The Firelight of Maalda

Left: Amazon cover image.  It is the picture of the Naezzi on Otis’ journal.  Click on the image for a larger view (artwork by Brielle Porter).

The Firelight of Maalda: A story that unites the real with the fantastical and turns science into magic …

Chalice and her group leave Barenthren to travel to Portalis.  There she and her friends discover the beautiful city, its people, its history, and its secret that has been kept hidden for thousands of years.  During their stay, they learn that Dar’Maalda has the Firestone and that he plans to use it.

What is the Firestone and what does Dar’Maalda plan to do with it?  What are the Naezzi?  What does the title, The Firelight of Maalda, really mean?  And … what is the secret of Portalis, the secret that has been guarded so jealously for so long — so jealously, that many have given their lives to protect it?

In The Firelight of Maalda, the second novel of the trilogy, The Legend of the Raie’Chaelia, you find out.  It is a tale of intrigue and wonder where two opposite worlds collide in an explosive journey that leads Chalice and her friends to the dark islands lurking just beyond the horizon of Ielieria, where the Firelight of Maalda sits … and waits.

The Firelight of Maalda, the second novel of the trilogy, The Legend of the Raie’Chaelia, is available on Amazon for $2.99.  It is currently unavailable in other online bookstores.

For full reviews of The Firelight of Maalda, click here.

Left: Barnes and Noble cover image (artwork by Charles Nemitz).

What people are saying:

“The Firelight of Maalda is one of the most entertaining, action packed, romantic novels I have read in ages. The way that The Firelight of Maalda is told is very unique; I have definitely never read books like the ones Melissa Douthit creates. Douthit blends action, adventure, romance, and heartbreak, all with a well written story, seamlessly. If you are looking for a high end book filled with all of the above plus an ending that will leave you breathless for the next installment, then I highly recommend picking up The Firelight of Maalda today!”

~ Kati & Moujnir, Jagged Edge Reviews

 

“I just finished the second book in The Legend of the Raie’Chaelia trilogy, rightfully named The Firelight of Maalda. I must say that I blazed through this book in about three days.

Chalice continues to impress readers with her dedication to morals and bravery even though those around her disagree with her every move. Not only does she embody an independent woman, she continually puts herself in dangerous situations for the good of her people. Her selflessness sets her apart from other characters, and quite honestly makes the reader wonder what she will try next.

So what exactly does the Firestone do? What are the Naezzi? And more importantly, what is Portalis hiding behind its doors? These questions and more will be answered in the second installment of this trilogy. But don’t expect for every mystery to be solved. Douthit leaves the reader hungry for more and, much like the first novel, ends The Firelight of Maalda on a cliffhanger. Her third novel, The Return is not released until August 2012, so you will have plenty of time to ponder the mysteries of Naeo’Gaea.  5 stars”

~ Brittany, Book Nook Club

 

“Though aimed at the young adult audience, The Firelight of Maalda is written in such a way that adults such as myself can enjoy it as well. If you’re looking for an adventure without the romantic entanglements of adult romance novels, then I highly suggest this book. However, be sure to read the first book in the series beforehand so that you’ll be able to breeze through The Firelight of Maalda with no problem.”

~ Adria, Breath of Life Reviews

 

“I was apart of the tour for the first book, The Raie’Chaelia by Melissa Douthit , and I absolutely loved it! Well…this book is just as great! The relationship between Chalice and Jeremiah is one of my favorite book relationships. Also with the sequel comes much more adventure along with many challenges along the way. I am definitely loving this series and if you haven’t already you should read the first book, The Raie’Chaelia, which I reviewed here. Melissa Douthit is a really great writer and I can’t wait for more!!! Another 5 star review!”

~ Cierra, Books Ahoy

 

“The Firelight of Maalda by Melissa Douthit is book two in the Raie’Chaelia series and it’s another great fantasy adventure! In this sequel the romance develops much more between Chalice and Jeremiah and as with book one it is handled very tastefully. Chalice is definitely a girl with a mind of her own who doesn’t like to be told what to do. I love that about her.

I quite enjoyed The Firelight of Maalda. I do think you should read book one to really enjoy this one. The Raie’ Chaelia introduces us to the characters and builds the world a little but The Firelight of Maalda really expands on Chalice’s powers and the world she lives in and that’s what made book two my favorite so far. Melissa writes in such a descriptive way and she paints such a vivid picture of the world that Chalice lives in that you can really see it in your mind and imagine yourself there. The Firelight of Maalda is certain to take you out of your own little world and transport you into one much larger and more exciting.”

~ Darlene, Peeking Between the Pages

 

“This is a YA series for age 13 upwards. Having said that, I’m sure many ‘older’ readers will enjoy it as much as I did. This story continues Chalice’s journey to fulfil her destiny, and the growing romance between her and Jeremiah. There is a lot more to this story than romance though, there is plenty of action and suspense. The  story moves at a fast pace to the nail biting climax and a cliffhanger of an ending – I’m really glad Melissa gave us a taste of the next book to answer at least one of my questions, and I can’t wait for the third in the series.”

~ Lyn, Hywela Lyn

 

“The Firelight of Maalda was a complete and utter surprise. Compared to the first book, The Raie’Chaelia (review here) this book was 10 times better, with the writing style more evolved and the characters more relatable. The story and foundations of the tale seemed more original with new information being fed to us, filling us in on all of the important stuff that we really needed to know. Questions were answered that completely confused me in the previous book and helped me look at the whole tale in a different light. The characters were stronger, the story much more focused and there was a great balance between action and adventure within the book. I really enjoyed this book and was glued to the story, turning each page with anticipation.”

~ Becca, Lost in Thought

 

“Lovers of fantasy, with plenty of action, suspense and of course, the blooming romance, will definitely need to pick this one up. A great follow-up from the first book, this one will leave readers hanging on for more. Looking forward to reading book 3!”

~ Rabiah, Confessions of a Readaholic

 

“The Firelight of Maalda, is a very intricate and well written story by Melissa Douthit. Her unique storyline and cast of characters are nothing short of awesome. Chalice becomes an even stronger heroine. The chemistry between her and Jeremiah grows and there is a deeper connection between the two. I really enjoyed this story and can’t wait to see what the author has planned for the final installment.”

~ Amber, Winterhaven Books

 

“I loved Chalice’s curiosity, bravery, and strength, and I felt like I was questioning and learning things as she was along the way. Definitely looking forward to the 3rd book in the trilogy, The Return, to see how it turns out. For those who enjoy a fun fantasy adventure that isn’t too over the top, I think they’d enjoy this trilogy as well.”

~ Farrah, The Book Faery Reviews

 

“After reading The Raie’Chaelia last year I was so excited to be able to read the second book, The Firelight of Maalda.  Needless to say, I loved The Firelight of Maalda just as much as I loved The Raie’Chaelia. I absolutely love The Firelight of Maalda and the entire Raie’Chaelia series.  I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good fantasy story and I know I definitely can’t wait to continue the series.”

~ Rebecca, Everything To Do With Books

 

“This was such a fun sequel to the first book. I have to admit that I was expecting to be bored or frustrated with the story because it is the second book, and so many second books in trilogies drive me crazy. But not this one. The story is well developed from beginning to end.”

~ Angie Taylor, Goodreads Review

 

“This book takes place not far from where the first book left off. Basically starting in a new place, this author stays true to her style and world builds with rich Technicolor. The vivid imagery helps build the palate in your mind as you read. I found the story line very interesting and captivating. So for those readers who enjoyed the first in the series, this one will not disappoint. Pick it up now and read. For those fantasy lovers, pick this story up. It’s fresh and new and will hold your interest.”

~ Terri, My Book Boyfriend

 

“I loved the relationship development between Jeremiah and Chalice. It seemed to me that Chalice grew up a lot in this most recent book. I look forward to seeing what this new found knowledge will bring her next.”

~ Jessica Bantten, Goodreads Review

 

“Book #2 in the Raie’Chaelia series, The Firelight of Maalda presents us with a very imaginative high fantasy world, interesting world building and certainly an interesting set of characters. The characters are likable and diverse, partly thanks to the imaginative world built and partly thanks to the author’s writing. What’s remarkable about the author’s writing though is a positive note, a lighthearted atmosphere that even tense or sort of dramatic moments have, and obvious and resonant by absence is, in my opinion, the angst. All in all I say give this a try, it’s an imaginative world with young characters and it gives off a serene, feel-good sort of vibe that I’m sure many would love.”

~ Livia, Butterfly-o-Meter Books

 

“In life we are going through many paths and while there, we are not alone. We are surrounded by friends and the people we love.  This is a story of love still in its beginning and it is nurtured so it can grow stronger with time.”

~ Sitt, Life Long Learning

 

“This fantasy trilogy has a lot going for it. It is well plotted and the world building is extraordinary. The science under-girding it is impeccable. The main characters have depth and personalities that come alive on the page. The dialog is more than competent with different characters having distinctive voices. I am champing at the bit to get my hands on Book 3. Not only that, I hope there will be another trilogy in the future set on this world.”

~ Joy, Joy Story

 

“Overall, this is a solid, enjoyable fantasy series.  The characters are engaging and the story moves along at a nice pace after the first few chapters.  I think both young adults and adults would enjoy reading this.”

~ Maria, To Read Perchance to Dream

 

The characters of the story live in a mythical land called Naeo’Gaea.  Click on the map below for a larger view (artwork by Charles Nemitz of Lucky Bat Books).