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Blythewood #2
Ravencliffe
Avaline Hall is no ordinary girl.
She’s a student at Blythewood Academy, an elite boarding school that trains young women to defend human society from the shadowy forces that live among us. After the devastating events of her first year at Blythewood, Ava is eager to reunite with her friends—and with Raven, the compelling but elusive winged boy who makes her pulse race. She soon discovers, though, that the sinister Judicus van Drood hasn’t finished wreaking havoc on Blythewood—and wants to use Ava and her classmates to attack a much bigger target.
Ava’s the only one with any hope of stopping van Drood. But to scuttle his plans, she must reveal her deepest secret to everyone at Blythewood. What’s she willing to sacrifice to do what’s right—her school? Her love? Or her life?
She’s a student at Blythewood Academy, an elite boarding school that trains young women to defend human society from the shadowy forces that live among us. After the devastating events of her first year at Blythewood, Ava is eager to reunite with her friends—and with Raven, the compelling but elusive winged boy who makes her pulse race. She soon discovers, though, that the sinister Judicus van Drood hasn’t finished wreaking havoc on Blythewood—and wants to use Ava and her classmates to attack a much bigger target.
Ava’s the only one with any hope of stopping van Drood. But to scuttle his plans, she must reveal her deepest secret to everyone at Blythewood. What’s she willing to sacrifice to do what’s right—her school? Her love? Or her life?
432 pages, Hardcover
First published December 2, 2014
75 people are currently reading
2492 people want to read
About the author
Carol Goodman
35 books2,898 followersCarol Goodman is the author of The Lake of Dead Languages, The Seduction of Water, which won the Hammett Prize, The Widow's House, which won the Mary Higgins Clark Award and The Night Visitors, which won the Mary Higgins Clark Award. She is also the co-author, with her husband Lee Slonimsky, of the Watchtower fantasy trilogy. Her work has appeared in such journals as The Greensboro Review, Literal Latte, The Midwest Quarterly, and Other Voices. After graduation from Vassar College, where she majored in Latin, she taught Latin for several years in Austin, Texas. She then received an M.F.A. in fiction from the New School University. Goodman currently teaches literature and writing at The New School and SUNY New Paltz and lives with her family in the Hudson Valley.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
July 6, 2015
loved the first book! i just couldn't get into this one... even after 300 pages!
May 18, 2015
Yay! There's going to be a third book!!! :D Loved this one just as much as the previous book...maybe even a little more since I got the swoons I was hoping for! ;0)
dnf
November 20, 2020So I had this grand plan. To finish this series. The problem was, I didn't really like the first book all that well in the first place. I struggle to finish it and that just leaves me doing everything else other than reading. I'm always so afraid I'm missing out if I don't read it.
Last night I had a revelation. I was done forcing myself to read books that I can't get into. This has eliminated this series and one other. It's actually such a relief to realize I don't have to read it. I didn't realize how much I was dreading it till I decided I wasn't going to do it.
Last night I had a revelation. I was done forcing myself to read books that I can't get into. This has eliminated this series and one other. It's actually such a relief to realize I don't have to read it. I didn't realize how much I was dreading it till I decided I wasn't going to do it.
Want to read
March 4, 2014
This was me when I saw this book. And this will be me until this book is in my hands.
3/3/14: December? Ugh. But at least we now have a cover and a synopsis. Yay!
December 16, 2014
For more reviews, gifs, Cover Snark and more, visit A Reader of Fictions.
Last week, I reviewed Blythewood. I enjoyed it, but it felt like one of those series openers that would lead to a series that got better from that starting point or that would take a turn for the worse. Blythewood left me with some concerns. I wasn’t entirely sure how I felt about the plot or the romance, but I was tentatively excited for Ravencliffe, which dispelled my worries. Ravencliffe slightly edges out Blythewood in quality, with all the same positives and a couple of delightful improvements.
The plot of Ravencliffe is one of the areas where it exceeds Blythewood in quality. In the first book, I was easily able to predict much of the outcome. In Ravencliffe, I didn’t see the resolution coming. Partly, I think that’s due to my expectations for such set ups and the fact that people are working together better than I generally expect. While there are still plot points based on people not being honest with one another, I think this is a plot much less reliant on individuals holding back key information for stupid reasons.
The world building continues to delight me as it did in Blythewood. Though I admit some curiosity as to how the Darklings wear clothing and hide their wings, I’m pretty much willing to roll with it, because the mythology is so interesting. The villain serves essentially as a stand-in for self-doubt, which I think is really cool. The shadows and darkness take people over through their weaknesses and fears. This makes the shadows a hard enemy to fight, because everyone has weak points that could be manipulated that way. In Ravencliffe, it becomes apparent that only by working together and trusting in those around you to continue to care can the shadows be held at bay.
For the history nerds, Goodman’s added in several more fun scenes in Ravencliffe. There’s a more in-depth look at the sinking of the Titanic, which actually took place in the previous novel. Then there’s a trip to Coney Island, which would be a lot more fun if you weren’t there to track down scary people. Finally, there’s the opening of the Woolworth’s building.
In book one, I mentioned some disappointment in the romance. On one level, I definitely continue to feel the same, but I also understand it more now. The Blythewood books are very couched in history. The girls in the novel are primarily from the upper classes and, at Blythewood, they all live in a world where they’re intended to marry someone chosen for them. As such, there’s not really a concept of dating. Much like in a lot of historical fiction, instalove is pretty much how most relationships happen. It’s still not my favorite trope, but it does fit fairly well with the setting. Plus, though romance is fairly pervasive, not much time is spent on sentiment. My favorite thing about Ravencliffe, though, was the introduction of a lesbian romance. All the bonus points. Even better, this one wasn’t instalove, but friendship to love. So freaking sweet.
More touching than the romances, I think, are the friendships. The whole group is forging connections and learning to trust. As I said, I think this is the crucial plot element. The fact that Helen, Daisy and Ava have gone from grudging roommates to true friends by the end of Ravencliffe is really nice. In Ravencliffe, the main characters all have to confront their internal demons, in order to maintain their friendships and to have the strength to fight evil. Similarly, I adore the forming bonds between the darklings and the humans.
If you liked Blythewood, I think you’ll be impressed by Ravencliffe. If you were unsure about starting the Blythewood series, I would advise you to give them a chance if you can handle the historical instalove, appreciate mythologies, and love historical settings.
Last week, I reviewed Blythewood. I enjoyed it, but it felt like one of those series openers that would lead to a series that got better from that starting point or that would take a turn for the worse. Blythewood left me with some concerns. I wasn’t entirely sure how I felt about the plot or the romance, but I was tentatively excited for Ravencliffe, which dispelled my worries. Ravencliffe slightly edges out Blythewood in quality, with all the same positives and a couple of delightful improvements.
The plot of Ravencliffe is one of the areas where it exceeds Blythewood in quality. In the first book, I was easily able to predict much of the outcome. In Ravencliffe, I didn’t see the resolution coming. Partly, I think that’s due to my expectations for such set ups and the fact that people are working together better than I generally expect. While there are still plot points based on people not being honest with one another, I think this is a plot much less reliant on individuals holding back key information for stupid reasons.
The world building continues to delight me as it did in Blythewood. Though I admit some curiosity as to how the Darklings wear clothing and hide their wings, I’m pretty much willing to roll with it, because the mythology is so interesting. The villain serves essentially as a stand-in for self-doubt, which I think is really cool. The shadows and darkness take people over through their weaknesses and fears. This makes the shadows a hard enemy to fight, because everyone has weak points that could be manipulated that way. In Ravencliffe, it becomes apparent that only by working together and trusting in those around you to continue to care can the shadows be held at bay.
For the history nerds, Goodman’s added in several more fun scenes in Ravencliffe. There’s a more in-depth look at the sinking of the Titanic, which actually took place in the previous novel. Then there’s a trip to Coney Island, which would be a lot more fun if you weren’t there to track down scary people. Finally, there’s the opening of the Woolworth’s building.
In book one, I mentioned some disappointment in the romance. On one level, I definitely continue to feel the same, but I also understand it more now. The Blythewood books are very couched in history. The girls in the novel are primarily from the upper classes and, at Blythewood, they all live in a world where they’re intended to marry someone chosen for them. As such, there’s not really a concept of dating. Much like in a lot of historical fiction, instalove is pretty much how most relationships happen. It’s still not my favorite trope, but it does fit fairly well with the setting. Plus, though romance is fairly pervasive, not much time is spent on sentiment. My favorite thing about Ravencliffe, though, was the introduction of a lesbian romance. All the bonus points. Even better, this one wasn’t instalove, but friendship to love. So freaking sweet.
More touching than the romances, I think, are the friendships. The whole group is forging connections and learning to trust. As I said, I think this is the crucial plot element. The fact that Helen, Daisy and Ava have gone from grudging roommates to true friends by the end of Ravencliffe is really nice. In Ravencliffe, the main characters all have to confront their internal demons, in order to maintain their friendships and to have the strength to fight evil. Similarly, I adore the forming bonds between the darklings and the humans.
If you liked Blythewood, I think you’ll be impressed by Ravencliffe. If you were unsure about starting the Blythewood series, I would advise you to give them a chance if you can handle the historical instalove, appreciate mythologies, and love historical settings.
May 28, 2014
This sequel is possibly even more of a melodramatic paranormal soap opera than the first, and I loved every second of it.
January 31, 2015
Thank you, Edelweiss, for providing this book from Viking for review!
Avaline ended her first year at Blythewood with more than just the knowledge that fairies exist in our world -- she knows who (or rather what) her father is. A tumultuous summer break leaves Ava nostalgic for the comforts of Blythewood and all it entails: routine, classes, her friends Daisy and Helen, and Raven, the Darkling who works so hard to convince her that not all Fae are evil. But returning to Blythewood actually leaves Ava more haunted than relieved, for Judicus van Drood has a sinister plan in mind, one that will destroy the school and leave any remaining girls exhausted, torn, and ruined. The only solution Ava can see is revealing her true nature, no matter the consequences.
Gosh, if you thought Blythewood was magical and enchanting and touching in a way that only Harry Potter and A Great and Terrible Beauty could be, then you'll fall head over heels for this. Amp up the gothic melodrama, throw in history of magic, allude to historical disasters to come and connect our world with that of the Fae, and you've got yourself Ravencliffe. While the first book met the standard expectations of typical Gothic literature, this one met every single point on target: the adventure, the heightened emotions, coincidences and quick solutions, and an all-encompassing romance.
Do not devour this book all at once. Because of the heightened melodrama, the mix of so many new characters and settings, and one disaster piling on top of another (which leads to an inevitable explosion of an ending), it can feel like too much too soon if read quickly. Savor it. Enjoy it. Live each chapter. The best way to enjoy a book such as this is to take it slowly.
For a concrete portion of a review -- rather than my vague, cautionary ramblings and excitement over the fantastical -- allow me to praise Goodman's ability to keep the romance distinctly triangle-less. Ava is torn not between two boys -- one human and one Darkling -- but between two lifestyles: to accept the portion of herself that is Darkling, and therefore face potential exile from the human and Darkling worlds, or to shun that portion of herself and remain steadfastly human. That being said -- and as real and honest and beautiful as her relationship is with Raven -- I will not deny Nathan's affections for her. It's clear he prefers her company to others girls' yet every interaction felt incredibly platonic. Thank goodness. The love they share for one another runs like siblings' love. Also, every encounter Ava has with female Darklings and Raven cracked me up -- it's so typical for a girl, the way her mind jumped to unreasonable jealousy, and then mental slapping for ever thinking such a thing.
This book is so much more than the romance, but I cannot delve too far into it without giving away major plot points. More magical creatures, more magical places, more ominous events tied to actual history, more self-discovery, more characters outside the Order, more alliances, more everything. It's remarkable. I'm excited to see where Goodman takes us next.
Avaline ended her first year at Blythewood with more than just the knowledge that fairies exist in our world -- she knows who (or rather what) her father is. A tumultuous summer break leaves Ava nostalgic for the comforts of Blythewood and all it entails: routine, classes, her friends Daisy and Helen, and Raven, the Darkling who works so hard to convince her that not all Fae are evil. But returning to Blythewood actually leaves Ava more haunted than relieved, for Judicus van Drood has a sinister plan in mind, one that will destroy the school and leave any remaining girls exhausted, torn, and ruined. The only solution Ava can see is revealing her true nature, no matter the consequences.
Gosh, if you thought Blythewood was magical and enchanting and touching in a way that only Harry Potter and A Great and Terrible Beauty could be, then you'll fall head over heels for this. Amp up the gothic melodrama, throw in history of magic, allude to historical disasters to come and connect our world with that of the Fae, and you've got yourself Ravencliffe. While the first book met the standard expectations of typical Gothic literature, this one met every single point on target: the adventure, the heightened emotions, coincidences and quick solutions, and an all-encompassing romance.
Do not devour this book all at once. Because of the heightened melodrama, the mix of so many new characters and settings, and one disaster piling on top of another (which leads to an inevitable explosion of an ending), it can feel like too much too soon if read quickly. Savor it. Enjoy it. Live each chapter. The best way to enjoy a book such as this is to take it slowly.
For a concrete portion of a review -- rather than my vague, cautionary ramblings and excitement over the fantastical -- allow me to praise Goodman's ability to keep the romance distinctly triangle-less. Ava is torn not between two boys -- one human and one Darkling -- but between two lifestyles: to accept the portion of herself that is Darkling, and therefore face potential exile from the human and Darkling worlds, or to shun that portion of herself and remain steadfastly human. That being said -- and as real and honest and beautiful as her relationship is with Raven -- I will not deny Nathan's affections for her. It's clear he prefers her company to others girls' yet every interaction felt incredibly platonic. Thank goodness. The love they share for one another runs like siblings' love. Also, every encounter Ava has with female Darklings and Raven cracked me up -- it's so typical for a girl, the way her mind jumped to unreasonable jealousy, and then mental slapping for ever thinking such a thing.
This book is so much more than the romance, but I cannot delve too far into it without giving away major plot points. More magical creatures, more magical places, more ominous events tied to actual history, more self-discovery, more characters outside the Order, more alliances, more everything. It's remarkable. I'm excited to see where Goodman takes us next.
December 22, 2014
I loved Blythewood and was anxiously awaiting Ravencliffe, hoping for the same kind of magic. This sequel was such a disappointment. Spoilers ahead: The plot slogged on with bizarre events and everything plus the kitchen sink thrown in the mix (weird dancing hypnosis to dupe girls into marrying creepy old guys? What the hell was that!? And along with the Titanic, which by the way is all Ava's fault for sinking -snort-, why not throw a bomb in the mix, and also: RELEASE THE KRAKEN. Just cuz.), little to no character development (or none of actual consequence or interest): Daisy is a suffragette yet she's still obsessed over Mr. Appleby, Helen loves Nathan but loves Marlin more, Etta is special girl who sees things, all of a sudden Miss Corey loves Miss Sharp even though Sharp liked that male teacher in the last book ... Whatever. I just didn't care.) And Ava's story in this book is what irked me the most. She becomes a Phoenix, or in other words, a super special special girl and now she's part of a prophecy. She shows no real insistence or sorrow when Raven disappears under the ice to go look for the apparent love of her life. Oh yeah and she kinda loves Nathan... Lamest love triangle ever. Her character becomes totally one dimensional in Ravencliffe and it makes me soooo sad because I had such high hopes after a great start to the series.
I might still read Hawthorn, in hopes of the story getting back onto the rails, but Ravencliffe was simply a dud.
I might still read Hawthorn, in hopes of the story getting back onto the rails, but Ravencliffe was simply a dud.
October 4, 2015
I enjoyed this one, though it felt quite different from the first. The biggest change for me was that the focus of this story was not the school.
So much happened in this one. We find out who Ava's father is, Ava struggles to hide what she is from those closest to her, two of her teachers express their love for each other (didn't see that one coming and squee'd appropriately), carnies, explosions and ice skating.
One of the things I liked about this series was the lack of a lurve triangle. Sure, two guys are interested in Ava, but she's only into one.
Halle freakin lujah! That is, until the very end... there was a hint at her catching feelings.
So much happened in this one. We find out who Ava's father is, Ava struggles to hide what she is from those closest to her, two of her teachers express their love for each other (didn't see that one coming and squee'd appropriately), carnies, explosions and ice skating.
One of the things I liked about this series was the lack of a lurve triangle. Sure, two guys are interested in Ava, but she's only into one.
Halle freakin lujah! That is, until the very end... there was a hint at her catching feelings.
April 22, 2014
I have to say I loved Blythewood. I loved the world that was created with all its problems. It was such a great read about Darklings and Fey and the Humans charged to protect the world. I Learned a lot about he world in the first book.
I really enjoyed delving into Ava and her past. WE got to find out what happened to her mother and father and what made her who she is. I also liked seeing more of a personality to Raven and learning about him. He no longer is our Mysteries boy that shows up and disappears again after a couple of sentences. We also get to meet more of who Raven hangs around with and more of the girls in Ava's life. I think one of my favorite parts about this series is the touch of our history thrown in. (from the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, the Titanic, and the Woolworth building)
I really enjoy the way the author lets us get to know the characters around us in due time with the story just as you would when you meet a new person in life. We are not bombarded with information all at once so you get to savor each character. I also enjoyed the thrill of this story and the new danger that comes to Blythewood and the girls. I felt like I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. While the problem I picked up a lot sooner then Ava, the solution was what was interesting to me. I really enjoyed this book and can not wait for the next book.
I really enjoyed delving into Ava and her past. WE got to find out what happened to her mother and father and what made her who she is. I also liked seeing more of a personality to Raven and learning about him. He no longer is our Mysteries boy that shows up and disappears again after a couple of sentences. We also get to meet more of who Raven hangs around with and more of the girls in Ava's life. I think one of my favorite parts about this series is the touch of our history thrown in. (from the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, the Titanic, and the Woolworth building)
I really enjoy the way the author lets us get to know the characters around us in due time with the story just as you would when you meet a new person in life. We are not bombarded with information all at once so you get to savor each character. I also enjoyed the thrill of this story and the new danger that comes to Blythewood and the girls. I felt like I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. While the problem I picked up a lot sooner then Ava, the solution was what was interesting to me. I really enjoyed this book and can not wait for the next book.
January 7, 2015
I fear that this book suffers from the dreaded Second Book Syndrome. The first book was action packed, full of world building, and had me constantly trying to figure out what came next. With this book, I found Ava's actions hard to believe - it was one of those where I finished reading, noticed the book was over 400 pages, and sat there wondering what had really happened. I didn't feel like Ava and Raven's relationship really grew that much. I didn't learn too much about the other characters. We meet a new character who is interesting, but then again, we don't really learn that much about him/her.
I was really excited about this sequel, but came away just feeling a bit meh. At one point in the book, There just doesn't seem to be as much urgency when bad things happen to Ava's friends - she just keeps on doing her thing and maybe they'll be rescued eventually.
I was really excited about this sequel, but came away just feeling a bit meh. At one point in the book, There just doesn't seem to be as much urgency when bad things happen to Ava's friends - she just keeps on doing her thing and maybe they'll be rescued eventually.
September 10, 2017
I enjoyed this second installment in the Blythewood trilogy even more than the first. There is definitely some overlap with Harry Potter in these stories, but the historical fiction makes it unique and a lot of fun, as the characters experience Coney Island in 1913 and the grand opening of the Woolworth building. As darkness threatens to overtake the world, I'm looking forward to joining the Blythewood girls in book 3 to see how they navigate the horrors of WWI and, inevitably, save the planet from the shadows.
March 28, 2020
I actively wondered why I was reading this *as I was reading it.* That's never a good sign.
This book kind of felt unnecessary...honestly, the whole series is more than a little disjointed. Personally, I thought this this book was going to go in more of a forced marriage/eugenics direction (because that's where book one left you) and instead all kinds of crazy carnival hijinks ensued, leading to a third book that goes in yet ANOTHER DIRECTION.
Sorry, I'm out. Don't read this. You can do better.
This book kind of felt unnecessary...honestly, the whole series is more than a little disjointed. Personally, I thought this this book was going to go in more of a forced marriage/eugenics direction (because that's where book one left you) and instead all kinds of crazy carnival hijinks ensued, leading to a third book that goes in yet ANOTHER DIRECTION.
Sorry, I'm out. Don't read this. You can do better.
April 20, 2023
A beautiful and gothic sequel. Full of romance and plot twists all the way through. I loooved this book.
Read
December 1, 2023Dnf at 100 something pages
February 4, 2025
Lowkey a whole lot of nothing happened in this one 😭😭 I don’t remember reading any of this at all but 🤷
May 10, 2018
Ava has survived her first year of Blythwood and helped save the Order of the Bells from a possible disaster from the inside out.
Can she get through her second year? Can she take it when she learns who she really is? Why this is all happening to her? Her friends are fighting but then something intricate is going on. Will she be able to figure it all out in time to save the town/her friends and herself?
Read this thrilling second edition of the Blythwood trilogy: Ravencliffe.
Can she get through her second year? Can she take it when she learns who she really is? Why this is all happening to her? Her friends are fighting but then something intricate is going on. Will she be able to figure it all out in time to save the town/her friends and herself?
Read this thrilling second edition of the Blythwood trilogy: Ravencliffe.
September 17, 2019
The second book was even better than the last. To all of you who loved the first book in this series, you should definitely read the second book.
September 2, 2020
A much more exciting installment then the first book. Still really enjoying the magic system/lore of these books and that the stakes keep raising.
September 21, 2019
Avaline Hall is both a magical creature and in love with one, both of which are dangerous at Blythewood Academy. But with Judicus Van Drood still scheming against the Order, she may be all that stands in his way. As everyone else, it seems, fall victim to Van Drood’s evil magic, Ava and Raven search for a way to break the spell that has trapped her friends and teachers, and to find out what it is that Van Drood is really up to. The more she tries to help those she cares about, the more it seems that she will have to reveal her secret to them all, but how will they react when they discover she is half Darkling, a creature they have been taught is an enemy? Will Ava be willing to do anything, and sacrifice her secret, to save her friends?
Blythewood is a place of magic for the girls who attend, but it is also trapped in its traditions. When Ava and the other girls return to school in this second installment of the Blythewood series, the world around them is evolving, while nothing is changing inside Blythewood.
I was surprised by the vast amount of change that we see in Ava early on in the novel, however, it was to the betterment of her character. Ava’s character grew between book one and two, but it was not drastic and unrealistic. Since she is coming to terms with the fact that she is part darkling, she is forced to come to terms with the very real possibility that this could effect her body with changes unusual to young women, as well.
I was happy to finally have a better gimps into the world and community of the Darklings. In book one, Raven was the only Darkling was really get to know. In this second installment, we get to meet many more darklings and see how they live.
I was thrilled to see some new and interesting creatures enter the series as well. I particularly enjoyed meeting Ru and her “family.”
I must comment on the fact that one of the scenes in this novel reminded me greatly of a scene in the novel “Lost in a Book” by Jennifer Donnelly. Though I am also obigated to point out that the similarities are not exact replicas and the novel “Lost in a Book” was published after this novel, I ony read it first.
The writing is easy to follow and the vocabulary was acceptable for the target age group. This is a young adult/teen fantasy novel.
I really enjoyed this novel and look forward to reading the third and final installment in this series. I gave this novel four out of five stars and would recommend this novel to fans of Fallen by Lauren Kate.
I bought my copy of this novel from Bookoutlet.com and the image featured above is my own.
stephanietiner.weebly.com
Blythewood is a place of magic for the girls who attend, but it is also trapped in its traditions. When Ava and the other girls return to school in this second installment of the Blythewood series, the world around them is evolving, while nothing is changing inside Blythewood.
I was surprised by the vast amount of change that we see in Ava early on in the novel, however, it was to the betterment of her character. Ava’s character grew between book one and two, but it was not drastic and unrealistic. Since she is coming to terms with the fact that she is part darkling, she is forced to come to terms with the very real possibility that this could effect her body with changes unusual to young women, as well.
I was happy to finally have a better gimps into the world and community of the Darklings. In book one, Raven was the only Darkling was really get to know. In this second installment, we get to meet many more darklings and see how they live.
I was thrilled to see some new and interesting creatures enter the series as well. I particularly enjoyed meeting Ru and her “family.”
I must comment on the fact that one of the scenes in this novel reminded me greatly of a scene in the novel “Lost in a Book” by Jennifer Donnelly. Though I am also obigated to point out that the similarities are not exact replicas and the novel “Lost in a Book” was published after this novel, I ony read it first.
The writing is easy to follow and the vocabulary was acceptable for the target age group. This is a young adult/teen fantasy novel.
I really enjoyed this novel and look forward to reading the third and final installment in this series. I gave this novel four out of five stars and would recommend this novel to fans of Fallen by Lauren Kate.
I bought my copy of this novel from Bookoutlet.com and the image featured above is my own.
stephanietiner.weebly.com
December 1, 2015
4.5 stars
Despite there being a humongous cast of characters this go-round, which resulted in some of the newbies not being quite as well developed as I would have liked, I thoroughly loved this book. I adored getting to learn more about the Darklings (and meet more of them)and the rest of the mythology of this world. Goodman has a deft hand at weaving the major events of history in with this story, giving them a magical explanation.
The one true negative remark I can make against this book is that Goodman seems to be laying the groundwork for a dreaded love triangle. It seems that so many authors who have paired up their main character in the first book or a trilogy or series tend to add a second possible love interest in sequels as an easy way to add tension and conflict to the story. What I'd really rather see is the main character and the original pairing (in this case Raven and Ava)grow more in their relationship and learn how to work through difficulties that don't happen to be another guy sniffing around.
It's not as if Goodman didn't have enough material to work with, considering Ava was struggling to come to terms with the fact that she is half-Darkling, which would make her a monster to be killed in the eyes of the Order, and the evil threat they faced in the last book might not have been eliminated after all. Add to this the possibility that the Darklings might exile Raven for consorting with someone who is not fully his kind, then I'd say a love triangle a superfluous plot point, wouldn't you all?
All that aside, I am looking forward to the next book, which looks to incorporate the first World War, an oft neglected time period in YA literature (for some reason WWII seems to be the favored stomping ground). Hopefully, Ava will come to her senses and realize how good she has it with Raven and their mission to eradicate an evil from the world will go about unhindered by romantic melodrama.
Despite there being a humongous cast of characters this go-round, which resulted in some of the newbies not being quite as well developed as I would have liked, I thoroughly loved this book. I adored getting to learn more about the Darklings (and meet more of them)and the rest of the mythology of this world. Goodman has a deft hand at weaving the major events of history in with this story, giving them a magical explanation.
The one true negative remark I can make against this book is that Goodman seems to be laying the groundwork for a dreaded love triangle. It seems that so many authors who have paired up their main character in the first book or a trilogy or series tend to add a second possible love interest in sequels as an easy way to add tension and conflict to the story. What I'd really rather see is the main character and the original pairing (in this case Raven and Ava)grow more in their relationship and learn how to work through difficulties that don't happen to be another guy sniffing around.
It's not as if Goodman didn't have enough material to work with, considering Ava was struggling to come to terms with the fact that she is half-Darkling, which would make her a monster to be killed in the eyes of the Order, and the evil threat they faced in the last book might not have been eliminated after all. Add to this the possibility that the Darklings might exile Raven for consorting with someone who is not fully his kind, then I'd say a love triangle a superfluous plot point, wouldn't you all?
All that aside, I am looking forward to the next book, which looks to incorporate the first World War, an oft neglected time period in YA literature (for some reason WWII seems to be the favored stomping ground). Hopefully, Ava will come to her senses and realize how good she has it with Raven and their mission to eradicate an evil from the world will go about unhindered by romantic melodrama.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2015
"Ava has to choose...love or Blythewood?" Ugh, that just makes me feel a bit misled after having read the entire book. But never mind; just keep reading my review if you honestly want to know what I thought.
I read the first book and really enjoyed the writing, I decided to read this one. It took me about 3 months to finish it because I got uninterested several times and stopped reading.
However, I'll just focus on what I actually got out of the book. Ava and Raven's relationship seemed too set in stone and didn't develop at all throughout the entire book. It is sort of a disappointment considering the book was supposed to be about her choosing 'love or Blythewood.' Yet, at the same time, it isn't and I'm quite glad. I liked Nathan's character in this book so much. And van Drood's character was too one-dimensional for my liking (even though he's the antagonist and you're not really even supposed to like him). Plus, the overall theme I gathered from this book is acceptance. Accept yourself and your friends should do the same with you and themselves alike. So, it had an okay message but it's oddly unsatisfying and disappointing at the same time.
Anyway, this book was not what I expected and I'm sad because the first one was a lot more interesting and more filled with plot, should I say? This one felt a bit anticlimactic but there were some parts that helped create somewhat of a story. So was this book worth the read? I guess. And now I'm probably going to read the final book just to see and hope it makes up for all this one was not.
I read the first book and really enjoyed the writing, I decided to read this one. It took me about 3 months to finish it because I got uninterested several times and stopped reading.
However, I'll just focus on what I actually got out of the book. Ava and Raven's relationship seemed too set in stone and didn't develop at all throughout the entire book. It is sort of a disappointment considering the book was supposed to be about her choosing 'love or Blythewood.' Yet, at the same time, it isn't and I'm quite glad. I liked Nathan's character in this book so much. And van Drood's character was too one-dimensional for my liking (even though he's the antagonist and you're not really even supposed to like him). Plus, the overall theme I gathered from this book is acceptance. Accept yourself and your friends should do the same with you and themselves alike. So, it had an okay message but it's oddly unsatisfying and disappointing at the same time.
Anyway, this book was not what I expected and I'm sad because the first one was a lot more interesting and more filled with plot, should I say? This one felt a bit anticlimactic but there were some parts that helped create somewhat of a story. So was this book worth the read? I guess. And now I'm probably going to read the final book just to see and hope it makes up for all this one was not.
November 15, 2014
I got the book for free at New York Comic Con, so I went into it completely blind. I didn't even realize it was the second book in a series until a couple pages in. Though there were some parts that confused me because of it (like Nathan somehow being able to attend an all-girls school), I was able to follow along well enough. I really enjoyed Ava's journey and her blossoming romance with Raven, as well as all it entailed.
I wish the world was fleshed out a bit more. Even though it was over 400 pages, there was still some things that were briefly touched upon (such as racism, prejudices, and misconceptions) that really should have been addressed, especially for a book that takes place in the early 1900s. There were several major revelations that went by way too fast, with almost no negative consequences that you would expect from the time period. There was also what seemed to be an important dinner that was brought up in the book and then never mentioned again which seemed odd, given how much time the book spent on everything else that occurred in that specific scene. However, the copy I received was an advanced reader's copy, it's entirely possible this was already addressed as the book was edited.
I liked it enough that I will give the first book a chance, and pick up the final copy of this book when it comes out.
I wish the world was fleshed out a bit more. Even though it was over 400 pages, there was still some things that were briefly touched upon (such as racism, prejudices, and misconceptions) that really should have been addressed, especially for a book that takes place in the early 1900s. There were several major revelations that went by way too fast, with almost no negative consequences that you would expect from the time period. There was also what seemed to be an important dinner that was brought up in the book and then never mentioned again which seemed odd, given how much time the book spent on everything else that occurred in that specific scene. However, the copy I received was an advanced reader's copy, it's entirely possible this was already addressed as the book was edited.
I liked it enough that I will give the first book a chance, and pick up the final copy of this book when it comes out.
October 17, 2016
"I felt, for the moment at least, that I was home. Not because I was returning to Blythewood, but because I was sitting beside a friend--and really, what other sort of home was there?"
A charming followup to Blythewood. Ravencliffe takes us beyond the protected realm of Ava's boarding school refuge and into a world that's a little bit darker. We're granted more diverse characters and stronger, sassier developments for some of the usual suspects (Helen kills it in this installment). Drood is up to his usual evil antics, but there's also a suggestion of that flicker of light he may still possess.
The magic folk, however, are the real stars of this show. I love the glimpses into the Darkling way of life, the diversity of the carnival crowd, and Etta's quiet but powerful role as a bridge between long divided factions. And Ava, of course, has her chance to shine and come fully to terms with her new identity. Ravencliffe felt fuller in regards to world expansion and character depth. Goodman's portrayal of Coney Island, the sinking of the Titanic, construction of the Woolworths building, and similar historical elements were perfectly executed and offered both story credibility and depth. A delightful read.
A charming followup to Blythewood. Ravencliffe takes us beyond the protected realm of Ava's boarding school refuge and into a world that's a little bit darker. We're granted more diverse characters and stronger, sassier developments for some of the usual suspects (Helen kills it in this installment). Drood is up to his usual evil antics, but there's also a suggestion of that flicker of light he may still possess.
The magic folk, however, are the real stars of this show. I love the glimpses into the Darkling way of life, the diversity of the carnival crowd, and Etta's quiet but powerful role as a bridge between long divided factions. And Ava, of course, has her chance to shine and come fully to terms with her new identity. Ravencliffe felt fuller in regards to world expansion and character depth. Goodman's portrayal of Coney Island, the sinking of the Titanic, construction of the Woolworths building, and similar historical elements were perfectly executed and offered both story credibility and depth. A delightful read.
October 20, 2015
Meh. Like the first book in this series I read this one feeling like I was supposed to be feeling something ... but feeling nothing. Everything felt flat. The characters were flat. The intrigue was flat. The danger felt flat. The romance was exceedingly flat. I finished this book because I felt like I had to finish it, not because I had any desires to know what happened next. Why? Well ... I don't exactly know. The writing seems good. It really does. But for some reason it failed to move me at all. Maybe its an it's-me-not-you thing and others will come to love this story. But for me, at least, this is a story that has all the right elements to make it potentially a good story, but lacking the heart to bring the story home. I'll stick book three on my watch list to see how the whole thing concludes, but I'll only be picking it up if I can borrow it from the library or snag a great amazon deal in the future. Only two stars for this one. It was okay.
February 6, 2015
I loved Blythewood, and cannot explain my reluctance to pick up book 2 -- once I did, of course, I was swept away again immediately. Not in quite the same way, though -- this one is all motion and romantic angst -- something I'm willing to put up with for the time being. There are a lot of weird plot holes, there was a point in which I went back to read a couple of previous chapters because it was so unclear whether Ava had revealed her nature or not. It's just a bit sloppy and convoluted, but enjoyable for all that.
June 5, 2016
Not as good as the first one, which I loved, but still quite enjoyable.
I like that the overall message of these books is to treat all people equally.
As with the first one, I really liked the historical facts interspersed with the fantasy story. References to Woolworths, as well as famous people from the early 20th century made the world richer and more believable.
I'm excited to read the third and final novel to see how this ends. I can't wait to bring Van Drood down once and for all.
I like that the overall message of these books is to treat all people equally.
As with the first one, I really liked the historical facts interspersed with the fantasy story. References to Woolworths, as well as famous people from the early 20th century made the world richer and more believable.
I'm excited to read the third and final novel to see how this ends. I can't wait to bring Van Drood down once and for all.
December 5, 2014
A disappointment after the first book. Ava makes some uncharacteristic/unbelievable choices, the plot is mediocre, the ending glib. And barely any time is given to school life, possibly less than in HP7.
April 27, 2015
Smiley face and melted heart☺️❤️
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November 30, 2016This series is so fucking good. I kind of don't want to read book 3 because then I'll be done.
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