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vikingwolf's review against another edition
3.0
*I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Kara has tried to unite the Bloods against their common enemy but with each one out for themselves, a true alliance is becoming difficult. Braeden's big secret has been revealed which threatens to destroy everything unless he can prove his true loyalty and Kara struggles with the morality and consequences of the task that the Vagabound wants her to complete.
There is no shortage of action in this book, starting with the events at the Blood gathering that Kara arranged. I liked the fact that Braeden's secret comes out which changes the dynamics of his relationship to Gavin, Richard and everyone who saw him as an ally. He now has the chance to be himself and find out who his allies really are. The fight scenes and action scenes are as always well written and there were a few new interesting developments as Kara goes through changes. There is a big betrayal taking place as you would guess by the book title, and though I guessed it, it did not detract from the plot in any way. Allies become enemies, new alliances are forged and loyalties are tested. What I like is that the author isn't sticking to the same formula as book one. Yes, the same elements are there but the characters change, the plot thickens and the story goes into new and often unexpected arcs. The author has no shortage of imagination and does tell the story well.
On the slightly down side, I'm still not convinced by the relationship between Kara and Braeden which just feels a bit bland and still lacking in any kind of chemistry. The somewhat childish 'I can't be with you in case you die' thing is getting pretty old now and Braeden's 'you must stay out of danger' plan is just really annoying in that he treats Kara like a five year old. This is a constant through the book and I switch off every time it happens. There were a few slow bits where I just wished things would get moving again...a bit too much inane chat and scenes that just didn't add to the story-but that is personal preference I guess. Perhaps readers who were more into the romance and stuff would not find these bits as slow as I did.
In spite of the niggles, this is still a decent read for a non fantasy fiend like me. If you love YA fantasy with magic and a touch of romance, I think you will probably love this book as it has a lot of good things going for it. Adult fans of fantasy and paranormal will also enjoy this book.
Kara has tried to unite the Bloods against their common enemy but with each one out for themselves, a true alliance is becoming difficult. Braeden's big secret has been revealed which threatens to destroy everything unless he can prove his true loyalty and Kara struggles with the morality and consequences of the task that the Vagabound wants her to complete.
There is no shortage of action in this book, starting with the events at the Blood gathering that Kara arranged. I liked the fact that Braeden's secret comes out which changes the dynamics of his relationship to Gavin, Richard and everyone who saw him as an ally. He now has the chance to be himself and find out who his allies really are. The fight scenes and action scenes are as always well written and there were a few new interesting developments as Kara goes through changes. There is a big betrayal taking place as you would guess by the book title, and though I guessed it, it did not detract from the plot in any way. Allies become enemies, new alliances are forged and loyalties are tested. What I like is that the author isn't sticking to the same formula as book one. Yes, the same elements are there but the characters change, the plot thickens and the story goes into new and often unexpected arcs. The author has no shortage of imagination and does tell the story well.
On the slightly down side, I'm still not convinced by the relationship between Kara and Braeden which just feels a bit bland and still lacking in any kind of chemistry. The somewhat childish 'I can't be with you in case you die' thing is getting pretty old now and Braeden's 'you must stay out of danger' plan is just really annoying in that he treats Kara like a five year old. This is a constant through the book and I switch off every time it happens. There were a few slow bits where I just wished things would get moving again...a bit too much inane chat and scenes that just didn't add to the story-but that is personal preference I guess. Perhaps readers who were more into the romance and stuff would not find these bits as slow as I did.
In spite of the niggles, this is still a decent read for a non fantasy fiend like me. If you love YA fantasy with magic and a touch of romance, I think you will probably love this book as it has a lot of good things going for it. Adult fans of fantasy and paranormal will also enjoy this book.
an_alaskan_fairy_tale's review against another edition
5.0
Hallelujah! A Book 2 that wasn't a let-down from it's predecessor! Treason, for me, completely solidified my interest in Ourea and my faith in Boyce as a writer. My review of Lichgates mentioned some hesitations at first in falling in love with the book, but that I'd mostly gotten over them by the time I finished. Treason eliminated any remaining doubts I'd had. The characters this time around were even richer, and the plot got more complex without the feeling that gratuitous twists were being added. I also enjoyed seeing events unfold that had been introduced in Book 1, but quietly forgotten for a time. This type of patience on the part of the author makes reading a series so much more enjoyable, because the answers to new mysteries are always on the horizon. All of a sudden, you think, "Wait! Whatever happened to the chest? What about the missing Sartori?" As these questions are answered, in their own time, more develop. It's made me glad that the plot I originally predicted for Lichgates goes so much further than I ever thought. Can Heritage come out already, please?
raeanne's review against another edition
4.0
Takes the solid start from Lichgates and capitalizes on it. I had several reactions while reading like “HAHA YES!”, “Ohhhhhhhhhh shit no” and “OMG I knew it” compared to the first book where it was just me not clicking with Kara and coasting along mostly.
Treason actually makes me appreciate what Lichgates’s did more though because it couldn’t have worked without it. I found it much more enjoyable because the set-up is followed through with character progression, depth, and surprises in heaps.
Kara really came into her own so I’m fully enjoying her perspective now. Minus a couple moments where I wanted to smack some sense her and Breadon like a good friend would, lol.
Our couple of just friends continues exploring each other and their budding relationship. I love how these two different but compatible people are learning, sharing, and growing. With the expected bumps and bruises along the way of course.
There’s also proper court drama and intrigue, which worked so well. A few villains we’ve gotten up close and personal with have characterization beyond evil. I’m waiting to see more from The Big Bad rather than just being disappointed by a seemingly flat take over the world mastermind. Considering what their end goal is I know there’s more to the story behind it. I can’t wait to find out.
I’ve also got my own theories, of course, but that’s part of the fun.
Stars: 4. Built and expanded upon the solid beginning with curveballs thrown into the mix so as not to get bored and character progression so it’s not just the plot moving forward.
Treason actually makes me appreciate what Lichgates’s did more though because it couldn’t have worked without it. I found it much more enjoyable because the set-up is followed through with character progression, depth, and surprises in heaps.
Kara really came into her own so I’m fully enjoying her perspective now. Minus a couple moments where I wanted to smack some sense her and Breadon like a good friend would, lol.
Our couple of just friends continues exploring each other and their budding relationship. I love how these two different but compatible people are learning, sharing, and growing. With the expected bumps and bruises along the way of course.
There’s also proper court drama and intrigue, which worked so well. A few villains we’ve gotten up close and personal with have characterization beyond evil. I’m waiting to see more from The Big Bad rather than just being disappointed by a seemingly flat take over the world mastermind. Considering what their end goal is I know there’s more to the story behind it. I can’t wait to find out.
I’ve also got my own theories, of course, but that’s part of the fun.
Stars: 4. Built and expanded upon the solid beginning with curveballs thrown into the mix so as not to get bored and character progression so it’s not just the plot moving forward.
kimreadsbooks_'s review against another edition
5.0
I cannot say enough good things about this book series. I absolutely loved the first in the series, and Treason was even better. The first thing that impressed me with the series is the focus isn't on the love story, in fact the first book barely mentioned it. It was more prevalent in this book, but it still took backstage to everything else. Even when it was the focus it was realistic and took place at a normal speed. I appreciate that so much, as most fantasy novels with a female lead are completely geared toward the love story.
Treason was definitely darker, and the torture scenes were painful to read, but in the right way. You could understand how the torture would drive some insane and how it could break someone. It wasn't over the top & it wasn't too dark. It was difficult and it challenged the reader to overcome the torture just like the characters in the book.
This book also had many twists and turns, one in particular that I wasn't expecting (I can't mention it because..spoilers.) I really liked how the author worked Kara's past into the current story. I'm headed to buy the third one now.
Also, seriously, someone make this a movie.. and if you read this and liked it..convince others. More books like this need to exist.
Treason was definitely darker, and the torture scenes were painful to read, but in the right way. You could understand how the torture would drive some insane and how it could break someone. It wasn't over the top & it wasn't too dark. It was difficult and it challenged the reader to overcome the torture just like the characters in the book.
This book also had many twists and turns, one in particular that I wasn't expecting (I can't mention it because..spoilers.) I really liked how the author worked Kara's past into the current story. I'm headed to buy the third one now.
Also, seriously, someone make this a movie.. and if you read this and liked it..convince others. More books like this need to exist.
jlove731's review against another edition
5.0
This series is just amazing! Treason, the second installment just proves it. I absolutely love everything about the world and the plot lines. There's always new secrets to be discovered and new epic battles to be fought. The world building still amazes me and I love every adventure we get to witness.
So let's start with the characters that aren't the main two, like the original Vagabond (O.V.) and Gavin. I still don't trust the O.V. at all. There was something I didn't like about him in the first book, and it is still there in this one more. With Gavin, I kind of did a ninety degree angle. I say that because I don't completely love him, but I understand him and I actually felt bad for him in a few parts through out the book. I'm also really hoping we get to see Adele and Garrett in the future. I really like them as characters.
With our two leads, Kara and Braeden... I just love them more than ever. Kara literally goes through every ringer possible in this one and watching her keep it together through it all just proves how awesome she is as a protagonist. I'm also really happy of some of the things revealed in this book for her. On the other side is Braeden, whom I absolutely positively adore. Braeden is strong, and fierce, and loyal, and his heart is always in the right place. I just could not love him enough and I really hope he and Kara get a happily ever after.
I adore everything about Ourea and everyone in it (well maybe not everyone). See, a contemporary has to suck me right in the beginning or it's a lost cause to me. Fantasy on the other hand is my baby. It never ceases to blow my mind with how creative some authors can get and how well they can take us on a journey. This series does just that and I cannot wait to start Heritage!
Find the review at Shortie Says
So let's start with the characters that aren't the main two, like the original Vagabond (O.V.) and Gavin. I still don't trust the O.V. at all. There was something I didn't like about him in the first book, and it is still there in this one more. With Gavin, I kind of did a ninety degree angle. I say that because I don't completely love him, but I understand him and I actually felt bad for him in a few parts through out the book. I'm also really hoping we get to see Adele and Garrett in the future. I really like them as characters.
With our two leads, Kara and Braeden... I just love them more than ever. Kara literally goes through every ringer possible in this one and watching her keep it together through it all just proves how awesome she is as a protagonist. I'm also really happy of some of the things revealed in this book for her. On the other side is Braeden, whom I absolutely positively adore. Braeden is strong, and fierce, and loyal, and his heart is always in the right place. I just could not love him enough and I really hope he and Kara get a happily ever after.
I adore everything about Ourea and everyone in it (well maybe not everyone). See, a contemporary has to suck me right in the beginning or it's a lost cause to me. Fantasy on the other hand is my baby. It never ceases to blow my mind with how creative some authors can get and how well they can take us on a journey. This series does just that and I cannot wait to start Heritage!
Find the review at Shortie Says
kimreadsbooks's review against another edition
5.0
I cannot say enough good things about this book series. I absolutely loved the first in the series, and Treason was even better. The first thing that impressed me with the series is the focus isn't on the love story, in fact the first book barely mentioned it. It was more prevalent in this book, but it still took backstage to everything else. Even when it was the focus it was realistic and took place at a normal speed. I appreciate that so much, as most fantasy novels with a female lead are completely geared toward the love story.
Treason was definitely darker, and the torture scenes were painful to read, but in the right way. You could understand how the torture would drive some insane and how it could break someone. It wasn't over the top & it wasn't too dark. It was difficult and it challenged the reader to overcome the torture just like the characters in the book.
This book also had many twists and turns, one in particular that I wasn't expecting (I can't mention it because..spoilers.) I really liked how the author worked Kara's past into the current story. I'm headed to buy the third one now.
Also, seriously, someone make this a movie.. and if you read this and liked it..convince others. More books like this need to exist.
Treason was definitely darker, and the torture scenes were painful to read, but in the right way. You could understand how the torture would drive some insane and how it could break someone. It wasn't over the top & it wasn't too dark. It was difficult and it challenged the reader to overcome the torture just like the characters in the book.
This book also had many twists and turns, one in particular that I wasn't expecting (I can't mention it because..spoilers.) I really liked how the author worked Kara's past into the current story. I'm headed to buy the third one now.
Also, seriously, someone make this a movie.. and if you read this and liked it..convince others. More books like this need to exist.
daisey's review against another edition
4.0
I downloaded the Kindle edition of Lichgates because I happened across it for free, and it sounded like the kind of book I might enjoy. As I read, I found the the world of Ourea incredibly creative and not quite like any other fantasy I have read. I was quickly drawn into the story of Kara and Braeden. When I finished I knew I was going to buy the next book in the series.
I enjoyed Treason even more than Lichgates. I think the main reason is that a big part of reading the first book was spent with Kara and myself attempting to figure out the different places, various characters, and other magical creatures in this intriguing world. During Treason, with this background established, the story gets more complex with plenty of suspense about what twists will come along next. Kara and Braeden must continue to decide who to trust and how to face each of the challenges they confront as they try to bring the different peoples of Ourea together. Although there is still a lot of traveling from place to place, the story delves much deeper into the conflicting and intertwining relationships between the characters.
I enjoyed Treason even more than Lichgates. I think the main reason is that a big part of reading the first book was spent with Kara and myself attempting to figure out the different places, various characters, and other magical creatures in this intriguing world. During Treason, with this background established, the story gets more complex with plenty of suspense about what twists will come along next. Kara and Braeden must continue to decide who to trust and how to face each of the challenges they confront as they try to bring the different peoples of Ourea together. Although there is still a lot of traveling from place to place, the story delves much deeper into the conflicting and intertwining relationships between the characters.
auburnedge's review against another edition
4.0
this was the second in the series and it was just as good if not better than the first! you are thrown right back into the story and the depth that comes is so enveloping. I would be surprised if someone didn't finish the book the same day they started just to know what happens!
csparkles's review against another edition
5.0
The second book in the series, this novel continues on with the story, introducing some new characters and elements that really make it difficult to put down and stop reading. It's hard to describe what happens in this story without major spoilers- but there's plenty of magic, fighting, and new adventures to hold you over!
I read this almost instantly after finishing the first one and continued straight on into the third. I really cared about all the characters and found the world fascinating. I can't wait to find out more about it.
I read this almost instantly after finishing the first one and continued straight on into the third. I really cared about all the characters and found the world fascinating. I can't wait to find out more about it.
printedadventures's review against another edition
4.0
The second book of the Grimoire Saga.
Writing reviews is hard to do when you read the whole series then try to write in what each separate book was about and how you enjoyed it.
but this is how much I really like this series. I plowed through the books and now I can't separate each one in my brain.
So i'm just going to say that if you're into fantasy and magic, romance and epic battles, twists and turns. Pick up this series.
Its a good one.
Writing reviews is hard to do when you read the whole series then try to write in what each separate book was about and how you enjoyed it.
but this is how much I really like this series. I plowed through the books and now I can't separate each one in my brain.
So i'm just going to say that if you're into fantasy and magic, romance and epic battles, twists and turns. Pick up this series.
Its a good one.