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The Sententia #2
Second Thoughts
The continuing adventures of an ordinary teenage girl with extraordinary mental abilities, perfect for readers who love books and series such as Vampire Academy, Spellbound, and Sweet Peril
Secrets, lies, and looming deaths—all things Lainey Young deals with in a typical day of high school. In her senior year at Northbrook Academy—a New England boarding school where the majority of the students and nearly all the staff are members of the Sententia, a hidden society of the psychically gifted—Lainey has even more to worry about. Things like classes, college, her boyfriend, and, of course, the vision she glimpsed of her impending death. But to her surprise, Lainey finds one worry she can cross off her list, namely Senator Daniel Astor, the leader of the Sententia. After a shocking discovery when they finally meet, Lainey realizes maybe she was wrong to distrust the Senator. She relaxes even further when he seems to accept her refusal to work for him after graduation. But with her secrets mounting and the time to solve them running out, there’s a final enigma Lainey hasn’t yet encountered: Daniel Astor doesn’t take no for an answer. Ever.
Secrets, lies, and looming deaths—all things Lainey Young deals with in a typical day of high school. In her senior year at Northbrook Academy—a New England boarding school where the majority of the students and nearly all the staff are members of the Sententia, a hidden society of the psychically gifted—Lainey has even more to worry about. Things like classes, college, her boyfriend, and, of course, the vision she glimpsed of her impending death. But to her surprise, Lainey finds one worry she can cross off her list, namely Senator Daniel Astor, the leader of the Sententia. After a shocking discovery when they finally meet, Lainey realizes maybe she was wrong to distrust the Senator. She relaxes even further when he seems to accept her refusal to work for him after graduation. But with her secrets mounting and the time to solve them running out, there’s a final enigma Lainey hasn’t yet encountered: Daniel Astor doesn’t take no for an answer. Ever.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2014
10 people are currently reading
675 people want to read
About the author
Cara Bertrand
7 books113 followersCara is a former middle school literacy teacher who now lives in the woods outside Boston with: one awesome husband, two large dogs, one small daughter, and lots of words. LOST IN THOUGHT is her first novel and was one of three finalists for the 2011 Amazon/Penguin Breakthrough Novel Award in the Young Adult category.
Visit her online at www.carabertrand.com or on Twitter @carabertrand
Visit her online at www.carabertrand.com or on Twitter @carabertrand
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 6, 2014
I received this book free though Goodreads First Reads.
I did enjoy this book, although not as much as I might have if I had read the first in the series before this book. Since this was the second book in the series, and I didn't read the first, I was a little lost for the first two or three chapters. It wasn't so bad that I gave up, and I figured most of the stuff out pretty well.
I liked this book because it was different than what I have been reading lately. Even though it was the same genre, it didn't follow the same script some others seem to follow. And thank goodness for that! I also liked that none of the main characters got on my nerves, the ones I didn't like were the ones that were meant to irritate. That's something I can't stand, an annoying main character.
The plot seemed to drag a little, but it didn't seem to have any unnecessary filler. I actually really like this authors writing, very much. Once again, I blame my issues with the plot on the fact that I didn't read the series in order.
Another thing I liked about this book is the characters seemed real. What I mean is, they weren't goodie goodie that didn't do anything wrong. The characters in a certain glittery vampire series, for example, never cuss, never do any underage drinking, etc. That's fine, but it's not very truthful. Kids in the real world do cuss, they do drink underage, they do have sex before they are married. Those YA books that don't have the kids being anything but perfect, well, it get annoying after a while. This book is not about any of those things, but it does lightly include them.
I'm not going to give any spoilers. But the ending will have you waiting for the next book to come out. I already want to know what the heck happens next! It's not a huge cliffhanger, but it leaves you wanting to know what happens. I can't say more without giving something away.
I did enjoy this book, although not as much as I might have if I had read the first in the series before this book. Since this was the second book in the series, and I didn't read the first, I was a little lost for the first two or three chapters. It wasn't so bad that I gave up, and I figured most of the stuff out pretty well.
I liked this book because it was different than what I have been reading lately. Even though it was the same genre, it didn't follow the same script some others seem to follow. And thank goodness for that! I also liked that none of the main characters got on my nerves, the ones I didn't like were the ones that were meant to irritate. That's something I can't stand, an annoying main character.
The plot seemed to drag a little, but it didn't seem to have any unnecessary filler. I actually really like this authors writing, very much. Once again, I blame my issues with the plot on the fact that I didn't read the series in order.
Another thing I liked about this book is the characters seemed real. What I mean is, they weren't goodie goodie that didn't do anything wrong. The characters in a certain glittery vampire series, for example, never cuss, never do any underage drinking, etc. That's fine, but it's not very truthful. Kids in the real world do cuss, they do drink underage, they do have sex before they are married. Those YA books that don't have the kids being anything but perfect, well, it get annoying after a while. This book is not about any of those things, but it does lightly include them.
I'm not going to give any spoilers. But the ending will have you waiting for the next book to come out. I already want to know what the heck happens next! It's not a huge cliffhanger, but it leaves you wanting to know what happens. I can't say more without giving something away.
October 5, 2014
Note: I received an advanced review copy via GoodReads' First Reads program.
Second Thoughts, the second book in Bertrand's Sententia series, covers Lainey's senior year of high school at posh, exclusive Northbrook Academy. She faces many of the usual adolescent dramas--juggling a boyfriend, her studies, and various extracurricular activities; roommate strife; choosing a college--while also continuing to learn about and master the supernatural senses that mark her as one of the Sententia.
Bertrand's sophomore outing is arguably even more compelling than its predecessor, Lost in Thought. The stakes are raised even higher as Lainey struggles to determine who in the secretive Sententia world she can trust. Bertrand handles the concerns of these teenagers and young adults with grace and empathy, and if Lainey comes across as overly reserved or even a bit slow on the uptake on occasion, it fits with her character. Similarly, plot twists abound, and they manage to surprise while also seeming inevitable. I found the book incredibly difficult to put down!
On a more personal note, it meant a lot to me to see queer characters between the covers of Second Thoughts. They're tertiary characters, but even so, it helped the world feel a bit more developed, and helped me feel a bit more at home.
Anyway, I highly recommend Second Thoughts--and the Sententia series as a whole--to anyone interested in smart, well-grounded paranormal YA.
Second Thoughts, the second book in Bertrand's Sententia series, covers Lainey's senior year of high school at posh, exclusive Northbrook Academy. She faces many of the usual adolescent dramas--juggling a boyfriend, her studies, and various extracurricular activities; roommate strife; choosing a college--while also continuing to learn about and master the supernatural senses that mark her as one of the Sententia.
Bertrand's sophomore outing is arguably even more compelling than its predecessor, Lost in Thought. The stakes are raised even higher as Lainey struggles to determine who in the secretive Sententia world she can trust. Bertrand handles the concerns of these teenagers and young adults with grace and empathy, and if Lainey comes across as overly reserved or even a bit slow on the uptake on occasion, it fits with her character. Similarly, plot twists abound, and they manage to surprise while also seeming inevitable. I found the book incredibly difficult to put down!
On a more personal note, it meant a lot to me to see queer characters between the covers of Second Thoughts. They're tertiary characters, but even so, it helped the world feel a bit more developed, and helped me feel a bit more at home.
Anyway, I highly recommend Second Thoughts--and the Sententia series as a whole--to anyone interested in smart, well-grounded paranormal YA.
August 19, 2016
Man, I thought the first book was good. This was even better. So much drama. So intense. This is a quick read that I constantly found myself flipping through the pages to find out what happens next.
Second Thoughts is the second book of the Sentenia series which covers Lainey’s second year of high school at Northbrook. Northbrook is a fancy and exclusive boarding school with many secrets of its own. I strongly recommend reading Lost in Thought and the short story, Afterthought, prior to reading this.
Like many high school seniors, Lainey goes through a lot of drama. From juggling a boyfriend, her academic studies, extracurricular activities, and fighting with her roommate and best friend, trying to decide where to go college all while trying to figure out the new world magical world of the Sentenia.
This sequel was a lot more compelling than Lost in Thought. We learn more of the history of the Sentenia and Lainey discovers there’s more to her powers. Her powers become a lot more interesting as the book progresses. Even though she’s learning more about her powers and how they work, what if it’s the one thing that might be killing her?
Lainey is also trying to figure out who the Sentenia she can trust, especially as she learns bits and pieces of what’s really going on.
Bertrand definitely knows how to keep the reader on their toes. There were so many twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. I couldn’t put it down!
I loved revisiting Lainey and her friends again. The characters are so much more developed and it makes it even more fun. I found myself empathizing with the characters, but there were also times I wanted to reach into the book and smack some common sense into the characters.
Bertrand once again hasn’t ceased to impress me. It’s witty, comical, fun, inspiring, and action-packed. It was overall quite refreshing and very different from your typical young adult novel. I look forward to reading and review the next book in the series. I have to know what happens next!
Oh! And be sure to read the short story, Thoughts Point to You, after finishing and before Tangled Thoughts. The short stories include scenes that pertain to the books and help the reader understand what the characters refer to in the books themselves. They also include short outtakes or scenes that weren’t included in the books. For example, we see the day Carter and Lainey first met through Carter’s eyes.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Second Thoughts is the second book of the Sentenia series which covers Lainey’s second year of high school at Northbrook. Northbrook is a fancy and exclusive boarding school with many secrets of its own. I strongly recommend reading Lost in Thought and the short story, Afterthought, prior to reading this.
Like many high school seniors, Lainey goes through a lot of drama. From juggling a boyfriend, her academic studies, extracurricular activities, and fighting with her roommate and best friend, trying to decide where to go college all while trying to figure out the new world magical world of the Sentenia.
This sequel was a lot more compelling than Lost in Thought. We learn more of the history of the Sentenia and Lainey discovers there’s more to her powers. Her powers become a lot more interesting as the book progresses. Even though she’s learning more about her powers and how they work, what if it’s the one thing that might be killing her?
Lainey is also trying to figure out who the Sentenia she can trust, especially as she learns bits and pieces of what’s really going on.
Bertrand definitely knows how to keep the reader on their toes. There were so many twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. I couldn’t put it down!
I loved revisiting Lainey and her friends again. The characters are so much more developed and it makes it even more fun. I found myself empathizing with the characters, but there were also times I wanted to reach into the book and smack some common sense into the characters.
Bertrand once again hasn’t ceased to impress me. It’s witty, comical, fun, inspiring, and action-packed. It was overall quite refreshing and very different from your typical young adult novel. I look forward to reading and review the next book in the series. I have to know what happens next!
Oh! And be sure to read the short story, Thoughts Point to You, after finishing and before Tangled Thoughts. The short stories include scenes that pertain to the books and help the reader understand what the characters refer to in the books themselves. They also include short outtakes or scenes that weren’t included in the books. For example, we see the day Carter and Lainey first met through Carter’s eyes.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 10, 2014
Check out my full review at: http://iturnthepages.blogspot.com/201...
I really enjoyed reading this book!
Cara Bertrand has a special way of creating a story that ALL readers will relate to. This series follows Lainey, a confused, high school senior who has a special gift. Her kind is call the Setentia, and the people within in have all of the God given gifts you could ever imagine. Cupids have the ability to detect love, Sirens can secretly make a person obey every command, with enough persuasion. However, Lainey is special. She has TWO gifts, with one of them being extremely rare. She is a Diviner, but she also possesses the Hangman's Gift, which means not only can she see "visions" of the future just by her sense of touch, Lainey can also be a murderer, and a savior. The Hangman's Gift allows Lainey to take the life out of anyone that she touches, when she desires to. Her gifts make her a savior, after she rescues Jill from a death that Lainey caused. She is the rarest of the Sententia, and with that comes great responsibility and honor.
But there is a catch. Her gifts might just end up killing her.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. As soon as a reader opens the novel, Lainey's world takes shape, and the reader is sent on a fantastic adventure.
Bertrand has an exquisite writing style that is about as unique as her storyline. Her words bring her characters to life, and by doing so, establish a connection between not only the reader and the characters, but the author. There is nothing more valuable that a novel can have. I could not have asked for a better story.
I received an Advanced Review Copy of this novel from the Goodreads Giveaway promotion.
I really enjoyed reading this book!
Cara Bertrand has a special way of creating a story that ALL readers will relate to. This series follows Lainey, a confused, high school senior who has a special gift. Her kind is call the Setentia, and the people within in have all of the God given gifts you could ever imagine. Cupids have the ability to detect love, Sirens can secretly make a person obey every command, with enough persuasion. However, Lainey is special. She has TWO gifts, with one of them being extremely rare. She is a Diviner, but she also possesses the Hangman's Gift, which means not only can she see "visions" of the future just by her sense of touch, Lainey can also be a murderer, and a savior. The Hangman's Gift allows Lainey to take the life out of anyone that she touches, when she desires to. Her gifts make her a savior, after she rescues Jill from a death that Lainey caused. She is the rarest of the Sententia, and with that comes great responsibility and honor.
But there is a catch. Her gifts might just end up killing her.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. As soon as a reader opens the novel, Lainey's world takes shape, and the reader is sent on a fantastic adventure.
Bertrand has an exquisite writing style that is about as unique as her storyline. Her words bring her characters to life, and by doing so, establish a connection between not only the reader and the characters, but the author. There is nothing more valuable that a novel can have. I could not have asked for a better story.
I received an Advanced Review Copy of this novel from the Goodreads Giveaway promotion.
August 3, 2014
DISCLAIMER: I was given a free copy of this book through a Goodreads First Reads.
This review is going to be fairly short summary of my actual review. A more detailed review is to be released closer to the book's release date.
First off, I cannot thank the author enough for sending me this book! It was absolutely magnificent. Riveting and captivating, Second thoughts was simply fantastic. There's not much that I can say about this brilliant book without giving something away, except that the writing was phenomenal!
I found Second Thoughts to be very refreshing, considering many books of it's genre follow the same plot line. It was different, I didn't feel like I was reading the same story with different characters, and a different setting, like I sometimes do with many books in it's genre.
What I found particularly interesting were the characters, they were better-developed than most. They seemed real, in a sense that they acted real. Many times, Young Adult characters aren't actually portrayed as actual teenagers, they're more like the censored version of teens, and I like that the author has such a great understanding of teens that she can write them correctly. It was very refreshing. Usually there are at least one or two characters that I can't tolerate because they're so annoying, but I actually loved everyone here. I think Lainey,in particular, was interesting. She's different that your average heroine or protagonist in general.
I really wish I could say more now, but I don't want to say anything else until the release day comes a little closer.
My Final Verdict: Read It! The series is action-packed, witty, and overall, very refreshing. I can't wait for book three!
This review is going to be fairly short summary of my actual review. A more detailed review is to be released closer to the book's release date.
First off, I cannot thank the author enough for sending me this book! It was absolutely magnificent. Riveting and captivating, Second thoughts was simply fantastic. There's not much that I can say about this brilliant book without giving something away, except that the writing was phenomenal!
I found Second Thoughts to be very refreshing, considering many books of it's genre follow the same plot line. It was different, I didn't feel like I was reading the same story with different characters, and a different setting, like I sometimes do with many books in it's genre.
What I found particularly interesting were the characters, they were better-developed than most. They seemed real, in a sense that they acted real. Many times, Young Adult characters aren't actually portrayed as actual teenagers, they're more like the censored version of teens, and I like that the author has such a great understanding of teens that she can write them correctly. It was very refreshing. Usually there are at least one or two characters that I can't tolerate because they're so annoying, but I actually loved everyone here. I think Lainey,in particular, was interesting. She's different that your average heroine or protagonist in general.
I really wish I could say more now, but I don't want to say anything else until the release day comes a little closer.
My Final Verdict: Read It! The series is action-packed, witty, and overall, very refreshing. I can't wait for book three!
Want to read
July 29, 2014I received this ARC via a Goodreads First Reads Giveaway. A big thank you to Cara Bertrand for all the goodies!! :D
December 21, 2018
Second Thoughts, The Sententia Book 2 by Cara Bertrand is a thrilling paranormal romance. Lainey Young, the main character, is strong and smart. She also has too many secrets to keep. Being Sententia is all about discretion. While learning more about her gift, she's desperately trying to stay alive. This novel will keep you up ‘til the early morning hours. The twists and turns and revelations Lainey lives with would give anyone whiplash but that's what makes this installment so great. I recommend this YA Paranormal Series and believe it will be a hit for its intended audience. I can't wait for the next book!
February 28, 2021
Such a fun book!😄 love Lainey and Carter still. Great plot twists too. Excited to read the ending. 😊
November 26, 2014
Second Thoughts is a novel I’ve been waiting years for, so my anticipation was quite high when I finally got my grubby little hands on it. The best way to discuss this book is to talk about the entire Sententia series. While Second Thoughts could be read as a standalone, I think it is infinitively better and more powerful as part of the series.
I was introduced to the first book, Lost in Thought—now published by Luminus books—as an indie novel. I was going through a period of looking at different books on-line and checking out the previews. Just one paragraph into it and I was hooked. I devoured the book and thanks to the change in publishing status waited an extra long time to read the second installation. It's worth the wait.
When Second Thoughts finally downloaded onto my Kindle I may have jumped, squealed, and giggled like a teenager. I worried that the novel wouldn’t live up to the hype I'd created. And early on there were times my worry became real as I struggled to get back into the world after such a long lapse. There is not a lot of recap done, therefore I had to remember not only characters and plot but also the paranormal factoids that make up the Sententia world. I do recommend a new comer read Lost in Thought first. A few chapters was all it took to rope me in, however, and once the “shocking discovery” about Senator Aster was revealed I was hooked.
Those issues aside, I had a hard time putting this novel down. Second Thoughts follows seventeen-year-old Lainey during her senior year at Northbrook Academy, a fictional boarding school set in northern Massachusetts. Lainey is plagued by a vision (cliff hanger from the previous novel) that her boyfriend, Carter, will kill her. If that’s not enough for one person to deal with, she also wrestles with where to go to college (should she live that long) and how to handle her interactions with the governing society for the Sententia.
Throughout the book the tension builds as Lainey struggles with mounting secrets, secrets only she knows. Instead of sharing she keeps them hidden, searching for the answers on her own. I willed her to come clean, even as I recognized her reasons for keeping things quiet were valid. Mostly I commiserated with her and her journey.
The novel showcases a lively supporting cast of characters. Lainey’s roommate Amy is a standout providing a lot of laughs, drama, and heart.
As a hopeless romantic one of the things I love most is the relationship between Lainey and Carter. They truly care for one another and represent young love at its finest. (I married my own high school sweetheart, so I’m certainly one for believing young love can be true and “the one” can come at any age.)
My desire here is not to give anything away, but I can’t talk about this novel without some mention of the bittersweet end. I’ve thought it over and while I would've liked a happier ending for the main character, what happened was necessary. It was truthful to growing up, to the growing pains and learning experiences we all collect along the way. I’m holding out hope for an ultimate happy ending when the series comes to a close (I am told there are more books coming, keep an eye on http://www.thesententia.com/), and you can bet I’ll be jumping up and down like a school girl again when the next one comes along.
Ultimately I recommend this novel (and series) to just about anyone. If you like coming of age stories, paranormal elements, and romance, this will speak to you.
*Review originally posted on YA/NA Sisterhood blog*
I was introduced to the first book, Lost in Thought—now published by Luminus books—as an indie novel. I was going through a period of looking at different books on-line and checking out the previews. Just one paragraph into it and I was hooked. I devoured the book and thanks to the change in publishing status waited an extra long time to read the second installation. It's worth the wait.
When Second Thoughts finally downloaded onto my Kindle I may have jumped, squealed, and giggled like a teenager. I worried that the novel wouldn’t live up to the hype I'd created. And early on there were times my worry became real as I struggled to get back into the world after such a long lapse. There is not a lot of recap done, therefore I had to remember not only characters and plot but also the paranormal factoids that make up the Sententia world. I do recommend a new comer read Lost in Thought first. A few chapters was all it took to rope me in, however, and once the “shocking discovery” about Senator Aster was revealed I was hooked.
Those issues aside, I had a hard time putting this novel down. Second Thoughts follows seventeen-year-old Lainey during her senior year at Northbrook Academy, a fictional boarding school set in northern Massachusetts. Lainey is plagued by a vision (cliff hanger from the previous novel) that her boyfriend, Carter, will kill her. If that’s not enough for one person to deal with, she also wrestles with where to go to college (should she live that long) and how to handle her interactions with the governing society for the Sententia.
Throughout the book the tension builds as Lainey struggles with mounting secrets, secrets only she knows. Instead of sharing she keeps them hidden, searching for the answers on her own. I willed her to come clean, even as I recognized her reasons for keeping things quiet were valid. Mostly I commiserated with her and her journey.
The novel showcases a lively supporting cast of characters. Lainey’s roommate Amy is a standout providing a lot of laughs, drama, and heart.
As a hopeless romantic one of the things I love most is the relationship between Lainey and Carter. They truly care for one another and represent young love at its finest. (I married my own high school sweetheart, so I’m certainly one for believing young love can be true and “the one” can come at any age.)
My desire here is not to give anything away, but I can’t talk about this novel without some mention of the bittersweet end. I’ve thought it over and while I would've liked a happier ending for the main character, what happened was necessary. It was truthful to growing up, to the growing pains and learning experiences we all collect along the way. I’m holding out hope for an ultimate happy ending when the series comes to a close (I am told there are more books coming, keep an eye on http://www.thesententia.com/), and you can bet I’ll be jumping up and down like a school girl again when the next one comes along.
Ultimately I recommend this novel (and series) to just about anyone. If you like coming of age stories, paranormal elements, and romance, this will speak to you.
*Review originally posted on YA/NA Sisterhood blog*
August 23, 2016
Lainey has had the vision of her impending death at her boyfriends hands looming over her for the last few months. She has not told anyone, but she can’t shake the fear and the uncertainty of what and when it will happen. Add that stress on to her senior year of high school, friend drama, applying to college, understanding her dark powers and her job as a mentor for the younger students. Lainey does not know for certain what the future holds, but she fears that it will not end well for her.
I did not realize how much I missed this series until I started reading the second book. I read book 1 years ago and I really enjoyed it, forcing (aka recommending) it to my friends to read so I would have people to discuss it with as well as just sharing the love. When I picked up book 2, regardless of the time that passed, it was so easy to get lost in the pages. The author did do just enough of a backtrack for the parts that I was slightly fuzzy on to become clear, but for the most part the book picks up a few months after the first ended. This is not a standalone, so please do yourself a favor and read book one first.
I am a huge fan of Lainey, and at first I was not 100% sure of why exactly. After pondering it, I realized that it is because she seems so mature. There is none of this teen angst and drama found in most teen books, no love triangles. Nope, instead, Lainey thinks and responds in a reasonable fashion in almost every situation, regardless of the drama that others are trying to pull her into. She is not forced into anything she doesn’t want just to please people, and she knows who she is and what her boundaries are. She even handles her potential death with dignity and the idea to enjoy her time left instead of turning into a stress-case. If she was a real person, I would like to think that we would be friends. My biggest issue with her (and probably the book in general) was the lack of communication and secret keeping. It never ends well to keep a big secret about oh hmm, let’s see, someone’s murder or a potential death. I wanted to shake the secrets out of her because I knew it would blow up in her face. I loved Amy and her and Lainey's relationship, the good and the bad, and I am glad what played out here.
I am so glad that I was given an opportunity to get my hands on this book and I can’t wait to read more in this series/world, as well as by this author. The pages flew by in such a short time frame because I could not put the book down. The ending of this book was absolutely heartbreaking, and I am currently devastated...I don’t know what will happen next, but I can’t wait to find out.
I received this title from the author in return for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
I did not realize how much I missed this series until I started reading the second book. I read book 1 years ago and I really enjoyed it, forcing (aka recommending) it to my friends to read so I would have people to discuss it with as well as just sharing the love. When I picked up book 2, regardless of the time that passed, it was so easy to get lost in the pages. The author did do just enough of a backtrack for the parts that I was slightly fuzzy on to become clear, but for the most part the book picks up a few months after the first ended. This is not a standalone, so please do yourself a favor and read book one first.
I am a huge fan of Lainey, and at first I was not 100% sure of why exactly. After pondering it, I realized that it is because she seems so mature. There is none of this teen angst and drama found in most teen books, no love triangles. Nope, instead, Lainey thinks and responds in a reasonable fashion in almost every situation, regardless of the drama that others are trying to pull her into. She is not forced into anything she doesn’t want just to please people, and she knows who she is and what her boundaries are. She even handles her potential death with dignity and the idea to enjoy her time left instead of turning into a stress-case. If she was a real person, I would like to think that we would be friends. My biggest issue with her (and probably the book in general) was the lack of communication and secret keeping. It never ends well to keep a big secret about oh hmm, let’s see, someone’s murder or a potential death. I wanted to shake the secrets out of her because I knew it would blow up in her face. I loved Amy and her and Lainey's relationship, the good and the bad, and I am glad what played out here.
I am so glad that I was given an opportunity to get my hands on this book and I can’t wait to read more in this series/world, as well as by this author. The pages flew by in such a short time frame because I could not put the book down. The ending of this book was absolutely heartbreaking, and I am currently devastated...I don’t know what will happen next, but I can’t wait to find out.
I received this title from the author in return for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
December 7, 2014
Lainey is starting her senior year at Northbrook Academy. Amy has redecorated the dorm room and so far the year is going smoothly. Lainey finally meets Senator Dan Astor and is surprised he is a split image of her dad. She feels bad about Jill and Astor claims that they won't be seeing Jill anytime soon due to Jill losing her Sententia gift.
Lainey has already found out that she is a Grim Diviner and a Hangman but when she finds out more about her heritage, she is shocked. Dan wants Lainey to be the assassin-in-residence after she graduates from the academy. He wants her to join the Perceptum and to carry out the Marwood burden. She is not so sure about joining the Perceptum and carrying out the task that literally kills. Speaking about killing, Lainey actually foresees herself dying in visions. When and where it happens isn't clear but Lainey is trying to figure out how to avoid her death. And somehow Dan is responsible for this vision.
Dan has secrets that no one knows about until Lainey stumbles upon things that should be left in the closet. She needs to save herself before graduation or end up dead. Dan doesn't like "No" for an answer. He has clearly been lying to Lainey about him not using his gift. He uses other people like pawns to carry out his dirty work while he stands on the sidelines watching. However, Lainey has another Sententia gift that sparked this year. Dan does not know about it and the gift saves her life.
The novel kept me on the edge of my seat. There was so much going on in this installment of The Sententia series. I love it even more than Lost in Thought. Lainey is a strong woman. There are a lot of obstacles that she needs to face and she handles them quite nicely. I love how she is proactive and is very protective of those she loves.
Of course, Alexis is still butting heads with Lainey during their senior year but what makes it worse is that Alexis' cousin Mandi just started at the Academy and is stirring up trouble. And this time, Alexis is not behind the boyfriend snatching. Mandi has an agenda of her own and Lainey is the target but through other means. Mandi does not attack Carter.
I love how Cara Bertrand starts the novel with Carter and Lainey at the shooting range and how the second to last scene in the book also happens to be at the shooting range. There is lovely foreshadowing happening in this book. Second Thoughts is part mystery, part romance and part coming of age story. I highly recommend this book.
I seriously had some tears for the ending of Second Thoughts. It was a tough choice Lainey had to make but she had to do what was best. Let's see where Bertrand takes us in Sententia book #3.
Lainey has already found out that she is a Grim Diviner and a Hangman but when she finds out more about her heritage, she is shocked. Dan wants Lainey to be the assassin-in-residence after she graduates from the academy. He wants her to join the Perceptum and to carry out the Marwood burden. She is not so sure about joining the Perceptum and carrying out the task that literally kills. Speaking about killing, Lainey actually foresees herself dying in visions. When and where it happens isn't clear but Lainey is trying to figure out how to avoid her death. And somehow Dan is responsible for this vision.
Dan has secrets that no one knows about until Lainey stumbles upon things that should be left in the closet. She needs to save herself before graduation or end up dead. Dan doesn't like "No" for an answer. He has clearly been lying to Lainey about him not using his gift. He uses other people like pawns to carry out his dirty work while he stands on the sidelines watching. However, Lainey has another Sententia gift that sparked this year. Dan does not know about it and the gift saves her life.
The novel kept me on the edge of my seat. There was so much going on in this installment of The Sententia series. I love it even more than Lost in Thought. Lainey is a strong woman. There are a lot of obstacles that she needs to face and she handles them quite nicely. I love how she is proactive and is very protective of those she loves.
Of course, Alexis is still butting heads with Lainey during their senior year but what makes it worse is that Alexis' cousin Mandi just started at the Academy and is stirring up trouble. And this time, Alexis is not behind the boyfriend snatching. Mandi has an agenda of her own and Lainey is the target but through other means. Mandi does not attack Carter.
I love how Cara Bertrand starts the novel with Carter and Lainey at the shooting range and how the second to last scene in the book also happens to be at the shooting range. There is lovely foreshadowing happening in this book. Second Thoughts is part mystery, part romance and part coming of age story. I highly recommend this book.
I seriously had some tears for the ending of Second Thoughts. It was a tough choice Lainey had to make but she had to do what was best. Let's see where Bertrand takes us in Sententia book #3.
September 17, 2014
In this sequel to Lost In Thought, young Lainey is still trying to figure out who she is and what she is capable of all while dealing with the usual issues any normal teenage girl has to deal with. Schoolwork, her relationship with Carter, a disturbing vision and what she will do after graduation. The leader of The Sententia, Senator Astor, want's Lainey to come work for him, and he seems to take it in stride when she refuses. It wouldn't be a day in the life of Lainey though, if anything were as it seems. Secrets and lies surround The Sententia, and trying to uncover them just might get Lainey killed, that is if her gifts don't first.
I liked learning more about the different gifts that each person possessed. Cupids can sense love, Sirens can control with enough push and Lainey, well she is an enigma that is more powerful than just about anyone. We already know she has the gift of Divination and the Hangman's gift which affords here the power to either take or give life, but what if there is something else bouncing around inside Lainey's body? Astor is not the only one that is keeping secrets.
The world that Bertrand has created in this series is descriptive, vivid and imaginative. It was refreshing to read a heroine that didn't have it all figured out. Lainey is smart and gifted, but she is young and inexperienced as well. She has never seen her own death in a vision, and now she is determined to do whatever it takes to stop the vision from becoming a reality. But can she make the sacrifice she has to make, in order to stay alive? Can she live with the consequences of her decision?
Although this book is categorized as YA, I think it's safe to say it's a story for all ages. The back drop is a secret society made up of people with rare talents and gifts, led by a man that will stop at nothing to get what he wants, including murder. The scene is in a high school setting with the drama and angst you'd expect from the age group, but it's not overly dramatic, angsty or weighed down. These teenagers face the same struggles the boy next door would face. Homework, dating, drama and rumors. They're just a little more colorful with how they react to these daily problems. And the romance between Lainey and Carter is so sweet, it just makes me smile.
This is just a great YA Paranormal read. I must warn, there is a mother of a cliff hanger here, the anticipation for the third book just might kill me! I give this one 5 stars (*****) but I recommend reading the books in order or you'll be really confused with the events in this book.
I received a copy of this book from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I liked learning more about the different gifts that each person possessed. Cupids can sense love, Sirens can control with enough push and Lainey, well she is an enigma that is more powerful than just about anyone. We already know she has the gift of Divination and the Hangman's gift which affords here the power to either take or give life, but what if there is something else bouncing around inside Lainey's body? Astor is not the only one that is keeping secrets.
The world that Bertrand has created in this series is descriptive, vivid and imaginative. It was refreshing to read a heroine that didn't have it all figured out. Lainey is smart and gifted, but she is young and inexperienced as well. She has never seen her own death in a vision, and now she is determined to do whatever it takes to stop the vision from becoming a reality. But can she make the sacrifice she has to make, in order to stay alive? Can she live with the consequences of her decision?
Although this book is categorized as YA, I think it's safe to say it's a story for all ages. The back drop is a secret society made up of people with rare talents and gifts, led by a man that will stop at nothing to get what he wants, including murder. The scene is in a high school setting with the drama and angst you'd expect from the age group, but it's not overly dramatic, angsty or weighed down. These teenagers face the same struggles the boy next door would face. Homework, dating, drama and rumors. They're just a little more colorful with how they react to these daily problems. And the romance between Lainey and Carter is so sweet, it just makes me smile.
This is just a great YA Paranormal read. I must warn, there is a mother of a cliff hanger here, the anticipation for the third book just might kill me! I give this one 5 stars (*****) but I recommend reading the books in order or you'll be really confused with the events in this book.
I received a copy of this book from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2014
This has to be one of the most exciting Paranormal Romances to be released in a long time. Unique, filled with adventure, romance, heartache and many twists and turns, I loved everything about this read. Compared to some of the greatest YA PNR to ever hit the shelves, this book, for me, reminded me in many ways of The Seraphina Parrish Trilogy.
Book one ended with such a cliffhanger and I could not wait to climb right back into the action. Would her vision really come true, could Carter really do something like that? I was enthralled and couldn't put this book down for a second. Of course, other than the threat of her own demise looming over Lainey, she had plenty of other obstacles to get over. Although gifted with a very rare ability, she was still very much a normal girl who had to face normal girl problems. Add to that all the drama with senator Astor and I'm not sure how Lainey managed to get through it all.
The ending to this book was not exactly a cliffhanger but it was very surprising. I didn't quite foresee the events that took place at the very end, and even though I could understand by Lainey made the choices she made, it still hurt my heart because it wasn't quite the ending I was hoping for. I can only pray that there will be a third book and that everything will work out for these amazing characters.
This was a great read that flowed right off the pages. I think readers will be delighted with the magical qualities this book has to offer. A superb read from cover to cover.
October 2, 2014
Lainey is in a high school for teenagers with all kinds of abilities called the Sentenia. But Lainey is the rarest of the rare, she has two gifts and one of them gives her power over who can live or die. The leader of the Sentenia, Daniel Astor wants her to work for him. When she refuses it seems like there is not going to be any trouble for her.
But there are secrets that are going to drag Lainey down, if her powers don’t kill her in the mean time. Also, Daniel Astor is not going to take no for an answer. If high school wasn’t hard enough, having killer powers and a power hungry leader is not going to make life easy for Lainey.
I have to admit that I have not read Lost in Thought. I was a little lost for some things but I did catch up. I really liked this story, all the characters were believable and the setting was well described. It feels like you are back in high school but with an extra twist. Lainey is a great character, tough and strong even when she still has no idea what special powers she has.
I will say that I felt the pace of the book was a little slower, but it’s not bad. There are a lot of things going on and a lot of development. It works for this book.
This is a great story that will appeal to anyone whether young adult, teen, or adult. I recommend reading Lost in Thought. I think you will get into Second Thoughts a lot easier. But this is one book that I think you should add to your library.
But there are secrets that are going to drag Lainey down, if her powers don’t kill her in the mean time. Also, Daniel Astor is not going to take no for an answer. If high school wasn’t hard enough, having killer powers and a power hungry leader is not going to make life easy for Lainey.
I have to admit that I have not read Lost in Thought. I was a little lost for some things but I did catch up. I really liked this story, all the characters were believable and the setting was well described. It feels like you are back in high school but with an extra twist. Lainey is a great character, tough and strong even when she still has no idea what special powers she has.
I will say that I felt the pace of the book was a little slower, but it’s not bad. There are a lot of things going on and a lot of development. It works for this book.
This is a great story that will appeal to anyone whether young adult, teen, or adult. I recommend reading Lost in Thought. I think you will get into Second Thoughts a lot easier. But this is one book that I think you should add to your library.
July 29, 2016
Phew! Where do I even start? First of all if you haven't read book one in the series this review will definitely contain spoilers!
Lainey has had a lot on her plate the last year. Coming to a new school and learning the real reason behind her migraines and the crazy ability she seems to have has given her a sense of clarity and made it to where she can finally understand who she is, but it has also put her into a world of secrecy and lies to those she cares about most.
And it seems that the deeper into the Sententia world she gets the more secrets she has to keep especially when it seems that someone is working against Laniey to ruin her friendships and relationship.
Will she be able to uncover everything in time to save herself from the vision she had or will the one she cares about most really be the one to kill her?
This book had a wide range of emotions for me all of them intense. Lainey has learned so much about herself in such a short amount of time and she has matured even more. I truly enjoy seeing her growing up and discovering and uncovering secrets as well as finding new ways to use her abilities.
As intense as this book was I'm definitely excited to see more of where things are going with this series!
Lainey has had a lot on her plate the last year. Coming to a new school and learning the real reason behind her migraines and the crazy ability she seems to have has given her a sense of clarity and made it to where she can finally understand who she is, but it has also put her into a world of secrecy and lies to those she cares about most.
And it seems that the deeper into the Sententia world she gets the more secrets she has to keep especially when it seems that someone is working against Laniey to ruin her friendships and relationship.
Will she be able to uncover everything in time to save herself from the vision she had or will the one she cares about most really be the one to kill her?
This book had a wide range of emotions for me all of them intense. Lainey has learned so much about herself in such a short amount of time and she has matured even more. I truly enjoy seeing her growing up and discovering and uncovering secrets as well as finding new ways to use her abilities.
As intense as this book was I'm definitely excited to see more of where things are going with this series!
September 12, 2014
I really enjoyed Second Thoughts although at first it was a little confusing because I hadn't read the first book in the series. Once I started getting the GIST of the first book, I started to appreciate the lifelike characters.
In most other books, after the main character learns that they're special in some way, they freak out in about 4 chapters-half the book at most-and then they're done and start saving the world. If you really think about it, you'd probably panic for a longer duration of time-I know I certainly would if I discovered that I was half angel. But finally, Cara Bertrand gives us someone who is still trying to figure out what to do in the second book. *Gasp* It's like unheard of in the literary world now. A character trying to figure out what the heck is going on with herself.
As for the other characters, reading about them felt like I was reading about my own friends. Ms. Bertrand is just that good at creating actual teens on paper :)
Anyone who's a fan of the Sweet Peril or Spellbound have to read this. I would know since I loved those series both!
In most other books, after the main character learns that they're special in some way, they freak out in about 4 chapters-half the book at most-and then they're done and start saving the world. If you really think about it, you'd probably panic for a longer duration of time-I know I certainly would if I discovered that I was half angel. But finally, Cara Bertrand gives us someone who is still trying to figure out what to do in the second book. *Gasp* It's like unheard of in the literary world now. A character trying to figure out what the heck is going on with herself.
As for the other characters, reading about them felt like I was reading about my own friends. Ms. Bertrand is just that good at creating actual teens on paper :)
Anyone who's a fan of the Sweet Peril or Spellbound have to read this. I would know since I loved those series both!
September 3, 2016
Second Thoughts is the second book in the Sententia series and tells the story of Lainey’s senior year of high school. Most girls would be excited for the future, for Lainey the future is unsure. She can get into any college she wants, but it is her talents that worry her. There are decisions to be made on what her future should be and they are not easy or welcome choices.
I love Carter and Lainey’s relationship. It is on point to the world of high school relationships. The sneaked meetings, the breaking the rules, the falling hard and fast, and the turbulent feelings are all experiences that most high schoolers experience. I liked that there were secrets, hurt feelings, and great conversations. They understood each other and went out of their way to protect each other. I look forward to seeing what happens between them and if they can overcome the future yet to come.
This is a series that does need to be read in order and I can’t wait to read book three, Tangled Thoughts.
I love Carter and Lainey’s relationship. It is on point to the world of high school relationships. The sneaked meetings, the breaking the rules, the falling hard and fast, and the turbulent feelings are all experiences that most high schoolers experience. I liked that there were secrets, hurt feelings, and great conversations. They understood each other and went out of their way to protect each other. I look forward to seeing what happens between them and if they can overcome the future yet to come.
This is a series that does need to be read in order and I can’t wait to read book three, Tangled Thoughts.
July 5, 2016
Cara is a friend of mine, but I wanted to post my thoughts on this anyway.
I have nothing bad to say about this book. It was everything I hoped it would be in a sequel, plus some. Cara has a gift that is hard to deny. She can grab your emotions and steer them in any direction she wants with her written words, and wow does this book ever steer them. I laughed, cried, grew angry, and was generally upset at the end. Truth is, if you're the type who runs from books that don't have fairy tail happy endings, you'll probably want to steer clear of this. That said, the ending was perfect, in my opinion, and though is wasn't a happy ending in the traditional sense, I got the distinct impression that ending it any other way would have felt cheep, or fake. It was genuine, and accurately reflected the world that Lainey, the protagonist, was experiencing.
Overall, I loved it, and immediately picked up the third in the series.
I have nothing bad to say about this book. It was everything I hoped it would be in a sequel, plus some. Cara has a gift that is hard to deny. She can grab your emotions and steer them in any direction she wants with her written words, and wow does this book ever steer them. I laughed, cried, grew angry, and was generally upset at the end. Truth is, if you're the type who runs from books that don't have fairy tail happy endings, you'll probably want to steer clear of this. That said, the ending was perfect, in my opinion, and though is wasn't a happy ending in the traditional sense, I got the distinct impression that ending it any other way would have felt cheep, or fake. It was genuine, and accurately reflected the world that Lainey, the protagonist, was experiencing.
Overall, I loved it, and immediately picked up the third in the series.
August 1, 2016
*received an ARC from Novel Publicity in exchange for an honest review*
4.5 Rating. This was so good! A little annoying with all the secrecy but that's the drama aspect, so I kept my opinion to myself while being immersed in the whole experience. I love how special the author made Lainey's senior year with her friends, and how sweet her relationship with Carter was. Oh, especially how she slightly shifted my vision of Carter, who was turning twenty, and how their lives as kids were forever over now that college was their next step in life. It's just so cool feeling a shift like that as a reader.
There was serious suspense in this but the bad guy was a bit obvious, though the 'why's' of things kept me interested. I loved the personality changes the characters went through, showing that they too can be complex and problematic at times. The story flowed well, and though a few things were painfully obvious, it still kept me in suspense and in tears by the last page. Definite must read.
4.5 Rating. This was so good! A little annoying with all the secrecy but that's the drama aspect, so I kept my opinion to myself while being immersed in the whole experience. I love how special the author made Lainey's senior year with her friends, and how sweet her relationship with Carter was. Oh, especially how she slightly shifted my vision of Carter, who was turning twenty, and how their lives as kids were forever over now that college was their next step in life. It's just so cool feeling a shift like that as a reader.
There was serious suspense in this but the bad guy was a bit obvious, though the 'why's' of things kept me interested. I loved the personality changes the characters went through, showing that they too can be complex and problematic at times. The story flowed well, and though a few things were painfully obvious, it still kept me in suspense and in tears by the last page. Definite must read.
December 20, 2014
cannot wait to read and review this... thank you !!!
very nice cover, looking forward to reading this book. just about to start reading it once i've finished the one i'm currently on
sadly i have not yet been able to start this book, but i am hoping to be able to bring it to work and read it while i'm on my breaks.
i have just started to begin this book and am only a few chapters in and already loving the characters and overall concepts of the book i am ver eager to read more and more. if only i had been able to read the first book, but i am hopeing that i will be able to obtain the first books and read them both together.
very nice cover, looking forward to reading this book. just about to start reading it once i've finished the one i'm currently on
sadly i have not yet been able to start this book, but i am hoping to be able to bring it to work and read it while i'm on my breaks.
i have just started to begin this book and am only a few chapters in and already loving the characters and overall concepts of the book i am ver eager to read more and more. if only i had been able to read the first book, but i am hopeing that i will be able to obtain the first books and read them both together.
October 26, 2016
If you are jumping into the series with this book, you will need to know that some of the characters have enhanced mental abilities and you've missed Junior Year at Northbrook with all of its ups, downs and revelations. But there is so much going on starting with summer vacation and then racing through Senior Year that you will be racing through the book to see what happens next. Lots of laughs and tons of drama and angst will keep you wholly engaged even when you are yelling at the dummy in the horror movie "Don't go in there!" But if she didn't?
July 22, 2016
I don't know how she did it. The first book was amazing, and the second one is even better. There is so much in this story: drama, mystery, comedy, angst, discovery, love, hate, tears. Whatever it is you're looking for, Second Thoughts probably has it for you. These characters have become so real to me, I felt like I was experiencing everything with them. I highly anticipate the release of book 3.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 23, 2016
I love this book (not sure if it's as much as or more than the first one.) Seeing the character grow and change even with everything going on and how she handles everything is amazing. None of this story went in any kind of direction I thought it would. (I stayed up way too late because I couldn't put it down too.) All the revelations and twists and turns were just amazing. It's hard to believe that I wasn't actually there. It's so well written I believed I was there the entire time.
September 15, 2014
I cannot wait to read the first two books in this wonderful series.
I am glad to announce that I have won this book thru Goodreads First Reads. Thank you!
This is an on-the-edge-of-your-seat fiction work. I love it!
I am glad to announce that I have won this book thru Goodreads First Reads. Thank you!
This is an on-the-edge-of-your-seat fiction work. I love it!
July 3, 2016
I'll read the next one but this one wasn't good. it took alot for me to read it and she kept putting in there things that happened during the summer. WHAT SUMMER WHAT HAPPENED? if it isn't in the book don't talk about it
May 6, 2016
my daughter received an arc through goodreads, so I was able to read this too. I felt a bit unsatisfied with the end of the book. without giving away spoilers, I thought things could have ended differently, with more honesty and more just desserts. over all though, I've enjoyed the series
November 6, 2014
This book was pretty good, though I found myself having a hard time getting immersed in the story at some times, and I didn't like the ending.
Read
October 29, 2014Hard to put down.....Ahhh the trials and tribulations of young love....really loved the downplay of the special abilities and more around the relationships making the story
November 7, 2014
Seriously couldn't put this book down! Hope there is a 3rd one in the works!!
October 8, 2014
Hoping there is a third.
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