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Into the Dark #2
The Eternity Key
Fan-favorite author Bree Despain continues her modern-day romance trilogy inspired by the Greek myth of Persephone and Hades with this second book in her Into the Dark series.
Haden Lord, the disgraced Prince of the Underrealm, has chosen love over honor and will do everything in his power to protect Daphne Raines, the human girl he was supposed to bring to the Underrealm. Haden’s choice is put to the test as the Skylords and a figure from his past arrive in Olympus Hills with a plan that could destroy all of the realms.
Embracing her destiny as the Cypher, Daphne begins to understand the immense power of her musical ability to control the elements, but she must come to terms with her feelings for Haden and what she must sacrifice in order to protect him and her friends.
Believing the Key of Hades is the only thing that can stop the Underrealm Court from releasing the monstrous Keres on the mortal world, Haden, Daphne, and their friends set out to find the Key before Persephone’s Gate opens again on the spring equinox.
Haden Lord, the disgraced Prince of the Underrealm, has chosen love over honor and will do everything in his power to protect Daphne Raines, the human girl he was supposed to bring to the Underrealm. Haden’s choice is put to the test as the Skylords and a figure from his past arrive in Olympus Hills with a plan that could destroy all of the realms.
Embracing her destiny as the Cypher, Daphne begins to understand the immense power of her musical ability to control the elements, but she must come to terms with her feelings for Haden and what she must sacrifice in order to protect him and her friends.
Believing the Key of Hades is the only thing that can stop the Underrealm Court from releasing the monstrous Keres on the mortal world, Haden, Daphne, and their friends set out to find the Key before Persephone’s Gate opens again on the spring equinox.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2015
60 people are currently reading
2706 people want to read
About the author
Bree Despain
17 books2,677 followersThe Short: Bree rediscovered her childhood love for creating stories when she took a semester off college to write and direct plays for at-risk, inner-city teens from Philadelphia and New York. She currently lives in Salt Lake City, Utah with her husband, two young sons, and her beloved TiVo. The Dark Divine is Bree's debut novel.
The Long: As a kid, Bree would staple folded papers to make her own "novels." As a teen, she wrote stories in notebooks while her friends waited for the next page to be finished. Her teachers told her she should be a writer. But Bree thought only special people could be writers, so as the years past, she settled into the idea of becoming a lawyer or something else just as ordinary.
Bree rediscovered her childhood love for creating stories when she took a semester off college to write and direct plays for at-risk, inner city teens from Philadelphia and New York. With a renewed passion for story, and the young adult audience, she returned to Brigham Young University, filled her schedule with creative writing and literature classes, and started writing stories again. But regular life kicked in, and she soon found herself married with a new baby, working full-time, and with very little writing done.
That’s when the universe threw a pick-up truck in her path. The car accident left Bree with an understanding that life was too short to not do what you absolutely love. A few days later, her husband brought home a used laptop computer, placed it by her bedside, and said, “You’d better start writing.” Her life has never been the same since.
In a moment of karmic perfection, Bree received the offer to purchase The Dark Divine on the 6th anniversary of the car accident that put her back on the path to becoming an author.
The Long: As a kid, Bree would staple folded papers to make her own "novels." As a teen, she wrote stories in notebooks while her friends waited for the next page to be finished. Her teachers told her she should be a writer. But Bree thought only special people could be writers, so as the years past, she settled into the idea of becoming a lawyer or something else just as ordinary.
Bree rediscovered her childhood love for creating stories when she took a semester off college to write and direct plays for at-risk, inner city teens from Philadelphia and New York. With a renewed passion for story, and the young adult audience, she returned to Brigham Young University, filled her schedule with creative writing and literature classes, and started writing stories again. But regular life kicked in, and she soon found herself married with a new baby, working full-time, and with very little writing done.
That’s when the universe threw a pick-up truck in her path. The car accident left Bree with an understanding that life was too short to not do what you absolutely love. A few days later, her husband brought home a used laptop computer, placed it by her bedside, and said, “You’d better start writing.” Her life has never been the same since.
In a moment of karmic perfection, Bree received the offer to purchase The Dark Divine on the 6th anniversary of the car accident that put her back on the path to becoming an author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
April 28, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Egmont USA, and NetGalley.)
“We shouldn’t be singing warm-up notes when our time to find the Key is wasting away, but she is so stuck on her plan for her future that I am afraid she doesn’t realise that particular future may never come.”
This was a good YA mythology/fantasy sequel, and boy did these kids get themselves in a pickle!
Daphne and the crew continued to make some dodgy decisions in this story, but they did at least seem focused on what it was they were hoping to achieve! I thought that Daphne was rather harsh on her father though, he may not have been father-of-the-year material, but it was obvious that he loved her.
“No, Joe. I’m done. I don’t want your apologies. I don’t want the Vespa. I don’t want the lead in your play – I’m quitting! And I don’t want to live with you anymore.”
The storyline in this revolved around, you guessed it; finding the Eternity Key, and the compass, and a couple of other things, whilst trying to evade their enemies who also wanted the same artefacts but for different uses.
“My first thought is that we should try to run, but then I realise that with Terresa by the door and Calix by the windows, they’ve got all the exits covered. We’re basically trapped.”
There was some romance in this story, but not a lot, and we still didn’t get a real romantic relationship forming in this story between Daphne and Haden. We got a bit of wondering, but nothing concrete.
“You need to tell her.”
I raise an eyebrow noncommittal, “Huh?”
“That you’re in love with her, you idiot.”
The ending to this was very busy, and these kids just kept getting into worse and worse situations. This ultimately left us with a big cliff-hanger, so we’ll all be waiting for that third book to come out!
7 out of 10
“We shouldn’t be singing warm-up notes when our time to find the Key is wasting away, but she is so stuck on her plan for her future that I am afraid she doesn’t realise that particular future may never come.”
This was a good YA mythology/fantasy sequel, and boy did these kids get themselves in a pickle!
Daphne and the crew continued to make some dodgy decisions in this story, but they did at least seem focused on what it was they were hoping to achieve! I thought that Daphne was rather harsh on her father though, he may not have been father-of-the-year material, but it was obvious that he loved her.
“No, Joe. I’m done. I don’t want your apologies. I don’t want the Vespa. I don’t want the lead in your play – I’m quitting! And I don’t want to live with you anymore.”
The storyline in this revolved around, you guessed it; finding the Eternity Key, and the compass, and a couple of other things, whilst trying to evade their enemies who also wanted the same artefacts but for different uses.
“My first thought is that we should try to run, but then I realise that with Terresa by the door and Calix by the windows, they’ve got all the exits covered. We’re basically trapped.”
There was some romance in this story, but not a lot, and we still didn’t get a real romantic relationship forming in this story between Daphne and Haden. We got a bit of wondering, but nothing concrete.
“You need to tell her.”
I raise an eyebrow noncommittal, “Huh?”
“That you’re in love with her, you idiot.”
The ending to this was very busy, and these kids just kept getting into worse and worse situations. This ultimately left us with a big cliff-hanger, so we’ll all be waiting for that third book to come out!
7 out of 10
May 28, 2021
I love mythologies and Greek mythologies are one of my favorites. I loved the first book in the series and the same goes for this second book.
