ARC Review: Air Storm by Kay L. Moody

My Review:

As Air Storm begins, Talise and her friends remain in the Storm helping the people improve their lives. Food is scarce, weather is harsh, and illness wreaks havoc, but with the guidance of Talise and her friends, people have hope.

With a war brewing, Talise will do whatever she can to protect the vulnerable citizens. However, she needs an army to win the upcoming battle, and she is reluctant to ask the suffering people. However, with danger pressing ever-closer, Talise might not have an option. Luckily, she’s able to work with the amulet, even though she must train with two hated Kessoku soldiers. Will it be enough to win the war and bring peace to the people?

The world of Kamdaria is so vivid and well-layered, and Moody builds upon the richly developed world in Air Storm. I loved reading about the people and customs of the Storm, including the Water Festival, holidays, and mourning rituals.

The story also delves deeper into Aaden’s past, which I loved. Aaden doesn’t speak of his childhood, so opening up to Talise about his family and life says something about the depth of his feelings for her. I love that Talise and Aaden are slowly finding their way back to each other.

It’s clear that Talise and Aaden’s feelings are strong, but they both seem afraid to take the next step. They have a complex past, and their futures are uncertain. However, their actions reveal how they feel about each other. Aaden is protective and supportive, and he always has Talise’s back. Talise is empathetic and supportive, and she is a fierce defender of Aaden. It’s clear that they care for each other, but external obstacles, brewing war, and self-doubt still stand in their way.

Talise finally has the chance to work with the amulet, though she has to train with River and Claye. She’s not thrilled to work with Kessoku soldiers, especially Claye who betrayed her. Aaden accompanies her to these training sessions, which reaffirms the idea that the Kessoku can’t be trusted. I think the training is important for a couple of reasons. First, Talise learns how to amplify her powers, which she can use to help the people of Kamdaria. Second, Talise has the opportunity to really analyze her feelings for Aaden and Claye, especially when she observes them together. Their motivations and intentions are so different, and it seems as if Talise has truly realized who she loves and wants to be with.

The training scenes are intense, especially since Talise is training with her enemies. River is vindictive and unpredictable, and Claye’s intentions are unclear, so Talise never quite knows what to expect. Plus, the shaping that they manage is even more powerful and impressive. I love how the characters develop and get creative with their powers to suit their purposes and needs, and I have a feeling this will come in handy in the upcoming war.

Air Storm is an action-packed addition to the series, and I have a feeling that the building action and suspense are leading to an epic conclusion! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Talise, Aaden, Wendy, Claye, and the others next!! Thanks so much to the author and Marten Press for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

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Rating:

Favorite Lines:

No matter how a person looked, family was family.

Mistakes aren’t what make people good or bad. Everyone makes mistakes. What matters is what someone does after the mistake.

Sometimes life made a mockery of plans.

Be careful who you choose to be. Power will only amplify that choice.

Recommendations:

Check out my reviews for the other books in The Elements of Kamdaria Series!

• The Elements of the Crown (Books 1-4)
• River Gate (Book 5)
• Smoke Gate (Book 6)
• Vine Gate (Book 7)
• Ember Gate (Book 8)
• Water Storm (Book 9)