Veiled Shadows

The Age of Alandria #2

by Morgan Wylie

Shadows linger where light is obstructed, and truth is veiled.

Evil is an untreated disease in the once beautiful realm of Alandria.

Kaeleigh is faced with a revelation that she must reconcile. She will decide if discovering the truth is worth the unknown consequences to both herself and her friends.

Daegan, the Ferrishyn warrior, is conflicted by more than his loyalties, and is confronted with emotions he doesn’t know how to deal with. A choice must be made. A choice… that may cost him more than he ever wanted to give.

The Droch-Shúil—enforcers and servants of the ancient darkness—continue to cast their shadow over Alandria seeking those who can be turned to their side.

The magic of The Orchids is growing, but not everyone will survive what is to come.

Veiled Shadows is the second installment in The Age of Alandria series: the story of the Sol-lumieth’s quest for freedom of self and the power to battle the evil of the Droch-Shúil.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult

360 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2013

About the author

Morgan Wylie published her first novel, Silent Orchids, one year after moving across the country with her family on a journey of new discovery. After an amazing three years in Nashville, TN and the release of two more books, Morgan and her family found their way back to the Northwest where they now reside. Still working everyday with great optimism, Morgan continues to embrace all things: "Mama", wife, teacher, and mediator to the many voices and muses constantly chattering in her head... where it gets pretty loud!

You can find her and news on her books at the following:

MorganWylie.net
MorganWylieBooks on Facebook
@MWylieBooks on Twitter/Instagram
Info@MorganWylie.net Email

Reviews

[Barbara Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, why does the author keep torturing me?? Ending the book like that is just mean! :-p It's not nearly as cliff-hangery as Book 1, but still! Second, Finn needs to back the f up... Kaeleigh is Daegans!! Third, Maleina is an evil b*tch and needs to die! I'm not sure what exactly her play is, but obviously she is full of dark and needs to be destroyed!! *** sigh ***

I love the way Kaeleigh grew as an independent woman and a warrior. She's stronger, both mentally and physically than she was in Book 1. She's falling for Daegan (I refuse to acknowledge her curiosity of Finn's interest), but is trying to fight it because she knows she needs to stay focused on other things. The subtle romantical undertones are soooooo frustrating at times! I wish they would both just grow a pair and admit how they feel! That being said, I also wish there were a bit MORE romantical moments between Kaeleigh and Daegan. I really enjoyed Hal in this book as well. I have a feeling that he is really going to prove himself to me! Daegan, that man is mine! But he caused me some heartbreak. I suspected it was coming, and when it did, it just pissed me off!! I almost threw my kindle. I really liked seeing/learning abtu his unbreakable "bond" with Maleina. I know Maleina will meet her doom, she better! And her husband better grow a spine too! So many questions answered, yet so many new ones left unanswered.

Now to wait for Book 3!

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too many revelations, too much pressure, too many unanswered questions and too many left unasked, the realm of Alandria seems to be overwhelming Kaeleigh as precious gifts are given and taken away far too quickly. Her life is in constant danger and even with all the protections afforded her, evil is looming closer. Is Kaeleigh strong enough to come fully into her powers? The tension between Daegan and Finn mounts, and only their desire to keep Kaeleigh safe stops them from having a knuckle-dragging showdown. Has Finn gone beyond protector in his feelings towards Kaeleigh? Daegan struggles with the dark powers he is controlled by as well as the truth that lays in his heart. Chel struggles with her shifter abilities and coming into her own powers, but all would give their lives to keep Kaeleigh safe. Sparks fly between Daegan and Kaeleigh, literally, is this the time to court new love? When a stranger joins them, they must decide if he can be trusted, and if what he says is true. All this while on the run just trying to stay alive…and understand the words of The Orchids.

Morgan Wylie has just raised her own bar, having done the set-up in book one, Veiled Shadows takes off at a gallop just as Silent Orchids crosses the finish line for the next leg of this magical journey in a realm where magical beings reside. So much imagery, so much conflict and so many unknowns, Morgan Wylie avoids the Info dump trap with steady streams of valuable tidbits inter-mixed with new questions raised and new actions taken in this non-stop tale of good versus evil as Alandria awaits their savior. As this series grows, so does the author’s ability to hold her readers entranced in her world. Geared to young adults, I cannot imagine any age not getting bound to the glamor of Ms. Wylie’s words.


I received this copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.

Series: The Age of Alandria - Book 2
Publication Date: October 1, 2013
Publisher: Morgan Wylie
Genre: YA Fantasy
Print Length: 360 pages
Available from: Barnes and Noble│ Kobo│Smashwords 
For Reviews, Promotions and all things Books visit: http://tometender.blogspot.com



Release Date: 10/01/13
360 pages

[Sofia Lazaridou · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had been expecting this book from the moment I finished the last one. But I was a little disappointed when I finished Veiled Shadows. This book seemed more like theory than anything else. Things got stale. OK we found out more about who and what is and what is really happening in Alandria but I wanted some action, something a little more kick-ass than that. The characters are preparing for a battle against evil. I am hoping to see that battle soon.

I keep disliking Finn more and more with every passing page. I think that he is hiding something. Daegan on the other hand seems to keep getting better and better. As for Kaeleigh I will only say that if she starts being torn between 2 males she is going to make me hate her and I really don't want to. I liked her in silent orchids.

The sort of triangle is getting on my nerves. If it exists only because most of the YA books have a triangle than I would be really disappointed... I want it to have a reason.

I am hoping the next book to be the last because Alandria needs to find peace and the bad ones must face justice. Hopefully the next book will give me what I want.

[Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good fantasy series, but the main character - Kae got on my nerves time and time again with all her whining --- all the crying got to me too.

I feel bad for Finn and can't wait to find out what happens to all of the characters!

[Shawna Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn’t a huge fan of the first book in this series but it held enough interest that I knew I would one day pick up the second book and I’m so glad I did. This book was miles better and really starting to love this world and characters and can’t wait to see what happens next

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read book one for a book group I am in and as soon as I finished I had to read book two and find out more, I was left hanging a bit and I just really needed to know. This book picked up right were book one left off and I was very pleased at how quickly I was sucked back into this beautifully written world and it's equally beautiful and fascinating characters. I liked how I got a lot of my questions answered right away, but was also given a bunch more questions which kept me reading on quickly wanting to devour everything and know what the Hell is going on.
Kaeleigh was still fantastic and with all the revelations of her heritage I understand more the danger she is in, but thank god it didn't change her (well not much or in a bad way lol) I enjoy her strength and her capacity but most of all I love her wit and all those things remain present, and even intensified at times making her that much more enjoyable. I am very interested to see what will happen with the two insanely hot protectors at her side, and the two outcome of the two intense and very different kisses that were shared, but I will say I have found myself partial to Daegon and I think Kaeleigh is too she just doesn't know it yet.
I love the fast pace of this book I couldn't stop reading, as every page was full of greatness and important information. The author has found a way to focus so much depth and history of a character or the Relm in short dialog between others or internal, it's just fantastic and I can't wait to read more of her books and experience her work. Of course as I have said I really really like book one, but I have to say I enjoyed this one a bit more. It had a bit more adventure, and a lot more ah ha moments I will for sure continue on with this series and I really hope others will jump on the band wagon as well.
Lastly I have to say this cover is BEAUTIFUL just like the first one, so keep them coming Morgan Wylie I can't wait til book three!

[Ginnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I am on the road so this is my quick review of this book, more later to come for this and the first book.*

I was given this book for an honest review.

Al I can say is please dear author, no love triangle. i just recently finished a book that had one in it and it broke my heart. So above all, please don;t ruin this book with one. Ok now with that off my chest lol. I love how the characters in this story are growing and becoming who they are meant to be. Kaeleigh is coming into her own while Chel is having to adjust to it all also. Now Finn, I am still not sure about him. There is just something that keeps tugging at me with him. Swoon Daegan, what can I say but I am hooked on this man. I love how he is slowly opening up and you are getting to know him. Sigh.

I am glad I did get answers with this book but at the same time it seemed like 100 more popped up in their place. I can not wait to read the next book but I do hope there is at least a little more action(sorry I am somewhat an action junkie lol). Anf grrr with that cliffhanger, I so need the next book now. So is it out yet?

[Jamie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I burned through this in a matter of days, so it feels a bit unfair to give it three stars really. I am reluctant to give it more for a couple of reasons: as per my prediction in book 1, we now have a love triangle, we also still have a lot of typos which is very annoying.

I think what keeps me coming back for more is that this is a story about not knowing who you are and how you fit into this world, and one person's "journey" to find that. I keep asking myself if it's not just a coming of age story, and doesn't everyone love a good coming of age story, but it's more than that. I think there are a lot people who cannot travel through life ignoring the world around them avoiding existential questions about who we are, why we're here, where we come from and what it all means. We all want to believe we are special, and to have our "specialness" recognised. We all want to believe we are good, and that we can beat the evil that we face in our lives. We all want to believe we are not alone in that fight. And I guess by "we" I mean "I"!!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ugh ok why does it have to end I have to wait for the next book.. Hello, I want more now please!! I really in to this story and just don’t want to wait. In this book you find out more of what is happening in Alandria. I love the way Kaeleigh continues to grow in this book . PS IDK why but I want her with Finn.. LOL I know I’m the only one here. As for Daegan he’s a good guy and you will like him.. but I feel Finn is a bit more loyal. I felt this book answered some the questions the book one did not. So all in all I say read them all and then you can wait for book 3 like me!! ;)

[Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can only imagine what the inside of Ms. Wylie's head must be like. The imagery of this story, the second in the series, is just phenomenal. I love an author that can use their words to paint a picture in my head as I read. I want to go to Alandria and be a part of this story. My only negative comment is the abrupt cliff hanger. I felt like I was pushed over the edge, screaming for more. I cannot wait until the next book comes out.

[Colleen Everly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh the world this author creates. I Really really liked this book. This series is awesome. The paranormals are amazing. The heroine had to go through many changes during her transition. She sometimes had a hard time adapting or adjusting the pointed ears to me would be very hard to accept. I would recommend this to anyone who loves paranormal fantasies.

[Patrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really think that this was a good book. It has a good progression of characters. I cant wait til the next book comes out. I was really suprised to find out that Hunter is Kaliegh's Grandfather. I like though that she was able to have a coversation with her mother.

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Veiled Shadows" by Morgan Wylie delves deeper into the enchanting yet perilous realm of Alandria, where shadows conceal truths and ancient evils threaten to engulf the land.

As a new reader of Wylie's captivating fantasy series, I eagerly delved into the second installment of The Age of Alandria. The narrative continues to unfold with Kaeleigh grappling with newfound revelations that could alter the fate of her world. Her journey is fraught with decisions that carry profound consequences, not only for herself but also for her loyal friends who stand by her side amidst growing darkness.

Wylie skillfully weaves together intricate plotlines and rich character development, drawing me deeper into the complexities of Kaeleigh's quest for truth and self-discovery. Daegan, the Ferrishyn warrior, wrestles with his own inner turmoil and conflicting loyalties, adding a poignant layer to the narrative as alliances are tested and sacrifices are made.

The menace of the Droch-Shúil looms ever larger, their insidious influence spreading across Alandria as they seek to corrupt and control. The evolving magic of The Orchids offers a glimmer of hope, yet the stakes are high, and not everyone will emerge unscathed from the impending clash between light and darkness.

What struck me most about "Veiled Shadows" is Wylie's ability to create a vivid and immersive world, where every shadow hides secrets and every choice resonates with profound consequences. From the lush landscapes of Alandria to the palpable tension of impending conflict, each scene is crafted with meticulous detail, enveloping me in a realm where magic and danger intertwine.

As the Sol-lumieth's quest for freedom unfolds, I found myself swept up in a tale of courage, resilience, and the enduring power of hope in the face of overwhelming odds. Wylie's prose is evocative and compelling, making "Veiled Shadows" a must-read for fans of epic fantasy who crave both adventure and emotional depth.

I eagerly anticipate the next chapter in The Age of Alandria series, eager to witness how Kaeleigh and her allies will confront their destinies and confront the darkness threatening to engulf their world. "Veiled Shadows" is a testament to Morgan Wylie's talent for storytelling, delivering a spellbinding tale that leaves me eagerly awaiting the next installment.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Teri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really must say the first book is clearly establishing characters and world building because this second book is so much more, (which also shows I am an action junky when it comes to books). This second book of the series is so much crazier than the first (and I say this in the best of ways) just check out the characters especially towards the end. Kaeleigh learns more about her power and even gains some skills during her journey. Her emotional battle is growing with conflicting and surprising emotions with the guys and then she also has to battle with finding out who she is and how she fits. So much happens that the secret action junkie in me is completely satiated and ready for the next book. It's getting serious folks and now that this stuff happened, haha yup no spoilers here, it's a read I am excited about.

Great characters with a lot of depth and different things along the way to challenge them and make them stronger. This isn't just a story about Kaeleigh, it's about all of them and the journey they have been chosen for. Yes it is a series and once again it's best to read in order.

[Stalking · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense

Oh my gosh, this was so good. It was over before I knew it and that made me so sad. I love how Kae is finding herself. I can handle this almost love triangle because it’s done well, in my opinion. And by done well, I’m confident on who will be together in the end. While the main characters are fully developed, the author did not just throw in secondary characters or villains. All the characters are so complex, even those used to simply move the story along. As I said before, this is how great fantasy adventures are meant to be.

[Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

EYES WIDE OPEN!!!
A well thought out plot and graphic details bring this read to life. I was suck completely and totally in the story. With all the fear, and anxiety I was on the edge of my seat. Morgan really did a beautiful job blending the characters together so well. I can't wait for the next installment.

[Chrissi · Rating 4 out of 5]

While book one was laying the ground work, this book is definitely the beginning of the story for me. With more action, drama, and secrets, lord the secrets!! So many secrets and we only get a few answered in this book, so I’m assuming more answers are coming with more intrigue and growth of our characters.

[Christina Luberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

We have action, suspense, danger, and more. Follow Kaeleigh as she continues with her journey and learning her magic. Daegan is still with her and there mighyt be more feelings than they realize for each other. Now for the next book.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 2 out of 5]

UGH! I read this right after book one and let me tell you, it is truly inferior to book one. So disappointing and another cliff hanger! Why do authors keep doing this? It doesn't get me to read the next book... all it does is make me want to throw the book out the window!

My Rating: 2 stars

[Nan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful read!

This is the second book in this series and it was even more enjoyable than the first. More secrets were revealed and the adventures continued at a wonderfully fast pace. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

[Hanna Belle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fantastic sequel! I highly enjoyed the first book with the second book being amazing. Let the series continue!

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Paula Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series. Can't wait to read the third booktin the series.

[Anastasia · Rating 4 out of 5]

For more reviews visit https://livinginabookworld.blogspot.gr

Veiled Shadows picks up where Silent Orchids left off with Kaeleigh, Daegan, Finn and Chel arriving at a cabin in the middle of the woods and coming across a stranger who actually happens to be Kaeleigh's grandfather.Finally,after all these years she meets one of her relatives,a part of her family.She also finds out that her father is barely alive but there's still hope if she finds him in time.

But she's too weak because she still hasn't accepted her true nature completely.As a result this side of herself is fighting her human one.Time is running out and she must choose a side.But before that happens,she falls into a coma,where she's transported to the realm between the living and the dead.There,she meets Eva,her mother who starts explaining things and the prophecy that Kaeleigh must complete.But staying there for a long time is very dangerous and Kaeleigh must accept her legacy and who she really is so that she can return back.

And she does.She knows that she's special and that the future of Alandria is in her hands.She can't go back to being a normal 18 year old girl even if she wanted to.She has a mission and she's determined to accomplish it,no matter what.

Moreover,we finally meet Maleina,the evil queen that threatens Alandria's existence and peace.We also find out that Daegan is magically attached to her.He has no choice or will of his own.He's obliged to serve her.Throughout the years,she made him do unforgettable and disgusting things.But Kaeleigh is the one who can see right through his soul.She sees that despite everything he's done,deep down he's a good and pure frightened boy.She's also the only one who can free him from this curse.

She was scared,but not of him,he realized... for him.She was standing so close.
"Are you all right,Daegan?", she whispered.
He nodded,but instead of speaking moved in closer,his eyes moving over her face.He pulled her closer where his hand still gently gripped hers,leaning in to her face,pausing for a brief moment to allow her to stop him,but when she didn't he made a split-second decision to follow his heart and not his conscience.His lips found hers and gently,tentatively,he kissed hers,asking permission.When she kissed him back,surprisingly,his heart lifted.

Let's not forget Kaeleigh's best friends.I felt sorry for Finn because it's pretty obvious that he has feelings for her but she made it clear that she chose Daegan.And then there's Chel who always sees the bright side even when Maleina has them all looked up in a cell.There's also Hunter, Daegan's brother who might be interested in Chel but I'm not sure yet.I hope there's more about these two in the next installment.

Verdict

An explosive and action-packed sequel that lived up to my expectations.Everything leads to the great battle between good and evil and I can't wait to read the next installment in The Age of Alandria series!

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

*From my blog, Reading the Alphabet.*

Veiled Shadows begins where Silent Orchids ends in Hunter’s cabin. Kaeleigh is about to learn that she is the key figure in a prophesy, the one who will restore the light to Alandria. The path to doing this will not be easy, Kaeleigh will be tested at every turn, and there are beings searching for Kaeleigh, beings that would seek to use her…or destroy her.

Kaeleigh continues to be a multifaceted character. It was wonderful to see her transformation, in all senses of the word, as she both struggles with and embraces all that she is to be. She’s really starting to come into her own in the story. Chel and Finn continue to be loyal companions. Chel is also having to adjust to numerous changes since coming to Alandria. I can’t wait to see how she evolves as a character in the next book. Finn, meanwhile, is readjusting to Alandria. What will the consequences of his return be?

Can I also say that he has terrible timing??? He does. Unfortunately for Finn, there’s also Daegan. Reading as the cracks in his stony exterior continued to grow as he tried to repair them provided wonderful insight to his character, and the fleeting moments where the wall came down completely? All. The. Feels. Daegan too has much to face in Veiled Shadows, I can’t wait to see how it all turns out.

Much like with Silent Orchids, Veiled Shadows builds and builds and then ends. I like this style of ending. It left me wanting more, but in a good way. Many questions were answered in this second book of The Age of Alandria series, but more took their places, and I just need to know. I eagerly look forward to Book 3.

*I received an ecopy in exchange for an honest review.*

[Amphitrite · Rating 3 out of 5]

What I liked: This book certainly upped the stakes when comparing it to the first book. More questions, few answers, adventure, and even a wild card thrown into the mix when someone joins our little band of adventurers. I like how even though there are definite romantic undertones to the story, Kaeleigh realizes that saving Alandria is more important than her love life. It's a definite change up from what I'm used to in books where there's a love interest. There was more world building weaved into the story, and it was great to see that in here. It certainly helps give the world just more and more depth with each tidbit that gets revealed. This book was more of a setup for "the battle" than anything, but it was good to see how the characters are getting there. Plus some of the reveals were really interesting and made me have to rethink several things about different characters, especially Daegan. I really enjoy how Kaeleigh has grown as well, she's becoming more like she will need to be to face off against the evil that is consuming Alandria.

What I didn't like: I'm seriously not liking the sudden endings to the books. It's a bit unexpected, like there was something left to the story but whatever that was it didn't happen. It just throws me off.

Overall Review: A better book than the first, Veiled Shadows was a good addition to this series that made me more connected to the story and the characters by extension. Seeing the characters grow, and seeing how they handle the unexpected twists in events that happened was neat, and I liked that. I enjoyed learning more about Alandria and I feel like I'm coming to know the world even better with each book.

Recommend?: Sure! It's a good book for fans of fantasy and those who enjoyed Silent Orchids.

[Jules Goud · Rating 4 out of 5]

Man, this book took me a while to get through. But I still loved it! And I will be reading the next book as soon as exams are over!

We learn a little bit more about Kae's heritage and what she is supposed to do, but we are definitely left with more questions than answers. We don't get a lot of answers for the questions that we originally had, allowing the pile to grow.

I liked how the romance was incorporated into the novel. It wasn't that over powering of everything else and it fit nicely. However, I didn't like the development of the love triangle and wish that could have just stayed out. I feel like all that tension is just unnecessary and dumb. But, overall, I liked the romance.

Everything else flowed nicely. We learn more about the players of this dangerous game of chess. We also see more kick butt magic scenes. And, this one gets really emotional because Kae meets some of her family for the first time. She learns about their stories and the things that they went through in their lives.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next one after I finish my exams of course. Maybe. I might cave a little bit!

[Justine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Veiled Shadows was this weeks book of the week in my review group and luckily I had scooped it up while it was free. This instalment started right where the first book left off, which to me is key to a sequel. It was a quick and easy read that held my attention throughout, I liked that there was a kind of love triangle going on. I know who I want Kaeleigh to end up with but I'll have to continue the series to see what happens.
As far as characters go, I feel like they all grew as characters but I found that they had no depth. I think that was why this was such and easy read. Kaeleigh grew more with her new found powers and she is becoming a girl to reckon with. In Veiled Shadows I found that Finn and Chels really took a back burner, and I wanted them to be more involved. I'm glad Daegon is now free, week almost free.
This was another great addition to Morgan Wylie's epic fantasy series. I can't wait to see where she takes us next. I would recommend this novel to fantasy lovers.

[Rabid Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable and interesting second book in The Age of Alandria series. The characters are growing in depth, they are humorous and evolving as the story goes along. The maturing of their gifts and the revealing of new ones adds an unexpectedness to the story, as you don't know what will be revealed about them next. The growth of their interweaved relationships keeps your attention and becomes more complex as other characters exert their influence. The tension and uncertainty of what will happen, who to trust and who people really, are steadily grows as the story progresses. The history of the land and the individuals is gently woven into the story building depth to an interesting and unusual world.

[Alina Popescu · Rating 4 out of 5]

From cliff hanger to cliff hanger, but I just like this kind of torture. Daegan, Kaeleigh, Finn, and Chel go on a journey of self discovery and also fight evil. Daegan and Kaleigh's love story also starts to take shape. I liked the use of magic, premonitions, shared memories, the discovery of family and belonging, and yeah, the sword training! It's a fantastic world of supernatural creatures and wonder, and I look forward to reading what happens next. There's quite a bit of POV shifting that is disconcerting at times, but Kaeleigh's comments to Daegan's reactions, Chel's skimming, and the sweet touches, make up for it.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story continues with Kaeleight's discovery of the mysterious stranger, Daegan, and the reason for his continued interest in her. Life is about to change for her and her friends, Finn and Chel. She has decided to take a trip to another realm with Daegan to find out who she really is. This is now her destiny.

This was an exciting adventure with many twists and turns. Do I really have to wait for Book 3? YEW