I have to admit, I wasn't sure what I would be getting with this book, but I was pleasantly surprised. This book is an absolute gem. The author has truly knocked it out of the park with this sequel, delivering a tale brimming with fantasy, intrigue, and character depth.

What sets the story apart from others in this genre is its perfect blend of epic fantasy spectacle and heartfelt moments between the characters. The action scenes are great and provide really good details to bring you right into the story, while the more introspective moments add layers of emotional depth.

The author does a great job of getting the reader immersed in this vibrant world from the beginning. And when you have a story that does excellent world-building building you really start to be invested in the characters and their journeys. The writing is top-notch, painting vivid scenes that leap off the page, and the dialogue flows naturally, keeping the story moving at a brisk pace.

But let's get back to the characters. As I mentioned previously, the characters are all developed quite nicely and the story does a great job showing how they evolve over time. Not just in terms of power, but also in terms of their complexity and inner conflicts. And as the story moves along, the introduction of new characters offers fresh perspectives and intriguing challenges.

The pacing is great, striking a perfect balance between action and contemplative dialog that allows the reader to catch their breath and reflect on the unfolding events. In short, "Champion" is a fantastic story. Whether you are a fan of the genre or not, this is definitely a story worth checking out.  Gary Altman12 1 follower

In Champion, which is book 2 of the Withered Crown Chronicles, Payton Cavallo brought me into an engrossing epic fantasy tale that pulled no punches. I was immediately drawn into the beautifully crafted worldbuilding, which is what I am mostly after in fantasy. The story follows the journey of Rainer, a valorous but flawed hero seeking glory, honor, and his father's recognition against the backdrop of a brutal and unrelenting war. So this hits all the right tropes for me.

Cavallo's writing style is rich in detail, bringing the setting and characters vividly to life. The battle scenes are visceral and intense, and do not shy away from the grim realities of combat. It's gritty without being gory, which I can only commenf as this is a fine line to tread in a lot of cases. I appreciated the moral ambiguity of many of the characters and how even the protagonist Rainer has a dark, almost antiheroic edge at times driven by his complicated relationship with his father.

That said, it was a bit difficult to latch onto the core narrative at first. The pacing also drags a little in the middle before picking up considerably in the latter half with a series of gripping twists and revelations. This isn't really a criticism, but a warning to stick with it as the narrative is overall worth it.

Overall, I found the book to be an immersive and compelling example of gritty, morally-gray epic fantasy. While not perfect, it provides an entertaining and thought-provoking tale of one man's struggle for identity and glory amidst the horrors of war. Recommended for fans of complex, uncompromising fantasy looking for their next engrossing read. Chelsi Parrill104 1 follower

Champion

"Champion (Withered Crown Chronicles Book 2)" by Payton Cavallo is a thrilling continuation of the Withered Crown Chronicles series, captivating readers with its intricate world-building, dynamic characters, and gripping plot. Cavallo expertly weaves a tale of adventure, power struggles, and the quest for justice, making it impossible to put down.

In this sequel, the stakes are higher, and the characters are pushed to their limits as they navigate a world filled with magic, betrayal, and hidden agendas. The protagonist's journey is both inspiring and heart-wrenching, as they confront challenges that test their strength, loyalty, and convictions. Cavallo's skillful storytelling ensures that readers are fully immersed in the richly detailed world, experiencing every twist and turn alongside the characters.

What makes "Champion" stand out is its perfect balance of action, emotional depth, and character development. The relationships between characters are complex and evolving, adding layers of intrigue to the story. The novel also explores themes of power, responsibility, and the cost of ambition, making it not only an entertaining read but also a thought-provoking one.

Payton Cavallo has outdone themselves with "Champion," delivering an epic fantasy that is both a satisfying sequel and a compelling story in its own right. Fans of the series and new readers a will find themselves eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Withered Crown Chronicles. Shane Keenan16

"Champion (Withered Crown Chronicles Book 2)" by Payton Cavallo invites readers once again into a mesmerizing realm where magic intertwines with political intrigue and personal quests for glory. Building upon the solid foundation laid in the first book, Cavallo's storytelling prowess shines brightly in this riveting sequel.

Within these pages, readers will find themselves immersed in the dynamic exchanges between characters, each conversation brimming with wit, tension, and profound significance. As the narrative unfolds, the struggle for power and respect between the rival kings ignites, leading to exhilarating clashes that propel the story forward with unwavering intensity.

Cavallo's imaginative flair is on full display as the world of the Withered Crown Chronicles comes to life with vivid detail. From majestic creatures to malevolent adversaries, each element serves to enrich the tapestry of this fantastical realm, captivating readers and igniting their imaginations.

"Champion" stands as a testament to Cavallo's mastery of the fantasy genre, delivering a spellbinding tale that effortlessly combines action, intrigue, and character-driven drama. With its seamless blend of magic and machinations, this book cements Cavallo's status as a visionary storyteller, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the Withered Crown Chronicles. TlalaneAuthor 10 books14

The story of my favourite outcast continues....

I was looking forward to this second book of the series, and I wasn't disappointed at all. The story of my favourite outcast, Rainer was worth every page! This book is a continuation of book one, where we get introduced to two main characters, and it leaves you wanting more. The second book focuses on one of the two characters, Rainer an outcast of a son who has been disgraced and disappointed by his cruel father and is not back to claim what is his.

What I enjoyed about this book was the comeback of Rainer, from a boy to a man, from someone who would do anything to have his father's approval to someone who became victorious in the end and that's what makes it interesting. I must admit though, I thought the main characters from book one would kind of meet in book two and pair up as a couple, but what the author did was way better and it's good.

For this book to make sense and enjoy it and devour, you must read book one before reading book two or the story won't make any sense. Looking forward to reading book three and find out what will happen to Idalia.... Agnes34

Battles, battles, and more battles


Having enjoyed ‘Three Betrayals’, the first book in the ‘Withered Crown Chronicles’, I was looking forward to reading ‘Champion’, and although different from the first, it didn’t disappoint.

The main focus of ‘Champion’ is Rainer, the illegitimate son of King Siron. We join him in the war against the Sunkislands, as he seeks glory and recognition.

The story is full of action, with plenty of battles featuring monsters, magic swords, magic rocks, and tar- blood; the giant tarantula sounded particularly freaky. The pacing is good, and the characters are well developed - Clovis, Rainer, Zeno and Merethyl all had their distinct personalities and I wanted them to succeed. The relationship between Rainer and his dad created great tension, and I d seeing Rainer’s relationship with Clovis develop. The little snippet of Rainer with Edward was also really nice to see.

Once again, there were very strong ‘Game of Thrones’ vibes, so fans of that series and similar titles are ly to enjoy this read. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Athenais43

"Champion" is the second installment in the "Withered Crown Chronicles" series. It is a gripping coming-of-age fantasy novel set in a divided kingdom. The protagonist, Rainer Silverhawk, is on a quest to restore his family's honor and legacy after a series of setbacks. The story unfolds in the midst of a rebellion in the Sunkislands, a rogue province fighting for independence.
It is a story of determination and resilience as Rainer faces an unprecedented foe in his quest for redemption. The narrative takes an intense turn when a mission to defend their territory goes awry, leading Rainer into dire circumstances. The ensuing struggle for honor and kingdom thrusts him into a duel with the realm's most ruthless warrior.
Overall, the book offers a compelling mix of dark fantasy and sword-and-sorcery elements, which make it an engaging read, especially for fans of the genre. The plot is well-paced and the book contains relatable themes, keeping you on the edge of your seat, eager to follow Rainer's journey to reclaim his family's honor. Stacy Dietz9

"Champion (Withered Crown Chronicles Book 2)" by Payton Cavallo is an intriguing and well-written book. I have no complaints about character development and good storytelling. Conversations flowed between characters. Descriptions of scenes and actions were clear. The chapters are fairly short (there are 53 chapters), but this fantasy adventure is full of action, battles, warriors, and plot twists. I found myself rooting for Ranier Silverhawk. Although he constantly doubts himself and isn’t the legitimate heir, he wants to prove himself worthy and is persistent in seeking his father’s approval. He wants to be the hero and be respected, and you can’t help but root for him. This character is relatable and authentic. His doubt drives him to push himself. His story is one of determination, honor-seeking, and resilience.
Sometimes, authors describe conversations, places, and events in a way that is distracting for the reader, but I found this book to be interesting and not overly complicated. There is some historical fiction along with the fantasy aspect.
W Sawyer23

A Solid Sequel That Continues the Saga

"Champion" is a worthy follow-up to the first book in the Withered Crown series. The author, Payton, continues to develop the world and characters introduced in the previous installment, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the protagonist, Rainer Silverhawk, and his quest for redemption.
The book maintains a good pace throughout, balancing action sequences with moments of introspection and character development. The setting of the Sunkislands is vividly described, immersing the reader in the world created by the author.
While the story may not break new ground in the fantasy genre, it remains engaging and entertaining. Fans of the series will ly find this sequel enjoyable, as it builds upon the foundations laid in the first book and sets the stage for future adventures.
Overall, "Champion" is a solid entry in the Withered Crown series, offering a satisfying continuation of Rainer Silverhawk's journey. Those who enjoyed the first book will probably find this one worth reading as well.
AB31

Rainer Silverhawk is not your typical hero. His journey begins at a nadir, a reflection of his tarnished honor and the dim prospects of restoring his family's legacy after a disastrous mistake. It is this vulnerability and the tangible weight of failure that make Silverhawk a character readers will root for from the very beginning. The author brilliantly showcases the inner turmoil and the external struggles that Rainer faces, making his journey relatable and his character deeply nuanced.

The setting of the Sunkislands—a rogue province rebelling against the control of a larger empire—serves as a perfect backdrop for Rainer's quest. The islands, with their rugged landscapes and resilient inhabitants, symbolize the tough, uphill battle Rainer must fight to redeem himself. The author's vivid descriptions bring the Sunkislands to life, making the reader feel the dampness of the marshes and the chill of the sea breeze, a testament to the immersive quality of the storytelling. Matt Mememaro29 1 follower

The second installment in the Withered Crown series picks up right where the first left on. Champion is a great follow on from Three Betrayals. Payton Cavallo knows how to write brilliant fantasy and should take a bow. The characterisation of Rainer is superb and the worldbuilding, despite the book only being 257 pages is done masterfully.

Champion for anyone that wants to chow down on some fantasy without spending weeks at a time on it. The prose is tight and makes for an easy read. There aren’t too many faults with this book. Action paced and I can feel for Rainer’s quest to earn respect and glory. A goal that any reasonable man should have in mind.

I look forward to reading the third book in the series and seeing where that takes the series. Hopefully it finishes on a high note. If Champion was anything to go by it sure will be. A job well done. Iris P9 1 follower

This was a great book. I actually didn’t read book one in the series (download it before a long flight, not catching that it was part of a series. I’ll certainly go back and read it now though!). This is exactly the kind of fantasy book I love- highly atmospheric, with nuanced characters and great world building without needing an appendix to understand!

The characters are all very well developed, although I particularly d Rainer and Merethyl. I’ve seen a lot of fantasy women done poorly (to say the least!) but Merethyl grabbed me from the first word.

Saying that, there are some quite long descriptions in this book. I felt that they were done well, there were just a lot of them and I got a little impatient haha.

But overall, it’s a fantastic book that I’d highly recommend to anyone whose a fan of dark fantasy and/or sword-and-sorcery Natasha42 1 follower

'Champion' is the second book in the 'Withered Crown Chronicles' series and follows Rainer as he fights for his father against the Sunkislanders rebellion. Although we don't hear from Idalia in this book, I enjoyed reading about Rainer and his journey throughout this book as he comes into his own. The pacing is faster than the first book, although I found it really picked up halfway through when some of the more intriguing world-building comes into play with gods and magic.

We are also introduced to a number of new characters including a romantic interest. There is a twist at the end which harkens back to the first book and has left me keen to continue on to the next book. I'm not too sure if book 3 is the last one in this series or not, but it feels there is a lot more to be explored in this dark fantasy world. G. GaynorAuthor 25 books97

There is absolutely no shortage of sure and strong descriptions in the weaving of this tale. The reader is pulled into the story, riding right alongside the main character as he struggles against incredible and terrible forces. There is most certainly a knack for storytelling here that is quite enjoyable.

I was, however, a teensy-bit pushed back by the pacing. there was such a build-up to events, and I expected as much detail going through the action as I had absorbed leading up to it. Often that was not the case. There was also a tendency toward repetition which made me want to leap ahead in the story.

I am going to be reading Book One - I'm that much drawn into the story Alicia MarslandAuthor 7 books5

could be a classic

But this book needs a thorough Proof reading. There are many
mistakes, some probably caused by talk to text, mistakes that may be caused by ignorance and grammatical lack of instruction. There are some truly beautiful moments and some really disgusting moments. As an author as well as a reader, I think the writer should consider that the person who reads the book will exist in his/her world, and doesn’t really need to be smelling certain things when somebody swears a certain way, because some of us have highly developed imaginations, (and that constant rain just about made me buggy and don’t get me started on the bugs!) Ram Kushnir1 review

It is a great story exploring the subjects of honor, glory, and the extent to which warriors will push themselves to be historically remembered. Filled with surprising turns, vivid and magical descriptions, and compelling dialogues, the book follows Rainer Silverhawk as he confronts the realm's most legendary warrior to safeguard his dignity and his kingdom in the face of a personal tragedy.
I really love fantasy and historical fiction, so this book is exactly what I . I highly recommend "Champion." Matt OzanichAuthor 1 book1 follower

If you d book 1 of this series, then you're going to love book 2. The author mastered pacing and storytelling, this time delving the reader even deeper into the world he created. The stakes were higher, and the hero's journey made the book difficult to put down. I'm looking forward to book 3 of the series. Erica Simone46 1 follower

If you Game of Thrones....

This reminded me of Game of Thrones. The plot was well developed, and the story carries you along effortlessly. It was easy to get lost in the world that the author created. The hero evolved with the story, and his journey was credible and relatable. Andrew HeisterAuthor 3 books3

Solid plot

I enjoyed the plot of the story, but a good portion of the dialog comes off as out of place. The writing could use some refinement. If the author happens to read this, the version I downloaded still had some of your editor's notes at the end of the book. Brandy Decker15

Great story

Very manly book, action packed and testosterone filled. Would probably make a good movie
Autor del comentario:
=================================