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The Fulfillment Series #2
The Outlanders
There can be no peace without understanding.
With King Jesper dead and Prince Wilhelm mortally wounded, Halfling prince, Nash, and the Fulfilment, Layla, assume the throne of Etherea. They must contend with a new Prophecy Candidate who asserts her position, and Layla is surprised to find her fate intertwined with this challenger. Facing a myriad of choices, Nash and Layla’s decisions affect not only their own futures but that of two kingdoms.
Unbeknownst to the Ethereals or the Vanguards, a slumbering menace stirs in the south, awakened after centuries. The Outlanders, a force shadowed in mystery, sit poised to tip the balance of power, sending ripples of fear throughout both warring kingdoms.
Elder Werrick proved a formidable foe, but Layla may yet meet her match in the monstrous Outlander queen. This mistress of the dark’s plans, rooted in revenge and ancient lore, now threaten the livelihood of all three kingdoms.
Racing against time, Layla travels to the Borderlands—home of the Voltons and Ecclesiastics—to discover as much as she can about the war, the First Ones, and the prophecy itself. Lives teeter in the balance, kingdoms sit on the cusp of ruin, and a beast, greater than any she’s ever faced before, plots a catastrophic attack.
What readers on Amazon and Goodreads are saying:
★★★★★ "Captivating.”
★★★★★ "Highly addictive series!!”
★★★★★ "Exciting Adventure Fantasy!”
★★★★★ "Couldn't put it down! Adventure, intrigue, romance...this series has it all!”
★★★★★ "I love this book!”
★★★★★ "If you're looking for a kickass Fantasy series then this trilogy is what you need!”
★★★★★ "The YA Fantasy you've been looking for!”
★★★★★ "Fantastic second book in a trilogy!”
★★★★★ "A ride of mystery, intrigue, friendship, romance, secrets and lies.”
★★★★★ "Exciting, well-written, and original YA with family drama, love, and action.”
★★★★★ "Something for everyone!”
★★★★★ "Nuances and layer-upon-layer of brilliant intricacies are woven throughout the tale.”
★★★★★ "A tale full of mystery, intrigue, danger, friendships, and love.”
★★★★★ "Action-packed and full of emotion.”
★★★★★ "Mesmerizing tale of a prophecy's future for three separate kingdoms.”
With King Jesper dead and Prince Wilhelm mortally wounded, Halfling prince, Nash, and the Fulfilment, Layla, assume the throne of Etherea. They must contend with a new Prophecy Candidate who asserts her position, and Layla is surprised to find her fate intertwined with this challenger. Facing a myriad of choices, Nash and Layla’s decisions affect not only their own futures but that of two kingdoms.
Unbeknownst to the Ethereals or the Vanguards, a slumbering menace stirs in the south, awakened after centuries. The Outlanders, a force shadowed in mystery, sit poised to tip the balance of power, sending ripples of fear throughout both warring kingdoms.
Elder Werrick proved a formidable foe, but Layla may yet meet her match in the monstrous Outlander queen. This mistress of the dark’s plans, rooted in revenge and ancient lore, now threaten the livelihood of all three kingdoms.
Racing against time, Layla travels to the Borderlands—home of the Voltons and Ecclesiastics—to discover as much as she can about the war, the First Ones, and the prophecy itself. Lives teeter in the balance, kingdoms sit on the cusp of ruin, and a beast, greater than any she’s ever faced before, plots a catastrophic attack.
What readers on Amazon and Goodreads are saying:
★★★★★ "Captivating.”
★★★★★ "Highly addictive series!!”
★★★★★ "Exciting Adventure Fantasy!”
★★★★★ "Couldn't put it down! Adventure, intrigue, romance...this series has it all!”
★★★★★ "I love this book!”
★★★★★ "If you're looking for a kickass Fantasy series then this trilogy is what you need!”
★★★★★ "The YA Fantasy you've been looking for!”
★★★★★ "Fantastic second book in a trilogy!”
★★★★★ "A ride of mystery, intrigue, friendship, romance, secrets and lies.”
★★★★★ "Exciting, well-written, and original YA with family drama, love, and action.”
★★★★★ "Something for everyone!”
★★★★★ "Nuances and layer-upon-layer of brilliant intricacies are woven throughout the tale.”
★★★★★ "A tale full of mystery, intrigue, danger, friendships, and love.”
★★★★★ "Action-packed and full of emotion.”
★★★★★ "Mesmerizing tale of a prophecy's future for three separate kingdoms.”
345 pages, Paperback
First published October 21, 2014
5 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
Erin Rhew
6 books100 followersErin Rhew is an author and fitness trainer. Since she picked up Morris the Moose Goes to School at age four, she has been infatuated with the written word. She went on to work as a grammar and writing tutor in college and is still teased by her family and friends for being a member of the "Grammar Police." In her free time, Erin enjoys acting, running, kickboxing, and, of course, reading and writing.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
February 11, 2016
Note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The Outlanders start right where the first part, The Prophecy, ends. It feels as if you're reading the book in continuation without any break, which in this case, is a good thing, cause really loved the way the book's been written.
I enjoyed this far more than the first as there were some amazing detailing in relation to the awesome world build by the author for this series. It had layers and layers of elements which took the entire experience to the next level.
The new characters that were introduced in this book are so amazing that either you'll love them or completely hate them! I mean, this part evokes such strong emotions that it leaves you crazily craving to know what happens next and wonder "how the hell is everything going to get better!?" The drama added an another layer to this awesome story and the love triangle successfully created a complicated web of suspense (in a good way.)
This is one of those rare instances where the middle book of a trilogy is actually the best part of the story. And I'm happy that I read this book, simply because it is an awesome Fantasy read!
If you're looking for a kickass Fantasy series then this trilogy is what you need!
You can read my review of The Prophecy (The Fulfillment #1) here.
You can also read this review at The Reading Bud .
The Outlanders start right where the first part, The Prophecy, ends. It feels as if you're reading the book in continuation without any break, which in this case, is a good thing, cause really loved the way the book's been written.
I enjoyed this far more than the first as there were some amazing detailing in relation to the awesome world build by the author for this series. It had layers and layers of elements which took the entire experience to the next level.
The new characters that were introduced in this book are so amazing that either you'll love them or completely hate them! I mean, this part evokes such strong emotions that it leaves you crazily craving to know what happens next and wonder "how the hell is everything going to get better!?" The drama added an another layer to this awesome story and the love triangle successfully created a complicated web of suspense (in a good way.)
This is one of those rare instances where the middle book of a trilogy is actually the best part of the story. And I'm happy that I read this book, simply because it is an awesome Fantasy read!
If you're looking for a kickass Fantasy series then this trilogy is what you need!
You can read my review of The Prophecy (The Fulfillment #1) here.
You can also read this review at The Reading Bud .
October 21, 2014
I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced reader copy of this book and sailed through its pages in record time. The Prophecy, the first book in the series ends on a cliffhanger, and The Outlanders picks up right where the other left off. I love it when an author hits the gas from page one, and in this case we are thrown right back into the scene. Even in the ensuing chaos, Ms. Rhew brings the reader up to speed subtly, reminding them of what was happening--in case it had been a while since they read her previous novel. Only it didn’t feel like a recap--something only a truly brilliant author is capable.
This book has nuances and layer-upon-layer of brilliant intricacies woven throughout the tale. There is the love triangle, only it isn’t your typical angst-ridden mamby-pamby fantasy princess torn between two lovers. Our lady, Layla, is tough and fierce, and has had her feelings manipulated and twisted through spells cast by her enemies such that she doesn’t know what is real and what isn’t. The gents she’s torn between are noble and strong, loyal and driven, yet about as opposite as people can be. The ladies who have read Ms. Rhew’s books generally—and passionately—fall into one of two camps: Team Wil or Team Nash.
After having read and loved The Prophecy, I have to say I think The Outlanders is a step up. Ms. Rhew seems to have really hit her literary stride and the story gets even stronger. Our understanding and knowledge of the characters becomes more intimate. We feel even more immersed in a fantastic world created by the power of her imagination. Though it leaves us with a cliffhanger that rivals the first book, the story’s 20th chapter left me emotionally spent and angry. The villain introduced in this book makes the one in the previous book look like Gandhi. This chapter gives you a glimpse into the depravity and depth of this person’s evil. I want to say more, to prattle on and on about the abuse one of my favorite characters was succumbed to at the hand of this antagonist, but I don’t wish spoil it.
Only the most talented of authors can run me through the emotional obstacle course this book does. Happiness, anger, sadness, frustration, anguish, intrigue are all part of the Erin Rhew novel journey.
NOTE: If you have not read The Prophecy, do NOT read this next paragraph. Please skip to the last one.
So, to summarize how things stand at in the first chapter: Wil is dying and a battle is raging all around him. Mia, a woman claiming to be the Fulfillment at the very end of The Prophecy, is manipulating those around her. Her motives are unknown, but what is clear, is that she isn’t who she claims to be. Nash is attempting to run Etherea in his brother’s stead. Vespa has been mentally incapacitated by her father—perhaps permanently. A war between Etherea and Vanguard is ensuing because a rough boy-king, Vance, has assumed the throne. And Layla has no idea which feelings for Nash and Wil are real and which have been manipulated into existence by the evil Elder Werrick. Seems like enough, right? Well, for the average writer perhaps, but for Ms. Rhew it’s not.
In the Outlands a new villain raises its head and overshadows all other problems. This nemesis is evil in a way Elder Werrick can only dream of being. So there is that on top of everything else.
Many answers are revealed, but new questions are created. The twists and turns will have you guessing until the end. Oh, the end…did I mention that this book also ends in a cliffhanger? Sigh.
This book has nuances and layer-upon-layer of brilliant intricacies woven throughout the tale. There is the love triangle, only it isn’t your typical angst-ridden mamby-pamby fantasy princess torn between two lovers. Our lady, Layla, is tough and fierce, and has had her feelings manipulated and twisted through spells cast by her enemies such that she doesn’t know what is real and what isn’t. The gents she’s torn between are noble and strong, loyal and driven, yet about as opposite as people can be. The ladies who have read Ms. Rhew’s books generally—and passionately—fall into one of two camps: Team Wil or Team Nash.
After having read and loved The Prophecy, I have to say I think The Outlanders is a step up. Ms. Rhew seems to have really hit her literary stride and the story gets even stronger. Our understanding and knowledge of the characters becomes more intimate. We feel even more immersed in a fantastic world created by the power of her imagination. Though it leaves us with a cliffhanger that rivals the first book, the story’s 20th chapter left me emotionally spent and angry. The villain introduced in this book makes the one in the previous book look like Gandhi. This chapter gives you a glimpse into the depravity and depth of this person’s evil. I want to say more, to prattle on and on about the abuse one of my favorite characters was succumbed to at the hand of this antagonist, but I don’t wish spoil it.
Only the most talented of authors can run me through the emotional obstacle course this book does. Happiness, anger, sadness, frustration, anguish, intrigue are all part of the Erin Rhew novel journey.
NOTE: If you have not read The Prophecy, do NOT read this next paragraph. Please skip to the last one.
So, to summarize how things stand at in the first chapter: Wil is dying and a battle is raging all around him. Mia, a woman claiming to be the Fulfillment at the very end of The Prophecy, is manipulating those around her. Her motives are unknown, but what is clear, is that she isn’t who she claims to be. Nash is attempting to run Etherea in his brother’s stead. Vespa has been mentally incapacitated by her father—perhaps permanently. A war between Etherea and Vanguard is ensuing because a rough boy-king, Vance, has assumed the throne. And Layla has no idea which feelings for Nash and Wil are real and which have been manipulated into existence by the evil Elder Werrick. Seems like enough, right? Well, for the average writer perhaps, but for Ms. Rhew it’s not.
In the Outlands a new villain raises its head and overshadows all other problems. This nemesis is evil in a way Elder Werrick can only dream of being. So there is that on top of everything else.
Many answers are revealed, but new questions are created. The twists and turns will have you guessing until the end. Oh, the end…did I mention that this book also ends in a cliffhanger? Sigh.
January 29, 2015
You know when you worry a second installment in a trilogy will be a fluff book- worry no more with “The Outlanders”. This is truly a fantastic second book in this incredible series. Rhew takes us on an amazing journey throughout Layla's world where we learn more about the Ecclesiatics, Voltons and even the elusive Outlanders.
Taking us on a ride of mystery, intrigue, friendship, romance, secrets and lies- “The Outlanders” picks up right where “The Prophecy” ends with a war started, new alliances, a seriously injured king, Layla's reunion with Nash and another Fulfillment being presented. Just when you think you understand the characters, more twists in this story pop up. There are friends in peril, unlikely friendships, sibling strife, blossoming romances and unrequited love. Also, we cannot forget the new enemies who make Elder Werrick seem like the Pillsbury Doughboy!
Rhew weaves together a world so carefully that you feel like you are on Layla's journey. As her story grows stronger, Rhew continues her world-building while introducing us to new lands and characters with rich detail. It is great to find a YA book with artistic and beautiful writing coupled with the fast-paced action.
I want to say more but wouldn't want to ruin the twists and surprises that are entwined into this story. It's best if you find them on your own. One last thing--if you think the cliffhanger at the end of “The Prophecy” was a nail-biter, just you wait for the mother-of-all cliffhangers here. I need the next installment NOW!
Taking us on a ride of mystery, intrigue, friendship, romance, secrets and lies- “The Outlanders” picks up right where “The Prophecy” ends with a war started, new alliances, a seriously injured king, Layla's reunion with Nash and another Fulfillment being presented. Just when you think you understand the characters, more twists in this story pop up. There are friends in peril, unlikely friendships, sibling strife, blossoming romances and unrequited love. Also, we cannot forget the new enemies who make Elder Werrick seem like the Pillsbury Doughboy!
Rhew weaves together a world so carefully that you feel like you are on Layla's journey. As her story grows stronger, Rhew continues her world-building while introducing us to new lands and characters with rich detail. It is great to find a YA book with artistic and beautiful writing coupled with the fast-paced action.
I want to say more but wouldn't want to ruin the twists and surprises that are entwined into this story. It's best if you find them on your own. One last thing--if you think the cliffhanger at the end of “The Prophecy” was a nail-biter, just you wait for the mother-of-all cliffhangers here. I need the next installment NOW!
November 3, 2014
The Good
The world building.
Just whenever I thought I was impressed with the world building in The Prophecy, the first book in this series, I'm blown away again by Erin Rhew. The way that she evolves the world in The Outlanders is so amazing. She truly pays attention to detail and rewards the reader with a world that instantly welcomes you in and doesn't let you go!
The storytelling.
Erin is a storyteller above all else. Just like her world buildingsucks invites you in, her writing does too. The flow of The Outlanders made it such a cohesive transition from The Prophecy. I was able to pick right back up where I left off and be consumed by Layla's world.
Layla.
This girl is my type of heroine. There are so many twists and turns, but I loved following those with Layla. She's everything you want in a heroine. Erin does such a brilliant job with all of the characters, but I think Layla really shines.
The length.
At 249 pages, The Outlanders is shorter than most fantasy novels. But I am SO thankful for that. The issue I usually have with fantasy is that it never ends. Books turn into tomes. But Erin is able to write an incredible novel in half the pages. That's remarkable.
The Bad
Bad and Erin Rhew just don't belong in the same sentence.
The In-between
Na-da! It's all good!
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review with no compensation.
The world building.
Just whenever I thought I was impressed with the world building in The Prophecy, the first book in this series, I'm blown away again by Erin Rhew. The way that she evolves the world in The Outlanders is so amazing. She truly pays attention to detail and rewards the reader with a world that instantly welcomes you in and doesn't let you go!
The storytelling.
Erin is a storyteller above all else. Just like her world building
Layla.
This girl is my type of heroine. There are so many twists and turns, but I loved following those with Layla. She's everything you want in a heroine. Erin does such a brilliant job with all of the characters, but I think Layla really shines.
The length.
At 249 pages, The Outlanders is shorter than most fantasy novels. But I am SO thankful for that. The issue I usually have with fantasy is that it never ends. Books turn into tomes. But Erin is able to write an incredible novel in half the pages. That's remarkable.
The Bad
Bad and Erin Rhew just don't belong in the same sentence.
The In-between
Na-da! It's all good!
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review with no compensation.
March 2, 2017
I think that I did what I never do...read volumes 2 and 3 without pause. So, trying to separate the tale is going to be difficult for me.
Layla, and Nash venture out together to save their joint kingdoms. The reason is spelled out in the first chapter which starts from word one from Volume one. The Kingdoms are in disarray. Kings are dead and Kings dethroned. The Prince/King is lying in a stupor. What should all do?
Find out why there is an imposter in their midst. We were introduced to Mia, I suspect a Halfling but Vanguard or Outlander or what? Whatever, she is trouble and this book will have you turning the pages as you jump upon the horse with the duo and seek answers.
This is truly a great adventure Fantasy novel for all ages of teens up.
Layla, and Nash venture out together to save their joint kingdoms. The reason is spelled out in the first chapter which starts from word one from Volume one. The Kingdoms are in disarray. Kings are dead and Kings dethroned. The Prince/King is lying in a stupor. What should all do?
Find out why there is an imposter in their midst. We were introduced to Mia, I suspect a Halfling but Vanguard or Outlander or what? Whatever, she is trouble and this book will have you turning the pages as you jump upon the horse with the duo and seek answers.
This is truly a great adventure Fantasy novel for all ages of teens up.
October 9, 2021
This is part 2 of 3 in this saga and I think is a well thought out and delivered follow on to the first offering. The story is enjoyable with likeable characters that I found myself rooting for but the small mark down is simply a few spelling and grammar errors which are a bugbear of mine when I am reading.
September 27, 2021
I mean even Mia is redeemable though I did see her increased involvement/conflict coming a mile away. The evil Outlander Queen could be a proper Big Bad if I knew more about her AND the Innocent did not so frequently show up whenever it was most convenient....
March 14, 2017
Couldn't put it down! Adventure, intrigue, romance... this series has it all!
As with book 1, The Prophecy, The Outlanders is full of plot twists and unexpected turns which had me turning page after page dying to see what happened next! My heart melts while my stomach drops as I read about Layla and her complicated romance. And I do mean complicated....
The story is full of entertaining adventure and intriguing mystery. I can't wait to find out the fate for all these characters!
As with book 1, The Prophecy, The Outlanders is full of plot twists and unexpected turns which had me turning page after page dying to see what happened next! My heart melts while my stomach drops as I read about Layla and her complicated romance. And I do mean complicated....
The story is full of entertaining adventure and intriguing mystery. I can't wait to find out the fate for all these characters!
November 6, 2014
I got an ARC Copy of The Outlanders, and I'm super stoked about it. If you want to see my review for the first book in the series, The Prophecy, check out said link.
As I said about the first one, Erin is telling a 16 hour DVD set of Lord of the Rings-epic fantasy in the made-for-cable version. I wanted so much more from this book that when I came to the end, I had to say, "Wait, that's it?" This may be par for the course for a young adult epic fantasy, but I still was left wanting more.
We are immediately thrust into where we left off in the previous book. Which is good, because I thought *spoiler* had died already. But no, he pulls through, leaving our love triangle in tact.
We now are faced with a new girl, Mia, who may or may not be the prophecy. She certainly thinks so as she's doing everything in her power to cuddle up to le King. The new girl is definitely hiding something, and it makes Layla pretty darn steamed.
The gang is off on another adventure, heading out to the Outlands, the third kingdom in this land to rescue Point A of our love triangle, Nash, who has been captured by a sometimes-nice-sometimes evil queen. Apparently, all of the queens go a bit crazy, thanks to a cursed bloodline. The queen is interested in either killing, boffing, or marrying Nash (depending on which level of crazy she's in).
We learn more about the history of the three kingdoms, and, as per usual, Erin leaves us with a killer cliffhanger for the next book in the series. Again, when I came to the last page, I was pulling at my iBooks, saying, "Wait, why is there no more?"
Erin definitely has a penchant for the romance and for the cliffhangers, but I would just love to see her slow down and take the time to spin the story instead of thrusting us from one place to another. If she's going to put an irreversible curse or nearly kill a main character, don't resolve that tension with a quick explanation, or else it cheapens the plot twist. I would like to spend some time in these places she's created, and it never feels like enough.
That being said, it's a quick fun read, and I'm interested to see the resolution of the mega-plot-twist that Erin left us with. Three and a half stars!
As I said about the first one, Erin is telling a 16 hour DVD set of Lord of the Rings-epic fantasy in the made-for-cable version. I wanted so much more from this book that when I came to the end, I had to say, "Wait, that's it?" This may be par for the course for a young adult epic fantasy, but I still was left wanting more.
We are immediately thrust into where we left off in the previous book. Which is good, because I thought *spoiler* had died already. But no, he pulls through, leaving our love triangle in tact.
We now are faced with a new girl, Mia, who may or may not be the prophecy. She certainly thinks so as she's doing everything in her power to cuddle up to le King. The new girl is definitely hiding something, and it makes Layla pretty darn steamed.
The gang is off on another adventure, heading out to the Outlands, the third kingdom in this land to rescue Point A of our love triangle, Nash, who has been captured by a sometimes-nice-sometimes evil queen. Apparently, all of the queens go a bit crazy, thanks to a cursed bloodline. The queen is interested in either killing, boffing, or marrying Nash (depending on which level of crazy she's in).
We learn more about the history of the three kingdoms, and, as per usual, Erin leaves us with a killer cliffhanger for the next book in the series. Again, when I came to the last page, I was pulling at my iBooks, saying, "Wait, why is there no more?"
Erin definitely has a penchant for the romance and for the cliffhangers, but I would just love to see her slow down and take the time to spin the story instead of thrusting us from one place to another. If she's going to put an irreversible curse or nearly kill a main character, don't resolve that tension with a quick explanation, or else it cheapens the plot twist. I would like to spend some time in these places she's created, and it never feels like enough.
That being said, it's a quick fun read, and I'm interested to see the resolution of the mega-plot-twist that Erin left us with. Three and a half stars!
October 23, 2015
*Received from the Author in exchange for an honest review*
3.5 STARS
Action-packed and full of emotion, this thrilling sequel will have you quickly turning the pages to find out more! I absolutely love the covers of this series, they truly capture the essence of the novel and the colours are beautiful.
With Will on the brink of death, Nash and Layla must try to contain composure in order to maintain order in their Kingdom. However, with the ever approaching threat of war, Nash must find out the truth about The Outlanders. Though going into the unknown is precarious enough, going into the unknown with no idea as to the powers The Outlanders have is an even larger threat.
Layla has retained her power and empowerment from the first novel, still possessing a strong protective bond with those around her. I enjoyed seeing the progression of romance within the novel, and though there is still a love triangle, Rhew has done a wonderful job to not make it too overpowering. However, the one problem I did have with this novel was the passing comments between Will and Layla. They appeared as though they were meant to be between the two of them but they felt rather dominating and rather frustrating. Although, it is undeniable that they have an adorable relationship, however I do like Nash more!
Straight away Rhew transports us back to the point where The Prophecy left off, with the plot of this novel certainly being full of action and mystery, maintaining your attention throughout. However the pacing I did find to be rather slow, alongside issues being solved rather quick and simply, they felt unrealistic. It was that ending though, I did not see it coming at all! I was pleasantly surprised,
Overall, The Outlanders is action-packed and addictive, but sadly I just did not feel that spark that I did with the first novel. I am very excited for the sequel.
3.5 STARS
Action-packed and full of emotion, this thrilling sequel will have you quickly turning the pages to find out more! I absolutely love the covers of this series, they truly capture the essence of the novel and the colours are beautiful.
With Will on the brink of death, Nash and Layla must try to contain composure in order to maintain order in their Kingdom. However, with the ever approaching threat of war, Nash must find out the truth about The Outlanders. Though going into the unknown is precarious enough, going into the unknown with no idea as to the powers The Outlanders have is an even larger threat.
Layla has retained her power and empowerment from the first novel, still possessing a strong protective bond with those around her. I enjoyed seeing the progression of romance within the novel, and though there is still a love triangle, Rhew has done a wonderful job to not make it too overpowering. However, the one problem I did have with this novel was the passing comments between Will and Layla. They appeared as though they were meant to be between the two of them but they felt rather dominating and rather frustrating. Although, it is undeniable that they have an adorable relationship, however I do like Nash more!
Straight away Rhew transports us back to the point where The Prophecy left off, with the plot of this novel certainly being full of action and mystery, maintaining your attention throughout. However the pacing I did find to be rather slow, alongside issues being solved rather quick and simply, they felt unrealistic. It was that ending though, I did not see it coming at all! I was pleasantly surprised,
Overall, The Outlanders is action-packed and addictive, but sadly I just did not feel that spark that I did with the first novel. I am very excited for the sequel.
February 3, 2015
Psychocat Reads Review of THE OUTLANDERS by Ein Rhew
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
The second book in the series, this book picks up right where the last one ended.
The Characters: The majority of the characters in this book were introduced in book one; however, we do met a couple of new faces. Layla continues to be an interesting and complicated character. While she remains somewhat uncertain about her proclaimed status as the fulfillment, she continues to prove herself a remarkable young woman.
The Relationships: things remain as complicated as ever in the romantic relationship department. Maybe we'll get some resolution there in book three. That being said, the mix of relationships keeps things emotionally interesting and engaging.
The Book as Part of a Series: As a second book in a series, THE OUTLANDERS provide more of the story surrounding the fulfillment and the conflict began the kingdoms. I do wish there had been more. Book two was shorter than the previous one and it really felt like there could have been more meat to it. Grant it, I. Know this is a YA fantasy, so maybe the lighter version of the story is on par with the genre, given the interesting nature of the take being woven for us, I just wish there was more.
On a semi-related note. While I understand where the author chose to end book two, I feel a bit like I was left hanging. This book moved the story along, but at the same time I almost feel like we were left in the middle without getting much of a conclusion. I'm not sure where the next book takes us, so it may ask make sense layer, but it just didn't quite seem like a full book.
That being said, I’m completely engrossed in the story and can't wait for the next book to find out what in the hell is going to happen.
Jen's Final Rating: 4 stars. The story continues to be thoroughly engaging and fun, but I wish there had been more of it in this book.
Psychocat's Final Rating: The crazy feline seems to relate to Cataleen a bit too well.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
The second book in the series, this book picks up right where the last one ended.
The Characters: The majority of the characters in this book were introduced in book one; however, we do met a couple of new faces. Layla continues to be an interesting and complicated character. While she remains somewhat uncertain about her proclaimed status as the fulfillment, she continues to prove herself a remarkable young woman.
The Relationships: things remain as complicated as ever in the romantic relationship department. Maybe we'll get some resolution there in book three. That being said, the mix of relationships keeps things emotionally interesting and engaging.
The Book as Part of a Series: As a second book in a series, THE OUTLANDERS provide more of the story surrounding the fulfillment and the conflict began the kingdoms. I do wish there had been more. Book two was shorter than the previous one and it really felt like there could have been more meat to it. Grant it, I. Know this is a YA fantasy, so maybe the lighter version of the story is on par with the genre, given the interesting nature of the take being woven for us, I just wish there was more.
On a semi-related note. While I understand where the author chose to end book two, I feel a bit like I was left hanging. This book moved the story along, but at the same time I almost feel like we were left in the middle without getting much of a conclusion. I'm not sure where the next book takes us, so it may ask make sense layer, but it just didn't quite seem like a full book.
That being said, I’m completely engrossed in the story and can't wait for the next book to find out what in the hell is going to happen.
Jen's Final Rating: 4 stars. The story continues to be thoroughly engaging and fun, but I wish there had been more of it in this book.
Psychocat's Final Rating: The crazy feline seems to relate to Cataleen a bit too well.
November 14, 2014
I finished book one and was so happy I already had book two uploaded and ready to go. I enjoyed hanging out with the characters in The Prophecy, and was happy to jump in and spend a few more hours with them.
About the book: More complications. New enemies. Higher stakes.
And that's all I'm going to say about the storyline. One complaint: It felt like this book ended between chapters--which is really cruel for a binge reader like me...who obviously has no patience.
I enjoyed the first book more, and was a little disappointed by Wil. (Shame, shame, Wil. You know better.) BUT, *spoiler warning* I was super glad he survived to play a major role in this book. Otherwise the author and I were going to have words. And not very nice ones.
All in all, I suspend judgment until I can consume book 3 and resolve everything in my mind. Final conclusion: Fun revelations in this story. Looking forward to more.
Content warning: One closed-door, inappropriately intimate situation. *glaring at characters*
About the book: More complications. New enemies. Higher stakes.
And that's all I'm going to say about the storyline. One complaint: It felt like this book ended between chapters--which is really cruel for a binge reader like me...who obviously has no patience.
I enjoyed the first book more, and was a little disappointed by Wil. (Shame, shame, Wil. You know better.) BUT, *spoiler warning* I was super glad he survived to play a major role in this book. Otherwise the author and I were going to have words. And not very nice ones.
All in all, I suspend judgment until I can consume book 3 and resolve everything in my mind. Final conclusion: Fun revelations in this story. Looking forward to more.
Content warning: One closed-door, inappropriately intimate situation. *glaring at characters*
April 20, 2016
Erin Rhew you have amazed me yet again through the second book. You have made the story be believable. I can actually see the characters fighting each other and their enemies. You have developed yet again a new meaning and new mysteries for your readers to discover. I mean who could have thought Layla was both an Outsider and Vanguard. She doesn't show that at all! She only shows that she is strong like a Vanguard. How about Nash could we have know that his father was King Rex at all? No we couldn't have because Erin Rhew slowly told us that. I mean what a great way to make a book more enjoyable to read.
So keep following Layla, Nash, and Wil to find out who belongs with Layla and who has another destiny to fulfill.
So keep following Layla, Nash, and Wil to find out who belongs with Layla and who has another destiny to fulfill.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2014
3.5/5*
http://www.freshcoffeeblog.com/2014/1...
"Erin Rhew continues her mesmerizing tale of a prophecy's future for three separate kingdoms in her novel, The Outlanders. This sequel to The Prophecy begins just after Prince Wil was hurt in the final battle. Though this book doesn't sport much battlefield action, readers will be on edge as they hope for everyone's survival."
http://www.freshcoffeeblog.com/2014/1...
"Erin Rhew continues her mesmerizing tale of a prophecy's future for three separate kingdoms in her novel, The Outlanders. This sequel to The Prophecy begins just after Prince Wil was hurt in the final battle. Though this book doesn't sport much battlefield action, readers will be on edge as they hope for everyone's survival."
February 8, 2016
Excellent YA with family drama, love stories, and adventure! Something for everyone! Can't wait to start Book 3. Great series by Erin Rhew!
October 29, 2014
I just want to know when the next book is due! You are torturing me lady!
April 18, 2016
great read..kept me interested...
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