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Daughters of Saraqael #2
Central
**Optioned for movie rights by multiple-award winning producer Chase Chenowith of Back Fence Productions.**
For avid student Olivia Murdoch, life on the Estilorian plane is filled with wondrous adventure. Every lesson about her new existence is both exciting and challenging. Along with her sisters, she embraces this non-human half of herself.
Helping with her lessons is her Gloresti, James. Teacher, scholar and distractingly attractive, James takes on his roles of Olivia’s guide and protector with equal dedication. As he learns the human emotions that Estilorians no longer experience, he starts to see Olivia as much more than just an assigned pairing.
The physically weakest of her sisters, Olivia trains hard to learn things that no typical human classroom can impart. When they travel to “Central,” the Estilorian base, she comes to understand why she must become strong enough to defend herself. She and her sisters are targets.
Not all Estilorians welcome them. In fact, more than one would see them dead.
For avid student Olivia Murdoch, life on the Estilorian plane is filled with wondrous adventure. Every lesson about her new existence is both exciting and challenging. Along with her sisters, she embraces this non-human half of herself.
Helping with her lessons is her Gloresti, James. Teacher, scholar and distractingly attractive, James takes on his roles of Olivia’s guide and protector with equal dedication. As he learns the human emotions that Estilorians no longer experience, he starts to see Olivia as much more than just an assigned pairing.
The physically weakest of her sisters, Olivia trains hard to learn things that no typical human classroom can impart. When they travel to “Central,” the Estilorian base, she comes to understand why she must become strong enough to defend herself. She and her sisters are targets.
Not all Estilorians welcome them. In fact, more than one would see them dead.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2011
32 people are currently reading
869 people want to read
About the author
Raine Thomas
44 books983 followersRaine Thomas is the award-winning author of more than 20 bestselling romances spanning contemporary romance, Sci-Fi romance, and YA fantasy romance. She's a hopeless romantic with a background in the fields of mental health and wedding planning...two areas that intersect far more than one would think. She's also a book fiend, grammar nerd, and editing Red Queen, depending on who you ask.
Be sure to follow Raine on BookBub (https://www.bookbub.com/profile/raine...) to be among the first to learn of any sales, and hop over to her website for your first free read!
Be sure to follow Raine on BookBub (https://www.bookbub.com/profile/raine...) to be among the first to learn of any sales, and hop over to her website for your first free read!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
December 8, 2019
Le pongo 2.5 estrellas porque es más que Ok pero menos que otros libros que realmente me gustaron y se ganaron 3 medallas. En resumen: un libro para pasar un buen rato y olvidarlo luego.
A pesar que me gustó la premisa del primer libro: hermanas que descubren que son fruto de la relación de una especie superior con una humana y tienen que viajar a ese plano superior para reclamar sus poderes, en este segundo libro disfruté mucho menos todo el asunto de que las hermanas tengan que "enseñar" a toda una raza de seres cómo sentir. No alcanzo a creerme su papel tan relevante y que todos las protejan. Ahora ya en plena comunicación e interacción con el resto de los seres, todo parece muy ñoño... ¡si hasta las visten de Cenicientas para hacer su debut en sociedad!
Los puntos buenos es la continuidad de la historia y que vemos cómo van evolucionando las habilidades de las hermanas. Del romance no puedo opinar mucho porque era obvio desde el primer libro lo que sucedería, y a diferencia de Gabriel y Amber, Olivia y James casi no desarrollan su relación, o al menos la autora no nos lo hace sentir, solo dice "pasaron mucho tiempo juntos, se aman y chan". El climax se acabó muy pronto y el final fue predecible y rosa.
El nivel de inglés es básico, excepto por todas las palabras raras para definir a las diferentes clases, pero basta con acostumbrarse y entonces la lectura es fluida.
Lo Mejor
Olivia puede ser una mujer ávida de conocimientos, pero eso no se limita a los libros. ¡También lucha!
Lo Peor
Considero que la clasificación de Young Adult está mal. Con esta trama tan de princesas y unicornios, los personajes tan inocentones y el ritmo tan blando, creo que más bien queda como libro infantil (aunque he leído muchos otros infantiles que tienen mayor complejidad que Central).
A pesar que me gustó la premisa del primer libro: hermanas que descubren que son fruto de la relación de una especie superior con una humana y tienen que viajar a ese plano superior para reclamar sus poderes, en este segundo libro disfruté mucho menos todo el asunto de que las hermanas tengan que "enseñar" a toda una raza de seres cómo sentir. No alcanzo a creerme su papel tan relevante y que todos las protejan. Ahora ya en plena comunicación e interacción con el resto de los seres, todo parece muy ñoño... ¡si hasta las visten de Cenicientas para hacer su debut en sociedad!
Los puntos buenos es la continuidad de la historia y que vemos cómo van evolucionando las habilidades de las hermanas. Del romance no puedo opinar mucho porque era obvio desde el primer libro lo que sucedería, y a diferencia de Gabriel y Amber, Olivia y James casi no desarrollan su relación, o al menos la autora no nos lo hace sentir, solo dice "pasaron mucho tiempo juntos, se aman y chan". El climax se acabó muy pronto y el final fue predecible y rosa.
El nivel de inglés es básico, excepto por todas las palabras raras para definir a las diferentes clases, pero basta con acostumbrarse y entonces la lectura es fluida.
Lo Mejor
Olivia puede ser una mujer ávida de conocimientos, pero eso no se limita a los libros. ¡También lucha!
Lo Peor
Considero que la clasificación de Young Adult está mal. Con esta trama tan de princesas y unicornios, los personajes tan inocentones y el ritmo tan blando, creo que más bien queda como libro infantil (aunque he leído muchos otros infantiles que tienen mayor complejidad que Central).
December 3, 2019
En el primer libro conocimos la historia de las hijas de Saraqael, el plano Estiloriano, la relacion entre Amber y Gabriel y porque las estaban criando en el plano humano.
Aqui conocemos la historia del plano Estiloriano, como se creo, cuales son los diferentes tipos de Estilorianos, tambien aprendemos de la vida de Olivia, sus gustos, sus aficiones, su forma de divertirse. Y por supuesto, como se enamora de James y como el aprende a manejar sus emociones.
Es un libro lleno de aventuras, amor, coraje y apoyo familiar. Te enamoras de algunos personajes, y odias a otros, pero sobre todo entiendes las emociones que los llevan a unos y a otros a cada lado de linea.
Estoy esperando para leer el ultimo libro de la saga, para saber como terminan las hermanas y como los Estilorianos se desempeñan con esta cantidad de emociones nuevas.
Aqui conocemos la historia del plano Estiloriano, como se creo, cuales son los diferentes tipos de Estilorianos, tambien aprendemos de la vida de Olivia, sus gustos, sus aficiones, su forma de divertirse. Y por supuesto, como se enamora de James y como el aprende a manejar sus emociones.
Es un libro lleno de aventuras, amor, coraje y apoyo familiar. Te enamoras de algunos personajes, y odias a otros, pero sobre todo entiendes las emociones que los llevan a unos y a otros a cada lado de linea.
Estoy esperando para leer el ultimo libro de la saga, para saber como terminan las hermanas y como los Estilorianos se desempeñan con esta cantidad de emociones nuevas.
March 20, 2012
It's really hard to put into words how fabulous this book is, it really is. Central which is book two in the Daughters of Saraqael series is a rather perfect sequel in more ways than one. It is well-written, intelligent, imaginative, and it has just the right touch of romance. In Central we have a book that centers itself on it's characters overcoming their fears and learning how to trust not only themselves but those around them and I really loved every minute of it.
In Central we continue to learn more about the Estilorians which are beings that used to share the world with humans but had to leave because of their powers and the complexities those created in the human world. And in Central we have the daughters of Saraqael who are half human/half estilorian showing the Estilorians what human emotions are all about and it is rather interesting because through them Thomas gets to show the reader how the lack or excess of emotions can affect a person/being. Which leads me to our protagonists in Central: Olivia and James.
Olivia and James are such lovely main characters and so well developed. Which is, by the way, another talent of Raine Thomas. She knows how to make incredibly three dimensional and well rounded characters. Both primary and secondary characters in this book are complex and interesting. Doesn't matter if they are villains or heroes, everyone has a story to them which is given to the reader in small increments through clever plot twists and storylines. Olivia, the female lead in this book, is what you would say a more studious type of girl. She is intelligent and has a very good sense of what is right, and is of a very calm and sweet nature. In this book we get to follow her journey as she learns to become more assertive and confident in her abilities and judgement. James, the male lead in this book, is an amazing character as well. He is everything you would want in a male protagonist. He is strong, protective, respectful and always willing to learn and grow as a person. There is no pride with him, just a strong and quiet confidence and his main struggle in this book is about learning how to understand human emotion (as he is an estilorian) and it is rather interesting to read about.
The romance in this book is just perfection. Like in Becoming there is no instantaneous love. There is no love triangles in this book and both Olivia and James are respectful of each other. James gives Olivia her space to grow and viceversa. There are no impositions here and it's just a breath of fresh air to read about the development of such a healthy love story.
What shined for me in this book above everything else has to be the the fantasy elements included in the story. The Estilorians themselves as beings are so uniquely created and their world is so rich, vivid, intricate and colorful that when you read about them it's as if a picture is painted in your mind and you feel that they are real. I would also say that animals, creatures and places of myth and legend make an astonishing appearance in the Estilorian world and I loved every minute of it. Fans of fantasy definitely have a winning book in Central. This book is fantasy at it's best. So creative and for me a definite must read for fans of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings who might be dying to read a fantasy book with a newly and uniquely created world.
My Rating: 5/5
In Central we continue to learn more about the Estilorians which are beings that used to share the world with humans but had to leave because of their powers and the complexities those created in the human world. And in Central we have the daughters of Saraqael who are half human/half estilorian showing the Estilorians what human emotions are all about and it is rather interesting because through them Thomas gets to show the reader how the lack or excess of emotions can affect a person/being. Which leads me to our protagonists in Central: Olivia and James.
Olivia and James are such lovely main characters and so well developed. Which is, by the way, another talent of Raine Thomas. She knows how to make incredibly three dimensional and well rounded characters. Both primary and secondary characters in this book are complex and interesting. Doesn't matter if they are villains or heroes, everyone has a story to them which is given to the reader in small increments through clever plot twists and storylines. Olivia, the female lead in this book, is what you would say a more studious type of girl. She is intelligent and has a very good sense of what is right, and is of a very calm and sweet nature. In this book we get to follow her journey as she learns to become more assertive and confident in her abilities and judgement. James, the male lead in this book, is an amazing character as well. He is everything you would want in a male protagonist. He is strong, protective, respectful and always willing to learn and grow as a person. There is no pride with him, just a strong and quiet confidence and his main struggle in this book is about learning how to understand human emotion (as he is an estilorian) and it is rather interesting to read about.
The romance in this book is just perfection. Like in Becoming there is no instantaneous love. There is no love triangles in this book and both Olivia and James are respectful of each other. James gives Olivia her space to grow and viceversa. There are no impositions here and it's just a breath of fresh air to read about the development of such a healthy love story.
What shined for me in this book above everything else has to be the the fantasy elements included in the story. The Estilorians themselves as beings are so uniquely created and their world is so rich, vivid, intricate and colorful that when you read about them it's as if a picture is painted in your mind and you feel that they are real. I would also say that animals, creatures and places of myth and legend make an astonishing appearance in the Estilorian world and I loved every minute of it. Fans of fantasy definitely have a winning book in Central. This book is fantasy at it's best. So creative and for me a definite must read for fans of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings who might be dying to read a fantasy book with a newly and uniquely created world.
My Rating: 5/5
December 29, 2023
Saraqeel’s three daughters, the first ever born on the Estilorian plane, had all been sent to the human plane over a week ago in an effort to keep them safe.
Estilorians no longer feel emotions and it made me think of Lucifer, trying to decipher humankind. Gabriel had chosen himself to go back with them to learn all they will learn about being human. We met Amber in Becoming but in Central, we will meet the others. Olivia has a natural affinity to nature and can even talk to animals.Skye makes me smile. She is innocence and child exuberance. Dancing her way through life. She is emotional, passionate. The world made me think of Avatar, with each classes’ homeland floating in the sky. Of course, we have villains and there are plenty of them to go around.
Estilorians no longer feel emotions and it made me think of Lucifer, trying to decipher humankind. Gabriel had chosen himself to go back with them to learn all they will learn about being human. We met Amber in Becoming but in Central, we will meet the others. Olivia has a natural affinity to nature and can even talk to animals.Skye makes me smile. She is innocence and child exuberance. Dancing her way through life. She is emotional, passionate. The world made me think of Avatar, with each classes’ homeland floating in the sky. Of course, we have villains and there are plenty of them to go around.
December 9, 2012
I LOVED IT <3 <3 Soooooooooooooo sWeeT love story...
swoon worthy !!!! i loved every moment of the romance ..
i missed this kind of love stories..
adorable!
cute!
warm!
& totally lovable!!!!!
The paranormal is another thing, it is well built and colorfully constructed.. it is a light hearted read that i loved every bit of it...
the book is written for young readers it is a clean book that u will enjoy, it shifts POVs btw characters but the biggest part of that is given to the 2 main characters Olivia and James..
the love story is a different type from the 1st book, although both weren't insta-love .. thanks GOD!!
the romance here is based on the fact that James an an Estilorian and like other Estilorians he doesn't comprehend the meaning of any kind of feelings, but he is willing to try and learn from olivia, they build a relation ship based on friendship and respect to grow to feelings deeper than that.. i loved it really really loved very minute of their relation.. and when he figured out that he loved her... OMG!!! swoons*
it was the best part in the book.. (spoiler)
"His eyes widening, he again surged to his feet. “Don’t know her well enough?” he repeated, feeling anger building behind the words.
He resumed his pacing to try and release some of his frustration. “I believe I know her better than anyone here. We have lived together for months—day and night. How could I not know her? I know that she loves to read, but her favorite subjects in school were math and science. I know that her favorite color is pink, but she tells everyone else it’s red because it’s less ‘girly.’ I know that she’s frightened of spiders and bats, though they fascinate her. I know that her favorite scent is fresh citrus and her favorite ice cream is cinnamon. I know she misses her human mother, Jean, and her friends from school. I know that she used to enjoy baking and attending events at the local theater and she participated in her school’s choir. I know her favorite flowers are daisies because she thinks they look whimsical and sweet. I know she wishes that she was as strong as you and as graceful as Skye, and fails to recognize her own many strengths and talents. I know she’s beautiful and perfect and…”
He again trailed off. He realized that Amber was staring at him calmly, as if waiting for him to finally make his point. And then he knew exactly what that point was. He sank back down onto the bench.
“And I know that I love her more than anything in this world.”"
soooo Raine Thomas....
i totally completely recommend it ... i loved it better than the 1st book mostly bcz i LOVE this kind of LOVE!!!
swoon worthy !!!! i loved every moment of the romance ..
i missed this kind of love stories..
adorable!
cute!
warm!
& totally lovable!!!!!
The paranormal is another thing, it is well built and colorfully constructed.. it is a light hearted read that i loved every bit of it...
the book is written for young readers it is a clean book that u will enjoy, it shifts POVs btw characters but the biggest part of that is given to the 2 main characters Olivia and James..
the love story is a different type from the 1st book, although both weren't insta-love .. thanks GOD!!
the romance here is based on the fact that James an an Estilorian and like other Estilorians he doesn't comprehend the meaning of any kind of feelings, but he is willing to try and learn from olivia, they build a relation ship based on friendship and respect to grow to feelings deeper than that.. i loved it really really loved very minute of their relation.. and when he figured out that he loved her... OMG!!! swoons*
it was the best part in the book.. (spoiler)
"His eyes widening, he again surged to his feet. “Don’t know her well enough?” he repeated, feeling anger building behind the words.
He resumed his pacing to try and release some of his frustration. “I believe I know her better than anyone here. We have lived together for months—day and night. How could I not know her? I know that she loves to read, but her favorite subjects in school were math and science. I know that her favorite color is pink, but she tells everyone else it’s red because it’s less ‘girly.’ I know that she’s frightened of spiders and bats, though they fascinate her. I know that her favorite scent is fresh citrus and her favorite ice cream is cinnamon. I know she misses her human mother, Jean, and her friends from school. I know that she used to enjoy baking and attending events at the local theater and she participated in her school’s choir. I know her favorite flowers are daisies because she thinks they look whimsical and sweet. I know she wishes that she was as strong as you and as graceful as Skye, and fails to recognize her own many strengths and talents. I know she’s beautiful and perfect and…”
He again trailed off. He realized that Amber was staring at him calmly, as if waiting for him to finally make his point. And then he knew exactly what that point was. He sank back down onto the bench.
“And I know that I love her more than anything in this world.”"
soooo Raine Thomas....
i totally completely recommend it ... i loved it better than the 1st book mostly bcz i LOVE this kind of LOVE!!!
September 11, 2012
i REALLY , REALLY enjoyed the book especially since it was written from Olivia AND James's POV. i liked how Olivia had sound judgement and was all calm and collected and James he's like the best guy ever !!!! i mean making tea for her in the morning? how SWEET is that??!! this book is amazing and its one i would definitely read over and over again!
September 27, 2019
Este libro narra los avances de las trillizas en el plano estiloriano, tambien describe como nace, crece el romance entre Olivia y James...
Se lee rápido pues con cada acontecimiento se quiere saber que mas va a pasar.... Y pues con ganas de comenzar a leer el tercero....
Se lee rápido pues con cada acontecimiento se quiere saber que mas va a pasar.... Y pues con ganas de comenzar a leer el tercero....
May 18, 2016
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4.5 stars -- I must admit, that I had this feeling that this was going to be one of those series that got better as it went along. Part of the reason is that there is so much world-building and new terms, that I figured once we got that out of the way in the first book, it would settle in a bit easier in the next books. And while there were times I was still confused about which class certain Commanders were from (which one was Ailfrid again?), I did get used to the names of the classes and wasn't quite as confused and overwhelmed as I was in the first book (it helps to notice patterns, like how they all end in esti).
I was also looking forward to Olivia's story, b/c I feel like I share some traits with her (love of animals, natural affinity for maths/sciences, physically weaker), and so I was drawn to her from the first book. And maybe because of that, I felt like I had a somewhat deeper connection to her than I did with Amber. It helps that while there were other POVs in this book (as in the first one), I felt like we got more time in just Olivia and James's heads. I LOVED how strong she could be mentally, how naturally inquisitive, and how she still had a wonderful lightness to her character that made others around her smile. She may not have had the leadership qualities of Amber, or the natural bubbliness and gregariousness of Skye, but she really brought a lot to the table, more than she realized.
And I honestly didn't know how James was going to compete with Gabriel, but he totally did. There was something just delightfully honest and forthright and sincere about him. I know we are told that from Olivia, but I really felt it in his actions and in the way he interacted with Olivia. You could really see how much he was learning from her, and I LOVED seeing his feelings develop and confuse him.
And the other standout of this book over the first one is that we got to watch them fall in love...we got to see their relationship develop, b/c we got to see it from it's very beginnings. I LOVE the slow fall. Seriously, it is so satisfying.
Combine that with the development of all the girls as they learn about their lives as Estilorians, and the growing tension with the bad guys (including an edge of your seat climax), and this book just delivered on all I was looking for. I can't wait to read Skye's story!!
4.5 stars -- I must admit, that I had this feeling that this was going to be one of those series that got better as it went along. Part of the reason is that there is so much world-building and new terms, that I figured once we got that out of the way in the first book, it would settle in a bit easier in the next books. And while there were times I was still confused about which class certain Commanders were from (which one was Ailfrid again?), I did get used to the names of the classes and wasn't quite as confused and overwhelmed as I was in the first book (it helps to notice patterns, like how they all end in esti).
I was also looking forward to Olivia's story, b/c I feel like I share some traits with her (love of animals, natural affinity for maths/sciences, physically weaker), and so I was drawn to her from the first book. And maybe because of that, I felt like I had a somewhat deeper connection to her than I did with Amber. It helps that while there were other POVs in this book (as in the first one), I felt like we got more time in just Olivia and James's heads. I LOVED how strong she could be mentally, how naturally inquisitive, and how she still had a wonderful lightness to her character that made others around her smile. She may not have had the leadership qualities of Amber, or the natural bubbliness and gregariousness of Skye, but she really brought a lot to the table, more than she realized.
And I honestly didn't know how James was going to compete with Gabriel, but he totally did. There was something just delightfully honest and forthright and sincere about him. I know we are told that from Olivia, but I really felt it in his actions and in the way he interacted with Olivia. You could really see how much he was learning from her, and I LOVED seeing his feelings develop and confuse him.
And the other standout of this book over the first one is that we got to watch them fall in love...we got to see their relationship develop, b/c we got to see it from it's very beginnings. I LOVE the slow fall. Seriously, it is so satisfying.
Combine that with the development of all the girls as they learn about their lives as Estilorians, and the growing tension with the bad guys (including an edge of your seat climax), and this book just delivered on all I was looking for. I can't wait to read Skye's story!!
January 8, 2013
I really liked this book. I thought it was a lot better than the first book because the stakes were raised and we get to learn more about the girls and their new lives on the Estorilian Plane.
I really liked that the story was mostly from the POVs of Olivia and her Gloresti, James. Olivia was a character that I was interested in from the first book and I liked getting to know her better. She was very sweet and sensitive but she wasn't a push-over, she was definitely able to hold her own when she had to. James was a great character as well. He was very protective and sweet and being an Estilorian, he was very unfamiliar with human emotions and to see him come to terms with his attachment to Olivia was very cute. What I liked about their relationship is that it evolved slowly, in that at first James was only concerned with doing his job, which was keeping Olivia safe and the more time they spent together the more they realized that their feelings for each other were changing, I thought their love was so innocent and lighthearted.
The book didn't center entirely on Olivia and James though, there was plenty more of Gabriel and Amber who both had large roles in the story as well as an interesting plot twist of their own. There also was a bit of Skye and her Gloresti, Caleb. They were the comic relief of the book with Skye's fun, over-the-top personality combining with Caleb's stoic snarkiness. Their interactions were fun and set the tone for the next book.
I liked how there was more action in this book and the conflict wasn't solved as easily as in the first book and even though the main villain, Grolkinei was a little weak, I was still on the edge of my seat wanting to know what would happen once he started to wreak havok on the girls' lives.
Overall, this was a great sequel that was a marked improvement over the previous installment and I can't wait to read what happens next.
I really liked that the story was mostly from the POVs of Olivia and her Gloresti, James. Olivia was a character that I was interested in from the first book and I liked getting to know her better. She was very sweet and sensitive but she wasn't a push-over, she was definitely able to hold her own when she had to. James was a great character as well. He was very protective and sweet and being an Estilorian, he was very unfamiliar with human emotions and to see him come to terms with his attachment to Olivia was very cute. What I liked about their relationship is that it evolved slowly, in that at first James was only concerned with doing his job, which was keeping Olivia safe and the more time they spent together the more they realized that their feelings for each other were changing, I thought their love was so innocent and lighthearted.
The book didn't center entirely on Olivia and James though, there was plenty more of Gabriel and Amber who both had large roles in the story as well as an interesting plot twist of their own. There also was a bit of Skye and her Gloresti, Caleb. They were the comic relief of the book with Skye's fun, over-the-top personality combining with Caleb's stoic snarkiness. Their interactions were fun and set the tone for the next book.
I liked how there was more action in this book and the conflict wasn't solved as easily as in the first book and even though the main villain, Grolkinei was a little weak, I was still on the edge of my seat wanting to know what would happen once he started to wreak havok on the girls' lives.
Overall, this was a great sequel that was a marked improvement over the previous installment and I can't wait to read what happens next.
April 14, 2012
I enjoyed this book just as much as the firs one! Poor Olivia, she sure has some trying times in this book. I was so glad to see her build her confidence and become a pretty awesome fighter. The Mercesti are so creepy and I am nervous for what they have planned for the next book. I liked learning more about the Estilorians, they are fascinating and they have cool powers. As with the first book this one had some interesting twists and turns in it and I found myself racing through the story. Also seeing the changes in the Estilorians is kind of amazing and I imagine will be important!
Olivia is a very likable character and it is easy to relate to her. She is very self conscious, but very smart. It was nice to see the changes she went through in this book because she is such a strong person. The bond between the 3 sisters is awesome and I love seeing them interact. Then there is James, he is so clueless! Getting to see things through his perspective was intriguing and I really enjoyed getting to see things from both sides. I did want to smack a little for being so stupid when it came to Olivia though. They had some very cute moments though! Gabriel was adorable as ever and he and Amber are so cute. It was fun to see them through other people's eyes. I can't wait to see what happens with Skye & Caleb.
Now on to the next book, can't wait to see what happens!
Olivia is a very likable character and it is easy to relate to her. She is very self conscious, but very smart. It was nice to see the changes she went through in this book because she is such a strong person. The bond between the 3 sisters is awesome and I love seeing them interact. Then there is James, he is so clueless! Getting to see things through his perspective was intriguing and I really enjoyed getting to see things from both sides. I did want to smack a little for being so stupid when it came to Olivia though. They had some very cute moments though! Gabriel was adorable as ever and he and Amber are so cute. It was fun to see them through other people's eyes. I can't wait to see what happens with Skye & Caleb.
Now on to the next book, can't wait to see what happens!
September 2, 2011
**4.5 stars**
Don’t you love it when a series gets progressively better? Ya, me too!
Of all the sisters, Olivia is my favorite. Her logical, inquisitive, quietly intelligent manner makes her a perfect hero. She’s like the Clark Kent of the sisters…mild mannered, physically weaker…but, with training and her keen mind, she turns into Superman (well, maybe Wonder Woman). The story picks up where we left off in the Estilorian plane as the sisters begin to learn more about who they are and what their futures might bring. Olivia comes into her own in this book…embracing her special talents and opening up her heart to James, her Gloresti. And, speaking of James, might I just say “sigh”!! His job is to protect Olivia but his desire is to know her better, to understand her on a personal level and, ultimately, to be worthy of her. Perfect! When Olivia comes face to face with the villain of the story, it’s her hard work, determination and connection with James and her family that make this story an exciting journey…one that will make you want to keep reading long after bedtime and, may or may not even manage to make you misty at times! Loved it!
Don’t you love it when a series gets progressively better? Ya, me too!
Of all the sisters, Olivia is my favorite. Her logical, inquisitive, quietly intelligent manner makes her a perfect hero. She’s like the Clark Kent of the sisters…mild mannered, physically weaker…but, with training and her keen mind, she turns into Superman (well, maybe Wonder Woman). The story picks up where we left off in the Estilorian plane as the sisters begin to learn more about who they are and what their futures might bring. Olivia comes into her own in this book…embracing her special talents and opening up her heart to James, her Gloresti. And, speaking of James, might I just say “sigh”!! His job is to protect Olivia but his desire is to know her better, to understand her on a personal level and, ultimately, to be worthy of her. Perfect! When Olivia comes face to face with the villain of the story, it’s her hard work, determination and connection with James and her family that make this story an exciting journey…one that will make you want to keep reading long after bedtime and, may or may not even manage to make you misty at times! Loved it!
November 27, 2013
So happy right now! This seriously.....oh gosh!
I loved the first book, I thought it was "cute" but this...holy crap! MARVELOUS!
Olivia and James' story is so romantic and sweet! The whole time I was just like "AWWW!!!" I just couldn't quit smiling!
“I now have the most beautiful wife in the world, who, for reasons that escape me, is in love with me.” He tilted his head to catch her gaze. “I keep having to convince myself that I really do get to spend the rest of my existence with you now. It’s going to take me a long while to feel worthy of such a gift.”
HOLY CRAP! <3! *Swoons* I'm so in love!
Seriously, I loved James and Olivia because they were both so honest and always said what they felt and the result was so romantic! <3
LOVED this! Getting into the next book NOW! And I can't wait because it's Skye and Caleb, so this should be funny =P
I loved the first book, I thought it was "cute" but this...holy crap! MARVELOUS!
Olivia and James' story is so romantic and sweet! The whole time I was just like "AWWW!!!" I just couldn't quit smiling!
“I now have the most beautiful wife in the world, who, for reasons that escape me, is in love with me.” He tilted his head to catch her gaze. “I keep having to convince myself that I really do get to spend the rest of my existence with you now. It’s going to take me a long while to feel worthy of such a gift.”
HOLY CRAP! <3! *Swoons* I'm so in love!
Seriously, I loved James and Olivia because they were both so honest and always said what they felt and the result was so romantic! <3
LOVED this! Getting into the next book NOW! And I can't wait because it's Skye and Caleb, so this should be funny =P
January 24, 2012
I really didn't care for Olivia in book one, but am extremely happy to say I love her now! What a great book! And I love how even though this is Olivia's book, the Characters we met in Becoming didn't take a back seat! We got to see everyone we loved on a regular basis! Loved it!
May 19, 2013
This series just stole me away into a vivid and magical world. Strong characters who you get to know so well. This is on my must read list for people who love an epic adventure with strong characters and a gorgeous love story. I love love love this series!!!
June 3, 2014
I enjoyed this even more than the first book. I was leery of reading about Olivia after I was attached to Amber, but the author did it in such a way that I still felt the connection to Amber and grew to love Olivia too.
April 6, 2012
Totally love this book!
September 28, 2012
brilliant!!
December 2, 2024
Liked this one better than the first one. I am really starting to get into this series and now it's more than halfway over.
May 1, 2012
*Taken from my blog, OtherRealmReviews.blogspot.com, not edited for any other site*
First off, I want it known that this was already written a week ago, my loving fiance however, took the laptop and didn't know to NOT CLOSE THE TAB, so now.. (huge pout), I am re-writing my review, which isn't all bad, since I won't be in utter shock and writing, like the first time, BUT, I am doing it under protest. Protest, because Raine's new book, Defy, the first in the trilogy that follows the ones I am reviewing, was released today, and I haven't gotten to read it yet!
Alas, I knew I needed to write this, (and get it posted, the fiance WILL be home sometime tonight!) before reading the new one, as to not inadvertently review the new one, in this same group. For those to whom that sentence made sense, thank you for following my somewhat twisted thought processes, and for those to whom it did not make sense, my apologies.
Daughters of Saraquel.... omg. I don't have words, even a week, two weeks, and I suspect even six months from now, later. I just don't. Raine Thomas has proven I am NOT the only person in the world that thinks the way I do, lol, poor Raine, but her ability to make it clear to others, well, I envy it. She tells a story so rich, so intricate, and yet, still manages to NOT lose her reader. Something I am still working on.
The main characters exhibit the best humanity has to offer in terms of a desire to do right. Yes, I did intentionally word it that way, because that is pretty much how I view it. We can do right or wrong, and the girls constantly watch themselves to make sure which path they are traveling, a concept I think reaches far more than just myself and my son, judging by the other reviews. What I truly enjoy and what sets these apart from other fantasy novels based on good and evil, is that Raine allows the characters to ALL have both aspects, even those inherently evil ones, and allows you to see the struggles that we all endure as we walk our individual paths. I connected with some aspect of every single character, and I've never, in over 3000 books, and 38 years, encountered that. I empathized (read my first post, I am an empath) with every single character, including Aurora, the feline counterpart to Olivia.
I challenge anyone to read these books and NOT connect to the characters. I cannot imagine someone not finding at least ONE character that was so deeply like themselves, and yet, I can tell you, I saw aspects in ALL of them. Raine has such a clear understanding of humanity, our emotions, and how those emotions can lead the best of us, to do the worst of things, and vice-versa, that you cannot help but connect with her books, and her.
I have been so blessed, the night I was reading the first one, was a very hard night for me. I won't go into details, but I was seeking a distraction from reality, and even my favorite books (Marina's Tales, reviewed first in my blog) were not providing it. My eyes lit on Raine's books, and I decided to trust my instincts. I cannot tell you how glad I am that I did. I also wrote her a letter that night, going into more detail as to what I was trying to evade, and somehow, between her book, and my letter, I made the most valuable thing in the world... a new friendship. However, that didn't happen till I was done with the books, so nope, it's not because I care about Raine that I will crow about her books. That would have happened no matter her response to my letter. :)
There is no simple way to put it that will accurately reflect the quality of the writing. She has no typos, which I find in the big box books anyway, no grammatical issues, nothing of the technical problems that plague so many books.. but she DOES have everything that truly matters. There is a depth of passion, love, and sheer soul that she puts into her work that I see glimpses of in most writing, but rarely is it thrown out there for the world to judge. She puts 110% of herself into what she is writing, and I hope that I have accurately conveyed that.
On that note, as much as I LOVE talking about her books, I am dying to read one.. and mean it is actually starting to make me batty, so, I suggest, when you are done reading the Daughters of Saraquel's trilogy, that you go find "Defy", the story beyond it, and somehow, I already know, it's going to be on my kindle's favorites shelf along with it's predecessors. GO READ! :)
First off, I want it known that this was already written a week ago, my loving fiance however, took the laptop and didn't know to NOT CLOSE THE TAB, so now.. (huge pout), I am re-writing my review, which isn't all bad, since I won't be in utter shock and writing, like the first time, BUT, I am doing it under protest. Protest, because Raine's new book, Defy, the first in the trilogy that follows the ones I am reviewing, was released today, and I haven't gotten to read it yet!
Alas, I knew I needed to write this, (and get it posted, the fiance WILL be home sometime tonight!) before reading the new one, as to not inadvertently review the new one, in this same group. For those to whom that sentence made sense, thank you for following my somewhat twisted thought processes, and for those to whom it did not make sense, my apologies.
Daughters of Saraquel.... omg. I don't have words, even a week, two weeks, and I suspect even six months from now, later. I just don't. Raine Thomas has proven I am NOT the only person in the world that thinks the way I do, lol, poor Raine, but her ability to make it clear to others, well, I envy it. She tells a story so rich, so intricate, and yet, still manages to NOT lose her reader. Something I am still working on.
The main characters exhibit the best humanity has to offer in terms of a desire to do right. Yes, I did intentionally word it that way, because that is pretty much how I view it. We can do right or wrong, and the girls constantly watch themselves to make sure which path they are traveling, a concept I think reaches far more than just myself and my son, judging by the other reviews. What I truly enjoy and what sets these apart from other fantasy novels based on good and evil, is that Raine allows the characters to ALL have both aspects, even those inherently evil ones, and allows you to see the struggles that we all endure as we walk our individual paths. I connected with some aspect of every single character, and I've never, in over 3000 books, and 38 years, encountered that. I empathized (read my first post, I am an empath) with every single character, including Aurora, the feline counterpart to Olivia.
I challenge anyone to read these books and NOT connect to the characters. I cannot imagine someone not finding at least ONE character that was so deeply like themselves, and yet, I can tell you, I saw aspects in ALL of them. Raine has such a clear understanding of humanity, our emotions, and how those emotions can lead the best of us, to do the worst of things, and vice-versa, that you cannot help but connect with her books, and her.
I have been so blessed, the night I was reading the first one, was a very hard night for me. I won't go into details, but I was seeking a distraction from reality, and even my favorite books (Marina's Tales, reviewed first in my blog) were not providing it. My eyes lit on Raine's books, and I decided to trust my instincts. I cannot tell you how glad I am that I did. I also wrote her a letter that night, going into more detail as to what I was trying to evade, and somehow, between her book, and my letter, I made the most valuable thing in the world... a new friendship. However, that didn't happen till I was done with the books, so nope, it's not because I care about Raine that I will crow about her books. That would have happened no matter her response to my letter. :)
There is no simple way to put it that will accurately reflect the quality of the writing. She has no typos, which I find in the big box books anyway, no grammatical issues, nothing of the technical problems that plague so many books.. but she DOES have everything that truly matters. There is a depth of passion, love, and sheer soul that she puts into her work that I see glimpses of in most writing, but rarely is it thrown out there for the world to judge. She puts 110% of herself into what she is writing, and I hope that I have accurately conveyed that.
On that note, as much as I LOVE talking about her books, I am dying to read one.. and mean it is actually starting to make me batty, so, I suggest, when you are done reading the Daughters of Saraquel's trilogy, that you go find "Defy", the story beyond it, and somehow, I already know, it's going to be on my kindle's favorites shelf along with it's predecessors. GO READ! :)
March 25, 2012
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Annabell
Central
Author: Raine Thomas
Synopsis: For avid student Olivia Murdoch, life on the Estilorian plane is filled with wondrous adventure. Every lesson about her new existence is both exciting and challenging. Along with her sisters, she embraces this non-human half of herself.
Helping with her lessons is her Gloresti, James. Teacher, scholar and distractingly attractive, James takes on his roles of Olivia’s guide and protector with equal dedication. As he learns the human emotions that Estilorians no longer experience, he starts to see Olivia as much more than just an assigned pairing.
The physically weakest of her sisters, Olivia trains hard to learn things that no typical human classroom can impart. When they travel to “Central,” the Estilorian base, she comes to understand why she must become strong enough to defend herself. She and her sisters are targets.
Not all Estilorians welcome them. In fact, more than one would see them dead.
Review: In the second book to Thomas’s Daughters of Saraqael Trilogy, Central the story is more focused on the second sister, Olivia. It was a nice change to be able to still maintain the connection with the same characters from the first book as well as the same world, but be able to explore a different sister more intimately. The author did a good job of keeping the Estilorian world as vivid and descriptive as the first one as well as the romance between various characters.
Central starts off where the first book left off. Amber and Gabriel have returned from their honeymoon and the girls are thrown into learning more about the Estilorian plane and their powers. Much of the book deals with Olivia and James, her guardian or Gloresti.
Olivia is the more logical and inquisitive ones of the three sisters. She is quiet in manner and not as physically powerful as Amber but when push comes to shove she will stand her ground. I liked Olivia. I thought she was very sweet and very wise. She likes to think things through and take her time to make decisions. There is a quiet strength about Olivia and I felt connected to her because of that. James is kind, as avid a learner as Olivia, and unyielding loyal.
I liked the way James and Olivia’s relationship developed. They took their time, getting to know each other and developing trust. James was always seeking ways to understand Olivia on a more personal and intimate level while Olivia patiently explained the human plane to him and found security in James willingness to learn and appreciate her. I also loved that this time around it was the guy who felt unworthy of the girl. James doesn’t feel he can be with Olivia because he is not worthy of her. It was such a sweet gesture.
But there were a few things I had a problem with. The biggest problem is that the plot from Central seems to closely follow the plot from the first one in many ways. Their always seems to be a way for the sisters to magically save the day. They always just happen to have the answer or the cure come right at the exact moment when they needed it even though they neither had the answer or the power in the first place. There were just moments I couldn’t help but sigh because everything was too convenient. Also, the pacing of the book was choppy due to the fact that the scenes were dragged out by too much detail of information that wasn’t needed to advance the story. At times the book, like the first one, felt too weighed down by details that were of no real consequence to understanding the characters or story.
I did enjoy reading Central for the most part. I liked the scene where the sisters are trained to learn how to fly. What Ini-herit did to get Amber to fly was just so crazy and at the same time funny. The big news with Amber and Gabriel was beautiful and I liked the scene where Dacian gets caught by Gabriel making fun of Amber. That scene made me laugh along with James and Caleb. The characters were also better developed.
Overall, Central turned out to be better than the first book and a fairly good read.
Central
Author: Raine Thomas
Synopsis: For avid student Olivia Murdoch, life on the Estilorian plane is filled with wondrous adventure. Every lesson about her new existence is both exciting and challenging. Along with her sisters, she embraces this non-human half of herself.
Helping with her lessons is her Gloresti, James. Teacher, scholar and distractingly attractive, James takes on his roles of Olivia’s guide and protector with equal dedication. As he learns the human emotions that Estilorians no longer experience, he starts to see Olivia as much more than just an assigned pairing.
The physically weakest of her sisters, Olivia trains hard to learn things that no typical human classroom can impart. When they travel to “Central,” the Estilorian base, she comes to understand why she must become strong enough to defend herself. She and her sisters are targets.
Not all Estilorians welcome them. In fact, more than one would see them dead.
Review: In the second book to Thomas’s Daughters of Saraqael Trilogy, Central the story is more focused on the second sister, Olivia. It was a nice change to be able to still maintain the connection with the same characters from the first book as well as the same world, but be able to explore a different sister more intimately. The author did a good job of keeping the Estilorian world as vivid and descriptive as the first one as well as the romance between various characters.
Central starts off where the first book left off. Amber and Gabriel have returned from their honeymoon and the girls are thrown into learning more about the Estilorian plane and their powers. Much of the book deals with Olivia and James, her guardian or Gloresti.
Olivia is the more logical and inquisitive ones of the three sisters. She is quiet in manner and not as physically powerful as Amber but when push comes to shove she will stand her ground. I liked Olivia. I thought she was very sweet and very wise. She likes to think things through and take her time to make decisions. There is a quiet strength about Olivia and I felt connected to her because of that. James is kind, as avid a learner as Olivia, and unyielding loyal.
I liked the way James and Olivia’s relationship developed. They took their time, getting to know each other and developing trust. James was always seeking ways to understand Olivia on a more personal and intimate level while Olivia patiently explained the human plane to him and found security in James willingness to learn and appreciate her. I also loved that this time around it was the guy who felt unworthy of the girl. James doesn’t feel he can be with Olivia because he is not worthy of her. It was such a sweet gesture.
But there were a few things I had a problem with. The biggest problem is that the plot from Central seems to closely follow the plot from the first one in many ways. Their always seems to be a way for the sisters to magically save the day. They always just happen to have the answer or the cure come right at the exact moment when they needed it even though they neither had the answer or the power in the first place. There were just moments I couldn’t help but sigh because everything was too convenient. Also, the pacing of the book was choppy due to the fact that the scenes were dragged out by too much detail of information that wasn’t needed to advance the story. At times the book, like the first one, felt too weighed down by details that were of no real consequence to understanding the characters or story.
I did enjoy reading Central for the most part. I liked the scene where the sisters are trained to learn how to fly. What Ini-herit did to get Amber to fly was just so crazy and at the same time funny. The big news with Amber and Gabriel was beautiful and I liked the scene where Dacian gets caught by Gabriel making fun of Amber. That scene made me laugh along with James and Caleb. The characters were also better developed.
Overall, Central turned out to be better than the first book and a fairly good read.
August 9, 2011
Central is the second book in a Trilogy called the Daughters of Saraquael Series. Book one had a lot of world building, and it had enough romance tossed in for it to not be over whelming and overbearing for me, as a young adult series. As I started in on Central I noticed that is was even better. I think because Raine was too great at building the Estilorian plain and the mythos behind it, that I could settle in and it all just seemed like magic exploding in my brain. I’m going to just explain the things that I really liked and some things that frustrated me as far as the story was concerned but it is a natural frustration.
First off, I’m a big fan of a good villain. For me villains have to intrigue me to the point where I almost want to meet them and go toe to toe with them, and they are demented enough to be willing to cross any line to get what they want. The villain in this story is very much all those things, and of course to top it all off, he’s pretty much a hunk, a demented hunk, but still a hunk. I don’t know if I was there if I would throw myself on him or kill him. He has that effect on you. You have to rationalize that you know once you have outlived your use, he is just going to stab you through the heart and kill you. Or rape you and kill you. There is no graphic detail in these books which sort of adds to the whole mystery of just how evil he is.
Secondly, each sister I like. If I had to pick one that I didn’t totally connect with at first it would have been Olivia, the lead in this book. However, once the story went on, I realized that her insecurities made me connect with her very much. I mean I am athletic like Amber and I am flighty and disorganized like Skye, but the idea that Olivia is just not sure, she had to think things out, and then she feels sort of like the odd one out and the plain one out of the sister is where I fall into place. I think she was the perfect addition to the series and I’m very glad her book came second or I think by the time book three rolled around I wouldn’t have found that connection I did with her.
The storyline as a whole is in depth; it pulls you in and doesn’t let you go, even at the end where you are going. “Ok, next book please!” The characters are so developed, I feel their pain, their thoughts, and how they cope with what they really are. If I had to pick one thing that I didn’t totally like, was the lead male in this story. He worked so well with Olivia, but he wasn’t ‘Alpha’ enough for me. But Caleb and Gabriel are well Alpha enough for the whole Estilorian plain so I was ok with that. There needs to be just one that isn’t growling in that dominant voice MINE! And James was that one for me. I mean he was protective, he was smart, he was great at combat, but he is not my favorite male. It does not diminish from the story, because once you know Olivia, you realize that he is her perfect match.
I have to say, I’m very worried about the jealousy that these woman have brought out in this race. I mean it is very real, it is believable, and I worry that it could possibly cause something chaotic, more so then it has before. And now that our villain Grolkinei has discovered the girls can get pregnant, he has a whole new plan of action “YIKES!” And as a side note, I like Angius for some reason. (He is a villain of course, what can I saw, I see raw Alpha power and I turn to goo!)
First off, I’m a big fan of a good villain. For me villains have to intrigue me to the point where I almost want to meet them and go toe to toe with them, and they are demented enough to be willing to cross any line to get what they want. The villain in this story is very much all those things, and of course to top it all off, he’s pretty much a hunk, a demented hunk, but still a hunk. I don’t know if I was there if I would throw myself on him or kill him. He has that effect on you. You have to rationalize that you know once you have outlived your use, he is just going to stab you through the heart and kill you. Or rape you and kill you. There is no graphic detail in these books which sort of adds to the whole mystery of just how evil he is.
Secondly, each sister I like. If I had to pick one that I didn’t totally connect with at first it would have been Olivia, the lead in this book. However, once the story went on, I realized that her insecurities made me connect with her very much. I mean I am athletic like Amber and I am flighty and disorganized like Skye, but the idea that Olivia is just not sure, she had to think things out, and then she feels sort of like the odd one out and the plain one out of the sister is where I fall into place. I think she was the perfect addition to the series and I’m very glad her book came second or I think by the time book three rolled around I wouldn’t have found that connection I did with her.
The storyline as a whole is in depth; it pulls you in and doesn’t let you go, even at the end where you are going. “Ok, next book please!” The characters are so developed, I feel their pain, their thoughts, and how they cope with what they really are. If I had to pick one thing that I didn’t totally like, was the lead male in this story. He worked so well with Olivia, but he wasn’t ‘Alpha’ enough for me. But Caleb and Gabriel are well Alpha enough for the whole Estilorian plain so I was ok with that. There needs to be just one that isn’t growling in that dominant voice MINE! And James was that one for me. I mean he was protective, he was smart, he was great at combat, but he is not my favorite male. It does not diminish from the story, because once you know Olivia, you realize that he is her perfect match.
I have to say, I’m very worried about the jealousy that these woman have brought out in this race. I mean it is very real, it is believable, and I worry that it could possibly cause something chaotic, more so then it has before. And now that our villain Grolkinei has discovered the girls can get pregnant, he has a whole new plan of action “YIKES!” And as a side note, I like Angius for some reason. (He is a villain of course, what can I saw, I see raw Alpha power and I turn to goo!)
May 5, 2012
Everyone's had that feeling, where you feel like you can't measure up to other people's standards. Maybe to the point, where you totally loose all hope, and stop trying. But some people — some people don't give up. Some people surpass, the expectations of others, just to prove that they are different, that they care, and that they can do whatever they put their mind to. Clearly, Olivia in Central shows these characteristics. And for what it counts, those characteristics really helped us relate to her more.
In Central the perspective switches. The second sister, Olivia, is spotlighted. Olivia is supposed to be the weakest sister, due to her limited physical activity on the human plane. But,in the end, this weakness, and her sense of vulnerability, is what drives her to become better. Olivia is known for her quick thinking, quick learning, and overall ability to process, analyze, and react to unexpected events quicker than the rest of her sisters. This helps during her offense, and defense training, but besides being vulnerable, there's something else bothering her —her, and James' ever-developing relationship. Whenever she's with him, she feels this undeniable connection. She tries to push it off, with the fact that he IS her guardian, but Olivia knows the truth, (and it doesn't have
anything to do with the fact that he's protecting her.)
We thought the ending of Central was a little predictable. We felt like Thomas tried to find someway to fit all the events together, but instead, ended up making a too-good-to-be-true-ending. But overall,that was the only thing we saw wrong with the novel. That and that alone. However, having a predictable novel is never a good thing, so we though we'd note that in our review.
In the Daughter of Saraquel series, Raine Thomas makes Amber, Olivia, and Skye, (the 3 daughters)so different, but so alike at the same time. She takes us on the journey of their new lives on the Estilorian plane, (this amazing, old, and exciting dimension, from which the sisters are originally from). On this journey, all three girls discover new things about themselves, their sisters, the people around them, and other Esitilorians. As they bring change to the Estilorian plane, others are getting angrier. The ones who believe that their existence, itself, is an abomination. The sisters don't let this hold them back, but they are still very aware of the threats against them. Even more so, the desires of others to see them dead.
As all of Raine Thomas' novels are starting to prove, Central was also another addition to her line of perfection. A few things that could have been changed here, and there, but overall it was an enticing novel, that I would read over, and over again —if I could. This was writing at its finest, and we must say; we're SO not waiting to read Foretold.
For more reviews, check us out at: http://characterized.blogspot.com/
August 8, 2012
In the second book to Thomas’s Daughters of Saraqael Trilogy, Central the story is more focused on the second sister, Olivia. It was a nice change to be able to still maintain the connection with the same characters from the first book as well as the same world, but be able to explore a different sister more intimately. The author did a good job of keeping the Estilorian world as vivid and descriptive as the first one as well as the romance between various characters.
Central starts off where the first book left off. Amber and Gabriel have returned from their honeymoon and the girls are thrown into learning more about the Estilorian plane and their powers. Much of the book deals with Olivia and James, her guardian or Gloresti.
Olivia is the more logical and inquisitive ones of the three sisters. She is quiet in manner and not as physically powerful as Amber but when push comes to shove she will stand her ground. I liked Olivia. I thought she was very sweet and very wise. She likes to think things through and take her time to make decisions. There is a quiet strength about Olivia and I felt connected to her because of that. James is kind, as avid a learner as Olivia, and unyielding loyal.
I liked the way James and Olivia’s relationship developed. They took their time, getting to know each other and developing trust. James was always seeking ways to understand Olivia on a more personal and intimate level while Olivia patiently explained the human plane to him and found security in James willingness to learn and appreciate her. I also loved that James didn’t feel he can be with Olivia because he is not worthy of her. It was such a sweet gesture.
But there were a few things I had a problem with. The biggest problem is that the plot from Central seems to closely follow the plot from the first one in many ways. There always seems to be a way for the sisters to magically save the day. They always just happen to have the answer or the cure come right at the exact moment when they needed it even though they neither had the answer or the power in the first place. There were just moments I couldn’t help but sigh because everything was too convenient. Also, at times the book, like the first one, felt too weighed down by details that were of no real consequence to understanding the characters or story.
I did enjoy reading Central for the most part. I liked the scene where the sisters are trained to learn how to fly. What Ini-herit did to get Amber to fly was just so crazy and at the same time funny. The big news with Amber and Gabriel was beautiful and I liked the scene where Dacian gets caught by Gabriel making fun of Amber. That scene made me laugh along with James and Caleb. The characters were also better developed.
Overall, Central turned out to be better than the first book and a fairly good read.
Central starts off where the first book left off. Amber and Gabriel have returned from their honeymoon and the girls are thrown into learning more about the Estilorian plane and their powers. Much of the book deals with Olivia and James, her guardian or Gloresti.
Olivia is the more logical and inquisitive ones of the three sisters. She is quiet in manner and not as physically powerful as Amber but when push comes to shove she will stand her ground. I liked Olivia. I thought she was very sweet and very wise. She likes to think things through and take her time to make decisions. There is a quiet strength about Olivia and I felt connected to her because of that. James is kind, as avid a learner as Olivia, and unyielding loyal.
I liked the way James and Olivia’s relationship developed. They took their time, getting to know each other and developing trust. James was always seeking ways to understand Olivia on a more personal and intimate level while Olivia patiently explained the human plane to him and found security in James willingness to learn and appreciate her. I also loved that James didn’t feel he can be with Olivia because he is not worthy of her. It was such a sweet gesture.
But there were a few things I had a problem with. The biggest problem is that the plot from Central seems to closely follow the plot from the first one in many ways. There always seems to be a way for the sisters to magically save the day. They always just happen to have the answer or the cure come right at the exact moment when they needed it even though they neither had the answer or the power in the first place. There were just moments I couldn’t help but sigh because everything was too convenient. Also, at times the book, like the first one, felt too weighed down by details that were of no real consequence to understanding the characters or story.
I did enjoy reading Central for the most part. I liked the scene where the sisters are trained to learn how to fly. What Ini-herit did to get Amber to fly was just so crazy and at the same time funny. The big news with Amber and Gabriel was beautiful and I liked the scene where Dacian gets caught by Gabriel making fun of Amber. That scene made me laugh along with James and Caleb. The characters were also better developed.
Overall, Central turned out to be better than the first book and a fairly good read.
August 9, 2011
CENTRAL - Daughters of Saraqael Book Two
My Rating: 5 stars
FROM THE BOOK:
Excerpts from the Great Foretelling:
“She will come to us ignorant of the ways of her father’s kind, but with an unparalleled desire to learn all that she can of them.”
“He will have to overcome our many centuries of distorted knowledge to understand human emotion, and he will find in her the best teacher to do so.”
My thoughts:
While each book features all three sisters, they each seem to focus on one of Daughters of Saraqael’s story. Central picks up where Becoming left off with the Amber, Olivia, and Skye training to improve their ability to defend themselves but also to harness the individual gifts they had when they transitioned on the Estilorian Plane. This is the second book, so it makes sense that this book spends time exploring Olivia’s personality and journey as she becomes use to her new life.
I loved this book even more than the first because I can relate to Olivia’s love of learning and willingness to try new things. Watching Olivia grows into her abilities and her relationship with James was so much fun, at heart-stopping at times. This describes how Amber, Olivia, and Skye’s relationships grow and how their relationship with their paired Gloresti grows to that of a family. Between Amber’s good news, Olivia’s trials, and the ever emotional and vibrant Skye, this book grabs you from the beginning and pushes you to see what happens next.
It’s refreshing to see a love story that isn’t a triangle and one that is HOT without crossing the line. I guess I need to explain that part. As an intermediate teacher, I read not only for my enjoyment but also for books that I can recommend to my students. The love story in this book, as with all in the series, is one that I would GLADLY place on my bookshelf in my classroom and wouldn’t feel nervous about a student reading it.
Central is a captivating and exciting journey from start to finish and leaves you happy and wanting more all at the same time. Never underestimate the quiet learner, as strength comes from knowledge and desire as well as from the physical side.
If you haven’t looked into The Daughters of Saraqael Trilogy and enjoy stories with action, love, and some happy endings, then you MUST add this to you e-reader!!
My Rating: 5 stars
FROM THE BOOK:
Excerpts from the Great Foretelling:
“She will come to us ignorant of the ways of her father’s kind, but with an unparalleled desire to learn all that she can of them.”
“He will have to overcome our many centuries of distorted knowledge to understand human emotion, and he will find in her the best teacher to do so.”
My thoughts:
While each book features all three sisters, they each seem to focus on one of Daughters of Saraqael’s story. Central picks up where Becoming left off with the Amber, Olivia, and Skye training to improve their ability to defend themselves but also to harness the individual gifts they had when they transitioned on the Estilorian Plane. This is the second book, so it makes sense that this book spends time exploring Olivia’s personality and journey as she becomes use to her new life.
I loved this book even more than the first because I can relate to Olivia’s love of learning and willingness to try new things. Watching Olivia grows into her abilities and her relationship with James was so much fun, at heart-stopping at times. This describes how Amber, Olivia, and Skye’s relationships grow and how their relationship with their paired Gloresti grows to that of a family. Between Amber’s good news, Olivia’s trials, and the ever emotional and vibrant Skye, this book grabs you from the beginning and pushes you to see what happens next.
It’s refreshing to see a love story that isn’t a triangle and one that is HOT without crossing the line. I guess I need to explain that part. As an intermediate teacher, I read not only for my enjoyment but also for books that I can recommend to my students. The love story in this book, as with all in the series, is one that I would GLADLY place on my bookshelf in my classroom and wouldn’t feel nervous about a student reading it.
Central is a captivating and exciting journey from start to finish and leaves you happy and wanting more all at the same time. Never underestimate the quiet learner, as strength comes from knowledge and desire as well as from the physical side.
If you haven’t looked into The Daughters of Saraqael Trilogy and enjoy stories with action, love, and some happy endings, then you MUST add this to you e-reader!!
September 23, 2024
Central is book two of the Daughters of Saraqael trilogy. This book continues to show us how the three daughters of Saraqael learn to adapt themselves into the world of the Estilorians, with an emphasis focusing on what’s happening with Olivia, the second daughter of Saraqael.
Olivia enjoys spending time in nature. Although she is physically the weakest among the sisters, she is diligent and she always rises up to the challenges that she has to face. What I love about Olivia is her graceful and quiet nature. She is never loud and she often looks for ways to help her improve on what she sees as her weaknesses.
Because the daughters are half-humans, each of them is being paired with a Gloresti, a defender that helps to serve as a protector and guide. James is the assigned protector for Olivia. He is humble and patient, and he understands that he can learn a lot from watching and listening to the daughters. Although he doesn’t understand most human emotions, he is not afraid to ask questions and he is perceptive to observe and learn. James is a very likable character. I find him strong and swoon-worthy. How can you not like a guy who is unafraid to learn how to love, to feel emotional vulnerability, and to openly express truth in pure honesty and humility?
I really enjoy the demonstration of virtues and bravery from these amazing characters.
With the dark, evil class of Estilorians (the Mercesti) trying to do life-threatening things to the daughters, the peace of the Estilorian world is disrupted. Although it is awfully sad to watch a few Estilorians struggle and fail to uphold their virtues, I like how the daughters help to unite most classes of the Estilorians. It is very satisfying to see the Estilorians come to work together to temporarily disarm and eliminate the threats from the Mercesti.
I personally enjoy reading this book more than book one.
Central helps me see how the lack of emotional understanding can ruin a society and why it is healthy for sentient beings to feel the full spectrum of emotions. I’m glad I picked up on reading this series and I am curious to find out how the trilogy may conclude in the next book.
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This post was originally published in my blog.
Olivia enjoys spending time in nature. Although she is physically the weakest among the sisters, she is diligent and she always rises up to the challenges that she has to face. What I love about Olivia is her graceful and quiet nature. She is never loud and she often looks for ways to help her improve on what she sees as her weaknesses.
Because the daughters are half-humans, each of them is being paired with a Gloresti, a defender that helps to serve as a protector and guide. James is the assigned protector for Olivia. He is humble and patient, and he understands that he can learn a lot from watching and listening to the daughters. Although he doesn’t understand most human emotions, he is not afraid to ask questions and he is perceptive to observe and learn. James is a very likable character. I find him strong and swoon-worthy. How can you not like a guy who is unafraid to learn how to love, to feel emotional vulnerability, and to openly express truth in pure honesty and humility?
I really enjoy the demonstration of virtues and bravery from these amazing characters.
With the dark, evil class of Estilorians (the Mercesti) trying to do life-threatening things to the daughters, the peace of the Estilorian world is disrupted. Although it is awfully sad to watch a few Estilorians struggle and fail to uphold their virtues, I like how the daughters help to unite most classes of the Estilorians. It is very satisfying to see the Estilorians come to work together to temporarily disarm and eliminate the threats from the Mercesti.
I personally enjoy reading this book more than book one.
Central helps me see how the lack of emotional understanding can ruin a society and why it is healthy for sentient beings to feel the full spectrum of emotions. I’m glad I picked up on reading this series and I am curious to find out how the trilogy may conclude in the next book.
--
This post was originally published in my blog.
July 2, 2015
Title: Central
Author: Raine Thomas
Series: Yes
Cliffhanger: Kind of
Release Date: July 2011
Rating: 4
HEA:
Central continues the story of Amber, Olivia, and Skye as they train and learn about the Estilorian world. While the first book focused the most on Amber and Gabriel, Central focuses the most on Olivia and James. I like Olivia and we still get to see Amber and Gabriel but I miss them. It seemed like the first book switched views with more people throughout. I'm glad that this one didn't do that too much but I wanted more from Amber and Gabriel.
A big difference between the two couples is that Gabriel was in the human world and knows about and has emotions from the beginning. Whereas James has the normal Estilorian problem of not really knowing about emotions. While they weren't my favorite couple it was interesting to see this different perspective of someone who did not know about emotion before hand.
What I never really got was how the Estilorian's didn't have emotions anymore but then they can get jealous. There were a lot more emotions than I thought there would be. And it was strange how some seemed to be so clueless able simple things but more complex stuff was normal.
The confusion from the first book with all the different types of Estilorians was still there. The names of the leaders and the groups they led were weird and hard to remember. I still don't really know who is who and what powers they have. But that doesn't really take away from the enjoyment of the book. And since it was explained over and over in excruciating detail anytime they were all together I didn't really need to remember. That was one of the things that annoyed me the most. The incessant descriptions of what people were wearing, where they were standing compared to others, etc. And this process went through all three sisters, their love interests, the elders, and the elders' second in command people. Sometimes it went through just one of those groups and often times more than one.
I totally read the third book before finishing this review so I have that book on the mind and don't want to accidentally give something away so on to the next review!
Author: Raine Thomas
Series: Yes
Cliffhanger: Kind of
Release Date: July 2011
Rating: 4
HEA:
Central continues the story of Amber, Olivia, and Skye as they train and learn about the Estilorian world. While the first book focused the most on Amber and Gabriel, Central focuses the most on Olivia and James. I like Olivia and we still get to see Amber and Gabriel but I miss them. It seemed like the first book switched views with more people throughout. I'm glad that this one didn't do that too much but I wanted more from Amber and Gabriel.
A big difference between the two couples is that Gabriel was in the human world and knows about and has emotions from the beginning. Whereas James has the normal Estilorian problem of not really knowing about emotions. While they weren't my favorite couple it was interesting to see this different perspective of someone who did not know about emotion before hand.
What I never really got was how the Estilorian's didn't have emotions anymore but then they can get jealous. There were a lot more emotions than I thought there would be. And it was strange how some seemed to be so clueless able simple things but more complex stuff was normal.
The confusion from the first book with all the different types of Estilorians was still there. The names of the leaders and the groups they led were weird and hard to remember. I still don't really know who is who and what powers they have. But that doesn't really take away from the enjoyment of the book. And since it was explained over and over in excruciating detail anytime they were all together I didn't really need to remember. That was one of the things that annoyed me the most. The incessant descriptions of what people were wearing, where they were standing compared to others, etc. And this process went through all three sisters, their love interests, the elders, and the elders' second in command people. Sometimes it went through just one of those groups and often times more than one.
I totally read the third book before finishing this review so I have that book on the mind and don't want to accidentally give something away so on to the next review!
May 7, 2012
After reading Becoming; the first book in The Daughters of Saraqael trilogy, and getting to know the three sisters, Amber, Olivia and Skye, I was so excited to read Central and learn more about the second daughter, Olivia, and her budding romance with James along with the suspense of knowing that something was coming for her.
As a huge fan of action and brutal fight scenes, I was surprised how this book, which has a little less than what I am used to in a fantasy, kept me locked in, to the point where I gave up several hours of much needed sleep two days in a row just to finish it. I think that is a testament as to how good of a story teller Raine Thomas truly is.
The romantic side of me just ate this book up. I loved being there as these girls, Olivia especially, learned more about this new world that they are in and are able to impart their emotions onto an otherwise emotionless society to the point where everyone is falling in love with them, myself included…
The dynamics between the characters, mostly Olivia and James in this book, is just so real. It’s kind of like the fantasy of love, meeting that One person that was meant for you, that everybody dreams about and only few of us have. It was just a joy to read.
Each of the main characters have such strong and admirable qualities and the ability to shore up each others weaknesses.
But don’t let me fool you into thinking this is just a romantic fantasy. There is some really good action and I think it is intertwined perfectly into the plot. A shadow of suspense lingers throughout the book so you will find yourself not only giddy with the joy of following the budding relationships forming between Olivia and James, but also wondering when the bad stuff is going to happen and really hoping that it doesn’t because you just want everyone to live happily ever after without interruption.
Your going to find it hard to stop smiling throughout this book, it’s that good. I strongly recommend it and I cant’ wait to read the next one. I think Skye is going to be my favorite girl!
As a huge fan of action and brutal fight scenes, I was surprised how this book, which has a little less than what I am used to in a fantasy, kept me locked in, to the point where I gave up several hours of much needed sleep two days in a row just to finish it. I think that is a testament as to how good of a story teller Raine Thomas truly is.
The romantic side of me just ate this book up. I loved being there as these girls, Olivia especially, learned more about this new world that they are in and are able to impart their emotions onto an otherwise emotionless society to the point where everyone is falling in love with them, myself included…
The dynamics between the characters, mostly Olivia and James in this book, is just so real. It’s kind of like the fantasy of love, meeting that One person that was meant for you, that everybody dreams about and only few of us have. It was just a joy to read.
Each of the main characters have such strong and admirable qualities and the ability to shore up each others weaknesses.
But don’t let me fool you into thinking this is just a romantic fantasy. There is some really good action and I think it is intertwined perfectly into the plot. A shadow of suspense lingers throughout the book so you will find yourself not only giddy with the joy of following the budding relationships forming between Olivia and James, but also wondering when the bad stuff is going to happen and really hoping that it doesn’t because you just want everyone to live happily ever after without interruption.
Your going to find it hard to stop smiling throughout this book, it’s that good. I strongly recommend it and I cant’ wait to read the next one. I think Skye is going to be my favorite girl!
September 15, 2011
Here’s my no-spoiler review of Central, the 2nd book in the Daughters of Saraqael Trilogy. Central picks up in the sister’s lives where Becoming left off. It is mainly focused on and Olivia and her love interest, James (both of whom I really enjoyed reading about); however, the other sisters, Amber and Skye also have good roles in the book, along with Gabriel and Caleb. I loved James—nothing is more romantic than not knowing you’re romantic and Olivia was an excellent teacher helping him learn about human emotions—especially love.
One of the main themes in the book is the growing relationships between the sisters and the men in their lives and the formation of their family bond. It was great seeing the “family” naturally shape itself and watching James and Caleb learning to experience and deal with emotions—especially in their interactions with Olivia and Skye. Olivia’s panther, Aurora, also has a storyline that I really enjoyed and there was a magical, thrilling scene involving unicorns!
Raine is a very descriptive storyteller—most of the time that worked brilliantly, but sometimes it resulted in information overload; for example, when the book centered on the relationships of the main characters (the sisters and their men) and the description of their surroundings (especially Central), I was enthralled and couldn’t get enough, but when some of the Estilorian history was being explained, and all of the different classes and names of Estilorians (good and bad) were being introduced, I felt less would have been more and I couldn’t wait to get back to the action involving the six main characters, which is why I rated the book 4 stars instead of 5.
Overall, though, Central is an entertaining, moving story and I can’t wait to start the third book, Foretold, which I have already downloaded. This is definitely a series worth reading!
One of the main themes in the book is the growing relationships between the sisters and the men in their lives and the formation of their family bond. It was great seeing the “family” naturally shape itself and watching James and Caleb learning to experience and deal with emotions—especially in their interactions with Olivia and Skye. Olivia’s panther, Aurora, also has a storyline that I really enjoyed and there was a magical, thrilling scene involving unicorns!
Raine is a very descriptive storyteller—most of the time that worked brilliantly, but sometimes it resulted in information overload; for example, when the book centered on the relationships of the main characters (the sisters and their men) and the description of their surroundings (especially Central), I was enthralled and couldn’t get enough, but when some of the Estilorian history was being explained, and all of the different classes and names of Estilorians (good and bad) were being introduced, I felt less would have been more and I couldn’t wait to get back to the action involving the six main characters, which is why I rated the book 4 stars instead of 5.
Overall, though, Central is an entertaining, moving story and I can’t wait to start the third book, Foretold, which I have already downloaded. This is definitely a series worth reading!
October 8, 2011
Okay... So I finished reading Becoming in just a couple days and immediately bought Central because I HAD to find out what happened! Central was the perfect continuation to Becoming. Once again Miss Raine takes us into the Estilorian world where we learn more about the sisters. We learn more about Gabriel and his fellow Gloresti (haawwwwwwwt) warriors and the other Estilorians.
Central was predominantly through the perspective of the middle sister, Olivia, which was nice. I relate to her most being the down-to-earth book nerd type. Olivia is strong in her own way, but not like her sisters. Amber is the fighter, Skye is the light when all is dark, and Olivia is really almost like the heart. Much to my geekish pleasure the girls learn more about their abilities and how to fight back, to defend themselves in Central. Nothing gets me pumped up more than girls kicking some major bootay, and they do their share. Girl Power!
There is also some evil lurking and the sisters fall prey to those who are not so keen on the sisters being on their plane. The Mercesti are downright dirty and their leader, Grolkinei, will stop at nothing to get his creepy hands on them.
Again Central is full of the romance of Becoming and you find yourself falling hard for the Gloresti warriors sworn to protect the Daughters. Caleb (Skye's Gloresti) is a rock that crumbles under the power of Skye's persistent sass. James (Olivia's Gloresti) is just beyond words to me. He is strong, capable, fiercely protective, yet absolutely clueless on how to properly express himself to Oilvia. Love him! Want to put James in my pocket and take him home.
Did it rock my world? Fo sho! I give Central a 7.8 on my Richter scale.
Central was predominantly through the perspective of the middle sister, Olivia, which was nice. I relate to her most being the down-to-earth book nerd type. Olivia is strong in her own way, but not like her sisters. Amber is the fighter, Skye is the light when all is dark, and Olivia is really almost like the heart. Much to my geekish pleasure the girls learn more about their abilities and how to fight back, to defend themselves in Central. Nothing gets me pumped up more than girls kicking some major bootay, and they do their share. Girl Power!
There is also some evil lurking and the sisters fall prey to those who are not so keen on the sisters being on their plane. The Mercesti are downright dirty and their leader, Grolkinei, will stop at nothing to get his creepy hands on them.
Again Central is full of the romance of Becoming and you find yourself falling hard for the Gloresti warriors sworn to protect the Daughters. Caleb (Skye's Gloresti) is a rock that crumbles under the power of Skye's persistent sass. James (Olivia's Gloresti) is just beyond words to me. He is strong, capable, fiercely protective, yet absolutely clueless on how to properly express himself to Oilvia. Love him! Want to put James in my pocket and take him home.
Did it rock my world? Fo sho! I give Central a 7.8 on my Richter scale.
December 26, 2016
Well I was skeptical....at first. I couldn't put it down. I stayed up all night reading this book. Loved it!
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