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The Blackhart Code:
Don't let the monsters grind you down
A Blackhart can see the supernatural behind everyday crimes. But some crimes hide even greater evils…
Kit Blackhart must investigate why children are disappearing from a London estate. However, their parents, police and fae allies claim to know nothing. And as yet more children disappear, the pressure mounts. Luckily, or unluckily, government trainee Dante Alexander is helping Kit with the case. Yet just as her feelings towards him begin to thaw, his life falls apart. As Kit struggles to unravel his problems and dangerous secrets, she meets fae Prince Thorn in her dreams – but their relationship is utterly forbidden.
Then Kit digs too deep, and uncovers a mystery that’s been hidden for one thousand years. It’s a secret that could just tear down our world.
Don't let the monsters grind you down
A Blackhart can see the supernatural behind everyday crimes. But some crimes hide even greater evils…
Kit Blackhart must investigate why children are disappearing from a London estate. However, their parents, police and fae allies claim to know nothing. And as yet more children disappear, the pressure mounts. Luckily, or unluckily, government trainee Dante Alexander is helping Kit with the case. Yet just as her feelings towards him begin to thaw, his life falls apart. As Kit struggles to unravel his problems and dangerous secrets, she meets fae Prince Thorn in her dreams – but their relationship is utterly forbidden.
Then Kit digs too deep, and uncovers a mystery that’s been hidden for one thousand years. It’s a secret that could just tear down our world.
480 pages, Paperback
First published November 6, 2014
8 people are currently reading
334 people want to read
About the author
Liz de Jager
3 books92 followersMoved to the UK in 2000 with my husband. We now live in Kent with our dog Sparrow. I ran My Favourite Books Blog - a book review site - until the end of 2012 when we decided to shut it for our own sanity.
My bookdeal was announced in March 2013 and the first book THE BLACKHART LEGACY: BOOK 1: BANISHED is due out in Spring 2014 from Tor UK, an imprint of Pan Macmillan.
My bookdeal was announced in March 2013 and the first book THE BLACKHART LEGACY: BOOK 1: BANISHED is due out in Spring 2014 from Tor UK, an imprint of Pan Macmillan.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
November 25, 2014
I can honestly say that Vowed is one of the rare books that I can't wait to dive into knowing it is the second one of the series. While some other series struggle with the 'second book syndrome' and end up being not as amazing as the predecessor, Vowed has none of these problems, in fact Vowed was even better than Banished. With all the footwork out of the way Liz is able to up the ante and not only bring us some amazingly new creatures, but really lets her characters shine. We get to see Kit even more kick as than ever, we see a whole new side to Aiden (who I admit to loving even more within the pages of Vowed), but we also get to see different organisations working together.
Vowed is action packed full of magic, action, romance, and some seriously amazing pancakes ;). I really like how Liz has carried on with the awesomeness that is Kit and the Blackhart family, but has taken them away from situations they are comfortable with, and thrown them into a whole new situation. We still get the magic and the creatures, but in a more human environment with human and otherworld rules to follow and Kit soon realises she is dealing with a lot more than she realised.
Dante was someone who I was unsure about at first, I didn't know his intentions or why he was constantly around, but as the story develops we get to see why. As we get to know him alongside Kit I really did begin to like him, and just when I thought things were straight Liz throws another surprise into the book and we now are faced with a new interesting problem.
I have really enjoyed seeing how far Kit has come, as a person but also as someone with magic. She can seriously kick some ass but has a caring side to her too. Her magical powers have become even more impressive, and thank to training she is able to wield it a lot better. I can't wait to see what happens with her abilities in the next book
Vowed was everything I imagined it would be, and my only problem is that now I have to wait for the next book. It's going to be a loonnnnnng wait.
Vowed is action packed full of magic, action, romance, and some seriously amazing pancakes ;). I really like how Liz has carried on with the awesomeness that is Kit and the Blackhart family, but has taken them away from situations they are comfortable with, and thrown them into a whole new situation. We still get the magic and the creatures, but in a more human environment with human and otherworld rules to follow and Kit soon realises she is dealing with a lot more than she realised.
Dante was someone who I was unsure about at first, I didn't know his intentions or why he was constantly around, but as the story develops we get to see why. As we get to know him alongside Kit I really did begin to like him, and just when I thought things were straight Liz throws another surprise into the book and we now are faced with a new interesting problem.
I have really enjoyed seeing how far Kit has come, as a person but also as someone with magic. She can seriously kick some ass but has a caring side to her too. Her magical powers have become even more impressive, and thank to training she is able to wield it a lot better. I can't wait to see what happens with her abilities in the next book
Vowed was everything I imagined it would be, and my only problem is that now I have to wait for the next book. It's going to be a loonnnnnng wait.
April 20, 2015
The Review: http://thefictionalhangout.blogspot.c....
The Blackhart Code: Don't let the monsters grind you down
A Blackhart can see the supernatural behind everyday crimes. But some crimes hide even greater evils . .
.
Kit Blackhart must investigate why children are disappearing from a London estate. Their parents, the police and Kit's fae allies claim to know nothing. And as more children disappear, the pressure mounts. Luckily, or unluckily, government trainee Dante Alexander is helping Kit with the case. Yet just as her feelings towards him begin to thaw, his life falls apart. As Kit struggles to unravel Dante's problems and solve their case, she meets fae Prince Thorn in her dreams - but their relationship is utterly forbidden.
Then Kit digs too deep, uncovering a mystery that's been hidden for one thousand years. It's a secret that could just tear down our world.
I can’t resist a good urban fantasy, especially when it’s set in London, and given how strong the first book in The Blackheart Legacy, Banished was I was really looking forward to seeing what Liz De Jager could come up with in the second act, and she didn’t disappoint, delivering a wonderfully fun, fast paced read that really impressed. The characters are great and the world that’s developing around them is awesome, with the mystery and suspense really helping to add to the mix of a fantastic novel that keeps you hooked from the beginning to the end.
Kit’s one of the more fun characters whose journey I’ve followed in a while and her development is great to watch unfold here as she changes over the course of the novel, evolving and leaving a strong impression on the reader. She’s kickass and a great protagonist for the reader to follow, especially with the curtain pushed back on the Fae World. We are introduced to more things than we were before, and it’s good to see that the other characters that we spend time with are just as compelling, with newcomer Government Trainee Dante Alexander being a welcome addition to the book and Prince Thorn offering some perspective on the Fae side of things, offering up an interesting, well balanced cast.
Something that’s also refreshing to see in YA urban fantasy is a platonic relationship between a female and male lead character that doesn’t end up becoming a romantic one, with the friendship between Kit and the werewolf Aiden being one of the more fun parts of the novel, with both characters having some good interactions that were pretty enjoyable to read.
There’s plenty of expansion on the world here as it starts to get more and more fleshed out in front of us. We learn a lot more about the Fae World, with some interesting teases dropped about things like The Dragon Lords of Chin that will make you want to discover more. There’s a lot of mystery here with it feeling very much like a Detective novel, obviously firmly planted in the Urban Fantasy genre. The themes highlighted in the novel are more complex than its predecessor, affecting the characters and continuing their development, with the characters, not just Kit, really developing well. There's a lot of stuff here that makes me really excited to see what happens in the third act of The Blackheart Legacy, and it couldn't get here quickly enough.
I mentioned that I love good Urban Fantasy books set in London, and Vowed is no exception. When done properly, London can almost feel like a character in itself (See Tom Pollock’s Skyscraper Throne Trilogy and Neil Gaiman’s Neverwhere for good examples, and I’d also point older readers in the direction of Kate Griffin’s Matthew Swift Series and the Hellblazer Graphic Novels from Vertigo Comics), and something similar is on display here, with the level of world building being played out very well. It doesn’t feel like a bland, forgettable backdrop that could be changed with any other city and you wouldn’t notice the difference, having its own unique identity, and coupled with the fascinating world building, the rich setting really works in the book's favour .
There’s never a dull moment in Vowed, and readers of Banished will find more to love in the book’s second outing. It’s well plotted, fun, fast paced and intriguing, featuring some great lead characters set against a fantastic backdrop and once again, offers up an excellent read for fans of Young Adult Fiction.
VERDICT: 8.9/10
The Blackhart Code: Don't let the monsters grind you down
A Blackhart can see the supernatural behind everyday crimes. But some crimes hide even greater evils . .
.
Kit Blackhart must investigate why children are disappearing from a London estate. Their parents, the police and Kit's fae allies claim to know nothing. And as more children disappear, the pressure mounts. Luckily, or unluckily, government trainee Dante Alexander is helping Kit with the case. Yet just as her feelings towards him begin to thaw, his life falls apart. As Kit struggles to unravel Dante's problems and solve their case, she meets fae Prince Thorn in her dreams - but their relationship is utterly forbidden.
Then Kit digs too deep, uncovering a mystery that's been hidden for one thousand years. It's a secret that could just tear down our world.
I can’t resist a good urban fantasy, especially when it’s set in London, and given how strong the first book in The Blackheart Legacy, Banished was I was really looking forward to seeing what Liz De Jager could come up with in the second act, and she didn’t disappoint, delivering a wonderfully fun, fast paced read that really impressed. The characters are great and the world that’s developing around them is awesome, with the mystery and suspense really helping to add to the mix of a fantastic novel that keeps you hooked from the beginning to the end.
Kit’s one of the more fun characters whose journey I’ve followed in a while and her development is great to watch unfold here as she changes over the course of the novel, evolving and leaving a strong impression on the reader. She’s kickass and a great protagonist for the reader to follow, especially with the curtain pushed back on the Fae World. We are introduced to more things than we were before, and it’s good to see that the other characters that we spend time with are just as compelling, with newcomer Government Trainee Dante Alexander being a welcome addition to the book and Prince Thorn offering some perspective on the Fae side of things, offering up an interesting, well balanced cast.
Something that’s also refreshing to see in YA urban fantasy is a platonic relationship between a female and male lead character that doesn’t end up becoming a romantic one, with the friendship between Kit and the werewolf Aiden being one of the more fun parts of the novel, with both characters having some good interactions that were pretty enjoyable to read.
There’s plenty of expansion on the world here as it starts to get more and more fleshed out in front of us. We learn a lot more about the Fae World, with some interesting teases dropped about things like The Dragon Lords of Chin that will make you want to discover more. There’s a lot of mystery here with it feeling very much like a Detective novel, obviously firmly planted in the Urban Fantasy genre. The themes highlighted in the novel are more complex than its predecessor, affecting the characters and continuing their development, with the characters, not just Kit, really developing well. There's a lot of stuff here that makes me really excited to see what happens in the third act of The Blackheart Legacy, and it couldn't get here quickly enough.
I mentioned that I love good Urban Fantasy books set in London, and Vowed is no exception. When done properly, London can almost feel like a character in itself (See Tom Pollock’s Skyscraper Throne Trilogy and Neil Gaiman’s Neverwhere for good examples, and I’d also point older readers in the direction of Kate Griffin’s Matthew Swift Series and the Hellblazer Graphic Novels from Vertigo Comics), and something similar is on display here, with the level of world building being played out very well. It doesn’t feel like a bland, forgettable backdrop that could be changed with any other city and you wouldn’t notice the difference, having its own unique identity, and coupled with the fascinating world building, the rich setting really works in the book's favour .
There’s never a dull moment in Vowed, and readers of Banished will find more to love in the book’s second outing. It’s well plotted, fun, fast paced and intriguing, featuring some great lead characters set against a fantastic backdrop and once again, offers up an excellent read for fans of Young Adult Fiction.
VERDICT: 8.9/10
November 8, 2014
I feel like I have to put a disclaimer at the top of this review to say that Liz is a friend of mine, but I also want to say that I've done my best to be completely unbiased in this review. As an ex book blogger I know Liz expects honesty in reviews of her books and I'm sure she'd kick my arse if she thought I was being less than 100% truthful. Luckily Liz's books are just as awesome as she is and there is absolutely no need to puff them up or give them false praise! So now I've got that out of the way lets get down to the bit you've all been waiting for - my thoughts on Vowed.
So if you're reading this I'm going to assume you've already read Banished (if not walk away from this review now, go buy the book & come back here when you've read it!) and if you loved that then you're going to enjoy Vowed as much if not more. Everything great about the first book has been ramped up in this one - the fantastic characters, a weird and wonderful array of fae and other creatures, a mystery that keeps you guessing and so much action you won't want to put it down.
Kit has had some time to get used to her family now, and she is getting better at using her magical abilities, she still isn't 100% sure what she's capable of but she has come a long way since the beginning of the first book. She may not be the strongest amongst her friends but she isn't afraid to stand up for herself and people who need her help, even if it costs her. I loved that Kit is still learning, she doesn't have all the answers and she has to work to achieve her goals, she gets her butt kicked on more than one occasion but she never lets it stop her doing what needs to be done. I enjoyed seeing her spending time with her cousin Kyle and her friend Aiden, we saw their friendships begin and now we're getting to see that bond between them get even stronger. I have to admit I missed Thorn, we do get parts of the story from his POV which helped but I just love seeing him and Kit together so I missed that banter.
Luckily for me we are introduced to a new character Dante and he made up for Thorn's absence. Dante is a government agent who has been spying on the Blackharts so of course Kit is very wary of him and the last thing she wants is to have to work alongside him. Unfortunately for her the Unseelie Queen has a job for them and she insists they resolve the case together. There are children going missing on a London estate and with the only witnesses giving strange accounts of monsters walking through walls the police aren't having much luck finding out what is happening to them. It is up to Kit and Dante to figure out what is going on and if it's a member of the fae causing the disappearances the Unseelie Queen wants the culprit brought to her. Dante and Kit have very different ways of working so putting the two of them together was bound to cause fireworks but as they spend time together and get to know each other they slowly start to respect each other.
As much as I'm all for having lots of hot boys in books I have to say I absolutely love Liz for not turning this into a love triangle, there are times when it appears that Dante is interested in Kit but I never really felt that she saw him as anything more than a friend and he seems happy to accept that. I'm actually kind of rooting for a Dante / Aiden pairing but we'll have to see what happens in the next book. Another quick thing I have to mention is that I loved the way the story deals with Aiden and Dante's bisexuality, it's mentioned in passing but never made into an issue and it didn't feel like they'd been added as the token LGBTQ characters that you so often get in stories. I love books with diverse characters but I don't want to feel like they've been added in just to tick a box on a YA checklist!
I think I've probably waffled on enough now but if you loved Banished then you need to get your hands on a copy of Vowed as soon as possible. I'm loving the way this series is developing and I'm already itching to get my hands on a copy of the next book even though I've probably got to wait a year for it!
So if you're reading this I'm going to assume you've already read Banished (if not walk away from this review now, go buy the book & come back here when you've read it!) and if you loved that then you're going to enjoy Vowed as much if not more. Everything great about the first book has been ramped up in this one - the fantastic characters, a weird and wonderful array of fae and other creatures, a mystery that keeps you guessing and so much action you won't want to put it down.
Kit has had some time to get used to her family now, and she is getting better at using her magical abilities, she still isn't 100% sure what she's capable of but she has come a long way since the beginning of the first book. She may not be the strongest amongst her friends but she isn't afraid to stand up for herself and people who need her help, even if it costs her. I loved that Kit is still learning, she doesn't have all the answers and she has to work to achieve her goals, she gets her butt kicked on more than one occasion but she never lets it stop her doing what needs to be done. I enjoyed seeing her spending time with her cousin Kyle and her friend Aiden, we saw their friendships begin and now we're getting to see that bond between them get even stronger. I have to admit I missed Thorn, we do get parts of the story from his POV which helped but I just love seeing him and Kit together so I missed that banter.
Luckily for me we are introduced to a new character Dante and he made up for Thorn's absence. Dante is a government agent who has been spying on the Blackharts so of course Kit is very wary of him and the last thing she wants is to have to work alongside him. Unfortunately for her the Unseelie Queen has a job for them and she insists they resolve the case together. There are children going missing on a London estate and with the only witnesses giving strange accounts of monsters walking through walls the police aren't having much luck finding out what is happening to them. It is up to Kit and Dante to figure out what is going on and if it's a member of the fae causing the disappearances the Unseelie Queen wants the culprit brought to her. Dante and Kit have very different ways of working so putting the two of them together was bound to cause fireworks but as they spend time together and get to know each other they slowly start to respect each other.
As much as I'm all for having lots of hot boys in books I have to say I absolutely love Liz for not turning this into a love triangle, there are times when it appears that Dante is interested in Kit but I never really felt that she saw him as anything more than a friend and he seems happy to accept that. I'm actually kind of rooting for a Dante / Aiden pairing but we'll have to see what happens in the next book. Another quick thing I have to mention is that I loved the way the story deals with Aiden and Dante's bisexuality, it's mentioned in passing but never made into an issue and it didn't feel like they'd been added as the token LGBTQ characters that you so often get in stories. I love books with diverse characters but I don't want to feel like they've been added in just to tick a box on a YA checklist!
I think I've probably waffled on enough now but if you loved Banished then you need to get your hands on a copy of Vowed as soon as possible. I'm loving the way this series is developing and I'm already itching to get my hands on a copy of the next book even though I've probably got to wait a year for it!
September 12, 2015
Really enjoyed this! It's been a while since I read book one so I was worried I'd get confused, but Vowed has its own distinct plot, and the threads that carry over from Banished are easy to pick up. Full of badass but such likeable characters — love Kit, Dante, and Aiden. Liz de Jager's writing flows beautifully, and this was a joy to read.
October 11, 2015
really loving this series so far and can't wait for the final one to come out next year.
the characters are really cool and enjoyed this second book even more than the first.
the characters are really cool and enjoyed this second book even more than the first.
December 14, 2015
Brilliant!
Sometimes even "Fairy Tales" don't have happy endings.
Full review up soon.
Sometimes even "Fairy Tales" don't have happy endings.
Full review up soon.
April 4, 2015
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.
October 19, 2014
Vowed is the second book in The Blackhart Legacy and reunites us with kick-ass hero Kit Blackhart. I was impressed by Kit the first time around and I’m pleased to say that this subsequent adventure impressed me even more.
Vowed has the feel of a detective story, which contrasts nicely with Banished’s straight-up action adventure. De Jager thus demonstrates her ability to inhabit different modes of storytelling and her pacy but measured exposition is a successful example of this particular narrative structure. We have a juicy mystery, elusive leads, scattered clues and no little excitement as Kit and Dante venture ever nearer to the truth.
On a deprived London estate, children are going missing. Suola, the Unseelie Queen, tasks Kit and – to her initial irritation – government agent Dante Alexander with tracking down the culprit. What sounds like a clear-cut objective swiftly becomes murky and Kit and Dante find themselves under pressure to solve the mystery before people start dying. They encounter a colourful array of characters both hostile and benign, get beaten up enough to make the reader wince, and drink more coffee than is good for them.
All this is told with de Jager’s trademark wit; Banished was infamous for its devastating food p0rn and Vowed is no less so. Kit and Dante eat their way through a menagerie of breakfasts after each night’s detective work and there is an especially memorable scene in which the hot werewolf Aiden teams up with the equally hot Dante to flip pancakes in Kit’s kitchen. No, that’s not a euphemism.
Joking aside, Liz de Jager is on top form here. Banished was a solid YA debut and Vowed takes the elements that worked in its favour and builds on them. We have good character development, great world-building and a new, intriguing addition to the cast in the form of Dante Alexander, who finds himself solving the mystery of his parentage alongside the greater mystery of the missing children. Dante is likable (silence, Kit), undeniably sexy and fascinating. The truth of his identity eventually interweaves with the wider narrative and ties in nicely with backstory explored in Banished.
I’m not a Londoner, but I thought de Jager’s depiction of the impoverished estate was uncomfortably good, from its teenage inhabitants to the concrete stairwells and graffitied garages. It sets the benchmark for the rest of Vowed’s landscapes, which are varied and well-realised. We have the Blackhart family town house, a memorable demon-run night club aptly called Milton’s, the Dark Forest, which readers will remember from Banished, and the eerie, labyrinthine ruin where the story culminates.
But it’s character that drives this novel and Vowed sees Kit undergo some changes of the growing-up variety. Everything matures, from her vocabulary to her emotional responses, and de Jager handles each development with tact. This is a Kit who must assume a greater level of responsibility, a Kit whose mission requires her to be independent, resourceful and clever. She is not so much swept up by events, as she was in Banished. Rather she takes the initiative and deals with the consequences in a way that shows her to be far less naïve. This is not to say that she doesn’t make mistakes. Kit is impulsive and headstrong – two innate aspects of her personality. She has a tendency to act before thinking and takes unnecessary risks. It’s interesting therefore that she struggles to disobey the rule that forbids a relationship between mortal and fae when Thorn is so ready to do so.
This brings me neatly to the prince, a major character from Banished who has a lot less airtime in Vowed. It will disappoint some fans, no doubt, but Dante is a good distraction and Thorn has an important reason for being away. He’s learning to be the guardian of the realm and this involves a deal of magical training. Now I love a good sorcerer, especially when that sorcerer happens to be a hot fae prince, so Thorn growing more powerful is a big yes in my book. (Let’s not forget he can also turn into a dragon).
Thorn knows why the children are disappearing and attempts to communicate this to Kit in her dreams – it’s not until the climax of the story that we see them reunited in the physical world. The resolution of the mystery is in danger of being a little far-fetched, an accusation that is probably levelled fairly frequently at fantasy. But the way in which it throws a morally ambiguous light over the whole proceedings is excellent and a real departure from the norm.
This theme runs throughout the novel and is yet another feature that elevates Vowed, setting it apart from Banished – a much more traditional story of good versus evil. Skirting spoilers, there is an ethically complex, but valid reason for the missing children, which completely throws Kit off her usual game. It’s a situation that complements her growing maturity and she’s well-aware of it, frequently wishing someone more experienced would take over the case. Interestingly, de Jager offers us an outsider’s view of Kit and Dante in the form of the missing children’s parents, who struggle to see the pair as capable. It’s a touch of realism in a fantastical world and helps to put things in perspective for the reader who is all too easily swept up in events.
When reviewing Banished, I remember commenting on two intrinsic parts of Kit’s character, the first being her magic and the short leash on which she keeps it. Vowed sees that leash considerably lengthened – Kit no longer fears her abilities and is far more willing to use them in any given situation. The second was her response to violence. This is one of the reasons why de Jager’s a great writer. A protagonist’s emotional response to violence, particularly the violence they themselves inflict, is too often neglected and perhaps that’s part of a larger problem inherent in the genre. Rightly de Jager never lets us forget that Kit is seventeen and although her life is often a violent one, that doesn’t mean she has to like it or enjoy dishing out her trademark punches. Kit may be more kick-ass than us, but, in her kindness and decency, we’re able to see ourselves.
Liz de Jager has upped her game with Vowed. We have a tighter story, extensive character development and subtler themes. And, despite the slightly abrupt ending, the book is a whole lot of fun. It’s a page-turner that leaves you flustered and anxious by turns but, most importantly, it leaves you craving more.
Vowed has the feel of a detective story, which contrasts nicely with Banished’s straight-up action adventure. De Jager thus demonstrates her ability to inhabit different modes of storytelling and her pacy but measured exposition is a successful example of this particular narrative structure. We have a juicy mystery, elusive leads, scattered clues and no little excitement as Kit and Dante venture ever nearer to the truth.
On a deprived London estate, children are going missing. Suola, the Unseelie Queen, tasks Kit and – to her initial irritation – government agent Dante Alexander with tracking down the culprit. What sounds like a clear-cut objective swiftly becomes murky and Kit and Dante find themselves under pressure to solve the mystery before people start dying. They encounter a colourful array of characters both hostile and benign, get beaten up enough to make the reader wince, and drink more coffee than is good for them.
All this is told with de Jager’s trademark wit; Banished was infamous for its devastating food p0rn and Vowed is no less so. Kit and Dante eat their way through a menagerie of breakfasts after each night’s detective work and there is an especially memorable scene in which the hot werewolf Aiden teams up with the equally hot Dante to flip pancakes in Kit’s kitchen. No, that’s not a euphemism.
Joking aside, Liz de Jager is on top form here. Banished was a solid YA debut and Vowed takes the elements that worked in its favour and builds on them. We have good character development, great world-building and a new, intriguing addition to the cast in the form of Dante Alexander, who finds himself solving the mystery of his parentage alongside the greater mystery of the missing children. Dante is likable (silence, Kit), undeniably sexy and fascinating. The truth of his identity eventually interweaves with the wider narrative and ties in nicely with backstory explored in Banished.
I’m not a Londoner, but I thought de Jager’s depiction of the impoverished estate was uncomfortably good, from its teenage inhabitants to the concrete stairwells and graffitied garages. It sets the benchmark for the rest of Vowed’s landscapes, which are varied and well-realised. We have the Blackhart family town house, a memorable demon-run night club aptly called Milton’s, the Dark Forest, which readers will remember from Banished, and the eerie, labyrinthine ruin where the story culminates.
But it’s character that drives this novel and Vowed sees Kit undergo some changes of the growing-up variety. Everything matures, from her vocabulary to her emotional responses, and de Jager handles each development with tact. This is a Kit who must assume a greater level of responsibility, a Kit whose mission requires her to be independent, resourceful and clever. She is not so much swept up by events, as she was in Banished. Rather she takes the initiative and deals with the consequences in a way that shows her to be far less naïve. This is not to say that she doesn’t make mistakes. Kit is impulsive and headstrong – two innate aspects of her personality. She has a tendency to act before thinking and takes unnecessary risks. It’s interesting therefore that she struggles to disobey the rule that forbids a relationship between mortal and fae when Thorn is so ready to do so.
This brings me neatly to the prince, a major character from Banished who has a lot less airtime in Vowed. It will disappoint some fans, no doubt, but Dante is a good distraction and Thorn has an important reason for being away. He’s learning to be the guardian of the realm and this involves a deal of magical training. Now I love a good sorcerer, especially when that sorcerer happens to be a hot fae prince, so Thorn growing more powerful is a big yes in my book. (Let’s not forget he can also turn into a dragon).
