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Heven and Hell #2
Charade
Dying at the hands of a psycho was a shock. Having my life returned to me by an angel was incredible. Being named a Supernatural Treasure and being given Sam as my guard was pretty darn awesome. Acquiring a debt for it all - well, I should have seen it coming. Now here we are, fighting demons from hell, caring for a boy that I just don't trust and traveling to faraway places to return a treasure to its rightful place. Nothing is as it seems. Everyone wears a mask, everyone puts on a charade. It's up to us to separate the truth from the lies and reality from fiction. A hard task when my new reality involves fallen angels, witches and dragons...and did I mention hell? Anchoring me down through it all is Sam. Sam who must face tragedies of his own and is put to the test again and again. If we fail in our task, life as we know it - life as you know it - will end. Forever.
331 pages, Paperback
First published May 16, 2012
21 people are currently reading
1166 people want to read
About the author
Cambria Hebert
97 books5,613 followersCambria Hebert is a bestselling novelist of more than fifty titles. She went to college for a bachelor’s degree, couldn’t pick a major, and ended up with a degree in cosmetology. So rest assured her characters will always have good hair.
Besides writing, Cambria loves a pumpkin spice latte, staying up late, sleeping in, and watching K drama until her eyes won’t stay open. She considers math human torture and has an irrational fear of chickens (yes, chickens). You can often find her running on the treadmill (she’d rather be eating a donut), painting her toenails (because she bites her fingernails), or walking her chihuahuas (the real bosses of the house).
Cambria has written in many genres, including new adult, sports romance, male/male romance, sci-fi, thriller, suspense, contemporary romance, and young adult. Many of her titles have been translated into foreign languages and have been the recipients of multiple awards.
Awards Cambria has received include:
Author of the Year 2016 (UtopiaCon2016)
The Hashtag Series: Best Contemporary Series of 2015 (UtopiaCon 2015)
#Nerd: Best Contemporary Book Cover of 2015 (UtopiaCon 2015)
Romeo from the Hashtag Series: Best Contemporary Lead (UtopiaCon 2015)
#Nerd: Top 50 Summer Reads (Buzzfeed.com 2015)
The Hashtag Series: Best Contemporary Series of 2016 (UtopiaCon 2016)
#NERD Book Trailer: Best Book Trailer of 2016 (UtopiaCon 2016)
#Nerd Book Trailer: Top 50 Most Cinematic Book Trailers of All Time (film-14.com)
#Nerd: Book Most Wanted to be Adapted to Screen: (2018)
Amnesia: Mystery Book of the Year (2018)
Cambria Hebert owns and operates Cambria Hebert Books, LLC.
You can find out more about Cambria and her titles by visiting her website:
http://www.cambriahebert.com
Email: cambriahebert@rocketmail.com
Facebook: http://smarturl.co/CambriaHebertFanpage
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cambriahebert
Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/cambriahebert/p...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cambriahebert
GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/amazoncambria
Newsletter subscription: http://eepurl.com/bUL5_5
Share Squad sign up: http://bit.ly/sharesquad
Besides writing, Cambria loves a pumpkin spice latte, staying up late, sleeping in, and watching K drama until her eyes won’t stay open. She considers math human torture and has an irrational fear of chickens (yes, chickens). You can often find her running on the treadmill (she’d rather be eating a donut), painting her toenails (because she bites her fingernails), or walking her chihuahuas (the real bosses of the house).
Cambria has written in many genres, including new adult, sports romance, male/male romance, sci-fi, thriller, suspense, contemporary romance, and young adult. Many of her titles have been translated into foreign languages and have been the recipients of multiple awards.
Awards Cambria has received include:
Author of the Year 2016 (UtopiaCon2016)
The Hashtag Series: Best Contemporary Series of 2015 (UtopiaCon 2015)
#Nerd: Best Contemporary Book Cover of 2015 (UtopiaCon 2015)
Romeo from the Hashtag Series: Best Contemporary Lead (UtopiaCon 2015)
#Nerd: Top 50 Summer Reads (Buzzfeed.com 2015)
The Hashtag Series: Best Contemporary Series of 2016 (UtopiaCon 2016)
#NERD Book Trailer: Best Book Trailer of 2016 (UtopiaCon 2016)
#Nerd Book Trailer: Top 50 Most Cinematic Book Trailers of All Time (film-14.com)
#Nerd: Book Most Wanted to be Adapted to Screen: (2018)
Amnesia: Mystery Book of the Year (2018)
Cambria Hebert owns and operates Cambria Hebert Books, LLC.
You can find out more about Cambria and her titles by visiting her website:
http://www.cambriahebert.com
Email: cambriahebert@rocketmail.com
Facebook: http://smarturl.co/CambriaHebertFanpage
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cambriahebert
Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/cambriahebert/p...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cambriahebert
GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/amazoncambria
Newsletter subscription: http://eepurl.com/bUL5_5
Share Squad sign up: http://bit.ly/sharesquad
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
May 30, 2012
Five stars! The sequel is even better! Full of surprises and secrets!
For Heven, having her life returned comes with a heavy price. She is the guardian of a secret treasure map that must be returned to the catacombs of Rome. If this scroll falls into the wrong hands, it would mean chaos, war and demons plaguing the Earth. Thankfully, she is not alone in her epic quest. At her side and always her guardian is Sam. Her boyfriend and protector, a boy she loves more than her own life. Together they intend to fight off the demons of Hell and make sure the document is securely placed in Rome. Unfortunately, the demons of Hell have other ideas. Daily it seems, Heven is attacked by demons. Luckily, Sam’s abilities allow him to destroy the demons to dust. As the two prepare for Italy, the stakes are raised higher and higher. When the forces of Heaven and Hell collide, you know it is going to be an epic battle. The question is can Heven and Sam return the scroll and prevent the onslaught?
What I Liked:
*Grab you catching mitt because Cambria Hebert is going to throw some curve balls at you. If you thought she yanked you around in Masquerade, she is back to shock and surprise you with all the twists and reveals in book two Charade. It seems that this time around everyone has some secrets, as if Before everyone was a Charade and now the masks are starting to fall and true colors are bursting forth.
*If you love all things paranormal, this book is full of supernatural beings. This time around there are demons, witches, angels, dragons, shapshifters, dreamwalkers and more. This book is jammed packed with paranormal.
*This book takes you from the calm confines of Grandma’s quiet farm in Portland, Maine to Italy and its wondrous sights from the Coliseum to the Catacombs and then you are plunged into the depths of Hell. Quite the change in scenery.
*Again I was soothed with Ms. Hebert’s gentle, easy flowing writing style and then without warning she socks it to you! Be on your toes when you read a book by this author she knows how to surprise you.
*I loved that this book has layers of depths and numerous storylines. You have Sam battling his dark side trying to maintain control and protect Heven. He is also trying to help Logan find his way and maintain a balance between his brother and his girl. Heven is evolving and growing as well. Last time around she was a bit meek, no more she is coming into her own and learning to fight and stand up to protect those dearest to her heart. At the center is the strong relationship between Heven and Sam, it is lovely! In addition to Sam and Heven’s storyline, there is the thread that follows Logan and his battle to gain control of the darkness within him. He also proves to be a bit of a thorn in Heven’s and Sam’s relationship, but is there more to it? Kimber and Cole return and add their two cents. At the end of Masquerade, there was just a flash of Kimber’s true colors, this time her intentions are revealed. Cole plays a key role in Heven’s life as well. Finally, Gran, rounds out the cast and I still get this niggling that she is hiding something. All of the characters and story lines combine to provide a thrilling, adventurous read.
*I can tell Ms. Hebert has done her research to bring us this one. From the colors of auras and their meaning, to dreams and dreamwalking to the lore of angels, demons, Heaven and Hell.
And The Not So Much:
*The story opens with a bang, a scary assault and then everything settles down a bit and you are lulled along. The plot moves a bit slow in the beginning, but don’t be fooled, during this time, Ms. Hebert is laying down her threads and building the foundation for the upcoming trip to Italy and the exciting revelations that await at the end. Be patient and pay attention, everything little detail has its place.
*This is a personal preference, I wanted a bit more time Italy. I was expecting the book to open and immediately take me to the Italian setting, but we don’t get there until the midway point. Once there, it is a whirlwind and there wasn’t much time to settle in and enjoy the scenery. Don’t worry this is not a bad thing, there is plenty of action and excitement instead of a grand tour.
*I was hoping for a bit more insight into Heven’s mother and their relationship. I can’t go into details here, but there is development but I want to see past the charade and get to the bottom of it. I am curious as to whether their relationship will be salvaged after the events of Masquerade. I am certain that more details are coming in the next book, I just need to be patient.
*A new character, Gemma, is introduced. Gemma is a fallen angel but she is guarded and hides her secrets. I wanted desperately to know more about her. Why she fell from Heaven and what happened to her?
*Finally, the end is a bit of a cliffhanger. You all know how I dread the cliffhanger. This wasn’t too terrible, but it did it’s job. I am know eagerly waiting for the next installment, wondering what is in store for Heven and Sam. Thankfully, the wait won’t be too terrible, as Book Three Tirade should hopefully be out early 2013.
Charade certainly does not disappoint. Ms. Hebert has proven that Masquerade was no fluke. This book has a rich, deep story line as well as fascinating characters who are playing a game of charade with the reader. Can you guess their secrets? In order to find out who is hiding what, you must enter into the pages of this book. Don’t miss this fun and exciting series. You can snag a copy of the prequel, Before on Amazon for free. Both Masquerade and Charade ebooks can be purchased for $2.99 on Amazon. An excellent price for these fun novels!
