is the new condult for all the Djinn, New or Old. So he is the new Johnathan.
Oh and Cassiel and Luis make a apperence in this book to, but if you have not read the spin-off series called The Outcast season series (which FYI is in the same world as Joanne and David) you will not understand their importance.
So all in all, The best book in the series and a tarific way to end it :) I could not have wished for anything more and I would like to thank Miss Caine in writing such a fabulous series. I would reccommend that EVERYONE goes out and buys this series it is worth every cent and more.
December 8, 2012
NOTE: This review covers the entire series.
Much as Urban Fantasy is by far my favorite genre, a depressing trend has emerged lately: the author, for whatever reason, keeps the series going long after they should have called it quits. I'm pleased to say that that's not really the case with this series, and I thought that Rachel Caine really ended this on a high note.
The world-building involved in this series is really just phenomenal. The weather warden concept, and the Djinn as the primary supernatural being, is refreshingly unique, in a genre comprised of 90% vampires and werewolves. I was actually hesitant to pick up the first book, because the concept was so alien and unfamiliar that I wasn't sure I'd be able to get into it. Turns out there was no reason to worry, because I was quickly swept up in Caine's blend of science and genies in - and out - of bottles. Clearly, a lot of thought, research, and organization was involved in the construction of this tale.
I particularly enjoyed that it seems Caine already had the entire series mapped out from the beginning. It gives the overall story a sense of cohesion that's sorely lacking in most of the series out there. There are a lot of instances of subtle foreshadowing, and a carefully-constructed slow build towards the finale.
As a heroine, Joanne Baldwin is likeable enough, although there is a bit of the Mary Sue about her. By the time we reach Total Eclipse, it's almost an openly-stated fact in the novel: several times, characters talk about her "always winning," always beating the odds, having to be the hero. Had the series dragged out too long, it might have become tiresome; as it stands, it just appeals to the occasional need to watch a badass in action. Sometimes, you want a relatably flawed heroine. Sometimes, you just want to see the heroine kick some ass. Joanne Baldwin definitely appeals if the latter is more your taste.
Overall, Total Eclipse ties up all the loose ends neatly, and the entire book is nonstop action. This is definitely one of the highlights of the genre, and Total Eclipse puts the series to bed on a high note.
Much as Urban Fantasy is by far my favorite genre, a depressing trend has emerged lately: the author, for whatever reason, keeps the series going long after they should have called it quits. I'm pleased to say that that's not really the case with this series, and I thought that Rachel Caine really ended this on a high note.
The world-building involved in this series is really just phenomenal. The weather warden concept, and the Djinn as the primary supernatural being, is refreshingly unique, in a genre comprised of 90% vampires and werewolves. I was actually hesitant to pick up the first book, because the concept was so alien and unfamiliar that I wasn't sure I'd be able to get into it. Turns out there was no reason to worry, because I was quickly swept up in Caine's blend of science and genies in - and out - of bottles. Clearly, a lot of thought, research, and organization was involved in the construction of this tale.
I particularly enjoyed that it seems Caine already had the entire series mapped out from the beginning. It gives the overall story a sense of cohesion that's sorely lacking in most of the series out there. There are a lot of instances of subtle foreshadowing, and a carefully-constructed slow build towards the finale.
As a heroine, Joanne Baldwin is likeable enough, although there is a bit of the Mary Sue about her. By the time we reach Total Eclipse, it's almost an openly-stated fact in the novel: several times, characters talk about her "always winning," always beating the odds, having to be the hero. Had the series dragged out too long, it might have become tiresome; as it stands, it just appeals to the occasional need to watch a badass in action. Sometimes, you want a relatably flawed heroine. Sometimes, you just want to see the heroine kick some ass. Joanne Baldwin definitely appeals if the latter is more your taste.
Overall, Total Eclipse ties up all the loose ends neatly, and the entire book is nonstop action. This is definitely one of the highlights of the genre, and Total Eclipse puts the series to bed on a high note.
December 23, 2015
I was grinning like a sappy fool by the time I finished this! That ending was so perfect, both for the book and the series! I'm still grinning like an idiot! LOL!
I really don't know how to write a proper review for this book since all that's going on in my mind is happy babbling! LOL! And there were so many shockers and twists, so I really don't wanna spoil anything!
This series finale was very hardcore and absolutely action packed! Also, it was steamy and nerve-wracking! It absolutely felt like the apocalypse was coming and that was amazing! It was such a roller-coaster really, something good happens, then something absolutely horrible happens and then again something good.
I just absolutely loved Jo, David and Lewis in this! I just cannot stop loving them; they have got to be three of my favourite fictional characters ever!!! And I don't wanna spoil anyone, so I'm gonna have to be veeeeeery vague here, but know that major stuff happens to all three of them and it's epic!!!
And that epilogue! I wish Lewis made an actual appearance in it rather than a mention but either way it was amazing! I was bursting with happiness once I made my way through the epilogue because it was everything!!!
I'm so happy tight now that I actually she'd some happy tears and am feeling so sappy! Haha! This series was downright amazing! I've never felt so strongly towards fictional characters as I've felt for Jo, David and Lewis! They're like my fictional BFFs right now! And I'm so glad I picked up Ill Wind when I did because it's one of the best decisions I've ever made! This series turned my heart to mush and I don't think I'll ever be able to let go of it! Absolute perfection! And I don't think there are enough words to describe how amazing and perfect this series is! This series is one of the best things that ever happened to me! :')
I really don't know how to write a proper review for this book since all that's going on in my mind is happy babbling! LOL! And there were so many shockers and twists, so I really don't wanna spoil anything!
This series finale was very hardcore and absolutely action packed! Also, it was steamy and nerve-wracking! It absolutely felt like the apocalypse was coming and that was amazing! It was such a roller-coaster really, something good happens, then something absolutely horrible happens and then again something good.
I just absolutely loved Jo, David and Lewis in this! I just cannot stop loving them; they have got to be three of my favourite fictional characters ever!!! And I don't wanna spoil anyone, so I'm gonna have to be veeeeeery vague here, but know that major stuff happens to all three of them and it's epic!!!
And that epilogue! I wish Lewis made an actual appearance in it rather than a mention but either way it was amazing! I was bursting with happiness once I made my way through the epilogue because it was everything!!!
I'm so happy tight now that I actually she'd some happy tears and am feeling so sappy! Haha! This series was downright amazing! I've never felt so strongly towards fictional characters as I've felt for Jo, David and Lewis! They're like my fictional BFFs right now! And I'm so glad I picked up Ill Wind when I did because it's one of the best decisions I've ever made! This series turned my heart to mush and I don't think I'll ever be able to let go of it! Absolute perfection! And I don't think there are enough words to describe how amazing and perfect this series is! This series is one of the best things that ever happened to me! :')
July 12, 2015
This was an exciting conclusion to the Weather Warden series. Joanne, David, Cherise and Kevin set off to try to get Joanne and David's powers back. They need to travel to the fire oracle through horrible weather. Mother Earth is waking up, has reclaimed all the djinn, and is really angry. She is expressing her anger through waves of destruction.
Adding to the problems is the fact that Joanne's powers have found a new home in Cherise who is Joanne's best friend but also a previously ordinary human. She suddenly has vast powers of weather and earth and has never been taught to control them. Kevin is a Weather Warden but he also now has David's djinn powers. He is better able to control them but doesn't waThe nt the powers.
The four of them struggle to travel while dodging massive storms and djinn sent by Mother Earth to destroy them. All along they are hearing from Lewis, who is in charge of the remaining wardens, that conditions are getting worse and worse throughout the world.
The story is fast-paced and filled with action. It is also filled with Joanne's determination not to give up but to keep trying different approaches to convince Mother Earth to stop her waves of destruction. I liked the relationship between Joanne and David and their willingness to do anything for each other.
Fans of urban fantasy will want to put this series on their reading list.
Adding to the problems is the fact that Joanne's powers have found a new home in Cherise who is Joanne's best friend but also a previously ordinary human. She suddenly has vast powers of weather and earth and has never been taught to control them. Kevin is a Weather Warden but he also now has David's djinn powers. He is better able to control them but doesn't waThe nt the powers.
The four of them struggle to travel while dodging massive storms and djinn sent by Mother Earth to destroy them. All along they are hearing from Lewis, who is in charge of the remaining wardens, that conditions are getting worse and worse throughout the world.
The story is fast-paced and filled with action. It is also filled with Joanne's determination not to give up but to keep trying different approaches to convince Mother Earth to stop her waves of destruction. I liked the relationship between Joanne and David and their willingness to do anything for each other.
Fans of urban fantasy will want to put this series on their reading list.
January 1, 2014
It hurt to read " The End"
I loved this series very much and until now I have not read a series that introduced something as exotic as Djins. It is so addictive and fascinating and original.
I have attachment issues so it took me about 2 years to bring myself to reading the last book of this series, I wanted to end the year 2013 with a special read so I picked this series cause it grew with me and I thought it was time to say goodbye to it. And what a beautiful good bye it was.
This book was exactly how I wanted the series to end. Caine writes to satisfy, that is old news but she also knows how to kill the right characters and make the most suitable changes to other characters. I teared up and I laughed at times. Just the right combination of bitter sweet.
I was also glad to read how Joannae precieved Cassiel and how so different from the truth it was, because Cassie never shows her true colours to just anyone. So smart of Ms. Caine.
You know the kind of book that influences you so much that you keep thinking about it when you're not reading it and you find yourself saying the same phrases that the characters are saying! Yeah I know you do, so I say read these books and you'll thank me later!
I loved this series very much and until now I have not read a series that introduced something as exotic as Djins. It is so addictive and fascinating and original.
I have attachment issues so it took me about 2 years to bring myself to reading the last book of this series, I wanted to end the year 2013 with a special read so I picked this series cause it grew with me and I thought it was time to say goodbye to it. And what a beautiful good bye it was.
This book was exactly how I wanted the series to end. Caine writes to satisfy, that is old news but she also knows how to kill the right characters and make the most suitable changes to other characters. I teared up and I laughed at times. Just the right combination of bitter sweet.
I was also glad to read how Joannae precieved Cassiel and how so different from the truth it was, because Cassie never shows her true colours to just anyone. So smart of Ms. Caine.
You know the kind of book that influences you so much that you keep thinking about it when you're not reading it and you find yourself saying the same phrases that the characters are saying! Yeah I know you do, so I say read these books and you'll thank me later!
February 11, 2013
Of course once I started I couldn't stop. Just finished the book and it was a beautiful ending to a great series. Aside from the Ma'at dead plot, everything was wrapped up so freaking perfectly. Sometimes when a series ends I'm a little disappointed with the way it's wrapped up, but this one was extremely satisfying.
So many powerful and emotional things happen in this book. I wasn't sure how Rachel Caine could fix everything that she had done in the previous books, but she did. I am so, so glad I gave this series a second chance. I'm sad that I am done with Jo and David, but glad that I have something else to move on to in the Outcast Season Series. I liked getting a look at Cassiel and Luis in this book cause it gives me an idea of what I'm in for, it'll be interesting to see where their books take place in the Weather Warden timeline. Hopefully we'll get to see a little of Jo and David no matter where the Outcast Season books fall.
So many powerful and emotional things happen in this book. I wasn't sure how Rachel Caine could fix everything that she had done in the previous books, but she did. I am so, so glad I gave this series a second chance. I'm sad that I am done with Jo and David, but glad that I have something else to move on to in the Outcast Season Series. I liked getting a look at Cassiel and Luis in this book cause it gives me an idea of what I'm in for, it'll be interesting to see where their books take place in the Weather Warden timeline. Hopefully we'll get to see a little of Jo and David no matter where the Outcast Season books fall.
July 19, 2014
Mother Nature has awakened...and she's not happy. Tornadoes, fires, hurricanes and earthquakes have sprung up all over the world. Weather Warden Joanne Baldwin and her husband/Djinn David have both lost their powers, helplessly watching humans die. All of the Djinn have suddenly vanished, leaving the weather wardens to fight on their own. Joanne and David know they must appeal to the Oracles to communicate with Mother Nature or all of mankind will be destroyed.
This is the last book in the Weather Warden series. Joanne and David, with the help of Cherise, Kevin and Lewis, must search out the three Oracles in order to communicate with Mother Nature. We have the usual action-packed story, but some of it did begin to get monotonous. There are some surprise twists in this book, including the death of a couple characters. But the last 50 pages of this book wraps up the series beautifully. Couldn't have asked for a better ending. My rating: 4 Stars.
This is the last book in the Weather Warden series. Joanne and David, with the help of Cherise, Kevin and Lewis, must search out the three Oracles in order to communicate with Mother Nature. We have the usual action-packed story, but some of it did begin to get monotonous. There are some surprise twists in this book, including the death of a couple characters. But the last 50 pages of this book wraps up the series beautifully. Couldn't have asked for a better ending. My rating: 4 Stars.
October 22, 2011
The last couple of books got a little repetitive in some ways as the author was trying to build up certain story lines, but it was definitely a fun series. I like that she had a plan and played it out, then ended it, not like some authors who try to drag a series out forever or who don't seem to have any idea book to book what the characters are going to do next. The first five books were better than the last four, but overall it was full of great characters and I enjoyed it. It was fun to find the series after it had been completed so that I could read it all in a row with only a short break in the middle, it helped me be able to see where she was going with the story arc across the books more. So even though my rating for this book is a solid three stars (not a bad rating at all), my rating for the series overall is still a strong four stars.
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