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3.93 AVERAGE
3.93 AVERAGE
adventurous
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
and ending and a beginning
Good ending to the first trilogy in the series. Very fast paced, lots of unanswered questions that I’m sure will come with the rest of the books. It’s a breath of fresh air to have a strong fmc that protects the mmcs. I’m not sure I’ll continue reading the next 3, but I did enjoy the trilogy.
Good ending to the first trilogy in the series. Very fast paced, lots of unanswered questions that I’m sure will come with the rest of the books. It’s a breath of fresh air to have a strong fmc that protects the mmcs. I’m not sure I’ll continue reading the next 3, but I did enjoy the trilogy.
adventurous
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
adventurous
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
adventurous
hopeful
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
While I enjoyed reading this series and this book, overall the ending was disappointing. The author spent 3 books building up this final battle between the Shifters, valkyrie, Demons, and Witches and then when it finally happened there was minimal fighting, ended abruptly, and it was told that the fight was actually not a real fight and was orchestrated just to have the different factions working together. No further elaboration in that part either. . While thus book followed along with the previous book in terms of pace and depth of details (meaning it was a quick read with no elaborate or in depth details, the ending felt as if the author was like "I cannot write more than this many words/pages" and then just ended the book. Again, overall I liked reading the story, the ending just felt like a let down after the build up for it. Much as they described in the book, a vit anticlimactic. While curious about Wyatt and Co's mate, I do not think I will continue reading.
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
The below may have some spoilers so if you have not read Destiny Awakened (“Book 1”) and Destiny Rising (“Book 2”) at this point, read at your own risk.
Entering Chapter 1, it literally took hold of my breath and I didn’t let go until the end of that scene. The battle was outrageous! It starts off off at the side of the pack mansion that something big was happening. Readers are back to Caleb’s POV and things started to unravel…just a bit. A portal was opened and the person responsible wasn’t what readers would expect…thought I sort of did in some way.
In Valhalla, a friend comes back and reunites with the Aria and her mates and it was a real welcome relief and salvation. Aria is back with her people and has the army need to defeat the demons but has another hurdle to get through before being able to defend the magical realm. She needs to get the portal back open for all of them to get through.
The plot’s history has a mix of Roman, Greek, Babylonian, and Norse mythology that I am sure took CJ a bit of research and further imagination to create a detailed story. The characters are mixed together to include Warlocks/Witches, Fae/fairies, Angels, Shifters, and Valkyries. The outcome is all within the magical realm and a “big reunion” happens. The cinematography was great especially Asgard and the trek to Bifrost. I felt the desolation and despair that was in-between. It was a sad state that really needed the intervention of the gods and the battle.
Readers will love the story’s multi-POV with new and old characters sharing their stories and perspectives on how things are in their parts of the world. It is amazing to have the dichotomy of inside Asgard and at the magic realm provided a good reprieve during times that I felt I was about to burst due to them escaping or finding the “unexpected” people along the way. Although there were so many things happening, readers will not be confused with the storyline since the set of people are consistent and the direction is solid. Things were unfolding simultaneously and fall into place perfectly.
Each one of Kyle’s pack (now including other types of magical being) is feeling the responsibilities and have taken more leadership responsibilities. Kyle has “stepped up” as a pact leader by thinking for his mate, his pact, his people, and the rest of the realms’ salvation. I really liked that he exudes a ‘quiet storm’ – calm on the outside, finding ways to help solve the problems inside. He takes on what he can and pushes himself to prepare for the inevitable. He is just and kind to all. He trusts Aria completely even if he’s wreathing in the inside.
There were a lot of physical and emotional struggles from each of the characters. I felt desperate for each of them. As one problem seems to be resolved, two more problems come up. The planning going on both in Valhalla and outside its gates in preparation for the war was tough and wrought with so many sacrifices. They are risking everything to win the fight with the demons and whoever is “backing” them up. It’s disheartened to have seen who it was and why it was happening…all because of bad and selfish reasons by past leaders.
I will say it this much – the leaders that are supposed to lead are pathetic! I have rounded out 3 that left a bad or not so good impression in my head. One of those I hope will redeem himself later on (hint hint).
1. Marcus, the Alpha pack leader in Book 2. He’s still part of this book but on a disgraceful status after he's made sure to “sacrifice” his pact for his selfish and twisted reasons. If readers think that Marcus was bad in the previous book, expect the worst on this one. I was appalled when I learned how much a coward and conniving his mind was. Unnecessary deaths for the biggest selfish reasons. This is on top of coming in-between a fated mate and ensuring control by blackmail.
2. Odin, the Lord of Asgard. His arrogance and drunken with power made him the worst with the punishments he brought on to the people around him. He has been crazy and cruel to the point of ripping people into shreds. I am not surprised that Aria abhor him and wanted to unleash her wreathe when she found out a few more dreadful things that Oden did that affected her and her people.
3. Wyatt, interim-leader of the shifters. Although he wasn’t technically a leader but a “stand-in”, I hated that he crumbled when he was supposed to be helping his pack to lead them to victory (survival) in the end…but somehow he became distraught half-way through the book that frustrated me. He was supposed to be a warrior for the Prime Alpha.
I have two favorite characters in this book: Greta and Frannie. Greta is the Valkyrie that trains the warriors to battle. She is also responsible for teaching Aria about her powers and what her mates’ powers will be. She is the calm guide to Aria’s journey and will rise into action when called for when the battle begins. She was able to channel Aria’s powers into something bigger than anyone could expect.
Frannie is the comic relief that I was constantly looking forward to each time the story reverts back to the magical realm. She surprised everyone on her foresight (being a “seer”, of course!), and the actions she took set the course on their realm to help Aria and the shifters. It was amazing!
There were a lot of jaw-dropping moments like :
(a) finding out who Aria’s parents are;
This was a real doozy for me because although I was expecting it but not to this proportion! When her dad showed up at the battlefield to let the rest of the world know about his identity – EPIC!!! I was squealing that I rocked the house to the chagrin of my kids – they were in their online classes.
(b) learning more about Aria’s powers;
I thought she had reached her peak but her potential and powers seem to be limitless. She has the strength and endurance that is indescribable or comparable to anything of this world. She is not invincible but she is beyond human.
(c) discovering Frannie’s “safe box/area”;
She’s got the best place to store her “important things that no one will ever dare to get, look, or even attempt. You have to read the book to find out but every time she accesses it, wow!
(d) the full potential of Aria’s mates is astounding.
I did not see that one coming especially when she kept finding mates again. I thought 3 was enough but I was so wrong! The last of the mates’ powers was not I expected. Her mate’s action through instinct and love saved Aria at the very last minute.
Some back CJ replied to my #amreading post on Instagram when I started this book. She was “I’m actually nervous about this. I’m always worried no one will get the ending! It’s not that bad, I hope … no, I’m sure … wait … maybe?” Now, I was worried but kept the “faith” that CJ would make it “right” to the characters and story at the end.
In the end, CJ did give Aria and her mates' justice to the story that is deserving for heroes. Each one of these characters has to walk to the path they did, lose the ones they lost that lead them to the ending, and a promise for a better tomorrow. It’s may not be the ending that readers might be looking for but rest assured that CJ got this covered – since Frannie already said that there will be more so I trust with that hint, it is all just the start of something bigger.
Overall review of the Destiny Series…
There is a lot of adventure, excitement, suspense, and mystery all rolled into one to the series. CJ did so in a spectacular way…as expected! It all didn’t feel so “off” or “disconnected” with each ending of the books. They all correlated well and coherently. It was easy to understand, even with the numerous characters, pacts, and locations, etc that brought about unity, family, and honor to the forefront each time.
I am sad and happy at the same time. Sad because Aria’s heroic stories are done (for now?) but also, at the same time, excited to see how the other will rise to face their own and their realm’s challenges. I will miss Aria’s journey of self-discovery and courage but there’s a surprise for all of us in the end. Please do check out other books by C.J. at the links below to know more about other books.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
The below may have some spoilers so if you have not read Destiny Awakened (“Book 1”) and Destiny Rising (“Book 2”) at this point, read at your own risk.
Entering Chapter 1, it literally took hold of my breath and I didn’t let go until the end of that scene. The battle was outrageous! It starts off off at the side of the pack mansion that something big was happening. Readers are back to Caleb’s POV and things started to unravel…just a bit. A portal was opened and the person responsible wasn’t what readers would expect…thought I sort of did in some way.
In Valhalla, a friend comes back and reunites with the Aria and her mates and it was a real welcome relief and salvation. Aria is back with her people and has the army need to defeat the demons but has another hurdle to get through before being able to defend the magical realm. She needs to get the portal back open for all of them to get through.
The plot’s history has a mix of Roman, Greek, Babylonian, and Norse mythology that I am sure took CJ a bit of research and further imagination to create a detailed story. The characters are mixed together to include Warlocks/Witches, Fae/fairies, Angels, Shifters, and Valkyries. The outcome is all within the magical realm and a “big reunion” happens. The cinematography was great especially Asgard and the trek to Bifrost. I felt the desolation and despair that was in-between. It was a sad state that really needed the intervention of the gods and the battle.
Readers will love the story’s multi-POV with new and old characters sharing their stories and perspectives on how things are in their parts of the world. It is amazing to have the dichotomy of inside Asgard and at the magic realm provided a good reprieve during times that I felt I was about to burst due to them escaping or finding the “unexpected” people along the way. Although there were so many things happening, readers will not be confused with the storyline since the set of people are consistent and the direction is solid. Things were unfolding simultaneously and fall into place perfectly.
Each one of Kyle’s pack (now including other types of magical being) is feeling the responsibilities and have taken more leadership responsibilities. Kyle has “stepped up” as a pact leader by thinking for his mate, his pact, his people, and the rest of the realms’ salvation. I really liked that he exudes a ‘quiet storm’ – calm on the outside, finding ways to help solve the problems inside. He takes on what he can and pushes himself to prepare for the inevitable. He is just and kind to all. He trusts Aria completely even if he’s wreathing in the inside.
Ever since I was thrown into this world, I feel like I have had to sacrifice so much. My freedom, my future, and now my family. I know that others have lost just as much, sometimes even more, but it’s still hard to accept. But that is why what we are doing is so important. We have to bring all of this to an end. These people deserve a time of peace and unity. Changes need to be made and if I have to, I will force them to make them.
— Kyle, Destiny Realised
There were a lot of physical and emotional struggles from each of the characters. I felt desperate for each of them. As one problem seems to be resolved, two more problems come up. The planning going on both in Valhalla and outside its gates in preparation for the war was tough and wrought with so many sacrifices. They are risking everything to win the fight with the demons and whoever is “backing” them up. It’s disheartened to have seen who it was and why it was happening…all because of bad and selfish reasons by past leaders.
I was there with you. you went through more than any child should have to endure, but you bore it with honour and you used it to mould you into the strong woman that you are today. You were always meant for this Aria. This was the path that you had to walk to reach this point. There were many many times when I wanted to pull you off it. But we need you, the realms need you and this was the only way.
— Heimdallr, Destiny Realised
I will say it this much – the leaders that are supposed to lead are pathetic! I have rounded out 3 that left a bad or not so good impression in my head. One of those I hope will redeem himself later on (hint hint).
1. Marcus, the Alpha pack leader in Book 2. He’s still part of this book but on a disgraceful status after he's made sure to “sacrifice” his pact for his selfish and twisted reasons. If readers think that Marcus was bad in the previous book, expect the worst on this one. I was appalled when I learned how much a coward and conniving his mind was. Unnecessary deaths for the biggest selfish reasons. This is on top of coming in-between a fated mate and ensuring control by blackmail.
2. Odin, the Lord of Asgard. His arrogance and drunken with power made him the worst with the punishments he brought on to the people around him. He has been crazy and cruel to the point of ripping people into shreds. I am not surprised that Aria abhor him and wanted to unleash her wreathe when she found out a few more dreadful things that Oden did that affected her and her people.
3. Wyatt, interim-leader of the shifters. Although he wasn’t technically a leader but a “stand-in”, I hated that he crumbled when he was supposed to be helping his pack to lead them to victory (survival) in the end…but somehow he became distraught half-way through the book that frustrated me. He was supposed to be a warrior for the Prime Alpha.
I have two favorite characters in this book: Greta and Frannie. Greta is the Valkyrie that trains the warriors to battle. She is also responsible for teaching Aria about her powers and what her mates’ powers will be. She is the calm guide to Aria’s journey and will rise into action when called for when the battle begins. She was able to channel Aria’s powers into something bigger than anyone could expect.
Frannie is the comic relief that I was constantly looking forward to each time the story reverts back to the magical realm. She surprised everyone on her foresight (being a “seer”, of course!), and the actions she took set the course on their realm to help Aria and the shifters. It was amazing!
There were a lot of jaw-dropping moments like :
(a) finding out who Aria’s parents are;
This was a real doozy for me because although I was expecting it but not to this proportion! When her dad showed up at the battlefield to let the rest of the world know about his identity – EPIC!!! I was squealing that I rocked the house to the chagrin of my kids – they were in their online classes.
(b) learning more about Aria’s powers;
I thought she had reached her peak but her potential and powers seem to be limitless. She has the strength and endurance that is indescribable or comparable to anything of this world. She is not invincible but she is beyond human.
(c) discovering Frannie’s “safe box/area”;
She’s got the best place to store her “important things that no one will ever dare to get, look, or even attempt. You have to read the book to find out but every time she accesses it, wow!
(d) the full potential of Aria’s mates is astounding.
I did not see that one coming especially when she kept finding mates again. I thought 3 was enough but I was so wrong! The last of the mates’ powers was not I expected. Her mate’s action through instinct and love saved Aria at the very last minute.
Some back CJ replied to my #amreading post on Instagram when I started this book. She was “I’m actually nervous about this. I’m always worried no one will get the ending! It’s not that bad, I hope … no, I’m sure … wait … maybe?” Now, I was worried but kept the “faith” that CJ would make it “right” to the characters and story at the end.
In the end, CJ did give Aria and her mates' justice to the story that is deserving for heroes. Each one of these characters has to walk to the path they did, lose the ones they lost that lead them to the ending, and a promise for a better tomorrow. It’s may not be the ending that readers might be looking for but rest assured that CJ got this covered – since Frannie already said that there will be more so I trust with that hint, it is all just the start of something bigger.
You are the beginning. Not the end, no, no, no. Your turn is done. First in the line.
— Frannie, Destiny Realised
Overall review of the Destiny Series…
There is a lot of adventure, excitement, suspense, and mystery all rolled into one to the series. CJ did so in a spectacular way…as expected! It all didn’t feel so “off” or “disconnected” with each ending of the books. They all correlated well and coherently. It was easy to understand, even with the numerous characters, pacts, and locations, etc that brought about unity, family, and honor to the forefront each time.
I am sad and happy at the same time. Sad because Aria’s heroic stories are done (for now?) but also, at the same time, excited to see how the other will rise to face their own and their realm’s challenges. I will miss Aria’s journey of self-discovery and courage but there’s a surprise for all of us in the end. Please do check out other books by C.J. at the links below to know more about other books.