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Torn Trilogy #3
Bound
“I beat you. Twice. No magic, and I still beat you. And that was when I didn’t know what I was doing.” I smiled, cold as the winter sky outside. “Imagine what I’m capable of now.”
Mo Fitzgerald has made her choice: A life in Chicago. A future with Colin. To leave behind the enigmatic Luc and the world of the Arcs. But every decision she’s made, from avenging her best friend’s death to protecting the people she loves, has come at a terrible price.
As her father returns from prison and the Seraphim regroup, war breaks out in both her worlds. And Mo isn’t the only one with secrets to hide and choices to make. The more she struggles to keep her magic and mortal lives separate, the deadlier the consequences. In the end, Mo must risk everything – her life, her heart, her future—or lose it all.
Mo Fitzgerald has made her choice: A life in Chicago. A future with Colin. To leave behind the enigmatic Luc and the world of the Arcs. But every decision she’s made, from avenging her best friend’s death to protecting the people she loves, has come at a terrible price.
As her father returns from prison and the Seraphim regroup, war breaks out in both her worlds. And Mo isn’t the only one with secrets to hide and choices to make. The more she struggles to keep her magic and mortal lives separate, the deadlier the consequences. In the end, Mo must risk everything – her life, her heart, her future—or lose it all.
336 pages, Paperback
First published June 26, 2012
16 people are currently reading
1103 people want to read
About the author
Erica O'Rourke
11 books359 followersI write books about girls who make their own fate and fall for boys they shouldn't.
I live outside Chicago. I like to travel but I'll never really leave this city.
I prefer cookies to cake (even cupcakes), television to movies, and autumn to all the other seasons.
I like sushi, naps, coffee, and driving stick shift.
I hate fish, emoticons, bridges, and talking about myself.
Click here for more about me.
I live outside Chicago. I like to travel but I'll never really leave this city.
I prefer cookies to cake (even cupcakes), television to movies, and autumn to all the other seasons.
I like sushi, naps, coffee, and driving stick shift.
I hate fish, emoticons, bridges, and talking about myself.
Click here for more about me.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
October 15, 2012
Spoilers
Mo is still torn between her human world and the magical world she was thrown into. What ever will she do o_O??
-The plot was somewhat predictable and repetitive - Mo spent most of the book moaning about her mob uncle using her for crimes and whatnot, whinging about her dad, complaining about her magical responsibilities whilst simultaneously whining about Luc and Colin.
Her separate issues with the mafia and the magical world were a little too ridiculous and over the top — the mafia and magic angle didn't really fit well together in the story.
-I hated Luc and Mo's relationship, they were awful. Here's why:
1. Luc used to date Mo's dead best friend, Verity, they were actually meant to get married. Mo is just second best.
2. Mo being with Luc was huge a betrayal to Verity, she knew how much Verity loved Luc but she didn't respect Verity enough to not date him.
3. If Verity hadn't died, Luc would never have even been interested in Mo.
4. The only reason Luc wanted Mo was because Mo happened to inherit Verity's destiny. He didn't choose Mo, if someone else had gotten Verity's powers he would have been all over them.
5. Luc set her up to die in the previous book and Mo just forgets about him almost killing her.
6. Luc kept choosing his magical duties over Mo.
7. I wasn't convinced of Luc's love for Mo at all — he just wanted her because they were 'bound' together.
I was disappointed that Luc's relationship with Verity and Niobe wasn't really cleared up. Did Luc love Verity? How serious was he about her? Did he only date Verity because it was destined or were his feelings genuine? Did he used to have a thing for Niobe?
In the previous books Mo wondered a little bit about Luc's past with Verity and Niobe yet she doesn't really ask Luc about any of it. It was really annoying - Why bring it up, if we're not going to get any bloody insight??
-Colin was such a hypocrite. His double standards pissed me off — it was ok for him to keep secrets, it was ok for him to risk his life to protect Mo and it was ok for him to lie. But when he found out Mo made a deal with her uncle in order to protect him he got all pissy about it and dumped her. His inability to understand what Mo did, really didn't fit in with the patient, understanding guy that had previously been portrayed. Colin and Mo's relationship was only destroyed just so she could get with Luc.
-Constance was far too idiotic to be a remotely realistic character. She hated Mo and blamed Mo for her sister's death, even though it wasn't Mo's fault. Ridiculously, Constance sides with the bad guys that actually killed her sister. Why would she blame Mo for Verity dying instead of blaming the bad guys who actually killed her? Constance wasn't dumb, so it made no sense for her to be so stupid about her sister's murder. Constance was too contrived to be anything but a rubbish character.
-I lost all my respect for Mo when she turned down the opportunity to go to NYU, even though it's what she wanted for years. Naturally she has a new dream which just so happens to revolve around her boyfriend, Luc. She decides to attend uni where he lives and she also decides to stay a part of the magical world that she's hated for the last two and half books. Mo in the latter half of the book suddenly embraces all things magical — there's nothing apart from her growing closeness with Luc that warrants her change in attitude.
Does Luc make any compromises or changes for Mo? No, he ends up getting everything he wanted - Mo, his magic, his fate, his place in the magical council with Mo obediently at his side. Whilst Mo gives up everything..ugh.
I enjoyed the first two books but I wasn't impressed with this one at all. I hated that Mo spent the whole book whining and acting like a desperate dog-like girlfriend by changing all her plans to suit her boyfriend..ugh.
Mo is still torn between her human world and the magical world she was thrown into. What ever will she do o_O??
-The plot was somewhat predictable and repetitive - Mo spent most of the book moaning about her mob uncle using her for crimes and whatnot, whinging about her dad, complaining about her magical responsibilities whilst simultaneously whining about Luc and Colin.
Her separate issues with the mafia and the magical world were a little too ridiculous and over the top — the mafia and magic angle didn't really fit well together in the story.
-I hated Luc and Mo's relationship, they were awful. Here's why:
1. Luc used to date Mo's dead best friend, Verity, they were actually meant to get married. Mo is just second best.
2. Mo being with Luc was huge a betrayal to Verity, she knew how much Verity loved Luc but she didn't respect Verity enough to not date him.
3. If Verity hadn't died, Luc would never have even been interested in Mo.
4. The only reason Luc wanted Mo was because Mo happened to inherit Verity's destiny. He didn't choose Mo, if someone else had gotten Verity's powers he would have been all over them.
5. Luc set her up to die in the previous book and Mo just forgets about him almost killing her.
6. Luc kept choosing his magical duties over Mo.
7. I wasn't convinced of Luc's love for Mo at all — he just wanted her because they were 'bound' together.
I was disappointed that Luc's relationship with Verity and Niobe wasn't really cleared up. Did Luc love Verity? How serious was he about her? Did he only date Verity because it was destined or were his feelings genuine? Did he used to have a thing for Niobe?
In the previous books Mo wondered a little bit about Luc's past with Verity and Niobe yet she doesn't really ask Luc about any of it. It was really annoying - Why bring it up, if we're not going to get any bloody insight??
-Colin was such a hypocrite. His double standards pissed me off — it was ok for him to keep secrets, it was ok for him to risk his life to protect Mo and it was ok for him to lie. But when he found out Mo made a deal with her uncle in order to protect him he got all pissy about it and dumped her. His inability to understand what Mo did, really didn't fit in with the patient, understanding guy that had previously been portrayed. Colin and Mo's relationship was only destroyed just so she could get with Luc.
-Constance was far too idiotic to be a remotely realistic character. She hated Mo and blamed Mo for her sister's death, even though it wasn't Mo's fault. Ridiculously, Constance sides with the bad guys that actually killed her sister. Why would she blame Mo for Verity dying instead of blaming the bad guys who actually killed her? Constance wasn't dumb, so it made no sense for her to be so stupid about her sister's murder. Constance was too contrived to be anything but a rubbish character.
-I lost all my respect for Mo when she turned down the opportunity to go to NYU, even though it's what she wanted for years. Naturally she has a new dream which just so happens to revolve around her boyfriend, Luc. She decides to attend uni where he lives and she also decides to stay a part of the magical world that she's hated for the last two and half books. Mo in the latter half of the book suddenly embraces all things magical — there's nothing apart from her growing closeness with Luc that warrants her change in attitude.
Does Luc make any compromises or changes for Mo? No, he ends up getting everything he wanted - Mo, his magic, his fate, his place in the magical council with Mo obediently at his side. Whilst Mo gives up everything..ugh.
I enjoyed the first two books but I wasn't impressed with this one at all. I hated that Mo spent the whole book whining and acting like a desperate dog-like girlfriend by changing all her plans to suit her boyfriend..ugh.
June 26, 2012
We pick back up in Bound three months after all the events from Tangled took place. Mo has chosen to stay in Chicago with Colin and is trying to keep her Flat life and her Arc life separate. We all knew that would not last long though right? Anton is still chasing her, her Uncle Billy has her working for the mob and she has so many secrets she is having a hard time keeping straight who she has told them to. The entirety of Bound is literally the climax that we have all been waiting for and what the previous books having been leading too.
When we begin in Bound, Mo is still dating Colin and I have to admit I am not a fan of him so I was secretly plotting their break-up. Not fair I know, but there is something about the bad boy that is always so appealing which is why I always loved Luc. I am not a fan of love triangles, but Erica has always kept the choice in guys up to Mo. She does not take her choice away by something happening to one of the guys or forcing Mo’s hand. Mo is faced with choosing between two futures as well as the guys that could be a part of them. Either guy could be someone she could be with, but she needs to choose what path she wants before she can finally decide what guy will stand beside her. I liked that about the romance in this book, the decision was always up to Mo. She had to find the strength inside herself to discover what she truly wanted.
As for all the action, wow there was plenty to go around in this book. All of the conflict in Mo’s life literally comes to a head in this book as her life in the Arc world and the Flat world collide. Many lives get lost and there were a couple deaths I did not see coming at all. At one point Marguerite says to Mo:
“You cannot save them all…”
That quote could not be truer, or more heartbreaking. There were moments I was questioning how everything was going to work out for Mo and how she would get through it all, but Erica created a strong character in Mo. She fought with everything she had to get her life to where she wanted it to be and refused to give up until she had the life she chose. Mo has stayed true to who she was since we met her in Torn and hates having any decision made for her. She has grown since the events in Torn, but it has only been for the better and her core characteristics remain the same, and that is why I loved her.
Sometimes a series can get bland as they continue, but this trilogy just got better with each installment. Bound ended this series with a bang and was a perfect conclusion to Mo’s story. Not everything was wrapped up in a neat little bow, but the major conflict was resolved and I was happy with where Mo ended up. I am sad to leave this world, but was very satisfied with the closing of Mo’s tale.
If you have not read these books I highly suggest looking into them! You need to read them in order because there is too much backstory to start out with this book, but they are fantastic young adult paranormal titles! At its core it is a story of a girl who is lost in life, looking for what she really wants. Throw in two hot guys looking to be by her side through that journey, some seriously wicked magic and a couple of nasty villains chasing her and you get a small taste of this world. I am not sure what books Erica will bring us next, but I know I will definitely be picking up copies of them!
When we begin in Bound, Mo is still dating Colin and I have to admit I am not a fan of him so I was secretly plotting their break-up. Not fair I know, but there is something about the bad boy that is always so appealing which is why I always loved Luc. I am not a fan of love triangles, but Erica has always kept the choice in guys up to Mo. She does not take her choice away by something happening to one of the guys or forcing Mo’s hand. Mo is faced with choosing between two futures as well as the guys that could be a part of them. Either guy could be someone she could be with, but she needs to choose what path she wants before she can finally decide what guy will stand beside her. I liked that about the romance in this book, the decision was always up to Mo. She had to find the strength inside herself to discover what she truly wanted.
As for all the action, wow there was plenty to go around in this book. All of the conflict in Mo’s life literally comes to a head in this book as her life in the Arc world and the Flat world collide. Many lives get lost and there were a couple deaths I did not see coming at all. At one point Marguerite says to Mo:
“You cannot save them all…”
That quote could not be truer, or more heartbreaking. There were moments I was questioning how everything was going to work out for Mo and how she would get through it all, but Erica created a strong character in Mo. She fought with everything she had to get her life to where she wanted it to be and refused to give up until she had the life she chose. Mo has stayed true to who she was since we met her in Torn and hates having any decision made for her. She has grown since the events in Torn, but it has only been for the better and her core characteristics remain the same, and that is why I loved her.
Sometimes a series can get bland as they continue, but this trilogy just got better with each installment. Bound ended this series with a bang and was a perfect conclusion to Mo’s story. Not everything was wrapped up in a neat little bow, but the major conflict was resolved and I was happy with where Mo ended up. I am sad to leave this world, but was very satisfied with the closing of Mo’s tale.
If you have not read these books I highly suggest looking into them! You need to read them in order because there is too much backstory to start out with this book, but they are fantastic young adult paranormal titles! At its core it is a story of a girl who is lost in life, looking for what she really wants. Throw in two hot guys looking to be by her side through that journey, some seriously wicked magic and a couple of nasty villains chasing her and you get a small taste of this world. I am not sure what books Erica will bring us next, but I know I will definitely be picking up copies of them!
August 7, 2012
This is a wonderful conclusion to a fantastic trilogy. Though bittersweet, O'Rourke provides an ending that adeptly wraps up all of the various storylines, and I could not imagine a more perfect end to the story.
What I enjoyed most about this novel is how well the author mixes the paranormal aspects of the story with contemporary life. As with the other books in the trilogy, Mo is forced to balance her family life and her connection to magic, only she is now facing much higher stakes. Furthermore, Mo is now dealing with new complications, such as learning how to adjust to having her father home from prison. Her two worlds collide in Bound, and this collision results in an exhilarating read.
The characterization is very well done over the course of the trilogy. In Bound, Mo has learned from her previous mistakes, refuses to take the easy way out, is forced to make tough decisions, and is willing to deal with the consequences of her actions. She has finally matured into the strong character I knew that she could be. Both Colin and Luc continue to be appealing characters as well, and readers will want to root for both of them. Although Mo's relationship with Colin is just as believable as her relationship with Luc, I was pleased with the choice Mo ended up making. While I believe that most readers will appreciate the increased amount of romance in this title, there may be some readers that dislike that the love triangle has continued into the third book.
Bound is very well written and has perfect pacing. This book is filled with action, suspense, and romance. The complex storyline will keep readers engaged, and all of the secrets and lies make for an intriguing read. This trilogy contains the most fascinating portrayal of magic that I have ever read.
This book is emotional, heartbreaking, and breathtaking. I am greatly looking forward to reading more of O'Rourke's books in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and KTeen Books for providing me with an ARC!
What I enjoyed most about this novel is how well the author mixes the paranormal aspects of the story with contemporary life. As with the other books in the trilogy, Mo is forced to balance her family life and her connection to magic, only she is now facing much higher stakes. Furthermore, Mo is now dealing with new complications, such as learning how to adjust to having her father home from prison. Her two worlds collide in Bound, and this collision results in an exhilarating read.
The characterization is very well done over the course of the trilogy. In Bound, Mo has learned from her previous mistakes, refuses to take the easy way out, is forced to make tough decisions, and is willing to deal with the consequences of her actions. She has finally matured into the strong character I knew that she could be. Both Colin and Luc continue to be appealing characters as well, and readers will want to root for both of them. Although Mo's relationship with Colin is just as believable as her relationship with Luc, I was pleased with the choice Mo ended up making. While I believe that most readers will appreciate the increased amount of romance in this title, there may be some readers that dislike that the love triangle has continued into the third book.
Bound is very well written and has perfect pacing. This book is filled with action, suspense, and romance. The complex storyline will keep readers engaged, and all of the secrets and lies make for an intriguing read. This trilogy contains the most fascinating portrayal of magic that I have ever read.
This book is emotional, heartbreaking, and breathtaking. I am greatly looking forward to reading more of O'Rourke's books in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and KTeen Books for providing me with an ARC!
June 5, 2012
Erica O’Rourke wraps up the Torn Trilogy with a tidy, red magical bow. With Bound come ultimate tests, for beloved heroine, Mo Fitzgerald. From working for the Outfit to carefully stepping her way through personal relationships, this quasi-magical girl has a full plate of magical and non-magical drama.
A world where magic doesn’t interfere in the lives of Flats would be paradise for Mo. But, there’s more to the magic than any of the Arcs know and Mo’s Flat life is quickly bleeding from normal to toxically dangerous. Attacks from the Seraphim leader, Anton, are bolder and more vicious. Luc is still gunning for Mo’s heart and Colin’s edging further away. While Mo has to navigate life with her father back from prison, the Arcs are counting on Mo to keep the magic safe. The secrets between family and friends are darker and harder to keep under wraps, not to mention juicier! With all the commotion inside of Bound it seems like a shame for it to be the last chapter in Mo’s story.
The trials Mo faces are unlike any she’s had to face in Torn or Tangled. It’s come to the point of unfair for there to be more reasons to cry, to laugh, or to scream in fear at the end of the trilogy when readers are just getting know the depth of this outstanding young woman’s character. Mo’s stubborn personality has been consistent through the series, but in Bound she’s more skilled in having her voice heard. Courageous and determined are Mo’s middle names and she wears them proudly. Her enemies still underestimate her and it’s all she needs bring them down.
Action-packed and greatly alluring, the finale, Bound, keeps readers on the edge of their seats and praying for a happy ending. The successful completion of Erica O’Rourke’s first teen series makes her even more of an author to watch!
Candace Hawkins
Wovenmyst.com
A world where magic doesn’t interfere in the lives of Flats would be paradise for Mo. But, there’s more to the magic than any of the Arcs know and Mo’s Flat life is quickly bleeding from normal to toxically dangerous. Attacks from the Seraphim leader, Anton, are bolder and more vicious. Luc is still gunning for Mo’s heart and Colin’s edging further away. While Mo has to navigate life with her father back from prison, the Arcs are counting on Mo to keep the magic safe. The secrets between family and friends are darker and harder to keep under wraps, not to mention juicier! With all the commotion inside of Bound it seems like a shame for it to be the last chapter in Mo’s story.
The trials Mo faces are unlike any she’s had to face in Torn or Tangled. It’s come to the point of unfair for there to be more reasons to cry, to laugh, or to scream in fear at the end of the trilogy when readers are just getting know the depth of this outstanding young woman’s character. Mo’s stubborn personality has been consistent through the series, but in Bound she’s more skilled in having her voice heard. Courageous and determined are Mo’s middle names and she wears them proudly. Her enemies still underestimate her and it’s all she needs bring them down.
Action-packed and greatly alluring, the finale, Bound, keeps readers on the edge of their seats and praying for a happy ending. The successful completion of Erica O’Rourke’s first teen series makes her even more of an author to watch!
Candace Hawkins
Wovenmyst.com
July 6, 2012
Something that has never happened to me before happened with Bound. I was afraid of finishing it. Not because it was boring or bad but because I’m going to miss these characters so much. Even right now I feel like crying. I was very excited when I got the book in the mail and then I thought, “This is it. The end of one of my favorite series ever.” And then I wasn't as excited as before. I can always re-read the series, right?
I’m very happy with the ending. I'm ecstatic with the choices Mo made. I was very happy with the guy she ended up with. I mean, I love them both due to O'Rourke's amazing ability to write two totally different love interests that the reader can’t help but fall in love with. But at the end Mo had to choose which guy was the best fit for her and she did and I approve! All I have to say is that the love triangle in this series is the best I have ever read. I didn't know whom she was going to end up with. It kept me guessing until almost the end.
If you haven’t read this series do so now. Don’t be afraid of the love triangle. I personally don’t like them but the love triangle in this series is epic. The writing is amazing and full of action. I was amazed with O’Rourke’s talent of writing vivid and relatable characters. This book has it all. Two amazingly scary and twisted worlds, one kick ass-heroine and two hunkalicious love interests.
I’m very happy with the ending. I'm ecstatic with the choices Mo made. I was very happy with the guy she ended up with. I mean, I love them both due to O'Rourke's amazing ability to write two totally different love interests that the reader can’t help but fall in love with. But at the end Mo had to choose which guy was the best fit for her and she did and I approve! All I have to say is that the love triangle in this series is the best I have ever read. I didn't know whom she was going to end up with. It kept me guessing until almost the end.
If you haven’t read this series do so now. Don’t be afraid of the love triangle. I personally don’t like them but the love triangle in this series is epic. The writing is amazing and full of action. I was amazed with O’Rourke’s talent of writing vivid and relatable characters. This book has it all. Two amazingly scary and twisted worlds, one kick ass-heroine and two hunkalicious love interests.
December 28, 2012
SPOILERS***************************************************
A strong conclusion to an excellent series.
Mo chooses a future with Luc. She discovers that Lena has been helping her parents illegally relocate victims of domestic violence, and has them relocate Colin and his sister Tessa. Constance betrays Mo and the arcs, but is foiled. Mo selects Sabine to be on the council for the water house. Mo creates a new council seat for herself so that she can speak for the magic. Other than the fact that Mo chooses Luc instead of Colin, I liked the way the series ended up.
A strong conclusion to an excellent series.
Mo chooses a future with Luc. She discovers that Lena has been helping her parents illegally relocate victims of domestic violence, and has them relocate Colin and his sister Tessa. Constance betrays Mo and the arcs, but is foiled. Mo selects Sabine to be on the council for the water house. Mo creates a new council seat for herself so that she can speak for the magic. Other than the fact that Mo chooses Luc instead of Colin, I liked the way the series ended up.
December 5, 2012
I did like that, I was a bit sad about Colin but I felt as if Mo made the right decision. I was horribly sad about Mo's Dad, after all of that, he finally did good but died for it. This novel is the final one and it makes me sad. It was great. I found it emotional but the ending was uplifting but bittersweet. I would of loved if the series continued on because it's good enough to do just that. The author has some serious potential!
August 27, 2017
Vor kurzer Zeit habe ich „Der Weg in die Dunkelheit – Die Schöpferin“ von Erica O‘Rourke beendet und möchte es nun für euch rezensieren. Hierbei handelt es sich um den dritten und letzten Teil einer Trilogie, die beim Blanvalet-Verlag erschienen ist.
Mo Fitzgerald hat sich entschieden: für ein Leben in Chicago, für eine Zukunft mit Colin – und damit gegen den mysteriösen Luc und die Magie. Aber dann erheben sich erneut die übernatürlichen Mächte und ein Krieg bricht aus, der auch Mos normales, menschliches Leben bedroht. Je mehr Mo sich bemüht, ihre zwei Welten voneinander zu trennen, desto tödlicher werden die Konsequenzen. Plötzlich muss sie alles riskieren: ihr Leben, ihre Liebe, ihre Zukunft. Oder sie wird alles verlieren!
Bevor ich meine Meinung genauer darlege, möchte ich sagen, dass dieser Band leider der ist, der mir am wenigsten aus der Trilogie gefallen hat. Ich war beim Lesen teilweise sehr hin- und hergerissen, da mich manches wie gewohnt sehr begeistert hat, anderes aber auch nicht.
Zunächst habe ich sehr lange gebraucht, bis ich wieder in die Fantasywelt hineingekommen bin. Obwohl seit Band 2 nicht viel Zeit vergangen ist, fiel es mir wirklich sehr schwer, mich auf die Geschichte von Mo, Luc und Colin zu konzentrieren. Um es kurz zu halten: Ich bin eigentlich bis fast zum Ende nicht wieder in einen entspannten Lesefluss hineingeraten, weil die Spannung in diesem Buch meiner Meinung nach sehr nachlässt.
Dies liegt nicht an fehlenden Handlungen etc., sondern aus meiner Sicht daran, dass in diesem Teil der Trilogie einfach nichts Neues mehr geschieht. Wie schon in Band 1 und 2 zweifelt die Protagonistin an ihren Fähigkeiten, bemüht sich, ihre zwei Welten auseinander zu halten, die Welt zu retten und sich zwischen Colin und Luc zu entscheiden. Auf den ersten Blick klingt dies wohl sehr atemberaubend und fesselnd. Für mich war es das jedoch nicht, da die Autorin bis auf ein paar Kleinigkeiten rein gar keine neue Idee zum Vorschein bringt.
Kommen wir direkt zu meinem nächsten Kritikpunkt, welcher unweigerlich mit dem letzten zusammenhängt. Maura ist in „Die Schöpferin“ mehrmals davon überzeugt, sich selbst sehr verändert zu haben. Diese großartige Charakterwandlung konnte ich als Leserin allerdings nicht so ganz nachvollziehen bzw. entdecken. Es hat in diesem letzten Teil den Anschein, als wäre sie gar nicht an ihren letzten Abenteuern gereift und hätte sich kein Stück geändert. Die Protagonistin fällt in alte Verhaltensmuster zurück, macht alte Fehler und auch die anderen Charaktere der Geschichte spielen für mich mehr oder weniger die gleiche Rolle wie zu Beginn der Trilogie.
Insgesamt war ich es in „Der Weg in die Dunkelheit 3“ nun langsam satt, immer von den gleichen Eskapaden zu lesen, sodass jedenfalls bei mir kein Spannungsgefühl aufkam.
Hin- und hergerissen bei meiner Bewertung war ich allerdings dadurch, dass es auch noch viele Punkte gab, die mich wie immer beeindruckt haben. Zum einen hat sich die Autorin auch in diesem Teil ein fulminantes, packendes Ende überlegt, bei dem mich die Geschichte dann doch mitreißen konnte.
Zum anderen bewundere ich Erica O‘Rourkes Schreibstil zutiefst, da er schon eine gewisse Epik in die Geschichte bringt. Die stimmungsvolle Wortwahl und Beschreibungen der Magie lassen auch in diesem Band nicht nach und sorgen für eine tolle Atmosphäre, trotz Spannungsmangel.
Meine Begeisterung für den wundervollen Schreibstil der Autorin und die magische Gänsehautstimmung haben also insgesamt bei meiner Meinung über dieses Buch mit der fehlenden Charakterentwicklung und dem Mangel an Spannung gekämpft. Daran, dass ich zuletzt erleichtert war, „Die Schöpferin“ aus der Hand legen zu können, sieht man allerdings, dass mir das Lesen zeitweise nicht die gewohnte Freude bereitet hat.
Mo Fitzgerald hat sich entschieden: für ein Leben in Chicago, für eine Zukunft mit Colin – und damit gegen den mysteriösen Luc und die Magie. Aber dann erheben sich erneut die übernatürlichen Mächte und ein Krieg bricht aus, der auch Mos normales, menschliches Leben bedroht. Je mehr Mo sich bemüht, ihre zwei Welten voneinander zu trennen, desto tödlicher werden die Konsequenzen. Plötzlich muss sie alles riskieren: ihr Leben, ihre Liebe, ihre Zukunft. Oder sie wird alles verlieren!
Bevor ich meine Meinung genauer darlege, möchte ich sagen, dass dieser Band leider der ist, der mir am wenigsten aus der Trilogie gefallen hat. Ich war beim Lesen teilweise sehr hin- und hergerissen, da mich manches wie gewohnt sehr begeistert hat, anderes aber auch nicht.
Zunächst habe ich sehr lange gebraucht, bis ich wieder in die Fantasywelt hineingekommen bin. Obwohl seit Band 2 nicht viel Zeit vergangen ist, fiel es mir wirklich sehr schwer, mich auf die Geschichte von Mo, Luc und Colin zu konzentrieren. Um es kurz zu halten: Ich bin eigentlich bis fast zum Ende nicht wieder in einen entspannten Lesefluss hineingeraten, weil die Spannung in diesem Buch meiner Meinung nach sehr nachlässt.
Dies liegt nicht an fehlenden Handlungen etc., sondern aus meiner Sicht daran, dass in diesem Teil der Trilogie einfach nichts Neues mehr geschieht. Wie schon in Band 1 und 2 zweifelt die Protagonistin an ihren Fähigkeiten, bemüht sich, ihre zwei Welten auseinander zu halten, die Welt zu retten und sich zwischen Colin und Luc zu entscheiden. Auf den ersten Blick klingt dies wohl sehr atemberaubend und fesselnd. Für mich war es das jedoch nicht, da die Autorin bis auf ein paar Kleinigkeiten rein gar keine neue Idee zum Vorschein bringt.
Kommen wir direkt zu meinem nächsten Kritikpunkt, welcher unweigerlich mit dem letzten zusammenhängt. Maura ist in „Die Schöpferin“ mehrmals davon überzeugt, sich selbst sehr verändert zu haben. Diese großartige Charakterwandlung konnte ich als Leserin allerdings nicht so ganz nachvollziehen bzw. entdecken. Es hat in diesem letzten Teil den Anschein, als wäre sie gar nicht an ihren letzten Abenteuern gereift und hätte sich kein Stück geändert. Die Protagonistin fällt in alte Verhaltensmuster zurück, macht alte Fehler und auch die anderen Charaktere der Geschichte spielen für mich mehr oder weniger die gleiche Rolle wie zu Beginn der Trilogie.
Insgesamt war ich es in „Der Weg in die Dunkelheit 3“ nun langsam satt, immer von den gleichen Eskapaden zu lesen, sodass jedenfalls bei mir kein Spannungsgefühl aufkam.
Hin- und hergerissen bei meiner Bewertung war ich allerdings dadurch, dass es auch noch viele Punkte gab, die mich wie immer beeindruckt haben. Zum einen hat sich die Autorin auch in diesem Teil ein fulminantes, packendes Ende überlegt, bei dem mich die Geschichte dann doch mitreißen konnte.
Zum anderen bewundere ich Erica O‘Rourkes Schreibstil zutiefst, da er schon eine gewisse Epik in die Geschichte bringt. Die stimmungsvolle Wortwahl und Beschreibungen der Magie lassen auch in diesem Band nicht nach und sorgen für eine tolle Atmosphäre, trotz Spannungsmangel.
Meine Begeisterung für den wundervollen Schreibstil der Autorin und die magische Gänsehautstimmung haben also insgesamt bei meiner Meinung über dieses Buch mit der fehlenden Charakterentwicklung und dem Mangel an Spannung gekämpft. Daran, dass ich zuletzt erleichtert war, „Die Schöpferin“ aus der Hand legen zu können, sieht man allerdings, dass mir das Lesen zeitweise nicht die gewohnte Freude bereitet hat.
July 17, 2024
Anfang des Jahres habe ich mir die Reihe gebraucht gekauft, weil ich den ersten Teil einmal in der Schule gelesen hatte und wir die weiteren beiden Teile nicht hatten. Dann wurden die beiden Teile extra für mich bestellt und dann habe ich den ersten nochmal gelesen und habe dann auch den zweiten gelesen, aber habe den dritten noch gelesen. Jetzt habe ich mich nochmal herangewagt. Und ich muss sagen, ich bin alles andere als enttäuscht. Es war wieder eine Geschichte in der ich mich viel zu sehr eingelebt habe. Ich glaube deshlab hat mich alles nochmal mehr getroffen.
Ich habe immer auf den Moment gewartet in dem Mo zusammenbricht. Sie hätte es verdient einmal alles herauszulassen. Bevor… DAS alles passiert wäre. Der Ausbruch ist auf eine andere Art und Weise passiert wie ich es mir für sie gewünscht hätte. Dafür bin ich für sie zusammengebrochen.
Sie konnte nicht alle retten, aber es ist so unfair. So verdammt unfair. Sie hat immer nur gegeben und ihr wurde es nie zurückgegeben. Stattdessen wurde ihr am Ende wieder etwas genommen.
Tatsächlich war ich traurig über den Tod von Juri. Ich hatte begonnen ihn zu mögen. Aber wenigstens ging es schnell und größtenteils schmerzlos.
Und ich finde jeder braucht eine Lena im Leben. Jemanden den man anrufen kann wenn man echt tief in der Scheiße steckt und einem hilft ohne viele Fragen zu stellen.
Letztendlich muss ich sagen das alle mehr mit einander kommunizieren müssen und sagen müssen was sie wirklich denken und so. Ich glaube das hätte viele Situationen unkomplizierter gemacht. Aber naja ist es so.
Ich möchte jetzt erstmal nicht mehr angesprochen werden. Ich muss das ganze verarbeiten.
Ich habe immer auf den Moment gewartet in dem Mo zusammenbricht. Sie hätte es verdient einmal alles herauszulassen. Bevor… DAS alles passiert wäre. Der Ausbruch ist auf eine andere Art und Weise passiert wie ich es mir für sie gewünscht hätte. Dafür bin ich für sie zusammengebrochen.
Sie konnte nicht alle retten, aber es ist so unfair. So verdammt unfair. Sie hat immer nur gegeben und ihr wurde es nie zurückgegeben. Stattdessen wurde ihr am Ende wieder etwas genommen.
Tatsächlich war ich traurig über den Tod von Juri. Ich hatte begonnen ihn zu mögen. Aber wenigstens ging es schnell und größtenteils schmerzlos.
Und ich finde jeder braucht eine Lena im Leben. Jemanden den man anrufen kann wenn man echt tief in der Scheiße steckt und einem hilft ohne viele Fragen zu stellen.
Letztendlich muss ich sagen das alle mehr mit einander kommunizieren müssen und sagen müssen was sie wirklich denken und so. Ich glaube das hätte viele Situationen unkomplizierter gemacht. Aber naja ist es so.
Ich möchte jetzt erstmal nicht mehr angesprochen werden. Ich muss das ganze verarbeiten.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2017
I LOVE this book! Love! As in L-O-V-E! :-D
I think out of the 3 this might be my favorite, then again, I'm pretty sure I said that about the other 2! ;-)
So much love! :-D
This book is about real girl, daily life problems and finding your voice.... oh, and magic! ;-)
I LOVE it!
Just read it, read all 3 of them. LOL
I think out of the 3 this might be my favorite, then again, I'm pretty sure I said that about the other 2! ;-)
So much love! :-D
This book is about real girl, daily life problems and finding your voice.... oh, and magic! ;-)
I LOVE it!
Just read it, read all 3 of them. LOL
July 3, 2017
2.75 Stars.
May 2, 2019
I almost could not put the book down.
Lots of things going on, and a very pleasure end!
I will put it in my favorites 😁
Lots of things going on, and a very pleasure end!
I will put it in my favorites 😁
October 30, 2021
Great ending to a great series.
January 31, 2024
It could have been shorter and more to the point, but the loose ends were finished, and it was wrapped up. I'm disappointed with the way it finished but I didn't write it. 😕
June 28, 2012
Originally posted at http://smexybooks.com/2012/06/review-...
Favorite Quote: “Not everything is fixable.”
Bound picks up about right where Tangled left off. Mo used her gifts to avenge her friend’s death and negotiate with her family for some much needed freedom. Thinking she is finally going to be free, her uncle flips the tables and pushes for more from Mo and isn’t above using her family and friends to get what he wants. Mo makes the ultimate sacrifice and gives up her dreams in order to keep everyone she loves safe. But not everyone appreciates her sacrifices. Mo’s inability to let things lay soon places her and Colin in discord. Mo soon finds herself pulled in different directions as her magic, the Arcs, and her family makes demands on her she can no longer ignore. As Mo tries to clean up her mess, she sets in motion a dangerous game that unless played just right, will destroy them all.
Ms. O’Rourke picks the best titles for her books. Bound perfectly describes Mo as she bound to the magic, bound to her family, and now bound to save her love’s life. A steady pace and solid storyline propels the novel along at a comfortable speed. More action, suspense, and mystery makes this final installment an exciting ending to this trilogy. I liked that the narrative aspect was toned down in here and we are able to submerge ourselves more into the story and Mo’s life. The character development continues to deepen, revealing areas of their personalities and emotions that have remained hidden before now. Layers in both characters and the plot lines are peeled back and the tangled hidden agendas begin to finally unwind and reveal themselves. While Mo has always remained in the spotlight, other characters have been introduced and carry more of the story line’s weight. It still speaks in a youthful tone to me (because of the protagonist) but you cannot miss the subtle maturing of Mo. She has come a long way since Torn and the ramifications are readily apparent. She is no longer the quiet, unassuming girl she was when we first met her. The paranormal storyline really takes command in here and edges the contemporary portions into the background where it belonged.
I admire Mo. She deals with so much in here, torn between two worlds, yet for all her mistakes, you know everything she did was from the heart. She tries so hard to be what everyone wants yet realizes, in the end, she can only be herself. She is brave, intelligent, and very, very stubborn. She will always do what she feels is right. This, of course, can cause problems when you attempt to manipulate other’s lives. Regardless of the who and what, she did what she needed to do in Tangled but she cannot avoid the consequences of her decisions. And they are huge. I did find it rather telling that she, on occasion, does what she despises her uncle for. She too makes decisions concerning others without a by your leave. She is even more conflicted in here as she is pulled in different directions; trying to stay one step ahead of her uncle and the dangerous game they are playing. Mo finally begins to listen and trust her magic-realizing that it isn’t a passing gift. Ms. O’Rourke merges Mo and her magic in a realistic fashion that matches with her emotional maturity. Stubbornness continues to be her greatest gift and flaw. She pushes hard to know things, often against good advice, then regrets when the truth is revealed. Only this time, her actions not only affect her, they affect others who aren’t so forgiving this time around.
The romantic love triangle remained a solid fixture throughout this trilogy. Mo remains torn between Colin and Luc but Ms. O’Rourke takes pity on us and gives us a resolution. I liked the differences between Luc and Colin and the lengths at which they will go to be with her. I admitted in the last review that I was team Luc. Regardless of his reasons, I always believed that Luc truly cares for Mo. That he would fight everything and everyone to be with her. Colin, for all his declarations, still felt too much like a bodyguard then a potential lover. Ms. O’Rourke cranks up the emotional drama and plays it out till the very end. Some will be pleased and some will not.
The ending wraps up the main conflict and overall arc in a dramatic, heart stopping finale that reveals so much in the final moments. All our questions are answered and we are left with a nice, abet, brief look into Mo’s future. A solid trilogy that is sure to appeal to all YA readers who enjoy magic, suspense, and romantic entanglements for their heroes and heroines.
Overall rating: B
Favorite Quote: “Not everything is fixable.”
Bound picks up about right where Tangled left off. Mo used her gifts to avenge her friend’s death and negotiate with her family for some much needed freedom. Thinking she is finally going to be free, her uncle flips the tables and pushes for more from Mo and isn’t above using her family and friends to get what he wants. Mo makes the ultimate sacrifice and gives up her dreams in order to keep everyone she loves safe. But not everyone appreciates her sacrifices. Mo’s inability to let things lay soon places her and Colin in discord. Mo soon finds herself pulled in different directions as her magic, the Arcs, and her family makes demands on her she can no longer ignore. As Mo tries to clean up her mess, she sets in motion a dangerous game that unless played just right, will destroy them all.
Ms. O’Rourke picks the best titles for her books. Bound perfectly describes Mo as she bound to the magic, bound to her family, and now bound to save her love’s life. A steady pace and solid storyline propels the novel along at a comfortable speed. More action, suspense, and mystery makes this final installment an exciting ending to this trilogy. I liked that the narrative aspect was toned down in here and we are able to submerge ourselves more into the story and Mo’s life. The character development continues to deepen, revealing areas of their personalities and emotions that have remained hidden before now. Layers in both characters and the plot lines are peeled back and the tangled hidden agendas begin to finally unwind and reveal themselves. While Mo has always remained in the spotlight, other characters have been introduced and carry more of the story line’s weight. It still speaks in a youthful tone to me (because of the protagonist) but you cannot miss the subtle maturing of Mo. She has come a long way since Torn and the ramifications are readily apparent. She is no longer the quiet, unassuming girl she was when we first met her. The paranormal storyline really takes command in here and edges the contemporary portions into the background where it belonged.
I admire Mo. She deals with so much in here, torn between two worlds, yet for all her mistakes, you know everything she did was from the heart. She tries so hard to be what everyone wants yet realizes, in the end, she can only be herself. She is brave, intelligent, and very, very stubborn. She will always do what she feels is right. This, of course, can cause problems when you attempt to manipulate other’s lives. Regardless of the who and what, she did what she needed to do in Tangled but she cannot avoid the consequences of her decisions. And they are huge. I did find it rather telling that she, on occasion, does what she despises her uncle for. She too makes decisions concerning others without a by your leave. She is even more conflicted in here as she is pulled in different directions; trying to stay one step ahead of her uncle and the dangerous game they are playing. Mo finally begins to listen and trust her magic-realizing that it isn’t a passing gift. Ms. O’Rourke merges Mo and her magic in a realistic fashion that matches with her emotional maturity. Stubbornness continues to be her greatest gift and flaw. She pushes hard to know things, often against good advice, then regrets when the truth is revealed. Only this time, her actions not only affect her, they affect others who aren’t so forgiving this time around.
The romantic love triangle remained a solid fixture throughout this trilogy. Mo remains torn between Colin and Luc but Ms. O’Rourke takes pity on us and gives us a resolution. I liked the differences between Luc and Colin and the lengths at which they will go to be with her. I admitted in the last review that I was team Luc. Regardless of his reasons, I always believed that Luc truly cares for Mo. That he would fight everything and everyone to be with her. Colin, for all his declarations, still felt too much like a bodyguard then a potential lover. Ms. O’Rourke cranks up the emotional drama and plays it out till the very end. Some will be pleased and some will not.
The ending wraps up the main conflict and overall arc in a dramatic, heart stopping finale that reveals so much in the final moments. All our questions are answered and we are left with a nice, abet, brief look into Mo’s future. A solid trilogy that is sure to appeal to all YA readers who enjoy magic, suspense, and romantic entanglements for their heroes and heroines.
Overall rating: B
December 24, 2015
Fans of Erica O’Rourke’s Torn series will definitely not be disappointed with the final installment, “Bound.” In this action-packed conclusion, our heroine Mo Fitzgerald is forced to decide whether she’ll stay in her normal mortal world or leave it all behind to join the magical Arcs for good.
At the end of the last book, “Tangled,” Mo chose to walk away from the Arcs and Luc, her irresistible soulmate she is bound to, for a chance at a future with her bodyguard, Colin. Uncle Billy, head of Chicago’s organized crime unit, is not thrilled with this relationship. In exchange for keeping Colin and his sister alive and safe, Mo agrees to work for Billy delivering messages to a dangerous rival who’s starting to gain ground and must be eliminated. Unable to tell Colin the truth, Mo uses this as a way to get dirt on Billy to give to the police. Things become complicated though (as if they’re not already) after Mo’s father Jack is released from prison. Even though he took the fall for Billy all these years, Jack loses no time going back to work for him.
Despite Mo’s attempts to keep her Flat and Arc lives separate, they constantly overlap. That’s because in addition to her mafia troubles, Mo is also being stalked by Anton, leader of the Seraphim, a magical group that wants to launch a genocide that would rid their world of all but the purest Arcs. Mo is the only one who can make that happen since she’s bound to the magic, but her loyalties lie in protecting it, not channeling it to serve any side’s purpose. Ironically, she has no powers, meaning run-ins with Luc and the Quartoren are inevitable as the only way to keep her safe from Anton and his evil followers.
Then of course there are the usual teenage worries: college, piles of homework, raging hormones, missed curfews, secrets between friends and avoiding obnoxious drama. How she manages, I’ll never understand, but that’s Mo for you – a girl who takes it all in stride, determined to find ways to help everyone and punish the wrongdoers. Obviously, that’s not always possible, but Mo is stubborn and wants to do things on her own terms, not anyone else’s. More importantly, she refuses to sit on the sidelines and allow herself to be shielded from danger, something all the men in her life who care about her (Colin, Luc and her dad) want to do. That’s one kick-ass girl if I’ve ever seen one!
It may seem like a suicide mission to most, but Mo faces each of these challenges head on and proves she is a force to be reckoned with, not a helpless and naïve schoolgirl like everyone thinks she is. She makes choices for the greater good and is largely responsible for the bittersweet outcome. But the Mo we see at the end is far different from the one we first met. For so long, her journey was fueled by revenge for her best friend Verity’s death. She hid behind her grief, running away from things she didn’t want to face, lying to herself about her feelings. But somewhere along the line, Mo realizes she owes it to Verity and herself to start living life the way she wants to, not the way other people tell her to. When all is said and done, Mo finally has that freedom, a bigger victory than any she could have imagined.
Major props go to the author for building up all this tension throughout the series to the point where readers will explode trying to guess how it will all work itself out. It sounds so cliché, but “Bound” really is an emotional rollercoaster ride that will have you turning pages quicker than Arcs go Between. Complicated twists turn you every which way but loose, drumming up the suspense factor like you wouldn’t believe. There are some shocking surprises, but for the most part, everything falls into place the way it’s supposed to.
So if you’re looking for a new fantasy series to sink your teeth into a la Harry Potter, Twilight, The Hunger Games, etc., why not give Erica O’Rourke’s deliciously addictive trilogy a chance? I promise it will be worth your while!
At the end of the last book, “Tangled,” Mo chose to walk away from the Arcs and Luc, her irresistible soulmate she is bound to, for a chance at a future with her bodyguard, Colin. Uncle Billy, head of Chicago’s organized crime unit, is not thrilled with this relationship. In exchange for keeping Colin and his sister alive and safe, Mo agrees to work for Billy delivering messages to a dangerous rival who’s starting to gain ground and must be eliminated. Unable to tell Colin the truth, Mo uses this as a way to get dirt on Billy to give to the police. Things become complicated though (as if they’re not already) after Mo’s father Jack is released from prison. Even though he took the fall for Billy all these years, Jack loses no time going back to work for him.
Despite Mo’s attempts to keep her Flat and Arc lives separate, they constantly overlap. That’s because in addition to her mafia troubles, Mo is also being stalked by Anton, leader of the Seraphim, a magical group that wants to launch a genocide that would rid their world of all but the purest Arcs. Mo is the only one who can make that happen since she’s bound to the magic, but her loyalties lie in protecting it, not channeling it to serve any side’s purpose. Ironically, she has no powers, meaning run-ins with Luc and the Quartoren are inevitable as the only way to keep her safe from Anton and his evil followers.
Then of course there are the usual teenage worries: college, piles of homework, raging hormones, missed curfews, secrets between friends and avoiding obnoxious drama. How she manages, I’ll never understand, but that’s Mo for you – a girl who takes it all in stride, determined to find ways to help everyone and punish the wrongdoers. Obviously, that’s not always possible, but Mo is stubborn and wants to do things on her own terms, not anyone else’s. More importantly, she refuses to sit on the sidelines and allow herself to be shielded from danger, something all the men in her life who care about her (Colin, Luc and her dad) want to do. That’s one kick-ass girl if I’ve ever seen one!
It may seem like a suicide mission to most, but Mo faces each of these challenges head on and proves she is a force to be reckoned with, not a helpless and naïve schoolgirl like everyone thinks she is. She makes choices for the greater good and is largely responsible for the bittersweet outcome. But the Mo we see at the end is far different from the one we first met. For so long, her journey was fueled by revenge for her best friend Verity’s death. She hid behind her grief, running away from things she didn’t want to face, lying to herself about her feelings. But somewhere along the line, Mo realizes she owes it to Verity and herself to start living life the way she wants to, not the way other people tell her to. When all is said and done, Mo finally has that freedom, a bigger victory than any she could have imagined.
Major props go to the author for building up all this tension throughout the series to the point where readers will explode trying to guess how it will all work itself out. It sounds so cliché, but “Bound” really is an emotional rollercoaster ride that will have you turning pages quicker than Arcs go Between. Complicated twists turn you every which way but loose, drumming up the suspense factor like you wouldn’t believe. There are some shocking surprises, but for the most part, everything falls into place the way it’s supposed to.
So if you’re looking for a new fantasy series to sink your teeth into a la Harry Potter, Twilight, The Hunger Games, etc., why not give Erica O’Rourke’s deliciously addictive trilogy a chance? I promise it will be worth your while!
July 4, 2012
****
Mo Fitzgerald has made her choice: A life in Chicago. A future with Colin. To leave behind the enigmatic Luc and the world of the Arcs. But the more she struggles to keep her magic and mortal lives separate, the deadlier the consequences. In the end, Mo must risk everything – her life, her heart, her future – or lose it all.
I’d like to thank Erica O’Rourke for my lack of sleep. I’ve had my nose in this book for two days straight wishing I had the patience to slowly read through it but I don’t. I just had to know and now I’m sad it’s over.
The first chapter opens with the return of Mo’s father, Jack. Considering he’s been behind bars for the last few years and the little child he’d left behind is now a stubborn young teen, you can say the reunion is nothing short of awkward. Mo’s uncle Billy, continues to be a manipulating scoundrel (I’ll refrain from using a stronger word though I’d very much like to) and her mom, Annie still has her head stuck in the ground much like an ostrich only more annoying. Colin and Mo are officially a couple openly displaying their relationship.
Mo has plenty on her shoulders but none weighs more heavily than the deal she brokered with Billy to protect Colin. As a result, she’s now working as an errand girl for him and it’s put her in a whole new line of fire. And Luc, oh Luc, that ever charming and mischievous fellow, is still around though "trying" to respect some of the boundaries Mo has put in place. Try as she might to be planted firmly in the Flat world, she is tied to Luc and the Arc world. Dealing with the Quartoren, taking down her uncle and a rival mob, plus school, dating her bodyguard and avoiding her parents keep her social schedule rather full.
Bound is thoroughly enjoyable. Much like its predecessors, it has action, humor and twists galore making every moment of reading fun. Mo does do a lot of growing up in this one, coming a long way from the girl who witnessed the tragic murder of her best friend. Her personal evolution finds her simple black and white philosophy making room for other people’s perspectives. She makes no apologies for some of her decisions such as snooping behind Colin’s back to learn about his past. By the same token she also learns that while too many secrets can hurt, boundaries still need to be respected. On a wider scale, you see her awkwardly learning to come to terms with her double life.
My favorite element of the series is that the paranormal world with its own brand of dysfunction often collides into Mo’s equally dysfunctional world in Chicago. It puts the reader on edge to see this somewhat normal girl whose biggest worry should be applying to college suddenly be thrown into utter chaos because of a cruel twist of fate. It's a wonder Mo maintains her sanity long enough to devise a plan of action. This being another reason I enjoy the series so much – Mo is a heroine who uses her intellect to work her way through each disaster. She makes tough decisions and she's loyal to a fault. The dangers she faces feel so tangible that it's easy to grasp the demanding push-and-pull of both worlds.
If you’ve read the first two in the series, Torn and Tangled, then you’ll find many questions answered and Mo won’t disappoint you. Bound also finds a few of the supporting characters stepping up. Together they help to tie up loose ends and everyone can breathe a huge sigh of relief. You're certain that everything will work itself out but there’s genuine pleasure in watching Mo influence events. She's had enough of being bossed around. Plus she’s picked up a few things from watching her sleazy uncle, so you know she’s got plenty of fight in her!
~ Bel
Mo Fitzgerald has made her choice: A life in Chicago. A future with Colin. To leave behind the enigmatic Luc and the world of the Arcs. But the more she struggles to keep her magic and mortal lives separate, the deadlier the consequences. In the end, Mo must risk everything – her life, her heart, her future – or lose it all.
I’d like to thank Erica O’Rourke for my lack of sleep. I’ve had my nose in this book for two days straight wishing I had the patience to slowly read through it but I don’t. I just had to know and now I’m sad it’s over.
The first chapter opens with the return of Mo’s father, Jack. Considering he’s been behind bars for the last few years and the little child he’d left behind is now a stubborn young teen, you can say the reunion is nothing short of awkward. Mo’s uncle Billy, continues to be a manipulating scoundrel (I’ll refrain from using a stronger word though I’d very much like to) and her mom, Annie still has her head stuck in the ground much like an ostrich only more annoying. Colin and Mo are officially a couple openly displaying their relationship.
Mo has plenty on her shoulders but none weighs more heavily than the deal she brokered with Billy to protect Colin. As a result, she’s now working as an errand girl for him and it’s put her in a whole new line of fire. And Luc, oh Luc, that ever charming and mischievous fellow, is still around though "trying" to respect some of the boundaries Mo has put in place. Try as she might to be planted firmly in the Flat world, she is tied to Luc and the Arc world. Dealing with the Quartoren, taking down her uncle and a rival mob, plus school, dating her bodyguard and avoiding her parents keep her social schedule rather full.
Bound is thoroughly enjoyable. Much like its predecessors, it has action, humor and twists galore making every moment of reading fun. Mo does do a lot of growing up in this one, coming a long way from the girl who witnessed the tragic murder of her best friend. Her personal evolution finds her simple black and white philosophy making room for other people’s perspectives. She makes no apologies for some of her decisions such as snooping behind Colin’s back to learn about his past. By the same token she also learns that while too many secrets can hurt, boundaries still need to be respected. On a wider scale, you see her awkwardly learning to come to terms with her double life.
My favorite element of the series is that the paranormal world with its own brand of dysfunction often collides into Mo’s equally dysfunctional world in Chicago. It puts the reader on edge to see this somewhat normal girl whose biggest worry should be applying to college suddenly be thrown into utter chaos because of a cruel twist of fate. It's a wonder Mo maintains her sanity long enough to devise a plan of action. This being another reason I enjoy the series so much – Mo is a heroine who uses her intellect to work her way through each disaster. She makes tough decisions and she's loyal to a fault. The dangers she faces feel so tangible that it's easy to grasp the demanding push-and-pull of both worlds.
If you’ve read the first two in the series, Torn and Tangled, then you’ll find many questions answered and Mo won’t disappoint you. Bound also finds a few of the supporting characters stepping up. Together they help to tie up loose ends and everyone can breathe a huge sigh of relief. You're certain that everything will work itself out but there’s genuine pleasure in watching Mo influence events. She's had enough of being bossed around. Plus she’s picked up a few things from watching her sleazy uncle, so you know she’s got plenty of fight in her!
~ Bel
February 10, 2017
Meine Meinung
Obwohl die Magie gerade nicht ihr Leben bestimmt, hat Mo mit einigen Problemen zu kämpfen.
Um Colin zu retten hat Mo sich zwischen die Fronten der Mafia begeben, mit dem Ziel ihren Onkel zu stürzen. Aber Mo muss vorsichtig sein, denn im dritten Band "Der Weg in die Dunkelheit" dreht Maura den Spieß einfach mal um. Während in den ersten Teilen Maura die jenige war, vor der alle Geheimnisse hatten, ist sie jetzt selbst am Zug, wenn es darum geht die Wahrheit zu verstecken. Eine Gradwanderung für die junge Frau, um nicht zur nächsten Mafia-Prinzessin zu werden.
Die Anwesenheit des zurückgekehrten Vaters macht das ganze auch nicht einfacher, bringt aber ungemein viel Spannung und Gefühl in die Familiengeschichte.Als die magische Welt dann doch in das Leben von Mo zurück kehrt, indem sie in aller Öffentlichkeit von den Serpahim angegriffen wird, weiß das Gefäß(Mo) ganz plötzlich was sie zu tun hat. Die Magie ist ein Lebewesen und sie muss es beschützen.
"Die Schöfperin" ist ein spannendes Finale, in dem Erica O`Rourke die Schwächen der ersten beiden Teile gekonnt ausbügelt. Die Magie ist endlich kein unverständliches Geflecht mehr, welches eher stört als den Genuss des Lesens zu steigern. Mit der Erkenntnis, dass die Magie lebt, Gefühle hat und mit Protagonistin Mo verbunden ist, ändert sich beim Leser so einiges.
Der Abschluss der Trilogie, die zwischen Mafia und magischer Welt spielt, ist um einiges gefühlvoller, behält aber trotzdem den typischen Charme, den ich in "Die Erwählte" und "Die Wächterin" schon so genossen habe.
Ein ganz großer Pluspunkt ist die Geschichte von Colin, über die man auch nochmal einiges erfährt. Dass ich Colin immer lieber mochte als Luc, ist kein wirkliches Geheimnis und auch dieses mitreißende Finale konnte mich nicht zu 100% von Luc überzeugen. Klar ist, dass dieses Dreieck am Ende aufgelöst wird. Es kann schließlich nur einen Mann im Leben von Maura geben. Wie sich das Dreieck dann auflöst, wird sicher nicht jedem gefallen, aber auch hier ein großes Lob an die Autorin, die eine annehmbare Lösung gefunden hat, mit der wahrscheinlich jeder Leser leben kann. Egal ob Team Colin oder Team Lucien.
Fazit/Wertung
Abgesehen von vielen neuen Dingen, die es zu erfahren gibt, trumpft "Die Wächterin" mit viel Gefühl und Spannung auf.
Nach all der Action und dem unaufhörlichen Mitfiebern ist die Ruhe am Ende ein echtes Geschenk, um sich von allen Charakteren verabschieden zu können. So endet "Der Weg in die Dunkelheit" wie er begonnen hat. Ruhig und angenehm. Aber lasst euch von Anfang und Ende ja nicht täuschen ;-)
Eine spannende Trilogie zwischen Mafia und Magie.
5/5 Sternen, weil die Autorin wirklich alles ein kleines bisschen besser macht, als in den ersten beiden Teilen der Trilogie.
Obwohl die Magie gerade nicht ihr Leben bestimmt, hat Mo mit einigen Problemen zu kämpfen.
Um Colin zu retten hat Mo sich zwischen die Fronten der Mafia begeben, mit dem Ziel ihren Onkel zu stürzen. Aber Mo muss vorsichtig sein, denn im dritten Band "Der Weg in die Dunkelheit" dreht Maura den Spieß einfach mal um. Während in den ersten Teilen Maura die jenige war, vor der alle Geheimnisse hatten, ist sie jetzt selbst am Zug, wenn es darum geht die Wahrheit zu verstecken. Eine Gradwanderung für die junge Frau, um nicht zur nächsten Mafia-Prinzessin zu werden.
Die Anwesenheit des zurückgekehrten Vaters macht das ganze auch nicht einfacher, bringt aber ungemein viel Spannung und Gefühl in die Familiengeschichte.Als die magische Welt dann doch in das Leben von Mo zurück kehrt, indem sie in aller Öffentlichkeit von den Serpahim angegriffen wird, weiß das Gefäß(Mo) ganz plötzlich was sie zu tun hat. Die Magie ist ein Lebewesen und sie muss es beschützen.
"Die Schöfperin" ist ein spannendes Finale, in dem Erica O`Rourke die Schwächen der ersten beiden Teile gekonnt ausbügelt. Die Magie ist endlich kein unverständliches Geflecht mehr, welches eher stört als den Genuss des Lesens zu steigern. Mit der Erkenntnis, dass die Magie lebt, Gefühle hat und mit Protagonistin Mo verbunden ist, ändert sich beim Leser so einiges.
Der Abschluss der Trilogie, die zwischen Mafia und magischer Welt spielt, ist um einiges gefühlvoller, behält aber trotzdem den typischen Charme, den ich in "Die Erwählte" und "Die Wächterin" schon so genossen habe.
Ein ganz großer Pluspunkt ist die Geschichte von Colin, über die man auch nochmal einiges erfährt. Dass ich Colin immer lieber mochte als Luc, ist kein wirkliches Geheimnis und auch dieses mitreißende Finale konnte mich nicht zu 100% von Luc überzeugen. Klar ist, dass dieses Dreieck am Ende aufgelöst wird. Es kann schließlich nur einen Mann im Leben von Maura geben. Wie sich das Dreieck dann auflöst, wird sicher nicht jedem gefallen, aber auch hier ein großes Lob an die Autorin, die eine annehmbare Lösung gefunden hat, mit der wahrscheinlich jeder Leser leben kann. Egal ob Team Colin oder Team Lucien.
Fazit/Wertung
Abgesehen von vielen neuen Dingen, die es zu erfahren gibt, trumpft "Die Wächterin" mit viel Gefühl und Spannung auf.
Nach all der Action und dem unaufhörlichen Mitfiebern ist die Ruhe am Ende ein echtes Geschenk, um sich von allen Charakteren verabschieden zu können. So endet "Der Weg in die Dunkelheit" wie er begonnen hat. Ruhig und angenehm. Aber lasst euch von Anfang und Ende ja nicht täuschen ;-)
Eine spannende Trilogie zwischen Mafia und Magie.
5/5 Sternen, weil die Autorin wirklich alles ein kleines bisschen besser macht, als in den ersten beiden Teilen der Trilogie.
January 14, 2014
Bound was good... if you've read Torn and Tangled and are needing to know how it ends. Otherwise, I wouldn't bother. It didn't really have a strong finish.
From here on this review contains spoilers for Torn and Tangled but not for Bound. You've been warned.
Bound picks up a few months after Tangled ended, which is good because otherwise I'd start to worry about Mo failing school. All the magic stuff and mob stuff is pretty distracting from ordinary school life. Mo is still involved in lots of stuff from before, plus a few extra stuff. Because who needs time for sleep? She is still the Vessel, but she's also discovered that the magic is alive and real and needs caring for and talking to. She's still involved with Constance, so now Niobe, the Arc mentor-cum-fake guidance counselor has decided that they need lots of physical training together, and tutoring in the language of magic.
Also, you remember the guys? Colin, for whom she's given up her dream of escaping her uncle and going to NYU? He's still around. And so is Luc, the hot Arc. When Bound opens, she's firmly with Colin. She's even trying to get in his pants! I kind of admire a girl who goes after what she wants, but I don't get excited about teens doing it. So I'm torn on that one. This still isn't a definite, though: which boy will she end up with? (You'll find out by the end of the trilogy; don't worry! But you have to read the book yourself.)
Finally, the family and friends. Lena turns out to be a better friend than you already think she is. I mean, she's already incredibly kind and patient and lovely and then she actually finds a way to take it to the next level in Bound. It's unreal. And family... Remember at the end of Tangled? Mo's dad? Yup... that's a can of worms that got me all kinds of twisted up inside. You have to read the book. It won't happen until you're practically done with the whole trilogy and then you'll lift your hands to the sky and scream "NOOOOO!!!! WHYY?????" Just like that.
Oh, and the magic stuff. Lots of magic stuff happening. But there's So. Much. Drama. in Chicago that the magic stuff almost gets lost. I know, hard to believe.
So that's my issue with the book: there's so very much going on in so many different directions... it's hard to wrap it all up. The book kind of starts a little slow and then at the end all of a sudden BAM it wraps up. I'd have loved maybe two or three fewer plot lines and a lot more character development. And there's a thing that happens between Mo and Luc right after a magic thing (you'll know when you get there) that will make you go "whoa. That was fast."
And a side note: the cover makes NO SENSE to the book AT ALL. Don't even look at it.
From here on this review contains spoilers for Torn and Tangled but not for Bound. You've been warned.
Bound picks up a few months after Tangled ended, which is good because otherwise I'd start to worry about Mo failing school. All the magic stuff and mob stuff is pretty distracting from ordinary school life. Mo is still involved in lots of stuff from before, plus a few extra stuff. Because who needs time for sleep? She is still the Vessel, but she's also discovered that the magic is alive and real and needs caring for and talking to. She's still involved with Constance, so now Niobe, the Arc mentor-cum-fake guidance counselor has decided that they need lots of physical training together, and tutoring in the language of magic.
Also, you remember the guys? Colin, for whom she's given up her dream of escaping her uncle and going to NYU? He's still around. And so is Luc, the hot Arc. When Bound opens, she's firmly with Colin. She's even trying to get in his pants! I kind of admire a girl who goes after what she wants, but I don't get excited about teens doing it. So I'm torn on that one. This still isn't a definite, though: which boy will she end up with? (You'll find out by the end of the trilogy; don't worry! But you have to read the book yourself.)
Finally, the family and friends. Lena turns out to be a better friend than you already think she is. I mean, she's already incredibly kind and patient and lovely and then she actually finds a way to take it to the next level in Bound. It's unreal. And family... Remember at the end of Tangled? Mo's dad? Yup... that's a can of worms that got me all kinds of twisted up inside. You have to read the book. It won't happen until you're practically done with the whole trilogy and then you'll lift your hands to the sky and scream "NOOOOO!!!! WHYY?????" Just like that.
Oh, and the magic stuff. Lots of magic stuff happening. But there's So. Much. Drama. in Chicago that the magic stuff almost gets lost. I know, hard to believe.
So that's my issue with the book: there's so very much going on in so many different directions... it's hard to wrap it all up. The book kind of starts a little slow and then at the end all of a sudden BAM it wraps up. I'd have loved maybe two or three fewer plot lines and a lot more character development. And there's a thing that happens between Mo and Luc right after a magic thing (you'll know when you get there) that will make you go "whoa. That was fast."
And a side note: the cover makes NO SENSE to the book AT ALL. Don't even look at it.
August 20, 2014
So I did two differing reviews this week and the second one, which has no impairing on the standard or why the ratings is better/lower. At the same time though I foresaw the ending to a series that while I haven't rated high or even terrific, the ending to this series bought a lot of changes in how I view some of the choices that go on in everyday life.
Mo changes drastically in this book. While we start with the solid relationship with her and Colin, everything is put into question. The question and main question arises, why does Colin stay with the mob when Mo nearly begs him to leave at times. When the answer finds its way to Mo, and Colin finds the deal she made with her uncle to keep him safe, their relationship is strained to its core. Which to me breaks and nearly kills Colin for me. I loved him in the first two books, however here we see when it comes to his real family, he's willing to sacrifice anything and the double standard arises.
Luc on the other hand needs a saving grace, the magic and their issues arise as they as for Mo's help again. While Colin isn't so much around, Luc finally makes his advance on Mo. I read a review that stated, Mo gave up nearly everything in her life to fix and round out the book (so I don't have to spoil anything), Luc doesn't seem to give up anything. I find that rather incorrect, yea he finds that his duty is with the magic and saving it, but also to be on some council. However I believe as the story continues and Mo questions which is more important to him, her or the Magic, his answer is there but a little more indirect. I believe he would choose her over the magic.
In Bound though, we come to the first crossroads of the mob and the magic world colliding. I am surprised it took so long for this to happen in the series. However, I am surprised that there wasn't more on the magic side. Luc was primarily the spokesperson, and Mo's uncle for the mob. While Mo's uncle was so hell bent on trying to figure a way out to get the magic world to help and anyway to twist Luc's hand, Luc nearly flat out ignored him on every account. It was rather funny.
This was a great end to the trilogy and I can't wait to see what Erica O'Rourke does in the future, as I will buy everything she does. I know that this series won't be for some, but it's worth starting the first book and continuing from there if you enjoy it. The ending and the love triangle was done superb, I didn't really believe it was the entire way through; Mo is stubborn and chooses who she wants nearly the entire way through, it's the boys that make the choices difficult. I couldn't guess who she was going to pick, but I agree and it's for the best. I am sad to see the series end when I was just starting to understand the characters.
Mo changes drastically in this book. While we start with the solid relationship with her and Colin, everything is put into question. The question and main question arises, why does Colin stay with the mob when Mo nearly begs him to leave at times. When the answer finds its way to Mo, and Colin finds the deal she made with her uncle to keep him safe, their relationship is strained to its core. Which to me breaks and nearly kills Colin for me. I loved him in the first two books, however here we see when it comes to his real family, he's willing to sacrifice anything and the double standard arises.
Luc on the other hand needs a saving grace, the magic and their issues arise as they as for Mo's help again. While Colin isn't so much around, Luc finally makes his advance on Mo. I read a review that stated, Mo gave up nearly everything in her life to fix and round out the book (so I don't have to spoil anything), Luc doesn't seem to give up anything. I find that rather incorrect, yea he finds that his duty is with the magic and saving it, but also to be on some council. However I believe as the story continues and Mo questions which is more important to him, her or the Magic, his answer is there but a little more indirect. I believe he would choose her over the magic.
In Bound though, we come to the first crossroads of the mob and the magic world colliding. I am surprised it took so long for this to happen in the series. However, I am surprised that there wasn't more on the magic side. Luc was primarily the spokesperson, and Mo's uncle for the mob. While Mo's uncle was so hell bent on trying to figure a way out to get the magic world to help and anyway to twist Luc's hand, Luc nearly flat out ignored him on every account. It was rather funny.
This was a great end to the trilogy and I can't wait to see what Erica O'Rourke does in the future, as I will buy everything she does. I know that this series won't be for some, but it's worth starting the first book and continuing from there if you enjoy it. The ending and the love triangle was done superb, I didn't really believe it was the entire way through; Mo is stubborn and chooses who she wants nearly the entire way through, it's the boys that make the choices difficult. I couldn't guess who she was going to pick, but I agree and it's for the best. I am sad to see the series end when I was just starting to understand the characters.
December 25, 2015
Actual rating: 3.5 stars.
So ends the trilogy. I'll admit, the long-term end game of the trilogy felt clear to me from Book 1, but evene more so once I saw the title of this book. Since I freely admitted that my reason for reading this trilogy was because Susan Dennard said this was an example of a love triangle done right, I'll start with that. As with Cassandra Clare's Infernal Devices trilogy, I had a gut feeling that I was rooting for the guy that was going to lose out in the love triangle, though both guys are good guys and I liked them. And I was right.
I was a little frustrated because I felt, as with Clare's trilogy, that Colin never got a fair chance. For example, in this book: Colin refuses to have sex with Mo because he doesn't want to be a secret she needs to keep. Don't get me wrong, I like not having sex scenes in books, but the reasoning no longer made sense to me--doesn't everyone know they're together now? I also felt like Colin and Mo, even while dating, consistently didn't get to spend much time together (like inviting one in, the other not being able to). At the same time--and I know this sounds a bit contradictory--I also felt like Mo's reasons for doubting Luc for so long were a bit contrived, too. Luc proved himself to be a good guy over and over again.
All that being said, I occasionally felt like O'Rourke was too fixated on themes (like free will vs. fate); felt like I was getting the themes pounded into my head. But maybe that's just because I saw those discussion questions in each book. And although I liked the characters, I wasn't totally enamored of them, as I have been with books I've really loved.
But for all that, every time I got one of these books from the library, I pushed it to the top of my to-read pile, and there was a lot I did like, as well. Despite my frustrations, I agree with Dennard that the love triangle was done well. It's not O'Rourke's fault that the nature of a good love triangle, as in the case of Clare's trilogy, means that it's inherently frustrating. And while I'm a big fan of neither magic nor mafia, I was impressed at how O'Rourke brought together the problems of both for a gigantic climax in this book at the end of the series. Bringing Mo's dad back into the picture was also much better than I expected.
Overall, enjoyed the read!
So ends the trilogy. I'll admit, the long-term end game of the trilogy felt clear to me from Book 1, but evene more so once I saw the title of this book. Since I freely admitted that my reason for reading this trilogy was because Susan Dennard said this was an example of a love triangle done right, I'll start with that. As with Cassandra Clare's Infernal Devices trilogy, I had a gut feeling that I was rooting for the guy that was going to lose out in the love triangle, though both guys are good guys and I liked them. And I was right.
I was a little frustrated because I felt, as with Clare's trilogy, that Colin never got a fair chance. For example, in this book: Colin refuses to have sex with Mo because he doesn't want to be a secret she needs to keep. Don't get me wrong, I like not having sex scenes in books, but the reasoning no longer made sense to me--doesn't everyone know they're together now? I also felt like Colin and Mo, even while dating, consistently didn't get to spend much time together (like inviting one in, the other not being able to). At the same time--and I know this sounds a bit contradictory--I also felt like Mo's reasons for doubting Luc for so long were a bit contrived, too. Luc proved himself to be a good guy over and over again.
All that being said, I occasionally felt like O'Rourke was too fixated on themes (like free will vs. fate); felt like I was getting the themes pounded into my head. But maybe that's just because I saw those discussion questions in each book. And although I liked the characters, I wasn't totally enamored of them, as I have been with books I've really loved.
But for all that, every time I got one of these books from the library, I pushed it to the top of my to-read pile, and there was a lot I did like, as well. Despite my frustrations, I agree with Dennard that the love triangle was done well. It's not O'Rourke's fault that the nature of a good love triangle, as in the case of Clare's trilogy, means that it's inherently frustrating. And while I'm a big fan of neither magic nor mafia, I was impressed at how O'Rourke brought together the problems of both for a gigantic climax in this book at the end of the series. Bringing Mo's dad back into the picture was also much better than I expected.
Overall, enjoyed the read!
June 23, 2012
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
I love trilogies. I love how clear and purposeful each book is. I especially love reading the final book, the one where everything comes together and all the emotional and plot driven story-lines converge. Reading BOUND by Erica O’Rourke, the third book in the Torn Trilogy, I was reminded all over again why trilogies are so satisfying. In both of the preceding books in this trilogy, the endings were fantastic. So powerful and exciting. As the ending to the whole series, BOUND captures the same energy and emotionally gripping feel from the first to last page, and delivers by far the best book of the series.
The magic of the Torn Trilogy has always been the fine balance between Mo’s mob connected family life and her accidental but irrevocable connection to the supernatural Seraphim. Each side has a guy that Mo is drawn to, a villain that wants to use or kill her, and an obligation to protect the innocent. O’Rourke’s skill has been making both world equally compelling, and finally in BOUND, thrusting the two together. The consequesces are just as severe as I would have expected. Betrayal, and bloodshed, and heartbreak follow.
My only real complaint is how the romance turned out. Not because I was rooting for the other guy, but because I thought Mo was too capricious in her choosing. She was in an intimate position with one guy declaring her love and readiness for sex and then in an almost identical situation with the other guy way too quickly for my taste. Her speech to the guy she didn’t choose was in complete contrast to everything she had been saying to him the entire book. It didn’t sit right.
As a series overall, the Torn Trilogy is unique and exciting. The mythology is new and inventive, and Mo as a character grows so much over the span of the series. I’m sorry there won’t be more books in this series, but the ending feels right for the plot and characters. After a series like this, I’ll be on the look out for whatever Erica O’Rourke writes next.
Sexual Content:
Kissing. Scenes of sensuality. A non graphic sex scene
I love trilogies. I love how clear and purposeful each book is. I especially love reading the final book, the one where everything comes together and all the emotional and plot driven story-lines converge. Reading BOUND by Erica O’Rourke, the third book in the Torn Trilogy, I was reminded all over again why trilogies are so satisfying. In both of the preceding books in this trilogy, the endings were fantastic. So powerful and exciting. As the ending to the whole series, BOUND captures the same energy and emotionally gripping feel from the first to last page, and delivers by far the best book of the series.
The magic of the Torn Trilogy has always been the fine balance between Mo’s mob connected family life and her accidental but irrevocable connection to the supernatural Seraphim. Each side has a guy that Mo is drawn to, a villain that wants to use or kill her, and an obligation to protect the innocent. O’Rourke’s skill has been making both world equally compelling, and finally in BOUND, thrusting the two together. The consequesces are just as severe as I would have expected. Betrayal, and bloodshed, and heartbreak follow.
My only real complaint is how the romance turned out. Not because I was rooting for the other guy, but because I thought Mo was too capricious in her choosing. She was in an intimate position with one guy declaring her love and readiness for sex and then in an almost identical situation with the other guy way too quickly for my taste. Her speech to the guy she didn’t choose was in complete contrast to everything she had been saying to him the entire book. It didn’t sit right.
As a series overall, the Torn Trilogy is unique and exciting. The mythology is new and inventive, and Mo as a character grows so much over the span of the series. I’m sorry there won’t be more books in this series, but the ending feels right for the plot and characters. After a series like this, I’ll be on the look out for whatever Erica O’Rourke writes next.
Sexual Content:
Kissing. Scenes of sensuality. A non graphic sex scene
May 15, 2014
Inhaltsangabe (Quelle: Blanvalet):
Mo Fitzgerald hat sich entschieden: für ein Leben in Chicago, für eine Zukunft mit Colin – und damit gegen den mysteriösen Luc und die Magie. Aber dann erheben sich erneut die übernatürlichen Mächte und ein Krieg bricht aus, der auch Mos normales, menschliches Leben bedroht. Je mehr Mo sich bemüht, ihre zwei Welten voneinander zu trennen, desto tödlicher werden die Konsequenzen. Plötzlich muss sie alles riskieren: ihr Leben, ihre Liebe, ihre Zukunft. Oder sie wird alles verlieren!
Meine Einschätzung:
Dies ist nun der Abschluss der "Torn" Trilogie rund um Mo, Colin und Luc.
Ob ich mit dem Ende glücklich und zufrieden bin? Lest selbst!
Obwohl der Schreibstil in diesem abschließenden Band nicht weniger gut und leicht zu lesen war, so hatte ich dennoch meine Probleme mich auf den Roman zu konzentrieren. Keine Frage, die Autorin löst das Problem mit den Bögen und Flachen (Magier und nicht Magier) geschickt und auch die Dreiecksbeziehung zwischen COlin - Mo - Luc wird irgendwie gelöst, wenn auch in meinen Augen gar zu einfach.
Und auch sonst beantwortet die Autorin die offenen Fragen und löst die Probleme, trotzdem fehlte mir irgendwie etwas, dabei kann ich nicht mal genau sagen was.
Bei der Handlung wurde ich ein ums andere Mal überrascht, wenn auch ein Großteil der Ereignisse fast genau so eintraten, wie ich vermutete.
Man merkt deutlich, dass der Fokus hier auf den zwischenmenschlichen Beziehungen liegt, was nicht schlecht ist, aber auch nicht gerade hilfreich für den Spannungsaufbau.
Die Charaktere entwickeln sich in meinen AUgen nicht nennenswert weiter. Mo scheint sich festgebissen zu haben und "nervte" schon fast ein bissl mit ihrem Fähnchenverhalten (hoffe ihr versteht was ich meine). Beim kleinsten Anzeichen mit Problemen mit Colin fiel sie Luc in die Arme und schmachtete ihn förmlich an und kaum war Luc aus Sichtweise, war er auch aus dem Sinn ... schrecklich.
Vom Ausgang der Dreiecksbeziehung ganz zu schweigen!
Insgesamt war dieser 3. Teil befriedigend, aber nicht herausragend und im Vergleich zu Bd. 1 und 2 deutlich schwächer.
Mein Fazit:
3 Sterne - für einen schwachen Abschluss mit gewissen "Höhepunkten".
Mo Fitzgerald hat sich entschieden: für ein Leben in Chicago, für eine Zukunft mit Colin – und damit gegen den mysteriösen Luc und die Magie. Aber dann erheben sich erneut die übernatürlichen Mächte und ein Krieg bricht aus, der auch Mos normales, menschliches Leben bedroht. Je mehr Mo sich bemüht, ihre zwei Welten voneinander zu trennen, desto tödlicher werden die Konsequenzen. Plötzlich muss sie alles riskieren: ihr Leben, ihre Liebe, ihre Zukunft. Oder sie wird alles verlieren!
Meine Einschätzung:
Dies ist nun der Abschluss der "Torn" Trilogie rund um Mo, Colin und Luc.
Ob ich mit dem Ende glücklich und zufrieden bin? Lest selbst!
Obwohl der Schreibstil in diesem abschließenden Band nicht weniger gut und leicht zu lesen war, so hatte ich dennoch meine Probleme mich auf den Roman zu konzentrieren. Keine Frage, die Autorin löst das Problem mit den Bögen und Flachen (Magier und nicht Magier) geschickt und auch die Dreiecksbeziehung zwischen COlin - Mo - Luc wird irgendwie gelöst, wenn auch in meinen Augen gar zu einfach.
Und auch sonst beantwortet die Autorin die offenen Fragen und löst die Probleme, trotzdem fehlte mir irgendwie etwas, dabei kann ich nicht mal genau sagen was.
Bei der Handlung wurde ich ein ums andere Mal überrascht, wenn auch ein Großteil der Ereignisse fast genau so eintraten, wie ich vermutete.
Man merkt deutlich, dass der Fokus hier auf den zwischenmenschlichen Beziehungen liegt, was nicht schlecht ist, aber auch nicht gerade hilfreich für den Spannungsaufbau.
Die Charaktere entwickeln sich in meinen AUgen nicht nennenswert weiter. Mo scheint sich festgebissen zu haben und "nervte" schon fast ein bissl mit ihrem Fähnchenverhalten (hoffe ihr versteht was ich meine). Beim kleinsten Anzeichen mit Problemen mit Colin fiel sie Luc in die Arme und schmachtete ihn förmlich an und kaum war Luc aus Sichtweise, war er auch aus dem Sinn ... schrecklich.
Vom Ausgang der Dreiecksbeziehung ganz zu schweigen!
Insgesamt war dieser 3. Teil befriedigend, aber nicht herausragend und im Vergleich zu Bd. 1 und 2 deutlich schwächer.
Mein Fazit:
3 Sterne - für einen schwachen Abschluss mit gewissen "Höhepunkten".
July 4, 2012
"Poor Mouse," [Luc] said. "You've been tryin' so hard to put all the different parts of your life in neat little boxes. Friends in one and family in another and magic in a third... But as hard as you're workin' to keep everything separate, they just keep overlapping..."
Phew! A breathtaking finale to the series. The events of the previous books finally come to a head. For all this time, Mo has been trying to sort out her fractured life: magic, mafia, school, Colin, Luc, and so on. She has been avoiding making choices for so long. But now the time has come to declare herself. One thing she can't deny is the power of the magic that's within her, and she learns something vital about it that could be a game-changer as the Arcs are threatened by the Seraphim, and it looks as if all of Mo's worlds could come crashing down around her.
BOUND really is a great ending to the trilogy. It's not completely a "happy-ever-after" ending; there's some profound sadness as a result of things that happen. But I have to admit that as much as I might want certain things to have ended up differently, it's probably the best way to conclude Mo's story.
If you've read my reviews of the other books in the series (TORN and TANGLED), you know how much I enjoyed them, and know that they are definitely recommended reading. It's a good blend of YA contemporary and paranormal. For those that enjoy love scenes, there are healthy doses of those (though not too many, which I'm glad of since I'm not a huge fan of that). There is a love-making scene in this book. It's not graphically depicted, though it's very clear what's going on. There's one instance of an s-word that I recall, but for the most part the language is only mildly strong. I would classify it older YA, if only because of the aforementioned bedroom scene.
August 15, 2012
Title: Bound (Torn Trilogy #3)
Author: Erica O’Rourke
Publisher: Kensington Teen
Date of Release: June 26, 2012
Number of Pages: 350
Source: Erica, because she loves me!
Summary from Goodreads:
Mo Fitzgerald has made her choice: A life in Chicago. A future with Colin. To leave behind the enigmatic Luc and the world of the Arcs. But the more she struggles to keep her magic and mortal lives separate, the deadlier the consequences. In the end, Mo must risk everything--her life, her heart, her future--or lose it all.
Review: So the world of magic and the mob scene of Chicago clash in this novel!! I’ve never seen two more complex worlds be written into a novel like in this series. I got everything I could ever want out of Bound! I would like to read a novella about Mo’s life now that it is all kind of over with!!
Let’s face it I just love Mo as a character. I couldn’t believe it when she started working for the mob in the last book, but it all makes sense since she was saving the ones she loves. I thought her mother was just kind of blissfully unaware, but that is so not true we find out. Colin, I like him, remember when I was Torn…. Well I am so not anymore… Luc is the guy for me. Maybe it’s all of his cool weapons or the leather jackets or the fire thing. In the end though, I think it’s his softee side.
I thought is was pretty cool that Maura’s flat friend Lena was explored further. It was really cool to learn that aspect of her life. I never expected the twists in this installment. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen, but I never thought things would turn out the way they did.
I love this series and am sad to see it end. I am happy that Erica is working on a new novel though! Make sure you read Bound!
Author: Erica O’Rourke
Publisher: Kensington Teen
Date of Release: June 26, 2012
Number of Pages: 350
Source: Erica, because she loves me!
Summary from Goodreads:
Mo Fitzgerald has made her choice: A life in Chicago. A future with Colin. To leave behind the enigmatic Luc and the world of the Arcs. But the more she struggles to keep her magic and mortal lives separate, the deadlier the consequences. In the end, Mo must risk everything--her life, her heart, her future--or lose it all.
Review: So the world of magic and the mob scene of Chicago clash in this novel!! I’ve never seen two more complex worlds be written into a novel like in this series. I got everything I could ever want out of Bound! I would like to read a novella about Mo’s life now that it is all kind of over with!!
Let’s face it I just love Mo as a character. I couldn’t believe it when she started working for the mob in the last book, but it all makes sense since she was saving the ones she loves. I thought her mother was just kind of blissfully unaware, but that is so not true we find out. Colin, I like him, remember when I was Torn…. Well I am so not anymore… Luc is the guy for me. Maybe it’s all of his cool weapons or the leather jackets or the fire thing. In the end though, I think it’s his softee side.
I thought is was pretty cool that Maura’s flat friend Lena was explored further. It was really cool to learn that aspect of her life. I never expected the twists in this installment. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen, but I never thought things would turn out the way they did.
I love this series and am sad to see it end. I am happy that Erica is working on a new novel though! Make sure you read Bound!
July 9, 2012
Bound is the third book in the Torn trilogy, and I was so glad that it ended in a great way! I'm usually scared of how authors end their books sometimes, and I have to say that Erica did a great job! Maura Fitzgerald, Mo, is a great protagonist. She really does not depend on guys at all, and always does what her heart tells her to do. I really admire her for that. I was really excited for the third book, mostly because of the love triangle. I just love Colin, and for the first time in any book I have read, the main protagonist likes the "normal" human being and not the "paranormal" character, who in this case is Luc. Erica constructed such a complicated and lovely love triangle that made my heart hurt with them.
While reading Bound, there wasn't a time where I felt like the book was boring or even a bit draggy. It was all balanced out, and that made it really comfortable to read. I really liked how Erica included pats of the magic world, parts of Mo's personal family issues, and part of the romance as well. That way I got a taste of everything, which I thought was pretty cool! If I had to compare the three books, I would say that the second book, Tangled, was the best. After that would come Bound, then Torn, which is the first book of the trilogy. Therefore if you have read Torn and maybe didn't enjoy it that much, read the second book because it is awesome!!
I really want to thank KensingtonTeen for send me an ARC of Torn, because I would have never started this series if it weren't for them! It was a great adventure with Mo, Collin, and Luc, and I am slightly upset that it ended. The Torn trilogy will always be in my heart, because yes, it was that great! I really cannot wait to pick up future works by Erica O'Rourke!
While reading Bound, there wasn't a time where I felt like the book was boring or even a bit draggy. It was all balanced out, and that made it really comfortable to read. I really liked how Erica included pats of the magic world, parts of Mo's personal family issues, and part of the romance as well. That way I got a taste of everything, which I thought was pretty cool! If I had to compare the three books, I would say that the second book, Tangled, was the best. After that would come Bound, then Torn, which is the first book of the trilogy. Therefore if you have read Torn and maybe didn't enjoy it that much, read the second book because it is awesome!!
I really want to thank KensingtonTeen for send me an ARC of Torn, because I would have never started this series if it weren't for them! It was a great adventure with Mo, Collin, and Luc, and I am slightly upset that it ended. The Torn trilogy will always be in my heart, because yes, it was that great! I really cannot wait to pick up future works by Erica O'Rourke!
August 26, 2012
One series that I have talked up a lot over the last few months is the Torn Trilogy by Erica O’Rourke, and this isn’t just because I know how awesome Erica is (and she is!) but because the series truly deserves talking about. Maura Fitzgerald wakes up in the hospital at the beginning of the first book, Torn. The incident that puts her in the hospital killed her best friend and Maura “Mo” vows to do whatever she needs to do to avenge her friends death. Mo also discovers that her best friend has been hiding a secret, magical life. So, unmagical Mo decides to pick up where her friend left off and soon finds herself trapped between two worlds and two boys.
Throughout the series Mo learns more secrets about those around her–and more about herself. Where do fate and choice intersect? All of the books in the series captivated me until the wee hours of the morning and I didn’t want to see the series end. In Bound, the final book in the trilogy, Mo struggles to separate her own dreams from others’ expectations. She’s bound to the magic and still feels a responsibility to the memory of her friend, but she has also bound herself to dangerous alliances in order to protect those she loves.
Along with the textured magical world created in the series, I loved watching Mo change and grow. I struggled right along with her in deciding who I liked more, Colin from her life in Chicago or magical Luc from New Orleans. By the time we reached the end, the resolution worked perfectly for me–and also surprised me at a few turns.
An all around wonderful and satisfying read and I can’t wait for Erica’s release next year!
Throughout the series Mo learns more secrets about those around her–and more about herself. Where do fate and choice intersect? All of the books in the series captivated me until the wee hours of the morning and I didn’t want to see the series end. In Bound, the final book in the trilogy, Mo struggles to separate her own dreams from others’ expectations. She’s bound to the magic and still feels a responsibility to the memory of her friend, but she has also bound herself to dangerous alliances in order to protect those she loves.
Along with the textured magical world created in the series, I loved watching Mo change and grow. I struggled right along with her in deciding who I liked more, Colin from her life in Chicago or magical Luc from New Orleans. By the time we reached the end, the resolution worked perfectly for me–and also surprised me at a few turns.
An all around wonderful and satisfying read and I can’t wait for Erica’s release next year!
May 16, 2013
I enjoyed the first two books in this series, so I was looking forward to reading this. I really love books with magic in them.
Mo is even more embedded in her uncle's mob business and is trying to leave the Arc world alone. However, it isn't that easy and others are after her for the bond she has with the magic. Everything just gets more complicated, but yet she still resists making any definite choices.
This one was both good and bad for me. I loved Luc! I really liked Mo's friend Lena. I liked some of the plotting and how things moved along as well as the ending.
Mo frustrated me at various points. I just felt she wasn't completely fair to Colin or Luc, or her dad and mom. I didn't like the way she was pushing things with both guys and the sexual content that ended up being in here, although mostly non-descriptive. The way she let in the rage and desire for revenge bothered me too. I also didn't like that she felt it was fine to choose to stay in Chicago and revenge Verity, which Verity never would have wanted. It seemed like she should have been a little bit wiser than she was after all she had experienced and the people she was dealing with. Some things she did handle well, like the Arcs and her friends.
It was still an enjoyable read, but I wanted so much more.
Content: Some suggestive content, violence, non-descriptive sex
Original review was posted here on my blog.
Mo is even more embedded in her uncle's mob business and is trying to leave the Arc world alone. However, it isn't that easy and others are after her for the bond she has with the magic. Everything just gets more complicated, but yet she still resists making any definite choices.
This one was both good and bad for me. I loved Luc! I really liked Mo's friend Lena. I liked some of the plotting and how things moved along as well as the ending.
Mo frustrated me at various points. I just felt she wasn't completely fair to Colin or Luc, or her dad and mom. I didn't like the way she was pushing things with both guys and the sexual content that ended up being in here, although mostly non-descriptive. The way she let in the rage and desire for revenge bothered me too. I also didn't like that she felt it was fine to choose to stay in Chicago and revenge Verity, which Verity never would have wanted. It seemed like she should have been a little bit wiser than she was after all she had experienced and the people she was dealing with. Some things she did handle well, like the Arcs and her friends.
It was still an enjoyable read, but I wanted so much more.
Content: Some suggestive content, violence, non-descriptive sex
Original review was posted here on my blog.
July 27, 2012
Erica O’Rourke’s Bound is the grand conclusion to a great trilogy. It picks up right after the events of Tangled as Maura “Mo” Fitzgerald is torn between two worlds. With forces from each end pulling her in, Mo has to decide which path is the right one for her and the guy that is best for her. Although each side offers a desire, they also have something that is trying to overcome her. Something big is on the horizon for Mo since this is the last book. All of the pressures are closing in as Mo tries to protect everyone, knowing that she will not be able to save everyone. When the collision between the worlds comes, it pits Mo in a chaotic dilemma.
Erica made certain that Bound would possess all the elements needed to close a fantastic trilogy. It was truly epic with an all out action-packed finish. Exciting and greatly appealing, Erica keeps readers on the edge of their seats with plot twists that come from all angles. The side plots that were uncovered during the first two books are entirely filled and everything goes into one direction that makes the Torn Trilogy a satisfying one. Bound is absolutely amazing, unique and thrilling. Although it is sad to see the series end, it fills in a sense of eagerness for the next book on Erica’s agenda.
Erica made certain that Bound would possess all the elements needed to close a fantastic trilogy. It was truly epic with an all out action-packed finish. Exciting and greatly appealing, Erica keeps readers on the edge of their seats with plot twists that come from all angles. The side plots that were uncovered during the first two books are entirely filled and everything goes into one direction that makes the Torn Trilogy a satisfying one. Bound is absolutely amazing, unique and thrilling. Although it is sad to see the series end, it fills in a sense of eagerness for the next book on Erica’s agenda.
September 13, 2016
I really loved this book. This third book was not the best of the trilogy, but it provided a comfortable ending to the series.
There were some tense scenes and action in this third book that weren't so prevalent in the first two books. Things change pretty quickly in the course of this book. Mo has some major changes of heart, and comes to see her difficult decisions as necessities. She uncovers the last bits of hidden information about everyone in her world, Arc or Flat, and grows as a result of accepting and understanding those people better. She learns to trust and sheds her last bits of teenage selfishness as she lets go of the past and makes the right decisions for her future. I wasn't thrilled with how the mob issue was resolved, but everything turned out well enough at the end. It felt a little rushed to me, but I could be wrong. Or it could be the author's uncanny ability to catch me off guard. Whatever it is, I completely trust O'Rourke to guide the story even better than I could have asked. I have no idea how I will read a new book after falling in love with this series so completely.
There were some tense scenes and action in this third book that weren't so prevalent in the first two books. Things change pretty quickly in the course of this book. Mo has some major changes of heart, and comes to see her difficult decisions as necessities. She uncovers the last bits of hidden information about everyone in her world, Arc or Flat, and grows as a result of accepting and understanding those people better. She learns to trust and sheds her last bits of teenage selfishness as she lets go of the past and makes the right decisions for her future. I wasn't thrilled with how the mob issue was resolved, but everything turned out well enough at the end. It felt a little rushed to me, but I could be wrong. Or it could be the author's uncanny ability to catch me off guard. Whatever it is, I completely trust O'Rourke to guide the story even better than I could have asked. I have no idea how I will read a new book after falling in love with this series so completely.
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