Favorite Quotations:
“It was oddly gray outside and the trees looked black against the sky, making everything appear as though it was a scene from an old black-and-white postcard that has yellowed slightly from age.”
“I was standing in front of him, accepting who I am and exactly what he fought to ignore.”
“You don’t get it. It isn’t part of me. It’s a stranger.”
“He folded his arms around me and I sighed deeply. This is where I fit, where I belonged, everything else was just details.”
“If you cannot breathe, I will breathe for you. If your heart will not beat, mine will beat harder. If you do not live, neither will I.”
“I loved this boy. More than myself. More than life. More than anything.”
“I pretended not to, but pretending something wasn’t wrong didn’t make it go away.”
“Sam. His eyes were like warm sunshine and his mouth was cured up in a smile.”
“Note to self: it is good defense to knee demons in their ‘man parts’.”
“I was afraid that when day arrived and the sun came out, it would shine light into all the shadows from the night before, revealing all that the darkness had hidden.”
“I shook my head. The only thing that hurt was my chest, where my heart used to reside.”
Originally posted @ http://rainydayramblings.typepad.com/
For Heven, having her life returned comes with a heavy price. She is the guardian of a secret treasure map that must be returned to the catacombs of Rome. If this scroll falls into the wrong hands, it would mean chaos, war and demons plaguing the Earth. Thankfully, she is not alone in her epic quest. At her side and always her guardian is Sam. Her boyfriend and protector, a boy she loves more than her own life. Together they intend to fight off the demons of Hell and make sure the document is securely placed in Rome. Unfortunately, the demons of Hell have other ideas. Daily it seems, Heven is attacked by demons. Luckily, Sam’s abilities allow him to destroy the demons to dust. As the two prepare for Italy, the stakes are raised higher and higher. When the forces of Heaven and Hell collide, you know it is going to be an epic battle. The question is can Heven and Sam return the scroll and prevent the onslaught?
What I Liked:
*Grab you catching mitt because Cambria Hebert is going to throw some curve balls at you. If you thought she yanked you around in Masquerade, she is back to shock and surprise you with all the twists and reveals in book two Charade. It seems that this time around everyone has some secrets, as if Before everyone was a Charade and now the masks are starting to fall and true colors are bursting forth.
*If you love all things paranormal, this book is full of supernatural beings. This time around there are demons, witches, angels, dragons, shapshifters, dreamwalkers and more. This book is jammed packed with paranormal.
*This book takes you from the calm confines of Grandma’s quiet farm in Portland, Maine to Italy and its wondrous sights from the Coliseum to the Catacombs and then you are plunged into the depths of Hell. Quite the change in scenery.
*Again I was soothed with Ms. Hebert’s gentle, easy flowing writing style and then without warning she socks it to you! Be on your toes when you read a book by this author she knows how to surprise you.
*I loved that this book has layers of depths and numerous storylines. You have Sam battling his dark side trying to maintain control and protect Heven. He is also trying to help Logan find his way and maintain a balance between his brother and his girl. Heven is evolving and growing as well. Last time around she was a bit meek, no more she is coming into her own and learning to fight and stand up to protect those dearest to her heart. At the center is the strong relationship between Heven and Sam, it is lovely! In addition to Sam and Heven’s storyline, there is the thread that follows Logan and his battle to gain control of the darkness within him. He also proves to be a bit of a thorn in Heven’s and Sam’s relationship, but is there more to it? Kimber and Cole return and add their two cents. At the end of Masquerade, there was just a flash of Kimber’s true colors, this time her intentions are revealed. Cole plays a key role in Heven’s life as well. Finally, Gran, rounds out the cast and I still get this niggling that she is hiding something. All of the characters and story lines combine to provide a thrilling, adventurous read.
*I can tell Ms. Hebert has done her research to bring us this one. From the colors of auras and their meaning, to dreams and dreamwalking to the lore of angels, demons, Heaven and Hell.
And The Not So Much:
*The story opens with a bang, a scary assault and then everything settles down a bit and you are lulled along. The plot moves a bit slow in the beginning, but don’t be fooled, during this time, Ms. Hebert is laying down her threads and building the foundation for the upcoming trip to Italy and the exciting revelations that await at the end. Be patient and pay attention, everything little detail has its place.
*This is a personal preference, I wanted a bit more time Italy. I was expecting the book to open and immediately take me to the Italian setting, but we don’t get there until the midway point. Once there, it is a whirlwind and there wasn’t much time to settle in and enjoy the scenery. Don’t worry this is not a bad thing, there is plenty of action and excitement instead of a grand tour.
*I was hoping for a bit more insight into Heven’s mother and their relationship. I can’t go into details here, but there is development but I want to see past the charade and get to the bottom of it. I am curious as to whether their relationship will be salvaged after the events of Masquerade. I am certain that more details are coming in the next book, I just need to be patient.
*A new character, Gemma, is introduced. Gemma is a fallen angel but she is guarded and hides her secrets. I wanted desperately to know more about her. Why she fell from Heaven and what happened to her?
*Finally, the end is a bit of a cliffhanger. You all know how I dread the cliffhanger. This wasn’t too terrible, but it did it’s job. I am know eagerly waiting for the next installment, wondering what is in store for Heven and Sam. Thankfully, the wait won’t be too terrible, as Book Three Tirade should hopefully be out early 2013.
Charade certainly does not disappoint. Ms. Hebert has proven that Masquerade was no fluke. This book has a rich, deep story line as well as fascinating characters who are playing a game of charade with the reader. Can you guess their secrets? In order to find out who is hiding what, you must enter into the pages of this book. Don’t miss this fun and exciting series. You can snag a copy of the prequel, Before on Amazon for free. Both Masquerade and Charade ebooks can be purchased for $2.99 on Amazon. An excellent price for these fun novels!
Favorite Quotations:
“It was oddly gray outside and the trees looked black against the sky, making everything appear as though it was a scene from an old black-and-white postcard that has yellowed slightly from age.”
“I was standing in front of him, accepting who I am and exactly what he fought to ignore.”
“You don’t get it. It isn’t part of me. It’s a stranger.”
“He folded his arms around me and I sighed deeply. This is where I fit, where I belonged, everything else was just details.”
“If you cannot breathe, I will breathe for you. If your heart will not beat, mine will beat harder. If you do not live, neither will I.”
“I loved this boy. More than myself. More than life. More than anything.”
“I pretended not to, but pretending something wasn’t wrong didn’t make it go away.”
“Sam. His eyes were like warm sunshine and his mouth was cured up in a smile.”
“Note to self: it is good defense to knee demons in their ‘man parts’.”
“I was afraid that when day arrived and the sun came out, it would shine light into all the shadows from the night before, revealing all that the darkness had hidden.”
“I shook my head. The only thing that hurt was my chest, where my heart used to reside.”
Originally posted @ http://rainydayramblings.typepad.com/
June 14, 2012
Quick review:
Cover: Eye catching
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 4
Overall: A story that kept my attention
Characters: Solid
Plot: A plot that kept moving, not really getting boring
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Sam
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
I read the first book a while back. But when the opportunity came for me to read, I jumped on it. This was a solid continuation of the series. I almost feel like we’ve come full circle. The cliffhanger is a little dicey. I want to read the next now.
To see my full review and yummy pic, check out my blog post below.
http://passionatebookdivas.com/?p=2571
Cover: Eye catching
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 4
Overall: A story that kept my attention
Characters: Solid
Plot: A plot that kept moving, not really getting boring
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Sam
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
I read the first book a while back. But when the opportunity came for me to read, I jumped on it. This was a solid continuation of the series. I almost feel like we’ve come full circle. The cliffhanger is a little dicey. I want to read the next now.
To see my full review and yummy pic, check out my blog post below.
http://passionatebookdivas.com/?p=2571
April 24, 2013
I got a copy for review in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book! I really enjoyed book 1, but this book is so much better. We already are introduced to the world in book 1 and it seems the real story starts in this book. And the story is great, I didn't want to put this book down.
What I really love about this series are the characters. They develop so much in this series, you see heven growing and geting stronger. But also the relationships between the characters are so nicely done. The characters act very believeable and change sometimes comes slowly, but it is there. And I love seeing the characters change. There are also a few new characters introduced in this book. And I really liked the unexpected twists. And I just love the relationship between Heven and Sam.
The story is another great parts of this book. Most introcudtion and explanation of the world was already done in book 1 and this book just builds on this. We get to see more of the monsters of Hell and learn a bit more about Heaven. Also where book 1 still was a bit predictable this book left me suprised by all the twist and turns. It was just great, the author made some twists in the story I really didn't see coming! Although there where also a few twists that I did expect.
I hardly know what to say about this book. It's a really good story and I really enjoyed it. It is so much better than book 1. The ending of this book left me shocked, it definitely wasn't what I expected and I can't wait to see what is going to happen next. I am really looking forward to read the next book.
To conclude: I really loved this book. It is a great story, with many twists and turns. And I really love the characters and seeing them develop. I can't wait to read the next book!
I loved this book! I really enjoyed book 1, but this book is so much better. We already are introduced to the world in book 1 and it seems the real story starts in this book. And the story is great, I didn't want to put this book down.
What I really love about this series are the characters. They develop so much in this series, you see heven growing and geting stronger. But also the relationships between the characters are so nicely done. The characters act very believeable and change sometimes comes slowly, but it is there. And I love seeing the characters change. There are also a few new characters introduced in this book. And I really liked the unexpected twists. And I just love the relationship between Heven and Sam.
The story is another great parts of this book. Most introcudtion and explanation of the world was already done in book 1 and this book just builds on this. We get to see more of the monsters of Hell and learn a bit more about Heaven. Also where book 1 still was a bit predictable this book left me suprised by all the twist and turns. It was just great, the author made some twists in the story I really didn't see coming! Although there where also a few twists that I did expect.
I hardly know what to say about this book. It's a really good story and I really enjoyed it. It is so much better than book 1. The ending of this book left me shocked, it definitely wasn't what I expected and I can't wait to see what is going to happen next. I am really looking forward to read the next book.
To conclude: I really loved this book. It is a great story, with many twists and turns. And I really love the characters and seeing them develop. I can't wait to read the next book!
May 1, 2012
Genre: YA Paranomal Romance/Urban Fantasy
Publisher Type: Indie
My Review:
Holy cow, Batman! Hold on to your tights! This book is CRAZY GOOD!!! Okay, so I'm a dork. Now you know. Let's move on...
Cambria Hebert hits her full stride in book 2 of her bewilderingly creative Heven and Hell series and you do not want to miss out on the action, oh and the romance, oh and the suspense...
As much as I've loved everything up to this point, this book brings it all together and sets it afire. I'll admit I felt the beginning was a touch slow, but that's not all that unusual for a book so chopped full of suspense. And the suspense is overflowing, let me assure you.
Then there's the romance. **Chill bumps** Cambria Hebert knows how to write love. You know those deep feeling for which you can't seem to find words, yup, she's found those words. Here's some quotes:
Sam (pg 84): "If you cannot breathe, I will breathe for you. If your heart will not beat, mine will beat harder. If you do not live, neither will I."
Heven (pg 103): "I loved this boy. more than myself. More than life. More than anything. Tears leaked from beneath my lids because my feelings were so intense that they had nowhere else to go, there just wasn't room in a single body for how I felt for him."
I loved the balance of action and emotion in this book. Heven continues to grow and I love where she is by the end of book. I really liked this quote from her on pg 111:
Heven (pg 111): "Sam was my strength. Some days it felt like he was the only reason I could put one foot in front of the other. I reminded myself that those feelings were wonderful but I couldn't allow myself to lean on him so heavily. I was stronger than that. Even without Sam, I could get through this. But it was sure nice to have him around."
And speaking of the ending of this book... W O W !!! There's shocking betrayals and crazy plot twists galore. Sure, there's a moment or two of "Ah ha! I knew it!" but there were more "I so didn't see that coming." And then there is the cliff hanger. Of course I won't tell you anything about that. Well, let's just hope the author is furiously typing book 3 now. She needs to. We need her to. I don't know how I'm going to make it. Please type faster, Cambria!!!
Publisher Type: Indie
My Review:
Holy cow, Batman! Hold on to your tights! This book is CRAZY GOOD!!! Okay, so I'm a dork. Now you know. Let's move on...
Cambria Hebert hits her full stride in book 2 of her bewilderingly creative Heven and Hell series and you do not want to miss out on the action, oh and the romance, oh and the suspense...
As much as I've loved everything up to this point, this book brings it all together and sets it afire. I'll admit I felt the beginning was a touch slow, but that's not all that unusual for a book so chopped full of suspense. And the suspense is overflowing, let me assure you.
Then there's the romance. **Chill bumps** Cambria Hebert knows how to write love. You know those deep feeling for which you can't seem to find words, yup, she's found those words. Here's some quotes:
Sam (pg 84): "If you cannot breathe, I will breathe for you. If your heart will not beat, mine will beat harder. If you do not live, neither will I."
Heven (pg 103): "I loved this boy. more than myself. More than life. More than anything. Tears leaked from beneath my lids because my feelings were so intense that they had nowhere else to go, there just wasn't room in a single body for how I felt for him."
I loved the balance of action and emotion in this book. Heven continues to grow and I love where she is by the end of book. I really liked this quote from her on pg 111:
Heven (pg 111): "Sam was my strength. Some days it felt like he was the only reason I could put one foot in front of the other. I reminded myself that those feelings were wonderful but I couldn't allow myself to lean on him so heavily. I was stronger than that. Even without Sam, I could get through this. But it was sure nice to have him around."
And speaking of the ending of this book... W O W !!! There's shocking betrayals and crazy plot twists galore. Sure, there's a moment or two of "Ah ha! I knew it!" but there were more "I so didn't see that coming." And then there is the cliff hanger. Of course I won't tell you anything about that. Well, let's just hope the author is furiously typing book 3 now. She needs to. We need her to. I don't know how I'm going to make it. Please type faster, Cambria!!!
December 5, 2014
Actual rating - 4.25
This was another great read.
I liked Heven and Sam again in this one, and i loved them together.
There were a couple of characters i didn't like - Hevens mum, Kimber and Logan. I really liked Kimber in the last one, but in this one she irritated me. It was revealed why she was acting like she was later in the book, but she drove me nuts before then! Hevens mum really, really annoys me, and i just found Logan shifty.
There was plenty of revelations in this one that i didn't see coming, and they defiantly kept things interesting!
Overall, Great sequel!
This was another great read.
I liked Heven and Sam again in this one, and i loved them together.
There were a couple of characters i didn't like - Hevens mum, Kimber and Logan. I really liked Kimber in the last one, but in this one she irritated me. It was revealed why she was acting like she was later in the book, but she drove me nuts before then! Hevens mum really, really annoys me, and i just found Logan shifty.
There was plenty of revelations in this one that i didn't see coming, and they defiantly kept things interesting!
Overall, Great sequel!
November 17, 2020
(Source: Purchased from amazon for only £1.92!)
This is book 2 in the ‘Heven and Hell’ series. **Warning** unavoidable spoilers for book 1 ‘Masquerade’.
So charade starts off where ‘Masquerade’ left off. Heven is now a supernatural treasure. She’s guarding the treasure map (scroll) and trying to avoid demons, whilst working at the ice-cream parlor and trying to spend time with Sam. Sam is still working multiple jobs whilst trying to look after Heven and his brother Logan, and things are still strained between Heven and her Mom, best friend Kimber, and Kimber’s boyfriend Cole.
Unfortunately for poor Heven, she keeps being attacked by Demons, and she’s still hasn’t got permission to go on the trip to Italy that she desperately needs to go on to return the scroll to the catacombs in Rome.
As if she hasn’t got enough to deal with with the demon attacks and the scroll, there are plenty of other surprises in store for Heven, with shocking revelations about Cole, Logan’s increasingly strange behaviour toward her, and her mother’s new boyfriend!
Add a fallen angel to the mix, a seriously hacked-off best friend, and a demon invading her head and Heven’s life is a seriously bumpy ride! Can she get the scroll back to where it belongs though? Why are so many people behaving so strangely towards her? And what sacrifices will need to be made for the greater good?
Wow! There is just so much going on in this book it’s difficult to know where to start!
Poor Heven is having a tough time of it, although she seems to be coping better with the removal of scars than she was. Sam is torn in two trying to look after both Heven and Logan, and Logan’s strange behaviour is beginning to concern him.
I really felt for Heven in this book, as she was trying so hard to be nice to people who really weren’t nice to her, and struggling to cope with some very strange behaviour from people. She was also strong enough to carry on no matter what the odds, whilst trying to help other people too.
I really didn’t like Logan. I thought he was shifty, and didn’t like the way he tried to come between Sam and Heven. I also disliked Heven’s mom and the way she was being nice to Heven again just because the scars were gone. I really can’t say how much Heven’s mom’s behaviour towards Heven annoys me. She should be supporting her daughter, not shipping her off to church camp!
I thought Sam’s voice was lost a little at times cause when I was reading his point of view I kept thinking that I was reading Heven’s point of view which confused me a little. Not sure why this was, but it just seemed like Heven’s character was bleeding into his a little, although this is probably to be expected a bit anyway because of the mind-bond between them anyway.
I was really surprised at the revelations (don’t want to give too much away) about Cole and Kimber, I really didn’t see them coming! Although I actually liked the one about Cole – I thought it really added to the story!
There were also some great lines in Charade, this being my favourite: "If you cannot breathe, I will breathe for you. If your heart will not beat, mine will beat harder. If you do not live, neither will I."
(Sam to Heven) I just Loved this line!
I have to say that I loved Charade right from the beginning. As soon as I started reading, Cambria’s wonderful writing style just put me right back into Heven and Sam’s little world, and I was entranced! To be honest I made this book last as long as possible just cause I didn’t want to finish it! I can’t wait for the next book ‘Tirade’!
Overall this was a book with and interesting storyline, plenty of twists and turns, shocking revelations, and sweet romance. Highly recommended to anyone who likes young-adult fiction.
9 out of 10.
(Book length: 8105 kindle locations.)
This is book 2 in the ‘Heven and Hell’ series. **Warning** unavoidable spoilers for book 1 ‘Masquerade’.
So charade starts off where ‘Masquerade’ left off. Heven is now a supernatural treasure. She’s guarding the treasure map (scroll) and trying to avoid demons, whilst working at the ice-cream parlor and trying to spend time with Sam. Sam is still working multiple jobs whilst trying to look after Heven and his brother Logan, and things are still strained between Heven and her Mom, best friend Kimber, and Kimber’s boyfriend Cole.
Unfortunately for poor Heven, she keeps being attacked by Demons, and she’s still hasn’t got permission to go on the trip to Italy that she desperately needs to go on to return the scroll to the catacombs in Rome.
As if she hasn’t got enough to deal with with the demon attacks and the scroll, there are plenty of other surprises in store for Heven, with shocking revelations about Cole, Logan’s increasingly strange behaviour toward her, and her mother’s new boyfriend!
Add a fallen angel to the mix, a seriously hacked-off best friend, and a demon invading her head and Heven’s life is a seriously bumpy ride! Can she get the scroll back to where it belongs though? Why are so many people behaving so strangely towards her? And what sacrifices will need to be made for the greater good?
Wow! There is just so much going on in this book it’s difficult to know where to start!
Poor Heven is having a tough time of it, although she seems to be coping better with the removal of scars than she was. Sam is torn in two trying to look after both Heven and Logan, and Logan’s strange behaviour is beginning to concern him.
I really felt for Heven in this book, as she was trying so hard to be nice to people who really weren’t nice to her, and struggling to cope with some very strange behaviour from people. She was also strong enough to carry on no matter what the odds, whilst trying to help other people too.
I really didn’t like Logan. I thought he was shifty, and didn’t like the way he tried to come between Sam and Heven. I also disliked Heven’s mom and the way she was being nice to Heven again just because the scars were gone. I really can’t say how much Heven’s mom’s behaviour towards Heven annoys me. She should be supporting her daughter, not shipping her off to church camp!
I thought Sam’s voice was lost a little at times cause when I was reading his point of view I kept thinking that I was reading Heven’s point of view which confused me a little. Not sure why this was, but it just seemed like Heven’s character was bleeding into his a little, although this is probably to be expected a bit anyway because of the mind-bond between them anyway.
I was really surprised at the revelations (don’t want to give too much away) about Cole and Kimber, I really didn’t see them coming! Although I actually liked the one about Cole – I thought it really added to the story!
There were also some great lines in Charade, this being my favourite: "If you cannot breathe, I will breathe for you. If your heart will not beat, mine will beat harder. If you do not live, neither will I."
(Sam to Heven) I just Loved this line!
I have to say that I loved Charade right from the beginning. As soon as I started reading, Cambria’s wonderful writing style just put me right back into Heven and Sam’s little world, and I was entranced! To be honest I made this book last as long as possible just cause I didn’t want to finish it! I can’t wait for the next book ‘Tirade’!
Overall this was a book with and interesting storyline, plenty of twists and turns, shocking revelations, and sweet romance. Highly recommended to anyone who likes young-adult fiction.
9 out of 10.
(Book length: 8105 kindle locations.)
May 20, 2012
In the second book of the Heven and Hell series, Sam and Heven are faced with the aftermath of getting the scroll and are burdened by their mission to return it to Rome. Heven is getting attacked by demons after the scroll almost everyday and Sam is trying to figure out what's wrong with his brother, Logan, who just found him. A lot of new characters are intoduced, fallen angels, witches, a dragon and quite a few more demons. From the catacombs of Rome to the darkest places of Hell, this book really has it all.
For me the story was a little bit slower than I expected at the beginning. But I was really looking forward to their Rome trip, which didn't last as much as I wanted it too. But once they were in Rome and even after they came back the pace was so much faster. A lot of things when on in this book. Surprising revelations, new friends and enemies, and of course a lot of twists and turns, some of them expected and some of them not.
What I loved about this book, surprisingly enough, was Heven. Reading the first book I was a huge fan of Sam and simply liked Heven, but now... now I love Heven. She is becoming a great person. Strong, confident, selfless. She knows what's right and does it even if she doesn't really want to. She pushes herself to be the person she wants to be and it's working. I think there is so much more potential in her and we will probably see that in the next book.
For me the story was a little bit slower than I expected at the beginning. But I was really looking forward to their Rome trip, which didn't last as much as I wanted it too. But once they were in Rome and even after they came back the pace was so much faster. A lot of things when on in this book. Surprising revelations, new friends and enemies, and of course a lot of twists and turns, some of them expected and some of them not.
What I loved about this book, surprisingly enough, was Heven. Reading the first book I was a huge fan of Sam and simply liked Heven, but now... now I love Heven. She is becoming a great person. Strong, confident, selfless. She knows what's right and does it even if she doesn't really want to. She pushes herself to be the person she wants to be and it's working. I think there is so much more potential in her and we will probably see that in the next book.
June 2, 2012
I love this book!!!!And I love Heven and Sam they are perfect together...Also I like Cole...and new person Gemma!!I really enjoyed the story.In this book Heven and Sam must return a treasure in Italy but Heven keeps being attacked by demons.This book has more action more of drama and more sweet romance between Heven and Sam.The ending of this book left me shocked it definately wasnt what I expected and I cant wait to see what is going to happen!!!!I hope soon!!!
May 16, 2012
If you cannot breathe, I will breathe for you. If your heart will not beat, mine will beat harder. If you do not live, neither will I.
Heven and Sam have been through so much in their struggles against evil, but they aren't done yet. Being tasked to return a treasure to its rightful spot in Italy, Heven and Sam struggle with family, friends, secrets, and deceptions on top of everything else. Change is coming everywhere they look and everyone's mask is cracking. Can Heven and Sam hold it together - themselves as well as their family and friends - and save the world in the process?
Charade continues to follow Heven and Sam, yet expands the cast of characters a bit and reworks a few of the old ones. While Heven grows into her powers, she also learns that she is stronger than she thinks - something she shows Sam time and again, as she is willing to literally go to hell to protect him. The characters continue to grow before the reader's eyes, sometimes with shining moments and sometimes with bitter ones, making them very believable. Cole plays a bigger part in this book, as does Kimber, and the new additions fall into place logically as well.
While some points slow and predictable, Charades is full of twists and turns that keep Heven's (and the reader's) head spinning. Fast-paced and engaging, Charade picks up right where Masquerade left off and runs full-tilt until the end, leaving Heven, Sam, and the reader asking - "What will happen next?"
Heven and Sam have been through so much in their struggles against evil, but they aren't done yet. Being tasked to return a treasure to its rightful spot in Italy, Heven and Sam struggle with family, friends, secrets, and deceptions on top of everything else. Change is coming everywhere they look and everyone's mask is cracking. Can Heven and Sam hold it together - themselves as well as their family and friends - and save the world in the process?
Charade continues to follow Heven and Sam, yet expands the cast of characters a bit and reworks a few of the old ones. While Heven grows into her powers, she also learns that she is stronger than she thinks - something she shows Sam time and again, as she is willing to literally go to hell to protect him. The characters continue to grow before the reader's eyes, sometimes with shining moments and sometimes with bitter ones, making them very believable. Cole plays a bigger part in this book, as does Kimber, and the new additions fall into place logically as well.
While some points slow and predictable, Charades is full of twists and turns that keep Heven's (and the reader's) head spinning. Fast-paced and engaging, Charade picks up right where Masquerade left off and runs full-tilt until the end, leaving Heven, Sam, and the reader asking - "What will happen next?"
January 12, 2014
As with the first book one, this 2nd book is still simply sweet. For folks who love stories with super-sweet romance, this book is for you. A lot of innocent kissing and hand-holding. You know those couples in high school that can't live for a moment without the other or they're just going "to die!"... ? That's Heven and Sam.
Again, straight-forward plot, no real surprises except for maybe one. Sam's brother, Logan, just plain creeps me out. And yes, that's a good thing! I like to have some kind of reaction when I'm reading. :) Oh, and mom's boyfriend? Not good, not good at all, though expected. He was written too creepy to be good news.
Some things didn't make sense for me, like why Cole wouldn't let Heven tell Kimber about him. If Kimber was his girlfriend, that wouldn't be a secret you'd keep, especially when seeing how upset it made her. To me, this was an plot-ploy to move the chess pieces into place.
Loved the Hell parts, as usual! And not everyone is saved at the end... now *that* is a good thing! Of course, not for the characters... just for us dark readers who like edgy-unexpected.
Again, straight-forward plot, no real surprises except for maybe one. Sam's brother, Logan, just plain creeps me out. And yes, that's a good thing! I like to have some kind of reaction when I'm reading. :) Oh, and mom's boyfriend? Not good, not good at all, though expected. He was written too creepy to be good news.
Some things didn't make sense for me, like why Cole wouldn't let Heven tell Kimber about him. If Kimber was his girlfriend, that wouldn't be a secret you'd keep, especially when seeing how upset it made her. To me, this was an plot-ploy to move the chess pieces into place.
Loved the Hell parts, as usual! And not everyone is saved at the end... now *that* is a good thing! Of course, not for the characters... just for us dark readers who like edgy-unexpected.
December 29, 2015
Reviewed on 06/03/2012
Ok, guys, this book has a lot going on and like 80% of it is gonna grab you by the bolls and spin you so fast that you’ll forget your own name. I say this in the best sense of the expression. This is something good, even though it sounds terrible, you know, with the bolls and all. But, trust me, it's a really good thing. I love when a book surprise me this way. But, unfortunately, I’ll have to keep a lot of the things in secret, cose the fun about it is in find out for ourselves. But, I’ll try say all I can about it, so you can understand how I feel about this book and all you can expect to find in it.
The Plot - Heven is something like a big shot in this book. Sam is like her body guard and has to keep her save from all the demons that are after what she is caring. They have to take it to where it belongs. Where is it? In freaking Italy!!! Heven and Sam are teenagers working for minimal wagers. I wander how that’s gonna happen. LoL
The Characters - Lets start with Heven.
She is different now, more confidant and strong. Is like she can walk with her head upright and face what the future brings instead of hiding like she used to do in the first book. I like her better now.
Sam.
He is strong, hardworking and so, so, so dreamy. What more can I say? *sigh* I love him.
.
The Writing - Cambria writes in little details. What do I mean by that? Well, she likes to makes us see and feel every little detail of everything in the story. This can be a little slow moving and since, as you all know, I have the attention span of a 5yo, it can be a little distracting sometimes. But if you like lots of details and long talks, this book is for you.
1º peeps POV, always a pleasure, of course. From Sam and Heven. If you think about it, it’s a win – win situation. I get to see trough Sam’s eyes and when is Heven, I get to enjoy the better view of my one and truly. S2
Consideration - The fate of human kind is in jeopardy and all the hell is breaking lose. How would you feel if demons would pop up from everywhere to attack you? I would surely shit my pants seven ways till Sunday, that’s for sure. The lizard guy? WTF was that? If that type of hell is what is in your mind, Cambria, I shudder to think about how your nightmares must be like.
Ok, so now is the part where I say to all : GO READ THIS BOOK! But Why? You may ask. Well, lets see if I can get this right.
This book is for you if:
• You like very descript writing
• You like romantic and adorable relationships
• You like angels
• You like hellhounds
• You like Italy
• You like seen a girl kicking a guy’s ass
• You like creepy demons that can get inside your dreams *double creepy*
• You love the cover of this book
• You like surprises
• You are a good person
• You don’t want me to kick you in the bolls
• That’s IT, GO READ THE BOOK!!!!!!
Ok, guys, this book has a lot going on and like 80% of it is gonna grab you by the bolls and spin you so fast that you’ll forget your own name. I say this in the best sense of the expression. This is something good, even though it sounds terrible, you know, with the bolls and all. But, trust me, it's a really good thing. I love when a book surprise me this way. But, unfortunately, I’ll have to keep a lot of the things in secret, cose the fun about it is in find out for ourselves. But, I’ll try say all I can about it, so you can understand how I feel about this book and all you can expect to find in it.
The Plot - Heven is something like a big shot in this book. Sam is like her body guard and has to keep her save from all the demons that are after what she is caring. They have to take it to where it belongs. Where is it? In freaking Italy!!! Heven and Sam are teenagers working for minimal wagers. I wander how that’s gonna happen. LoL
The Characters - Lets start with Heven.
She is different now, more confidant and strong. Is like she can walk with her head upright and face what the future brings instead of hiding like she used to do in the first book. I like her better now.
Sam.
He is strong, hardworking and so, so, so dreamy. What more can I say? *sigh* I love him.
.The Writing - Cambria writes in little details. What do I mean by that? Well, she likes to makes us see and feel every little detail of everything in the story. This can be a little slow moving and since, as you all know, I have the attention span of a 5yo, it can be a little distracting sometimes. But if you like lots of details and long talks, this book is for you.
1º peeps POV, always a pleasure, of course. From Sam and Heven. If you think about it, it’s a win – win situation. I get to see trough Sam’s eyes and when is Heven, I get to enjoy the better view of my one and truly. S2
Consideration - The fate of human kind is in jeopardy and all the hell is breaking lose. How would you feel if demons would pop up from everywhere to attack you? I would surely shit my pants seven ways till Sunday, that’s for sure. The lizard guy? WTF was that? If that type of hell is what is in your mind, Cambria, I shudder to think about how your nightmares must be like.
Ok, so now is the part where I say to all : GO READ THIS BOOK! But Why? You may ask. Well, lets see if I can get this right.
This book is for you if:
• You like very descript writing
• You like romantic and adorable relationships
• You like angels
• You like hellhounds
• You like Italy
• You like seen a girl kicking a guy’s ass
• You like creepy demons that can get inside your dreams *double creepy*
• You love the cover of this book
• You like surprises
• You are a good person
• You don’t want me to kick you in the bolls
• That’s IT, GO READ THE BOOK!!!!!!
May 23, 2012
Would you risk everything, even your life if need be—to save the one you love?
For Sam and Heven, the main characters in Cambria Hebert’s thrilling Heven and Hell series, life means nothing if they can’t spend it together. In “Masquerade,” the stage is set for these two characters to plunge into danger and despair so they can eventually find happiness together, and then things escalate as good and evil vie for their souls in Hebert’s latest release, “Charade.” Sam’s younger brother, Logan, adds quite a bit of drama to the “Charade” storyline, but Kimber, Cole, and Gemma certainly have their fair share of new developments as well.
Twists and turns, betrayals that have a most wicked bite, plus angels offering heavenly intervention and demons…naturally raising a little hell, all make this novel hard to resist and easy to enjoy. Although, “Charade” is not just about the battle between good and evil since it hits upon other facets of being human that, at times, affect us all. For instance, Heven matures in this follow-up to “Masquerade” as she comes to accept her unique abilities and use them to fight against what’s been unleashed from Hell. I was pleased to see her growth and loved that Heven could take care of herself, but Hebert made sure to keep Heven a compassionate character, one who thinks about others. This book targets YA readers, so if they can relate to Heven (Sam and Cole) who are all young but trying to make a positive difference in the world, then all the better!
Another huge part of this book follows the heavy emotions Heven and Sam must deal with as they constantly become positioned between right and wrong, between letting truth shine or allowing lies to temporarily cover their tracks. The choices we make, good and bad, affect the people in our lives, and the way Hebert showcases this is fantastic. Her characters pay a price for the choices they make, and some of these consequences come handed to them with a supernatural fist, yet again…lessons are gained by the characters and readers.
You’ll have to read “Charade” to meet my favorite new addition to Hebert’s Heven and Hell series, and that would be the Supernal Beings. Believe me—they are as cool as they sound! I’ve known a few people like them, and they are mysterious and seem as though they’ve been sent from above. If fallen angels, young adults with supernatural abilities, the age-old battle between good and evil, plus a marvelous amount of mystery wrapped up in a fantasy novel, sounds good to you, then do check out this wonderful series. I can hardly wait for the next book!
For Sam and Heven, the main characters in Cambria Hebert’s thrilling Heven and Hell series, life means nothing if they can’t spend it together. In “Masquerade,” the stage is set for these two characters to plunge into danger and despair so they can eventually find happiness together, and then things escalate as good and evil vie for their souls in Hebert’s latest release, “Charade.” Sam’s younger brother, Logan, adds quite a bit of drama to the “Charade” storyline, but Kimber, Cole, and Gemma certainly have their fair share of new developments as well.
Twists and turns, betrayals that have a most wicked bite, plus angels offering heavenly intervention and demons…naturally raising a little hell, all make this novel hard to resist and easy to enjoy. Although, “Charade” is not just about the battle between good and evil since it hits upon other facets of being human that, at times, affect us all. For instance, Heven matures in this follow-up to “Masquerade” as she comes to accept her unique abilities and use them to fight against what’s been unleashed from Hell. I was pleased to see her growth and loved that Heven could take care of herself, but Hebert made sure to keep Heven a compassionate character, one who thinks about others. This book targets YA readers, so if they can relate to Heven (Sam and Cole) who are all young but trying to make a positive difference in the world, then all the better!
Another huge part of this book follows the heavy emotions Heven and Sam must deal with as they constantly become positioned between right and wrong, between letting truth shine or allowing lies to temporarily cover their tracks. The choices we make, good and bad, affect the people in our lives, and the way Hebert showcases this is fantastic. Her characters pay a price for the choices they make, and some of these consequences come handed to them with a supernatural fist, yet again…lessons are gained by the characters and readers.
You’ll have to read “Charade” to meet my favorite new addition to Hebert’s Heven and Hell series, and that would be the Supernal Beings. Believe me—they are as cool as they sound! I’ve known a few people like them, and they are mysterious and seem as though they’ve been sent from above. If fallen angels, young adults with supernatural abilities, the age-old battle between good and evil, plus a marvelous amount of mystery wrapped up in a fantasy novel, sounds good to you, then do check out this wonderful series. I can hardly wait for the next book!
June 1, 2012
*review to come along with Blog Tour on June 1st!*
I just adore this series. I do. The characters, the drama, mystery, plot, suspense, the romance, the danger, gah, all of it!
I would like to just say that this is a serious that you have to try but I can't because, that just isn't enough. You need to know the greatest that is Cambria's writing.
Truly though, Cambria has created an amazing world with characters that feel real and are people that you grow to care about and love after the first few pages. Characters that you want to be friends with and know and just hang out with. Okay well, maybe not hang out with when say demons are attacking them or they have to make that unexpected trip through Hell but yeah, any other, non dangerous time, and I would be there.
Her writing just keeps getting better and better with each new book or novella in the series and it truly does blow me away how utterly addicting this series has become. I can't get enough of it and when I am finished with each new book, I am just left wanting more.
More of the action, more of the drama and much much more of the sweet romance between Heven and Sam.
I think I love Sam more and more with each new installment too. He is completely loyal and sweet and those that are lucky enough to be loved by him, are loved fiercely.
He is someone I would want in my corner in any situation. I might even have a little bit of a book crush on him.
I love that Heven is getting stronger and stronger as the series goes. She is really coming into her own and isn't one to sit back and let others do the fighting for her. She is becoming fierce and even a little kick butt and I am loving it!
Cole, ah Cole. I think I fell in love with him a little more in this one too. He too is loyal and loving and just a really good guy. I really liked where Cambria took his and Heven's relationship. It was a nice little fun twist to the story.
I am in suspense with the way Charade ended and am on the edge of my seat wondering what is going to happen next.
I can only hope that Cambria writes quickly because I want more!!
I give this one a very solid 5 Stars!
I just adore this series. I do. The characters, the drama, mystery, plot, suspense, the romance, the danger, gah, all of it!
I would like to just say that this is a serious that you have to try but I can't because, that just isn't enough. You need to know the greatest that is Cambria's writing.
Truly though, Cambria has created an amazing world with characters that feel real and are people that you grow to care about and love after the first few pages. Characters that you want to be friends with and know and just hang out with. Okay well, maybe not hang out with when say demons are attacking them or they have to make that unexpected trip through Hell but yeah, any other, non dangerous time, and I would be there.
Her writing just keeps getting better and better with each new book or novella in the series and it truly does blow me away how utterly addicting this series has become. I can't get enough of it and when I am finished with each new book, I am just left wanting more.
More of the action, more of the drama and much much more of the sweet romance between Heven and Sam.
I think I love Sam more and more with each new installment too. He is completely loyal and sweet and those that are lucky enough to be loved by him, are loved fiercely.
He is someone I would want in my corner in any situation. I might even have a little bit of a book crush on him.
I love that Heven is getting stronger and stronger as the series goes. She is really coming into her own and isn't one to sit back and let others do the fighting for her. She is becoming fierce and even a little kick butt and I am loving it!
Cole, ah Cole. I think I fell in love with him a little more in this one too. He too is loyal and loving and just a really good guy. I really liked where Cambria took his and Heven's relationship. It was a nice little fun twist to the story.
I am in suspense with the way Charade ended and am on the edge of my seat wondering what is going to happen next.
I can only hope that Cambria writes quickly because I want more!!
I give this one a very solid 5 Stars!
October 28, 2015
Charade is one of those sequels that simply doesn’t make sense half of the time. Not because it’s confusing, or that we don’t learn anything new, but because the characters make stupid decisions for no reason other than to create more conflict. It’s a few weeks later, and Heven and Sam are being followed by demons. Obviously, they want the scroll, which Heven is not handing over. Meanwhile, Sam’s brother isn’t taking his change too well, and is acting weirdly toward Heven. The Italy trip can’t come soon enough so they can be rid of the scroll and get back to regular life.
The first half of Charade is actually really boring. It’s a lot of demons telling Heven to give them the scroll and haunting her dreams. But they can’t touch her because of Sam, so there’s really no threat at all. Then Heven is fighting with Kimber (again) because she thinks Cole is cheating with her. That is definitely not the case, but Heven refuses to tell her why Cole is over her grandma’s house a lot. There was no reason for her not to tell her, especially if she wanted to salvage their relationship. It felt like a forced fight, just to isolate Kimber, have her fall into the wrong hands, and screw everything up.
The second half of Charade does pick up a bit because they’re finally in Rome! And evil is lurking in unexpected places. Of course, things can’t be so easy as just dropping off the scroll and walking away. There are complications, and then I had a thought. Wouldn’t the scroll have been safer with Heven and Sam this entire time? They were doing a really good job of keeping it out of demon hands, even if they were constantly under attack. But, by them taking it somewhere, they can be seen! Someone can take it! And that’s exactly what they were trying to avoid! What is the point of that?!
Charade does end on a cliffhanger. Heven, Sam, and Cole are trying to fix things, but things go wrong again and someone gets left behind. Clearly, Tirade shall be the rescue mission book!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
The first half of Charade is actually really boring. It’s a lot of demons telling Heven to give them the scroll and haunting her dreams. But they can’t touch her because of Sam, so there’s really no threat at all. Then Heven is fighting with Kimber (again) because she thinks Cole is cheating with her. That is definitely not the case, but Heven refuses to tell her why Cole is over her grandma’s house a lot. There was no reason for her not to tell her, especially if she wanted to salvage their relationship. It felt like a forced fight, just to isolate Kimber, have her fall into the wrong hands, and screw everything up.
The second half of Charade does pick up a bit because they’re finally in Rome! And evil is lurking in unexpected places. Of course, things can’t be so easy as just dropping off the scroll and walking away. There are complications, and then I had a thought. Wouldn’t the scroll have been safer with Heven and Sam this entire time? They were doing a really good job of keeping it out of demon hands, even if they were constantly under attack. But, by them taking it somewhere, they can be seen! Someone can take it! And that’s exactly what they were trying to avoid! What is the point of that?!
Charade does end on a cliffhanger. Heven, Sam, and Cole are trying to fix things, but things go wrong again and someone gets left behind. Clearly, Tirade shall be the rescue mission book!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
November 9, 2013
This series just gets better and better. This series by far is the best series for me from author Cambria Hebert. Once I started reading this series it was definitely hard to put it down to do something else. I absolutely love all of the character in the story but of course Sam, Heven, Gran and Cole are my favorites but new comer Gemma has a way of making her way into your heart also. There are secrets that come out in this book that you won’t see coming and Sam’s reaction to it will definitely make you laugh. It is said to keep your friends close and your enemies closer but when it comes to Kimber and her feelings toward Heven, enemy and revenge is all that she seems to see. Things take an interesting turn and Sam does what he feel is right for both Heven and his brother but that leaves him in a place no one wants to be. Charade is definitely a page turner and worth reading so I recommend this series to all of my friends who is looking for a fantastic paranormal read.
February 10, 2016
Rating - 4.5
Wow, this is such an awesome series. There are so many twists and turns it made it hard to put down. The connection with Cole totally makes sense now, but the "powers" that Heven gets aren't that cool (Heven agrees with me) but they are what she needs which is cool. I like Gemma and would love to hear more of her story, she is kick ass. Heven finally grows up a bit and isn't as damsel in distress, which was kind of annoying but Sam is too overprotective and wants her to just run every time something attacks (unrealistic). I do get Sam's desire to protect and keep Heven from getting hurt but life happens.
Sorry, just realized I am just kind of rambling, but my head is still in the book. It was just that good. I almost cried at the end and I so can't wait for the next book.
Wow, this is such an awesome series. There are so many twists and turns it made it hard to put down. The connection with Cole totally makes sense now, but the "powers" that Heven gets aren't that cool (Heven agrees with me) but they are what she needs which is cool. I like Gemma and would love to hear more of her story, she is kick ass. Heven finally grows up a bit and isn't as damsel in distress, which was kind of annoying but Sam is too overprotective and wants her to just run every time something attacks (unrealistic). I do get Sam's desire to protect and keep Heven from getting hurt but life happens.
Sorry, just realized I am just kind of rambling, but my head is still in the book. It was just that good. I almost cried at the end and I so can't wait for the next book.
June 3, 2012
This books's pace was so fast from last ones...and this has sooo many twist and turns..
So many characters showing their true self..Cole?(didn't expected that!)...but man it was awesome and also suspenseful..and i was trying to keep it up with it at every chapter's end.
I know that it will not be so easy for Heven to store the map safely with ease(but one can hope right?).
The end left me with wanting more.I always knew Heven was a strong character and i think i will see her true self in next book!Cos it's Sam's life at stake!
Waiting for the sequel now!
Sri.
So many characters showing their true self..Cole?(didn't expected that!)...but man it was awesome and also suspenseful..and i was trying to keep it up with it at every chapter's end.
I know that it will not be so easy for Heven to store the map safely with ease(but one can hope right?).
The end left me with wanting more.I always knew Heven was a strong character and i think i will see her true self in next book!Cos it's Sam's life at stake!
Waiting for the sequel now!
Sri.
May 24, 2012
LOVED,LOVED,LOVED,LOVED,LOVED,LOVED, this book! The story line was original and so many things were going on that it was sometimes overwhelming but NEVER in a bad way. The strength that Heven has is only matched by her love and commitment to Sam as is his to her. It was good to see another side of Cole in this book as well as Logan and to meet Gemma. I CANNOT wait until the next book comes out, the ending left me wanting more...such a cliff hanger!
September 11, 2012
Wow...can i just say i finish this book in one day, Now i want to know what happens in the next book, Now it's haven's turn to go save sam from heil, i can't wait to find out how it goes, I am ready for the third book, i had a feeling something bad was about her mom's boyfriend. your really a great author!!! i would recommend this book to a friend!!!
May 27, 2012
In the first book, Heven was a damsel in distress.
Now she's a warrior in training.
Gotta love that.
Now she's a warrior in training.
Gotta love that.
December 1, 2012
This second installment of Hebert's exciting young adult series is just as fascinating to read as the first one!
Having been brought back to life by the angel Airis, and given a paranormal power, Heven is now also the guardian of a secret scroll that must be returned to the catacombs of Rome. She and Sam must do this at all costs, or many people will die. On the way to accomplishing this task, they must deal with constant demon attacks, as well as the mysterious behavior of Sam's younger brother, Logan, whom Heven can't bring herself to trust. She refrains from making this clear to Sam, though, since she doesn't want to come between him and his brother. So she endures the discomfort, even as her suspicions about Logan continue to grow.
This novel brings in a very interesting new character -- Gemma, a fallen angel, who offers to help train Sam and Cole (who has been told what's really going on) to fight demons successfully. Although Sam is a hellhound, he must be able to deal with these creatures in his human form, as well, since he won't always have the time or opportunity to shift forms. It was quite fascinating to read how Gemma, whose feminine appearance belies great strength and fighting skills, went about training the two boys.
Another fascinating aspect of this novel was the introduction of a Dream Walker, a demon who is able to enter Heven's dreams in order to attempt to force her to give up the scroll. Anything having to do with the unconscious mind greatly interests me! I thought this was a very imaginative concept, one that enhanced the book's supernatural atmosphere. It was just as fascinating to see how Sam resolved this situation, as well!
Charade is full of twists and turns, and certain characters are not what they appear to be. Thus, the title is very fitting, since these characters are indeed carrying on a charade. In the case of Kimber, though, I wasn't that surprised; I have never liked her, from the moment I first became aware of her true feelings regarding Heven's popularity, in Masquerade. This second novel adds to my dislike of her, as she turns out to be even nastier than in the first. However, toward the end of the book, even she does surprise me, too! That's all I will reveal about the matter!
The three main characters -- Heven, Sam, and Cole -- are just so wonderful, so real, that I have trouble seeing them as fictional people. Sam, of course, is particularly special to me, since he's the romantic hero. And how much of a romantic hero he is, is very evident on every page! He's so tender, so protective, toward Heven... Yet, he's never condescending toward her, never tries to belittle her abilities. If he does at times seem a bit on the controlling side, it's because he doesn't want her to be hurt.
I love the way Heven deals with Sam's attempts to be so protective. She does understand his apprehension, but yet, lets him know that she's not as helpless as he might think. She also deals very effectively with Cole, who, tired of Kimber, has grown increasingly attracted to Heven. She's very firm with him, as well, while doing her best not to hurt his feelings.
As for Cole, I can see why he would be attracted to Heven, a girl who is so different from Kimber! Heven is sweet and genuine, in contrast to Kimber, who is only apparently so. Perhaps Kimber's charade is the biggest one of all! Cole has seen her true colors, however, and I can't blame him at all for rejecting her. He's very sweet, as well as genuine, himself.
How Hebert resolves this incipient love triangle was perhaps not unexpected by some, but it was a complete surprise to me. I'm glad that she did resolve it, too, because love triangles are entirely too commonplace in young adult fiction nowadays.
And now for Logan: I had very mixed feelings about him at the end of Masquerade, and at the beginning of Charade. Then I discovered that something wasn't quite right with him, and started feeling sorry for him. When he's not having one of his 'episodes', I can see what a nice boy he is! He actually loves and admires his older brother, Sam. As the novel nears its end, his true character is revealed, and I couldn't have been happier!
The demons in this novel are very scary, realistically drawn creatures. However, I like the fact that they can be defeated. Even Beelzebub, who is known as 'The Prince of Demons' in the Bible, can be foiled. Having demons in a novel does not classify it as being in the horror genre. It's what the authors does with those demons that make a novel fit in that detestable category, or not. If the demons win out in the end, or their defeat is not really assured -- in other words, if the ending remains ambiguous -- then the novel definitely falls into the category of horror. If, however, the demons (or any other evil characters in the plot) are completely defeated in the end, then it does not. Good must always triumph over evil. If it doesn't, then I'm not at all interested in reading the book, and even consider it immoral. Thankfully, Hebert's novels clearly resolve the plot in favor of the good forces, which is one of the reasons I love them!!
The way everything ties up neatly in the end is another feature of Hebert's work that I like and admire. Even though there is a bit of a cliffhanger at the end of this book, the ending is still satisfactory. Besides, there's the element of hope at the end. This is another factor missing from horror novels. Such novels are, instead, full of despair. In contrast, paranormal and urban fantasy novels, like the ones in this series, give the reader that sense that everything will turn out well in the end. I'm so glad for this!
This novel has it all -- deft characterization, plotting, and compelling settings, along with pulse-pounding excitement. Thankfully missing are two other elements I totally abhor -- profanity and very graphic sex scenes. (Actually, there are none of the latter.) If you want to be entertained, enjoy great battles between heroes and villains, and love romance, without having to wince at reading certain words and/or passages, you must read Charade, as well as its predecessor, Masquerade! I promise you won't regret it! (And I'm anxious for those movies to come along!!)
Having been brought back to life by the angel Airis, and given a paranormal power, Heven is now also the guardian of a secret scroll that must be returned to the catacombs of Rome. She and Sam must do this at all costs, or many people will die. On the way to accomplishing this task, they must deal with constant demon attacks, as well as the mysterious behavior of Sam's younger brother, Logan, whom Heven can't bring herself to trust. She refrains from making this clear to Sam, though, since she doesn't want to come between him and his brother. So she endures the discomfort, even as her suspicions about Logan continue to grow.
This novel brings in a very interesting new character -- Gemma, a fallen angel, who offers to help train Sam and Cole (who has been told what's really going on) to fight demons successfully. Although Sam is a hellhound, he must be able to deal with these creatures in his human form, as well, since he won't always have the time or opportunity to shift forms. It was quite fascinating to read how Gemma, whose feminine appearance belies great strength and fighting skills, went about training the two boys.
Another fascinating aspect of this novel was the introduction of a Dream Walker, a demon who is able to enter Heven's dreams in order to attempt to force her to give up the scroll. Anything having to do with the unconscious mind greatly interests me! I thought this was a very imaginative concept, one that enhanced the book's supernatural atmosphere. It was just as fascinating to see how Sam resolved this situation, as well!
Charade is full of twists and turns, and certain characters are not what they appear to be. Thus, the title is very fitting, since these characters are indeed carrying on a charade. In the case of Kimber, though, I wasn't that surprised; I have never liked her, from the moment I first became aware of her true feelings regarding Heven's popularity, in Masquerade. This second novel adds to my dislike of her, as she turns out to be even nastier than in the first. However, toward the end of the book, even she does surprise me, too! That's all I will reveal about the matter!
The three main characters -- Heven, Sam, and Cole -- are just so wonderful, so real, that I have trouble seeing them as fictional people. Sam, of course, is particularly special to me, since he's the romantic hero. And how much of a romantic hero he is, is very evident on every page! He's so tender, so protective, toward Heven... Yet, he's never condescending toward her, never tries to belittle her abilities. If he does at times seem a bit on the controlling side, it's because he doesn't want her to be hurt.
I love the way Heven deals with Sam's attempts to be so protective. She does understand his apprehension, but yet, lets him know that she's not as helpless as he might think. She also deals very effectively with Cole, who, tired of Kimber, has grown increasingly attracted to Heven. She's very firm with him, as well, while doing her best not to hurt his feelings.
As for Cole, I can see why he would be attracted to Heven, a girl who is so different from Kimber! Heven is sweet and genuine, in contrast to Kimber, who is only apparently so. Perhaps Kimber's charade is the biggest one of all! Cole has seen her true colors, however, and I can't blame him at all for rejecting her. He's very sweet, as well as genuine, himself.
How Hebert resolves this incipient love triangle was perhaps not unexpected by some, but it was a complete surprise to me. I'm glad that she did resolve it, too, because love triangles are entirely too commonplace in young adult fiction nowadays.
And now for Logan: I had very mixed feelings about him at the end of Masquerade, and at the beginning of Charade. Then I discovered that something wasn't quite right with him, and started feeling sorry for him. When he's not having one of his 'episodes', I can see what a nice boy he is! He actually loves and admires his older brother, Sam. As the novel nears its end, his true character is revealed, and I couldn't have been happier!
The demons in this novel are very scary, realistically drawn creatures. However, I like the fact that they can be defeated. Even Beelzebub, who is known as 'The Prince of Demons' in the Bible, can be foiled. Having demons in a novel does not classify it as being in the horror genre. It's what the authors does with those demons that make a novel fit in that detestable category, or not. If the demons win out in the end, or their defeat is not really assured -- in other words, if the ending remains ambiguous -- then the novel definitely falls into the category of horror. If, however, the demons (or any other evil characters in the plot) are completely defeated in the end, then it does not. Good must always triumph over evil. If it doesn't, then I'm not at all interested in reading the book, and even consider it immoral. Thankfully, Hebert's novels clearly resolve the plot in favor of the good forces, which is one of the reasons I love them!!
The way everything ties up neatly in the end is another feature of Hebert's work that I like and admire. Even though there is a bit of a cliffhanger at the end of this book, the ending is still satisfactory. Besides, there's the element of hope at the end. This is another factor missing from horror novels. Such novels are, instead, full of despair. In contrast, paranormal and urban fantasy novels, like the ones in this series, give the reader that sense that everything will turn out well in the end. I'm so glad for this!
This novel has it all -- deft characterization, plotting, and compelling settings, along with pulse-pounding excitement. Thankfully missing are two other elements I totally abhor -- profanity and very graphic sex scenes. (Actually, there are none of the latter.) If you want to be entertained, enjoy great battles between heroes and villains, and love romance, without having to wince at reading certain words and/or passages, you must read Charade, as well as its predecessor, Masquerade! I promise you won't regret it! (And I'm anxious for those movies to come along!!)
March 31, 2022
The SUSPENSE is no Charade!
Holy moly, I was on the edge of my seat with this one. The first half was a little bit slow, but we need a bit of setup to get to the goods… in hell! A lot is revealed in this second installment of the Heven and Hell series. But mysteries remain. I was on pins and needles waiting to learn what’s up with Logan…poor kid. Heven has turned into a bonafide heroine in this book. Her character development is simply awesome! We still get all the feels from this young love and some beautiful family moments too. Off to find out what happens when you piss off Heven. Tirade, here I come!
Holy moly, I was on the edge of my seat with this one. The first half was a little bit slow, but we need a bit of setup to get to the goods… in hell! A lot is revealed in this second installment of the Heven and Hell series. But mysteries remain. I was on pins and needles waiting to learn what’s up with Logan…poor kid. Heven has turned into a bonafide heroine in this book. Her character development is simply awesome! We still get all the feels from this young love and some beautiful family moments too. Off to find out what happens when you piss off Heven. Tirade, here I come!
September 11, 2018
A wonderful story from Cambria Hebert
This series just keeps getting better and pulls you along for the ride.
Cambria's writing is so descriptive that you feel like you are right there in the story.
This series just keeps getting better and pulls you along for the ride.
Cambria's writing is so descriptive that you feel like you are right there in the story.
June 11, 2017
Suprise
Nothing can ever be easy for all of us. heven is a teenager given so many hard tasks to do is she strong enough and who will stand by her side
Nothing can ever be easy for all of us. heven is a teenager given so many hard tasks to do is she strong enough and who will stand by her side
October 10, 2019
5 out of 5 Stars
Charade is book 2 in the Heven and Hell Series. I really enjoyed Charade and can't wait to continue with the series. I love Heven and Sam.
Charade is book 2 in the Heven and Hell Series. I really enjoyed Charade and can't wait to continue with the series. I love Heven and Sam.
February 2, 2022
These books are very interesting. Lots going on...
