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No Greater Sorrow
As war looms on the horizon, Alejandra Ruiz and her best friend Violet must undergo a series of deadly Trials to secure their places as Dark Saints. Thrust into these perilous challenges with barely any training, Aleja is forced to rely on her burgeoning magical abilities to survive.
But the stakes are even higher than they appear. The Knowing One, a being feared by mortals and immortals alike, has fallen under a deadly curse—a curse that Aleja herself is responsible for.
As the curse weakens him, their enemies grow stronger. A defector brings news of a terrifying to capture Death itself and use it to destroy everyone in the Hiding Place once and for all.
To save both the Knowing One and his realm, Aleja must face treachery, passion, and betrayal, all while harnessing her own dangerous magic.
But the stakes are even higher than they appear. The Knowing One, a being feared by mortals and immortals alike, has fallen under a deadly curse—a curse that Aleja herself is responsible for.
As the curse weakens him, their enemies grow stronger. A defector brings news of a terrifying to capture Death itself and use it to destroy everyone in the Hiding Place once and for all.
To save both the Knowing One and his realm, Aleja must face treachery, passion, and betrayal, all while harnessing her own dangerous magic.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2024
83 people are currently reading
263 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
July 18, 2024
I was so excited to start this and now I’m so sad it’s over. So much had happened and so much more needs to. Aleja has had many lives and now she has to protect hers and everyone else’s. She will do anything to save her world and the people she loves, but will they be able to forgive her for it?
April 25, 2024
I wish that I had more to say about this book.
The first 3/4 were painfully boring and uninteresting. I found myself caring less and less about the main characters, and the story fell flat. The romance just doesn't hit. A couple of stones have more chemistry between them than the MMC and FMC.
Like the first book, it takes a long time to get going. I wish the final quarter was enough to make the slog feel worthwhile, but it isn't. There is a lot of going round in circles, and an issue arises that the main characters must overcome that ultimately feels like the author bloating the story to stretch what could have been two books into three.
The story progresses just enough to make you want to pick up the next book. There are a lot of unanswered questions, and it feels as though as the reader I am being strung along with little reward for my efforts.
I am hesitant to leave this review with nothing good to say, so I will admit that the descriptions are beautifully written, the attention to detail with regards to art history is nice, and I'm a fan of the author's reimagining of Hell and the underworld.
The first 3/4 were painfully boring and uninteresting. I found myself caring less and less about the main characters, and the story fell flat. The romance just doesn't hit. A couple of stones have more chemistry between them than the MMC and FMC.
Like the first book, it takes a long time to get going. I wish the final quarter was enough to make the slog feel worthwhile, but it isn't. There is a lot of going round in circles, and an issue arises that the main characters must overcome that ultimately feels like the author bloating the story to stretch what could have been two books into three.
The story progresses just enough to make you want to pick up the next book. There are a lot of unanswered questions, and it feels as though as the reader I am being strung along with little reward for my efforts.
I am hesitant to leave this review with nothing good to say, so I will admit that the descriptions are beautifully written, the attention to detail with regards to art history is nice, and I'm a fan of the author's reimagining of Hell and the underworld.
June 20, 2024
DNF, was so painfully boring. I had high hopes after enjoying the first book. Second killed it for me, super lackluster and the chemistry between the MMC and FMC was so garbo
May 31, 2025
I'm with Aleja... I'm so tired of lies. Because all the drama in this book was because no one could tell the damn truth, and when they tried, no one would listen! Violet is an absolutely awful person too. I really struggled to see this epic friendship she had with Aleja that made her dedicate so much time to finding her when she went missing in Book 1. She is so selfish and the opposite of loyal and tbh, Aleja could do so much better. This book was a bit slower than the first book and a bit more of a slog to get through despite being less than 300 pages, but I am absolutely obsessed with the world-building and theology! 3 to 3.5 stars.
May 18, 2025
Book two of L.B. Black’s gripping series, No Greater Sorrow, turns the tension all the way up—and I couldn’t put it down. This sequel dives deep into the darkness that was only hinted at in book one, pushing Alejandra Ruiz and Violet into a gauntlet of brutal, mind-bending Trials that test not only their strength, but their very sense of self.
The character development in this installment is phenomenal. Aleja is no longer just a girl caught up in the magic, she’s becoming something more, something powerful. Watching her wrestle with who she was, who she is, and who she’s willing to become is one of the highlights of this book. Her decisions feel weighty and real, especially as she begins to understand that power isn’t just about strength—it’s about sacrifice.
Violet also shines here, proving herself as more than just a side character. The bond between the two girls is beautifully portrayed, adding an emotional depth that balances the high-stakes tension of the Trials.
The Trials themselves are thrilling—fast-paced, psychological, and rich with magic and lore. L.B. Black does an excellent job making each one feel distinct and meaningful, while weaving in moments of emotional intensity that had me fully hooked. And let’s talk about that cliffhanger—I’m still screaming. It’s the kind of ending that demands you reach for book 3 immediately.
Where this book truly excels is in building on the foundation laid in book one. The world expands in complexity, danger, and depth, while the emotional stakes rise alongside the physical ones. The writing is lyrical without being overdone, and the pacing is tight, pulling you relentlessly from page to page.
A brilliant continuation that blends action, emotion, and magic in all the right ways. If you loved book one, No Greater Sorrow will blow you away.
The character development in this installment is phenomenal. Aleja is no longer just a girl caught up in the magic, she’s becoming something more, something powerful. Watching her wrestle with who she was, who she is, and who she’s willing to become is one of the highlights of this book. Her decisions feel weighty and real, especially as she begins to understand that power isn’t just about strength—it’s about sacrifice.
Violet also shines here, proving herself as more than just a side character. The bond between the two girls is beautifully portrayed, adding an emotional depth that balances the high-stakes tension of the Trials.
The Trials themselves are thrilling—fast-paced, psychological, and rich with magic and lore. L.B. Black does an excellent job making each one feel distinct and meaningful, while weaving in moments of emotional intensity that had me fully hooked. And let’s talk about that cliffhanger—I’m still screaming. It’s the kind of ending that demands you reach for book 3 immediately.
Where this book truly excels is in building on the foundation laid in book one. The world expands in complexity, danger, and depth, while the emotional stakes rise alongside the physical ones. The writing is lyrical without being overdone, and the pacing is tight, pulling you relentlessly from page to page.
A brilliant continuation that blends action, emotion, and magic in all the right ways. If you loved book one, No Greater Sorrow will blow you away.
April 11, 2024
No Greater Sorrow continues after the conclusion of What Is Dark Within Me. Having saved her friend Violet, Aleja now has to pass the three trials to regain her status as a Dark Saint. Meanwhile, Nicolas is gradually succumbing to the results of an unfulfilled price of a bargain. When a defector arrives to the Hidden Place with information about a plot to use Death to kill the Second, Aleja and Nicolas have to determine quickly who they can trust in order to prevent the apocalypse.
As the second book of the series, No Greater Sorrow builds upon the world and characters of the previous book. Aleja is forced to grow into her power as she goes through the excitingly psychological trials. Not only does she have to confront her past, she also has to determine what she is willing to do to obtain her goals. Nicolas, unfortunately, stays rather stagnant this book, doing little to prove himself to Aleja despite what he tells her. His inaction is frustrating and undermines the extreme love he has for Aleja, since he doesn't seem to be willing to work for a world where they both live together. Dying for the one you love is admirable, but it's always harder to live for each other.
This book has a lot of twists and turns, and ultimately it's unclear if Aleja can trust anyone. I can't wait to see how things are resolved in the final installment of the trilogy.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As the second book of the series, No Greater Sorrow builds upon the world and characters of the previous book. Aleja is forced to grow into her power as she goes through the excitingly psychological trials. Not only does she have to confront her past, she also has to determine what she is willing to do to obtain her goals. Nicolas, unfortunately, stays rather stagnant this book, doing little to prove himself to Aleja despite what he tells her. His inaction is frustrating and undermines the extreme love he has for Aleja, since he doesn't seem to be willing to work for a world where they both live together. Dying for the one you love is admirable, but it's always harder to live for each other.
This book has a lot of twists and turns, and ultimately it's unclear if Aleja can trust anyone. I can't wait to see how things are resolved in the final installment of the trilogy.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 20, 2024
'No Greater Sorrow' starts immediately from the ending of the first book in the series "What Is Dark Within Me" so if you haven't read that book yet you have absolutely NO IDEA what is going on! There is 'thankfully' a brief synopsis at the beginning of 'No Greater Sorrow' but it's not the same as reading the book.
That said, WOW! Aleja and Violet are thrust immediately into their trials to become Dark Saints, and those trials have consequences for thier friendship.
The war with the Astraelis has begun in earnest and everyone is scrambling for any advantage they can find. I don't want to post any spoilers here, so i'm being vague on purpose.
I 'think' I've got a handle on how this is going to end based on some cryptic message from the Second. We'll see.
This story gets slightly bogged down in the middle, but there IS a LOT going on on multiple fronts! Strong ending! yet again a cliff-hanger. So, waiting with baited breath for book three and seeing whether I'm prophetic or not.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
That said, WOW! Aleja and Violet are thrust immediately into their trials to become Dark Saints, and those trials have consequences for thier friendship.
The war with the Astraelis has begun in earnest and everyone is scrambling for any advantage they can find. I don't want to post any spoilers here, so i'm being vague on purpose.
I 'think' I've got a handle on how this is going to end based on some cryptic message from the Second. We'll see.
This story gets slightly bogged down in the middle, but there IS a LOT going on on multiple fronts! Strong ending! yet again a cliff-hanger. So, waiting with baited breath for book three and seeing whether I'm prophetic or not.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 10, 2024
I was hoping for more from this book, after the highs of book one I was hoping that No Greater Sorrow would keep that level of energy now that the plot had been developed. It took a long time to get into this story, I think I was 60% through by the time the plot really felt like it was picking up.
There was just a lot of drama between the characters, a lot of tension because everyone was holding onto secrets and lying to each other. With the ending of book 2, it seems like this theme will continue into book 3.
I'm curious how this series will end, I really love the world that L. B. Black built, and I hope Aleja and Nic get their happy ending.
Thank you to L. B. Black and BookSirens for the ARC.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There was just a lot of drama between the characters, a lot of tension because everyone was holding onto secrets and lying to each other. With the ending of book 2, it seems like this theme will continue into book 3.
I'm curious how this series will end, I really love the world that L. B. Black built, and I hope Aleja and Nic get their happy ending.
Thank you to L. B. Black and BookSirens for the ARC.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 20, 2024
4.25/5⭐️
2/5🌶️
“It might be argued that nothingness is the norm, and we live in a brief period when the universe exists—brilliant and remarkably fleeting.”
“Be smart. Be safe. Be vicious.”
“Sometimes there are no villains, Aleja. Sometimes everyone is just trying to survive.”
“Prove yourself. It’s only pain. There is nothing to fear, only to endure.”
“I’ve loved you in every life I’ve ever lived, and I’ll love you in every life that comes after this. But I’ll only forgive you when I know you’re going to stay with me, because I can’t have it any other way, Nic.”
Full disclaimer I got this as an ARC, however it has 0 impact on my thoughts or review!
Wow wow wow wow wow. I’m growing more and more attached to this world as the books go on. I absolutely ADORE nic and I want just a full book of him saying shit to Aleja because everytime he does I literally swoon. Their relationship development through this series so far has been such a highlight and I’m so in love with it.
This book is such an easy to follow read while also having me rack my brain coming up with wack ass hare brained ideas and theories about what is even happening. (I have SO many about Alejas inner voice and I’m so stoked to see if any are true) VIOLET I NEED AN EXPLANATION STAT, I already had trust violated by her in book 1 and here we are again with the secrets, girl please some TRUTH.
GARM MY SWEET BABY BOY I ADORE YOU
(L.B. Take this as an official threat that if a single hair on my boys head is ever hurt again or you make him do that shit to nic again I’ll riot)
So stoked to see where this goes and I will of course be following along
2/5🌶️
“It might be argued that nothingness is the norm, and we live in a brief period when the universe exists—brilliant and remarkably fleeting.”
“Be smart. Be safe. Be vicious.”
“Sometimes there are no villains, Aleja. Sometimes everyone is just trying to survive.”
“Prove yourself. It’s only pain. There is nothing to fear, only to endure.”
“I’ve loved you in every life I’ve ever lived, and I’ll love you in every life that comes after this. But I’ll only forgive you when I know you’re going to stay with me, because I can’t have it any other way, Nic.”
Full disclaimer I got this as an ARC, however it has 0 impact on my thoughts or review!
Wow wow wow wow wow. I’m growing more and more attached to this world as the books go on. I absolutely ADORE nic and I want just a full book of him saying shit to Aleja because everytime he does I literally swoon. Their relationship development through this series so far has been such a highlight and I’m so in love with it.
This book is such an easy to follow read while also having me rack my brain coming up with wack ass hare brained ideas and theories about what is even happening. (I have SO many about Alejas inner voice and I’m so stoked to see if any are true) VIOLET I NEED AN EXPLANATION STAT, I already had trust violated by her in book 1 and here we are again with the secrets, girl please some TRUTH.
GARM MY SWEET BABY BOY I ADORE YOU
(L.B. Take this as an official threat that if a single hair on my boys head is ever hurt again or you make him do that shit to nic again I’ll riot)
So stoked to see where this goes and I will of course be following along
May 5, 2024
Picking up right where book one left off, Aleja and Violet begin the Dark Saint trials, with the Astraelis and the Otherlanders growing closer to war. Aleja is still a formidable bada$$, and I loved seeing her face her trials with courage and determination. She and Nic are facing a lull in their fiery romance; he's being poisoned by his love for her, and she's still trying to regain her past live's memories.. However, they still are such a good pairing, and I love seeing their dynamic. He will protect her beyond his last breath. That's how I like my morally grey shadow daddies: possessive and demanding. Aleja stands her ground, though, and we love to see it play out. I look forward to the next story because of that ending!
April 24, 2024
No Greater Sorrow is the second book in this trilogy and I could not wait to pick this up and dive back into Aleja's story.
This series gives you:
-Witchy vibes
-Seven Deadly Sins
-Second life/second chance
-Immortals
-Romantasy
-Other Worlds
-Shadow Daddy
There were so many things happening in this book and ugh one heck of a cliffhanger 😭
Aleja has that type strong female warrior vibe, and she was a force to be reckoned with in her past life. She's living up to her own legacy and reclaiming and relearning her powers while rekindling her love from her past life as well. I'm obsessed with the relationship between her and Nic and cannot wait for the final book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This series gives you:
-Witchy vibes
-Seven Deadly Sins
-Second life/second chance
-Immortals
-Romantasy
-Other Worlds
-Shadow Daddy
There were so many things happening in this book and ugh one heck of a cliffhanger 😭
Aleja has that type strong female warrior vibe, and she was a force to be reckoned with in her past life. She's living up to her own legacy and reclaiming and relearning her powers while rekindling her love from her past life as well. I'm obsessed with the relationship between her and Nic and cannot wait for the final book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 28, 2024
No greater sorrow - L.B Black
4✨
I enjoyed this book, it took me a few days to finish but that was due to many outside/personal factors as well. There were points where I felt my interest slip away a bit, but it always got my attention again. I am not a fan of multiple/dual POV, it is just to confusing, in this book granted there were not many chapters from a different POV, but it never said that it changed. Which confused me at some points because I didn’t know who I was reading as, if that makes sense.
Other than that I enjoyed this book and would recommend it!
Thanks Booksirens and L.B Black for this E-book, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
4✨
I enjoyed this book, it took me a few days to finish but that was due to many outside/personal factors as well. There were points where I felt my interest slip away a bit, but it always got my attention again. I am not a fan of multiple/dual POV, it is just to confusing, in this book granted there were not many chapters from a different POV, but it never said that it changed. Which confused me at some points because I didn’t know who I was reading as, if that makes sense.
Other than that I enjoyed this book and would recommend it!
Thanks Booksirens and L.B Black for this E-book, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 12, 2024
No Greater Sorrow is the second book in the series. In the first book Aleja saved her friend Violet, together with Nick. She now has to pass 3 trials to regain her status als a Dark Saint. And… Violet is participating too. .
At the same time Nicolas is having trouble with a bargain, he's not honoring. That comes with a price. So with enough troubles as is, they have to stop a war that would easy lead to the end of the world as we know it. No pressure there.
All in all a great story, with great dialog, a lot of nice characters, an ancient love story and a cliffhanger! Waiting for part three!
I received an ARC from the writer, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
At the same time Nicolas is having trouble with a bargain, he's not honoring. That comes with a price. So with enough troubles as is, they have to stop a war that would easy lead to the end of the world as we know it. No pressure there.
All in all a great story, with great dialog, a lot of nice characters, an ancient love story and a cliffhanger! Waiting for part three!
I received an ARC from the writer, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 21, 2025
DNF - 2,5 ⭐️
Bin gerade bei 47% und irgendwie ist bei mir die Luft raus. Es ist nicht schlecht, aber halt auch nicht gut genug um mich zu fesseln. Der erste Teil war schon ähnlich in der Hinsicht.. und gerade interessiert es mich irgendwie nicht mehr genug um weiterzulesen.
Die möchtegern Distanz während gleichzeitig gesimpt wird & einem auf Kampf wieder das obligatorische miscommunication trope eines jeden 2. Teiles aufgedrängt wird -anstatt dass sie einfach mal gescheit miteinander reden und zusammen an ner Lösung arbeiten- und das war glaub der letzte Nagel im Sarg für diese Lesereise.
Kein Bock drauf & wenn der Rest einen nicht fesselt.. naja. Ich steig aus und such mir was anderes.
Bin gerade bei 47% und irgendwie ist bei mir die Luft raus. Es ist nicht schlecht, aber halt auch nicht gut genug um mich zu fesseln. Der erste Teil war schon ähnlich in der Hinsicht.. und gerade interessiert es mich irgendwie nicht mehr genug um weiterzulesen.
Die möchtegern Distanz während gleichzeitig gesimpt wird & einem auf Kampf wieder das obligatorische miscommunication trope eines jeden 2. Teiles aufgedrängt wird -anstatt dass sie einfach mal gescheit miteinander reden und zusammen an ner Lösung arbeiten- und das war glaub der letzte Nagel im Sarg für diese Lesereise.
Kein Bock drauf & wenn der Rest einen nicht fesselt.. naja. Ich steig aus und such mir was anderes.
May 2, 2024
Thanks, L.B.Black, for another great read about the Dark Saints.
It’s another installment about the Otherlanders full of twists and turns, pain, sorrow and darkness. One would think it’s devoid of anything light, but that’s not true. There is also much love and friendship. But also betrayal and surprising alliances. Can Aleja save the realms? That answer will have to wait for another time.
Looking forward to book three!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It’s another installment about the Otherlanders full of twists and turns, pain, sorrow and darkness. One would think it’s devoid of anything light, but that’s not true. There is also much love and friendship. But also betrayal and surprising alliances. Can Aleja save the realms? That answer will have to wait for another time.
Looking forward to book three!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 22, 2024
Wow I can’t say I like cliffhangers unless I have the next book with me ready to read but this one was surprising. This book had so many ups and downs I wasn’t sure where to look for the next piece. Val was not worth all the effort is all I can say about her. I’m not sure Aleja should have trusted her even a tiny bit. The lovers are separated yet again but hopefully not for very long.
Free ARC copy with voluntary review.
Free ARC copy with voluntary review.
July 19, 2024
When the second book hits harder than the first! Massively enjoyed the second installment of this series, and cannot wait to read the third after such a cliffhanger!
Alejas story takes some not so great turns and a few surprising changes that yet again I didn't always see coming! Brilliantly written, with each characters development giving them even more life. You will not regret picking this up!
I recieved a free arc copy of this book and my review is completely voluntary
Alejas story takes some not so great turns and a few surprising changes that yet again I didn't always see coming! Brilliantly written, with each characters development giving them even more life. You will not regret picking this up!
I recieved a free arc copy of this book and my review is completely voluntary
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2025
The sequel is even more immersive and compelling than the first. The plot is rich in twists and turns. The trials that Alej had to take were not only physically demanding but also psychologically profound. They forced her to face her past and question her alliances. I loved the vivid descriptions and the attention to detail bringing the world to life. And I particularly enjoyed the intense relationship between Alej and Nic
May 1, 2024
I think the cover needs to be changed.
Side note: the second trial was strange but the betrayal thing at the end made little sense so I'm hoping that when the third book comes around in December this year this will all make sense.
Violet has very little character development but Aleja has gone sour and Nicolas lost charm so for the third book make it make sense and come full circle.
Side note: the second trial was strange but the betrayal thing at the end made little sense so I'm hoping that when the third book comes around in December this year this will all make sense.
Violet has very little character development but Aleja has gone sour and Nicolas lost charm so for the third book make it make sense and come full circle.
June 24, 2025
4.5 stars. More about Nic and Aleja's past is revealed, and while I found myself annoyed at Aleja being angry at Nic for some of his actions (which are pretty typical MMC actions), this is a really unique story and magic system. I'm always down for a story that centers on "are gods really good or should we just get rid of them all?"
April 15, 2024
4.3 stars! I did like the first book a tad more but only because this one took a bit to get into. That ending , though ….. I still love me some hellhound puppy !!! Glad I got to be an ARC again.
April 15, 2024
I don't usually write reviews but I could not put this down as soon as I got it this morning. I need book 3!!!!!!!!
April 17, 2024
This series is too good for my own good!! 😭 I can’t wait for book 3!!! 😩
April 25, 2024
Getting this as an arc read after also being able to arc read the first is phenomenal of itself. The twists and turns of this book and the heartbreak I felt was intense but truly spectacular.
June 30, 2024
DNF. First one was good but this is simultaneous too boring and disorganized.
August 14, 2024
This was an excellent read I loved it. I love that our fmc isn't so much a pushover as they usually are. She's tough and sassy and actually has her own mind.
August 31, 2024
This is a great series, but a lot of information. I feel like every little detail is super important so you can miss anything.
December 31, 2024
What?! I need the next one now, please.
February 28, 2025
This is the first series I’ve read on kindle unlimited that wasn’t horrible. I’m rabid for the third book….
June 21, 2025
The vibes were spot on. The characters were there. The plot was there. But the pacing took away so much from this book. It made it hard to connect to anything the way I really wanted to
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews