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The Kazola Chronicles #2
Marked by Truth
When Kasha signed up to be a member of the Onyx Guard, she didn’t expect to find herself within the obsessive sights of a criminal tyrant. But he is determined to get his hands on her--and she will do anything to see him behind bars.
Even put her own life in danger.
Forced to play the killer's intricate games, Kasha and Nolan must go undercover and work with traitors to find the reality behind his desires to liberate the Isle of Kazola from what he considers to be a corrupt High Faction.
The more truths Kasha discovers, the more she must hold faithful to the oaths she took--no matter how hard Elliot tries to taint her. And as her budding relationship with Nolan grows stronger, she must decide how far she is willing to go to keep him, and their future, safe.
Bonds will be forged, loyalties tested, and limits pushed. But will Kasha survive the fight with her mind, and heart, intact? Or will Elliot’s devious plans for her finally be the breaking point she fought so hard never to reach?
Even put her own life in danger.
Forced to play the killer's intricate games, Kasha and Nolan must go undercover and work with traitors to find the reality behind his desires to liberate the Isle of Kazola from what he considers to be a corrupt High Faction.
The more truths Kasha discovers, the more she must hold faithful to the oaths she took--no matter how hard Elliot tries to taint her. And as her budding relationship with Nolan grows stronger, she must decide how far she is willing to go to keep him, and their future, safe.
Bonds will be forged, loyalties tested, and limits pushed. But will Kasha survive the fight with her mind, and heart, intact? Or will Elliot’s devious plans for her finally be the breaking point she fought so hard never to reach?
- GenresParanormal
489 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 20, 2023
17 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Marie
5 books59 followersKathryn Marie began writing at the young age of thirteen, when she was stuck in bed recovering from spinal surgery. Ever since then, she’s loved creating stories and characters for others to enjoy. When she is not at work or busy writing in her home office, Kathryn can be found spending time with her wonderful husband or friends, experimenting with new makeup techniques, or watching reruns of her many beloved TV shows.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
March 30, 2024
Wayyy better in this one! So obsessed with this series and Nolan. I swear that man makes me SWEAT.
October 19, 2023
4.5/5
Whew. This follow up to Captured by Chaos was intense. It was fun to return to Kasha and Nolan’s story. They both did a lot of growing in this books as they challenged themselves to push past old wounds and previous trauma. I think Kathryn Marie handled their narratives and their pasts really well.
The psychological ride on this book at me reeling and that ending left me with a shiver. I had no expected quite that ending. I think the mystery aspects of this book were well developed and the pacing was spot on. It had me hooked until the end. Can’t wait to see how this all ends.
If you have read Kathryn Marie’s Kazola Chronicles, you definitely want to grab a copy.
Please check the trigger and content warnings.
Whew. This follow up to Captured by Chaos was intense. It was fun to return to Kasha and Nolan’s story. They both did a lot of growing in this books as they challenged themselves to push past old wounds and previous trauma. I think Kathryn Marie handled their narratives and their pasts really well.
The psychological ride on this book at me reeling and that ending left me with a shiver. I had no expected quite that ending. I think the mystery aspects of this book were well developed and the pacing was spot on. It had me hooked until the end. Can’t wait to see how this all ends.
If you have read Kathryn Marie’s Kazola Chronicles, you definitely want to grab a copy.
Please check the trigger and content warnings.
October 24, 2023
The first book ended on a cliffhanger so I was so excited to get my hands on book two. It was full of fantastic characters and thrilling twists. I cannot wait for the conclusion.
October 15, 2023
Small Business BookTok ARC Reviews: "Marked by Truth " by Kathryn Marie
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and/or publisher and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
Kasha is the Beta leader of the Onyx Guard, a task force of combat-ready wolf-shifters run by the High Faction tasked with protecting the magical residents of Kazola. After recovering from workplace assault, the injustice of the assault trial, and both her father and brother’s emotional abuse and neglect, she is now trying to work with her partner, Nolan, to hunt down the ruthless cult leader, Elliot Wells. When Elliot starts obsessing over her and attempts to try to get to her, Kasha and the rest of the guard are quick to believe he wants her to be a key part of his plan to take over Kazola. But how? She found her inner wolf and faced her past. Now, she’ll face a challenge that could change her whole world forever.
The sequel to the “Kazola Chronicles”, this book..has been an emotional ride! The world-building perfectly combines vampire and werewolf lore while also establishing an original language and mythology for said world-building. Thus, providing a new, inventive take on mythological lore. Kasha as a character was truly empowering, a force of nature! Throughout the “Kazola” series, this character has been through so much trauma and hell. Despite the hell she endured and the neglect she’s suffered from the justice system and her father, her journey through recovery, although a painful process, has given her a newfound strength. From her therapy sessions to communicating her needs and getting proper support from her teammates and partner, Kasha’s journey is a powerful mental health allegory that I firmly believe will resonate with readers who have been through abusive or traumatic situations.
Take notes, readers, Nolan as a love interest and his chemistry with Kasha is a portrait of a healthy partner dynamic. As a love interest, he believes in Kasha and her mental/physical strength. He doesn’t treat her as “fragile” or “broken”, but constantly encourages her to express her feelings and her needs. He supports her on her decisions while also knowing when to be the voice-of-reason when a situation may put Kasha in danger. Did I mention this man is also emotional? I truly believe it is beautiful for men in modern literature nowadays to be given the freedom to express all emotions without judgment from laughter to tears. Elliot as an antagonist? I’m not gonna give too much away, but let’s just say his Anti-Villain tendencies give Erik Killmonger from “Black Panther” a run for his money. If you're looking for a wolf-shifter, Fantasy Adventure narrative to sink your teeth into this Fall, don't miss out on this book when it hits online shelves on October 20th, 2023!
Spice Meter: 4/5🌶🌶🌶🌶
Rating: 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
-Tropes to Expect: Established Relationship, Secret Rebellion, Brother’s Best Friend, Vampires and Wolf Shifters, Rescue Mission Narrative, and Fantasy Militia.
-Trigger Warnings: Discussions of Assault, Injustice, Victim Blaming, Hallucinations, Starvation, Family Conflict, Hospitalization, and Forced Isolation.
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and/or publisher and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
Kasha is the Beta leader of the Onyx Guard, a task force of combat-ready wolf-shifters run by the High Faction tasked with protecting the magical residents of Kazola. After recovering from workplace assault, the injustice of the assault trial, and both her father and brother’s emotional abuse and neglect, she is now trying to work with her partner, Nolan, to hunt down the ruthless cult leader, Elliot Wells. When Elliot starts obsessing over her and attempts to try to get to her, Kasha and the rest of the guard are quick to believe he wants her to be a key part of his plan to take over Kazola. But how? She found her inner wolf and faced her past. Now, she’ll face a challenge that could change her whole world forever.
The sequel to the “Kazola Chronicles”, this book..has been an emotional ride! The world-building perfectly combines vampire and werewolf lore while also establishing an original language and mythology for said world-building. Thus, providing a new, inventive take on mythological lore. Kasha as a character was truly empowering, a force of nature! Throughout the “Kazola” series, this character has been through so much trauma and hell. Despite the hell she endured and the neglect she’s suffered from the justice system and her father, her journey through recovery, although a painful process, has given her a newfound strength. From her therapy sessions to communicating her needs and getting proper support from her teammates and partner, Kasha’s journey is a powerful mental health allegory that I firmly believe will resonate with readers who have been through abusive or traumatic situations.
Take notes, readers, Nolan as a love interest and his chemistry with Kasha is a portrait of a healthy partner dynamic. As a love interest, he believes in Kasha and her mental/physical strength. He doesn’t treat her as “fragile” or “broken”, but constantly encourages her to express her feelings and her needs. He supports her on her decisions while also knowing when to be the voice-of-reason when a situation may put Kasha in danger. Did I mention this man is also emotional? I truly believe it is beautiful for men in modern literature nowadays to be given the freedom to express all emotions without judgment from laughter to tears. Elliot as an antagonist? I’m not gonna give too much away, but let’s just say his Anti-Villain tendencies give Erik Killmonger from “Black Panther” a run for his money. If you're looking for a wolf-shifter, Fantasy Adventure narrative to sink your teeth into this Fall, don't miss out on this book when it hits online shelves on October 20th, 2023!
Spice Meter: 4/5🌶🌶🌶🌶
Rating: 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
-Tropes to Expect: Established Relationship, Secret Rebellion, Brother’s Best Friend, Vampires and Wolf Shifters, Rescue Mission Narrative, and Fantasy Militia.
-Trigger Warnings: Discussions of Assault, Injustice, Victim Blaming, Hallucinations, Starvation, Family Conflict, Hospitalization, and Forced Isolation.
October 16, 2023
🌟🌟🌟𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖🌟🌟🌟
First of all, thank you so much to the author for providing me with an ARC upon my personal request. I appreciate your kindness.
The story continues from where it left off in the first part, "The Elliot's Case." The Seathra Faction is still attempting to connect the dots and understand Elliot's true agenda and how to stop him.
Now, onto the story itself, I loved every aspect of it. Nothing felt dragged out, and the character development of Kasha is really impressive. I particularly appreciate the progression of Nolan and Kasha's relationship with each installment. The revelation of Elliot's past wasn't what I expected, but it was truly awesome, and I'm sure there's more to discover in the next installment. I also like how the sibling trio is getting closer over time. It should be mentioned how Logan was punished. The pacing was excellent, keeping me hooked to the story. The cliffhanger was jaw-dropping, and I felt really bad for Kasha. I don't know how much she'll suffer.
As an author, Kathryn is doing justice to all the elements in the story, whether it's romance, mystery, or action. I'm eagerly awaiting the third installment.
P.S: I can't help but find it creepy how Elliot calls Kasha "Rogthna" 😂
First of all, thank you so much to the author for providing me with an ARC upon my personal request. I appreciate your kindness.
The story continues from where it left off in the first part, "The Elliot's Case." The Seathra Faction is still attempting to connect the dots and understand Elliot's true agenda and how to stop him.
Now, onto the story itself, I loved every aspect of it. Nothing felt dragged out, and the character development of Kasha is really impressive. I particularly appreciate the progression of Nolan and Kasha's relationship with each installment. The revelation of Elliot's past wasn't what I expected, but it was truly awesome, and I'm sure there's more to discover in the next installment. I also like how the sibling trio is getting closer over time. It should be mentioned how Logan was punished. The pacing was excellent, keeping me hooked to the story. The cliffhanger was jaw-dropping, and I felt really bad for Kasha. I don't know how much she'll suffer.
As an author, Kathryn is doing justice to all the elements in the story, whether it's romance, mystery, or action. I'm eagerly awaiting the third installment.
P.S: I can't help but find it creepy how Elliot calls Kasha "Rogthna" 😂
September 11, 2023
I love the first book, but this second book?! Amazing!! I of course was so excited to read about the gang again and the action and trauma that everyone had to go through was so well written. I loved how there was still the slow burn before the real spice started and it did not disappoint at all. There are so many moments that I want to talk about but my favorite would have to be when she finally said those amazing three words :,( and the moment our Nolan couldn’t hold in his pain any longer and just let it all out! I crying my eyes out. I also love the love between the siblings. Also can we talk about that ending! Can our poor girl Kasha catch a break so excited for the third book!
November 2, 2023
Marked by Truth is Book 2 in The Kazola Chronicles and it's this really unique paranormal shifter romance but so much more! I love this found family vibe they have going on! The characters just tug at your heartstrings so you can't help falling in love with them and rooting for them!
Kasha is the most fantastic FMC! She's so strong dealing with all kinds of difficult life and family things. I love the mental health rep in this one!! And Nolan is the dreamy MMC you just love!!
This is fast paced and intense! You won't be able to put it down!! The world building is epic and well thought out! I love this series!!!
Kasha is the most fantastic FMC! She's so strong dealing with all kinds of difficult life and family things. I love the mental health rep in this one!! And Nolan is the dreamy MMC you just love!!
This is fast paced and intense! You won't be able to put it down!! The world building is epic and well thought out! I love this series!!!
September 27, 2025
I wanted to rate this higher, but I can’t for a couple of reasons. First, the incorrect and unnecessary usage of the words “screamed”, “giggled” and “wailed” . Whether they made the book overly dramatic or cringey, depending on the scene, in the end they took me out of the story too much. Second, the nicknames given to the characters: sweetheart, sweetness, and paramour are grandma and grandpa terms. It gave me the ick, and once again took me out of the story. I’m 42 and don’t know a single person my age or younger who uses those terms with their significant others. Please, if you are a writer, don’t use those terms.
October 24, 2023
4.5 stars
Following on from Captured by Chaos, with Kasha still Elliot's focus, this book takes us on a journey as she tries to unravel Elliot's plot.
Kasha goes through so much in this book. Between family drama, relationship growth (yay!), her past coming up again, and Elliot's crazy, it's a lot for one person to handle.
There many highs in this story, but also many lows. It was a bit of a rollercoaster, but I enjoyed every minute.
Now - the ending. Umm, what?! I was horrified but also intrigued. The next installment will be interesting, for sure.
Following on from Captured by Chaos, with Kasha still Elliot's focus, this book takes us on a journey as she tries to unravel Elliot's plot.
Kasha goes through so much in this book. Between family drama, relationship growth (yay!), her past coming up again, and Elliot's crazy, it's a lot for one person to handle.
There many highs in this story, but also many lows. It was a bit of a rollercoaster, but I enjoyed every minute.
Now - the ending. Umm, what?! I was horrified but also intrigued. The next installment will be interesting, for sure.
June 9, 2024
There’s way too much to love here! From learning the truth and detangling the messy knots, to Nolan and Kasha being adorable together, this was such a blast.
I loved how strong Kasha was in the face of adversity. With Elliot trying to inject doubt into everything they’ve known, I loved the unwavering love and support they had for each other in their unit-the one thing that had me fall madly in love with this series! I love a good found family situation and these guys are perfect to the T!
The investigation, mending broken relationships, trying to earn back the trust that was destroyed due to past decisions had me on an emotional roller coaster ride and I’m here for it. Nolan keeps getting better! HOW?! I love how they complement each other and have each other’s backs.
The author incorporated dual POV so well that it added a lot of depth to the story. I can’t wait to dive into the sequel, especially with that ending. Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy to review!
I loved how strong Kasha was in the face of adversity. With Elliot trying to inject doubt into everything they’ve known, I loved the unwavering love and support they had for each other in their unit-the one thing that had me fall madly in love with this series! I love a good found family situation and these guys are perfect to the T!
The investigation, mending broken relationships, trying to earn back the trust that was destroyed due to past decisions had me on an emotional roller coaster ride and I’m here for it. Nolan keeps getting better! HOW?! I love how they complement each other and have each other’s backs.
The author incorporated dual POV so well that it added a lot of depth to the story. I can’t wait to dive into the sequel, especially with that ending. Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy to review!
September 11, 2023
I LOVE that this book is unlike any other. The world building has been incredible. Nolan is my new favorite book boyfriend. You really can’t predict how these books will play out and I appreciate that. There are so many books where the story line is predictable. I needed something that would shock me to my core. I hope this story is far from over because it has captured my interest and I can’t wait to see where the author takes it!
October 18, 2023
Once again, Kathryn Marie has left me utterly speechless with her fantastic writing.
I was so excited to dive back into the world of Kazola and finally deep dive into the investigation. I love love love the romance and couldn't have asked a more perfect pairing.
I don't want to say much because *spoilers* but it was absolutely FABULOUS!😍
I was so excited to dive back into the world of Kazola and finally deep dive into the investigation. I love love love the romance and couldn't have asked a more perfect pairing.
I don't want to say much because *spoilers* but it was absolutely FABULOUS!😍
November 25, 2023
I loved the continuation, even if I hate the cliff hangers. Kasha's story is uplifting yet heartbreaking, making it hard to tell the tone of the story for me. The depth of Kasha and Nolans relationship made the story far more compelling than book one. Book two did a great job making Elliot infuriating. Well done!
December 5, 2023
I loved the first book, but this one was even better! Kathryn Marie's creativity shines through in how she weaves this mystery and digs deeper into Kas' issues. Also, can I just say how much I love Nolan? He is the perfect love interest for someone like Kas, and I can't wait to continue their story in the next book.
September 13, 2023
THIS BOOK 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 it went there and beyond. The stakes were raised and kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved Kasha and Nolan’s journey and learning more about their team and Elliot. Kasha’s growth is incredible and so realistic and I’m so excited to see where it goes. Am I desperate for the third book? Yes. I can’t adequately explain how much I want to read the next book. Kathryn Marie spent all of this book testing the strength of my heart. She is a master of suspense, intrigue, and heart-pounding romance. Read this book!!!
November 27, 2023
I loved getting to see these characters again, and enjoyed this book as much as the first. The character development was evident throughout and I liked how it was written. I can’t wait for this series to continue.
June 24, 2024
I just realized I never wrote a review for this one 😱
This was a wonderful continuation of the story. This is my favorite book in this series so far. I just loved how Kasha and Nolan’s relationship really grew in this one, and that man, *swoon*, I love him so much.
There’s a lot of intensity and twists in this one, the emotions too, the mental health rep and family relationship building and rebuilding, and the ending is, well, shocking. Kathryn knows how to end with a cliffhanger 👌🏻 And I love it!
Definitely read this series! You won’t be disappointed!
This was a wonderful continuation of the story. This is my favorite book in this series so far. I just loved how Kasha and Nolan’s relationship really grew in this one, and that man, *swoon*, I love him so much.
There’s a lot of intensity and twists in this one, the emotions too, the mental health rep and family relationship building and rebuilding, and the ending is, well, shocking. Kathryn knows how to end with a cliffhanger 👌🏻 And I love it!
Definitely read this series! You won’t be disappointed!
September 15, 2023
I loved this continuation from Captured in chaos. Nolan and Kasha are a great match. Can’t wait to see what happens in book three as we left on 2 cliffhangers.
October 24, 2023
Thank you to the author for the gifted ARC!
My favorite thing about this series is the representation for mental health, PTSD, and healing from trauma. Although just as Kasha is mending her relationship with her brother, she gets some fresh trauma 😅
The romance is pretty great too! Nolan is such a sweetheart, protective alpha male, but not too overbearing. I loved seeing Kasha and Nolan’s romance progress as they become more comfortable with each other. And while I don’t think it necessarily needed it, this has more spice than the first.
And the villains! The main killer is a downright twisted and evil mastermind, but there are a couple other despicable antagonists to hate as well.
I liked the first book a little bit more as some of the descriptions felt a bit repetitive, but I really enjoyed the way this book fleshed out character backstories and this history of this world. I can’t wait for book 3!
If you like urban fantasy, shifters & vamps, unique worlds, and Criminal Minds-esque mystery, check out this series!
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My favorite thing about this series is the representation for mental health, PTSD, and healing from trauma. Although just as Kasha is mending her relationship with her brother, she gets some fresh trauma 😅
The romance is pretty great too! Nolan is such a sweetheart, protective alpha male, but not too overbearing. I loved seeing Kasha and Nolan’s romance progress as they become more comfortable with each other. And while I don’t think it necessarily needed it, this has more spice than the first.
And the villains! The main killer is a downright twisted and evil mastermind, but there are a couple other despicable antagonists to hate as well.
I liked the first book a little bit more as some of the descriptions felt a bit repetitive, but I really enjoyed the way this book fleshed out character backstories and this history of this world. I can’t wait for book 3!
If you like urban fantasy, shifters & vamps, unique worlds, and Criminal Minds-esque mystery, check out this series!
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