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The Alexa Montgomery Saga #2
Half Black Soul
In the past few weeks Alexa Montgomery has had her entire world flipped upside down. She's gone from living a semi-normal teenage life to a life full of vampires and werewolves who all expect her to deliver them from the control of an evil dictator.
Alexa is the last of her kind; a Sun Warrior, and now she has left the safety of Two Rivers to search for her mother, but she's left her sister behind to do so, and Nelly is the one person that she was told that she must always protect. Kayden, a vampire who is Alexa's other half, has followed her on her journey. But, secrets are about to come out, relationships will break and danger lies just up ahead. Will Alexa be able to get through all of this and make it out alive? And, will she be able to protect Nelly from danger when she is so far away?
Alexa is the last of her kind; a Sun Warrior, and now she has left the safety of Two Rivers to search for her mother, but she's left her sister behind to do so, and Nelly is the one person that she was told that she must always protect. Kayden, a vampire who is Alexa's other half, has followed her on her journey. But, secrets are about to come out, relationships will break and danger lies just up ahead. Will Alexa be able to get through all of this and make it out alive? And, will she be able to protect Nelly from danger when she is so far away?
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2012
180 people are currently reading
1422 people want to read
About the author
H.D. Gordon
46 books622 followersH. D. Gordon is the author of several fantasy series with strong female leads.
She is the mother of two amazing daughters, and a lover of nature. She believes our actions have ripple effects, and in the interconnectedness of all things.
H. D. spends her time with family, eating desserts, and taking strolls through the forests of New Jersey.
Please visit hdgordonbooks.com for more details.
She is the mother of two amazing daughters, and a lover of nature. She believes our actions have ripple effects, and in the interconnectedness of all things.
H. D. spends her time with family, eating desserts, and taking strolls through the forests of New Jersey.
Please visit hdgordonbooks.com for more details.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
April 10, 2014
I received this book from the group Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy Fanatics as part of their Read 2 Review program here on Goodreads. Thanks to the mods, and author for providing this book for us to read.
Half Black Soul is the second book in the exciting Alexa Montgomery Series. I loved Blood Warrior which was the first book. Actually, it looks like almost all PNR/UF lovers loved Blood Warrior. In fact, nearly all of my GR friends rated it 5 stars, and I rated it 4. The book was amazing and exceeded my expectations, but I did feel the author was very talented and would only improve. So I held back that last star in hopes that book two would blow book one out of the water.
Well, H.D. has done it. I don't understand how this woman hasn't been picked up Amanda Hocking style and offered a great deal for this series. Sorry for this long and probably unimportant intro to this review.
Half Black Soul picks up right where we left off after Blood Warrior. Alexa wants to find out what happened to her mother, and so sets out on an amazing adventure filled with many twists. Alexa is still a phenomenal heroine. She's smart, strong, and thrilling to read about. In this book we get to explore her darker side a bit which I admit was written perfectly. Kayden seems to step up his hotness too if that is possible. He went from average hottie to full on swoon-worthy!
Some of this book is written from Nelly's POV, and I thought, again, the author did a great job with the multiple POV. During this time we get to see inside Nelly's head, and understand how she feels about her power. We get to see how she deals with life for the first time not having Alexa around to take care of her.
I don't have much to say about the plot, because I don't want to give anything away. This book has a well developed plot, and the characters are very well developed, too. The plot moves quickly with a great pace, and there is never a dull moment.
I really hope this author soon gets the recognition she deserves. Until then I will recommend this book to every PNR/UF lover I know. When you read the first book you will see writing that is exciting and able to grab you. When you finish Blood Warrior you will be aching for more, and ,finally, when you read this one you will be amazed.
Half Black Soul is the second book in the exciting Alexa Montgomery Series. I loved Blood Warrior which was the first book. Actually, it looks like almost all PNR/UF lovers loved Blood Warrior. In fact, nearly all of my GR friends rated it 5 stars, and I rated it 4. The book was amazing and exceeded my expectations, but I did feel the author was very talented and would only improve. So I held back that last star in hopes that book two would blow book one out of the water.
Well, H.D. has done it. I don't understand how this woman hasn't been picked up Amanda Hocking style and offered a great deal for this series. Sorry for this long and probably unimportant intro to this review.
Half Black Soul picks up right where we left off after Blood Warrior. Alexa wants to find out what happened to her mother, and so sets out on an amazing adventure filled with many twists. Alexa is still a phenomenal heroine. She's smart, strong, and thrilling to read about. In this book we get to explore her darker side a bit which I admit was written perfectly. Kayden seems to step up his hotness too if that is possible. He went from average hottie to full on swoon-worthy!
Some of this book is written from Nelly's POV, and I thought, again, the author did a great job with the multiple POV. During this time we get to see inside Nelly's head, and understand how she feels about her power. We get to see how she deals with life for the first time not having Alexa around to take care of her.
I don't have much to say about the plot, because I don't want to give anything away. This book has a well developed plot, and the characters are very well developed, too. The plot moves quickly with a great pace, and there is never a dull moment.
I really hope this author soon gets the recognition she deserves. Until then I will recommend this book to every PNR/UF lover I know. When you read the first book you will see writing that is exciting and able to grab you. When you finish Blood Warrior you will be aching for more, and ,finally, when you read this one you will be amazed.
March 6, 2012
I am completely beside myself, I have no idea how to make you understand the how spectacular this book is...
Did you love Blood Warrior?
Wasn't it great? Suspenseful? Didn't you love Alexa and her journey?
Did you hold it dear to your heart as I have?
Well.....
Throw it in the f-ing trash!
Why???? Because it is Hankey the Christmas poo next to Half Black Soul.
Seriously.
This past year has found breakout author H.D. Gordon very well indeed. Her writing has surpassed Blood Warrior by leaps and bounds and now we have an author who will reinvent the genre. H.D. Gordon is Stephen King for Young Adults. I know I can’t believe I said it either but mark my words this young author is going to be a best seller before you know it.
Alexa is magic, a tough young heroine with a very dark side to her. In book 2 we get a better look at that monster and what it is capable of. Also since half the book is written in Nelly’s perspective you get a very good look into her mind and it’s not all peaches and cream guys. We know Nelly is half Lamia already but she has held her power in check because Alexa has always been there to protect her. Now with Alexa on a mission to find out what really happened to their mother Nelly has to protect herself as well as try to figure out what he sister has discovered. Also on this journey, nope I don’t do spoilers so keep reading, we get a better look at Kayden and the stuff our sexy hero is made of *sigh*….
Can it get any better than that? DO NOT answer that because just when I think it can’t get any better, you know it does.
There are some huge bombshells Ms. Gordon drops on us in this book, surprises even I didn’t see coming. This is a gripping journey into a spectacular and unique world, there is nothing like it out in this genre. I said in my review of Blood Warrior that House of Night and Vampire Academy fans will enjoy this world, well… in this book H.D. Gordon separates herself from those well known titles because they are NOT like this darkly thrilling world.
I gave Blood Warrior 5 stars and now I wish I hadn’t because now I have to invent a new category as everything else will now be judged…BEAST!!!
You will love it if you like bad ass Chicks, sexy heros, fast paced stories, and epic adventures.
Edgy YA - recommend for older teens and Adults
Rating - BEAST
Release Date January 31st 2012, Do. Not. Miss. it.
You know I already know what Alexa & Nelly look like... they have their own covers.
And this is my new Jackson is this guy... have no clue who he is!
Did you love Blood Warrior?
Wasn't it great? Suspenseful? Didn't you love Alexa and her journey?
Did you hold it dear to your heart as I have?
Well.....
Throw it in the f-ing trash!
Why???? Because it is Hankey the Christmas poo next to Half Black Soul.
Seriously.
This past year has found breakout author H.D. Gordon very well indeed. Her writing has surpassed Blood Warrior by leaps and bounds and now we have an author who will reinvent the genre. H.D. Gordon is Stephen King for Young Adults. I know I can’t believe I said it either but mark my words this young author is going to be a best seller before you know it.
Alexa is magic, a tough young heroine with a very dark side to her. In book 2 we get a better look at that monster and what it is capable of. Also since half the book is written in Nelly’s perspective you get a very good look into her mind and it’s not all peaches and cream guys. We know Nelly is half Lamia already but she has held her power in check because Alexa has always been there to protect her. Now with Alexa on a mission to find out what really happened to their mother Nelly has to protect herself as well as try to figure out what he sister has discovered. Also on this journey, nope I don’t do spoilers so keep reading, we get a better look at Kayden and the stuff our sexy hero is made of *sigh*….
Can it get any better than that? DO NOT answer that because just when I think it can’t get any better, you know it does.
There are some huge bombshells Ms. Gordon drops on us in this book, surprises even I didn’t see coming. This is a gripping journey into a spectacular and unique world, there is nothing like it out in this genre. I said in my review of Blood Warrior that House of Night and Vampire Academy fans will enjoy this world, well… in this book H.D. Gordon separates herself from those well known titles because they are NOT like this darkly thrilling world.
I gave Blood Warrior 5 stars and now I wish I hadn’t because now I have to invent a new category as everything else will now be judged…BEAST!!!