July 17, 2022
Nooo not Sam😭😭😭😭
September 10, 2023
"I'm so glad I picked up this book. The writing is a symphony of emotions, and I couldn't have asked for a more satisfying read."
February 6, 2013
My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Disclaimers: I received an electronic copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
An Overview of the Novel: Sam and Heven are in more danger than ever. Heven and Sam have been entrusted with a sacred scroll that includes everybody who will make good contributions in the world (ie: who will find the cure for cancer). Heven and Sam want to keep it safe; the demons want it so they can get kill off these people before they can successfully accomplish what they are destined to do.
Word is out that Heven has the document and the demons will do anything to have it back. Heven will do anything to protect it and Sam will do anything to protect Heven.
But when everybody is after you, who can you really trust? Heven knows she can trust Sam, but the list stops there. Heven and Sam love each other and would do anything for each other. But what do you do when everything seems to be set on tearing you apart.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I love Cambria Hebert's writing. I have read three short stories by her and now two novels. Each time I am sucked in more absolutely. She is a master at characterization and at developing intriguing plots that will leave you sucked in from the very first page to the very last page.
I loved Heven and Sam after reading Masquerade, the first novel in the series. So I was anxious to discover what happened to them next. Often novels experience what is known as the sophomore slump. Charade expertly avoided that trap and that makes me even more excited to read the third one in the series.
I love that Heven and Sam both seem so real and that we get to see inside both of their heads through the switching POVs. However, Cambria also does a great job at creating strong secondary characters. Some of them I absolutely hate, others I love, and others just frustrate me. She does an excellent job at portraying the whole spectrum.
And then comes her ability to create a gripping plot. This is a genre that I normally wouldn't love, but Cambria is just such a great writer that I have loved both books in this series anyway.
If you like a writer who creates brilliant characters and an incredible plot, then look no further than Cambria Hebert.
So Why starts 4.5 out of 5 stars? I loved this novel. Cambria was an expert at characterization and at developing the plot. I loved both of those elements. It just lacked that extra something to make this a 5-star rating; that something that makes you so wrapped up in a book that you can't think about anything else. However, I still really loved the novel.
In Summary: Cambria Hebert's Heven and Hell series will sweep writers away and plant them into a world full of intrigue, suspense, and love that they won't want to leave.
Warnings/Side-notes: This novel is actually quite clean in all aspects. That's something I really like. I don't think books need to be edgy to be good, and I love that this novel shows that.
The Wrap-up: Basically, I adored this novel in case you couldn't tell. I'll be anxiously awaiting until I can read the next book in the series. Sam and Heven are definitely two characters I need to read more about. Check out Masquerade, you won't regret doing it. Even if this isn't your normal genre of choice, I still think you'll like this one. Just give it a shot.
Love,
Danica Page
Disclaimers: I received an electronic copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
An Overview of the Novel: Sam and Heven are in more danger than ever. Heven and Sam have been entrusted with a sacred scroll that includes everybody who will make good contributions in the world (ie: who will find the cure for cancer). Heven and Sam want to keep it safe; the demons want it so they can get kill off these people before they can successfully accomplish what they are destined to do.
Word is out that Heven has the document and the demons will do anything to have it back. Heven will do anything to protect it and Sam will do anything to protect Heven.
But when everybody is after you, who can you really trust? Heven knows she can trust Sam, but the list stops there. Heven and Sam love each other and would do anything for each other. But what do you do when everything seems to be set on tearing you apart.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I love Cambria Hebert's writing. I have read three short stories by her and now two novels. Each time I am sucked in more absolutely. She is a master at characterization and at developing intriguing plots that will leave you sucked in from the very first page to the very last page.
I loved Heven and Sam after reading Masquerade, the first novel in the series. So I was anxious to discover what happened to them next. Often novels experience what is known as the sophomore slump. Charade expertly avoided that trap and that makes me even more excited to read the third one in the series.
I love that Heven and Sam both seem so real and that we get to see inside both of their heads through the switching POVs. However, Cambria also does a great job at creating strong secondary characters. Some of them I absolutely hate, others I love, and others just frustrate me. She does an excellent job at portraying the whole spectrum.
And then comes her ability to create a gripping plot. This is a genre that I normally wouldn't love, but Cambria is just such a great writer that I have loved both books in this series anyway.
If you like a writer who creates brilliant characters and an incredible plot, then look no further than Cambria Hebert.
So Why starts 4.5 out of 5 stars? I loved this novel. Cambria was an expert at characterization and at developing the plot. I loved both of those elements. It just lacked that extra something to make this a 5-star rating; that something that makes you so wrapped up in a book that you can't think about anything else. However, I still really loved the novel.
In Summary: Cambria Hebert's Heven and Hell series will sweep writers away and plant them into a world full of intrigue, suspense, and love that they won't want to leave.
Warnings/Side-notes: This novel is actually quite clean in all aspects. That's something I really like. I don't think books need to be edgy to be good, and I love that this novel shows that.
The Wrap-up: Basically, I adored this novel in case you couldn't tell. I'll be anxiously awaiting until I can read the next book in the series. Sam and Heven are definitely two characters I need to read more about. Check out Masquerade, you won't regret doing it. Even if this isn't your normal genre of choice, I still think you'll like this one. Just give it a shot.
Love,
Danica Page
August 12, 2013
Awesome. Hell. Wow. Feels, so many feels..
This is not really a review. This is the explanation why a book I almost DNF'd turned out to be one of the better books I read this year.
Because Cambria Hebert is insane.And I love her for it
She takes risks in her plots, ones out of our wildest imaginations and that is why her stories actually stand out and work for me.
To say I was disappointed with Charade, at the beginning was an understatement. I was mighty pissed. Why?
It was turning to be like every cookie cutter YA book we could find scattered around. I was so excited to see where the story goes in here, the ending of Masquerade being so promising. And what did I get?
Sam became a tyrant. Bully. Protective beyond the point of suffocation. And yet conveniently absent when demons attacked.
Heven was a poor meek damsel in distress who whined about Sam having to always protect her from the biggie baddies. And she did not listen to Sam's genuine concerns about the task that must be fulfilled.
And of course Cole. Heven pulling the "I love Sam but I have a connection with Cole that I just cannot deny" was getting a bit too Twilighty for me.
I was mad enough at Hebert for trying to squeeze in a love triangle that was NOT needed and butchering the characters I came to love in the first book. What rational explanation could be there to make this all okay?
There was none.
So you know what Hebert did? She brought an insane explanation. Out of my wildest imagination. And I almost shat on myself and gulped down everything she gave me. Mind blown.
I would scream at the characters to communicate with each other and not keep secrets. But before I could finsih ranting about this, about itty bitty Logan, suspicious coincidences, weird people or funny injuries that they brush off and not tell each other Heen and Sam would, exactly one page later have a converstation addressing all of my issues. Every time. I'd begrudge Hebert for making them so nearsighted and then - BAM! I'd be blindsided. Two things would be explained with six hundred and ninety eight more questions.
She did not even leave me time enough to complain about things. I was hooked lined and slinkered into the book entirely.
And my theories? All crap. I couldn't have guessed how everything went. Ever. Yet I say with great pride that two of my guesses were correct. Let us all forget the other ones that Hebert so evilly destroyed.
And thus by the last page it won my full concentration, loyal reading and love in the entirety. This book was bloody brilliant in terms of mindfuckery.
And undoubtedly, Tirade will also prolly be the same bag of unexpected treats with yucky flavored candies covering the yummy ones below.
4 Stars
This is not really a review. This is the explanation why a book I almost DNF'd turned out to be one of the better books I read this year.
Because Cambria Hebert is insane.
She takes risks in her plots, ones out of our wildest imaginations and that is why her stories actually stand out and work for me.
To say I was disappointed with Charade, at the beginning was an understatement. I was mighty pissed. Why?
It was turning to be like every cookie cutter YA book we could find scattered around. I was so excited to see where the story goes in here, the ending of Masquerade being so promising. And what did I get?
Sam became a tyrant. Bully. Protective beyond the point of suffocation. And yet conveniently absent when demons attacked.
Heven was a poor meek damsel in distress who whined about Sam having to always protect her from the biggie baddies. And she did not listen to Sam's genuine concerns about the task that must be fulfilled.
And of course Cole. Heven pulling the "I love Sam but I have a connection with Cole that I just cannot deny" was getting a bit too Twilighty for me.
I was mad enough at Hebert for trying to squeeze in a love triangle that was NOT needed and butchering the characters I came to love in the first book. What rational explanation could be there to make this all okay?
There was none.
So you know what Hebert did? She brought an insane explanation. Out of my wildest imagination. And I almost shat on myself and gulped down everything she gave me. Mind blown.
I would scream at the characters to communicate with each other and not keep secrets. But before I could finsih ranting about this, about itty bitty Logan, suspicious coincidences, weird people or funny injuries that they brush off and not tell each other Heen and Sam would, exactly one page later have a converstation addressing all of my issues. Every time. I'd begrudge Hebert for making them so nearsighted and then - BAM! I'd be blindsided. Two things would be explained with six hundred and ninety eight more questions.
She did not even leave me time enough to complain about things. I was hooked lined and slinkered into the book entirely.
And my theories? All crap. I couldn't have guessed how everything went. Ever. Yet I say with great pride that two of my guesses were correct. Let us all forget the other ones that Hebert so evilly destroyed.
And thus by the last page it won my full concentration, loyal reading and love in the entirety. This book was bloody brilliant in terms of mindfuckery.
And undoubtedly, Tirade will also prolly be the same bag of unexpected treats with yucky flavored candies covering the yummy ones below.
4 Stars
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