What do you think?
Rate this book
The Fury Triad #2
The Dead Shall Live
At midnight on Samhain, the dead shall roam.
THE DEAD SHALL LIVE begins the moment the award-winning dark YA fantasy, THIS CRUMBLING PAGEANT, ends—with two kings but only one throne. Persephone Fury’s Dark powers are finally under control but at a horrific price, and she is married to a man she has long loathed but with whom she shares her Dark burden.
Nevertheless, her beloved Robin has sworn to bring her back from the Dark.
“To unthrone the usurper, return to the cradle of the Fury.”
This mysterious message from within the stronghold of the enemy sends Persephone to Ireland with Vespasian. There, they will finally learn the truth and horror of their Dark powers and the prophecy that binds them together.
Death in all its forms is Vespasian’s gift and Persephone’s curse.
How much more of her soul will she have to sacrifice to the Darkness within?
And under the malevolent midnight moon on Samhain, who are the dead that shall live?
Preorder THE DEAD SHALL LIVE today!
THE DEAD SHALL LIVE begins the moment the award-winning dark YA fantasy, THIS CRUMBLING PAGEANT, ends—with two kings but only one throne. Persephone Fury’s Dark powers are finally under control but at a horrific price, and she is married to a man she has long loathed but with whom she shares her Dark burden.
Nevertheless, her beloved Robin has sworn to bring her back from the Dark.
“To unthrone the usurper, return to the cradle of the Fury.”
This mysterious message from within the stronghold of the enemy sends Persephone to Ireland with Vespasian. There, they will finally learn the truth and horror of their Dark powers and the prophecy that binds them together.
Death in all its forms is Vespasian’s gift and Persephone’s curse.
How much more of her soul will she have to sacrifice to the Darkness within?
And under the malevolent midnight moon on Samhain, who are the dead that shall live?
Preorder THE DEAD SHALL LIVE today!
520 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2017
7 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Burroughs
19 books256 followersI love to check out your [yes, your] ratings and comments about the books I love, the books I hate, the books I am not sure I want to read and am trying to decide, and books I'm not sure that I've read before and am skimming your comments to see if they shake a memory loose. But the best is when I can wallow in your love for the books I love and your annoyance for the books that annoy me. Best ever.
I avoid spoilers of any kind so a lot of times I read the first sentence you wrote, think "oh yeah, that is something I want to investigate and/or read!!!" and don't read another word you wrote because I don't want to know the details.
As for me, the analysis and time it takes for me to come up with a real review is beyond calculation. My brain doesn't work that way. I have weird learning disabilities that make it hard to think that way and do that kind of writing while, on the other hand, I love writing fiction and that's my work so yeah, don't spend time writing reviews.
So when I write my thoughts down about a book they are totally subjective and often more about my experience of reading the book than the book itself. I don't want to write spoilers and so I keep my comments broad most of the time.
But I love Goodreads because it's a great big book club where we can all find like-minded readers who enjoy what we enjoy and whose recommendations send us off the new discoveries. So that's why I'm here!
And now, the official bio:
Award-winning screenwriter and bestselling novelist Patricia Burroughs—Pooks—began her writing career in romance with five published novels. She received nominations and recognition from RT Reviews and was a Finalist for Romance Writers of America's RITA.
For a time, Pooks was lured away from her novels to pursue a career in screenwriting, where her story-telling gift again won her recognition in the form of a Nicholl Fellowship in Screenwriting from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
However, one day she woke up with a new story rooting itself into her heart, a story that couldn't be told in a script but needed many more pages to spread out, flex its muscles and take wing. She returned to novels to write the epic fantasy trilogy that begins with This Crumbling Pageant.
Pooks loves dogs, books, movies, and football. A lifelong Anglophile, she treasures her frequent travels in the British Isles doing research for The Fury Triad. She and her high school sweetheart husband are living happily ever after in their hometown of Dallas, Texas.
~oOo~
Find out more about The Fury Triad, Patricia's new fantasy trilogy, at http://furytriad.com.
Want to join Team Fury and help promote these books while getting insider info and extras? Drop Patricia a line at planetpooks at gmail dot com and see if there is space in the group!
I avoid spoilers of any kind so a lot of times I read the first sentence you wrote, think "oh yeah, that is something I want to investigate and/or read!!!" and don't read another word you wrote because I don't want to know the details.
As for me, the analysis and time it takes for me to come up with a real review is beyond calculation. My brain doesn't work that way. I have weird learning disabilities that make it hard to think that way and do that kind of writing while, on the other hand, I love writing fiction and that's my work so yeah, don't spend time writing reviews.
So when I write my thoughts down about a book they are totally subjective and often more about my experience of reading the book than the book itself. I don't want to write spoilers and so I keep my comments broad most of the time.
But I love Goodreads because it's a great big book club where we can all find like-minded readers who enjoy what we enjoy and whose recommendations send us off the new discoveries. So that's why I'm here!
And now, the official bio:
Award-winning screenwriter and bestselling novelist Patricia Burroughs—Pooks—began her writing career in romance with five published novels. She received nominations and recognition from RT Reviews and was a Finalist for Romance Writers of America's RITA.
For a time, Pooks was lured away from her novels to pursue a career in screenwriting, where her story-telling gift again won her recognition in the form of a Nicholl Fellowship in Screenwriting from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
However, one day she woke up with a new story rooting itself into her heart, a story that couldn't be told in a script but needed many more pages to spread out, flex its muscles and take wing. She returned to novels to write the epic fantasy trilogy that begins with This Crumbling Pageant.
Pooks loves dogs, books, movies, and football. A lifelong Anglophile, she treasures her frequent travels in the British Isles doing research for The Fury Triad. She and her high school sweetheart husband are living happily ever after in their hometown of Dallas, Texas.
~oOo~
Find out more about The Fury Triad, Patricia's new fantasy trilogy, at http://furytriad.com.
Want to join Team Fury and help promote these books while getting insider info and extras? Drop Patricia a line at planetpooks at gmail dot com and see if there is space in the group!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 30, 2017
Holy moly, or should I say, buggering hell! My head is spinning, as I am finally released from the spell of words that the author had woven over me. Some parts were slow, subtly drawing you in until you find yourself helplessly immersed in Persephone's journey. The twists, the sacrifices, the choices! You need to read this book. Actually, you need to re-read book one, then jump into this one. Such a great read! I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 30, 2017
Mere moments ago I finished The Dead Shall Live in a tumult of emotion, the primary one is “I can’t believe it is better than This Crumbling Pageant” I truly can’t believe it, but so it is.
Of course, I hardly know how to write this review without spoilers because the dead who lived is not really the dead I expected to live, but know that that person is living, I see where the clues led. I mean, before that dead person actually drew breath, I had it figured out, but throughout the reading, I didn’t put them together until near the end.
Another aspect I am not sure how to write about without giving away too much is that there is a sub-theme of redemption. Some who we may think despicable may not be quite as awful as we thought and some who we though quite delightful just might not seems that way now. Persephone has depths we could never have imagined.
Let me also caution the reader. Unless one has read “This Crumbling Pageant” one will be hard pressed to understand what the heck is going on in this, Volume Two of the Fury Triad.
The expression “Never trust a Fury” turns up in the dangest most unexpected places and at last we learn the story behind it and well-deserved it is, too.
Once again Burroughs luminous writing style sweeps our feet out from under us. I could have done without the details of the seasickness so many suffered but it tickled my fancy that Vespasian experienced it. I felt like I was on a sailing ship. I feels as if I could find my way though Youghal without any problem. The vistas of Ireland appeared in my mind.
The relationship between Persephone and Vespasian is at the core of the story. Their unlikely marriage, one that neither of them wants, binds them and they try to understand what it truly means to be a wife to a despised husband and a husband to a woman one never wanted to marry. Committed to each other despite not wanting the marriage, they become true partners. Persephone gladly throws off the shackles of the etiquette she was raised to display and Vespasian had no use for etiquette, to begin with. Where she wants to go, he follows, where he leads her, she trails along.
The bulk of this story takes place in Youghal, Ireland (apparently pronounced “Yawl”) and thus Burroughs has to add to the world she is building so we can follow her deeper into the world of the Magi, Fireborn, Earthborn, and the Earthborn.
As was true of “This Crumbling Pageant” Burroughs creates some wonderful new characters, well-developed even if some of them are lacking in personal hygiene and are quite trigger-happy and less than discreet in their amours.
We learn of horrible things done by Cromwell and his army, sending Irish Catholics to Barbados as slaves. We meet a descendant who remembers all too well what happened to her ancestors and a lavishly colorful woman she is, a fit companion to Lord Sinner, whom we met in “This Crumbling Pageant.”
Personally, there were moments when I found the wait for “The Dead Shall Live” too long and too stressful because I longed to know what happened next. But this volume surpassed my hopes and made it worth the wait. It is at least three times as good as Pageant. "Unto the Sky" will be even better.
Of course, I hardly know how to write this review without spoilers because the dead who lived is not really the dead I expected to live, but know that that person is living, I see where the clues led. I mean, before that dead person actually drew breath, I had it figured out, but throughout the reading, I didn’t put them together until near the end.
Another aspect I am not sure how to write about without giving away too much is that there is a sub-theme of redemption. Some who we may think despicable may not be quite as awful as we thought and some who we though quite delightful just might not seems that way now. Persephone has depths we could never have imagined.
Let me also caution the reader. Unless one has read “This Crumbling Pageant” one will be hard pressed to understand what the heck is going on in this, Volume Two of the Fury Triad.
The expression “Never trust a Fury” turns up in the dangest most unexpected places and at last we learn the story behind it and well-deserved it is, too.
Once again Burroughs luminous writing style sweeps our feet out from under us. I could have done without the details of the seasickness so many suffered but it tickled my fancy that Vespasian experienced it. I felt like I was on a sailing ship. I feels as if I could find my way though Youghal without any problem. The vistas of Ireland appeared in my mind.
The relationship between Persephone and Vespasian is at the core of the story. Their unlikely marriage, one that neither of them wants, binds them and they try to understand what it truly means to be a wife to a despised husband and a husband to a woman one never wanted to marry. Committed to each other despite not wanting the marriage, they become true partners. Persephone gladly throws off the shackles of the etiquette she was raised to display and Vespasian had no use for etiquette, to begin with. Where she wants to go, he follows, where he leads her, she trails along.
The bulk of this story takes place in Youghal, Ireland (apparently pronounced “Yawl”) and thus Burroughs has to add to the world she is building so we can follow her deeper into the world of the Magi, Fireborn, Earthborn, and the Earthborn.
As was true of “This Crumbling Pageant” Burroughs creates some wonderful new characters, well-developed even if some of them are lacking in personal hygiene and are quite trigger-happy and less than discreet in their amours.
We learn of horrible things done by Cromwell and his army, sending Irish Catholics to Barbados as slaves. We meet a descendant who remembers all too well what happened to her ancestors and a lavishly colorful woman she is, a fit companion to Lord Sinner, whom we met in “This Crumbling Pageant.”
Personally, there were moments when I found the wait for “The Dead Shall Live” too long and too stressful because I longed to know what happened next. But this volume surpassed my hopes and made it worth the wait. It is at least three times as good as Pageant. "Unto the Sky" will be even better.
November 2, 2017
I would give this book more than 5 stars if I could!
This book is described as the second in a series. Actually its the second part of a full book. In this case you need to read the first book. That being said, I highly recommend the(se) book(s).
Ms Burroughs has created an incredibly in depth fantasy world where the Ordinaries and the Magic live together, but the Magic are unknown to the others. The H and h are Magic, in more ways than one. They are on a quest to save their kind, and reluctantly work together. They are both convinced they are too Dark, to deserve love, or any kind of relationship. I can't wait to read book 3, to see how their relationship progresses - but don't wait till then - immerse yourself in this world now!
I received an ARC of this book, and this is an honest review.
This book is described as the second in a series. Actually its the second part of a full book. In this case you need to read the first book. That being said, I highly recommend the(se) book(s).
Ms Burroughs has created an incredibly in depth fantasy world where the Ordinaries and the Magic live together, but the Magic are unknown to the others. The H and h are Magic, in more ways than one. They are on a quest to save their kind, and reluctantly work together. They are both convinced they are too Dark, to deserve love, or any kind of relationship. I can't wait to read book 3, to see how their relationship progresses - but don't wait till then - immerse yourself in this world now!
I received an ARC of this book, and this is an honest review.
November 2, 2017
I received this book for free in return for an honest review.
Wow! This book is amazing. It is the second in the series of The Fury Triad and I think it is even better than the first. This book starts off with a bang. It is simply a continuation of This Crumbling Pageant, but it doesn't let up through the entire story. I was totally immersed in this story and couldn't put it down. The story is set in Ireland, but the world building and descriptions are wonderfully done. The characters are fantastic. You can feel their anger and sadness throughout the whole story. Ms. Burroughs has not let us down with this story. I can't wait until the next one is out.
Wow! This book is amazing. It is the second in the series of The Fury Triad and I think it is even better than the first. This book starts off with a bang. It is simply a continuation of This Crumbling Pageant, but it doesn't let up through the entire story. I was totally immersed in this story and couldn't put it down. The story is set in Ireland, but the world building and descriptions are wonderfully done. The characters are fantastic. You can feel their anger and sadness throughout the whole story. Ms. Burroughs has not let us down with this story. I can't wait until the next one is out.
November 1, 2017
It’s an interesting thing about middle books. The Dead Shall Live picks up right where This Crumbling Pageant left off—it is NOT a stand-alone book. I don’t want to be spoilery. For me, the pace was a little slow. That worked for Vespasian and Persephone’s developing — I’m not sure if one can call it a relationship yet? Yes, they’re tied together through their magic, but both of them are working on accepting their magic and themselves, and in that process also accepting each other. I felt the book was mostly about them, and everything else was secondary. I don’t know if that’s the intent or my perception. I do have to say there were so many heads I wanted to knock together, though.
I felt like there was a lot of progression toward Untune the Sky—many things that possibly needed to be set up for that book to work. Of course, I won’t know that until I read it! There were some things that did truly shock me, I won’t say what because they may not be the things that shock others. Redemption and moving on from your past—that those things don’t permanently mold you and as people we are still mutable and worth forgiveness are a theme.
I did have a couple of issues with some things; the idea that one’s gender determines the capacity for magic bothered me. There also seemed to be no after-effects from an event that occurred because of this, which puzzles me. Robin was not in it nearly as much as I expected. I had a thought about Robin and the fear that he is not capable of being the True King. I suddenly thought of the movie Excalibur, the one with Helen Mirren, and what a bumbling fool Arthur was when he first appeared in the film. That’s just my personal take on it, but what’s the line? Some people are born great, some people achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them? I had to look it up. Twelfth Night.
I don’t understand (and this could be my reading too fast) why exactly Sebastian is doing what he is. That’s something I am guessing will be answered in Untune the Sky. He is already adored. For some people that isn’t enough. They want it all. I understand that mind magic is probably being used on the family. I hope.
I really enjoyed the time in Ireland. I liked that Vespasian unquestioningly backed Persephone up. Ah. Missed opportunities. Geralt. I loved, loved that whole story. It seems like such a small part, and maybe it is, but it says so much about accepting what is given. And how you treat what is “given,” or at least what you think is given, because when it comes down to it, that’s a pretty arrogant thought (and maybe that’s part of the problem?). I like that it linked back to family, because that is definitely foreshadowing.
I’m not sure this is a review or an after book discussion thing that gets stuck at the end. It’s my thoughts at the moment after some time to reflect. I am definitely looking forward to Untune the Sky, because really at this point I think I have more questions than answers. And I also have some hope that maybe Persephone and Vespasian might find, if not love, at least mutual respect and understanding. For Geralt’s sake.
Review based on an ARC from the author.
I felt like there was a lot of progression toward Untune the Sky—many things that possibly needed to be set up for that book to work. Of course, I won’t know that until I read it! There were some things that did truly shock me, I won’t say what because they may not be the things that shock others. Redemption and moving on from your past—that those things don’t permanently mold you and as people we are still mutable and worth forgiveness are a theme.
I did have a couple of issues with some things; the idea that one’s gender determines the capacity for magic bothered me. There also seemed to be no after-effects from an event that occurred because of this, which puzzles me. Robin was not in it nearly as much as I expected. I had a thought about Robin and the fear that he is not capable of being the True King. I suddenly thought of the movie Excalibur, the one with Helen Mirren, and what a bumbling fool Arthur was when he first appeared in the film. That’s just my personal take on it, but what’s the line? Some people are born great, some people achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them? I had to look it up. Twelfth Night.
I don’t understand (and this could be my reading too fast) why exactly Sebastian is doing what he is. That’s something I am guessing will be answered in Untune the Sky. He is already adored. For some people that isn’t enough. They want it all. I understand that mind magic is probably being used on the family. I hope.
I really enjoyed the time in Ireland. I liked that Vespasian unquestioningly backed Persephone up. Ah. Missed opportunities. Geralt. I loved, loved that whole story. It seems like such a small part, and maybe it is, but it says so much about accepting what is given. And how you treat what is “given,” or at least what you think is given, because when it comes down to it, that’s a pretty arrogant thought (and maybe that’s part of the problem?). I like that it linked back to family, because that is definitely foreshadowing.
I’m not sure this is a review or an after book discussion thing that gets stuck at the end. It’s my thoughts at the moment after some time to reflect. I am definitely looking forward to Untune the Sky, because really at this point I think I have more questions than answers. And I also have some hope that maybe Persephone and Vespasian might find, if not love, at least mutual respect and understanding. For Geralt’s sake.
Review based on an ARC from the author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2019
Disclaimer: I was given this book for free as part of the Library Thing Early Reviewer (LTER) program for an honest review.
This book picks up where book one left of. The book continues to have great story and character development. Persephone continues to explore her powers and how they intertwine with Vespasian.
It was great to see Persephone grow and mature as the story progresses. I found myself liking her and many of the decisions she had to make. I also like her and Vespasian as a couple, and though it was not a healthy or good relationship to begin with, I felt that as they grew as people, their relationship grew and improved.
Many of the characters from the first book appear in this second book. It was good to see how they influenced the story and their role and relationship with both Persephone and Vespasian.
I eagerly await the relase of book 3 in the trilogy, as book 2 ended with an amazing story twist that I did not see coming.
This book picks up where book one left of. The book continues to have great story and character development. Persephone continues to explore her powers and how they intertwine with Vespasian.
It was great to see Persephone grow and mature as the story progresses. I found myself liking her and many of the decisions she had to make. I also like her and Vespasian as a couple, and though it was not a healthy or good relationship to begin with, I felt that as they grew as people, their relationship grew and improved.
Many of the characters from the first book appear in this second book. It was good to see how they influenced the story and their role and relationship with both Persephone and Vespasian.
I eagerly await the relase of book 3 in the trilogy, as book 2 ended with an amazing story twist that I did not see coming.
November 29, 2017
I didn't think it was possible to come close to the first book in this series, but this does and then some! I am so invested in these characters I don't want the series to ever end. Persephone and Vespasian have a love-hate relationship that neither one is truly aware of. At times you just want to shake them. It is hard for them given their pursuit of evil in the courts. Between the war and the changes in her family, she truly seems alone at times. This is a very complicated story line that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It is very hard to get into details without giving spoilers. This series is so well written I truly believe it should be read by all. Can hardly wait for next book
November 6, 2017
This review will contain spoilers.
This is a staggering novel that kept me up late every single night until I finished reading - a masterful blending of fantasy, mystery, and romance. And if you're a sucker for romance like I am, you will not be disappointed.
I am putty in the hands of an author who can portray a protagonist whose journey checks off all my boxes. Give me a man from a family cursed with poverty that brings about neglect of all his needs, emotional as well as physical. Let him have a past in which he does things, both good and bad, for ignoble reasons. Now, give him an epiphany of understanding that drives him to do the right things for his people, regardless of the consequences for him personally. Have him deny himself any solace as self-imposed punishment for his sins.
Now bring in a woman who sees through to the core of him and chooses him anyway. Chooses him over and over again, regardless of who asks the question.
Persephone is a mighty heroine, acknowledged by all - even her impossible husband - as the most powerful magician in recent memory. As a child she had an insatiable drive to learn. As a woman, she is able to channel that learning into finding the full meaning of the prophecy that drives the Earthborn rebellion.
I waited for what felt like forever for this book to be published. It is the second book in the Fury Triad, preceded by This Crumbling Pageant.
There is a different feel to this book, in that it has a somewhat narrower focus. The first book immersed me in the world-building of the Regency-era Magi and specifically, the role Persephone plays in the struggle to crown the True King of Magi England. The Dead Shall Live focuses on Persephone and the Earthborn rebels - on what they must do to survive to fight another day. Persephone, with the help of her difficult husband, Vespasian Wyllt, has decimated the entire army of the pretender to the throne, but in spite of her best efforts, the pretender survives.
The Dead Shall Live begins exactly where This Crumbling Pageant ended. Literally in the same scene. The Earthborn have lived with the prophecy of the coming of the True King for a long time. As The Dead Shall Live opens, their Seer has just named Robin Fitzwilliam, Persephone's erstwhile fiance, as the True King. It is no surprise that Vespasian utterly rejects the proclamation, but he is a bit surprised when Persephone repudiates it as well. She knows Robin is too weak to be their king.
Persephone has loved Robin since she was thirteen years old, but she is a married woman now. Robin and all the Fury family believe that she was kidnapped and forced into marriage with Vespasian, but Persephone is quick to contradict that notion every time it's expressed. Vociferously. She didn't marry for love, and virtually no kindness exists between her and Vespasian, but she chooses to align herself with the Earthborn and their leader, her wretched husband.
This book takes us from Wales and the sacred grove where the Earthborn sheltered, to a wooden-masted ship sailing the Irish Sea, to the town of Youghal in Ireland. Throughout the journey, we watch the dance between Persephone and Vespasian. Both are too intelligent and learned to be understood by anyone else. Both have deep resentment toward the other for a variety of reasons. But both have also experienced the stupendous power they wield when they blend their magic together.
And say what you will about either of them, but the power they share is more of an aphrodisiac than any love potion.
I received an advance copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This is a staggering novel that kept me up late every single night until I finished reading - a masterful blending of fantasy, mystery, and romance. And if you're a sucker for romance like I am, you will not be disappointed.
I am putty in the hands of an author who can portray a protagonist whose journey checks off all my boxes. Give me a man from a family cursed with poverty that brings about neglect of all his needs, emotional as well as physical. Let him have a past in which he does things, both good and bad, for ignoble reasons. Now, give him an epiphany of understanding that drives him to do the right things for his people, regardless of the consequences for him personally. Have him deny himself any solace as self-imposed punishment for his sins.
Now bring in a woman who sees through to the core of him and chooses him anyway. Chooses him over and over again, regardless of who asks the question.
Persephone is a mighty heroine, acknowledged by all - even her impossible husband - as the most powerful magician in recent memory. As a child she had an insatiable drive to learn. As a woman, she is able to channel that learning into finding the full meaning of the prophecy that drives the Earthborn rebellion.
I waited for what felt like forever for this book to be published. It is the second book in the Fury Triad, preceded by This Crumbling Pageant.
There is a different feel to this book, in that it has a somewhat narrower focus. The first book immersed me in the world-building of the Regency-era Magi and specifically, the role Persephone plays in the struggle to crown the True King of Magi England. The Dead Shall Live focuses on Persephone and the Earthborn rebels - on what they must do to survive to fight another day. Persephone, with the help of her difficult husband, Vespasian Wyllt, has decimated the entire army of the pretender to the throne, but in spite of her best efforts, the pretender survives.
The Dead Shall Live begins exactly where This Crumbling Pageant ended. Literally in the same scene. The Earthborn have lived with the prophecy of the coming of the True King for a long time. As The Dead Shall Live opens, their Seer has just named Robin Fitzwilliam, Persephone's erstwhile fiance, as the True King. It is no surprise that Vespasian utterly rejects the proclamation, but he is a bit surprised when Persephone repudiates it as well. She knows Robin is too weak to be their king.
Persephone has loved Robin since she was thirteen years old, but she is a married woman now. Robin and all the Fury family believe that she was kidnapped and forced into marriage with Vespasian, but Persephone is quick to contradict that notion every time it's expressed. Vociferously. She didn't marry for love, and virtually no kindness exists between her and Vespasian, but she chooses to align herself with the Earthborn and their leader, her wretched husband.
This book takes us from Wales and the sacred grove where the Earthborn sheltered, to a wooden-masted ship sailing the Irish Sea, to the town of Youghal in Ireland. Throughout the journey, we watch the dance between Persephone and Vespasian. Both are too intelligent and learned to be understood by anyone else. Both have deep resentment toward the other for a variety of reasons. But both have also experienced the stupendous power they wield when they blend their magic together.
And say what you will about either of them, but the power they share is more of an aphrodisiac than any love potion.
I received an advance copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
December 6, 2017
All the heart eyes for this one! Book two does nothing but extend and improve the amazingness from book one. I would normally be so sad at having to wait what will probably be years before book three comes out, but then I think about how I’ll get to re-read the first two several times between now and then, and the wait doesn’t seem so bad. Persephone and Vespasian may have taken over a spot in my top three otp’s. Forget Willow and Tara. Perspasian for life!
February 10, 2018
I REALLY enjoyed The Dead Shall Live! Vespasian reminds me of Snape in the Harry Potter series. Is he evil? or is he good? As I mentioned before, I am a fan of legends like King Arthur, and your books really are wonderful. I am really looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 11, 2019
Best Series Ever!
I downloaded the first in this series, The Crumbling Pageant, months ago but never got around to reading it. I'm so glad that i finally did,I'm in love! Patricia creates a world with characters in our that draw you in and you never want to leave. Her stories kept me up until 3am, only going to bed because i literally couldn't keep my eyes open any longer.
The Dead Shall Live was just as good as the first in this triad. The worst part about it is that the third is not out for me to download yet. My favorite part about this story of Persephone Fury Wyllt's life is that you experience every thought and feeling that goes through her and her wretched husband, who believe it or not you actually end up liking. There were so many new revelations in this book,both good and bad, that i can't wait to see where they take the story. This book does end on somewhat of a cliff hanger,but that doesn't bother me.
I honestly can't say enough good things about this storyline. It's definitely one that will leave me empty and depressed when it is over.
I downloaded the first in this series, The Crumbling Pageant, months ago but never got around to reading it. I'm so glad that i finally did,I'm in love! Patricia creates a world with characters in our that draw you in and you never want to leave. Her stories kept me up until 3am, only going to bed because i literally couldn't keep my eyes open any longer.
The Dead Shall Live was just as good as the first in this triad. The worst part about it is that the third is not out for me to download yet. My favorite part about this story of Persephone Fury Wyllt's life is that you experience every thought and feeling that goes through her and her wretched husband, who believe it or not you actually end up liking. There were so many new revelations in this book,both good and bad, that i can't wait to see where they take the story. This book does end on somewhat of a cliff hanger,but that doesn't bother me.
I honestly can't say enough good things about this storyline. It's definitely one that will leave me empty and depressed when it is over.
April 16, 2018
This book put me under a spell and I rushed through it breathlessly to see what would happen.
It continued with the lovely evocative language of the first book, with its own fair share of twists that I didn’t see coming, but it’s a very different book. The reason I couldn’t give it 5 stars is that Persephone never gets a break from beginning to end, and just has to slog on trying to achieve her goal against all odds. Even though it’s a terrific story, I felt exhausted reading it! I guess that’s just the nature of a 2nd book though, and I can’t wait to see how it all ends.
The slowly evolving relationship is beautifully described and yet I’m really not sure what to expect from book 3, which is what keeps you hooked.
I don’t understand why this series isn’t better known but I’m sure it will be discovered by more people eventually; it’s a force of nature!
It continued with the lovely evocative language of the first book, with its own fair share of twists that I didn’t see coming, but it’s a very different book. The reason I couldn’t give it 5 stars is that Persephone never gets a break from beginning to end, and just has to slog on trying to achieve her goal against all odds. Even though it’s a terrific story, I felt exhausted reading it! I guess that’s just the nature of a 2nd book though, and I can’t wait to see how it all ends.
The slowly evolving relationship is beautifully described and yet I’m really not sure what to expect from book 3, which is what keeps you hooked.
I don’t understand why this series isn’t better known but I’m sure it will be discovered by more people eventually; it’s a force of nature!
April 20, 2018
This fierce story has the power to transport its readers to a time and place where magic abounds.
Read full review in the 2018 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2018 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
December 9, 2017
Amazing world of historical fantasy!
All I can say is WOW! Can’t wait to read the next book! The author paints such vivid and moving words in both books! I am officially a fan!
All I can say is WOW! Can’t wait to read the next book! The author paints such vivid and moving words in both books! I am officially a fan!
February 10, 2018
Better than the first. Character development, action packed, lots and lots of...wounds. It hurts. She hurts, she grows, she feels.
I knew it was coming. muahaha.
I knew it was coming. muahaha.
February 11, 2018
Can't say I liked this book better than the first, and this book was even more drawn out than the last, but it never really loses momentum.
I have very mixed feelings about this story. I can't imagine Persephone ever really loving Vesparian, so I feel this relationship is just miserable. I hate it that she's not with Robin, and despite what Persephone thinks, she doesn't need Vesparian to validate her as a person, nor does it mean she has to be with him because he has the same magic, which I'm still not exactly sure what that magic is, specifically. The ending was a twist I did not see coming, but I guess we'll see what this means when the final book comes out sometime this year.
I have very mixed feelings about this story. I can't imagine Persephone ever really loving Vesparian, so I feel this relationship is just miserable. I hate it that she's not with Robin, and despite what Persephone thinks, she doesn't need Vesparian to validate her as a person, nor does it mean she has to be with him because he has the same magic, which I'm still not exactly sure what that magic is, specifically. The ending was a twist I did not see coming, but I guess we'll see what this means when the final book comes out sometime this year.
January 15, 2018
Book 2 - this was more difficult for me to plow through. That's probably because our main character, Persephone, was going through her own rebirth of sort - from pampered/loving familial upbringing to hard scramble/scrutinized newlywed. Still plenty of twists and surprises, and the magical abilities will never cease to amaze me! The author is never stingy with vocabulary, something I admire because I savor learning new adjectives! Only 3 stars because I am not committed to Book 3 when it is published.
March 8, 2018
Enjoyed, but this really did get draggy and hard to push through. I liked the action and parts where something actually happened, but there seemed to me to be a lot of stuff I skimmed over to get tot the interesting parts. Not sure if I have the wherewithall to push through the last book, but we'll see if it goes on sale.
September 27, 2018
I'm still really impressed with this series and can't wait for book 3! There were a few editing issues that made it into this Kindle edition or I would have rated it 4 stars. Great depth of character development, this combined with the fantastic world development are what make this such a stand out series. It ranks in one of my favorite series overall. Can't wait to see where this author goes!
June 19, 2022
Don't know if I will read more of this series.
February 28, 2019
For she was the cursed daughter, with the burden of Death upon her soul.
And surging inside her like life itself
Summary
Persephone finally learned to embrace her Dark powers, but that lesson had a terrible price. But still, there is no time for her to rest. A mysterious prophecy sends her on a quest to Ireland. Before all of this is over she will have to decide how much is she willing to give up to Darkness. And the answer might be everything
Writing
Burroughs' writing style is one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen. It's incredibly flowery and poetic. It reminds me a lot of Tahereh Mafi's style, but instead of being overly verbose, it actually compliments the book very well. You can feel that the author is completely and irrevocably in love with this story in every single sentence. It's incredible.
Something I was really disappointed by (though I completely understand it) was the lack of music in this book. It was my favourite thing about the previous novel and I was really looking forward to experiencing that again. The author writes descriptions of music so masterfully, that it feels like you can almost hear it. It's amazing. And I was really missing that.
Characters
I will admit it - I really didn't like the main pairing in this book. I felt like Vespasian and Persephone just made each other miserable, even though their powers are complementing each other so well. I was resenting the author for ripping Persephone away from her Robin and throwing her on this heartbreaking path. But now I don't.
I couldn't stand Vespasian at the beginning. I was annoyed by everything he did or said. But over time - just like Persephone - I started to feel sympathy and respect for him despite myself. He's definitely not a typical YA love interest. But that's exactly what made me like him so much. I noticed how he empowered Persephone, how he made her grow, how he respected her. And yes, he is mean and short-tempered. But I grew to like his snappy comments and his easy banter with Persephone as well. Damn him, he really grew on me.
And when it comes to Persephone - I loved the way she changed in this novel. She emanates this kind of quiet strength that's not very obvious, but it's always there. And it's wonderful. Her journey in this book was tough and heartbreaking, but incredibly inspiring.
Plot
I am not going to lie, it took a while for this story to actually drew me in. I struggled with it at the beginning. A lot. It's pretty slow and I was annoyed at Vespasian. At Persephone. At Robin. At everyone, really. And honestly I was reading only because I enjoyed the writing style so much. But I am so glad I stayed. Once I reached the middle of the book I knew I was going to love it. And I was right. But it took me a while to get there.
Something I really appreciated was the fact that the author included the last three chapters of the previous book in this one. The action of this novel starts immediately after the end of the last, so it was incredibly convenient and made the overall reading experience much more pleasant. If it wasn't for those last three chapters I would have been very, very confused.
Overall
It's a really good book. It has none of the YA clichés and tropes I am used to. It's a wonderful reading experience. And if you picked it up, but found yourself struggling to get through the beginning - keep pushing forward. It's really worth it.
I recieved a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 7, 2017
It hurts so good.
Persephone is a great character. A perfect Fathers Daughter who lives by the fathers rules. Even in rebellion. She so honorable she chooses guilt and suffering over forgiveness. Very patriarchal.
I feel sorry that Vesp must constantly put her down. Yes it comes from his own hurt, but it’s painful when you know what’s causing it and the character stays so blind.
This abuse builds her strength but her underworld suffering is hurtful to me as a reader. She touches on all the pain involved in the #metoo# campaign
Persephone is a great character. A perfect Fathers Daughter who lives by the fathers rules. Even in rebellion. She so honorable she chooses guilt and suffering over forgiveness. Very patriarchal.
I feel sorry that Vesp must constantly put her down. Yes it comes from his own hurt, but it’s painful when you know what’s causing it and the character stays so blind.
This abuse builds her strength but her underworld suffering is hurtful to me as a reader. She touches on all the pain involved in the #metoo# campaign
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews