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Piercing the Veil #2
Invincible
The Shadow Lord Rises Again Seeking a Weapon of Ultimate Power
Peter Stewart is a dead ringer for the legendary King Arthur, and because of that, everyone in Carlion believes that he is the Child of the Prophecy, destined to destroy the Shadow Lord. But Peter doesn't want to be a hero; all he wants to be is left alone.
Lily Portman also fits the prophecy. Having spent her entire life as an orphan and a misfit, Lily would love nothing more than to be the Child of the Prophecy, so she envies Peter... but she's also developing a crush on him. And it seems to her that he couldn't care less.
Isdemus and the Watchers believe that it is only a matter of time before Peter's twin brother Kane betrays them all and frees the Shadow Lord. The winner of the war to come depends on who has the legendary Philosopher's Stone--the only problem is, it has been lost since the days of Arthur. With the help of a skeptical anthropologist, the Watchers attempt to decode the ancient treasure maps that lead them to the heart of Egypt and the dawn of time. Meanwhile, Lily and Peter discover that Peter holds the real key to the mystery... but will they be too late?
Peter Stewart is a dead ringer for the legendary King Arthur, and because of that, everyone in Carlion believes that he is the Child of the Prophecy, destined to destroy the Shadow Lord. But Peter doesn't want to be a hero; all he wants to be is left alone.
Lily Portman also fits the prophecy. Having spent her entire life as an orphan and a misfit, Lily would love nothing more than to be the Child of the Prophecy, so she envies Peter... but she's also developing a crush on him. And it seems to her that he couldn't care less.
Isdemus and the Watchers believe that it is only a matter of time before Peter's twin brother Kane betrays them all and frees the Shadow Lord. The winner of the war to come depends on who has the legendary Philosopher's Stone--the only problem is, it has been lost since the days of Arthur. With the help of a skeptical anthropologist, the Watchers attempt to decode the ancient treasure maps that lead them to the heart of Egypt and the dawn of time. Meanwhile, Lily and Peter discover that Peter holds the real key to the mystery... but will they be too late?
272 pages, ebook
First published April 27, 2014
31 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
About the author
C.A. Gray
29 books511 followersC.A. Gray is the author of three YA Amazon bestselling trilogies: PIERCING THE VEIL (magic and quantum physics meet Arthurian legends), THE LIBERTY BOX (dystopian metaphysics and mind control technology), and UNCANNY VALLEY (dystopian coming-of-age with neuroscience and super intelligent A.I). She starts with some scientific concept that she’s interested in learning more about herself, and then creates lots of epic chaos and high-stakes action to go along with it. Her stories are free of gratuitous violence, language, and sexual content, and she abhors depressing endings… but they’re not all kittens and rainbows either! She also listens to and reviews audiobooks on her website, here on Goodreads, on Instagram, and on her podcast, Clean Audiobook Reviews, where she also occasionally interviews other authors.
By day, C.A. Gray practices naturopathic medicine, podcasts, and writes medical non-fiction under her maiden name (Dr. Lauren Deville). She lives in Tucson, AZ with her husband Frank, and together they maintain an occasionally contentious film review blog (under her real name: Lauren Baden. Three names. Yes.) She’s kind of the queen of multitasking—so in her spare time, she creates whatever meals or crafts she found most recently on Pinterest, drinks lots of coffee (Aeropress btw) and occasional wine (reds—and she saves the corks for craft projects), works out (while listening to audiobooks), and studies the Bible—about half of the podcasts on Christian Natural Health are scripture meditations.
She does sleep, too. Promise.
Join her newsletter for best-of-the-month reads, freebies and giveaway information, as well as new releases! http://eepurl.com/F3rof
By day, C.A. Gray practices naturopathic medicine, podcasts, and writes medical non-fiction under her maiden name (Dr. Lauren Deville). She lives in Tucson, AZ with her husband Frank, and together they maintain an occasionally contentious film review blog (under her real name: Lauren Baden. Three names. Yes.) She’s kind of the queen of multitasking—so in her spare time, she creates whatever meals or crafts she found most recently on Pinterest, drinks lots of coffee (Aeropress btw) and occasional wine (reds—and she saves the corks for craft projects), works out (while listening to audiobooks), and studies the Bible—about half of the podcasts on Christian Natural Health are scripture meditations.
She does sleep, too. Promise.
Join her newsletter for best-of-the-month reads, freebies and giveaway information, as well as new releases! http://eepurl.com/F3rof
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 20, 2015
Take a deep breath and get ready to dive right into the action from book one! Invincible takes the hand-off from Intangible and scorches across the pages as the question still burns as to who is The Chosen One. Is it Peter or his twin brother, the dark Kane? Is it Lily?
The one who holds the blade that was broken shall emerge victorious…who will it be?
Teens, expected to take the weight of the world on their shoulders, each with special gifts they are learning to control, and each still filled with the angst and insecurities of their age. Their studies at Paladin High go beyond learning defensive skills; these teens are taught about King Arthur, his legend, Excaliber, the penumbra, the Shadow Lord and war that rages. They know that death may await them, in spite of their talents, but they prepare while life around them goes on and the usual trappings of being a teen are exacerbated by the growing tension and shortened time line. Will they come of age when the clock runs down and present a unified front against evil?
A vital key in the impending battle is the possession of the Philosopher’s Stone, lost since the days of King Arthur, but one person knows where it is. Will it be found in time? What part does Peter play in finding this elusive relic? Once again, heroes will die, their loss bringing home the dire situation they are in as the build up to the final battle looms ahead.
C. A. Gray has already built her magical worlds, fleshed out her characters and set them on their tension-filled journey. This time out she adds even more tension, while dropping nuggets on information along the way. Her characters are becoming more flesh and blood, learning to work as a team in spite of personal feelings. Some find young love or crushes, which proves the resiliency of youth and the hope for the future these kids hold. The rapidfire pace is reeled in when necessary and fueled to maximum power at precisely at the right moment. Once I started, I had to keep reading and following every twist that unfolds!
I received this copy as part of C.A. Gray's Impossible Tour & Giveaway stopping at Tome Tender October 16, 2014.
Series: Piercing the Veil - Book 2
Publication Date: April 27, 2014
Publisher: Wanderlust Publishing
ISBN: 0991185811
Genre: YA Fantasy
Print Length: 424 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
The one who holds the blade that was broken shall emerge victorious…who will it be?
Teens, expected to take the weight of the world on their shoulders, each with special gifts they are learning to control, and each still filled with the angst and insecurities of their age. Their studies at Paladin High go beyond learning defensive skills; these teens are taught about King Arthur, his legend, Excaliber, the penumbra, the Shadow Lord and war that rages. They know that death may await them, in spite of their talents, but they prepare while life around them goes on and the usual trappings of being a teen are exacerbated by the growing tension and shortened time line. Will they come of age when the clock runs down and present a unified front against evil?
A vital key in the impending battle is the possession of the Philosopher’s Stone, lost since the days of King Arthur, but one person knows where it is. Will it be found in time? What part does Peter play in finding this elusive relic? Once again, heroes will die, their loss bringing home the dire situation they are in as the build up to the final battle looms ahead.
C. A. Gray has already built her magical worlds, fleshed out her characters and set them on their tension-filled journey. This time out she adds even more tension, while dropping nuggets on information along the way. Her characters are becoming more flesh and blood, learning to work as a team in spite of personal feelings. Some find young love or crushes, which proves the resiliency of youth and the hope for the future these kids hold. The rapidfire pace is reeled in when necessary and fueled to maximum power at precisely at the right moment. Once I started, I had to keep reading and following every twist that unfolds!
I received this copy as part of C.A. Gray's Impossible Tour & Giveaway stopping at Tome Tender October 16, 2014.
Series: Piercing the Veil - Book 2
Publication Date: April 27, 2014
Publisher: Wanderlust Publishing
ISBN: 0991185811
Genre: YA Fantasy
Print Length: 424 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
July 27, 2014
Full Disclosure: I received this book courtesy of Goodreads First Reads.
This book is absolutely wonderful. It did take me a while to get into the book but that is probably because I have not read the first book in the series. However, once the world started to make sense I could not put this book down! I am just in love with the world of King Arthur and Merlin so this just seemed like the perfect book for me. The book is mainly set in the present day but it is sort of an alternate reality in the sense that the world is hidden from normal people. In order to access this world you must possess certain magical powers which are based on the elements of the universe. I thought that the characters were very well developed as was the world in which the story was set. The merging of the modern world with the ancient world was very well done and the inclusion of myths was seamless. I never felt confused and even though it was the second book in a series things from the first book were explained without being over-explained. The writing was good though at times it did seem a little flat, each chapter switched to a different point of view and I felt like the writing could have changed just a little bit to better illustrate the changing of characters. While there are some problems with the book, as with most books, overall it was a good book and an enjoyable read. I will be picking up the first and subsequent books in the series and I look forward to continuing the adventure.
This book is absolutely wonderful. It did take me a while to get into the book but that is probably because I have not read the first book in the series. However, once the world started to make sense I could not put this book down! I am just in love with the world of King Arthur and Merlin so this just seemed like the perfect book for me. The book is mainly set in the present day but it is sort of an alternate reality in the sense that the world is hidden from normal people. In order to access this world you must possess certain magical powers which are based on the elements of the universe. I thought that the characters were very well developed as was the world in which the story was set. The merging of the modern world with the ancient world was very well done and the inclusion of myths was seamless. I never felt confused and even though it was the second book in a series things from the first book were explained without being over-explained. The writing was good though at times it did seem a little flat, each chapter switched to a different point of view and I felt like the writing could have changed just a little bit to better illustrate the changing of characters. While there are some problems with the book, as with most books, overall it was a good book and an enjoyable read. I will be picking up the first and subsequent books in the series and I look forward to continuing the adventure.
October 6, 2014
Invincible (book #2 in C A Gray's Piercing the veil series) continues the story just a couple of days after book one ends.
My review of Intangible likened it quite strongly to Harry Potter. I found a number of similarities in this book too, but not as many as book one.
The first 50% of the book was slow. Little happens that I felt was pertinent to the story, outside for building the emotional roller coaster ride of budding love.
I liked Eustace. I feel he might become a more important part of the story later. I didn't feel any sort of connection to Peter, Lily or Brock. Cole's character was a bit more of a pussy this time too, which annoyed me. I would like to see him develop into a braver character.
Ultimately, this read like a sequel. Most sequels don’t have a good reason to exist outside of commercial interests and the continued storyline is usually just tacked on after the fact, if not a complete rehash. It certainly wasn't as good as the first, it was filled with attempted character development and a whole lot of fluff.
The conclusion of the series could be spectacular, but I'm probably not likely to get to it anytime soon.
My review of Intangible likened it quite strongly to Harry Potter. I found a number of similarities in this book too, but not as many as book one.
The first 50% of the book was slow. Little happens that I felt was pertinent to the story, outside for building the emotional roller coaster ride of budding love.
I liked Eustace. I feel he might become a more important part of the story later. I didn't feel any sort of connection to Peter, Lily or Brock. Cole's character was a bit more of a pussy this time too, which annoyed me. I would like to see him develop into a braver character.
Ultimately, this read like a sequel. Most sequels don’t have a good reason to exist outside of commercial interests and the continued storyline is usually just tacked on after the fact, if not a complete rehash. It certainly wasn't as good as the first, it was filled with attempted character development and a whole lot of fluff.
The conclusion of the series could be spectacular, but I'm probably not likely to get to it anytime soon.
May 11, 2014
I received an advanced free epub copy from the author in exchange for an honest review for which I am very thankful.
In the second installment of the Piercing the Veil Trilogy, Peter, Lily, Cole and Brock are enrolled at Paladin High, but Peter wants life to get back to normal and go back home. Everyone in Carlion believes Peter to be the Child of the Prophecy as he is a dead ringer for King Arthur but there is still a possibility that Lily may still be the Child of the Prophecy... Isdemus thinks that they should look for the Philosopher's Stone because if Kane frees the the Shadow Lord that would be the first thing that he will be after...!
I really enjoyed Invincible and I would have finished this in just a few days if it weren't for my exams and coursework at University. I loved the subjects that they learned at Paladin High. I was kept on the edge of my seat whenever there was a threat or fight scene: when Peter, Cole and the others go back to his home; and then when they confront the Shadow Lord/Kane. And then I was really frustrated that Lily and Peter would not confess to each other... I cannot wait to read Impossible and would love an advanced of copy that as well!
In the second installment of the Piercing the Veil Trilogy, Peter, Lily, Cole and Brock are enrolled at Paladin High, but Peter wants life to get back to normal and go back home. Everyone in Carlion believes Peter to be the Child of the Prophecy as he is a dead ringer for King Arthur but there is still a possibility that Lily may still be the Child of the Prophecy... Isdemus thinks that they should look for the Philosopher's Stone because if Kane frees the the Shadow Lord that would be the first thing that he will be after...!
I really enjoyed Invincible and I would have finished this in just a few days if it weren't for my exams and coursework at University. I loved the subjects that they learned at Paladin High. I was kept on the edge of my seat whenever there was a threat or fight scene: when Peter, Cole and the others go back to his home; and then when they confront the Shadow Lord/Kane. And then I was really frustrated that Lily and Peter would not confess to each other... I cannot wait to read Impossible and would love an advanced of copy that as well!
July 6, 2014
Gray has done an admirable job of keeping up the suspense and creativity she generated in Book 1(Intangible) in Invincible. Book 2 finds Lily, Peter, Brock and Cole in Carlion, the magical city that Peter believed was a fairy tale only days before. Through the classes at Paladin High the kids learn more about their powers and the history of the Shadow Lord, the penumbra and the Great Deception that started the war. I liked the class in which the students become finches, and Peter’s discomfort when he discovers that Lily can read minds. It doesn’t take very long before the kids are back in the action. I admire the way this author handles the characterizations. Perhaps Gray is highlighting Peter while the Chosen One is really going to be somebody else?? The opening scenes with the Shadow Lord and Kane are intriguing and I find myself hoping that perhaps Kane will be the Chosen One after all. Lily, who has some extraordinary gifts can’t be overlooked as a candidate either. I’m looking forward to Book 3 to find out!! Great entertainment!
July 28, 2014
while i found myself enjoying this book i own here on goodreads first reads.i admit that it was hard to understand the plot since i didnt read the first book in this piercing the veil series.
i think that this book was written very well and full of intrique and suspense.
The philosopher stone has been lost and it takes peter and lily to embark in a journey of knowledge that peter hold the key to solving this mystery and are hoping that they will not be late...
i really did love this book and i did appreciate the back of the book in the afterword.from the two books written, intangible an this one, the author gives a breakdown of general plot structures.i really enjoyed that concept since there were things i didnt understand.
again thanks to goodreads first reads and the author for alowing me this opportunity to read this book...i look forward in the next one in this series...
i think that this book was written very well and full of intrique and suspense.
The philosopher stone has been lost and it takes peter and lily to embark in a journey of knowledge that peter hold the key to solving this mystery and are hoping that they will not be late...
i really did love this book and i did appreciate the back of the book in the afterword.from the two books written, intangible an this one, the author gives a breakdown of general plot structures.i really enjoyed that concept since there were things i didnt understand.
again thanks to goodreads first reads and the author for alowing me this opportunity to read this book...i look forward in the next one in this series...
June 2, 2014
This book is a great follow-up to #1 and definitely left me wanting to read #3! I loved the continuing character and story developments. I definitely recommend the series!
January 28, 2015
Action, adventure, mythology, magic, science, time travel and so much more!! And I have again found an instance of time travel that I can deal with - and that is a rarity! Anyone familiar with my reading habits, reviews, and general thoughts about stories knows that I don't do well with time travel. In fact, in the forum I used to be heavily involved in related to another wonderful set of books (The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel by Michael Scott) it became widely known that reading about time travel risks my head exploding! But here - given the way time traveling occurs, I am not at risk of that. I like this kind of time traveling.
We got more of the same in Invincible. And that is a good thing. The elements of the story worked in the first installment and it was nice to see that continue in the second. While this is really a filler book, the set up for the final act, it was a wonderful set up. We got action, travel to Egypt, more magic and more mystery. Everything seems poised for what will hopefully be an awesome ending. The characters grow and we see more of their relationships. We get more magic in some great big ways. We see more physics and we learn more about King Arthur and the history behind these adventures. We get more of Peter (both as an annoying teenager and as a potential hero), more of Lily (her erratic behavior and her developing feelings for Peter), more Bruce (awesome is the only word I can find to adequately describe him), more Isdemus (more mystery, in my opinion), more Kane (more stupidity and bravery too). And let's not forget about warping - teleportation that comes across to the non-scientifically inclined (yes, I am pointing at myself here) seems to have a total logical and possible explanation.
The battle scenes are what need some special kudos in this installment. How often do we read about someone using a pyramid as a weapon to kill someone. And not as in a stage - you know, they were standing on the pyramid using the power from it - no. I mean the pyramid itself being used like a baseball bat - beating down on someone. It was awesome. The notion that Peter can suspend time to imagine the myriad of possibilities to save some made for a quick paced, yet slow enough to digest, battle scene. And the acknowledgement by Peter that he isn't really all that creative was stunning (in a good way). It reminded me of when Ferris Bueller turns to look at the camera to tell the audience to stop and look around or life will pass by. It was a great way to acknowledge the reader (or at least this particular reader) and what I was thinking anyway, yet still play a role in the story. It was also pretty cool to learn some of the limits on the magic and Peter's ability when talking about going back to save Sully. All the individual threads of the story came together, and not in a contrived way. It is such a wonderful treat to have a story come together in a way that feels natural and not one where it feels like the author manipulated or stretched things to get it all to turn out the way they wanted. Here, it really felt like if magic were real, this could have happened in just this way. I think part of this is owed to the tie in of physics. Again, it's a acknowledgment by the author of the real world around us without being patronizing and allows her to build a world that feels like it fits within the one we are actually living in.
The only issue I had, and it is a teensy tiny issue is with a few instances of the British-isms, as the author dubbed them in the acknowledgements in Intangible. There were moments when they felt a little clunky and forced, or rather sort of in-your-face. I am not sure I would have noticed if they were missing. I have read a bit of stuff by Brits, where the story takes place in England and the British-isms are all over the place. I don't know that they added anything and I don't think if they weren't there they would have detracted. Given the clunky nature, I might have skipped them altogether. But - see, that is itty bitty criticism.
I don't have much more to say because all of the wonder and joy that I found in the first book is here too. This was not a let down like so many second installments are. It carried the greatness from the first book right through each page to the end. I am just hopeful that the third, and I believe final, installment in this series lives up to the first two. I know I certainly have great expectations because of the wonderful job the author did with this second book.
P.S. BIG thanks to Dr. Gray - she provided me with a copy in exchange for an honest review. And I am so glad she did - it was a great read!
We got more of the same in Invincible. And that is a good thing. The elements of the story worked in the first installment and it was nice to see that continue in the second. While this is really a filler book, the set up for the final act, it was a wonderful set up. We got action, travel to Egypt, more magic and more mystery. Everything seems poised for what will hopefully be an awesome ending. The characters grow and we see more of their relationships. We get more magic in some great big ways. We see more physics and we learn more about King Arthur and the history behind these adventures. We get more of Peter (both as an annoying teenager and as a potential hero), more of Lily (her erratic behavior and her developing feelings for Peter), more Bruce (awesome is the only word I can find to adequately describe him), more Isdemus (more mystery, in my opinion), more Kane (more stupidity and bravery too). And let's not forget about warping - teleportation that comes across to the non-scientifically inclined (yes, I am pointing at myself here) seems to have a total logical and possible explanation.
The battle scenes are what need some special kudos in this installment. How often do we read about someone using a pyramid as a weapon to kill someone. And not as in a stage - you know, they were standing on the pyramid using the power from it - no. I mean the pyramid itself being used like a baseball bat - beating down on someone. It was awesome. The notion that Peter can suspend time to imagine the myriad of possibilities to save some made for a quick paced, yet slow enough to digest, battle scene. And the acknowledgement by Peter that he isn't really all that creative was stunning (in a good way). It reminded me of when Ferris Bueller turns to look at the camera to tell the audience to stop and look around or life will pass by. It was a great way to acknowledge the reader (or at least this particular reader) and what I was thinking anyway, yet still play a role in the story. It was also pretty cool to learn some of the limits on the magic and Peter's ability when talking about going back to save Sully. All the individual threads of the story came together, and not in a contrived way. It is such a wonderful treat to have a story come together in a way that feels natural and not one where it feels like the author manipulated or stretched things to get it all to turn out the way they wanted. Here, it really felt like if magic were real, this could have happened in just this way. I think part of this is owed to the tie in of physics. Again, it's a acknowledgment by the author of the real world around us without being patronizing and allows her to build a world that feels like it fits within the one we are actually living in.
The only issue I had, and it is a teensy tiny issue is with a few instances of the British-isms, as the author dubbed them in the acknowledgements in Intangible. There were moments when they felt a little clunky and forced, or rather sort of in-your-face. I am not sure I would have noticed if they were missing. I have read a bit of stuff by Brits, where the story takes place in England and the British-isms are all over the place. I don't know that they added anything and I don't think if they weren't there they would have detracted. Given the clunky nature, I might have skipped them altogether. But - see, that is itty bitty criticism.
I don't have much more to say because all of the wonder and joy that I found in the first book is here too. This was not a let down like so many second installments are. It carried the greatness from the first book right through each page to the end. I am just hopeful that the third, and I believe final, installment in this series lives up to the first two. I know I certainly have great expectations because of the wonderful job the author did with this second book.
P.S. BIG thanks to Dr. Gray - she provided me with a copy in exchange for an honest review. And I am so glad she did - it was a great read!
May 7, 2014
Peter, Lily, Cole, and Brock are back in the second book of the Piercing the Veil Trilogy. And the Shadow Lord has arisen after 1500 years trapped by Excalibur and has taken over Peter's twin brother Kane's body. In this volume Peter and the Watchers of Carlion are seeking the Philosopher's Stone and racing Sargon to get it. The story is just as fun and adventuresome as Intangible and keeps you on the edge of your seat hoping that Peter and friends will make it out alive.
The story is well thought out and a tightly crafted book. Arthurian Legend is the foundation of the story but Quantum Physics is what brings this story into the modern age. In book 1, Peter really had a hard time accepting Carlion because he was an aspiring physicist and felt he had to prove everything for it to be real. In book 2 he still is struggling but he is learning to work within the world of the "gifts" and begins to accept his fate as "The Child of the Prophecy". However he also discovers he cares about the people of Carlion and especially Lily, who has finally found a home.
I received the book as an advance copy directly from the author and I am very appreciative, as it is a great book. I would share this with any tween to teen who loves Harry Potter, any version of the King Arthur Legends, or even readers of Rick Riordan as a good solid read in the realm of legend in a well written tale.
The story is well thought out and a tightly crafted book. Arthurian Legend is the foundation of the story but Quantum Physics is what brings this story into the modern age. In book 1, Peter really had a hard time accepting Carlion because he was an aspiring physicist and felt he had to prove everything for it to be real. In book 2 he still is struggling but he is learning to work within the world of the "gifts" and begins to accept his fate as "The Child of the Prophecy". However he also discovers he cares about the people of Carlion and especially Lily, who has finally found a home.
I received the book as an advance copy directly from the author and I am very appreciative, as it is a great book. I would share this with any tween to teen who loves Harry Potter, any version of the King Arthur Legends, or even readers of Rick Riordan as a good solid read in the realm of legend in a well written tale.
October 10, 2014
"Invincible" essentially picks up where "Intangible" left off. Gray wastes no time jumping back into the action. She has the impressive ability to establish what readers need to know in an entertaining manner. I enjoyed getting to know some new characters and seeing a fun relationship develop between Lily and Peter. She definitely nailed the teenage angst! The story flowed nicely, leading to another EPIC battle.
An excellent follow-up. Can't wait for the finale! Seriously... can I have it now, please? ;)
An excellent follow-up. Can't wait for the finale! Seriously... can I have it now, please? ;)
October 8, 2020
Invincible (Piercing the Veil #2) by C. A. Gray is the integration of modern science into a fantasy novel. Gray has a degree is a Naturopathic Medical Doctor who, in her spare time, teaches college level chemistry, sings, takes part in theater, and writes. The Piercing the Veil series is listed as Young Adult, but it is a great series regardless of the reader’s age. I thought I had outgrown fantasy novels decades ago, but this series made me reconsider.
About a year and two hundred books ago, I reviewed Intangible, the first book in the Piercing the Veil Series. I remembered the story of Peter, Lily, and the mysterious penumbra. I wondered if the year delay between books would mean going back and reviewing my notes from the first book. However, starting Invincible everything came back to me. There is a seamless pickup from the first novel and it is done without a long introduction. There are subtle reminders built into the story that will help remind the reader of previous events.
The second book in a series tends to be more difficult to review simply because the plot line was established in the first book. Without giving away the first book, the review of the second is usually problematic. So to prevent spoilers of the first book, I will write in rather broad terms, which will keep the story safe, and the review short. As much as I liked the first book, Intangible, it is bettered by Invincible. Simply, if the reader liked Intangible, Invincible only gets better.
Throughout the story there is a blend of two different worlds and realities. Gray also uses a clever mix of physics that separate the worlds: Classic Newtonian physics in one world and a mix of quantum mechanics and magic based on the Ancient Tongue. The separations of the worlds are clear and believable in the story as is the reality of each world.
The characters are expanded and continue to develop. Their places and their roles emerge and become clearer. The interactions between characters are natural and the teen rivalries and testing the limits of authority come into play. There is even that awkward interaction between Peter and Lily as emotions and rivalry come into play. Information hinted at in the first book is fully developed here with a complete history of the ancient tongue and the story of the Shadow Lord and the Child of Prophecy are explained.
As with most fantasy novels the driving force behind the story is a pending battle between good and evil. Invincible does an excellent job of developing and expanding the story presented in the first book. As a second novel in the series, Invincible does a remarkable job of keeping the story going and creating even more interest than the first book. Many second novels tend to be filler or a lull in the story separating and a stimulating first book and an exciting finish. Gray’s second book is more action packed and thrilling than the first novel. It is not simply a continuation, but the acceleration of the story.
About a year and two hundred books ago, I reviewed Intangible, the first book in the Piercing the Veil Series. I remembered the story of Peter, Lily, and the mysterious penumbra. I wondered if the year delay between books would mean going back and reviewing my notes from the first book. However, starting Invincible everything came back to me. There is a seamless pickup from the first novel and it is done without a long introduction. There are subtle reminders built into the story that will help remind the reader of previous events.
The second book in a series tends to be more difficult to review simply because the plot line was established in the first book. Without giving away the first book, the review of the second is usually problematic. So to prevent spoilers of the first book, I will write in rather broad terms, which will keep the story safe, and the review short. As much as I liked the first book, Intangible, it is bettered by Invincible. Simply, if the reader liked Intangible, Invincible only gets better.
Throughout the story there is a blend of two different worlds and realities. Gray also uses a clever mix of physics that separate the worlds: Classic Newtonian physics in one world and a mix of quantum mechanics and magic based on the Ancient Tongue. The separations of the worlds are clear and believable in the story as is the reality of each world.
The characters are expanded and continue to develop. Their places and their roles emerge and become clearer. The interactions between characters are natural and the teen rivalries and testing the limits of authority come into play. There is even that awkward interaction between Peter and Lily as emotions and rivalry come into play. Information hinted at in the first book is fully developed here with a complete history of the ancient tongue and the story of the Shadow Lord and the Child of Prophecy are explained.
As with most fantasy novels the driving force behind the story is a pending battle between good and evil. Invincible does an excellent job of developing and expanding the story presented in the first book. As a second novel in the series, Invincible does a remarkable job of keeping the story going and creating even more interest than the first book. Many second novels tend to be filler or a lull in the story separating and a stimulating first book and an exciting finish. Gray’s second book is more action packed and thrilling than the first novel. It is not simply a continuation, but the acceleration of the story.
October 20, 2018
How can I review such an incredible book without revealing what happens in book 1? I will limit myself to describing how amazing this world is, even if I have already mentioned that in my review for Intangible . A beautiful story that has geographical, physical and historical aspects that mix together in this explosive sequel.
Things are clear now, everybody has a purpose and everybody knows what they have to do. If they like it or not, that’s a different story. The fight against evil is starting and heroes will rise. I was not expecting the events in the story. I mean, from the first book to this second one, the characters evolve so much. Peter was a nonbeliever. He needed a scientific explanation for anything. Well, prove this! Lily, who in Intangible was as lost as a needle in a haystack now knows exactly where she belongs and how she fits in the legend.
There are so many elements that will keep you captivated and that will push you one chapter forward and then another, and then another… until unfortunately it ends. And that makes you wish for more. I love it and I have no other words to say it better! I MUST HAVE the conclusion now please?
The narration was amazing! I loved the emotions, I loved how she acted every scene and I loved the accent! I don’t know, I loved everything and so much about this audiobook.
This is a C.A. Grey month for me. I am also in the middle of another series by the same author and I am now a prisoner of her writing. Lucky for me, this is a high class prison and I feel so so good! Thank you J 5 stars!
Things are clear now, everybody has a purpose and everybody knows what they have to do. If they like it or not, that’s a different story. The fight against evil is starting and heroes will rise. I was not expecting the events in the story. I mean, from the first book to this second one, the characters evolve so much. Peter was a nonbeliever. He needed a scientific explanation for anything. Well, prove this! Lily, who in Intangible was as lost as a needle in a haystack now knows exactly where she belongs and how she fits in the legend.
There are so many elements that will keep you captivated and that will push you one chapter forward and then another, and then another… until unfortunately it ends. And that makes you wish for more. I love it and I have no other words to say it better! I MUST HAVE the conclusion now please?
The narration was amazing! I loved the emotions, I loved how she acted every scene and I loved the accent! I don’t know, I loved everything and so much about this audiobook.
This is a C.A. Grey month for me. I am also in the middle of another series by the same author and I am now a prisoner of her writing. Lucky for me, this is a high class prison and I feel so so good! Thank you J 5 stars!
June 25, 2018
Well done Arthurian plot
Another Arthurian plot complete with magic, suspense and twist. There are many different things that make this yarn grab and hold your interest from start to finish. As a historical perspective on a hidden kingdom set within the familiar background of the Roundtable we have families who believe and don't believe in the unseen world behind magic and a 1500 year old legion integrating multiple cultures with everything being believable.
With main characters teenagers taking the lead. Good and evil fight for your attention. Looking for the continuation of this saga.
Another Arthurian plot complete with magic, suspense and twist. There are many different things that make this yarn grab and hold your interest from start to finish. As a historical perspective on a hidden kingdom set within the familiar background of the Roundtable we have families who believe and don't believe in the unseen world behind magic and a 1500 year old legion integrating multiple cultures with everything being believable.
With main characters teenagers taking the lead. Good and evil fight for your attention. Looking for the continuation of this saga.
August 1, 2020
Brilliant second installment
Enthralling second installment. Edge of your seat kind of stuff. Character growth is pretty good, switched narrators and it’s an improvement but could still be better in terms of differentiation between characters with similar accents.
Don’t read this without reading the first book or you will be incredibly lost. Parents: this is super clean in terms of inappropriate content. There is some violence and gore but it isn’t gross in my opinion.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND this series.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Enthralling second installment. Edge of your seat kind of stuff. Character growth is pretty good, switched narrators and it’s an improvement but could still be better in terms of differentiation between characters with similar accents.
Don’t read this without reading the first book or you will be incredibly lost. Parents: this is super clean in terms of inappropriate content. There is some violence and gore but it isn’t gross in my opinion.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND this series.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
June 18, 2018
Wonderful Series. A Quick, Easy Read
I like YA books anyway, and this is better than most. It's well written and well thought out. I'm impressed by her research. I learned a few new words (like penumbra) and some physics. It's a lot of fun to read. I'm going to read the third in the trilogy now and find out how everything gets wrapped up. I'm enjoying the characters because they grow through their experiences. The treatment of death is sensitive, better than in a lot of books for young adults.
I like YA books anyway, and this is better than most. It's well written and well thought out. I'm impressed by her research. I learned a few new words (like penumbra) and some physics. It's a lot of fun to read. I'm going to read the third in the trilogy now and find out how everything gets wrapped up. I'm enjoying the characters because they grow through their experiences. The treatment of death is sensitive, better than in a lot of books for young adults.
July 19, 2021
of course, it had to finish on a cliffhanger!!!
argh!!!! desperately looking for the last instalment to read!!!
Love the fact that kids somehow always outsmart adults with millennia of experience in looking for stuff and sifting through the clues!
enjoyable read!
argh!!!! desperately looking for the last instalment to read!!!
Love the fact that kids somehow always outsmart adults with millennia of experience in looking for stuff and sifting through the clues!
enjoyable read!
March 20, 2018
Absolutely BRILLIANT! Couldn't put it down... onto book 3!!
October 23, 2014
When I read the first book in the Piercing the Veil series, I knew absolutely nothing about the book, but I quickly fell in love with it. To say I had high standards for Invincible would have been an understatement. Luckily, I wasn't disappointed.
Invincible picks up where Intangible left off, and it wastes no time getting back to the story. We learn a lot of information rather quickly, but it's never overwhelming. As I briefly mentioned in my review of Intangible, C. A. Gray does an excellent job of describing tricky scientific terms without being condescending.
I loved the plot and character development, and the author captured the teenage angst perfectly. Sometimes the second book in a trilogy can be a bit slow, but that isn't true for Invincible, which is just as fast-paced as Intangible.
I would highly recommend this series.
Invincible picks up where Intangible left off, and it wastes no time getting back to the story. We learn a lot of information rather quickly, but it's never overwhelming. As I briefly mentioned in my review of Intangible, C. A. Gray does an excellent job of describing tricky scientific terms without being condescending.
I loved the plot and character development, and the author captured the teenage angst perfectly. Sometimes the second book in a trilogy can be a bit slow, but that isn't true for Invincible, which is just as fast-paced as Intangible.
I would highly recommend this series.
May 4, 2015
Book 2, Invincible, starts with Lily wondering if she was going to get a new foster family. She had learned so much and she was not able to go back to the way things were. This book also has an afterward that explains alchemy, and the terms/ plot from the author. It was interesting to read this and it made me understand the books better, I also liked that at the end peter talked about anything being possible, however the title of book 3 is impossible. That made me think in between books. I also liked that we learned more about the characters and why they had to win. This book had n ending that was also left open to the imagination. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.
July 2, 2015
Good young people's book. Nice mix of Harry Potter fantasy with Arthurian legend. Wish I had read the first book, could have answered some of my questions. But now I have even more questions and find myself looking for the next book to answer them. Will recommend this series to some of the young people I know.
April 20, 2015
It was as good as the first. Thanks for another great book.
April 20, 2015
This book is a great follow up to the first. Action packed and a bit sad. It isn't Harry Potter but still a good read.
February 20, 2015
my review can be found at www.readinglark.blogspot.com
April 11, 2017
започна много интересно, но някак докато четях, започнах да губя интерес- много провлачени диалози и разтягане на действието...предната ми беше по-интересна
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