You will love it if you like bad ass Chicks, sexy heros, fast paced stories, and epic adventures.
Edgy YA - recommend for older teens and Adults
Rating - BEAST
Release Date January 31st 2012, Do. Not. Miss. it.
You know I already know what Alexa & Nelly look like... they have their own covers.
And this is my new Jackson is this guy... have no clue who he is!
April 8, 2013
deleting reviews if you want to take a look at them you can do so on my blog, link on my profile
March 14, 2012
4½♥'s (Rounded up for GoodReads)
Okay, if you're looking at this review, you've probably read the first book. So I won't bore you with re-hashing the blurb. But, my oh my, this is JUST as good as Blood Warrior; just as good, if not better than, the first.
Some of the things I absolutely LOVED in this one:
♦ The changing POV. I adored getting to know Nelly better and seeing the world through her eyes. It especially adds 'punch' to the ending of this point because you've become more attached to Nelly as a character. OMG- that ending! Not going to give it away- but AHHHHH! Book 3, where are you?
♦ Since Blood Warrior, I was already on 'Team Kayden'... now after this book- in your FACE for those that were NOT 'Team Kayden'. HA! He is the man, and stuck by his honor and stuck by Alexa.
♦ The world created in this Urban Fantasy series is further explored and fleshed out. It really creates a unique take on supernatural, and I've really enjoyed being drawn in further with this second book.
It's just great. If you can handle YA, and this is still on the 'innocent' YA level, although there are references to more carnal acts but no actual acting upon those carnal thoughts. I find this to be a GREAT series, and the price is really wonderful on these. If you like UF and can handle YA- this series should be at the top of your 'to buy' list!
August can't get here soon enough for my next 'fix' of Kayden....
Okay, if you're looking at this review, you've probably read the first book. So I won't bore you with re-hashing the blurb. But, my oh my, this is JUST as good as Blood Warrior; just as good, if not better than, the first.
Some of the things I absolutely LOVED in this one:
♦ The changing POV. I adored getting to know Nelly better and seeing the world through her eyes. It especially adds 'punch' to the ending of this point because you've become more attached to Nelly as a character. OMG- that ending! Not going to give it away- but AHHHHH! Book 3, where are you?
♦ Since Blood Warrior, I was already on 'Team Kayden'... now after this book- in your FACE for those that were NOT 'Team Kayden'. HA! He is the man, and stuck by his honor and stuck by Alexa.
♦ The world created in this Urban Fantasy series is further explored and fleshed out. It really creates a unique take on supernatural, and I've really enjoyed being drawn in further with this second book.
It's just great. If you can handle YA, and this is still on the 'innocent' YA level, although there are references to more carnal acts but no actual acting upon those carnal thoughts. I find this to be a GREAT series, and the price is really wonderful on these. If you like UF and can handle YA- this series should be at the top of your 'to buy' list!
August can't get here soon enough for my next 'fix' of Kayden....
January 29, 2012
Half Black Soul Review on K-Books
*Spoilers from Blood Warrior in this review. If you haven't read Book 1 you may not want to read this review.
Wow! This book was definitely not what I expected at all. I really loved the first book in the series, Blood Warrior and HD blew me away with her writing and her story in that but Blood Warrior is nothing compared to this book. It is a million times better and there's so many twists and turns I was shocked at the things happening.
Alexa has left the safety of Two Rivers to go find her mother. Along with her is Kayden, her other half, the Libra to her Warrior and he will do whatever it takes to protect her. But by going on her quest, Alexa has left behind her sister. The one person she was told to always protect. Secrets will come out, relationships will break and danger lies just ahead. Will Alexa be able to face all that she does and come out of it alive? And will she be able to protect Nelly from danger when she is so far away?
I absolutely loved this book. There were lots of twists and turns and most of the way through it I was shocked by the secrets that came out. I really loved that we say a different side to Nelly. Book 1 was told from Alexa's point of view but this book was told from two points of view, Alexa and Nelly. I really loved that we had these two points of view as we really saw a different side to Nelly. The perception I got from book 1 is that Alexa has this dark side to her character and she really struggles with it throughout this book. But what I didn't really expect was for us to see a darker side of Nelly. Nelly and Alexa have always been so different and come across as one being incredibly strong and will stop at nothing to protect the people they love while the other was seen as more gentle and loving. In Half Black Soul we really see that they are more similar than first thought. Nelly is just as strong and while we always knew Alexa would do anything to protect Nelly even kill for her we see that Nelly feels the same way about Alexa.
You really see a different side to not just Nelly but all of the characters. Jackson really took a backseat in this book but that doesn't mean he is less important to the story. I was shocked to find out some of the secrets in this book and it's fair to say that after this book none of the character's relationships will ever be the same again.
Half Black Soul is really so different than Blood Warrior and it explores much darker themes than the first one. It was brilliant and the first book seems insignificant compared to this one.
If you haven't read Blood Warrior this is not a series to be missed and I would suggest this series to anyone who loves YA Paranormal Romance.
Throughout reading this book This Song kept coming into my head and I really think it's the perfect song for this book and I think it really portrays the things going on this book perfectly.
I genuinely loved this book and I cannot wait for the next book. I really think this series is going to just get better and better. HD has definitely surpassed herself with this book and I cannot wait to read the next one in this series.
Phenomenal!
*Spoilers from Blood Warrior in this review. If you haven't read Book 1 you may not want to read this review.
Wow! This book was definitely not what I expected at all. I really loved the first book in the series, Blood Warrior and HD blew me away with her writing and her story in that but Blood Warrior is nothing compared to this book. It is a million times better and there's so many twists and turns I was shocked at the things happening.
Alexa has left the safety of Two Rivers to go find her mother. Along with her is Kayden, her other half, the Libra to her Warrior and he will do whatever it takes to protect her. But by going on her quest, Alexa has left behind her sister. The one person she was told to always protect. Secrets will come out, relationships will break and danger lies just ahead. Will Alexa be able to face all that she does and come out of it alive? And will she be able to protect Nelly from danger when she is so far away?
I absolutely loved this book. There were lots of twists and turns and most of the way through it I was shocked by the secrets that came out. I really loved that we say a different side to Nelly. Book 1 was told from Alexa's point of view but this book was told from two points of view, Alexa and Nelly. I really loved that we had these two points of view as we really saw a different side to Nelly. The perception I got from book 1 is that Alexa has this dark side to her character and she really struggles with it throughout this book. But what I didn't really expect was for us to see a darker side of Nelly. Nelly and Alexa have always been so different and come across as one being incredibly strong and will stop at nothing to protect the people they love while the other was seen as more gentle and loving. In Half Black Soul we really see that they are more similar than first thought. Nelly is just as strong and while we always knew Alexa would do anything to protect Nelly even kill for her we see that Nelly feels the same way about Alexa.
You really see a different side to not just Nelly but all of the characters. Jackson really took a backseat in this book but that doesn't mean he is less important to the story. I was shocked to find out some of the secrets in this book and it's fair to say that after this book none of the character's relationships will ever be the same again.
Half Black Soul is really so different than Blood Warrior and it explores much darker themes than the first one. It was brilliant and the first book seems insignificant compared to this one.
If you haven't read Blood Warrior this is not a series to be missed and I would suggest this series to anyone who loves YA Paranormal Romance.
Throughout reading this book This Song kept coming into my head and I really think it's the perfect song for this book and I think it really portrays the things going on this book perfectly.
I genuinely loved this book and I cannot wait for the next book. I really think this series is going to just get better and better. HD has definitely surpassed herself with this book and I cannot wait to read the next one in this series.
Phenomenal!
February 7, 2012
First things first....
Alexa is the shit!!!
I was one of the lucky ones to receive this book a day before it was to be released! I didn’t know how in the world H.D. was going to top Blood Warrior but did she prove me wrong? Hell Yes!!! I am dangerously obsessed with this series and we are only two books in. H.D. needs to be locked up and throw away the key because this book is insane!!
We start back where we left off in the first book and boy ole boy H.D. wastes no time with getting straight to the action! I really loved how the beginning didn’t drag with the whole retailing of the first book like other book series do. In Half Black Soul the story continues on a fast past with bits and pieces of important information from the first book as well.
In this installment we really get to see how well H.D. has grown as a writer and story teller as we read each book. I love that in the first book we had Alexa as the main character and we got to experience her journey from her point of view with her and we also had these amazing supporting characters that we have grown to love as much as the protagonist. But in HBS we get to see Nelliana’s point of view as well.
The story gets way more interesting with the different POV’s and sides of the story. We get to see a side of Nelly that we would have never saw coming if we weren’t inside her head. We also get to see Alexa and Nelly’s characters evolve and become more and more conflicted and dark with each book. Because where ever theirs light darkness hovers and we really get to see this theory play out throughout the entire read.We now see that Nelly and Alexa are two totally different people but as the secrets come out we can tell that they are really not so different at all. There were so many twist,turns,shocker’s,poetic,Kick-assness, and heart breaking moments that I cannot even guess where this book is headed(which is bad ass) because H.D. had me guessing the entire read.
H.D. you really broke my heart with what happened with Jackson... (Lolz)
-If your wanting a ride here it is……What are you waiting for!!
Recommend to/My confession: I read Blood Warrior: Loved It, I read Half Black Soul: Loved It. So I have come to a conclusion after reading the second book that this series is way better than Vampire Academy. It pains me to say but I literally fell into this series and I don’t want to be found. I love the Vampire Academy series but this takes the cake…… Sorry Rose but Alexa can kick your ass!(LOL!)
That’s all for now and I can’t wait to read the third book!
February 3, 2012
This isn't going to go into much detail. I don't do spoilers. And this book is so damn good, I want everybody to go into it "blindly" like I did. I read Blood Warrior, the first installment of the saga. Loved it! Couldn't wait to get my chubby little fingers on this one. All I can say is....I don't have the words. I'm blown away at how good this was. This is EPIC! I can't wait for what H.D. and her gang are gonna throw at us next! Go Now and Buy It! You Definitely Won't Regret It!
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September 19, 2016DNF at some point near the beginning.
I couldn't go on with the book. Sure, everybody loves Nelly, but her POV's got on my nerves. All she does is snoop around, and regret not believing Alexa and her warnings. OK. There was no need, in my opinion, to do so.
And the Alexa. She wasn't my favourite kick-ass worrior, and she still isn't. There is nothing special.
Somehow, this thing isn't working out for me.
I couldn't go on with the book. Sure, everybody loves Nelly, but her POV's got on my nerves. All she does is snoop around, and regret not believing Alexa and her warnings. OK. There was no need, in my opinion, to do so.
And the Alexa. She wasn't my favourite kick-ass worrior, and she still isn't. There is nothing special.
Somehow, this thing isn't working out for me.
March 23, 2012
5+ Stars!
Wow!! Holy Shmokes!
I was told this series would "Knock my socks off" and it did, TEN FOLDS!
Hoo Boy!! I don't know where to start. The first novel in the series is "Blood Warrior" I didn't have a feel to it,till,I hit that 52% mark,my reading pace picked up a notch. It took me a few moments to realize I was holding in my breath. It was THAT good! You get the feel of the characters and their backgrounds. The main characters are young staring off at 17,some may say its a ya series, & I would think so as well. I would compare it to the "Vampire Academy" series by Richelle Mead. But I enjoyed this series much better. There's more to it then just different vampires and ,yadda,yadda,yadda! In this novel it explains more about the supernatural beings,and how many are becoming extinct,they are Lamia's which are like vampires just with a little weirdness to them. There's Searchers whom can read a persons mind and soul,werewolves,and so much more! hmmm what else am i missing? Oooo the WARRIORS! Rwar! Lol!! Sorry but the warriors are my favorite part in this novel,the Heroine,Alexa is a Sun Warrior,her character amped up this series,she ROCKS!
Okay! Enough of all that. Lol!
After you get the feel to the characters and the storyline the author introduces you to a world full of perfection,till people start noticing,theres something missing in the picture. The second book will keep your mind reeling. It's Amazing!
Alexa is much fiercer and stronger then ever. Her sister Nelly is done being tied up in a cacoon. And so much more unravels. The secrets,betrayals,hurt and lies,lead up to one thing. The King has authority to do as he pleases and wishes. People live in doubt and fear. He's got another thing coming for him,if he thinks it'll last forever. Alexa is on a mission,to fill in all the missing pieces,not giving a damn if it causes a war (like i said she ROCKS!) Alexa finds out her mother that was pronounced dead in book 1,is actually still alive,so who's lying and making up stories to cover their own hinies? Over time,it will reveal its self,the novel left off in a cliffhanger and totally left me at a "jaw dropping" moment.
Pssss...btw,Alexa is a player,Lol!! Just kidding! Ummm not, I'm serious :P How did she manage to get three guys to swoon over her? Lucky chick! Lol!! But only one truly loves her,who will it be? Jackson,the werewolf? Tommy,the Vampire? Or Kayden,the warrior/Libia and the much older and yummiest man? *wiggles eyebrows* hehe!! *sighs* betrayals,betrayals,betrayals....
But all in all,its an amazing series,if the third book was out I would have picked it up to read and not be sitting here jotting down my thoughts. Lol!! Oh gosh! I can't wait for book 3!
Wow!! Holy Shmokes!
I was told this series would "Knock my socks off" and it did, TEN FOLDS!
Hoo Boy!! I don't know where to start. The first novel in the series is "Blood Warrior" I didn't have a feel to it,till,I hit that 52% mark,my reading pace picked up a notch. It took me a few moments to realize I was holding in my breath. It was THAT good! You get the feel of the characters and their backgrounds. The main characters are young staring off at 17,some may say its a ya series, & I would think so as well. I would compare it to the "Vampire Academy" series by Richelle Mead. But I enjoyed this series much better. There's more to it then just different vampires and ,yadda,yadda,yadda! In this novel it explains more about the supernatural beings,and how many are becoming extinct,they are Lamia's which are like vampires just with a little weirdness to them. There's Searchers whom can read a persons mind and soul,werewolves,and so much more! hmmm what else am i missing? Oooo the WARRIORS! Rwar! Lol!! Sorry but the warriors are my favorite part in this novel,the Heroine,Alexa is a Sun Warrior,her character amped up this series,she ROCKS!
Okay! Enough of all that. Lol!
After you get the feel to the characters and the storyline the author introduces you to a world full of perfection,till people start noticing,theres something missing in the picture. The second book will keep your mind reeling. It's Amazing!
Alexa is much fiercer and stronger then ever. Her sister Nelly is done being tied up in a cacoon. And so much more unravels. The secrets,betrayals,hurt and lies,lead up to one thing. The King has authority to do as he pleases and wishes. People live in doubt and fear. He's got another thing coming for him,if he thinks it'll last forever. Alexa is on a mission,to fill in all the missing pieces,not giving a damn if it causes a war (like i said she ROCKS!) Alexa finds out her mother that was pronounced dead in book 1,is actually still alive,so who's lying and making up stories to cover their own hinies? Over time,it will reveal its self,the novel left off in a cliffhanger and totally left me at a "jaw dropping" moment.
Pssss...btw,Alexa is a player,Lol!! Just kidding! Ummm not, I'm serious :P How did she manage to get three guys to swoon over her? Lucky chick! Lol!! But only one truly loves her,who will it be? Jackson,the werewolf? Tommy,the Vampire? Or Kayden,the warrior/Libia and the much older and yummiest man? *wiggles eyebrows* hehe!! *sighs* betrayals,betrayals,betrayals....
But all in all,its an amazing series,if the third book was out I would have picked it up to read and not be sitting here jotting down my thoughts. Lol!! Oh gosh! I can't wait for book 3!
January 1, 2013
The second book in the Alexa Montgomery series picks up right where the first one left off. In this book we get to see Alexa grow into her role as a Sun Warrior. It is a difficult struggle for her, though, to embrace her destiny and accept what she sees as a monster inside of her. We also got to see her grow as a person as she searches out her feelings for Kayden.
I loved that we got Nelly's POV in this book. She is a great character and you can see, though she did not play a big role in book one, she is quickly becoming crucial to the plot of the story. I liked the fact that we got to know her a little bit better and were able to invest ourselves in her more.
The world the author created for this book was wonderful. She has a way of painting a picture with her words that flow right off the page. This series is fast becoming a favorite for me.
I loved that we got Nelly's POV in this book. She is a great character and you can see, though she did not play a big role in book one, she is quickly becoming crucial to the plot of the story. I liked the fact that we got to know her a little bit better and were able to invest ourselves in her more.
The world the author created for this book was wonderful. She has a way of painting a picture with her words that flow right off the page. This series is fast becoming a favorite for me.
February 6, 2012
Well, not really sure what to say on this one. :) This book was pretty awesome! I received this book from Shut Up & Read.
I had a little bit of trouble getting into the story at the beginning. I'm not sure if it was just my frame of mind when starting to read or what, but as I continued to read I was drawn in on this new adventure.
Alexa is still her spit-fire self. Unafraid of the consequences of her actions, not caring what people think of her and unsure of what to do in her love life. (I know who I would pick...just sayin') She finds herself on an unexpected mission to save someone whom everyone thought was dead. During this time, she struggles with the choices that she was forced to make (or was she?) and whether or not she is evil or just doing what was necessary to carry out her mission. Also, along the way, she finds herself drawn romantically to Kayden (my choice in the triangle by the way) and unable to deny her need for him. I wonder where this love will lead in the next book?!?
Nelly, Alexa's sister, is left back at Two Rivers. She begins to catch on that things are not quite what they seem. She learns secrets, finds new enemies and realizes that her powers are becoming much more than what she thought was possible. She begins to take confidence in herself and her ability to protect the important people in her life, including herself.
Jackson...well, that wolf-boy just plain gets on my nerves. Grrrrr! I was not shocked at the twist concerning him. In fact, I thought it made sense. :)
Kayden, that yummy goodness! Whew...is it hot in here?!? I think Alexa should pick him!! I liked that one of the chapters was from his perspective, and that we got to see a little snippet of his feelings for Alexa.
Oh, the twist at the end blindsided me! Did NOT see that one coming. I cannot wait for the next book!
Thank you to H.D. Gordon and Shut Up & Read for the opportunity to read this fantastic book! Y'all made my week!!
I had a little bit of trouble getting into the story at the beginning. I'm not sure if it was just my frame of mind when starting to read or what, but as I continued to read I was drawn in on this new adventure.
Alexa is still her spit-fire self. Unafraid of the consequences of her actions, not caring what people think of her and unsure of what to do in her love life. (I know who I would pick...just sayin') She finds herself on an unexpected mission to save someone whom everyone thought was dead. During this time, she struggles with the choices that she was forced to make (or was she?) and whether or not she is evil or just doing what was necessary to carry out her mission. Also, along the way, she finds herself drawn romantically to Kayden (my choice in the triangle by the way) and unable to deny her need for him. I wonder where this love will lead in the next book?!?
Nelly, Alexa's sister, is left back at Two Rivers. She begins to catch on that things are not quite what they seem. She learns secrets, finds new enemies and realizes that her powers are becoming much more than what she thought was possible. She begins to take confidence in herself and her ability to protect the important people in her life, including herself.
Jackson...well, that wolf-boy just plain gets on my nerves. Grrrrr! I was not shocked at the twist concerning him. In fact, I thought it made sense. :)
Kayden, that yummy goodness! Whew...is it hot in here?!? I think Alexa should pick him!! I liked that one of the chapters was from his perspective, and that we got to see a little snippet of his feelings for Alexa.
Oh, the twist at the end blindsided me! Did NOT see that one coming. I cannot wait for the next book!
Thank you to H.D. Gordon and Shut Up & Read for the opportunity to read this fantastic book! Y'all made my week!!
February 1, 2012
I received this book to review around 11am this morning by the time I got the email. It is now 8pm and I am finished. Let me mention that I worked 9am-6pm today. Yes, once I started it at work.. I could not stop.
This book is just as amazing, if not more so than Blood Warrior. I didn't think it was possible but H.D. has proved me wrong. It started a little slow for me but that's probably because I finished Blood Warrior at work this morning as well so the back story was fresh in my mind. Once it picked up.. it REALLY picked up. The emotion that pours off of the pages is hard to describe.
The ending has me BEGGING for more and I will be impatiently waiting for book 3.
Definitely one of the BEST books I have read in a LONG time. There were a few errors but it was barely noticeable and didn't even matter because the content of the book so was captivating.
This book is just as amazing, if not more so than Blood Warrior. I didn't think it was possible but H.D. has proved me wrong. It started a little slow for me but that's probably because I finished Blood Warrior at work this morning as well so the back story was fresh in my mind. Once it picked up.. it REALLY picked up. The emotion that pours off of the pages is hard to describe.
The ending has me BEGGING for more and I will be impatiently waiting for book 3.
Definitely one of the BEST books I have read in a LONG time. There were a few errors but it was barely noticeable and didn't even matter because the content of the book so was captivating.
February 3, 2012
I loved this book! Just like book one, HALF BLACK SOUL had alot of twist and turns, it was like a exciting roller coaster ride. And so many secrets that were shocking, and this all kept me turning the pages like they were on fire.
The characters that we have come to like were has strong has ever...we saw a darker side of Nelly in this book and I realized that she and Alexa are alot alike. Jackson was behind the scenes, but that does not mean he was any less important to the story.
HALF BLACK SOUL I thought was alot different than BLOOD WARRIOR, it explores a darker theme, and yes it was brilliant.
I think this is one of those series that keeps getting better and better. H.D. Gordon just keep them coming.
The characters that we have come to like were has strong has ever...we saw a darker side of Nelly in this book and I realized that she and Alexa are alot alike. Jackson was behind the scenes, but that does not mean he was any less important to the story.
HALF BLACK SOUL I thought was alot different than BLOOD WARRIOR, it explores a darker theme, and yes it was brilliant.
I think this is one of those series that keeps getting better and better. H.D. Gordon just keep them coming.
February 16, 2012
I received this book as a part of the RI&R program.
To say I was waiting on baited breath for this one is an understatement. The first book was amazing. I may have held my hopes a little too high or my mood wasn’t right for reading young adult. And it pains me not to like it as much as the first. But honestly there are a lot of great series where one book may fall short of the others, but not again not so bad as to take away from the series as a whole.
This book was a departure from the first book. Most of the book we were inside the heads of Alexa and Nelly. The first book was more external and word building. Let me start first with Nelly. Let’s just say I wasn’t a big fan of Nelly’s POV.
Alexa, who, while being inside her head was a bit scary. This book was darker than the first.
One more thing.
However, I still found this book to be enjoyable. Once I hit the hurdle, I could barely put it down. I truly look forward to the next book. I only think it will enhance everything we’d learned so far.
I really think a lot of how I felt may have been related to the mood I was in while reading. So for those of you Blood Warrior fans, don’t take my word for it. Read it. It’s a really good series. And for those who haven’t. Give it a try, you won’t regret it.
My Book Boyfriend is Kayden. (That is if he cut is wonderful hair).
To say I was waiting on baited breath for this one is an understatement. The first book was amazing. I may have held my hopes a little too high or my mood wasn’t right for reading young adult. And it pains me not to like it as much as the first. But honestly there are a lot of great series where one book may fall short of the others, but not again not so bad as to take away from the series as a whole.
This book was a departure from the first book. Most of the book we were inside the heads of Alexa and Nelly. The first book was more external and word building. Let me start first with Nelly. Let’s just say I wasn’t a big fan of Nelly’s POV.
Alexa, who, while being inside her head was a bit scary. This book was darker than the first.
One more thing.
However, I still found this book to be enjoyable. Once I hit the hurdle, I could barely put it down. I truly look forward to the next book. I only think it will enhance everything we’d learned so far.
I really think a lot of how I felt may have been related to the mood I was in while reading. So for those of you Blood Warrior fans, don’t take my word for it. Read it. It’s a really good series. And for those who haven’t. Give it a try, you won’t regret it.
My Book Boyfriend is Kayden. (That is if he cut is wonderful hair).
February 1, 2012
We learned many new things about Alexa, Nelly, and all the boys. Some of those things were expected but most were not. A few were even shocking. Several twist and turns that turn a good story into a great one.
Blood Warrior had left off with Alexa leaving Two Rivers in search of her mother. Half Black Soul picks up the story with a quick review. I really appreciated that the author was able to condense the review so I felt like I got enough context about the previous story to be fully reminded of it and where it left off.
I think it also allows a new reader to be able to pick up on the story without being totally lost if they haven’t read the first book. I don’t recommend this because the reader would miss out on all the little details that laid the groundwork about these characters and their tale. Plus, the first book is just to darn good to not read it.
Alexa is young but determined. I think Ms. Gordon does an excellent job at letting Alexa have some of the normal young adult emotions and ways of thinking; such as, maybe not thinking some of her actions out as well as she should. Alexa is a beast of a warrior who knows fear but pushes forward anyway. It has been wonderful to see an author take such skill in developing a character and all of her little nuances. This makes Alexa feel almost tangible.
Half Black Soul also gives us the chance to see things from Nelly’s point of view. Nelly really grows a lot in this book. She begins to see herself as being strong in her own right and that she can take care of herself. I really needed to see her grow after learning of her thumb sucking.
Best of all we get a quick glance into Kayden’s point of view. I have always loved getting a good look into the male leads thinking. I only wish we had gotten a few more chapters from his view.
I thoroughly enjoyed the way the chapters were broken into the different points of view. This also allowed me to be able to get a feel for what was happening at Two Rivers while Alexa was out in the real world on her journey. I didn’t feel like I was missing out the way I would have if the book had been written strictly from Alexa’s point of view.
We meet new and unexpected friends, learn of heartbreaking deceptions, and discover shocking truths. What more could a reader ask for? The only thing that could have made this book better was if the third book was finished and ready to buy. I got to the last page and found myself begging for more.
Ms. Gordon, “Bravo!” You have done an excellent job once more. I can’t wait to see what else you have in store for us in the future.
Blood Warrior had left off with Alexa leaving Two Rivers in search of her mother. Half Black Soul picks up the story with a quick review. I really appreciated that the author was able to condense the review so I felt like I got enough context about the previous story to be fully reminded of it and where it left off.
I think it also allows a new reader to be able to pick up on the story without being totally lost if they haven’t read the first book. I don’t recommend this because the reader would miss out on all the little details that laid the groundwork about these characters and their tale. Plus, the first book is just to darn good to not read it.
Alexa is young but determined. I think Ms. Gordon does an excellent job at letting Alexa have some of the normal young adult emotions and ways of thinking; such as, maybe not thinking some of her actions out as well as she should. Alexa is a beast of a warrior who knows fear but pushes forward anyway. It has been wonderful to see an author take such skill in developing a character and all of her little nuances. This makes Alexa feel almost tangible.
Half Black Soul also gives us the chance to see things from Nelly’s point of view. Nelly really grows a lot in this book. She begins to see herself as being strong in her own right and that she can take care of herself. I really needed to see her grow after learning of her thumb sucking.
Best of all we get a quick glance into Kayden’s point of view. I have always loved getting a good look into the male leads thinking. I only wish we had gotten a few more chapters from his view.
I thoroughly enjoyed the way the chapters were broken into the different points of view. This also allowed me to be able to get a feel for what was happening at Two Rivers while Alexa was out in the real world on her journey. I didn’t feel like I was missing out the way I would have if the book had been written strictly from Alexa’s point of view.
We meet new and unexpected friends, learn of heartbreaking deceptions, and discover shocking truths. What more could a reader ask for? The only thing that could have made this book better was if the third book was finished and ready to buy. I got to the last page and found myself begging for more.
Ms. Gordon, “Bravo!” You have done an excellent job once more. I can’t wait to see what else you have in store for us in the future.
February 5, 2012
I enjoyed this book, but I found it too slow and repetitive.
In this book we get Alexa's and Nelly's POV. I found it hard to get into as we get two pages of each character before it switches the point of view. It wasn't enough to keep my attention.
What I didn't like:
Lack of dialogue. There was a lot of telling but not much showing, entire chapters with no dialogue, knowing that you were missing out on character interaction. It was full of "Kayden asked me so and so, and I responded this and that," without giving me the actual dialogue.
I nearly skipped all of Nelly's POV. It took her the whole book to discover what Alexa had already discovered on the previous book. I think that could have gone much quicker, and thrown more of her struggles with her power....
Too much details on all the useless and mundane tasks a person my do. Dressing up, how they where their hair... I couldn't give a damm on how they wear their hair when they go to school in the morning.
the useless tiny Kayden's POV. If you're going to give a different character's POV. Make it count. Show what the character is thinking, what they are feeling. In this tiny chapter from Kayden's there were only action scenes. What was the point?
What I liked:
I liked seeing Alexa's monster go free. I liked their internal dialogue. And seeing Alexa's learning how to accept it.
I liked the all so faithful Kayden, always looking after Alexa.
I liked seeing Nelly using her powers, and how hard it is for her to hide her powers.
Would I recommend it?
Sure, why not. I like supporting independent authors. I'm still keen to read the next of the series, I'm sure other people would too.
February 14, 2012
Half Black Soul by H.D. Gordon is the second book in The Alexa Montgomery Saga.
Short Synopsis:
Alexa and Nelly are back in this latest installment of their journey. Alexa, along with the help of Kayden is on a mission to find and save her mother, who she believes is still alive after finding out she might be being held in Dangeon, a prison for "their" kind. Alexa leaves Nelly at Two Rivers while she's searching for their mother, believing that Nelly is safe and tucked away from the dangers that are sure to arise on her mission. Nelly, not knowing why Alexa left, tries to piece things together, all the while leaving herself open to dangers, possibly from people she thought she could trust.
Review:
This book was terrific! I adore these characters and have since the start of book one, Blood Warrior. The story really progressed in this book as did the characters themselves. I felt the author really found herself and the voice of her characters and the focus of this story was brought out more clearly. We are treated with POV's from both Alexa and Nelly this time as well as a couple of chapters from Kayden's POV. It picks up where it left off from book one and just throws you right into the story, leaving you gritting your teeth until the very end. Questions and secrets developed in book one were revealed and new questions have been prompted. I loved the relationship developments between Alexa and Kayden and I loved that Nelly is really discovering herself. I completed this book in one setting because I just couldn't put it down. The author really has created a fantastic world where you can literally lose yourself for hours!
Negatives:
There's not much I can say on the negative side about this book. I really did enjoy every aspect of it! If I were to complain about anything it would be the typo's I found. There were a handful and sometimes, when you're in the mist of a great scene, a typo can really distract from it. And
Conclusion:
I can't wait until the next book! I'm excited to see where the author takes these awesome characters and how this saga will play out. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a GREAT story full of wonderful visuals, action scenes with a unique story line!
Short Synopsis:
Alexa and Nelly are back in this latest installment of their journey. Alexa, along with the help of Kayden is on a mission to find and save her mother, who she believes is still alive after finding out she might be being held in Dangeon, a prison for "their" kind. Alexa leaves Nelly at Two Rivers while she's searching for their mother, believing that Nelly is safe and tucked away from the dangers that are sure to arise on her mission. Nelly, not knowing why Alexa left, tries to piece things together, all the while leaving herself open to dangers, possibly from people she thought she could trust.
Review:
This book was terrific! I adore these characters and have since the start of book one, Blood Warrior. The story really progressed in this book as did the characters themselves. I felt the author really found herself and the voice of her characters and the focus of this story was brought out more clearly. We are treated with POV's from both Alexa and Nelly this time as well as a couple of chapters from Kayden's POV. It picks up where it left off from book one and just throws you right into the story, leaving you gritting your teeth until the very end. Questions and secrets developed in book one were revealed and new questions have been prompted. I loved the relationship developments between Alexa and Kayden and I loved that Nelly is really discovering herself. I completed this book in one setting because I just couldn't put it down. The author really has created a fantastic world where you can literally lose yourself for hours!
Negatives:
There's not much I can say on the negative side about this book. I really did enjoy every aspect of it! If I were to complain about anything it would be the typo's I found. There were a handful and sometimes, when you're in the mist of a great scene, a typo can really distract from it. And
Conclusion:
I can't wait until the next book! I'm excited to see where the author takes these awesome characters and how this saga will play out. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a GREAT story full of wonderful visuals, action scenes with a unique story line!
February 21, 2012
I will put up a full review tomorrow, but WOW! This book far surpasses the first book in the series!
*****************************************************************************************************
As people who read my reviews might remember, I thought the first book in this series was good, but far from great. I loved the potential the story line had and felt like this series could grow into something amazing. I was right! This second book was soooooo much better than the first. I really felt like a lot of things that were bugging me in book one were addressed in book two. I still am not overly comfortable with her "trainings" in book one, but the rest of it was completely resolved in my mind.
This book was basically divided into two story lines that occurred simultaneously. The first one revolved around Nelly and Two Rivers. Nelly took a much more central role in this novel and we really got to see her character in a much deeper way. This maybe slightly spoilery, but I can see her as being the true hero of this series. Not only did we get to see her true potential skills wise, but we also got to see why she was raised the way she was and how strong she really is. I am really looking forward to seeing her grow in the next book. The potential is endless.
The second focused on Alexa and Kayden as they tried to free her mother. It was interesting to watch the dynamics of these two characters as they worked towards this common goal and struggled with what their relationship would be. The whole Warrior/Libra component was and interesting part of their dynamic. While I kept hoping for more Kayden led chapters, I think having us only see their relationship from her perspective was the best choice for the book.
Without a doubt, I will be reading the next book in the series. I think that you could probably start with book two, but I think you should start with Blood Warrior. If you are reading them back to back as one book, i think you will be very happy with your reading experience.
While this book does have some violence, I would have no problem recommending it to a teen. The main character does smoke, but I think the way the author explores her reasons for it is powerful and does not make it seem like a good idea or cool in anyway.
OK, this has no place in a review, but.....Jackson, now it makes sense!!!
*****************************************************************************************************
As people who read my reviews might remember, I thought the first book in this series was good, but far from great. I loved the potential the story line had and felt like this series could grow into something amazing. I was right! This second book was soooooo much better than the first. I really felt like a lot of things that were bugging me in book one were addressed in book two. I still am not overly comfortable with her "trainings" in book one, but the rest of it was completely resolved in my mind.
This book was basically divided into two story lines that occurred simultaneously. The first one revolved around Nelly and Two Rivers. Nelly took a much more central role in this novel and we really got to see her character in a much deeper way. This maybe slightly spoilery, but I can see her as being the true hero of this series. Not only did we get to see her true potential skills wise, but we also got to see why she was raised the way she was and how strong she really is. I am really looking forward to seeing her grow in the next book. The potential is endless.
The second focused on Alexa and Kayden as they tried to free her mother. It was interesting to watch the dynamics of these two characters as they worked towards this common goal and struggled with what their relationship would be. The whole Warrior/Libra component was and interesting part of their dynamic. While I kept hoping for more Kayden led chapters, I think having us only see their relationship from her perspective was the best choice for the book.
Without a doubt, I will be reading the next book in the series. I think that you could probably start with book two, but I think you should start with Blood Warrior. If you are reading them back to back as one book, i think you will be very happy with your reading experience.
While this book does have some violence, I would have no problem recommending it to a teen. The main character does smoke, but I think the way the author explores her reasons for it is powerful and does not make it seem like a good idea or cool in anyway.
OK, this has no place in a review, but.....Jackson, now it makes sense!!!
March 2, 2012
Holy.Snappin.Crab.Claws. That book was in-tense! I have finished, which means I can finally take a breath and re-oxygenate my body, put my kindle down and re-circulate the blood to my fingers...What a road trip huh!
If you thought Blood Warrior (Book 1) was good. Think again. I thought it was THE awesomesauce until I read this. I recommended it to my friends, in the hope we could talk about just how spectacular it was. I didn’t think it was possible, but this one takes the cake, It’s even better. I know you don’t believe me, do you? You better believe it baby.
Lexie & Nelly captivated me the whole way through. I loved that it was told by both povs and that just made it more enriching. The emotion just poured off the pages to the extent that it left me clinging to the side of chair with goosebumps.
I adored getting to know Nelly a bit more and seeing how her mind works as well as her ‘gift’. I had a giggle at her putting on her big girl pants and doing some investigating even knowing she knew she wouldn’t like what she found. I found her ‘powers’ amazing and loved watching her practice them even when they caused her to sweat bullets. She is tough in her own way and I was so pleased that she discovered that in the end. I enjoyed the banter between Alexa and her monster as well as all of her internal dialogue and her honesty with Kayden. I don’t know where to start with how I feel about him, but even though he didn’t say a lot, his presence was huge in this book. He made a difference for Alexa and I loved seeing her allow the softer side of herself to show for him.
“If God had called me up to heaven, and told me that I was allowed to build a man to belong to me, I would have built myself a Kayden.”
There was a few twists thrown in the mix. Some surprised me and some didn’t, but they all delighted me. They are all going to shape what happens next. I am very much excited and anxious to know what book 3 holds. I know 2 things – 1) It will be sensational and 2) the lives of those in Two Rivers will change alongside Alexa and Nelly. I only hope that Lexie is hurrying back (and that we get to share a few more moments with Lexie & Kayden)!
You know when you see a movie or start a book and you know its going to be epically huge? This is how I felt reading every page of both of these books...Bravo H.D Gordon. Bravo.
If you thought Blood Warrior (Book 1) was good. Think again. I thought it was THE awesomesauce until I read this. I recommended it to my friends, in the hope we could talk about just how spectacular it was. I didn’t think it was possible, but this one takes the cake, It’s even better. I know you don’t believe me, do you? You better believe it baby.
Lexie & Nelly captivated me the whole way through. I loved that it was told by both povs and that just made it more enriching. The emotion just poured off the pages to the extent that it left me clinging to the side of chair with goosebumps.
I adored getting to know Nelly a bit more and seeing how her mind works as well as her ‘gift’. I had a giggle at her putting on her big girl pants and doing some investigating even knowing she knew she wouldn’t like what she found. I found her ‘powers’ amazing and loved watching her practice them even when they caused her to sweat bullets. She is tough in her own way and I was so pleased that she discovered that in the end. I enjoyed the banter between Alexa and her monster as well as all of her internal dialogue and her honesty with Kayden. I don’t know where to start with how I feel about him, but even though he didn’t say a lot, his presence was huge in this book. He made a difference for Alexa and I loved seeing her allow the softer side of herself to show for him.
“If God had called me up to heaven, and told me that I was allowed to build a man to belong to me, I would have built myself a Kayden.”
There was a few twists thrown in the mix. Some surprised me and some didn’t, but they all delighted me. They are all going to shape what happens next. I am very much excited and anxious to know what book 3 holds. I know 2 things – 1) It will be sensational and 2) the lives of those in Two Rivers will change alongside Alexa and Nelly. I only hope that Lexie is hurrying back (and that we get to share a few more moments with Lexie & Kayden)!
You know when you see a movie or start a book and you know its going to be epically huge? This is how I felt reading every page of both of these books...Bravo H.D Gordon. Bravo.
February 20, 2012
HBS started up right where we left off with Alexa going to find her mother. I have to differ with Diana and say that I LOVED this book! Maybe it is because I am so invested in Alexa and Kayden as characters? Who knows, but I really enjoyed the different POVs. Especially the chapter from Kayden's POV. We got to see a little bit inside of his head and a whisper into his feelings for Alexa.
Alexa and Nelly learn a lot about themselves in this book with Alexa on the run and Nelly back at Two Rivers. Nelly is learning that she can stand on her own two feet and not have to rely on Alexa for protection. She learns so much about her powers that she never realized that she had AND, she learns a few secrets about Jackson in the process. Alexa, on the other hand is trying to come to terms with her inner "monster" and starting to realize that she cannot be strong all the time and needs to rely on other people for help. Which is really tough for her.
I really enjoy Kayden! I loved the parts in this book that were just Alexa and Kayden. He is strong, sweet and one kick ass warrior! I think that we all could use a Kayden for ourselves! In this book Alexa starts to realize all that Kayden has sacrificed for her and she is starting to come to terms with her love for him.
The ending of this book was left on a MAJOR cliffhanger!!!
So much so that I am begging you H.D.,
Please release the next book soon! I am dying to find out what happens next!!!! Thanks to the author and R2R for allowing me to review this book! I can't wait for the next installment!
Alexa and Nelly learn a lot about themselves in this book with Alexa on the run and Nelly back at Two Rivers. Nelly is learning that she can stand on her own two feet and not have to rely on Alexa for protection. She learns so much about her powers that she never realized that she had AND, she learns a few secrets about Jackson in the process. Alexa, on the other hand is trying to come to terms with her inner "monster" and starting to realize that she cannot be strong all the time and needs to rely on other people for help. Which is really tough for her.
I really enjoy Kayden! I loved the parts in this book that were just Alexa and Kayden. He is strong, sweet and one kick ass warrior! I think that we all could use a Kayden for ourselves! In this book Alexa starts to realize all that Kayden has sacrificed for her and she is starting to come to terms with her love for him.
The ending of this book was left on a MAJOR cliffhanger!!!
So much so that I am begging you H.D.,
Please release the next book soon! I am dying to find out what happens next!!!! Thanks to the author and R2R for allowing me to review this book! I can't wait for the next installment!
February 3, 2012
Half Black Soul by H.D. Gordon was a tremendous second installment to the series. A great job by H.D. Gordon for producing a book that continues to thrill readers in this second book. I must say that again the ending has left me pacing waiting for the next book. I love that the endings are never the painful cliffhangers that leave readers angry. The endings to these books are such that the tension of the plot are so great that the reader cant help but salivate for the next. This book has great plot twists and continued character development that keeps the readers attention going with just the right amount of tension and pacing. It is rare to find a new series lately that has such great writing and tension that leaves the reader having a great read.
February 1, 2012
H.D. Gordon did not disappoint. I loved the use of multiple points of view. I was also happy to find out more about what is really happening in Two Rivers and the roles the characters play. I will not give spoilers, but if you loved Blood Warrior, you will adore Half Black Soul.
Great job, Heather!
Great job, Heather!
April 3, 2012
When I was given this book to review, I was more than a little skeptical about it. Not because of what I'd heard of it, because most reviews have been positive. It's rather because book 1, Blood Warrior, hadn't really made such a good impression on me.
But I can say that Half Black Soul was nothing like Blood Warrior. And by this I mean that the writing style had improved, the grammatical mistakes were mostly fixed and the story was actually making a great deal of sense.
**What I didn't like:**
True, there are some misspellings, some minor substitutions like 'too' for 'to' and 'passed' for 'past' (as in 'moved passed me'), but that can't really be too bothersome.
What really annoyed me were the overused italics. There wasn't a paragraph where at least one word would be italicized, sometimes two or tree words, and it just totally overdid it.
Also, one other thing that kind of bothered me was that sometimes the voices didn't sound realistic. Kayden for instance seemed so stiff and out of his skin that I wanted to strangle him. And sometimes Nelly's thoughts and conclusions sounded too childish.
Lastly, since this is a YA book, I felt that Alexa's language should've been a little toned down.
**What I liked:**
In this book we can finally hear Nelly's voice, and at one point Kayden's as well. It was nice to get to know Nelly for who she really was. In book 1 we only knew Alexa and how she saw the world. So Half Black Soul kind of broadened our scope of things.
Blood Warrior left us with Alexa leaving Two Rivers in order to find her mother. She had rejected Kayden's help, but I knew in my mind that he won't stop at anything and sooner or later would find her. I was not disappointed. And I give credit to the author for having Kayden appear at the perfect moment. The timing was just first class.
I loved the development of the romantic relationship by the Warrior and the Libra. It was about time that those two figured out how they felt about each other. And the guilt that Alexa felt for cheating on Jackson really annoyed me. I mean, yeah he was her boyfriend, but she never really hold any passionate feelings for him. So, with gorgeous Kayden by her side, why think of Jackson at all?
Besides I never got a good vibe off Jackson. I just didn't like the dude, especially when he sounded like a control freak or something.
The restaurant scene was really cheesy in the "Twilight" kind of way. I mean, everything about it felt like it came straight out of "Twilight" and just landed on this book's pages. I kind of laughed when I read it.
I loved how Nelly's searching abilities seemed to stretch almost indefinitely. She kind of grew up in this book from the frail child she was to a mentally strong person. The control she could exercise on people was totally amazing.
What really got me interested was the ending. I had never anticipated that wicked twist of events, but hey, it's the cliff hanger that makes you buy the next book, right?
But I can say that Half Black Soul was nothing like Blood Warrior. And by this I mean that the writing style had improved, the grammatical mistakes were mostly fixed and the story was actually making a great deal of sense.
**What I didn't like:**
True, there are some misspellings, some minor substitutions like 'too' for 'to' and 'passed' for 'past' (as in 'moved passed me'), but that can't really be too bothersome.
What really annoyed me were the overused italics. There wasn't a paragraph where at least one word would be italicized, sometimes two or tree words, and it just totally overdid it.
Also, one other thing that kind of bothered me was that sometimes the voices didn't sound realistic. Kayden for instance seemed so stiff and out of his skin that I wanted to strangle him. And sometimes Nelly's thoughts and conclusions sounded too childish.
Lastly, since this is a YA book, I felt that Alexa's language should've been a little toned down.
**What I liked:**
In this book we can finally hear Nelly's voice, and at one point Kayden's as well. It was nice to get to know Nelly for who she really was. In book 1 we only knew Alexa and how she saw the world. So Half Black Soul kind of broadened our scope of things.
Blood Warrior left us with Alexa leaving Two Rivers in order to find her mother. She had rejected Kayden's help, but I knew in my mind that he won't stop at anything and sooner or later would find her. I was not disappointed. And I give credit to the author for having Kayden appear at the perfect moment. The timing was just first class.
I loved the development of the romantic relationship by the Warrior and the Libra. It was about time that those two figured out how they felt about each other. And the guilt that Alexa felt for cheating on Jackson really annoyed me. I mean, yeah he was her boyfriend, but she never really hold any passionate feelings for him. So, with gorgeous Kayden by her side, why think of Jackson at all?
Besides I never got a good vibe off Jackson. I just didn't like the dude, especially when he sounded like a control freak or something.
The restaurant scene was really cheesy in the "Twilight" kind of way. I mean, everything about it felt like it came straight out of "Twilight" and just landed on this book's pages. I kind of laughed when I read it.
I loved how Nelly's searching abilities seemed to stretch almost indefinitely. She kind of grew up in this book from the frail child she was to a mentally strong person. The control she could exercise on people was totally amazing.
What really got me interested was the ending. I had never anticipated that wicked twist of events, but hey, it's the cliff hanger that makes you buy the next book, right?
February 4, 2012
I really liked this book. It is the second book in this series and I have to admit it is better than book 2, but still I can't give it 5 stars. The story in this book is a bit more darker than in book 1. It still has that keep-reading-feel.
I really liked that this book used multiple point of views. Not only do we get to see the point of view from Alexa as she tries to save her mom, we also get to see the point of view from Nelly, Alexa's sister and what she discovers in the city. I really enjoyed seeing both characters develop in this book. I also have to admit I liked Nelly's point of view better than Alexa's point of view. Altough both storylines are very interesting. The point of view switches are both a good and a bad thing. I liked to see both of their perspectives, but unfortunately the author has a habit of switching the point of view on minor cliffhangers. So just when you are totally in one of their stories and something is going to happen there is a point of view switch. Later on in the book the point of view switches are less frequent and on better times.
I really enjoyed seeing Nelly's side of the story. I think her powers are very interesting and I liked learning more about her powers and how she used them. I felt like I really got to know more about Nelly in this book. But sadly I still felt like the other characters are still one big myserty. I still have no idea who they are and I don't understand why Daniel is Nelly's boyfriend. I think the side characters really could use a bit more depth, even Kayden, Daniel, Jackson and Tommy who are friends of the lead characters are a bit too shallow.
A few minor things I just found a bit strange or irritating are: the fact that Alexa smokes, I absolutely disgust smoking and every time Alexa talks about sigarates I just wanted to put the book down. I think it adds absolutely nothing to the story and it just made me feel disgusted every time, so I just ended up trying to skip the smoke passages. Some other minor point are
To conclude: I really liked this story, but it still isn't great enough to deserve 5 stars. I liked the point of view switches altough they where also a bit annoying in the beginning. I really liked seeing Nelly's point of view. We get to know Alexa and Nelly pretty good, but the other characters remain a mystery. The ending had a very interesting revelation and I can't wait to read the next book!
I really liked that this book used multiple point of views. Not only do we get to see the point of view from Alexa as she tries to save her mom, we also get to see the point of view from Nelly, Alexa's sister and what she discovers in the city. I really enjoyed seeing both characters develop in this book. I also have to admit I liked Nelly's point of view better than Alexa's point of view. Altough both storylines are very interesting. The point of view switches are both a good and a bad thing. I liked to see both of their perspectives, but unfortunately the author has a habit of switching the point of view on minor cliffhangers. So just when you are totally in one of their stories and something is going to happen there is a point of view switch. Later on in the book the point of view switches are less frequent and on better times.
I really enjoyed seeing Nelly's side of the story. I think her powers are very interesting and I liked learning more about her powers and how she used them. I felt like I really got to know more about Nelly in this book. But sadly I still felt like the other characters are still one big myserty. I still have no idea who they are and I don't understand why Daniel is Nelly's boyfriend. I think the side characters really could use a bit more depth, even Kayden, Daniel, Jackson and Tommy who are friends of the lead characters are a bit too shallow.
A few minor things I just found a bit strange or irritating are: the fact that Alexa smokes, I absolutely disgust smoking and every time Alexa talks about sigarates I just wanted to put the book down. I think it adds absolutely nothing to the story and it just made me feel disgusted every time, so I just ended up trying to skip the smoke passages. Some other minor point are
To conclude: I really liked this story, but it still isn't great enough to deserve 5 stars. I liked the point of view switches altough they where also a bit annoying in the beginning. I really liked seeing Nelly's point of view. We get to know Alexa and Nelly pretty good, but the other characters remain a mystery. The ending had a very interesting revelation and I can't wait to read the next book!
February 7, 2012
In the past few weeks Alexa Montgomery has had her entire world flipped upside down. She's gone from living a semi-normal teenage life to a life full of vampires and werewolves who all expect her to deliver them from the control of an evil dictator. Alexa is the last of her kind; a Sun Warrior, and now she has left the safety of Two Rivers to search for her mother, but she's left her sister behind to do so, and Nelly is the one person that she was told that she must always protect. Kayden, a vampire who is Alexa's other half, has followed her on her journey. But, secrets are about to come out, relationships will break and danger lies just up ahead. Will Alexa be able to get through all of this and make it out alive? And, will she be able to protect Nelly from danger when she is so far away?
Thank you to Kayleigh @ K-Books, for that last half!
Almost all of the reviews I've seen for this book have been 5 stars. But it just didn't seem to be for me. As I was reading, I kept thinking, how can everyone else who reads this love it so much and I would really like to just stop reading it now. But because of all the good reviews, I persevered. And it did get better. But I was 60% through it before it started to get interesting for me.
I really didn't like Nelly's POV. She has been a very boring character throughout and only started to grow and develop nearer to the end of the book. I felt a lot of Nelly was just drawn out and unnecessary. It does look like we will see great things from her in future books though. I also felt that the change in POV was just happening far too quickly, a couple of pages was all we were getting of each for the first few chapters and it just didn't hold my interest at all.
This is a really great story overall though and I will definitely be reading the next instalment, I just feel that not much really happened in this one. The ending was good, but I just felt there should have been more happening.
From comments that I seen on Goodreads, I knew something happened with Jackson but I wasn't that shocked because I hadn't really trusted him in the last book either. Again, not really shocked with Bethany either, I kind of expected. The cliffhanger at the very end, yes, totally took me by surprise.
As I said, I will read the next instalment in the series, but for me, the first book was so much better than this one.
Thanks to R2R on Goodreads and H.D. Gordon for providing this book for review.
Thank you to Kayleigh @ K-Books, for that last half!
Almost all of the reviews I've seen for this book have been 5 stars. But it just didn't seem to be for me. As I was reading, I kept thinking, how can everyone else who reads this love it so much and I would really like to just stop reading it now. But because of all the good reviews, I persevered. And it did get better. But I was 60% through it before it started to get interesting for me.
I really didn't like Nelly's POV. She has been a very boring character throughout and only started to grow and develop nearer to the end of the book. I felt a lot of Nelly was just drawn out and unnecessary. It does look like we will see great things from her in future books though. I also felt that the change in POV was just happening far too quickly, a couple of pages was all we were getting of each for the first few chapters and it just didn't hold my interest at all.
This is a really great story overall though and I will definitely be reading the next instalment, I just feel that not much really happened in this one. The ending was good, but I just felt there should have been more happening.
From comments that I seen on Goodreads, I knew something happened with Jackson but I wasn't that shocked because I hadn't really trusted him in the last book either. Again, not really shocked with Bethany either, I kind of expected. The cliffhanger at the very end, yes, totally took me by surprise.
As I said, I will read the next instalment in the series, but for me, the first book was so much better than this one.
Thanks to R2R on Goodreads and H.D. Gordon for providing this book for review.
February 16, 2012
Approaching this book was difficult for me; not only did my friends love it on Goodreads but I had enjoyed Blood Warrior, HD Gordon's debut so much I was scared this book would not meet my expectations - in some ways it did and in a few small ways it didn't.
I really enjoyed this book and I have to mention that at it's low price, it is a real bargain and proof of the worth of checking out self-published writing from time to time despite any preconceptions
Gordon writes romantic chemistry and general action very well and so her strengths naturally lend themselves to the paranormal romance genre. In this outing her writing and style are much more confident and she is taking more risks with her writing too.
In terms of character development, Alexa is much more accepting and ready for her fate, though she is battling the 'monster' within her. I felt this conflict was well-written and a particular highlight of the books; if violence and wrong are for an overall good, what does that mean?
I didn't personally like the addition of narrative voices - Nelly and Kayden - and while by the end, I realised why Gordon had included Nelly and understood it was a way of keeping readers in the loop about Two Rivers in Alexa's absence so that can be partway ignored, but I found Kayden's addition to perhaps be a little distracting.
Alexa's romantic conflict was well handled too; her guilt at her natural attraction to Kayden, partly through their species' affinity for each other, and partly because he is attractive along with the fact she is dating Jackson is not played too melodramatically but felt real enough.
The first hundred pages felt a little slow, though this is in contrast to Blood Warrior which moved extremely fast. By the end however, you have been thrown into twist after twist and conflict after conflict and are left just as bruised as the characters - by the way, the twist at the end actually made this book for me and I loved the shift from convention here. There was only one twist I wasn't so keen on and that is because I was very fond of a certain character but shan't spoil it for future, readers!,
If you enjoyed Blood Warrior, then I am certain you will be pleased with Gordon's latest addition to the series. Overall I really enjoyed this book though on a personal level I preferred Blood Warrior. I received this book for free via a review program on a Goodreads community and am grateful for the opportunity and great book!
I really enjoyed this book and I have to mention that at it's low price, it is a real bargain and proof of the worth of checking out self-published writing from time to time despite any preconceptions
Gordon writes romantic chemistry and general action very well and so her strengths naturally lend themselves to the paranormal romance genre. In this outing her writing and style are much more confident and she is taking more risks with her writing too.
In terms of character development, Alexa is much more accepting and ready for her fate, though she is battling the 'monster' within her. I felt this conflict was well-written and a particular highlight of the books; if violence and wrong are for an overall good, what does that mean?
I didn't personally like the addition of narrative voices - Nelly and Kayden - and while by the end, I realised why Gordon had included Nelly and understood it was a way of keeping readers in the loop about Two Rivers in Alexa's absence so that can be partway ignored, but I found Kayden's addition to perhaps be a little distracting.
Alexa's romantic conflict was well handled too; her guilt at her natural attraction to Kayden, partly through their species' affinity for each other, and partly because he is attractive along with the fact she is dating Jackson is not played too melodramatically but felt real enough.
The first hundred pages felt a little slow, though this is in contrast to Blood Warrior which moved extremely fast. By the end however, you have been thrown into twist after twist and conflict after conflict and are left just as bruised as the characters - by the way, the twist at the end actually made this book for me and I loved the shift from convention here. There was only one twist I wasn't so keen on and that is because I was very fond of a certain character but shan't spoil it for future, readers!,
If you enjoyed Blood Warrior, then I am certain you will be pleased with Gordon's latest addition to the series. Overall I really enjoyed this book though on a personal level I preferred Blood Warrior. I received this book for free via a review program on a Goodreads community and am grateful for the opportunity and great book!
February 6, 2012
Lady Luck struck twice! Thanks again to the good people over at Shut Up & Read for entrusting me to give an honest review.
After reading Blood Warrior, I begged for more romance and more fighting. After reading Half Black Soul, I feel as if I’ve been injected with a syringe containing concentrated lust and death. Seriously I’m having an excitement OVERLOAD here and need to calm down before I pass out.
Everything you could ask for people is IN THIS BOOK:
♥ Conspiracies
♥ Steamy moments
♥ Revaluations
♥ Betrayal
♥ Little Nelly growing up and showing her powers off
♥ Kayden, oh Kayden…..be still my heart…boy if you only knew what I want to do to…. *clearing my throat* Pardon me!
♥Fighting, correction, kicking ass, correction, BRIGHT RED BLOOD making the green grass grow…..HOOAH!
♥ And in the center of it all, Alexa.(One schizophrenic bad azz heroine that I love so much!)
This is my new favorite book. 5 stars is a rip off and does it no justice. EPIC, that’s what it is!
Now this I'll pay BIG BUCKS to see on the big screen! Whenever I’m feeling down, sad, or just plan peeved off, I’ll always have the memory of HALF BLACK SOUL to put a smile on my face.
If you haven’t read this book, you’re delusional. You should be put in a straight jacket and refined to a time out corner, because seriously this read is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.
After reading Blood Warrior, I begged for more romance and more fighting. After reading Half Black Soul, I feel as if I’ve been injected with a syringe containing concentrated lust and death. Seriously I’m having an excitement OVERLOAD here and need to calm down before I pass out.
Everything you could ask for people is IN THIS BOOK:
♥ Conspiracies
♥ Steamy moments
♥ Revaluations
♥ Betrayal
♥ Little Nelly growing up and showing her powers off
♥ Kayden, oh Kayden…..be still my heart…boy if you only knew what I want to do to…. *clearing my throat* Pardon me!
♥
♥ And in the center of it all, Alexa.(One schizophrenic bad azz heroine that I love so much!)
This is my new favorite book. 5 stars is a rip off and does it no justice. EPIC, that’s what it is!
Now this I'll pay BIG BUCKS to see on the big screen! Whenever I’m feeling down, sad, or just plan peeved off, I’ll always have the memory of HALF BLACK SOUL to put a smile on my face.
If you haven’t read this book, you’re delusional. You should be put in a straight jacket and refined to a time out corner, because seriously this read is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.
February 18, 2012
Half Black Soul starts off right where Blood Warrior left off. Alexa is still on her mission to save her loved one, ready to sacrifice herself to help those she loves. And I have to say, Alexa, as always, is kick ass.
The book is written from both Alexa and her sister Nelly's point of views, broken up by chapters. Alexa is on her mission, and Nelly is back at Two Rivers. To be honest, I found Nelly's parts pretty repetitive. It seems that all she was doing was following Alexa's footsteps from book 1. Yes, in the process she learned a lot about herself, but that was only in the later chapters. The chapters in first half of the book from Nelly's point of view didn't add any value to the story. It took a bit of time for Nelly's part to really hit its stride.
In Half Black Soul we weren't introduced to any new characters for me to gush over, but there were some serious twists and turns with both Kayden and Jackson's characters.
My main gripe is that at under 250 pages, the book is pretty short. Take out the beginning Nelly chapters, which I could have done without, and it was even shorter. I was left wishing there was more. I will most likely be picking up the next book in the hopes that the main focus goes back to Alexa's point of view.
To read more reviews check out http://nightlyreading.wordpress.com/
The book is written from both Alexa and her sister Nelly's point of views, broken up by chapters. Alexa is on her mission, and Nelly is back at Two Rivers. To be honest, I found Nelly's parts pretty repetitive. It seems that all she was doing was following Alexa's footsteps from book 1. Yes, in the process she learned a lot about herself, but that was only in the later chapters. The chapters in first half of the book from Nelly's point of view didn't add any value to the story. It took a bit of time for Nelly's part to really hit its stride.
In Half Black Soul we weren't introduced to any new characters for me to gush over, but there were some serious twists and turns with both Kayden and Jackson's characters.
My main gripe is that at under 250 pages, the book is pretty short. Take out the beginning Nelly chapters, which I could have done without, and it was even shorter. I was left wishing there was more. I will most likely be picking up the next book in the hopes that the main focus goes back to Alexa's point of view.
To read more reviews check out http://nightlyreading.wordpress.com/
February 9, 2012
I recieved this book via Read it & Reap (Shut Up & Read).
Where to begin.... I was once again sucked back into the world Alexa has found herself in. So much happens in this story.. I had a little trouble getting into it at the very begining but soon after I could not put it down. Alexa leaves Nelly and heads out to find her mother with the all so wonderful Kayden!... While Nelly is at Two Rivers she begins to understand what Alexa was saying about things being different.. how things do not add up.. Nelly all the sudden gets a tag a long friend that starts to annoy me. You will find out more about her later in the story.. I can not wait untill the 3rd book comes out!.. SO excited.. So much happens in this book its hard for me to sun it all up really.. basically HBS kicks butt!!.. Read it!
Where to begin.... I was once again sucked back into the world Alexa has found herself in. So much happens in this story.. I had a little trouble getting into it at the very begining but soon after I could not put it down. Alexa leaves Nelly and heads out to find her mother with the all so wonderful Kayden!... While Nelly is at Two Rivers she begins to understand what Alexa was saying about things being different.. how things do not add up.. Nelly all the sudden gets a tag a long friend that starts to annoy me. You will find out more about her later in the story.. I can not wait untill the 3rd book comes out!.. SO excited.. So much happens in this book its hard for me to sun it all up really.. basically HBS kicks butt!!.. Read it!
October 5, 2012
If you liked HD Gordon's first book in the Alexa Montgomery Saga, Blood Warrior, you'll like this book even more! How far Ms. Gordon has come since the first book with her writing improving significantly as she roars into the sequel and sets herself up perfectly for the third book, which just came out. I had two favorite parts to this book: 1) Alexa's inner dialogue with what she calls her "monster" inside. They are funny and believable and truly intriguing. 2) Half the story is told from the point of view of her sister, Nelly, and let me tell you, I LOVE Nelly. She is an amazing character, so cool, and every bit as interesting and strong as her sister.
There's also some twists and turns in this book that will leave you scanning ahead to the next page because you just can't wait to find out what's about to be revealed. So sit back and enjoy the ride!
There's also some twists and turns in this book that will leave you scanning ahead to the next page because you just can't wait to find out what's about to be revealed. So sit back and enjoy the ride!
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