The Storm Gathers is a delight, an exhilarating tale of elemental witches, magic schools, rebellions and power games. The world is big, fresh and full of energy, and the characters fizz with secrets and undiscovered feelings. Sparky dialogue, lashings of humour and a propulsive plot will leave readers desperate for more by the story's end. An intriguing start to what promises to be a stellar series.

– David Wragg, author of the Articles of Faith series

Fast-paced, thrilling, and full of stormy seas, pirates, and witches. The Storm Gathers feels modern and fresh while harking back to the best fantasy traditions, with a world that is expansive and wholly original. Holladay is definitely an author to watch.

– Genoveva Dimova, author of Foul Days

There is one thing I like more than fast-paced fantasy, and that is fast-paced fantasy with pirates. I inhaled this book. I was transported in three different directions and was engrossed in every point of view. Somehow, The Storm Gathers managed to feel fresh and wholly unique, whilst still paying homage to my favourite fantasy elements of old. Maelan Holladay builds worlds you want to be lost in. The Storm Gathers is a warm embrace for all readers of fantasy.

– Stacey McEwan, author of The Glacian Trilogy

Holladay’s kinetic prose brings her characters to dramatic life ... Many of the elements of the setting and story will be familiar to fantasy fans; even so, Holladay’s worldbuilding is rich and subtle, and her protagonists are memorably bold. Readers will look forward to a sequel.

– Kirkus review of The Storm Gathers