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Empire continues the journey of Syl and Paul as they fight to regain planet Earth from a ruthless alien species, in this next installment of a stunning new science fiction trilogy that "should not to be missed" (The Guardian).
She is the trophy of a civilization at war with itself.
He is its rebel captive.
Separated by millions of light years, they will fight to be united
Earth has been conquered and occupied. The war is lost.
The Resistance still fights the invaders, but they are nothing more than an annoyance to the Illyri, an alien race of superior technology and military strength.
When caught, the young rebels are conscripted. Part soldiers, part hostages, they join the Brigades, sent to fight at the edges of the growing Illyri Empire.
Paul Kerr is one such soldier -- torn from his home and his beloved Syl Hellais. She is the first alien child born on Earth, a creature of two worlds and a being possessed of powers beyond imagining. Now both must endure the terrible exile that Syl's race has deemed just punishment for their love.
But the conquest of Earth is not all it seems.
There is another species involved, known only as the Others, and the Illyri will kill to keep their existence secret.
Light years from Earth and millions of miles apart, Paul and Syl must find a way to reveal the horrifying truth behind the Empire, and save all that they hold dear from the hunger of the Others.
Even at the cost of their own lives.
She is the trophy of a civilization at war with itself.
He is its rebel captive.
Separated by millions of light years, they will fight to be united
Earth has been conquered and occupied. The war is lost.
The Resistance still fights the invaders, but they are nothing more than an annoyance to the Illyri, an alien race of superior technology and military strength.
When caught, the young rebels are conscripted. Part soldiers, part hostages, they join the Brigades, sent to fight at the edges of the growing Illyri Empire.
Paul Kerr is one such soldier -- torn from his home and his beloved Syl Hellais. She is the first alien child born on Earth, a creature of two worlds and a being possessed of powers beyond imagining. Now both must endure the terrible exile that Syl's race has deemed just punishment for their love.
But the conquest of Earth is not all it seems.
There is another species involved, known only as the Others, and the Illyri will kill to keep their existence secret.
Light years from Earth and millions of miles apart, Paul and Syl must find a way to reveal the horrifying truth behind the Empire, and save all that they hold dear from the hunger of the Others.
Even at the cost of their own lives.
448 pages, Hardcover
First published November 20, 2014
77 people are currently reading
1457 people want to read
About the author
John Connolly
163 books7,901 followersJohn Connolly was born in Dublin, Ireland in 1968 and has, at various points in his life, worked as a journalist, a barman, a local government official, a waiter and a dogsbody at Harrods department store in London. He studied English in Trinity College, Dublin and journalism at Dublin City University, subsequently spending five years working as a freelance journalist for The Irish Times newspaper, to which he continues to contribute.
He is based in Dublin but divides his time between his native city and the United States.
This page is administered by John's assistant, Clair, on John's behalf. If you'd like to communicate with John directly, you can do so by writing to contact-at-johnconnollybooks.com, or by following him on Twitter at @JConnollyBooks.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See other authors with similar names.
He is based in Dublin but divides his time between his native city and the United States.
This page is administered by John's assistant, Clair, on John's behalf. If you'd like to communicate with John directly, you can do so by writing to contact-at-johnconnollybooks.com, or by following him on Twitter at @JConnollyBooks.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See other authors with similar names.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
March 27, 2015
Okay, so the start of October going on to December-ish I knew it was going to all about Empire, the second book in The Chronicles of the Invaders. SO around mid-late October - I have such a bad memory - the UK cover was revealed by the Chronicles Champions and I am simply lost for words, ESPECIALLY for the UK cover. It's very rare - and I have personally experienced this myself - for the UK cover editions to be, well, better than the US. BUT this cover is gorgeous, just look at how amazing it is. I always see covers to fore-shadow what the book is going to be about and I know it's not always true, but in this case it kinda is. Come on, it clearly shows Syl - of course - in another Illyr planet, BUT wait, not just any planet in another weird-ish wormhole, it's the MARQUE...The Sisterhood. And that is how the journey for Syl and Paul begins.
From the way Conquest had ended, leaving us all on such a shocking and totally unexpected cliffhanger, it was a great relief for Empire to pick up from there. Though not exactly in that time frame and location, but non other than Syl getting in a bit of trouble with the "Elite, or Gifted" at the Sisterhood, those amongst the Novices. Conquest had simply provided us the pieces to the puzzle, Empire gave us a chance to find those that were missing or could they have been hidden from mankind? And the Illyr? In Conquest a huge discovery was made with the parasites that fed on human and Illyr life source, but that was just the discovery, what is the true purpose of those organism to be amongst mankind? And what does the Sisterhood, more like Syrene have in mind for Ex-Governor Andrus? All these questions pooling in my mind from just the first couple of chapters. Guys, this is going to be one helluva ride.
Syl and Ani thrust into the sisterhood, embrace it or be wary of what is hidden from the naked eye? Their friendship, sisterhood was being tested, changing course of their loyalty. It killed me seeing both of them changing, evolving to different people into different worlds though they shared living quarters together, they became unaware of each others emotions, and that is what hurt the most, seeing them inseparable in the first book to seeing them so different, and that is something that was risky but it was needed, nothing is perfect. AND THAT ENDING GAH. Paul and Steven given no choice but to be taken from the resistance - an organisation hell bent on defeating those who conquered there world - and sent to the brigade to work amongst those who they once fought against.
What I loved about Empire was that even in this novel, all supporting characters that were introduced in here played a big part in making Paul and Syl in to who they are now. Thula, one crazy and quite humorous guy who trust Paul but not so much of Stevens piloting - oh did I say piloting *hehehe* - Peris, a familiar face who will do anything to save his people, Rizza, one bad-ass shooter and that says it all. Tiray a Illyr who motives are unclear but sooner or later we all find out. We also got to meet previous character who still kicked ass uhmm Meira, boy was I glad we saw more of her, got to know more about her. And she didn't fail to save Syl and Paul at a certain time. No matter how far, or how many planets Syrene the Archmage and Vena the head Sectruit have between them and Syl and no matter how many appearances they have in Empire, they NEVER failed to make Syl's life a living hell. Oh Vena has big plans for Syl Hellias and let's not forget Meira. Oh boy.
There where a numerous amount of amazing parts in Empire, and some very interesting characters who I thought couldn't make themselves reach the list right next to Vena and Syrene, and we all know what kind of list that is. None other than Oriel, lets just say she has not got a soft spot for Syl or anything to do with Syl. And Dessa, sweet sweet, cunning Dessa, GAHHH that was very unexpected, though I was very wary of her and at points shouted at Syl to not trust her. Oh and Tanit, and Sarea ugh SO MANY. Throughout most of the novel there was a lot of information to remember and reference back to make sure you were right, though at some point the information was amazing to read about, again John and Jennifer have done an amazing job added a hint of fantasy to somewhat parts of reality, and it was awesome. But at other parts it was too much to remember.
I loved how Empire didn't focus on Syl and Paul love life, didn't make the bases of this book around that. But much more, which you don't see that often. Though at times, yes they did think about each other but it wasn't every single page. And I like that, they prioritized what was important and the time. Syl uncovering the truth behind the Sisterhood and discovering the First Five, which was somewhat unexpected to what she found and a lot was COMPLICATED than EVER. And Paul, discovering unknown locations and going on suicide missions to find out what Aregeon really is, and what really lies behind all these wormholes and what link it really has with the Sisterhood. Oh how the Sisterhood has taken over and have so many undercover links with the Military, the Corps and how Syrene is about to make one more link to someone who Syl has the only connect left to family. Will Syl be able to save all those she loved from death and destruction? Will Paul be able to save Syl from the hands of the Sisterhood? and what is behind the wormhole that leads to the unknown Derith? I guess they're all about to find out.
