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The Portalis Runes #2

The Locksnight Rises

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How far will she go to save her enemy?

Unnerved by Vylnor and their tenuous alliance, but unwilling to allow his execution after the callous immortal saved her life, Aria must infiltrate the Elavon Citadel and attempt to rescue the Lord of Shadows, her only company … the mischievous mage Monroe.

But with Ramos’s plans to conquer imminent and his Witch Queen now entering the fray, Aria and her companions must face down the tide of demon forces as they threaten the freedom of the Mortal Realm, while arrogant Lords and an unyielding Jaguar King posture from afar.

With past secrets unfolding and new acquaintances to seek, can Aria’s fleeting accord with the Lord of Shadows endure, once the soul stone corruption finally consumes him? Or can she harness the elusive threads of her power to defend the people she loves most, from a foe capable of enslaving worlds?

The Locksnight Rises is the second exciting instalment from The Portalis Runes fantasy trilogy that you won’t want to miss.

411 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 26, 2024

7 people want to read

About the author

A.G. Brogan

3 books14 followers

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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Courtney Strong.
434 reviews4 followers
November 30, 2024
This was a lovely sequel and continuation to the story. It was truly action packed and while I don’t tend to love long battle scenes, the one in this book was done really well. I love how badass Aria has become and I’m excited to continue seeing this relationship between her and Vylnor blossom. Monroe is one of my favorite characters and brings a lot of humor to the story, even if he may have made me a bit angry 👀

Overall really well written and I’m excited to see how the trilogy concludes with the next and final book!

Thank you Alice for an ARC in exchange for my honest review 🤍
Profile Image for Ellie Smith.
35 reviews
November 9, 2024
Where do I begin...
You want fantasy, got it!
You want Elves, Demons, underworld vibes, witches, mages, multiple realms, Portalists, you got it!
You want a love triangle, you got it!
You want little to no smut... got it!
Cliff - hangers, dark mysterious love interest, enemies to lovers, banter for days, YOU GOT IT!

I can't even begin to put into words the joy, anxiety, butterflies and emotions this book gave me.
Now before I begin I want to just state that I was blessed enough to receive this book as an ARC, so a HUGE thank you to the author for your kindness and allowing me to continue following on this adventure!

Ok, let's get into it....
The Locksnight rises follows on from our first book (The Portalist Runes) which follows our main character who is discovered to be a Portalist (rare). Now from my interpretation, portalists are able to open and close portals between realms and there are a few. We have Elves, we have mages, we have mundanes, we have what I can only describe as the underworld lol.
Now as you can imagine, her powers are sought after and even more so considering she is no ordinary portalist! If she can control the portals to different realms she can be valuable to many and many want her skills.

In this book we follow Aria as she takes the leap and goes against everything she is taught in the hopes of saving a lost soul essentially.

Throughout the book we see her growth from book one. She goes from being this timid, afraid young lady to this strong independent woman who is able to really start trusting her instincts, her mind and her powers. She is surrounded by strong male characters but still images to shine through and prove that she caan and will be the master of her own destiny!

Not only do we see her growth as a person but as a portalist too.

We are also able to see the relationships she has with her grandfather and Monroe who by far is one of my favourite characters out of the whole book. I don't think I have ever laughed so much at a fantasy book as I have with this one. There were moments when I had tears streaming down my face just from the conversations and back and forth banter.

And we can't forget the love triangle between Aria, Eron and Vylor. Now to specify it is clear that both Eron and Vylor are obsessed with Aria but we see in book two where her priorities lie and I am most definitely not disappointed.

Personally Vylor is my go to guy, dark, mysterious, touch her and feel my wrath kinda vibes. But we come to learn more about his skills (and secrets in this book)

Now as we reached the end of this book I knew we were in for yet another cliff - hanger. I am eager to see how Aria is going to navigate her powers, how the situation between her and the king is going to play out?Are there more Portalists out there? Is there a way of finding them/ tracking them? What about the Guild? What happened with Franz? Will we see Franz again?

I am obsessed with this series and can't wait for the next one! A. G. Brogan knows exactly how to keep her readers hooked!!!


Profile Image for berrgiebooks.
61 reviews1 follower
December 3, 2024
This will have spoilers to book one so please do not read this review first.

Aria has now found out that she is actually an elf or part elf. Now her life is full of fighting and looking for portals and trying to figure out what's going on between her and Vylnor. Vylnor is also struggling with what to do as he knows what is happening between the two of them but also knows that he's at a high risk of losing it all because of his agreement with his current master.

The growth that happens in this book is amazing. Aria finding herself in ways that I didn't expect and truly leaning into her strength. Vylnor grows emotionally which I didn't know was going to be possible for him because of his situation in book one.

Having Monroe's story develop that way is also amazing. I cannot wait for the third installment of this trilogy so that I can see where AG Brogan is taking the story!
Profile Image for Noore.
198 reviews7 followers
November 17, 2024
The amount of action in this book was just amazing! So much action throughout the book kept me on my toes and invested throughout the book!

The banter in this book was just lovely! I loved their chemistry and the slow burn. I also enjoyed how this book was completely spice free! I also adored the character developments as well as the developments with different character relationships! I also enjoyed the multiple pov's!

The twists and turns towards the end truly blew my mind! Book 2 ended up in the perfect setting for book 3! Absolutely cant wait to see how this story ends!

Thank you to the author for an advanced reader copy in exchange of my honest review!
Profile Image for Marin (fmc.reads).
7 reviews2 followers
November 3, 2024
This is the second book of the Portalis runes trilogy and you should definitely read it if you like:

🌷 Chosen one
🌷 FMC that gets stronger
🌷 Lord of the Rings (also in writing style)
🌷 Fae and Demons
🌷 Magic, magical objects and portals
🌷 Enemies to Lovers
🌷 Fighting and warfare
🌷 No spice or steam
(This is fantasy with a little bit of romance sprinkled in, it’s really more about the plot and character development and has a typical fantasy like way of story- and word flow)

It’s AMAZING, I’m so invested in this story and I can’t wait for the last one 🤭 and yes I’m VERY MUCH aware of the fact that this one isn’t even officially out yet 😭

I’ve received this as an ARC after I LOVED the first book. My review and thoughts are my own. 🩷
Profile Image for Ashley (andtheniwasbookish).
388 reviews21 followers
November 11, 2024
5⭐ all the way! I did not want this book to end at ALL! There is so much happening here, and so much left up in the air after this second installment in the trilogy!

First things first....the banter? Top notch. Chef's kiss. A +. If I wasn't giggling at Monroe being Monroe, I was smirking at Aria and Vylnor forgetting that other people were around them. Let's add in a snarky Franz to the mix? And we have a winning group!

Now the developing relationship with between Aria and Vylnor? Definitely my favorite. I love how tortured and conflicted V is, and I love how steadfast and loyal Aria is (even if she doesn't know why she's being this way!). Aria's inherently good nature puts a lot of characters in their place and it's a joy to watch.

The multiple POVs during the chapters is a returning theme from book 1, and I love it. The changing POV keeps the story moving quickly and makes the battle scenes all that more intriguing.

We get more insight to Aria's mysterious magic this installment, and I'm excited to see where we end up! The way this book ended, our beloved group has multiple enemies to contend with and they will all need each other more than ever!

Overall: definitely recommend!
Profile Image for Annabella Lowe.
Author 2 books18 followers
November 14, 2024
First off - the cover of this book is INSANE!!!! I love it!! And if ever you were to judge a book by its cover…judge this one because it is brilliant!

This is the second book in The Portalis Runes series and if you haven’t picked the first one up yet, it’s currently on KU! Get it now!!! Right now!! FMC Aria discovers in book one that she is the only one of her kind and has an ancient type of magic that allows her to open portals (I will repost that review to my stories).

The second book continues Aria’s story and she has to make some intense decisions as to whether or not to save the man who should be her enemy, going against all of the people who’ve put their faith in her, or to let him die after he saved her life. Evil is rising, and no matter her choice, there are epic battles to be faced.

I love that in this book, one of my favourite, witty characters is brought to the centre of the plot. Monroe is absolutely brilliant and incredibly entertaining. We also get to see a lot more of the morally grey villain Vylnor and his story which I also love. I was truly invested from book 1 though! I thoroughly enjoyed this second in the series and cannot wait for the third.
2 reviews1 follower
November 8, 2024
After finishing the last book to a sentence of “Let’s go piss off some elves” I was very much looking forward to reading the second book in this series by A.G.Brogan and seeing just what mischief Aria and Monroe could get themselves in to in this second instalment. The story is action packed and hard to put down from the beginning, every chapter ends and leaves you wanting to continue to find out what will happen next.

Aria is everything you would want in a female lead. A young woman learning, she has more to offer than any man she comes across and that she can defeat any evil that steps in her path in order to achieve peace and safety for those she loves. Monroe is my personal favourite and I enjoy the banter and wit this character brings to the book. He is a character that doesn’t take himself too seriously and adds a fun level of humour to the books.

“Do not paint yourself in the light, when we are all tainted by some shadow.” - a brilliant line.

I can’t wait for the third book and to find out how this story develops and unfolds.
Profile Image for SophsBookishBubbl.
137 reviews
October 31, 2025
Another fabulous read in this series, book two is impeccable.

This book was action packed to the brim, I love the detailed battle scenes, the dialogue expanding between characters and the world building. This series is truly amazing, I cannot fault it so far.

Alice’s writing is so beautifully immersive, I feel like I’m there. There is a point in this book where the penny dropped and I GASPED, in awe. You must read this.


“The Portalis, nay, this women, battled an Elder to ensure his survival, so Vylnor decided that his next decision would be worth the pain he would have to endure, because to him, she deserved everything that he was for that simple act alone.”🥹

To be honest this whole book is worth highlighting so many gorgeous quotes❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kat Šprem.
149 reviews2 followers
November 3, 2024
I inhaled it!! Alice is such a brilliant writer! Aria is such a badass when pissed! Her superhero jump and audience with the king.. you go girl!! Her relationship with V, omg I'm swooning, it's so good! And him being the Locksnight, such a power couple!! I loved the banter through the story and all name calling gave me such giggles! Can't wait to read more!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Chimene Samson.
62 reviews1 follower
November 7, 2024
One of my new favourite book series that is written by such an engaging and friendly author.
I am thrilled to have kindly been given an arc to read as I was so invested of Aria’s story from the first book and this one surpassed my expectations. The love story continues to thrill me and the ✨ reveal & rescue✨ in chapter 20 will live forever rent free in my mind. Vylnor is a beautifully crafted character that continues to be my favourite in this book. The power dynamic and chemistry between him and Aria is electric and the ending chapters with the King were great fun to read. Monroe is another lovely character to read, providing warmth and humour to the plot.
I can’t believe the next book will be the final in the series! I so look forward to seeing where the story goes forth from this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for amanda bedwell.
15 reviews1 follower
August 21, 2025
I thought the first book had me gripped by the edge of my seat but this just blew my mind! The action and twists keeps you guessing, I won’t spoil anything by saying what but it completely changes some dynamics. The end though!!! I can’t wait for the next one🥰
Profile Image for S.E. Schaefer.
Author 1 book15 followers
November 10, 2024
Such a good read! It kept me interested and itching for more the entire time. I absolutely devoured it. Can’t wait to see where the story goes in book three!
Profile Image for Lisa fletcher.
317 reviews8 followers
December 3, 2024
This series these characters this author has my heart I cannot tell you how much I love this series but that cliff Hanger alice no I am not happy why would you do that to us omg I can't believe how much I love this series The world building is amazing it's so fast paced I'm getting whip lash it flies threw fight scenes and vylnur omg I love him he is my new villion obsession the way he cares and protects aria is beautiful to me there banter and chemistry is top tear fantastic I also love moroe I need a monroe in my life ❤️
Profile Image for Kez Marie.
1,202 reviews73 followers
November 23, 2024
First, can we talk about how gorgeous the cover art is!
This was a stunning sequel to 'The Portalis Runes'. The layers of mystery are building around Aria's abilities, they are hunted by enemies and allies, and Aria is torn by conflicted desires.
Her empathy and belief in redemption is powerful, and I liked seeing her feelings amplified with every confrontation, insult or threat.
I absolutely loved the chemistry and banter between Aria and Vylnor and the shift in their relationship, plus the anger and awkwardness it causes for the rest of the group!
I was cursing at Monroe for his scheming and mischief, and I love the tension and rivalry between Vylnor and Eron.
The intense atmosphere, magical worldbuilding, and character growth, resilience, redemption and humour makes this series enchanting to read.
Those last few chapters had me hooked with Aria's display of power and her burn the world down attitude. And I loved that Aria wasn't the only one with some powerful surprises.
Excited for the final book of the series!


"A store cupboard, really?"
"Why? Afraid I'll ravage you in the dark?"

"I should hate you for what you put me through and yet you crumble my barriers so easily"

"His mate was a force to be reckoned with and a reckless one at that, but still his body preened with pride at her strength, her courage"

"If that was the price for your kiss, I would gladly suffer a thousand lashes for but one more"
Profile Image for Sarah.
45 reviews7 followers
November 27, 2024
You’ll love this if you enjoy:
🔥 YA Fantasy
🔥 Fated Mates
🔥 Chosen One
🔥 Multiple POV
🔥 Battle Scenes
🔥 Banter
🔥 Elves & Demons

The Locksnight Rises is the second book in The Portalis Runes trilogy. I was extremely to lucky to get the chance to read the ARC again. Another amazing book that had me gripped from the get go. Thank you so much to the author.

None stop action, twist and turns, banter and a sprinkle of slow burn romance thrown in. This book has it all and more.

I loved the continued character development and the blossoming relationship between Aria and Vylnor. My favourite was me giggling at Monroe, just being Monroe throughout.

I liked how we delved more into Arias complex and mysterious magic in this book and look forward to seeing how everything turns out in the next installment. I can’t wait.
Profile Image for Kayla.
17 reviews1 follower
November 21, 2024
I absolutely ADORE this series! I devoured the first book The Portalis Runes this past summer when Alice reached out to me to see if I would read it. I've been waiting patiently ever since to ARC this for her! When I say it exceeded my expectations & more!! I typically really want spice in my romance books but Alice is a master at the slow burn & crafting the dynamics between the two main characters that leaves you anxiously turning the pages to find out what happens next.

⚔️"Those foul memories his attacks evoked nearly undid me, but I refused to be dissuaded by a past I could never hope to change, so I used the anger they inspired and pressed forward to finish my task."

- This quote hit me hard and brought me to tears. It's a reminder that we have the power to use our traumas as fuel to push forward and find the gold in our lives. Rather than allowing them to keep us chained. 🖤
Profile Image for nic.
127 reviews3 followers
April 8, 2025
Another freaking great book to the series. I was reluctant to finish because it means I have to wait for the third one. I wish it was in my hands right this second.

Where to start?

Somehow I love Monroe even more. Still the funniest, and the reveal near the end of how involved he’s been in Aria’s wellbeing. I just heart him so hard.

The relationship between Vylnor and Aria has been so good to watch develop throughout this. Still a slow burn and I was hanging off every word. Every action. The amount of quotes I highlighted.
“If that was the price for your kiss, I would gladly suffer a thousand lashes for but one more’
And I’ve got to say the slow redemption has been so nice to watch for him. I was routing for you, bby, and you’re doing SO well.

The story flowed effortlessly and I love the details, the lore, the direction this is going. I’m just so invested.

Can’t wait for the final book.


This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Tanya Gray.
211 reviews10 followers
April 17, 2025
One line review - A fabulous continuation of the first book, I need more!

This book is a perfect YA fantasy. I usually struggle reading YA as I find them too safe and the stakes too low (before you ask, yes I understand that is because of the intended audience).However, this book took all the world and character building of the first book and absolutely smashed it! It hits everything that I love... fantasy, love triangles, mystical creatures, magic, morally grey!

Also there are so many profound quotes that resonated with me whilst reading it that I wish I had had this book to read when I was a teenager.

Can not wait for the final book!

I will find you

➼ YA fantasy
➼ Mystical beings
➼ magic
➼ morally grey
➼ enemies to lovers
➼ no spice
➼ chosen one

The Portalis Runes
1. The Portalis Runes ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2. The Locksnight Rises ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Kerry Topping.
Author 2 books6 followers
December 10, 2024
SHE DID IT AGAIN FOLKS! This thrilling sequel picks up right where the first book left off and my loves, it didn't disappoint.
The witches are still terrifying, the banter is still top notch and the longing, oh the longing.
I adored this. Savoured every last word. Alice's writing is so beautiful and the world she has built is so unique.
I love watching Aria grow, becoming a force to be reckoned with with the weight of the world on her shoulders. Vylnor grappling with who he is now and who he once was. Both of them struggle to figure out where they stand with each other. I also really loved getting to know Monroe better, his banter and unpredictable nature kept me guessing!
The Portalis Runes (Book One) is available on KU, with book two available on amazon! Thank you Alice for providing me with an arc of your wonderful book
Profile Image for Shannon.
115 reviews6 followers
November 27, 2024
This was an amazing action-packed read!

Aria is truly a force to be reckoned with, with so many admirable qualities - I love how strongly she believes in giving others a chance at redemption and desperately wants peace and safety for her closest family/friends. Her loyalty and strength in supporting Vylnor, despite the negativity surrounding him, is truly inspiring, especially as she doesn’t know why she’s feeling so strongly about him.

I adore Vylnor. His character is so tortured and experiences so much growth while wrestling with his own mind. You can really sense his inner turmoil, caught between longing for what could be and feeling unworthy of it, while struggling to envision a path forward. The authenticity of his pain and internal conflict is incredible.

Monroe is an definite favourite. That clever lil schemer! For a while I was worried but he really does care fiercely for Aria and always has. He's so thoughtful and his humour and wit are always so well meaning and needed. And the wisteria! Ahhh 🥹
94 reviews5 followers
November 16, 2024
Oh my god please read this trilogy. I absolutely loved The Portalis Runes and this book? Takes all of that and makes it deeper. This book is fantastic. The banter is spectacular. The depth in the characters is so well done and the story? The plot? Beautiful. It’s such a solidly done fantasy. The adventure, the battle, the unknown. It’s so so good. AG Brogan has such a captivating writing style and I could not put it down.
Profile Image for what.rincy.reads.
91 reviews6 followers
May 27, 2025
Now this is a book I would definitely see as a movie.
Such a great follow up to The Portalis Runes. I could not have picked a better one than this to get back to my reading. Amazing writing, incredible plot, magnificent characters, I feel like I don't know enough big words to describe how I feel after reading this one.
Aria alongwith the elves, Monroe the mage, Franz and even her grandfather this time continues on her journey to save the mortal realm from Ramos and his demons.
Aria was strong and sassy, so amazing with her fighting, magic, emotions, just so powerful to read. And how far she went to save the enemy who turns out is fated to be her mate. And the susprise of who the Locksnight is was just mind blowing.
The story building was just so great. Learning about Aria's heritage and the mysteries around her abilities and powers was as emotional for me as it was for her.
The love angle between her and the Oromos Lord, which was not such a surprise but a very good detail, nonetheless.
I don't want to spoil it for those of you who haven't read it yet with the plot details, but y'all need to run and get your copies as the book is out now.
And my favorite word from now on is mayhap, iykyk
Profile Image for Ashley Hobsonreads.
176 reviews3 followers
April 7, 2025
Vylnor saved Aria’s life. In an attempt to save him from execution she ends up having to fight against the elves. Can their tenuous alliance last?

Ramos attempts to conquer the Mortal Realm which pulls Aria and Monroe back into the fray to assist the armies of elves and men. Can they survive this battle with Aria still getting used to her new form and powers?

This second installment from @agbrogan was very very exciting. Action packed with a blossoming mate bond all thrown into the mix. I can’t wait until the next!
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