Thorn knows why the children are disappearing and attempts to communicate this to Kit in her dreams – it’s not until the climax of the story that we see them reunited in the physical world. The resolution of the mystery is in danger of being a little far-fetched, an accusation that is probably levelled fairly frequently at fantasy. But the way in which it throws a morally ambiguous light over the whole proceedings is excellent and a real departure from the norm.
This theme runs throughout the novel and is yet another feature that elevates Vowed, setting it apart from Banished – a much more traditional story of good versus evil. Skirting spoilers, there is an ethically complex, but valid reason for the missing children, which completely throws Kit off her usual game. It’s a situation that complements her growing maturity and she’s well-aware of it, frequently wishing someone more experienced would take over the case. Interestingly, de Jager offers us an outsider’s view of Kit and Dante in the form of the missing children’s parents, who struggle to see the pair as capable. It’s a touch of realism in a fantastical world and helps to put things in perspective for the reader who is all too easily swept up in events.
When reviewing Banished, I remember commenting on two intrinsic parts of Kit’s character, the first being her magic and the short leash on which she keeps it. Vowed sees that leash considerably lengthened – Kit no longer fears her abilities and is far more willing to use them in any given situation. The second was her response to violence. This is one of the reasons why de Jager’s a great writer. A protagonist’s emotional response to violence, particularly the violence they themselves inflict, is too often neglected and perhaps that’s part of a larger problem inherent in the genre. Rightly de Jager never lets us forget that Kit is seventeen and although her life is often a violent one, that doesn’t mean she has to like it or enjoy dishing out her trademark punches. Kit may be more kick-ass than us, but, in her kindness and decency, we’re able to see ourselves.
Liz de Jager has upped her game with Vowed. We have a tighter story, extensive character development and subtler themes. And, despite the slightly abrupt ending, the book is a whole lot of fun. It’s a page-turner that leaves you flustered and anxious by turns but, most importantly, it leaves you craving more.
December 30, 2014
In a nice cyclical move, the penultimate book I review in 2014 is the sequel to the second book I reviewed this year. Full disclosure: Liz de Jager is a dear friend. This doesn’t mean I haven’t read this novel critically, because I have. Besides, she would kick my ass if she thought I’d cut her slack. But for the sake of transparency I thought it important to mention it upfront.
Vowed is the second book in De Jager’s Blackhart trilogy and returns us Kit a number of months after the ending of the last book. Having physically recovered from her ordeal at the end of Banished , Kit has not escaped unchanged, both magically and mentally. Her magic has bloomed and become for more powerful than it was before, while her heart remains somewhat the worse for wear after the events of the previous book and her separation from Thorn. Now located in London, the irrepressible Kit is working the family business and taking on assignments on her own. This brings us to the case at the heart of Vowed. Because this case she can’t work alone. Her employer demands she work together with Dante Alexander, a member of the Spook Squad. And Kit is not amused with this development.
I loved the set up for Vowed. As I mentioned in my review for Banished, I was left wondering where on earth Vowed would take Kit’s story as Banished didn’t really leave a hook for the next book, so I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I started Vowed. But Kit’s situation at the start allows for an almost episodic treatment of the story, not quite the monster-of-the-week format Buffy employed to such good effect, but a similar independent, but clearly linked structure. It also means that one does not have to read Banished to understand Vowed.
Vowed’s biggest draw, like the previous book, remains Kit Blackhart. I just absolutely adore her. She’s such a fun, interesting character and she does one-liners with the best of them. The way she’s trying to come to terms with what happened with her and Thorn made me ache for her, especially when she finds herself drawn to Dante and immediately starts feeling guilty over it. She swings between wanting to hide under her duvet and dealing like a boss, and it just felt really genuine. De Jager also manages to develop Kit’s relationship with her family beautifully, even if we only see her cousin Kyle and Aunt Letitia “on screen”. But through the things Kit says about her family and the telephone conversations she has with her uncles, the reader gets a true sense of kinship and a close-knit family bond, which I loved. And of course there is Kyle. I was stoked to see him as much as we do, because he is my favourite of Kit’s cousins. I love the geeky genius boy.
Kit isn’t just close to her family. There is also her best friend Aiden, one of the Garrett pack. I love their friendship and the way that they are straight with each other and able to be angry with each other without it meaning the end of the friendship or being a big major drama. Also their howls of laughter whenever anyone suggests they might be more than friends is hilarious and never rings false. During Vowed Kit becomes close to her unwanted partner as well. She and Dante warm to each other and I liked their dynamics. It helps that Dante is a lovely guy with a fascinating secret. I look forward to see how his character is developed after the discoveries he makes in this book. I hope he gets to stick around, because he makes a great partner for Kit.
The case Kit and Dante have to solve is creepy and complicated, leading them to discover awful things about the way the world works and how sometimes we are powerless to stop them. I liked the way the investigation also allows us to see more of Kit’s world and the creatures within it, such as Milton’s, the club she frequents, and its numerous supernatural visitors or Professor Imelda Thorpe, historian and anthropologist, and Kit’s go-to source on ancient pagan practices. I loved the breadth and scope of De Jager’s supernatural world and the best thing about it is that it feels as if she’s only shown us a quarter of Kit’s world.
My one criticism of the book would be the fact that I figured out the identity of the Raggedy Man quite a bit before Kit and Dante did. I don’t like feeling smarter than the protagonists of a book, I want to be in the moment of discovery with them. Then again, I know there are plenty of people who love beating the main character to the punch in solving the mystery, so this complaint is definitely of the YMMV-variety. In addition, the discovery of the Raggedy Man’s identity was only the first step in locating the children and the resolution to the mystery broke my heart.
With Vowed De Jager has upped her writing game considerably; her strong voice remains and the story is even more tightly plotted. Unlike at the end of Banished, this time there is a clear hook into the next book Judged. I can’t wait to see where De Jager will take Kit and company after the explosive ending of Vowed, but I know I will be there for the ride. You don’t have to read Banished before picking up Vowed, but I recommend that you do, because it add to the depth of the world and why miss out on a great story? Vowed is a high-octane, massively entertaining read, which had me laughing out loud more than once. Now when is the next book out? Because my Grabby Hands of Want™ are aching for it.
This book was provided for review by the publisher.
Vowed is the second book in De Jager’s Blackhart trilogy and returns us Kit a number of months after the ending of the last book. Having physically recovered from her ordeal at the end of Banished , Kit has not escaped unchanged, both magically and mentally. Her magic has bloomed and become for more powerful than it was before, while her heart remains somewhat the worse for wear after the events of the previous book and her separation from Thorn. Now located in London, the irrepressible Kit is working the family business and taking on assignments on her own. This brings us to the case at the heart of Vowed. Because this case she can’t work alone. Her employer demands she work together with Dante Alexander, a member of the Spook Squad. And Kit is not amused with this development.
I loved the set up for Vowed. As I mentioned in my review for Banished, I was left wondering where on earth Vowed would take Kit’s story as Banished didn’t really leave a hook for the next book, so I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I started Vowed. But Kit’s situation at the start allows for an almost episodic treatment of the story, not quite the monster-of-the-week format Buffy employed to such good effect, but a similar independent, but clearly linked structure. It also means that one does not have to read Banished to understand Vowed.
Vowed’s biggest draw, like the previous book, remains Kit Blackhart. I just absolutely adore her. She’s such a fun, interesting character and she does one-liners with the best of them. The way she’s trying to come to terms with what happened with her and Thorn made me ache for her, especially when she finds herself drawn to Dante and immediately starts feeling guilty over it. She swings between wanting to hide under her duvet and dealing like a boss, and it just felt really genuine. De Jager also manages to develop Kit’s relationship with her family beautifully, even if we only see her cousin Kyle and Aunt Letitia “on screen”. But through the things Kit says about her family and the telephone conversations she has with her uncles, the reader gets a true sense of kinship and a close-knit family bond, which I loved. And of course there is Kyle. I was stoked to see him as much as we do, because he is my favourite of Kit’s cousins. I love the geeky genius boy.
Kit isn’t just close to her family. There is also her best friend Aiden, one of the Garrett pack. I love their friendship and the way that they are straight with each other and able to be angry with each other without it meaning the end of the friendship or being a big major drama. Also their howls of laughter whenever anyone suggests they might be more than friends is hilarious and never rings false. During Vowed Kit becomes close to her unwanted partner as well. She and Dante warm to each other and I liked their dynamics. It helps that Dante is a lovely guy with a fascinating secret. I look forward to see how his character is developed after the discoveries he makes in this book. I hope he gets to stick around, because he makes a great partner for Kit.
The case Kit and Dante have to solve is creepy and complicated, leading them to discover awful things about the way the world works and how sometimes we are powerless to stop them. I liked the way the investigation also allows us to see more of Kit’s world and the creatures within it, such as Milton’s, the club she frequents, and its numerous supernatural visitors or Professor Imelda Thorpe, historian and anthropologist, and Kit’s go-to source on ancient pagan practices. I loved the breadth and scope of De Jager’s supernatural world and the best thing about it is that it feels as if she’s only shown us a quarter of Kit’s world.
My one criticism of the book would be the fact that I figured out the identity of the Raggedy Man quite a bit before Kit and Dante did. I don’t like feeling smarter than the protagonists of a book, I want to be in the moment of discovery with them. Then again, I know there are plenty of people who love beating the main character to the punch in solving the mystery, so this complaint is definitely of the YMMV-variety. In addition, the discovery of the Raggedy Man’s identity was only the first step in locating the children and the resolution to the mystery broke my heart.
With Vowed De Jager has upped her writing game considerably; her strong voice remains and the story is even more tightly plotted. Unlike at the end of Banished, this time there is a clear hook into the next book Judged. I can’t wait to see where De Jager will take Kit and company after the explosive ending of Vowed, but I know I will be there for the ride. You don’t have to read Banished before picking up Vowed, but I recommend that you do, because it add to the depth of the world and why miss out on a great story? Vowed is a high-octane, massively entertaining read, which had me laughing out loud more than once. Now when is the next book out? Because my Grabby Hands of Want™ are aching for it.
This book was provided for review by the publisher.
March 22, 2017
I loved this book, follows on well from the first adding more detail and depth to the characters. Tells a fantastic story with twists and turns and an unexpected ending. Is a very good second book in a series, doesn't read like a rushed continuation or like the author ran out of ideas, it is fantastic.
Plenty detail about new characters and creatures, enough twists to keep it interesting without losing the plot and more detail to each character in a way that makes them more likable.
Thoroughly enjoyable read and I can't wait to read the next in the series.
Plenty detail about new characters and creatures, enough twists to keep it interesting without losing the plot and more detail to each character in a way that makes them more likable.
Thoroughly enjoyable read and I can't wait to read the next in the series.
August 20, 2017
3.5 / 5 stars ✨
November 19, 2014
Last year I was fortunate enough to pick up a copy of the debut novel by Liz de Jager, Banished while at World Fantasy Con. It was great fun, so when the opportunity to read the next chapter in the adventures of Kit Blackhart, I jumped at the chance.
The second book in an on-going series is really the make or break novel, isn’t it? There are fans out there that have had their expectations set by book one and are hungry for more. I suspect it must be a bit of a nightmare for any fledgling author. It’s the literary equivalent of that “difficult second album”. The second book has to deliver so very many things – move the main story onward, expand successfully on the original premise and set things up for further books. The good news is that de Jager has taken all this in her stride, and Vowed doesn’t miss a beat. From the outset, we’re straight back into Kit’s story and she is still the chaos magnet she was before. It’s quickly established that all manner of otherworldly related weirdness is going on, and it’s up to young Miss Blackhart to sort it all out.
There is some wonderful evolution being displayed in Kit’s character. The nervousness and uncertainty that she exhibited in Banished is starting to fall away. She is coming into her stride and is far more sure of herself and the limits of her powers. The Fae world is less of a mystery than it was before and she has come to understand the pivotal role that the Blackhart family need to play in shaping events. There is more certainty and determination in her actions. That sort of development is exactly what I am looking for in a protagonist. Kit is at the heart and soul of these novels, she can’t ever stagnate, she needs to always be learning and taking on new challenges.
Vowed also introduces a new character in the form of Dante Alexander. Kit is forced into a partnership with Mr Alexander, and she quickly comes to realise that he has more than a few secrets of his own.
Prince Thorn hasn’t entirely disappeared either. His presence is felt throughout and he actually pops up in person in a handful of chapters. He is still learning the ropes as the Guardian of Fae society, but finds himself torn between obligation to his new role, and following his own dreams. I suspect he will play a far larger role in book three.
My only criticism? I really would have liked more werewolves in the book. Aidan was one of my favourite characters in Banished and I hoped to see more of him and his family in this book. Aidan does appear, just not enough. I do so enjoy werewolves.
Oh, Liz de Jager. you’re such a tease. Once again you’ve managed to tantalise with hints regarding the rest of the Fae world. The dragon lords of Chin and The Empress of Rus, all sound so bloomin evocative. I need to know more! I also need to know more about the Blackhart family themselves. Again, there are some wonderful hints about Kit’s parents and the rest of the extended brood. Promise me that there will be more, pretty please with sugar on top.
The way things are going, book three is going to be, and I’ll borrow an appropriate wrestling term here, a full on slobberknocker! If you haven’t already discovered this exciting new talent in young adult urban fantasy, then I strongly suggest you seek her out. I’m more than happy to confirm what I already suspected, Banished wasn’t a one off. Liz de Jager has some serious skills and I can’t wait to see what she does next. Bring on the next book.
Vowed is published by Tor UK and is available now. This novel confirms that both books of The Blackhart Legacy are well worth your time. Highly recommended.
The second book in an on-going series is really the make or break novel, isn’t it? There are fans out there that have had their expectations set by book one and are hungry for more. I suspect it must be a bit of a nightmare for any fledgling author. It’s the literary equivalent of that “difficult second album”. The second book has to deliver so very many things – move the main story onward, expand successfully on the original premise and set things up for further books. The good news is that de Jager has taken all this in her stride, and Vowed doesn’t miss a beat. From the outset, we’re straight back into Kit’s story and she is still the chaos magnet she was before. It’s quickly established that all manner of otherworldly related weirdness is going on, and it’s up to young Miss Blackhart to sort it all out.
There is some wonderful evolution being displayed in Kit’s character. The nervousness and uncertainty that she exhibited in Banished is starting to fall away. She is coming into her stride and is far more sure of herself and the limits of her powers. The Fae world is less of a mystery than it was before and she has come to understand the pivotal role that the Blackhart family need to play in shaping events. There is more certainty and determination in her actions. That sort of development is exactly what I am looking for in a protagonist. Kit is at the heart and soul of these novels, she can’t ever stagnate, she needs to always be learning and taking on new challenges.
Vowed also introduces a new character in the form of Dante Alexander. Kit is forced into a partnership with Mr Alexander, and she quickly comes to realise that he has more than a few secrets of his own.
Prince Thorn hasn’t entirely disappeared either. His presence is felt throughout and he actually pops up in person in a handful of chapters. He is still learning the ropes as the Guardian of Fae society, but finds himself torn between obligation to his new role, and following his own dreams. I suspect he will play a far larger role in book three.
My only criticism? I really would have liked more werewolves in the book. Aidan was one of my favourite characters in Banished and I hoped to see more of him and his family in this book. Aidan does appear, just not enough. I do so enjoy werewolves.
Oh, Liz de Jager. you’re such a tease. Once again you’ve managed to tantalise with hints regarding the rest of the Fae world. The dragon lords of Chin and The Empress of Rus, all sound so bloomin evocative. I need to know more! I also need to know more about the Blackhart family themselves. Again, there are some wonderful hints about Kit’s parents and the rest of the extended brood. Promise me that there will be more, pretty please with sugar on top.
The way things are going, book three is going to be, and I’ll borrow an appropriate wrestling term here, a full on slobberknocker! If you haven’t already discovered this exciting new talent in young adult urban fantasy, then I strongly suggest you seek her out. I’m more than happy to confirm what I already suspected, Banished wasn’t a one off. Liz de Jager has some serious skills and I can’t wait to see what she does next. Bring on the next book.
Vowed is published by Tor UK and is available now. This novel confirms that both books of The Blackhart Legacy are well worth your time. Highly recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2017
A definite recommend for fans of Holly Black!
**The only major dislike for this novel was the jumping between Kit and Thorn - was a little disorientating and it ruined the pace and urgency of solving the child-catcher case.
**The only major dislike for this novel was the jumping between Kit and Thorn - was a little disorientating and it ruined the pace and urgency of solving the child-catcher case.
February 11, 2015
Kit Blackhart is such an inspiring character. If I was in her situation I would have certainly gone insane. So In the 1st book she has to save a fae prince and then her house blows up, you know no big deal. She then has someone she trusts turn against her, creating a very stressful and intense day. So the next book picks up a few months later and Kit is on another mission, involving kidnapped children. This seems like a normal investigation but no, it instantly becomes complicated, meanwhile she is having dreams about the fae prince, Thorn. All of these things alone are enough to make ANYONE crazy but Kit stays calm and collected. I envy Kit's ability to stay calm through all of this hardship.
Liz de Jager does a great job keeping you interested. She adds many plot twists that keep you on you feet and I love that so much, I could not put this book down! Plot twists work so well in this book because many of the missions Kit goes on rely on trust and throughout Banished and Vowed Liz adds people who you can trust and some your not are sure of. And this makes for a very interesting book.
Overall this was an AMAZING book and everyone should read it, especially if you get bored with books
easily.
Liz de Jager does a great job keeping you interested. She adds many plot twists that keep you on you feet and I love that so much, I could not put this book down! Plot twists work so well in this book because many of the missions Kit goes on rely on trust and throughout Banished and Vowed Liz adds people who you can trust and some your not are sure of. And this makes for a very interesting book.
Overall this was an AMAZING book and everyone should read it, especially if you get bored with books
easily.
January 24, 2015
Vowed (The Blackhart Legacy #2) by Liz de Jager
Vowed (The Blackhart Legacy #2) by Liz de Jager continues the adventures of Kit and the Blackhart family. In this installment, little kids are being taken from their homes and Suola, Queen of the Unseelie Court has tasked Kit and a trainee from the “Spook Squad” named Dante, at finding out who is behind it.
Dante is not all that he appears to be and in the beginning of the investigation, Kit isn’t thrilled at all to be working with him. However, as the story progresses, they both grow to like one another and consider each other friends.
There is a bit of Prince Thorn here and there throughout the story. He is learning the ropes at how to be “the Guardian of Fae”. Despite the fact that Prince Thorn has little face time in the book, he does come to Kit in her dreams, trying to worn her of the danger she is in.
Liz de Jager has done it again. Vowed is an engaging story with action, bewitching magic and entertaining characters. It definitely gives the reader what they want and more. Vowed is a must read for any fantasy book lover.
4.7 Stars
Vowed (The Blackhart Legacy #2) by Liz de Jager continues the adventures of Kit and the Blackhart family. In this installment, little kids are being taken from their homes and Suola, Queen of the Unseelie Court has tasked Kit and a trainee from the “Spook Squad” named Dante, at finding out who is behind it.
Dante is not all that he appears to be and in the beginning of the investigation, Kit isn’t thrilled at all to be working with him. However, as the story progresses, they both grow to like one another and consider each other friends.
There is a bit of Prince Thorn here and there throughout the story. He is learning the ropes at how to be “the Guardian of Fae”. Despite the fact that Prince Thorn has little face time in the book, he does come to Kit in her dreams, trying to worn her of the danger she is in.
Liz de Jager has done it again. Vowed is an engaging story with action, bewitching magic and entertaining characters. It definitely gives the reader what they want and more. Vowed is a must read for any fantasy book lover.
4.7 Stars
November 15, 2020
I literally got into this book on the second page. It was that good.
Looking back at the notes that I made through-out reading this book, and I think I can say it kept me on the edge of my seat until I finished the book. I also loved the relationship between Aiden and Kit. How they never crossed that line, it was so cute.
What I didn't like though, I think, is that there wasn't that many fighting scenes or rather scenes like there where in the first book. I'm disappointed by how it didn't end with something like a cliff hanger because that would give us clues or a possible plot line for the next book. So really for me it was missing maybe that bigger scene at the end. Other than that I loved the book and the world it was set in and I think this might become one of my favourite series.
Hoping that the third book will be more like the first book and that we will find out more about Kit's parents.
Looking back at the notes that I made through-out reading this book, and I think I can say it kept me on the edge of my seat until I finished the book. I also loved the relationship between Aiden and Kit. How they never crossed that line, it was so cute.
What I didn't like though, I think, is that there wasn't that many fighting scenes or rather scenes like there where in the first book. I'm disappointed by how it didn't end with something like a cliff hanger because that would give us clues or a possible plot line for the next book. So really for me it was missing maybe that bigger scene at the end. Other than that I loved the book and the world it was set in and I think this might become one of my favourite series.
Hoping that the third book will be more like the first book and that we will find out more about Kit's parents.
November 28, 2014
Review written for 'The Review Diaries' - read the full review:
http://reviewdiaries.blogspot.fr/2014...
I read the first book in this series, ‘Banished’ in March this year when I was stuck in hospital. I happened to have it on my kindle and devoured it in a matter of hours. I loved it. It was fast paced and funny and had such a fantastic plot that twisted and turned and kept me on my toes the entire time. The characters were brilliant and it was bursting with imagination and brilliance. So I was pretty excited to get my hands on the second book and get right back to where we’d left off with Kit and her friends. Only it didn’t quite turn out like that.
Yes there were still the characters I loved, plus a few new ones, and there was still the magic underside to the world we already know, but it didn’t quite have the same sparkle as the first book.
http://reviewdiaries.blogspot.fr/2014...
I read the first book in this series, ‘Banished’ in March this year when I was stuck in hospital. I happened to have it on my kindle and devoured it in a matter of hours. I loved it. It was fast paced and funny and had such a fantastic plot that twisted and turned and kept me on my toes the entire time. The characters were brilliant and it was bursting with imagination and brilliance. So I was pretty excited to get my hands on the second book and get right back to where we’d left off with Kit and her friends. Only it didn’t quite turn out like that.
Yes there were still the characters I loved, plus a few new ones, and there was still the magic underside to the world we already know, but it didn’t quite have the same sparkle as the first book.
January 24, 2015
DNF at 34% - mainly due to boredom.
Pretty much the only reason I enjoyed Banished, the first book in this series, was because I liked Kit and Thorn's relationship.
So I was sorely disappointed to find that Vowed centers mainly on Kit and Dante, a total douchebag. Aside from one five minute dream where Kit and Thorn run down a hallway together, and one scene where she gets teary eyed about him, no one seems to remember him. She doesn't even try to get him back! I don't even know what she would have to get him back from, because the explanation for that makes no sense.
I hate Dante and sincerely hope he wasn't supposed to be a likable character.
The writing has barely improved, and the plot has worsened. It was so slow and boring I eventually couldn't continue.
Pretty much the only reason I enjoyed Banished, the first book in this series, was because I liked Kit and Thorn's relationship.
So I was sorely disappointed to find that Vowed centers mainly on Kit and Dante, a total douchebag. Aside from one five minute dream where Kit and Thorn run down a hallway together, and one scene where she gets teary eyed about him, no one seems to remember him. She doesn't even try to get him back! I don't even know what she would have to get him back from, because the explanation for that makes no sense.
I hate Dante and sincerely hope he wasn't supposed to be a likable character.
The writing has barely improved, and the plot has worsened. It was so slow and boring I eventually couldn't continue.
November 30, 2014
Loved it! Fab follow-up to Banished which takes us further into Kit's world, introduces new and interesting characters and ratchets it all up a notch. Kit's skills and experience have developed since book one, and her voice remains deliciously straight-talking. I also appreciated the glimpses of Thorn - there's clearly more story to come there - and loved Kit's interactions with Aiden and new-boy Dante. If you enjoyed Banished, you should definitely read this. I liked that it's a complete story of its own, whilst also moving towards the big finish to come in book 3. If you like faerie lore and/or urban fantasy and you haven't read Banished yet - do that now :)
July 22, 2016
2.5/5 stars.
Really? That's it?
Felt like the book was a filler for the third compared to the first. It dragged in places. Not enough action nor pain for my liking for Kit. Not enough of Thorn for us, as an audience, to really get to know him. The kissing scene at the end with Kit and Thorn was OTT for Kit. Whenever Thorn and Kit kiss, I feel that it's over exaggerated as it doesn't suite Kit's personality of taking no nonsense.
The goddess at the end... That's the big reveal? Doesn't seem threatening. Was waiting for more.
Very. Very lack lustre.
Book 3 better be better than this.
Really? That's it?
Felt like the book was a filler for the third compared to the first. It dragged in places. Not enough action nor pain for my liking for Kit. Not enough of Thorn for us, as an audience, to really get to know him. The kissing scene at the end with Kit and Thorn was OTT for Kit. Whenever Thorn and Kit kiss, I feel that it's over exaggerated as it doesn't suite Kit's personality of taking no nonsense.
The goddess at the end... That's the big reveal? Doesn't seem threatening. Was waiting for more.
Very. Very lack lustre.
Book 3 better be better than this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2015
The best YA Urban Fantasy novel I've read in years. Liz de Jager created a spectacular world full of myth and magic in Banished and she continues to impress in Vowed. Kit Blackhart will immerse you in her world and make you reluctant to leave. A definite must read.
A million thank yous to Pan Macmillan and Netgalley for this wonderful ARC.
A million thank yous to Pan Macmillan and Netgalley for this wonderful ARC.
August 16, 2017
*sobbing* I love it so much, god this was so perfect, I'm literally crying how good it was, and Dante and Aiden, sweet potato, they are a match made in heaven, AND THORNE WOW HOLY CRAP YES, I just love this so much okay
October 5, 2015
I loved the story. Kit and athorn and Dante and Aiden have become my friends, and will probably end up as my family. These books deserve a place on the shelf next to Harry Potter. I can't wait for more!
January 14, 2015
A terrific follow-up to Banished, with Kit becoming an even more marvellous, utterly real character. Loved the London links and kids mixed in with myth and legend. #TeamDante
November 29, 2014
Review to come :)
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