Empire - John Connolly and Jennifer Ridyard 4.5 Stars
From the way Conquest had ended, leaving us all on such a shocking and totally unexpected cliffhanger, it was a great relief for Empire to pick up from there. Though not exactly in that time frame and location, but non other than Syl getting in a bit of trouble with the "Elite, or Gifted" at the Sisterhood, those amongst the Novices. Conquest had simply provided us the pieces to the puzzle, Empire gave us a chance to find those that were missing or could they have been hidden from mankind? And the Illyr? In Conquest a huge discovery was made with the parasites that fed on human and Illyr life source, but that was just the discovery, what is the true purpose of those organism to be amongst mankind? And what does the Sisterhood, more like Syrene have in mind for Ex-Governor Andrus? All these questions pooling in my mind from just the first couple of chapters. Guys, this is going to be one helluva ride.
Syl and Ani thrust into the sisterhood, embrace it or be wary of what is hidden from the naked eye? Their friendship, sisterhood was being tested, changing course of their loyalty. It killed me seeing both of them changing, evolving to different people into different worlds though they shared living quarters together, they became unaware of each others emotions, and that is what hurt the most, seeing them inseparable in the first book to seeing them so different, and that is something that was risky but it was needed, nothing is perfect. AND THAT ENDING GAH. Paul and Steven given no choice but to be taken from the resistance - an organisation hell bent on defeating those who conquered there world - and sent to the brigade to work amongst those who they once fought against.
What I loved about Empire was that even in this novel, all supporting characters that were introduced in here played a big part in making Paul and Syl in to who they are now. Thula, one crazy and quite humorous guy who trust Paul but not so much of Stevens piloting - oh did I say piloting *hehehe* - Peris, a familiar face who will do anything to save his people, Rizza, one bad-ass shooter and that says it all. Tiray a Illyr who motives are unclear but sooner or later we all find out. We also got to meet previous character who still kicked ass uhmm Meira, boy was I glad we saw more of her, got to know more about her. And she didn't fail to save Syl and Paul at a certain time. No matter how far, or how many planets Syrene the Archmage and Vena the head Sectruit have between them and Syl and no matter how many appearances they have in Empire, they NEVER failed to make Syl's life a living hell. Oh Vena has big plans for Syl Hellias and let's not forget Meira. Oh boy.
There where a numerous amount of amazing parts in Empire, and some very interesting characters who I thought couldn't make themselves reach the list right next to Vena and Syrene, and we all know what kind of list that is. None other than Oriel, lets just say she has not got a soft spot for Syl or anything to do with Syl. And Dessa, sweet sweet, cunning Dessa, GAHHH that was very unexpected, though I was very wary of her and at points shouted at Syl to not trust her. Oh and Tanit, and Sarea ugh SO MANY. Throughout most of the novel there was a lot of information to remember and reference back to make sure you were right, though at some point the information was amazing to read about, again John and Jennifer have done an amazing job added a hint of fantasy to somewhat parts of reality, and it was awesome. But at other parts it was too much to remember.
I loved how Empire didn't focus on Syl and Paul love life, didn't make the bases of this book around that. But much more, which you don't see that often. Though at times, yes they did think about each other but it wasn't every single page. And I like that, they prioritized what was important and the time. Syl uncovering the truth behind the Sisterhood and discovering the First Five, which was somewhat unexpected to what she found and a lot was COMPLICATED than EVER. And Paul, discovering unknown locations and going on suicide missions to find out what Aregeon really is, and what really lies behind all these wormholes and what link it really has with the Sisterhood. Oh how the Sisterhood has taken over and have so many undercover links with the Military, the Corps and how Syrene is about to make one more link to someone who Syl has the only connect left to family. Will Syl be able to save all those she loved from death and destruction? Will Paul be able to save Syl from the hands of the Sisterhood? and what is behind the wormhole that leads to the unknown Derith? I guess they're all about to find out.
Empire - John Connolly and Jennifer Ridyard 4.5 Stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this! It takes all the considerable strengths of the first book, Conquest, and intensifies them - packed with action and plot, great characters (good and bad), all set on strange new worlds. It's a great length, too.
January 5, 2015
I was a huge fan of book 1 in this series – Conquest – so to say I was excited to read Empire would be putting it mildly. The great news is that Empire is brilliant – taking the initial imaginative concept and expanding and even improving on it as things move forward for Paul, Syl et al, this was a magnificent read, utterly compelling, beautifully written with some visionary world building and totally cool characters.
Syl and Ani are with the sisterhood, Syl determined to find out Syrene’s secrets whilst Ani begins to find herself feeling at home. Paul and Stephen are off on enforced service within the Illyri military – separated by distance but working towards the same goal, all of them will make frightening and horrific discoveries about the conspiracy at the heart of the Illyri empire.
This is a series aimed at Young Adults – it is intelligent, superbly done and could equally have been written for adults – in that sense it defies a genre tag or a “target audience”. Realistically speaking, anyone who enjoys fantasy, science fiction, adventure or almost anything reading wise for that matter, could get a lot out of this. There are some thrills and spills, mystery elements, a gorgeously drawn romance, extravagant and ingenious worlds to explore and bang at the heart of it simply a darn good yarn.
I am in love with all the characters, the good, the evil, the downright enigmatic and one of the best things about both Conquest and Empire is the intricate weaving of interpersonal relationships between all the players – in the case of Empire, the slow but sure downturn of the previously solid friendship between Syl and Ani is one of its strengths – a “coming of age” arc where the heart and soul of that particular pact is threatened by outside influences and I was totally absorbed by it. Emotionally speaking all the character arcs pack a heck of a punch – Syrene is such a compelling and wonderful character, to pick at random one of the many others you will find here, she is so terrifically evil and yet absolutely engaging.
As for the Universe they all inhabit, it is magnificently drawn. Whilst Conquest was set mainly on Earth, Empire goes beyond the horizons and takes the reader on a fast, furious and brilliantly engaging rollercoaster ride around the galaxy – brought vividly to life and often horrifically scary, right there is another element to the story as a whole that will often have you on the edge of your seat.
I was considering baking John Connolly and Jennifer Ridyard a cake for writing such a fun, sometimes dark, always thrilling yet deeply emotional fantasy tale but then I read the end and realised I had to wait. WAIT for more. Not on. So instead they get a glare from me, all be it one with a hint of a smile, plus this review. Consider me one happy reader. Mostly. Ok, completely then.
Sparkling stuff. Highly Recommended.
Syl and Ani are with the sisterhood, Syl determined to find out Syrene’s secrets whilst Ani begins to find herself feeling at home. Paul and Stephen are off on enforced service within the Illyri military – separated by distance but working towards the same goal, all of them will make frightening and horrific discoveries about the conspiracy at the heart of the Illyri empire.
This is a series aimed at Young Adults – it is intelligent, superbly done and could equally have been written for adults – in that sense it defies a genre tag or a “target audience”. Realistically speaking, anyone who enjoys fantasy, science fiction, adventure or almost anything reading wise for that matter, could get a lot out of this. There are some thrills and spills, mystery elements, a gorgeously drawn romance, extravagant and ingenious worlds to explore and bang at the heart of it simply a darn good yarn.
I am in love with all the characters, the good, the evil, the downright enigmatic and one of the best things about both Conquest and Empire is the intricate weaving of interpersonal relationships between all the players – in the case of Empire, the slow but sure downturn of the previously solid friendship between Syl and Ani is one of its strengths – a “coming of age” arc where the heart and soul of that particular pact is threatened by outside influences and I was totally absorbed by it. Emotionally speaking all the character arcs pack a heck of a punch – Syrene is such a compelling and wonderful character, to pick at random one of the many others you will find here, she is so terrifically evil and yet absolutely engaging.
As for the Universe they all inhabit, it is magnificently drawn. Whilst Conquest was set mainly on Earth, Empire goes beyond the horizons and takes the reader on a fast, furious and brilliantly engaging rollercoaster ride around the galaxy – brought vividly to life and often horrifically scary, right there is another element to the story as a whole that will often have you on the edge of your seat.
I was considering baking John Connolly and Jennifer Ridyard a cake for writing such a fun, sometimes dark, always thrilling yet deeply emotional fantasy tale but then I read the end and realised I had to wait. WAIT for more. Not on. So instead they get a glare from me, all be it one with a hint of a smile, plus this review. Consider me one happy reader. Mostly. Ok, completely then.
Sparkling stuff. Highly Recommended.
December 22, 2014
http://koeur.wordpress.com/2014/12/22...
Publisher: Atria
Publishing Date: February 2015
ISBN: 9781476757155
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 4.2/5
Publisher Description: Empire continues the journey of Syl and Paul as they fight to regain planet Earth from a ruthless alien species, in this next installment of a stunning new science fiction trilogy that “should not to be missed” (The Guardian).
Review: Syl is now residing with the sisterhood while seeking answers about an alien parasite that may infest the Illyri. While the other gifted sisters develop their powers, Syl does so in secret, in order to hide her immense psychic ability. Meanwhile, her human love, Paul, is out there blasting space aliens light years away and generally being a swashbuckling mercenary and all that.
I didn’t want to like this novel, at all. Why? It started with a hiccup where the broad history of the Illyri is recounted along with humanities struggle under their yoke and the résistance therein. Also there is some stilted dialogue here and there, coupled with gurl cliques and constant shaming. Then this novel just takes off with great movement and unexpected turns. There are great alien life forms and the planets that house them. Mechanized androids (Mechs) that are self-aware that believe in a Creator. There is also an ancient race whose only mark of existence are the scattered and aging remains of monuments spread throughout the galaxies. New story line developments occur at a consistent clip as each scene shifts. Wormholes enable the story-line to move in fascinating directions with characters that continue to develop as new ones are added. Really, a fantastic and entertaining read.
Publisher: Atria
Publishing Date: February 2015
ISBN: 9781476757155
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 4.2/5
Publisher Description: Empire continues the journey of Syl and Paul as they fight to regain planet Earth from a ruthless alien species, in this next installment of a stunning new science fiction trilogy that “should not to be missed” (The Guardian).
Review: Syl is now residing with the sisterhood while seeking answers about an alien parasite that may infest the Illyri. While the other gifted sisters develop their powers, Syl does so in secret, in order to hide her immense psychic ability. Meanwhile, her human love, Paul, is out there blasting space aliens light years away and generally being a swashbuckling mercenary and all that.
I didn’t want to like this novel, at all. Why? It started with a hiccup where the broad history of the Illyri is recounted along with humanities struggle under their yoke and the résistance therein. Also there is some stilted dialogue here and there, coupled with gurl cliques and constant shaming. Then this novel just takes off with great movement and unexpected turns. There are great alien life forms and the planets that house them. Mechanized androids (Mechs) that are self-aware that believe in a Creator. There is also an ancient race whose only mark of existence are the scattered and aging remains of monuments spread throughout the galaxies. New story line developments occur at a consistent clip as each scene shifts. Wormholes enable the story-line to move in fascinating directions with characters that continue to develop as new ones are added. Really, a fantastic and entertaining read.
July 7, 2016
What a great read! I don't say this too often when it comes to aliens, but I loved this book. It has all what I had liked in Conquest and duplicates it. It has more political intrigues and the mistery around Illyr just gets better and better. There's almost no romance here and instead, the authors create a thick plot of conspiracies and secrets, where every character gets tangled, between the many threads of this world.
Syl, Paul, Ani and Steven follow different paths (even to different planets) to get to the truth beneath the Illyr conquest and the Sisterhood. The different storylines have a lot of action and the intrigue just grows with every page. I can't say much more without giving away some spoilers, so I'm just going to end this saying: a 5 stars book...! That's not new to you John, so you might need to make some space to add this to the other 5 stars reviews that I gave you. I know it's a bit crowded category.
Syl, Paul, Ani and Steven follow different paths (even to different planets) to get to the truth beneath the Illyr conquest and the Sisterhood. The different storylines have a lot of action and the intrigue just grows with every page. I can't say much more without giving away some spoilers, so I'm just going to end this saying: a 5 stars book...! That's not new to you John, so you might need to make some space to add this to the other 5 stars reviews that I gave you. I know it's a bit crowded category.
December 23, 2014
Syl has been made to live in the Marque with the rest of the Sisters, but nothing is as it seems, something is going on, and when a Sister disappears and a hand looking surprisingly like hers is found in a creature, she starts to investigate in earnest, but what she finds is shocking. Not to mention the fact that the Sisters are being trained to hurt rather than to help, and Ani is pulling away from her.
Paul has risen to a high position of command thanks to his exile, when he and his crew rescue an important Illyri, they are not only thrust in to danger, but they're on the path to discovering another secret about the Empire, and when it's dealt with, there's no going back. Syl and Paul are once again brought together, and they can't forget what they've learned.
Join Syl and Paul as they continue their fight against the strange creatures destroying the Illyri.
Sooooo, I loved this book, and it surpassed the first book in my opinion, as you can see from my rating! I was drawn in from the beginning, I loved the pages at the beginning that where taken from the Chronicles, and detailed what had happened before, sort of like a "previously on..." thing, but then there's one line at the end that makes you so excited to read on, and you know somethings going to happen! I also loved the "property of the Marque library" stamp, and the other touches that made it look like it was from this ancient, separate book! There was always something going on, if it wasn't action, it was something that was adding intrigue, as I tried to work out what was going on, what Syl was going to discover and so on. I couldn't put this installment down, and I never found my attention wandering or being bored.
I loved all the unique things in this book, the aliens, the history and so on, so I was excited to learn more about it in this installment, we got more history about the Sisterhood, we learned more about the world, and the other planets, and the Civil War and everything. I loved seeing more of the unique creatures, even as terrifying as they where, I loved trying to picture them, and with the authors words, it wasn't that hard!
I continue to love the setting, while we didn't see Edinburgh this time, we got to see space. And it was awesome, and so well described, you could picture everything clearly, you felt like you where just hanging out with the characters, wherever they where. The atmosphere was very well done as well, the Marque had a different atmosphere to wherever Paul was, but both could be felt, and both surrounded you, the mystery, the danger, the tension, and so on. I loved seeing more locations in the world the author has created, Marque, other planets and so on, each was well described without so much detail that the pace and flow where disrupted.
I was sad to leave the Resistance behind a bit, there was an entire part that was all about Meia, and she was meeting with the Resistance, because a power change was happening which is going to be interesting to see seeing as Ani has now changed, and her Dad knows the truth you know? But anyway, you saw a little bit of it for that part, and the Green Man again, but I'm sad we didn't see as much of it before, because I thought it was so awesome and WW2 like, and I'm hoping to see more of it in the third book. I think, while I was sad there wasn't much of it, it still fit in it's part, and the absence wasn't at all odd, because this was more about the aliens than the first book was, and the aliens upcoming war.
I'm still loving the characters, particularly Meia, I'd missed her and when it got to her part I was so excited, and there was a nice twist that I didn't see coming and I was like "AAAAAHH" and yeah. The characters are all well written with depth, and in this book you see them develop more, particularly Paul and his brother, considering their training and the situations they know find themselves in. I felt like Paul's brother came in to his own more, he was the pilot, he was more sure of himself and everything. Paul was less "eeeh" for me this time. He was less bland, he was more interesting, there was more to him, he developed for the best I think.
Syl I wasn't too sure of in the first book, but ultimately I'd enjoyed her development over the book and I was excited to see what would happen next for her. She continued to be underestimated by everyone, and I loved Syl even more in this book, I connected to her better in this one, and I loved how badass she was. Her powers have developed a lot more, and she's a force to be reckoned with, along with Paul and the others, the third book is going to be interesting.
I actually really liked Ani in the first book, but in this one I was disappointed with how easily she allowed herself to be manipulated and how immature she was, I mean she had no loyalty to her supposed best friend, she dumped Syl every single time and went off with the others, didn't believe a word she said, and when she saw with her own eyes, what the others had been up to, she went off on Syl for killing them, even though they'd just murdered loads of people. Ani's gone off not wanting to see her again and blah blah, and I think she went from a potential interesting character, that paired with Syl, could have been an incredible duo in the upcoming fight, to a kind of incredibly pathetic and petty character. Do not like at all. Hopefully in the third book she'll get her act together because I was getting so annoyed on Syl's behalf.
So, I think this installment was better because there was stuff going on from the go, stuff to be worked out, action and so on, and there was none of this misleading information, and the romance wasn't in your face with all it's oddness and just not really working. Paul was back to being true to himself and his character, as was Syl, and the romance was still there a little bit, they're thinking about each other, but I think after the odd romance blooming from nowhere, them being apart with the little mentions of it, worked to re-establish the characters on their own, and helped you get to know them both separately and come to love them, so when the romance kicks back up in the third book, I think it's going to work better than in the first book!
The narrative was engaging, I loved the ominous comments, and the fact it wasn't from any of the characters perspectives. I liked how it gave you little tidbits, and how more information about the history wasn't just stated, it was give to you by conversations, or characters researching and so on. I liked seeing more of the political struggle going on with the weird alien things that where attached to the Illyri. The third book was set up subtly, and it's set to be an explosive installment, I'm really excited for it because there's going to be so much going on it, and so much coming together and kicking off and eee!
The plot is complex, there's two plot lines going on, three actually, Paul, Syl and Meia, and all three are woven together perfectly. You're kept guessing, you don't know what's going to happen next, there's plenty of plot twists that you don't see coming, and it's always nice to be surprised when reading, and I couldn't put the book down at all, I was totally engrossed and sucked in to the world by the plot and the characters and everything. There where so many threads going on with the Marque and the thing going on with Paul and the stuff happening with Syl's dad and back home, there was mystery and intrigue and action everywhere.
Empire has surpassed the first book, it's everything I hoped it would be and more, and the lack of romance barely had time to be noticed as there was so much going on, and so much for you to try to piece together and work out, but you end up being surprised anyway! I'm so excited for the third installment!
Paul has risen to a high position of command thanks to his exile, when he and his crew rescue an important Illyri, they are not only thrust in to danger, but they're on the path to discovering another secret about the Empire, and when it's dealt with, there's no going back. Syl and Paul are once again brought together, and they can't forget what they've learned.
Join Syl and Paul as they continue their fight against the strange creatures destroying the Illyri.
Sooooo, I loved this book, and it surpassed the first book in my opinion, as you can see from my rating! I was drawn in from the beginning, I loved the pages at the beginning that where taken from the Chronicles, and detailed what had happened before, sort of like a "previously on..." thing, but then there's one line at the end that makes you so excited to read on, and you know somethings going to happen! I also loved the "property of the Marque library" stamp, and the other touches that made it look like it was from this ancient, separate book! There was always something going on, if it wasn't action, it was something that was adding intrigue, as I tried to work out what was going on, what Syl was going to discover and so on. I couldn't put this installment down, and I never found my attention wandering or being bored.
I loved all the unique things in this book, the aliens, the history and so on, so I was excited to learn more about it in this installment, we got more history about the Sisterhood, we learned more about the world, and the other planets, and the Civil War and everything. I loved seeing more of the unique creatures, even as terrifying as they where, I loved trying to picture them, and with the authors words, it wasn't that hard!
I continue to love the setting, while we didn't see Edinburgh this time, we got to see space. And it was awesome, and so well described, you could picture everything clearly, you felt like you where just hanging out with the characters, wherever they where. The atmosphere was very well done as well, the Marque had a different atmosphere to wherever Paul was, but both could be felt, and both surrounded you, the mystery, the danger, the tension, and so on. I loved seeing more locations in the world the author has created, Marque, other planets and so on, each was well described without so much detail that the pace and flow where disrupted.
I was sad to leave the Resistance behind a bit, there was an entire part that was all about Meia, and she was meeting with the Resistance, because a power change was happening which is going to be interesting to see seeing as Ani has now changed, and her Dad knows the truth you know? But anyway, you saw a little bit of it for that part, and the Green Man again, but I'm sad we didn't see as much of it before, because I thought it was so awesome and WW2 like, and I'm hoping to see more of it in the third book. I think, while I was sad there wasn't much of it, it still fit in it's part, and the absence wasn't at all odd, because this was more about the aliens than the first book was, and the aliens upcoming war.
I'm still loving the characters, particularly Meia, I'd missed her and when it got to her part I was so excited, and there was a nice twist that I didn't see coming and I was like "AAAAAHH" and yeah. The characters are all well written with depth, and in this book you see them develop more, particularly Paul and his brother, considering their training and the situations they know find themselves in. I felt like Paul's brother came in to his own more, he was the pilot, he was more sure of himself and everything. Paul was less "eeeh" for me this time. He was less bland, he was more interesting, there was more to him, he developed for the best I think.
Syl I wasn't too sure of in the first book, but ultimately I'd enjoyed her development over the book and I was excited to see what would happen next for her. She continued to be underestimated by everyone, and I loved Syl even more in this book, I connected to her better in this one, and I loved how badass she was. Her powers have developed a lot more, and she's a force to be reckoned with, along with Paul and the others, the third book is going to be interesting.
I actually really liked Ani in the first book, but in this one I was disappointed with how easily she allowed herself to be manipulated and how immature she was, I mean she had no loyalty to her supposed best friend, she dumped Syl every single time and went off with the others, didn't believe a word she said, and when she saw with her own eyes, what the others had been up to, she went off on Syl for killing them, even though they'd just murdered loads of people. Ani's gone off not wanting to see her again and blah blah, and I think she went from a potential interesting character, that paired with Syl, could have been an incredible duo in the upcoming fight, to a kind of incredibly pathetic and petty character. Do not like at all. Hopefully in the third book she'll get her act together because I was getting so annoyed on Syl's behalf.
So, I think this installment was better because there was stuff going on from the go, stuff to be worked out, action and so on, and there was none of this misleading information, and the romance wasn't in your face with all it's oddness and just not really working. Paul was back to being true to himself and his character, as was Syl, and the romance was still there a little bit, they're thinking about each other, but I think after the odd romance blooming from nowhere, them being apart with the little mentions of it, worked to re-establish the characters on their own, and helped you get to know them both separately and come to love them, so when the romance kicks back up in the third book, I think it's going to work better than in the first book!
The narrative was engaging, I loved the ominous comments, and the fact it wasn't from any of the characters perspectives. I liked how it gave you little tidbits, and how more information about the history wasn't just stated, it was give to you by conversations, or characters researching and so on. I liked seeing more of the political struggle going on with the weird alien things that where attached to the Illyri. The third book was set up subtly, and it's set to be an explosive installment, I'm really excited for it because there's going to be so much going on it, and so much coming together and kicking off and eee!
The plot is complex, there's two plot lines going on, three actually, Paul, Syl and Meia, and all three are woven together perfectly. You're kept guessing, you don't know what's going to happen next, there's plenty of plot twists that you don't see coming, and it's always nice to be surprised when reading, and I couldn't put the book down at all, I was totally engrossed and sucked in to the world by the plot and the characters and everything. There where so many threads going on with the Marque and the thing going on with Paul and the stuff happening with Syl's dad and back home, there was mystery and intrigue and action everywhere.
Empire has surpassed the first book, it's everything I hoped it would be and more, and the lack of romance barely had time to be noticed as there was so much going on, and so much for you to try to piece together and work out, but you end up being surprised anyway! I'm so excited for the third installment!
March 7, 2017
Imperio es la continuación de la saga Crónicas de los Invasores y para poder comprenderlo debes necesariamente haber leído el primero, habiendo hecho esta aclaración acá está mi reseña:
Syl se encuentra recuida en La Marca, la hermandad secreta de las Nairenes, donde se dedican a cultivar el profundo conocimiento del universo y todo cuanto les rodea, o , al menos, esa es la fachada que pretenden mostrar a la sociedad Ilirya, pero en verdad planes más oscuros se forman en su interior.
Parte de esos planes esta en la formación y desarrollo de Las Dotadas, iliryas con poderes mentales superiores, capaces de manipular la materia en diversas formas o nublar mentes y Syl está determinada a averiguar cuales son estos secretos, y a descubrir la forma de acabar con la hermandad para poder rescatar a su padre y a La Tierra.
En medio de esta busqueda no solo descubre el alcance de sus propios mentales, sino que encuentra un pasado tan oscuro y tan siniestro en el corazon de la Hermandad que puede poner en peligro no solo a su planeta natal o a su raza, sino a todo el universo conocido.
Por su parte Paul fue destinado a las brigadas, obligado a combatir en la conquista ilirya contra su voluntad como unico recurso para salvar su vida; es en medio de una de sus misiones en un planeta aparentemente inofesivo que su batallón se ve atacado por fuerzas desconocidas, dejándolo al final como capitan de una nave avanzada y de una escasa pero fiel tripulacion, con la que descubren el secreto mejor guardado de la comunidad ilirya, uno que cambiara el destino de la guerra.
Adicionalmente, tenemos algunos capitulos desde el POV de Meia, quien usando sus habilidades de ocultismo ha descubierto los desafortunados planes que el Cuerpo tiene para La Tierra, y aun fiel a su antiguo señor, Lord Andrus, decide enfrentar una mision suicida para tratar de salvarle y de salvar el destino de la Tierra.
Poco saben ellos que cada cual de una manera diferente ha logrado conseguir una parte del rompecabezas de este complot intergalactico, poco saben el destino que les espera.
Este libro esta lleno de intrigas, acción y suspenso, hasta el punto donde definitivamente vuelas sobre las páginas deseando saber que va a suceder a continuación, dejandote al final ante la expectativa del tercer y ultimo libro, donde (o al menos eso espero) podamos descubrir el final de esta maravillosa historia.
Syl se encuentra recuida en La Marca, la hermandad secreta de las Nairenes, donde se dedican a cultivar el profundo conocimiento del universo y todo cuanto les rodea, o , al menos, esa es la fachada que pretenden mostrar a la sociedad Ilirya, pero en verdad planes más oscuros se forman en su interior.
Parte de esos planes esta en la formación y desarrollo de Las Dotadas, iliryas con poderes mentales superiores, capaces de manipular la materia en diversas formas o nublar mentes y Syl está determinada a averiguar cuales son estos secretos, y a descubrir la forma de acabar con la hermandad para poder rescatar a su padre y a La Tierra.
En medio de esta busqueda no solo descubre el alcance de sus propios mentales, sino que encuentra un pasado tan oscuro y tan siniestro en el corazon de la Hermandad que puede poner en peligro no solo a su planeta natal o a su raza, sino a todo el universo conocido.
Por su parte Paul fue destinado a las brigadas, obligado a combatir en la conquista ilirya contra su voluntad como unico recurso para salvar su vida; es en medio de una de sus misiones en un planeta aparentemente inofesivo que su batallón se ve atacado por fuerzas desconocidas, dejándolo al final como capitan de una nave avanzada y de una escasa pero fiel tripulacion, con la que descubren el secreto mejor guardado de la comunidad ilirya, uno que cambiara el destino de la guerra.
Adicionalmente, tenemos algunos capitulos desde el POV de Meia, quien usando sus habilidades de ocultismo ha descubierto los desafortunados planes que el Cuerpo tiene para La Tierra, y aun fiel a su antiguo señor, Lord Andrus, decide enfrentar una mision suicida para tratar de salvarle y de salvar el destino de la Tierra.
Poco saben ellos que cada cual de una manera diferente ha logrado conseguir una parte del rompecabezas de este complot intergalactico, poco saben el destino que les espera.
Este libro esta lleno de intrigas, acción y suspenso, hasta el punto donde definitivamente vuelas sobre las páginas deseando saber que va a suceder a continuación, dejandote al final ante la expectativa del tercer y ultimo libro, donde (o al menos eso espero) podamos descubrir el final de esta maravillosa historia.
October 12, 2018
Last year, I read the first book, Conquest, in Connolly’s newest series for Young Adults in just one sitting, so needless to say, I have really been looking forward to this one. The authors offer a brief refresher on the action from the first book, though with my faulty memory, I do wish that I had time to re-read it... The first section, “Apart” alternates between our two characters in exile - Syl in a convent-like school, and Paul as a conscripted soldier to the farthest reaches of the universe. This separation disjoints the book somewhat, as Syl and Paul’s stories are so different. Syl’s story, and her struggles with her best friend, Ani, feels like a more typical YA fantasy novel while Paul’s side is pure science fiction, with battles, creatures and guts - and an overall more adult feeling. I actually prefer Paul’s parts but unfortunately his sections have more distracting inconsistencies in the perspective.
The second section moves to Meia, the Mech ally who played such a pivotal role in the first book.The last section, “Together,” finally propels all the characters - along with their grim discoveries - back to one another. The pacing really amplifies and this one, like the first, ends on quite a cliffhanger. I haven’t heard any news on when the next book will be released, but I hope it isn’t a full year from now. This series doesn’t have quite the polish of Connolly’s solo books, but it is certainly an entertaining and unique read and one that I am looking forward to reading these again before the third book is released!
The second section moves to Meia, the Mech ally who played such a pivotal role in the first book.The last section, “Together,” finally propels all the characters - along with their grim discoveries - back to one another. The pacing really amplifies and this one, like the first, ends on quite a cliffhanger. I haven’t heard any news on when the next book will be released, but I hope it isn’t a full year from now. This series doesn’t have quite the polish of Connolly’s solo books, but it is certainly an entertaining and unique read and one that I am looking forward to reading these again before the third book is released!
April 12, 2020
Reviews can also be found on my blog Escapades of a Bookworm
So in the last book had left us with a surprising ending. I wasn’t expecting to it to end up that way and now we start with the consequences of that event. We also get to experience the vastness of the empire and the importance of the wormholes. This is different to Conquest where all the action was set on Earth. In Empire it is spread out through various universes and on different planets. There is also new characters to love and even more to hate.
Empire starts with a brief history of the Sisterhood and we learn more about the other planets and the civil war that affected the Illyri. I loved how this gave the background to the story and explained why the Sisterhood is the way it is.
Ani and Sly find their friendship tested and their loyalty changes. Can they trust one another? Is the sisterhood all bad? And where can the secrets of the Sisterhood be found? Will Sly and Paul be reunited? And will they find out the history of those mysterious aliens from Conquest?
Empire is a brilliant book, perhaps even better than the first one. Everything here is expanded and all the good bits for Conquest are intensified. It will be interesting to see how Connolly and Ridyard resolve all the issues and plot lines in the next one. There is so much going on in this book. You think you have your questions answered only to find more questions.
If you loved the first one then you will definitely enjoy this one!
So in the last book had left us with a surprising ending. I wasn’t expecting to it to end up that way and now we start with the consequences of that event. We also get to experience the vastness of the empire and the importance of the wormholes. This is different to Conquest where all the action was set on Earth. In Empire it is spread out through various universes and on different planets. There is also new characters to love and even more to hate.
Empire starts with a brief history of the Sisterhood and we learn more about the other planets and the civil war that affected the Illyri. I loved how this gave the background to the story and explained why the Sisterhood is the way it is.
Ani and Sly find their friendship tested and their loyalty changes. Can they trust one another? Is the sisterhood all bad? And where can the secrets of the Sisterhood be found? Will Sly and Paul be reunited? And will they find out the history of those mysterious aliens from Conquest?
Empire is a brilliant book, perhaps even better than the first one. Everything here is expanded and all the good bits for Conquest are intensified. It will be interesting to see how Connolly and Ridyard resolve all the issues and plot lines in the next one. There is so much going on in this book. You think you have your questions answered only to find more questions.
If you loved the first one then you will definitely enjoy this one!
July 3, 2022
Empire is the second in the Conquest of the Invaders that follows two main characters Syl Hellais, and Paul Kerr.
Syl Hellais is the first ‘Earth Born’, known as that as she was born on Earth even though her parents are Illyri, an alien race that invaded Earth (in a dystopian future that is set around the early 2010’s). She is the Daughter of Lord Andrus, the Military general who is in charge of the British Isles were this story is set (covering England, Scotland and Ireland), and centralized around Edinburgh castle, were the Illyri have rebuilt the castle as their stronghold.
Paul Kerr is the older brother of Steven Kerr, Paul being about 16yrs, Steven around 14yrs, the two brothers are part of the humanity’s resistance against the Illyri invasion. Due to something that the Illyri put in the water, a lot of older people find it difficult to fight, but the young still have the drive for it, so it is up to the Teenagers of Earth to try and fight against this Invasion.
At the end of Conquest, Paul and Syl had been captured after running through the Scottish Highlands trying to escape the Diplomatic Corps (One half of the political power on Illyr, with the world being divided into either the Diplomatic Corp, or the Military). They were on the run with the Rebellion, and had with them the head of the Diplomatic Corp, Gradus, but he was killed during their flight. At a major battle, the head of the Diplomatic Corps Secret Police, the Securitat, Sedilas, was also killed.
Gradus was the husband of the head of the Nairene Sisterhood, a secretive order within the Illyri that was founded after their last civil war, initially to save the knowledge of the Illyr, but as it grew, they become a force with unique gifts, as well as the knowledge of all sorts of ways to kill someone.
The greatest discovery comes though, of the Others, an organism that is living with Consul Gradus, and that when killed spreads a cloud of spores to infect everyone. Worse still, is that the Archmage of the Sisterhood is infected with one of these creatures, and at the end of book 1, she infects Syl’s Father, Lord Andrus.
As a result of everything, Syl and her friend Ani, join the Sisterhood as a way to cheat a death sentence, and Paul and his brother are sent to the Human Brigades under the watchful eye of an Illyri Captain Peris, to train as soldiers to fight with the Illyri.
Book 2 is fascinating as we get to explore the Nairene Sisterhood through Syl’s eyes, as well as a couple of other minor characters (most interestingly another novice called Elda), but through Syl, we gain a real understanding of this mysterious order of Priestesses. I don’t want to give away too much, the world building surrounding the Nairene is just masterful, there is so much depth and detail, and it really adds this incredible layer to the story that gives it a whole new level of intrigue. The Sisterhood have been around along time, formed by 5 Sisters who went into exile, and used the planets natural defences (the moon they are on Avila Minor which is a moon of Illyr, is one of the most hostile enivronments you can imagine, with scorching tempartures, and killer beasts that are just amazing). Originally, they were about knowledge, they wanted to gather all the knowledge in the universe, but somewhere this has become corrupted (as things often do), and now they are about power. Within the sisterhood now, there is a group called the gifted, a group of young Illyri with unique psychic gifts, one can burn you, another can crush the bones with breaking the skin, turning your bones to a fine past where you stand. Yet another can create disease in you so fast, you die within minutes horribly. There are others to. These ‘Gifted’ are being trained by the Archmage of the Sisterhood Syrene. It is here that Syl is trying to find out what is going on, following the end of book 1 and what she learned there of the Others. She thought she was going to have the help of Ani, but as they stay, Ani becomes enamoured with the Sisterhood.
This aspect of the story is both intriguing and just brilliant, with exceptional character writing, and a compelling storyline that you just can’t put down.
On the other side of this, is Paul Kerr and his brother Steven, sent to the ‘Brigades’, to train with the Illyri. Initially, they are resentful of this punishment, but withing a short time, they start to use their position to try and learn what they can, both in the training as soldiers, but also to gather intel to help in their fight to help Earth. The Brothers find themselves in a lot of trouble on a mission on another planet, when they are sent to investigate a mining colony that has gone quiet, and things go terribly wrong. I don’t want to give away any spoilers as this part of the book was just brilliant, fast-paced, action packed and thrilling.
This was a book with two dynamics, this intriguing, gripping, almost terrifying at times, horrifying story of Syl, as she navigates the Sisterhood, but at all times, compelling and thrilling, and on the other side, we have Paul’s story, which is fast-paced, action-packed, not quite as intriguing as Syl’s story, but what it lacks in intrigue, it makes up in pure punch, but again, it is incredibly compelling and thrilling. Book 1 was good, but Book 2 is so much better as we learn so much more about the Characters, but also the world that is beyond Earth and not just the Illyri, but what has been driving them, both internally (the Diplomatic Corp, the Military, the Sisterhood), but also externally. If you enjoyed Book 1, you will absolutely LOVE Book 2.
Syl Hellais is the first ‘Earth Born’, known as that as she was born on Earth even though her parents are Illyri, an alien race that invaded Earth (in a dystopian future that is set around the early 2010’s). She is the Daughter of Lord Andrus, the Military general who is in charge of the British Isles were this story is set (covering England, Scotland and Ireland), and centralized around Edinburgh castle, were the Illyri have rebuilt the castle as their stronghold.
Paul Kerr is the older brother of Steven Kerr, Paul being about 16yrs, Steven around 14yrs, the two brothers are part of the humanity’s resistance against the Illyri invasion. Due to something that the Illyri put in the water, a lot of older people find it difficult to fight, but the young still have the drive for it, so it is up to the Teenagers of Earth to try and fight against this Invasion.
At the end of Conquest, Paul and Syl had been captured after running through the Scottish Highlands trying to escape the Diplomatic Corps (One half of the political power on Illyr, with the world being divided into either the Diplomatic Corp, or the Military). They were on the run with the Rebellion, and had with them the head of the Diplomatic Corp, Gradus, but he was killed during their flight. At a major battle, the head of the Diplomatic Corps Secret Police, the Securitat, Sedilas, was also killed.
Gradus was the husband of the head of the Nairene Sisterhood, a secretive order within the Illyri that was founded after their last civil war, initially to save the knowledge of the Illyr, but as it grew, they become a force with unique gifts, as well as the knowledge of all sorts of ways to kill someone.
The greatest discovery comes though, of the Others, an organism that is living with Consul Gradus, and that when killed spreads a cloud of spores to infect everyone. Worse still, is that the Archmage of the Sisterhood is infected with one of these creatures, and at the end of book 1, she infects Syl’s Father, Lord Andrus.
As a result of everything, Syl and her friend Ani, join the Sisterhood as a way to cheat a death sentence, and Paul and his brother are sent to the Human Brigades under the watchful eye of an Illyri Captain Peris, to train as soldiers to fight with the Illyri.
Book 2 is fascinating as we get to explore the Nairene Sisterhood through Syl’s eyes, as well as a couple of other minor characters (most interestingly another novice called Elda), but through Syl, we gain a real understanding of this mysterious order of Priestesses. I don’t want to give away too much, the world building surrounding the Nairene is just masterful, there is so much depth and detail, and it really adds this incredible layer to the story that gives it a whole new level of intrigue. The Sisterhood have been around along time, formed by 5 Sisters who went into exile, and used the planets natural defences (the moon they are on Avila Minor which is a moon of Illyr, is one of the most hostile enivronments you can imagine, with scorching tempartures, and killer beasts that are just amazing). Originally, they were about knowledge, they wanted to gather all the knowledge in the universe, but somewhere this has become corrupted (as things often do), and now they are about power. Within the sisterhood now, there is a group called the gifted, a group of young Illyri with unique psychic gifts, one can burn you, another can crush the bones with breaking the skin, turning your bones to a fine past where you stand. Yet another can create disease in you so fast, you die within minutes horribly. There are others to. These ‘Gifted’ are being trained by the Archmage of the Sisterhood Syrene. It is here that Syl is trying to find out what is going on, following the end of book 1 and what she learned there of the Others. She thought she was going to have the help of Ani, but as they stay, Ani becomes enamoured with the Sisterhood.
This aspect of the story is both intriguing and just brilliant, with exceptional character writing, and a compelling storyline that you just can’t put down.
On the other side of this, is Paul Kerr and his brother Steven, sent to the ‘Brigades’, to train with the Illyri. Initially, they are resentful of this punishment, but withing a short time, they start to use their position to try and learn what they can, both in the training as soldiers, but also to gather intel to help in their fight to help Earth. The Brothers find themselves in a lot of trouble on a mission on another planet, when they are sent to investigate a mining colony that has gone quiet, and things go terribly wrong. I don’t want to give away any spoilers as this part of the book was just brilliant, fast-paced, action packed and thrilling.
This was a book with two dynamics, this intriguing, gripping, almost terrifying at times, horrifying story of Syl, as she navigates the Sisterhood, but at all times, compelling and thrilling, and on the other side, we have Paul’s story, which is fast-paced, action-packed, not quite as intriguing as Syl’s story, but what it lacks in intrigue, it makes up in pure punch, but again, it is incredibly compelling and thrilling. Book 1 was good, but Book 2 is so much better as we learn so much more about the Characters, but also the world that is beyond Earth and not just the Illyri, but what has been driving them, both internally (the Diplomatic Corp, the Military, the Sisterhood), but also externally. If you enjoyed Book 1, you will absolutely LOVE Book 2.
May 13, 2017
The second book in the YA space opera series The Chronicles of the Invaders begun in Conquest. This continued the story as we follow the current settings of the main characters Syl and Paul in the previous story. Syl finds herself in the sisterhood trying to keep a low profile while Paul finds himself in the Brigades as a soldier fighting battle for the Illryi.
4 stars for a continuing fun read. You will want to pick this one up if you enjoyed the first book in the series.
4 stars for a continuing fun read. You will want to pick this one up if you enjoyed the first book in the series.
March 18, 2015
A second book that's better then the first describes Empire. Filled with action, suspense, adventure and a little sneaking around. Such a great book that traveled across space to bring the reader a great adventure for the second part of the invader chronicles. This series just keeps getting better for me! I'm so excited for the next series!!! The ending is keeping me in suspense!
July 26, 2016
YA/SciFi
It has everything: war, space travel, worm holes, special powers, love and intrigue.
I am quite enjoying this series. This book starts better than the first. There isn't as big an info dump and the description picks up nicely.
It has everything: war, space travel, worm holes, special powers, love and intrigue.
I am quite enjoying this series. This book starts better than the first. There isn't as big an info dump and the description picks up nicely.
March 8, 2015
Fabulous sequel , I can't wait for the third book in the series!!!!
April 29, 2024
The second installment was definitely way better than the first book. So much improvements. However, I enjoyed reading Syl's pov more instead of Paul's. Maybe I enjoyed reading what she was up to in the Marque, exploring her skills, her crumpled relationship with Ani and her mission to save the Illyri race and getting rid of that parasite of a creature that has been hosting Illyri's body. I'm a little bit biased when it comes to witches hehe.
The character development of Syl and Ani amazed me. Syl was true to her intention of figuring the root of the creature and the Nairene's sisterhood intentions. While she was doing so, her friendship with Ani on the Marque was distant as she didn't want to mingle around with Ani's friends which I called them the popular girls group. Tanit was the leader and one of the powerful gifted witches. Tanit saw the skill in Ani and took her under her wing. Ani felt delighted to be known of her gifts, able to polish it even more, and she was excited to learn there was much 'good' in the sisterhood. Ani couldn't understand why Syl didn't want to try and adapt where they are and make use of the opportunity since Syl brought them here in the first place - unwillingly, of course. In the first book, they were the best of friends, ride to die; and here we can see changes, growing as they are maturing.
In Paul's pov he and his crew are in space, jumping from planet to planet, also researching about the creature and trying to safe his homeland earth. Though this isn't a war between the Illyri and the human race anymore, as something more sinister is ahead of it. I didn't find Paul's pov entertaining because when it comes to sci-fi on spaceships - I prefer watching it in a movie instead. It's much more amusing for me. In my head it's like 'oh this is a guy kinda reading' material 😆. Nonetheless, his pov is important for the storyline. Can't wait to read the last book!
The character development of Syl and Ani amazed me. Syl was true to her intention of figuring the root of the creature and the Nairene's sisterhood intentions. While she was doing so, her friendship with Ani on the Marque was distant as she didn't want to mingle around with Ani's friends which I called them the popular girls group. Tanit was the leader and one of the powerful gifted witches. Tanit saw the skill in Ani and took her under her wing. Ani felt delighted to be known of her gifts, able to polish it even more, and she was excited to learn there was much 'good' in the sisterhood. Ani couldn't understand why Syl didn't want to try and adapt where they are and make use of the opportunity since Syl brought them here in the first place - unwillingly, of course. In the first book, they were the best of friends, ride to die; and here we can see changes, growing as they are maturing.
In Paul's pov he and his crew are in space, jumping from planet to planet, also researching about the creature and trying to safe his homeland earth. Though this isn't a war between the Illyri and the human race anymore, as something more sinister is ahead of it. I didn't find Paul's pov entertaining because when it comes to sci-fi on spaceships - I prefer watching it in a movie instead. It's much more amusing for me. In my head it's like 'oh this is a guy kinda reading' material 😆. Nonetheless, his pov is important for the storyline. Can't wait to read the last book!
January 11, 2019
It's rare to find a sequel in a trilogy that both exceeds the first book and sets up a captivating plot for the final installment. But EMPIRE does this and more, despite coming off a book so original and full of twists.
The story picks up a few months after where CONQUEST sets off, following Syl in the Nairene Sisterhood and Paul in the Brigades. They're separated by wormholes and light years, but the authors do a masterful job of keeping their plots intriguing and full of promised impact when they come back together. Like CONQUEST, EMPIRE is chock full of mind-boggling twists, unforgettable moments, and a plot unlike any other scifi you've read before--so much so that I will not discuss the plot here in fear of spoiling anything for future readers.
The only weak spots are found in the book's pacing. EMPIRE is full of heavy worldbuilding and exposition, which is done well for the most part, but does leave some weak openings in the first third of the book, where Paul's exploits seem to progress at a far quicker clip than Syl's. And the Nairene Sisterhood, though certainly full of secrets, quickly comes to mirror a British boarding school for most of the book's beginnings, firmly putting this book in the young adult category despite it dealing with themes and worldbuilding far beyond what most YA dreams of. These books feel like they're born to be adult, or at least new adult, but were pigeonholed into YA to let some of the more non-scifi themes--sexuality, romance, racial diversity--be explored.
That being said, this book is a joy to read that I couldn't put down. And despite a slow start, those final chapters took my breath away, and each word was worth the wait. Now, to read DOMINION and pray book three lives up to the legend of its predecessors.
The story picks up a few months after where CONQUEST sets off, following Syl in the Nairene Sisterhood and Paul in the Brigades. They're separated by wormholes and light years, but the authors do a masterful job of keeping their plots intriguing and full of promised impact when they come back together. Like CONQUEST, EMPIRE is chock full of mind-boggling twists, unforgettable moments, and a plot unlike any other scifi you've read before--so much so that I will not discuss the plot here in fear of spoiling anything for future readers.
The only weak spots are found in the book's pacing. EMPIRE is full of heavy worldbuilding and exposition, which is done well for the most part, but does leave some weak openings in the first third of the book, where Paul's exploits seem to progress at a far quicker clip than Syl's. And the Nairene Sisterhood, though certainly full of secrets, quickly comes to mirror a British boarding school for most of the book's beginnings, firmly putting this book in the young adult category despite it dealing with themes and worldbuilding far beyond what most YA dreams of. These books feel like they're born to be adult, or at least new adult, but were pigeonholed into YA to let some of the more non-scifi themes--sexuality, romance, racial diversity--be explored.
That being said, this book is a joy to read that I couldn't put down. And despite a slow start, those final chapters took my breath away, and each word was worth the wait. Now, to read DOMINION and pray book three lives up to the legend of its predecessors.
June 16, 2017
This is a terrific sequel to The Chronicles of the Invaders, Book 1. The author deeply extends our understanding of the universe in this second book, combining all of my favorite things: space travel, wormholes, magic, extraterrestrial beings, and several very big mysteries. Unlike a majority of sequels, this one kept me thoroughly entertained and eager to keep reading (i.e. I finished it in two days).
There were a few rough spots here and there, particularly some of the plot and character development. The plot issues didn't bother too much, but the character flaws were a little awkward. I wished it had a touch more realism in certain areas as it often felt like the character's quality was sacrificed in order to advance the plot.... alas, I suppose I can't have anything.
Excited to read the third book!
There were a few rough spots here and there, particularly some of the plot and character development. The plot issues didn't bother too much, but the character flaws were a little awkward. I wished it had a touch more realism in certain areas as it often felt like the character's quality was sacrificed in order to advance the plot.... alas, I suppose I can't have anything.
Excited to read the third book!
June 29, 2017
Received free through GoodReads First Reads - thank you.
The second volume in The Chronicles of the Invaders series. I have actually stopped reading this after about 50 pages because I want to read the first volume. Sometimes you can catch up and get into volumes further into a series but this book deserves being read after the first. The lead characters are well written and believable, and the story has a good flow. I'll try and get hold of the first novel as I think this adventure deserves it!
The second volume in The Chronicles of the Invaders series. I have actually stopped reading this after about 50 pages because I want to read the first volume. Sometimes you can catch up and get into volumes further into a series but this book deserves being read after the first. The lead characters are well written and believable, and the story has a good flow. I'll try and get hold of the first novel as I think this adventure deserves it!
August 21, 2018
I haven't read the first installment of this, but looking at this as a stand-alone, it was pretty good. The characters and the world-building are rich, there is plenty of intrigue and complex character relations to keep the reader busy, and the writers don't shy away from brutal murders and planet destruction.
The writing is engaging and varied, and the short chapters mean that even younger readers with shorter attention spans will remain hooked until the end.
I might get the third book to see how this grand space opera ends.
The writing is engaging and varied, and the short chapters mean that even younger readers with shorter attention spans will remain hooked until the end.
I might get the third book to see how this grand space opera ends.
October 22, 2018
'Empire' is even better than the first book in the Invaders trilogy. The pace is faster, the events more significant, and there is a sinister plot that will keep you hanging! The Illyri girl, Syl Hellais, has an even more important role in 'Empire' and goes through some character growth when she uncovers the bizarre secrets of the Nairine Sisterhood. The only disappointment is that we don't get much expansion on the Illyri "race". They're still very much like humans in appearance and habit, with only a couple of physical differences and a few unique cultural customs.
December 12, 2016
This was a good read, fine continuation of the story. I'm a huge fan of John Connolly's Charlie Parker series, and I was interested to read this. I don't read much "young adult", and although I enjoyed this, I do have some reservations. It felt a bit simplistic and black and white - everything was explained in detail, not much left for interpretation, or much ambiguity. But it's a good story, I'm looking forward to seeing how it ends.
September 4, 2019
I picked this one to read based on a random recommendation.
Little did I realize that it was the second book of the series.
Even so, the story was tight enough that I didn't really feel lost having not read the first.
And that ending - a cliffhanger.
Now I'm left deciding whether to continue with book 3 or to head back to book 1.
Library problems...
Little did I realize that it was the second book of the series.
Even so, the story was tight enough that I didn't really feel lost having not read the first.
And that ending - a cliffhanger.
Now I'm left deciding whether to continue with book 3 or to head back to book 1.
Library problems...
January 28, 2020
A very formidable sequel to Conquest. As with Conquest, the pacing of the book is excellent. It is a fast read and an engaging story.
I appreciated the addition of new characters and how the story was allowed to evolve around each of the new characters. It made for a very rich and honest story.
I look forward to completing the series soon.
I appreciated the addition of new characters and how the story was allowed to evolve around each of the new characters. It made for a very rich and honest story.
I look forward to completing the series soon.
May 11, 2021
Honestly, this is my favourite trilogy book, the growth of the characters is great, it has unexpected twists and if the first book doesn't like it so much, they would like it much more, in this second book syl has problems with her best friend ani and discovers something horrible guild shading, don't wait any more to do spoilers, but reslly read this, is great
May 9, 2017
how do i feel about the last book of the series. It wasn't a throw-a-way easy ending. ill give you that. Some people i thought bad guys where good. I was surprised about the choices made i didn't expect. yeah i heard that the last book wasn't as good as the first. i mean the first book was really good because of all the first time fresh type information given and then it being written really well... maybe those people are being uber critical because the series was solid. It kept me interested. and i read first book hardback 2nd book soft cover and 3rd book audible. FYI i hadn't realized until the 3rd book everyone had a Scottish accent. So that threw me for a loop. in my head they where all specking american lol. so. in short whole series bang on not book bad read it you will say the same.
July 15, 2017
This is a young adult book, so I am not their intended audience. I read this because I am a fan of Connolly and enjoyed the first of this series. There are moments of true brilliance, but then there are moments that it does not work for me.
February 7, 2018
A like this one better than the first. It’s still light on the sci-fi elements and heavy on the political intrigue and adventure, but going in the right direction. Fast paced and kept my interest. The ending was very interesting and left me eager to read the third in the series.
August 14, 2020
A four, but a low four if that makes sense, more of a three and a half.
There's two different stories running side by side, and that's fine, the problem is one is good, and the other drops into mean girl gossipy repeatedly making it tedious reading.
There's two different stories running side by side, and that's fine, the problem is one is good, and the other drops into mean girl gossipy repeatedly making it tedious reading.
January 5, 2024
Half of the book I was anxiously waiting for what was about to happen... And when it came, I was not ready anyway. Captivating story indeed. I´m sure that the final part will not dissappoint me at all.
June 30, 2017
Little bit nieve, but still a neat scifi summer series.
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