At twenty- two, Claire has survived years of being a gladiator slave. After managing to escape she has been on the run ever since with her companions and the rebel leader, Lexa. Claire has something their self proclaimed emperor wants, a mysterious magical necklace wrapped up in myth and legend that for some reason only works for Claire. Well, works for Claire with extreme consequences. Seven of these gems exist and after months of struggle, Claire has only managed to find two others and their Xineophs. They think they might know where the next one is, but bounty hunting monsters, mysterious earthquakes and confusing magic lurks with every step. Claire’s struggles to understand her new magic, and somehow the terrifying process of working up the courage to tell Lexa how she feels. Join Claire and her companions as they rebel against oppressive forces, defy the odds, and kindle a passionate romance amidst the chaos. In a realm where danger hides at every turn, they must find the strength to confront their destiny and shape a future where love and freedom prevail.
Enjoyed the first one, but this one revealed more about the world, the lore, and the characters. It also kind of answered the question of how humans got down there. I liked the pace a lot better and I am very much looking forward to the next one!
I'm happy to say that the sequel was better than the first book: the writing improved, though it was still a bit abrupt, more details about the world and magic were revealed and there were some big developments regarding the romance. I've really enjoyed the romance in this book, the partnership between Claire and Lexa, the affection and protectiveness; it was very good. The secondary characters were present and utterly delightful, especially Melissa, but I do wish some more details about their histories were disclosed. Maybe in the next book. The action scenes were just as gripping and well written and there were some scenes that were really tense. And some that were quite funny!
At this point, I think I'd read any book by this author without knowing anything other than she wrote it. Powerful, emotional, unexpected turns of plot. Great world & character development.
If you have eyes and love fantasy action-adventure with a very little romance (straight and LGBTQ+, at least I think the dragon counts as a +), you need to read this.
It's sweet, funny, and full of more action than any of these characters expected when they began.
First off, this is an adventure and not a sapphic romance, which is exactly what I wanted to read. The ensemble of characters is diverse and quite likeable. The plot is fairly good, but several parts seemed easily convenient with conflicts where I was unable to suspend my disbelief.
I have way too many books in my TBR to complete the series. It's probably best suited for readers without a solid science background, like myself.
This series is pure fun and has action a plenty. I have a soft spot for books that are full of action, whether it be a long series with combat sequences galore or quests/adventure such as this series. Luckily, the prequel can be read as a standalone. I found out about it in the midst of reading Claire’s story arc. I definitely enjoyed this series and eagerly await the next. Well done.
Continues to build and unravel more questions than answers to quote the characters. Love the cadence and balance of the book. The attitudes and personality of support characters and how they blend and compliment the main characters and their mission. Anxiously awaiting book 3!
A great second installment of this series filled with adventures and great characters. As each finds their authentic self, it give eachother power to hopefully find the strength to fight the evil that has enslaved humanity.
Book two is even better than the 1st because the group has entered into their quest, and it's full of all sorts of challenges. And then there is Claire and Lexa, who have finally admitted their feelings for each other. Fantastic, moving on to book 3.
I think the dragon and I would make awesome buddies. I cracked up every time she/he is full of it, please let it be on the next book and this was fun to read indeed.