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Storm & Spire #3
Maelstrom
A powerful cabal has fallen.
A princess has chosen duty over love.
An ancient threat waits amid the shadows.
Wes Cervos has recovered a new portion of the Codex Veritatis, but his increased knowledge of the High One has come at a terrible price. Whitespire has been destroyed, and the realm of the dragons has fallen into chaos.
Wes and his friends have once again sought refuge in the city of Auranth, but this time, they are no longer willing to hide. Across Kaveryth, confidence in King Ursa has begun to crumble, and new allies now seek to take a stand against his lust for power.
As the elves threaten invasion from the west, an unexpected threat rises in the north. The forces of the Four Kingdoms have been stretched thin, and impossible decisions threaten to sever even the closest of family ties.
Wes and his friends must trust in the High One to act, or all of Kaveryth will fall into darkness forever.
Storm & Spire is a Christian fantasy series, perfect for readers who enjoy fantastical creatures, political intrigue, and a touch of clean romance.
A princess has chosen duty over love.
An ancient threat waits amid the shadows.
Wes Cervos has recovered a new portion of the Codex Veritatis, but his increased knowledge of the High One has come at a terrible price. Whitespire has been destroyed, and the realm of the dragons has fallen into chaos.
Wes and his friends have once again sought refuge in the city of Auranth, but this time, they are no longer willing to hide. Across Kaveryth, confidence in King Ursa has begun to crumble, and new allies now seek to take a stand against his lust for power.
As the elves threaten invasion from the west, an unexpected threat rises in the north. The forces of the Four Kingdoms have been stretched thin, and impossible decisions threaten to sever even the closest of family ties.
Wes and his friends must trust in the High One to act, or all of Kaveryth will fall into darkness forever.
Storm & Spire is a Christian fantasy series, perfect for readers who enjoy fantastical creatures, political intrigue, and a touch of clean romance.
Published January 24, 2023
About the author
Stefanie Lozinski
6 books142 followersStefanie Lozinski lives in Ontario, Canada, with her husband, three young children, two cats, and a whole lot of books. When she isn’t homeschooling her little ones, you’ll find her on a long walk, drinking coffee, praying a Rosary, or working on her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 1, 2023
"Maelstrom" will not disappoint fans of the fabulous "Storm & Spire" series!
For Newcomers
I do not recommend reading this book before reading the first two, Magnify and Majesty. However, I do highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a good book! In my opinion it is very Tolkien/Lewis-esque. Fantasy is not my number one favorite genre, yet I am enjoying this series immensely ! So if you're not a Fantasy reader, don't let the genre scare you off before giving it a try!! (ps: check out my super-fancy review for the first book in the series to get you really pumped ---> https://bit.ly/3HPgIhJ )
For Readers of the S&S Series
YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PUT THIS ONE DOWN! Ya'll, watching Wes grow into manhood (or at least start to lol) makes my lil heart break. He's like my lil guy and I just want to protect him haha.
We get MORE Alder, which is always a good thing in my honest opinion, and even more of a look at Kaveryth and its peoples and places! There is also more intrigue and mystery and lore concerning the Codex Veritas and the High One that we get to dive into. ALSO, here's a book trailer to get you even MORE hyped up ---> https://bit.ly/3kZp25y .
Conclusion
"Maelstrom" is a riveting continuation of the "Storm and Spire" series that will not disappoint fans, and will keep the reader hungering for more. The characters that we have grown to know and love are just as loveable and they continue to grow, as they face battles internally and externally. I highly recommend readers of the S&S series to pick this one up!
NOTE: I received a free copy of this book from the author. Opinions are my own. ❤
January 30, 2023
4.5 Stars
This is another great installment in the Storm and Spire Series!!! I just love going on this adventure with that cast, and I'm currently trying to get my barrings from that cliffhanger that has left me with way too many questions! I need to know what happens!!!
Characters:
I love seeing Wes's character growth through the books, and I am seriously worried about my boy! Wes!!!
Kessara is a pretty good female character, as far as they go...I'm never a fan of female characters so this is always hard for me to judge fairly...lol...
Alder is one of my favorites! I love how strong and loyal he is!!!
Celesyria!!! I love dragons, and Celesyria has been so much fun!!! And more dragons in this one is great!!!
There are some more side characters, but I don't have time to detail them all...but needless to say, I enjoyed this book!
Theme:
Trusting God in all circumstances was a central theme, and I really enjoyed it. There were underlying themes, but this was the main one. It's the main line of the series as well and is just presented really well!
Romance:
Just a bit...one kiss, a little hand holding, hugs...nothing much. My heart is aching for these characters!
Language:
N/A
Overall:
I really enjoyed this book and this series! If anyone is looking for a good clean/Christian YA fantasy series, definitely give this series a look! Because it is fantastic!!! I can't wait for book 4!
There is only one part of the series I'm not completely sure of, which is Celesyria believing in the High One but also believing that she won't get to go to the Eternal Lands. My dad says animals have souls, and the Bible says in Heaven, the lion will lay with the lamb, so that's not something I agree with, but I'm hoping Celesyria will be proven wrong in the last two books of the series!
As I said, this is a fantastic series and you should definitely give it a look!
This is another great installment in the Storm and Spire Series!!! I just love going on this adventure with that cast, and I'm currently trying to get my barrings from that cliffhanger that has left me with way too many questions! I need to know what happens!!!
Characters:
I love seeing Wes's character growth through the books, and I am seriously worried about my boy! Wes!!!
Kessara is a pretty good female character, as far as they go...I'm never a fan of female characters so this is always hard for me to judge fairly...lol...
Alder is one of my favorites! I love how strong and loyal he is!!!
Celesyria!!! I love dragons, and Celesyria has been so much fun!!! And more dragons in this one is great!!!
There are some more side characters, but I don't have time to detail them all...but needless to say, I enjoyed this book!
Theme:
Trusting God in all circumstances was a central theme, and I really enjoyed it. There were underlying themes, but this was the main one. It's the main line of the series as well and is just presented really well!
Romance:
Just a bit...one kiss, a little hand holding, hugs...nothing much. My heart is aching for these characters!
Language:
N/A
Overall:
I really enjoyed this book and this series! If anyone is looking for a good clean/Christian YA fantasy series, definitely give this series a look! Because it is fantastic!!! I can't wait for book 4!
There is only one part of the series I'm not completely sure of, which is Celesyria believing in the High One but also believing that she won't get to go to the Eternal Lands. My dad says animals have souls, and the Bible says in Heaven, the lion will lay with the lamb, so that's not something I agree with, but I'm hoping Celesyria will be proven wrong in the last two books of the series!
As I said, this is a fantastic series and you should definitely give it a look!
January 18, 2024
PROS:
I really enjoyed this story! This is a solid 4⭐! The pacing was better than the first two books, and I enjoyed watching Wes grow stronger in his faith and live into his destiny as a leader. Furthermore, the faith elements were wonderful and mostly applicable to Christians of protestant or Catholic background, with a couple exclusively Catholic practices described. I really felt for the characters at the center of the forbidden love trope.🥹 The author did a great job showing just how difficult a duty-bound marriage could be for all involved. Her skill in making the reader feel what these poor people were feeling is phenomenal.
CONS:
Sometimes I got a disjointed or awkward feeling as I was reading which brought me out of the story and confused me at times. Also, sometimes the dialogue did not seem to follow the narrative it supported. [Reread Edit: I will leave this here since it was apparently true on my first read, but on reread, I did not notice this at all!]
OVERALL:
Mrs. Lozinski has created a wonderful faith story where the characters are realistic and suffer from the same types of doubt, fear, and insecurities that we do. Books such as these are why I love Christian fantasy. Highly recommended!
I really enjoyed this story! This is a solid 4⭐! The pacing was better than the first two books, and I enjoyed watching Wes grow stronger in his faith and live into his destiny as a leader. Furthermore, the faith elements were wonderful and mostly applicable to Christians of protestant or Catholic background, with a couple exclusively Catholic practices described. I really felt for the characters at the center of the forbidden love trope.🥹 The author did a great job showing just how difficult a duty-bound marriage could be for all involved. Her skill in making the reader feel what these poor people were feeling is phenomenal.
CONS:
Sometimes I got a disjointed or awkward feeling as I was reading which brought me out of the story and confused me at times. Also, sometimes the dialogue did not seem to follow the narrative it supported. [Reread Edit: I will leave this here since it was apparently true on my first read, but on reread, I did not notice this at all!]
OVERALL:
Mrs. Lozinski has created a wonderful faith story where the characters are realistic and suffer from the same types of doubt, fear, and insecurities that we do. Books such as these are why I love Christian fantasy. Highly recommended!
January 15, 2023
A storm has ravaged Wes's life, in more ways than one.
Wes, Alder, Kessara, and Celesyria have finally been reunited, but things aren't the same. Kessara and Alder try desperately to hide their feelings from the others, without success. Wes tries to understand the origin of his headaches and his growing feelings for the elf, Aelrie. Celesyria worries about her mother and father. And all of them try to work their way through the troubles their faith inevitably brings. As they seek to build their own kingdom for the Higher One, an even greater threat arises.
This book was more fast-paced, less descriptive, and more emotionally intense than the others in her series. The intensity of this book is only semi-resolved, leaving room for the next in the series. I enjoyed the fast-paced action and rising stakes, and I can't wait to read the next one. This story is a valuable piece in the continuing saga, and it fits well with the stories before it. I believe it is a very good book. But why a 4 instead of a 5, like my other reviews?
That will take a bit more explaining, and it is spoilery, so please be warned.
Wes and Kessara are engaged, but not in love. In fact, as soon as they have any sort of romantic feelings, it ends in them feeling like they will throw up. I think it is because they like each other like brother and sister, and so get sick thinking of intimacy between them. But the thing is, they aren't brother and sister, and they both know that marriage is beneficial for their entire kingdom. Even though Kessara knows this, she doesn't want to let go of her feelings for Alder, and I can't help but wonder...why? Why does Kessara love Alder? Because he's handsome and protective? Isn't Wes the same? I don't get it, and at times, Kessara's feelings read more like a Disney/Hallmark romance than reality. At least Wes recognized his feelings for Aelrie are superficial and is willing to give his relationship with Kessara a chance, despite feelings of queasiness. In addition, in the last battle against the kraken, the dragons didn't use their fire to help. Why? Wouldn't fire hurt the kraken, and couldn't they aim not to hurt humans while doing so? This book ended up giving me more questions than answers, so this is why I have given this story a 4 instead of 5.
That being said, I think these questions show you how invested I am in the story, and how much I enjoyed it. The fact I have these feelings demonstrates my enjoyment and love for the story, especially the characters. I eagerly anticipate the next book.
Wes, Alder, Kessara, and Celesyria have finally been reunited, but things aren't the same. Kessara and Alder try desperately to hide their feelings from the others, without success. Wes tries to understand the origin of his headaches and his growing feelings for the elf, Aelrie. Celesyria worries about her mother and father. And all of them try to work their way through the troubles their faith inevitably brings. As they seek to build their own kingdom for the Higher One, an even greater threat arises.
This book was more fast-paced, less descriptive, and more emotionally intense than the others in her series. The intensity of this book is only semi-resolved, leaving room for the next in the series. I enjoyed the fast-paced action and rising stakes, and I can't wait to read the next one. This story is a valuable piece in the continuing saga, and it fits well with the stories before it. I believe it is a very good book. But why a 4 instead of a 5, like my other reviews?
That will take a bit more explaining, and it is spoilery, so please be warned.
Wes and Kessara are engaged, but not in love. In fact, as soon as they have any sort of romantic feelings, it ends in them feeling like they will throw up. I think it is because they like each other like brother and sister, and so get sick thinking of intimacy between them. But the thing is, they aren't brother and sister, and they both know that marriage is beneficial for their entire kingdom. Even though Kessara knows this, she doesn't want to let go of her feelings for Alder, and I can't help but wonder...why? Why does Kessara love Alder? Because he's handsome and protective? Isn't Wes the same? I don't get it, and at times, Kessara's feelings read more like a Disney/Hallmark romance than reality. At least Wes recognized his feelings for Aelrie are superficial and is willing to give his relationship with Kessara a chance, despite feelings of queasiness. In addition, in the last battle against the kraken, the dragons didn't use their fire to help. Why? Wouldn't fire hurt the kraken, and couldn't they aim not to hurt humans while doing so? This book ended up giving me more questions than answers, so this is why I have given this story a 4 instead of 5.
That being said, I think these questions show you how invested I am in the story, and how much I enjoyed it. The fact I have these feelings demonstrates my enjoyment and love for the story, especially the characters. I eagerly anticipate the next book.
January 30, 2023
4.5 Stars
Read
February 3, 2023I am so thankful to everyone who is joining my beloved characters on their continuing journey. This series has been such a blast (and challenge) to write, and I am so excited to see how it all turns out. <3
January 24, 2023
AAAAAA!!!! It ends on a cliffhanger! I need to read book 4 right NOW!!
I'm not sure how she does it, but I think Stefanie's writing just keeps getting better and better. The action in this book had me holding my breath and sitting on the edge. of. my. seat, and I literally got chills during Bargren's speech!
I was thanking God for the dragons. You know you've been swallowed up by a book when you thank God for the dragons in the fantasy book you're reading! 😂
I know this isn't a long review, but my mind is going too many directions still from everything that happened in it. I feel like I'm flailing in the harbor with Gorok (just go with it-read the book and you'll know), trying to come up for air. It is that...immersive. No pun intended.
So if you haven't yet read books 1 and 2, go grab them, and then immerse yourself in this one!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.*
I'm not sure how she does it, but I think Stefanie's writing just keeps getting better and better. The action in this book had me holding my breath and sitting on the edge. of. my. seat, and I literally got chills during Bargren's speech!
I was thanking God for the dragons. You know you've been swallowed up by a book when you thank God for the dragons in the fantasy book you're reading! 😂
I know this isn't a long review, but my mind is going too many directions still from everything that happened in it. I feel like I'm flailing in the harbor with Gorok (just go with it-read the book and you'll know), trying to come up for air. It is that...immersive. No pun intended.
So if you haven't yet read books 1 and 2, go grab them, and then immerse yourself in this one!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.*
February 28, 2024
Captivating third installment of this series. I was enthralled. Forbidden romance, adventure, magic, war, friendship, dragons, and competing religious beliefs. The world this story is set in is rich and intriguing. It also doesn't have adult content in it but still is enjoyable to read as an adult.
April 27, 2023
Wow, that was amazing!!!!!!!! There were several times when I physically had a look of shock on my face... my friend can testify! That was incredible along with being incredibly sad! Can't WAIT to read Maker!!
August 30, 2024
Throughout this suspenseful book of romance, treachery, and faith, characters like the God-fearing gifted elf, three powerful dragons, and human followers of the High One struggle with the choice—fight or flight—as they seek to save their world from invading elves and cruel human slavers. Forming a small league determined to obey the High One, they search for the ever-elusive Codex Veritas to know the full will of God. (Sounds like mankind throughout history!)
And always, when the heroes stand and fight, the question arises: Is anyone so evil that there is no hope for his redemption? Those who serve the High One resist the attraction to kill their enemies, recognizing that death is permanent and life a gift of God. While their vicious enemies have no such compulsion, they grieve every life they are forced to take.
Considering the vast numbers of enemies they face, Celesyria the dragon doubts, “If this ever ends at all. If the High One is ever worshiped throughout Kaveryth again.” Her mother and father are missing, but she must continue to pursue the High One’s purposes. She is not alone in such heartache. This story is rich with tough choices. It keeps you reading fervently to the end.
And always, when the heroes stand and fight, the question arises: Is anyone so evil that there is no hope for his redemption? Those who serve the High One resist the attraction to kill their enemies, recognizing that death is permanent and life a gift of God. While their vicious enemies have no such compulsion, they grieve every life they are forced to take.
Considering the vast numbers of enemies they face, Celesyria the dragon doubts, “If this ever ends at all. If the High One is ever worshiped throughout Kaveryth again.” Her mother and father are missing, but she must continue to pursue the High One’s purposes. She is not alone in such heartache. This story is rich with tough choices. It keeps you reading fervently to the end.
April 15, 2023
𝑰𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒏𝒐 𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒖𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕, 𝒘𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒕.
In a simple filipino phrase, titindig ako para sa katotohanan.
(I will stand for the truth)!
What I love about Storm and Spire is how the main characters are doing everything they can for the Truth, for worship to be restored to the High One. And how they are willing to risk their lives to fight the injustices, and the evil things that King Ursa (and others) are doing.
It was like watching one of my favorite tv show, Merlin. I know they are different, but that show has 5 seasons and I enjoyed all of them. Just like this book, Maelstrom. 😊
If you are looking for an adventure, fighting evil rulers, talking dragons, elves, and truth seekers, then this book is for you.
P.s.
I wanted to share more but this is already book 3! I'm afraid to share some of my favorite scenes. 😅😂
I don't want to spoil anyone. So better get that first book and read the next two!
In a simple filipino phrase, titindig ako para sa katotohanan.
(I will stand for the truth)!
What I love about Storm and Spire is how the main characters are doing everything they can for the Truth, for worship to be restored to the High One. And how they are willing to risk their lives to fight the injustices, and the evil things that King Ursa (and others) are doing.
It was like watching one of my favorite tv show, Merlin. I know they are different, but that show has 5 seasons and I enjoyed all of them. Just like this book, Maelstrom. 😊
If you are looking for an adventure, fighting evil rulers, talking dragons, elves, and truth seekers, then this book is for you.
P.s.
I wanted to share more but this is already book 3! I'm afraid to share some of my favorite scenes. 😅😂
I don't want to spoil anyone. So better get that first book and read the next two!
July 3, 2023
The cause of the High One continues as Wes and his friends search for a place of peace for the people they love. Could this be the start of a force that could champion their cause? But evil will not let them rest for long as Kessara's people are threatened by a creature of darkness. Can the small band beat it back into the sea?
I didn't find this third installment in the Storm and Spire Series as strong as book two, but the heart of the story is still there. The theme of trust in friendship and trust in the High One is a string as Wes and his friends go through their journey. I would have liked to have seen Aelrie's character built in more. Her reason for being included in the story felt weak but holds a lot of potential. Would have been good to have a chapter from the point of view before she joined the group.
Overall, it was still a good story and I am looking forward to reading book four! There is a certain little girl and her brother that I very much want to know about.
I didn't find this third installment in the Storm and Spire Series as strong as book two, but the heart of the story is still there. The theme of trust in friendship and trust in the High One is a string as Wes and his friends go through their journey. I would have liked to have seen Aelrie's character built in more. Her reason for being included in the story felt weak but holds a lot of potential. Would have been good to have a chapter from the point of view before she joined the group.
Overall, it was still a good story and I am looking forward to reading book four! There is a certain little girl and her brother that I very much want to know about.
June 2, 2024
What an awesome read as we continue on with the characters' journey in this series.I enjoyed the various characters' perspectives throughout this story as well as the romance brewing between Alder and Kessara and Wes and the elf Aelrie, even though Wes and Kessara are to be married to save the kingdom.
Maelstrom includes tension, friction, political unrest, split loyalties, aland more dragons joining forces with Wes, Kessara, Alder, and Ceresyria to right a huge threat. This series will drag you right into the plot and adventure and won't let you go.
Maelstrom includes tension, friction, political unrest, split loyalties, aland more dragons joining forces with Wes, Kessara, Alder, and Ceresyria to right a huge threat. This series will drag you right into the plot and adventure and won't let you go.
February 26, 2023
ahhhh! I need more!
Lozinski’s Maelstrom, book 3 in the Storm & Spire series is just as good as books 1 & 2. I so enjoyed seeing more of Kessara and Alder and learning more about Wes and Celesyria and even more dragons. Lots of new characters make the story rich and full. And that final scene!! Oh my goodness! Book 4 cannot come soon enough!
Lozinski’s Maelstrom, book 3 in the Storm & Spire series is just as good as books 1 & 2. I so enjoyed seeing more of Kessara and Alder and learning more about Wes and Celesyria and even more dragons. Lots of new characters make the story rich and full. And that final scene!! Oh my goodness! Book 4 cannot come soon enough!
May 18, 2023
I loved this one! It was very mind-blowing, and everything the characters are going through… wow. Especially Kessara. 🤯 The storyline in this one was really surprising, and I loved all the faith! Can’t wait for the next one!(it should be here today!!!) I’d highly recommend this for anyone who loves fantasy!(13+)
April 18, 2024
I received the first two Storm and Spire books for my birthday and this did not disappoint! The ending was 😮! And I also enjoyed watching and reading the character development throughout this story, Wes has grown so much 🥹 I truly enjoyed this book and definitely cannot wait to start the fourth one!!!!! I need to know what happens!!!!!!!!!!! 🤩
March 8, 2023
Another great book in the Storm & Spire series. I strongly recommend reading these in order. You will thoroughly enjoy watching the characters grow and mature as they face many trials.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews