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Lila Gray #2
Shadowborn
Intended audience: 18+, strong language, adult themes, some violence.
Why me?
That’s the question Lila Gray asks every time yet another bad guy tries to destroy the earth, and she learns she’s the only one who can stop it. Once again, something’s on the prowl, leaving hundreds of comatose, soulless victims in its wake.
Couldn’t the deadliest assassins of the Otherworld go after someone else instead of the brand new Queen of the Seelie? One who still hasn’t adapted to her new role.
Lila would ask Liam Kane, King of the Unseelie, for advice, but something’s off with him, too. He’s holding back. In some way. About some thing. In fact, he refuses to tell her what’s going on.
The truth holds Lila back from the greatness of her role—the people she was born to lead—the man who she desperately loves—and the solution to the latest war raging around her.
To find the answers, she’ll need to fight through her own darkness and embark on a journey through her psyche.
If she doesn’t succeed, the Shadowborn will claim not only her world, but her soul.
Why me?
That’s the question Lila Gray asks every time yet another bad guy tries to destroy the earth, and she learns she’s the only one who can stop it. Once again, something’s on the prowl, leaving hundreds of comatose, soulless victims in its wake.
Couldn’t the deadliest assassins of the Otherworld go after someone else instead of the brand new Queen of the Seelie? One who still hasn’t adapted to her new role.
Lila would ask Liam Kane, King of the Unseelie, for advice, but something’s off with him, too. He’s holding back. In some way. About some thing. In fact, he refuses to tell her what’s going on.
The truth holds Lila back from the greatness of her role—the people she was born to lead—the man who she desperately loves—and the solution to the latest war raging around her.
To find the answers, she’ll need to fight through her own darkness and embark on a journey through her psyche.
If she doesn’t succeed, the Shadowborn will claim not only her world, but her soul.
348 pages, ebook
First published September 22, 2012
2 people are currently reading
649 people want to read
About the author
Jocelyn Adams
14 books417 followersJocelyn is an office grunt by day and creator of romance and adventure by night. Born a farmer’s daughter with a vivid imagination, she spent her childhood dreaming up stories that remained untold until 2010.
With no formal training, she relied on the honest feedback of her writing group to take her from that first short story all the way to THE END of her first novel. She now has ten published novels and is working on two more for Entangled Publishing.
When she isn’t slinging words, you can find her kayaking or enjoying the serenity of family life in her little house in the woods.
With no formal training, she relied on the honest feedback of her writing group to take her from that first short story all the way to THE END of her first novel. She now has ten published novels and is working on two more for Entangled Publishing.
When she isn’t slinging words, you can find her kayaking or enjoying the serenity of family life in her little house in the woods.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 15, 2012
Overall, I really like the series. It's not too often you can stumble across a new 'gem' of a series that seems to have so many genres all rolled into one. A little fantasy, some urban fantasy thrown in, a dash of dystopian, a healthy serving of romance, sprinkle in some magic, weave in dark mystery, and add some adventure... viola! Shadowborn!
I really enjoy the fact that readers are not left on the precipice of a huge cliffhanger. Shadowborn gives you a HEA or at least a HFN. Fae, elves, and selkies- oh my! It was wonderful including even more races and 'other' than human in this book. It really rounds out the world building and adds more depth and layers to the history behind the book and the characters.
I would not consider this a stand alone book; it's best if read after The Glass Man. One of the only things I had an issue with- and this is entirely my hang-up on this - fae saying "thank You" Umm... kinda scary (to me at least). But that one little hang-up of mine should not be any kind of reason to pass up reading this series.
Entire series so far is a solid 4 and even a smidgen over. Recommended for adult audiences only, but not excessive (no bow-chicka-bow-wow bad 70's music but not ideal for high school.) It didn't bother me one bit, but there is adult language in the book as well. I thought it was well placed and added to Lila's character and demeanor.
Snarky! Very snarky, and I liked the overall attitude of Lila. She's a kindred spirit and easy to care about.
"Well, wasn't that just craptacular?"
Lila Gray just cracks me up and absolutely makes me root for her. Go, Lila, Go! Kick butt and take names!
I really enjoy the fact that readers are not left on the precipice of a huge cliffhanger. Shadowborn gives you a HEA or at least a HFN. Fae, elves, and selkies- oh my! It was wonderful including even more races and 'other' than human in this book. It really rounds out the world building and adds more depth and layers to the history behind the book and the characters.
I would not consider this a stand alone book; it's best if read after The Glass Man. One of the only things I had an issue with- and this is entirely my hang-up on this - fae saying "thank You" Umm... kinda scary (to me at least). But that one little hang-up of mine should not be any kind of reason to pass up reading this series.
Entire series so far is a solid 4 and even a smidgen over. Recommended for adult audiences only, but not excessive (no bow-chicka-bow-wow bad 70's music but not ideal for high school.) It didn't bother me one bit, but there is adult language in the book as well. I thought it was well placed and added to Lila's character and demeanor.
Snarky! Very snarky, and I liked the overall attitude of Lila. She's a kindred spirit and easy to care about.
"Well, wasn't that just craptacular?"
Lila Gray just cracks me up and absolutely makes me root for her. Go, Lila, Go! Kick butt and take names!
September 25, 2012
Originally posted on my blog http://ufreview.com/2012/09/24/shadow...
I received a copy of Shadowborn from the publishers through the Read to Review group on Goodreads, so thanks to all who made this possible. WOW! It took me awhile to get to this book because it is second in the Lila Grey series and I wanted the read Glass Man first. The Glass Man took me awhile to get into but once I did I read both books back to back in a day. How did I miss this series? I had actually started this book first but quickly realized you need to read the first one, this is not a stand alone book.
I love books about the fae and the Lila Gray series is fantastic. Lila is the reluctant Queen of the Seelie Sidhe trying to adjust as the ruler of her people. She struggles trying to rule them, getting to know them and trying to protect them and she must conquer her own fears to do this. She tries to comes to terms with her feelings for both Liam and Nix, although I am not a big fan of love triangles but this one works. Lila once again has an unbeatable enemy and she faces him head on like she does everything.
The plot is full of suspense and keeps you on edge waiting for the next twist to happen. The shadowborn are out to capture Lila's soul and kill the Unseelie King for an unnamed enemy. The journey to find away to defeat them leads Lila down a path of self discovery that she really doesn't want to face. The world building in this series is amazing, Jocelyn Adams does a brilliant job of illustrating the differences between the lightness of the Seelie court and the Darkness of the Unseelie and the struggle to bring them together. This has become one of my favorite series about the fae and can't wait for the last book in the trilogy.
I received a copy of Shadowborn from the publishers through the Read to Review group on Goodreads, so thanks to all who made this possible. WOW! It took me awhile to get to this book because it is second in the Lila Grey series and I wanted the read Glass Man first. The Glass Man took me awhile to get into but once I did I read both books back to back in a day. How did I miss this series? I had actually started this book first but quickly realized you need to read the first one, this is not a stand alone book.
I love books about the fae and the Lila Gray series is fantastic. Lila is the reluctant Queen of the Seelie Sidhe trying to adjust as the ruler of her people. She struggles trying to rule them, getting to know them and trying to protect them and she must conquer her own fears to do this. She tries to comes to terms with her feelings for both Liam and Nix, although I am not a big fan of love triangles but this one works. Lila once again has an unbeatable enemy and she faces him head on like she does everything.
The plot is full of suspense and keeps you on edge waiting for the next twist to happen. The shadowborn are out to capture Lila's soul and kill the Unseelie King for an unnamed enemy. The journey to find away to defeat them leads Lila down a path of self discovery that she really doesn't want to face. The world building in this series is amazing, Jocelyn Adams does a brilliant job of illustrating the differences between the lightness of the Seelie court and the Darkness of the Unseelie and the struggle to bring them together. This has become one of my favorite series about the fae and can't wait for the last book in the trilogy.
May 14, 2012
Jocelyn Adams does it again with the second book of the Lila Gray series. Shadowborn delivers on so many levels that will leave readers reeling from the emotional peaks and valleys each character faces. Lila Gray, the reluctant queen of the Seelie court, is forced to battle a foe that will be anything but easy to defeat. At her side is Nix, the captain of her guard, who wants more from Lila than her leadership. Liam Kane, king of the Unseelie, is all that stands in Nix’s way, but Liam’s hiding something deep and dark from Lila, something she may not forgive him for. On top of her battling her own court and her heart, Lila must face an evil that is not of this world.
Shadowborn is a mystery, a romance, and a thrilling ride that will leave you wanting more.
Shadowborn is a mystery, a romance, and a thrilling ride that will leave you wanting more.
August 31, 2012
Well Well....Jocelyn Adams.. The world needs to know about your books! I enjoyed reading 'The Glass Man' and remember when i'd finished the last page, feeling deflated that book two was not in front of me :( 'Shadowborn' just blew me away! I feel as though I have come back from a great journey, in this case a journey with 'Lila Gray' , along with her fae friends. I cried, I laughed and in the end I had a smile from ear to ear :)
Want to read
March 19, 2012Cover reveal...Dark and sexy...
October 13, 2012
I got this book as a R2R from J. Taylor publishing. So thank you very much. I went back and read the first book of this series before starting this one and I am glad that I did. You do not get a lot of recapping in this book and because the main issue in the first book is resolved mostly by the end of that book, you will miss out of the development of Lila. You really need to read this series in order so you can get a clear understanding of Lila. I think this book is even better than the first one. I liked her more in this book, but am glad I read the first one to understand where she started from. I am now going to be waiting impatiently for the third one.
I always hate love triangles, but the issues that Lila, Liam and Nix go through are realistic and shows the personal growth of all them. I love how straight forward Lila is, that keeps you hoping for her to figure out some things with out being mad her for being stupid. Her faults makes her real and helps you appreciate and root her on. you can feel her pain and sympathize with her feelings.
I really enjoy Fae books, but am usually disappointed in the portrayal of the different kinds and the world building in them...Not this time and I think Jocelyn gave a more balanced spins on the Seelie and Unseelie aspects.
There is plenty of action, intrigue and mysteries to unravel for Lila and you the reader since you don't have any more information until Lila gets it.
Again she faces some insurmountable foes and questioning her feelings for everyone. I gained more respect for her and her decisions. I loved how she faces everything head on with, even when she doesn't want to and how she looks at herself with pretty clear eyes most of the time or after someone has pointed it out to her...LOL sometimes it takes someone else to show you, your own faults.
You get a great ending for this book as you did in the first one, but still know that there is more to come and more that has to be faced. You are even more involved with the secondary characters in this book and I love when characters continue to develop and grow right before your eyes.
Thank you Jocelyn and J. Taylor publishing for a chance to meet Lila, Liam, Nix and the the whole fae world.
I always hate love triangles, but the issues that Lila, Liam and Nix go through are realistic and shows the personal growth of all them. I love how straight forward Lila is, that keeps you hoping for her to figure out some things with out being mad her for being stupid. Her faults makes her real and helps you appreciate and root her on. you can feel her pain and sympathize with her feelings.
I really enjoy Fae books, but am usually disappointed in the portrayal of the different kinds and the world building in them...Not this time and I think Jocelyn gave a more balanced spins on the Seelie and Unseelie aspects.
There is plenty of action, intrigue and mysteries to unravel for Lila and you the reader since you don't have any more information until Lila gets it.
Again she faces some insurmountable foes and questioning her feelings for everyone. I gained more respect for her and her decisions. I loved how she faces everything head on with, even when she doesn't want to and how she looks at herself with pretty clear eyes most of the time or after someone has pointed it out to her...LOL sometimes it takes someone else to show you, your own faults.
You get a great ending for this book as you did in the first one, but still know that there is more to come and more that has to be faced. You are even more involved with the secondary characters in this book and I love when characters continue to develop and grow right before your eyes.
Thank you Jocelyn and J. Taylor publishing for a chance to meet Lila, Liam, Nix and the the whole fae world.
September 27, 2012
I received an advanced copy of Shadowborn from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review.
Shadowborn is the second novel in the Lila Gray trilogy. Lila is the Seelie queen who began her journey in The Glass Man while still living in the human realm. She now finds herself in a bit over her head trying to unite the Seelie and Unseelie courts when both sides hate each other. One of her biggest obstacles to find a way around began in the first novel when she fell in love with the Seelie king, Liam. It’s a problem because making their love public knowledge could easily get one or both of them killed. Talk about an emotional rollercoaster ride. I loved both of these novels. By the time I finished Shadowborn I’d become one hundred percent emotionally involved with Lila, her man troubles, and her trying to stay alive by keeping one step ahead of the bad guys trouble. Whew! I’m not going to give anything away because you need to read it yourself, but when we hit one particularly heartbreaking spot (and you’ll know it when you get there) this reader broke down and started blubbering like a baby. I ended up hiding out in the bedroom so no one would see me, kindle in one hand, box of Kleenex in the other.
What I most enjoy about Jocelyn Adams’ writing is her ability to not only bring the romance to full Technicolor life with her characters, but to provide a plot that is both complex and satisfying. It managed to keep this reader always slightly off balance, which of course, kept me turning those pages until I reached the end. It was easy to suspend disbelief and imagine putting myself in Lila’s place, wondering what I would’ve done if faced with her challenges. I really can’t give this novel any less than five stars. It provided everything I could hope to find when choosing a paranormal romance and more. I can’t imagine anyone who has the same tastes in novels not loving it as much as I did. I can’t wait for the third one, though I might need this time to recover. My heart came very close to breaking on this one.
Shadowborn is the second novel in the Lila Gray trilogy. Lila is the Seelie queen who began her journey in The Glass Man while still living in the human realm. She now finds herself in a bit over her head trying to unite the Seelie and Unseelie courts when both sides hate each other. One of her biggest obstacles to find a way around began in the first novel when she fell in love with the Seelie king, Liam. It’s a problem because making their love public knowledge could easily get one or both of them killed. Talk about an emotional rollercoaster ride. I loved both of these novels. By the time I finished Shadowborn I’d become one hundred percent emotionally involved with Lila, her man troubles, and her trying to stay alive by keeping one step ahead of the bad guys trouble. Whew! I’m not going to give anything away because you need to read it yourself, but when we hit one particularly heartbreaking spot (and you’ll know it when you get there) this reader broke down and started blubbering like a baby. I ended up hiding out in the bedroom so no one would see me, kindle in one hand, box of Kleenex in the other.
What I most enjoy about Jocelyn Adams’ writing is her ability to not only bring the romance to full Technicolor life with her characters, but to provide a plot that is both complex and satisfying. It managed to keep this reader always slightly off balance, which of course, kept me turning those pages until I reached the end. It was easy to suspend disbelief and imagine putting myself in Lila’s place, wondering what I would’ve done if faced with her challenges. I really can’t give this novel any less than five stars. It provided everything I could hope to find when choosing a paranormal romance and more. I can’t imagine anyone who has the same tastes in novels not loving it as much as I did. I can’t wait for the third one, though I might need this time to recover. My heart came very close to breaking on this one.
September 26, 2012
*Genre* Paranormal Romance
*Rating* 3.5 stars
*Review*
Lila Gray has an interesting ability to sense and control minds around her. She really isn’t close to her own people the Seelie Sidhe, and treats them like secondary citizens pushing them away and not giving them a chance to know about her. The Captain of her Guard, Mannix (Nix), has fallen hard for her and tries to muscle Liam Kane, the king of the Unseelie Sidhe and Lila's lover, out of the picture with his constant rants and raves. Liam has been a bit distant as well, and as we find out, not all is well in the land of the Unseelie Sidhe.
This puts another stressful situation on top of learning about her abilities or cumhacht and trying to maintain a coalition with the human race while trying to unite the Fae under one flag. If that weren’t enough, Lila learns that a group called the Shadowborn has attacked humans and has their sights set on her for their masters. It will be up to Lila to use her abilities to save not only herself, but those who have been taken by the Shadowborn.
The world that Lila Gray resides in could be considered dystopian in nature. Thanks to Parthalan, humans started a war that lead to a global economic collapse. It is up to Lila and allies to find a way to stop the genocide and help rebuild humanity before it’s lost forever.
Shadowborn is a fast paced read that should be considered for mature audiences only. I would categorize this series as New Adult. Lila is a tough and fierce character who really doesn’t give a crap who she pisses off. She definitely has a mouth and attitude that just won’t stop. Lila is forced to learn about her role as queen of the Fae fast in order to defeat the Shadowborn. She must also forgive herself for the deaths of her family which she continues to hold herself responsible for. If that weren’t enough, she still suffers deep emotional strife over Parthalan whom she is still connected to and must learn about the darkness that is right under the surface ready to explode in all its glory.
I would definitely recommend that future readers of this series start with The Glass Man before taking on Shadowborn. No, I am not trying to drive sales, and no, I am not being paid by the writer or publisher to push this book. I firmly believe that you need to start from the first book of the series in order to get an idea on how the writer builds her characters and world building. In this case, Lila changes a full 180 degrees from when where met her at the beginning of The Glass Man, to the end of Shadowborn.
I’m definitely looking forward to the last book in the series called Rise of the Magi which releases October 4th 2013 to learn more about Lila, Liam, Cas and Brigh who was introduced in Shadowborn.
Expected publication: October 1st 2012 by J. Taylor Publishing
*Rating* 3.5 stars
*Review*
Lila Gray has an interesting ability to sense and control minds around her. She really isn’t close to her own people the Seelie Sidhe, and treats them like secondary citizens pushing them away and not giving them a chance to know about her. The Captain of her Guard, Mannix (Nix), has fallen hard for her and tries to muscle Liam Kane, the king of the Unseelie Sidhe and Lila's lover, out of the picture with his constant rants and raves. Liam has been a bit distant as well, and as we find out, not all is well in the land of the Unseelie Sidhe.
This puts another stressful situation on top of learning about her abilities or cumhacht and trying to maintain a coalition with the human race while trying to unite the Fae under one flag. If that weren’t enough, Lila learns that a group called the Shadowborn has attacked humans and has their sights set on her for their masters. It will be up to Lila to use her abilities to save not only herself, but those who have been taken by the Shadowborn.
The world that Lila Gray resides in could be considered dystopian in nature. Thanks to Parthalan, humans started a war that lead to a global economic collapse. It is up to Lila and allies to find a way to stop the genocide and help rebuild humanity before it’s lost forever.
Shadowborn is a fast paced read that should be considered for mature audiences only. I would categorize this series as New Adult. Lila is a tough and fierce character who really doesn’t give a crap who she pisses off. She definitely has a mouth and attitude that just won’t stop. Lila is forced to learn about her role as queen of the Fae fast in order to defeat the Shadowborn. She must also forgive herself for the deaths of her family which she continues to hold herself responsible for. If that weren’t enough, she still suffers deep emotional strife over Parthalan whom she is still connected to and must learn about the darkness that is right under the surface ready to explode in all its glory.
I would definitely recommend that future readers of this series start with The Glass Man before taking on Shadowborn. No, I am not trying to drive sales, and no, I am not being paid by the writer or publisher to push this book. I firmly believe that you need to start from the first book of the series in order to get an idea on how the writer builds her characters and world building. In this case, Lila changes a full 180 degrees from when where met her at the beginning of The Glass Man, to the end of Shadowborn.
I’m definitely looking forward to the last book in the series called Rise of the Magi which releases October 4th 2013 to learn more about Lila, Liam, Cas and Brigh who was introduced in Shadowborn.
Expected publication: October 1st 2012 by J. Taylor Publishing
September 3, 2012
Shadowborn By Jocelyn Adams is book 2 in the Lila Gray Series.
I was so excited to receive this as an ARC because the first book was so amazing; I knew this one would be too. Ms. Adams does a superb job reminding readers what happened in the first book, without going into so many details you feel like you���re reading it again.
These characters will stay in your head long after you finish the book. Three days later, I still find myself thinking about Liam, Lila and Nix, even Cas and Brigh;
Wondering what they are doing now, how they’re dealing with “things”. They are so well written that my brain keeps forgetting they are only fictional characters thought up by an amazing writer.
This book is filled with many ups and downs; it really takes your emotions for a ride. Why do certain characters do what they do, how could they! Your brain knows there is a logical reason but your heart doesn’t like it! You will hurt for some, want to punch a few and cry tears of joy for others.
My advice, Make sure you have a good chunk of time to sit down and read before picking up Shadowborn. Once you start reading, it will be very difficult to put down! (But definitely pick it up!)
I was so excited to receive this as an ARC because the first book was so amazing; I knew this one would be too. Ms. Adams does a superb job reminding readers what happened in the first book, without going into so many details you feel like you���re reading it again.
These characters will stay in your head long after you finish the book. Three days later, I still find myself thinking about Liam, Lila and Nix, even Cas and Brigh;
Wondering what they are doing now, how they’re dealing with “things”. They are so well written that my brain keeps forgetting they are only fictional characters thought up by an amazing writer.
This book is filled with many ups and downs; it really takes your emotions for a ride. Why do certain characters do what they do, how could they! Your brain knows there is a logical reason but your heart doesn’t like it! You will hurt for some, want to punch a few and cry tears of joy for others.
My advice, Make sure you have a good chunk of time to sit down and read before picking up Shadowborn. Once you start reading, it will be very difficult to put down! (But definitely pick it up!)
October 30, 2012
Shadowborn is the 2nd Lila Gray novel following the Seelie fairy queen, Lila, and theking of the Unseelie, Liam who just happens to be her love. They’re determined to reunite the two sides of the fey and bring about unity as the goddess intended – even if it tears them apart.
I thought I was a Lila Gray fan after The Glass Man. Not so. No. In Shadowborn we see a softer side of one of the best female MCs I’ve read about to date. This leads me to the …
Yummies: Characters - Doesn’t get any better than the kick @$$ yet compassionate Lila Gray. And then there’s Liam who loves her more than one could imagine, but secrets threaten to be their undoing. Emotionally charged, gut wrenching - their relationship is that & more.
Setting – Rich and lush like always. Ms. Adams paints vivid pictures like no other with beautiful imagery for the mind to ponder.
Storytelling – LOVE LOVE LOVE this author’s voice. Seriously.
Yuckies: Um … none.
Recommend: Whether you’re a fey fan or not, give the Lila Gray novels a go. Add Shadowborn to your to-read list HERE. Your brain deserves to be swept away by a tale of mystical powers, intrigue, passion, and the desire to survive.
I thought I was a Lila Gray fan after The Glass Man. Not so. No. In Shadowborn we see a softer side of one of the best female MCs I’ve read about to date. This leads me to the …
Yummies: Characters - Doesn’t get any better than the kick @$$ yet compassionate Lila Gray. And then there’s Liam who loves her more than one could imagine, but secrets threaten to be their undoing. Emotionally charged, gut wrenching - their relationship is that & more.
Setting – Rich and lush like always. Ms. Adams paints vivid pictures like no other with beautiful imagery for the mind to ponder.
Storytelling – LOVE LOVE LOVE this author’s voice. Seriously.
Yuckies: Um … none.
Recommend: Whether you’re a fey fan or not, give the Lila Gray novels a go. Add Shadowborn to your to-read list HERE. Your brain deserves to be swept away by a tale of mystical powers, intrigue, passion, and the desire to survive.
September 24, 2012
This book/series is amazing and a must read for YA fans for the supernatural and a sexually intense romance. Jocelyn Adams has not disappointed in this second book in the Lila Gray series that will captivate you from the first pages.
Beautifully written, tastefully done and in a first person protagonist.
With your Heart in your throat, heat pumping through your veins and the intoxicating need to stay in the story and be with Lila to the end is gripping.
This adventure will find yourself racing towards the end of the book as you are dragged into the story. Full of suspense as you follow Lila to find out the answers and needs she must find to save the humans, Fae and everything she loves against a mysterious assassin that could end all life.
You will not want to put this book down when you start.
I look forward to reading more from Jocelyn Adams and more from the Lila Grey series.
Natalie P
Beautifully written, tastefully done and in a first person protagonist.
With your Heart in your throat, heat pumping through your veins and the intoxicating need to stay in the story and be with Lila to the end is gripping.
This adventure will find yourself racing towards the end of the book as you are dragged into the story. Full of suspense as you follow Lila to find out the answers and needs she must find to save the humans, Fae and everything she loves against a mysterious assassin that could end all life.
You will not want to put this book down when you start.
I look forward to reading more from Jocelyn Adams and more from the Lila Grey series.
Natalie P
September 15, 2012
The world needs to know Jocelyn Adams!
This book is a true roller coaster of feelings!
Review of the next release!
This book is a true roller coaster of feelings!
Review of the next release!
November 9, 2012
I anxiously awaited Shadowborn, chewing my fingernails, gnawing on my knuckles, and generally clawing at my iPad in faerie angst (wait…is there such a thing? Well, I just made it up if not). Would it be as good as the first? Would Lila resolve the feelings in her heart for Liam and Nix? Would she rise to the occasion? WOULD THE WORLD COME TO AN END??? These are the questions I asked myself.
Oh Oh Oh, Lila. You frustrating woman fae creature, you. You had me up, down, this way and that, not knowing how you felt from one minute to the next. Did you want Liam? Or was it Nix? Were you up to the job of leading your people and joining the courts? Or were you going to run again?
I ask myself a lot of questions.
Jocelyn Adams took Glass Man and delivered with a series follow-up every bit as enjoyable as its predecessor. The reasons I loved Glass Man: it’s lusty, dangerous and exciting. Lila found herself in Glass Man, while running from the very entity hunting her who wanted to possess her for his own.
In Shadowborn, she is the reluctant leader, still wishing she could be something else, but pride forces her to do what she has promised: reunite the fae courts. I really enjoyed Shadowborn; it was an excellent second in a series. The plot was quick and intricate, but not so complicated that you needed a map to follow it. I loved all the characters, both new and old, but especially the elves. Yes, elves! (I love elves). The elves felt authentic, and very like the elves of (dare I say it??) LOTR, in that they were knowledgeable of Lila’s situation but full of elfish riddles to solve her problems. They were appropriately frustrating. Parthalan, aka Glass Man, has become something….else. I sympathized with him on so many levels; I wanted to know more of his mind. The Lila/Liam/Nix triangle continued to tug in two directions, both men determined to have their prize, although at times, it seemed as if one of them had a less than benevolent agenda. I really liked Nix sometimes…he was witty and fun to read. But I also loved Liam; he felt steadfast and true. Sure, he’s the Unseelie King, but isn’t that just a label? If you’ve read it, whom did you like more?
I really, really enjoyed the self-discovery Lila had to make in Shadowborn. Not only does she have to figure out how to make peace with her Darkness and her Light (how do you make peace with two conflicting parts of you, and make it harmonious?) but she’s also tasked with uniting the Seelie and Unseelie courts. Except, she never wanted to lead a group of people, and she needs to resolve leading a group of people who might think she doesn’t care about them. Looking inside yourself and addressing your faults takes GUTS.
The problem with picking up a new series (if you want to call this a “problem”) is you have to wait for the next book. Sometimes it’s only a few months; others (like the series I’m reading now), it’s two years. You can forget a lot in the span of releases that leaves you feeling a bit lost. First world problems. I think my only problem with Shadowborn is that it was hard for me to remember specific details of Glass Man, so that when something referenced Glass Man, I sometimes had to stop and think really hard about what had happened and dig out the details. I’m not a reader that remembers everything from a book. I remember the basic gist, characters and overall plot. While other readers hate recaps in second, third and tenth novels, I actually like them. It’s kind of like an “oh yeah” moment for me: “d’oh, that’s right, I remember that!” I feel like I kind of need them in my series books to remember everything that happened because so much happens in a series…well, and my memory. Maybe I’m just getting old!
That aside, I really loved Shadowborn…and I cannot wait for Rise of the Magi. But unfortunately, I have to, because it releases June 2013! In the meantime, if you haven’t picked up this series yet, you’re missing out and I just feel bad for you. Don’t make me a sad banana, go read it.
Oh Oh Oh, Lila. You frustrating woman fae creature, you. You had me up, down, this way and that, not knowing how you felt from one minute to the next. Did you want Liam? Or was it Nix? Were you up to the job of leading your people and joining the courts? Or were you going to run again?
I ask myself a lot of questions.
Jocelyn Adams took Glass Man and delivered with a series follow-up every bit as enjoyable as its predecessor. The reasons I loved Glass Man: it’s lusty, dangerous and exciting. Lila found herself in Glass Man, while running from the very entity hunting her who wanted to possess her for his own.
In Shadowborn, she is the reluctant leader, still wishing she could be something else, but pride forces her to do what she has promised: reunite the fae courts. I really enjoyed Shadowborn; it was an excellent second in a series. The plot was quick and intricate, but not so complicated that you needed a map to follow it. I loved all the characters, both new and old, but especially the elves. Yes, elves! (I love elves). The elves felt authentic, and very like the elves of (dare I say it??) LOTR, in that they were knowledgeable of Lila’s situation but full of elfish riddles to solve her problems. They were appropriately frustrating. Parthalan, aka Glass Man, has become something….else. I sympathized with him on so many levels; I wanted to know more of his mind. The Lila/Liam/Nix triangle continued to tug in two directions, both men determined to have their prize, although at times, it seemed as if one of them had a less than benevolent agenda. I really liked Nix sometimes…he was witty and fun to read. But I also loved Liam; he felt steadfast and true. Sure, he’s the Unseelie King, but isn’t that just a label? If you’ve read it, whom did you like more?
I really, really enjoyed the self-discovery Lila had to make in Shadowborn. Not only does she have to figure out how to make peace with her Darkness and her Light (how do you make peace with two conflicting parts of you, and make it harmonious?) but she’s also tasked with uniting the Seelie and Unseelie courts. Except, she never wanted to lead a group of people, and she needs to resolve leading a group of people who might think she doesn’t care about them. Looking inside yourself and addressing your faults takes GUTS.
The problem with picking up a new series (if you want to call this a “problem”) is you have to wait for the next book. Sometimes it’s only a few months; others (like the series I’m reading now), it’s two years. You can forget a lot in the span of releases that leaves you feeling a bit lost. First world problems. I think my only problem with Shadowborn is that it was hard for me to remember specific details of Glass Man, so that when something referenced Glass Man, I sometimes had to stop and think really hard about what had happened and dig out the details. I’m not a reader that remembers everything from a book. I remember the basic gist, characters and overall plot. While other readers hate recaps in second, third and tenth novels, I actually like them. It’s kind of like an “oh yeah” moment for me: “d’oh, that’s right, I remember that!” I feel like I kind of need them in my series books to remember everything that happened because so much happens in a series…well, and my memory. Maybe I’m just getting old!
That aside, I really loved Shadowborn…and I cannot wait for Rise of the Magi. But unfortunately, I have to, because it releases June 2013! In the meantime, if you haven’t picked up this series yet, you’re missing out and I just feel bad for you. Don’t make me a sad banana, go read it.
October 16, 2012
Since The Glass Man, Lila has been busy...she's been training, and doing her Queenly duties...but she hasn't been all that busy with Liam (yes, that was a dirty pun, but you can choose to ignore it if you like :P I won't...I'm totally giggling to myself right now ;D haha). I'll admit, I could have totally used more Liam in this one, but the ending left me hopeful that I'll get to see TONNES of him in the next book! Eeek! :D
Since this is the sequel, I don't want to spoil you too much! I will say that I absolutely loved Lila though! She's such a strong character, and I absolutely loved getting to see her evolve throughout this book. She was tough in The Glass Man, but she totally wowed me in Shadowborn! I loved seeing her actively make changes in her life, and it was great seeing her put herself out there to finally get to know some of her people. :) I was so proud of her! Way to go Lila! :D She also stood up for herself even when it was difficult to do so...and I totally admired her for sticking to her beliefs.
The book was action packed with the Shadowborn army causing problems, and Lila trying to train so that she could stop them...it was intense, and the characters' problems aren't even over yet! I can without a doubt predict that there is another book...especially since Goodreads confirmed it for me. :P Still, Lila kicked serious butt in this book! I also loved that while the action was pretty intense, it wasn't all that there was. There was the whole romantic side-plot, which ventured towards a love triangle...which I wasn't such a big fan of (Liam all the way! :P), but I was a big fan of how it all turned out. Along with the romance and action, Lila and Liam were both struggling to maintain power in their courts...seriously this book just has intense struggles all over! I think that's actually the best word to describe Shadowborn: intense! It was also awesome! ;D I didn't want to put it down, and I'll admit I lost quite a bit of sleep staying up to read this one. :P
Now that I've blabbed about the epicness that is Lila, and how awesome the story in general is, I have to tell you that the fae lore in this book is fantastic. It's elaborate, and a bit mysterious. I loved getting to know some background info on how the Unseelie and Seelie courts developed, and I'm looking forward to learning more as Lila does! Also, as a human...I must admit, these fae have some very weird ideas about relationships, which Lila struggles to accept herself. :P I'm still a tad bit confused about it all...Nix just didn't convince me I guess. :P
Overall, I really liked this one! It took me a bit to get back into the story at first, but once I got a couple chapters in, I didn't want to put it down! Shadowborn was an action-packed, intense, and struggle-filled (and by struggles...I mean all kinds of struggles) story. I'd recommend it to fans of fae, butt-kicking heroines, and to readers who are looking for paranormal stories that are a bit darker, but not quite horror-dark. Also, I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in this series, as the ending of Shadowborn has left me desperate and extremely excited for more! :D
Since this is the sequel, I don't want to spoil you too much! I will say that I absolutely loved Lila though! She's such a strong character, and I absolutely loved getting to see her evolve throughout this book. She was tough in The Glass Man, but she totally wowed me in Shadowborn! I loved seeing her actively make changes in her life, and it was great seeing her put herself out there to finally get to know some of her people. :) I was so proud of her! Way to go Lila! :D She also stood up for herself even when it was difficult to do so...and I totally admired her for sticking to her beliefs.
The book was action packed with the Shadowborn army causing problems, and Lila trying to train so that she could stop them...it was intense, and the characters' problems aren't even over yet! I can without a doubt predict that there is another book...especially since Goodreads confirmed it for me. :P Still, Lila kicked serious butt in this book! I also loved that while the action was pretty intense, it wasn't all that there was. There was the whole romantic side-plot, which ventured towards a love triangle...which I wasn't such a big fan of (Liam all the way! :P), but I was a big fan of how it all turned out. Along with the romance and action, Lila and Liam were both struggling to maintain power in their courts...seriously this book just has intense struggles all over! I think that's actually the best word to describe Shadowborn: intense! It was also awesome! ;D I didn't want to put it down, and I'll admit I lost quite a bit of sleep staying up to read this one. :P
Now that I've blabbed about the epicness that is Lila, and how awesome the story in general is, I have to tell you that the fae lore in this book is fantastic. It's elaborate, and a bit mysterious. I loved getting to know some background info on how the Unseelie and Seelie courts developed, and I'm looking forward to learning more as Lila does! Also, as a human...I must admit, these fae have some very weird ideas about relationships, which Lila struggles to accept herself. :P I'm still a tad bit confused about it all...Nix just didn't convince me I guess. :P
Overall, I really liked this one! It took me a bit to get back into the story at first, but once I got a couple chapters in, I didn't want to put it down! Shadowborn was an action-packed, intense, and struggle-filled (and by struggles...I mean all kinds of struggles) story. I'd recommend it to fans of fae, butt-kicking heroines, and to readers who are looking for paranormal stories that are a bit darker, but not quite horror-dark. Also, I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in this series, as the ending of Shadowborn has left me desperate and extremely excited for more! :D
January 12, 2013
Why me?
That’s the question Lila Gray asks every time yet another bad guy tries to destroy the earth, and she learns she’s the only one who can stop it. Once again, something’s on the prowl, leaving hundreds of comatose, soulless victims in its wake.
Couldn’t the deadliest assassins of the Otherworld go after someone else instead of the brand new Queen of the Seelie? One who still hasn’t adapted to her new role.
Lila would ask Liam Kane, King of the Unseelie, for advice, but something’s off with him, too. He’s holding back. In some way. About some thing. In fact, he refuses to tell her what’s going on.
The truth holds Lila back from the greatness of her role—the people she was born to lead—the man who she desperately loves—and the solution to the latest war raging around her.
To find the answers, she’ll need to fight through her own darkness and embark on a journey through her psyche.
If she doesn’t succeed, the Shadowborn will claim not only her world, but her soul.
Why Lila Gray? That was definitely my reaction reading this. My heart broke from how unfair life was treating her. After the end of the 1st book we learn that Lila is Queen of the Seelie court. She is now in charge of her people that don’t like her. She was not brought up with fey and her behavior to change things up in Court earn her many enemies and fewer fans.
On top of the pressure of being a Queen and trying to save her people, she is also lover of her opposition, Liam the new King of the Unseelie Court. While Liam is popular with his people it comes at the price of alienating and losing Lila.
There were moments in this book that I wanted to cry. Poor Lila and the way her heart broke over Liam’s actions nearly broke mine.
We learn about a few more secrets hiding in Lila’s closet as well as finding out who is loyal to her. The last 20% of the book is fantastic and sets up for the following 3rd book ‘Rise of the Magi’ beautifully. I cannot wait to read more of Lila Gray’s adventures.
4 stars*
mybookmuse.wordpress.com
That’s the question Lila Gray asks every time yet another bad guy tries to destroy the earth, and she learns she’s the only one who can stop it. Once again, something’s on the prowl, leaving hundreds of comatose, soulless victims in its wake.
Couldn’t the deadliest assassins of the Otherworld go after someone else instead of the brand new Queen of the Seelie? One who still hasn’t adapted to her new role.
Lila would ask Liam Kane, King of the Unseelie, for advice, but something’s off with him, too. He’s holding back. In some way. About some thing. In fact, he refuses to tell her what’s going on.
The truth holds Lila back from the greatness of her role—the people she was born to lead—the man who she desperately loves—and the solution to the latest war raging around her.
To find the answers, she’ll need to fight through her own darkness and embark on a journey through her psyche.
If she doesn’t succeed, the Shadowborn will claim not only her world, but her soul.
Why Lila Gray? That was definitely my reaction reading this. My heart broke from how unfair life was treating her. After the end of the 1st book we learn that Lila is Queen of the Seelie court. She is now in charge of her people that don’t like her. She was not brought up with fey and her behavior to change things up in Court earn her many enemies and fewer fans.
On top of the pressure of being a Queen and trying to save her people, she is also lover of her opposition, Liam the new King of the Unseelie Court. While Liam is popular with his people it comes at the price of alienating and losing Lila.
There were moments in this book that I wanted to cry. Poor Lila and the way her heart broke over Liam’s actions nearly broke mine.
We learn about a few more secrets hiding in Lila’s closet as well as finding out who is loyal to her. The last 20% of the book is fantastic and sets up for the following 3rd book ‘Rise of the Magi’ beautifully. I cannot wait to read more of Lila Gray’s adventures.
4 stars*
mybookmuse.wordpress.com
September 1, 2012
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. Excitement! A mature (instead of YA) fae story, what an unexpected pleasure. This is definitely a series that should be read in order. While I was swept into the story within the first couple of pages, I floundered because I had not read the previous book of the series and had to play catch up in Lila Adams’ world. I eventually caught up but it was not easy. (I immediately bought book one so I could shore up my knowledge.) Another caution is if strong language offends you, this may not be the series for you.
Unidentified forces are gunning for our far from helpless heroine as she also comes to grips with being Queen of the Seelie Court in love with the King of the UnSeelie Cout in book two of the under-read Lila Gray series. As if that’s not enough to be going on with there are appearances from key characters introduced in book one throwing wrenches left and right as this world expands with other members of the preternatural world; the Captain of the Royal Guard makes his desires known for his new Queen, and secrets are revealed that will keep this series on my anxiously awaited releases pile. The main characters are likeable enough and the series intriguing enough to hold your interest. The overall storyline itself of a discovery of skills, a rise to power and a battle involving preternaturals while touching the human world is inherently interesting and leaves many avenues open to explore. I was late to the series but am caught up.
Unidentified forces are gunning for our far from helpless heroine as she also comes to grips with being Queen of the Seelie Court in love with the King of the UnSeelie Cout in book two of the under-read Lila Gray series. As if that’s not enough to be going on with there are appearances from key characters introduced in book one throwing wrenches left and right as this world expands with other members of the preternatural world; the Captain of the Royal Guard makes his desires known for his new Queen, and secrets are revealed that will keep this series on my anxiously awaited releases pile. The main characters are likeable enough and the series intriguing enough to hold your interest. The overall storyline itself of a discovery of skills, a rise to power and a battle involving preternaturals while touching the human world is inherently interesting and leaves many avenues open to explore. I was late to the series but am caught up.
October 2, 2012
A deliciously dark novel with a spunky heroine, SHADOWBORN is sure to please fans of paranormal and romance.
Lila Gray may be the new Queen of the Seelie, but how can she rule a people, if she can’t control the darkness within? And she’s supposed to somehow find a way to join the two faerie courts as well as stop the newest threat: the Shadowborn. As Lila embarks on a journey to find the answers on how to destroy the Shadowborn, she’ll learn more about herself and will have to make choices that will not only affect the world but her own soul.
SHADOWBORN takes place about a month or so from THE GLASS MAN. Lila’s spunk, sarcasm, and insecurities make her one hell of a narrator for the story. As Adams pulls us deeper into the world she’s created, we learn more about the inner workings of the Seelie and Unseelie Courts as well as the magical realms around us, particularly the elves. The plot is fast-paced and such a fun and quick read, and I loved how Lila is able to face her personal demons while kicking the physical ones’ butts. Then, Adams leaves the reader with the mystery of the Magi and hope mixed with a good dose of fear for the future of Lila’s world.
I loved THE GLASS MAN, but SHADOWBORN by Jocelyn Adams is even better! I can’t wait to read book three!
Lila Gray may be the new Queen of the Seelie, but how can she rule a people, if she can’t control the darkness within? And she’s supposed to somehow find a way to join the two faerie courts as well as stop the newest threat: the Shadowborn. As Lila embarks on a journey to find the answers on how to destroy the Shadowborn, she’ll learn more about herself and will have to make choices that will not only affect the world but her own soul.
SHADOWBORN takes place about a month or so from THE GLASS MAN. Lila’s spunk, sarcasm, and insecurities make her one hell of a narrator for the story. As Adams pulls us deeper into the world she’s created, we learn more about the inner workings of the Seelie and Unseelie Courts as well as the magical realms around us, particularly the elves. The plot is fast-paced and such a fun and quick read, and I loved how Lila is able to face her personal demons while kicking the physical ones’ butts. Then, Adams leaves the reader with the mystery of the Magi and hope mixed with a good dose of fear for the future of Lila’s world.
I loved THE GLASS MAN, but SHADOWBORN by Jocelyn Adams is even better! I can’t wait to read book three!
June 4, 2013
You know those books that once you finish, you want to jump up and down, hugging your Kindle, with the immense satisfaction of an incredibly great read? Yup, this is one of those. Holy freakin' cow this book is great!!!
So what was so fabulous? Well, book 2 is all about Lila finding her way amid all the action. mystery and suspense that is still so prevalent in the Lila Gray series. It's an amazing story, with all those great characters we've come to love --or hate-- and more of that crazy chemistry that sizzles, but friendship becomes a major theme in Shadowborn. The fate of the world rests on Lila and her ability to see beyond the pain of her past and to trust those around her ... but are they trustworthy??? Liam continues to be a big question mark here. What about Nix? Heck, what are we to think of Parthalan? They'll be no spoilers here, so you'll just have to read this one for yourself. I will tell you that the ending of Shadowborn completely kicks a$$. I love how it all comes together, love Lila's growth, love the end result of her actions!!! Can't wait to see what happens in book 3, Rise of the Magi
So what was so fabulous? Well, book 2 is all about Lila finding her way amid all the action. mystery and suspense that is still so prevalent in the Lila Gray series. It's an amazing story, with all those great characters we've come to love --or hate-- and more of that crazy chemistry that sizzles, but friendship becomes a major theme in Shadowborn. The fate of the world rests on Lila and her ability to see beyond the pain of her past and to trust those around her ... but are they trustworthy??? Liam continues to be a big question mark here. What about Nix? Heck, what are we to think of Parthalan? They'll be no spoilers here, so you'll just have to read this one for yourself. I will tell you that the ending of Shadowborn completely kicks a$$. I love how it all comes together, love Lila's growth, love the end result of her actions!!! Can't wait to see what happens in book 3, Rise of the Magi
September 11, 2012
Emotionally heartwrenching and gut churning. Amazing.
*More details to come*
*More details to come*
July 11, 2013
Someone has summoned the Shadowborn, assassins that begin a hunt by ripping out an army of souls from their victims. And after they're done, they're coming after Lila Gray, reluctant Queen of the Seelie.
Her personal life isn't any less complicated--her love, Liam Kane, Unseelie King, is holding something back. And it can't be a goodsecret, considering how much their two kingdoms hate each other--which makes the task Lila's mother gave her, to reunite the kingdoms, seem impossible.
Even if she can defeat the shadow assassins, she's left with the problem of which of her enemies summoned them.
The romance develops nicely, though all involved make some incredibly poor decisions--the kind that create conflict for the book, but you can't see how anyone would think they're a good idea. Lila can waver a little annoyingly at times, but shows a steel backbone at the right moments.
Her personal life isn't any less complicated--her love, Liam Kane, Unseelie King, is holding something back. And it can't be a goodsecret, considering how much their two kingdoms hate each other--which makes the task Lila's mother gave her, to reunite the kingdoms, seem impossible.
Even if she can defeat the shadow assassins, she's left with the problem of which of her enemies summoned them.
The romance develops nicely, though all involved make some incredibly poor decisions--the kind that create conflict for the book, but you can't see how anyone would think they're a good idea. Lila can waver a little annoyingly at times, but shows a steel backbone at the right moments.
October 1, 2012
Shadowborn was a great read that kept me interested throughout the whole book. I received Shadowborn as an ARC so I didn't get a chance to read the first one. I was a little lost and confused on what was going on, but eventually caught up halfway through. I would recommend this book to readers who love paranormal romance.
October 11, 2012
a fun a quick read. very descriptive and interesting characters. i was hoping for a big more intimate scenarios through the book and less psychoanalytic issues with Lila, but still a fun read.
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