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Agata Sea #2
Restless: An Agata Sea Novella
Perfect for fans of
Throne of Glass, Wishtress' magical redemptive arc,
and
Encanto
's Latin vibe.
Gaining freedom from her old master, Whyzer Patro, doesn't mean that Cottia can now be a princess.
Everyone understands that ... except Prince Ezer.
When an old assassin friend comes into town, he brings her information about Whyzer Patro's next move and offers her an opportunity to make Prince Ezer understand that princes and ex-assassins don't mix.
The plan should work, but Prince Ezer is stubborn.
And to make matters worse, Whyzer Patro and his associates have a vendetta that can usurp Prince Ezer's power.
Gaining freedom from her old master, Whyzer Patro, doesn't mean that Cottia can now be a princess.
Everyone understands that ... except Prince Ezer.
When an old assassin friend comes into town, he brings her information about Whyzer Patro's next move and offers her an opportunity to make Prince Ezer understand that princes and ex-assassins don't mix.
The plan should work, but Prince Ezer is stubborn.
And to make matters worse, Whyzer Patro and his associates have a vendetta that can usurp Prince Ezer's power.
- GenresFantasy
194 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 10, 2025
5 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 2, 2025
I've really enjoyed all of the Agata Sea series. This one left me wanting more. I would give it five stars if there was another book coming, but there was so much left unaswered that I was hoping to discover. I'm not sure if there is another book planned but I certainly hope so.
April 12, 2025
I received this for an honest ARC review. I read the first book, Ruthless, and Restless is a great followup to it. Cottia has seemed to overcome her past until it comes back to haunt her. She finds out the evil whyser has her sister and she struggles between her evil past and changed self. The subtle nuances of the Bible are perfectly placed to remind Cottia of why she changed and how to lean on the Ancient One. Definitely a good read for teens and older. Can't wait for the next book Candice gives us.
March 19, 2025
ARC Review
Definitely a 5 star read for me!
Spice: Kissing on the forehead or hand only
Swearing: None
This is the second book in the series and the FMC Cottia is an assassin that has learned of Christ, fallen in love, and attempting to get out of her old life. (Her story starts in the book Ruthless). Ezer, the MMC, is trying to convince her that they should marry while Cottia is convinced that they should not because of her job. There is mystery, intrigue, spies, light magic, and Christian themes in this book. The only drawback for me is the fact that there is a bit of a cliff hanger at the end of the book (which means there is another book coming!)
Definitely a 5 star read for me!
Spice: Kissing on the forehead or hand only
Swearing: None
This is the second book in the series and the FMC Cottia is an assassin that has learned of Christ, fallen in love, and attempting to get out of her old life. (Her story starts in the book Ruthless). Ezer, the MMC, is trying to convince her that they should marry while Cottia is convinced that they should not because of her job. There is mystery, intrigue, spies, light magic, and Christian themes in this book. The only drawback for me is the fact that there is a bit of a cliff hanger at the end of the book (which means there is another book coming!)
April 9, 2025
4,5 stars rounded to 5
Restless is the second Agata Sea Novella and I would definitely advise to read book one first, maybe even better - start with Unbetrothed, to which the novellas are prequels to. I think you understand the story better if you have already read the full length novel even if it’s not in chronological order.
I really enjoyed this second novella and the continuation of Cottia’s redemption story. She already accepted her need for the Ancient One in the first book and that there always is a choice, but her character arc wasn’t done and she obviously struggles with her place in life.
Even though Cottia is very adamant in not wanting to marry Prince Ezer (or better - not seeing herself worthy of marrying him), he is relentless as ever and continues to help Cottia to see herself in a different light and to overcome the demons of her past.
I also loved to see more of Gemma, Cottia’s dear friend. While Cottia is the main character, Gemma gets a lot of chapters from her POV and I hope we will see more of her in the next novella.
Like in the books before, I think the romance is the weaker part of these stories, since I don’t know why all these characters fall for each other. The love stories are still very sweet, especially with Prince Ezer being such a caring character. But I think I have to accept there is not much build up to this epic love. The love just is without a lot of development.
The strong point of these novellas is the faith element. The Christian themes are woven beautifully throughout the books. We see forgiveness and sacrifice and most importantly that you are never too far gone to accept His love and to lean on Him.
I recommend this novella if you have already read and enjoyed Unbetrothed (and Untamed, which I honestly haven’t read yet, but definitely plan to) and want to spend more time in this magical world Yamnitz created.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
Restless is the second Agata Sea Novella and I would definitely advise to read book one first, maybe even better - start with Unbetrothed, to which the novellas are prequels to. I think you understand the story better if you have already read the full length novel even if it’s not in chronological order.
I really enjoyed this second novella and the continuation of Cottia’s redemption story. She already accepted her need for the Ancient One in the first book and that there always is a choice, but her character arc wasn’t done and she obviously struggles with her place in life.
Even though Cottia is very adamant in not wanting to marry Prince Ezer (or better - not seeing herself worthy of marrying him), he is relentless as ever and continues to help Cottia to see herself in a different light and to overcome the demons of her past.
I also loved to see more of Gemma, Cottia’s dear friend. While Cottia is the main character, Gemma gets a lot of chapters from her POV and I hope we will see more of her in the next novella.
Like in the books before, I think the romance is the weaker part of these stories, since I don’t know why all these characters fall for each other. The love stories are still very sweet, especially with Prince Ezer being such a caring character. But I think I have to accept there is not much build up to this epic love. The love just is without a lot of development.
The strong point of these novellas is the faith element. The Christian themes are woven beautifully throughout the books. We see forgiveness and sacrifice and most importantly that you are never too far gone to accept His love and to lean on Him.
I recommend this novella if you have already read and enjoyed Unbetrothed (and Untamed, which I honestly haven’t read yet, but definitely plan to) and want to spend more time in this magical world Yamnitz created.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
April 12, 2025
Restless is the second book in the Agata Seas Series. Book 1, titled Ruthless, is a novella and is available for free. You'll have to read it first for proper context. It gives the vibe of Disney's Encanto Animation, majorly because the world the story is set in is Latin-inspired.
If you're craving Christian fantasy with kingdom politics, rich culture, unique magic giftings, ex-assassins, and a I-won't-give-up-on-you prince, Restless will grip you from the first page!
Cottia may have broken free from her old master, Whyzer Patro, but freedom doesn't automatically erase a haunted past. Everyone seems to get that—except Prince Ezer. While Cottia wrestles with identity, shame, and belonging, Ezer refuses to let her go, seeing the redeemed heart beneath her assassin scars.
But when an old friend reappears with intel on Whyzer’s next move—and a tempting plan to protect Ezer by pushing him away—Cottia must choose between fighting for love or hiding behind the past.
What I loved:
✨ A strong, complex heroine with a past she’s learning to surrender.
✨ A swoony but grounded prince who’s got faith and fire.
✨ A redemptive arc woven beautifully into the action and suspense.
✨ Kingdom drama that mirrors spiritual battles—power, pride, and purpose.
✨ The unique magic systems. Yup, if you're tired of the whole elemental powers in fantasy books, you'll find the magic in this one a breath of fresh air.
✨ References to God, the Ancient One.
✨ That twist at the end?! I did not see it coming! Trust me, I'm literally hanging on a thread, over a cliff.
If you're craving Christian fantasy with kingdom politics, rich culture, unique magic giftings, ex-assassins, and a I-won't-give-up-on-you prince, Restless will grip you from the first page!
Cottia may have broken free from her old master, Whyzer Patro, but freedom doesn't automatically erase a haunted past. Everyone seems to get that—except Prince Ezer. While Cottia wrestles with identity, shame, and belonging, Ezer refuses to let her go, seeing the redeemed heart beneath her assassin scars.
But when an old friend reappears with intel on Whyzer’s next move—and a tempting plan to protect Ezer by pushing him away—Cottia must choose between fighting for love or hiding behind the past.
What I loved:
✨ A strong, complex heroine with a past she’s learning to surrender.
✨ A swoony but grounded prince who’s got faith and fire.
✨ A redemptive arc woven beautifully into the action and suspense.
✨ Kingdom drama that mirrors spiritual battles—power, pride, and purpose.
✨ The unique magic systems. Yup, if you're tired of the whole elemental powers in fantasy books, you'll find the magic in this one a breath of fresh air.
✨ References to God, the Ancient One.
✨ That twist at the end?! I did not see it coming! Trust me, I'm literally hanging on a thread, over a cliff.
April 11, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed Ruthless so I eagerly requested an advanced copy of book 2, Restless from the author, Candice Pedraza Yamnitz. Thank you for including me on the ARC team.
This story picks up soon after Ruthless ends. Whyzer Patro remains a dangerous threat to Cottia's freedom and any chance at happiness with Prince Ezer. Restless gives a deeper look at some characters from book 1 as well as introduces new allies and enemies. I became so attached to Cottia and her friends since book 1. My heart raced and broke for them given their challenges in fighting for safety and freedom. Several times, I felt like crying because of how sad, difficult or significant a moment was in Ruthless, and the same happened this time. I finished Restless with tears in my eyes.
The twists and turns were unexpected. Now, while I don't like cliffhangers, I still rated Restless 5 stars because this story is great - well written, entertaining, emotionally engaging and full of mystery, slow burn romance and action. I knew it was part of a continuous series from the start and the next book is coming out soon. So I won't fault the author for leaving me feeling so emotional at that ending.
This is a fantastic series for anyone from young teens to adults who want an engaging story with serious issues but without explicit content. I really appreciate how well the author includes Christian themes in this fantasy series without being overwhelming to the plot. The characters face universal issues such as good and evil, guilt, fear, despair, faith, forgiveness and redemption.
Also, the descriptions of the food in these books have been making me so hungry. Everything sounds delicious. I want to taste it all, especially lots of churros dipped in chocolate. This was another perfect installment to the series. I just can't wait for book 3 to be released.
This story picks up soon after Ruthless ends. Whyzer Patro remains a dangerous threat to Cottia's freedom and any chance at happiness with Prince Ezer. Restless gives a deeper look at some characters from book 1 as well as introduces new allies and enemies. I became so attached to Cottia and her friends since book 1. My heart raced and broke for them given their challenges in fighting for safety and freedom. Several times, I felt like crying because of how sad, difficult or significant a moment was in Ruthless, and the same happened this time. I finished Restless with tears in my eyes.
The twists and turns were unexpected. Now, while I don't like cliffhangers, I still rated Restless 5 stars because this story is great - well written, entertaining, emotionally engaging and full of mystery, slow burn romance and action. I knew it was part of a continuous series from the start and the next book is coming out soon. So I won't fault the author for leaving me feeling so emotional at that ending.
This is a fantastic series for anyone from young teens to adults who want an engaging story with serious issues but without explicit content. I really appreciate how well the author includes Christian themes in this fantasy series without being overwhelming to the plot. The characters face universal issues such as good and evil, guilt, fear, despair, faith, forgiveness and redemption.
Also, the descriptions of the food in these books have been making me so hungry. Everything sounds delicious. I want to taste it all, especially lots of churros dipped in chocolate. This was another perfect installment to the series. I just can't wait for book 3 to be released.
April 18, 2025
Restless is the unputdownable sequel to Ruthless, which I also highly recommend to fans of faith-based fantasy/adventure. When I audibly gasp while reading, I know I have been drawn right into the story and I am 100% invested! Cottia, now free of her binding to Whyzer Patro, and her friend Gema are with Prince Ezer, who is putting on quite a show hosting a competition to determine who will be the next princess when he has truly already chosen Cottia.
Despite her newfound faith in the Ancient One (Jesus), Cottia is still hesitant to accept the idea that she would be good for Ezer due to her past as an assassin controlled by Whyzer Patro. She has a lot to learn about forgiveness. Meanwhile, Gema and Prince Ezer’s brother have a definite flirtation going on. When a man from Cottia’s dark past shows up, she knows Whyzer Patro is still after her. Once she learns of the Whyzer’s plans, she must make some difficult choices about what to reveal, what to hide, who to trust, and where her future should be—and with whom. The high stakes and narrative tension keep you turning those pages! Fair warning, this one ends in a cliffhanger—but it’s all good. An important plot point is resolved and book three, Reckless, comes out in June!
Oh, and I’d really like a churro, now, please. With chocolate. 😊
Despite her newfound faith in the Ancient One (Jesus), Cottia is still hesitant to accept the idea that she would be good for Ezer due to her past as an assassin controlled by Whyzer Patro. She has a lot to learn about forgiveness. Meanwhile, Gema and Prince Ezer’s brother have a definite flirtation going on. When a man from Cottia’s dark past shows up, she knows Whyzer Patro is still after her. Once she learns of the Whyzer’s plans, she must make some difficult choices about what to reveal, what to hide, who to trust, and where her future should be—and with whom. The high stakes and narrative tension keep you turning those pages! Fair warning, this one ends in a cliffhanger—but it’s all good. An important plot point is resolved and book three, Reckless, comes out in June!
Oh, and I’d really like a churro, now, please. With chocolate. 😊
March 16, 2025
I thank the author for allowing me to review this novella as an ARC read.
I overall liked the characters and the writing style, the powers are interesting as well as the magic system. Because it was a novella I think there were things that weren't fully explained and were taken for granted, as I believe you would get a better payoff when reading the rest of the series. The conflict is also left unresolved and a new bit is added at the end. I would have liked to know more about the sister and why Cottia had beef with her mother, or who the enemy was and her full connection with him and his motives.
There were also some stylistic bits that left me perplexed like a "male shadow" and a "KA BOOM. An explosion sent flying wood towards us" which felt a little cartoon and an unnecessary repetition.
Overall this is a nice quick read I would suggest to anyone reading the series or who would like to dive deeper in the author's work.
I overall liked the characters and the writing style, the powers are interesting as well as the magic system. Because it was a novella I think there were things that weren't fully explained and were taken for granted, as I believe you would get a better payoff when reading the rest of the series. The conflict is also left unresolved and a new bit is added at the end. I would have liked to know more about the sister and why Cottia had beef with her mother, or who the enemy was and her full connection with him and his motives.
There were also some stylistic bits that left me perplexed like a "male shadow" and a "KA BOOM. An explosion sent flying wood towards us" which felt a little cartoon and an unnecessary repetition.
Overall this is a nice quick read I would suggest to anyone reading the series or who would like to dive deeper in the author's work.
April 24, 2025
Another enjoyable novella by Candice Pedraza Yamnitz! If you’ve read Unbetrothed and its sequel Untamed (I highly recommend them if you haven’t yet), these novellas feature Cottia, who is Princess Beatriz’s mother. You could read these novellas before reading The Agata Sea duology, or you can enjoy them after. Either way is fine.
As with the other Agata Sea books, there’s a bit of sweet romance (think hand-holding and longing), a villain trying to ruin everything, a journey/adventure, and we continue to get to know these characters better. Their pasts, their struggles, their beliefs, their families, etc.
A wonderful addition to this YA fantasy series! I’m excited for the final novella! After that ending (Restless), I need to know how everything gets resolved in Reckless!
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5/5 stars)
I received an ebook ARC of Restless from the author. All opinions expressed in this review are my honest thoughts about this book.
As with the other Agata Sea books, there’s a bit of sweet romance (think hand-holding and longing), a villain trying to ruin everything, a journey/adventure, and we continue to get to know these characters better. Their pasts, their struggles, their beliefs, their families, etc.
A wonderful addition to this YA fantasy series! I’m excited for the final novella! After that ending (Restless), I need to know how everything gets resolved in Reckless!
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5/5 stars)
I received an ebook ARC of Restless from the author. All opinions expressed in this review are my honest thoughts about this book.
March 1, 2025
Wow ! Candice did it again ! I got to read this book as an ARC and I’m so glad I did ! This second book in the series just rolled right on in from the first book . I was told I didn’t have to read the first book to read the second . But I did because I wanted to see how she wrote . I read the first book and LOVED it ! I left a review of it if you want to check it out . But as for this one yep , it’s a keeper for sure . I love how she brought in the “ Anointed One “ into the story .
Things we may struggle with . Again as the first , I laughed , I bit my lip , and even cried . Cottia and her past , the anointed one and the scene with her mamma . Wow !
And a little humor Gema has me wanting churros and chocolate, hehe . Over all you won’t be disappointed! Recommend if you’re looking for Very clean , no bad language and no spice . You can’t go wrong with this author ! 💞
Things we may struggle with . Again as the first , I laughed , I bit my lip , and even cried . Cottia and her past , the anointed one and the scene with her mamma . Wow !
And a little humor Gema has me wanting churros and chocolate, hehe . Over all you won’t be disappointed! Recommend if you’re looking for Very clean , no bad language and no spice . You can’t go wrong with this author ! 💞
April 12, 2025
Once again, this author has created a page-turning novella of romance interlaced with light fantasy and plenty of action. The stakes for Cottia are not only securing the safety of her sister, but her own heart. Even though she is drawn to a new life and the potential love of a prince, she wrestles with shame from her past. Additionally, the Cottia is caught between two different men, a noble prince and a childhood friend who knows her dark past. A subplot of a budding romance of Cottia’s maid and the prince’s brother spreads extra icing on the cake. This book is fun to dig into and digest! The author is a master of weaving various levels of conflict in the physical, emotional and spiritual realms. This is the perfect fantasy without gruesome over-the-top bloodshed. Restless is a sequel to Ruthless, but a reader won’t be lost if they’ve not read the first of the series.
April 10, 2025
Marriage is about more than merely love
While Cottia does know some of the court dances and how to handle herself around the elite, a Prince’s partner needs to bring a multitude of benefits to the proverbial table. Our heroine has no connections (well, at least not the right kind!), no money, and no political know-how; nothing to recommend her to the palace. Marrying into a different culture and/or socio-economic level is challenging enough; almost impossible to fit in when the family doesn’t approve and the court members conspire against you. No amount of churros & chocolate can fix that!
Will Cottia’s dreams of love and freedom come true?
While Cottia does know some of the court dances and how to handle herself around the elite, a Prince’s partner needs to bring a multitude of benefits to the proverbial table. Our heroine has no connections (well, at least not the right kind!), no money, and no political know-how; nothing to recommend her to the palace. Marrying into a different culture and/or socio-economic level is challenging enough; almost impossible to fit in when the family doesn’t approve and the court members conspire against you. No amount of churros & chocolate can fix that!
Will Cottia’s dreams of love and freedom come true?
May 24, 2025
I LOVED Restless. From front to back, I sat in suspense, waiting to find out what would happen next. I just about pulled my hair out when the book ended the way it did. But it makes me even more excited to read Reckless. I was so happy reading the first chapter and discovering that Cottia had warmed up to Ezer and was even ready to accept his wish to make her his betrothed. But then, UGH, Whyzer Patro just HAD to get in the way, didn't he? And again with the ending! How am I supposed to continue with life without knowing what's going to happen? Well, I guess I'll just have to find out if and when I read Reckless.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2025
Short With A Punch!
🌷This novella is super short but full of action and constantly moving. On every page, there is something new and exciting happening, so definitely stay on your toes!
🌷The characters are definitely morally grey (most) and trying to find redemption while at the same time surviving in their current situation. There is love but also a lot of trouble surrounding that love, so...will they won't they?
🌷Highly recommend if you want all action and a lot of "I need to know vibes."
🌷Spice:0
🌷Language:0
🌷Warnings: Violence, death, blood, abandonment
🌷This novella is super short but full of action and constantly moving. On every page, there is something new and exciting happening, so definitely stay on your toes!
🌷The characters are definitely morally grey (most) and trying to find redemption while at the same time surviving in their current situation. There is love but also a lot of trouble surrounding that love, so...will they won't they?
🌷Highly recommend if you want all action and a lot of "I need to know vibes."
🌷Spice:0
🌷Language:0
🌷Warnings: Violence, death, blood, abandonment
April 13, 2025
This book follows on from Ruthless and you really need to have read that book first. You have a crown prince and an ex-assassin in love with each other, but Cottia doesn't believe she can ever be a princess and neither does Ezer's parents. You also have people from Cottia's past out to kill them creating lots of drama. I look forward to book 3 as the reader was left on a cliff hanger. I received an ARC but this review is my own.
April 27, 2025
9/10
I should have been able to read this in like a day, but sometimes life gets in the way of my stories. (Now I sound old. Haha)
Since I happened to read Ruthless before Unbetrothed, it was good to be back with some of these prequel faces again after so long. Haha
I forgot how much I missed young Cottia, Ezer, & Gema. Young Ulyses was a fun addition too & Cristobal was much more likable this go around.
The archery scene had me laughing multiple times.
This book had a fast & furious pacing to it, much like the other Agata Sea novels & novellas, which I appreciate greatly. (I struggle with long chapters.) Now there was a point where everything was becoming brutally abrupt & I had to remind myself “Reckless is coming and thankfully, it’s coming soon.”
Needless to say, I’m very excited to see how this trilogy wraps up. Eehehehe
I should have been able to read this in like a day, but sometimes life gets in the way of my stories. (Now I sound old. Haha)
Since I happened to read Ruthless before Unbetrothed, it was good to be back with some of these prequel faces again after so long. Haha
I forgot how much I missed young Cottia, Ezer, & Gema. Young Ulyses was a fun addition too & Cristobal was much more likable this go around.
The archery scene had me laughing multiple times.
This book had a fast & furious pacing to it, much like the other Agata Sea novels & novellas, which I appreciate greatly. (I struggle with long chapters.) Now there was a point where everything was becoming brutally abrupt & I had to remind myself “Reckless is coming and thankfully, it’s coming soon.”
Needless to say, I’m very excited to see how this trilogy wraps up. Eehehehe
August 22, 2025
I have been LOVING the Assassins Rise books! Restless is book 2, and a wonderful follow-up to book 1. From a princess competition, turned into an escape plot, and a romance that threatens the safety of our assassin's romantic interest, Restless was fast-paced, adventurous, and romantic. The ending left me anxiously excited to read book 3!
August 24, 2025
The assassin’s restless heart, still yearning for her prince.
The entire plot is quite confusing, and it's kinda difficult to follow the timeline.
This feels like those stories from the Bible where the characters were tested on their faith.
I didn't expect to fall in love with Cristobal. Sorry Ezer, but Cristobal caught my heart in this book.
The entire plot is quite confusing, and it's kinda difficult to follow the timeline.
This feels like those stories from the Bible where the characters were tested on their faith.
I didn't expect to fall in love with Cristobal. Sorry Ezer, but Cristobal caught my heart in this book.
December 9, 2025
Restless stole my imagination and led down a path I didn't expect. I love this story with all its twists and turns. I wrote this to show a person wrestling with a restless soul. I also dove a little into Gema's story because so many people had questions about Laude's background from Unbetrothed.
ENJOY!
ENJOY!
March 10, 2025
The story was so good. Lots of romance and mystery and thrills. I loved her first book and was so excited to read this one. She knows how to develop a story that keeps my interest and not wanting to put it down until the end.
April 10, 2025
This one ends in a cliffhanger, but it’s so very good! The story is uplifting and full of suspense, the romance is clean, I wasn’t sure who to trust even at the end of this book, and I’m waiting on pins and needles to get the next book!
July 28, 2025
If you love clean fantasy with a Latin flair, you’ll appreciate this book. It has adventure, mystery, and mild romance. Perfect for young teens, male and female.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews