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The Commune's Curse #2
The Mad Man's Hope
Lovers become enemies, enemies become allies, and all will be tested to their limits in this second instalment in The Commune’s Curse series.
Evelyn folksman has partnered with the enemy. Desperate to save her friends, she has reluctantly agreed to travel with former Commune Commander, Jonah Sulemon, to his home islands where he has promised a weapon that will allow them to take down the Commune once and for all. To succeed, both Evelyn and Jonah must each face the trauma of their pasts and learn to trust one another.
Meanwhile, Raif Huntsman is searching for his sister, Rose, who holds incredibly and deadly powers. Alongside rebel Hector Haralambous, he travels to Nook Town, where they hope to find Rose, and to stop her powers being abused by those who kidnapped her… but where they will encounter a danger just as oppressive—and perhaps even as deadly—as the Commune’s regime.
Praise for Awakening (The Commune’s Book 1):
"I was struck by McLaren's exquisite prose [and] the fast pace of her story...[Awakening] completely captivated me from the move this book to the top of your TBR pile, it's an absolute stunner!" --Cindy van Wilder Zanetti, author of The Trespassers series
"Tight and fascinating world-building that will delight fantasy fans, coupled with clear-eyed portraits of trauma in its characters that raise it above the usual standard." - Daniel M. Ford, best-selling author of The Paladin trilogy and The Warden series
Evelyn folksman has partnered with the enemy. Desperate to save her friends, she has reluctantly agreed to travel with former Commune Commander, Jonah Sulemon, to his home islands where he has promised a weapon that will allow them to take down the Commune once and for all. To succeed, both Evelyn and Jonah must each face the trauma of their pasts and learn to trust one another.
Meanwhile, Raif Huntsman is searching for his sister, Rose, who holds incredibly and deadly powers. Alongside rebel Hector Haralambous, he travels to Nook Town, where they hope to find Rose, and to stop her powers being abused by those who kidnapped her… but where they will encounter a danger just as oppressive—and perhaps even as deadly—as the Commune’s regime.
Praise for Awakening (The Commune’s Book 1):
"I was struck by McLaren's exquisite prose [and] the fast pace of her story...[Awakening] completely captivated me from the move this book to the top of your TBR pile, it's an absolute stunner!" --Cindy van Wilder Zanetti, author of The Trespassers series
"Tight and fascinating world-building that will delight fantasy fans, coupled with clear-eyed portraits of trauma in its characters that raise it above the usual standard." - Daniel M. Ford, best-selling author of The Paladin trilogy and The Warden series
390 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2024
2 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
Lucy A. McLaren
5 books55 followersAs a writer, Lucy spends her time capturing on paper the imaginary kingdoms, far-off places and characters who live there (and their pets, of course) that her brain throws at her at completely random times of day.
She’s been a fan of fantasy stories since she was a child, but especially loves to explore her characters through the real-world lens of mental health— what have they been through, what are they feeling and why are they how they are? She uses a mix of counselling theory and D&D backstories when creating her characters. Add a pinch of magic, ruthless cults, authoritarian, patriarchal leaders or murderous lunatics, and perhaps a talking animal or two, and you’ll have an idea of what her stories involve.
Her favourite books and series include His Dark Materials, The Priory of the Orange Tree, Liveship Traders, and The Age of Madness. She’s an avid video game player and loves epic roleplaying games, including God of War, Horizon series, The Witcher 3, and Legend of Zelda series. She also enjoys smaller, character-focused games like Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture or What Remains of Edith Finch.
When not writing, you can find her spending time with her husband and young son, attempting to find time to watch the latest superhero or fantasy film or TV series, or taking way too many photos in her local parks and woods.
She’s been a fan of fantasy stories since she was a child, but especially loves to explore her characters through the real-world lens of mental health— what have they been through, what are they feeling and why are they how they are? She uses a mix of counselling theory and D&D backstories when creating her characters. Add a pinch of magic, ruthless cults, authoritarian, patriarchal leaders or murderous lunatics, and perhaps a talking animal or two, and you’ll have an idea of what her stories involve.
Her favourite books and series include His Dark Materials, The Priory of the Orange Tree, Liveship Traders, and The Age of Madness. She’s an avid video game player and loves epic roleplaying games, including God of War, Horizon series, The Witcher 3, and Legend of Zelda series. She also enjoys smaller, character-focused games like Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture or What Remains of Edith Finch.
When not writing, you can find her spending time with her husband and young son, attempting to find time to watch the latest superhero or fantasy film or TV series, or taking way too many photos in her local parks and woods.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
September 16, 2024
4 stars!
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC of this amazing book!
I enjoyed every second of this, it was so fast-paced and written really well! It picked up really well after the first book and I loved seeing the different perspectives of these beloved characters!
Seeing Jonah's side of things was really interesting and I definitely liked having his perspective and learning more about his past!
I can't wait to read the next book, especially after that ending!!
If you like books with lots of emotion, friendship, magic and sacrifice then you'll definitely enjoy this series!
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC of this amazing book!
I enjoyed every second of this, it was so fast-paced and written really well! It picked up really well after the first book and I loved seeing the different perspectives of these beloved characters!
Seeing Jonah's side of things was really interesting and I definitely liked having his perspective and learning more about his past!
I can't wait to read the next book, especially after that ending!!
If you like books with lots of emotion, friendship, magic and sacrifice then you'll definitely enjoy this series!
October 2, 2024
A story of friendship, self-worth, acceptance, and forgiveness set in a fantasy world.
I had the opportunity to get an ARC of The Mad Man's Hope, and I wasn't disappointed. After reading Awakening: The Communes Curse, I was keen to see how things would play out for Rafe, Rose, Evelyn, Jonah, and Hector. Needless to say, the character development was fabulous, and I loved the changing relationship between Jonah and Evelyn.
The book follows the main characters through several different character arcs, all of which are engaging. My particular favourite being Jonah and Evelyn, but I was also interested in learning more about Hector's backstory, and I loved his cat companion, Cara. I also loved how the small romantic aspect of the novel came from an older couple.
The Mad Man's Hope is a great continuation of the fantasy world McLaren has created and I am keen to read part 3 and to see how all these characters come together to fight to bring down the Commune! What a cliff hanger!
I highly recommend it!
I had the opportunity to get an ARC of The Mad Man's Hope, and I wasn't disappointed. After reading Awakening: The Communes Curse, I was keen to see how things would play out for Rafe, Rose, Evelyn, Jonah, and Hector. Needless to say, the character development was fabulous, and I loved the changing relationship between Jonah and Evelyn.
The book follows the main characters through several different character arcs, all of which are engaging. My particular favourite being Jonah and Evelyn, but I was also interested in learning more about Hector's backstory, and I loved his cat companion, Cara. I also loved how the small romantic aspect of the novel came from an older couple.
The Mad Man's Hope is a great continuation of the fantasy world McLaren has created and I am keen to read part 3 and to see how all these characters come together to fight to bring down the Commune! What a cliff hanger!
I highly recommend it!
September 24, 2024
"The Mad Man's Hope" is the second book in "The Commune's Curse" series, and I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy. Although there is a novella called "The King's Decree" set in the same world, I have not read that yet. This didn't affect my understanding or enjoyment of this sequel. It seamlessly picks up from where "Awakening" left off, delving deeper into the Kingdom of Septima and the Noman Islands. The strength of the novel lies in its nuanced characters, Evelyn, Raif, Hector, and Jonah. McLaren expertly captures their inner turmoil as they grapple with their choices and the limits of their control.
The story revolves around the struggle to reconcile with trauma, make peace with guilt, and determine where the line between good and evil lies. Like in ‘Awakening’, the story is told via the POVs of four characters (and the letters of one other). The focus in this sequel is more equally divided over the various characters, making it hard to pinpoint a central protagonist. Nineteen-year-old Evelyn continues her journey to understand her unreliable powers, accompanied by ex-Commander Jonah, haunted by his love and his past. Meanwhile, Hector and young Raif search for Raif's kidnapped sister, leading them to a dangerous place where Hector really didn’t want to return to.
The novel expands on the mysterious powers introduced in "Awakening" and explores how different societies within the world respond to them. The price and peril of wielding power, both magical and social, are explored in a morally complex manner. While the tyrannical Commune takes a backseat for a portion of the story, it eventually returns in full force to place the protagonists in further jeopardy. McLaren creates a multifaceted world where even good intentions can have devastating consequences, elevating the series beyond a simple good-versus-evil fantasy.
“The Mad Man’s Hope” is an excellent continuation of the series, and I’m now off to read “The King’s Decree”.
The story revolves around the struggle to reconcile with trauma, make peace with guilt, and determine where the line between good and evil lies. Like in ‘Awakening’, the story is told via the POVs of four characters (and the letters of one other). The focus in this sequel is more equally divided over the various characters, making it hard to pinpoint a central protagonist. Nineteen-year-old Evelyn continues her journey to understand her unreliable powers, accompanied by ex-Commander Jonah, haunted by his love and his past. Meanwhile, Hector and young Raif search for Raif's kidnapped sister, leading them to a dangerous place where Hector really didn’t want to return to.
The novel expands on the mysterious powers introduced in "Awakening" and explores how different societies within the world respond to them. The price and peril of wielding power, both magical and social, are explored in a morally complex manner. While the tyrannical Commune takes a backseat for a portion of the story, it eventually returns in full force to place the protagonists in further jeopardy. McLaren creates a multifaceted world where even good intentions can have devastating consequences, elevating the series beyond a simple good-versus-evil fantasy.
“The Mad Man’s Hope” is an excellent continuation of the series, and I’m now off to read “The King’s Decree”.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2025
Awarding Mad Man's Hope five stars was an easy choice!! McLaren continues to crafts an intricate exploration of power, loyalty, and the sacrifices we make for those we love, bringing each character's internal struggle vividly to life. This second instalment left me eager for more of the character’s journeys as they confront not only the external forces threatening their existence and perception of the world, and their place in it, but also their own hidden potential and desires.
This second book in the trilogy continues to follow the compelling cast of characters, each navigating their own battles within the oppressive world of Septima, as well as a host of new, fundamental characters and narratives. This builds on the fantasy world that McLaren has created with depth, complexity and an almost unnerving realness. Allies and adversaries alike are layered with internal conflicts, wrestling with betrayal and duty. Themes of identity, destiny, and the consequences of wielding power run through the narrative, alongside explorations of trust, resilience, and personal duty. McLaren’s storytelling is both emotionally rich and thought-provoking, making Mad Man’s Hope a gripping read that lingers long after the final page.
I cannot wait for the third and final instalment!!
This second book in the trilogy continues to follow the compelling cast of characters, each navigating their own battles within the oppressive world of Septima, as well as a host of new, fundamental characters and narratives. This builds on the fantasy world that McLaren has created with depth, complexity and an almost unnerving realness. Allies and adversaries alike are layered with internal conflicts, wrestling with betrayal and duty. Themes of identity, destiny, and the consequences of wielding power run through the narrative, alongside explorations of trust, resilience, and personal duty. McLaren’s storytelling is both emotionally rich and thought-provoking, making Mad Man’s Hope a gripping read that lingers long after the final page.
I cannot wait for the third and final instalment!!
October 8, 2024
I loved this story! The Mad Man’s Hope continues where Awakening left off, expanding the world nicely while keeping everything that drew me into the story in the first place.
Once again, the multi-POV was done flawlessly, bringing deeper layers to familiar characters and adding some new ones. Each POV character was unique and I liked every one of them for different reasons.
It’s a fast-paced story that kept me reading long into the night! I highly recommend The Mad Man’s Hope! I can’t wait for the next one!
Once again, the multi-POV was done flawlessly, bringing deeper layers to familiar characters and adding some new ones. Each POV character was unique and I liked every one of them for different reasons.
It’s a fast-paced story that kept me reading long into the night! I highly recommend The Mad Man’s Hope! I can’t wait for the next one!
October 13, 2024
Actual rating: 3.5⭐️
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked that this started off right where we left off in the first book. It’s been a few years since I read book 1, so it took me a little while to remember what went down, but the pacing was nice and the writing was good. It was emotional and full of twists and turns. However, I never really got that invested in the story and found myself not knowing where it was going, but this is more of a me problem.
Thank you again Lucy for trusting me with your book
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked that this started off right where we left off in the first book. It’s been a few years since I read book 1, so it took me a little while to remember what went down, but the pacing was nice and the writing was good. It was emotional and full of twists and turns. However, I never really got that invested in the story and found myself not knowing where it was going, but this is more of a me problem.
Thank you again Lucy for trusting me with your book
December 3, 2024
Beautifully written
If you've read book one, then you must read this.
If you haven't, then you must read book one!
A very well constructed and cohesive fantasy, and I cannot recommend it enough.
If you've read book one, then you must read this.
If you haven't, then you must read book one!
A very well constructed and cohesive fantasy, and I cannot recommend it enough.
September 29, 2024
Having read the first book I was eager to follow Lucy A. McLaren's ongoing story of The Commune's Curse.
The author has created a wonderful world; not only in its physicality - the locations of the town Nook has an authentic down-trodden and grim feel to it, and the Islands are told very beautifully. I felt like I wanted to visit there myself! - but also in the social dynamics and real feel of the political and religious background. In essence, a great deal of planning and detail has gone into creating all aspects of this world.
This second instalment allows us to get into the characterisation more, where we can really see into their wants, fears and needs. I like the deeper exploration of the individuals in it: how they interact and how they react to each other. This is exactly how we get to know them better, and it is this characterisation that really drives the plot along. It's just more of a personal story. For example I like Jonas' and Evelyn's interaction, opposing viewpoints and backgrounds and how they change. I wasn't expecting how these two characters engaged, and that was very interesting. It feels plausible. Especially with Jonas, he retains something of his darker side, which is great. It keeps us guessing and wondering where the story is going! There is a real idea that no one is inherently evil or bad, and I like that. The writing delves into how complicated people are - their backgrounds, trauma,and how it is possible to change, from sympathy and healing. This aspect is refreshing to see in a fantasy book to this level.
There are two main focuses in the book. We follow two groups of characters in separate locations. There is adventure and discoveries, new mysteries, danger and hope, villains and touching relationships.
It is a good mix - we get good fantasy tropes - "talking" animals, magic, luxuriant lands and grimy towns, along with the deeper topics of abuse and kidnapping, subversion and suppression. I think it has the right balance and I think the author has done a sterling job on managing this.
On the whole I think it is a really good follow up to Awakening, the first book of the series. It feels more down to earth, as the descriptions of the characters and world expands. It does seem grimmer, more dangerous, and the tension seems higher, for me, and I think the writing shows that very well.
On the whole I think this is a great part two in the series and it does pull you along and wanting to know more, and I don't say that lightly!
The author has created a wonderful world; not only in its physicality - the locations of the town Nook has an authentic down-trodden and grim feel to it, and the Islands are told very beautifully. I felt like I wanted to visit there myself! - but also in the social dynamics and real feel of the political and religious background. In essence, a great deal of planning and detail has gone into creating all aspects of this world.
This second instalment allows us to get into the characterisation more, where we can really see into their wants, fears and needs. I like the deeper exploration of the individuals in it: how they interact and how they react to each other. This is exactly how we get to know them better, and it is this characterisation that really drives the plot along. It's just more of a personal story. For example I like Jonas' and Evelyn's interaction, opposing viewpoints and backgrounds and how they change. I wasn't expecting how these two characters engaged, and that was very interesting. It feels plausible. Especially with Jonas, he retains something of his darker side, which is great. It keeps us guessing and wondering where the story is going! There is a real idea that no one is inherently evil or bad, and I like that. The writing delves into how complicated people are - their backgrounds, trauma,and how it is possible to change, from sympathy and healing. This aspect is refreshing to see in a fantasy book to this level.
There are two main focuses in the book. We follow two groups of characters in separate locations. There is adventure and discoveries, new mysteries, danger and hope, villains and touching relationships.
It is a good mix - we get good fantasy tropes - "talking" animals, magic, luxuriant lands and grimy towns, along with the deeper topics of abuse and kidnapping, subversion and suppression. I think it has the right balance and I think the author has done a sterling job on managing this.
On the whole I think it is a really good follow up to Awakening, the first book of the series. It feels more down to earth, as the descriptions of the characters and world expands. It does seem grimmer, more dangerous, and the tension seems higher, for me, and I think the writing shows that very well.
On the whole I think this is a great part two in the series and it does pull you along and wanting to know more, and I don't say that lightly!
September 24, 2024
"It's a mad man's hope, lad, that keeps such fervent faith in place without question."
I was worried that after an almost 2 year wait, I would have a hard time keeping track of what was happening, but not in this case. The book picks up right where the first book, The Commune's Curse, ended off, with Jonah and Evelyn fleeing together, and Hector and Raif off to find Raif's sister, Rose.
This dark fantasy book was fast-paced and easy to follow, with a cool ship fight, an evil cult-like figure, and one of my favorite aspects - an animal companion. Though Cara, the sassy cat, gets less face time in this story than in the first book, I did a little happy dance every time I heard from her.
It was also wonderful to see Jonah and Evelyn go from genuine enemies to friends. Though it doesn't seem possible, I wonder if their relationship will deepen. but even if they remain friends henceforth, I'm happy for them.
A fantastic follow up to the first book. Well done to the author! I'm looking forward to the next part of the story!
I was worried that after an almost 2 year wait, I would have a hard time keeping track of what was happening, but not in this case. The book picks up right where the first book, The Commune's Curse, ended off, with Jonah and Evelyn fleeing together, and Hector and Raif off to find Raif's sister, Rose.
This dark fantasy book was fast-paced and easy to follow, with a cool ship fight, an evil cult-like figure, and one of my favorite aspects - an animal companion. Though Cara, the sassy cat, gets less face time in this story than in the first book, I did a little happy dance every time I heard from her.
It was also wonderful to see Jonah and Evelyn go from genuine enemies to friends. Though it doesn't seem possible, I wonder if their relationship will deepen. but even if they remain friends henceforth, I'm happy for them.
A fantastic follow up to the first book. Well done to the author! I'm looking forward to the next part of the story!
September 26, 2024
I received an ARC of this book to review honestly.
This is the second book of The Commune's Curse, and I enjoyed it as much as the first one. While a little slow getting started, it really picked up speed and had me internally screaming near the end of the book. Each chapter follows along with either Jonah, Evelyn, Hector, or Raif, and we see each of their struggles and growth as the story progresses. There is death, manipulation, addiction, and sexual assault all with in the pages of this book, and I was very appreciative of the trigger warning at the beginning, as I'm sure others with be.
The Commune seems to be an unstoppable force. I'm curious to see if the heroes will ultimately succeed in the end.
This is the second book of The Commune's Curse, and I enjoyed it as much as the first one. While a little slow getting started, it really picked up speed and had me internally screaming near the end of the book. Each chapter follows along with either Jonah, Evelyn, Hector, or Raif, and we see each of their struggles and growth as the story progresses. There is death, manipulation, addiction, and sexual assault all with in the pages of this book, and I was very appreciative of the trigger warning at the beginning, as I'm sure others with be.
The Commune seems to be an unstoppable force. I'm curious to see if the heroes will ultimately succeed in the end.
October 11, 2024
The Mad Man’s Hope is about relationships, the problems they pose and the strength they supply.
I enjoyed Awakening: Communes Curse, and was given a chance to read The Mad Man’s Hope as it was undergoing final revisions. All the appealing things from Awakening are still here, and the story moves forward through wonderful, authentic, messy heroes. Heroes? Maybe… I can’t wait to find out.
But The Mad Man’s Hope is an excellent continuation of a great story. Raif and Lebby, Evelyn and Jonah; their character arcs are believable. Their relationships are charming, painful, dissonant, and lovely—the things that make up life. I love Hector and his struggles to set things straight with odds stacked against him. I highly recommend this book, and I am anxiously awaiting the next story.
I enjoyed Awakening: Communes Curse, and was given a chance to read The Mad Man’s Hope as it was undergoing final revisions. All the appealing things from Awakening are still here, and the story moves forward through wonderful, authentic, messy heroes. Heroes? Maybe… I can’t wait to find out.
But The Mad Man’s Hope is an excellent continuation of a great story. Raif and Lebby, Evelyn and Jonah; their character arcs are believable. Their relationships are charming, painful, dissonant, and lovely—the things that make up life. I love Hector and his struggles to set things straight with odds stacked against him. I highly recommend this book, and I am anxiously awaiting the next story.
October 15, 2024
I love this dark fantasy series!
With complex characters, a compelling plot, and conflict rooted in humanity, this is the perfect read for fans of dark fantasy.
I adore Jonah; it was lovely to follow him to his homeland and learn more about his culture. His relationship with Evelyn grew (an enemies-to-friends scenario), and it was so heart breaking to discovering more about his past with Erick.
Erick's letters were my favourite part btw!
Hector is the hero we all want and deserve. He's older, wiser, and still makes mistakes. His story line is realistic and I enjoyed every step of the way.
Rafi also shines here---I love every POV character and the supporting cast is brilliant.
Highly recommend this series to fans of dark fantasy!
With complex characters, a compelling plot, and conflict rooted in humanity, this is the perfect read for fans of dark fantasy.
I adore Jonah; it was lovely to follow him to his homeland and learn more about his culture. His relationship with Evelyn grew (an enemies-to-friends scenario), and it was so heart breaking to discovering more about his past with Erick.
Erick's letters were my favourite part btw!
Hector is the hero we all want and deserve. He's older, wiser, and still makes mistakes. His story line is realistic and I enjoyed every step of the way.
Rafi also shines here---I love every POV character and the supporting cast is brilliant.
Highly recommend this series to fans of dark fantasy!
October 15, 2024
Trust is a double-edged sword.
The series just keeps getting better and better as we watch the characters travel to new lands and face all new kinds of trials and mishaps. There’s more depth to the worldbuilding and lore, especially in many religious contexts and their effects to the masses. How they could be easily corrupted and taken over. But that’s what enriched the world, with the reality of how much fear can oppress people’s actions and blur their judgements.
There were also new depths revealed to the characters as we get a bit more of a story to some of them. New information led to understanding how and what happened, and I can’t wait for more!
The series just keeps getting better and better as we watch the characters travel to new lands and face all new kinds of trials and mishaps. There’s more depth to the worldbuilding and lore, especially in many religious contexts and their effects to the masses. How they could be easily corrupted and taken over. But that’s what enriched the world, with the reality of how much fear can oppress people’s actions and blur their judgements.
There were also new depths revealed to the characters as we get a bit more of a story to some of them. New information led to understanding how and what happened, and I can’t wait for more!
October 14, 2024
Another incredible story full of beautiful writing, deep, well drawn characters, friendship, and a wonderful storyline that I absolutely loved. I don't always love reading fantasy, but I think Lucy might make a fantasy convert of me with this series!
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August 6, 2024I can't wait for the second book in The Commune's Curse series to be out in the world. Coming October 2024...
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews