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Gates of Thread and Stone #2
The Infinite
The walls of Ninurta keep its citizens safe.
Kai always believed the only danger to the city came from within. Now, with a rebel force threatening the fragile government, the walls have become more of a prison than ever.
To make matters worse, as Avan explores his new identity as an Infinite, Kai struggles to remind him what it means to be human. And she fears her brother, Reev, is involved with the rebels. With the two people she cares about most on opposite sides of a brewing war, Kai will do whatever it takes to bring peace. But she’s lost her power to manipulate the threads of time, and she learns that a civil war might be the beginning of something far worse that will crumble not only Ninurta’s walls but also the entire city.
In this thrilling sequel to Gates of Thread and Stone, Kai must decide how much of her humanity she’s willing to lose to protect the only family she’s ever known.
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 10, 2015
224 people are currently reading
3296 people want to read
About the author
Lori M. Lee
14 books1,396 followersLori is an avid writer, reader, artist, and lover of unicorns. She should probably spend less time on the internet (but she won't). She considers herself a unicorn aficianado, is fond of talking in capslock, and loves to write about magic, manipulation, and family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 218 reviews
April 7, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Amazon Children's Publishing, and NetGalley.)
This book was slightly better than the first one, but I still didn't love it.
I did feel a little sorry for Kai in this book because it appeared that she had lost her powers, but I was a little surprised that she wasn't more worried about it! She seemed to just shrug and accept it, which seemed a bit weird.
The storyline in this wasn't as bad as the first book, but I still didn't love it. I did notice some info-dumping, and I did get a little bored in places, but I didn't hate it.
There was a bit of romance, but I can't say it really interested me all that much.
The ending to this was okay, but it was obvious that there would be another book to tie things up. I might consider reading it, but it won't be a priority.
6 out of 10.
This book was slightly better than the first one, but I still didn't love it.
I did feel a little sorry for Kai in this book because it appeared that she had lost her powers, but I was a little surprised that she wasn't more worried about it! She seemed to just shrug and accept it, which seemed a bit weird.
The storyline in this wasn't as bad as the first book, but I still didn't love it. I did notice some info-dumping, and I did get a little bored in places, but I didn't hate it.
There was a bit of romance, but I can't say it really interested me all that much.
The ending to this was okay, but it was obvious that there would be another book to tie things up. I might consider reading it, but it won't be a priority.
6 out of 10.
February 28, 2015
Thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for giving me this book to review.
Kai has now discovered the truth about her past and the city of Ninurta. With a changing Government in its early fragile stages there have been a growing rebel group who wants a revolution and get rid of the Infinite. Kai is stuck in the middle with Avan not remembering his human self and discovering his new powers, and Reev who is acting suspiciously and may be involved with the rebels. On top of this she has lost her powers to manipulate time. But everything changes when they learn they are not alone and there is a city outside of Ninurta called Lanathrill who needs their aid. With Kai and some Hollows, including Mason, investigating, will they discover that these people are hiding something?
The Infinite is the very enjoyable sequel to Gates of Thread and Stone which was well written and a fascinating story. It has more action and twists, and we get to see more of this world.
Kai has become more confident in this book but she is still determined and caring and does not know what she wants to do with her life. I miss the old Avan and I struggled to warm to the new him but he was not much in this book so I hope he is in the next one more. Similarly, I also wish Reev was more in this book as I feel there is more that we can learn about him.
Mason is a nice character who is tough yet cheeky and I like that he played a bigger role in this book. There are also some interesting new characters including Emryn who is a single-minded ruler who wants to live up to his dead father expectations and restore glory to Lanathrill, and Cassia who is a sweet and amiable girl.
I really liked this book and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. I would recommend The Infinite to fans of the first book Gates of Threat and Stone
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
Kai has now discovered the truth about her past and the city of Ninurta. With a changing Government in its early fragile stages there have been a growing rebel group who wants a revolution and get rid of the Infinite. Kai is stuck in the middle with Avan not remembering his human self and discovering his new powers, and Reev who is acting suspiciously and may be involved with the rebels. On top of this she has lost her powers to manipulate time. But everything changes when they learn they are not alone and there is a city outside of Ninurta called Lanathrill who needs their aid. With Kai and some Hollows, including Mason, investigating, will they discover that these people are hiding something?
The Infinite is the very enjoyable sequel to Gates of Thread and Stone which was well written and a fascinating story. It has more action and twists, and we get to see more of this world.
Kai has become more confident in this book but she is still determined and caring and does not know what she wants to do with her life. I miss the old Avan and I struggled to warm to the new him but he was not much in this book so I hope he is in the next one more. Similarly, I also wish Reev was more in this book as I feel there is more that we can learn about him.
Mason is a nice character who is tough yet cheeky and I like that he played a bigger role in this book. There are also some interesting new characters including Emryn who is a single-minded ruler who wants to live up to his dead father expectations and restore glory to Lanathrill, and Cassia who is a sweet and amiable girl.
I really liked this book and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. I would recommend The Infinite to fans of the first book Gates of Threat and Stone
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
February 21, 2015
thank you netgalley for sending me this book in exchange of an honest review
Official rating 2.5
I just didn't have the heart to give it a 3 stars
I went it to this book having a certain high expectation due to the high ratings in goodreads.
I'm sorry I just didn't get through this book. As much as I hope to like it I did DNF at the 40%(I know I can't really judge the book can I). I thought this book is a bit unnecessary. The plot is boring, it drags on even more then the first one. As for the characters the protagonist Kai annoys me very much in this book. Her recklessness is what made me give up this book. Avan is not Avan in this book I lost every reason to like him. The only spark in this book is Mason being cute, and yet I don't even care about him.
I'm really disappointed in this book
Official rating 2.5
I just didn't have the heart to give it a 3 stars
I went it to this book having a certain high expectation due to the high ratings in goodreads.
I'm sorry I just didn't get through this book. As much as I hope to like it I did DNF at the 40%(I know I can't really judge the book can I). I thought this book is a bit unnecessary. The plot is boring, it drags on even more then the first one. As for the characters the protagonist Kai annoys me very much in this book. Her recklessness is what made me give up this book. Avan is not Avan in this book I lost every reason to like him. The only spark in this book is Mason being cute, and yet I don't even care about him.
I'm really disappointed in this book
March 13, 2015
actual rating: 4,5 stars.
When I read Gates of Thread and Stone few days ago, I ended up really liking it.
In my opinion, this one is even better.
The Infinite is so good, it takes the story to the whole another level.
The world Lori M. Lee created gets even more complexed, but in the good, I dare to say even excellent way.
We meet a lot of new characters that are nothing but interesting and the story got us to ask so many new questions that we do get answers to.
Honestly, I am not sure how much I could tell without throwing some spoilers so I'll try to say as much as I can without ruing the reading experience for you.
Kai developed as a character but she stayed true to herself and I am so glad she did. She found herself in some ungrateful situations and in that moments, I was afraid of how she would act, but she didn't disappoint. She stayed strong and loyal as she was when we first met her.
Avan became more complicated. I wanted to trust him but at the same time I didn't know what to expact from his character. I can tell that the next book(s) in the series would be more about him and his character development.
Reev was left aside for the most part of the story but I didn't mind since his oft attendance wouldn't bring alot to the story.
The one person I wanted to read more about was Irra. I don't even know why I got myself attached to that character, but I did. And now I want to read more about him and I am hoping he will have a bigger part in the next book.
I also hope there will be more Kronos in the next installment.
When I started this book series I was sure it was a duology.
While reading this book I was still sure it was a duology (ascribe that to my laziness to research informations avalible on net).
When I got to 46% of the story I cought myself thinking "Please don't let it be a duology. I really like this so far."
The closer I was to the end, the more I was hoping it was a series.
I realized I want to explore this world as much as I can and I want to know this characters more. I realized I really want to see what this world has to offer us.
I see it has a huge potential and I am happy to see where it will take us.
I don't have to tell you I was beyond happy few hours ago when I found out there will be another book in the series.
I can't wait to read it but I can already see myself re-reading the first two books because of this world's complexity.
If you read this book I suggest you to read this book only.
Otherwise, you could find yourself lost becaouse this story demends your whole attention.
On the side note: I like the word DREK. In my country we actually use it quite frequently.
I got the copy of this book via Netgalley for free in an exchange for an honest opinion.
When I read Gates of Thread and Stone few days ago, I ended up really liking it.
In my opinion, this one is even better.
The Infinite is so good, it takes the story to the whole another level.
The world Lori M. Lee created gets even more complexed, but in the good, I dare to say even excellent way.
We meet a lot of new characters that are nothing but interesting and the story got us to ask so many new questions that we do get answers to.
Honestly, I am not sure how much I could tell without throwing some spoilers so I'll try to say as much as I can without ruing the reading experience for you.
Kai developed as a character but she stayed true to herself and I am so glad she did. She found herself in some ungrateful situations and in that moments, I was afraid of how she would act, but she didn't disappoint. She stayed strong and loyal as she was when we first met her.
Avan became more complicated. I wanted to trust him but at the same time I didn't know what to expact from his character. I can tell that the next book(s) in the series would be more about him and his character development.
Reev was left aside for the most part of the story but I didn't mind since his oft attendance wouldn't bring alot to the story.
The one person I wanted to read more about was Irra. I don't even know why I got myself attached to that character, but I did. And now I want to read more about him and I am hoping he will have a bigger part in the next book.
I also hope there will be more Kronos in the next installment.
When I started this book series I was sure it was a duology.
While reading this book I was still sure it was a duology (ascribe that to my laziness to research informations avalible on net).
When I got to 46% of the story I cought myself thinking "Please don't let it be a duology. I really like this so far."
The closer I was to the end, the more I was hoping it was a series.
I realized I want to explore this world as much as I can and I want to know this characters more. I realized I really want to see what this world has to offer us.
I see it has a huge potential and I am happy to see where it will take us.
I don't have to tell you I was beyond happy few hours ago when I found out there will be another book in the series.
I can't wait to read it but I can already see myself re-reading the first two books because of this world's complexity.
If you read this book I suggest you to read this book only.
Otherwise, you could find yourself lost becaouse this story demends your whole attention.
On the side note: I like the word DREK. In my country we actually use it quite frequently.
I got the copy of this book via Netgalley for free in an exchange for an honest opinion.
February 20, 2015
An enormous and kind thank you to Skyscape publishing for providing me with a copy of The Infinite by Lori M. Lee in exchanged for an honest review.
I wonder often about the world. Mainly in relation to its limits. Personally I believe the world does has its limits. So much that it can offer and so much that it can take. Luckily for us readers imaginations are limitless. They provide us with countless worlds that can be lived in for a short while or for a longer time than we initially thought we’d stay. Our world should be grateful for imaginations such as Lori M. Lee’s. Although her worlds might not be the best place to live, this is only because the death rate seems to increase with each book. But seriously, who really doesn’t love a good war with a strong heroine leading the action? That’s what you’ll find in the Gates of Thread and Stone series.
So where did Lee leave us at the conclusion of the first novel in this series, Gates of Thread and Stone? Well Kai discovers that she is in fact an Inifinite, a God if you will. Okay, she is really the daughter of an Infinite, I think of Kronos as Father Time. There are only ever seventy Infinites in existence, and they are ‘incarnations of notions like strife and death, trapped by the limits of those concepts and by the rules of their kind.’ Way back when there was the Mahjo war, between the Infinites and the mahjo (their human/infinite offspring). The Infinites won and stripped the Mahjo of their power. The world is now in what is referred to as Rebirth. The city Kai lives in believes they are the only civilisation left, but the second book puts that all to shame.
Then we have Avan who sacrificed his life in order to keep Kai safe during their journey to try and find Reev (Kai’s ‘brother)…well Avan is now an Infinite too. Conquest to be exact. Although he has forgotten his humanity, which sucks. On the plus side he still has feelings for Kai…yay!! But Kai seems to have misplaced her powers to control the threads of time after killing Ninu (the old Kahl), and she is also wanted to be the knew Kahls advisor. Which she isn’t really that interested in but goes along with it anyway to try to create an alliance between her city, Ninurta, and a city found in the Outlands, Lanathrill.
As you most likely have realised, if you read my review on the first novel, I hopefully have got a larger grip on the intricacies of this world. I thought Lee really flushed out areas that I found incredibly confusing in Gates of Thread and Stone. She was able to do this in addition to expanding the readers world view, bringing in new cultures that consist within this universe.
I thought The Infinite one was an excellent sequel. Lee did something that I rarely read in novels where two neighbouring cultures are finally introduced to each other. That is recognising that the would each have different names for the same things. It just creates a richness to the tale, adding a layer of depth to the newly introduced cultures history.
There is so much deception in this one and bloodshed. It was great. Great in the sense that it was masterfully written, so much so that I couldn’t put this one down. I needed to find out what would happen next.
Kai was kick-ass! She never came off as fake, and I never rolled my eyes at her silliness because she never made stupid decisions. Her head was in the game. And you just know that she was willing to sacrifice what was needed to be regardless of her feelings, because it would lead to a better outcome for the majority.
I did miss Avan in this one. I knew that Lee would try and present Mason as the second love interest, but I admire how Kai wasn’t willing to give up on Avan just yet. Despite the fact that he remembered nothing of their time together when he was human. Avan as Conquest though was pretty bad-ass, and he did make a pretty solid case for the need that people have in order to be controlled. If I was Kai I would have given him back his memories as soon as she realised she was able to mend the threads of time that had been severed. Screw giving Avan a choice!! You two need to be together and rule side by side making the world a better place.
What is it with Reev though? Does he like Kai? Like, ‘like like’ her? Sometimes I think so, other times I think he’s just being a big brother. But Kai keeps on thinking things in relation to his body, how she wants to touch him. I feel that you shouldn’t be ‘wanting’ to touch your brother like that. He’s just confusing. Is he jealous? or just overprotective? I have an inkling that he might be the third love interest! Since Mason just clearly doesn’t cut it.
It’ll be interesting to see how Kai develops with her new powers in the next novel. I’m not completely sure how it will work, since there can only ever be seventy Infinite alive at once. So maybe after Kronos teaches Kai his skills he’ll die and she’ll take over. And then Kai will become even more kick-ass!!
This series is such an easy read with truly incredible characters. It isn’t your typical YA. There is no hopeless romantics in this one clouding each others judgments. Absolutely refreshing.
Read this series.
I wonder often about the world. Mainly in relation to its limits. Personally I believe the world does has its limits. So much that it can offer and so much that it can take. Luckily for us readers imaginations are limitless. They provide us with countless worlds that can be lived in for a short while or for a longer time than we initially thought we’d stay. Our world should be grateful for imaginations such as Lori M. Lee’s. Although her worlds might not be the best place to live, this is only because the death rate seems to increase with each book. But seriously, who really doesn’t love a good war with a strong heroine leading the action? That’s what you’ll find in the Gates of Thread and Stone series.
So where did Lee leave us at the conclusion of the first novel in this series, Gates of Thread and Stone? Well Kai discovers that she is in fact an Inifinite, a God if you will. Okay, she is really the daughter of an Infinite, I think of Kronos as Father Time. There are only ever seventy Infinites in existence, and they are ‘incarnations of notions like strife and death, trapped by the limits of those concepts and by the rules of their kind.’ Way back when there was the Mahjo war, between the Infinites and the mahjo (their human/infinite offspring). The Infinites won and stripped the Mahjo of their power. The world is now in what is referred to as Rebirth. The city Kai lives in believes they are the only civilisation left, but the second book puts that all to shame.
Then we have Avan who sacrificed his life in order to keep Kai safe during their journey to try and find Reev (Kai’s ‘brother)…well Avan is now an Infinite too. Conquest to be exact. Although he has forgotten his humanity, which sucks. On the plus side he still has feelings for Kai…yay!! But Kai seems to have misplaced her powers to control the threads of time after killing Ninu (the old Kahl), and she is also wanted to be the knew Kahls advisor. Which she isn’t really that interested in but goes along with it anyway to try to create an alliance between her city, Ninurta, and a city found in the Outlands, Lanathrill.
As you most likely have realised, if you read my review on the first novel, I hopefully have got a larger grip on the intricacies of this world. I thought Lee really flushed out areas that I found incredibly confusing in Gates of Thread and Stone. She was able to do this in addition to expanding the readers world view, bringing in new cultures that consist within this universe.
I thought The Infinite one was an excellent sequel. Lee did something that I rarely read in novels where two neighbouring cultures are finally introduced to each other. That is recognising that the would each have different names for the same things. It just creates a richness to the tale, adding a layer of depth to the newly introduced cultures history.
There is so much deception in this one and bloodshed. It was great. Great in the sense that it was masterfully written, so much so that I couldn’t put this one down. I needed to find out what would happen next.
Kai was kick-ass! She never came off as fake, and I never rolled my eyes at her silliness because she never made stupid decisions. Her head was in the game. And you just know that she was willing to sacrifice what was needed to be regardless of her feelings, because it would lead to a better outcome for the majority.
I did miss Avan in this one. I knew that Lee would try and present Mason as the second love interest, but I admire how Kai wasn’t willing to give up on Avan just yet. Despite the fact that he remembered nothing of their time together when he was human. Avan as Conquest though was pretty bad-ass, and he did make a pretty solid case for the need that people have in order to be controlled. If I was Kai I would have given him back his memories as soon as she realised she was able to mend the threads of time that had been severed. Screw giving Avan a choice!! You two need to be together and rule side by side making the world a better place.
What is it with Reev though? Does he like Kai? Like, ‘like like’ her? Sometimes I think so, other times I think he’s just being a big brother. But Kai keeps on thinking things in relation to his body, how she wants to touch him. I feel that you shouldn’t be ‘wanting’ to touch your brother like that. He’s just confusing. Is he jealous? or just overprotective? I have an inkling that he might be the third love interest! Since Mason just clearly doesn’t cut it.
It’ll be interesting to see how Kai develops with her new powers in the next novel. I’m not completely sure how it will work, since there can only ever be seventy Infinite alive at once. So maybe after Kronos teaches Kai his skills he’ll die and she’ll take over. And then Kai will become even more kick-ass!!
This series is such an easy read with truly incredible characters. It isn’t your typical YA. There is no hopeless romantics in this one clouding each others judgments. Absolutely refreshing.
Read this series.
May 18, 2015
*I received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for my honest review*
First Thoughts
There's going to be a third book, right? Because I seriously need it now ! There are so many loose ends that need to be tied and I am dying of curiosity! What will the outcome of the war be? Which other characters are going to meet their unfortunate end? Will Kai embrace her role as an Infinite? What will become of Avan?
The Infinite saddened me-- but in a good way! I may have grown too attached to Avan in the first book, Gates of Thread and Stone. I was pleased that Lori M Lee found a way to bring him back, but I grieved because he's not the same Avan he once was. This Avan is empty inside. Almost a complete stranger, even. He has no memories of his life, of his history with Kai, or all the tender moments they shared. I yearn for the old Avan and I really hope that his memories can be restored.
What I Enjoyed
Lori M Lee's incredible world-building (again). I mentioned this in my review for Gates of Thread and Stone, but I have to mention it again because new locations were introduced in The Infinite and Ms Lee, as expected, did a marvelous job in describing them. The depiction of the mountain city of Vethe overwhelmed me! I loved imagining the glimmer glass lighting up the homes built from the mountain and the steamy fog from the warm waterfall drifting through the city. Gorgeous!
Glimpses of the old Avan.
Kai as a heroine. One of the most admirable things she did was risk her life to go back and rescue Mason from Vethe. She didn't have to. Why take a chance with her life for just one guy? That's just the person Kai is. She'd probably cut out her own heart to save her family and friends if she had to.
The betrayal. (Specifically the one in chapter 25.) I probably shouldn't have enjoyed this as much as I did, but it was just so emotional! I, like Kai, I was thoroughly confused when the hollows I felt the terror in my heart as I felt despair when I read of the Those few chapters were story-telling at it's best!
Memorable Quote
Recommended For
Anyone who appreciates outstanding world-building, heartbreaking love, or a high fantasy with a unique plot.
Pearl @ AsteriskPearl's Book Blog
First Thoughts
There's going to be a third book, right? Because I seriously need it now ! There are so many loose ends that need to be tied and I am dying of curiosity! What will the outcome of the war be? Which other characters are going to meet their unfortunate end? Will Kai embrace her role as an Infinite? What will become of Avan?
The Infinite saddened me-- but in a good way! I may have grown too attached to Avan in the first book, Gates of Thread and Stone. I was pleased that Lori M Lee found a way to bring him back, but I grieved because he's not the same Avan he once was. This Avan is empty inside. Almost a complete stranger, even. He has no memories of his life, of his history with Kai, or all the tender moments they shared. I yearn for the old Avan and I really hope that his memories can be restored.
What I Enjoyed
Lori M Lee's incredible world-building (again). I mentioned this in my review for Gates of Thread and Stone, but I have to mention it again because new locations were introduced in The Infinite and Ms Lee, as expected, did a marvelous job in describing them. The depiction of the mountain city of Vethe overwhelmed me! I loved imagining the glimmer glass lighting up the homes built from the mountain and the steamy fog from the warm waterfall drifting through the city. Gorgeous!
Glimpses of the old Avan.
But traces remained. Sometimes, he would say something or he would look at me a certain way or his mouth would twist into a crooked smile, and I could see him there--my Avan--just beneath the surface, battling to break through. Every time, it was like the air ripped from my lungs, like I was the one drowning.
Kai as a heroine. One of the most admirable things she did was risk her life to go back and rescue Mason from Vethe. She didn't have to. Why take a chance with her life for just one guy? That's just the person Kai is. She'd probably cut out her own heart to save her family and friends if she had to.
The betrayal. (Specifically the one in chapter 25.) I probably shouldn't have enjoyed this as much as I did, but it was just so emotional! I, like Kai, I was thoroughly confused when the hollows I felt the terror in my heart as I felt despair when I read of the Those few chapters were story-telling at it's best!
Memorable Quote
I tucked the cloak tighter around my shoulders. I thought about Avan: the angles of his body fitted to mine, his arm a pleasant weight around my waist, and his body heat warding off the chill of the Void. Avan might not remember, but I didn't want to forget.
Recommended For
Anyone who appreciates outstanding world-building, heartbreaking love, or a high fantasy with a unique plot.
Pearl @ AsteriskPearl's Book Blog
March 31, 2015
Loved it! not what I expected but i have learned that Lori will always keep me on my toes! check out my full review on the tour HERE
Although Gates of Thread and Stone was a book I enjoyed thoroughly, I had trouble recalling all those breakneck plot twists that took place. It didn’t take long into The Infinite for me to get right back in my seat of my gray. This second installment had a bit of a slower start and a completely different, unexpected setting, yet it delivered just as many riveting twists and turns and it’s predecessor.
Kai is slowly trying to gain her footing after her show down with Ninu. She is dealing with Avan and his new predicament as well a a brother whom she feels is keeping secrets from her. Just when Kai is starting to lose faith that Avan will ever remember his former self, a messenger arrives from the city of Lanathrill, another surviving city after the rebirth that only the infinite knew about. As Kai is the new advisor of Ninurta she must travel to this new place and try to help them purge there demon population. This however doesn’t turn out to as simple as it seems as Kai is cast into a whole new web of politics.
Lori does an amazing job of slowly leaking information into the plot line. Now that we have left Ninurta and all it’s problems behind there is a TON of new things that are beginning to take place. Aside from a really slow start, I felt the pacing was fantastic. While I missed AVAN a few of the previous plot points, I thought the way the spectrum of this world was broadened was spectacular and opened endless possibilities.
Although Gates of Thread and Stone was a book I enjoyed thoroughly, I had trouble recalling all those breakneck plot twists that took place. It didn’t take long into The Infinite for me to get right back in my seat of my gray. This second installment had a bit of a slower start and a completely different, unexpected setting, yet it delivered just as many riveting twists and turns and it’s predecessor.
Kai is slowly trying to gain her footing after her show down with Ninu. She is dealing with Avan and his new predicament as well a a brother whom she feels is keeping secrets from her. Just when Kai is starting to lose faith that Avan will ever remember his former self, a messenger arrives from the city of Lanathrill, another surviving city after the rebirth that only the infinite knew about. As Kai is the new advisor of Ninurta she must travel to this new place and try to help them purge there demon population. This however doesn’t turn out to as simple as it seems as Kai is cast into a whole new web of politics.
Lori does an amazing job of slowly leaking information into the plot line. Now that we have left Ninurta and all it’s problems behind there is a TON of new things that are beginning to take place. Aside from a really slow start, I felt the pacing was fantastic. While I missed AVAN a few of the previous plot points, I thought the way the spectrum of this world was broadened was spectacular and opened endless possibilities.
March 3, 2015
4.5 Fantasy filled stars!
I think I enjoyed this even more than the first book in the series. The Infinite follows on from where Gates of Thread and Stone left off. Ninurta is changing after the change in leadership and the sentinels are finally free. In this book we discover that Ninurta is not as alone as we were lead to believe and there is a whole other city of survivors from the war.
Once again there is political drama, conflict and magic, in short everything that makes a good fantasy novel.
There wasn't much romance in this book and the focus was mainly on the changes and new discoveries in relation to the world which I preferred. Avan has changed so much since his transition to an Infinite that I can't get behind his relationship with Kai. I enjoyed the devlopment of her relationships with her brother and Mason, both are very likeable characters.
I loved Kai in this book. Despite her abilities, she's still very human and imperfect and I prefer my heroes and heroines that way.
I really enjoyed this, I'll definitely read book 3!
**I received an ARC of this book from the author through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
March 26, 2015
**I received this book for free from (Skyscape) via (NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!! This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.**
*Genre* Young Adult, Fantasy
*Rating* 3-3.5
*MY Thoughts*
The Infinite is the second installment in the Gates of Thread and Stone series by Lori M. Lee. For Kai, our 17-year old protagonist, things have changed over the course of the past several months. She is no longer living a sheltered life believing that she's an orphan. She's the daughter of Kronos, father of time, who just happens to be one of the 70 Infinite in the world.
*Full Review Posting to Talk Supe Blog 03/26/2015* Link shall follow
*Recvd 02/17/2015 via NetGalley* Published: March 10th 2015 by Skyscape
*Genre* Young Adult, Fantasy
*Rating* 3-3.5
*MY Thoughts*
The Infinite is the second installment in the Gates of Thread and Stone series by Lori M. Lee. For Kai, our 17-year old protagonist, things have changed over the course of the past several months. She is no longer living a sheltered life believing that she's an orphan. She's the daughter of Kronos, father of time, who just happens to be one of the 70 Infinite in the world.
*Full Review Posting to Talk Supe Blog 03/26/2015* Link shall follow
*Recvd 02/17/2015 via NetGalley* Published: March 10th 2015 by Skyscape
June 26, 2025
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
*I'd like to thank the author who gave me a copy of her book in exchange of a honest review. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity*
Wow this book left me speechless. IT WAS AMAZING! I don't want to post my review here for now because the book has not been released yet, but I did write my review on my blog so... here it is--->https://datlittleblog.wordpress.com/2...
Anyway, it was soooo freaking gooood but now I can't wait to read the next one!
________
12 Jan
Say what you want but that cover OMG OMG OMG OMG I WANT IT SOOO BAAAAD!
*I'd like to thank the author who gave me a copy of her book in exchange of a honest review. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity*
Wow this book left me speechless. IT WAS AMAZING! I don't want to post my review here for now because the book has not been released yet, but I did write my review on my blog so... here it is--->https://datlittleblog.wordpress.com/2...
Anyway, it was soooo freaking gooood but now I can't wait to read the next one!
________
12 Jan
Say what you want but that cover OMG OMG OMG OMG I WANT IT SOOO BAAAAD!
Read
October 5, 2016I love the greys. Love them. It was cool exploring the world even further and learning about the chimera. So excited to see where this series is going. The series just builds and builds. Can't wait to read the next one.
March 5, 2015
I received this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I thought this was a really good follow-up on Gates of Thread and Stone. Although the plot is as intricate as ever and the world-building expands, I had some problems with some of the characters. This book focuses more on plot-based elements, as Kai and the gang step out of Ninurta and into a new city with new characters. The old characters appear mostly in the beginning, which is kind of sad because less Avan time we don’t see the developments on their end.
Yaas to exploring and adventuring out! In the beginning of the book we see the advisors and Infinite both working to improve upon Ninurta after the killer ending in the first book. Kai is now an adviser to the new Kahl Miraya, and they’re thinking of new ways to advance the city.
"The prospect of something new, of expanding beyond the confines of Ninurta’s walls, filled me with a sense of exhiliaration. This could be the beginning of restoring humankind to more than a race of people who cowered behind stone walls and scrounged what they could to get by."
However, not soon after the book begins, a messenger from a neighboring city arrives. Wait… a neighboring city? Yes, Lanathrill is a city in a cave that Kai, Mason, and a party of people journey to in order to find out what the situation is there and to establish alliances. I mean, if there’s another civilization out there you wouldn’t just ignore them right?
So Kai heads out with a party to see what’s happening, leaving the Infinites, Miraya, Avan, Reev, and pretty much all the important characters in the first book to deal with the situation at Ninurta. There are rebel sentinels attacking while the rest of the people try to make the city a better place. Let’s just say we have a lot going on our plates.
There’s a lot of danger in the city Lanathrill, but Kai proves to have endurance throughout her misadventures. However, there’s a catch… She’s doing this without her powers. From the beginning of the book, Kai has lost her threads of time.
"I hadn’t touched the threads since Ninu died. In the months afterward, I’d ignored the shimmery fibers, denying their existence - until one day, they began to fade and disappear."
At first I was like "Really? What she gonna do now?!" In fact, Kai can do a lot even without her powers, from finishing arguments without violence to gaining the respect of the Kahl in Lanathrill by sacrificing herself (although recklessly).
Kai as a character was great. Mason is a pretty cute character overall, but he was kind of like that fly on the wall with his feelings. I especially liked the way Kai dealt with him haha. I miss Avan so much. If I had one major complaint about the book, it was that the character I totally shipped with Kai in the first book is not there. Boo. Reev as Kai’s brother was there, but not really there in the book. I feel as if mentioning him is more of an afterthought than anything.
The new characters mentioned are really, really, three-dimensional. There are so many questions of right versus wrong regarding their situation, and I loved how the author explored the characters' actions and emotions regarding the newcomers they asked for help from. Also that battle? I had my suspicions, but that was such a heartbreaking scene that I just had... no words.
As much as I liked the introduction of a new part of the world, huge questions still remain. What’s going on with the other city we’re introduced to? Why are the chimera and gargoyles here?? And what exactly happened in the Mahjo War???? I’m still blank on that.
Another awesome ending in this book, and I’m crossing my fingers that Avan comes back mentally (if not physically) because bae.
Rating: 3.5/5
I thought this was a really good follow-up on Gates of Thread and Stone. Although the plot is as intricate as ever and the world-building expands, I had some problems with some of the characters. This book focuses more on plot-based elements, as Kai and the gang step out of Ninurta and into a new city with new characters. The old characters appear mostly in the beginning, which is kind of sad because less Avan time we don’t see the developments on their end.
Yaas to exploring and adventuring out! In the beginning of the book we see the advisors and Infinite both working to improve upon Ninurta after the killer ending in the first book. Kai is now an adviser to the new Kahl Miraya, and they’re thinking of new ways to advance the city.
"The prospect of something new, of expanding beyond the confines of Ninurta’s walls, filled me with a sense of exhiliaration. This could be the beginning of restoring humankind to more than a race of people who cowered behind stone walls and scrounged what they could to get by."
However, not soon after the book begins, a messenger from a neighboring city arrives. Wait… a neighboring city? Yes, Lanathrill is a city in a cave that Kai, Mason, and a party of people journey to in order to find out what the situation is there and to establish alliances. I mean, if there’s another civilization out there you wouldn’t just ignore them right?
So Kai heads out with a party to see what’s happening, leaving the Infinites, Miraya, Avan, Reev, and pretty much all the important characters in the first book to deal with the situation at Ninurta. There are rebel sentinels attacking while the rest of the people try to make the city a better place. Let’s just say we have a lot going on our plates.
There’s a lot of danger in the city Lanathrill, but Kai proves to have endurance throughout her misadventures. However, there’s a catch… She’s doing this without her powers. From the beginning of the book, Kai has lost her threads of time.
"I hadn’t touched the threads since Ninu died. In the months afterward, I’d ignored the shimmery fibers, denying their existence - until one day, they began to fade and disappear."
At first I was like "Really? What she gonna do now?!" In fact, Kai can do a lot even without her powers, from finishing arguments without violence to gaining the respect of the Kahl in Lanathrill by sacrificing herself (although recklessly).
Kai as a character was great. Mason is a pretty cute character overall, but he was kind of like that fly on the wall with his feelings. I especially liked the way Kai dealt with him haha. I miss Avan so much. If I had one major complaint about the book, it was that the character I totally shipped with Kai in the first book is not there. Boo. Reev as Kai’s brother was there, but not really there in the book. I feel as if mentioning him is more of an afterthought than anything.
The new characters mentioned are really, really, three-dimensional. There are so many questions of right versus wrong regarding their situation, and I loved how the author explored the characters' actions and emotions regarding the newcomers they asked for help from. Also that battle? I had my suspicions, but that was such a heartbreaking scene that I just had... no words.
As much as I liked the introduction of a new part of the world, huge questions still remain. What’s going on with the other city we’re introduced to? Why are the chimera and gargoyles here?? And what exactly happened in the Mahjo War???? I’m still blank on that.
Another awesome ending in this book, and I’m crossing my fingers that Avan comes back mentally (if not physically) because bae.
Rating: 3.5/5
January 19, 2018
3.5 Stars...
I had hoped....for more, but it was still good. I enjoyed it but there were times when it didn't even feel like the same story anymore.....so I'd get lost and want to put it down. it did get better. I love Kai, shes awesome. I love what the author did with some of her characters....she definitely kept you wondering who was good and who was bad....i definitely enjoyed the unpredictability of it. overall I liked it.... cliffhanger at the end was a killer....so I'm looking forward to the next one.
I had hoped....for more, but it was still good. I enjoyed it but there were times when it didn't even feel like the same story anymore.....so I'd get lost and want to put it down. it did get better. I love Kai, shes awesome. I love what the author did with some of her characters....she definitely kept you wondering who was good and who was bad....i definitely enjoyed the unpredictability of it. overall I liked it.... cliffhanger at the end was a killer....so I'm looking forward to the next one.
January 28, 2026
3.5 stars
Just like Lee's debut novel I found myself rather wordless when it comes to review the Infinite.
There is much to say, but how to say it?
How does one express one's love for an author's prose? How does one explain how impressed and how moved one is by the talent of someone?
To be honest, I find myself lacking to do so. So I shall just say, that Lee has written herself into my heart. I love her prose. I adore it. And I think there will be little Lee could do to make me stop reading her books.
Sadly I also had huge expectations for the Infinite. To be honest I think,The Gates of Threads and Stone is a really hard act to follow, my expectations might have been a tad too high, a wee bit unfair. And while the writing style was poetic and beautiful just like I expected, the plot was a bit of let down for me.
The first half was really slow,at nearly 70% I was wondering what this was really all about... And at times it felt like a lot of world building was dumped at me. Very beautifully done world building mind you. But still, it was too slow for me. The last quarter though, was just like its prequel, enticing and fast paced. - and it left me with huge hopes for future novels...
The world building is fabulous! It's innovative and beautiful. Lee did go way beyond of what I expected. The world we got to know in the Infinite is a huge expansion from the first book. Not only that it made me look at The Gates of Threads and Stone from a different perspective. It made me appreciate Lee knowledge of her craft, and it made me greatly wonder where she is taking us next!
The character building is just like in the first book, well done. I care for the group of people we got to know, I adore Reeve & Kai. Love Avan and Mase. And it is beyond interesting to see how the Infinite look at the world. Lee managed to make me change my mind about characters several time over the last two books. Most of all though I did totally connect with Kai. I felt all she felt- her heartache, insecurities, her worries, her joy, happiness, I felt it all with her. Again, in my opinion, a credit to Lee's talent with words.
But while in the first book, I absolutely adored Avan and Kai's connection- I totally missed it this time around. I mean I get things are different. But the yoyo between them, while believable, felt to much.
I mean Kai was way too easily swayed back towards Kai, so after the twist at the town wall- I was heartbroken... And then next twist... and Kai just is ok with the rather thin explanation that she was given. I felt like- WHAT?! Nu-huh. Dude just not good enough. But she swooned and was heartbroken for the distance rather for the betrayal. Let's be clear. That's what it was: Betrayal. How could it be just so downplayed?
While the last book left me pondering about having one's choices taken away, this made me ponder about power and the infinite. I love the undercurrent subjects of this series.
This book while giving a few answer- very few - left me with even more questions. More mysteries I want to resolve and I hope that the next book will answer at least some of them.
So sadly I wasn't as fangirly about this as I was after reading Lee's stunning debut. And despite some minor issues with The Infinite, I loved it. I wish I would have liked it more, because I simply can't describe how much I do love Lee's writing. Then again, this is a good book. Don't get me wrong. It is. I can recommend this wonderful series to lovers of the genre and people who love reading beautiful prose.
And I can't wait to get my hands on Lee's next book. She is an author to watch out for, trust me!
We part of the fabulous Blog Tour!
Read the Interview with Lee and don't miss the giveaway on Closet Geeks and Slow Mo
Just like Lee's debut novel I found myself rather wordless when it comes to review the Infinite.
There is much to say, but how to say it?
How does one express one's love for an author's prose? How does one explain how impressed and how moved one is by the talent of someone?
To be honest, I find myself lacking to do so. So I shall just say, that Lee has written herself into my heart. I love her prose. I adore it. And I think there will be little Lee could do to make me stop reading her books.
Sadly I also had huge expectations for the Infinite. To be honest I think,The Gates of Threads and Stone is a really hard act to follow, my expectations might have been a tad too high, a wee bit unfair. And while the writing style was poetic and beautiful just like I expected, the plot was a bit of let down for me.
The first half was really slow,at nearly 70% I was wondering what this was really all about... And at times it felt like a lot of world building was dumped at me. Very beautifully done world building mind you. But still, it was too slow for me. The last quarter though, was just like its prequel, enticing and fast paced. - and it left me with huge hopes for future novels...
The world building is fabulous! It's innovative and beautiful. Lee did go way beyond of what I expected. The world we got to know in the Infinite is a huge expansion from the first book. Not only that it made me look at The Gates of Threads and Stone from a different perspective. It made me appreciate Lee knowledge of her craft, and it made me greatly wonder where she is taking us next!
The character building is just like in the first book, well done. I care for the group of people we got to know, I adore Reeve & Kai. Love Avan and Mase. And it is beyond interesting to see how the Infinite look at the world. Lee managed to make me change my mind about characters several time over the last two books. Most of all though I did totally connect with Kai. I felt all she felt- her heartache, insecurities, her worries, her joy, happiness, I felt it all with her. Again, in my opinion, a credit to Lee's talent with words.
But while in the first book, I absolutely adored Avan and Kai's connection- I totally missed it this time around. I mean I get things are different. But the yoyo between them, while believable, felt to much.
I mean Kai was way too easily swayed back towards Kai, so after the twist at the town wall- I was heartbroken... And then next twist... and Kai just is ok with the rather thin explanation that she was given. I felt like- WHAT?! Nu-huh. Dude just not good enough. But she swooned and was heartbroken for the distance rather for the betrayal. Let's be clear. That's what it was: Betrayal. How could it be just so downplayed?
While the last book left me pondering about having one's choices taken away, this made me ponder about power and the infinite. I love the undercurrent subjects of this series.
This book while giving a few answer- very few - left me with even more questions. More mysteries I want to resolve and I hope that the next book will answer at least some of them.
So sadly I wasn't as fangirly about this as I was after reading Lee's stunning debut. And despite some minor issues with The Infinite, I loved it. I wish I would have liked it more, because I simply can't describe how much I do love Lee's writing. Then again, this is a good book. Don't get me wrong. It is. I can recommend this wonderful series to lovers of the genre and people who love reading beautiful prose.
And I can't wait to get my hands on Lee's next book. She is an author to watch out for, trust me!
We part of the fabulous Blog Tour!
Read the Interview with Lee and don't miss the giveaway on Closet Geeks and Slow Mo
March 16, 2015
Reviewing sequels has always been tough for me. I never know what I can and can't say because I don't want to give anything away. But then, sometimes, I'm too excited and add way too much detail and I feel like the review is on huge spoiler. So I am going to sincerely try to write a non-spoiler review for this book.
Kai has lost touch with a part of her that used to be a secret. She doesn't know how she feels about it but she knows it isn't good. But then again, there isn't much good going on in this book to begin with. Kai seems to be struggling with a lot of things such as morals, her humanity and her feelings for Avan. But those are such trivial things compared to what the rest of the book had in store.
This book is really a progression for Kai. She matures even more and she just overall changes for the better. She grows up, for lack of a better term. She no longer feels the need to hide behind Reev.
Reev also seemed to have changed in this novel. He is more distant and just seemed very secretive. He is not at all like the guy that was described in the first book.
The people of Ninurta are no longer alone. And the gargoyles aren't the only form of their kind. There is a war brewing and everything just seems to be going to Hell.
There is a sort of love issue in this book. Avan isn't himself anymore and I have no idea if he ever will be again. He knows he has feelings for Kai but he doesn't truly know why. But then you have Mason, he KNOWS why he has feelings for Kai.
The ending was kind of surprising to me. I mean, there is going to be a third book so I knew in my heart that something like that was going to happen and that Kai was going to have to learn from her father at some point but it still came as a shock to me.
All of the characters had a lot of growth throughout the book and the world-building and plot was very well rounded. I would say there was a pretty much perfect balance between plot, characters and the world around them.
This is just a really amazing series so far and I cannot wait until I can get my hands on the last book. Also, can we just sit down for a minute and talk about these covers?! Holy mother of god they are gorgeous!
Overall, I gave the book 5/5 stars.
Kai has lost touch with a part of her that used to be a secret. She doesn't know how she feels about it but she knows it isn't good. But then again, there isn't much good going on in this book to begin with. Kai seems to be struggling with a lot of things such as morals, her humanity and her feelings for Avan. But those are such trivial things compared to what the rest of the book had in store.
This book is really a progression for Kai. She matures even more and she just overall changes for the better. She grows up, for lack of a better term. She no longer feels the need to hide behind Reev.
Reev also seemed to have changed in this novel. He is more distant and just seemed very secretive. He is not at all like the guy that was described in the first book.
The people of Ninurta are no longer alone. And the gargoyles aren't the only form of their kind. There is a war brewing and everything just seems to be going to Hell.
There is a sort of love issue in this book. Avan isn't himself anymore and I have no idea if he ever will be again. He knows he has feelings for Kai but he doesn't truly know why. But then you have Mason, he KNOWS why he has feelings for Kai.
The ending was kind of surprising to me. I mean, there is going to be a third book so I knew in my heart that something like that was going to happen and that Kai was going to have to learn from her father at some point but it still came as a shock to me.
All of the characters had a lot of growth throughout the book and the world-building and plot was very well rounded. I would say there was a pretty much perfect balance between plot, characters and the world around them.
This is just a really amazing series so far and I cannot wait until I can get my hands on the last book. Also, can we just sit down for a minute and talk about these covers?! Holy mother of god they are gorgeous!
Overall, I gave the book 5/5 stars.
April 13, 2015
4 Stars
A fast-paced, action-packed thrill-ride, full of magic, betrayals, and shocking revelations, THE INFINITE is a steaming hot read that's not to be missed!
Now this is what I am talking about!! THE INFINITE was just the sequel I was hoping for!! This sequel was nearly perfect, and sooooo much better then THE GATES OF THREAD AND STONE!! Book one was seriously lacking (See my review HERE) on many aspects. But THE INFINITE has sealed my faith in this series and has me more invested then I thought I would ever be after reading this book. It did have a few hiccups along the way, but nothing to drastic to defer my love and overall enjoyment from this book.
THE INFINITE was a tornado of betrayals, with back stabbing and shocking revelations along the way. And I have to admit, one particular betrayal I did NOT see coming at all. And I was more then a little hurt by the duplicity. The world building was evenly plotted with the right amount of treachery and power-wavers, magic, and rebels, and wild beastly animals to keep the plot interesting and not have to much of one aspect going on for too long. And I really liked that about this book, things were always changing―loyalties, friendships, betrayals, hearts, atmospheres, and so on... And it was refreshing to get such a complex and entertaining follow-up from this series. Bravo Lori M. Lee, well done with this explosive second installment to the GATES OF THREAD AND STONE Series!!!
As for the characters, Kai pretty much stayed the same as she did in book one, though I did find myself warming up more to her sharp personality. But other then that there wasn't much character growth or regress in her personality. But just like the first book, Kai was willing to throw herself in the heart of danger to save the ones she loves. And I've always enjoyed that about Kai, and it was no exception in this book.
Now Avan was a totally different character then he was in the first book. And I really had my qualms about him from the very beginning, and was in a way let down with his drastic change. Even though I knew it was crucial to the plot, I still didn't like it. With Avan dying and being reborn as an Infinite, he lost all sense of himself and his humanity. But he still managed to have this strange love for Kia, and his protective instinct to keep her safe, but that was about it. He thinks other humans below the Infinite, and not capable of thinking for themselves. And that was a big change from book one and a HUGE turn off too. Because I absolutely LOVED Avan soooooo much in the first book, but not so much in this one. I REALLY hope Kai weaves his memory threads and he get the pieces of himself back, because if not, MASON he we come...
There was a slight lean towards a possible love triangle. But by the end of THE INFINITE, I think it's pretty clear it isn't going anywhere. But I have to admit that I was entertaining the thought of Kai ending up with Mason, especially with my loss of love for Avan. And I've ALWAYS loved Mason. From book one I found him an awesome side character with strong development with fierce and lovable character traits that quickly pulled me to him. I think he would be great for Kai. But then again, if Avan returned to his former self from book one, I think I would probably prefer Avan over Mason. But if Avan doesn't pull that cork out of his ass, and start acting like the sweet, sexy, slightly timid, but strong Avan that I knew and loved from book one, oh well, then he'll continue to lose my love for good this time!!! And that would be heartbreaking in the least!!
THE PLOT
Kai is now living in the White Court after her battle and defeat over Ninu, The City of Ninurta's last Kahl before she killed him and severed his complete control over the Sentinels, including her brother Reev. She's still trying to cope with all she's been though and adjust to how much her life has changed since that encounter that made her take a life, even one as vile and dangerous as Ninu, but it still haunts her.
But as much as Kai tries to deal with everything in the aftermath of her victory, their is one thing she just cannot adjust too, and that is the drastic change in her long time crush and love of her life Avan. After he was killed and brought back to life as an Infinite with tremendous power pulsing at his finger tips, he has changed, and she's seeing this new Avan with different eyes. She feels in more ways then one that she failed him, and now with no memories of her at all, and Avan's humanity all but gone, Kai just doesn't know how to handle that, and if she should just let him go, or fight for something that may never be again. Until Kai is forced to face this new Avan head on, and she horrifyingly realizes just how much this Avan has changed from her sweet, lovable, shy, but strong and protective Avan that she knew and loved. And she has no choice but to face the facts that he is gone, for good...
But her problems with Avan become a back thought as a new threat is brought to the gates of The City of Ninurta, and they're shocked with the reality that their not alone, their is more life outside their walls, and they're in dire need of Ninurta's aid. Kai is opted to be at the forefront of it all since she saved the City from ultimate downfall at Ninu's hands by defeating him and restoring control back to the Sentinels and the people.
But Kai could have never been prepared for what's to come on this epic journey across the void to this mysterious city in need of help. And Kai quickly learns she'll need every bit of strength and power she possess to overcome and beat this new threat at the City. And to face all the threats that just keep coming and coming.
THE INFINITE was really an awesome sequel that I highly enjoyed. From it's fresh plot, to it's new betrayals, and shocking twist, and tremendous personality change. THE INFINITE did not disappoint, and has me yearning for Kai's next journey and what she'll endure next.
Overall, THE INFINITE delivered way more then I anticipated after it's lacking predecessor. And definitely opened my eyes to the lengths this series can go and has me looking at Lori M. Lee in a new light. I highly recommend this book, and if you can get through book one then I think you'd be surprised at how much this sequel delivers and brings a whole new twist to this world. I can't wait to read the third book and see where it all goes next and if Kai will embrace her Infinite heritage and become the strong, powerful being she was really born to be...
NOTE: I received a eARC from Skyscape for reviewing purposes! All opinions expressed are my own and are not influenced in any way!
November 9, 2015
This book took me by surprise, much like the first book!
This book picks up a few months after the last events of Gates of Thread and Stone. Kai is struggling to come to terms with her actions in the last book, and trying to figure out how to help reclaim Avan's memories before he becomes too much of an Infinite and loses all his humanity. With Kahl Ninu having been dispatched, the city of Ninurta is slightly restless as the city adjusts to the new Kahl's rule, with murmurs of a civil war. And the make matters worse, there's talk of there being more outside the Outlands...
Kai is the kind of girl I picture myself being. I identified with her very much, from her love for her brother and her frustration of trying to get Avan to remember her. And Kai's power of manipulating the threads of time? Loved it. Kai's character arc in this book dealt with guilt, but it wasn't your the typical guilt character arc. For one, she wasn't completely obsessed with it. It was more of a subconscious guilt, one that haunted her when she was unconscious. Her guilt and horror didn't affected her actions, as she remained headstrong the entire time, but you could see the small details in her life being changed. We also begin to see Kai's change in mindset regarding the Infinite, and what it means to become and Infinite. There are definitely perks of having powers, but with powers comes the ability to both become overtaken by them, and to use them for the wrong cause.
"Talk over me again, and I will take my 'sorry lot' and leave your country to the chimera."
Avan was quite the interesting character. He's so much different than the first book, but he still retains some part of the old him. He stills feels strongly for Kai (completely ship-worthy), but he's not the same. Avan's struggle to find his identity made him both trustworthy and untrustworthy, as his actions didn't always match up...
I definitely came to like Reev a lot more in this book. Unlike the last book, he was more present, and we got to see just how much he wants to be able to protect Kai, and how he feels about her trekking everywhere looking for him in the last book. His reaction to Avan and Kai was both parts endearing and suspicious. Of course he would have issues with Avan kissing his little sister. But at the same time, you can't help but wonder whether or not Reev's slight dislike of Avan is rightly placed, since Avan isn't the same person we use to know. He's practically a stranger in some ways, which would put anyone on edge... Add to fact that he has some seriously scary sword skills, and you have the best big brother in the world.
"My sturdy, invincible brother. What would I do without him? Even though we weren't related by blood, he was more family to me than Kronos would ever be."
Mason. Ladies and gentlemen, may I introduce to you my next crush. We got to see a bit of him in the first book, and though I liked him quite a bit, in this book, I ended up loving him. Mason was just an overall good guy with humour and some great fighting skills, and he was able to help Kai regarding her harbouring guilt. Plus he's a whiz at escaping imprisonment, so yes, I really like him.
We really got to see more of the world in this book. Originally, it was just the city of Ninurta and the Outlands, with Irra's secret hiding place somewhere there. In this book, we're introduced to two completely new cities, each dealing with their own issues and having their own stance and opinions on the Infinite and magic.
I loved Kai's journey. I think that by having Kai go out alone, away from Reev and Avan, she really got to grow a lot. Rather than getting hung down by Reev and Avan, she had more immediate and dangerous matters to deal with, events which allowed her to grow. Kai didn't grow because she came to realizations about people; she grew because she came to realizations about herself.
"Because my magic is real, not a poor imitation of whatever remains in the Void."
There were so many events I didn't see coming. The author did a brilliant job in warming me up in some characters and events, and then flipping the switch and throwing everyone into turmoil. Unexpected attacks, unexpected betrayals, unexpected revelations, unexpected powers, unexpected everything. I was yelling in disbelief multiple times, because I couldn't comprehend what just happened.
Another great thing about this book was the ending. Instead of an epic showdown like the finale of the last book, we got a tease of a war, with the next book promising a full-out battle with everyone involved. I can't wait for the next book!
At the bottom, I added, "Don't patronize me by giving me roundabout answers like you always do. Tell me the facts or I'll come back to Ninurta just to yell at you."
Original post at Books, Stars, Writing. And Everything In Between.
This book picks up a few months after the last events of Gates of Thread and Stone. Kai is struggling to come to terms with her actions in the last book, and trying to figure out how to help reclaim Avan's memories before he becomes too much of an Infinite and loses all his humanity. With Kahl Ninu having been dispatched, the city of Ninurta is slightly restless as the city adjusts to the new Kahl's rule, with murmurs of a civil war. And the make matters worse, there's talk of there being more outside the Outlands...
Kai is the kind of girl I picture myself being. I identified with her very much, from her love for her brother and her frustration of trying to get Avan to remember her. And Kai's power of manipulating the threads of time? Loved it. Kai's character arc in this book dealt with guilt, but it wasn't your the typical guilt character arc. For one, she wasn't completely obsessed with it. It was more of a subconscious guilt, one that haunted her when she was unconscious. Her guilt and horror didn't affected her actions, as she remained headstrong the entire time, but you could see the small details in her life being changed. We also begin to see Kai's change in mindset regarding the Infinite, and what it means to become and Infinite. There are definitely perks of having powers, but with powers comes the ability to both become overtaken by them, and to use them for the wrong cause.
"Talk over me again, and I will take my 'sorry lot' and leave your country to the chimera."
Avan was quite the interesting character. He's so much different than the first book, but he still retains some part of the old him. He stills feels strongly for Kai (completely ship-worthy), but he's not the same. Avan's struggle to find his identity made him both trustworthy and untrustworthy, as his actions didn't always match up...
I definitely came to like Reev a lot more in this book. Unlike the last book, he was more present, and we got to see just how much he wants to be able to protect Kai, and how he feels about her trekking everywhere looking for him in the last book. His reaction to Avan and Kai was both parts endearing and suspicious. Of course he would have issues with Avan kissing his little sister. But at the same time, you can't help but wonder whether or not Reev's slight dislike of Avan is rightly placed, since Avan isn't the same person we use to know. He's practically a stranger in some ways, which would put anyone on edge... Add to fact that he has some seriously scary sword skills, and you have the best big brother in the world.
"My sturdy, invincible brother. What would I do without him? Even though we weren't related by blood, he was more family to me than Kronos would ever be."
Mason. Ladies and gentlemen, may I introduce to you my next crush. We got to see a bit of him in the first book, and though I liked him quite a bit, in this book, I ended up loving him. Mason was just an overall good guy with humour and some great fighting skills, and he was able to help Kai regarding her harbouring guilt. Plus he's a whiz at escaping imprisonment, so yes, I really like him.
We really got to see more of the world in this book. Originally, it was just the city of Ninurta and the Outlands, with Irra's secret hiding place somewhere there. In this book, we're introduced to two completely new cities, each dealing with their own issues and having their own stance and opinions on the Infinite and magic.
I loved Kai's journey. I think that by having Kai go out alone, away from Reev and Avan, she really got to grow a lot. Rather than getting hung down by Reev and Avan, she had more immediate and dangerous matters to deal with, events which allowed her to grow. Kai didn't grow because she came to realizations about people; she grew because she came to realizations about herself.
"Because my magic is real, not a poor imitation of whatever remains in the Void."
There were so many events I didn't see coming. The author did a brilliant job in warming me up in some characters and events, and then flipping the switch and throwing everyone into turmoil. Unexpected attacks, unexpected betrayals, unexpected revelations, unexpected powers, unexpected everything. I was yelling in disbelief multiple times, because I couldn't comprehend what just happened.
Another great thing about this book was the ending. Instead of an epic showdown like the finale of the last book, we got a tease of a war, with the next book promising a full-out battle with everyone involved. I can't wait for the next book!
At the bottom, I added, "Don't patronize me by giving me roundabout answers like you always do. Tell me the facts or I'll come back to Ninurta just to yell at you."
Original post at Books, Stars, Writing. And Everything In Between.
February 22, 2015
The Infinite by Lori Lee is the second book in the Gates of Thread and Stone series and I will get to the story in a minute but I have to admit, these books have some of my favorite covers. I thought the first one was lovely but after reading, I thought this one captured Kai and the story perfectly. Plus it is sooo pretty!! Warning: If you have not read Gates of Thread and Stone, stop here as there may be spoilers to that book below.
To say Kai has a lot going on in this book would be a pretty big understatement. At the start of this book, she is living at the palace and trying to figure out what she really wants to do and what is most important to her. As Avan attempts to figure out what it means to be Infinite, Kai is struggling with the fact that she can’t feel the threads of time any longer and that Avan isn’t the same person he was before he died…no matter how much she wishes he were.
While that is going on there are many governmental issues as well. A rebellion continues to threaten the government of Ninurta and there is a new threat that is located outside the walls of the city. Both are dangerous because one is being led by someone within and the other is being manipulated by someone very dangerous. As Kai is pulled into both situations, she finds that her denial of her power over the threads is the only thing that will save her which causes her to face some facts.
I loved the world building that Lee did in this book. We got to see what was located outside the walls of Ninurta because of the additional storyline of the group in Lanathrill. The idea of a city built inside of a mountain came to life through Lee’s descriptions.
As the story progresses, we learn that despite the fact that Ninu is gone; his creations are still creating problems for the world. The arrival of a messenger from Lanathrill is what takes Kai’s story away from Ninurta and we begin to learn more about her gift, what the leaders of Lanathrill are up to, and where her relationships with Reev and Avan will take her.
I can’t say much about what really happens here but know that there is plenty of action to keep you turning the pages. Blended in with the action is also the mystery of what really is going on. Kai knows that the Infinite can’t be trusted and her gut tells her that the Council of Vethe (the leaders of Lanathrill) are up to something but she can’t quite put her finger on it. As she begins to figure it out, things take a definite turn for the worse for Kai and those who traveled with her.
The secondary characters are great in this installment. Of course there is Avan and Reev but Kai’s friendship with Mason is just as important and plays a part in some of the decisions she makes in the story. The addition of Emryn and Cassia were great and created another layer to the story I wasn’t really expecting.
Lee spends a bit of time developing the backstory of the Avan’s and Kai’s relationship and also adds to it because in reality, the old Avan doesn’t really exist anymore so even though they had built the foundation of their relationship in book one, Avan doesn’t remember any of it. We also got to see a different view of Kai’s friendship with Mason as well as a change in Kai’s relationship with her brother.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I thought the story progressed well and we saw some growth in all of the characters. I have to say I am excited to read more about Kai and her powers as well as see what happens to the other characters involved. If you enjoy action, great world building, and a fantastic story that includes magic and wonderful characters, definitely check this series out.
Thank you to Amazon Children's Publishing for the review copy!
To say Kai has a lot going on in this book would be a pretty big understatement. At the start of this book, she is living at the palace and trying to figure out what she really wants to do and what is most important to her. As Avan attempts to figure out what it means to be Infinite, Kai is struggling with the fact that she can’t feel the threads of time any longer and that Avan isn’t the same person he was before he died…no matter how much she wishes he were.
While that is going on there are many governmental issues as well. A rebellion continues to threaten the government of Ninurta and there is a new threat that is located outside the walls of the city. Both are dangerous because one is being led by someone within and the other is being manipulated by someone very dangerous. As Kai is pulled into both situations, she finds that her denial of her power over the threads is the only thing that will save her which causes her to face some facts.
I loved the world building that Lee did in this book. We got to see what was located outside the walls of Ninurta because of the additional storyline of the group in Lanathrill. The idea of a city built inside of a mountain came to life through Lee’s descriptions.
As the story progresses, we learn that despite the fact that Ninu is gone; his creations are still creating problems for the world. The arrival of a messenger from Lanathrill is what takes Kai’s story away from Ninurta and we begin to learn more about her gift, what the leaders of Lanathrill are up to, and where her relationships with Reev and Avan will take her.
I can’t say much about what really happens here but know that there is plenty of action to keep you turning the pages. Blended in with the action is also the mystery of what really is going on. Kai knows that the Infinite can’t be trusted and her gut tells her that the Council of Vethe (the leaders of Lanathrill) are up to something but she can’t quite put her finger on it. As she begins to figure it out, things take a definite turn for the worse for Kai and those who traveled with her.
The secondary characters are great in this installment. Of course there is Avan and Reev but Kai’s friendship with Mason is just as important and plays a part in some of the decisions she makes in the story. The addition of Emryn and Cassia were great and created another layer to the story I wasn’t really expecting.
Lee spends a bit of time developing the backstory of the Avan’s and Kai’s relationship and also adds to it because in reality, the old Avan doesn’t really exist anymore so even though they had built the foundation of their relationship in book one, Avan doesn’t remember any of it. We also got to see a different view of Kai’s friendship with Mason as well as a change in Kai’s relationship with her brother.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I thought the story progressed well and we saw some growth in all of the characters. I have to say I am excited to read more about Kai and her powers as well as see what happens to the other characters involved. If you enjoy action, great world building, and a fantastic story that includes magic and wonderful characters, definitely check this series out.
Thank you to Amazon Children's Publishing for the review copy!
January 22, 2016
This and other reviews can be found on The Psychotic Nerd
MY THOUGHTS
I enjoyed Gates of Thread and Stone, but I enjoyed this book even more!
This book takes place shortly after Gates of Thread and Stone ended. Kai is trying to awaken Avan's memories after he became an Infinite, to no avail. At the same time, Kai is losing her grips on being able to manipulate the threads of time. In fact, she isn't able to use her power at all.And things are even worse than that, as a war is beginning to loom closer.
My issues with the first book mainly stemmed from the fact that I was so distracted while reading it (I read almost all of it while waiting at the DMV). This time I was able to read at the comfort of my home, so I enjoyed it so much more.
I did have issues at first, since I was unable to recall anything from the first book. Eventually, I could recall and I began to be fully immersed in this book! The world-building in this book is amazing! I was able to get a full understanding of it despite the fact that I read the first book a year ago! And, we get so much more information on the world in this book! Don't forget to mention, that this entire idea is very unique!
What I really liked about this book was how much happened in this book! Horrible, horrible things happen in this book, but this book is overall very action-packed, which I enjoy in books. Also, there are so many surprising twists in this book! Again, horrible, but I love it when a book can surprise me!
Lastly, there isn't really any romance in this book. Avan, the love interest in the last book. doesn't remember Kai, so there isn't much in the way of romance between them. Also, as I mentioned, A LOT happens in this book. There is especially a lot of violence. So many things are so much more important than a romance! There is the possibility of a future romance, which I ship, but that's it.
IN CONCLUSION
This was an amazing, action-packed sequel! So much happened and I'm really sorry about being vague, but I want you guys to be as surprised as I was! I will definitely be continuing the series!
MY THOUGHTS
I enjoyed Gates of Thread and Stone, but I enjoyed this book even more!
This book takes place shortly after Gates of Thread and Stone ended. Kai is trying to awaken Avan's memories after he became an Infinite, to no avail. At the same time, Kai is losing her grips on being able to manipulate the threads of time. In fact, she isn't able to use her power at all.And things are even worse than that, as a war is beginning to loom closer.
My issues with the first book mainly stemmed from the fact that I was so distracted while reading it (I read almost all of it while waiting at the DMV). This time I was able to read at the comfort of my home, so I enjoyed it so much more.
I did have issues at first, since I was unable to recall anything from the first book. Eventually, I could recall and I began to be fully immersed in this book! The world-building in this book is amazing! I was able to get a full understanding of it despite the fact that I read the first book a year ago! And, we get so much more information on the world in this book! Don't forget to mention, that this entire idea is very unique!
What I really liked about this book was how much happened in this book! Horrible, horrible things happen in this book, but this book is overall very action-packed, which I enjoy in books. Also, there are so many surprising twists in this book! Again, horrible, but I love it when a book can surprise me!
Lastly, there isn't really any romance in this book. Avan, the love interest in the last book. doesn't remember Kai, so there isn't much in the way of romance between them. Also, as I mentioned, A LOT happens in this book. There is especially a lot of violence. So many things are so much more important than a romance! There is the possibility of a future romance, which I ship, but that's it.
IN CONCLUSION
This was an amazing, action-packed sequel! So much happened and I'm really sorry about being vague, but I want you guys to be as surprised as I was! I will definitely be continuing the series!
May 30, 2015
I read the first book in this series a few months back and I loved it so I was super excited to start book two. I was hoping for more world building and some cool character development. I got half of that I wanted so it wasn't a total loss.
I liked Kai fairly well in the first book but I felt she became really boring and mildly stupid in The Infinite. There was a few major things that didn't seem to bother her but I thought should have. She spent a lot of the acting like a love sick puppy. This book didn't show the best side of her and didn't represent YA female characters all that well. I wish this series didn't have any romance because I think it draws some much needed
attention away from how empowering and awesome Kai could be. I get that publishers think romance and love sells books but if this series were to stand out, it would have had to drop the romance.
I really liked how The Infinite expanded and added to the fantasy world that Lee created. There was a little info dumping but not a whole lot. I think this series has an insanely cool world and even though I'm not totally into the characters, I really like the world.
I was a tad bored at time but I did some speed reading though the slow parts so for me personally, it wasn't a big deal.
Overall, I think this series is pretty cool. I really love the world and the writing. I'm not a massive fan of the characters but I'm extra picking with female characters and romance in YA. This is a fun series and I think for readers that aren't really critical, this would be a great series to pick up. Or if you love romance in YA, this would be a good series to read.
I liked Kai fairly well in the first book but I felt she became really boring and mildly stupid in The Infinite. There was a few major things that didn't seem to bother her but I thought should have. She spent a lot of the acting like a love sick puppy. This book didn't show the best side of her and didn't represent YA female characters all that well. I wish this series didn't have any romance because I think it draws some much needed
attention away from how empowering and awesome Kai could be. I get that publishers think romance and love sells books but if this series were to stand out, it would have had to drop the romance.
I really liked how The Infinite expanded and added to the fantasy world that Lee created. There was a little info dumping but not a whole lot. I think this series has an insanely cool world and even though I'm not totally into the characters, I really like the world.
I was a tad bored at time but I did some speed reading though the slow parts so for me personally, it wasn't a big deal.
Overall, I think this series is pretty cool. I really love the world and the writing. I'm not a massive fan of the characters but I'm extra picking with female characters and romance in YA. This is a fun series and I think for readers that aren't really critical, this would be a great series to pick up. Or if you love romance in YA, this would be a good series to read.
February 4, 2015
Okay, going to be honest. For about the entirety of this book, I thought that Lee was going to betray me. That she was going to take my emotions, my desires, and rip them apart...and then laugh in my face. But I couldn't stop reading. Her characters, the plot, everything drew me deeper and deeper. To the extent that I finished the second book mere hours after finishing the first (one could assume I did both in under 24 hours, as I started the first at 3pm, and finished the second at 5am). That should give some idea how easily I was captured by this series.
In this book, we don't see as much Avan, he's there, but not there. It's not a bad thing, it's more like...a necessary thing. I seriously drekking missed him and Kai's interactions though!
Despite this, we get a hefty set of new characters. Several of which Lee forces me to love an then does shatter my heart by making them...not what I thought they were.
We're also introduced to a new land, one that I really loved. The way that Lee describes things, at some areas even I got incredibly hot, which considering my room is freezing, must have something to do with her and not the fact I was under four blankets.
I have incredibly high hopes for book three, and desperately wish I could read it now. Kai has finally made some tough decisions, and is well on her way to becoming even more awesome of a heroine than she already is!
**Read Via Netgalley**
In this book, we don't see as much Avan, he's there, but not there. It's not a bad thing, it's more like...a necessary thing. I seriously drekking missed him and Kai's interactions though!
Despite this, we get a hefty set of new characters. Several of which Lee forces me to love an then does shatter my heart by making them...not what I thought they were.
We're also introduced to a new land, one that I really loved. The way that Lee describes things, at some areas even I got incredibly hot, which considering my room is freezing, must have something to do with her and not the fact I was under four blankets.
I have incredibly high hopes for book three, and desperately wish I could read it now. Kai has finally made some tough decisions, and is well on her way to becoming even more awesome of a heroine than she already is!
**Read Via Netgalley**
February 27, 2015
I was much more intrigued by The Infinite than I was with the first book, but all the same, my rating stays at 3.5 stars.
What I liked:
• The manipulation and doubt Kai faces. (Although I wasn’t fooled and saw the plots twists coming from miles away.)
• Kai loses her powers.
• Kai has become more kickass.
• Kai is still loyal to her friends and family.
• Avan doesn’t get his memories back. It would have been too soon and I wouldn’t have cared. (I don’t like the new Avan, fyi.)
• Mason. Like I said, I have a crush on him.
What I didn’t like:
• Kai is lovesick and never fails to remind us on every other page.
• If my boyfriend, a friend, or just simply someone I care about was in Avan’s place, I would be acting the same as Kai. However, Kai’s desperation drove her to be reckless and plain annoying. I’m glad she’s not giving up on him, but still, I didn’t pick up this book to read about pathetic characters.
• The attempt at a love triangle. I already don’t care about the romance in this book, so another love interest isn’t going to make me like this book any better.
• The betrayal at the end is resolved quickly.
More bullets will be add later.
I’m not sure I’ll be reading the third book. The Gates of Thread and Stone series isn't keeping its hold on me for long.
What I liked:
• The manipulation and doubt Kai faces. (Although I wasn’t fooled and saw the plots twists coming from miles away.)
• Kai loses her powers.
• Kai has become more kickass.
• Kai is still loyal to her friends and family.
• Avan doesn’t get his memories back. It would have been too soon and I wouldn’t have cared. (I don’t like the new Avan, fyi.)
• Mason. Like I said, I have a crush on him.
What I didn’t like:
• Kai is lovesick and never fails to remind us on every other page.
• If my boyfriend, a friend, or just simply someone I care about was in Avan’s place, I would be acting the same as Kai. However, Kai’s desperation drove her to be reckless and plain annoying. I’m glad she’s not giving up on him, but still, I didn’t pick up this book to read about pathetic characters.
• The attempt at a love triangle. I already don’t care about the romance in this book, so another love interest isn’t going to make me like this book any better.
• The betrayal at the end is resolved quickly.
More bullets will be add later.
I’m not sure I’ll be reading the third book. The Gates of Thread and Stone series isn't keeping its hold on me for long.
May 20, 2015
Wow wow wow wow wow!
That was truly an amazing book.
It was a wonderful ride. An intense roller coaster of emotions.
Reev: I love him. He is the best big brother ever. He is proof that you don't need to be blood to be family.
Avan: I don't even know how to put him into words.
Mason: what a doll
Mason vs Avan
plot twists:
That was truly an amazing book.
It was a wonderful ride. An intense roller coaster of emotions.
Reev: I love him. He is the best big brother ever. He is proof that you don't need to be blood to be family.
Avan: I don't even know how to put him into words.
Mason: what a doll
Mason vs Avan
plot twists:
February 24, 2015
Unfortunately the magic seems to have disappeared for me, much as it's done for our protagonist Kai.
In brief:
1) I totally understand that this is a magical/fantasy world, but some things still need to be plausible. Making a 17-year-old advisor to the ruler of the city based on her past antics, which were really more impulsive than strategic, is pretty stupid to me.
2) The love triangle makes its appearance. Although it is put to bed pretty swiftly.
3) The writing in this one seemed overly-descriptive and a little clunky to me? Some of the words are also super colloquial (this appears to be a recurring pet peeve of mine), which don't really fit in with the swords and horses setting.
4) The betrayal at the end and the swift 180 degrees two pages later seemed incredibly abrupt. Again, implausible. *They* spend the whole book plotting and planning, and then whoops, suddenly they realise the power of their feelings? Nuh-uh. I'm not buying it.
I'd still like to read the third book and see how things are resolved, but for me The Infinite really suffered from second-book syndrome.
ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
In brief:
1) I totally understand that this is a magical/fantasy world, but some things still need to be plausible. Making a 17-year-old advisor to the ruler of the city based on her past antics, which were really more impulsive than strategic, is pretty stupid to me.
2) The love triangle makes its appearance. Although it is put to bed pretty swiftly.
3) The writing in this one seemed overly-descriptive and a little clunky to me? Some of the words are also super colloquial (this appears to be a recurring pet peeve of mine), which don't really fit in with the swords and horses setting.
4) The betrayal at the end and the swift 180 degrees two pages later seemed incredibly abrupt. Again, implausible. *They* spend the whole book plotting and planning, and then whoops, suddenly they realise the power of their feelings? Nuh-uh. I'm not buying it.
I'd still like to read the third book and see how things are resolved, but for me The Infinite really suffered from second-book syndrome.
ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2015
I liked this one more than the first one and in my opinion it was way better; even if, from what I've seen, some people think the opposite. Maybe they don't like action packed books.
Because it's the sequel I won't talk a lot, but as I was saying this book was good. I enjoyed the action and the suspense, the twsists and turns that were coming like crazy, and I'm surprised to say, but I really liked Kai and I could very easily sympathize with her. I felt like in this novel she was more mature and could think of more things than her brother and Avan.
Also, in this book we find a ton more about the world, about Kai's power and the magic that exists. And I really wasn't expecting the enemy or the enemies to be... but I'll let you discover that. Because it's awesome and it's worth reading. This was a very strong sequel and I really really can't wait to read the next one.
Hopefully my short review is not too all over the place and will convince you to read this. Don't mind the negative reviews and just read it if you feel like. Also, if you haven't started this series, then I don't know what are you doing.
@Thanks to the publisher and to NetGalley for approving me.
Because it's the sequel I won't talk a lot, but as I was saying this book was good. I enjoyed the action and the suspense, the twsists and turns that were coming like crazy, and I'm surprised to say, but I really liked Kai and I could very easily sympathize with her. I felt like in this novel she was more mature and could think of more things than her brother and Avan.
Also, in this book we find a ton more about the world, about Kai's power and the magic that exists. And I really wasn't expecting the enemy or the enemies to be... but I'll let you discover that. Because it's awesome and it's worth reading. This was a very strong sequel and I really really can't wait to read the next one.
Hopefully my short review is not too all over the place and will convince you to read this. Don't mind the negative reviews and just read it if you feel like. Also, if you haven't started this series, then I don't know what are you doing.
@Thanks to the publisher and to NetGalley for approving me.
lost-interest
January 2, 2016So I was initially excited to read Gates of Thread and Stone because it sounded like my sort of thing and had an awesome cover. But then reviews came in that were kinda unanimously meh and I put it on the back burner indefinitely.
But time to pull that sucker back out because HOT DAMN LOOK AT THE SEQUEL'S COVER
MECHA CATS AND DESERT SETTING AND BADASS GIRL WITH SWORD
I'm a shallow bitch and I don't even care, I will pre-order this shit just to have it sitting on my bookshelf. The book could end up crap, whatever, it already gets 5 stars just for cover badassery.
But time to pull that sucker back out because HOT DAMN LOOK AT THE SEQUEL'S COVER
MECHA CATS AND DESERT SETTING AND BADASS GIRL WITH SWORD
I'm a shallow bitch and I don't even care, I will pre-order this shit just to have it sitting on my bookshelf. The book could end up crap, whatever, it already gets 5 stars just for cover badassery.
May 5, 2015
Ms. Lee once again blew me away with her world building skills! Semi-spoilery, but really, not... We get to see a new city and I was drooling at the descriptions. It's a rare thing for me to be so captivated by a "place", but it almost became a character in itself.
Anyway, I digress! Great read: a kick-butt heroine, lots of magical adventure, and yummy slow-moving romance. Loved it just as much as the first book!
Anyway, I digress! Great read: a kick-butt heroine, lots of magical adventure, and yummy slow-moving romance. Loved it just as much as the first book!
December 31, 2014
I love this book #2 more than the book #1, which doesn't happen too often. : )
April 28, 2021
I enjoyed this sequel. Definitely am Team Mason now. Full Review To Come.
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