What do you think?
Rate this book
Spellbound #2
Spellcaster
Finding your eternal soulmate - easy.
Stopping a true-love-hungry evil - not so much…
After breaking a centuries-old romantic curse, Emma Connor is (almost) glad to get back to normal problems. Although... it's not easy dealing with the jealous cliques and gossip that rule her exclusive Upper East Side prep -- even for a sixteen-year-old newbie witch. Having the most-wanted boy in school as her eternal soul mate sure helps ease the pain... especially since wealthy, rocker-hot Brendan Salinger is very good at staying irresistibly close…
But something dark and hungry is using Emma and Brendan's deepest fears to reveal damaging secrets and destroy their trust in each other. And Emma's crash course in überspells may not be enough to keep them safe...or to stop an inhuman force bent on making their unsuspected power its own.
Stopping a true-love-hungry evil - not so much…
After breaking a centuries-old romantic curse, Emma Connor is (almost) glad to get back to normal problems. Although... it's not easy dealing with the jealous cliques and gossip that rule her exclusive Upper East Side prep -- even for a sixteen-year-old newbie witch. Having the most-wanted boy in school as her eternal soul mate sure helps ease the pain... especially since wealthy, rocker-hot Brendan Salinger is very good at staying irresistibly close…
But something dark and hungry is using Emma and Brendan's deepest fears to reveal damaging secrets and destroy their trust in each other. And Emma's crash course in überspells may not be enough to keep them safe...or to stop an inhuman force bent on making their unsuspected power its own.
371 pages, Paperback
First published March 27, 2012
85 people are currently reading
5623 people want to read
About the author
Cara Lynn Shultz
5 books727 followersCara Lynn Shultz is the author of Spellbound, Spellcaster and The Dark World. She has written for Billboard, People, Logo TV, The Dodo, Alternative Press, Teen People, Stuff and The Guardian UK.
*****
Hey guys! I rarely check my Goodreads messages, so if you are trying to contact me, the best bet is Facebook
(Facebook.com/CaraLShultz), Twitter (@CaraLynnShultz) or Instagram (@caralynshultz).
*****
Hey guys! I rarely check my Goodreads messages, so if you are trying to contact me, the best bet is Facebook
(Facebook.com/CaraLShultz), Twitter (@CaraLynnShultz) or Instagram (@caralynshultz).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 402 reviews
August 23, 2012
I am actually looking forward to this book! And it would be a crying shame if authors never made sequels, they are so important to the readers who DO enjoy the series.
It is perfectly fine to not like a book, but never, ever ok to tell the author not to waste their time. And she is "for the love of all things good and holy" writing a new book because there ARE people who want to read it! If you don't want to, then here is a suggestion: Jog on and stop being so rude!
Finished the book, it was AWESOME! Nothing else need be said.
It is perfectly fine to not like a book, but never, ever ok to tell the author not to waste their time. And she is "for the love of all things good and holy" writing a new book because there ARE people who want to read it! If you don't want to, then here is a suggestion: Jog on and stop being so rude!
Finished the book, it was AWESOME! Nothing else need be said.
Want to read
January 12, 2012Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought Spellbound was a standalone?!
There's MORE to Brendan and Emma's story? Really???
No offense to the author... but just when I thought I'd gotten away from the ever dreaded series schtick, it comes back to smack me dead in the face.
I'll read it but I'm a little lost as to why their story is being continued. (And I'm not trying to be mean. I'm just honestly curious)
After reading the epi in Spellbound, I really thought we'd be hearing from another character, not Emma and Brendan again.
AND I still don't know why I'm complaining seeing as I'll obviously be reading it 'cause I'm lame. Ugh.
UPDATE: eARC in hand. Let's Do this. 12th Jan, 2012
There's MORE to Brendan and Emma's story? Really???
No offense to the author... but just when I thought I'd gotten away from the ever dreaded series schtick, it comes back to smack me dead in the face.
I'll read it but I'm a little lost as to why their story is being continued. (And I'm not trying to be mean. I'm just honestly curious)
After reading the epi in Spellbound, I really thought we'd be hearing from another character, not Emma and Brendan again.
AND I still don't know why I'm complaining seeing as I'll obviously be reading it 'cause I'm lame. Ugh.
UPDATE: eARC in hand. Let's Do this. 12th Jan, 2012
April 13, 2012
UPDATE, CAUSE I READ IT
I stayed up all night it finally downloaded to my kindle, and finished it. I was not in good shape for work the next day, but whatever, it was worth it. :)
Emma grows so much in this book!! She's a little braver, a little more smart-mouthed, but she's also still really funny. I also liked seeing the relationship with her and Brendan. They're really in love, but they're also NORMAL. Like, there was this one scene where he teased her about how she takes her coffee...I don't know, it was just normal and nice to see.
I really loved it. I will admit, I wanted more sexy times with the two of them, but I'm glad the author had them wait for sex because, you know, this IS a book for teens after all.
There was also a lot of action, and I just kept reading and reading. I'll reread Spellbound, then read Spellcaster again.
LOVED it.
-----------
I can't wait for this book! The first one was really funny and super sweet.
Okay, now I've been reading everyone's reviews and this book seems like it's going to be SO good! No love triangle in a second book? Is that even POSSIBLE?!?!?? More Brendan and Emma, more witchyness? I NEED THIS BOOK NOW!!!!!!!!!
I stayed up all night it finally downloaded to my kindle, and finished it. I was not in good shape for work the next day, but whatever, it was worth it. :)
Emma grows so much in this book!! She's a little braver, a little more smart-mouthed, but she's also still really funny. I also liked seeing the relationship with her and Brendan. They're really in love, but they're also NORMAL. Like, there was this one scene where he teased her about how she takes her coffee...I don't know, it was just normal and nice to see.
I really loved it. I will admit, I wanted more sexy times with the two of them, but I'm glad the author had them wait for sex because, you know, this IS a book for teens after all.
There was also a lot of action, and I just kept reading and reading. I'll reread Spellbound, then read Spellcaster again.
LOVED it.
-----------
I can't wait for this book! The first one was really funny and super sweet.
Okay, now I've been reading everyone's reviews and this book seems like it's going to be SO good! No love triangle in a second book? Is that even POSSIBLE?!?!?? More Brendan and Emma, more witchyness? I NEED THIS BOOK NOW!!!!!!!!!
Want to read
October 13, 2011I had no idea there was going to be a sequel. So cool. Can't wait.
April 5, 2016
Emma and Brendan are now together, without the curse that plagued Brendan's ancestors. Knowing that Emma is a witch doesn't make her less of a threat from the people who want to hurt her. During a field trip, she gets attacked and has to use her powers last minute to defend herself. With the help of her now best friend Angelique and Brendan, they try to solve the mystery of who is after them.
I love how Emma doesn't just run away and hide from her problems. She fights, and stands up for herself, and in doing so, makes her a formidable opponent. This is a different type of book with witchly powers, and I love how they're all tied in together in the end. Being with Brendan, also makes Emma stronger and together they make an adorable couple and I loved their cute dialogue making me laugh out loud at some parts.
What I dislike was the fact that someone is always trying to murder someone. Now if Andy came back, then I can tell that would become a great book as well. Now these books always end off with a cliffhanger, so I wouldn't know what the next story-line would be but I'm still excited to find out.
I love how Emma doesn't just run away and hide from her problems. She fights, and stands up for herself, and in doing so, makes her a formidable opponent. This is a different type of book with witchly powers, and I love how they're all tied in together in the end. Being with Brendan, also makes Emma stronger and together they make an adorable couple and I loved their cute dialogue making me laugh out loud at some parts.
What I dislike was the fact that someone is always trying to murder someone. Now if Andy came back, then I can tell that would become a great book as well. Now these books always end off with a cliffhanger, so I wouldn't know what the next story-line would be but I'm still excited to find out.
March 26, 2012
“Three Stars: Freed from the lovers curse, but happily ever after is not in store for Brendan and Emma as dark enemies seek to destroy their happiness. Spellcaster, drops back into Brendan and Emma's lives four months after the neat resolution of Spellbound. The book opens with a cryptic email to an unknown addressee at the Vince A Prep School. The anonymous emailer is bent on unleashing revenge on Brendan. Meanwhile, the lovebirds have settled back into school. Emma is working with Angelique to hone her witchcraft. The two novice witches attempt a simple spell and end up with a dire prediction. Something black and malicious is coursing toward Emma and Brendan, intent on destroying their bond. A hate so malevolent that it could possibly eclipse the true love of soul mates. Severely shaken, Emma attempts to push the dire warning out of her mind. The next day, what starts as a typical day, turns ominous as Brendan is hauled to the office under accusations of drugs. He is detained, unable to accompany Emma on the school field trip. At the end of the excursion, Emma wanders off into the park and is attacked by a masked, knife wielding assailant. The attacker wants her blood, but Emma fights back. This is just the beginning of a series of horrible events that drags danger to Emma and Brendan. Can the pair once again stand together and fend off the blackness that threatens to destroy them?What I Liked:
*Brendan and Emma are back, and their sizzling, hot romance is just as heated. I again enjoyed the electric chemistry between the pair. Together they are passionate and deep, but yet they show restraint. I appreciate that Ms. Shultz lets the sparks fly between them, but they show maturity regarding sex. Meaning, they choose to wait until an appropriate time. So, those of you who prefer not to have sex in your YA, this has plenty of simmering scenes (kissing etc.) but no actual sex scenes.
*I appreciated that this time Angelique comes into focus and you get to know her better, in fact there are a couple of times where she takes over the narration. Angelique is full of surprises. Cisco also is more prevalent in this book, which I liked since he is one of my favorite characters.
*I liked the way the author drops little clues and small tidbits that seem inconsequential at the time, but then later they resurface and become important. I enjoyed following the trail and seeing how they all fit together. Almost everything has a place in the story.
*I mentioned in my earlier review of Spellbound, that this series has the ubiquitous mean girl. While I hate the inclusion of the tormentors, at least the main characters take a stand against the bullying. I admired the way that Emma admonished herself when she stooped to the low tactics of the mean girls. She sees the error in her actions and chooses to rise above that nasty type of behavior.
*I appreciate that this series stays away from the horrendous love triangles and the dreaded cliffhangers. Both books center around the smoking hot romance between Brendan and Emma, and they both resolve nicely. I applaud Ms. Shultz for endeavoring to refrain from my two most hated nemesis in the YA genre.
*I love Emma's voice, she is just a touch sarcastic and a bit edgy, which leads to some fun dialogue.
*I liked that the author included at the end of both books a downloadable playlist of songs on Brendan and Emma's ipods. A fun little addition to the books.
And The Not So Much:
*This book explores Emma's newfound powers as she begins to accept that she is a witch. For some reason, I just don't feel like the whole witch concept is thoroughly explored and explained. Some of the spells just don't make sense. For instance, it becomes evident that powerful spells can be performed if the caster has a personal item, so why then would the characters agree to give blood to get the attacker to back off? A sample of blood is one of the most potent ingredients, usually to perform a dark spell. The witchcraft, just didn't feel realistic to me.
*Again this book starts off slow. It takes a good while before the true plot unfolds, and the action doesn't kick in until at least half way. The book does build and build to a big dramatic finish, but you must be patient.
*This book has a darker tone in comparison to its predecessor. I found that I had a harder time staying engaged in this plot, it may have been just me, but I thought the focus on the romance in the first book was fun, this time the story revolves around a dark predator bent on breaking up Emma and Brendan. Perhaps the reason I wasn't as entertained by this book was that the plot lacked the originality that was present in Spellbound.
Fans of the Brendan and Emma, soul mates, will delight in the return of their spicy hot romance. This book delves into the paranormal world of witches and spells. Angelique steps forward and adds her unique voice to the book, a lively addition indeed. I can recommend this book to anyone who is looking to read outside of the typical triangle trios and escape the pain of the cliffhanger. This is a good read, but in my opinion not quite as unique as its predecessor.
Favorite Quotations:
"I thought at the time---she'd had so much Botox for the grand opening of one of her husband's hotels that her face was about as flexible as brick."
"So I could think of better ways to pass the time than discussing his past, like slamming my face into a drawer---repeatedly."
"I rolled my eyes at her. "You watch too much porny latenight TV."
"Looks like someone put on her pervy pants this morning."
"Which left me standing right next to Kristin, the Creamsicle---colored harpy. I felt like the chained-up goat from Jurassic Park, just waiting for the T-Rex to come and bite my head off."
"I sat on the rim of the bathtub in his messy bathroom, blowing my nose into a continuous roll of toilet paper like the sexy beast I am."
"You're a diamond and she's a....Twinkie wrapper."
"He thought her tan made her look like she bathed in nacho cheese."
"The empath in me was hit with such a display of he-man testosterone swagger I was worried I'd feel like trying to write my name in the snow."
"Overlooking it all like an eye in the sky was the moon, a deep rust color bleeding into its side as the lunar eclipse continued its progress." ”
Orginally posted @ http://rainydayramblings.typepad.com/
*Brendan and Emma are back, and their sizzling, hot romance is just as heated. I again enjoyed the electric chemistry between the pair. Together they are passionate and deep, but yet they show restraint. I appreciate that Ms. Shultz lets the sparks fly between them, but they show maturity regarding sex. Meaning, they choose to wait until an appropriate time. So, those of you who prefer not to have sex in your YA, this has plenty of simmering scenes (kissing etc.) but no actual sex scenes.
*I appreciated that this time Angelique comes into focus and you get to know her better, in fact there are a couple of times where she takes over the narration. Angelique is full of surprises. Cisco also is more prevalent in this book, which I liked since he is one of my favorite characters.
*I liked the way the author drops little clues and small tidbits that seem inconsequential at the time, but then later they resurface and become important. I enjoyed following the trail and seeing how they all fit together. Almost everything has a place in the story.
*I mentioned in my earlier review of Spellbound, that this series has the ubiquitous mean girl. While I hate the inclusion of the tormentors, at least the main characters take a stand against the bullying. I admired the way that Emma admonished herself when she stooped to the low tactics of the mean girls. She sees the error in her actions and chooses to rise above that nasty type of behavior.
*I appreciate that this series stays away from the horrendous love triangles and the dreaded cliffhangers. Both books center around the smoking hot romance between Brendan and Emma, and they both resolve nicely. I applaud Ms. Shultz for endeavoring to refrain from my two most hated nemesis in the YA genre.
*I love Emma's voice, she is just a touch sarcastic and a bit edgy, which leads to some fun dialogue.
*I liked that the author included at the end of both books a downloadable playlist of songs on Brendan and Emma's ipods. A fun little addition to the books.
And The Not So Much:
*This book explores Emma's newfound powers as she begins to accept that she is a witch. For some reason, I just don't feel like the whole witch concept is thoroughly explored and explained. Some of the spells just don't make sense. For instance, it becomes evident that powerful spells can be performed if the caster has a personal item, so why then would the characters agree to give blood to get the attacker to back off? A sample of blood is one of the most potent ingredients, usually to perform a dark spell. The witchcraft, just didn't feel realistic to me.
*Again this book starts off slow. It takes a good while before the true plot unfolds, and the action doesn't kick in until at least half way. The book does build and build to a big dramatic finish, but you must be patient.
*This book has a darker tone in comparison to its predecessor. I found that I had a harder time staying engaged in this plot, it may have been just me, but I thought the focus on the romance in the first book was fun, this time the story revolves around a dark predator bent on breaking up Emma and Brendan. Perhaps the reason I wasn't as entertained by this book was that the plot lacked the originality that was present in Spellbound.
Fans of the Brendan and Emma, soul mates, will delight in the return of their spicy hot romance. This book delves into the paranormal world of witches and spells. Angelique steps forward and adds her unique voice to the book, a lively addition indeed. I can recommend this book to anyone who is looking to read outside of the typical triangle trios and escape the pain of the cliffhanger. This is a good read, but in my opinion not quite as unique as its predecessor.
Favorite Quotations:
"I thought at the time---she'd had so much Botox for the grand opening of one of her husband's hotels that her face was about as flexible as brick."
"So I could think of better ways to pass the time than discussing his past, like slamming my face into a drawer---repeatedly."
"I rolled my eyes at her. "You watch too much porny latenight TV."
"Looks like someone put on her pervy pants this morning."
"Which left me standing right next to Kristin, the Creamsicle---colored harpy. I felt like the chained-up goat from Jurassic Park, just waiting for the T-Rex to come and bite my head off."
"I sat on the rim of the bathtub in his messy bathroom, blowing my nose into a continuous roll of toilet paper like the sexy beast I am."
"You're a diamond and she's a....Twinkie wrapper."
"He thought her tan made her look like she bathed in nacho cheese."
"The empath in me was hit with such a display of he-man testosterone swagger I was worried I'd feel like trying to write my name in the snow."
"Overlooking it all like an eye in the sky was the moon, a deep rust color bleeding into its side as the lunar eclipse continued its progress." ”
Orginally posted @ http://rainydayramblings.typepad.com/
March 27, 2012
First of all let me just say, holy hotness BRENDAN! Yet another hot YA boy to add to my swoon list. I really enjoyed Emma and Brendan’s relationship in this book. It was sweet with just the right amount of steam for a YA book. This was a really fun YA paranormal read. A fast moving plot with lots of action, magic and romance. SPELLCASTER was definitely my kind of book. The dialogue was witty and the author totally nailed the teen voice which is easier said than done. Spellcaster was a perfect sequel to Spellbound and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys witch stories or just a good paranormal read. Loved this book!
April 1, 2012
Spellcaster
is a spellbinding intensely action packed magical tale of suspense, danger, and love at its inner most core. It is dark and hungry, filled with primal urges, impending danger, hidden secrets, and evil forces hell bent on taking unsuspected powers for their own. In the center of the story, is the sweet and engrossing tale of two soulmates - Emma and Brendan - who are incredibly amazing enough not to take their relationship at face value, as they delve more into the nature of their history. Shultz does a wonderfully brilliant job of evoking such deep seeded fears, the unveiling of innermost secrets that could harm, and threats to damage the trust these two have placed in one another. There are so many incredibly twists and turns throughout this story that are enough to keep readers guessing and craving the answers.
Shultz writing style is focused on all of the right elements that it should be. It's a perfect balance, between attention to detail, story arcs, and character development. Emma is such an endearing character, who seems to have grown stronger and a bit more brave than she was in Spellbound , which has a way of making her even more likable. She's just as independent, caring, and loyal as she always has been, but with even more depth and courage. Brendan, on the other hand, is still just as mysteriously handsome and brave as he was before, but he's also a bit more secretive and cryptic and a little bolder. I personally enjoyed the few intense moments that both Emma and Brendan shared and the fact that they actually had to work at making their relationship work and creating a deeper meaningful connection.
Spellcaster features an interesting and cleverly written take on reincarnation and soulmate mythology, that seems to give it a more modern edge. The story arc was beautifully fleshed out and the imagery was well written. The execution of certain moments, scenes, and powerful forces at work was off the charts amazing. There were also many interesting supporting characters that managed to bring their own unique quirks and facets to the story. It has this way of asking; just how far one person would go in terms of faith and loyalty, for another.
Throughout the story, both Emma and Brendan's strength of courage, loyalty to one another, and faith are tested over and over. It's enough to leave readers entranced and wanting more. Spellcaster is a richly compelling novel that will hook readers even more as they delve further into the story. It is phenomenally gripping; action packed, and filled with incredibly tension and sweet romance. It is a virtual thrill ride that is full of action, danger, and an interesting and unique take on reincarnation and the love of two soulmates. Vastly clever and highly suspenseful, fans of Shultz first novel Spellbound will fall even more in love with Spellcaster .
Shultz writing style is focused on all of the right elements that it should be. It's a perfect balance, between attention to detail, story arcs, and character development. Emma is such an endearing character, who seems to have grown stronger and a bit more brave than she was in Spellbound , which has a way of making her even more likable. She's just as independent, caring, and loyal as she always has been, but with even more depth and courage. Brendan, on the other hand, is still just as mysteriously handsome and brave as he was before, but he's also a bit more secretive and cryptic and a little bolder. I personally enjoyed the few intense moments that both Emma and Brendan shared and the fact that they actually had to work at making their relationship work and creating a deeper meaningful connection.
Spellcaster features an interesting and cleverly written take on reincarnation and soulmate mythology, that seems to give it a more modern edge. The story arc was beautifully fleshed out and the imagery was well written. The execution of certain moments, scenes, and powerful forces at work was off the charts amazing. There were also many interesting supporting characters that managed to bring their own unique quirks and facets to the story. It has this way of asking; just how far one person would go in terms of faith and loyalty, for another.
Throughout the story, both Emma and Brendan's strength of courage, loyalty to one another, and faith are tested over and over. It's enough to leave readers entranced and wanting more. Spellcaster is a richly compelling novel that will hook readers even more as they delve further into the story. It is phenomenally gripping; action packed, and filled with incredibly tension and sweet romance. It is a virtual thrill ride that is full of action, danger, and an interesting and unique take on reincarnation and the love of two soulmates. Vastly clever and highly suspenseful, fans of Shultz first novel Spellbound will fall even more in love with Spellcaster .
January 23, 2012
Spellcaster is the second book in a series by Cara Lynn Schultz. It is a nice deviation from the typical paranormal YA. It has a touch of a historical romance feel to it but it is set in the present day.
If you thought the first book in the series was action packed then you will love this one. This book kept me on the edge of my seat with all the action that was happening. I loved that the plot kept a quick pace all through the book. There were still sweet moments between Emma and Brendan but the storyline didn’t linger too long on them.
What Emma and Brendan face in this book is so logical and semi-realistic that it made the book that much more enjoyable. While there is a paranormal element to the issue at the heart it is something that anyone could face without the paranormal side. I also loved how much Emma grew in this book. She was NOT the type of heroine to hide behind Brendan anymore. She becomes a fighter. I could liken her to a young Merit from Chloe Neill’s books. She decides that she will fight to keep Brendan and she definitely takes care of things.
The relationship between Emma and Brendan is very well written. I like that they are waiting to tackle the physical aspect of their relationship and Cara doesn’t let it take away from the intimacy that they share. The moments that they share just holding hands are written so well that you feel their intimacy there.
There is also a lot of disclosure in this book. More people get brought into the world that Emma, Brendan and Angelique are in. I think this will make for a great continuation on the series. Overall, this book is definitely a 5/5. I like the unique historical romance side of things with them being reincarnated souls that share a past. It makes for a unique book in a genre that has so many things that are alike.
If you thought the first book in the series was action packed then you will love this one. This book kept me on the edge of my seat with all the action that was happening. I loved that the plot kept a quick pace all through the book. There were still sweet moments between Emma and Brendan but the storyline didn’t linger too long on them.
What Emma and Brendan face in this book is so logical and semi-realistic that it made the book that much more enjoyable. While there is a paranormal element to the issue at the heart it is something that anyone could face without the paranormal side. I also loved how much Emma grew in this book. She was NOT the type of heroine to hide behind Brendan anymore. She becomes a fighter. I could liken her to a young Merit from Chloe Neill’s books. She decides that she will fight to keep Brendan and she definitely takes care of things.
The relationship between Emma and Brendan is very well written. I like that they are waiting to tackle the physical aspect of their relationship and Cara doesn’t let it take away from the intimacy that they share. The moments that they share just holding hands are written so well that you feel their intimacy there.
There is also a lot of disclosure in this book. More people get brought into the world that Emma, Brendan and Angelique are in. I think this will make for a great continuation on the series. Overall, this book is definitely a 5/5. I like the unique historical romance side of things with them being reincarnated souls that share a past. It makes for a unique book in a genre that has so many things that are alike.
Read
March 20, 2012Caitlin: When starting this book, I wanted one thing to happen…or well, not to happen. I wanted there to not be a new love interest introduced or for Emma and Brendan to break up…you know how book twos always seem to be about the intense emotional drama. I wanted the drama to come from outside the relationship.
And…YAY! It totally did!
Christine: Unfortunately this is too common in second books. We’re introduced to this fantastic guy and/or girl, fall in love with the idea of them together and then they’re usually torn apart in the second book, thus crushing our hearts and causing an increase in tissue sales with our sobbing ‘woe is me’ rants on Twitter. (And yes, I’ve done it. You’ve done it, too.)
HOWEVER, this did not happen in Spellcaster. I can say with full confidence that it was just as good as the first book and our favorite couple from Spellbound was just as cute and just as lovestruck with each other.
Caitlin: Yes! When I think back on this book, I’m pretty sure it was just about Emma and Brendan making out. Like, sure there was plot and action and stuff….but mostly it was making out.
Christine: Yes. And that one scene at his house… good times were had by all.
I must say, I did like the occasional POV breaks that went to Emma’s witchy friend, Angelique. Usually I’m against breaking first book protocol when it comes to POVs. I do make the exceptions though (like with Maggie Stiefvater’s series), and now this one. Angelique didn’t have much presence in Spellbound, so I’m glad we got to learn more about her and the way she thinks/feels/sees the world. Plus, it was fun to delve into the witchcraft part of this world.
Caitlin: I found the POV switch a little startling at first but it it didn’t last for very long, so I was okay with it. I mostly think these books are Emma and Brendan’s story and that we should stick with them.
Should we talk about the plot? I liked how there was magic stuff in this one. And there was a mystery and Emma had to make some tough choices when it came to how to use her magic. I also liked how she and Brendan would always talk out situations that the other wasn’t happy with. Not like a lot of YA relationship that you see (and I admit, enjoy sometimes) where the male is all “I can protect you better so you must do as I say.”
Christine: I think we all enjoy those a little, which is why there are so many, but yes, I have to agree. I liked that they were on equal footing about discussing what was happening, even though Brendan still got a little male macho about situations, especially when it came to Emma. Of course, Emma gave Brendan a piece of her mind when he did, so it evens out in the end.
The plot was a good one. I wasn’t sure what to expect after reading the Prologue, but Cara did a good job of creating the ‘villain’ of the book and how it all worked together. I was a little nervous about the ending and just how far Emma was willing to go, but I’m happy with how it ended.
Caitlin: Me too! I like how in both this book and in Spellbound the plot gets wrapped up nicely so you aren’t left hanging but I still feel like I want more from the characters. I feel like their stories or lives or whatever aren’t over. So, if we get another one, that’s awesome and if don’t, at least I’m left with the feeling of the characters going on to have more adventures. And not….everything all wrapped up in a pretty little bow.
Christine: Yes. I know the author’s said she probably won’t write another one, but I’d like to assure her that if she ever did (even a little novella as an ebook), I would read and recommend it to kingdom come because I like Emma and Brendan together and just generally enjoy reading about them. Emma has spirit and sass! Brendan is adorable and so very jocky that imagining him in a basketball uniform makes me feel a little pervy. I want to read more of them!
Caitlin: Are you saying you like feeling pervy?
Christine: No. Maybe. It’s not real so I’m allowed a little perviness. Also, I don’t think that’s a word, but I’m sticking with it.
Caitlin: I agree about another book though. More books! More Emma and Brendan being cute and making out. More exploring magic-y powers.
Christine: Yes. And more basketball practice. (Maybe I just have an unhealthy amount of love for basketball players?)
Caitlin: Or just Brendan in particular? Either way, nothing wrong with that.
Spellcaster comes out March 27th from Harlequin Teen and you should read it. If you haven’t read Spellbound already, one – sorry for the mini-spoilers, and two – you should definitely read that first and it’s already out, so you have no excuse.
Reviewed at WhatchYAreading on March 7, 2012.
And…YAY! It totally did!
Christine: Unfortunately this is too common in second books. We’re introduced to this fantastic guy and/or girl, fall in love with the idea of them together and then they’re usually torn apart in the second book, thus crushing our hearts and causing an increase in tissue sales with our sobbing ‘woe is me’ rants on Twitter. (And yes, I’ve done it. You’ve done it, too.)
HOWEVER, this did not happen in Spellcaster. I can say with full confidence that it was just as good as the first book and our favorite couple from Spellbound was just as cute and just as lovestruck with each other.
Caitlin: Yes! When I think back on this book, I’m pretty sure it was just about Emma and Brendan making out. Like, sure there was plot and action and stuff….but mostly it was making out.
Christine: Yes. And that one scene at his house… good times were had by all.
I must say, I did like the occasional POV breaks that went to Emma’s witchy friend, Angelique. Usually I’m against breaking first book protocol when it comes to POVs. I do make the exceptions though (like with Maggie Stiefvater’s series), and now this one. Angelique didn’t have much presence in Spellbound, so I’m glad we got to learn more about her and the way she thinks/feels/sees the world. Plus, it was fun to delve into the witchcraft part of this world.
Caitlin: I found the POV switch a little startling at first but it it didn’t last for very long, so I was okay with it. I mostly think these books are Emma and Brendan’s story and that we should stick with them.
Should we talk about the plot? I liked how there was magic stuff in this one. And there was a mystery and Emma had to make some tough choices when it came to how to use her magic. I also liked how she and Brendan would always talk out situations that the other wasn’t happy with. Not like a lot of YA relationship that you see (and I admit, enjoy sometimes) where the male is all “I can protect you better so you must do as I say.”
Christine: I think we all enjoy those a little, which is why there are so many, but yes, I have to agree. I liked that they were on equal footing about discussing what was happening, even though Brendan still got a little male macho about situations, especially when it came to Emma. Of course, Emma gave Brendan a piece of her mind when he did, so it evens out in the end.
The plot was a good one. I wasn’t sure what to expect after reading the Prologue, but Cara did a good job of creating the ‘villain’ of the book and how it all worked together. I was a little nervous about the ending and just how far Emma was willing to go, but I’m happy with how it ended.
Caitlin: Me too! I like how in both this book and in Spellbound the plot gets wrapped up nicely so you aren’t left hanging but I still feel like I want more from the characters. I feel like their stories or lives or whatever aren’t over. So, if we get another one, that’s awesome and if don’t, at least I’m left with the feeling of the characters going on to have more adventures. And not….everything all wrapped up in a pretty little bow.
Christine: Yes. I know the author’s said she probably won’t write another one, but I’d like to assure her that if she ever did (even a little novella as an ebook), I would read and recommend it to kingdom come because I like Emma and Brendan together and just generally enjoy reading about them. Emma has spirit and sass! Brendan is adorable and so very jocky that imagining him in a basketball uniform makes me feel a little pervy. I want to read more of them!
Caitlin: Are you saying you like feeling pervy?
Christine: No. Maybe. It’s not real so I’m allowed a little perviness. Also, I don’t think that’s a word, but I’m sticking with it.
Caitlin: I agree about another book though. More books! More Emma and Brendan being cute and making out. More exploring magic-y powers.
Christine: Yes. And more basketball practice. (Maybe I just have an unhealthy amount of love for basketball players?)
Caitlin: Or just Brendan in particular? Either way, nothing wrong with that.
Spellcaster comes out March 27th from Harlequin Teen and you should read it. If you haven’t read Spellbound already, one – sorry for the mini-spoilers, and two – you should definitely read that first and it’s already out, so you have no excuse.
Reviewed at WhatchYAreading on March 7, 2012.
March 19, 2012
Review posted at Bewitched Bookworms
I still remember last year when I found Spellbound, the first book on NetGalley and got all excited. The premise sounded awesome and it was! I absolutely loved this story! So, when the awesome Cara announces that she will continue the story I got excited all over again!
Spellcaster – Magic, Love, Friendship and Characters made of Awesome!
What I loved most in Spellbound were the characters. And, I’m not just talking about the MC Emma and Brendan, Cara Lynn Shultz has a way to bring secondary characters to life that the stop to feel secondary and become a major part of the whole story. I love when something like this happens, when the focus are not only two people but also all the other ones that complete them and make them even more awesome! In Spellcaster, Angelique Emma’s best friend becomes a bigger role and I loved her snark! She’s awesome, socially a little awkward but smart and a true best friend to Emma. Then there is also a side story and more about Ashley and Cisco… Cara Lynn Shultz has just a way to create awesome characters you instantly care for and wish that they could be real and could be your friends.
Brendan and Emma – the love that endured centuries of a cruel curse
It was so sweet to see those two together. Their love for each other and their stong determination to keep the other one save. (although this means sometimes being stupid). I love a strong and good relationship and this was exactly what Emma and Brendan have. Emma is strong loyal and stubborn. Brendan on the other hand is the perfect crush! He’s cute but still so much Teenage boy – it’s adorable!
Fast paced, funny, snarky and an enthralling story with a great twist!
The story never was boring and we follow Emma on her way to discover who she is and what she can do with her magic. But there is also a dark threat which Emma and her friends have to stop before someone gets hurt. Easier said then done! The story had the perfect mix of fun, suspense with some twists that surprised me. The story tuned slightly dark when Emma and her friends have to deal with tha dark villain….
Bewitched Rating
Bottom Line
Spellcaster didn’t disappoint but is not as strong as Spellbound. However, Spellcaster is its own story with a different focus than in Spellbound but the incredible characters we started to love in Spellbound. The story lives from their great dialogues, snarky retorts, cute characters and a lot of magic, both light and dark!
I still remember last year when I found Spellbound, the first book on NetGalley and got all excited. The premise sounded awesome and it was! I absolutely loved this story! So, when the awesome Cara announces that she will continue the story I got excited all over again!
Spellcaster – Magic, Love, Friendship and Characters made of Awesome!
What I loved most in Spellbound were the characters. And, I’m not just talking about the MC Emma and Brendan, Cara Lynn Shultz has a way to bring secondary characters to life that the stop to feel secondary and become a major part of the whole story. I love when something like this happens, when the focus are not only two people but also all the other ones that complete them and make them even more awesome! In Spellcaster, Angelique Emma’s best friend becomes a bigger role and I loved her snark! She’s awesome, socially a little awkward but smart and a true best friend to Emma. Then there is also a side story and more about Ashley and Cisco… Cara Lynn Shultz has just a way to create awesome characters you instantly care for and wish that they could be real and could be your friends.
Brendan and Emma – the love that endured centuries of a cruel curse
It was so sweet to see those two together. Their love for each other and their stong determination to keep the other one save. (although this means sometimes being stupid). I love a strong and good relationship and this was exactly what Emma and Brendan have. Emma is strong loyal and stubborn. Brendan on the other hand is the perfect crush! He’s cute but still so much Teenage boy – it’s adorable!
Fast paced, funny, snarky and an enthralling story with a great twist!
The story never was boring and we follow Emma on her way to discover who she is and what she can do with her magic. But there is also a dark threat which Emma and her friends have to stop before someone gets hurt. Easier said then done! The story had the perfect mix of fun, suspense with some twists that surprised me. The story tuned slightly dark when Emma and her friends have to deal with tha dark villain….
Bewitched Rating
Bottom Line
Spellcaster didn’t disappoint but is not as strong as Spellbound. However, Spellcaster is its own story with a different focus than in Spellbound but the incredible characters we started to love in Spellbound. The story lives from their great dialogues, snarky retorts, cute characters and a lot of magic, both light and dark!
June 18, 2012
True love has triumphed over an evil curse, and Emma and Brendan are free to enjoy being soulmates. Well, sort of. It turns out someone is out to kill Emma...again. This new person definitely means business. Emma has a few new tricks up her sleeve however. She's been practicing magic with her friend Angelique. As motives come out into the open, Emma will have to use all she has learned to save her life.
I was very interested to see where the author would go with a sequel, and I was not disappointed. All my old favorites were back (and some of my not-so-favorites). When you throw off an ages old curse in the first book, it would seem there is not much else to do. Luckily the author is able to take a different approach. Emma must once again figure out who is after her, but the truth is not exactly what she expected. It opens up some old insecurities of hers. Emma though has some new skills in her arsenal. Seeing Emma become more confident in her abilities was very fun. I liked that it gave her a chance to grow. Emma and Brendan are still a pretty fun pair. I thought their "made-for-each-other-ness" would wear on me, but it didn't.
My favorite character was Angelique. She and her cousin were able to provide a bit of comic relief and move the plot along at the same time. I loved the chapters from Angelique's point of view. They provided a much different perspective, and it was fun to read. Overall I was very pleased with this sequel. It was fun to come back to familiar characters, but I also enjoyed seeing them grow some more. Fans of the first book will have a great time with this one, but it's also an easy book for readers new to the series to enjoy too.
Galley provided for review.
I was very interested to see where the author would go with a sequel, and I was not disappointed. All my old favorites were back (and some of my not-so-favorites). When you throw off an ages old curse in the first book, it would seem there is not much else to do. Luckily the author is able to take a different approach. Emma must once again figure out who is after her, but the truth is not exactly what she expected. It opens up some old insecurities of hers. Emma though has some new skills in her arsenal. Seeing Emma become more confident in her abilities was very fun. I liked that it gave her a chance to grow. Emma and Brendan are still a pretty fun pair. I thought their "made-for-each-other-ness" would wear on me, but it didn't.
My favorite character was Angelique. She and her cousin were able to provide a bit of comic relief and move the plot along at the same time. I loved the chapters from Angelique's point of view. They provided a much different perspective, and it was fun to read. Overall I was very pleased with this sequel. It was fun to come back to familiar characters, but I also enjoyed seeing them grow some more. Fans of the first book will have a great time with this one, but it's also an easy book for readers new to the series to enjoy too.
Galley provided for review.
August 24, 2015
Of course, Emma and Brendan can't just live happily ever after. In Spellcaster, someone is after them. Emma is attacked by a masked person with a knife. Her cousin suddenly seizes and ends up in the hospital. Then Brendan is possessed and says a lot of hurtful things to Emma. Emma thought she just had to worry about Anthony coming back for her, but this attack is clearly magical in nature. It's time for her to learn to use her powers because a fight is coming.
Spellcaster was quite cheesy, but it was still super fun! Sometimes that's all you need! I really enjoyed that there was a bigger focus on magic this time. Angelique and Emma spend a lot of time working on spells, which don't always go the way they imagined. It was also interesting to see how using magic more and more was changing Emma. Then there's this huge revenge plot! It felt kind of random and weird, but I enjoyed it! It's sort of one of those "if I can't have him, no one can" deals, which I love! Although this person is totally nuts. I also loved that finally a character tries to go the legal route when dealing with a stalker, rather than just facing it alone. Of course, it's magic that saves the day, but it was still smart and refreshing to have a character use their brain.
Spellcaster was a fun follow up and great end to Emma and Brenda's story. True love is powerful thing! But it also makes people do crazy things. I also really liked how there was this theme of being careful how you treat people. A lot of this could have been avoided if certain people had been more aware of other people's feelings. But they're teenagers and self absorbed!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
Spellcaster was quite cheesy, but it was still super fun! Sometimes that's all you need! I really enjoyed that there was a bigger focus on magic this time. Angelique and Emma spend a lot of time working on spells, which don't always go the way they imagined. It was also interesting to see how using magic more and more was changing Emma. Then there's this huge revenge plot! It felt kind of random and weird, but I enjoyed it! It's sort of one of those "if I can't have him, no one can" deals, which I love! Although this person is totally nuts. I also loved that finally a character tries to go the legal route when dealing with a stalker, rather than just facing it alone. Of course, it's magic that saves the day, but it was still smart and refreshing to have a character use their brain.
Spellcaster was a fun follow up and great end to Emma and Brenda's story. True love is powerful thing! But it also makes people do crazy things. I also really liked how there was this theme of being careful how you treat people. A lot of this could have been avoided if certain people had been more aware of other people's feelings. But they're teenagers and self absorbed!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
March 2, 2012
Poor Emma and Brandon just can't catch a break no matter how hard they try. Who said being soul mates was going to be easy?
It's a new school year and Emma and Brandon are trying to get back to their lives after the incident with Anthony. It's been a little bumpy since they don't know exactly where Anthony is and what he is up to. For all they know he is lurking in the shadows just waiting to get a second shot at separating them. Still Emma and Brendan have to try and get back to normal. That is until Emma starts having dreams again that tells her their ill fate isn't quite over. That there might be a new threat on their lives. Only this time which one is supposed to die? It's hard to save a person when you don't know who to save or who the suspect is. Will Emma and Brendan be able to dodge another bullet? Or will this be the time that fate catches up with them?
I do have to say that the love between these two soul mates is sooooooo cute! You can't help but swoon and sigh when they are around. It's so sweet it will make your heart melt. I also loved how Emma really stood up to the plate in this one. Still this book was a little rough around the edges. Especially in the first half of the book. I don't think that it really picked up until about half way through which made it hard to stick with. Also something about the writing made the flow seem off and slightly bumpy.
Still I think this was a good book and I'm not sorry I read it, but it just wasn't the great book I was expecting. Maybe the first book should have been a stand alone? I really don't know. This is definitely one of those books that makes leaves you confused on how you feel about it.
It's a new school year and Emma and Brandon are trying to get back to their lives after the incident with Anthony. It's been a little bumpy since they don't know exactly where Anthony is and what he is up to. For all they know he is lurking in the shadows just waiting to get a second shot at separating them. Still Emma and Brendan have to try and get back to normal. That is until Emma starts having dreams again that tells her their ill fate isn't quite over. That there might be a new threat on their lives. Only this time which one is supposed to die? It's hard to save a person when you don't know who to save or who the suspect is. Will Emma and Brendan be able to dodge another bullet? Or will this be the time that fate catches up with them?
I do have to say that the love between these two soul mates is sooooooo cute! You can't help but swoon and sigh when they are around. It's so sweet it will make your heart melt. I also loved how Emma really stood up to the plate in this one. Still this book was a little rough around the edges. Especially in the first half of the book. I don't think that it really picked up until about half way through which made it hard to stick with. Also something about the writing made the flow seem off and slightly bumpy.
Still I think this was a good book and I'm not sorry I read it, but it just wasn't the great book I was expecting. Maybe the first book should have been a stand alone? I really don't know. This is definitely one of those books that makes leaves you confused on how you feel about it.
March 29, 2012
Spellcaster picks up a few months after Spellbound and Emma and Brendan's scandal is still talk of the town. They try to go about their merry way but it doesn't take long for trouble to find them again. The fact that both of them had something stolen from them should have raised a red flag (it certainly did for me - even after the first thing was stolen). Turns out the two have ticked off a really nasty witch hellbent on draining and using their 'true love' blood to make her uber-powerful, and she has zero scruples over the things she'll do to them to get it. Sucks to be them...
For the most part I enjoyed Spellcaster more than its predecessor Spellbound. I felt a little disappointed but that's mostly because I'm used to reading novels that have more than just one type of supernatural being in it. I had hopes that this series would develop into than a girl coming into magical powers, but all its really done is increase the number of witches present. Still, my disappointment is due to personal preferences, not necessarily the novel. Spellcaster was still a good novel and worth checking out.
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley.
For the most part I enjoyed Spellcaster more than its predecessor Spellbound. I felt a little disappointed but that's mostly because I'm used to reading novels that have more than just one type of supernatural being in it. I had hopes that this series would develop into than a girl coming into magical powers, but all its really done is increase the number of witches present. Still, my disappointment is due to personal preferences, not necessarily the novel. Spellcaster was still a good novel and worth checking out.
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley.
January 14, 2012
Spellcaster doesn't come out for a couple of months so all I'm gonna say is that I loved this just as much as the first one!
This plot line was fantastic, wicked and truly suspenseful.
Brendan and Emma are seriously the most irresistible couple with lots of swoon-worthy scenes that turned me into goo.
Brendan's hero complex combined with his delusional 'legal tactics' were both frustrating and adorable.
Emma stepped up huge in this book. She went a little power-drunk but she's come a long way.
Our villain was seriously deranged but it was exciting to see what was going to happen next.
Loved Angelique's humor and quirkiness and it was really great to see more of Cisco in this book.
Adore Shultz writing! It's just as sharp and witty as I remembered.
Basically, I had a lot of fun with this book! It had some great twists and kept me entertained till the very last page.
Emma and Brendan, you make me smile.
Fans of Spellbound will love this! Can't wait to see what Cara Lynn Shultz comes up with next!
(Arc provided by Netgalley and Harlequin Teen)
This plot line was fantastic, wicked and truly suspenseful.
Brendan and Emma are seriously the most irresistible couple with lots of swoon-worthy scenes that turned me into goo.
Brendan's hero complex combined with his delusional 'legal tactics' were both frustrating and adorable.
Emma stepped up huge in this book. She went a little power-drunk but she's come a long way.
Our villain was seriously deranged but it was exciting to see what was going to happen next.
Loved Angelique's humor and quirkiness and it was really great to see more of Cisco in this book.
Adore Shultz writing! It's just as sharp and witty as I remembered.
Basically, I had a lot of fun with this book! It had some great twists and kept me entertained till the very last page.
Emma and Brendan, you make me smile.
Fans of Spellbound will love this! Can't wait to see what Cara Lynn Shultz comes up with next!
(Arc provided by Netgalley and Harlequin Teen)
January 24, 2012
Emma and Brendon are still fighting for their love. Kristin still wants him and will do anything to get him. The couple are still fated to be together forever. I found the book rather repetitive and monotonous. In case the reader missed the first book, the story is recalled over and over again throughout the book. Anthony tried to kill Emma, Emma lost her unicorn medallion, Emma's dead twin brother, Ethan came to her in her dreams and helped her save Brendon and they should just get right on with their junior year.
Angelique is helping Emma develop her magical skills but Emma is hopeless unless she has a strong emotional response and needs to cast a spell. Then she can. This time around, another magical person from someone's past (cryptic, I know) wants to become more powerful and cause grief and calamity to the lovers. She is dangerous and causes some havoc and it is up to Emma to end her wickedness.
It's a fine book. Emma is still unremarkable. Brendon is still lustworthy of all the junior class girls but he's still committed to Emma. Angelique is, by far, the more interesting and entertaining character.
Angelique is helping Emma develop her magical skills but Emma is hopeless unless she has a strong emotional response and needs to cast a spell. Then she can. This time around, another magical person from someone's past (cryptic, I know) wants to become more powerful and cause grief and calamity to the lovers. She is dangerous and causes some havoc and it is up to Emma to end her wickedness.
It's a fine book. Emma is still unremarkable. Brendon is still lustworthy of all the junior class girls but he's still committed to Emma. Angelique is, by far, the more interesting and entertaining character.
April 1, 2012
Received from Netgalley
AHHHH!!!! I love this story!! Cara Lynn Shultz is a fantastic writer that definitely knows how to draw her reader in and keep them captivated all the way through.
Spellcaster picks up after Spellbound with the lives and love story of Brendan and Emma. And our heroine Emma grew so much in this book. I am so proud to see her become so strong, especially after all her struggles she has had to overcome in her life. Plus, Brendan.... WOW!!! Don't we all wish we had a guy like that. He is absolutely wonderful!
So, where does Spellcaster take us? On a roller coaster ride that is for sure. A new evil has decided to take aim at Emma and Brendan and of course we are led on the journey with them to discover who would want to destroy them. Is it a shocker? Could it be someone close to them? With the help of their friend Angelique and her cousin Randi, we find out the outcome and learn so much more about the lives of our hero and heroine.
A definite must read!!
Review also on blog...
www.tsktskwhattoread2.blogspot.com
AHHHH!!!! I love this story!! Cara Lynn Shultz is a fantastic writer that definitely knows how to draw her reader in and keep them captivated all the way through.
Spellcaster picks up after Spellbound with the lives and love story of Brendan and Emma. And our heroine Emma grew so much in this book. I am so proud to see her become so strong, especially after all her struggles she has had to overcome in her life. Plus, Brendan.... WOW!!! Don't we all wish we had a guy like that. He is absolutely wonderful!
So, where does Spellcaster take us? On a roller coaster ride that is for sure. A new evil has decided to take aim at Emma and Brendan and of course we are led on the journey with them to discover who would want to destroy them. Is it a shocker? Could it be someone close to them? With the help of their friend Angelique and her cousin Randi, we find out the outcome and learn so much more about the lives of our hero and heroine.
A definite must read!!
Review also on blog...
www.tsktskwhattoread2.blogspot.com
October 17, 2013
Spellcaster was slightly better than Spellbound.
The action didn't take as long to appear as it did in Spellbound but it still took a while.
When it did finally show, there did seem to be more of it... but unfortunately, i still didn't feel very entertained.
Emma's humor was still really cringe worthy, and i was really hoping someone would tell her to stop with the jokes.
She was also still annoying, but luckily, not as much. (Although, there wasn't much of a difference.)
Overall, this was a better read than the first installment was, but it still wasn't anything special.
The action didn't take as long to appear as it did in Spellbound but it still took a while.
When it did finally show, there did seem to be more of it... but unfortunately, i still didn't feel very entertained.
Emma's humor was still really cringe worthy, and i was really hoping someone would tell her to stop with the jokes.
She was also still annoying, but luckily, not as much. (Although, there wasn't much of a difference.)
Overall, this was a better read than the first installment was, but it still wasn't anything special.
November 30, 2011
LOVED IT!! Spellcaster has it all: fantastic storytelling, a great romance, chilling suspense. Fans of Spellbound and new readers alike will love this page-turner that follows soul mates Brendan (so dreamy) and Emma (who's newly powerful here and as witty as ever) as supernatural forces (a wonderfully unhinged villain) threaten to keep them apart. I read it so fast and then, as with any great book, was so sorry to see it end! A must read!
July 13, 2020
RECEIVED FROM: Net Galley For Review
***NOTE MY REVIEWS OFTEN CONTAIN SPOILERS***
Emma and Brendan though their troubles were over, they’d broken a centuries old curse, and they were reunited with their true love. What they didn’t know was how powerful true love is for a dark witch. What they didn’t know is when their school photos, Emma’s featuring her wearing her necklace that she’d lost the night in the park that they’d almost died, appeared in multiple New York City publications because of the event, it was like posting a billboard to every threatening witch in the city that they were soul mates. The fame they’d gotten over surviving Anthony’s attack was like putting a target on their back and now someone has come to take a shot. Someone dark and powerful wants their blood for the power it can offer them and they’re willing to do anything to get it. But can they figure out who’s after them, Emma specifically, before it’s too late? And even if they do can they stop a force that evil?
Now I know I said I wanted another Spellbound series novel in my last review, but I wanted a story for Angelique. I wanted for everything with Emma and Brendan to be good for now. Instead it’s his past crimes and her past lives coming back to haunt them all over again. I’m starting to wonder if that book Hadrian’s Medieval Legends, is all about Emma Conner’s past lives. But still Shultz has offered a good story, well written fast paced and engrossing. I’ll admit at first I had a little trouble getting into it. No, I wasn’t ready to let the characters of Emma and Brendan go, but at the same time I’m not a big fan of those series where the same couple just can’t seem to win. Eventually the stories run dry with those series and you start to think they might be better off breaking up and moving on. So when I first started reading and learned Emma and Brendan had trouble again it took me a bit to get into the story. Not to mention the opening itself didn’t grip me as fast as Spellbound did. But as I got further into the story I definitely hooked pouring though pages to learn what happened. This story wasn’t really a romance, more of I guess you’d say urban fantasy. The couple has already been established and it’s not one of those roller coasters where they’re torn apart and get back together over and over again. This story focuses more on Emma coming into her powers and fighting for those she loves. It’s a story of I guess you’d say growing up. In this story Emma doesn’t rely on Brendan to protect her, she becomes a stronger person, a fighter in her own right. One thing I loved about the story is Emma’s journey to strength doesn’t cause her to lose the boy she loves. The story is told in a first person narrative, but it offers two different viewpoints. It opens in the viewpoint of the as of that point unidentified enemy before moving into Emma’s point of view. However though the story is told primarily by Emma, Angelique gets her turn telling the tale as well which I thought was really neat. Well most of the time, there’s a scene toward the end where I’d have liked to have stayed with Emma, and I feel it would have been more intense and dramatic had Shultz done so, but for the most part I liked moving into Angelique’s very unique point of view. The book is packed with magical exciting scenes filled with danger. It does include some teenage romance moments of the physical sense, however it stays in the PG-13 range with those without crossing into adult territory. While I’m a little skeptic that things would have played out that way with real teenagers, I like the moral message being sent by the scenes. Shultz makes it clear that even if you’re in love or believe you are you don’t have sex before you’re ready and if you can’t talk about it you aren’t ready. I remember being a teen and obsessing over sex but not even able to say the word, back when intercourse was commonly referred to as “it” as in doing “it” and your face turning a million shade of red if anyone actually asked you to define “it”. I think everyone has been in that stage of maturity and Shultz is correct with the old adage if you can’t say what “it” is you aren’t ready to be engaging in “it”. While some of the humor in the beginning fell a little flat with me for example when Emma tells Brendan he’s a milkshake, the book was still filled with laugh out loud funny commentary. Emma doesn’t have as much of a sarcastic edge as she did before she fell in love, but she’s still got some of that entertaining sarcasm that makes hearing the story from her point of view so entertaining. One of the things I do love about this series is the way the tales from the book are brought into reality, almost as if it was written as a warning to Emma and her friends. It’s not as good as Spellbound in my opinion but it’s still a great book. The idea was more original than the first story and almost as engaging.
Like with her first novel Shultz offers well developed and mostly realistic characters, if you accept the idea that the paranormal elements of the story are real that is. Emma may have her dream guy but she’s still got her share of insecurities. She’s still got that fear that soul mate or not Brendan is eventually going to walk away. She also experiences major character growth in this novel which was impressive. Angelique’s feelings on Brendan start to make sense and she also grows as a character as she begins to move past them. And then Brendan, who’s ancestor has made him into Mr. Perfect finally becomes not so perfect because his insecurities and regrets really start to come out in this novel. However I will say if we’re going to see another Brendan and Emma story I’d like to see something through his eyes next time. The villain is fairly well developed as well as many other secondary characters.
Overall I’d highly recommend this well written sequel to Spellbound. As with the last story it features a full story arc which leaves you satisfied at the end, but creates such a connection to the characters that you’d like more if it’s offered. I would like a third in this series, but like before I’d like for someone else to get a story and Brendan and Emma to have some peace for a bit. If you enjoy young adult paranormal stories, Shultz is not a writer to be missed.
***NOTE MY REVIEWS OFTEN CONTAIN SPOILERS***
Emma and Brendan though their troubles were over, they’d broken a centuries old curse, and they were reunited with their true love. What they didn’t know was how powerful true love is for a dark witch. What they didn’t know is when their school photos, Emma’s featuring her wearing her necklace that she’d lost the night in the park that they’d almost died, appeared in multiple New York City publications because of the event, it was like posting a billboard to every threatening witch in the city that they were soul mates. The fame they’d gotten over surviving Anthony’s attack was like putting a target on their back and now someone has come to take a shot. Someone dark and powerful wants their blood for the power it can offer them and they’re willing to do anything to get it. But can they figure out who’s after them, Emma specifically, before it’s too late? And even if they do can they stop a force that evil?
Now I know I said I wanted another Spellbound series novel in my last review, but I wanted a story for Angelique. I wanted for everything with Emma and Brendan to be good for now. Instead it’s his past crimes and her past lives coming back to haunt them all over again. I’m starting to wonder if that book Hadrian’s Medieval Legends, is all about Emma Conner’s past lives. But still Shultz has offered a good story, well written fast paced and engrossing. I’ll admit at first I had a little trouble getting into it. No, I wasn’t ready to let the characters of Emma and Brendan go, but at the same time I’m not a big fan of those series where the same couple just can’t seem to win. Eventually the stories run dry with those series and you start to think they might be better off breaking up and moving on. So when I first started reading and learned Emma and Brendan had trouble again it took me a bit to get into the story. Not to mention the opening itself didn’t grip me as fast as Spellbound did. But as I got further into the story I definitely hooked pouring though pages to learn what happened. This story wasn’t really a romance, more of I guess you’d say urban fantasy. The couple has already been established and it’s not one of those roller coasters where they’re torn apart and get back together over and over again. This story focuses more on Emma coming into her powers and fighting for those she loves. It’s a story of I guess you’d say growing up. In this story Emma doesn’t rely on Brendan to protect her, she becomes a stronger person, a fighter in her own right. One thing I loved about the story is Emma’s journey to strength doesn’t cause her to lose the boy she loves. The story is told in a first person narrative, but it offers two different viewpoints. It opens in the viewpoint of the as of that point unidentified enemy before moving into Emma’s point of view. However though the story is told primarily by Emma, Angelique gets her turn telling the tale as well which I thought was really neat. Well most of the time, there’s a scene toward the end where I’d have liked to have stayed with Emma, and I feel it would have been more intense and dramatic had Shultz done so, but for the most part I liked moving into Angelique’s very unique point of view. The book is packed with magical exciting scenes filled with danger. It does include some teenage romance moments of the physical sense, however it stays in the PG-13 range with those without crossing into adult territory. While I’m a little skeptic that things would have played out that way with real teenagers, I like the moral message being sent by the scenes. Shultz makes it clear that even if you’re in love or believe you are you don’t have sex before you’re ready and if you can’t talk about it you aren’t ready. I remember being a teen and obsessing over sex but not even able to say the word, back when intercourse was commonly referred to as “it” as in doing “it” and your face turning a million shade of red if anyone actually asked you to define “it”. I think everyone has been in that stage of maturity and Shultz is correct with the old adage if you can’t say what “it” is you aren’t ready to be engaging in “it”. While some of the humor in the beginning fell a little flat with me for example when Emma tells Brendan he’s a milkshake, the book was still filled with laugh out loud funny commentary. Emma doesn’t have as much of a sarcastic edge as she did before she fell in love, but she’s still got some of that entertaining sarcasm that makes hearing the story from her point of view so entertaining. One of the things I do love about this series is the way the tales from the book are brought into reality, almost as if it was written as a warning to Emma and her friends. It’s not as good as Spellbound in my opinion but it’s still a great book. The idea was more original than the first story and almost as engaging.
Like with her first novel Shultz offers well developed and mostly realistic characters, if you accept the idea that the paranormal elements of the story are real that is. Emma may have her dream guy but she’s still got her share of insecurities. She’s still got that fear that soul mate or not Brendan is eventually going to walk away. She also experiences major character growth in this novel which was impressive. Angelique’s feelings on Brendan start to make sense and she also grows as a character as she begins to move past them. And then Brendan, who’s ancestor has made him into Mr. Perfect finally becomes not so perfect because his insecurities and regrets really start to come out in this novel. However I will say if we’re going to see another Brendan and Emma story I’d like to see something through his eyes next time. The villain is fairly well developed as well as many other secondary characters.
Overall I’d highly recommend this well written sequel to Spellbound. As with the last story it features a full story arc which leaves you satisfied at the end, but creates such a connection to the characters that you’d like more if it’s offered. I would like a third in this series, but like before I’d like for someone else to get a story and Brendan and Emma to have some peace for a bit. If you enjoy young adult paranormal stories, Shultz is not a writer to be missed.
March 13, 2022
Es curioso, me gustó un poco más el primer libro que este segundo y el primer libro tiene una calificación más baja por lo que uno podría pensar que este debería estar mejor, y de hecho sí lo fue pero como que me faltó romance, o no sé, me quedé con ganas de más y no estoy segura si sólo es por el romance o por la historia también. En fin, Spellcaster fue una buena continuación, la disfruté de principio a fin.
September 24, 2017
Ook al had dit boek van mij niet echt gehoeven, het einde van deel 1 was mooi zo, vond ik dat er wel spannende stukken in het verhaal zaten. Vooral het eindgevecht was een leuke scene. De opbouw was wederom wat langzaam.
September 20, 2018
This book wasn't as good as I had hoped it would be. Not saying I didn't enjoy it, the writing style just wasn't as good as it was hyped up to me. I kind of guessed what was going to happen.
October 2, 2023
Book: SpellCaster
Read By: Soft Cover
Author: Cara Lynn schultz
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
Recommend: Yes
Spice:🌶️️
< b>Age recommendation: 16-30+ Years
My feelings:
I was given a stack of book awhile back, and this series was in the in box. I finally got around to reading it and realised I had in fact read it, so gave it a quick flick though again to refresh my memory.
I super enjoyed this series as a whole! Emma had a lot of character growth in this book. Sometime sequels make me alittle nervous cause they have to live up to the hype from book 1. Thankfully this one did! I loved the whole thing and didnt put it down:)
Highly recommend
Read By: Soft Cover
Author: Cara Lynn schultz
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
Recommend: Yes
Spice:🌶️️
< b>Age recommendation: 16-30+ Years
My feelings:
I was given a stack of book awhile back, and this series was in the in box. I finally got around to reading it and realised I had in fact read it, so gave it a quick flick though again to refresh my memory.
I super enjoyed this series as a whole! Emma had a lot of character growth in this book. Sometime sequels make me alittle nervous cause they have to live up to the hype from book 1. Thankfully this one did! I loved the whole thing and didnt put it down:)
Highly recommend
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2012
Review is also posted at Far Past Midnight
Blurb:
Finding your eternal soulmate - easy.
Stopping a true-love-hungry evil - not so much…
After breaking a centuries-old romantic curse, Emma Connor is (almost) glad to get back to normal problems. Although...it's not easy dealing with the jealous cliques and gossip that rule her exclusive Upper East Side prep, even for a sixteen-year-old newbie witch. Having the most-wanted boy in school as her eternal soul mate sure helps ease the pain-especially since wealthy, rocker-hot Brendan Salinger is very good at staying irresistibly close....
But something dark and hungry is using Emma and Brendan's deepest fears to reveal damaging secrets and destroy their trust in each other. And Emma's crash course in über-spells may not be enough to keep them safe…or to stop an inhuman force bent on making their unsuspected power its own.
----------o_O---------
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Teen for allowing me to read this.
I found Spellcaster very enjoyable, it follows on a couple months after the horrific incident that occurred in the previous book, we all thought that Emma and Brendan could spend the rest of eternity together la-di-da. Alas, it was not be so and evil has once again resurfaced to tear the two lovebirds apart.
I feel I should be wearing a billowing dress and have a hand on my forehead :)
And so, moving onto the characters. Emma, who in the last book foolishly walked into a trap, you can read more of that on my quick review on goodreads, has now grown a backbone. Yay! I do so love it when characters blossom and grow :)
Spellcaster has the roles reversed a little, instead of Brendan taking all the risks, it's Emma, with her not-so-reliable magical prowess. And that adds more spice to the book, I think, things get more interesting and more risky. She stands up for herself more, albeit with some magical help, but the intention was there.
Brendan is still his uber awesome self, and I'm not going to waste time talking about him, though he is a tad possessive, but not too much. We also see a sweeter side to him, a more caring and gentle side, and he shares all his fears and hopes in this book… :) how cheesy do I sound? Hehehe
Now… when a book is centred on true love, there is always, always the option of separating the two characters and making them write depressing poetry about life, maybe some dramatic plays too. Well.
THANK THE WRITING WORLD THAT THERE IS AT LEAST ONE AUTHOR OUT THERE WHO DOESN'T SPLIT UP THE CHARACTERS FOR THEIR OWN "SAFETY". I was over the moon. The number of times couples have been split and forced to stare into each others eyes from across the room is astounding, and completely and utterly annoying.
"I'll love you forever Gertrude but's it's just too dangerous… you'll have to stay away from me"
"No Phyllis!! I couldn't, please don't make me do this"
"No Gertrude…. It's the only way"
Yes. That is a scene that we have grown so, so familiar with (I made that up randomly by the way) and to tell you the truth… doesn't it seem Twilight-ish?
“I promise that this will be the last time you’ll see me. I won’t come back. I won’t put you through anything like this again. You can go on with your life without any more interference from me. It will be as if I’d never existed.”
hahahahaha
But seriously, when a book does that, it completely turns me off and there are very, very few authors who can pull off a scene like that, and still I'm doubtful. To be honest, there were time when I doubted Cara Lyn Shultz, there were times when I thought she was going to go down that road but NO! She stayed strong! She resisted the urge and for that I am grateful. I'm rambling aren't I?
Ahem--The story is quite original, the plot is a mixture of yeah-i-knew-that-was-going-to-happen and GAH!-why-did-that-just-happen. The writing is easy to read and understand. It gets the point across and conveys the desired message so all is good.
You often get books with the idea of true love, soul mates, yeah you can roll your eyes, but Spellcaster is built on so much more. There's magic and curses and ghosts and all these things add up to an original and story that's a quick and exciting read. Give it a go, you'll be surprised.
Blurb:
Finding your eternal soulmate - easy.
Stopping a true-love-hungry evil - not so much…
After breaking a centuries-old romantic curse, Emma Connor is (almost) glad to get back to normal problems. Although...it's not easy dealing with the jealous cliques and gossip that rule her exclusive Upper East Side prep, even for a sixteen-year-old newbie witch. Having the most-wanted boy in school as her eternal soul mate sure helps ease the pain-especially since wealthy, rocker-hot Brendan Salinger is very good at staying irresistibly close....
But something dark and hungry is using Emma and Brendan's deepest fears to reveal damaging secrets and destroy their trust in each other. And Emma's crash course in über-spells may not be enough to keep them safe…or to stop an inhuman force bent on making their unsuspected power its own.
----------o_O---------
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Teen for allowing me to read this.
I found Spellcaster very enjoyable, it follows on a couple months after the horrific incident that occurred in the previous book, we all thought that Emma and Brendan could spend the rest of eternity together la-di-da. Alas, it was not be so and evil has once again resurfaced to tear the two lovebirds apart.
I feel I should be wearing a billowing dress and have a hand on my forehead :)
And so, moving onto the characters. Emma, who in the last book foolishly walked into a trap, you can read more of that on my quick review on goodreads, has now grown a backbone. Yay! I do so love it when characters blossom and grow :)
Spellcaster has the roles reversed a little, instead of Brendan taking all the risks, it's Emma, with her not-so-reliable magical prowess. And that adds more spice to the book, I think, things get more interesting and more risky. She stands up for herself more, albeit with some magical help, but the intention was there.
Brendan is still his uber awesome self, and I'm not going to waste time talking about him, though he is a tad possessive, but not too much. We also see a sweeter side to him, a more caring and gentle side, and he shares all his fears and hopes in this book… :) how cheesy do I sound? Hehehe
Now… when a book is centred on true love, there is always, always the option of separating the two characters and making them write depressing poetry about life, maybe some dramatic plays too. Well.
THANK THE WRITING WORLD THAT THERE IS AT LEAST ONE AUTHOR OUT THERE WHO DOESN'T SPLIT UP THE CHARACTERS FOR THEIR OWN "SAFETY". I was over the moon. The number of times couples have been split and forced to stare into each others eyes from across the room is astounding, and completely and utterly annoying.
"I'll love you forever Gertrude but's it's just too dangerous… you'll have to stay away from me"
"No Phyllis!! I couldn't, please don't make me do this"
"No Gertrude…. It's the only way"
Yes. That is a scene that we have grown so, so familiar with (I made that up randomly by the way) and to tell you the truth… doesn't it seem Twilight-ish?
“I promise that this will be the last time you’ll see me. I won’t come back. I won’t put you through anything like this again. You can go on with your life without any more interference from me. It will be as if I’d never existed.”
hahahahaha
But seriously, when a book does that, it completely turns me off and there are very, very few authors who can pull off a scene like that, and still I'm doubtful. To be honest, there were time when I doubted Cara Lyn Shultz, there were times when I thought she was going to go down that road but NO! She stayed strong! She resisted the urge and for that I am grateful. I'm rambling aren't I?
Ahem--The story is quite original, the plot is a mixture of yeah-i-knew-that-was-going-to-happen and GAH!-why-did-that-just-happen. The writing is easy to read and understand. It gets the point across and conveys the desired message so all is good.
You often get books with the idea of true love, soul mates, yeah you can roll your eyes, but Spellcaster is built on so much more. There's magic and curses and ghosts and all these things add up to an original and story that's a quick and exciting read. Give it a go, you'll be surprised.
July 13, 2012
Review:
I thought the first book was simple, enjoyable and sweet. With a plot which didn’t need some extremely detailed back story and confusing character history and setting to make it work and be special. There are so many books nowadays with great plots, visions and ambitions that don’t quite achieve their full potential in one way or another. So why not still make it interesting yet simple. Spellcaster is as easy to read and like as the first book.
I didn’t expect Spellbound to have a sequel since there were no significant ties left loose. I’m also usually skeptical of sequels being not as good as the originals having been let down many times, but as I didn’t really know what to expect with this book maybe that’s why I ended up liking it.
Brendan and Emma are enjoying their relationship as soul mates and even though the troubles of the last book are still on their minds they have moved one. Brendan’s past, however, decides to disrupt their blissful time with each other in the form of a “wicked witch” and Emma will have to stay confident in her position as Brendan’s most beloved person and get to know her newfound witch powers to stand her ground
Characters:
I like Emma, it’s just that simple, I like Emma. She isn’t your typical needy/irrational heroine nor is she a complete independent kick-ass. She stays herself and doesn’t loose her identity and her own will because of her soul mate. I like that while Emma was feeling insecure to some degree about Brenda’s not so innocent past she picked herself up or had Brendan put things into perspective quite quickly without wallowing in self pity. She’s witty and likeable, an ordinary (well maybe not quite) but cool girl.
Brendan is definitely in my list of favorite YA heroes. There are few heroes that make me giddy and a fan girl. He’s sweet, boyish, hot, loving, brave etc etc etc. But I can’t help but feel that he is too perfect in the way he treats Emma at times and his over protectiveness may be seen as super sweet and oh so swoon worthy, but it got on my nerves on occasion. Emma may be too daring and rash at times but she was able to stand up for herself and her being a witch gave at least me confidence in her abilities and intelligence. I really admired scenes with Brendan when he showed real worry and emotion towards Emma being in danger. When he “broke down” and was so vulnerable after the talk with Angelique after Emma’s decision in the end I found that really appealing and strangely sexy. One thing, however, I was hoping would be explored in this book but unfortunately wasn’t was that fact that in the first one it briefly mentions that Brendan also might possess some connection to magic because of his predecessor. I’d love to see Brendan cast some spells.
I adore Brendan and Emma together, their scenes are quite hot and sexy for a generally tame YA book. Their passion felt more realistic than the usual peck or two and definitely nothing too physical that I’ve encountered in many other YA books. At the same time, they are reasonable and responsible regarding the topic of sex and that is admirable. I also like how their soul mate bond is presented, they are so young but are probably bound together forever but it doesn’t feel as if they are being suffocated by their destiny or that it overshadows their actual relationship or its development.
Angelique had a much bigger role in this book and some parts of it in her own POV. I wasn’t a big fan of her and it’s a mystery since she’s sassy, smart and a good friend to Emma. Maybe it was the fact that she was just too convenient in the plot, I can’t explain.
I really like that fact that the other characters that may have seemed too cliché in the first book weren’t’ that noticeable in those roles anymore, except for Kristin of course as the dumb mean girl. Cisco had his chances to stand out in this one at least a little as well, I’m fond of him.
Overall:
A likeable heroine, a hunky hero, enjoyable plot – I like!
I don’t know if there will be another part to this but even if there would be I’d still read it and probably like it as well.
I thought the first book was simple, enjoyable and sweet. With a plot which didn’t need some extremely detailed back story and confusing character history and setting to make it work and be special. There are so many books nowadays with great plots, visions and ambitions that don’t quite achieve their full potential in one way or another. So why not still make it interesting yet simple. Spellcaster is as easy to read and like as the first book.
I didn’t expect Spellbound to have a sequel since there were no significant ties left loose. I’m also usually skeptical of sequels being not as good as the originals having been let down many times, but as I didn’t really know what to expect with this book maybe that’s why I ended up liking it.
Brendan and Emma are enjoying their relationship as soul mates and even though the troubles of the last book are still on their minds they have moved one. Brendan’s past, however, decides to disrupt their blissful time with each other in the form of a “wicked witch” and Emma will have to stay confident in her position as Brendan’s most beloved person and get to know her newfound witch powers to stand her ground
Characters:
I like Emma, it’s just that simple, I like Emma. She isn’t your typical needy/irrational heroine nor is she a complete independent kick-ass. She stays herself and doesn’t loose her identity and her own will because of her soul mate. I like that while Emma was feeling insecure to some degree about Brenda’s not so innocent past she picked herself up or had Brendan put things into perspective quite quickly without wallowing in self pity. She’s witty and likeable, an ordinary (well maybe not quite) but cool girl.
Brendan is definitely in my list of favorite YA heroes. There are few heroes that make me giddy and a fan girl. He’s sweet, boyish, hot, loving, brave etc etc etc. But I can’t help but feel that he is too perfect in the way he treats Emma at times and his over protectiveness may be seen as super sweet and oh so swoon worthy, but it got on my nerves on occasion. Emma may be too daring and rash at times but she was able to stand up for herself and her being a witch gave at least me confidence in her abilities and intelligence. I really admired scenes with Brendan when he showed real worry and emotion towards Emma being in danger. When he “broke down” and was so vulnerable after the talk with Angelique after Emma’s decision in the end I found that really appealing and strangely sexy. One thing, however, I was hoping would be explored in this book but unfortunately wasn’t was that fact that in the first one it briefly mentions that Brendan also might possess some connection to magic because of his predecessor. I’d love to see Brendan cast some spells.
I adore Brendan and Emma together, their scenes are quite hot and sexy for a generally tame YA book. Their passion felt more realistic than the usual peck or two and definitely nothing too physical that I’ve encountered in many other YA books. At the same time, they are reasonable and responsible regarding the topic of sex and that is admirable. I also like how their soul mate bond is presented, they are so young but are probably bound together forever but it doesn’t feel as if they are being suffocated by their destiny or that it overshadows their actual relationship or its development.
Angelique had a much bigger role in this book and some parts of it in her own POV. I wasn’t a big fan of her and it’s a mystery since she’s sassy, smart and a good friend to Emma. Maybe it was the fact that she was just too convenient in the plot, I can’t explain.
I really like that fact that the other characters that may have seemed too cliché in the first book weren’t’ that noticeable in those roles anymore, except for Kristin of course as the dumb mean girl. Cisco had his chances to stand out in this one at least a little as well, I’m fond of him.
Overall:
A likeable heroine, a hunky hero, enjoyable plot – I like!
I don’t know if there will be another part to this but even if there would be I’d still read it and probably like it as well.
January 4, 2016
Previously published on my blog: http://fictionfervor.wordpress.com/20...
I was never the biggest fan of Spellbound, the prequel to Spellcaster, so it surprised me that I actually enjoyed Spellcaster more. It was an original novel, albeit clichéd, and I grew to love some characters a little more.
PLOT:
Whereas Spellbound seemed to revolve around breaking the curse of Emma and Brendan’s eternal reincarnation, Spellcaster revolved around protecting their true love. The prequel was definitely clichéd (come on, we all knew that the curse would be broken in the end), but this novel’s plot actually intrigued me. I’m not saying it was the best—no, it was nowhere near as interesting as some other novels I’ve read—but it was enough to let me keep flipping through the pages. I wanted to know who was trying so desperately to destroy Emma and Brendan’s true love and, more importantly, why that person was doing so.
Unfortunately, the novel was much too predictable. I easily figured out who was the culprit long before he/she was revealed. He/she was just mentioned much too many times, and I knew it wasn’t a coincidence. I also had suspicions as to why that person would go to such lengths, and I was right.
The mystery in this novel was what really pulled me in. If there wasn’t any mystery, I think I would have given up after fifty pages. But I had my suspicions, and because I always want to be right, I decided to continue reading. The mystery was predictable, but I could deal with that because Cara Lynn Shultz did manage to knock me off my feet a couple times.
I think I was most annoyed with the romance in this novel. I don’t know; maybe it’s just me, but I get really frustrated with lovey-dovey rainbows-and-sunshine cuteness galore romance. (That’s when I go looking for action novels with lots of guts involved.) I don’t want this deluge of hearts and unicorns. It’s not fun to read. But I will say that Emma and Brendan are as cute as they ever were, though I hate how they’re so hung up on whether they should have sex or not. (Like, gross. You’ve known each other for how long? And don’t give me the soul mate crap.)
CHARACTER:
Emma is no longer the Mary Sue she was in the prequel. She’s been taking some classes that have given her some extra punch (hi-yah!), and she’s definitely gotten stronger both physically and emotionally. However, I’m still really annoyed with her because she’s still that goody-two-shoes nice girl with the tragic past and the rich aunt. So, in a way, she’s still that Mary Sue.
Brendan is still a Marty Stue times one billion. There is absolutely no flaw that I could find in him, and that makes me want to pummel him into a pulp. (Yes, I hate perfect people, if you couldn’t tell.)
WRITING STYLE:
There is a minimal amount of description in the novel, which kind of irks me, but the diction irks me more. (Can’t you utilize some of those SAT vocabulary words, Cara Lynn Shultz?) The novel feels very blah to me because there isn’t anything special about the author’s writing style.
I’d like to comment that the changes in perspective were very random. Occasionally the point of view changes from Emma’s POV to Angelique’s POV and I think one time Brendan’s POV. The changes are necessary, I admit, but it feels very out of place. I think that they would have been much better accomplished just through dialogue.
Overall, I would consider Spellcaster an average novel. There’s nothing special about it, but there’s nothing that I absolutely hated about it. It had a (slightly) intriguing plot, but its characters were unrealistic and the writing was very mediocre. There could be much to improve.
Source: Galley received from publisher for review
I was never the biggest fan of Spellbound, the prequel to Spellcaster, so it surprised me that I actually enjoyed Spellcaster more. It was an original novel, albeit clichéd, and I grew to love some characters a little more.
PLOT:
Whereas Spellbound seemed to revolve around breaking the curse of Emma and Brendan’s eternal reincarnation, Spellcaster revolved around protecting their true love. The prequel was definitely clichéd (come on, we all knew that the curse would be broken in the end), but this novel’s plot actually intrigued me. I’m not saying it was the best—no, it was nowhere near as interesting as some other novels I’ve read—but it was enough to let me keep flipping through the pages. I wanted to know who was trying so desperately to destroy Emma and Brendan’s true love and, more importantly, why that person was doing so.
Unfortunately, the novel was much too predictable. I easily figured out who was the culprit long before he/she was revealed. He/she was just mentioned much too many times, and I knew it wasn’t a coincidence. I also had suspicions as to why that person would go to such lengths, and I was right.
The mystery in this novel was what really pulled me in. If there wasn’t any mystery, I think I would have given up after fifty pages. But I had my suspicions, and because I always want to be right, I decided to continue reading. The mystery was predictable, but I could deal with that because Cara Lynn Shultz did manage to knock me off my feet a couple times.
I think I was most annoyed with the romance in this novel. I don’t know; maybe it’s just me, but I get really frustrated with lovey-dovey rainbows-and-sunshine cuteness galore romance. (That’s when I go looking for action novels with lots of guts involved.) I don’t want this deluge of hearts and unicorns. It’s not fun to read. But I will say that Emma and Brendan are as cute as they ever were, though I hate how they’re so hung up on whether they should have sex or not. (Like, gross. You’ve known each other for how long? And don’t give me the soul mate crap.)
CHARACTER:
Emma is no longer the Mary Sue she was in the prequel. She’s been taking some classes that have given her some extra punch (hi-yah!), and she’s definitely gotten stronger both physically and emotionally. However, I’m still really annoyed with her because she’s still that goody-two-shoes nice girl with the tragic past and the rich aunt. So, in a way, she’s still that Mary Sue.
Brendan is still a Marty Stue times one billion. There is absolutely no flaw that I could find in him, and that makes me want to pummel him into a pulp. (Yes, I hate perfect people, if you couldn’t tell.)
WRITING STYLE:
There is a minimal amount of description in the novel, which kind of irks me, but the diction irks me more. (Can’t you utilize some of those SAT vocabulary words, Cara Lynn Shultz?) The novel feels very blah to me because there isn’t anything special about the author’s writing style.
I’d like to comment that the changes in perspective were very random. Occasionally the point of view changes from Emma’s POV to Angelique’s POV and I think one time Brendan’s POV. The changes are necessary, I admit, but it feels very out of place. I think that they would have been much better accomplished just through dialogue.
Overall, I would consider Spellcaster an average novel. There’s nothing special about it, but there’s nothing that I absolutely hated about it. It had a (slightly) intriguing plot, but its characters were unrealistic and the writing was very mediocre. There could be much to improve.
Source: Galley received from publisher for review
February 26, 2012
4*s
I have been looking forward to this book for a while and I was not disappointed as we find Emma & Brendan are faced with a new more sinister threat involving blood and dark magic as past and present clash. I loved how the witchcraft element was brought to the forefront in this book as Angelique tries to school Emma and teach her how to control her burgeoning power, it will be interesting to see where this goes in future books because she seems to be quite powerful . Still loving all the characters and they hit the spots they’re supposed to - Emma & Brendan – perfect together, feeling their love, love how they protect each other, how they are taking things slowly and challenging others perceptions of their relationship. They have to deal with a lot of prejudice because people think Emma is beneath him but I love Brendans’ attitude about the whole thing but it also astounds me the length some people will go to see them split up. Angelique – she’s still my kind of friend, a bit different, but so loyal to Emma and we see a little of that in this book. I love her whole demeanour and wish she had a soul mate to meet. I’m also liking what’s happening with Emma’s cousin Ashley and a certain someone even though we are just getting a hint of that and I’m also wondering if Ashley may come into some power as a born witch too because of the family connection. I’m still hating Kristen and her band of bitches too.
At the start of this book I was really anxious, I really loved Spellbound and became really attached to the characters and couldn’t bear to see them ripped apart because 2nd books tend to be ‘the break up’ book and as soon as I read the intro I had convinced myself that was going to happen so It sort of made me cautious, like I took a step back emotionally. I wished I hadn’t done that though because the author had it spot on with my thoughts on soul mates – one of my pet peeves is when I read of a couple who are supposedly destined for each other, have a tiff and 5 minutes later are with someone else, I HATE that and I’m so glad it didn’t happen in this.
There was no let-up in the danger posed to Emma & Brendan throughout the book, the plot and pacing flowed really well mixing the threat, the witchcraft lessons, school life, home life and the relationship with ease and the threat was felt in everything they did and tested the boundaries of their relationship but this time they weren’t the only ones at stake. I liked how all of the secondary characters were brought into the story and we seem to be getting more from them and that although Emma & Brendan are the Main characters/soul mates that it wasn’t just about them mooning all over each other. The witchcraft was an excellent progression from the past life discovery from Spellbound and I loved how it was expanded on, giving new threats to them and opens up a lot of potential for future books. I feel Emma still has a lot to give and I’m glad she is still having the visions/dreams keeping her in contact with her brother, even if cryptically and I like how through these we may be glimpsing at her past lives too. I really liked how we also got some chapters from Angeliques’ pov too, could I suggest some Brendan ones for book 3? That would be great! I will also mention that I was totally clueless about where the threat was coming from and suspected lots of people, it’s not often I read a book where I hadn’t already figured most of it out so that’s always a plus for me, making this a really good sequel that certainly does not disappoint and leaving me curious as to where it’s going to go next.
I have been looking forward to this book for a while and I was not disappointed as we find Emma & Brendan are faced with a new more sinister threat involving blood and dark magic as past and present clash. I loved how the witchcraft element was brought to the forefront in this book as Angelique tries to school Emma and teach her how to control her burgeoning power, it will be interesting to see where this goes in future books because she seems to be quite powerful . Still loving all the characters and they hit the spots they’re supposed to - Emma & Brendan – perfect together, feeling their love, love how they protect each other, how they are taking things slowly and challenging others perceptions of their relationship. They have to deal with a lot of prejudice because people think Emma is beneath him but I love Brendans’ attitude about the whole thing but it also astounds me the length some people will go to see them split up. Angelique – she’s still my kind of friend, a bit different, but so loyal to Emma and we see a little of that in this book. I love her whole demeanour and wish she had a soul mate to meet. I’m also liking what’s happening with Emma’s cousin Ashley and a certain someone even though we are just getting a hint of that and I’m also wondering if Ashley may come into some power as a born witch too because of the family connection. I’m still hating Kristen and her band of bitches too.
At the start of this book I was really anxious, I really loved Spellbound and became really attached to the characters and couldn’t bear to see them ripped apart because 2nd books tend to be ‘the break up’ book and as soon as I read the intro I had convinced myself that was going to happen so It sort of made me cautious, like I took a step back emotionally. I wished I hadn’t done that though because the author had it spot on with my thoughts on soul mates – one of my pet peeves is when I read of a couple who are supposedly destined for each other, have a tiff and 5 minutes later are with someone else, I HATE that and I’m so glad it didn’t happen in this.
There was no let-up in the danger posed to Emma & Brendan throughout the book, the plot and pacing flowed really well mixing the threat, the witchcraft lessons, school life, home life and the relationship with ease and the threat was felt in everything they did and tested the boundaries of their relationship but this time they weren’t the only ones at stake. I liked how all of the secondary characters were brought into the story and we seem to be getting more from them and that although Emma & Brendan are the Main characters/soul mates that it wasn’t just about them mooning all over each other. The witchcraft was an excellent progression from the past life discovery from Spellbound and I loved how it was expanded on, giving new threats to them and opens up a lot of potential for future books. I feel Emma still has a lot to give and I’m glad she is still having the visions/dreams keeping her in contact with her brother, even if cryptically and I like how through these we may be glimpsing at her past lives too. I really liked how we also got some chapters from Angeliques’ pov too, could I suggest some Brendan ones for book 3? That would be great! I will also mention that I was totally clueless about where the threat was coming from and suspected lots of people, it’s not often I read a book where I hadn’t already figured most of it out so that’s always a plus for me, making this a really good sequel that certainly does not disappoint and leaving me curious as to where it’s going to go next.
February 28, 2012
WARNING! Review contains spoilers for Spellbound! If you haven't read Spellbound yet, read it before looking at this review.
My thoughts on the book:
Wow. I thought that surely Shultz outdid herself with Spellbound, but I was wrong. Spellcaster is fantastic! It picks up where Spellbound left off, with Emma and Brendan dealing with the fallout from Anthony's attack. Anthony is still MIA, and the police believe that his father is hiding him somewhere in Europe. However, no one is sure where Anthony really is. Also, someone is out to get Emma and Brendan... again. These poor kids can't get a moment's peace. Spellcaster is an extremely suspenseful read. Emma and Brendan have to battle new and old enemies, and the novel is packed full of action, romance, adventure, and mystery. This is one book you do not want to miss.
Spellcaster has everything I loved about Spellbound, but the pacing is faster. Spellbound started off kind of slow at first, but Spellcaster jumps right into the action. We find out pretty quickly that something is after Emma, but we don't know what it is. Even after we find out who is behind her attacks, there is still a mystery surrounding who is helping Emma's attacker. While I had a good idea who was helping Emma's attacker, I wasn't 100% sure until it was revealed. Shultz leaves hints along the way, but she does a good job at keeping you guessing.
Emma's character has grown so much since Spellbound, and she grows even more in Spellcaster. She still has her sarcastic sense of humor, but she is much more mature. She has a lot of difficult decisions to make in this novel, and some of her decisions really surprised me... in a good way. When I finished this book, I was very proud of the character she's become. Emma is a strong heroine who fights for those she loves without sacrificing who she is. She won't let anyone push her around, and I really admire that about her.
Brendan is just as sweet as ever, and if you didn't completely fall in love with him during Spellbound, you definitely will in this book. He goes to great lengths to ensure Emma's happiness, and it's obvious that he's become her best friend as well as her soul mate. They make a great team, and their interactions show that they are growing as characters together. They have a healthy and respectful relationship. I wish more YA books had characters like these two.
A cool thing Shultz did in this book was tell a couple of chapters from Angelique's perspective. This really allows the us to get to know our favorite goth girl a bit better. Angelique has some new powers that she's learning to deal with, and her POV made the story more complex. We also find out what her problem is with Brendan and how she's working to overcome their differences. Angelique was one of my favorite characters in Spellcaster.
There is a lot more magic in Spellcaster than there was in Spellbound, and I really enjoyed that. Emma is learning how to be a witch, and while she has some problems focusing her emotions, her powers always seem to work when she needs them most. We also get to meet Angelique's cousin, Miranda, and she's an interesting addition to the book.
The plot, as I stated, is a page turner. It's quick moving, and the pacing is perfect. The ending wraps everything up nicely, but there is room for a sequel. I hope this series is at least a trilogy because I love the world that Shultz has created. Spellcaster will entrance you and keep you under its spell until the last page.
Check out other reviews, awesome contests, and author interviews at http://falln2books.blogspot.com
My thoughts on the book:
Wow. I thought that surely Shultz outdid herself with Spellbound, but I was wrong. Spellcaster is fantastic! It picks up where Spellbound left off, with Emma and Brendan dealing with the fallout from Anthony's attack. Anthony is still MIA, and the police believe that his father is hiding him somewhere in Europe. However, no one is sure where Anthony really is. Also, someone is out to get Emma and Brendan... again. These poor kids can't get a moment's peace. Spellcaster is an extremely suspenseful read. Emma and Brendan have to battle new and old enemies, and the novel is packed full of action, romance, adventure, and mystery. This is one book you do not want to miss.
Spellcaster has everything I loved about Spellbound, but the pacing is faster. Spellbound started off kind of slow at first, but Spellcaster jumps right into the action. We find out pretty quickly that something is after Emma, but we don't know what it is. Even after we find out who is behind her attacks, there is still a mystery surrounding who is helping Emma's attacker. While I had a good idea who was helping Emma's attacker, I wasn't 100% sure until it was revealed. Shultz leaves hints along the way, but she does a good job at keeping you guessing.
Emma's character has grown so much since Spellbound, and she grows even more in Spellcaster. She still has her sarcastic sense of humor, but she is much more mature. She has a lot of difficult decisions to make in this novel, and some of her decisions really surprised me... in a good way. When I finished this book, I was very proud of the character she's become. Emma is a strong heroine who fights for those she loves without sacrificing who she is. She won't let anyone push her around, and I really admire that about her.
Brendan is just as sweet as ever, and if you didn't completely fall in love with him during Spellbound, you definitely will in this book. He goes to great lengths to ensure Emma's happiness, and it's obvious that he's become her best friend as well as her soul mate. They make a great team, and their interactions show that they are growing as characters together. They have a healthy and respectful relationship. I wish more YA books had characters like these two.
A cool thing Shultz did in this book was tell a couple of chapters from Angelique's perspective. This really allows the us to get to know our favorite goth girl a bit better. Angelique has some new powers that she's learning to deal with, and her POV made the story more complex. We also find out what her problem is with Brendan and how she's working to overcome their differences. Angelique was one of my favorite characters in Spellcaster.
There is a lot more magic in Spellcaster than there was in Spellbound, and I really enjoyed that. Emma is learning how to be a witch, and while she has some problems focusing her emotions, her powers always seem to work when she needs them most. We also get to meet Angelique's cousin, Miranda, and she's an interesting addition to the book.
The plot, as I stated, is a page turner. It's quick moving, and the pacing is perfect. The ending wraps everything up nicely, but there is room for a sequel. I hope this series is at least a trilogy because I love the world that Shultz has created. Spellcaster will entrance you and keep you under its spell until the last page.
Check out other reviews, awesome contests, and author interviews at http://falln2books.blogspot.com
Displaying 1 - 30 of 402 reviews