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The Faerie Race #2
The Elemental Trial Lib/E
Welcome to round two of The Faerie Race—an epic adventure through a realm as compelling as it is deadly…
The Faerie Race has proven more gruelling and deadly than Jacqueline thought possible. With one trial down and two to go, it seems the reality show’s producers will stop at nothing to get their ratings—even murder.
It will take all of Jacq’s cunning to get through the next trial unscathed, but all she can think about is her discovery that her sister is alive. Too bad her search for answers has only left her with more questions, and more enemies.
Forced to work side-by-side with their beautiful and duplicitous competition, Orin and Jacq are plunged back into a magical world filled with bizarre creatures, far-reaching conspiracies, and not nearly enough to eat. Each challenge brings the two of them closer—but that just means they have more to lose.
Will Jacq be able to reach the final checkpoint with her heart and her life intact, or will The Elemental Trial prove too daunting?
The Elemental Trial is Book Two in The Faerie Race, a nail-biting, edge-of-your-seat thrill ride through a realm unlike you’ve ever seen. Scroll up and one-click to continue the adventure!
The Faerie Race has proven more gruelling and deadly than Jacqueline thought possible. With one trial down and two to go, it seems the reality show’s producers will stop at nothing to get their ratings—even murder.
It will take all of Jacq’s cunning to get through the next trial unscathed, but all she can think about is her discovery that her sister is alive. Too bad her search for answers has only left her with more questions, and more enemies.
Forced to work side-by-side with their beautiful and duplicitous competition, Orin and Jacq are plunged back into a magical world filled with bizarre creatures, far-reaching conspiracies, and not nearly enough to eat. Each challenge brings the two of them closer—but that just means they have more to lose.
Will Jacq be able to reach the final checkpoint with her heart and her life intact, or will The Elemental Trial prove too daunting?
The Elemental Trial is Book Two in The Faerie Race, a nail-biting, edge-of-your-seat thrill ride through a realm unlike you’ve ever seen. Scroll up and one-click to continue the adventure!
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First published July 15, 2019
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About the author
Claire Luana
31 books637 followersClaire Luana grew up reading everything she could get her hands on and writing every chance she could. Eventually, adulthood won out, and she turned her writing talents to more scholarly pursuits, going to work as a commercial litigation attorney at a mid-sized law firm. While continuing to practice law, Claire decided to return to her roots and try her hand once again at creative writing.
She has written and published five series, the Moonburner Cycle, the Confectioner Chronicles, the Mythical Alliance, the Knights of Caerleon, with Jesikah Sundin, and the Faerie Race, with J.A. Armitage. She lives in Cle Elum, Washington with her husband and two dogs. In her (little) remaining spare time, she loves to hike, travel, binge-watch CW shows, and of course, fall into a good book.
Check her out on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/claireluana/
She has written and published five series, the Moonburner Cycle, the Confectioner Chronicles, the Mythical Alliance, the Knights of Caerleon, with Jesikah Sundin, and the Faerie Race, with J.A. Armitage. She lives in Cle Elum, Washington with her husband and two dogs. In her (little) remaining spare time, she loves to hike, travel, binge-watch CW shows, and of course, fall into a good book.
Check her out on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/claireluana/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
July 3, 2019
The second book in this series is just as good as the first. I love the language the authors use, because without being very descriptive, which I don’t like, they still manage to make me see everything going on around the characters in great detail. I also love the way the trial went in this one with how the teams were all mixed up. And skillfully woven in the main plot is the secondary plot about Jacq’s sister and The Brotherhood. I am equally vested in all the storylines, and I’m actually sad that there is only one more (I think). I also really like that the romance doesn’t overtake the plot. It’s there, but it’s not the main focus. With everything going on, I just love this series, and I can’t wait for the next one. If you like light urban fantasy with a little romance and action included, you really need to try this series! Highly recommend this book, and I received a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
July 5, 2019
The race continues as our contestants gear up for another round of trials in The Faerie Race. Our contestants are off on another quest in The Elemental Trial which turns out to be more dangerous than the first trial, The Sorcery Trial.
All the contestants are fighting to win not caring if lives are lost. Jacq is determined to win so that she can win the grand prize and hopefully use it to save her sister. Jacq’s sister disappeared a couple of years ago and Jacq traced her whereabouts to the Faerie realm. The only way Jacq can enter the Faerie realm is through the The Faerie Race.
The trials are dangerous. The contestants are dangerous. Lives are in danger. Will the producers allow lives to be lost for a TV show? Do they worry more about the ratings of the show than lives? Will Jacq and Orin make it out alive? Will all of the contestants make it out? Will anyone be left by the wayside?
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading about the faerie world and the trials in both books one and two in The Faerie Race. I love both the danger that the contestants are put in. I love the thriller of the danger and the twists of each trial. I love the thrill and the excitement of each trial as the contestants race to compete against one another and the waiting to see who will make it to the end. I love seeing how the characters have to work together as a team to make it through the trials.
Just the dangerous situations the contestants are put through is enough to keep the pages turning until that last page is flipped to find out who will make it to the end. I would love to see The Faerie Race on the big screen one day.
I would recommend The Elemental Trial to all fans of fantasy, faerie, fae and reality TV shows.
All the contestants are fighting to win not caring if lives are lost. Jacq is determined to win so that she can win the grand prize and hopefully use it to save her sister. Jacq’s sister disappeared a couple of years ago and Jacq traced her whereabouts to the Faerie realm. The only way Jacq can enter the Faerie realm is through the The Faerie Race.
The trials are dangerous. The contestants are dangerous. Lives are in danger. Will the producers allow lives to be lost for a TV show? Do they worry more about the ratings of the show than lives? Will Jacq and Orin make it out alive? Will all of the contestants make it out? Will anyone be left by the wayside?
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading about the faerie world and the trials in both books one and two in The Faerie Race. I love both the danger that the contestants are put in. I love the thriller of the danger and the twists of each trial. I love the thrill and the excitement of each trial as the contestants race to compete against one another and the waiting to see who will make it to the end. I love seeing how the characters have to work together as a team to make it through the trials.
Just the dangerous situations the contestants are put through is enough to keep the pages turning until that last page is flipped to find out who will make it to the end. I would love to see The Faerie Race on the big screen one day.
I would recommend The Elemental Trial to all fans of fantasy, faerie, fae and reality TV shows.
June 9, 2020
*4.5 stars. Another action-packed, thrilling adventure!
February 28, 2020
*Source* Kindle Unlimited
*Genre* Paranormal / Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
The Elemental Trial, by co-authors Claire Luana & J.A. Armitage, is the second installment in The Faerie Race. The story picks up right after the first trial ended. After surviving the first stage of the Fantastic Faerie Face which saw several contestants die and several others drop out before being killed, Jack and her teammate Orin have only hours to prepare for the next stage. Both Jacqueline Cunningham and Orin Treebaum desperately need to win in order to be granted a boon by the Faerie King. Jacq needs it to find her sister, Orin needs it to free his parents.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Paranormal / Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
The Elemental Trial, by co-authors Claire Luana & J.A. Armitage, is the second installment in The Faerie Race. The story picks up right after the first trial ended. After surviving the first stage of the Fantastic Faerie Face which saw several contestants die and several others drop out before being killed, Jack and her teammate Orin have only hours to prepare for the next stage. Both Jacqueline Cunningham and Orin Treebaum desperately need to win in order to be granted a boon by the Faerie King. Jacq needs it to find her sister, Orin needs it to free his parents.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
September 8, 2020
Another book I read it feels like forever ago and when I wrote down my thoughts, I never put them on GoodReads.
This book was so action packed and I actually cried, sobbing tears when someone dies in this book and the reaction that is received from this death (didn't want to spoil it for anyone that is looking to pick up this second installment).
I really enjoyed the opening of this novel. Sometimes I find in a second novel... the author doesn't know where to start, like to start recapping the previous book or diving into something just crazy. I thought the magic bunny was adorable and the potted dirt flying everywhere was also hilarious.
The reminder of Cass is always there in the pages of this novel too. I like that as a reader so much is going on in these pages but we know that Jacq is so focused on Cass and finding her.
My first note on this chapter really was how much I liked Jacq's friendship with Ben because it just seemed so natural and human.
In this chapter when Jacq is avoiding her parents because she is worried about how they will react and how to tell them about Cass was such a painful moment. When she does speak with them and it makes her feel better it was almost a sigh of relief for me as it was just a nice and normal moment that she doesn't really have the time to experience now that she is in the world of Fae.
There are so many secrets that still need to be revealed in this world, so I had no idea who it might be trying to harm Jacq. At this point I'm thinking it's everyone out to get her and Orin.
Jacq's using her self defense skills is very empowering to read, because she is so strong physically and mentally. The Brotherhood is everywhere; and what do they want. What is their end game. It is such a huge secret that it is killing me (not really, but I need to know what is going to happen next).
My favourite moment from Chapter 5 was when Jacq is buzzyfrom the cider and she and Orin are on their way to the Library -- and she sees the sheep and gets really excited. I am totally the same way. Seeing sheep, cows, horses...really any animal it just makes the travelling journey so much better for me.
Realizing how corrupt the Brotherhood is and wanting to destroy the Hedge so each world is together and combined is really scary. All of the things over the Hedge are not people friendly, it would be a bloodbath.
And with all great novels, this book literally me laughing out loud. So many cute moments and somehow Claire is still able to bring out lighthearted moments in the best way possible during this book.
When Orin says "...I'm your idiot". That had me grinning like a fool. And really just cemented to me, that he is a complex character and I am so down for him and Jacq. They compliment each other really well, and go through so much in this novel and the previous one.
Orin almost admitted to Jacq that he has fallen for her. This is the moment I have been waiting for, and that fact that it takes them almost the entire book to finally admit it.. I was along for this ride this entire novel; hoping they would finally realize that it is them for each other. This feeling I have when reading a novel like this, I grin like a weirdo while I read, I blush, and I laugh. I love novels that can make me really feel for them and look back on moments in my life that may have had me feeling that same thing.
The last leg of the task is going to be underwater and that just terrifies me to no end. I have always had such a weird fascination with the underwater world. I love Sharks, Dolphins...just the peacefulness, the way that the water has a life of it's own and will do whatever it wants. But it's also very scary at the same time before of all of that.
I cannot wait to see what is going to happen next. I can't wait to officially meet Cass and see what is going on, and how her character is different and relate-able to Jacq.
This book was so action packed and I actually cried, sobbing tears when someone dies in this book and the reaction that is received from this death (didn't want to spoil it for anyone that is looking to pick up this second installment).
I really enjoyed the opening of this novel. Sometimes I find in a second novel... the author doesn't know where to start, like to start recapping the previous book or diving into something just crazy. I thought the magic bunny was adorable and the potted dirt flying everywhere was also hilarious.
The reminder of Cass is always there in the pages of this novel too. I like that as a reader so much is going on in these pages but we know that Jacq is so focused on Cass and finding her.
My first note on this chapter really was how much I liked Jacq's friendship with Ben because it just seemed so natural and human.
In this chapter when Jacq is avoiding her parents because she is worried about how they will react and how to tell them about Cass was such a painful moment. When she does speak with them and it makes her feel better it was almost a sigh of relief for me as it was just a nice and normal moment that she doesn't really have the time to experience now that she is in the world of Fae.
There are so many secrets that still need to be revealed in this world, so I had no idea who it might be trying to harm Jacq. At this point I'm thinking it's everyone out to get her and Orin.
Jacq's using her self defense skills is very empowering to read, because she is so strong physically and mentally. The Brotherhood is everywhere; and what do they want. What is their end game. It is such a huge secret that it is killing me (not really, but I need to know what is going to happen next).
My favourite moment from Chapter 5 was when Jacq is buzzyfrom the cider and she and Orin are on their way to the Library -- and she sees the sheep and gets really excited. I am totally the same way. Seeing sheep, cows, horses...really any animal it just makes the travelling journey so much better for me.
Realizing how corrupt the Brotherhood is and wanting to destroy the Hedge so each world is together and combined is really scary. All of the things over the Hedge are not people friendly, it would be a bloodbath.
And with all great novels, this book literally me laughing out loud. So many cute moments and somehow Claire is still able to bring out lighthearted moments in the best way possible during this book.
When Orin says "...I'm your idiot". That had me grinning like a fool. And really just cemented to me, that he is a complex character and I am so down for him and Jacq. They compliment each other really well, and go through so much in this novel and the previous one.
Orin almost admitted to Jacq that he has fallen for her. This is the moment I have been waiting for, and that fact that it takes them almost the entire book to finally admit it.. I was along for this ride this entire novel; hoping they would finally realize that it is them for each other. This feeling I have when reading a novel like this, I grin like a weirdo while I read, I blush, and I laugh. I love novels that can make me really feel for them and look back on moments in my life that may have had me feeling that same thing.
The last leg of the task is going to be underwater and that just terrifies me to no end. I have always had such a weird fascination with the underwater world. I love Sharks, Dolphins...just the peacefulness, the way that the water has a life of it's own and will do whatever it wants. But it's also very scary at the same time before of all of that.
I cannot wait to see what is going to happen next. I can't wait to officially meet Cass and see what is going on, and how her character is different and relate-able to Jacq.
May 5, 2024
I didn’t think it could get better but it did oh my gosh this is probably gonna be one of my favorite series I read this year. There’s mermaids! I mean they’re not your typical mermaids we normally see in books/movies but still there’s mermaids lol I hope I enjoy the last book as much as I did the 2nd one. Orin and Jacq are 🤌🏻 it’s more Orin than anything lol but still their both great she wants to do one thing and he’s all like no don’t do it lol
July 17, 2019
Finding that her sister is still alive gives Jacq hope of finding her, but the second round of the Faerie Race is even more dangerous and difficult than the first. There are riddles and underwater adventures as well as having to work with the other teams which, for Jacq and Orin, is probably even harder than the actual tasks.
The ending left me desperate to read book three as soon as possible.
The ending left me desperate to read book three as soon as possible.
July 21, 2019
These races are phenomenal! I think this series should really be made into a movie or tv show! There is much drama. There is so much action! It took me on one adventurous crazy ride! I can’t wait to read the next book!
July 20, 2019
am loving this series! Carrying on from book 1 this well written story has a fantastic addictive plot filled with action, deception, danger and twists and turns and I just can’t get enough of it! I cannot wait to read book 3!
January 12, 2020
It's the faerie Hunger Games
Jacq & Orin have made it through two trials but not without loss. Something else is afoot beneath the guise of the games. Time gor book 3.
Jacq & Orin have made it through two trials but not without loss. Something else is afoot beneath the guise of the games. Time gor book 3.
March 9, 2022
I'm still enjoying where this series is going. It's nice that it's a quicker read and allows me to adventure out from this world to a slightly different one.
July 15, 2019
Continuing from the end of the Sorcery Trial, the second installment of the Faerie Race picks up with The Elemental Trial. It cranks up the intrigue, danger and surprises, all going at a nice brisk pace, as a greater threat looms in the background. The characters develop further with great interactions, including some I didn’t expect. This was a gripping read that I couldn’t put down and finished me second read through in just over a day. As a disclaimer, I read a beta version of the entire saga in early 2019 before reading this final version.
In the second part of the race, the danger of the game grows (if it wasn’t already dangerous with what happened in The Sorcery Trial) with a new twist. Though it doesn’t go straight into the race; the first few chapters focus on the time in between legs back on Earth, which focuses on Jacq’s search for her sister, underlying plot lines, and develops her and Orin’s relationship. The race itself was interesting with the challenges and I loved the twists as they unfolded and the increasing danger of this reality TV show in a magical realm. In a way, it brought over elements of Survivor and Big Brother as well as The Amazing Race. The story is fast paced with easy to read and vivid prose that brought me straight into this magical world. I love Jacq’s snark in the prose, it keeps the situation from getting too dark, and it does get dark at points, especially towards the end, where I was just a whirlwind of emotions.
Speaking of the characters, I loved all of them and they all brought something different to the table with fleshed out personalities. Jacq is put through the ringer in this one, but she stands her ground on the hope of reuniting with Cass and finishing the race. Though she continues to grow and her and Orin’s relationship goes through quite the ringer here as they try to find out what kind of relationship they want in the future. I do like how her attitude changes throughout the story in regards to the race. I like Orin too, he’s level headed and doesn’t seem as scary as he was initially presented as and has Jacq’s back. Ben was really sweet too, being a friend and companion to Jacq . The other contestants were great, though it’s clear that you don’t trust anyone except your partner. And the host, Patricia, is no Phil.
The cliffhanger ending has you waiting for more! Highly recommended to those looking for a fantasy with high danger, great characters and more deadly reality TV!
In the second part of the race, the danger of the game grows (if it wasn’t already dangerous with what happened in The Sorcery Trial) with a new twist. Though it doesn’t go straight into the race; the first few chapters focus on the time in between legs back on Earth, which focuses on Jacq’s search for her sister, underlying plot lines, and develops her and Orin’s relationship. The race itself was interesting with the challenges and I loved the twists as they unfolded and the increasing danger of this reality TV show in a magical realm. In a way, it brought over elements of Survivor and Big Brother as well as The Amazing Race. The story is fast paced with easy to read and vivid prose that brought me straight into this magical world. I love Jacq’s snark in the prose, it keeps the situation from getting too dark, and it does get dark at points, especially towards the end, where I was just a whirlwind of emotions.
Speaking of the characters, I loved all of them and they all brought something different to the table with fleshed out personalities. Jacq is put through the ringer in this one, but she stands her ground on the hope of reuniting with Cass and finishing the race. Though she continues to grow and her and Orin’s relationship goes through quite the ringer here as they try to find out what kind of relationship they want in the future. I do like how her attitude changes throughout the story in regards to the race. I like Orin too, he’s level headed and doesn’t seem as scary as he was initially presented as and has Jacq’s back. Ben was really sweet too, being a friend and companion to Jacq . The other contestants were great, though it’s clear that you don’t trust anyone except your partner. And the host, Patricia, is no Phil.
The cliffhanger ending has you waiting for more! Highly recommended to those looking for a fantasy with high danger, great characters and more deadly reality TV!
July 12, 2019
This picks up right where The Sorcery Trial left off. Jacq and Orin have successfully made it through the first trial of The Faerie Race and they are on to the second trial only a few days later. This is just as action packed as the first book, but the trial is quite different. This time the teams have to work together to make it through.
First they must attend a ball and answer trivia questions or they will be eliminated. Next they must work together to navigate a goblin cavern and decipher a code to find their way out. Last they must transform and negotiate with mermaids or their lives may be at stake. Each step of The Elemental Trial proves to be more dangerous. In addition to the race, Jacq is still looking for her missing sister, and she thinks she may have uncovered a secret society. As Jacq and Orin continue forward in the race they find themselves facing more and more dangerous situations as sabotage, creatures, cheating, magic, and greed play into the game they are playing.
I really enjoyed this second installment. Much like the first one this is a really fun fast paced action, fantasy story with a really creative version of the fae world and the creatures within. This trial was a bit more focused on critical thinking and didn't have as much magic, but that was explained to the contestants. I'm looking forward to book 3 because of that cliffhanger ending and I really want to find out more about this secret society. I'm anxious to find out what the 3rd trial entails and how the ending all comes together.
While I suspected there would be a budding romance between Orin and Jacq, it was a bit insta-lovey for my taste. I do like them as a couple, but their relationship barely moved into friendship before they were in love. I like a bit more relationship development in my romance. They could have just kissed and acknowledged that they had feelings for each other, that would have been preferable and realistic given the circumstances. The one thing I liked about book 1 is that romance was not a plot driver, it was quite a heavy driver of the plot in book 2.
First they must attend a ball and answer trivia questions or they will be eliminated. Next they must work together to navigate a goblin cavern and decipher a code to find their way out. Last they must transform and negotiate with mermaids or their lives may be at stake. Each step of The Elemental Trial proves to be more dangerous. In addition to the race, Jacq is still looking for her missing sister, and she thinks she may have uncovered a secret society. As Jacq and Orin continue forward in the race they find themselves facing more and more dangerous situations as sabotage, creatures, cheating, magic, and greed play into the game they are playing.
I really enjoyed this second installment. Much like the first one this is a really fun fast paced action, fantasy story with a really creative version of the fae world and the creatures within. This trial was a bit more focused on critical thinking and didn't have as much magic, but that was explained to the contestants. I'm looking forward to book 3 because of that cliffhanger ending and I really want to find out more about this secret society. I'm anxious to find out what the 3rd trial entails and how the ending all comes together.
While I suspected there would be a budding romance between Orin and Jacq, it was a bit insta-lovey for my taste. I do like them as a couple, but their relationship barely moved into friendship before they were in love. I like a bit more relationship development in my romance. They could have just kissed and acknowledged that they had feelings for each other, that would have been preferable and realistic given the circumstances. The one thing I liked about book 1 is that romance was not a plot driver, it was quite a heavy driver of the plot in book 2.
July 15, 2019
Welcome to round two of The Faerie Race—an epic adventure through a realm as compelling as it is deadly…
The Faerie Race has proven more gruelling and deadly than Jacqueline thought possible. With one trial down and two to go, it seems the reality show’s producers will stop at nothing to get their ratings—even murder.
It will take all of Jacq’s cunning to get through the next trial unscathed, but all she can think about is her discovery that her sister is alive. Too bad her search for answers has only left her with more questions, and more enemies.
Forced to work side-by-side with their beautiful and duplicitous competition, Orin and Jacq are plunged back into a magical world filled with bizarre creatures, far-reaching conspiracies, and not nearly enough to eat. Each challenge brings the two of them closer—but that just means they have more to lose.
Will Jacq be able to reach the final checkpoint with her heart and her life intact, or will The Elemental Trial prove too daunting?
This second installment in the series starts right where the first one ended.
The race continues as our contestants gear up for another round of trials in The Faerie Race.
All the contestants are fighting to win not caring if lives are lost.
There are more dangers, suspense, twists and turns in this one.
Everything has been cranked up action wise and it will keep you gripped on the edge of your seat.
I can't wait to see what the next instalment has for everyone and how Jacq will handle what is thrown her way yet again.
Highly recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Faerie Race has proven more gruelling and deadly than Jacqueline thought possible. With one trial down and two to go, it seems the reality show’s producers will stop at nothing to get their ratings—even murder.
It will take all of Jacq’s cunning to get through the next trial unscathed, but all she can think about is her discovery that her sister is alive. Too bad her search for answers has only left her with more questions, and more enemies.
Forced to work side-by-side with their beautiful and duplicitous competition, Orin and Jacq are plunged back into a magical world filled with bizarre creatures, far-reaching conspiracies, and not nearly enough to eat. Each challenge brings the two of them closer—but that just means they have more to lose.
Will Jacq be able to reach the final checkpoint with her heart and her life intact, or will The Elemental Trial prove too daunting?
This second installment in the series starts right where the first one ended.
The race continues as our contestants gear up for another round of trials in The Faerie Race.
All the contestants are fighting to win not caring if lives are lost.
There are more dangers, suspense, twists and turns in this one.
Everything has been cranked up action wise and it will keep you gripped on the edge of your seat.
I can't wait to see what the next instalment has for everyone and how Jacq will handle what is thrown her way yet again.
Highly recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
July 14, 2019
The Elemental Trial: The Faerie Race by J.A. Armitage and Claire Luana is better than the first installment, The Sorcery Trial. The storyline flows smoothly and the character development is very good.
A televised race with one fae and one human on a team in Faerwild is being filmed and televised in both the Human and Faeiry worlds. This Race is meant to introduce both worlds to each other in an exciting race. Unfortunately, the contestants didn't realize just how filled with duplicity, intrigue, and even murder this race would be.
This second installment in the series starts right where the first one ended. With this in mind, I don't recommend reading as a stand-alone book as there is no backstory on the characters or the first Trial.
To spice up the race for the viewers, the remaining teams have been grouped into four member teams. The stakes are high and the betrayals are everywhere and each Trial gets more difficult and deadlier. Orin and Jacq can't trust anyone, except each other. Two contestants already died, will someone else die this time?
I can't help but give five stars for this second installment in this fantasy series. There are such great plot developments and so many twists and turns that your mind will be turning as fast as you turn pages.
I did receive an advance readers copy from the authors. The above is my honest and voluntary review.
A televised race with one fae and one human on a team in Faerwild is being filmed and televised in both the Human and Faeiry worlds. This Race is meant to introduce both worlds to each other in an exciting race. Unfortunately, the contestants didn't realize just how filled with duplicity, intrigue, and even murder this race would be.
This second installment in the series starts right where the first one ended. With this in mind, I don't recommend reading as a stand-alone book as there is no backstory on the characters or the first Trial.
To spice up the race for the viewers, the remaining teams have been grouped into four member teams. The stakes are high and the betrayals are everywhere and each Trial gets more difficult and deadlier. Orin and Jacq can't trust anyone, except each other. Two contestants already died, will someone else die this time?
I can't help but give five stars for this second installment in this fantasy series. There are such great plot developments and so many twists and turns that your mind will be turning as fast as you turn pages.
I did receive an advance readers copy from the authors. The above is my honest and voluntary review.
July 11, 2019
I’m not a fan of reality TV, but if there really was one involving a deadly race in the fae realm I’d sooo be there (watching, not participating: I’m a bit of a wimp). Frankly, the whole concept of that sort of thing is as utterly cool as it is cool imaginative. No surprise, really, that a talented duo like J.A. Armitage and Claire Luana (two of my favorite authors) came up with it. I loved the first book in this series, The Sorcery Trial (separately reviewed) and urge anyone who missed it to start there first as it’s too good to ignore. Happily I can confirm that The Elemental Trial (The Faerie Race Book 2) is equally good. Orin and Jacq are plunged back into the what’s described perfectly in the publisher’s blurb: “a magical world filled with bizarre creatures, far-reaching conspiracies, and not nearly enough to eat.” Luckily for us the result is a wild ride of reading pleasure that’s perfectly written. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises. The book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
July 5, 2019
The second book in the series continues with an even more grueling Faerie Trial than Jacq went through in the first book of the series. Partnered with Orin, we are taken on an edge of your seat thrilling fantasy with twists and turns and many questions the pair try to figure out. With Orin fighting to win for the freedom of his parents and Jacq fighting to win to find and free her sister, they are competing against other pared contestants who also want to win. No one can be trusted, although Jacq has decided to trust Orin. There are twists and turns a possible sighting of Jacq's sister, strange notes, sabotage, the Brotherhood, death and some life-saving. Will Jacq and Orin come out alive and in tact? Will Jacq and Orin figure out who is sabotaging them and trying to get them killed? Is it the producer of the crazy reality show they are in? Who gets killed next? You are taken on a seat of your pants thrilling fantasy that you just can't put down. A must read series, well written with characters you will love to hate! I received and ARC from the author but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
July 14, 2019
I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
I am in love with these authors and this series of book's so far are out of this world.
I'm normally quite a slow reader, but it only took me a day to read this book 🙀
I'm loving the chemistry between Jacq and Orin and her reluctance to admit it. The way all of the characters interact with each other throughout the book is brilliant, especially because in this book to get through they have to work together or fail.
It just seems that the game is rigged and only one set of teammates are supposed to win. I so can't wait for the next instalment, as hopefully we will meet the long lost sister, who set an explosion off so that she could pass Jacq a note, cue the drum roll. This book had so many twists and turns that it gave me whiplash, and still left me panting for more.
As I turned to the last page I couldn't believe it and let out a little scream, I know you might think that this is a bit dramatic, but read the book and then tell me if I'm dramatic 😁😁
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone and everyone as it is such a great read you won't be disappointed I promise you 💞💞🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I am in love with these authors and this series of book's so far are out of this world.
I'm normally quite a slow reader, but it only took me a day to read this book 🙀
I'm loving the chemistry between Jacq and Orin and her reluctance to admit it. The way all of the characters interact with each other throughout the book is brilliant, especially because in this book to get through they have to work together or fail.
It just seems that the game is rigged and only one set of teammates are supposed to win. I so can't wait for the next instalment, as hopefully we will meet the long lost sister, who set an explosion off so that she could pass Jacq a note, cue the drum roll. This book had so many twists and turns that it gave me whiplash, and still left me panting for more.
As I turned to the last page I couldn't believe it and let out a little scream, I know you might think that this is a bit dramatic, but read the book and then tell me if I'm dramatic 😁😁
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone and everyone as it is such a great read you won't be disappointed I promise you 💞💞🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
August 4, 2019
Hunger Games with magic and fae.
Like the Hunger Games, this book is 85% romance and the rest is a mix of survival and magic. I enjoyed the magic parts. There are lots of different fae types, and all the magic and worldbuilding were fascinating. I just wish there was more of that than the romance stuff.
The romance falls into that cliche where both parties like each other, and it's super obvious to the reader, but the characters need to doubt their feelings and fight with each other until the end of the book. I always find that annoying, but worse than that, is that they barely know each other outside of immediate survival mode. Everything they do and feel is in the immediate present moment, and no thought was given to what will be with their relationship after the race is over. They're from 2 very different and separate worlds after all. Also annoying was that ever team paired off romantically.
Overall, there's lots of action, interesting magic and worldbuilding, and lots of romance with everyone looking super hot. If you like romance, this is a great book.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Like the Hunger Games, this book is 85% romance and the rest is a mix of survival and magic. I enjoyed the magic parts. There are lots of different fae types, and all the magic and worldbuilding were fascinating. I just wish there was more of that than the romance stuff.
The romance falls into that cliche where both parties like each other, and it's super obvious to the reader, but the characters need to doubt their feelings and fight with each other until the end of the book. I always find that annoying, but worse than that, is that they barely know each other outside of immediate survival mode. Everything they do and feel is in the immediate present moment, and no thought was given to what will be with their relationship after the race is over. They're from 2 very different and separate worlds after all. Also annoying was that ever team paired off romantically.
Overall, there's lots of action, interesting magic and worldbuilding, and lots of romance with everyone looking super hot. If you like romance, this is a great book.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2021
How I rate the books (the review below):
5 stars - "oh my gosh... Can't stop reading. Just one more chapter. Don't want this to end." I am going to buy another book even if I am frugal.
4 stars - I am going to read another book but there was something missing in it. Still really good.
3 stars - it's okay. I maybe consider to read another book of the series or from this author.
2 stars - only reason I didn't stop reading is because of OCD I diagnosed to myself. It was hard to finish it. It was not good.
1 star - even my OCD didn't help me to finish the book (that's rear)
Oh wow, I can't stop reading!
I am really enjoying the different places this tournament takes us. My imagination is at full speed and I am loving it.
It was amazing that we could see other contestants, the personalities and how they worked together. Molly is a bitch and I loved the Pegasus girl.
Oh and Ben... The twist with Ben was so unexpected and painful but from writing perspective it was amazingly done and I applaud!
Amd of course, my heart goes for the relationship progression of Oryn and Jacq! Yes yes yes!!
5 stars - "oh my gosh... Can't stop reading. Just one more chapter. Don't want this to end." I am going to buy another book even if I am frugal.
4 stars - I am going to read another book but there was something missing in it. Still really good.
3 stars - it's okay. I maybe consider to read another book of the series or from this author.
2 stars - only reason I didn't stop reading is because of OCD I diagnosed to myself. It was hard to finish it. It was not good.
1 star - even my OCD didn't help me to finish the book (that's rear)
Oh wow, I can't stop reading!
I am really enjoying the different places this tournament takes us. My imagination is at full speed and I am loving it.
It was amazing that we could see other contestants, the personalities and how they worked together. Molly is a bitch and I loved the Pegasus girl.
Oh and Ben... The twist with Ben was so unexpected and painful but from writing perspective it was amazingly done and I applaud!
Amd of course, my heart goes for the relationship progression of Oryn and Jacq! Yes yes yes!!
July 16, 2019
This series just keeps getting better and better!
I did not think this writing duo could top the first book “The Sorcery Trial”, but I was wrong! I feel like I’ve been plunged into the world of the Faerie Race. Armitage and Luana take you to a place that is so haunting that I have to look around as I am reading to remind myself that this is an urban fantasy world! I love it!!! This story is like “Death Race” on steroids. The storyline, the plots, the action, the twists are so imaginative and exciting, and let’s not forget the romance, all work together to bring you one of the best series of the year!!! But don’t start here, you MUST read “The Sorcery Trial” first. I guarantee you will not regret it. I’m on pins and needles for the next book. I addicted to this series. I received a free copy of this book for an honest review and I’ve never enjoyed leaving a review more!! 5++++
I did not think this writing duo could top the first book “The Sorcery Trial”, but I was wrong! I feel like I’ve been plunged into the world of the Faerie Race. Armitage and Luana take you to a place that is so haunting that I have to look around as I am reading to remind myself that this is an urban fantasy world! I love it!!! This story is like “Death Race” on steroids. The storyline, the plots, the action, the twists are so imaginative and exciting, and let’s not forget the romance, all work together to bring you one of the best series of the year!!! But don’t start here, you MUST read “The Sorcery Trial” first. I guarantee you will not regret it. I’m on pins and needles for the next book. I addicted to this series. I received a free copy of this book for an honest review and I’ve never enjoyed leaving a review more!! 5++++
June 28, 2019
I received this novel as an ARC from Ms. Luana. Thank you!
This novel continues where the first novel left off and the stakes are even higher. Tensions are rising and no can be trusted. I could not put the book down! Jacq and Orin survived the first trial and have little to prepare for the next trial. There is a twist in the second trial, which forces enemies to work together to succeed. However, the danger is even more prevalent, for not only do Jacq and Orin have to worry about the competitors, but also the mysterious Brotherhood. Jacq knows her sister is involved, but is unsure of her role and Jacq continues to search for clues, which lead to more questions than answers. Jacq and Orin will have several bumps in the road they will need to overcome if they are to survive the second trial. Looking forward to the final novel in the series!
This novel continues where the first novel left off and the stakes are even higher. Tensions are rising and no can be trusted. I could not put the book down! Jacq and Orin survived the first trial and have little to prepare for the next trial. There is a twist in the second trial, which forces enemies to work together to succeed. However, the danger is even more prevalent, for not only do Jacq and Orin have to worry about the competitors, but also the mysterious Brotherhood. Jacq knows her sister is involved, but is unsure of her role and Jacq continues to search for clues, which lead to more questions than answers. Jacq and Orin will have several bumps in the road they will need to overcome if they are to survive the second trial. Looking forward to the final novel in the series!
July 15, 2019
We follow on from book one. The race continues into the elemental trial follow a well earned rest of course. Jacq and Orin have survived the first trial and now find that they are being paired with another team. The problem is knowing who to trust.
I like the twists and turns in these trials and like that the contestants go underground, overground and in the dark depths of the sea. So so sad about, oops nearly gave out a spoiler. Did Jacq imagine seeing her sister?
The story flowed well from one part of the trial to the next. The characters, you either love or hate them but that's what makes for a good story. I love some of the scene building and could definitely imagine myself flying on up to the city in the sky.
I look forward to reading more in the series.
I was given an advance copy of this book and have willingly chosen to my review.
I like the twists and turns in these trials and like that the contestants go underground, overground and in the dark depths of the sea. So so sad about, oops nearly gave out a spoiler. Did Jacq imagine seeing her sister?
The story flowed well from one part of the trial to the next. The characters, you either love or hate them but that's what makes for a good story. I love some of the scene building and could definitely imagine myself flying on up to the city in the sky.
I look forward to reading more in the series.
I was given an advance copy of this book and have willingly chosen to my review.
July 16, 2019
ONE WILD ROLLERCOASTER RIDE!!!
Nerve racking! This dynamic duo jumps right over gold and takes platinum. The drama, uncertainty, determination, danger and suspense thrust bombshell together piece by piece fluidly. Dealing through all the trials and tribulations, along with a few twists and turns catapults this baby together sleek, shiny and tight. A a churning vortex of inadvertent activities and vexing surprising events keep you flipping page after page. Twixt and twined and put through the wringer, rocking this little gem to the core. The characters are authentic, believable and original with depth and traits adding just enough flaws to spice things up keeping you on a razors edge. The scenes are so graphic and detailed it paints a fantastic backdrop that really makes the storyline pop. Incredible job guys, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
Nerve racking! This dynamic duo jumps right over gold and takes platinum. The drama, uncertainty, determination, danger and suspense thrust bombshell together piece by piece fluidly. Dealing through all the trials and tribulations, along with a few twists and turns catapults this baby together sleek, shiny and tight. A a churning vortex of inadvertent activities and vexing surprising events keep you flipping page after page. Twixt and twined and put through the wringer, rocking this little gem to the core. The characters are authentic, believable and original with depth and traits adding just enough flaws to spice things up keeping you on a razors edge. The scenes are so graphic and detailed it paints a fantastic backdrop that really makes the storyline pop. Incredible job guys, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
July 17, 2019
The plot thickens, the trials get more and more dangerous and the action gets non-stop, in this second installment of the Faerie Race series. Danger is a constant companion to the contestants, and romance is brewing between Jacq and Orin. Mystery, suspense, intrigue and double crossing is in the daily menu. Expect the unexpected, because nothing is as it seems. An excellent second book in the series, extremely well written, with well fleshed out characters and a fast pace that will keep you rooted to your seat. I completely devoured it and I'm anxiously waiting for the next installment!
If you haven't read the previous book, I highly recommend you pick both books, find a comfy, quite spot and binge-read them. Just make sure you have plenty of time, because once you start, you won't be able to stop reading.
If you haven't read the previous book, I highly recommend you pick both books, find a comfy, quite spot and binge-read them. Just make sure you have plenty of time, because once you start, you won't be able to stop reading.
July 30, 2019
This book is absolutely amazing! I adored it that much that I finished it in about 4 hours. I didn't think it could get any better after reading the first book but this book went over and beyond the first one.
The storyline is stunning and I literally could not stop turning the pages! I adored how exciting and thrilling that it was, the fact that you really didn't know what was going to happen next made you just want to read more and more.
The characters are brilliant and I loved reading about them all. But my favourite now is definitely Orin, you really start seeing behind the wall that he has put up and I can't wait to see what happens next in the characters adventures!
This book definitely deserves a 5* rating and I would give it more if I could it was that amazing! I would recommend this book to everyone!!
The storyline is stunning and I literally could not stop turning the pages! I adored how exciting and thrilling that it was, the fact that you really didn't know what was going to happen next made you just want to read more and more.
The characters are brilliant and I loved reading about them all. But my favourite now is definitely Orin, you really start seeing behind the wall that he has put up and I can't wait to see what happens next in the characters adventures!
This book definitely deserves a 5* rating and I would give it more if I could it was that amazing! I would recommend this book to everyone!!
February 7, 2021
This was a surprisingly enjoyable read for those wanting a bit of escapism. It had a loose Hunger Games (Suzanne Collins)/ The Atlantis Grail (Vera Nazarian) feel. You don't get too many surprises, but there is a plot outside the romance and the main characters don't spend too much time lusting after one another, which was refreshing in a book including fae characters.
Although there is a bit of the lack of communication trope - both MCs clearly have feelings for each other, but won't talk about it - and a semi-forced love triangle situation, which I felt was completely unnecessary, this book had a lot of action, and clear stakes.
A fun read for someone not looking for something ground breaking or super deep. It does what it needs to do to be entertaining. I read it in one sitting.
Although there is a bit of the lack of communication trope - both MCs clearly have feelings for each other, but won't talk about it - and a semi-forced love triangle situation, which I felt was completely unnecessary, this book had a lot of action, and clear stakes.
A fun read for someone not looking for something ground breaking or super deep. It does what it needs to do to be entertaining. I read it in one sitting.
November 12, 2021
I found "The Fear Factor" painful to watch at best. It always threw me to watch people doing the most amazingly scary things to win. I frequently wondered how far producers would go to get ratings. "The Elemental Trial" goes straight to the worse tests that I imagined producers could come up with and surpasses them; at least the "Fear Factor" producers did their best to avoid deaths. The teams working together in "The Elemental Trial" was supposed to illustrate the value of teamwork. That only illuminated the overly competitive and wildly unethical drive to win at any cost shown by most of the contestants. Jacq and Orin shine as the only people willing to play fairly, even though those around them are trying their best to drag them down.
I received a copy of this from the author and i am voluntarily reviewing it.
I received a copy of this from the author and i am voluntarily reviewing it.
July 3, 2019
A Nail Biting 4.5 Stars 🌟
The second Trial has more twists & turns in store for all of the pair's of teams. Initially it actually seems less harmful & deadly than the Trials they faced in book #1 - It seems that the Faerie Realm often has a twisted way of doing things though, and this is proved true again in this instalment!😳😭🌊 The secrets around 'The Brotherhood' are gradually being unlocked by our two heroes but will they be able to stop what is planned??🙏💥 The romance between Jacq & Orin, although slow burn, finally starts to manifest in this book!💘🔥
I'm loving this tense, nail biting & thoroughly exciting series!!😍 I can't wait for book #3, this was another gripping read, 4.5 stars 🌟
Debbie, 1970, UK
The second Trial has more twists & turns in store for all of the pair's of teams. Initially it actually seems less harmful & deadly than the Trials they faced in book #1 - It seems that the Faerie Realm often has a twisted way of doing things though, and this is proved true again in this instalment!😳😭🌊 The secrets around 'The Brotherhood' are gradually being unlocked by our two heroes but will they be able to stop what is planned??🙏💥 The romance between Jacq & Orin, although slow burn, finally starts to manifest in this book!💘🔥
I'm loving this tense, nail biting & thoroughly exciting series!!😍 I can't wait for book #3, this was another gripping read, 4.5 stars 🌟
Debbie, 1970, UK
July 10, 2019
This is the second in a series and continues right where the first novel left off. Because of this, I don't really see reading it as a standalone book as it is assumed you know the background of the characters. This is not a bad thing. The race is still on and the stakes are even higher.
After surviving the first trial (book 1) Jacq and Orin have to continue on as both are desperate to win the promised boon.
I enjoyed this book. It moved quickly and well - readers get to see how well Authors Luana and Armitage work together to craft an exciting, character and event driven novel.
I look forward to reading more in the series.
I was given an ARC of this book and have chosen to review it.
After surviving the first trial (book 1) Jacq and Orin have to continue on as both are desperate to win the promised boon.
I enjoyed this book. It moved quickly and well - readers get to see how well Authors Luana and Armitage work together to craft an exciting, character and event driven novel.
I look forward to reading more in the series.
I was given an ARC of this book and have chosen to review it.
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