Haden Lord, our dark Prince of the Underrealm whom the Oracle chose in the first book has fallen for Daphne Raines which is typical YA stuff but I loved every single moment of this. On the other hand, Daphne has finally realized her purpose/role and is trying to understand her powers and embrace them. As her powers are unveiling themselves, I'm absolutely in awe of Bree Despain's writing.
The story was like a quest to look for the eternity key and few other things. But the way story progressed, it covers a lot more things than just looking for objects.
I also love all the other characters especially Tobin, Dax and Lexie. I cannot stress how crucial every major and minor character in this book is. They all have a role and purpose to play. All of the characters have depth and I loved how everyone's stories unfolded and intermingled with each others'.
A fast paced, action packed read with subtle romance. A great ride that I thoroughly enjoyed and couldn't get enough of. I highly recommend this to all the Greek mythology, fantasy and YA romance fans.
5 stars
Haden Lord, our dark Prince of the Underrealm whom the Oracle chose in the first book has fallen for Daphne Raines which is typical YA stuff but I loved every single moment of this. On the other hand, Daphne has finally realized her purpose/role and is trying to understand her powers and embrace them. As her powers are unveiling themselves, I'm absolutely in awe of Bree Despain's writing.
The story was like a quest to look for the eternity key and few other things. But the way story progressed, it covers a lot more things than just looking for objects.
I also love all the other characters especially Tobin, Dax and Lexie. I cannot stress how crucial every major and minor character in this book is. They all have a role and purpose to play. All of the characters have depth and I loved how everyone's stories unfolded and intermingled with each others'.
A fast paced, action packed read with subtle romance. A great ride that I thoroughly enjoyed and couldn't get enough of. I highly recommend this to all the Greek mythology, fantasy and YA romance fans.
5 stars
March 28, 2015
Thanks to Netgalley and Egmont USA for giving me this book to review
Daphne is beginning to embrace her destiny as the cypher and is discovering the power of her musical ability. Along with her friends, she is determined to find the Key of Hades and save her world from the Keres. Haden has chosen Daphne and what is right over power, but is struggling with his feelings for Daphne and how to tell her. Time is running out to find the Key before the spring equinox, and with Skylords in Olympus Hills and a possible traitor in their group can Daphne and Haden succeed.
The Eternity Key is the really enjoyable sequel to The Shadow Prince. It is fast paced, and I found the story more interesting than the previous book. This book has more action and romance, and while a bit predictable I wanted to find out what was happening next.
Daphne feels like she has the weight of the world on her shoulders which leaves her feeling really stressed in this book but she is less naïve and still a very nice, if a bit too perfect, person. Haden has accepted who he is and the choices he has made, he is more human in this book and is very protective. We get Tobin’s POV in this book and we get to understand him more and his determination to find his sister.
I really liked this book and I am looking forward to the next book in this series, as this did end on a cliff-hanger. I would recommend The Eternity Key to fans of the first book in the Into the Dark series The Shadow Prince.
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
Daphne is beginning to embrace her destiny as the cypher and is discovering the power of her musical ability. Along with her friends, she is determined to find the Key of Hades and save her world from the Keres. Haden has chosen Daphne and what is right over power, but is struggling with his feelings for Daphne and how to tell her. Time is running out to find the Key before the spring equinox, and with Skylords in Olympus Hills and a possible traitor in their group can Daphne and Haden succeed.
The Eternity Key is the really enjoyable sequel to The Shadow Prince. It is fast paced, and I found the story more interesting than the previous book. This book has more action and romance, and while a bit predictable I wanted to find out what was happening next.
Daphne feels like she has the weight of the world on her shoulders which leaves her feeling really stressed in this book but she is less naïve and still a very nice, if a bit too perfect, person. Haden has accepted who he is and the choices he has made, he is more human in this book and is very protective. We get Tobin’s POV in this book and we get to understand him more and his determination to find his sister.
I really liked this book and I am looking forward to the next book in this series, as this did end on a cliff-hanger. I would recommend The Eternity Key to fans of the first book in the Into the Dark series The Shadow Prince.
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
May 29, 2014
If you thought Book 1 was intense, dude. Maybe you should get yourself some calming tea before you read this one because hella intense times ahead, yo, physical as well as emotional.
Quests. Lightning. Fights. Stalkers. Evil Skylords. Maybe evil Skylords? Evil Underlords. Maybe evil Underlords? Who is evil? Who is trustworthy? WHAT IS HAPPENING TO MY HEARTTTT?
And, of course, Haden and Daphne.
Basically, I have no heart anymore, because Bree broke it all up and ground it into a fine powder and sprinkled it in a pomegranate smoothie.
Quests. Lightning. Fights. Stalkers. Evil Skylords. Maybe evil Skylords? Evil Underlords. Maybe evil Underlords? Who is evil? Who is trustworthy? WHAT IS HAPPENING TO MY HEARTTTT?
And, of course, Haden and Daphne.
Basically, I have no heart anymore, because Bree broke it all up and ground it into a fine powder and sprinkled it in a pomegranate smoothie.
Read
January 28, 2015Okay wait a minute. I had the arc for this book so does it really end there with Tobin? Oh man! I've got to get my hands on the next book asap. Luckily, I'm on a panel with Bree this month so I can pester her for information and/or the arc for the next book. Loved this sequel even more than the first. The characters really all took great leaps forward in their own ways and I'm horribly concerned about each one of them right now. Loved Hayden even more and Garrick? Didn't see that coming.
May 28, 2015
Short and Sweet Version
Slow-burning romance. Fun, modern retelling of Greek myths. Epic, cliff-hanger ending. Twists. Famous rock star father sold your soul. All the things you need for the perfect novel to lose yourself in for a while.
Jessica Thinks Too Much Version
Slow-burning romance. Fun, modern retelling of Greek myths. Epic, cliff-hanger ending. Twists. Famous rock star father sold your soul. All the things you need for the perfect novel to lose yourself in for a while.
Jessica Thinks Too Much Version
May 14, 2015
Rating: 4.25/5
Review coming soon!
Review coming soon!
August 6, 2015
When last year I read The Shadow Prince I was quite pleasantly surprised about the twist on Greek mythology that the author had worked on. Qith some obvious references and a few surprises about who was who, I was left really looking forward to read the sequel!
Then I got approved for the sequel by the publisher on Netgalley (thank you!) and then came the Egdmont debacle and we had doubts about book 3 happening... and I ended up pushing back reading this one. Finally decided to go back to this series and very happy that I did, although I'm glad I didn't read it too much in advance of release date (rather quite a while after!) because there's quite the cliffhanger in the end!
I felt that the book was a bit slow at first... after all the revelations at the end of the first book, to find the crew stuck trying to find the Key and having no clue of what they're doing and trying to figure it out... I guess I was expecting them to be a bit more organized or to have more of a plan, but in the end they're such a bunch of teenagers, Greek myths or not, and they don't have a lot of knowlegde easily gathered, laying around.
What left me scratching my head was how wishy washy the team feel was, I was expecting that after all that they went through, they'd rely more on each other but it seemed like although they had THE common interest, they had gone back to their own lives, pretending like the clock is not ticking and the Skylords are not likely to make an appearance at any point.
Maybe it was because it's been a while since I read the first book but I felt like the relationship between Haden and Daphne had taken a few steps back in the beginning of this one, and we spend a good part of the book with these two not just trying to continue with school work, trying to find the Key, but also figuring out (again?) what they feel about each other (in Daphne's case) and how to express said feelings (in Haden's case).
We meet some new characters in this book and some are clearly the enemy while others are a bit more in the grey area, if not undercover allies, but with such high stakes at play, I feel that Haden was being wary enough but also keeping secrets from each other was a problem the group shouldn't have at this stage of the fight, but secrets they kept.
The relationships in general were well developed and we didn't just limit our focus to Daphne and Haden, but also Daphne and the very hard relationship of trusting him again after all that she found out, and how her father makes every possible effort. We also see Tobin struggling with his wanting to find his sister and how knowing his mother's secrets has killed their relationship.
The last part of the book was the best part, since we had the musical opening night with the Key search in a very heist like plan, and the action doesn't stop because there's plenty of surprises, revelations about characters that we thought that weren't important, and quite a dire betrayal! I suspected the traitor a pair of times while reading, but I was NOT expecting THAT kind of betrayal!
A very cliffhangery ending that leaves us wondering how anything can be fixed and worked around and very excitedly (if a lil vexed) awaiting the next book! Well deserved 3.5 stars for this one.
Then I got approved for the sequel by the publisher on Netgalley (thank you!) and then came the Egdmont debacle and we had doubts about book 3 happening... and I ended up pushing back reading this one. Finally decided to go back to this series and very happy that I did, although I'm glad I didn't read it too much in advance of release date (rather quite a while after!) because there's quite the cliffhanger in the end!
I felt that the book was a bit slow at first... after all the revelations at the end of the first book, to find the crew stuck trying to find the Key and having no clue of what they're doing and trying to figure it out... I guess I was expecting them to be a bit more organized or to have more of a plan, but in the end they're such a bunch of teenagers, Greek myths or not, and they don't have a lot of knowlegde easily gathered, laying around.
What left me scratching my head was how wishy washy the team feel was, I was expecting that after all that they went through, they'd rely more on each other but it seemed like although they had THE common interest, they had gone back to their own lives, pretending like the clock is not ticking and the Skylords are not likely to make an appearance at any point.
Maybe it was because it's been a while since I read the first book but I felt like the relationship between Haden and Daphne had taken a few steps back in the beginning of this one, and we spend a good part of the book with these two not just trying to continue with school work, trying to find the Key, but also figuring out (again?) what they feel about each other (in Daphne's case) and how to express said feelings (in Haden's case).
We meet some new characters in this book and some are clearly the enemy while others are a bit more in the grey area, if not undercover allies, but with such high stakes at play, I feel that Haden was being wary enough but also keeping secrets from each other was a problem the group shouldn't have at this stage of the fight, but secrets they kept.
The relationships in general were well developed and we didn't just limit our focus to Daphne and Haden, but also Daphne and the very hard relationship of trusting him again after all that she found out, and how her father makes every possible effort. We also see Tobin struggling with his wanting to find his sister and how knowing his mother's secrets has killed their relationship.
The last part of the book was the best part, since we had the musical opening night with the Key search in a very heist like plan, and the action doesn't stop because there's plenty of surprises, revelations about characters that we thought that weren't important, and quite a dire betrayal! I suspected the traitor a pair of times while reading, but I was NOT expecting THAT kind of betrayal!
A very cliffhangery ending that leaves us wondering how anything can be fixed and worked around and very excitedly (if a lil vexed) awaiting the next book! Well deserved 3.5 stars for this one.
April 22, 2015
I received this ARC from the publishers via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review, I was in no way compensated for this review.
I read Bree Despain's The Eternity Key in about a day and it was freaking awesome! I read 1 chapter one day and then the rest the day after and just wow! WOW! And now I must say, I NEED book 3 SEVERAL MONTHS AGO!!!
Now that I got that out of the way, let's move on! We pick up mere weeks where we left off and based on when I read the ARC of the first book last time, it's probably been a year since I read that one too! So my memory was basically null and void on everything! There have just been too many reads and other life events that got in the way and I couldn't remember much of anything, but as I read, gradually some of the details came back to me. Generally, when I can't remember what happened in the previous book, I just try to roll with it. Forcing memories to appear is more painful than you would think, but I am glad that I did it this way because I truly enjoyed The Eternity Key and am all keyed up for the next one (no pun intended) (mostly).
Daphne, Haden, and Tobin are our narrators this time around--yup, three of them!--and they along with their friends are determined to find the Key that will open the gates to the Underealm anytime. The Equinox is pending and that will allow the gates to open automatically, but having the key will give them access anytime basically. And it's more important than ever to find it when their enemies are moving in closer to look for it themselves!
This became the main mission of the book to find the Key, and then after that, plan their next move to use said Key.
I really enjoyed this one! At first I thought having all these different characters being thrown at me would be too overwhelming, and maybe it was a bit at first due to my poor memory of the first book, but after I got over that, it got REALLY exciting and REALLY enjoyable! I didn't want to put this read down for anything and that pretty much led me to finish it in a day!
One character that always draws the most emotions from me--besides Haden and Dax that is!--is Joe, Daphne's dad. The way he was just such a crappy father and what he did to get his fame irked me as it did Daphne. But then you look at him trying so, so hard to be a better dad for Daphne that it tore my poor, neglected heart up--needless to say I have my own father issues, but I won't get into those details, basically this relationship struck a chord in me. And then seeing the changes in the father later on, really tore me up inside. Basically, my emotions went all over the place and I was near tears because of how he acted in the end.
Haden and Daphne is another tragic story, we have Haden madly in love with Daphne and we aren't too sure where she stands. And then "stuff" happens and once again, my heart was going all over the place! I was a freaking wreck you guys! This read seriously tore me to pieces!! So many different relationships threatening to tear me apart...I swear Bree had to be maniacally laughing wherever she was, seeming to psychically know what she was doing to her ARC readers. Oh Bree...but I still love you! ;)
The ending is definitely the killer! The kind of ending that leaves you screaming! And I did! There was so much action, so much danger, so much suspense! I was gripping the chair I sat in as I read this on my Kindle. It was so very intense, I would've been gripping the spine had it been a real book! It was really that intense! And the ending, oh those very last moments where you aren't sure the fate of everyone and THEN there's just one more chapter and you are like OHMYGOD I really have to wait another year for the next book?! Because it really, really, went there! It went into territories one never wishes to see when one has to wait yet another year for the next book! It was that kind of cliffhanger! Yes, it was a killer cliffhanger! I have died yet another reader's death thank you very much!
I continue to love these Greek mythology kind of tales! Greek mythology was always a favorite subject of mine and I love how this one forgoes the Persephone myth--nothing wrong with it, just one of the more popular myths. Instead this one is more of an Orpheus-Cupid/Psyche combo with a little bit of Persephone thrown in, but only vaguely! It's definitely a mishmash of sorts and it makes the read all the more incredible!
The Eternity Key is a fast-paced action pack kind of read! The romance is the sweet, tearful kind that always touches my heart and I seriously loved every single minute of this book! Even the times where I still struggled to regain memory of what happened previously, I was enjoying every single minute of this one!
Now I'm going to go rock in a corner until the next book comes out. See you later! ;)
Overall Rating 4.5/5 stars--just a minor knockoff that is more so to do with me not being able to remember what has already happened previously, not one that in anyway deteriorates from the enjoyment of the novel for other readers!
The Eternity Key releases May 12, 2015
I read Bree Despain's The Eternity Key in about a day and it was freaking awesome! I read 1 chapter one day and then the rest the day after and just wow! WOW! And now I must say, I NEED book 3 SEVERAL MONTHS AGO!!!
Now that I got that out of the way, let's move on! We pick up mere weeks where we left off and based on when I read the ARC of the first book last time, it's probably been a year since I read that one too! So my memory was basically null and void on everything! There have just been too many reads and other life events that got in the way and I couldn't remember much of anything, but as I read, gradually some of the details came back to me. Generally, when I can't remember what happened in the previous book, I just try to roll with it. Forcing memories to appear is more painful than you would think, but I am glad that I did it this way because I truly enjoyed The Eternity Key and am all keyed up for the next one (no pun intended) (mostly).
Daphne, Haden, and Tobin are our narrators this time around--yup, three of them!--and they along with their friends are determined to find the Key that will open the gates to the Underealm anytime. The Equinox is pending and that will allow the gates to open automatically, but having the key will give them access anytime basically. And it's more important than ever to find it when their enemies are moving in closer to look for it themselves!
This became the main mission of the book to find the Key, and then after that, plan their next move to use said Key.
I really enjoyed this one! At first I thought having all these different characters being thrown at me would be too overwhelming, and maybe it was a bit at first due to my poor memory of the first book, but after I got over that, it got REALLY exciting and REALLY enjoyable! I didn't want to put this read down for anything and that pretty much led me to finish it in a day!
One character that always draws the most emotions from me--besides Haden and Dax that is!--is Joe, Daphne's dad. The way he was just such a crappy father and what he did to get his fame irked me as it did Daphne. But then you look at him trying so, so hard to be a better dad for Daphne that it tore my poor, neglected heart up--needless to say I have my own father issues, but I won't get into those details, basically this relationship struck a chord in me. And then seeing the changes in the father later on, really tore me up inside. Basically, my emotions went all over the place and I was near tears because of how he acted in the end.
Haden and Daphne is another tragic story, we have Haden madly in love with Daphne and we aren't too sure where she stands. And then "stuff" happens and once again, my heart was going all over the place! I was a freaking wreck you guys! This read seriously tore me to pieces!! So many different relationships threatening to tear me apart...I swear Bree had to be maniacally laughing wherever she was, seeming to psychically know what she was doing to her ARC readers. Oh Bree...but I still love you! ;)
The ending is definitely the killer! The kind of ending that leaves you screaming! And I did! There was so much action, so much danger, so much suspense! I was gripping the chair I sat in as I read this on my Kindle. It was so very intense, I would've been gripping the spine had it been a real book! It was really that intense! And the ending, oh those very last moments where you aren't sure the fate of everyone and THEN there's just one more chapter and you are like OHMYGOD I really have to wait another year for the next book?! Because it really, really, went there! It went into territories one never wishes to see when one has to wait yet another year for the next book! It was that kind of cliffhanger! Yes, it was a killer cliffhanger! I have died yet another reader's death thank you very much!
I continue to love these Greek mythology kind of tales! Greek mythology was always a favorite subject of mine and I love how this one forgoes the Persephone myth--nothing wrong with it, just one of the more popular myths. Instead this one is more of an Orpheus-Cupid/Psyche combo with a little bit of Persephone thrown in, but only vaguely! It's definitely a mishmash of sorts and it makes the read all the more incredible!
The Eternity Key is a fast-paced action pack kind of read! The romance is the sweet, tearful kind that always touches my heart and I seriously loved every single minute of this book! Even the times where I still struggled to regain memory of what happened previously, I was enjoying every single minute of this one!
Now I'm going to go rock in a corner until the next book comes out. See you later! ;)
Overall Rating 4.5/5 stars--just a minor knockoff that is more so to do with me not being able to remember what has already happened previously, not one that in anyway deteriorates from the enjoyment of the novel for other readers!
The Eternity Key releases May 12, 2015
January 4, 2019
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Well, if I didn't like The Shadow Prince very much back when I read it, I definitely like The Eternity Key much better than the first book.
The second book in the Into the Dark series is one of those books that feel as though you're watching the next episode of most TV shows, where the narrator pretty much says, "Previously on..."
In The Eternity Key's case, though, there isn't actually one narrator. Much like the first one, this sequel to The Shadow Prince has three narrators: Tobin, Haden, and Daphne, with the latter two being the primary narrators (I get confused sometimes with those three, especially when it's Tobin). I definitely liked how the author introduced the second book by using the first couple of pages as a refresher of what happened in the first book (using Haden, of course) – the author is definitely prepared for some memory lapses that could possibly occur (I definitely forgot a few minorly important details).
The Eternity Key is one of those books that starts out slow. Daphne, Haden, and their small group spend the majority of the book watching their backs for Skylords (and anyone else looking for the Cypher and the Key of Hades) and the Compass. Considering the fact the book is actually titled "The Eternity Key" (another name for the Key of Hades), I expected the book to be slower than the books I'm typically drawn to.
Plus, I'm in some sort of slow-moving book phase by accident right now, so I pretty much have the patience (I suppose I'll thank Leigh Bardugo for starting this phase).
The characters did make a contribution in making my read of the book more enjoyable though. Haden is less naïve of the human world than before – there's more common sense put into his actions this time around, and sometimes his questions are stupid enough that it's downright hilarious. How does one milk an almond? Why, you grind it, of course. Into teeny little pieces.
(I'm not sure if that's how you milk an almond. I'm sure Google would tell me if I ask. I'm just too lazy to ask.)
Daphne has grown more mature, and she's more forgiving of her father – there's something about her that I like this time around that I didn't really like in the first book. Lexie might be my favorite character (though not of all time) with her way of irritating Tobin, and it's been a joy seeing her become a major character in the series.
Garrick, though, let's just put at this: I loved how Despain uses him and drops some bombs in the end. It is MAGNIFICANT.
It's a rarity for me to be surprised by the ending, and I loved how The Eternity Key is played out. It isn't very surprising when I think about it, but it was fantastic. Simply put, I'm probably going to have lots of fun when I get my hands on the third book. And I do mean LOTS of fun.
I'm starting to wonder what is with all these second books this year wrapping me in when the first book didn't.
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
Well, if I didn't like The Shadow Prince very much back when I read it, I definitely like The Eternity Key much better than the first book.
The second book in the Into the Dark series is one of those books that feel as though you're watching the next episode of most TV shows, where the narrator pretty much says, "Previously on..."
In The Eternity Key's case, though, there isn't actually one narrator. Much like the first one, this sequel to The Shadow Prince has three narrators: Tobin, Haden, and Daphne, with the latter two being the primary narrators (I get confused sometimes with those three, especially when it's Tobin). I definitely liked how the author introduced the second book by using the first couple of pages as a refresher of what happened in the first book (using Haden, of course) – the author is definitely prepared for some memory lapses that could possibly occur (I definitely forgot a few minorly important details).
The Eternity Key is one of those books that starts out slow. Daphne, Haden, and their small group spend the majority of the book watching their backs for Skylords (and anyone else looking for the Cypher and the Key of Hades) and the Compass. Considering the fact the book is actually titled "The Eternity Key" (another name for the Key of Hades), I expected the book to be slower than the books I'm typically drawn to.
Plus, I'm in some sort of slow-moving book phase by accident right now, so I pretty much have the patience (I suppose I'll thank Leigh Bardugo for starting this phase).
The characters did make a contribution in making my read of the book more enjoyable though. Haden is less naïve of the human world than before – there's more common sense put into his actions this time around, and sometimes his questions are stupid enough that it's downright hilarious. How does one milk an almond? Why, you grind it, of course. Into teeny little pieces.
(I'm not sure if that's how you milk an almond. I'm sure Google would tell me if I ask. I'm just too lazy to ask.)
Daphne has grown more mature, and she's more forgiving of her father – there's something about her that I like this time around that I didn't really like in the first book. Lexie might be my favorite character (though not of all time) with her way of irritating Tobin, and it's been a joy seeing her become a major character in the series.
Garrick, though, let's just put at this: I loved how Despain uses him and drops some bombs in the end. It is MAGNIFICANT.
It's a rarity for me to be surprised by the ending, and I loved how The Eternity Key is played out. It isn't very surprising when I think about it, but it was fantastic. Simply put, I'm probably going to have lots of fun when I get my hands on the third book. And I do mean LOTS of fun.
I'm starting to wonder what is with all these second books this year wrapping me in when the first book didn't.
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
November 21, 2025
Daphne and the other students realize they must find the Key of Hades to save the world from the Keres. The key must be found before the spring equinox and the tension is rising. To top it off some of the Skylords have invaded the school at Olympus Hills and there is a possible trader in the mix of students that were trusted.
Haden is struggling with his feelings toward Daphne and his duty to collect her to the underworld.
Daphne is coming to terms with her abilities but is having a hard time with her relationship with her father and her old friends. She is fighting an uphill battle and you would think the pressure she puts on herself would change her but she still has retains an innate goodness.
Meanwhile, Haden and his group are having some problems dealing with their new statuses.
Romance, action and the feeling that the clock is ticking down creates magnetic pull for the reader only to leave you with a cliffhanger, making you want to read on. Written for the younger reader or young reader at heart.
I really enjoyed The Eternity Key but I was recommend reading The Shadow Prince before jumping into this series.
I received this ARC Uncorrected E-Proof of The Eternity Key from Egmont USA in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication April 28, 2015.
Haden is struggling with his feelings toward Daphne and his duty to collect her to the underworld.
Daphne is coming to terms with her abilities but is having a hard time with her relationship with her father and her old friends. She is fighting an uphill battle and you would think the pressure she puts on herself would change her but she still has retains an innate goodness.
Meanwhile, Haden and his group are having some problems dealing with their new statuses.
Romance, action and the feeling that the clock is ticking down creates magnetic pull for the reader only to leave you with a cliffhanger, making you want to read on. Written for the younger reader or young reader at heart.
I really enjoyed The Eternity Key but I was recommend reading The Shadow Prince before jumping into this series.
I received this ARC Uncorrected E-Proof of The Eternity Key from Egmont USA in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication April 28, 2015.
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May 30, 2015This is a DNF (did not finish) review.
I made it to a little more than 50% of this book and while I enjoyed the first book immensely, this book just dragged and dragged for me. Too much talking about stuff, not enough action.
Thank you to NetGalley and Edgemont USA for a review copy of this book.
I made it to a little more than 50% of this book and while I enjoyed the first book immensely, this book just dragged and dragged for me. Too much talking about stuff, not enough action.
Thank you to NetGalley and Edgemont USA for a review copy of this book.
August 29, 2020
I wasn't the biggest fan of Tobin in the first book, so when I found out that he would have a point of view, I was sad. BUT his point of view was very necessary because he has more connection with his mom and his sister. There was some plot twists that I did see coming, and one that I didn't. This reading slump is still hitting me hard.
May 14, 2015
También en: El Extraño Gato del Cuento
PERSPECTIVAS
Estuve muy atenta a todas las actualizaciones sobre el libro que hacía la escritora Bree Despain y la primera de ellas es que este libro no contaría dos perspectivas, sino con tres. No te imaginas mi horror, no porque no quisiera agrandar las perspectivas, sino porque ya sé muy bien porque los escritores de la nada aumentan una o varias perspectivas (Ejm.: Silver Shadow y Allegiant <- o sea). ¿Fue o no fue cruel al final Bree Despain? Eso es algo que no les voy a responder, tienen que leer el libro.
Si bien tuve mis dudas sobre si estaba lo suficientemente interesada en Tobin como para leer lo que él tuviera que contar, me sorprendí a mi misma esperando cada uno de sus capítulos, nos enteramos sobre él y Lexie, las cual es una historia bastante bonita al inicio.
CONSERVA ALGUNOS ASPECTOS DEL PRIMER LIBRO QUE ME GUSTARON
En The Prince Shadow te dije que gustó la inocencia tontorrona de Hayden, y como The Eternity Key sigue casi inmediatamente el final del primer libro, Hayden no ha tenido mucho tiempo para aclimatarse o aprender algunos de los modismos, lo cuál es hilarante para mí. Seh, disfruto burlándome de él. No hay tanta música como al principio, al menos ninguna memorable pero sí hay una Ducati Superbike 1199 Panigale. Es muy importante para los que nos gustan las ruedas (no me pregunten ningún tecnicismo, solo sé que carro y moto me gusta por lo bonito que son, ¿ok?)
QUE NO ME CONVENCIÓ.
Un poco el romance esta vez no fue del todo de mi gusto, mucha reticencia por uno de los personajes. Además que el final se me hizo muy típico. Aunque en este tipo de historias no se puede pedir mucho.
The Eternity Key es una buena continuación, no alcanzó mi nivel obsesivo del primero pero me gustaron los giros y las sorpresas que trae la historia. El final me lo esperaba y no me lo esperaba. Las personas no son lo que parecen en este segundo libro, una traición, varias revelaciones, personajes icónicos de la mitología hacen aparición, no puedo esperar el tercer libro que todavía se publica en 2016 (si todo sale bien porque la editorial cerró...).
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PERSPECTIVAS
Estuve muy atenta a todas las actualizaciones sobre el libro que hacía la escritora Bree Despain y la primera de ellas es que este libro no contaría dos perspectivas, sino con tres. No te imaginas mi horror, no porque no quisiera agrandar las perspectivas, sino porque ya sé muy bien porque los escritores de la nada aumentan una o varias perspectivas (Ejm.: Silver Shadow y Allegiant <- o sea). ¿Fue o no fue cruel al final Bree Despain? Eso es algo que no les voy a responder, tienen que leer el libro.
Si bien tuve mis dudas sobre si estaba lo suficientemente interesada en Tobin como para leer lo que él tuviera que contar, me sorprendí a mi misma esperando cada uno de sus capítulos, nos enteramos sobre él y Lexie, las cual es una historia bastante bonita al inicio.
CONSERVA ALGUNOS ASPECTOS DEL PRIMER LIBRO QUE ME GUSTARON
En The Prince Shadow te dije que gustó la inocencia tontorrona de Hayden, y como The Eternity Key sigue casi inmediatamente el final del primer libro, Hayden no ha tenido mucho tiempo para aclimatarse o aprender algunos de los modismos, lo cuál es hilarante para mí. Seh, disfruto burlándome de él. No hay tanta música como al principio, al menos ninguna memorable pero sí hay una Ducati Superbike 1199 Panigale. Es muy importante para los que nos gustan las ruedas (no me pregunten ningún tecnicismo, solo sé que carro y moto me gusta por lo bonito que son, ¿ok?)
QUE NO ME CONVENCIÓ.
Un poco el romance esta vez no fue del todo de mi gusto, mucha reticencia por uno de los personajes. Además que el final se me hizo muy típico. Aunque en este tipo de historias no se puede pedir mucho.
The Eternity Key es una buena continuación, no alcanzó mi nivel obsesivo del primero pero me gustaron los giros y las sorpresas que trae la historia. El final me lo esperaba y no me lo esperaba. Las personas no son lo que parecen en este segundo libro, una traición, varias revelaciones, personajes icónicos de la mitología hacen aparición, no puedo esperar el tercer libro que todavía se publica en 2016 (si todo sale bien porque la editorial cerró...).
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June 17, 2015
Review originally posted on my blog: A Book Obsession..
I have mixed feelings about this one. The romance is really off kilter in this series, at least for me. And considering how romance driven I am with my reading choices, this one frustrated me a good bit. At the end of the first I had high hopes that things would turn around in the department, but unfortunately the romance was just more of the same in THE ETERNITY KEY. I can tell that there's supposed to be this epic draw between them, if not more on Haden's part considering all he sacrificed for her. I just didn't feel it, especially on Daphne's end. Her reasoning for keeping away from him ring hollow at this point, leaving me more frustrated than not. The other problem with the romance is that it slowed the plot down due to all the focus on it, which would have been okay if there had been any real kind of progress. Frankly put, the romance doesn't work in this one, but despite saying this before, I have high hopes again based on the ending events for the next book, but only time will tell.
I think the biggest thing that keeps drawing me back to this series is the Greek mythology aspects. They are so unique and one of my favorite mythologies. Bree Despain has really created a fascinating and unique world that I really enjoy reading despite my romance and pacing issues. I think that ironically makes things a bit more frustrating as since I love the world so much I just want the romance and everything to fall in line to make this a fantastic read. Granted, it still was a pretty good reads and I enjoy the characters and the overall plot, so take my ruminations with a grain of salt. After the cliffhanger ending I am pretty impatient to get my hands on the next book to see how things turn out.
I have mixed feelings about this one. The romance is really off kilter in this series, at least for me. And considering how romance driven I am with my reading choices, this one frustrated me a good bit. At the end of the first I had high hopes that things would turn around in the department, but unfortunately the romance was just more of the same in THE ETERNITY KEY. I can tell that there's supposed to be this epic draw between them, if not more on Haden's part considering all he sacrificed for her. I just didn't feel it, especially on Daphne's end. Her reasoning for keeping away from him ring hollow at this point, leaving me more frustrated than not. The other problem with the romance is that it slowed the plot down due to all the focus on it, which would have been okay if there had been any real kind of progress. Frankly put, the romance doesn't work in this one, but despite saying this before, I have high hopes again based on the ending events for the next book, but only time will tell.
I think the biggest thing that keeps drawing me back to this series is the Greek mythology aspects. They are so unique and one of my favorite mythologies. Bree Despain has really created a fascinating and unique world that I really enjoy reading despite my romance and pacing issues. I think that ironically makes things a bit more frustrating as since I love the world so much I just want the romance and everything to fall in line to make this a fantastic read. Granted, it still was a pretty good reads and I enjoy the characters and the overall plot, so take my ruminations with a grain of salt. After the cliffhanger ending I am pretty impatient to get my hands on the next book to see how things turn out.
April 13, 2016
Oh my goodness!!! This cannot be happening! The world is not okay! I need time for my mind to process it before it hits me! According to my mind and my heart it won't be too long before I break and I bawl my eyes out! Please Bree Despain! Release the next book! We are all suffering! Anyway this book was so good! Honestly I thought it was better than the first one! That feeling of being able to read the first one and then get to read an even better one is an amazing feeling, and from this I know that the third one is going to be even better! There were so many times when I wanted to throw the book onto the floor. The chapters are short but somehow Bree Despain managed to leave a cliffhanger on almost all of the chapters so you didn't want to have to place the book down! OMG I cannot wait until the next book comes out! Worth the read! 100%
The second time around reading it was just as good! I didn't realize that I did read it in the first place and so when I was reading it I remembered certain events and I thought that it was just me but when I logged onto Goodreads to update my progress because I haven't been on it for so long I realized that I already had a review written! OMG though I didn't remember the ending and so when I came to it I just got so mad I wanted to throw my phone and just cry. I was lucky because of the fact that I had a best friend to go talk to and cry to about it and we cried together! Guys Book Buddies are a necessity if you love to read or want to read more because reactions are a natural part of reading and holding it in is not a good thing to do! Find a book buddy stat! There are many groups that you can join here on Goodreads! Go do it! Good Book! Love it!
The second time around reading it was just as good! I didn't realize that I did read it in the first place and so when I was reading it I remembered certain events and I thought that it was just me but when I logged onto Goodreads to update my progress because I haven't been on it for so long I realized that I already had a review written! OMG though I didn't remember the ending and so when I came to it I just got so mad I wanted to throw my phone and just cry. I was lucky because of the fact that I had a best friend to go talk to and cry to about it and we cried together! Guys Book Buddies are a necessity if you love to read or want to read more because reactions are a natural part of reading and holding it in is not a good thing to do! Find a book buddy stat! There are many groups that you can join here on Goodreads! Go do it! Good Book! Love it!
September 29, 2014
Although I received a free copy of this in exchange for a review, the first book had already been recommended to me, and I was glad to get a chance to see this ARC. First, I should make it clear that I did not read book 1 yet - just haven't gotten around to it, but after reading this one, plan on catching back up.
Yes, one should read book 1 first. Although there is enough background information to get the story in the 2nd book going, I still felt I was missing something, which would have made the characters even more unforgettable.
This story is slower than I suspected. With beings from the Underworld fighting with ones from the Sky and the main characters caught in between, it kind of drew to action pure. But the first half (probably more) of this book focuses more on the relationships, fears and hopes of the characters, allowing the reader to really get to know the characters inside and out. Thanks to the mystery behind the Eternity Key, despite the slower feel, there was enough tension to keep me turning the pages and not really wanting to set the book down.
Even though I felt like I really knew the characters, the author was able to twist and turn things to reach a very unexpected and exciting ending, which I didn't see coming. A big thumbs up! The romance is sweet and the bad guys evil (or not?). I loved the way truth and lies were woven together, making it sometimes impossible to decipher what was what.
The worst thing about this book was the ending. A cliff hanger. A huge one. But I'll forgive the author this time because I definitely can't wait to find out what happens next.
Yes, one should read book 1 first. Although there is enough background information to get the story in the 2nd book going, I still felt I was missing something, which would have made the characters even more unforgettable.
This story is slower than I suspected. With beings from the Underworld fighting with ones from the Sky and the main characters caught in between, it kind of drew to action pure. But the first half (probably more) of this book focuses more on the relationships, fears and hopes of the characters, allowing the reader to really get to know the characters inside and out. Thanks to the mystery behind the Eternity Key, despite the slower feel, there was enough tension to keep me turning the pages and not really wanting to set the book down.
Even though I felt like I really knew the characters, the author was able to twist and turn things to reach a very unexpected and exciting ending, which I didn't see coming. A big thumbs up! The romance is sweet and the bad guys evil (or not?). I loved the way truth and lies were woven together, making it sometimes impossible to decipher what was what.
The worst thing about this book was the ending. A cliff hanger. A huge one. But I'll forgive the author this time because I definitely can't wait to find out what happens next.
May 29, 2015
I enjoyed THE SHADOW PRINCE, so it's no surprise that I would pick up THE ETERNITY KEY. I appreciated that there was some recapping of events since it had been awhile since I read the first book. I think that will also be a boon to readers who leap ahead and skip book one for whatever reason.
THE ETERNITY KEY continues to switch between Daphne and Haden's POVs, and adds Tobin's POV to the mix. I'm not entirely sure Tobin's POV added that much to the story, aside from reminders that they do need to find Abbie/CeCe. (Okay, his romance with Lexie is cute.) The main plot of the story is trying to figure out where the Compass and Key are so that Haden and friends can get into the Underworld and kill the Keres, while not letting anyone else get the Key and prompting more undesirable outcomes. (If that sentence was gibberish, read book one.)
I liked the way the romance between Daphne and Haden developed at first in THE ETERNITY KEY. Haden is working up the courage to say the words, and Daphne is working to prove to Haden that they can be equals (instead of her being the damsel in distress). And then Daphne rebuffs Haden for a reason that barely made sense. I sure hope the third book has a better explanation, like magical interference.
THE ETERNITY KEY ends with all three narrators in peril. Bree Despain is a cruel author, torturing her readers like that. I hope Lerner acquiring titles from Egmont USA means that book three won't be delayed, because I need the conclusion to this trilogy.
THE ETERNITY KEY continues to switch between Daphne and Haden's POVs, and adds Tobin's POV to the mix. I'm not entirely sure Tobin's POV added that much to the story, aside from reminders that they do need to find Abbie/CeCe. (Okay, his romance with Lexie is cute.) The main plot of the story is trying to figure out where the Compass and Key are so that Haden and friends can get into the Underworld and kill the Keres, while not letting anyone else get the Key and prompting more undesirable outcomes. (If that sentence was gibberish, read book one.)
I liked the way the romance between Daphne and Haden developed at first in THE ETERNITY KEY. Haden is working up the courage to say the words, and Daphne is working to prove to Haden that they can be equals (instead of her being the damsel in distress). And then Daphne rebuffs Haden for a reason that barely made sense. I sure hope the third book has a better explanation, like magical interference.
THE ETERNITY KEY ends with all three narrators in peril. Bree Despain is a cruel author, torturing her readers like that. I hope Lerner acquiring titles from Egmont USA means that book three won't be delayed, because I need the conclusion to this trilogy.
November 13, 2015
**I received this book for free from (Publisher) via (NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.**
*Genre* Young Adult, Mythology
*Rating* 3.5
*My Thoughts*
The Eternity Key is the second installment in Bree Despain's Into The Dark series. The series, based on the Greek tale of Persephone and Hades, features Haden Lord, fallen Prince of the Underrealm, and Daphne Raines, the human girl who has discovered that she has powers as the Cypher, to find the lost Key of Hades, better known as The Eternity Key. The story picks up several weeks after The Shadow Prince.
*FULL REVIEW POSTING @ GIZMOS REVIEWS 11/14/2015 - LINK TO FOLLOW
*Recvd 07/26/2014 via NetGalley* PUBLISHED: May 12th 2015 by EgmontUSA
*Genre* Young Adult, Mythology
*Rating* 3.5
*My Thoughts*
The Eternity Key is the second installment in Bree Despain's Into The Dark series. The series, based on the Greek tale of Persephone and Hades, features Haden Lord, fallen Prince of the Underrealm, and Daphne Raines, the human girl who has discovered that she has powers as the Cypher, to find the lost Key of Hades, better known as The Eternity Key. The story picks up several weeks after The Shadow Prince.
*FULL REVIEW POSTING @ GIZMOS REVIEWS 11/14/2015 - LINK TO FOLLOW
*Recvd 07/26/2014 via NetGalley* PUBLISHED: May 12th 2015 by EgmontUSA
March 29, 2015
This was very good. This series was leaps and bounds above an already pretty good first book in the series. While the push and pull of the Haden/Daphne relationship was frustrating, the pacing in this book was well-done, and I really enjoyed it.
April 13, 2015
Loved the continuation of this awesome mythology re-telling. Except that ending is probably going to kill me.
August 10, 2015
Not a great second book. Pretty disappointed. Didn't really move the story much and left a huge cliffhanger. I will read the last one, but the first in the series was much better.
May 11, 2018
3.5 Stars
March 2, 2016
THE ENDING....THE ENDING WAS FUCKING AWSESOME!!! this is pure gold!!!...ooooh I love Haden lord but srsly?? there's next to no romance in this series!! :(
January 2, 2018
A great sequel to the first book
March 1, 2017
4.4 STARS - REVIEW: The crap got real in this second installment to the Into the Dark Series. It was hitting the fan... big time. With the stress the group faces back in Olympus Hills once again with the hunt for the key, Haden stewing over his feelings, the Skylords and the other figure wreck mayhem and havoc on their plans, I felt shoved into a pressure cooker like a ham on Sunday.
Let's start with Haden and everything he's dealing with. Visions of the Genie from Aladdin saying, "Tell Her the TRUTH!" kept dancing through my mind. Honestly, I got how he felt, but it seemed like overkill to drag it out.
Most of the time, I sat biting my nails or wanting to smack the characters over the head with their own book.
As you all know, I deeply value emotional response from a novel.... unless it is just really written badly. Then I say, UGH. Do not fret, this book was very well written, with lovely characters and tense scenes. Daphne is still written with a adolescent point of view (which is good as she is still young) but we see some growth, especially towards the end of the book. She starts to see things from others' points of view and learns that she needs for forgive others, even for her own sake.
There were some scenes I felt dragged on a bit, a few story threads I felt neglected, but overall I was yet again impressed by the writing. I saw something coming along the way, and wished I could have chanted, "I KNEW IT!!" with someone when it came to pass. No spoilers, but you'll probably figure it out too.
Bree has a knack of piling on the "oh no" moments at the tail end of her books. The last chapter had me shrieking. Seriously gave me a heart attack. NO PEAKING people, you have to read the whole thing!
So congratulations to Bree on another well done novel! Can't wait for book three!
Let's start with Haden and everything he's dealing with. Visions of the Genie from Aladdin saying, "Tell Her the TRUTH!" kept dancing through my mind. Honestly, I got how he felt, but it seemed like overkill to drag it out.
Most of the time, I sat biting my nails or wanting to smack the characters over the head with their own book.
As you all know, I deeply value emotional response from a novel.... unless it is just really written badly. Then I say, UGH. Do not fret, this book was very well written, with lovely characters and tense scenes. Daphne is still written with a adolescent point of view (which is good as she is still young) but we see some growth, especially towards the end of the book. She starts to see things from others' points of view and learns that she needs for forgive others, even for her own sake.
There were some scenes I felt dragged on a bit, a few story threads I felt neglected, but overall I was yet again impressed by the writing. I saw something coming along the way, and wished I could have chanted, "I KNEW IT!!" with someone when it came to pass. No spoilers, but you'll probably figure it out too.
Bree has a knack of piling on the "oh no" moments at the tail end of her books. The last chapter had me shrieking. Seriously gave me a heart attack. NO PEAKING people, you have to read the whole thing!
So congratulations to Bree on another well done novel! Can't wait for book three!
July 12, 2015
Review:
The crap got real in this second installment to the Into the Dark Series. It was hitting the fan... big time. With the stress the group faces back in Olympus Hills once again with the hunt for the key, Haden stewing over his feelings, the Skylords and the other figure wreck mayhem and havoc on their plans, I felt shoved into a pressure cooker like a ham on Sunday.
Let's start with Haden and everything he's dealing with. Visions of the Genie from Aladdin saying, "Tell Her the TRUTH!" kept dancing through my mind. Honestly, I got how he felt, but it seemed like overkill to drag it out.
Most of the time, I sat biting my nails or wanting to smack the characters over the head with their own book.
As you all know, I deeply value emotional response from a novel.... unless it is just really written badly. Then I say, UGH. Do not fret, this book was very well written, with lovely characters and tense scenes. Daphne is still written with a adolescent point of view (which is good as she is still young) but we see some growth, especially towards the end of the book. She starts to see things from others' points of view and learns that she needs for forgive others, even for her own sake.
There were some scenes I felt dragged on a bit, a few story threads I felt neglected, but overall I was yet again impressed by the writing. I saw something coming along the way, and wished I could have chanted, "I KNEW IT!!" with someone when it came to pass. No spoilers, but you'll probably figure it out too.
Bree has a knack of piling on the "oh no" moments at the tail end of her books. The last chapter had me shrieking. Seriously gave me a heart attack. NO PEAKING people, you have to read the whole thing!
So congratulations to Bree on another well done novel! Can't wait for book three!
October 9, 2021
This picks up where the first book left off. We see a change in character dynamics. Haden isn’t as arrogant or decisive as we was in the first book. His feelings for Daphne are messing with his mind and courage.
In this one, Daphe now is accepting who she is but not liking it. She is also letting her father back in even though she was angry at what he did. Mind you I can understand her anger but in his defense, he didn’t think he would have children or be in the position he was in as well.
As the group searches for the key, more danger comes their way and more characters come into play who want the key. We see a lot of politics as well going on. Personally I think Haden’s decisions were the best but I was not a fan of one of Haden’s so called friends. I think he was a friend out of guilt. He does whoever teach us a valuable lesson and shows us that when you are cruel to people they do not forget and they will come back to haunt you in the end.
The story of the key and trying to have Daphne find the key and understand how to use it and what it meant was interesting. The romance part was a wee bit stagnant. Friendships ebbed and flowed at times and I think this was because tension was high. Haden at the end was amazing. I loved how he sacrificed so much throughout the story so far. He has become a better person. I am feeling for Haden right now and to Daphne I say too little to late when it comes to Haden and now you may never get to see how amazing he is.
In this one, Daphe now is accepting who she is but not liking it. She is also letting her father back in even though she was angry at what he did. Mind you I can understand her anger but in his defense, he didn’t think he would have children or be in the position he was in as well.
As the group searches for the key, more danger comes their way and more characters come into play who want the key. We see a lot of politics as well going on. Personally I think Haden’s decisions were the best but I was not a fan of one of Haden’s so called friends. I think he was a friend out of guilt. He does whoever teach us a valuable lesson and shows us that when you are cruel to people they do not forget and they will come back to haunt you in the end.
The story of the key and trying to have Daphne find the key and understand how to use it and what it meant was interesting. The romance part was a wee bit stagnant. Friendships ebbed and flowed at times and I think this was because tension was high. Haden at the end was amazing. I loved how he sacrificed so much throughout the story so far. He has become a better person. I am feeling for Haden right now and to Daphne I say too little to late when it comes to Haden and now you may never get to see how amazing he is.
November 20, 2019
In this second book in the trilogy, we begin with Haden, Daphne and company all having returned to Olympus Hills and preparing for the school musical as well as trying to find the Key. After winter break is over, however, they have a new teacher and two new students, all of whom are Skylords searching for the key so they can wipe out everyone in the Underrealm. Tobin and Dax are also still trying to find Abbie, and Haden wants to confess his feelings to Daphne but can't quite work up the courage. Haden's twin, Rowan, is also out in the mortal realm, and trying to find the key as well. With so many players and so many plans, Daphne and Haden will have to figure out who they can trust as they get closer and closer to finding the Key.
Whew, this was a twisty one. I honestly had trouble keeping track of all of the different characters, and also keeping track of whose point of view each chapter was from. Haden and Daphne's voices are much less distinct now that they are mostly together (or working together) so more than once I had to check the chapter heading to tell who was who. I did not see the twist coming until right before it happened, so I thought that was well done. I was also delighted by Jonathan's real identity, so I'm looking forward to seeing how all of this plays out in the final book.
Whew, this was a twisty one. I honestly had trouble keeping track of all of the different characters, and also keeping track of whose point of view each chapter was from. Haden and Daphne's voices are much less distinct now that they are mostly together (or working together) so more than once I had to check the chapter heading to tell who was who. I did not see the twist coming until right before it happened, so I thought that was well done. I was also delighted by Jonathan's real identity, so I'm looking forward to seeing how all of this plays out in the final book.
November 26, 2020
I love this book. I love how Haden and Daphne grow closer and even though Daphne is hesitant to tell Haden she loves him when he admits his feelings, you know she does. I love how Tobin and Dax still hold out hope of finding Tobin's sister Abbie. I love how Joe tries to be a good father to Daphne, even when he messes up and she gets angry with him. I love how we find out more about the Skylords and the Underlords. And meet Ethan, a skylord and someone trying to protect the humans and also the son of Daphne's uncle Johnathan, who isn't really her uncle bit Eros, the God of love. I hate Rowan and how he thinks only of his own glory and I hate King Ren, who both seem to be getting what they deserve but the court is also evil and needs to be stopped. I love how I remembered that Garret isn't good either and is working with the Keres and tricks Daphne into going into the underrealm with him, but she only does it to save Haden from Rowan and his father and a black arrow that Johnathan had fired at Rowan when he took Haden into the Underrealm and how she realizes that she does, in fact, love Haden. I hate how Garrett ends up King because the others failed to bring the court the Cypher, aka Daphne. I really enjoyed this re-read and I really adore this book, despite how annoyed I got with the characters at times
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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