What do you think?
Rate this book
Damned #2
No Love for the Wicked
<p>It’s taken six months, but supernaturally gifted Magnolia Kelch finally seems to have her surging powers under control. Then she arrives home to find a group of strangers in her beloved farmhouse, and that control is immediately put to the test. Magnolia quickly learns that her “guests” are actually part of the Network—not from the task force headed by her mentor, Thirteen, but a second group, led by British agent Colin St. Pierre.<br><p>Unfortunately, Theo, a Network agent who shares an intimate connection with Magnolia, doesn’t trust Colin as a new commander. When team missions collide, Magnolia finds herself in the middle of Network infighting, asking herself who among those closest to her truly has her best interests at heart.<br><p>But an even greater threat lies on the horizon. Intent on tracking down the source of Magnolia’s powers, a familiar enemy resurfaces with a plan—one that is far more sinister than the Network has ever seen.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 13, 2013
25 people are currently reading
343 people want to read
About the author
Megan Powell
6 books57 followersBorn and raised in the Midwest, I have a strange affinity for State Fairs and basketball humor. When not writing I am often found reading, usually feeding my paranormal romance addiction. I love cheap coffee with tons of sugar and can eat no-bake cookies by the dozen. Exercising isn’t bad, but I’m pretty sure dieting is the work of the devil.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
October 14, 2013
Honestly, I could do without Theo. I love the story so much...except when it comes to Theo. He doesnt do a thing for me. He seems rather insignificant, replacable.
August 13, 2013
Full Blog Post @Book-Marks the Spot
No Love for the Wicked wasn't as good as the first one, but I still loved it. Magnolia will always have a place in my heart. I don’t think I’ve read about a character that has gone through as much as she has. In this installment, she decides to finally go home. No not to her horrid father, but to Thirteen and his team because she can finally control her powers. Magnolia's reunion with them is a big one- especially with Theo. They share a connection that even she can’t explain- and it’s getting stronger every day. With that in the front of her mind, she has to help the team stop her father from gaining anymore power. In order to do that…..she has to go back to the place that haunts her dreams.
Will Magnolia be strong enough to overcome her fears or will she freeze at the sight of her father?
Like I said before, it wasn’t as good as the first one, but I loved it all the same. The reason I think it didn't surpass the first one is because we still don’t get to see the full extent of Magnolias powers. I kept expecting something big to happen and it never did. I think it’s all been leading up to the next book and that’s when everything will hit the fan. Oh, I can’t wait. I’m practically bouncing in my seat. What we do learn in this one is more about Theo. Finally we get some insight on him and his life. Also- Magnolias dreams? I mean.. what in the world? MEEP!!!! OMG Who would have thought. It was a big shock to me. I wish there had been a bit more missions. The ones in the book were pretty big.. but I want to see Magnolia in real action. Not just little scenes. I will be patiently awaiting the release of the next in the series.
Magnolia: Words can’t even describe the kind of pain she has endured- and yet she doesn’t let that keep her down. She is by far the strongest character I’ve come across. If anyone tried to take on Magnolia- they would lose. I know that’s a strong statement, but I honestly believe that. She doesn’t trust……well she is trying to learn to trust people. She is Always on alert, so don’t even think about sneaking up her. Unless she is with Theo. Then she just forgets everything besides him. :D
Theo: Yes, we get to learn more about him in this book, but I still don’t feel like I know him. He is an alright character and I can tell he feels for Magnolia. But I’m just going to hold off on my opinion of him. Thirteen doesn’t think Mags and Theo should be together and he is a pretty good judge of character. Thirteen doesn’t hate him No he loves Theo. He just thinks they shouldn’t be together. So that makes me suspicious of Theo. I want to like him but I just….can’t. Well I like him enough..hopefully you know what I'm getting at.
Shane: I felt like putting him in this review because I feel for the guy. He fights his attraction for Magnolia everyday and he hates it. And he hates her. He doesn’t want to have these feeling for her but I think deep deep DEEP down he wants to. He is just confused and is it weird that I like him more than Theo? I don’t know how it happened, I guess I like my guys of the brooding type. LOL
Overall: Beautifully written and full of surprises!!!
No Love for the Wicked wasn't as good as the first one, but I still loved it. Magnolia will always have a place in my heart. I don’t think I’ve read about a character that has gone through as much as she has. In this installment, she decides to finally go home. No not to her horrid father, but to Thirteen and his team because she can finally control her powers. Magnolia's reunion with them is a big one- especially with Theo. They share a connection that even she can’t explain- and it’s getting stronger every day. With that in the front of her mind, she has to help the team stop her father from gaining anymore power. In order to do that…..she has to go back to the place that haunts her dreams.
Will Magnolia be strong enough to overcome her fears or will she freeze at the sight of her father?
Like I said before, it wasn’t as good as the first one, but I loved it all the same. The reason I think it didn't surpass the first one is because we still don’t get to see the full extent of Magnolias powers. I kept expecting something big to happen and it never did. I think it’s all been leading up to the next book and that’s when everything will hit the fan. Oh, I can’t wait. I’m practically bouncing in my seat. What we do learn in this one is more about Theo. Finally we get some insight on him and his life. Also- Magnolias dreams? I mean.. what in the world? MEEP!!!! OMG Who would have thought. It was a big shock to me. I wish there had been a bit more missions. The ones in the book were pretty big.. but I want to see Magnolia in real action. Not just little scenes. I will be patiently awaiting the release of the next in the series.
Magnolia: Words can’t even describe the kind of pain she has endured- and yet she doesn’t let that keep her down. She is by far the strongest character I’ve come across. If anyone tried to take on Magnolia- they would lose. I know that’s a strong statement, but I honestly believe that. She doesn’t trust……well she is trying to learn to trust people. She is Always on alert, so don’t even think about sneaking up her. Unless she is with Theo. Then she just forgets everything besides him. :D
Theo: Yes, we get to learn more about him in this book, but I still don’t feel like I know him. He is an alright character and I can tell he feels for Magnolia. But I’m just going to hold off on my opinion of him. Thirteen doesn’t think Mags and Theo should be together and he is a pretty good judge of character. Thirteen doesn’t hate him No he loves Theo. He just thinks they shouldn’t be together. So that makes me suspicious of Theo. I want to like him but I just….can’t. Well I like him enough..hopefully you know what I'm getting at.
Shane: I felt like putting him in this review because I feel for the guy. He fights his attraction for Magnolia everyday and he hates it. And he hates her. He doesn’t want to have these feeling for her but I think deep deep DEEP down he wants to. He is just confused and is it weird that I like him more than Theo? I don’t know how it happened, I guess I like my guys of the brooding type. LOL
Overall: Beautifully written and full of surprises!!!
July 3, 2016
*(I won this book through the First Reads giveaway section on Goodreads in August 2013)*
Okay, so I've been out of the swing of things and haven't read in almost a year! I had a heavy course load for college when I started reading this book, and I was hoping that wouldn't affect me finishing since I finished No Peace for the Damned so easily under the same circumstances. That aside, I was still able to pick it up right back where I left off -- several times! -- without a hitch. There were a few key points that I had to rack my brain to remember but nothing major; just my excessive wanting to pick apart every little detail.
Within the first few pages, I already knew this was going to be another gory book! Although, I think it was a little more mild than what the first book in the Damned series offered.
In all honesty, No Love for the Wicked revolved a lot around Magnolia and Theo. There's no doubt in my mind that a lot of readers are interested in the storyline between the two of them, and if that's the case - readers will not be disappointed. The chemistry between the two of them is getting much more intense and powerful as they are feeding off of each other's power(s). The relationship between Mags and Theo is a little nauseating; Theo is completely controlling and possessive of Magnolia and Magnolia is the typical jealous "girlfriend." As I was reading, I couldn't stop to think that Theo is exactly like Edward in the Twilight series. At least Theo is always there for her.
The story itself is just a semi continuation of the first in the series. The Network is following another case involving the Kelch family, and Magnolia has returned to help. There are a few twists and turns that were interesting, but nothing worthwhile. Some of the questions I had after reading No Peace for the Damned were resolved with this sequel. Thirteen's relationship with Magnolia is the only thing I think feels kind of "real" in the entire story, but that could just be me being all sentimental.
One thing that really interested me was learning about Mags and her history. The twin, why she was kept alive, how she harbored all the powers, etc. The man in her dreams, and having all of her questions answered is something I'm excited in reading more about and I'll definitely be reading the next in the series to find the closure to the story. Knowing whether Mags has the heart to kill her father is ultimately what I would really love to find out.
Okay, so I've been out of the swing of things and haven't read in almost a year! I had a heavy course load for college when I started reading this book, and I was hoping that wouldn't affect me finishing since I finished No Peace for the Damned so easily under the same circumstances. That aside, I was still able to pick it up right back where I left off -- several times! -- without a hitch. There were a few key points that I had to rack my brain to remember but nothing major; just my excessive wanting to pick apart every little detail.
Within the first few pages, I already knew this was going to be another gory book! Although, I think it was a little more mild than what the first book in the Damned series offered.
In all honesty, No Love for the Wicked revolved a lot around Magnolia and Theo. There's no doubt in my mind that a lot of readers are interested in the storyline between the two of them, and if that's the case - readers will not be disappointed. The chemistry between the two of them is getting much more intense and powerful as they are feeding off of each other's power(s). The relationship between Mags and Theo is a little nauseating; Theo is completely controlling and possessive of Magnolia and Magnolia is the typical jealous "girlfriend." As I was reading, I couldn't stop to think that Theo is exactly like Edward in the Twilight series. At least Theo is always there for her.
The story itself is just a semi continuation of the first in the series. The Network is following another case involving the Kelch family, and Magnolia has returned to help. There are a few twists and turns that were interesting, but nothing worthwhile. Some of the questions I had after reading No Peace for the Damned were resolved with this sequel. Thirteen's relationship with Magnolia is the only thing I think feels kind of "real" in the entire story, but that could just be me being all sentimental.
One thing that really interested me was learning about Mags and her history. The twin, why she was kept alive, how she harbored all the powers, etc. The man in her dreams, and having all of her questions answered is something I'm excited in reading more about and I'll definitely be reading the next in the series to find the closure to the story. Knowing whether Mags has the heart to kill her father is ultimately what I would really love to find out.
September 15, 2013
I won this book in a First Reads giveaway.
I didn't read the first installment of this series, but felt that it wasn't necessary since Wicked seemed to provide some context throughout the book. The book is well written with funny dialogue sprinkled throughout the storyline. This genre is not something I'd typically read, but I found it somewhat entertaining, though I think I'd enjoy watching this as a movie rather than reading the book.
Magnolia is a very likeable character, I realized this right away. While this book did not make me want to continue on reading the future installments of the series, it's a decent read.
I didn't read the first installment of this series, but felt that it wasn't necessary since Wicked seemed to provide some context throughout the book. The book is well written with funny dialogue sprinkled throughout the storyline. This genre is not something I'd typically read, but I found it somewhat entertaining, though I think I'd enjoy watching this as a movie rather than reading the book.
Magnolia is a very likeable character, I realized this right away. While this book did not make me want to continue on reading the future installments of the series, it's a decent read.
October 9, 2013
Loved the first and second super-paranormal books about Magnolia Kelch. This series moves really fast. The second book ended abruptly but I really enjoyed Magnolia's growth in the second book and can't wait to see where Theo, the Network and Magnolia go in the next book.
June 10, 2018
Totally not impressed with the unnatural bond between Magnolia and Theo. Neither am I at all impressed with his history. Poor little boy, didn't have a rich family to grow up in and so he sought connections with countless women. Cry me a river!
August 23, 2013
http://bookbutterflyreviews.blogspot.ca
You know how in a lot of series, so much great stuff happens in the first book that the second is a little bit of a disappointment? Well, that definitely was NOT the case For No Love for the Wicked! I think Megan Powell was smart in this one, she was focused on laying the foundation in the first so that she could expand the story more in the second... or I hope thats what she had in mind because thats what I got out of it!
If you haven't read the first book in the series, No Peace for the Damned I did a review on it back in November (which you can read in the November 2012 section of my blog). It WAS another super cliched book. THe main character is basically invincible and gains new powers by the second. So, it was a little unrealistic, but if you can accept the unrealistic factors, it was actually a pretty decent book. The second definitely past my expectations.
Plot wise, the sequel of this series was definitely an upgrade. More players joined the team (well, kind of) and a lot of what seemed really cliche in the first book (*cough* magical golden connection to the love interest) was explained a little further and gained more depth. You also see why Magnolia is gaining more and more powers. There was a pretty surprising twist at the end, one I definitely didn't see coming, that I had mixed feelings about. Plot wise, it was a good play, but the execution needed a little work. It kind of contradicted what you know of Magnolia's powers. However, the identity of Magnolia's dream man (and I mean this in no romanticized way people) and what Megan Powell does with that information will definitely be something to look forward to in her next book.
Character development took an upgrade as well, especially in the case of Magnolia. Before she was this victim trying to do good and help bring down her family; now she was so much less of a victim and more of the empowered bad ass she so badly needed to embrace. Other characters we saw from the last book also got more depth and we get to see into their minds a little bit which was a definite bonus. I mentioned before that new characters were introduced... the sad thing was that they almost seemed unnecessary. The information we got from them probably could have been obtained easily through different means and the author didn't really give them any REAL importance in this book. I am hoping that she rectifies this in the next.
Overall, I was pleased with this instalment of the series. For the last book I gave a 2/10 in originality but a 6/10 on overall execution. Since I feel that it should be consistent with the book, my rating is a it of an upgrade as well. I will give it a 6/10 for originality but a 7.5/10 for the overall rating of the book. I look forward to the next book of the Damed series!
You know how in a lot of series, so much great stuff happens in the first book that the second is a little bit of a disappointment? Well, that definitely was NOT the case For No Love for the Wicked! I think Megan Powell was smart in this one, she was focused on laying the foundation in the first so that she could expand the story more in the second... or I hope thats what she had in mind because thats what I got out of it!
If you haven't read the first book in the series, No Peace for the Damned I did a review on it back in November (which you can read in the November 2012 section of my blog). It WAS another super cliched book. THe main character is basically invincible and gains new powers by the second. So, it was a little unrealistic, but if you can accept the unrealistic factors, it was actually a pretty decent book. The second definitely past my expectations.
Plot wise, the sequel of this series was definitely an upgrade. More players joined the team (well, kind of) and a lot of what seemed really cliche in the first book (*cough* magical golden connection to the love interest) was explained a little further and gained more depth. You also see why Magnolia is gaining more and more powers. There was a pretty surprising twist at the end, one I definitely didn't see coming, that I had mixed feelings about. Plot wise, it was a good play, but the execution needed a little work. It kind of contradicted what you know of Magnolia's powers. However, the identity of Magnolia's dream man (and I mean this in no romanticized way people) and what Megan Powell does with that information will definitely be something to look forward to in her next book.
Character development took an upgrade as well, especially in the case of Magnolia. Before she was this victim trying to do good and help bring down her family; now she was so much less of a victim and more of the empowered bad ass she so badly needed to embrace. Other characters we saw from the last book also got more depth and we get to see into their minds a little bit which was a definite bonus. I mentioned before that new characters were introduced... the sad thing was that they almost seemed unnecessary. The information we got from them probably could have been obtained easily through different means and the author didn't really give them any REAL importance in this book. I am hoping that she rectifies this in the next.
Overall, I was pleased with this instalment of the series. For the last book I gave a 2/10 in originality but a 6/10 on overall execution. Since I feel that it should be consistent with the book, my rating is a it of an upgrade as well. I will give it a 6/10 for originality but a 7.5/10 for the overall rating of the book. I look forward to the next book of the Damed series!
November 18, 2014
Love the Action/Supernatural storyline. I didn't get to read the first book, but was given enough backstory in this novel that I wasn't lost. The main character shows so much strength and persaverence (sp?) From what I've read she had a horrific childhood being tortured by the ones that are supposed to love and protect her. In this book, she is spending her days working with a group of people that try and eliminate the supernatural enemies. The twist with this story is that she is the daughter of the family The Network are after, so Mangolia has to prove that she can be trusted, that she wants that part of her life gone as much as the people she works with do. Working with this and also her all changing powers that she herself possesses, trying to keep it under control and do her best as a part of the team will bring forth a great story and I hope to see more to come.
September 22, 2013
I buy books like No Love for the Wicked as quick, fun reads, and this series doesn't disappoint. Purchased from the Kindle Store, last night, and it lasted me into this morning, which is a good length for the intended purpose of a quick escape from reality. The concept is interesting, the world a good mix of the real and the fantastic. The main character, Magnolia, has grown steadily, throughout. The emotional side of this is both prevalent and simple enough not to bog things down. A good mix in a quick read. I'll be waiting for Megan Powell's next work.
May 21, 2013
I received this book on monday and finished it tuesday, I could not put it down. I love this series. It makes me laugh, and get a little teary eyed when I read about Magnolia's past and her horrible family. This book is definitely worth the read, althought you should start with No Peace for the Damned. Great series, you'll love it. Already looking forward for the third book.
August 19, 2013
Magnolia has grown so much. It was good for her to spend some time away. She learned and has become a much better agent and overall person. Her relationship with Theo is very cool to watch. The major battle scene was intense and surprising. I can't wait to read more about Magnolia's journey.
September 15, 2013
It was ok. Not nearly as good as the first book. I really didn't feel a connection to any of the characters. Nor did I like any of them or care what happened to them.
Read
July 26, 20184 stars
This is the second in the Magnolia Kelch series (as you're already aware) and I have read both of them. I read this one pretty quickly, which was nice as it was an easy and enjoyable read. It can be read by itself - without having read the first one - but of course it would be best to read the first one. Unfortunately, it appears this author has stopped writing and the third in this series is not forthcoming. Her website(s) don't have any updates past 2015/16. I hope she reads this, remembers her talent, and gets back on that horse!
After the first one this did not disappoint. I'm not a romance reader by any means and while I didn't mind the romantic aspect of this story I don't like that it's taken up more time in the second book. It makes sense in terms of the story trajectory and Magnolia's evolution but if there's ever a third book I hope it doesn't take up any more time than it has in the last two. It would be nice to spend more time witnessing Magnolia and her powers on her own without it always hinging on Theo. I have to agree with some others in that I don't love Magnolia and Theo's connection. My hope has always been there's going to be some kind of revelation that makes their connection make sense, not just oh he's the one. I'd also say that I don't think I like that he just suddenly has powers and his are growing stronger too. Again this would be fine if it's revealed in later books that he's supernatural or half-supernatural. But it doesn't work for me if he's really just a human who gets powers now because his soulmate is supernatural. Then you would think this would be happening elsewhere. I think him being connected to her mind, hearing her thoughts and feeling her pain is acceptable but not him having straight up powers...unless...
This story has a fine balance of good and evil, not unlike life. The revelations are satisfying but I could use a little bit more information to be totally satisfied. I think this is a relatively unique take on a family of supernatural beings and their place in the world. Kudos to the author Megan Powell. I want to know more! I stand by my review of the first book although I was a little more connected to this book (in the first I felt there was something missing) I read this one immediately following the first. If you like a dark and gruesome story with some romance and a bad ass female protagonist with ever increasing supernatural powers check this book out. Beware you'll be left wanting more if you like it because I don't know what the author is up to.
Cheers!
This is the second in the Magnolia Kelch series (as you're already aware) and I have read both of them. I read this one pretty quickly, which was nice as it was an easy and enjoyable read. It can be read by itself - without having read the first one - but of course it would be best to read the first one. Unfortunately, it appears this author has stopped writing and the third in this series is not forthcoming. Her website(s) don't have any updates past 2015/16. I hope she reads this, remembers her talent, and gets back on that horse!
After the first one this did not disappoint. I'm not a romance reader by any means and while I didn't mind the romantic aspect of this story I don't like that it's taken up more time in the second book. It makes sense in terms of the story trajectory and Magnolia's evolution but if there's ever a third book I hope it doesn't take up any more time than it has in the last two. It would be nice to spend more time witnessing Magnolia and her powers on her own without it always hinging on Theo. I have to agree with some others in that I don't love Magnolia and Theo's connection. My hope has always been there's going to be some kind of revelation that makes their connection make sense, not just oh he's the one. I'd also say that I don't think I like that he just suddenly has powers and his are growing stronger too. Again this would be fine if it's revealed in later books that he's supernatural or half-supernatural. But it doesn't work for me if he's really just a human who gets powers now because his soulmate is supernatural. Then you would think this would be happening elsewhere. I think him being connected to her mind, hearing her thoughts and feeling her pain is acceptable but not him having straight up powers...unless...
This story has a fine balance of good and evil, not unlike life. The revelations are satisfying but I could use a little bit more information to be totally satisfied. I think this is a relatively unique take on a family of supernatural beings and their place in the world. Kudos to the author Megan Powell. I want to know more! I stand by my review of the first book although I was a little more connected to this book (in the first I felt there was something missing) I read this one immediately following the first. If you like a dark and gruesome story with some romance and a bad ass female protagonist with ever increasing supernatural powers check this book out. Beware you'll be left wanting more if you like it because I don't know what the author is up to.
Cheers!
September 4, 2017
Thoroughly enjoyed!
Loved the book. Plowed through 2cnd. Very disappointed that despite promises of a 2015 release date, there is no release, AND no update from the author for over 2 years as of September 2017.
Loved the book. Plowed through 2cnd. Very disappointed that despite promises of a 2015 release date, there is no release, AND no update from the author for over 2 years as of September 2017.
September 21, 2017
very interesting
the direction the series is going, sure keeps if I a interesting direction. Trying to help her team, she starts tio find the reason behind her power and what can be done.
the direction the series is going, sure keeps if I a interesting direction. Trying to help her team, she starts tio find the reason behind her power and what can be done.
June 2, 2018
Wonderful
A great second book in a series, my only issue is i want the next book now, but it hasn't been written yet😢. The characters have continued to grow and change in both directions as people and furthering the plot.
A great second book in a series, my only issue is i want the next book now, but it hasn't been written yet😢. The characters have continued to grow and change in both directions as people and furthering the plot.
April 21, 2017
Awesome! Awesome! Awesome! I really, really hope...the next book comes soon, it's hard to be left hanging!
May 15, 2018
My heart
Loved it so much it had me from page 1 ... I couldn't put it done without thinking about what's going to happen next
Loved it so much it had me from page 1 ... I couldn't put it done without thinking about what's going to happen next
July 9, 2018
2nd book in line
I love it. Different enough from wolves and Vampires... she has a lot of power and is trying to figure out what to do with it.
I love it. Different enough from wolves and Vampires... she has a lot of power and is trying to figure out what to do with it.
December 16, 2018
Magnolia grows up
A good second act. Though not as strong as the first. Characters maturing and the Network gelling. they continue to
A good second act. Though not as strong as the first. Characters maturing and the Network gelling. they continue to
September 2, 2019
Great Story!
The heat between Mag and Theo is incredible. I love the way the author describes their reactions when they come together.
The heat between Mag and Theo is incredible. I love the way the author describes their reactions when they come together.
January 28, 2015
It’s taken six months, but supernaturally gifted Magnolia Kelch finally seems to have her surging powers under control. Then she arrives home to find a group of strangers in her beloved farmhouse, and that control is immediately put to the test. Magnolia quickly learns that her “guests” are actually part of the Network—not from the task force headed by her mentor, Thirteen, but a second group, led by British agent Colin St. Pierre.
Unfortunately, Theo, a Network agent who shares an intimate connection with Magnolia, doesn’t trust Colin as a new commander. When team missions collide, Magnolia finds herself in the middle of Network infighting, asking herself who among those closest to her truly has her best interests at heart.
But an even greater threat lies on the horizon. Intent on tracking down the source of Magnolia’s powers, a familiar enemy resurfaces with a plan—one that is far more sinister than the Network has ever seen.
The second book in the series picks up about 6 months after the last book ended. Magnolia is back, and she has grown as a person, and learned to control her emotions and magical powers. This book took the backstory that we got in No Peace for the Damned, and built on it. There was lots of drama, betrayal, action, suspense, and even sex this time! insert sexytime dance here There was some foreshadowing as to things that are going to unfold throughout the series (i.e. with the man appearing in Magnolia's dreams), and I look forward to how Megan Powell is going to develop the story.
I tend to be a bigger fan of urban fantasy series than paranormals. That's because I liked to follow the same couple throughout multiple books. So I am glad to have found another series to add to my growing list of must-reads.
October 10, 2018
Dysfunctional but adapting
I enjoyed the further changes and development of Magnolia. Her ability to love despite her twisted childhood. More development of the characters and the addition of a foundation for the supernatural abilities. Good action. Still revealing the emotional baggage and slowed maturity of the heroine.
I enjoyed the further changes and development of Magnolia. Her ability to love despite her twisted childhood. More development of the characters and the addition of a foundation for the supernatural abilities. Good action. Still revealing the emotional baggage and slowed maturity of the heroine.
February 8, 2014
Again, this seems to be a love-it or hate-it series. I still love it. Rare is the sequel that lives up to the original, but the author definitely accomplishes it here. The main character is back after taking an extended leave of absence to gain control of her powers. Which, we promptly find out, is a heck of a lot harder with other people around than on your own.
Mag doesn't lose her abrasive distrust, her unstable violent reactions, or her self doubt and at times self loathing. Which is one of the reasons I actually like this series, and the character. I find the fact that the author hasn't had her be 'magically healed' to be refreshing in a literary world full of instant cures for long term trauma. I also find the main character's struggle to fit into a normal world with something even approaching normal relationships very interesting.
We get to see Mag grow quite a bit in this book. A particularly favorite scene of mine is . The character is damaged on such a fundamental level that I feel the author is being very true to her with this sort of thing.
I'm not normally a fan of romance, but watching the growing connection between her and Theo is intriguing. The implications for her power, and his, are definitely enough to make me wish the next installment was already written. There's a lot more I'd like to say, but in the interests of not spoiling anything I won't. Let's just say the end of the book wasn't what I expected and made me even more curious about the next book, and where this family's bloodline really comes from.
Mag doesn't lose her abrasive distrust, her unstable violent reactions, or her self doubt and at times self loathing. Which is one of the reasons I actually like this series, and the character. I find the fact that the author hasn't had her be 'magically healed' to be refreshing in a literary world full of instant cures for long term trauma. I also find the main character's struggle to fit into a normal world with something even approaching normal relationships very interesting.
We get to see Mag grow quite a bit in this book. A particularly favorite scene of mine is . The character is damaged on such a fundamental level that I feel the author is being very true to her with this sort of thing.
I'm not normally a fan of romance, but watching the growing connection between her and Theo is intriguing. The implications for her power, and his, are definitely enough to make me wish the next installment was already written. There's a lot more I'd like to say, but in the interests of not spoiling anything I won't. Let's just say the end of the book wasn't what I expected and made me even more curious about the next book, and where this family's bloodline really comes from.
October 28, 2013
OK, the first book was uneven, but entertaining. In book 2, we have Even More Powers, My God I Am Supergirl paired with the Instalove of her and Theo from the first book, plus no restraint or compassion from the main character.
At the point where the main character held an entire roomful of HER ALLIES paralysed to the point of not being able to breathe to "teach them a lesson" for being immature and "dicks" I decided that my suspension of disbelief was entirely broken.
Sigh. Disappointing for me. I know that everyone brings their own experience and special magic to each book. There will be people that love the character's take no prisoners attitude, and get that as a fundamentally broken by Her Terrible Past person she's going to continually get things wrong, overreact and push people away from her. I just decided I didn't care enough to go on the journey to personhood with Magnolia.
At the point where the main character held an entire roomful of HER ALLIES paralysed to the point of not being able to breathe to "teach them a lesson" for being immature and "dicks" I decided that my suspension of disbelief was entirely broken.
Sigh. Disappointing for me. I know that everyone brings their own experience and special magic to each book. There will be people that love the character's take no prisoners attitude, and get that as a fundamentally broken by Her Terrible Past person she's going to continually get things wrong, overreact and push people away from her. I just decided I didn't care enough to go on the journey to personhood with Magnolia.
November 18, 2013
I tried to review the first book without spoiling things. Let's see if I can manage that again. Magnolia Kelch is back. She's taken time off from the Network to learn how to be human, but is drawn back into events when she finds a Network team staying in her house.
Ignore the copy on the back jacket; it has almost nothing to do with the plot of the novel. In fact, once I reached the end, it felt as though the whole story was just a placeholder for the next book. I am looking forward to reading that one, when it comes.
Ignore the copy on the back jacket; it has almost nothing to do with the plot of the novel. In fact, once I reached the end, it felt as though the whole story was just a placeholder for the next book. I am looking forward to reading that one, when it comes.
February 3, 2014
This book was more satisfying than book 1 since we had some of the world building already established. Was nice to see Mag's character growth. Interesting to see connection between her and Theo getting stronger. Mystery character from Mag's dream was a nice hook if you're interested in more information on where the supernatural power comes from. If book 3 were available now, I'd probably read it but not sure if I'll care enough if/when next book comes out. *shrug*
June 12, 2014
I thought this book was as good as the first. Thankfully a friend won this book and was kind enough to give it to me. For some reason I thought this was the last book but it's not which I was sad but happy. Though I love the book I really think Magnolia should be a lot more messed up psychologically. Hope the next one comes out soon.
March 22, 2015
Awesome follow-up book
Ok, so book 2 in a series sometimes doesn't live up to the first book. This one does and expands the world the author made. Powell gives us such a diverse set of individuals and a rich story world. Really enjoyed how much Mags has grown and continues to grow. Really ray for book 3, especially since this book ends on a slight cliffhanger.
Ok, so book 2 in a series sometimes doesn't live up to the first book. This one does and expands the world the author made. Powell gives us such a diverse set of individuals and a rich story world. Really enjoyed how much Mags has grown and continues to grow. Really ray for book 3, especially since this book ends on a slight cliffhanger.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews