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28 days and 01:23:53
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The Scorched Earth #2
A Breathless Sky
Not yet published
Expected 17 Dec 24Win a free kindle copy of this book!
28 days and 01:23:53
100 copies available
U.S. only
As climate disasters wreak havoc, a sister and brother take opposing sides on the fate of the human race.
Syrah Carthan wants to save it. A tour guide for the Sequoia National Park, Syrah has an affinity for the millennia-old Giants that extends to Rhiza, a subterranean world as ancient as Earth itself. Syrah is the reluctant heir apparent as its Keeper. Her duty is to maintain a balance between nature and humans. But Syrah’s greatest adversary has his duty as well.
Romelo, Syrah’s brother, wants humankind to get what it deserves. To protect the forests, he’s already instigated one battle that ended in chaos and death. To reverse the near extinction of the magnificent trees, Romelo’s next move is to conspire with the sequoias themselves. If all goes according to plan, it will leave human beings absolutely breathless.
The siblings are going to battle. In the worlds above and below, only one of them can emerge victorious.
Syrah Carthan wants to save it. A tour guide for the Sequoia National Park, Syrah has an affinity for the millennia-old Giants that extends to Rhiza, a subterranean world as ancient as Earth itself. Syrah is the reluctant heir apparent as its Keeper. Her duty is to maintain a balance between nature and humans. But Syrah’s greatest adversary has his duty as well.
Romelo, Syrah’s brother, wants humankind to get what it deserves. To protect the forests, he’s already instigated one battle that ended in chaos and death. To reverse the near extinction of the magnificent trees, Romelo’s next move is to conspire with the sequoias themselves. If all goes according to plan, it will leave human beings absolutely breathless.
The siblings are going to battle. In the worlds above and below, only one of them can emerge victorious.
- GenresFantasy
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication December 17, 2024
About the author
Veronica G. Henry
12 books445 followersVeronica G. Henry is the author of Bacchanal, The Quarter Storm, and The Foreign Exchange in the Mambo Reina series.
Her work has debuted at #1 on multiple Amazon bestseller charts, was chosen as an editors’ pick for Best African American Fantasy, and shortlisted for the Manly Wade Wellman Award.
She is a Viable Paradise alum and a member of SFWA and MWA. Her stories have appeared, or are forthcoming, in the Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction and FIYAH Literary Magazine.
Her work has debuted at #1 on multiple Amazon bestseller charts, was chosen as an editors’ pick for Best African American Fantasy, and shortlisted for the Manly Wade Wellman Award.
She is a Viable Paradise alum and a member of SFWA and MWA. Her stories have appeared, or are forthcoming, in the Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction and FIYAH Literary Magazine.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
August 16, 2024
3 out of 5 stars.
A Breathless Sky (The Scorched Earth) by Veronica G. Henry is a fantasy fiction for young adults and adults alike. It continues the story of Syrah who is now a guide for the Sequoia National Park. This enables here to be able to be close to the giants and Rhiza - a world as ancient as the Earth they lived beneath.
Can I just say, first of all, that the cover provided is stunning and perfectly fits Syrah and her fungi. Perfect.
I struggled with the first half of this book. It was boring for me, but in saying that there was a lot of good character building, so I get it and the authors need for it. I pushed on and found myself drawn into the book at about 60 percent.
After that I couldn't put it down and read the rest in one sitting.
There's a few errors, but nothing that pulls away from the story. Another run through with an editor will get those.
The prose throughout was lovely and we'll through out, however, I feel like it pulled from the layout and the kindle versions layout is less than ideal.
This series is an absolute gem and I really enjoyed the characters, the plot, and the fantastic world building. I am not sure if I would read again, but I would recommend it to others to read. Fantastic job.
A Breathless Sky (The Scorched Earth) by Veronica G. Henry is a fantasy fiction for young adults and adults alike. It continues the story of Syrah who is now a guide for the Sequoia National Park. This enables here to be able to be close to the giants and Rhiza - a world as ancient as the Earth they lived beneath.
Can I just say, first of all, that the cover provided is stunning and perfectly fits Syrah and her fungi. Perfect.
I struggled with the first half of this book. It was boring for me, but in saying that there was a lot of good character building, so I get it and the authors need for it. I pushed on and found myself drawn into the book at about 60 percent.
After that I couldn't put it down and read the rest in one sitting.
There's a few errors, but nothing that pulls away from the story. Another run through with an editor will get those.
The prose throughout was lovely and we'll through out, however, I feel like it pulled from the layout and the kindle versions layout is less than ideal.
This series is an absolute gem and I really enjoyed the characters, the plot, and the fantastic world building. I am not sure if I would read again, but I would recommend it to others to read. Fantastic job.
October 25, 2024
I initially discovered this series through Amazon First Reads, and really enjoyed reading the first book, The Canopy Keepers. And, I am happy to say that A Breathless Sky was a great continuation of the story. Henry continues the struggle of Syrah and Romelo’s place among the Rhiza, their own conflict as siblings and Syrah’s ongoing decision to choose a life above ground or below ground.
The book deals with a lot of heavy subject matter, and takes place about 20 years in the future. I have a deep love for Yellowstone National Park, so this story really tugs at my heartstrings, showing the battle that the flora, fauna and wildlife face at the hands of humans. Henry really drives home how important it is for us to be caretakers and good stewards of our planet. We also see Syrah navigate her way through difficult relationships, and impossible decisions that she has to face, all while dealing with the physical changes that have been taking place since her arrival among the Rhiza.
I also love the contrast of the human population with the Rhiza. The magical realism of the two worlds is done really well. And even though the Rhiza are protectors of the Giant redwoods, they still deal with their own internal struggles of what are the best ways to accomplish their purpose. Humans and Rhiza are both shown to have their flaws and their great moments.
The first part of the book’s pacing was a bit slow, but things do pick up, and the story becomes harder to step away from. I love that Henry makes the trees important characters in the book, and gives glimpses into their thoughts and feelings. It brings great personification to the story and shows a glimpse of the communication that exists between the mycorrhizal network.
If you are a fan of magical realism, family relationships and found family, and have a love for the National Parks, then I would highly recommend A Breathless Sky. I would also recommend reading The Canopy Keepers, before reading A Breathless Sky, because it would be hard to follow the story as a stand alone read.
Thank you to 47North and NetGalley for providing an ARC copy of A Breathless Sky in return for my honest review.
The book deals with a lot of heavy subject matter, and takes place about 20 years in the future. I have a deep love for Yellowstone National Park, so this story really tugs at my heartstrings, showing the battle that the flora, fauna and wildlife face at the hands of humans. Henry really drives home how important it is for us to be caretakers and good stewards of our planet. We also see Syrah navigate her way through difficult relationships, and impossible decisions that she has to face, all while dealing with the physical changes that have been taking place since her arrival among the Rhiza.
I also love the contrast of the human population with the Rhiza. The magical realism of the two worlds is done really well. And even though the Rhiza are protectors of the Giant redwoods, they still deal with their own internal struggles of what are the best ways to accomplish their purpose. Humans and Rhiza are both shown to have their flaws and their great moments.
The first part of the book’s pacing was a bit slow, but things do pick up, and the story becomes harder to step away from. I love that Henry makes the trees important characters in the book, and gives glimpses into their thoughts and feelings. It brings great personification to the story and shows a glimpse of the communication that exists between the mycorrhizal network.
If you are a fan of magical realism, family relationships and found family, and have a love for the National Parks, then I would highly recommend A Breathless Sky. I would also recommend reading The Canopy Keepers, before reading A Breathless Sky, because it would be hard to follow the story as a stand alone read.
Thank you to 47North and NetGalley for providing an ARC copy of A Breathless Sky in return for my honest review.
September 4, 2024
A Breathless Sky by Veronica G. Henry is a captivating blend of fantasy and real-world issues, set in a not-too-distant future where the consequences of climate change have begun to unravel. This series follows Syrah, now a guide at Sequoia National Park, as she becomes entwined in a hidden world of ancient beings dedicated to protecting the Earth’s remaining giants and their secrets.
At its core, this book is an exploration of the complex relationships we have with both the families we’re born into and the ones we choose. It delves into themes of grief, betrayal, love, and self-discovery, all while drawing a vivid connection to the ongoing climate crisis. Henry’s portrayal of natural disasters, rampant diseases, and the extinction of species serves as a powerful reminder of humanity’s impact on the world—a sobering backdrop to this enchanting fantasy.
The first half of the book, though slower-paced, is rich with character development, laying a strong foundation for the intense and gripping second half. Once the story picks up, it becomes impossible to put down, with a narrative that pulls you in and holds you tight until the very end.
Henry’s prose is beautifully crafted, bringing the world of Rhiza and the ancient Sequoias to life with vivid imagery and a deep respect for nature. Despite some minor editorial oversights and layout issues in the Kindle version, the storytelling remains strong and immersive. The cover art, too, is a stunning representation of Syrah and her connection to the ancient world she’s come to protect.
In A Breathless Sky, Henry masterfully intertwines fantasy with pressing environmental themes, creating a story that resonates on multiple levels. It’s a must-read for both young adults and adults who appreciate fantasy that speaks to real-world concerns. This series is a gem, and while it may not be one I revisit often, it’s certainly one I’ll recommend to others. Henry has done a fantastic job, and I look forward to seeing where she takes us next.
At its core, this book is an exploration of the complex relationships we have with both the families we’re born into and the ones we choose. It delves into themes of grief, betrayal, love, and self-discovery, all while drawing a vivid connection to the ongoing climate crisis. Henry’s portrayal of natural disasters, rampant diseases, and the extinction of species serves as a powerful reminder of humanity’s impact on the world—a sobering backdrop to this enchanting fantasy.
The first half of the book, though slower-paced, is rich with character development, laying a strong foundation for the intense and gripping second half. Once the story picks up, it becomes impossible to put down, with a narrative that pulls you in and holds you tight until the very end.
Henry’s prose is beautifully crafted, bringing the world of Rhiza and the ancient Sequoias to life with vivid imagery and a deep respect for nature. Despite some minor editorial oversights and layout issues in the Kindle version, the storytelling remains strong and immersive. The cover art, too, is a stunning representation of Syrah and her connection to the ancient world she’s come to protect.
In A Breathless Sky, Henry masterfully intertwines fantasy with pressing environmental themes, creating a story that resonates on multiple levels. It’s a must-read for both young adults and adults who appreciate fantasy that speaks to real-world concerns. This series is a gem, and while it may not be one I revisit often, it’s certainly one I’ll recommend to others. Henry has done a fantastic job, and I look forward to seeing where she takes us next.
August 29, 2024
I received, graciously, an ARC copy from Netgalley.
A climate change, based fantasy set in the (not too distant) future, where a woman is faced with viciously protecting the trees (and the secret society of fantastical beings who protect the trees) and the humans who are not nearly as respectful to nature as they should.
This series explores the complicated relationship between family. More specifically between the family we share blood with and the family we choose (or those who choose us). It also explores grief, betrayal, love and finding one's self.
The way this series engages the climate crisis is absolutely gripping. The disasters that take place and how we are watching diseases run rampant and the dying off of species, all due to human nature and greed.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I think the author did a wonderful job with the characters and capturing the complexity of human emotions and how those emotions fuel our decisions and ultimately the paths we choose!
A climate change, based fantasy set in the (not too distant) future, where a woman is faced with viciously protecting the trees (and the secret society of fantastical beings who protect the trees) and the humans who are not nearly as respectful to nature as they should.
This series explores the complicated relationship between family. More specifically between the family we share blood with and the family we choose (or those who choose us). It also explores grief, betrayal, love and finding one's self.
The way this series engages the climate crisis is absolutely gripping. The disasters that take place and how we are watching diseases run rampant and the dying off of species, all due to human nature and greed.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I think the author did a wonderful job with the characters and capturing the complexity of human emotions and how those emotions fuel our decisions and ultimately the paths we choose!
November 8, 2024
Like a few other readers, I requested *A Breathless Sky* from NetGalley without realising it was the second book in a duology, and that's my bad, so I'll leave related issues out of this of course!
I couldn't completely get into the writing style. While I recognise this might be more of a personal preference, I felt the narrative didn’t flow smoothly. As a result, I didn’t always look forward to picking the book up and had difficulty pushing through.
That said, I really appreciated the central theme of nature versus humanity, especially the main character’s struggle with her brother and the pursuit of her own desires to figure out where she truly belongs. I also enjoyed the character development and world-building.
Overall, I did enjoy the book, but it felt a bit long at times and lost momentum. That said, it did what a good book should: it made me reflect on important issues, particularly about the environment.
3.5/5
I couldn't completely get into the writing style. While I recognise this might be more of a personal preference, I felt the narrative didn’t flow smoothly. As a result, I didn’t always look forward to picking the book up and had difficulty pushing through.
That said, I really appreciated the central theme of nature versus humanity, especially the main character’s struggle with her brother and the pursuit of her own desires to figure out where she truly belongs. I also enjoyed the character development and world-building.
Overall, I did enjoy the book, but it felt a bit long at times and lost momentum. That said, it did what a good book should: it made me reflect on important issues, particularly about the environment.
3.5/5
November 18, 2024
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley, Veronica G. Henry and 47north for this ARC.
A Breathless Sky is book 2 in The Scorched Earth duology.
Syrah is a tour guide at Sequoia National Park but she's also the heir and expected to be the next Keeper in the ancient subterranean world of Rhiza. But her brother is hell-bent on becoming the Keeper himself and will go to great lengths to make that happen.
So I requested this book because I loved the cover, only to find out it's the second in a series and I hadn't read the first! So of course it took me a while to get into it and at about 40% the story had me hooked too. However, I didn't find any suspense and it was a bit obvious what was going to happen. There were betrayals that Syrah should have expected. But this book also makes you realise the real world problems that humans create for themselves and the wild life.
A Breathless Sky is book 2 in The Scorched Earth duology.
Syrah is a tour guide at Sequoia National Park but she's also the heir and expected to be the next Keeper in the ancient subterranean world of Rhiza. But her brother is hell-bent on becoming the Keeper himself and will go to great lengths to make that happen.
So I requested this book because I loved the cover, only to find out it's the second in a series and I hadn't read the first! So of course it took me a while to get into it and at about 40% the story had me hooked too. However, I didn't find any suspense and it was a bit obvious what was going to happen. There were betrayals that Syrah should have expected. But this book also makes you realise the real world problems that humans create for themselves and the wild life.
August 18, 2024
This book / series has a great balance of real world problems and fantasy/magical elements. Veronica Henry wrote an excellent book which tells the consequences of humans damaging the earth and how the earth and its magical creatures fight back against them. Syrah is stuck in the middle between saving the human race and knowing they are the very ones killing the planet and the trees she holds dear.
September 23, 2024
I have to admit I was a little skeptical as to how Veronica was going to carry on the story as the last one felt a bit final. Again she smashed it out the park and felt like a movie was being played in my head. Soemthing that I haven’t experience in reading in a long time! I really enjoyed this duology, so different to what is available at the moment and soemthing that I think a wide range of people will enjoy!
July 28, 2024
This book was written in a way that translates to reality but also lets the reader imagine a more complex, mythological, magical world. World building is a very important part of a read for me and the author nailed that aspect. The characters are likably unlikeable. Overall, i really enjoyed this read and am going to rate it 4 stars.
Shelved as 'not-released'
September 29, 2024Review coming November 28 at Gabic Reads. eARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews