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A Path of Thorns
Blood Doesnt lie
Having failed to heed the warnings of the generations before her, Rion offers Lillianett one more chance to survive and go home. A deal. She must pass the trials set by the Crowns of each kingdom but not before training on Syver, the Glorian academy. With enemies at every turn and only four allies on her side, it's another uphill battle for survival. If Lilly does survive, freedom is hers, but with old secrets coming to light and an even older shadow working in the darkness, what is that freedom truly worth?
Having failed to heed the warnings of the generations before her, Rion offers Lillianett one more chance to survive and go home. A deal. She must pass the trials set by the Crowns of each kingdom but not before training on Syver, the Glorian academy. With enemies at every turn and only four allies on her side, it's another uphill battle for survival. If Lilly does survive, freedom is hers, but with old secrets coming to light and an even older shadow working in the darkness, what is that freedom truly worth?
541 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2023
About the author
Maria B. Moses
2 books19 followersMaria Bolanle Moses lives in the heart of Toronto, Canada. Her love for stories and creation started at a young age and has gradually taken over her life. She’s obsessed with mythology, anime, and the performing arts. When she’s not writing, she can be found solving puzzles, reading, and auditioning for her next big part.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
June 3, 2023
A big thank you goes out to Maria B. Moses for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
This book is incredible, but to understand it, you have to read book one first. I went back and reread book one, I found that reading them back to back was best as the second one goes almost right after the first.
Lily is such a strong character in this book and has the best outlook on her whole situation. She was born into this life, she didn’t choose it. So everyone continues to call her and test her like a monster, except for a slight few.. but she continues to prove everyone wrong. Throughout the book she is given trails to overcome in order to break the curse and go home. Done trials are harder than others, and since you don’t even see the outcome coming until it’s there. Lily’s relationship with her friends has also grown in this book. They treat her more like family than anything. They all stand up for each other and fight for each other and their growth was written so smoothly.
The ending made me tear up… and then of course gasp right at the end.. So I have my fingers crossed that there will be another book.. 🤞🏻🤞🏻 but I also think that having small novels for each of her friends would be beneficial as well. I was left with questions on the part of all of them and how they came to be so close and dependent on each other. I know boys and pieces are mentioned through out both books, but I think reading the story from their point of view would be great!!
This book is incredible, but to understand it, you have to read book one first. I went back and reread book one, I found that reading them back to back was best as the second one goes almost right after the first.
Lily is such a strong character in this book and has the best outlook on her whole situation. She was born into this life, she didn’t choose it. So everyone continues to call her and test her like a monster, except for a slight few.. but she continues to prove everyone wrong. Throughout the book she is given trails to overcome in order to break the curse and go home. Done trials are harder than others, and since you don’t even see the outcome coming until it’s there. Lily’s relationship with her friends has also grown in this book. They treat her more like family than anything. They all stand up for each other and fight for each other and their growth was written so smoothly.
The ending made me tear up… and then of course gasp right at the end.. So I have my fingers crossed that there will be another book.. 🤞🏻🤞🏻 but I also think that having small novels for each of her friends would be beneficial as well. I was left with questions on the part of all of them and how they came to be so close and dependent on each other. I know boys and pieces are mentioned through out both books, but I think reading the story from their point of view would be great!!
June 1, 2026
I loved the first book, but after reading this, I think I love this even more!
In this book, we dive right back into the world of Glorus, and the story picks up right where things left off in the magical land of Glorus. Our girl Lilly, is still dealing with the heavy burden of being treated like a monster just because of her family's past. This time around, she is thrown into the deep end at the academy, facing dangerous tests and unexpected challenges set by the different kingdoms just to win back her freedom and go home. The overall vibe here is definitely much heavier, darker, and way more emotional than the first book, making you feel the constant danger she is in. But there are many humourous situation which will make you laugh out loud, especially the scenes with Ryalie (I mean he is our favourite character!😁🤌🏼)
What I love most about Lilly is how relatable she stays. She is only eighteen and carrying the weight of the world, but she still makes impulsive, messy choices that make her feel so human. But she doesn't have to do it alone. The friendships in this book are incredible. The way the whole group sticks together like a real family and protects each other is so heartwarming. Plus, getting to see more of the side characters like Ryalie and Jenos gave the plot so much extra depth.
And of course, we have to talk about Alix. The chemistry between him and Lilly is just amazing, like i said in the previous book, but here in this book, it is just on another level! If you love witty back-and-forth banter and that perfect slow-burn energy that keeps you smiling and kicking your feet through every interaction, their moments will absolutely hook you.
The pacing is super fast, and the author builds the world beautifully without ever making it feel slow or boring. The twists and the massive ending had me completely stressed out in the best way possible.
In this book, we dive right back into the world of Glorus, and the story picks up right where things left off in the magical land of Glorus. Our girl Lilly, is still dealing with the heavy burden of being treated like a monster just because of her family's past. This time around, she is thrown into the deep end at the academy, facing dangerous tests and unexpected challenges set by the different kingdoms just to win back her freedom and go home. The overall vibe here is definitely much heavier, darker, and way more emotional than the first book, making you feel the constant danger she is in. But there are many humourous situation which will make you laugh out loud, especially the scenes with Ryalie (I mean he is our favourite character!😁🤌🏼)
What I love most about Lilly is how relatable she stays. She is only eighteen and carrying the weight of the world, but she still makes impulsive, messy choices that make her feel so human. But she doesn't have to do it alone. The friendships in this book are incredible. The way the whole group sticks together like a real family and protects each other is so heartwarming. Plus, getting to see more of the side characters like Ryalie and Jenos gave the plot so much extra depth.
And of course, we have to talk about Alix. The chemistry between him and Lilly is just amazing, like i said in the previous book, but here in this book, it is just on another level! If you love witty back-and-forth banter and that perfect slow-burn energy that keeps you smiling and kicking your feet through every interaction, their moments will absolutely hook you.
The pacing is super fast, and the author builds the world beautifully without ever making it feel slow or boring. The twists and the massive ending had me completely stressed out in the best way possible.
May 25, 2026
I thought the first book was amazing, but the second one completely blew my mind.
I truly believed I knew everything about Glorus, enough of Alix and Lilly and the others. Let me tell you, I was very wrong. I had no idea that this story could get even better, but it did. The sequel was not repetitive at all, even though the characters were the same as in the previous book. This book showed me that there was more to Glorus and the characters than what was in the first book. One of the things I loved was how Alle and Lilly's friendship grew throughout this book; it was definitely a friendship to be envied.
Though I did not have many opinions regarding Jenos in the first book, in this one, I understood what a complex character he was. The group would not survive without him, for sure.
My fondness for Ryalie has only grown to an absurd amount after this book, so I thank the author for giving him more screen time (page-time?).
"Don't tell Alix, but you really are my favourite," Oh Lilly, I absolutely agree. He is my favorite, too.
The character developments were good, and the worldbuilding also did not pale in comparison. The different kingdoms' detailed descriptions in this book really brought the fictional world of Glorus to life.
A very wonderful sequel to the first book, and I cannot wait to read the finale, which I am sure is going to be amazingggg.
I truly believed I knew everything about Glorus, enough of Alix and Lilly and the others. Let me tell you, I was very wrong. I had no idea that this story could get even better, but it did. The sequel was not repetitive at all, even though the characters were the same as in the previous book. This book showed me that there was more to Glorus and the characters than what was in the first book. One of the things I loved was how Alle and Lilly's friendship grew throughout this book; it was definitely a friendship to be envied.
Though I did not have many opinions regarding Jenos in the first book, in this one, I understood what a complex character he was. The group would not survive without him, for sure.
My fondness for Ryalie has only grown to an absurd amount after this book, so I thank the author for giving him more screen time (page-time?).
"Don't tell Alix, but you really are my favourite," Oh Lilly, I absolutely agree. He is my favorite, too.
The character developments were good, and the worldbuilding also did not pale in comparison. The different kingdoms' detailed descriptions in this book really brought the fictional world of Glorus to life.
A very wonderful sequel to the first book, and I cannot wait to read the finale, which I am sure is going to be amazingggg.
June 2, 2026
A Path of Thorns grips you from page one and doesn’t let go. This sequel turns up the heat on everything higher stakes, darker secrets, and a heroine who refuses to break even when the world keeps trying to shatter her.
Lilly’s journey here is brutal and compelling. Cursed with a fate she never asked for, she keeps pushing forward through danger, pressure, and impossible decisions. Watching her train at Glorian Academy, survive the kingdom trials, and wrestle with fear, duty, and survival makes her feel incredibly real and resilient. Her growth is the heart of the story she’s battered, but she doesn’t quit.
The tone is heavier and more emotional than the first book. Secrets run deeper, betrayals cut sharper, and every chapter left me on edge, bracing for what might happen next. There were moments I literally had to pause and catch my breath.
What balances the darkness are the bonds Lilly forms. In a world full of enemies, the loyalty and quiet support from friends and allies give the story its emotional weight. Those small moments of trust matter just as much as the action.
The world-building stays immersive kingdoms, curses, bloodlines, and hidden truths all weave together seamlessly. And the pacing is relentless. Once you start, it’s hard to stop.
If you like YA fantasy with a fierce heroine, academy trials, slow-burn tension, and found family vibes, this one delivers.
Lilly’s journey here is brutal and compelling. Cursed with a fate she never asked for, she keeps pushing forward through danger, pressure, and impossible decisions. Watching her train at Glorian Academy, survive the kingdom trials, and wrestle with fear, duty, and survival makes her feel incredibly real and resilient. Her growth is the heart of the story she’s battered, but she doesn’t quit.
The tone is heavier and more emotional than the first book. Secrets run deeper, betrayals cut sharper, and every chapter left me on edge, bracing for what might happen next. There were moments I literally had to pause and catch my breath.
What balances the darkness are the bonds Lilly forms. In a world full of enemies, the loyalty and quiet support from friends and allies give the story its emotional weight. Those small moments of trust matter just as much as the action.
The world-building stays immersive kingdoms, curses, bloodlines, and hidden truths all weave together seamlessly. And the pacing is relentless. Once you start, it’s hard to stop.
If you like YA fantasy with a fierce heroine, academy trials, slow-burn tension, and found family vibes, this one delivers.
June 2, 2026
Reading this book was a rollercoaster ride for me because of its strong narration. This is one of those stories that I didn't just imagine, but lived. Lilly's training and the trials made this an amazing read. Each kingdom was nothing less than one could imagine, and I was always intrigued to discover what each trial would be.
My favourite part was Lilly's visit to Halibel, her kingdom. The mystery element kept me on my toes throughout the story. It captivated me from the verybeginning and left me wanting more. I can't wait to get my hands on the final installment of the trilogy.
All praise to the author for creating the splendid world of Glorus. I loved the detailing, and among all the trials, the Leims' was my favourite. It was heartwarming to read and learn more about Lilly's friends: Alix, Alle, Jenos, and Ryalie. Needless to say, Ryalie remains my favourite character.
Lilly's character development, from her younger self to who she becomes after her training, is commendable. I also enjoyed the back-and-forth banter between Lilly and Alix. Oh, the man he is!
Book 1 had already set high expectations for me, and this one not only exceeded and but raised the bar too high for the book 3 of this trilogy and I'm sure author would no less of the justice to it.
My favourite part was Lilly's visit to Halibel, her kingdom. The mystery element kept me on my toes throughout the story. It captivated me from the verybeginning and left me wanting more. I can't wait to get my hands on the final installment of the trilogy.
All praise to the author for creating the splendid world of Glorus. I loved the detailing, and among all the trials, the Leims' was my favourite. It was heartwarming to read and learn more about Lilly's friends: Alix, Alle, Jenos, and Ryalie. Needless to say, Ryalie remains my favourite character.
Lilly's character development, from her younger self to who she becomes after her training, is commendable. I also enjoyed the back-and-forth banter between Lilly and Alix. Oh, the man he is!
Book 1 had already set high expectations for me, and this one not only exceeded and but raised the bar too high for the book 3 of this trilogy and I'm sure author would no less of the justice to it.
May 25, 2026
'A Path of Thorns' is where the hope blooms among the fiery forest of thorns. There is a chance, a future and a relief from curses.
Lilly hasn't changed much except a lot of trouble causing experience and impulsive decisions. Alix, hasn't left Lilly and wasn't planning to. Ryalie and Jenos have also taken their places to protect the one who they once considered the Renai, the monster of Glorus.
But, someone is plotting and strategizing as Lilly gets one more chance on her life and to free her lineage from the debt of curse. Starting from training at Syver, she is in for a roller coaster which vicious and dangerous.
An amazing story line and exceptional writing style. The author has magic in her imagination and a softness in her character building. I literally loved the story as it was a continuation of 'A Curse of Roses'. Both the books are on my favourite Romantasy list and I am not replacing them anytime soon.
Recommended for romantasy lovers who value relationships, love, friendships, hope and integrity. For magic and powers and a world beyond.
Lilly hasn't changed much except a lot of trouble causing experience and impulsive decisions. Alix, hasn't left Lilly and wasn't planning to. Ryalie and Jenos have also taken their places to protect the one who they once considered the Renai, the monster of Glorus.
But, someone is plotting and strategizing as Lilly gets one more chance on her life and to free her lineage from the debt of curse. Starting from training at Syver, she is in for a roller coaster which vicious and dangerous.
An amazing story line and exceptional writing style. The author has magic in her imagination and a softness in her character building. I literally loved the story as it was a continuation of 'A Curse of Roses'. Both the books are on my favourite Romantasy list and I am not replacing them anytime soon.
Recommended for romantasy lovers who value relationships, love, friendships, hope and integrity. For magic and powers and a world beyond.
May 21, 2026
"it was supposed to be simple. Live like a bird in a glorified cage for a year in the world of my ancestors and then i go home."
- After being all obsessed with Lily and her strength. I picked up the 2nd book of this trilogy. And... I ate it up! I stayed up late and woke up early just to finish this book.
- So in this book, Lily sets up for an epic trial. She needs to prove herself and ofcourse she needs to go back home. In order to go home, she needs to pass all the quests given by the kingdoms. But before it she needs to be trained from Glorian Academy. If she wins freedom is her... But freedom doesn't come without any price right?
- I'm a YA girl and i consumed this book!! It's bulkier than the first one of the series, but trust me!! You'll never understand when time flies so fast!! Author nailed it. The emotional connection, the enemies, complications in the academy.... This is perfection!!
- After being all obsessed with Lily and her strength. I picked up the 2nd book of this trilogy. And... I ate it up! I stayed up late and woke up early just to finish this book.
- So in this book, Lily sets up for an epic trial. She needs to prove herself and ofcourse she needs to go back home. In order to go home, she needs to pass all the quests given by the kingdoms. But before it she needs to be trained from Glorian Academy. If she wins freedom is her... But freedom doesn't come without any price right?
- I'm a YA girl and i consumed this book!! It's bulkier than the first one of the series, but trust me!! You'll never understand when time flies so fast!! Author nailed it. The emotional connection, the enemies, complications in the academy.... This is perfection!!
June 2, 2026
A strong and wilful girl with fierce determination , with her own independence and unwavering spirit embarks on a journey to get free herself and her family,lineage from the ancient deadly curse.
This book revolves around different kingdoms of glorus, their trial and secrets.
It shows how the trial were challenging and how Lily with her personality and training overcome and pass all the trials.
Her visit to different kingdoms shows us different magic and secrets.
The description is amazing
Thank author did a fantastic work in plot line, story , scenes and most importantly all characters
Every characters are unique in their own way.
In this 2nd book the character are also developed more and more.
I really loved the friendship , trust and care among Ryalie, jenos , Alix , elle and Lily was really really mind blowing.
Overall I not only read the book and loved it but also I lived the book
A wink for my blaze.
Can't wait to read the 3 book
This book revolves around different kingdoms of glorus, their trial and secrets.
It shows how the trial were challenging and how Lily with her personality and training overcome and pass all the trials.
Her visit to different kingdoms shows us different magic and secrets.
The description is amazing
Thank author did a fantastic work in plot line, story , scenes and most importantly all characters
Every characters are unique in their own way.
In this 2nd book the character are also developed more and more.
I really loved the friendship , trust and care among Ryalie, jenos , Alix , elle and Lily was really really mind blowing.
Overall I not only read the book and loved it but also I lived the book
A wink for my blaze.
Can't wait to read the 3 book
June 2, 2026
A Path of Thorns is a fantastic book where the magnificent architecture of the kingdoms of Glorus along the thrilling adventures of Lilly and her friends have been brought alive in great narration. Although the book is over 500 pages, the story unfolds so brilliantly and makes you totally eager to know what twist the next page will bring.
Each of the trials that Lillianette had to undergo in the kingdoms she visited to receive the mysterious prize have been crafted so nicely and makes you secretly root for her too as a reader. Ryalie, Jenos, Alix and Alle and the way they support and stand for her during tough times or against evil persons really makes you admire their bond of friendship.
Lilly's time at Syver and the lessons she received there along with the encounters she had to face are both admirable and fun to read. Her love story with Alix adds a deeply emotional touch to the book.
Each of the trials that Lillianette had to undergo in the kingdoms she visited to receive the mysterious prize have been crafted so nicely and makes you secretly root for her too as a reader. Ryalie, Jenos, Alix and Alle and the way they support and stand for her during tough times or against evil persons really makes you admire their bond of friendship.
Lilly's time at Syver and the lessons she received there along with the encounters she had to face are both admirable and fun to read. Her love story with Alix adds a deeply emotional touch to the book.
May 26, 2026
okay but genuinely what did maria put in this series because i literally cannot stop reading 😭🫶🏻
never had i thought i would devour fantasy books like THIS but oh my god this series has me completely hooked. and im telling y'all honestly PLEASE pick this up because it deserves so much more hype.
Lilly 😭 my girl is literally only 18 and has to go through SO much like??? the amount of strength she has?? insane. watching her deal with everything in this book genuinely hurt because this one felt way darker and way more emotional than the first book.
and my prince ALIXIOS🧎🏻♀️
sirrrrrr.
him and lilly together?? their banters, their moments, everything about them had me giggling and kicking my feet 🤭
also one thing about this series is that the friendships NEVER disappoint. like i love the side characters so much because they all feel important and lovable in their own way 😭🫶🏻
and the trials in this book??? so intense. there were moments where i was genuinely stressed while reading because the stakes felt SO high 🖐🏼🫡
at this point im way too attached to this world and these characters and now i have to painfully wait for the final book 😭
never had i thought i would devour fantasy books like THIS but oh my god this series has me completely hooked. and im telling y'all honestly PLEASE pick this up because it deserves so much more hype.
Lilly 😭 my girl is literally only 18 and has to go through SO much like??? the amount of strength she has?? insane. watching her deal with everything in this book genuinely hurt because this one felt way darker and way more emotional than the first book.
and my prince ALIXIOS🧎🏻♀️
sirrrrrr.
him and lilly together?? their banters, their moments, everything about them had me giggling and kicking my feet 🤭
also one thing about this series is that the friendships NEVER disappoint. like i love the side characters so much because they all feel important and lovable in their own way 😭🫶🏻
and the trials in this book??? so intense. there were moments where i was genuinely stressed while reading because the stakes felt SO high 🖐🏼🫡
at this point im way too attached to this world and these characters and now i have to painfully wait for the final book 😭
December 10, 2025
This is book two of the A Curse of Roses Trilogy. This book has a strong, well-developed and an interesting story line with twists and unexpected turns that keep you reading and turning the pages. It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention. Amazing world building that is detailed and imaginable. Strong, interesting, and fascinating characters that are well developed and diverse. This is a fast-paced intriguing read! This review is based on an early review copy I was sent by the publisher, but this didn't affect the content of my review that I am voluntarily providing.
May 25, 2026
"A Path of Thorns" by Maria B Moses is "A Curse of Roses Trilogy" a story about Lily the protagonist of the book, she did not choose the life she was born to, she was labelled different, called a monster, so she set out to put a stop to what her ancestors have been fleeing from, a strong character with lots of guts but at what cost? Would she even make it out alive? What would happen to her? Did she have what it takes to go out there and pass the trials set by the crowns of each Kingdoms? Would she be alone through all these or did she atleast have friends who had her back?
For the fantasy readers out there, here is your next read, you won't regret it one bit.
For the fantasy readers out there, here is your next read, you won't regret it one bit.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews