The Elementals

I loved this book! Can't wait for more. Anyone who loves fantasy and adventure will love reading this.

This is a departure for me. I read everything, and enjoy fantasy and epic adventures but I was unfamiliar with Chinese folklore. Troy fixed that for me with this engrossing book about three young women with incredible powers that they are unaware of for most of their young lives. This tale begins (I hope!) a series of good versus evil against the an evil emperor of China that has brought all of the nations together, not in peace but through cruelty. Troy pulled me in and never let go - try this one and learn something completely new. You'll enjoyt it! And thanks for the glossary at the end, but I waited and read it last!

This is an action-packed Ancient Chinese book. Three young women use the powers of the Elements to defeat an Evil Emperor. This was a good book, and I can't wait to read the others in the series. The only negative thing is there are too many characters and plots.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This is a really interesting book. I didn't know much about ancient China but I know more now and really enjoyed it. It was well written and very informative. I liked the way the author followed and developed each character. The characters were well defined. The book grabbed me right away. It was difficult to put down. I love learning new things with a great story! This filled the bill. Will definately read more.

The Elementals is a well-made blend of young adult fantasy, China’s colorful culture and history, enlightening Confucian beliefs, and a tale of friendship, hope and bravery amidst hardships. What I liked about the book is that it blended history with a touch of fantasy. The result is a very engaging read which not only carries the reader to a different time and place, but also teaches wisdom through the application of Chinese (mostly Confucian) proverbs throughout the story. Also, it is very well-written. I could literally picture out each scene playing in my head like I was transported to another place even though I’m only sitting at my desk. Secondly, the events in this story were also well-planned and well-placed. Although the events may seem like a random mish-mash of scenes at the beginning, everything falls into place at the end. If I would have to pick characters that I really liked from this book, I would pick Li Jun and Mu Fang, because they are awesome and insanely strong! Then again, I also admire the three heroines, Jiao Ai, Cai and Shi Lin, because they were able to set aside their hate and fight for the good instead. Personally, this story reminded of the animated Nickolodeon series, Avatar – The Last Airbender. Both touched on Asian culture and imparted wisdom through their storylines. Both also involved the control of elements and the fight against an oppressive ruler. I highly recommend this for fans of historical novels, as well as those who would like to read a different kind of young adult fantasy!