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Bandia #2
Gold
Descended from an Irish demigod, Brianna has fled to Ireland to escape destruction at the hands of her sworn enemies, the Sons of Killian. Taking refuge at the estate of her former nemesis, Austin Montgomery, Brianna discovers a rift in time that opens to an era before the feud began.
Wrestling with her newfound feelings for the more innocent Austin, Brianna begins to wonder if she can alter the past. But when Brianna and Austin learn that the Sons are raising an army of mythical beasts, the pair will need to use their magical strength in the present to avoid a tragic end.
Wrestling with her newfound feelings for the more innocent Austin, Brianna begins to wonder if she can alter the past. But when Brianna and Austin learn that the Sons are raising an army of mythical beasts, the pair will need to use their magical strength in the present to avoid a tragic end.
408 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
October 3, 2015
Please someone tell me there is a Platinum in the works, please!! I was just okay with Silver. The mythology of the bandia is hard to follow, the relationship between Brianna and Blake even harder. I never really understood it in Silver. It just never seemed to make sense. It didn't feel right and it was just too hard. They didn't even seem like they liked each other. Now, sexually, yeah, they were hot. But otherwise, meh. So I wanted to see where this novel went. I mean, IRELAND. I'll read about digging graves if it's set in Ireland! But I got a novel that I couldn't put down from the minute I started. Okay, so maybe the first couple of pages I couldn't understand what had happened, but Talia Vance digs right in and tells us in a flashback what happened.
This makes the third book I've read by Talia Vance and this one feels like she has finally found where she's comfortable. The writing flows smoothly and there is no point where there is a jarring disconnect in the story. I thought Silver had those times, I'm thinking those might have been intentional, and perhaps the whole unbelievable relationship was intentional. You'll understand when you read Gold. And I highly recommend you read this one. Gold shines like it's name. There are "sexy times" which come so slow you practically want to reach through the book and help them along. But I'm not complaining. Everything comes at the right pace, the tension is done really well, that's why you're anxious for it to happen. My stomach was in knots so many times- those Sons of Killian are single minded in their desire to kill the bandia. And Brianna is always right there, ready to be killed.
The story in Gold is explained much better. There is time travel, more Gods, and an epic battle scene. Of course, there is loss, isn't that how it always goes? Someone always loses in battle. There are losses I really didn't count on. I confess, I read the ending before I finished the book. I cheat like that sometimes. It didn't spoil the book for me though. I had to find out how they got from where they were to how it ended. And it was one hell of a read! Literally! As a second book, it far exceeds the first and is one of those books I was pulling my sweatshirt over my head juggling my e-reader in my hand so I could still read. When I finished it, there was nothing I could read that would satisfy me. You know when you've just read this great adventure and you come down off this high and you want to feel it again and you have no idea what is going to give you that high again? So I started it over again. I figure as fast as I read it, I'm bound to have missed something. And it's rare, right now that I'm rereading a book. Yes, it was that good. But there has to be a third book, right? Right??? Please! I'm begging! That can't be the end. It just can't.
I received a copy of this novel for review from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not influence my review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This makes the third book I've read by Talia Vance and this one feels like she has finally found where she's comfortable. The writing flows smoothly and there is no point where there is a jarring disconnect in the story. I thought Silver had those times, I'm thinking those might have been intentional, and perhaps the whole unbelievable relationship was intentional. You'll understand when you read Gold. And I highly recommend you read this one. Gold shines like it's name. There are "sexy times" which come so slow you practically want to reach through the book and help them along. But I'm not complaining. Everything comes at the right pace, the tension is done really well, that's why you're anxious for it to happen. My stomach was in knots so many times- those Sons of Killian are single minded in their desire to kill the bandia. And Brianna is always right there, ready to be killed.
The story in Gold is explained much better. There is time travel, more Gods, and an epic battle scene. Of course, there is loss, isn't that how it always goes? Someone always loses in battle. There are losses I really didn't count on. I confess, I read the ending before I finished the book. I cheat like that sometimes. It didn't spoil the book for me though. I had to find out how they got from where they were to how it ended. And it was one hell of a read! Literally! As a second book, it far exceeds the first and is one of those books I was pulling my sweatshirt over my head juggling my e-reader in my hand so I could still read. When I finished it, there was nothing I could read that would satisfy me. You know when you've just read this great adventure and you come down off this high and you want to feel it again and you have no idea what is going to give you that high again? So I started it over again. I figure as fast as I read it, I'm bound to have missed something. And it's rare, right now that I'm rereading a book. Yes, it was that good. But there has to be a third book, right? Right??? Please! I'm begging! That can't be the end. It just can't.
I received a copy of this novel for review from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not influence my review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 6, 2018
I'm not even going to start on this book, just read my review for Silver, it basically sums it up.
December 5, 2012
This story was an amazing follow-up. Utterly gut-wrenching. Totally surprising. And with an absolutely killer ending. Will definitely be reading this one again and again. Loved it even more than SILVER. If I were to review this on the blog it would get my off-the-menu rating of 6 stars.
I do plan on reviewing this book when I read the finished copy when it releases next fall.
I do plan on reviewing this book when I read the finished copy when it releases next fall.
December 5, 2012
Oh sweet dear gods! I beta'd this for Talia and it was everything I had hoped for and MOAR!!!!! Gold was beautiful and heartbreaking and I loved every minute of it!!!!!!
November 29, 2012
I was lucky enough to read this in manuscript form, and it was even better than Silver!
I can't wait for the finished copy to be released!!!!
I can't wait for the finished copy to be released!!!!
May 24, 2013
Did you hear that? That was the sound of my mind being blown. This book was so amazing, just as good as the first! So unexpected and unpredictable. Loved it!
Whatever I expected from this book, it was torn apart within the first chapter. This book takes us in a new direction. At the end of Silver, a tenuous peace existed between Brianna and the Sons. But, it was obvious that it wasn't going to last long. In Gold, Brianna has to run from the Sons' wrath after being blamed for something she didn't do. And, when she does, new revelation change the game and the stakes are upped. Everything that was great in book one was even better in book 2.
Brianna proved herself strong in Silver. In this book, she reaffirms that multiple times over. She faces terrifying odds, the threat of death from several fronts, and still manages to handle them all. I appreciated that, despite being in a sucky situation, she didn't mope about or bemoan her fate. She accepted her lot and dealt with it. She was utterly awesome. I loved her character in this book.
When I read the summary and saw that Austin was being brought back as a love interest, I was not surprised but I was wary. After how he acted in the first book, it was clear that he had feelings for Brianna, however twisted they might be. But, I was worried that a love triangle would turn out to be an annoyance. It turns out, I didn't need to worry.
Austin was charming in book one. Let's be honest, even if he was the antagonist, he was still able to win our hearts, at least a little. In this book, we see him without the taint of him being the antagonist. *Swoon* He was utterly amazing. He was so sweet and, though he had unconventional ways of showing it, he would do anything to protect the girl he loved. Does he get the girl? I won't tell. You'll have to read and find out for yourself :) But, I will say that after that ending that totally shattered my heart and I'm dying to read book 3 so that I can find out what happens with Austin.
Blake...
What were you thinking?!?!
I liked Blake in book 1, but I had reservation about him, considering how he was so harsh with Brianna for most of the book just because of her species. I don't want to say anything that will ruin the story, so I can't say very much. All I will say is that Blake, you need to get your shit together. I am very disappointed in you, mister :(
The plot was fast paced and totally unpredictable. I didn't see any of the events coming, which is quite a feat. I was riveted and completely unable to put this book down. And the ending was such a cliffhanger! I'm dying to find out what happens next!
Gold was perfect, amazing, magnificent! Any romance lover should read this book. Loved it!
*Thanks to Netgalley and Flux Books for a copy!
Whatever I expected from this book, it was torn apart within the first chapter. This book takes us in a new direction. At the end of Silver, a tenuous peace existed between Brianna and the Sons. But, it was obvious that it wasn't going to last long. In Gold, Brianna has to run from the Sons' wrath after being blamed for something she didn't do. And, when she does, new revelation change the game and the stakes are upped. Everything that was great in book one was even better in book 2.
Brianna proved herself strong in Silver. In this book, she reaffirms that multiple times over. She faces terrifying odds, the threat of death from several fronts, and still manages to handle them all. I appreciated that, despite being in a sucky situation, she didn't mope about or bemoan her fate. She accepted her lot and dealt with it. She was utterly awesome. I loved her character in this book.
When I read the summary and saw that Austin was being brought back as a love interest, I was not surprised but I was wary. After how he acted in the first book, it was clear that he had feelings for Brianna, however twisted they might be. But, I was worried that a love triangle would turn out to be an annoyance. It turns out, I didn't need to worry.
Austin was charming in book one. Let's be honest, even if he was the antagonist, he was still able to win our hearts, at least a little. In this book, we see him without the taint of him being the antagonist. *Swoon* He was utterly amazing. He was so sweet and, though he had unconventional ways of showing it, he would do anything to protect the girl he loved. Does he get the girl? I won't tell. You'll have to read and find out for yourself :) But, I will say that after that ending that totally shattered my heart and I'm dying to read book 3 so that I can find out what happens with Austin.
Blake...
What were you thinking?!?!
I liked Blake in book 1, but I had reservation about him, considering how he was so harsh with Brianna for most of the book just because of her species. I don't want to say anything that will ruin the story, so I can't say very much. All I will say is that Blake, you need to get your shit together. I am very disappointed in you, mister :(
The plot was fast paced and totally unpredictable. I didn't see any of the events coming, which is quite a feat. I was riveted and completely unable to put this book down. And the ending was such a cliffhanger! I'm dying to find out what happens next!
Gold was perfect, amazing, magnificent! Any romance lover should read this book. Loved it!
*Thanks to Netgalley and Flux Books for a copy!
September 21, 2013
It's quite hard to express how impressed I was with Gold. I have a vague memory of reading Silver a while back and I don't recall being as invested in it as I was in this one. It's rare that a sequel surpasses the first in a series, but it's easy to say that Vance succeeded with Gold.
The book starts off with Brianna on her way to Lorcan Hall, Ireland. Events occurring between the first and second book led to Brianna's exile in Ireland, which also led to the end of her relationship with Blake. And let me just say, I wasn't all too sad to see him go. (I'll explain in a minute.) Here, we meet some new characters and are reunited with some old ones. But more importantly, we are introduced to a new Brianna.
I don't remember Brianna of book 1 leaving a lasting impression on me. In fact, if anything, I remember her as being the flaky-damsel-but-i-looove-him type. But Brianna 2.0? This is someone whose earrings I'd hold when she'd go all Bandia on someone's ass. In the beginning, we see Brianna reeling from the fall out of her life in CA. Be warned, there are some (annoying) tears at the start. But as the story went on, she grew some iron into her bones and this was when I started falling in love with her. Gone was the naive, gullible girl who leaned on her so-called one true love. The new woman that evolved in book 2 was captivating, strong, and likable. And just so damn fierce! She wasn't afraid to be independent and kick some ass when called for. I really, really loved the route that Vance went with Brianna. And it should be said that Austin was a big part of her growth.
Austin. Aaron. Arawn. He could have 10 names and I'd be sighing all of them. This guy was awesome. (Hello, alliteration.) He just really was! He was portrayed as the villain-esque character in book 1, but he totally stole the show in this one. He was supportive and encouraging, sweet and sexy, protective but independent. He never enforced his opinions onto Brianna, but let her be her own person. Which every guy should do. And I loved how he wasn't scared of her magic. (Albeit, I'm sure his godliness helped with that.) He wasn't intimidated of her power and never thought less of her because of it. He accepted her and that is all anyone can ask for. Unlike some people... (<-- I'm shouting this part.)
Onto Blake. I didn't like him in book 1, so I hated him in book 2. Actually, he's big part of why I didn't really love the first one. This guy. No words. Love is trust, faith, and loyalty. Of which he had none. I cannot formulate into words my frustration with this character.
Honestly. Someone get me a bazooka. If there is a book 3, he better as hell not be a romantic interest. Immacuttabitch.
As for the story itself, it revolves around the rising of an unruly god hoping to reestablish his power and position on earth. Said god is Pwil (Pwyll on Wiki), former right-hand of Arawn when he was god of the underworld. And so the story follows with the Gathering of mythical Celtic beings and creatures, including the Bandia, the Sons of Killian, Milesians, giolla, and fuath. These new characters were a delite. Especially the fuath! I kind of pictured them as killer My Little Ponies. However, I felt that the plot and secondary characters (mainly the "bad guys") fell secondary to the main cast. There were moments when the story was stilted and even had me scratching my head at some points. Aside from all that, I found myself unable to put the book down.
And then came the ending. You know how young babies follow things put in front of them and when you take it away they keep looking at the spot like it'll come back at any moment? That's me at the end of the book. Staring at my kindle, waiting for my world to become all sunshine and rainbows again. Expecting some sort of Deux Ex Machina to come prancing along.
And then it ended. Vance, you heartless ^&!@(*!@)(*&.
After my tantrum ended, I realized how attached I'd become to this book, and was immediately hungry for more. Although, I'm not sure if there will be one, the story ends with a hopeful note that should appease some fans.
Overall, a spectacular sequel that should definitely be added to your to-be-read list.
August 14, 2013
This series is completely captivating, from the deliciously dark and dangerous character to the ever twisting and changing plot, it is completely addicting and utterly useless to say no to. I was hooked after the first book and even more eager than ever to get my hands on the second.
To say her second book was even better than the first would be such an understatement. Once again Vance managed to create a story so beautiful it is heartbreaking, so surprising that it will take your breath away. Vance is one hell of a writer.
Her take on Celtic mythology with the bandia, gods, demigods, giolla and the fuath will blow you away and leave you reeling with wanting more. Once again she makes the plot unpredictable and knowing who to trust, who to love, and who to root for harder than you ever thought imaginable.
Brianna is one kick butt strong, brave heroine that I dare anyone not to love. She is loyal and smart and willing to put herself out there to get what needs to be done, done. She doesn’t' take no for an answer and even though she has been burned before, she still knows how to be good and how to love and how to trust.
I wish I could go into more detail on just how great this is but the truth is that I can't without giving way too much of the plot and this is one book that you just have to experience for yourself. Lets just say that nothing is the same and everything is different. Brianna finds herself in Ireland where she meets not only some new friends but some old ones as well. Where she makes new enemies and some new, surprising, allies as well. Where she learns what loyalty and love really are and once again stands up for what is right regardless of what others try to convince her is the truth. Nothing comes easy and everything comes with a price.
Vance had me completely captivated and hanging on to every single word. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I thought I loved this series before and without a doubt I can say I love it even more now. Vance has a way of telling a story that is just magical. I will be on the edge of my seat in anticipation waiting for the next release.
To say her second book was even better than the first would be such an understatement. Once again Vance managed to create a story so beautiful it is heartbreaking, so surprising that it will take your breath away. Vance is one hell of a writer.
Her take on Celtic mythology with the bandia, gods, demigods, giolla and the fuath will blow you away and leave you reeling with wanting more. Once again she makes the plot unpredictable and knowing who to trust, who to love, and who to root for harder than you ever thought imaginable.
Brianna is one kick butt strong, brave heroine that I dare anyone not to love. She is loyal and smart and willing to put herself out there to get what needs to be done, done. She doesn’t' take no for an answer and even though she has been burned before, she still knows how to be good and how to love and how to trust.
I wish I could go into more detail on just how great this is but the truth is that I can't without giving way too much of the plot and this is one book that you just have to experience for yourself. Lets just say that nothing is the same and everything is different. Brianna finds herself in Ireland where she meets not only some new friends but some old ones as well. Where she makes new enemies and some new, surprising, allies as well. Where she learns what loyalty and love really are and once again stands up for what is right regardless of what others try to convince her is the truth. Nothing comes easy and everything comes with a price.
Vance had me completely captivated and hanging on to every single word. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I thought I loved this series before and without a doubt I can say I love it even more now. Vance has a way of telling a story that is just magical. I will be on the edge of my seat in anticipation waiting for the next release.
July 19, 2015
Holy crap, batman! This sequel blew me away. It was hands down the better of the two books in this series. This book was far darker, and had such an edge to it the first one lacked. It was phenomenal!
And watch out... Spoiler....
Yes! Yes! Yes! Go Austin! I've been rooting for you all along! This book held me on edge the entire time. It's epic in its own right and gives so much more glory to the story line and this series. And because I've broken my own rule of no spoilers in reviews, I might as well continue to break this rule.... So again, watch out,HUGE spoiler alert....
How could you kill him, Talia?! How!?!
I'm beside myself. Austin better be coming back to life magically in the next book or I think I might have a book boyfriend melt down. How could you do it? Blake should have died. Not Austin. *Sigh*
I'm eagerly awaiting the next book to see just what Ms. Vance had up her sleeves for our beautiful bandia.
And watch out... Spoiler....
Yes! Yes! Yes! Go Austin! I've been rooting for you all along! This book held me on edge the entire time. It's epic in its own right and gives so much more glory to the story line and this series. And because I've broken my own rule of no spoilers in reviews, I might as well continue to break this rule.... So again, watch out,HUGE spoiler alert....
How could you kill him, Talia?! How!?!
I'm beside myself. Austin better be coming back to life magically in the next book or I think I might have a book boyfriend melt down. How could you do it? Blake should have died. Not Austin. *Sigh*
I'm eagerly awaiting the next book to see just what Ms. Vance had up her sleeves for our beautiful bandia.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2013
The original review for this title can be found
HERE
on The Book Hookup.
** SPECIAL NOTE:** An eARC of this title was provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. However, that did not influence this review in any way. All thoughts, quotes, and opinions will be of this version and not of the published edition.
Initial Thoughts and Rating: Actual rating of 4.5 stars! I believe Ms. Vance wrote this novel to make me swoon so that she could break my heart. Everything that made me fall in love with the first book- chemistry, great pacing, Celtic mythology- also made me love this second installment, too. If I were rating this novel on Austin and his swoons alone, it would be going on my FOREVER-TOP-SHELF-GIVE-HIM-ALL-THE-STARS favorite list. However, there were a few things that kept me from going full top shelf, so that’s why it’s landed on my second instead.
The Lowdown: Gold takes place after the summer where we left off in Silver. We aren’t given all the full details from the beginning, but we’re thrown immediately into the story and we find that Brianna, one of two known Bandia, is on the run from her sworn enemies, the Sons of Killian, but more importantly, that her and Blake are no longer together for some reason. She’s whisked away to Ireland, her ancestors’ homeland, for her own protection. However, to her great dismay, she learns that she’ll be staying at the estate of Austin Montgomery, the very same god she banished to the Underworld in book one.
But sometimes gods don’t stay banished and old wars are hardly ever over. In fact, there’s a new battle brewing on the horizon and all the Irish mystical creatures that were once thought perished long ago are asked to pick a side and fight. We meet new characters, fall in and out love with old ones, and learn that even without magic and powers, people can learn to be just as strong and brave.
But then, there’s something more. When Brianna discovers an old ruin that is able to transport her back to a time from over a thousand years ago, before the war between the Daughters of Danu and Sons of Killian ever began, can she stop the feuding before it even starts? Will she want to?
My Thoughts: This novel had the ability to reel me in and keep me captivated from beginning to end. So much so, that I read it in one sitting, forging through despite running a fever, drowning myself in NyQuil, and ignoring hunger pangs. Ms. Vance definitely has a way of bringing the Celtic folklore alive and keeping her readers spellbound with excellent pacing and lively characters. The plot was full of twist and turns that kept me guessing until the very end.
There were only two minor grievances I had with this novel. One was that I didn’t have enough time to go back and reread Silver, but even if I had, I still feel like I would have been a little lost in the beginning of this book. It would have been hard enough to fall back into the story and mystery of the Irish mythology even with a recap, but seeing as there wasn’t one and that there was a time lapse between this novel and the previous, I was left a little confused about what was happening in the first few chapters. However, the author slowly addressed the issues that broke the treaty between Brianna and the Sons, and I was soon able to fall back into the natural rhythm of the story eventually.
The second issue I had with this book is probably more of a personal one. I could live with how it ended, but I don’t exactly want to have it end like that. Especially if there’s a chance, a little tiny sliver of hope, for a future that means he can come back. (Yes, I have to be vague. It’s for your own good.) I tweeted the author about a third novel, and she said that she will probably write it because she has to know for herself, but doesn’t ever know if it will be published. So, yeah, if there was a solid chance of another book, I probably would’ve given this a full five stars, but as it stands now, I simply can’t be satisfied with that ending after so many of my feelings had been invested in him… in them.
Swoons: Austin makes me wonder why I ever ever ever liked Blake in the first novel. This guy, whether it was the Austin-from-the-past or Austin-from-the-now, had me flailing and swooning all over the place. From his words, to actions, to how his love for her lasted for thousands of years is just… siiiiiiiiigh. Not only that, but we find out why he acted like a supreme ass in the first installment, and somehow, it makes me love him all the more.
♥ Swoony Teasers:
&
Verdict: You should be reading this novel for the swoons alone. But I’ll warn you, you should build a fortress around your heart so that Ms. Vance can’t storm the castle and blow it to smithereens like she did to mine. I’ll just be over here, still sobbing into my pillow like the cry-baby that I am.
♥ A very special thanks to Flux and Net Galley for providing me with an early copy of this title.
Christina's Review:
** SPECIAL NOTE:** An eARC of this title was provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. However, that did not influence this review in any way. All thoughts, quotes, and opinions will be of this version and not of the published edition.
Initial Thoughts and Rating: Actual rating of 4.5 stars! I believe Ms. Vance wrote this novel to make me swoon so that she could break my heart. Everything that made me fall in love with the first book- chemistry, great pacing, Celtic mythology- also made me love this second installment, too. If I were rating this novel on Austin and his swoons alone, it would be going on my FOREVER-TOP-SHELF-GIVE-HIM-ALL-THE-STARS favorite list. However, there were a few things that kept me from going full top shelf, so that’s why it’s landed on my second instead.
The Lowdown: Gold takes place after the summer where we left off in Silver. We aren’t given all the full details from the beginning, but we’re thrown immediately into the story and we find that Brianna, one of two known Bandia, is on the run from her sworn enemies, the Sons of Killian, but more importantly, that her and Blake are no longer together for some reason. She’s whisked away to Ireland, her ancestors’ homeland, for her own protection. However, to her great dismay, she learns that she’ll be staying at the estate of Austin Montgomery, the very same god she banished to the Underworld in book one.
But sometimes gods don’t stay banished and old wars are hardly ever over. In fact, there’s a new battle brewing on the horizon and all the Irish mystical creatures that were once thought perished long ago are asked to pick a side and fight. We meet new characters, fall in and out love with old ones, and learn that even without magic and powers, people can learn to be just as strong and brave.
But then, there’s something more. When Brianna discovers an old ruin that is able to transport her back to a time from over a thousand years ago, before the war between the Daughters of Danu and Sons of Killian ever began, can she stop the feuding before it even starts? Will she want to?
My Thoughts: This novel had the ability to reel me in and keep me captivated from beginning to end. So much so, that I read it in one sitting, forging through despite running a fever, drowning myself in NyQuil, and ignoring hunger pangs. Ms. Vance definitely has a way of bringing the Celtic folklore alive and keeping her readers spellbound with excellent pacing and lively characters. The plot was full of twist and turns that kept me guessing until the very end.
There were only two minor grievances I had with this novel. One was that I didn’t have enough time to go back and reread Silver, but even if I had, I still feel like I would have been a little lost in the beginning of this book. It would have been hard enough to fall back into the story and mystery of the Irish mythology even with a recap, but seeing as there wasn’t one and that there was a time lapse between this novel and the previous, I was left a little confused about what was happening in the first few chapters. However, the author slowly addressed the issues that broke the treaty between Brianna and the Sons, and I was soon able to fall back into the natural rhythm of the story eventually.
The second issue I had with this book is probably more of a personal one. I could live with how it ended, but I don’t exactly want to have it end like that. Especially if there’s a chance, a little tiny sliver of hope, for a future that means he can come back. (Yes, I have to be vague. It’s for your own good.) I tweeted the author about a third novel, and she said that she will probably write it because she has to know for herself, but doesn’t ever know if it will be published. So, yeah, if there was a solid chance of another book, I probably would’ve given this a full five stars, but as it stands now, I simply can’t be satisfied with that ending after so many of my feelings had been invested in him… in them.
Swoons: Austin makes me wonder why I ever ever ever liked Blake in the first novel. This guy, whether it was the Austin-from-the-past or Austin-from-the-now, had me flailing and swooning all over the place. From his words, to actions, to how his love for her lasted for thousands of years is just… siiiiiiiiigh. Not only that, but we find out why he acted like a supreme ass in the first installment, and somehow, it makes me love him all the more.
♥ Swoony Teasers:
“I could be stripped of a thousand years of memories, and I would always know, in my heart, that I love you.”
&
“No matter what happens, know this.” Austin watches me, but he doesn’t say anything more.
“Know what?” I press.
He takes a breath. “I have wanted you since the year one thousand and nine, when you were a mystery girl form the future who kissed me like I had never been kissed. I waited for you for over a thousand years. I’ve loved you even longer. I will do everything in my power to keep you safe.”
Verdict: You should be reading this novel for the swoons alone. But I’ll warn you, you should build a fortress around your heart so that Ms. Vance can’t storm the castle and blow it to smithereens like she did to mine. I’ll just be over here, still sobbing into my pillow like the cry-baby that I am.
♥ A very special thanks to Flux and Net Galley for providing me with an early copy of this title.
July 31, 2014
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Gold by Talia Vance
Book Two of the Bandia series
Publisher: Flux
Publication Date: September 8, 2013
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
Descended from an Irish demigod, Brianna has fled to Ireland to escape destruction at the hands of her sworn enemies, the Sons of Killian. Taking refuge at the estate of her former nemesis, Austin Montgomery, Brianna discovers a rift in time that opens to an era before the feud began.
Wrestling with her newfound feelings for the more innocent Austin, Brianna begins to wonder if she can alter the past. But when Brianna and Austin learn that the Sons are raising an army of mythical beasts, the pair will need to use their magical strength in the present to avoid a tragic end.
What I Liked:
I won Silver from Talia and A.L. Davroe last year, and I read it almost immediately upon receiving the book. I really liked the fresh concept, the Irish mythology, and the crazy characters! Brianna is a unique heroine in Young Adult literature, for better and for worse. I liked her, and I liked Blake. There is a love triangle presented in Silver, but at the end of Silver, Talia makes it clear who Brianna chooses.
Or so I thought.
It's just like Crown of Midnight. In the first book, I was all Team Dorian. The second book? Team Chaol forever and always! Gold completely changed my mind about Austin. I love Austin so much in this book, and not just as a love interest. He really developed into a solid, trustworthy character that Brianna relies on for help and support. And other things...
Brianna is in Ireland, trying to run away from the Sons of Killian, and Blake. She's pretty sure Blake hates her, and he doesn't trust her. Add on the fact that the next time she sees him, he's bonded with a different Bandia, and that's the last straw for Brianna. Blake doesn't deserve Brianna - that much is clear. You may not think Austin does either, from Silver, but in this book, some of the things that he did are explained.
Brianna finds a rift in time, at Austin's castle/mansion. She goes back in time and finds the younger Austin, from centuries back. This is how the Austin of now knew here and pursued her - because he fell in love with her back then, when she stepped through the rift in time.
Anyway. The plot and action in this book is nonstop. The beginning is a tiny bit slow, but it's balanced by Brianna's confusion about her feelings toward Blake, and Austin. The climax of the book is a final showdown kind of climax, in which everyone comes together and meets for one final battle. In a way. Read it and you'll see what I mean!
The romance is amazing in this book! Like I said before, I was rooting for Blake before. Actually, at the very beginning of Silver, I was rooting for Austin, but by the end of Silver, I was all for Blake. Throughout Gold, not once did I waver - I was all for Austin. There are some STEAMY scenes between Austin and Brianna - I was so happy to see that turn in their relationship!
The ending... well, see the next section. I kind of love and hate the ending. It's a good ending in terms of the conflicts in the book, between the Sons and the Bandia and the demigods and whatnot. But it's a horrible ending in terms of the romance.
What I Did Not Like:
There was only one big thing that I didn't like about this book... and that was the ending. Sort of. I liked the ending, but I absolutely hated it. If, by the end of the book, you're still Team Blake (How?!How could you be?!), then you won't care. If you're a convert like me, or have always been Team Austin... then prepare to have your heart broken. I'm trying not to spoil anything, but I cannot believe Talia would do that to Austin and Brianna. I knocked off a star because of that ending.
And the fact that there are no more novels to this series (this was the last one!) makes it worse. It's permanent. Unchangeable. Unbelievable. I'M SO SAD!
Would I Recommend It:
I would recommend this book, ESPECIALLY if you didn't like the first book. If you liked the first book, you'll read this one anyway. You must. If you weren't a fan of the first book... I have a feeling you'll like this one. It's more complex and deep and crazy and swoony!
Rating:
4 stars. My heart hearts, but I seriously loved this book. PLEASE write one more with a happier ending, Talia, PLEASE. I'm begging. I don't beg. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE.
Gold by Talia Vance
Book Two of the Bandia series
Publisher: Flux
Publication Date: September 8, 2013
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
Descended from an Irish demigod, Brianna has fled to Ireland to escape destruction at the hands of her sworn enemies, the Sons of Killian. Taking refuge at the estate of her former nemesis, Austin Montgomery, Brianna discovers a rift in time that opens to an era before the feud began.
Wrestling with her newfound feelings for the more innocent Austin, Brianna begins to wonder if she can alter the past. But when Brianna and Austin learn that the Sons are raising an army of mythical beasts, the pair will need to use their magical strength in the present to avoid a tragic end.
What I Liked:
I won Silver from Talia and A.L. Davroe last year, and I read it almost immediately upon receiving the book. I really liked the fresh concept, the Irish mythology, and the crazy characters! Brianna is a unique heroine in Young Adult literature, for better and for worse. I liked her, and I liked Blake. There is a love triangle presented in Silver, but at the end of Silver, Talia makes it clear who Brianna chooses.
Or so I thought.
It's just like Crown of Midnight. In the first book, I was all Team Dorian. The second book? Team Chaol forever and always! Gold completely changed my mind about Austin. I love Austin so much in this book, and not just as a love interest. He really developed into a solid, trustworthy character that Brianna relies on for help and support. And other things...
Brianna is in Ireland, trying to run away from the Sons of Killian, and Blake. She's pretty sure Blake hates her, and he doesn't trust her. Add on the fact that the next time she sees him, he's bonded with a different Bandia, and that's the last straw for Brianna. Blake doesn't deserve Brianna - that much is clear. You may not think Austin does either, from Silver, but in this book, some of the things that he did are explained.
Brianna finds a rift in time, at Austin's castle/mansion. She goes back in time and finds the younger Austin, from centuries back. This is how the Austin of now knew here and pursued her - because he fell in love with her back then, when she stepped through the rift in time.
Anyway. The plot and action in this book is nonstop. The beginning is a tiny bit slow, but it's balanced by Brianna's confusion about her feelings toward Blake, and Austin. The climax of the book is a final showdown kind of climax, in which everyone comes together and meets for one final battle. In a way. Read it and you'll see what I mean!
The romance is amazing in this book! Like I said before, I was rooting for Blake before. Actually, at the very beginning of Silver, I was rooting for Austin, but by the end of Silver, I was all for Blake. Throughout Gold, not once did I waver - I was all for Austin. There are some STEAMY scenes between Austin and Brianna - I was so happy to see that turn in their relationship!
The ending... well, see the next section. I kind of love and hate the ending. It's a good ending in terms of the conflicts in the book, between the Sons and the Bandia and the demigods and whatnot. But it's a horrible ending in terms of the romance.
What I Did Not Like:
There was only one big thing that I didn't like about this book... and that was the ending. Sort of. I liked the ending, but I absolutely hated it. If, by the end of the book, you're still Team Blake (How?!How could you be?!), then you won't care. If you're a convert like me, or have always been Team Austin... then prepare to have your heart broken. I'm trying not to spoil anything, but I cannot believe Talia would do that to Austin and Brianna. I knocked off a star because of that ending.
And the fact that there are no more novels to this series (this was the last one!) makes it worse. It's permanent. Unchangeable. Unbelievable. I'M SO SAD!
Would I Recommend It:
I would recommend this book, ESPECIALLY if you didn't like the first book. If you liked the first book, you'll read this one anyway. You must. If you weren't a fan of the first book... I have a feeling you'll like this one. It's more complex and deep and crazy and swoony!
Rating:
4 stars. My heart hearts, but I seriously loved this book. PLEASE write one more with a happier ending, Talia, PLEASE. I'm begging. I don't beg. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE.
June 4, 2014
I absolutely ADORED this book!!! It was amazing. I liked this book so much better than Silver (will explain). I finished reading this book in two days because I liked it so much. This book made me happy and broke my heart at the same time.
I found that Silver annoyed me a lot because Blake was always assuming the worst of Brianna. Something would happen that really was not that big of a deal, and Blake would freak out at Brie. He would tell her that he never wanted to see her again and then the next day they would be like totally making out. I really did not like his character that much. I did not like seeing him so depressed, though. So, even though I did not like him very much does not mean that I was rejoicing when he was suffering. I was so elated when he finally killed Portia.
Ok, Portia. Not much to say about her. I hated her even more than I hated Blake. She was such an ***hole. I felt a little bit sorry for her even though she was such a jerk. Still in the end I was glad that she died and was no longer connected to Blake and a danger to Brie.
I think that Brianna really grew in this one. I think it was partly because of Austin. I was actually really glad when Blake and Brie broke up because I really did not like his character very much (as I said in the paragraph above). Her love with Austin, I thought, was really sweet. I am glad that she finally moved on from Blake, even though she thought she still loves him. One thing I did not like is that when Austin (hold it in, hold it in, do not cry) died, she did not act all that upset by it. She did say that if she started crying, she would not be able to stop, but I was hoping that she might actually cry for Austin or something.
Austin really annoyed me in Silver. He seemed like such a jerk until I read Gold. I am just going to say it. I am in love with Austin! Talia Vance did a great job redeeming his character. She made you absolutely hate him in Silver, then fall in love with him in Gold. I think that Austin was much better for Brie than Blake. He was protective, he truly cared about and trusted Brie. I think their relationship was a lot better. I am devastated that he died. That should not have happened. I was like totally crying my eyes out and I normally am not that emotional. I REALLY, REALLY hope that Talia writes another book. I hope she brings him back. He can not die!!!
I would definitely recommend this book. If you do not like depressing endings, just read Silver and stop with that. But if you are like me, and you love to cry for books, then read it. I really hope there is a third book, that brings Brianna and Austin back together. If Blake and Brie got back together, I would be seriously mad. Anyway, read it, it will not disappoint.
I found that Silver annoyed me a lot because Blake was always assuming the worst of Brianna. Something would happen that really was not that big of a deal, and Blake would freak out at Brie. He would tell her that he never wanted to see her again and then the next day they would be like totally making out. I really did not like his character that much. I did not like seeing him so depressed, though. So, even though I did not like him very much does not mean that I was rejoicing when he was suffering. I was so elated when he finally killed Portia.
Ok, Portia. Not much to say about her. I hated her even more than I hated Blake. She was such an ***hole. I felt a little bit sorry for her even though she was such a jerk. Still in the end I was glad that she died and was no longer connected to Blake and a danger to Brie.
I think that Brianna really grew in this one. I think it was partly because of Austin. I was actually really glad when Blake and Brie broke up because I really did not like his character very much (as I said in the paragraph above). Her love with Austin, I thought, was really sweet. I am glad that she finally moved on from Blake, even though she thought she still loves him. One thing I did not like is that when Austin (hold it in, hold it in, do not cry) died, she did not act all that upset by it. She did say that if she started crying, she would not be able to stop, but I was hoping that she might actually cry for Austin or something.
Austin really annoyed me in Silver. He seemed like such a jerk until I read Gold. I am just going to say it. I am in love with Austin! Talia Vance did a great job redeeming his character. She made you absolutely hate him in Silver, then fall in love with him in Gold. I think that Austin was much better for Brie than Blake. He was protective, he truly cared about and trusted Brie. I think their relationship was a lot better. I am devastated that he died. That should not have happened. I was like totally crying my eyes out and I normally am not that emotional. I REALLY, REALLY hope that Talia writes another book. I hope she brings him back. He can not die!!!
I would definitely recommend this book. If you do not like depressing endings, just read Silver and stop with that. But if you are like me, and you love to cry for books, then read it. I really hope there is a third book, that brings Brianna and Austin back together. If Blake and Brie got back together, I would be seriously mad. Anyway, read it, it will not disappoint.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2013
Book Review- Gold by Talia Vance
In this book, the story is continued from the previous book Silver. Brianna is a bandia or witch running from the sons of Killian, a group of demigods. She is a witch that can control the elements. She finds herself hiding in Ireland, staying at the estate of Austin Montgomery, the god of the Underworld. She has banished Austin back to the Underworld for a thousand years. So they are not friends, but this seems to be the safest place for her.
Then Austin is pulled back through the gate down on the beach from where she is staying. Brianna is left with no choice but to flee. The sons will be drawn to the area by the pull from the magic created by the gate. Besides she refuses to be anywhere near Austin. He ruined everything.
Unfortunately Austin didn’t open the gate and he is losing his powers. Liam, his second in command, has decided to take over. He has sent his calling for all to join him. He plans to release the gods who are trapped in the Underworld and rule over the humans. Austin and Brianna have to work together to defeat Liam. Of course, it proves to be a harder task when she loses her powers too.
As their feelings grow for each other, so does the possibility of war between Liam and the sons. She and Austin are expected to choose a side. They want peace but will protect each other at all costs.
This book was a great read. I did not read the first book but I was still able to follow the story and understand the plot as it unfolded. Brianna was still reeling from what happened to her in the first book and that set the tone for this book. Brianna changed through the book and dealt with major heartbreak. She fought with herself over what she should do and what was easier.
The story kept me engrossed where I couldn’t put it down. I didn’t know what direction each character was going to go. I was surprised as some decisions and I like it when I’m not sure what direction the story will go.
My favorite part of the story was the relationship between Brianna and Austin. It evolved throughout the story and you learn that they have more history than thought. So with the build up, I wanted to scream when I got to the end. There better be a third book in the works, because if this is where it ends, I’m sadly disappointed. I absolutely hated the ending and where everyone ended up. It was an emotional ending and I admit I did tear up. So I definitely recommend this book. It had a fabulous journey. I rate it a 4 out of 5. The ending got me.
In this book, the story is continued from the previous book Silver. Brianna is a bandia or witch running from the sons of Killian, a group of demigods. She is a witch that can control the elements. She finds herself hiding in Ireland, staying at the estate of Austin Montgomery, the god of the Underworld. She has banished Austin back to the Underworld for a thousand years. So they are not friends, but this seems to be the safest place for her.
Then Austin is pulled back through the gate down on the beach from where she is staying. Brianna is left with no choice but to flee. The sons will be drawn to the area by the pull from the magic created by the gate. Besides she refuses to be anywhere near Austin. He ruined everything.
Unfortunately Austin didn’t open the gate and he is losing his powers. Liam, his second in command, has decided to take over. He has sent his calling for all to join him. He plans to release the gods who are trapped in the Underworld and rule over the humans. Austin and Brianna have to work together to defeat Liam. Of course, it proves to be a harder task when she loses her powers too.
As their feelings grow for each other, so does the possibility of war between Liam and the sons. She and Austin are expected to choose a side. They want peace but will protect each other at all costs.
This book was a great read. I did not read the first book but I was still able to follow the story and understand the plot as it unfolded. Brianna was still reeling from what happened to her in the first book and that set the tone for this book. Brianna changed through the book and dealt with major heartbreak. She fought with herself over what she should do and what was easier.
The story kept me engrossed where I couldn’t put it down. I didn’t know what direction each character was going to go. I was surprised as some decisions and I like it when I’m not sure what direction the story will go.
My favorite part of the story was the relationship between Brianna and Austin. It evolved throughout the story and you learn that they have more history than thought. So with the build up, I wanted to scream when I got to the end. There better be a third book in the works, because if this is where it ends, I’m sadly disappointed. I absolutely hated the ending and where everyone ended up. It was an emotional ending and I admit I did tear up. So I definitely recommend this book. It had a fabulous journey. I rate it a 4 out of 5. The ending got me.
November 29, 2025
I have to admit, within the first few chapters of this book all my expectations of the direction of this story were proven wrong. Yes, that turned out to be a great thing!
Brianna is running for her life being hunted by the Sons of Killian. She goes to Austin Montgomery's estate. They same Austin that she banished back to hell. Accidentally touching her bracelet charm to a rock on the estate, Brianna opens a portal in time to an early Austin and Austin before the god fued.
A new god player appears opening a new seat of power...drawing all the mystical beings and demi-gods to the area of Brianna's refuge. Sides will be drawn, the future of the world lies in her hands, can Brianna find the correct path before she looses everything?
Brianna is amazing, even when facing down gods she doesn't waiver in her resolve. Both Austin and Blake are back and the mess of Brianna's tormented love life plays out before us.
This story was amazing. I was unsure at first, but found myself swept away in a world where gods are still vying for power, mystical creatures roam among u,s and a girl named Brianna will battle for the good of all, even against insurmountable odds.
I loved this story. I was entirely emotionally invested and utterly devastated by some of the plot twists Talia Vance threw our way.
Gold is a marvelously written contemporary fantasy interwoven with ancient Irish lore to create this fantastic must-read story.
This ARC copy of Gold was given to me by Flux Book in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication September 1, 2013.
Brianna is running for her life being hunted by the Sons of Killian. She goes to Austin Montgomery's estate. They same Austin that she banished back to hell. Accidentally touching her bracelet charm to a rock on the estate, Brianna opens a portal in time to an early Austin and Austin before the god fued.
A new god player appears opening a new seat of power...drawing all the mystical beings and demi-gods to the area of Brianna's refuge. Sides will be drawn, the future of the world lies in her hands, can Brianna find the correct path before she looses everything?
Brianna is amazing, even when facing down gods she doesn't waiver in her resolve. Both Austin and Blake are back and the mess of Brianna's tormented love life plays out before us.
This story was amazing. I was unsure at first, but found myself swept away in a world where gods are still vying for power, mystical creatures roam among u,s and a girl named Brianna will battle for the good of all, even against insurmountable odds.
I loved this story. I was entirely emotionally invested and utterly devastated by some of the plot twists Talia Vance threw our way.
Gold is a marvelously written contemporary fantasy interwoven with ancient Irish lore to create this fantastic must-read story.
This ARC copy of Gold was given to me by Flux Book in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication September 1, 2013.
April 9, 2013
I was lucky enough to get an ARC from NetGalley of this book for an honest review, and I was very excited to get it. I give it 4 stars, but if I could, I'd give it 4 and a half!
Gold picks up a little after Silver ended, with Brianna going to Ireland for her own safety and trying to figure out herself.
This book has proven to be more deep and more engaging that Silver was, and even though I liked Silver, I've loved Gold much more.
Everything is more in depth here, the look at the characters, the complicated and changing relationships between the characters, the play on Irish myth and lore, and the plot that keeps unravelling and surprising you with every turn of the page.
Brianna grows as a character and because of that and how she handles all her emotional challenges and her moral choices, I kept on rooting from her through every page.
There's what might be considered a love triangle, and it is not exactly what you'd expect after Silver, but the hint itself is in the book titles, but it's done in a way that it never buggered me at all, and I really am not a fan of love triangles.
The ending is really heartwrenching, but also with a hint of hope, and I really can't wait to read what Talia Vance has in storage for us in the next book!
Gold picks up a little after Silver ended, with Brianna going to Ireland for her own safety and trying to figure out herself.
This book has proven to be more deep and more engaging that Silver was, and even though I liked Silver, I've loved Gold much more.
Everything is more in depth here, the look at the characters, the complicated and changing relationships between the characters, the play on Irish myth and lore, and the plot that keeps unravelling and surprising you with every turn of the page.
Brianna grows as a character and because of that and how she handles all her emotional challenges and her moral choices, I kept on rooting from her through every page.
There's what might be considered a love triangle, and it is not exactly what you'd expect after Silver, but the hint itself is in the book titles, but it's done in a way that it never buggered me at all, and I really am not a fan of love triangles.
The ending is really heartwrenching, but also with a hint of hope, and I really can't wait to read what Talia Vance has in storage for us in the next book!
April 22, 2013
Disclosure: read the uncorrected ARC for review; received from NetGalley
Talia Vance outdid herself with Gold! Everything that the reader enjoyed in Silver (Bandia #1) is amplified in this highly anticipated sequel. Brianna has grown some, matured, is mastering her powers, and is no longer bonded with Blake. (The book's title gives a hint to Brianna's new love interest!) Gold takes the reader from sunny Rancho Domingo, California to chilly and magical Cath, Ireland. And Talia takes the romance to a new, thrilling level in this novel!
In Gold, we see Brianna, the other bandia, gods, demigods, giolla, and fuath meet in Ireland at the gate to the underworld to settle the score once and for all. Alliances are drawn, friendships are put to the test, and new love is found. This book kept me on my toes; there is no predictability, all the way to the final page!
As I write this review I'm only left with two questions: first, is the "romance" that Brianna experiences halfway through the book a bit too heavy/detailed for a YA novel? At times I truly felt that I had slipped into an adult romance. Second, how quickly can Talia write Bandia #3 for her faithful readers? Gold definitely left me needing more!
Talia Vance outdid herself with Gold! Everything that the reader enjoyed in Silver (Bandia #1) is amplified in this highly anticipated sequel. Brianna has grown some, matured, is mastering her powers, and is no longer bonded with Blake. (The book's title gives a hint to Brianna's new love interest!) Gold takes the reader from sunny Rancho Domingo, California to chilly and magical Cath, Ireland. And Talia takes the romance to a new, thrilling level in this novel!
In Gold, we see Brianna, the other bandia, gods, demigods, giolla, and fuath meet in Ireland at the gate to the underworld to settle the score once and for all. Alliances are drawn, friendships are put to the test, and new love is found. This book kept me on my toes; there is no predictability, all the way to the final page!
As I write this review I'm only left with two questions: first, is the "romance" that Brianna experiences halfway through the book a bit too heavy/detailed for a YA novel? At times I truly felt that I had slipped into an adult romance. Second, how quickly can Talia write Bandia #3 for her faithful readers? Gold definitely left me needing more!
July 29, 2013
NB: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley.
I was so torn about this book...there were things about it I loved, and things that made me cringe a little. For example, I love Brianna's stubborn streak and determination. But the relationship between her and Austin left me thinking of Edward and Bella pretty often (this is not a good thing). However, I do think Brianna is a stronger character than Bella, even after losing her powers...which leads me to what I enjoyed most about this book:
Until she suddenly loses her powers, Brianna is an equal to the baddies, the Sons of Killian, and a near-equal to Austin. She's powerful in her own right, not just because a powerful dude loves her, and that rocks!
I realized shortly after starting this book that it was a sequel...I don't know how I missed that before, but I sure did! I definitely think reading Silver first would be a good thing. There were many, MANY instances where I thought to myself, "This would make more sense if I'd read the first one..." I get the feeling, though, that I would be cringing a lot more while reading Silver; when the narrative did give me enough to decipher what had happened in the first book, it usually left me cold.
I was so torn about this book...there were things about it I loved, and things that made me cringe a little. For example, I love Brianna's stubborn streak and determination. But the relationship between her and Austin left me thinking of Edward and Bella pretty often (this is not a good thing). However, I do think Brianna is a stronger character than Bella, even after losing her powers...which leads me to what I enjoyed most about this book:
Until she suddenly loses her powers, Brianna is an equal to the baddies, the Sons of Killian, and a near-equal to Austin. She's powerful in her own right, not just because a powerful dude loves her, and that rocks!
I realized shortly after starting this book that it was a sequel...I don't know how I missed that before, but I sure did! I definitely think reading Silver first would be a good thing. There were many, MANY instances where I thought to myself, "This would make more sense if I'd read the first one..." I get the feeling, though, that I would be cringing a lot more while reading Silver; when the narrative did give me enough to decipher what had happened in the first book, it usually left me cold.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2013
First, I just wanna say that it's funny how I loved Blake and hated Austin in the first one, and now in this one, I hated Blake and loved Austin. Crazy stuff goes down in this one, guys.
I was all for giving it five stars, until I heard that there probably won't be a third one. I mean, what?
But still, 4 stars. 5, except for the ending. (Because honestly this book was fantastic--so much better than the first one.)
I was all for giving it five stars, until I heard that there probably won't be a third one. I mean, what?
But still, 4 stars. 5, except for the ending. (Because honestly this book was fantastic--so much better than the first one.)
December 1, 2013
i loved Silver & Gold a lot and i could not put this book down once i started it...the only reason i didn't give it 5 stars was because of the whole tragic ending...i mean yes the author left it open for you to think that she might get her man back from the underworld....but regardless it ended in tragedy which is just annoying....whats the point in writing stories like this for it to end badly? it makes you feel like there was no point in reading the books to begin with....i don't care what people say about 'realisticness & life-really-isn't-like-that happy ending crap' ...personally i read these stories BECAUSE they aren't realistic, because they transport you some where else, i don't read a book to have the main characters die on me....
Anyway..enough with the rant...i still loved the story i though t it was really interesting, i really loved that she ended up with Austin and the twist about he waited to see her again for 1000 years.. talk about SWOOONNNNN!!! i loved their relationship more than her and Blake ....
Anyway..enough with the rant...i still loved the story i though t it was really interesting, i really loved that she ended up with Austin and the twist about he waited to see her again for 1000 years.. talk about SWOOONNNNN!!! i loved their relationship more than her and Blake ....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2015
I must admit that this sequel was a lot, lot better than the first book. It's almost unbelievable that both books were written by the same author, since this one was really written professionaly.
The plot twist at the very beginning of the sequel was really effective. I was thankful that Talia Vance now knew what she was doing, replacing Blake with Austin as the leading man. I was actually able to connect with Austin and Brianna, never like I had with her and Blake. This new pairing, was amazing, it had so much chemistry, which is what instantly got me hooked.
As for the plot, the action, the conflicts, and the twists, I was impressed with them all.
Lastly, don't get me wrong—I definitely loved this book. The reason why I'm giving it four stars is because I was disappointed with the ending, the last page to be exact. Though it was heartbreaking, I was kinda expecting more. An assurance that there will still be a third book in the series, that it isn't over yet, might make me think twice about my rating and give it a full five stars.
The plot twist at the very beginning of the sequel was really effective. I was thankful that Talia Vance now knew what she was doing, replacing Blake with Austin as the leading man. I was actually able to connect with Austin and Brianna, never like I had with her and Blake. This new pairing, was amazing, it had so much chemistry, which is what instantly got me hooked.
As for the plot, the action, the conflicts, and the twists, I was impressed with them all.
Lastly, don't get me wrong—I definitely loved this book. The reason why I'm giving it four stars is because I was disappointed with the ending, the last page to be exact. Though it was heartbreaking, I was kinda expecting more. An assurance that there will still be a third book in the series, that it isn't over yet, might make me think twice about my rating and give it a full five stars.
April 27, 2014
I loved the sequel a lot!! Really it is way better than the first book! Austin!!! Noooo whyyyy it's like the ending for White Hot Kiss by JLA! There better be another book cause if not I'll be just broken... Sigh... This was one crazy journey and when she finally started making the right choices something happens to Austin and... I need the next book now.
November 3, 2014
You just killed me at the end! I was waiting for the moment when Austin would show up and hug Brianna... But he never came back! Okay, there was definitively a way to bring him back, but I wanted to be a part of it too! I missed him much!
February 23, 2017
Many times second books can be a drag but this book in my opinion was so much better than the first. This book intrigued me, it made me feel sadness, love and respect for the characters in greater depth.
August 8, 2015
crazy ending and crazy destiny fate thing going on I'll leave it at that
September 7, 2013
My original review for this title can be found
HERE
on The Book Hookup.
** SPECIAL NOTE:** An eARC of this title was provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. However, that did not influence this review in any way. All thoughts, quotes, and opinions will be of this version and not of the published edition.
Initial Thoughts and Rating: Actual rating of 4.5 stars! I believe Ms. Vance wrote this novel to make me swoon so that she could break my heart. Everything that made me fall in love with the first book- chemistry, great pacing, Celtic mythology- also made me love this second installment, too. If I were rating this novel on Austin and his swoons alone, it would be going on my FOREVER-TOP-SHELF-GIVE-HIM-ALL-THE-STARS favorite list. However, there were a few things that kept me from going full top shelf, so that’s why it’s landed on my second instead.
The Lowdown: Gold takes place after the summer where we left off in Silver. We aren’t given all the full details from the beginning, but we’re thrown immediately into the story and we find that Brianna, one of two known Bandia, is on the run from her sworn enemies, the Sons of Killian, but more importantly, that her and Blake are no longer together for some reason. She’s whisked away to Ireland, her ancestors’ homeland, for her own protection. However, to her great dismay, she learns that she’ll be staying at the estate of Austin Montgomery, the very same god she banished to the Underworld in book one.
But sometimes gods don’t stay banished and old wars are hardly ever over. In fact, there’s a new battle brewing on the horizon and all the Irish mystical creatures that were once thought perished long ago are asked to pick a side and fight. We meet new characters, fall in and out love with old ones, and learn that even without magic and powers, people can learn to be just as strong and brave.
But then, there’s something more. When Brianna discovers an old ruin that is able to transport her back to a time from over a thousand years ago, before the war between the Daughters of Danu and Sons of Killian ever began, can she stop the feuding before it even starts? Will she want to?
My Thoughts: This novel had the ability to reel me in and keep me captivated from beginning to end. So much so, that I read it in one sitting, forging through despite running a fever, drowning myself in NyQuil, and ignoring hunger pangs. Ms. Vance definitely has a way of bringing the Celtic folklore alive and keeping her readers spellbound with excellent pacing and lively characters. The plot was full of twist and turns that kept me guessing until the very end.
There were only two minor grievances I had with this novel. One was that I didn’t have enough time to go back and reread Silver, but even if I had, I still feel like I would have been a little lost in the beginning of this book. It would have been hard enough to fall back into the story and mystery of the Irish mythology even with a recap, but seeing as there wasn’t one and that there was a time lapse between this novel and the previous, I was left a little confused about what was happening in the first few chapters. However, the author slowly addressed the issues that broke the treaty between Brianna and the Sons, and I was soon able to fall back into the natural rhythm of the story eventually.
The second issue I had with this book is probably more of a personal one. I could live with how it ended, but I don’t exactly want to have it end like that. Especially if there’s a chance, a little tiny sliver of hope, for a future that means he can come back. (Yes, I have to be vague. It’s for your own good.) I tweeted the author about a third novel, and she said that she will probably write it because she has to know for herself, but doesn’t ever know if it will be published. So, yeah, if there was a solid chance of another book, I probably would’ve given this a full five stars, but as it stands now, I simply can’t be satisfied with that ending after so many of my feelings had been invested in him… in them.
Swoons: Austin makes me wonder why I ever ever ever liked Blake in the first novel. This guy, whether it was the Austin-from-the-past or Austin-from-the-now, had me flailing and swooning all over the place. From his words, to actions, to how his love for her lasted for thousands of years is just… siiiiiiiiigh. Not only that, but we find out why he acted like a supreme ass in the first installment, and somehow, it makes me love him all the more.
♥ Swoony Teasers:
&
Verdict: You should be reading this novel for the swoons alone. But I’ll warn you, you should build a fortress around your heart so that Ms. Vance can’t storm the castle and blow it to smithereens like she did to mine. I’ll just be over here, still sobbing into my pillow like the cry-baby that I am.
♥ A very special thanks to Flux and Net Galley for providing me with an early copy of this title.
** SPECIAL NOTE:** An eARC of this title was provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. However, that did not influence this review in any way. All thoughts, quotes, and opinions will be of this version and not of the published edition.
Initial Thoughts and Rating: Actual rating of 4.5 stars! I believe Ms. Vance wrote this novel to make me swoon so that she could break my heart. Everything that made me fall in love with the first book- chemistry, great pacing, Celtic mythology- also made me love this second installment, too. If I were rating this novel on Austin and his swoons alone, it would be going on my FOREVER-TOP-SHELF-GIVE-HIM-ALL-THE-STARS favorite list. However, there were a few things that kept me from going full top shelf, so that’s why it’s landed on my second instead.
The Lowdown: Gold takes place after the summer where we left off in Silver. We aren’t given all the full details from the beginning, but we’re thrown immediately into the story and we find that Brianna, one of two known Bandia, is on the run from her sworn enemies, the Sons of Killian, but more importantly, that her and Blake are no longer together for some reason. She’s whisked away to Ireland, her ancestors’ homeland, for her own protection. However, to her great dismay, she learns that she’ll be staying at the estate of Austin Montgomery, the very same god she banished to the Underworld in book one.
But sometimes gods don’t stay banished and old wars are hardly ever over. In fact, there’s a new battle brewing on the horizon and all the Irish mystical creatures that were once thought perished long ago are asked to pick a side and fight. We meet new characters, fall in and out love with old ones, and learn that even without magic and powers, people can learn to be just as strong and brave.
But then, there’s something more. When Brianna discovers an old ruin that is able to transport her back to a time from over a thousand years ago, before the war between the Daughters of Danu and Sons of Killian ever began, can she stop the feuding before it even starts? Will she want to?
My Thoughts: This novel had the ability to reel me in and keep me captivated from beginning to end. So much so, that I read it in one sitting, forging through despite running a fever, drowning myself in NyQuil, and ignoring hunger pangs. Ms. Vance definitely has a way of bringing the Celtic folklore alive and keeping her readers spellbound with excellent pacing and lively characters. The plot was full of twist and turns that kept me guessing until the very end.
There were only two minor grievances I had with this novel. One was that I didn’t have enough time to go back and reread Silver, but even if I had, I still feel like I would have been a little lost in the beginning of this book. It would have been hard enough to fall back into the story and mystery of the Irish mythology even with a recap, but seeing as there wasn’t one and that there was a time lapse between this novel and the previous, I was left a little confused about what was happening in the first few chapters. However, the author slowly addressed the issues that broke the treaty between Brianna and the Sons, and I was soon able to fall back into the natural rhythm of the story eventually.
The second issue I had with this book is probably more of a personal one. I could live with how it ended, but I don’t exactly want to have it end like that. Especially if there’s a chance, a little tiny sliver of hope, for a future that means he can come back. (Yes, I have to be vague. It’s for your own good.) I tweeted the author about a third novel, and she said that she will probably write it because she has to know for herself, but doesn’t ever know if it will be published. So, yeah, if there was a solid chance of another book, I probably would’ve given this a full five stars, but as it stands now, I simply can’t be satisfied with that ending after so many of my feelings had been invested in him… in them.
Swoons: Austin makes me wonder why I ever ever ever liked Blake in the first novel. This guy, whether it was the Austin-from-the-past or Austin-from-the-now, had me flailing and swooning all over the place. From his words, to actions, to how his love for her lasted for thousands of years is just… siiiiiiiiigh. Not only that, but we find out why he acted like a supreme ass in the first installment, and somehow, it makes me love him all the more.
♥ Swoony Teasers:
“I could be stripped of a thousand years of memories, and I would always know, in my heart, that I love you.”
&
“No matter what happens, know this.” Austin watches me, but he doesn’t say anything more.
“Know what?” I press.
He takes a breath. “I have wanted you since the year one thousand and nine, when you were a mystery girl form the future who kissed me like I had never been kissed. I waited for you for over a thousand years. I’ve loved you even longer. I will do everything in my power to keep you safe.”
Verdict: You should be reading this novel for the swoons alone. But I’ll warn you, you should build a fortress around your heart so that Ms. Vance can’t storm the castle and blow it to smithereens like she did to mine. I’ll just be over here, still sobbing into my pillow like the cry-baby that I am.
♥ A very special thanks to Flux and Net Galley for providing me with an early copy of this title.
May 4, 2018
Talia,
I hope you write more to this series. I didn't want to put it down.
I felt so many emotions over the coarse of being absorbed in the story.
Isn't that the highest level of a true story teller? To be able to make
Others get so absorbed into the story that it makes them feel what
The characters feel. To hurt when they hurt, to laugh when they laugh,
To feel their betrayal and their hopes and Prayers... I felt all of those things.
I would recommend this book to others who want to absorb a good story
from a very good story teller...
I hope you will consider adding more to the story... I truly enjoyed the story..
It is hard to find someone who can weave a really remarkable story such as this.
I can hardly wait for more..
Thank you,
Teri
I hope you write more to this series. I didn't want to put it down.
I felt so many emotions over the coarse of being absorbed in the story.
Isn't that the highest level of a true story teller? To be able to make
Others get so absorbed into the story that it makes them feel what
The characters feel. To hurt when they hurt, to laugh when they laugh,
To feel their betrayal and their hopes and Prayers... I felt all of those things.
I would recommend this book to others who want to absorb a good story
from a very good story teller...
I hope you will consider adding more to the story... I truly enjoyed the story..
It is hard to find someone who can weave a really remarkable story such as this.
I can hardly wait for more..
Thank you,
Teri
November 17, 2018
A lot better than the first book but still not amazing me. I feel like there could have been so much potential with this story but a lot of it was wasted on pettiness and absolute nonsense, especially in the first book. The second however was a step up but still not great.
May 15, 2018
This book broke my heart all over again. I'm crying.
August 4, 2018
Love love love the series. But the ending was absolutely rubbish. Unless there will be a book 3, this is just another unfinished story. Still great tho.
October 26, 2018
Your time would be better used watching a documentary on mosquitoes, washing dishes, or sleeping than reading this cobbled together story. I'm sorry, it just really isn't that great.
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