Months have passed since the old worlds ended, and Elwyn has yet to find her place in the new one. Her fortunes turn when she’s presented with the opportunity she didn’t know she’d been waiting a shot at revenge against the spectral menace whose meddling doomed her closest companions.
Brannon has traded a life of bloodshed for one of incense and mantras, and he regrets the decision. When forced to confront the brutes who shaped him, he becomes more volatile than ever before and seeks out a worthy target for his rage. In setting fire to his past, he might just burn down every bridge he’s built since.
Plagued by guilt for failing his friends and kingdom, Aedyn is desperate for redemption but would settle for distraction. A chance for both arises when he’s recruited for a dangerous mission involving monsters who could crush his heart with their bare hands and a woman who could do the same with a smile.
Together with a friend they’d thought lost forever, a courageous fae warrior, and the embittered ward of their greatest foe, this ragtag group of ruffians ventures to an uncharted land filled with magic and mayhem. If they can uncover evidence of Unseelie plots, they could turn the tides of an inevitable war. If they fail, they might lose everything they cherish
Lilla Glass is an award-winning author from Olympia, WA. While fantasy is her first love, she dabbles in horror and sci-fi. Her debut novel, The Unseen, was published on July 11th, 2023, by City Owl Press, and the second in the series, The Unfamiliar, was released the following year.
In the rare event that she isn't writing, Lilla can be found wandering an endless labyrinth of books and games. Occasionally, her wonderful husband and friends abduct her and force her to socialize.
I really enjoyed this book compared to the first. With the world building out of the way, we got to see the characters develop more.
SPOILERS
I loved Brannon’s transformation in this book & reading his last chapter about forgiving his mother is heartrenching. 😭 The tension between Aeydn & Elwyn made my heart flutter, i hope Elona gets what she deserves soon so they can be together 😡
Here I thought I wouldn’t be able to finish this one before its release date but it was TOO GOOD that I ended up finishing it in 2 days and way ahead of schedule! I really loved this one and even more so than book 1! I can’t say enough about how good this series is! This book really made me feel all the emotions including happiness and heartbreak! Five stars across the board!
The actual sexual tension between Ardyn and Elwyn throughout this book was insaneeeee. But I screamed so much at one point in which I won’t spoil that I’m pretty sure if anyone was looking at me while I was on the train reading this they would have thought I was nuts. They are soulmates I swear! 💗
There were so many amazing moments between these two and Aedyn was so down bad for her in this book. He was worried about her when she was only gone an hour. He was starving but gave her the food he was holding anyways. He’s always looking at her when she’s not paying attention. “She’s not a phase.” I MEAN GET YOURSELF A MANS AM I RIGHT?!?!?! 😭😭😭
I cannot actually believe the last 100 pages or so of this book. The plot twists were insane and the ending actually broke me I was so emotional. I’m so glad that it’s not the end of the series, but I don’t know how I’m going to survive between now and the next book’s release date considering this one isn’t even out yet.
Thank you so much @lilla.glass.author, @cityowlbooks, and @thenerdfam for an advanced copy. I loved this series so much and am already seated and ready for book 3, whenever that may be!!!
Everyone go check out this series ASAP. It does not disappoint and book 2 is out in only a couple of weeks (July 16)!!!!
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P.S. *spoiler alert* Eleona you crazy b**** 😱! I hope Aedyn finds out the truth asap!
I do wish I read book 1 as I was abit lost on who's who and the characters relationships with each other but getting into it I did find out the connections ..
Well written that's full of magic, love and power. It's so gripping once you get into it! But yeh bet it would be more gripping if you read book one first..
Brannons forgiveness literally was heart wrenching! Literally took like 20 mins to recover from that, before I could read on..
The Unfamiliar by Lilla Glass is book two in The Reel of Rhysia Series. After reading the first book I was eager, anxious and excited to dive into this! You must read the books in order as this one picks up months after the first. When I started reading this book I didn’t expect to lose my day but that’s what happened. I could not put my kindle down. I thought the first book was great but this one just ramped it up and put itself on a another level. The characters are still fantastic where I thought they had grown. It was great to read them while still developing, learning and growing. The tension between Elywen and Aeyden was so good! Gosh, I hope a character gets what they deserve soon. This book really took my emotions for a ride, ranging from happy smiling moments to heart cracking moments. Needless to say I wanted to reach through my kindle a few times. What I absolutely enjoyed was the twists and turns this story takes. Just when I thought nothing else could surprise me… bam… surprise! Everything about this was just incredible. The times I was on the legit edge of my seat, gripping my kindle in wonder. The writing was already amazing but the author just ramped it up even more. The story and plot line is fantastic and just pulls you in. I can say with 100% certainty that I’m a fan of Lilla Glass and I’m so excited to read more from this world. Two thumbs way up and I so recommend you check these books out.
The Unfamiliar by Lilla Glass. Book 2 of the reel of rhysia. I did enjoy this book. I didn't read book one but was able to read it. Although it was a slow starter. I did like Ardyn and Elwyn. How they were together. I read this in two days. This was different and unique. I do like different and unique. I did not see that twist coming at all. Another twist. Ooh the ending. I honestly can't wait for the next book. I will be looking at book one. 4*.
Blurb. Months have passed since the old worlds ended, and Elwyn has yet to find her place in the new one. Her fortunes turn when she’s presented with the opportunity she didn’t know she’d been waiting a shot at revenge against the spectral menace whose meddling doomed her closest companions.
Brannon has traded a life of bloodshed for one of incense and mantras, and he regrets the decision. When forced to confront the brutes who shaped him, he becomes more volatile than ever before and seeks out a worthy target for his rage. In setting fire to his past, he might just burn down every bridge he’s built since.
Plagued by guilt for failing his friends and kingdom, Aedyn is desperate for redemption but would settle for distraction. A chance for both arises when he’s recruited for a dangerous mission involving monsters who could crush his heart with their bare hands and a woman who could do the same with a smile.
Together with a friend they’d thought lost forever, a courageous fae warrior, and the embittered ward of their greatest foe, this ragtag group of ruffians ventures to an uncharted land filled with magic and mayhem. If they can uncover evidence of Unseelie plots, they could turn the tides of an inevitable war. If they fail, they might lose everything they cherish
I would like to thank Nerd Fam and Lilla Glass for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The Unfamiliar is the second book by new author Lilla Glass in her dark fae fantasy series, Reel of Rhysia. This book found the main characters all reeling after the death of one of their own at the end of The Unseen. The event which collapsed the worlds of mortals and fae into one had catastrophic consequences and it seemed inevitable that war between the Seelie and Unseelie fae was in their future. Each of these characters was involved in differing tasks until a mission to assist mortals who were being tortured by the Unseelie brought the group back together again. When they transported themselves to the Wilds, many surprises awaited them and carrying out their mission came at a cost they did not anticipate. Meanwhile, Aedyn’s betrothed, Eloqna, had become impatient with waiting for her future to begin. This was the perfect follow-up to The Unseen. It has suspense, much character growth, plenty of plot movement, surprises, and some romance. It should be noted that other than a few kisses, there is no spice in this novel. The book kept me engaged from the first page and the cliffhanger at the end has me anxious for book three! If you are a lover of dark fairytales, I highly recommend this series. Finding these books has been a delightful discovery for me this summer, and I hope that many will get the opportunity to experience this author for themselves.
Thank you The NerdFam, City Owl Press, and Lilla Glass for the copy of this book
The writing style that Glass has is enchanting. There is such a uniqueness to how this story is told that draws you in page by page.
I love the different POVS. I know for some it can be difficult to follow but with the complexity of the world around these characters it works. I love it in particular because you get that valuable insight of everyone's inner thoughts. It also makes it feel like this isn't just one persons story, it's a collective experience. They all are dealing with such intense emotions and reading as they separately navigate them was a rollercoaster.
The slow burn that this story possesses is so perfect. All the reasons that should be no turn into yes and it's beautiful. I love a love that just creeps its way into your heart and this one does that.
"Don't you fret." He kept his arm slung around her as they started back down the trail. "I'm no seer, but even I can predict there will be many more kisses in your near future." Elwyn rested her cheek on his shoulder. "That's assuming you don't grow bored of me," she teased "Never."
With another book coming I can't wait to see what's in store for these characters. There were so many's twists to this book and questions that need to be answered. People that need to be dealt with!! Readers who enjoy fantasy, romance, adventure, found family and self discovery will enjoy this series.
It's been a while since everything got turned upside down, and Elwyn is still trying to figure out where she fits in this new world. Then, out of nowhere, she gets a chance for payback against a spooky enemy and things go in a whole different direction. She's got Brannon by her side who isn't too happy about giving up a violent life for a peaceful one, and Aedyn who's really hoping to make up for some past mistakes. The three of them head to a mysterious place full of magic and chaos, searching for clues about some sneaky plans that could change the outcome of a big war.
Lilla Glass really brings her characters to life in such a cool way, making them super detailed and interesting. You'll be hooked trying to figure out why they do what they do. Her writing really sets the scene and taps into the emotions of the story. You'll be sucked into this magical, suspenseful world she creates in no time.
"The Unfamiliar" really sticks with you. It's got a bit of everything - magic, adventure, and some really interesting characters that people seem to love. If you're into high fantasy and enjoy a deep dive into a complex world with strong character development, this book is for you. Make sure you start with the first book, but trust me, the second one is totally worth it. Get ready to be enchanted by Rhysia - it's a trip you won't forget.
The end of this book has me wanting to toss it across the room!!!! I love so much about this series except a couple of certain characters and their POV. This series has been a rollercoaster of emotions from book 1 all the way to the end of book 2. I haven’t cried so much with a series in such a long time.
The world is very unique and there is a lot of world building that continues from book 1, The Unseen. The book is full of hurt and trauma and angst and rage and also healing and love. There are some definite Game of Thrones vibes with this series so far with the multiple POV and a few of those views are not your favourite. I honestly cannot wait for the next book cause I seriously need to know what happens next!
Make sure to read book 1, The Unseen before reading this gem!
The story continues after a tragic ending in the first book. Our main characters each try to work through their grief in their own way. Elwyn is coming to understand herself even more, and even though she's not in the best situation, she's making the best of it. Brannon seems reluctant to step back and look at things from a different perspective. Once again, we see our favorite characters and others being thrust into a dangerous situation that they take on with great bravery.
Not only that but we learn more about Aedyn's betrothed and realize that she's hiding a darkness in her. Also, there may be some connection between her and Elwyn. One thing I really appreciated was the glossary included that gave you definitions on the different fae names and other unfamiliar terms you encounter throughout the story.
I liked the first book but I loved this one! There was a lot of world building in the first book so for this one it jumps straight into things. I experienced different emotions in this one from 😯 to 😮💨 to 🤜🏻 to 🤭 to 😁 . Arydn and Elwyn’s relationship is just 🥰🥵. Brannons character develops more in this one and I can say I like him more in this book then I did in the first one because I was like oh boy he’s a doozy. I was SO happy to see one of the other characters, which I won’t spoil it, but oh yay!! The mystery and magic continue on in this one and I can really say I haven’t read any books quite like this series. Definitely unique and I like it! I’m so glad there is another installment to this series bc I was 🤯😩 at the end. Thank you so much for the arc!!
This is the second book in the series and I recommend reading that first it contains most of the world building whereas this book really gets into the characters and their growing story.
Following in a few months after the events of this first book it’s a real page turner to begin with and one of those books that gets you hooked. It’s gripping and full of tension 😉, with twists you don’t see coming.
The characters are really growing and finding out about themselves it’s written well and the story is great and full of surprises. It was a really emotive read and I would definitely recommend!
This was interesting story with triple perspective narrative and this meant that we would be seeing everything from 3 points of view. By the end of the novel all 3 narratives come together and we get a satisfying ending to the story ... this could be continued however I don't know if this something which the author is considering. I enjoyed the writing style and this made it something easy to read either with all the narratives and plot points. I would be interested to see where this could go in the future.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Unfamiliar, the second book in the series. The complexity of the characters and their development throughout the story is a highlight for me. I love seeing their roles evolve and their personalities shine, as well as the chemistry between them. Glass’s skillful world-building from the first book laid a strong foundation, allowing the details in this second installment to grow and expand seamlessly. The story’s flow was smooth and easy to follow, with the pacing done just right. I can definitely see myself recommending this series to others.
The Unfamiliar picks up 3 months after book 1 ends. The characters have gone on their different paths until they join again for another quest to protect the world from war. I liked the continued character growth in book 2. I am invested in these misfit heroes. The writing style and pace is like book 1 (multiple POVs and the plot jumps a bit). I enjoyed the budding romance of two MCs in book 2. It is never a dull moment in the world that this author created! I eagerly wait for book 3.
Holy crap!!!! This was a phenomenal follow up to The Unseen. I wish I could give this book 5.5 stars. All of my favorite characters from the first book grow even more in this one. This had so many twists that I didn’t see coming. I audibly gasped multiple times. Not going to give any spoilers but if you liked the first book, then definitely read this next!
Forbidden love Found family Complex world building Unique creatures
This was an amazing sequel and it picked up basically right after the ending of the first book. The plot and the characters were amazing and everything came together in a very satisfying way. I would highly, highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys fantasy with a sense of adventure and a journey of self discovery mixed in. Thank you to Lilla Glass and The Nerd Fam for the ARC of this amazing story.
The Unfamiliar was a beautifully written and haunting story that pulled me in right away. I loved the mix of magic, mystery, and emotion throughout the book. The atmosphere was rich and immersive, and the characters felt layered and real. It struck a great balance between eerie and heartfelt. A solid 4/5 stars from me!
***Thank you NetGalley, Lilla Glass, and City Owl Press for an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for my honest review.
ARC Review! I enjoyed this book much more than the first book. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of their story. I like the journey of the characters, and this book does have some sexual tension in it. You might end up despising a few characters by the end of the book, but it's definitely worth reading! This is a fantasy adventure by Lilla Glass.
Book two in the series. This one picks right off where book one ended. This one had my attention captured much more. I was thoroughly invested in the characters lives. We see more romance, more found family bonding, and see a battle or two. Great story with a cliffhanger ending that may break your heart while also wanting to punch someone.
I love this book it took me places of beauty and mystery I went on adventures with friends we fought battles with enemies and fell in love with a man I could not have a must read I can't wait for the next book.I was never into fantasy books until I read theses 2 books now can't Waite for the next book..
With The Unfamiliar, the author takes us on a thrilling ride that blends powerful moments, shocking twists, fantastic character work and a dialog that can even bring smiles. Definitely a story that I totally enjoyed. Lilla has really created a world worth reading, and I can easily recommend this well written story and series.
Thank you to the author and Nerd Fam for the digital copy!
This book was incredible! I really liked the first, but this one was even better! I am so attached to these characters now. And that ending! I have so many questions and can't wait for the third!
Book two of the Reel of Rhysia was as good as the first one! The world building and character development continues to impress. There's still an awful lot of darkness about the story, but no worse than The Unseen. If you can read the prologue, you can read the rest.
It took me a little bit to get into the novel since it is book 2 in the Reel of Rhysia series. The first couple chapters introduce you to some really incredible characters with a history, so I do recommend you read book 1, it would probably be a bit more seamless to fall into the story.
That being said, WOW. There is a ton of world building here, power struggles, good vs evil, battles, and a little romance! It has everything you need for YA fantasy novel.
Each character is well developed, multidimensional and has their own character arc. I loved Tawny, I think she was my favorite character out of the bunch, followed by Amantha, what a tough female warrior!
I’m hopeful we get more stories from Lilla Glass soon! She’s definitely been added to my “auto-buy” list!