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Steamborn #4
Skyborn
A king denied. A princess restored. A victory undone.
Ancora's survival came at a great cost, and the reconstruction is an endless task for those who remain. Jacob and Alice explore what's left of the Lowlands, discovering the lost journals of Charles von Atlier in the rubble. Between those leatherbound covers, Jacob finds a secret that could help him rebuild Ancora, but first it will lead him back to the desert city of Midstream.
Joining Mary on the Skysworn, Alice travels to Belldorn. There she encounters an unexpected ally, and threads of a rumor that carry her across the Crystal Sea. Pirates and rebels are just the beginning of her troubles as the King of Fel proves he has no intention of allowing the defeat in Dauschen and Ancora to go unanswered.
Conflict spreads into the desert as dark forces threaten to crush all that remains of the lives Jacob and Alice once knew. To protect their people, allies new and old must stand together, or a long forgotten enemy will swallow them all.
Ancora's survival came at a great cost, and the reconstruction is an endless task for those who remain. Jacob and Alice explore what's left of the Lowlands, discovering the lost journals of Charles von Atlier in the rubble. Between those leatherbound covers, Jacob finds a secret that could help him rebuild Ancora, but first it will lead him back to the desert city of Midstream.
Joining Mary on the Skysworn, Alice travels to Belldorn. There she encounters an unexpected ally, and threads of a rumor that carry her across the Crystal Sea. Pirates and rebels are just the beginning of her troubles as the King of Fel proves he has no intention of allowing the defeat in Dauschen and Ancora to go unanswered.
Conflict spreads into the desert as dark forces threaten to crush all that remains of the lives Jacob and Alice once knew. To protect their people, allies new and old must stand together, or a long forgotten enemy will swallow them all.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 29, 2021
33 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Eric R. Asher
53Ìýbooks657ÌýfollowersEric R. Asher is the author of over 30 titles, including the Vesik urban fantasy series and the YA steampunk series, Steamborn. Look for his upcoming cozy fantasy, The Theme Park at the End of the World, in 2024. He is currently living in St. Louis, Missouri, where the local folklore often finds its way into his Mason Dixon: Monster Hunter rural fantasy series.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
June 5, 2022
Skyborn by Eric R Asher
Steamborn series book 4. Fantasy YA steampunk. Best read as part of the series in order.
Ancora has been left in shambles after the war. Those that survived are trying to rebuild their lives and homes. Jacob, Alice and friends face danger and difficulties and old and new enemies are evaluated.
“Four barrels of Pill-bug eggs.� The image of that in my head gives me nightmares. Not to mention the Tail Swords (think giant size scorpion, kinda) that emerge and attack or maybe molt. Yeesh. Having a vivid imagination while reading and “seeing� this world can be a bit unnerving. But I can’t wait to read the next book!
Alice is becoming more of a heroine on her own and quite impressive.
🎧 I mostly listened to an audiobook version narrated by Saskia Maarleveld. I also have print and ebook version which makes it easy to look up descriptions or going back to verify something. The performance is phenomenal. Voice variations and emotions come across clearly and cleanly. This is a narrator you want to follow.
My ratings might have been a bit lower for the length and gruesomeness if not for Saskia. She makes the stories come alive.
Steamborn series book 4. Fantasy YA steampunk. Best read as part of the series in order.
Ancora has been left in shambles after the war. Those that survived are trying to rebuild their lives and homes. Jacob, Alice and friends face danger and difficulties and old and new enemies are evaluated.
“Four barrels of Pill-bug eggs.� The image of that in my head gives me nightmares. Not to mention the Tail Swords (think giant size scorpion, kinda) that emerge and attack or maybe molt. Yeesh. Having a vivid imagination while reading and “seeing� this world can be a bit unnerving. But I can’t wait to read the next book!
Alice is becoming more of a heroine on her own and quite impressive.
🎧 I mostly listened to an audiobook version narrated by Saskia Maarleveld. I also have print and ebook version which makes it easy to look up descriptions or going back to verify something. The performance is phenomenal. Voice variations and emotions come across clearly and cleanly. This is a narrator you want to follow.
My ratings might have been a bit lower for the length and gruesomeness if not for Saskia. She makes the stories come alive.
September 11, 2021
I was beyond excited to revisit Jacob and Alice’s world from the moment I heard we were getting more books. I was not disappointed in any way. The story and the intricacies of the world are intriguing and well-developed and the characters are phenomenal. Skyborn follows many of the main characters as they do their part to right their world after the battles in book 3. I enjoyed my time with my favorites, but there were many new additions that brought much to the story.
Jacob and Alice continue to be the absolute cutest! Alice and Gladys are bad-ass and our world needs more just like them. Jacob is brilliant and I hate that the brilliance has him living in constant fear of being responsible, even indirectly, for war machines and death.
I cannot wait for more!!!
Jacob and Alice continue to be the absolute cutest! Alice and Gladys are bad-ass and our world needs more just like them. Jacob is brilliant and I hate that the brilliance has him living in constant fear of being responsible, even indirectly, for war machines and death.
I cannot wait for more!!!
June 13, 2021
Jacob and Alice return and are dealing with the fallout from their actions. Joined with friends old and new, the battle to save their cities continues. Will they be able to navigate politicians, tail swords, armies, a dark cult and an mad king? You’ll have to read this amazing book to find out!
September 24, 2021
This world is amazing. I alternate being thrilled and scared by the adventures of Jacob and Alice. Traveling on separate paths, both discover that history was wrong, evil still exists and neither knows who to trust. Along the way new friendships are formed and old friendships strengthens as lies and truths are revealed. These young adults are so strong and constantly tested. It's amazing to watch them.
July 23, 2021
Originally posted at
It’s hard to believe that it’s already been six years since I first requested a copy of Steamborn on Netgalley. In that time I’ve quite a few steampunk books in an attempt to find one that could even come close to Steamborn. Happily, I can say that after 6 long years of looking for a new steampunk book I enjoyed as much Steamborn by Eric R. Asher, I finally managed to find one. Skyborn by Eric R. Asher is everything I wanted and hoped for in a continuation of the Steamborn series and even as I write this I know I don’t have the words to do a review of this book justice.
One of the things I can still remember really standing out about the original Steamborn trilogy was how richly detailed the world and characters were. So I was pretty excited to see just how Eric Asher expanded on the world and its characters and I have to say that I thought he knocked it out of the ballpark. It’s been weeks since I finished this book and I’m still processing all the new information we learned and processing everything that happened. If it wasn’t for how busy I’ve been with work lately I imagine I would have read this book half a dozen times by now and probably have still picked up on something new in every reread.
While Jacob is easily still my favorite character in the series, I loved that we were introduced to so many new and great characters who really added to the story. I also really felt like Alice truly came into her own in Skyborn and I would say that her viewpoint chapters were probably some of my favorite chapters in the entire book. I felt like a lot of her growth was dependent on Jacob in the original trilogy so it was really nice to see her kind of get her own little solo story arc over the course of the book.
All in all, I thought Skyborn was an absolutely fantastic book that I was unable to put down once I had picked it up. I can’t wait to see what is in store for Alice, Jacob, and all of their friends in the next book in this trilogy. I’m also excited to see that Saskia Maarleveld narrated the audiobook and I’ve already bought my copy to listen to because she is easily one of the best narrators in the business.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It’s hard to believe that it’s already been six years since I first requested a copy of Steamborn on Netgalley. In that time I’ve quite a few steampunk books in an attempt to find one that could even come close to Steamborn. Happily, I can say that after 6 long years of looking for a new steampunk book I enjoyed as much Steamborn by Eric R. Asher, I finally managed to find one. Skyborn by Eric R. Asher is everything I wanted and hoped for in a continuation of the Steamborn series and even as I write this I know I don’t have the words to do a review of this book justice.
One of the things I can still remember really standing out about the original Steamborn trilogy was how richly detailed the world and characters were. So I was pretty excited to see just how Eric Asher expanded on the world and its characters and I have to say that I thought he knocked it out of the ballpark. It’s been weeks since I finished this book and I’m still processing all the new information we learned and processing everything that happened. If it wasn’t for how busy I’ve been with work lately I imagine I would have read this book half a dozen times by now and probably have still picked up on something new in every reread.
While Jacob is easily still my favorite character in the series, I loved that we were introduced to so many new and great characters who really added to the story. I also really felt like Alice truly came into her own in Skyborn and I would say that her viewpoint chapters were probably some of my favorite chapters in the entire book. I felt like a lot of her growth was dependent on Jacob in the original trilogy so it was really nice to see her kind of get her own little solo story arc over the course of the book.
All in all, I thought Skyborn was an absolutely fantastic book that I was unable to put down once I had picked it up. I can’t wait to see what is in store for Alice, Jacob, and all of their friends in the next book in this trilogy. I’m also excited to see that Saskia Maarleveld narrated the audiobook and I’ve already bought my copy to listen to because she is easily one of the best narrators in the business.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2024
The ball is rolling
Not to discredit the author, but I don’t think I’m sold on his writing. It’s not bad. It’s not superb. It’s good/adequate. However, perhaps steampunk isn’t my thing since I lean more toward Gaslamp fantasies.
Regardless, the first story arch is over and we are moving on to the next. The new characters seem just as interesting and deep as the originals, and the expansion into new parts of the world is well placed. I do, however, think there is a time distortion issue in the text. Perhaps I’m missing these small references, but the time between actions in one part of the world and the other seems off. Simultaneously, characters seem to travel between cities fast at some times, and slow at others. Maybe it’s just me, but this was most evident in the later chapters during battle as all the characters (who felt days away from each other) appeared to coalesce in the matter of minutes.
Not to discredit the author, but I don’t think I’m sold on his writing. It’s not bad. It’s not superb. It’s good/adequate. However, perhaps steampunk isn’t my thing since I lean more toward Gaslamp fantasies.
Regardless, the first story arch is over and we are moving on to the next. The new characters seem just as interesting and deep as the originals, and the expansion into new parts of the world is well placed. I do, however, think there is a time distortion issue in the text. Perhaps I’m missing these small references, but the time between actions in one part of the world and the other seems off. Simultaneously, characters seem to travel between cities fast at some times, and slow at others. Maybe it’s just me, but this was most evident in the later chapters during battle as all the characters (who felt days away from each other) appeared to coalesce in the matter of minutes.
June 29, 2021
Eric Asher has another smashing hit with this 4th book in the Steamborn Novels!
As usual, Eric Asher doesn't drag you into the world of Skyborn. He *GRABS* you and throws you right into the mix of things! In this book you will follow Furi, Beck, Alice, Jacob and several others on new adventures. As cities are rebuilt, they will forge new friendships. skills, and alliances as the war still rages on. You don't want to miss any of the action as the Steamborn Series continues!
I now *must* go and read the first three books and you will too if you read this one first! This series would make a fantastic movie as well!
As usual, Eric Asher doesn't drag you into the world of Skyborn. He *GRABS* you and throws you right into the mix of things! In this book you will follow Furi, Beck, Alice, Jacob and several others on new adventures. As cities are rebuilt, they will forge new friendships. skills, and alliances as the war still rages on. You don't want to miss any of the action as the Steamborn Series continues!
I now *must* go and read the first three books and you will too if you read this one first! This series would make a fantastic movie as well!
June 25, 2021
I read this as an ARC for the author
Skyborn takes place shortly after the events of Steamsworn. The Butcher's brother is still looking to take over everything where his brother left off.
All the survivors of the first trilogy are involved along with a few new interesting characters. Treachery abounds in the other cities and our heroes will need to deal with that along with the battles to come. Jacob's ingenuity continues as he fashions new ways to fight back.
Great book with plenty of action and teambuilding
Skyborn takes place shortly after the events of Steamsworn. The Butcher's brother is still looking to take over everything where his brother left off.
All the survivors of the first trilogy are involved along with a few new interesting characters. Treachery abounds in the other cities and our heroes will need to deal with that along with the battles to come. Jacob's ingenuity continues as he fashions new ways to fight back.
Great book with plenty of action and teambuilding
April 4, 2025
Picking up immediately after the events of Steamsworn, our protagonists have little time to enjoy their victory before being thrown back into battle. I love the introduction of new characters, especially Furi, and places to visit. I still have sone niggles over the ages / maturity of the main protagonists. Perhaps it’s because I’m a more mature reader and this is aimed at a YA audience, but I find it a little difficult to believe how competent and confident Jacob and Alice, Furi and Gladys are at (I think )15, 15,16 and 12 respectively. It’s also a little difficult following the passage of time through the story, characters miles away suddenly appear to save the day. The setting is interesting as is the world that the author is gradually revealing to us, the characters are engaging, the gadgets sound fun, and the battles are explosive. All in all a good Starship Troopers meet Steampunk romp. The audiobook is well narrated.
July 26, 2021
Another installment that makes me want the next all the quicker
I have enjoyed Jacob & Alice's journeys so to come into this book with new characters added to the mix was, at first, a little confusing. But then the pieces started welding together and the action picked up: it was tough to put the book down! I look forward to the next book as we learn more about the history and the future of their world.
I have enjoyed Jacob & Alice's journeys so to come into this book with new characters added to the mix was, at first, a little confusing. But then the pieces started welding together and the action picked up: it was tough to put the book down! I look forward to the next book as we learn more about the history and the future of their world.
August 27, 2021
Audiobook Review
You know you are enthralled in an audiobook when your smartwatch alerts you to your increased heart rate! Saskia Maarleveld does a splendid job of submerging the listener into the story.
Asher is a mastermind at creating intricate landscapes and diverse characters. The story unfolds in your mind and you can practically feel the battle rattling around you.
Is anyone truly who they seem to be? I am anxiously awaiting the next installment!
You know you are enthralled in an audiobook when your smartwatch alerts you to your increased heart rate! Saskia Maarleveld does a splendid job of submerging the listener into the story.
Asher is a mastermind at creating intricate landscapes and diverse characters. The story unfolds in your mind and you can practically feel the battle rattling around you.
Is anyone truly who they seem to be? I am anxiously awaiting the next installment!
September 14, 2021
Satisfying
Such a creative world. I got the first book free and instantly became addicted. Read book one thru 4 in four days then pre-ordered the fifth one.. I'm in deep trouble , the author has other series. I guess that will fill in the time waiting for the fifth book to be published
Such a creative world. I got the first book free and instantly became addicted. Read book one thru 4 in four days then pre-ordered the fifth one.. I'm in deep trouble , the author has other series. I guess that will fill in the time waiting for the fifth book to be published
June 25, 2021
Yet another great book in this amazing series. Skyborn takes off right after the end of Steamsworn. A definite must read, full of action, amazing world building, and a cast of characters that you can get behind. What are you waiting for.....get reading, you won't regret it!
June 25, 2021
An exciting and enjoyable story with great characters and situations.
July 1, 2021
Surprising.
Nail biting.
Full of action and danger and duplicity...and so much friendship.
I love seeing these characters grow...and meeting new friends.
So much good in this book, as well as so much unfortunate evil.
Looking forward to the next book.
Nail biting.
Full of action and danger and duplicity...and so much friendship.
I love seeing these characters grow...and meeting new friends.
So much good in this book, as well as so much unfortunate evil.
Looking forward to the next book.
July 28, 2024
I am totally enjoying this Steampunk World series. The characters continue to grow and evolve. There is a lot of actions.
October 16, 2022
Love this Victorian steampunk adventure. Got the first book for free but will be purchasing more to finish the series.
September 29, 2021
Wow, another great story. Can Jacob rebuild his world. You can’t stop reading until you find out the end. Loved the characters.
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