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The Curse Books #2
The Curse of Betrayal
Ryder has finally decided to take her life into her own hands, but things don’t always turn out as they seem. Ollie and Ari have made a pact that leaves Ryder alone until she ends the curse and chooses her soul mate.
With her knights absent, Ryder becomes independent, seeing things in her visions that force her to question the curse—and herself.
As strange things happen at Demi God Academy, Ryder realizes everything comes back to her. She must use the power growing within her to protect her new friends in ways she never imagined possible. But as new threats surface, she may not be strong enough to protect them all.
In book two of A Curse Books, Ryder discovers what it really means to be Eurydice.
With her knights absent, Ryder becomes independent, seeing things in her visions that force her to question the curse—and herself.
As strange things happen at Demi God Academy, Ryder realizes everything comes back to her. She must use the power growing within her to protect her new friends in ways she never imagined possible. But as new threats surface, she may not be strong enough to protect them all.
In book two of A Curse Books, Ryder discovers what it really means to be Eurydice.
368 pages, Paperback
First published February 2, 2014
12 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Taylor Lavati
12 books254 followersA college student in her small town in Connecticut, Taylor loves everything having to do with literature. She is an avid reader, a blogger, a writer- obviously, and a reviewer. Her favorite genres are fantasy, paranormal, young adult, and romance.
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March 18, 2014
The Curse of Betrayal: Taylor Lavati
Ryder Mason is about entering The Demi God Academy and learns the real meaning of the word betrayal. Ryder whose real name is Eurydice finds herself deep inside her own mind with fears, nightmares, visions, dreams and doubts about herself that might prevent her from developing her powers. Entering the school she finds here face to face with Ari yet thinking about Ollie her first love in the first chapter of her life titled A Thousand Year Curse. But author Taylor Lavati hits the mark when readers get to learn more about Ryder, her fears about losing Ari but even more her search and goal for acceptance. Ryder was bullied by a girl named Becca and now that she has grown stronger in both body and mind she hopes to combat any fears of being bullied by anyone and hopefully will defend herself. Taking her life back in her own hands she meets Kara her roommate forming a close friendship from the start. Understanding and sensing Ryder’s apprehension with meeting too many people at first and not wanting to befriend everyone at once they take it slow. But, Lisa seems to be the new Becca and influences others against Ryder but she won’t stand for it this time. Learning more about Kara and then meeting Megan she seems to calm her nerves but in the forefront or back of her mind is her past. Remembering her love for Ollie yet finding a new romance with Ari it becomes quite clear that she will have to eventually make a choice.
Ari is now one of her professors and with the aid of his assistant Magdelina who seems bent on getting the good professor into her bed, Ryder uses every ounce of self-control not to punch her out during class every time she comes on to Ari. But, Ryder is young and naïve and often has many missteps and misunderstandings run high. At the end of novel one both Ollie and Ari made a pact to leave her alone until the curse is broken and she decides who her true soul mate is. Ryder although independent and strong has visions of the past and even the future and with the help of Professor Onassis, she hopes to begin to understand these dreams, the nightmare where she revisits with Hermes and Hades and the reoccurring dream too graphic to relate to readers. Ryder learns as strange things begin to happen at this Academy that she cannot hide from her past and she must learn to use her powers to protect not only herself but her new friends too.
As Ryder begins to settle into a routine things start to happen that create friction between her and Ari bring Ollie back to her side and test friendships and loyalties. All the while hoping that somehow she would be able to connect with her mother who when she does appear tells her it is not time yet, confusing her and trying to forewarn her of what happens next. With the help of a kindly 500-year-old professor named Onassis together they research the history of the curse trying to learn more about it and hopefully break it. But, when an unknown attacker kills two students and then the campus is under siege Kara and Ryder along with Ollie and Ari fend off the demons but the end result will change things drastically. As Kara and Ryder are hurt and Kara had been attacked before, things point to the fact the presence just might have something to do with what is happening. Fear strikes and her feelings are conflicted as she realizes the time might come or has come to decide between Ari and Ollie. A dream or vision enrages her and the art of meditation taught to her by Onassis helps control her emotions, allows her to see the dream in a different light sending her in a different direction. But, although the school was under siege, Hades and Hermes were present we learn more about Ryder’s insecurities, fears, distrust and hate for Magdelina and her hope that someday she and Ari would be together. There is much more to this story besides the jealousies, daring dares, games that are played, strength class that tests more than just strength, the insecurities and the bonds that are made or fostered between Kara and Ryder and even Junior and Ollie. But, in the back of her mind Ryder realizes that much of what is happening at the school is related to the curse, feels it’s her fault. With the professors on her side and understanding that she needs support, will the fear that is ingrained and instilled in her go away? Will more students or teachers be attacked? When Professor Nike questions the assailant he learns nothing from them? Just who else is behind this and what will Ryder do in order to protect her friends and those she loves?
Author Taylor Lavati takes readers inside the mind of a young girl whose insecurities get the best of her. Whose loyalties to her friends are undeniable and whose fear that a thousand year curse might cause more people to be injured or die. Why did Hades choose her? Why was she the recipient of this curse? What does it mean to be Eurydice and how will being her affect the lives of others? But, this story is far from over as Ryder finds herself in a dream along with her dream self and her mother. Finding out what she thinks is the truth about why her mother is missing, who she thinks is the reason creates more than just a mental breakdown for Ryder. A retreat that would cost someone their life as the demons come back and try to finish what the know Hermes and Hades started. Just what does Ryder think is the reason she is being sought after by the underworld. When you are curses you need to find out the reason why and then find out what the end result is supposed to be and you must end it! But, when the truth comes out and the final body count is tallied just who stands in her way and who needs to get out of her line of fire? Throughout the novel the author allows readers to understand the tense relationship between Ryder and her father. When he reveals his knowledge and the untold truths are finally out in the open will she be able to bond with the only person she might be able to trust?
A school that has become too dangerous and had to be closed and an ending that you just won’t expect. The clever twist at the end will alert readers that you just might not know who or what really betrayed Ryder. Listen to the voice of someone who claims to care for her and you decide whether it’s a lie. Violence, deaths, pranks, games and only one person who hopes to gain from it all. Will Ryder be able to break the curse? Who is behind this and Why? Listen to the startling message she receives and learn that the story is far from over and we need to wait I might add impatiently until our creative and talented author pens the final chapter in this trilogy. What will the fate of Ari, Ollie and Ryder be? Who is her true soul mate? Who can she trust? Explosive, riveting, fast paced and frightening: The Curse of Betrayal: A great story of friendship, deceit, lies, betrayals, trust, insecurities and hope. Ryder: A teen whose emotions are so bottled up that when she explodes more than just her emotions are involved. A character that is quite realistic as the author allows her to react in a way that most teens would not always as a grown-up, temper tantrums and often not thinking about the outcome. This is one book for all YA’s to read to learn the true meaning of what it is to be a friend and what is the definition of trust.
The more blood of a god you have in your body or system, the more effective the curse will be. Think about that. Hades did the curse for a reasonWhat will Ryder have to do to stop the curse and get her life and mother back? Lisa, Megan, Mikey, Kara, Junior, Ollie, Ari and Cristos: Who will be left to cast the next spell and break the curse? Who pays for what someone else wants do dearly? . Find out in Volume three the reason why and the outcome that Hades wants to happen that he has written down when the author pens the next chapter in the life of Ryder and the rest of the Demi Gods.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
Ryder Mason is about entering The Demi God Academy and learns the real meaning of the word betrayal. Ryder whose real name is Eurydice finds herself deep inside her own mind with fears, nightmares, visions, dreams and doubts about herself that might prevent her from developing her powers. Entering the school she finds here face to face with Ari yet thinking about Ollie her first love in the first chapter of her life titled A Thousand Year Curse. But author Taylor Lavati hits the mark when readers get to learn more about Ryder, her fears about losing Ari but even more her search and goal for acceptance. Ryder was bullied by a girl named Becca and now that she has grown stronger in both body and mind she hopes to combat any fears of being bullied by anyone and hopefully will defend herself. Taking her life back in her own hands she meets Kara her roommate forming a close friendship from the start. Understanding and sensing Ryder’s apprehension with meeting too many people at first and not wanting to befriend everyone at once they take it slow. But, Lisa seems to be the new Becca and influences others against Ryder but she won’t stand for it this time. Learning more about Kara and then meeting Megan she seems to calm her nerves but in the forefront or back of her mind is her past. Remembering her love for Ollie yet finding a new romance with Ari it becomes quite clear that she will have to eventually make a choice.
Ari is now one of her professors and with the aid of his assistant Magdelina who seems bent on getting the good professor into her bed, Ryder uses every ounce of self-control not to punch her out during class every time she comes on to Ari. But, Ryder is young and naïve and often has many missteps and misunderstandings run high. At the end of novel one both Ollie and Ari made a pact to leave her alone until the curse is broken and she decides who her true soul mate is. Ryder although independent and strong has visions of the past and even the future and with the help of Professor Onassis, she hopes to begin to understand these dreams, the nightmare where she revisits with Hermes and Hades and the reoccurring dream too graphic to relate to readers. Ryder learns as strange things begin to happen at this Academy that she cannot hide from her past and she must learn to use her powers to protect not only herself but her new friends too.
As Ryder begins to settle into a routine things start to happen that create friction between her and Ari bring Ollie back to her side and test friendships and loyalties. All the while hoping that somehow she would be able to connect with her mother who when she does appear tells her it is not time yet, confusing her and trying to forewarn her of what happens next. With the help of a kindly 500-year-old professor named Onassis together they research the history of the curse trying to learn more about it and hopefully break it. But, when an unknown attacker kills two students and then the campus is under siege Kara and Ryder along with Ollie and Ari fend off the demons but the end result will change things drastically. As Kara and Ryder are hurt and Kara had been attacked before, things point to the fact the presence just might have something to do with what is happening. Fear strikes and her feelings are conflicted as she realizes the time might come or has come to decide between Ari and Ollie. A dream or vision enrages her and the art of meditation taught to her by Onassis helps control her emotions, allows her to see the dream in a different light sending her in a different direction. But, although the school was under siege, Hades and Hermes were present we learn more about Ryder’s insecurities, fears, distrust and hate for Magdelina and her hope that someday she and Ari would be together. There is much more to this story besides the jealousies, daring dares, games that are played, strength class that tests more than just strength, the insecurities and the bonds that are made or fostered between Kara and Ryder and even Junior and Ollie. But, in the back of her mind Ryder realizes that much of what is happening at the school is related to the curse, feels it’s her fault. With the professors on her side and understanding that she needs support, will the fear that is ingrained and instilled in her go away? Will more students or teachers be attacked? When Professor Nike questions the assailant he learns nothing from them? Just who else is behind this and what will Ryder do in order to protect her friends and those she loves?
Author Taylor Lavati takes readers inside the mind of a young girl whose insecurities get the best of her. Whose loyalties to her friends are undeniable and whose fear that a thousand year curse might cause more people to be injured or die. Why did Hades choose her? Why was she the recipient of this curse? What does it mean to be Eurydice and how will being her affect the lives of others? But, this story is far from over as Ryder finds herself in a dream along with her dream self and her mother. Finding out what she thinks is the truth about why her mother is missing, who she thinks is the reason creates more than just a mental breakdown for Ryder. A retreat that would cost someone their life as the demons come back and try to finish what the know Hermes and Hades started. Just what does Ryder think is the reason she is being sought after by the underworld. When you are curses you need to find out the reason why and then find out what the end result is supposed to be and you must end it! But, when the truth comes out and the final body count is tallied just who stands in her way and who needs to get out of her line of fire? Throughout the novel the author allows readers to understand the tense relationship between Ryder and her father. When he reveals his knowledge and the untold truths are finally out in the open will she be able to bond with the only person she might be able to trust?
A school that has become too dangerous and had to be closed and an ending that you just won’t expect. The clever twist at the end will alert readers that you just might not know who or what really betrayed Ryder. Listen to the voice of someone who claims to care for her and you decide whether it’s a lie. Violence, deaths, pranks, games and only one person who hopes to gain from it all. Will Ryder be able to break the curse? Who is behind this and Why? Listen to the startling message she receives and learn that the story is far from over and we need to wait I might add impatiently until our creative and talented author pens the final chapter in this trilogy. What will the fate of Ari, Ollie and Ryder be? Who is her true soul mate? Who can she trust? Explosive, riveting, fast paced and frightening: The Curse of Betrayal: A great story of friendship, deceit, lies, betrayals, trust, insecurities and hope. Ryder: A teen whose emotions are so bottled up that when she explodes more than just her emotions are involved. A character that is quite realistic as the author allows her to react in a way that most teens would not always as a grown-up, temper tantrums and often not thinking about the outcome. This is one book for all YA’s to read to learn the true meaning of what it is to be a friend and what is the definition of trust.
The more blood of a god you have in your body or system, the more effective the curse will be. Think about that. Hades did the curse for a reasonWhat will Ryder have to do to stop the curse and get her life and mother back? Lisa, Megan, Mikey, Kara, Junior, Ollie, Ari and Cristos: Who will be left to cast the next spell and break the curse? Who pays for what someone else wants do dearly? . Find out in Volume three the reason why and the outcome that Hades wants to happen that he has written down when the author pens the next chapter in the life of Ryder and the rest of the Demi Gods.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
March 18, 2014
(This review can also be found on my blog The (Mis)Adventures of a Twenty-Something Year Old Girl).
You know when you read the second book in a series, and think how much better the first book was? Well, this isn't the case with The Curse of Betrayal! In fact, I think this book was even better than its predecessor. I believe The Curse of Betrayal could be read as a stand alone, but it'd be much more enjoyable if you read The Thousand Year Curse which is the first book in the series.
I like the title. Ryder does feel a bit betrayed by her mother and someone else (to tell would be spoilers) in the book.
Like the first book, I'm not a fan of the cover of this book either. It's just too plain for my liking, and for those that do judge a book by its cover (of which I have been guilty before), I think it will put them off reading this AMAZING book!
I enjoyed the world building. It seemed as if a place like the Demi God Academy could really exist. Plus, the world in this book answers most of my questions from the first book. The world building is definitely interesting in this book!
The pacing is spot on! I loved every page and couldn't wait to find out what would happen next. Even in the pages where there was no action, it was still very gripping.
The plot is just as interesting, if not more interesting, as the first book. In this book, we learn more about Ryder, Ryder's elusive mother, and Ari as well as a new cast of characters. We get to see Ryder's first year at Demi God Academy, and let's just say it is anything but uneventful. Ryder is still trying to work out her curse and find out which man is her soul mate. There's also another added danger that I won't go in to due to spoilers.
Miss Lavati does an excellent job of making sure her characters are well written and able to come to life. While I liked Ryder and found her to be a well rounded character, I thought she was being a bit too whiny and selfish with double standards. For example, it's okay for Ryder to flirt with and kiss both Ollie and Ari, but when one of them does it with another girl, Ryder gets insanely jealous. (There's one scene at a restaurant where this is very apparent and a bit over the top). I do feel bad for Ryder though. While some may think it'd be amazing to have two hot guys pine after your affections, Ryder doesn't want to hurt either one of them and hates seeing each one miserable. Plus, her life is in danger thanks to the curse Hades has put on her. I was glad that Ari was featured a lot in this book because I'm definitely Team Ari, and I really want Ryder to pick him. Ari is just a smooth kind of guy. He's funny and witty. Ollie is in the book just not as much as Ari. I do like Ollie also, but just not as much as Ari. Ollie is very caring and everything, but I just feel like Ari would make a better boyfriend. I also liked Kara in this book. She was such an awesome best friend, and I loved the way she really cared about Ryder.
The dialogue fits perfectly for a mature young adult/new adult book. I enjoyed every single scene. There are a few grammatical errors, but it doesn't take away from the book at all. There's also swearing and sexual references, but nothing over the top.
Overall, The Curse of Betrayal by Taylor Lavati is a fantastic read. This book has a great cast of characters, a super interesting plot, and a very immersive world. Miss Lavati is a very talented writer, and I enjoy reading her work. Will I be reading the next book in the series? Most definitely!
I'd recommend this book to those aged 17+ who enjoy reading about Greek mythology, hot guys, and/or great characters.
I'd give The Curse of Betrayal (Curse Books #2) by Taylor Lavati a 4.75 out of 5.
You know when you read the second book in a series, and think how much better the first book was? Well, this isn't the case with The Curse of Betrayal! In fact, I think this book was even better than its predecessor. I believe The Curse of Betrayal could be read as a stand alone, but it'd be much more enjoyable if you read The Thousand Year Curse which is the first book in the series.
I like the title. Ryder does feel a bit betrayed by her mother and someone else (to tell would be spoilers) in the book.
Like the first book, I'm not a fan of the cover of this book either. It's just too plain for my liking, and for those that do judge a book by its cover (of which I have been guilty before), I think it will put them off reading this AMAZING book!
I enjoyed the world building. It seemed as if a place like the Demi God Academy could really exist. Plus, the world in this book answers most of my questions from the first book. The world building is definitely interesting in this book!
The pacing is spot on! I loved every page and couldn't wait to find out what would happen next. Even in the pages where there was no action, it was still very gripping.
The plot is just as interesting, if not more interesting, as the first book. In this book, we learn more about Ryder, Ryder's elusive mother, and Ari as well as a new cast of characters. We get to see Ryder's first year at Demi God Academy, and let's just say it is anything but uneventful. Ryder is still trying to work out her curse and find out which man is her soul mate. There's also another added danger that I won't go in to due to spoilers.
Miss Lavati does an excellent job of making sure her characters are well written and able to come to life. While I liked Ryder and found her to be a well rounded character, I thought she was being a bit too whiny and selfish with double standards. For example, it's okay for Ryder to flirt with and kiss both Ollie and Ari, but when one of them does it with another girl, Ryder gets insanely jealous. (There's one scene at a restaurant where this is very apparent and a bit over the top). I do feel bad for Ryder though. While some may think it'd be amazing to have two hot guys pine after your affections, Ryder doesn't want to hurt either one of them and hates seeing each one miserable. Plus, her life is in danger thanks to the curse Hades has put on her. I was glad that Ari was featured a lot in this book because I'm definitely Team Ari, and I really want Ryder to pick him. Ari is just a smooth kind of guy. He's funny and witty. Ollie is in the book just not as much as Ari. I do like Ollie also, but just not as much as Ari. Ollie is very caring and everything, but I just feel like Ari would make a better boyfriend. I also liked Kara in this book. She was such an awesome best friend, and I loved the way she really cared about Ryder.
The dialogue fits perfectly for a mature young adult/new adult book. I enjoyed every single scene. There are a few grammatical errors, but it doesn't take away from the book at all. There's also swearing and sexual references, but nothing over the top.
Overall, The Curse of Betrayal by Taylor Lavati is a fantastic read. This book has a great cast of characters, a super interesting plot, and a very immersive world. Miss Lavati is a very talented writer, and I enjoy reading her work. Will I be reading the next book in the series? Most definitely!
I'd recommend this book to those aged 17+ who enjoy reading about Greek mythology, hot guys, and/or great characters.
I'd give The Curse of Betrayal (Curse Books #2) by Taylor Lavati a 4.75 out of 5.
February 4, 2014
This is part two of a series young author, Taylor, is writing. TTYC, first in the series, was a great break through starting novel for this author. It was well written, well thought out and well presented. I was excited when she reached out to me and asked if I wanted to read part 2, "The Curse of Betrayal." I am glad she did. I love forging and creating a working relationship with authors or publishers. :)
Book two follows Ryder/Eury into her Demi God training academy. She finds herself in a new group of friends who help her adjust to the newness of her demi god powers and life. She is still stuck between Ollie and Ari, two lovers from many previous lives that have fought for her affections. Eury has an adviser at the academy who is helping her untangle the mess of a curse. Together they are hoping to find a way to reverse the curse.
Eury's curse ends up hitting them head on, right at the heart of the school. Action packed attacks from the underworld causes Eury's friends to band together. Ollie and Ari, both together, fighting to save Eury. Betrayal hits hard, harder than the curse, causing Eury to finally decide who her soul mate is. Broken hearted, and not totally married to the chosen one, she now has to continue her fight against the curse... and Hades. Top it all of with a nice twist of saving the mother she's never known.
Personally, I liked the book as written material. However, the subject matter ventured a little too off of the curse itself for me. It made its way into the Olive Oyl tug o' war between Popeye and Bluto. It focused too much on the young adult romanticism that is very prevalent in current YA genre' books.
I do not want this to take away from the amazing talent this author has. She's a fantastic writer. And, even though part two was filled with more romance than action, I still want to read part three. Taylor left off at such a vital, imperative part in the book, I can't help but remain eager for part 3. That right there should tell you how well written this is. I am just not a huge fan of overdone YA/Romance novels.
Book two follows Ryder/Eury into her Demi God training academy. She finds herself in a new group of friends who help her adjust to the newness of her demi god powers and life. She is still stuck between Ollie and Ari, two lovers from many previous lives that have fought for her affections. Eury has an adviser at the academy who is helping her untangle the mess of a curse. Together they are hoping to find a way to reverse the curse.
Eury's curse ends up hitting them head on, right at the heart of the school. Action packed attacks from the underworld causes Eury's friends to band together. Ollie and Ari, both together, fighting to save Eury. Betrayal hits hard, harder than the curse, causing Eury to finally decide who her soul mate is. Broken hearted, and not totally married to the chosen one, she now has to continue her fight against the curse... and Hades. Top it all of with a nice twist of saving the mother she's never known.
Personally, I liked the book as written material. However, the subject matter ventured a little too off of the curse itself for me. It made its way into the Olive Oyl tug o' war between Popeye and Bluto. It focused too much on the young adult romanticism that is very prevalent in current YA genre' books.
I do not want this to take away from the amazing talent this author has. She's a fantastic writer. And, even though part two was filled with more romance than action, I still want to read part three. Taylor left off at such a vital, imperative part in the book, I can't help but remain eager for part 3. That right there should tell you how well written this is. I am just not a huge fan of overdone YA/Romance novels.
February 4, 2014
Lavati strips down in this book (though not literally), getting to the juicy (and sometimes dirty) details–the ones WE want. It’s not every day one comes across such talent in a young–and fairly new–writer. Lavati evokes emotion in her stories, leaving the reader feeling lost, bliss, and uncertain–almost simultaneously. But in a good way, of course. We can say without a doubt in our literary minds that Taylor is a talented, prolific, and up-and-coming writer to keep your eyes on.
In The Curse of Betrayal Ryder learns what it truly means to be Eurydice. And we can assure you that her trail to self-understanding, acceptance, and discovery comes at a cost–one almost too much to bear. The second installment in her three book series encounters love and lust, Hades and Hell, life and death, betrayal and devotion, but most importantly, some kick ass gods. In exchange for understanding her destiny, Ryder faces the ultimate price, but is it too much to lose?
This is a terrific and recommended read.
In The Curse of Betrayal Ryder learns what it truly means to be Eurydice. And we can assure you that her trail to self-understanding, acceptance, and discovery comes at a cost–one almost too much to bear. The second installment in her three book series encounters love and lust, Hades and Hell, life and death, betrayal and devotion, but most importantly, some kick ass gods. In exchange for understanding her destiny, Ryder faces the ultimate price, but is it too much to lose?
This is a terrific and recommended read.
December 4, 2014
Intense
Better than the first book. Action packed, intrigue and mysterious. Ryder goes to Demigod school. She feels lost not knowing what's going to happen. Ari is also there teaching. She makes some friends but know she has to concentrate on finding out about the curse, breaking it and picking which one of her guys is her soul mate. But things take a turn for the worse when the school gets attacked. Is it because of her or something else? She also wants to search for her mom, who doesn't want to be found. Book three hopefully will answer all these questions and who gets the girl.
Better than the first book. Action packed, intrigue and mysterious. Ryder goes to Demigod school. She feels lost not knowing what's going to happen. Ari is also there teaching. She makes some friends but know she has to concentrate on finding out about the curse, breaking it and picking which one of her guys is her soul mate. But things take a turn for the worse when the school gets attacked. Is it because of her or something else? She also wants to search for her mom, who doesn't want to be found. Book three hopefully will answer all these questions and who gets the girl.
January 10, 2015
Loved it it is the continuation to the first one and I cant wait to continue reading to find out what happens next. I felt sad and happy all in one but I won't leave any spoilers you will have to read the book to find out what happens and why. Truly amazing story, five stars. I received this book for an honest review <3
December 13, 2014
A great end to the series. I'm so glad Ryder and Ari were soulmates.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2014
Wow, just wow. I got this book early and boy am I happy. It's like night and day to book one, which introduced us to all of the characters. This one is packed with action and definitely shows us more of the god world. There's new powers like teleporting and fire and controlling elements. I'm really happy the author expanded more on that aspect since the first book was just the intro.
I have to say that the romance between the boys wasn't super present in this book. There was a ton of tension and the trio meeting together was awesome. There was fighting and jealously, too which was really cool to see.
I think the characters, both old and new were done great. Her roommate was really funny and I"M SO HAPPY JUNIOR was back in it. He's such a cool character. I'm REALLY ANGRY during the last fight of the book what happened. I won't spoil but I was crying, LITERALLY crying when a certain event happened.
The author really came into her own on this book. I think instead of the Sophomore slump, it was the opposite. This book is a hundred times better than the first and I LOVED the first. SO that must say a lot. I'm recommending it to everyone.
I have to say that the romance between the boys wasn't super present in this book. There was a ton of tension and the trio meeting together was awesome. There was fighting and jealously, too which was really cool to see.
I think the characters, both old and new were done great. Her roommate was really funny and I"M SO HAPPY JUNIOR was back in it. He's such a cool character. I'm REALLY ANGRY during the last fight of the book what happened. I won't spoil but I was crying, LITERALLY crying when a certain event happened.
The author really came into her own on this book. I think instead of the Sophomore slump, it was the opposite. This book is a hundred times better than the first and I LOVED the first. SO that must say a lot. I'm recommending it to everyone.
April 4, 2015
This is the 2nd book in the series.
Ryder is now off to school in New York, where 'demi-gods' train. She is anxious but very eager to start a new chapter in her life, leaving behind her old life and the bullying she endured. It doesn't take Ryder long to make some really good friends and they are all learning to find their own way with their own powers in this new world. Her struggle with Ollie and Ari doesn't get any easier, and she battles with how to deal with being in love with two people at once along with working out the visions and dreams she has.
I so loved book 1 and thought book 2 was just as good if not better ! Well written, very descriptive and really captured my imagination again. There is always so much going on in these books, I ended up reading this book in one go and couldn't put it down. Really looking forward to book 3.
Ryder is now off to school in New York, where 'demi-gods' train. She is anxious but very eager to start a new chapter in her life, leaving behind her old life and the bullying she endured. It doesn't take Ryder long to make some really good friends and they are all learning to find their own way with their own powers in this new world. Her struggle with Ollie and Ari doesn't get any easier, and she battles with how to deal with being in love with two people at once along with working out the visions and dreams she has.
I so loved book 1 and thought book 2 was just as good if not better ! Well written, very descriptive and really captured my imagination again. There is always so much going on in these books, I ended up reading this book in one go and couldn't put it down. Really looking forward to book 3.
August 15, 2016
Ryder is excited to be starting her new school; the Demi Gods Academy in New York. She has left her old life behind her and with it a girl that was always putting her down, calling her names and beating her up sometimes. But on her first day she meets this girl Lisa who for whatever reason doesn’t like Ryder and right away starts picking on her and putting her down. But of course Ryder has put that stuff behind her she is not going to be someone else’s punching bag ever again. She puts Miss Lisa in her place right away but it doesn’t seem to faze her much.
Ryder is not worried about her though she can handle her besides she has a new best friend now, Kara. Ryder and Kara become best friends fast and quick. Kara is the kind of friend that will stand by your side until the end if it came to that. Ryder is so glad to finally have a best friend. Yeah she has Junior and she loves him dearly but having guy for your bff is not the same as having a girl for your bff. With girl you can talk about girly things and tell each other your deepest secrets.
We don’t get to see Ollie much in The Curse of Betrayal but Ari is there. He is one of Ryder’s teachers so we get to see a little action in the halls and stairwells at times. Ryder doesn’t know how she can choose between her two boys I mean she loves them both. How can she choose one over the other? She knowns that eventually to break the curse she is going to have to choose one; only one can be her soulmate. Will it be her light haired boyfriend or her dark haired boyfriend?
One of Ryder’s new teachers her guidance counselor Professor Onassis helps her with her curse. Ryder is determined to find all that she can about her curse and to break it. She is tired of dying and being reincarnated over and over again. Besides she is having a hard time deciding who her one true love, her soulmate is.
I have really and truly loved reading The Curse of Betrayal and following along with Ryder, Kara, Megan, Lisa, Ollie and Ari with a lot more great characters on their journeys. Taylor Lavati will drag you into Ryder’s life and make you feel as if you are right there with her the whole time and feeling what she feels and what the other characters feel. She knows how to make the characters come alive right before your eyes.
There were parts that had me crying like a baby and parts that had me rolling on the floor. I think I will have to agree with some reviews that I read stating that The Curse of Betrayal was better than The Thousand Year Curse. Don’t get me wrong I loved the first book too but I do think the second book is better. Now on to the third one The Broken Curse to see which one is actually better. I can’t wait to get started to see what adventures Ryder takes us on next. Will the Curse be broken? Can she break it? How does the curse get broken? What Demons and Gods will they fight next? Who is her soulmate? Who does she love more? Does she love one more than the other?
Ryder is not worried about her though she can handle her besides she has a new best friend now, Kara. Ryder and Kara become best friends fast and quick. Kara is the kind of friend that will stand by your side until the end if it came to that. Ryder is so glad to finally have a best friend. Yeah she has Junior and she loves him dearly but having guy for your bff is not the same as having a girl for your bff. With girl you can talk about girly things and tell each other your deepest secrets.
We don’t get to see Ollie much in The Curse of Betrayal but Ari is there. He is one of Ryder’s teachers so we get to see a little action in the halls and stairwells at times. Ryder doesn’t know how she can choose between her two boys I mean she loves them both. How can she choose one over the other? She knowns that eventually to break the curse she is going to have to choose one; only one can be her soulmate. Will it be her light haired boyfriend or her dark haired boyfriend?
One of Ryder’s new teachers her guidance counselor Professor Onassis helps her with her curse. Ryder is determined to find all that she can about her curse and to break it. She is tired of dying and being reincarnated over and over again. Besides she is having a hard time deciding who her one true love, her soulmate is.
I have really and truly loved reading The Curse of Betrayal and following along with Ryder, Kara, Megan, Lisa, Ollie and Ari with a lot more great characters on their journeys. Taylor Lavati will drag you into Ryder’s life and make you feel as if you are right there with her the whole time and feeling what she feels and what the other characters feel. She knows how to make the characters come alive right before your eyes.
There were parts that had me crying like a baby and parts that had me rolling on the floor. I think I will have to agree with some reviews that I read stating that The Curse of Betrayal was better than The Thousand Year Curse. Don’t get me wrong I loved the first book too but I do think the second book is better. Now on to the third one The Broken Curse to see which one is actually better. I can’t wait to get started to see what adventures Ryder takes us on next. Will the Curse be broken? Can she break it? How does the curse get broken? What Demons and Gods will they fight next? Who is her soulmate? Who does she love more? Does she love one more than the other?
February 3, 2014
**I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review**
Okay, so we all know the story of Orpheus & Eurydice, right?
Well, in book one we were really introduced to the story which built up to the idea of the love triangle curse between Ryder, Ollie & Ari.
Book two picks up right where book one left off, so you aren't left with this huge gap.
I had high hopes for this book, but sadly it fell short.
Some parts I felt were rushed where others just dragged on. I didn't feel like any of the characters were truly developed.
I mean, I know I should love Ari & Ollie, but the entire time I just couldn't find a reason to like them
A professor Ari fooled around with is at the school & teaches gym with him & Ryder hates her, but I feel her hate is a little much. I mean, I get that she doesn't like her because she has a past with Ari & messes with her in class, but Ryder's hate for her just seems like a little much.
Her roommate/best friend is bouncy & bubbly, but you aren't really shown why you should like her, although later you start to when you see her unending loyalty to Ryder.
A guy named Mikey crushes on Ryder, but he's not developed even though he shows up quite a bit. I mean, I understand that he isn't one of her love interests, but he could be more that just a guy who likes her. Also. he & her best friend used to hook up, yet you wouldn't know it if you weren't told.
This book has more action, you learn more about the curse, and Ryder seems to pick which guy she really wants, but that doesn't happen until almost the end.
The beginning is just well, boring. Normal school stuff except the kids has super powers. I feel like the beginning was wasted & the end was rushed because of the beginning.
Also, I know that because of the curse Ryder feels drawn to both guys, but she reads off as kind of a slut. I mean, one minute she's making out with one guy & literally the next scene she's making out with the other. I wish she had a bit more decorum as to not just basically hop into bed with both of them at almost the same time.
There are far too many grammatical errors that should have been caught by the editor since they're simple things & they just annoy me to read them & then have to go back & reread because the error messed up the next sentence.
I do look forward to reading the next book & hope that the errors are fixed, the characters are more developed, there's more action & Ryder figures out which guy is her soulmate.
Okay, so we all know the story of Orpheus & Eurydice, right?
Well, in book one we were really introduced to the story which built up to the idea of the love triangle curse between Ryder, Ollie & Ari.
Book two picks up right where book one left off, so you aren't left with this huge gap.
I had high hopes for this book, but sadly it fell short.
Some parts I felt were rushed where others just dragged on. I didn't feel like any of the characters were truly developed.
I mean, I know I should love Ari & Ollie, but the entire time I just couldn't find a reason to like them
A professor Ari fooled around with is at the school & teaches gym with him & Ryder hates her, but I feel her hate is a little much. I mean, I get that she doesn't like her because she has a past with Ari & messes with her in class, but Ryder's hate for her just seems like a little much.
Her roommate/best friend is bouncy & bubbly, but you aren't really shown why you should like her, although later you start to when you see her unending loyalty to Ryder.
A guy named Mikey crushes on Ryder, but he's not developed even though he shows up quite a bit. I mean, I understand that he isn't one of her love interests, but he could be more that just a guy who likes her. Also. he & her best friend used to hook up, yet you wouldn't know it if you weren't told.
This book has more action, you learn more about the curse, and Ryder seems to pick which guy she really wants, but that doesn't happen until almost the end.
The beginning is just well, boring. Normal school stuff except the kids has super powers. I feel like the beginning was wasted & the end was rushed because of the beginning.
Also, I know that because of the curse Ryder feels drawn to both guys, but she reads off as kind of a slut. I mean, one minute she's making out with one guy & literally the next scene she's making out with the other. I wish she had a bit more decorum as to not just basically hop into bed with both of them at almost the same time.
There are far too many grammatical errors that should have been caught by the editor since they're simple things & they just annoy me to read them & then have to go back & reread because the error messed up the next sentence.
I do look forward to reading the next book & hope that the errors are fixed, the characters are more developed, there's more action & Ryder figures out which guy is her soulmate.
December 12, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
Ryder decides to take charge of her own life and destiny. Ollie and Ari make a pact and decide to let Ryder decide who she is going to choose. She goes to school at Demi God Academy where she has quite the reputation before she even starts. Ari is a teacher there and makes things confusing at times. My favorite quote from the synopsis is Ryder discovers what it really means to be Eurydice. It just sums up this book so perfectly.
Now I really liked the first book of this series. I began reading this book right away. I was blown away. The story developed nicely and believable. This book blew the first book out of the water. We get a closer look at Ari (who is my favorite) and new friends. I'm in love with the style of writing of this author. I absolutely devoured this book. I couldn't put it down. I stayed up far too late several nights in a row reading. I couldn't get enough of Ryder and Ari.
I want to talk about a few new characters that I really enjoyed. Lisa is a sarcastic girl who you love to hate. She is rude and preppy but you end up liking her. Megan is an early friend who is sweet and kind. She is understanding and considerate. I adored Megan. Megan deserved every tear I cried for her. Kara who is by far my favorite is her roommate. She comes across a little too eager at first but you learn to trust and love her. I really liked the addition of these characters.
Overall I loved it and will never forget this story.
Ryder decides to take charge of her own life and destiny. Ollie and Ari make a pact and decide to let Ryder decide who she is going to choose. She goes to school at Demi God Academy where she has quite the reputation before she even starts. Ari is a teacher there and makes things confusing at times. My favorite quote from the synopsis is Ryder discovers what it really means to be Eurydice. It just sums up this book so perfectly.
Now I really liked the first book of this series. I began reading this book right away. I was blown away. The story developed nicely and believable. This book blew the first book out of the water. We get a closer look at Ari (who is my favorite) and new friends. I'm in love with the style of writing of this author. I absolutely devoured this book. I couldn't put it down. I stayed up far too late several nights in a row reading. I couldn't get enough of Ryder and Ari.
I want to talk about a few new characters that I really enjoyed. Lisa is a sarcastic girl who you love to hate. She is rude and preppy but you end up liking her. Megan is an early friend who is sweet and kind. She is understanding and considerate. I adored Megan. Megan deserved every tear I cried for her. Kara who is by far my favorite is her roommate. She comes across a little too eager at first but you learn to trust and love her. I really liked the addition of these characters.
Overall I loved it and will never forget this story.
January 29, 2016
After finding out she is half goddess and is in love with two minor gods, Ryder (Eurydice) also finds that this is all part of a curse. That she has been doing this over and over and over for many centuries. She is determined to go to Hades, god of the Underworld, and break the curse once and for all. He has kidnapped the Originals - the original 12 gods. He needs their blood to break his curse that keeps him from coming to earth. They are tied together. Can you break one curse without breaking the other?
To be inside Ryder, feeling all of her emotions, just makes your heart wrench with all of the confusion, love for two totally different men, and finding her "gifts". I cried along with her. This book absolutely draws you in!
Be sure to read book one before reading this one. I am anxious to read the next book in the series. Great job, Taylor!!
April 14, 2014
Author:
I clearly love it, duh. What makes this book so amazing is the work I put into it. It's a lot longer than the first and action packed. There are things that are explained and more questions that pop up. At DGA, Ryder discovers her powers and the powers her new friends have. The world is expanded on and it's magical. You'll love all the new characters and love seeing the old ones come back.
And... it's edited! I know people criticized the first because it wasn't fully edited. BUT this one is! It's fantastic.
READ IT!
Comes out, FEB 3RD, 2014!
I clearly love it, duh. What makes this book so amazing is the work I put into it. It's a lot longer than the first and action packed. There are things that are explained and more questions that pop up. At DGA, Ryder discovers her powers and the powers her new friends have. The world is expanded on and it's magical. You'll love all the new characters and love seeing the old ones come back.
And... it's edited! I know people criticized the first because it wasn't fully edited. BUT this one is! It's fantastic.
READ IT!
Comes out, FEB 3RD, 2014!
January 4, 2016
The Curse of Betrayal had my emotions in an upheaval, while the suspense kept me enthralled. Continuing the tale of Ryder & her friends, her confusion over who her true soulmate is, discovering herself & learning more about her family, this is a series that swept me up into a plane of existence created by Taylor Lavati, a newly discovered favorite writer. I was sucked in by the suspense, drawn into the storyline even farther by the characters, and can't wait to read more!
June 25, 2015
WOW!! Action back on the edge of your seat book! This is the 2nd of the series and I must say I loved this one even more than the 1st one! Even though they are both great books, this one was a little more exposing! If you haven't read this series yet you really are missing out on a great series!
*Received for an honest review*
*Received for an honest review*
September 1, 2015
Getting super good!
The second book answers some questions and also asking more for us to figure out... This book has some heartbreaking moments with some laughs and lighthearted moments.... I honestly still am not sure who Ryder's soulmate is but have a guess.... Shall be off to read part three and gets some answers answered!!!
The second book answers some questions and also asking more for us to figure out... This book has some heartbreaking moments with some laughs and lighthearted moments.... I honestly still am not sure who Ryder's soulmate is but have a guess.... Shall be off to read part three and gets some answers answered!!!
December 11, 2015
Oh my goodness, Taylor Lavati knows how to weave a story! The Curse of Betrayal is an action packed, dangerous read. Ryder must make the most difficult choice. Who will she love, Ollie or Ari? The curse must be broken! But is she strong enough to do what's necessary? And will she save her mother or lose her forever? I am dying to read the next book to find out!
August 19, 2016
It is official, I am moving to team Ari. I love this character and I feel like he is her soulmate. Of course, when you read a book by Taylor Lavati, make sure you get a large box of tissues as it will make you cry and laugh.
Short review for a book I loved.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review
Short review for a book I loved.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review
January 31, 2017
Ryder... Ollie... Ari.... what a triangle!!! This whole series is absolutely fantastic and I loved them all. I was gifted the first book and downloaded the rest right away after I finished the first. Totally worth the read!
May 10, 2016
How can you not love Ari?!?!
Want to read
February 3, 2014I would think this is amazing!
July 6, 2015
Rating : 4 stars
March 13, 2014
The Curse of Betrayal is Lavati's second book in The Curse Books series, following on from The Thousand Years Curse. I really enjoyed the first book in this series and was looking forward to the next book being even better.
Ryder is now taking some more control over her life and is attending Demi God Academy, and is supposed to trying to find a cure for her curse while the two men in her life, Ollie and Ari stay away to give her space so she can figure out which one of them is really her one true love.
The biggest flaw in this concept is the fact that Ari is a teacher at the school, and Ryder ends up spending a lot of time with him, and there are a lot of make out sessions in this book! Although Ollie features in this book, it is just a few short snippets, and where I felt the boys featured almost fifty/fifty in the first book, its more like ninety/ten to Ari in this one. And don't get me long, I like bad boy Ari, but feel if this whole series is based on a girl having to decide between two boys, those two boys need to be equally represented throughout.
On the whole I enjoyed The Curse of Betrayal, it was nice to take Ryder out of high school environment and put her into a school full of demi Gods like herself. There were a few points in the book that I found quite immature for a bunch of older teenagers but they are over lookable. There are a lot of new characters in this book, and it would have been nice to see some more in depth development of them, even just a few of them would have given them more of a connection for the reader.
Its quite common to find the writing of a second book improves a great deal from the first book, but unfortunately I didn't feel that with this book. The writing seemed quite rushed in places and skimmed a lot of details, and I found myself having to go back and re read a lot as I thought I had missed something, which turned out it wasn't there. The story itself was enjoyable on the whole though and I look forward to the next book in the series to see what happens next.
Ryder is now taking some more control over her life and is attending Demi God Academy, and is supposed to trying to find a cure for her curse while the two men in her life, Ollie and Ari stay away to give her space so she can figure out which one of them is really her one true love.
The biggest flaw in this concept is the fact that Ari is a teacher at the school, and Ryder ends up spending a lot of time with him, and there are a lot of make out sessions in this book! Although Ollie features in this book, it is just a few short snippets, and where I felt the boys featured almost fifty/fifty in the first book, its more like ninety/ten to Ari in this one. And don't get me long, I like bad boy Ari, but feel if this whole series is based on a girl having to decide between two boys, those two boys need to be equally represented throughout.
On the whole I enjoyed The Curse of Betrayal, it was nice to take Ryder out of high school environment and put her into a school full of demi Gods like herself. There were a few points in the book that I found quite immature for a bunch of older teenagers but they are over lookable. There are a lot of new characters in this book, and it would have been nice to see some more in depth development of them, even just a few of them would have given them more of a connection for the reader.
Its quite common to find the writing of a second book improves a great deal from the first book, but unfortunately I didn't feel that with this book. The writing seemed quite rushed in places and skimmed a lot of details, and I found myself having to go back and re read a lot as I thought I had missed something, which turned out it wasn't there. The story itself was enjoyable on the whole though and I look forward to the next book in the series to see what happens next.
August 12, 2016
One H-E- (double hockey sticks) of a mythological ride!
Ryder goes on an adventure of a lifetime. Going from a single, bullied, nobody, to half Goddess with two hot boyfriends who love her before meeting her. That can be tough on any teenage girl. Especially one who is cursed with a 1000 year curse and needs to find how to break it.
You won't want to miss this crazy as all get out adventure sure to get your heart pumping.
****I received this author copy in exchange for an honest Review.****
Laura Redmon
Cutting Muse Blog Review
Ryder goes on an adventure of a lifetime. Going from a single, bullied, nobody, to half Goddess with two hot boyfriends who love her before meeting her. That can be tough on any teenage girl. Especially one who is cursed with a 1000 year curse and needs to find how to break it.
You won't want to miss this crazy as all get out adventure sure to get your heart pumping.
****I received this author copy in exchange for an honest Review.****
Laura Redmon
Cutting Muse Blog Review
September 4, 2016
3.5/5
Definitely better than the first book, but still frustrating at times. At parts, I loved it. At other sections, I wanted to throttle the main character.
Definitely better than the first book, but still frustrating at times. At parts, I loved it. At other sections, I wanted to throttle the main character.
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