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The Viridian Priestess #2
The Cerulean Sister
Will the tether Ferren forged with the 99th Commander be enough to prevent the unrest in the three worlds from ripping them apart?
Despite being haunted by the echoes of the priestess order she left behind, Ferren is determined to create a home on Viathan and dispel any lingering effects of a lifetime spent in fear. But as she puts down solid roots, a voice from her past calls out from across the ether. The message brings news of her sister’s return to the Estate and the inevitable danger that comes with it.
Ferren plays a torturous game of deceit in order to dismantle the systems that keep her sister and so many others under its rule. The mission becomes a complicated dance of avoiding old comforts that creep to the forefront of her mind and reconciling with a sister she thought she would never see again.
Even though Ferren and 99’s relationship intensifies, the couple discovers they cannot always depend on her telepathy to bridge the gaps between them. And as the first wave of evil invades, ringing the bell of war, Ferren learns to rely on 99 and her found family to save her sister and to eliminate those who intend to destroy the three worlds completely.
Author's The Cerulean Sister is book 2 in The Viridian Priestess series. The overall plot ends on a slight cliffhanger which continues into the rest of the series but there is a HEA for the romantic story line. Please check CW's as The Cerulean Sister has darker themes than book 1.
Despite being haunted by the echoes of the priestess order she left behind, Ferren is determined to create a home on Viathan and dispel any lingering effects of a lifetime spent in fear. But as she puts down solid roots, a voice from her past calls out from across the ether. The message brings news of her sister’s return to the Estate and the inevitable danger that comes with it.
Ferren plays a torturous game of deceit in order to dismantle the systems that keep her sister and so many others under its rule. The mission becomes a complicated dance of avoiding old comforts that creep to the forefront of her mind and reconciling with a sister she thought she would never see again.
Even though Ferren and 99’s relationship intensifies, the couple discovers they cannot always depend on her telepathy to bridge the gaps between them. And as the first wave of evil invades, ringing the bell of war, Ferren learns to rely on 99 and her found family to save her sister and to eliminate those who intend to destroy the three worlds completely.
Author's The Cerulean Sister is book 2 in The Viridian Priestess series. The overall plot ends on a slight cliffhanger which continues into the rest of the series but there is a HEA for the romantic story line. Please check CW's as The Cerulean Sister has darker themes than book 1.
478 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2024
248 people are currently reading
1117 people want to read
About the author
Katrina Calandra
4 books287 followersKatrina Calandra is a Sci-Fi Romance Author with a passion for writing spicy love stories.
Originally a screenwriter, she has found her true calling in writing romance novels.
Her little Aquarius heart has a soft spot for heroes who look like they could kill you but are really cinnamon rolls for their heroines.
When she isn’t lost in a monster romance book, she is practicing tarot or plotting her next book.
Katrina lives in a sleepy town in Upstate New York with her two feline familiars Sookie and Jupiter.
Originally a screenwriter, she has found her true calling in writing romance novels.
Her little Aquarius heart has a soft spot for heroes who look like they could kill you but are really cinnamon rolls for their heroines.
When she isn’t lost in a monster romance book, she is practicing tarot or plotting her next book.
Katrina lives in a sleepy town in Upstate New York with her two feline familiars Sookie and Jupiter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
September 20, 2024
I need you to know that absolutely nothing could have prepared me for this man's name to be Clive. I'm fucking screaming
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2024
of all the names to pick…🥲
November 24, 2024
This story was good, but didn’t quite have the same magic as the first book did for me. The beginning was an especially slow start, and a good chunk of the book wasn’t really about the romance between Ferren and 99. The spice scenes were also oddly placed sometimes. However, I did like the direction things went with the plot, and do still recommend this series.
3.5 ⭐️, rounding up to 4 for Goodreads.
3.5 ⭐️, rounding up to 4 for Goodreads.
July 20, 2024
The second instalment of the Viridian Priestess series and it has not only enhanced the world Katrina was building, but taken our characters on another meaningful adventure for Ferren and 99.
The character building in this book was some of the greatest things I've read in a book; Ferren's continued struggle with her identity inside and outside her religion was a theme that I myself have never gone through, but felt like I could identify with in other ways. It was painful to revisit that part of her life without seeing the effects it had on her, yet she still stood so strong. Sometimes in books, we want to scream at the characters for doing something so silly, but I never felt that way in this book. Every choice, every action the gang took, I was supporting them.
The world building of 99's world was so beautifully done. I know some were disappointed that it wasn't explored in book one, but I'm glad she didn't because I didn't have to build his world from snippets; we got the full view of it and how it worked.
The story was written so well; I never felt bored or over eager to get to the next point. Everything happened for a reason, and I loved every moment.
The true highlight, something Katrina did so well in book one, was the relationship building between 99 and Ferren. It was so beautifully done, I felt pulled into the emotions with these two. They had such a beautiful understanding with each other that makes this book stand out compared to other romantasy/romance and sci-fi in a successful way. If they have a misunderstanding it doesn't last for long because they talk. They talk and are able to understand the other's point of view. This is the book couple that other authors should be striving for, in my opinion.
One of my favourites books ever.
The character building in this book was some of the greatest things I've read in a book; Ferren's continued struggle with her identity inside and outside her religion was a theme that I myself have never gone through, but felt like I could identify with in other ways. It was painful to revisit that part of her life without seeing the effects it had on her, yet she still stood so strong. Sometimes in books, we want to scream at the characters for doing something so silly, but I never felt that way in this book. Every choice, every action the gang took, I was supporting them.
The world building of 99's world was so beautifully done. I know some were disappointed that it wasn't explored in book one, but I'm glad she didn't because I didn't have to build his world from snippets; we got the full view of it and how it worked.
The story was written so well; I never felt bored or over eager to get to the next point. Everything happened for a reason, and I loved every moment.
The true highlight, something Katrina did so well in book one, was the relationship building between 99 and Ferren. It was so beautifully done, I felt pulled into the emotions with these two. They had such a beautiful understanding with each other that makes this book stand out compared to other romantasy/romance and sci-fi in a successful way. If they have a misunderstanding it doesn't last for long because they talk. They talk and are able to understand the other's point of view. This is the book couple that other authors should be striving for, in my opinion.
One of my favourites books ever.
August 21, 2024
A disappointment in comparison to the first book. The pacing was weird and the story was boring.
March 14, 2025
DNF at 67%
I tried.
It just did not have the magic of the first book.
I tried.
It just did not have the magic of the first book.
May 20, 2025
DNF @ 60% no real tension, repetitive, just no longer cared what happened
August 19, 2024
This felt like a cheap fanfic of The Viridian Priestess.
I really enjoyed the first book in the series, but the sequel fell flat. 99 felt one dimensional and any interpersonal growth between characters was reduced to a roll in the hay.
I enjoyed the interesting take on popular themes- guy who never takes his helmet off (but in this one it’s off like all the time for no reason), priestess who leaves her faith and discovers true family(except for the half-baked religious imagery during spicy scenes and absentee found family).
I will commend the author for not falling into the trap of giving your MMC a “cool and sexy” name. I laughed out loud at the name reveal and that earned a whole star.
I think this book is a good read for *someone* out there, but I would have been happier leaving Ferren alone after book one.
I really enjoyed the first book in the series, but the sequel fell flat. 99 felt one dimensional and any interpersonal growth between characters was reduced to a roll in the hay.
I enjoyed the interesting take on popular themes- guy who never takes his helmet off (but in this one it’s off like all the time for no reason), priestess who leaves her faith and discovers true family(except for the half-baked religious imagery during spicy scenes and absentee found family).
I will commend the author for not falling into the trap of giving your MMC a “cool and sexy” name. I laughed out loud at the name reveal and that earned a whole star.
I think this book is a good read for *someone* out there, but I would have been happier leaving Ferren alone after book one.
September 15, 2024
Suffered till 60% and then DNF. Couldn’t take it anymore. Zero character development and nothing seemed to be added plot wise. Just poorly timed constant spice.
September 16, 2025
First off, I really liked Viridian Priestess. It was a fun, sexy journey and the characters were great, Ferren's growth was believable, and 99 was a fun egg to crack.
I was excited to read the sequel but it didn't leave me feeling the same. For one, I felt like I was rushing through it. The spicy scenes seemed ill-timed despite 99 and Ferren's romance put on the back burner, which was fine considering the premise, and I didn't feel the same vibe between them as the first one. The name reveal was superb though.
The overall plot/journey of the book was ok and was indeed much darker, it just seemed a bit all over the place. Ferren's growth was great - I loved seeing her internal turmoil and decision in the end. There was just a lot of "stuff" going on, between first son, her sister, and so many other factors, it just felt a bit too full. I also found quite a few typos which was distracting.
I went between 3 and 4 stars and this is really a 3.5 for me. I will definitely read the next one, but just wanted a bit more from the sequel. Also did I miss why it's called the Cerulean Sister?
I was excited to read the sequel but it didn't leave me feeling the same. For one, I felt like I was rushing through it. The spicy scenes seemed ill-timed despite 99 and Ferren's romance put on the back burner, which was fine considering the premise, and I didn't feel the same vibe between them as the first one. The name reveal was superb though.
The overall plot/journey of the book was ok and was indeed much darker, it just seemed a bit all over the place. Ferren's growth was great - I loved seeing her internal turmoil and decision in the end. There was just a lot of "stuff" going on, between first son, her sister, and so many other factors, it just felt a bit too full. I also found quite a few typos which was distracting.
I went between 3 and 4 stars and this is really a 3.5 for me. I will definitely read the next one, but just wanted a bit more from the sequel. Also did I miss why it's called the Cerulean Sister?
July 23, 2024
I recived an ARC but i promise you that's not going to interfere with my opinion 🩶
I thought The Viridian Priestess was GOOD but this one seems unbeatable for me.
I love the way Katrina made me fall in love again with Ferren's strength and 99's silent caring, and I can't wait to hear more about Calliape and August.
The character development of Ferren is amazing. She's strong, smart, resourceful, but she shows her fears too. I think we can be more in tune with her in this second book (at least, I can agree more with her in a lot of things) For me she's one of the most powerful MFC and I'm pretty sure we are not even seen the whole of her power.
99. What to say? The way he tries to always stand by her without taking her decisions away is all that's good in a relationship. Never settle for less, guys. A few actions during the book made me understand him a bit more. His character, the way he acts, the way he loves. I think sometimes I forget how truly intimidating his character is 😅
The plot. THE PLOT. Maybe is something you can expect (or, if you are a bit of a clueless person like me...you won't expect it) but is still sooo real and so world-shattering that I loved every second of it. Be aware of the TW reading it because it themes are a bit darker than the previous book.
I was holding my breath all the time because I wasn't sure when something was going to happen or not because one can never be sure of anything when magic is involved.
And, again, 99 and Ferren's intimacy is always heartwarming (and don't make me start with the spice because I think some scenes are even MORE than the first book)
Do I recommend it? Yes, absolutely.
I thought The Viridian Priestess was GOOD but this one seems unbeatable for me.
I love the way Katrina made me fall in love again with Ferren's strength and 99's silent caring, and I can't wait to hear more about Calliape and August.
The character development of Ferren is amazing. She's strong, smart, resourceful, but she shows her fears too. I think we can be more in tune with her in this second book (at least, I can agree more with her in a lot of things) For me she's one of the most powerful MFC and I'm pretty sure we are not even seen the whole of her power.
99. What to say? The way he tries to always stand by her without taking her decisions away is all that's good in a relationship. Never settle for less, guys. A few actions during the book made me understand him a bit more. His character, the way he acts, the way he loves. I think sometimes I forget how truly intimidating his character is 😅
The plot. THE PLOT. Maybe is something you can expect (or, if you are a bit of a clueless person like me...you won't expect it) but is still sooo real and so world-shattering that I loved every second of it. Be aware of the TW reading it because it themes are a bit darker than the previous book.
I was holding my breath all the time because I wasn't sure when something was going to happen or not because one can never be sure of anything when magic is involved.
And, again, 99 and Ferren's intimacy is always heartwarming (and don't make me start with the spice because I think some scenes are even MORE than the first book)
Do I recommend it? Yes, absolutely.
January 21, 2025
Oh, i just love this series!! Took me a short while to get back into it but once I managed to I loved it just like the 1st one.
Oh, 99, the man you are 😭❤️
Oh, 99, the man you are 😭❤️
August 5, 2024
I love this series!!! I really missed Ferren and 99 so much, so I ate this up. I did like the plot of this book and how it picked up with the events of before. I would love to read more on Calliape and August for sure too. I want to know what their relationship is like.
As for the ending, it has me excited to see what happens now after what happened with the creature and stone.
As for the ending, it has me excited to see what happens now after what happened with the creature and stone.
October 6, 2025
Well THE CERULEAN SISTER just blew me out of the water, it was soooo good! I loved the first book in this series because of it's fresh take on sci-fi romance but book 2 had me on the edge of my seat and my heart melting all at the same time.
The first half shows us how Ferren has been doing since leaving Cosima and the temple and how she's acclimating to the more technology focused Viathans. I enjoyed how open and welcome to change Ferren was and I absolutely adored the moments between Ferren and 99. Their devotion, their quiet flirting, their love just shines off the page and it was so beautiful. After book 1, I didn't think I could fall in love with 99 anymore than I already had but I was wrong; this man is prime book boyfriend material and his respect, care, and appreciation for Ferren were written so well. Many of the questions I had at the end of book 1 were quickly answered and I felt like I understood 99 as a character a lot more.
As the book moved into the second half the action ramped up, the tension over the conjunction increased, and things got real, super fast. I loved how nail biting some of those moments were and without giving anything away, Ferren is a total badass. So much happens in the second half but it felt well balanced with the first half and the overall story of the First Son attacks and the mystery surrounding the Temple of the Divine Mothers. Vague I know, but it's so much better if you read it as it's happening. THE CERULEAN SISTER was darker than the previous book but its also just as character focused as we see Ferren grow even more into the strong woman she was always meant to be.
The ending absolutely came in swinging and those last few chapters were so intense to read! This does have a cliffhanger ending in terms of the overall plot around the conjunction and First Son but the love between Ferren and 99 is rock solid.
Content Warning: religious trauma; references to death during childbirth and ritual sacrifice; imprisonment and torture
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
"99, we will be successful again, and no, it is not the same because we are not the same as before, but you have to know, First Mother herself could not keep me from returning to you."
- - - - -
"I will love any part you are willing to share, even the pieces I have to find on my own. I will cherish any new ones and hold together the ones that still feel fragmented for you."
- - - - -
"I would have lived our whole lives not having our tether again and still loving you the same, but I've missed the feeling of you consuming me," he groans.
The first half shows us how Ferren has been doing since leaving Cosima and the temple and how she's acclimating to the more technology focused Viathans. I enjoyed how open and welcome to change Ferren was and I absolutely adored the moments between Ferren and 99. Their devotion, their quiet flirting, their love just shines off the page and it was so beautiful. After book 1, I didn't think I could fall in love with 99 anymore than I already had but I was wrong; this man is prime book boyfriend material and his respect, care, and appreciation for Ferren were written so well. Many of the questions I had at the end of book 1 were quickly answered and I felt like I understood 99 as a character a lot more.
As the book moved into the second half the action ramped up, the tension over the conjunction increased, and things got real, super fast. I loved how nail biting some of those moments were and without giving anything away, Ferren is a total badass. So much happens in the second half but it felt well balanced with the first half and the overall story of the First Son attacks and the mystery surrounding the Temple of the Divine Mothers. Vague I know, but it's so much better if you read it as it's happening. THE CERULEAN SISTER was darker than the previous book but its also just as character focused as we see Ferren grow even more into the strong woman she was always meant to be.
The ending absolutely came in swinging and those last few chapters were so intense to read! This does have a cliffhanger ending in terms of the overall plot around the conjunction and First Son but the love between Ferren and 99 is rock solid.
Content Warning: religious trauma; references to death during childbirth and ritual sacrifice; imprisonment and torture
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
"99, we will be successful again, and no, it is not the same because we are not the same as before, but you have to know, First Mother herself could not keep me from returning to you."
- - - - -
"I will love any part you are willing to share, even the pieces I have to find on my own. I will cherish any new ones and hold together the ones that still feel fragmented for you."
- - - - -
"I would have lived our whole lives not having our tether again and still loving you the same, but I've missed the feeling of you consuming me," he groans.
August 2, 2024
Spoilers Ahead...
I was so excited for the sequel to Viridian Priestess which created such a unique world across 3 planets with an interconnected political struggle and love story.
Ultimately, I was so disappointed by the Cerulean Sister. Like other reviewers mentioned, the first quarter of the plot is repetitive and doesn't do much to deepen character development. Loved the introduction of some characters but wished there was 1-2 less sex scenes in favor of more time spent with August and Calliape. Likewise, wished we had more time with 99's father. I felt that was a missed chance to introduce a POV that balances 99's perspective and could have been a great insight into the world beyond the Capital.
The most disappointing part is that so much of the middle/end of the plot sets up Crixa as the Big Bad. Which could have been great! I was so looking forward to the final showdown where Ferren can prove that she has overcome Crixa's manipulation and abuse. And we get that in the most underwhelming way possible. Then she just dies off-page while the main characters continue on with a battle against First Sons. The climax was just so confusing to read. While First Sons have been known antagonists since Book 1, there is no named character or figurehead so the group's attacks lack stakes.
So many times I found myself thinking there would be payoff to certain word choices and character decisions that just never materialized. Ferren specifically detects Crixa's wards and refuses to tether to 99 because of them, until suddenly it becomes more of a test of their relationship to not be tethered? There were other straightforward examples like multiple mentions of Ferren taking contraceptive to prevent a pregnancy which go nowhere, but even some smaller phrases like Leema mentioning Ferren had been in a "fog" or Thea and Crixa acting momentarily out of character (enough that Ferren notices and tries to decipher their intentions). I was so primed for an epic betrayal from someone.. but nope.
In sum, all the right pieces are there on the board- the worlds are great, the characters are interesting or have the potential to be, there's great action, mystical prisoners are on the loose- but it just doesn't all come together in the end. So reluctantly giving this 3/5.
I was so excited for the sequel to Viridian Priestess which created such a unique world across 3 planets with an interconnected political struggle and love story.
Ultimately, I was so disappointed by the Cerulean Sister. Like other reviewers mentioned, the first quarter of the plot is repetitive and doesn't do much to deepen character development. Loved the introduction of some characters but wished there was 1-2 less sex scenes in favor of more time spent with August and Calliape. Likewise, wished we had more time with 99's father. I felt that was a missed chance to introduce a POV that balances 99's perspective and could have been a great insight into the world beyond the Capital.
The most disappointing part is that so much of the middle/end of the plot sets up Crixa as the Big Bad. Which could have been great! I was so looking forward to the final showdown where Ferren can prove that she has overcome Crixa's manipulation and abuse. And we get that in the most underwhelming way possible. Then she just dies off-page while the main characters continue on with a battle against First Sons. The climax was just so confusing to read. While First Sons have been known antagonists since Book 1, there is no named character or figurehead so the group's attacks lack stakes.
So many times I found myself thinking there would be payoff to certain word choices and character decisions that just never materialized. Ferren specifically detects Crixa's wards and refuses to tether to 99 because of them, until suddenly it becomes more of a test of their relationship to not be tethered? There were other straightforward examples like multiple mentions of Ferren taking contraceptive to prevent a pregnancy which go nowhere, but even some smaller phrases like Leema mentioning Ferren had been in a "fog" or Thea and Crixa acting momentarily out of character (enough that Ferren notices and tries to decipher their intentions). I was so primed for an epic betrayal from someone.. but nope.
In sum, all the right pieces are there on the board- the worlds are great, the characters are interesting or have the potential to be, there's great action, mystical prisoners are on the loose- but it just doesn't all come together in the end. So reluctantly giving this 3/5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2025
honestly… there are not enough words to describe how i feel about this book. just like the first one, i loved it. this one was way darker and more action than the first, but i loved it all the same- maybe even more. i was quite literally holding back tears multiple times and a lot of things ferren was feeling really hit home for me. i cannot recommend this book series enough. i can’t wait for book three!!
July 26, 2024
I couldn't imagine falling more in love with Ferren & 99 but here we are ♡
I need the 3rd book asap!!
I need the 3rd book asap!!
April 27, 2025
I'll never get over Ferren and 99 😭
September 23, 2024
I didn't love this as much as the first. Had a totally different vibe, and I could never figure out where the plot was going. I was always worried a pregnancy trope was right around the corner.
November 20, 2024
I don't understand why any of these people care about literally any of this, this was sooooooo long for no reason.
Also
Also
April 20, 2025
AHHHHHH time to scream and shout about this book until more people read it!!! This had me kicking my feet, smiling like an idiot, on the absolute edge of my seat with this unique and fast moving plot and full with emotions and suspense! A sci-fi fantasy romance that is incredibly unique yet has so many elements that I love in a romantasy. Commander 99 >>> I am absolutely FERAL for this man and the things that come out of his mouth—holyyy shhhh I love a stoic man in armor who struggles with his words but SHOWS his love with his actions!🔥 And the push/pull of their tether mixed with being secretive about their relationship in public to keep their cover left so much angst and tension that had me reeling😮💨 Lovee the found family and banter…truly Ferren found people who accept her for who she is and it’s so special, especially after all she’s been through. This concludes 99 and Ferren’s relationship/story but the plot continues and I’m stoked for the August release of book 3!!
July 31, 2024
ARC Review: 3.75 🌟
Thank you to the author for selecting me as an ARC reader, and I apologize for the delay, I've been traveling and now I am finally settled at home.
To start off with what I liked: The relationship between the MMC and FMC, it's been a while since I've read such a respectfully HOT relationship, the chemistry, the vibe between them? *chef's kiss*
I did feel the buildup as far as the story itself goes was slightly underwhelming, however exploring themes with the FMC about returning to things that we've perhaps outgrown or no longer serve us was fleshed out well, there were moments as a reader where we weren't sure if the FMC was returning to old habits.
Overall, I loved it! I was entertained, and I can't wait to read the next installment in the series!
Thank you to the author for selecting me as an ARC reader, and I apologize for the delay, I've been traveling and now I am finally settled at home.
To start off with what I liked: The relationship between the MMC and FMC, it's been a while since I've read such a respectfully HOT relationship, the chemistry, the vibe between them? *chef's kiss*
I did feel the buildup as far as the story itself goes was slightly underwhelming, however exploring themes with the FMC about returning to things that we've perhaps outgrown or no longer serve us was fleshed out well, there were moments as a reader where we weren't sure if the FMC was returning to old habits.
Overall, I loved it! I was entertained, and I can't wait to read the next installment in the series!
October 25, 2025
These two istg
Also Final Fantasy XVI fans RISE, now I can imagine him with Ben Starr’s voice too.
Also Final Fantasy XVI fans RISE, now I can imagine him with Ben Starr’s voice too.
October 26, 2024
I’m so sad I can’t read this book anymore now that I’m finished. I thought this book was better than the first. Love this world(s) and I can’t wait to see where the story goes in the next one.
September 4, 2024
I wanted to like it so much. Almost DNF.
December 7, 2024
I'm gonna be honest the first 200 pages of this book did not need to be included (and if it did, it could have been a whole lot shorter).
This felt like a case of the author just making things up as they go along and either not following through or not taking the time to explain/expand upon the new ideas and concepts being introduced.
The book opens with Ferren finding differences between Cosima's and Viathan's religious texts. This was interesting! I wanted to see how this played into the larger plot and how it affected Ferren's beliefs! It doesn't. It never gets brought up again and I'm confused about why it was even included to begin with. This part felt like the author forgot about Chekov's Gun tbh.
There was also the "introduction" of .
Mary was mentioned to have been smuggling women and their children off Cosima and to Frith for years, but none of this was even foreshadowed in book one, and Mary died immediately, so she didn't play a large part in the plot.
There's also the issue with First Son simply not being a real immediate/tangible threat, even though his trying to take over the solar system is the entire plot of the series. I know the main focus of this series is the romance, but if you're going to include a character who wants to destroy the world, you'd think he'd be more involved in the plot. Also there's still no explanation about what exactly the stones do or why they're so important, something that also bugged me about book one.
I enjoyed the second half of this book a little better since things actually start happening there. However, I was still a little disappointed. For an entire book based on Ferren needed to save her sister Leema, Leema is barely in this book.
This book needed a heavier hand when it came to editing. The plot was lost for a significant portion of the book and it doesn't feel like the author had a strong sense of where the story was going. Even the ending leaves a lot up in the air and the characters don't seem to have much driving them into book three, which I assume is going to be the conclusion. I liked it well enough though and I'll likely still pick up the next book.
This felt like a case of the author just making things up as they go along and either not following through or not taking the time to explain/expand upon the new ideas and concepts being introduced.
The book opens with Ferren finding differences between Cosima's and Viathan's religious texts. This was interesting! I wanted to see how this played into the larger plot and how it affected Ferren's beliefs! It doesn't. It never gets brought up again and I'm confused about why it was even included to begin with. This part felt like the author forgot about Chekov's Gun tbh.
There was also the "introduction" of .
Mary was mentioned to have been smuggling women and their children off Cosima and to Frith for years, but none of this was even foreshadowed in book one, and Mary died immediately, so she didn't play a large part in the plot.
There's also the issue with First Son simply not being a real immediate/tangible threat, even though his trying to take over the solar system is the entire plot of the series. I know the main focus of this series is the romance, but if you're going to include a character who wants to destroy the world, you'd think he'd be more involved in the plot. Also there's still no explanation about what exactly the stones do or why they're so important, something that also bugged me about book one.
I enjoyed the second half of this book a little better since things actually start happening there. However, I was still a little disappointed. For an entire book based on Ferren needed to save her sister Leema, Leema is barely in this book.
This book needed a heavier hand when it came to editing. The plot was lost for a significant portion of the book and it doesn't feel like the author had a strong sense of where the story was going. Even the ending leaves a lot up in the air and the characters don't seem to have much driving them into book three, which I assume is going to be the conclusion. I liked it well enough though and I'll likely still pick up the next book.
August 21, 2024
I need to get this out first: 99 keeps taking out all contending book boyfriends on my list. Right now he is tied for first and I am okay with that.
Ferran is badass!. I loved her growth in this book and related to her internal struggle with having to go back to the place that is the source of a lot of pain for her. I also loved how 99 stood by her side to let her make these choices and never made her feel like she couldn't do something. Even if it was hard for him at times to watch her go through it. That just made them stronger and had me falling even more for both.
The world-building for 99's world was wonderful and I cannot wait to see more of it in the next book.
*side note: I found the first book accidentally when I stumbled across a 99 cosplayer on TikTok last year. I was hooked after finding out about the book through them and reading it. I didn't expect to like a Sci-fi Romantacy so much. If he ever sees this comment: Thank you for leading me to this wonderful author and her books.*
Ferran is badass!. I loved her growth in this book and related to her internal struggle with having to go back to the place that is the source of a lot of pain for her. I also loved how 99 stood by her side to let her make these choices and never made her feel like she couldn't do something. Even if it was hard for him at times to watch her go through it. That just made them stronger and had me falling even more for both.
The world-building for 99's world was wonderful and I cannot wait to see more of it in the next book.
*side note: I found the first book accidentally when I stumbled across a 99 cosplayer on TikTok last year. I was hooked after finding out about the book through them and reading it. I didn't expect to like a Sci-fi Romantacy so much. If he ever sees this comment: Thank you for leading me to this wonderful author and her books.*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2025
DNFed @ 25%
I guess the tropes of mystery man in helmet and "helmet stays on during" has a max carrying capacity of one whole book.
I was so incredibly excited for this book as The Viridian Priestess was one of my top 10 books in 2023. So to say I was underwhelmed is an understatement.
It felt like the author had no where else to really take the plot after the ending of the first one and honestly it might have been better if it had been a single stand alone book instead of a trilogy.
The first quarter of this sequel was so meandering. It has 0 rising action, questions, or tension at all. Not even sexual tension.
I wanted so much more from the characters especially 99. What I thought was the strong and silent type from book one actually turned out to be the boring and silent type in book 2.
Boring boring boring. What a damn shame.
I guess the tropes of mystery man in helmet and "helmet stays on during" has a max carrying capacity of one whole book.
I was so incredibly excited for this book as The Viridian Priestess was one of my top 10 books in 2023. So to say I was underwhelmed is an understatement.
It felt like the author had no where else to really take the plot after the ending of the first one and honestly it might have been better if it had been a single stand alone book instead of a trilogy.
The first quarter of this sequel was so meandering. It has 0 rising action, questions, or tension at all. Not even sexual tension.
I wanted so much more from the characters especially 99. What I thought was the strong and silent type from book one actually turned out to be the boring and silent type in book 2.
Boring boring boring. What a damn shame.
August 15, 2024
3.5 stars. This was kind of disappointing considering how much I loved the first book. The spice spiced for sure, but several moments were bizarre or made me laugh when I know that was not the intent. The ending felt very rushed and confusing.
I feel like this could have ended nicely as a duology. I am not sure how I feel about the introduction of the new plot for book three. It would have had a cleaner ending without the new plot point imo.
I feel like this could have ended nicely as a duology. I am not sure how I feel about the introduction of the new plot for book three. It would have had a cleaner ending without the new plot point imo.
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