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Relic Seekers #2
Fountain Of Secrets
A relics expert with a nose for mystery is torn between her sexy billionaire boss and her hot bodyguard. Each would die to save her...and win her heart.
Kendall Morgan puts her sixth sense back to work in the second book of the Relic Seekers series, divining the history and location of ancient relics. Her boss, the gorgeous billionaire Nathan Larraby, sends her to Italy to safeguard a priceless treasure belonging to the Protettori, an ancient order of monks who guard four powerful relics that Nathan believes may be the cure for his dark curse. He also sends brooding mercenary Jake Stone to watch Kendall’s back—although her back isn’t all Jake has his eye on.
Nathan joins them, and all three tumble into a labyrinth of defenses created by the monks to protect their treasures, including the Fountain of Youth. They find themselves in England on the trail of the legendary King Arthur, who along with the Reaper, seems mysteriously connected to the Protettori. Sparks fly and bonds are tested as Kendall and Nathan’s pasts are revealed and Jake’s becomes even more mysterious. The trio must stay one step ahead of the mysterious Reaper if they want to survive.
Fountain of Secrets twists and turns through the shadows of myth and reality as Kendall races to uncover the Protettori’s secrets and fight her growing attraction to her boss and her bodyguard.
Kendall Morgan puts her sixth sense back to work in the second book of the Relic Seekers series, divining the history and location of ancient relics. Her boss, the gorgeous billionaire Nathan Larraby, sends her to Italy to safeguard a priceless treasure belonging to the Protettori, an ancient order of monks who guard four powerful relics that Nathan believes may be the cure for his dark curse. He also sends brooding mercenary Jake Stone to watch Kendall’s back—although her back isn’t all Jake has his eye on.
Nathan joins them, and all three tumble into a labyrinth of defenses created by the monks to protect their treasures, including the Fountain of Youth. They find themselves in England on the trail of the legendary King Arthur, who along with the Reaper, seems mysteriously connected to the Protettori. Sparks fly and bonds are tested as Kendall and Nathan’s pasts are revealed and Jake’s becomes even more mysterious. The trio must stay one step ahead of the mysterious Reaper if they want to survive.
Fountain of Secrets twists and turns through the shadows of myth and reality as Kendall races to uncover the Protettori’s secrets and fight her growing attraction to her boss and her bodyguard.
339 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 10, 2013
181 people are currently reading
1375 people want to read
About the author
Anita Clenney
21 books571 followersAnita Clenney is the New York Times and USA Today Best Selling author of the Connor Clan Highland Warriors and the Relic Seekers series.
Before giving herself over to the writing bug, she worked in a pickle factory, a preschool, booked shows for Aztec Fire Dancers, and has been a secretary, executive assistant, and a real estate agent. You can learn more about her writing at www.anitaclenney.com
http://www.amazon.com/Awaken-Highland...
http://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Highlan...
http://www.amazon.com/Faelan-Highland...
http://www.amazon.com/Heart-Highland-...
http://www.amazon.com/Guardians-Stone...
http://www.amazon.com/Fountain-Secret...
http://www.amazon.com/Lost-Chalice-Re...
www.facebook.com/anitaclenneyAUTHOR
www.twitter.com/anitaclenney
www.goodreads.com/anitaclenney
Before giving herself over to the writing bug, she worked in a pickle factory, a preschool, booked shows for Aztec Fire Dancers, and has been a secretary, executive assistant, and a real estate agent. You can learn more about her writing at www.anitaclenney.com
http://www.amazon.com/Awaken-Highland...
http://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Highlan...
http://www.amazon.com/Faelan-Highland...
http://www.amazon.com/Heart-Highland-...
http://www.amazon.com/Guardians-Stone...
http://www.amazon.com/Fountain-Secret...
http://www.amazon.com/Lost-Chalice-Re...
www.facebook.com/anitaclenneyAUTHOR
www.twitter.com/anitaclenney
www.goodreads.com/anitaclenney
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
May 26, 2018
Fountain of Secrets is the second book from the Relic Seekers series. I was so happy to dive into this book (even though it took me forever to write the review!!) because I missed these characters! Kendall, Nathan, and Jake.. I apologize.
Okay so the trio is back! Nathan, Kendall, and Jake are travelling to Italy. Well, time travelling. They want to secure the treasure that they found in the first book.. but while travelling through their magical portal they land in England. Which isn't really close to Italy.. but I'm assuming time travelling can be confusing and have a mind of it's own.
While in England, these three realize that they can find the next relic. This new one would hopefully help with Nathan's little curse problem.. but I doubt it would be easy to find. Plus they still have Brandi and the Reaper lurking and shit because they are hunting the same damn relics.
Even though I hate the damn love triangle, this book was still interesting. I loved the little historical moments - like the King Arthur vision!! Plus seeing her friendship with Jake and Nathan, which are different in a way, is still likable. However, I don't really care who she ends up with at this point. I kind of just want the whole triangle thing laid to rest.
Overall, it was an entertaining book. I can't wait to dive into the next one. Maybe the whole triangle thing will be solved? Maybe??
Okay so the trio is back! Nathan, Kendall, and Jake are travelling to Italy. Well, time travelling. They want to secure the treasure that they found in the first book.. but while travelling through their magical portal they land in England. Which isn't really close to Italy.. but I'm assuming time travelling can be confusing and have a mind of it's own.
While in England, these three realize that they can find the next relic. This new one would hopefully help with Nathan's little curse problem.. but I doubt it would be easy to find. Plus they still have Brandi and the Reaper lurking and shit because they are hunting the same damn relics.
Even though I hate the damn love triangle, this book was still interesting. I loved the little historical moments - like the King Arthur vision!! Plus seeing her friendship with Jake and Nathan, which are different in a way, is still likable. However, I don't really care who she ends up with at this point. I kind of just want the whole triangle thing laid to rest.
Overall, it was an entertaining book. I can't wait to dive into the next one. Maybe the whole triangle thing will be solved? Maybe??
July 15, 2018
This wasn’t nearly as good as the first book in the series and I was quite disappointed. I did appreciate that it took off right from where the last one started so there wasn’t months between with unexplained events. It just jumped right back into the nonstop crazy action! But things got a bit wild and had me rolling my eyes a bit. Some things just seemed a bit over the top and unnecessary and it affected my enjoyment of the story a bit. It was still interesting though and did still manage to keep my attention despite the craziness so points for that!
August 5, 2014
I am addicted to this series!!!! I cannot wait for book three. Anita can you write any faster? Pretty Please!!!! I really wanna know if either Jake or Nathan are Kendall's long lost best friend. Also, could all of them really be reincarnated?
October 26, 2016
This book was a great addition to a series which I am beginning to love by a new favourite author; it’s always great when you find a series like this, completely different from anything you’ve read before with characters which draw you back to it time and time again and a storyline which is unlike anything you’ve read before. In short this is a series I’m quickly falling in love with and I’m only glad I’ve had the time to read them in quick succession.
The main character much like the last book is Kendall, in this book she is recovering from the last trip yet still not completely happy with the half-hearted explanations she received from her boss. With Jake in toe the two head off in search of more answers especially with Nathan suffering problems of his own. Kendall in this book is much more accepting of the chemistry between her and Jake and recognises that Nathan has too many problems of his own to deal with. She also finds out a lot more about her own personal history including stuff that happened with her parents. In this book Kendall really comes into her own dominating the male characters and turns into a truly loveable character herself.
The most noteworthy secondary characters to me remain to be Jake and Nathan. Jake in this book is a lot more possessive over Kendall almost staking his claim to her, but the two do feel more for each other than they would readily admit. Nathan is suffering with unexplainable issues of his own; he seems more standoffish in this book and doesn’t really put up any fight for his relationship with Kendall.
The storyline was again wonderfully original and gripping and the paving superb dragging readers in. I also enjoyed that there was much more of a romantic storyline throughout this book as well as the whole ‘Indianna Jones’ angle the author seems to pull off very well.
4.5 stars a very enjoyable read and I can’t wait to read more.
The main character much like the last book is Kendall, in this book she is recovering from the last trip yet still not completely happy with the half-hearted explanations she received from her boss. With Jake in toe the two head off in search of more answers especially with Nathan suffering problems of his own. Kendall in this book is much more accepting of the chemistry between her and Jake and recognises that Nathan has too many problems of his own to deal with. She also finds out a lot more about her own personal history including stuff that happened with her parents. In this book Kendall really comes into her own dominating the male characters and turns into a truly loveable character herself.
The most noteworthy secondary characters to me remain to be Jake and Nathan. Jake in this book is a lot more possessive over Kendall almost staking his claim to her, but the two do feel more for each other than they would readily admit. Nathan is suffering with unexplainable issues of his own; he seems more standoffish in this book and doesn’t really put up any fight for his relationship with Kendall.
The storyline was again wonderfully original and gripping and the paving superb dragging readers in. I also enjoyed that there was much more of a romantic storyline throughout this book as well as the whole ‘Indianna Jones’ angle the author seems to pull off very well.
4.5 stars a very enjoyable read and I can’t wait to read more.
April 16, 2018
Nathan, Kendall, and Jake travel back to Italy to secure the treasure from book one, but while there they fall into a magical portal that transports them to England. They quickly figure out that it is just where they need to be to hunt down the location of the Foutain of Youth and next relic that they need in the hopes of curing Nathan of his curse. The Reaper is still after them and the same relics, and Brandi is still lingering around trying to get her hands on the relics as well. Kendall and Jake end up joining a psychic tour group in the hopes of getting their hands on a chalice and finding out where the Fountain of Youth might be located. They get some unexpected help from the spirit of King Arthur in one of Kendall's visions.
I'm having fun reading this series. There was quite a bit of running around in circles in this book, but there is enough action that the pace doesn't suffer. The little historical tidbits in the story are interesting too. I am interested to see what happens with the love triangle that is set up between Nathan, Kendall, and Jake. I'm not sure who I'm rooting for yet. On to the next book.
I'm having fun reading this series. There was quite a bit of running around in circles in this book, but there is enough action that the pace doesn't suffer. The little historical tidbits in the story are interesting too. I am interested to see what happens with the love triangle that is set up between Nathan, Kendall, and Jake. I'm not sure who I'm rooting for yet. On to the next book.
December 8, 2023
Fountain of Secrets
4 Stars
Billionaire Nathan Larraby sends his relics expert, Kendall Morgan, and her reluctant bodyguard, Jake Stone, to oversee the removal of the Protetorri treasure to safer environs. One thing leads to another and Kendall, Jake and Nathan soon find themselves in Glastonbury England on a quest for the Fountain of Youth. Can the mismatched trio locate the relic or will the nefarious Reaper beat them to it?
Series note: This installment continues from where the previous book left off. As such, the books must be read in order.
The plot revolving around the Protetorri treasure develops in an interesting direction although it does stretch the imagination that Kendall and company so easily stumble across the solution to a centuries old mystery is just a couple of days. Nevertheless, the quest is entertaining, and the inclusion of elements from Arthurian legend is an added bonus.
In terms of Kendall, Jake and Nathan's connection, there are some intriguing twists. The irritating love triangle is still in evidence, but it is clear that Clenney is moving in a very specific direction as take their relationship to the next level.
While some of the unanswered questions from the first book are resolved, such as , others remain open and new ones emerge.
As always, Renee Raudman's narration is superb and I highly recommend listening to the audiobook.
I look forward to reading the final book in the trilogy and finding out how all of the characters are connected.
4 Stars
Billionaire Nathan Larraby sends his relics expert, Kendall Morgan, and her reluctant bodyguard, Jake Stone, to oversee the removal of the Protetorri treasure to safer environs. One thing leads to another and Kendall, Jake and Nathan soon find themselves in Glastonbury England on a quest for the Fountain of Youth. Can the mismatched trio locate the relic or will the nefarious Reaper beat them to it?
Series note: This installment continues from where the previous book left off. As such, the books must be read in order.
The plot revolving around the Protetorri treasure develops in an interesting direction although it does stretch the imagination that Kendall and company so easily stumble across the solution to a centuries old mystery is just a couple of days. Nevertheless, the quest is entertaining, and the inclusion of elements from Arthurian legend is an added bonus.
In terms of Kendall, Jake and Nathan's connection, there are some intriguing twists. The irritating love triangle is still in evidence, but it is clear that Clenney is moving in a very specific direction as take their relationship to the next level.
While some of the unanswered questions from the first book are resolved, such as , others remain open and new ones emerge.
As always, Renee Raudman's narration is superb and I highly recommend listening to the audiobook.
I look forward to reading the final book in the trilogy and finding out how all of the characters are connected.
May 24, 2015
Excitement and adventure around every corner and I mean every corner!! I absolutely love this book and the characters. They seem to come to life and jump off the pages. Great writing Anita! Thanks. Now on to the Lost Chalice to find out how it all ends!!!!
February 20, 2018
This is the second book in The Relic Seekers series. I loved it!
Kendall Morgan is a wonderful character. However, I sometimes wanted to shake some sense into her. She works for a billionaire as a relic finder. She has a special gift that allows her to track down, as well as know things about, the artifacts she procures for her boss. When her boss, Nathan Larraby, hires her to locate four powerful relics, little does she realise the danger she will face. Not just from Nathan's reclusive nemesis known only by the name of Reaper (as in Grim), who is also after the artifacts, but from her attraction to her co-worker, Jake Stone.
This is an urban fantasy romance with a twist. I started reading the story and was instantly hooked. The story is told through the view points of Kendall and Jake for the most part, but as it progressed, other characters, namely Nathan, also has his say.
I found myself on a roller coaster of emotion as the story unfolded. I enjoyed getting to know the characters better and we are introduced to quite a few new ones.
This story sees the trio thrown into danger as they uncover more secrets from the secretive Protettori, and unravel the secrets hidden in their own pasts. It continues from the end of book one. Jake and Kendall grow closer together and consummate their attraction, and Nathan finds out that the changes he is experiencing is linked to an event in his past. They also uncover a mysterious connection between the Protettori, King Arthur, and the fountain of youth. This sees them travelling from Italy to England in an attempt to find the lost fountain of youth, fabled to give anyone who drinks from it not an immortal life but a longer one. The mystery and suspense kept me reading until I'd finished the book. However, I was a little disappointed that the relationship between the three didn't develop as much as I thought it could have. There is definite chemistry between the three; Jake and Nathan not so much, but they both have feelings for Kendall. I could see the potential for a threesome, but the author seems to have shied away from this aspect. Perhaps they will get together in the third book? I guess I'll just have to read it and see. The book ends in a cliffhanger and I am now looking forward to reading The Lost Chalice as soon as possible.
Anita Clenney has written an intriguing paranormal romance full of action and adventure. I love her fast paced writing style and the flow is wonderful. I would definitely consider reading more books by this author in the future, and there is a high probability that I would add her to my favourite authors list too.
Due to the above mentioned scenes of a sexual nature (which are not explicit), as well as some violence, I do not recommend this book to young readers. However, I highly recommend this book if you love paranormal/supernatural romances/romantic suspense/urban fantasy/action/adventure or myths and/or legends genres. - Lynn Worton
Kendall Morgan is a wonderful character. However, I sometimes wanted to shake some sense into her. She works for a billionaire as a relic finder. She has a special gift that allows her to track down, as well as know things about, the artifacts she procures for her boss. When her boss, Nathan Larraby, hires her to locate four powerful relics, little does she realise the danger she will face. Not just from Nathan's reclusive nemesis known only by the name of Reaper (as in Grim), who is also after the artifacts, but from her attraction to her co-worker, Jake Stone.
This is an urban fantasy romance with a twist. I started reading the story and was instantly hooked. The story is told through the view points of Kendall and Jake for the most part, but as it progressed, other characters, namely Nathan, also has his say.
I found myself on a roller coaster of emotion as the story unfolded. I enjoyed getting to know the characters better and we are introduced to quite a few new ones.
This story sees the trio thrown into danger as they uncover more secrets from the secretive Protettori, and unravel the secrets hidden in their own pasts. It continues from the end of book one. Jake and Kendall grow closer together and consummate their attraction, and Nathan finds out that the changes he is experiencing is linked to an event in his past. They also uncover a mysterious connection between the Protettori, King Arthur, and the fountain of youth. This sees them travelling from Italy to England in an attempt to find the lost fountain of youth, fabled to give anyone who drinks from it not an immortal life but a longer one. The mystery and suspense kept me reading until I'd finished the book. However, I was a little disappointed that the relationship between the three didn't develop as much as I thought it could have. There is definite chemistry between the three; Jake and Nathan not so much, but they both have feelings for Kendall. I could see the potential for a threesome, but the author seems to have shied away from this aspect. Perhaps they will get together in the third book? I guess I'll just have to read it and see. The book ends in a cliffhanger and I am now looking forward to reading The Lost Chalice as soon as possible.
Anita Clenney has written an intriguing paranormal romance full of action and adventure. I love her fast paced writing style and the flow is wonderful. I would definitely consider reading more books by this author in the future, and there is a high probability that I would add her to my favourite authors list too.
Due to the above mentioned scenes of a sexual nature (which are not explicit), as well as some violence, I do not recommend this book to young readers. However, I highly recommend this book if you love paranormal/supernatural romances/romantic suspense/urban fantasy/action/adventure or myths and/or legends genres. - Lynn Worton
June 2, 2019
Fountain of Secrets ( The Relic Seekers Book 2)
This is a continuation from the book “Guardians of Secrets ( The Relic Seekers Book 1 )”. These stories are like an Indiana Jones style. The characters are interesting as they each have their own abilities, Jake a soldier / mercenary, “Adam” who maybe Nathan a billionaire, who hired Jake and Kendall, to find certain relics to cure his curse and Kendall, who has the ability of “Sight” and is a sensitive when touching objects, helps solve these mysteries. In the second book they are continuing their quest in locating relics that Nathan feels would cure him of his curse. They first go to Italy and then are transported to England. They are up against an evil individual called the Reaper. I won’t go into further details, but I have enjoyed these books as there is plenty of action and romance going on.
This is a continuation from the book “Guardians of Secrets ( The Relic Seekers Book 1 )”. These stories are like an Indiana Jones style. The characters are interesting as they each have their own abilities, Jake a soldier / mercenary, “Adam” who maybe Nathan a billionaire, who hired Jake and Kendall, to find certain relics to cure his curse and Kendall, who has the ability of “Sight” and is a sensitive when touching objects, helps solve these mysteries. In the second book they are continuing their quest in locating relics that Nathan feels would cure him of his curse. They first go to Italy and then are transported to England. They are up against an evil individual called the Reaper. I won’t go into further details, but I have enjoyed these books as there is plenty of action and romance going on.
April 20, 2014
Set in modern times...relic hunters. If u like knights of the round table, secret societies, riddles and a luv triangle this could be your book. this one was better than the first though I'd read both. The first gives u the needed background. Audio was quite good. overall 4.5 stars.
October 3, 2013
I really enjoyed this story. Kendall, Jake, and Nathan embark on another fast paced adventure. I couldn't put it down. Another winner by Anita Clenney. Can't wait for #3!!!!!!
May 15, 2016
4.25
November 6, 2019
Hunted
Kendall and Jake are hunting for another relic, while Nathan is trying to break his curse. As they learn more about the Protettori it seems that they are falling ever deeper down the rabbit hole. So much seems like science fiction. Men with glowing eyes, people who can't die, can walk through walls and access portals with their mind and to add to the confusion Kendall's vision are changing. What is real, what is illusion and is the Arthurian legend fact not fiction. If so how are our three heroes connected and can they stay alive long enough to figure it out. From Italy to America and England we are taken on a mad dash for the truth. This book left more questions then answers and just left me wanting more. I listened to this book for free with Kindle Unlimited.
Kendall and Jake are hunting for another relic, while Nathan is trying to break his curse. As they learn more about the Protettori it seems that they are falling ever deeper down the rabbit hole. So much seems like science fiction. Men with glowing eyes, people who can't die, can walk through walls and access portals with their mind and to add to the confusion Kendall's vision are changing. What is real, what is illusion and is the Arthurian legend fact not fiction. If so how are our three heroes connected and can they stay alive long enough to figure it out. From Italy to America and England we are taken on a mad dash for the truth. This book left more questions then answers and just left me wanting more. I listened to this book for free with Kindle Unlimited.
July 25, 2018
The second installment of the Relic Seekers picks up right where the first one left off. It sucks you back into the story of Kendall, Nathan and Jake, and I personally couldn't wait to see what happened next. You get everything you did form the first one, mystery, special abilities,fast paced storytelling, and an even larger helping of romance. The book leaves questions on your mind, and a desire to find out how it all concludes in the final part of the series.
July 31, 2021
I'm not usually into the super natural type of stories but the King Arthur twist is rather interesting. I hope we find out who Nathan really is and what the connection between Nathan, Jake and Kendall is.
July 24, 2022
Awesome!
I'm so caught up with this series! I love the characters and the story is captivating. I highly recommend that if you love fantasy and Arthurian legend you must read it too!
I'm so caught up with this series! I love the characters and the story is captivating. I highly recommend that if you love fantasy and Arthurian legend you must read it too!
July 15, 2024
The back and forth
Is Nathan Adam? Is her Father the bad guy? Can they find the Chalice as King Arthur has commanded? Where are they going to end up at and is Brandi going to create evenore problems as people are dying around them.
Is Nathan Adam? Is her Father the bad guy? Can they find the Chalice as King Arthur has commanded? Where are they going to end up at and is Brandi going to create evenore problems as people are dying around them.
September 7, 2017
Great book!!!
October 18, 2017
My Musings
Wow! These books are an adult Harry Potter adventure series. I am thoroughly enjoying them. I can't wait to read the next one in this series. Happy ☺reading 📚!
Wow! These books are an adult Harry Potter adventure series. I am thoroughly enjoying them. I can't wait to read the next one in this series. Happy ☺reading 📚!
April 26, 2018
This one was better than the first book. Really enjoyed it (and being right about my guesses). Off to finish the third!
May 24, 2018
more adventure
funny, adventure, knights, treasure, murder, interesting indiana jones type book, really enjoyed it and looking forward to the next one!
funny, adventure, knights, treasure, murder, interesting indiana jones type book, really enjoyed it and looking forward to the next one!
April 12, 2019
Ok
Pretty good. Still too many secrets & characters. A good author shouldn't have to make a reader buy more books to get answers.
Pretty good. Still too many secrets & characters. A good author shouldn't have to make a reader buy more books to get answers.
April 28, 2020
Why did I have to search this book, book 2, via author!!!!!! I am fed up with this nonsense!!!
November 10, 2020
The story line is interesting and it is fast paced enough but the love triangle is really starting to grate on me.
January 2, 2023
This one was better than the first book. Really enjoyed it (and being right about my guesses). Off to finish the third!
April 10, 2023
Great book in a fantastic series!
I love this series! Reluctant romance, paranormal elements, mythical characters, and epic quests. What could be better? Definitely a must read.
I love this series! Reluctant romance, paranormal elements, mythical characters, and epic quests. What could be better? Definitely a must read.
January 13, 2025
Wow
Raphael shows in the most opportune moments. What the hell was he doing in the shower? How is Nathan, aka Adam, and Jake and Kendall's relationship going to work? ???????
Raphael shows in the most opportune moments. What the hell was he doing in the shower? How is Nathan, aka Adam, and Jake and Kendall's relationship going to work? ???????
June 25, 2017
This book just like the first in the relic seeker series is good and a fun read. There are parts that I find disjointed and other parts where there is a ton of action, but no real resolution. I am interested to see where these books go, but I just wish each book at a bit more of a real ending then just a to be continued
December 10, 2015
Little action or character development plus cliffhanger
I've been trying to pinpoint exactly what bothers me about this second installment of the Relic Seekers. The first one had its flaws but nothing really outstanding or bothersome, which is why I decided to move onto the this one.
Of course with these kinds of novels, suspension of disbelief is a necessity. However in Fountain of Secrets, that suspension was stretched so far it snapped. **SPOILER remarks ahead**
If you ever saw the film National Treasure with Nicolas Cage, you may remember the curious lack of tension in it. That's because you're expected to believe one person can miraculously stumble upon secrets no one else could ever have figured out. The treasure map is on the back of the Constitution, of course it is! Let's go get it, okay that's done what's next? Secret code? Give me ten minutes and I'll have it figured out.
That's exactly what Fountain of Secrets does. Our heroes magically stumble onto secrets thousands of years old on the first try. "Look for the stone with a circle on it." "Oh here it is, a hidden chamber/stairway/crypt/whatever." Seriously, people have been searching for the Holy Grail and the Fountain of Youth for centuries, and two Americans just magically accidentally find both -- all within the space of a week and with only a vague idea where it might be, using only information contained in brochures or gleaned from a gift shop employee. "Farfetched" was left in the dust a while back.
The next disappointing thing is the relationship(?) between the two main characters. Remember, the h herself muses, "I've only known him a week." The H continues to be a tedious bore, always trying to get the h into bed, although less so than the previous book. Despite the many, many confusing, dangerous and presumably exhausting adventures they've had over the past few days, including kidnappings, attempted murder, and supernatural events galore, they've somehow managed to fall in LUV. So now he's insanely jealous and possessive. Because that's always fun.
Here's where it gets really icky. The main character's personal histories were interesting enough, although the reader can certainly figure out what's going on well before those involved do. (To be fair, they're figuring out millenia-old mysterious of the tops of their heads at the same time.) But then the story takes a fatal turn.
Seriously, don't read any more if you don't want *** SPOILERS***:
Surprise! The hero and heroine are the reincarnation of Guinevere and Lancelot, while their friend/employer is the reincarnation of King Arthur. This was where my suspension of disbelief snapped like a rubber band and I actually said, "Really. Because of course they are!" Yes, beyond magical, lucky, and in love after one week, our heroes are also the literal embodiments of mythical lore. Sigh. Now you've gone too far.
Of course, like every other magical discovery, this preposterous theory is accepted with barely any resistance, just comments like, "I was always interested in King Arthur and his knights as a kid." Well yeah, that's proof enough for me, now let's go find the Holy Grail after lunch!
The author didn't have to make all the action in two books take place over a week. There could have been months of planning and research, some false starts, some wrong turns, some recovery from injuries. Then the discovery of magical relics, as well as the love between characters, might have been easier to swallow. There's no tension or drama when the characters discover everything on the very first try without any previous knowledge of these places except what they pick up in casual conversations. It felt a little insulting to me as a reader, to think I was dumb enough to believe that could actually happen.
Here's the actual point I was completely done with this story. Jealous Lancelot-incarnation Jake says to Guinevere/Kendall, "He might be King Arthur but he can't make you come (like I can)." Seriously?! EWW! First of all, what a stupid statement. Second of all, what a stupid statement. Third of all, gross. Not sexy. They're not even in bed at the time. She doesn't even punch him in the throat for talking to her that way, especially in public.
Add in an almost literal cliffhanger and boom! it's done and I was done, as well. The author thanks all the people who helped her develop and edit this story, and apparently none of them saw anything wrong with it, so maybe it's just me. Regardless, I won't be reading the third book in this series, where they presumably find Atlantis, fgure out who really killed JFK and what happened to the Lindbergh baby while preventing an evil bad guy from destroying the world.
Even though I could for free.
Two stars because I finished it. I had to remove half a star for the incredibly annoying and totally unbelievable side character of the redheaded kid, Art.
I've been trying to pinpoint exactly what bothers me about this second installment of the Relic Seekers. The first one had its flaws but nothing really outstanding or bothersome, which is why I decided to move onto the this one.
Of course with these kinds of novels, suspension of disbelief is a necessity. However in Fountain of Secrets, that suspension was stretched so far it snapped. **SPOILER remarks ahead**
If you ever saw the film National Treasure with Nicolas Cage, you may remember the curious lack of tension in it. That's because you're expected to believe one person can miraculously stumble upon secrets no one else could ever have figured out. The treasure map is on the back of the Constitution, of course it is! Let's go get it, okay that's done what's next? Secret code? Give me ten minutes and I'll have it figured out.
That's exactly what Fountain of Secrets does. Our heroes magically stumble onto secrets thousands of years old on the first try. "Look for the stone with a circle on it." "Oh here it is, a hidden chamber/stairway/crypt/whatever." Seriously, people have been searching for the Holy Grail and the Fountain of Youth for centuries, and two Americans just magically accidentally find both -- all within the space of a week and with only a vague idea where it might be, using only information contained in brochures or gleaned from a gift shop employee. "Farfetched" was left in the dust a while back.
The next disappointing thing is the relationship(?) between the two main characters. Remember, the h herself muses, "I've only known him a week." The H continues to be a tedious bore, always trying to get the h into bed, although less so than the previous book. Despite the many, many confusing, dangerous and presumably exhausting adventures they've had over the past few days, including kidnappings, attempted murder, and supernatural events galore, they've somehow managed to fall in LUV. So now he's insanely jealous and possessive. Because that's always fun.
Here's where it gets really icky. The main character's personal histories were interesting enough, although the reader can certainly figure out what's going on well before those involved do. (To be fair, they're figuring out millenia-old mysterious of the tops of their heads at the same time.) But then the story takes a fatal turn.
Seriously, don't read any more if you don't want *** SPOILERS***:
Surprise! The hero and heroine are the reincarnation of Guinevere and Lancelot, while their friend/employer is the reincarnation of King Arthur. This was where my suspension of disbelief snapped like a rubber band and I actually said, "Really. Because of course they are!" Yes, beyond magical, lucky, and in love after one week, our heroes are also the literal embodiments of mythical lore. Sigh. Now you've gone too far.
Of course, like every other magical discovery, this preposterous theory is accepted with barely any resistance, just comments like, "I was always interested in King Arthur and his knights as a kid." Well yeah, that's proof enough for me, now let's go find the Holy Grail after lunch!
The author didn't have to make all the action in two books take place over a week. There could have been months of planning and research, some false starts, some wrong turns, some recovery from injuries. Then the discovery of magical relics, as well as the love between characters, might have been easier to swallow. There's no tension or drama when the characters discover everything on the very first try without any previous knowledge of these places except what they pick up in casual conversations. It felt a little insulting to me as a reader, to think I was dumb enough to believe that could actually happen.
Here's the actual point I was completely done with this story. Jealous Lancelot-incarnation Jake says to Guinevere/Kendall, "He might be King Arthur but he can't make you come (like I can)." Seriously?! EWW! First of all, what a stupid statement. Second of all, what a stupid statement. Third of all, gross. Not sexy. They're not even in bed at the time. She doesn't even punch him in the throat for talking to her that way, especially in public.
Add in an almost literal cliffhanger and boom! it's done and I was done, as well. The author thanks all the people who helped her develop and edit this story, and apparently none of them saw anything wrong with it, so maybe it's just me. Regardless, I won't be reading the third book in this series, where they presumably find Atlantis, fgure out who really killed JFK and what happened to the Lindbergh baby while preventing an evil bad guy from destroying the world.
Even though I could for free.
Two stars because I finished it. I had to remove half a star for the incredibly annoying and totally unbelievable side character of the redheaded kid, Art.
November 20, 2013
GENRE: Romance
THEME: Paranormal, Mystery
RECEIVED: Author
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
Continuing right where the first in The Relic Seekers series left off, Clenney once again hooks me into a world full of secrets, mysteries, romance and humor. I loved the first book, but the second one kicked it up a notch with the romance and mysterious connections to the tale of King Arthur.
Fountain of Secrets follows the trio Kendall, Jake and their boss Nathan, who are on the hunt to find the fountain of youth. They end up in England after discovering a secret pathway from their last hunt. This time they are hoping the fountain will not only be discovered but will help Nathan with a demon he can’t control. But they aren’t the only ones looking, the Reaper isn’t far behind and Kendall’s visions seem to be getting more frequent as the get closer. But getting closer means getting closer to danger.
Kendall is still her tough as nails self, this time around she decides not to hold back when it comes to finding out the truth and opening up her heart. Kendall’s gift takes her into the past, where she discovers not only what really happened to her parents but also how they are connected to the relics and possibly the Reaper. Her visions don’t stop there, it seems the tale of King Arthur and Gwenivere is connected to not only her but to Jake and Nathan as well, but those are just more questions added to the list that’s already growing. I really liked exploring more with Kendall, her character has lots of ups and downs, she’s always questioning things and I felt her open up a bit more not only to Jake but even Nathan. Also we finally get more answers to the mysterious friend Adam that Kendall lost when she was young.
The boys, Nathan and Jake get a little more depth to them this time around, especially when Kendall is in danger. Jake since the beginning has had a soft spot for Kendall, but his humor and sometimes bluntness makes her shy away from the connection they share. But they do get a lot of exploring, in many ways if you know what I mean. These two finally open up and actually discover a connection that I can’t wait to learn more about in the next book.
Then there is Nathan, I don’t know what it is about him but he’s my favorite. I adore this guy, always protecting Kendall, trying to find a cure to the other persona he carries, while also continuing his quest to find relics. The readers will be super excited to get some answers to his super strength side, also some connection to Kendall that I kind of figured out from the first book, but was so excited to be right. He’s definitely like the big teddy bear of the group, always protecting, always seeking answers, and always wishing he had the girl. I’m going to root for him until the end!
Overall I felt this book was a set up, the Indiana Jones plot is seriously fantastic, I never know what secrets, twists and dangers the three are going to walk into next. The humor and romance are not overpowering to what is key, and that’s finding the relics and seeking answers to so many unanswered questions. I love the addition of King Arthur’s story and have not idea what to expect with it, but can’t wait to continue this action packed adventure story.
RECOMMENDATION:
Fans of Devon Monk’s Allie Beckstrom series and Keri Arthur’s Dark Angel series will love The Relic Seekers series by Anita Clenney.
THEME: Paranormal, Mystery
RECEIVED: Author
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
Continuing right where the first in The Relic Seekers series left off, Clenney once again hooks me into a world full of secrets, mysteries, romance and humor. I loved the first book, but the second one kicked it up a notch with the romance and mysterious connections to the tale of King Arthur.
Fountain of Secrets follows the trio Kendall, Jake and their boss Nathan, who are on the hunt to find the fountain of youth. They end up in England after discovering a secret pathway from their last hunt. This time they are hoping the fountain will not only be discovered but will help Nathan with a demon he can’t control. But they aren’t the only ones looking, the Reaper isn’t far behind and Kendall’s visions seem to be getting more frequent as the get closer. But getting closer means getting closer to danger.
Kendall is still her tough as nails self, this time around she decides not to hold back when it comes to finding out the truth and opening up her heart. Kendall’s gift takes her into the past, where she discovers not only what really happened to her parents but also how they are connected to the relics and possibly the Reaper. Her visions don’t stop there, it seems the tale of King Arthur and Gwenivere is connected to not only her but to Jake and Nathan as well, but those are just more questions added to the list that’s already growing. I really liked exploring more with Kendall, her character has lots of ups and downs, she’s always questioning things and I felt her open up a bit more not only to Jake but even Nathan. Also we finally get more answers to the mysterious friend Adam that Kendall lost when she was young.
The boys, Nathan and Jake get a little more depth to them this time around, especially when Kendall is in danger. Jake since the beginning has had a soft spot for Kendall, but his humor and sometimes bluntness makes her shy away from the connection they share. But they do get a lot of exploring, in many ways if you know what I mean. These two finally open up and actually discover a connection that I can’t wait to learn more about in the next book.
Then there is Nathan, I don’t know what it is about him but he’s my favorite. I adore this guy, always protecting Kendall, trying to find a cure to the other persona he carries, while also continuing his quest to find relics. The readers will be super excited to get some answers to his super strength side, also some connection to Kendall that I kind of figured out from the first book, but was so excited to be right. He’s definitely like the big teddy bear of the group, always protecting, always seeking answers, and always wishing he had the girl. I’m going to root for him until the end!
Overall I felt this book was a set up, the Indiana Jones plot is seriously fantastic, I never know what secrets, twists and dangers the three are going to walk into next. The humor and romance are not overpowering to what is key, and that’s finding the relics and seeking answers to so many unanswered questions. I love the addition of King Arthur’s story and have not idea what to expect with it, but can’t wait to continue this action packed adventure story.
RECOMMENDATION:
Fans of Devon Monk’s Allie Beckstrom series and Keri Arthur’s Dark Angel series will love The Relic Seekers series by Anita Clenney.
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