What Beats Within the Tunnels

What Lies Beyond the Realms #2

by Ashley R. O'Donovan

Can the man who shattered her heart also be the key to saving her soul?Lyra has endured far more than any woman her age should. She has a heart full of scars and a mind teeming with questions that can only be answered in Zomea, the alleged realm of the dead. To get there, she must complete the last ceremony to open a bridge. But her belief that Nyx would be with her on this journey has been shattered.Cast aside, Nyx's absence leaves room for Colton—a maddeningly attractive Fae, whose infuriating demeanor hides a deeper connection. As Lyra and Colton grow closer, they are challenged by the darkness stirring within Lyra, threatening both her and the fate of Eguina. According to a prophecy, only one man can save her, and that man is...Nyx.Will Nyx and Colton be able to work together to save Lyra, and can Lyra heal her fractured heart while putting the fate of the realms before her own desires?Please This book contains sexually explicit content, mature language, and elements of violence. It is intended for mature audiences and is not suitable for readers under the age of 18. This is book two in a series.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Fantasy Romance, Dark Romance, Dark Fantasy, Fae, Werewolves

428 pages, Paperback

Published February 27, 2024

Reviews

[always reading ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent continuation of what lies beyond the realms, which I think is actually better than the first. It's a fairly fast-paced, multiple POV fantasy romance with a love triangle that will keep you guessing. Normally I'm able to pick things out, but I genuinely have no clue who the real love interest will be. The world-building is good, and the pacing is excellent. The character development was decent overall. The only complaints I have are that I would have liked to see a better developed FMC, and it felt very insta-lovey to me. 

[ms.Violetg Likes To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The moment I push myself away, it's because I'm terrified of the intensity of my feelings for you. It's not some light attraction. It's strong, possessive, almost overwhelming. The way I am drawn to you, it scares me."

I recently finished What Beats Within the Tunnels, the second installment in the dark fantasy romance series, What Lies Beyond The Realms by @ashleyrodonovan and I absolutely loved returning to the world of Eguina!

This story begins immediately following the gut wrenching and heart-breaking revelations and events that occur at the end of book one, What Lies Beyond The Realms. Lyra, our FMC finds herself in the realm of the Lamia cautiously entrusting the hive leader in an attempt to unlock the bridge to Zomea.

What Beats Within The Tunnels is full of intrigue, continued world building and character development, hidden secrets, longing, complex relationships, and betrayal. I was immediately drawn in to all that we learn about Lyra, her powers, and the history of the realms and the dark sorcerer of the past.

The relationships in this story are complicated, full of hope, hurt, deceit, and more. A secondary relationship that begins to form Between Lyra with an unlikely ally is one that is built on friendship, with tender moments of developing trust and I loved it!

I thoroughly enjoyed following along as Lyra explores more of who she is, and who she is meant to become! I can not wait to continue on with her story!

definitely recommend this story to those who enjoy fantasy romance, dark fantasy romance, Lycans, Faeries, Vampires and Sorceresses!

What Beats Within The Tunnels is available today! On KU, the zon, and Barnes and Noble.

My most genuine and sincerest thanks to
@ashleyrodonovan for having me on your ARC team for What Beats Within The Tunnels and for the incredible promotional box full of so many treasures and character art.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶️🌶️🌶️

[⋅˚₊‧ ୨bree୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.75/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

I ATE this book up and I liked it better than the first one because I believe I am simply a Colton girl. I know...I was personally shocked myself because usually I'm a sucker for a dark hair fae king but Colton has this hold on me.

I liked the growth in Lyra's character in this book and I loved seeing her grow more confident in herself and her skills. I know my girl will conquer the world. She's a queen!!

I usually hate love triangles but this one has been really fun and I'm hoping for the love of all things good in this world that this ends up being a why choose. I am hoping it is and if it's not...I might break down and cry in a corner.

I am so excited to read the next book!!

*This book does require reading the first book in the series, so read the first book before reading this one.

[Kassandra H · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an excellent continuation of this series! I did enjoy this one much more than the first book. I can’t wait to continue the series!

[Kaytee Merchant · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is GOD TIER 🙌🏼 🙏🏼 😍 ❤️
ohhh to experience it again for the first time. ♡

[Alyssa Estep · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Beats Within the Tunnels continues the story of Lyra after she is taken to the "hive" in the Lamina Realm to get ready for the blood moon, to fulfill the prophecy that was told before she was born. Things have taken a dramatic turn after what transpired with Samuel in Tempest Moon. Nyx has kept secrets from her betraying her trust. She has chosen to walk away and follow a new path with a new companion. This companion has volunteered himself to train and teach her, her Fae magic. He follows her into an unknown land keen on protecting her from things she turns a blind eye to.

The book is well written, Ashley O'Donovan did a fantastic job of continuing the story flawlessly. Lyra is starting to become strong and reliant on herself as she learns to control her emotions and magic. Once a girl etched in fear, has become resilient in her task to save the realms. She begins to see a new side to Colton, trying her hardest to let Nyx go. She just has one problem; she has to choose the one who is the light if she chooses wrong the darkness will consume her.

I love this series so much; I am so unbelievably excited for book 3. I'm sure it will be a fantastic read and end to a wonderful series. I just want to say that I am team Nyx, I can't help it maybe I am blinded by the "bad boy". There is just something about Colton that doesn't sit right with me, maybe he is too good to be true. I don't know what it is, but I hope Lyra gets the happy end she deserves, and I am hoping she chooses Nyx, we shall see.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

She did it to me again y’all…left me hanging on another cliff!
This book was so good! Expanded on the characters and the worlds and even helped Lyra work through more things about herself. If you wanted a love triangle, there is one. Colton (IYKYK). My heart has moved on and I am in love! I also enjoyed more various pov’s to get the overall bigger picture.
But man oh man….did the author seriously have to leave me like that?!?! Y’all, if you want a good fantasy with action and romance and working through some good main character development…start with the first book and then get to reading this while you’re at it. That is all! Looking forward to the next one!

[⋆˚࿔ bella 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ · Rating 5 out of 5]

omfg, this book was so much better than the first one! the fantasy? the plot? COLTON???? i’m completely obsessed w them, can’t wait to read the next one, and if Lyra don’t chose my babe Colton i’m ready to go nuts

[The Book Niffler · Rating 5 out of 5]

“What Beats Within the Tunnels” by Ashley R. O’Donovan read on Kindle pgs. may vary pgs. pgs 420 (12.20 mins) Fantasy/Paranormal/Contemporary Romance/Suspense (Spicey- Level 4), (Violence – Level 4) Power, friendship, loyalty, family, commitment, control, betrayal, kidnapping, abandonment, depression, enemies to lovers, redemption, and second chances (Spicey- Level 4), (Violence – Level 4) Power, friendship, loyalty, family, commitment, control, betrayal, kidnapping, abandonment, depression, enemies to lovers, redemption, and second chances Mature Adults Trigger Warnings: See Author’s page for these warnings. Main characters are Princess Lyra, Colton of Dream Forest, King Onyx of Nighthold and Chepi, her glyphie. There are other minor characters as well not mentioned in this review which make this wonderful story possible. This is the second book in the series. The first is What Lies Beyond the Realms and though each book is a stand alone book THIS reader would HIGHLY recommend readers read them in order since it really does take off from the last chapter from the first book right into the story of the first chapter of What Beats Within the Tunnels. Again, the readers can enjoy this book by itself. There is a lot of action, a love interest or should say love complication (spoiler alert), some twists and turns, adventure like you wouldn’t believe, some suspense and quite a few plots running through from the first book through into this book. A theme of finding self; of standing up for what is wrong; protecting the weak or those who are not capable; and of course, good vs evil. This author also has given our main characters some wonderful lines in this story like this one “Lyra,… “catching my hand mid tug, stopping my hair-pulling antics. His gaze is intense, serious, “I happened to enjoy looking at your hair. Please stop tormenting it.” Though this story has some length to let it, it reads fast due to all the action and the fact just didn’t want to put it down. Challenge others to do the same, maybe they too will find themselves sailing to places of less magic with the swords blessed by their breath to fight the good fight. Just make sure to take a friend or two and don’t forget the snacks just in case Twig didn’t pack anything. 😊

[Travel With A Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every page of Ashley R. O'Donovan's "What Beats Within the Tunnels" pulsates with the seductive charm of a realm that is both bustling with promise and on the verge of doom. O'Donovan's writing cleverly veers between the real and the fantastical that creates a captivating plot that has gripped my attention from the very first pages!
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But the characters in this story are what really make it unique; they are all equally colorful and nuanced. O'Donovan creates characters who jump off the page with a vivacity that is just astonishing, from the enigmatic Nyx, whose absence leaves a gap only equaled by his mysterious attraction, to the infuriatingly compelling Colton, whose layers peel away to expose a psyche as troubled as it is compelling!
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Lyra and Colton confront obstacles that put their willpower and very existence to the test as they negotiate the perilous seas of love and destiny! "What Beats Within the Tunnels" is an enormous rollercoaster ride with tremendous stakes that might perhaps determine the fate of whole kingdoms!
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But amidst the turmoil and chaos, questions linger. Can Lyra harness the darkness within her before it's too late? Will she choose the path of light or succumb to the shadows that threaten to engulf her? And what lies beyond the gates of Zomea, beckoning her with promises of answers and salvation? Hands down a 5/5 read with explosive twists and magnificent plot!

[Melissa Kennard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible. Amazing. Fantastic.

What a fantastic continuation of What Lies Beyond The Realms. As mad as I am at the cliffhanger Ashley left, I am thrilled with the adventure she gave us in What Beats Within the Tunnels. Full of emotions, epic adventures and incredible characters, this book is a highly entertaining read. Ashley created a beautiful world that we get to experience with Lyra, Colton and Nyx with many trials and adventures constnstly keeping you entertained and on your toes. I can't wait for book 3.

I highly recommend this series. Reading book 1 is completely necessary to understand what is happening in book 2, but it is well worth every minute spent reading this series. Ashley is developing an incredible voice of her own and clearly has an amazing imagination as the story she gives us is beautiful and unique compared to anything I've ever read. She gives us a wonderful love triangle with fated mates, plus magic, fae, sorcerers, and many more amazing creatures. I can't say enough good about this book, and dare I say I loved it more than book 1. If you're thinking about reading this, check your trigger warning and go for it because this is likely a top read of the year for me.

[Ali Lussier · Rating 4 out of 5]

The cliffies are killing me. 😭 So, as I suspected some things were revealed I had a strong suspicion of but, even more was revealed that had me baffled. Truly, I think the story is going one direction then bam - it's another. I loved being kept on my toes though.

I am absolutely torn between Colton and Nyx. Nyx frustrates me but, I also understand his actions as well and I truly loved getting Colton and Nyx's POVs this book. And Colton, I did not like him when we first met him but, he quickly stole my heart. I truly am terrified of how this ends cause I am a why choose girlie and why can't Lyra have both. Please. 😭🧎‍♀️ Colton is such a breath of fresh air, I love how patient, understanding, loyal and kind he is. The fact he's been through this situation before and then and now he's like "as long as she's happy, even if it's without me - I'll let her go". Like stop! He is too pure for this World.

And Lyra, I definitely enjoyed her growing more into herself and her power. She still did things that would frustrate me but, I also had to remind myself she was 18 so she's not only young but, still grappling from the abuse and heartbreak she's been dealt with her whole life. But I truly loved her growth so far and hope it continues into the final book.

[Britnee Mitchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

*TROPES: Multi POV, Hidden magic, Visions/prophecies

*BRIEF DESCRIPTION (SPOILER FREE): Immediately picking up from where book one left off, Lyra is on a mission to help unlock the bridge to Zomea as she ventures to fulfill her destiny and save her land from darkness. New allies, old flames and plenty of enemies have Lyra reeling from truth after truth being revealed. And maybe the light that is proclaimed to save her, isn't what she originally thought...

*MY THOUGHTS: This book had an nervous up THE ENTIRE TIME. I was just awaiting for the other shoe to drop. With how much happened in book one, I knew I was in for a wild ride and Ashley did not disappoint with this book either! So much happens and so many twists that come so quickly that it really help the reader experience the insanity that Lyra is feeling herself. That, combined with the immense detail of environment, clothing, personalities and the multi POV giving insight to other characters feelings, made this book such a fun read. I felt like I was on the ground, next to these characters and LOVED IT. And the truth bomb near the end.... hold onto yah butts!

[Bibliogal14 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to start this review by saying it is completely necessary to read book 1 before reading this second installment. I will be honest and say that I would have benefitted from a re-read or brief recap before starting this. I jumped right in and found myself struggling to keep up with characters/remembering where we left off… but that’s completely on me!

I really enjoyed this continuation of the series and seeing Lyra continue to grow into her destiny and power. This book admittedly did NOT go where I thought it was going to, which is a good thing. There are lots of twists, turns, and changes to keep you on your toes and BOI is there a cliffhanger at the end.

I sense a bit of a love triangle brewing… felt like I was in the midst of Edward/Jacob and Stefan/Damon glory years once again.

I will say some of the magic elements and action sequences in the world confused me. Often I had to re-read passages to understand exactly what had happened. I also feel like the pacing felt a little off, and some of the characters actions/connections didn’t feel developed at times. However, despite this I still enjoyed and recommend the series. I’ll be anxiously awaiting book 3!

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Page turner! This book picks up right where book 1 left off. I sailed through both these books in a weekend. The story was wonderfully written, and the pace is good. You will get pulled into Lyra’s journey of understanding her magic and her destiny…with many twists thrown in! That’s all I can say without giving the story away! You will be hooked from page 1!

I still get a little baffled why Lyra makes some of the decisions she makes, but I must remember that she is young, native, and was sheltered growing up. I was pleased to see Colton, a secondary character from book 1, become a MMC in this book. The tension between Colton and King Onyx (Nyx) is too good. I am Team Colton all the way though! I bet Rhett (secondary character from book 1) will make an appearance in book 3 (at least I hope so!). I need to see what happens in the next book in the series!

Read this series if you like:
☑️ Love triangle
☑️ Prophecies
☑️ Strong FMC
☑️ Magic
☑️ Fae
☑️ One bed
☑️ Plot twists
☑️ Pet names
☑️ Spicy Paranormal Romance

[graces cozy corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lyra’s journey picks up steam in Book 2, and as she starts tasting freedom, she dives headfirst into exploring her autonomy (and her dating options). Her escapades might feel excessive, but they bring a raw and unapologetic energy that fits her character’s newfound independence. There’s a realism here in Lyra’s liberating but chaotic choices, and you might find yourself rooting for her to let loose.

This book also introduces more of the swoon-worthy Colton, who manages to steal the spotlight with a simple “Who did this to you?” moment that cements his appeal. Nyx, who previously seemed like the ultimate match, suddenly has serious competition. However, Colton’s bond with Drew is an enigma—there’s an intriguing, almost suspicious closeness that could have used more backstory. You’ll end up speculating about Drew and Colton’s relationship, wondering if there’s a hidden history there.

The only downside? For a realm dedicated to “second chances,” Zomea feels woefully neglected, full of lost souls and chaos. The realm’s ruler is notably absent, and it’s hard not to wonder if Lyra might eventually step in as a much-needed leader. And with so many other realms hinted at, it’s disappointing that they don’t play a bigger role here.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Lyra, love awaits you, in its purest, fiercest form. I hope destiny allows me to be the one to show you its depth.”

What Beats Within the Tunnels
Ashley ODonovan
2/27/2024

WOW pretty much sums it up! This book stirred up so many emotions.

Lyra is so resilient and rises to any of challenges that come her way. She’s been betrayed, been told that darkness is going to over take her soul and she has the weight of trying to save her lands all on her shoulders. All the while she has the positive attitude that I wish that I could have.

In this installment Lyra forms new bounds and tries to come to terms with others. We get to meet amazing new characters and some of my favorites return. We get plot twists that we don’t see coming, along with a cliffhanger ending!

I will be thinking about this book until book 3 comes out and I hope it’s sooner rather then later ❤️❤️

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this book as an Aarc for an honest review 🙂

Okay where to even start........
This book sure picked up from the first book and my god it doesnt leave you disappointed in anyway. The twist and turns through out this book was something else. I honestly was lost in this book and this world.
It really gets you gripped with what could happen and who was really there to help Lyra. My heart from book one was always with Nyx but my god I couldnt help but fall in love with Colton too , am i still holding out a little hope that Nyx is Lyra light and saves her....but what also would be amazing is she doesnt need either off them and she does it by herself because believe me she sure mature from book one to book 2 she is total badass and I honestly cant wait for book 3 because.......what the hell was that ending 🤯 can I be angry no because it just makes me more excited for the next book !!
A real page turner , and would 1000% recommend 😁 it has every possible ...believe me 😁

[Rikka Kang · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75

This book takes quite the turn. In continuing her journey toward obtaining truth to save Zomea and her realm Lyra turns to some new and old friends to help her grow her powers and fer fighting abilities. But who can Lyra really trust.

This story takes on a lot of twists and turns while Lyra is growing her person. I did not feel a lot of character growth as we still often seen immature behavior from her that is often blamed on her sheltered upbringing. Her lack of information in regard to her history and her powers is often her downfall in several situations, also, I get using your powers to be draining, but how does this girl pass out so often and wake up where she doesn't know where she is.

Overall, the storyline is linear and easy to follow with several bumps in the road that make our FMC question where she needs a partner to get to her destiny or if her chosen male companions are weighing her down.

[Shelleen Toland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lyra has gone through a lot and has the scars to prove it, She needs to get to Zomea, the alleged realm of the dead. But her belief that Nyx would be with her on this journey has been shattered. Colton, a fae, is by her side.
As Lyra and Colton grow closer, they are challenged by the darkness stirring within Lyra, threatening both her and the fate of Eguina.
The prophecy says one man will save her and the belief is it is Nyx.
This is the 2nd book of the series. I enjoyed the storyline and had to remember that Lyra is still a teenager and so has some teenager ideas.
I had a hard time putting this book down and I don't alway like love triangles but it works well in this book.
It was well written and I can't wait for the next book.
Thank you to the Ashley O'Donovan for the arc to review.

[Laura W · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a HUGE improvement on the first book. I feel like the series finally started to live up to its potential.

Lyra feels so much more fleshed out in this book. Her character development was great to read. This time around she felt more vivid, and her inner monologue was much more engaging.

As with the first book, the world building is top notch. The different realms are incredibly imaginative and well thought out. The different magic systems are great too.

This book offers multiple POV's and an intriguing love triangle. Whilst the twists were fairly easy to see coming, they were still fun to unravel. The spice is good, adding to the story instead of detracting from it. Pacing is great, at no point did I feel like the plot dragged. I'm actually really excited to see where we go from that cliffhanger at the end.

[Alyssa Warner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been not so patiently waiting to read book number two in this series. I am thankful to have been selected as a part of the authors reading street team and was lucky enough to get a PR box for book 2 (and 1)!

This is my honest review of What Beats Within the Tunnels!

I am SCREAMING as this book also ends on a cliff hanger. I was so happy to read about these characters and this world again. The love triangle had me in my feels 100%. I was thrilled to see even more character development with Lyra and stand in my previous statements about her. She has been through SO much and falls quickly... but that's Lyra. I feel cheesy even saying it but I truly feel like "everything happens for a reason" with her. I know its all going to continue to come together so well and all the pieces will fall into place. I have SO many things I want to say about EVERYTHING that happened with her in and out of Zomea but I want this review to remain spoiler free.

This book gave me whiplash... in a good way.

10/10 for me and would recommend for all fantasy/romantasy readers!

Thank you again to the author for having me as apart of the team and a pat on the back for another GREAT book! I can't wait for the next... and all future books!

[Jasmine Harsin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The only negative about this book is that I have to wait and suffer until the next one comes out. The first book was amazing and this one was even better. These books have a great FMC who I will admit could have a liiittle bit better of a character development buuut she’s been through a lot and she’s learning as she goes. This books continues right where the last one left off where Lyra is trying to unlock Zomea and save the balance of everything, and in my opinion it gets better because Nyx faces the consequences of lying to Lyra (that’s all I’m going to give you)But these books are my new ACOTAR. There’s multiple love interests (I love a good love triangle) and plenty of “oh my gosh yes I knew it” moments without it being cheesy or too much. I am recommending this book to EVERYONE!

[Darbi O'Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I am rarely one to give five star reviews on a book. However this one deserves the 5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved the slow burn, the spice, the character development, the violence (oops), the relationships. More or less everything. It is definitely a book that I would read again.
Oh, and the ending? I give it a “Chef’s Kiss” for a great cliffhanger. I love a good cliffhanger and this was worth it after all of the adventure, and trials, and magic. I love Lyra and Colton, and feel for Nyx… The whole imagination and world building and the magic aspect. How can you really go wrong with well written fae and sorcerers and fated mates and dark magi and lies and saving the day?
Definitely worth the read and continuation of the series.

[Misty Gunderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

How am I still reading this?

I have no idea how I made it through book 1, it was so bad. Book 2 really deserves at least 3.5 stars, but I can not with good conscience round up to 4. There were many times that I rolled my eyes so hard and wanted to DNF, but I keep holding on to faith. The way this girl irritates the crap out of me and is so flippity flippity... yet there is something underneath all of the bad that calls me to not give up... not in a Zodiac Academy way, but I'll admit it is getting more tolerable. That or I'm just growing invested from how much time, work, and energy I've put in thus far. It is not without potential... let's see how I fair with book 3... so hopeful it will all be redeemed! If not, hoping I can finally commit to DNFing.

[Bookmark Barbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't think I can put into words how much I loved this story! I read What Lies Beyond the Realms (book 1l and fell in love with it! I was impatiently waiting for this after being left with a cliffhanger in the first book! I missed Lyra and Nyx. I admit I am a Nyx girlie so when another love interest entered the picture I was worried. I'm all for love triangles though and I ended up loving Colton as well! Ashley is such a wonderful writer and the worlds she creates are magical and beautiful! I will read anything she writes! I can't wait to read what's next!

[SJ Gardner · Rating 4 out of 5]

It feels like so much happens in this book, but the first about 30% is simply either a continuation on things from the last book to wrap them up, or recounting what happened in the last book (such as the main character's SA and the relationships between the characters). Chepi did get justice, though. I was very happy to read what happened with that at the beginning of this book.

I did enjoy the love triangle, the main character coming into her power, and the ENDING (oh my gosh). It definitely is an easy read that is very surface level, but that's good for stories that move so fast.

[Aryel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Damn it Lyra! That's how I felt as soon as this book ended and I love when a book makes me feel like that! WBWT provided multiple perspectives at various times throughout the story and allowed us to see some of the characters true intentions without sharing them with each other. As much as you want to hate Colton he provides the steady grounding Lyra needs, and probably always needed. There is more plot development than romance in this portion of the series and we see a lot more character depth. Just like the tunnels, there are plenty of twists and turns waiting for you to read!

[Bookish_Aly_Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a beautifully written fantasy. I was completely captivated by Lyra’s journey to understanding her magic and figuring out what she was born to do. The pacing was spot on and there were so many twists that kept my attention throughout the entire book.

Read this if you like:
→ Spicy paranormal romances
→ Love triangles
→ One bed
→ Strong FMC
→ Fae & magic

I can’t wait to see what happens next!

[Cori Owen · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Emotions are not a weakness. They’re a testament to your strength. “

I love everything about this series! A strong FMC that goes through so much. She continues her rise to her power all during her healing journey. There is fantastic world/character building. This book is very well written and will grab your attention immediately. There are continuous twists that will surprise you and keep you interested. I already cannot wait for the third book to come out this fall!