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The Healer #2
The Black Blossom
Forced into a dream-like state, Hope is reliving her life as Mikomi, Princess of the Kagami Empire and The Healer of the world. Life as an Imperial Princess is rife with danger, betrayal and intrigue as Mikomi joins forces with a rebel group of samurai warriors in order to usurp the throne from her tyrannical father. To win this seemingly hopeless war, she must train with Musubi, a warrior in the rebel army, and learn the art of the sword without revealing her identity as The Healer.
Unbeknownst to her, Musubi harbors his own secret identity and personal agenda, both of which hold dark consequences for Mikomi's future. Neither one can afford to share their secrets, nor can they ignore the powerful chemistry building between them.
Further complications arise at the arrival of her betrothed, Katsu, who must aid her in mastering control of her own gift before she ascends as a full kami on her eighteenth birthday. Katsu is not the cold-hearted warrior god she expected, but how can she spend eternity with a deity she may never love?
Determined to avoid her destiny, she spies on her father and his generals, collecting intelligence for the rebel army in the hope that one day the empire of Kagami will be liberated and her own future will be hers to control.
Unbeknownst to her, Musubi harbors his own secret identity and personal agenda, both of which hold dark consequences for Mikomi's future. Neither one can afford to share their secrets, nor can they ignore the powerful chemistry building between them.
Further complications arise at the arrival of her betrothed, Katsu, who must aid her in mastering control of her own gift before she ascends as a full kami on her eighteenth birthday. Katsu is not the cold-hearted warrior god she expected, but how can she spend eternity with a deity she may never love?
Determined to avoid her destiny, she spies on her father and his generals, collecting intelligence for the rebel army in the hope that one day the empire of Kagami will be liberated and her own future will be hers to control.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 11, 2015
177 people are currently reading
706 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Anaya
27 books522 followersDo you love free romances? Need a new book boyfriend?
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I am always looking for reviewers to read and review my books. If you see a book that interests you please email me at authorandbookspotlights@gmail.com to request a review copy of that book.
I began writing short stories for family and friends when I was thirteen years old. My vivid imagination and love of mysteries and romances eventually led me to following my own dreams of becoming a published author. I also do some book review work on the side for SDE Magazine.
I'm a huge fan of The Mindy Project, Hugh Jackman, and binge eating any and all things chocolate. Who isn't, am I right?
As a mother of four awesome kids I'm usually playing beauty salon with my daughters (my four-year-old shaved my arm one time while I was helping another daughter with her homework. Yep. That happened) getting my fanny kicked in Mario Kart by my snarky little son, and making out with my deliciously handsome looking Latin lover, aka, my hubby.
SEND MY FREE BOOK
SEND MY FREE BOOK
I am always looking for reviewers to read and review my books. If you see a book that interests you please email me at authorandbookspotlights@gmail.com to request a review copy of that book.
I began writing short stories for family and friends when I was thirteen years old. My vivid imagination and love of mysteries and romances eventually led me to following my own dreams of becoming a published author. I also do some book review work on the side for SDE Magazine.
I'm a huge fan of The Mindy Project, Hugh Jackman, and binge eating any and all things chocolate. Who isn't, am I right?
As a mother of four awesome kids I'm usually playing beauty salon with my daughters (my four-year-old shaved my arm one time while I was helping another daughter with her homework. Yep. That happened) getting my fanny kicked in Mario Kart by my snarky little son, and making out with my deliciously handsome looking Latin lover, aka, my hubby.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
June 21, 2018
Disclaimer: I was sent a copy of this book by the author, C.J. Anaya, for an honest review
Opinion:
Today from my far away land of Northern California, I bring you a riveting review of The Black Blossom, the sequel to The Healer by C.J. Anaya. I reviewed The Healer MONTHS ago, so if you have forgotten or never saw it, please go here before continuing. Or if you’re feeling rebellious and refuse to take s**t from me or anyone else, don’t. You go, you little rebel you! 😉
After nearly draining her life force in order to save Kirby, Hope has been forced into a state of dreaming so that she is able to relive the memories of her past life. The reader is taken back in time to Hope’s first life in 1000 A.D. as Princess Mikomi, the healer that is prophesized to heal the veil between the living and the dead with her betrothed, Katsu. Though Mikomi has a strict life path laid out before her, it doesn’t stop her from sneaking away from her duties in order to heal villagers in need. But the moment of her arranged marriage and ascension is nearing, and the vile Emperor’s countless abuse of Mikomi’s powers is beginning to wear her thin. In an attempt to defy her father, the Emporer, Mikomi joins forces with the rebel armies intent on taking back the Kagami Empire; and begins training with the mysterious and cold Musubi. Months of training and attempts by Mikomi to crack the hard shell of Musubi begins to make improve, but her conflicting feelings for her betrothed begin to rise as well. All Mikomi can do now is gather as much information against her father as possible, and hope that it will be enough to change her destiny.
Did somebody say…SWOON?!?
THIS is where this series takes off and becomes a story worth raving about. Though I did enjoy book one, The Healer, I can’t even compare the level of amazing that The Black Blossom is. This author COMPLETELY revamped the “enjoyable but okay” book that the reader starts out with. The characters, the world, the danger, and the intrigue are at LEVEL 10 and I am like a bug to a lamp…smashing my head against it for MORE, MORE, MORE! The Healer had a great direction that it was moving towards and introduced some dreamy characters, but it felt so adolescent and a bit “eye-rollish”. In The Black Blossom we are transported back in time, but these characters are EVOLVED. The men are actually MEN and there isn’t all of this immature banter going on between the males and females that makes me want to barf a little. Instead of feeling like I am reading a teen story, I feel like I am immersed in a true YA Fantasy series. HELL YES to that!
This installment of The Healer series starts out in 1000 A.D., where Hope is experiencing her first life as Princess Mikomi of the Kagami Empire. It has been prophesized that a Kami and a human woman will bear a child (Mikomi) that will be the key to healing the veil between the living and the dead. Once of age, Mikomi is meant to marry Masaru Katsu, Warrior God and keeper of the Grass Cutter Sword, where they will combine as one to heal the veil and save everyone…blah, blah, blah…happily ever after. For Mikomi, this life isn’t at all what she wants for herself. She dreams of being able to choose her own destiny and make her own choices, which includes sneaking out of the palace and healing villagers in secret.
Eventually circumstances land Mikomi in a position to help rebel armies overthrow her father, the Emperor. Now, in her defense, the Emperor is a Grade A Asshole. Not only is he power hungry and ruthless, but he uses Mikomi’s healing abilities to suit his own needs by interrogating rebels. He has no respect for human life, so you know…off with his head. As Mikomi begins to aid the rebels in healings, she also insists upon being trained in combat so that she is able to take care or herself and her loved ones. Enter: Musubi.
Now Musubi is an interesting fellow. Tall, brooding, cold, mysterious…a real prick. But a dreamy one at that! This guy is the epitome of SUH-WOON! Not only does he have a menagerie of secrets that he is hiding, but the reader just can’t help but fall in love with him. I mean come on, I’m in love with him. The relationship between Mikomi and Musubi is gut-wrenching and heartbreaking, hopeful and delicate, but actually plain confusing and aggravating. There is an OBVIOUS connection between the two, but past circumstances have made Musubi cold and closed-off from his feelings. Every time Mikomi begins to break through his walls, Musubi adds more bricks. With Katsu, Mikomi’s betrothed, added into the mix, things really start to get interesting. HELLO LOVE TRIANGLE! We begin to see Mikomi struggle to do what is expected of her, and what she wants for herself. It truly is a hard thing to witness and I can’t help but give this character major props for being such a resilient little badass. The question of the century for her is simply this: which path is the right path?
I don’t want to give too much more away, but I think that will give you guys a great idea of what to expect from this book and the one following. The world that this author creates is detailed and dangerous, and it becomes a story that you just can’t imagine putting down. I am ENRAPTURED with these characters and the ride that I am being taken on. I am in the middle of the next installment, The Grass Cutter Sword, and I can barely describe to you how this author is making my heart feel! I feel sick and elated, but mostly full of hope. I know that there is SO much more turmoil and depressing events to come, and I am preparing myself now for some heartbreak. I am so glad that this series has turned into something SO much more than I had expected. This is truly a winner for me.
Book two is going to leave you with a bit of a cliffhanger, so have number three on hand so that you can dive in right away. Trust me, you’re going to need it. Good luck readers, this one is going to make you go crazy!
Opinion:
Today from my far away land of Northern California, I bring you a riveting review of The Black Blossom, the sequel to The Healer by C.J. Anaya. I reviewed The Healer MONTHS ago, so if you have forgotten or never saw it, please go here before continuing. Or if you’re feeling rebellious and refuse to take s**t from me or anyone else, don’t. You go, you little rebel you! 😉
After nearly draining her life force in order to save Kirby, Hope has been forced into a state of dreaming so that she is able to relive the memories of her past life. The reader is taken back in time to Hope’s first life in 1000 A.D. as Princess Mikomi, the healer that is prophesized to heal the veil between the living and the dead with her betrothed, Katsu. Though Mikomi has a strict life path laid out before her, it doesn’t stop her from sneaking away from her duties in order to heal villagers in need. But the moment of her arranged marriage and ascension is nearing, and the vile Emperor’s countless abuse of Mikomi’s powers is beginning to wear her thin. In an attempt to defy her father, the Emporer, Mikomi joins forces with the rebel armies intent on taking back the Kagami Empire; and begins training with the mysterious and cold Musubi. Months of training and attempts by Mikomi to crack the hard shell of Musubi begins to make improve, but her conflicting feelings for her betrothed begin to rise as well. All Mikomi can do now is gather as much information against her father as possible, and hope that it will be enough to change her destiny.
Did somebody say…SWOON?!?
THIS is where this series takes off and becomes a story worth raving about. Though I did enjoy book one, The Healer, I can’t even compare the level of amazing that The Black Blossom is. This author COMPLETELY revamped the “enjoyable but okay” book that the reader starts out with. The characters, the world, the danger, and the intrigue are at LEVEL 10 and I am like a bug to a lamp…smashing my head against it for MORE, MORE, MORE! The Healer had a great direction that it was moving towards and introduced some dreamy characters, but it felt so adolescent and a bit “eye-rollish”. In The Black Blossom we are transported back in time, but these characters are EVOLVED. The men are actually MEN and there isn’t all of this immature banter going on between the males and females that makes me want to barf a little. Instead of feeling like I am reading a teen story, I feel like I am immersed in a true YA Fantasy series. HELL YES to that!
This installment of The Healer series starts out in 1000 A.D., where Hope is experiencing her first life as Princess Mikomi of the Kagami Empire. It has been prophesized that a Kami and a human woman will bear a child (Mikomi) that will be the key to healing the veil between the living and the dead. Once of age, Mikomi is meant to marry Masaru Katsu, Warrior God and keeper of the Grass Cutter Sword, where they will combine as one to heal the veil and save everyone…blah, blah, blah…happily ever after. For Mikomi, this life isn’t at all what she wants for herself. She dreams of being able to choose her own destiny and make her own choices, which includes sneaking out of the palace and healing villagers in secret.
Eventually circumstances land Mikomi in a position to help rebel armies overthrow her father, the Emperor. Now, in her defense, the Emperor is a Grade A Asshole. Not only is he power hungry and ruthless, but he uses Mikomi’s healing abilities to suit his own needs by interrogating rebels. He has no respect for human life, so you know…off with his head. As Mikomi begins to aid the rebels in healings, she also insists upon being trained in combat so that she is able to take care or herself and her loved ones. Enter: Musubi.
Now Musubi is an interesting fellow. Tall, brooding, cold, mysterious…a real prick. But a dreamy one at that! This guy is the epitome of SUH-WOON! Not only does he have a menagerie of secrets that he is hiding, but the reader just can’t help but fall in love with him. I mean come on, I’m in love with him. The relationship between Mikomi and Musubi is gut-wrenching and heartbreaking, hopeful and delicate, but actually plain confusing and aggravating. There is an OBVIOUS connection between the two, but past circumstances have made Musubi cold and closed-off from his feelings. Every time Mikomi begins to break through his walls, Musubi adds more bricks. With Katsu, Mikomi’s betrothed, added into the mix, things really start to get interesting. HELLO LOVE TRIANGLE! We begin to see Mikomi struggle to do what is expected of her, and what she wants for herself. It truly is a hard thing to witness and I can’t help but give this character major props for being such a resilient little badass. The question of the century for her is simply this: which path is the right path?
I don’t want to give too much more away, but I think that will give you guys a great idea of what to expect from this book and the one following. The world that this author creates is detailed and dangerous, and it becomes a story that you just can’t imagine putting down. I am ENRAPTURED with these characters and the ride that I am being taken on. I am in the middle of the next installment, The Grass Cutter Sword, and I can barely describe to you how this author is making my heart feel! I feel sick and elated, but mostly full of hope. I know that there is SO much more turmoil and depressing events to come, and I am preparing myself now for some heartbreak. I am so glad that this series has turned into something SO much more than I had expected. This is truly a winner for me.
Book two is going to leave you with a bit of a cliffhanger, so have number three on hand so that you can dive in right away. Trust me, you’re going to need it. Good luck readers, this one is going to make you go crazy!
June 28, 2015
Pre-Review:
My love for this series grows with every page turned! I seriously think I liked this book better than the first and let me tell you I ABSOLUTELY LOVED the first so that's saying something!
*My full review should be up in a few days*
Full Review:
After experiencing a massive book high after reading The Healer, I came to the conclusion that there is no feasible way that The Black Blossom can trump my undying love that I have for the first book...*whispers* IT DID! I ADORED The Black Blossom! The book makes you feel like a time traveler or in my case Doctor Who because who doesn't want to be Doctor Who? From the moment you open the book you are swept back in time to a world so beautifully written that you feel as if you are a part of the book...and oh how I wish that I was a part of this book because I would so stalk Musubi...*sexy voice* oh Musubi, I do love you oh so very much!
Characters:
Mikomi (aka Hope)-
As the princess of the Kagami Empire and as The Healer, she has a lot of responsibility on her shoulders and she isn't quite aware of how important her job as The Healer is, but she does know that her power can help and save many people so that is exactly what she does. I absolutely adored this side of Hope! Yes, she isn't as vocal or sassy as the Hope from the first book but that did not bother me in the least. Women are considered beneath men during this time and have to be granted permission to speak, which makes Mikomi have a more docile attitude. However, she does have some outbursts that were fabulous, especially when she punched a particular blonde and blue-eyed individual...*eye waggle*.
Musubi (aka Tie)-
Oh my dearest, most lovely and sexy Musubi, my love for you transcends time and space and every time you saunter onto the page my heart goes pitter patter and love and *cough* LUST *cough* ooze from every pore in my body! If I act hurt and in pain in a forest will you come to my aid???? Wait a second...an excruciating pain has just overcome my whole body! My death may be imminent if a certain sexy individual doesn't come save me from the brink of death.....oh I see the light! Please save me oh beautiful one...*anxiously waits for the arrival of Musubi while lying on the ground in the fetal position with the hope that my supposed ailment may attract him* ...Well that didn't quite work out how I wanted it to. I guess I will live out the remainder of my life Musubi-less and watch him love Mikomi while my heart rips apart at the heartstrings!
Katsu (aka Victor)-
Okay I like Katsu but he doesn't set my heart on fire. I like him better as a friend to MIkomi because I am positive that he is only infatuated with Mikomi's title as The Healer, and sorry buddy but I can't love you for that. Musubi loves her for who she is, even though he has no idea WHO she is (Yeah, C.J. Anaya I will get to that little issue in a minute :)) Katsu does help Mikomi immensely in regards to her father and I appreciated him for that but I don't feel a connection between the two...which I am perfectly okay with because I am hardcore Team Tie/Musubi!
Emperor Fukurokuju-
Hate him. Hate him. HATE HIM!!! I abhor him. I detest him. I want to OBLITERATE him!! Do you catch my drift? Mikomi's father is absolutely terrible! He forces her do certain actions that she should never have to do and he treats her like she is worthless! I want to orchestrate a riot among the peasants who also share my glowing opinion of him. We shall all unite in our hatred and I shall bellow a battle cry and storm the palace with my army of peasants!
Kenji, Akane and Saigo were more minor characters but they were FABULOUS! I loved how the author introduced them to this wonderful series. Oh and Akane is a certain fabulous redheaded individual who is still as sassy and strong as ever! They were a great addition. While they were a great addition, Mikomi's mother was not. I almost hate her as much as Mikomi's father. She doesn't treat Mikomi like a daughter and she cannot love her because she married Mikomi's father to fulfill the prophecy, even though she abhors him along with everyone else...yeah sorry I can't buy that. You are her mother and you should love her no matter what!
And alas, my review shall come to a close. Ah but before I end, I would just like to say that C.J. Anaya has caused me massive heart failure and I am now a shred of my former self because I spent the entirety of the book anxiously awaiting Musubi to discover Mikomi's true identity. And did he? NO! Oh that was a mean little trick Mrs. Anaya. VERY mean! I still love you for it but I will have you know that when the book ended I think my chest caved in a bit and I crawled to the nearest cave and proceeded to rock back and forth while sobbing uncontrollably! I NEED the third book! My very existence depends on it! Mrs. Anaya, you have woven a beautiful story that has swept me off my feet and and has literally transported me to a new world. I have always said that books are magical, and that they have the power to capture your mind and paint a new world for you to experience when written correctly. You, C.J. Anaya, have done just that and with every book, you continue to develop a beautiful world filled with complex characters. Bravo! I recommend this book to everyone! It is a MUST read for all paranormal lovers! No scratch that- it is a MUST read to ALL book lovers! P.S. When the third book is available I would absolutely love to read and review it because like I said earlier, my very existence depends on the third book! :)
My love for this series grows with every page turned! I seriously think I liked this book better than the first and let me tell you I ABSOLUTELY LOVED the first so that's saying something!
*My full review should be up in a few days*
Full Review:
After experiencing a massive book high after reading The Healer, I came to the conclusion that there is no feasible way that The Black Blossom can trump my undying love that I have for the first book...*whispers* IT DID! I ADORED The Black Blossom! The book makes you feel like a time traveler or in my case Doctor Who because who doesn't want to be Doctor Who? From the moment you open the book you are swept back in time to a world so beautifully written that you feel as if you are a part of the book...and oh how I wish that I was a part of this book because I would so stalk Musubi...*sexy voice* oh Musubi, I do love you oh so very much!
Characters:
Mikomi (aka Hope)-
As the princess of the Kagami Empire and as The Healer, she has a lot of responsibility on her shoulders and she isn't quite aware of how important her job as The Healer is, but she does know that her power can help and save many people so that is exactly what she does. I absolutely adored this side of Hope! Yes, she isn't as vocal or sassy as the Hope from the first book but that did not bother me in the least. Women are considered beneath men during this time and have to be granted permission to speak, which makes Mikomi have a more docile attitude. However, she does have some outbursts that were fabulous, especially when she punched a particular blonde and blue-eyed individual...*eye waggle*.
Musubi (aka Tie)-
Oh my dearest, most lovely and sexy Musubi, my love for you transcends time and space and every time you saunter onto the page my heart goes pitter patter and love and *cough* LUST *cough* ooze from every pore in my body! If I act hurt and in pain in a forest will you come to my aid???? Wait a second...an excruciating pain has just overcome my whole body! My death may be imminent if a certain sexy individual doesn't come save me from the brink of death.....oh I see the light! Please save me oh beautiful one...*anxiously waits for the arrival of Musubi while lying on the ground in the fetal position with the hope that my supposed ailment may attract him* ...Well that didn't quite work out how I wanted it to. I guess I will live out the remainder of my life Musubi-less and watch him love Mikomi while my heart rips apart at the heartstrings!
Katsu (aka Victor)-
Okay I like Katsu but he doesn't set my heart on fire. I like him better as a friend to MIkomi because I am positive that he is only infatuated with Mikomi's title as The Healer, and sorry buddy but I can't love you for that. Musubi loves her for who she is, even though he has no idea WHO she is (Yeah, C.J. Anaya I will get to that little issue in a minute :)) Katsu does help Mikomi immensely in regards to her father and I appreciated him for that but I don't feel a connection between the two...which I am perfectly okay with because I am hardcore Team Tie/Musubi!
Emperor Fukurokuju-
Hate him. Hate him. HATE HIM!!! I abhor him. I detest him. I want to OBLITERATE him!! Do you catch my drift? Mikomi's father is absolutely terrible! He forces her do certain actions that she should never have to do and he treats her like she is worthless! I want to orchestrate a riot among the peasants who also share my glowing opinion of him. We shall all unite in our hatred and I shall bellow a battle cry and storm the palace with my army of peasants!
Kenji, Akane and Saigo were more minor characters but they were FABULOUS! I loved how the author introduced them to this wonderful series. Oh and Akane is a certain fabulous redheaded individual who is still as sassy and strong as ever! They were a great addition. While they were a great addition, Mikomi's mother was not. I almost hate her as much as Mikomi's father. She doesn't treat Mikomi like a daughter and she cannot love her because she married Mikomi's father to fulfill the prophecy, even though she abhors him along with everyone else...yeah sorry I can't buy that. You are her mother and you should love her no matter what!
And alas, my review shall come to a close. Ah but before I end, I would just like to say that C.J. Anaya has caused me massive heart failure and I am now a shred of my former self because I spent the entirety of the book anxiously awaiting Musubi to discover Mikomi's true identity. And did he? NO! Oh that was a mean little trick Mrs. Anaya. VERY mean! I still love you for it but I will have you know that when the book ended I think my chest caved in a bit and I crawled to the nearest cave and proceeded to rock back and forth while sobbing uncontrollably! I NEED the third book! My very existence depends on it! Mrs. Anaya, you have woven a beautiful story that has swept me off my feet and and has literally transported me to a new world. I have always said that books are magical, and that they have the power to capture your mind and paint a new world for you to experience when written correctly. You, C.J. Anaya, have done just that and with every book, you continue to develop a beautiful world filled with complex characters. Bravo! I recommend this book to everyone! It is a MUST read for all paranormal lovers! No scratch that- it is a MUST read to ALL book lovers! P.S. When the third book is available I would absolutely love to read and review it because like I said earlier, my very existence depends on the third book! :)
July 3, 2016
Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. So much yes.
I came across C.J. Anaya through a Goodreads giveaway for this series. Unfortunately, I did not win the series, but I did sign up for her newsletter. Through doing so, I received the first book and a short story. I had intended to read it for quite some time – but my to-read list is ridiculously long. Despite having not read any of her work, though, I signed up to join her advance read team when I saw she was looking for people to join. This meant I got to read her Marry Your Billionaire at the start of the year – and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I knew right then that I would be reading more of her work. Still, I didn’t pick this up right away. It had nothing to do with a lack of interest, rather I had so many advance reads to get through and there were so many new books I’d been waiting on, it just sort of feel to the bottom of my list. Not too long back, however, I noticed that C.J. Anaya was looking for people to review the series for her. Thus, I contacted her. I explained that I had the first book and would love to read the rest of the series. She was lovely enjoy to send me books two and three.
Then came the dreaded exam period that puts a dampener on bibliophiles. Despite wanting to read a book a day, such a thing isn’t really advised. Thus, it was put aside for a while.
Finally, however, I have got to work on the series. After finishing book one I knew I wanted more. However, what I did not expect was for me to find myself so crazy addicted to the second story. Yes, I gave the first book four stars, yet compared to the second book it is an exceptionally weak four stars. The Healer was a flickering around the four stars read, whereby I couldn’t give it anything less because it would have been an injustice. The Black Blossom, on the other hand, threatened to be a five star read for quite a lot of the book. However, as I’m exceptionally cruel when it comes to my five stars I held back with this one. It wasn’t quite there when I compare it to the selection of books I have given five stars. Oh, it’s close, but not quite enough – if nothing else, I need to hold out hope that the next one will shine even brighter.
With book one, I found it took me a while to get into the story. With the second book, I was pulled in from the get go. As always, her writing style is very much her own, with the characters being brought to life so easily. I didn’t find the cast as amusing in this one, but I loved them just as much. In fact, I loved them more in many different ways. There are so many interesting characters, with so much going on, that I found myself unable to put the book down, as I needed to know what happened to each of the characters.
Moreover, whilst my love triangle issue is still very much around, it wasn’t as in your face with this story. We focus upon getting the backstory, with the history building up. There is still romance to be dealt with, but it is nowhere near as in your face as it was in the first book. It is simmering just below the surface, making itself known every so often, yet most of the book is focused upon the development of the characters and the stories.
A story we had some glimpses of in the first book – but trust me when I tell you those glimpses give away very little. Honestly, the entire backstory is coming to light and there is so little that we know. We know where things are heading, but as the specifics come to light I’m finding myself more and more addicted and interested in where everything is going to end.
Speaking of endings – I need to start the next one instantly. Whilst it made sense to end the story at that specific moment, I felt as though it was a little bit on the abrupt side. I know that books three will continue it on, giving more of the details, but I felt as though it was a bit of a Game of Thrones ending. You know what I mean, whereby the ending cuts off at one of the good points and leaves you wanting more. I both love and hate such endings all at one. At least with this one I have book three on my Kindle ready and waiting.
In case you have not guessed by now, I’m planning to start book three instantly. I need to know what comes next.
Without a doubt, this is a brilliant second book, leaving me more than just a little bit addicted.
I came across C.J. Anaya through a Goodreads giveaway for this series. Unfortunately, I did not win the series, but I did sign up for her newsletter. Through doing so, I received the first book and a short story. I had intended to read it for quite some time – but my to-read list is ridiculously long. Despite having not read any of her work, though, I signed up to join her advance read team when I saw she was looking for people to join. This meant I got to read her Marry Your Billionaire at the start of the year – and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I knew right then that I would be reading more of her work. Still, I didn’t pick this up right away. It had nothing to do with a lack of interest, rather I had so many advance reads to get through and there were so many new books I’d been waiting on, it just sort of feel to the bottom of my list. Not too long back, however, I noticed that C.J. Anaya was looking for people to review the series for her. Thus, I contacted her. I explained that I had the first book and would love to read the rest of the series. She was lovely enjoy to send me books two and three.
Then came the dreaded exam period that puts a dampener on bibliophiles. Despite wanting to read a book a day, such a thing isn’t really advised. Thus, it was put aside for a while.
Finally, however, I have got to work on the series. After finishing book one I knew I wanted more. However, what I did not expect was for me to find myself so crazy addicted to the second story. Yes, I gave the first book four stars, yet compared to the second book it is an exceptionally weak four stars. The Healer was a flickering around the four stars read, whereby I couldn’t give it anything less because it would have been an injustice. The Black Blossom, on the other hand, threatened to be a five star read for quite a lot of the book. However, as I’m exceptionally cruel when it comes to my five stars I held back with this one. It wasn’t quite there when I compare it to the selection of books I have given five stars. Oh, it’s close, but not quite enough – if nothing else, I need to hold out hope that the next one will shine even brighter.
With book one, I found it took me a while to get into the story. With the second book, I was pulled in from the get go. As always, her writing style is very much her own, with the characters being brought to life so easily. I didn’t find the cast as amusing in this one, but I loved them just as much. In fact, I loved them more in many different ways. There are so many interesting characters, with so much going on, that I found myself unable to put the book down, as I needed to know what happened to each of the characters.
Moreover, whilst my love triangle issue is still very much around, it wasn’t as in your face with this story. We focus upon getting the backstory, with the history building up. There is still romance to be dealt with, but it is nowhere near as in your face as it was in the first book. It is simmering just below the surface, making itself known every so often, yet most of the book is focused upon the development of the characters and the stories.
A story we had some glimpses of in the first book – but trust me when I tell you those glimpses give away very little. Honestly, the entire backstory is coming to light and there is so little that we know. We know where things are heading, but as the specifics come to light I’m finding myself more and more addicted and interested in where everything is going to end.
Speaking of endings – I need to start the next one instantly. Whilst it made sense to end the story at that specific moment, I felt as though it was a little bit on the abrupt side. I know that books three will continue it on, giving more of the details, but I felt as though it was a bit of a Game of Thrones ending. You know what I mean, whereby the ending cuts off at one of the good points and leaves you wanting more. I both love and hate such endings all at one. At least with this one I have book three on my Kindle ready and waiting.
In case you have not guessed by now, I’m planning to start book three instantly. I need to know what comes next.
Without a doubt, this is a brilliant second book, leaving me more than just a little bit addicted.
May 21, 2017
*I received a free copy for an honest review*
Oh.My.WORD. I loooved this book! I stayed up all night until 5:30 a.m. reading this:D
1. It's so much more exciting than book one:D
2. There are some hot scenes in here!
3. Need I say more?
Let's start with Saigo and Kenji. These two jokesters had me laughing OUT LOUD. What crack ups they are. When things were serious...they weren't and it was nice to have humor.
Mikomi was so much better than Hope. Her character was fully developed. When she sees something she wants, there is no stopping her. Mikomi was understandably afraid of her father, but she stood against him in secret. I admire her courage, compassion, and stubbornness. She knew there was no quitting from the very beginning.
Katsu was one I fell in love with when he met Mikomi in the woods. Later on, I saw that he would stay true to her for eternity and he would love her, but he only saw The Healer and that turned me away.
Musubi is a man worth the effort. I can't believe his sarcasm and humor! He was definitely my favorite character. Every time he teased was hilarious. I'm sorry he has a blackness in his heart, preventing him from loving Mikomi. I think he does love her, but each time they have a "moment" his curse gets in the way.
Tie and Victor seem so different from Musubi and Katsu. I hope that I can see them as who they were in this book. I didn't get much of a chance to know them in book 1 so I'm hoping to see Katsu and Musubi in Tie and Victor.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was confused most of the time because I thought this should have been book 1, but at the end it all made sense and came together. I'm not sure how book 3 can top this one, but I'm looking forward to reading it.
Oh.My.WORD. I loooved this book! I stayed up all night until 5:30 a.m. reading this:D
1. It's so much more exciting than book one:D
2. There are some hot scenes in here!
3. Need I say more?
Let's start with Saigo and Kenji. These two jokesters had me laughing OUT LOUD. What crack ups they are. When things were serious...they weren't and it was nice to have humor.
Mikomi was so much better than Hope. Her character was fully developed. When she sees something she wants, there is no stopping her. Mikomi was understandably afraid of her father, but she stood against him in secret. I admire her courage, compassion, and stubbornness. She knew there was no quitting from the very beginning.
Katsu was one I fell in love with when he met Mikomi in the woods. Later on, I saw that he would stay true to her for eternity and he would love her, but he only saw The Healer and that turned me away.
Musubi is a man worth the effort. I can't believe his sarcasm and humor! He was definitely my favorite character. Every time he teased was hilarious. I'm sorry he has a blackness in his heart, preventing him from loving Mikomi. I think he does love her, but each time they have a "moment" his curse gets in the way.
Tie and Victor seem so different from Musubi and Katsu. I hope that I can see them as who they were in this book. I didn't get much of a chance to know them in book 1 so I'm hoping to see Katsu and Musubi in Tie and Victor.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was confused most of the time because I thought this should have been book 1, but at the end it all made sense and came together. I'm not sure how book 3 can top this one, but I'm looking forward to reading it.
May 31, 2016
This series is amazing and just keeps getting better and better the further I read in it and the more information is revealed. I love the little bits and pieces of information that has been revealed and how well it just makes everything flow so smoothly. It really is one of those books where you just don't want to put it down. If you're reading this review I'm assuming you have probably read the other book so I might have some spoilers in here but I will try very hard to not add those spoilers for book one.
This book, and series, hasn't been out for very long but I wish that for the amount of time it has been out that it could pick up more readers and really start getting noticed. So if you have read it and feel the same way tell everyone about it. Especially readers who love a good YA.
At the end of the last book we know that Hope is being kept in a sleeping state until she relives the most vital memories of her previous life and can remember everything, especially who Tie and Victor are and the importance of her being the Healer. Tie doesn't want her to have to make certain decisions where Victor and Ms. Mori are concerned without being fully aware of their past histories.
Oh my...I am really just loving the story line and seeing Hope, known as Mikomi in this second book, as she was in her first life. Her father is a Kami, which if you've read the series a kami is a child of the original God Parents. Mikomi's mother is an Empress of Japan. They married and had Mikomi because of a prophecy and the need for someone to help heal the veil so the wicked/evil(however you want to think of him) Kami Amatsu can't breach the veil and come into our world and take over. There must needs be balance and Mikomi is the hope for that balance. I love that her name fits perfectly with that. Tie even told her in the first book that her name was so fitting.
Mikomi's father is ruthless and evil and using her powers for his own purposes and gain. She just wants to use them for good and for helping the people in the village. So she sneaks out and finds joy and in this small way that she can defy her father. According to customs she has no say in anything and must defer to the men around her, especially her father. This is a struggle for her and part of the hope she holds onto is that one day she will be able to choose her own path and make her own decisions.
Mikomi is the child of prophesy and The Healer and has been betrothed to Katsu, the warrior Kami, long before her birth. She wants to run away and never have to meet or marry him. Unfortunately the time is drawing closer to her 18th birthday, by which she must be married to him and reach her full potential as The Healer. She can't reach that potential until she has been bound to him and becomes a full Kami. She becomes involved with the rebels who are trying to remove her father from power and realizes that the best way to help her cause is to help the rebels.
She wants to be a strong powerful woman and asks to be trained. Akane, the general for the rebels agrees and has Mikomi secretly meet with Musubi to be trained. Mikomi has meet Musubi once before when she was healing a friend in childbirth. There was an instant spark, which both of them are trying to avoid. Mikomi has also met Katsu, her betrothed. She isn't sure what she thinks about him. One moment she starts to warm up to him but something he does causes her to draw back. She just wants to be loved for being her and not be loved because she is part of the prophecy and that Katsu is being forced to marry her.
There are some great secondary characters. Saigo, Kenji, Daiki, Akane. I've really enjoyed connecting to all these characters and their different stories and their different struggles and victories. There are so many more underlying aspects to this novel that weave and connect everything together. I want to tell you everything but if I do you wouldn't enjoy the chance to read it yourself and experience all the fun twists and turns and surprises.
I have my favorite from the love triangle but won't say who because I don't want to sway your opinion when you read it. I also have some different theories that I can't wait to see if they come to pass in the third book. I think though that it will be a bittersweet read when I finish it. I really have enjoyed every aspect of this book and the characters have been well developed as well as just really great writing. That makes such a difference when reading a novel. I love when an author can suck me in from the beginning and I feel that I am making this journey with the characters. It's magical.
If you read it and love it as much as I do then spread the word! This is one of those series that is just amazing. It's an awesome clean read. There is some kissing, a few swear words, some mild violence due to the aspect of war and Mikomi trains in her underwear a few times due to the restriction of her kimono(though her underwear was very modest and completely covers her body).
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Happy Reading!!!
This book, and series, hasn't been out for very long but I wish that for the amount of time it has been out that it could pick up more readers and really start getting noticed. So if you have read it and feel the same way tell everyone about it. Especially readers who love a good YA.
At the end of the last book we know that Hope is being kept in a sleeping state until she relives the most vital memories of her previous life and can remember everything, especially who Tie and Victor are and the importance of her being the Healer. Tie doesn't want her to have to make certain decisions where Victor and Ms. Mori are concerned without being fully aware of their past histories.
Oh my...I am really just loving the story line and seeing Hope, known as Mikomi in this second book, as she was in her first life. Her father is a Kami, which if you've read the series a kami is a child of the original God Parents. Mikomi's mother is an Empress of Japan. They married and had Mikomi because of a prophecy and the need for someone to help heal the veil so the wicked/evil(however you want to think of him) Kami Amatsu can't breach the veil and come into our world and take over. There must needs be balance and Mikomi is the hope for that balance. I love that her name fits perfectly with that. Tie even told her in the first book that her name was so fitting.
Mikomi's father is ruthless and evil and using her powers for his own purposes and gain. She just wants to use them for good and for helping the people in the village. So she sneaks out and finds joy and in this small way that she can defy her father. According to customs she has no say in anything and must defer to the men around her, especially her father. This is a struggle for her and part of the hope she holds onto is that one day she will be able to choose her own path and make her own decisions.
Mikomi is the child of prophesy and The Healer and has been betrothed to Katsu, the warrior Kami, long before her birth. She wants to run away and never have to meet or marry him. Unfortunately the time is drawing closer to her 18th birthday, by which she must be married to him and reach her full potential as The Healer. She can't reach that potential until she has been bound to him and becomes a full Kami. She becomes involved with the rebels who are trying to remove her father from power and realizes that the best way to help her cause is to help the rebels.
She wants to be a strong powerful woman and asks to be trained. Akane, the general for the rebels agrees and has Mikomi secretly meet with Musubi to be trained. Mikomi has meet Musubi once before when she was healing a friend in childbirth. There was an instant spark, which both of them are trying to avoid. Mikomi has also met Katsu, her betrothed. She isn't sure what she thinks about him. One moment she starts to warm up to him but something he does causes her to draw back. She just wants to be loved for being her and not be loved because she is part of the prophecy and that Katsu is being forced to marry her.
There are some great secondary characters. Saigo, Kenji, Daiki, Akane. I've really enjoyed connecting to all these characters and their different stories and their different struggles and victories. There are so many more underlying aspects to this novel that weave and connect everything together. I want to tell you everything but if I do you wouldn't enjoy the chance to read it yourself and experience all the fun twists and turns and surprises.
I have my favorite from the love triangle but won't say who because I don't want to sway your opinion when you read it. I also have some different theories that I can't wait to see if they come to pass in the third book. I think though that it will be a bittersweet read when I finish it. I really have enjoyed every aspect of this book and the characters have been well developed as well as just really great writing. That makes such a difference when reading a novel. I love when an author can suck me in from the beginning and I feel that I am making this journey with the characters. It's magical.
If you read it and love it as much as I do then spread the word! This is one of those series that is just amazing. It's an awesome clean read. There is some kissing, a few swear words, some mild violence due to the aspect of war and Mikomi trains in her underwear a few times due to the restriction of her kimono(though her underwear was very modest and completely covers her body).
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Happy Reading!!!
July 16, 2015
I read this second book in the Healer series right after finishing the first book. Which made me so happy, since I couldn't see waiting any amount of time to find out more. I really am enjoying this author and cannot wait for more books in this series. I knew coming into this book that a lot of the background and the questions I had from the first one had a high probability of getting answered. A few of my questions were answered. I also picked up on a tie in to not just the main character from the first book being a reincarnation of the main character in the second book. That was a given since it was never hidden in the first book, but what struck me is that characters in the first book also seemed to be reincarnations of characters in the second book. For instance, Hope's best friend in the first book has to be a reincarnation of the rebel general and Mikomi's brother Saigo is reincarnated into Hope's friend Kirby. I am unsure what other tie in's there could be. I almost wonder if the innkeeper and his wife are reincarnated into Hope's parents. However I am sure all that will be answered in time. This book didn't actually get all the way to when Mikomi was put into the statue, so I am hoping that the next book will finish answering some of my questions as well as bringing us back up to the present.
As with the first book, the story kept my attention the whole way through and was a very enjoyable read. I kept waiting to find a place to put it down so I could go to bed and I just couldn't. So I read it all and was very happy I could sleep in the next morning :-) This is definitely a book I could read again, but I have no doubt that that is what all books by this author will end up being :-)
As with the first book, the story kept my attention the whole way through and was a very enjoyable read. I kept waiting to find a place to put it down so I could go to bed and I just couldn't. So I read it all and was very happy I could sleep in the next morning :-) This is definitely a book I could read again, but I have no doubt that that is what all books by this author will end up being :-)
October 26, 2016
I received a copy from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Actual Rating: 3.5
Thank you C.J. Anaya for the opportunity to read your book. This was better than the first book. I thought this book had a better start than the previous. I really liked the pace of the story. However, there were some times where I did feel bored and that the story did drag. I really enjoyed the characters. I really liked Saigo and Kenji the most. They were the best and funniest characters ever. I liked Mikomi more than Hope as well. I thought the ending to this book was better than the first book. I hope the next book can keep this pacing up. Overall, a great read.
Actual Rating: 3.5
Thank you C.J. Anaya for the opportunity to read your book. This was better than the first book. I thought this book had a better start than the previous. I really liked the pace of the story. However, there were some times where I did feel bored and that the story did drag. I really enjoyed the characters. I really liked Saigo and Kenji the most. They were the best and funniest characters ever. I liked Mikomi more than Hope as well. I thought the ending to this book was better than the first book. I hope the next book can keep this pacing up. Overall, a great read.
Currently reading
November 19, 2016Lizard: 4⋆.
Wombat: Pending⋆.
Overall: Pending⋆.
Wombat: Pending⋆.
Overall: Pending⋆.
January 22, 2015
4.0. I’ll have to admit I was worried. The Black Blossom was so different from The Healer that it was like a different series. There’s not constant action like there was in the previous book. It reads kind of like historical fiction (which I keep saying is not one of my favorite genres, though apparently it is). And there isn’t very much Tie at first. Even though TBB is so different, it is still a great book in its own right. We learn more about the Japanese folklore, and we get a better picture of what started the conflict between Tie and Victor so long ago.
Plot:
In the Epilogue to the Healer, Hope had returned to 700 A.D., when she was known as Mikomi, the princess of the Kagami Empire and The Healer of the world. Because of prophesy, she is not only forced to enter into an arranged marriage with Katsu (Victor), but she is also forbidden from using her gifts to help the people of her village. She dreams of escaping from her abusive father, the Emperor, and joining the rebels who are trying to overthrow him. To do that, Mikomi must learn to how to fight, so she secretly starts taking lessons from Musubi (Tie), who has his own secrets to protect.
Characters:
Even though Mikomi comes from a culture where women are subservient and thought incapable of doing things on their own, she never comes across as weak. Regardless of social expectations, she wants to do everything she can to help others. When rendering that help, she appears to be a little more impulsive than the Hope we are used to, but she’s also strong, determined, and independent.
Mikomi is betrothed to Katsu (Victor), who at the start of the book, she is meeting for the first time. Even though she is drawn to him, she knows she doesn’t want to marry him. He alternates between affectionate and dismissive, and she feels like he only wants to be around her so they can fulfill the prophecy together. Like Katsu, Musubi (Tie) can also be standoffish at times, but he is more playful and clearly has feelings for Mikomi. Both guys have their positive qualities, and both are very likable, but I was Team Tie before, and I’m sticking with him this time around.
As far as a support system, we don’t get to see Kirby at all, and we see very little of Angie (who is hilarious when she reappears!) and Hope’s father. Instead, Mikomi relies on the help of her tutor Kenji, her brother Saigo, and her friend Daiki. She knows that these three men are the only people who truly love her for who she is, unlike her father the emperor and mother (Chinatsu Mori), who both use her to gain power over the people. She also finds inspiration in Akane, the leader of the rebellion, who proves that women can be independent and earn the respect of the men around them.
Writing:
I mentioned that there wasn’t as much action in The Black Blossom as there was in The Healer. That in no way means there is less suspense. There is a sense of foreboding that starts with the prologue in 700 A.D. and continues through the epilogue, which is back in the present. We’re still not fully versed on Katsu’s or Musubi’s motives, and we never know when Mikomi’s father will figure out her plans, so it’s like we’re constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop. In terms of editing, there are a couple of typos here and there, but nothing that takes away from the story. As far as subject matter, I would rate The Black Blossom PG. There’s lots of violence and a couple of heated kisses, but little to no cursing and no sexual situations.
The Bottom Line:
The Healer was so good that I went into The Black Blossom with really high expectations. When I started reading TBB, I found that it didn’t even compare to The Healer because they two books were like apples and oranges. Still, I really liked the book, and I can’t wait for the next one because this one kind of ended in a cliffhanger. We return to the present, and we know that when Hope wakes up, she will realize how Tie betrayed Victor and begin to understand how that betrayal impacted her life.
Plot:
In the Epilogue to the Healer, Hope had returned to 700 A.D., when she was known as Mikomi, the princess of the Kagami Empire and The Healer of the world. Because of prophesy, she is not only forced to enter into an arranged marriage with Katsu (Victor), but she is also forbidden from using her gifts to help the people of her village. She dreams of escaping from her abusive father, the Emperor, and joining the rebels who are trying to overthrow him. To do that, Mikomi must learn to how to fight, so she secretly starts taking lessons from Musubi (Tie), who has his own secrets to protect.
Characters:
Even though Mikomi comes from a culture where women are subservient and thought incapable of doing things on their own, she never comes across as weak. Regardless of social expectations, she wants to do everything she can to help others. When rendering that help, she appears to be a little more impulsive than the Hope we are used to, but she’s also strong, determined, and independent.
Mikomi is betrothed to Katsu (Victor), who at the start of the book, she is meeting for the first time. Even though she is drawn to him, she knows she doesn’t want to marry him. He alternates between affectionate and dismissive, and she feels like he only wants to be around her so they can fulfill the prophecy together. Like Katsu, Musubi (Tie) can also be standoffish at times, but he is more playful and clearly has feelings for Mikomi. Both guys have their positive qualities, and both are very likable, but I was Team Tie before, and I’m sticking with him this time around.
As far as a support system, we don’t get to see Kirby at all, and we see very little of Angie (who is hilarious when she reappears!) and Hope’s father. Instead, Mikomi relies on the help of her tutor Kenji, her brother Saigo, and her friend Daiki. She knows that these three men are the only people who truly love her for who she is, unlike her father the emperor and mother (Chinatsu Mori), who both use her to gain power over the people. She also finds inspiration in Akane, the leader of the rebellion, who proves that women can be independent and earn the respect of the men around them.
Writing:
I mentioned that there wasn’t as much action in The Black Blossom as there was in The Healer. That in no way means there is less suspense. There is a sense of foreboding that starts with the prologue in 700 A.D. and continues through the epilogue, which is back in the present. We’re still not fully versed on Katsu’s or Musubi’s motives, and we never know when Mikomi’s father will figure out her plans, so it’s like we’re constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop. In terms of editing, there are a couple of typos here and there, but nothing that takes away from the story. As far as subject matter, I would rate The Black Blossom PG. There’s lots of violence and a couple of heated kisses, but little to no cursing and no sexual situations.
The Bottom Line:
The Healer was so good that I went into The Black Blossom with really high expectations. When I started reading TBB, I found that it didn’t even compare to The Healer because they two books were like apples and oranges. Still, I really liked the book, and I can’t wait for the next one because this one kind of ended in a cliffhanger. We return to the present, and we know that when Hope wakes up, she will realize how Tie betrayed Victor and begin to understand how that betrayal impacted her life.
March 9, 2015
I absolutely loved The Healer and feel The Black Blossom is a solid second addition to this series. I was apprehensive of this book at first because I had loved the characters in The Healer so much, I wasn't sure if I could like a new set of characters and a new setting as much. Japanese culture/history is not my favorite subject, so at first I was put off by the names of the new characters and setting. But Ms. Anaya does a wonderful job of presenting and repeating the names often enough that they quickly became comfortable and familiar.
I didn't particularly like Mikomi and while I feel she did grow in this story, it was too slowly for me to keep interest in her. She stood up to her father once but the rest of the story was spent with her fussing over her history with her parents and dilemmas with men as well but never really doing anything about either. I liked the pace of the story in relation to her growing relationships with Katsu and Musubi, and I think I would have enjoyed reading more about her interactions with them instead of her inner-brooding which never seemed to change. With all that said, I'm excited to see how Mikomi's story ends and connects to Hope's. The epilogue was a great way of tying in the first book and reminding the reader of where things stand there.
The writing was excellent, the editing great, and I will still highly recommend this series to my friends and family. The next installment will be on my must-buy list for sure.
I didn't particularly like Mikomi and while I feel she did grow in this story, it was too slowly for me to keep interest in her. She stood up to her father once but the rest of the story was spent with her fussing over her history with her parents and dilemmas with men as well but never really doing anything about either. I liked the pace of the story in relation to her growing relationships with Katsu and Musubi, and I think I would have enjoyed reading more about her interactions with them instead of her inner-brooding which never seemed to change. With all that said, I'm excited to see how Mikomi's story ends and connects to Hope's. The epilogue was a great way of tying in the first book and reminding the reader of where things stand there.
The writing was excellent, the editing great, and I will still highly recommend this series to my friends and family. The next installment will be on my must-buy list for sure.
July 21, 2016
I liked this book, but not as much as The Healer. I did start to enjoy it more the more I got into it. From the last book, we know that Hope has to remember her past before she can wake up. Well, this book jumps right into that! I was confused for quite some time as there was no mention of Hope (or ANY of the characters from the first book) and that this was her memories. Unless you are reading the books back to back, I think this can be confusing for most readers. After I quit thinking so much in the beginning about what did I miss in the last book? There must have been something left out because I am lost! I finally started to just go with it and enjoy this book. While I did enjoy the history and backstory, I hope the next book pulls them together more. I'm off to read the next one now, so maybe I won't be confused if there is more jumping around between time ;)
September 27, 2016
I read the first book in this series and then I told myself I had to wait to read the next book. Then I went and downloaded the next two books and read them. I guess I'm not very good at listening to myself!
This is the second book of this Healer Series. The first book is set in a modern day- it is fast paced and full of action. This second book throws things back in time- way, way back. The holes from the first book are starting to fill in and the back story is becoming more clear. I love the idea of doing a story this way. It feels like two separate stories, but everything is connecting together. This book has a slower pace but is still full and building in nature.
Of course, this book ends in a dumb cliff hanger way so what do I have to do? Read the next book. (which I've actually already done- ha!)
This is the second book of this Healer Series. The first book is set in a modern day- it is fast paced and full of action. This second book throws things back in time- way, way back. The holes from the first book are starting to fill in and the back story is becoming more clear. I love the idea of doing a story this way. It feels like two separate stories, but everything is connecting together. This book has a slower pace but is still full and building in nature.
Of course, this book ends in a dumb cliff hanger way so what do I have to do? Read the next book. (which I've actually already done- ha!)
January 13, 2015
'The Black Blossom' (The Healer Series Book 2) by C.J. Anaya is a great read! This story is well written. I thoroughly enjoyed 'The Black Blossom' and can't wait to see what happens next in this series. Highly recommend this series to all fans of paranormal romance.
October 20, 2015
I give this 4 stars because I skimmed a lot of the fighting techniques.
other than that though I really loved this book!
and i neeeed the next one
other than that though I really loved this book!
and i neeeed the next one
February 15, 2017
Kept me on the edge of my chair
February 7, 2018
I received a complimentary copy of the entire healer series for free to give a voluntary honest review. This is the review of the second book in the series and contains only my own thoughts and opinions of The black blossom.
Sometimes expectations ruin books and sometimes they make it so so much better than what you first pictured in your head. In this case it’s certainly, absolutely one hundred percent the latter. I did not expect this outcome after reading the first book, perhaps because my expectations were somewhat lowered, and I am as thrilled as much as I am surprised over how much I loved it! Very well done C.J Anaya!
I think one of the reasons as to why I am so happily surprised of this story is because of the setting, time, culture and environment created in this world of the The Black Blossom. It’s completely different from The Healer. While I found the first book interesting and a good read, I couldn’t really get into the story and invest myself as much in the characters thoughts, feelings and struggles. It was difficult mainly because everything and every event felt so convenient and ways to progress the story forward. The characters were not as relatable with barely no pronounced personal conflicts or flaws, and some (Angie) was just too sillIy, always cracking jokes, to be realistic. In this book it was the exact opposite. There was struggle for control and freedom, for independence and for forbidden feelings. In all, it was everything I adore in a romance story, and the setting only added to the mood and depth of the book. Plus, thank god Angie was barely in it!
I liked the historical Japanese culture aspect with the Japanese garden, palace, furnishings, clothes and even the social rankings and living conditions as a woman. It really gave it a dramatic flare since Mikomi had to deflect and stand up to the treatment of women of that time. She had to learn to take place in a man’s world after being raised to always behave submissively towards men. It also made me really enjoy the playfulness and equality between Mikomi and Musubi as well as the injustice and growing feelings to sometimes resentment between her and Katsu. One thing I did hope for however, that I found missing in The Healer as well, is some more backbone in Mikomi. That’s not to say she did not have any, but I had wished that she had stood up more against Katsu when she disliked how he behaved or treated her.
One thing the author did bring over from the other book is it’s originality. In fact, I felt it even more unique now considering how she is building the entire series. Usually a series timeline is the beginning til the end. The healer series seems to be near ending, then beginning jumping in different times. Since I’ve only read two of the books I can’t say for sure of the series entire timeline, but I really find it imaginative and special the way it is built up so far. Just the way I like it, and I can’t wait to read The grass cutter next!
Sometimes expectations ruin books and sometimes they make it so so much better than what you first pictured in your head. In this case it’s certainly, absolutely one hundred percent the latter. I did not expect this outcome after reading the first book, perhaps because my expectations were somewhat lowered, and I am as thrilled as much as I am surprised over how much I loved it! Very well done C.J Anaya!
I think one of the reasons as to why I am so happily surprised of this story is because of the setting, time, culture and environment created in this world of the The Black Blossom. It’s completely different from The Healer. While I found the first book interesting and a good read, I couldn’t really get into the story and invest myself as much in the characters thoughts, feelings and struggles. It was difficult mainly because everything and every event felt so convenient and ways to progress the story forward. The characters were not as relatable with barely no pronounced personal conflicts or flaws, and some (Angie) was just too sillIy, always cracking jokes, to be realistic. In this book it was the exact opposite. There was struggle for control and freedom, for independence and for forbidden feelings. In all, it was everything I adore in a romance story, and the setting only added to the mood and depth of the book. Plus, thank god Angie was barely in it!
I liked the historical Japanese culture aspect with the Japanese garden, palace, furnishings, clothes and even the social rankings and living conditions as a woman. It really gave it a dramatic flare since Mikomi had to deflect and stand up to the treatment of women of that time. She had to learn to take place in a man’s world after being raised to always behave submissively towards men. It also made me really enjoy the playfulness and equality between Mikomi and Musubi as well as the injustice and growing feelings to sometimes resentment between her and Katsu. One thing I did hope for however, that I found missing in The Healer as well, is some more backbone in Mikomi. That’s not to say she did not have any, but I had wished that she had stood up more against Katsu when she disliked how he behaved or treated her.
One thing the author did bring over from the other book is it’s originality. In fact, I felt it even more unique now considering how she is building the entire series. Usually a series timeline is the beginning til the end. The healer series seems to be near ending, then beginning jumping in different times. Since I’ve only read two of the books I can’t say for sure of the series entire timeline, but I really find it imaginative and special the way it is built up so far. Just the way I like it, and I can’t wait to read The grass cutter next!
August 1, 2019
This book was captivating! I didn’t even want to stop reading knowing I needed to eat or take care of other necessities. Mikomi, a princess and the prophesied Healer, has an inner strength that most others could only hope for. Abused and used by her father the Emperor, and God of Health and Longevity, was anything but. And her mother just turned a blind eye to her daughter’s pain. Mikomi only wanted to be loved by her parents but her mother’s indifference and her father’s thirst for power made that impossible. I had to admire Mikomi’s inner strength and determination to do what was right. Her confusion regarding her feelings for Musubi and her appreciation for Katsu’s devotion made my heart go out to her. I appreciated the Japanese history that wound its way throughout this story. Ms Anaya did a wonderful job incorporating it into this tale whether it be actual history didn’t really matter to me since this is a story of fiction. It made me appreciate all the more Ms Anaya’s creativity and ability to write well. I am very anxious to read on to the next book in this series.
November 7, 2018
This series is so worth reading. I initially started it because I received a copy of the first novel of the series in exchange for an honest review, but I loved it so much I grabbed the whole series thanks to Kindle Unlimited. Anyway, this book immediately sucked me in and blew my mind. It is a great twist on the usual style that authors use in relating a characters back story with infrequent flashbacks. I love how the whole novel is devoted to Hope's previous life. It just makes you connect with the characters that much more.
The characters are flawlessly and lovingly created. The world that was created is so full of life and energy that you are seriously just sucked right in from page one. While there were some predicable elements to the story, they in no way detracted from the story itself and rather came off as a natural progression of events.
Of course, the author had to such a fantastic job with this book that I immediately moved on to the third one!
The characters are flawlessly and lovingly created. The world that was created is so full of life and energy that you are seriously just sucked right in from page one. While there were some predicable elements to the story, they in no way detracted from the story itself and rather came off as a natural progression of events.
Of course, the author had to such a fantastic job with this book that I immediately moved on to the third one!
September 21, 2022
Hope and Angie find Victor and Tie and she breaches the Veil for Kirby
Hope is finding difficulty fitting past and future in her reality. Victor and her mother want one thing and Tie and her father want another. She and Angie want something else and when she broke thought the veil to heal Kirby it almost killed her. When she recovered she was weaker and thats when the dark side attacked again this time she is vulnerable and needed more care to try to heal now everyone is waiting for her recovery hoping she makes it before the next attack.
This is a well written and absorbing series with the use of folk lore and past and future woven in with great and fascinating use of words to keep you wrapped tightly the middle. You want to pick sides but who’s is the problem. What is best for any of them.
Hope is finding difficulty fitting past and future in her reality. Victor and her mother want one thing and Tie and her father want another. She and Angie want something else and when she broke thought the veil to heal Kirby it almost killed her. When she recovered she was weaker and thats when the dark side attacked again this time she is vulnerable and needed more care to try to heal now everyone is waiting for her recovery hoping she makes it before the next attack.
This is a well written and absorbing series with the use of folk lore and past and future woven in with great and fascinating use of words to keep you wrapped tightly the middle. You want to pick sides but who’s is the problem. What is best for any of them.
November 21, 2018
Strong Second in Series
I don’t usually like series, but Anaya’s 2nd book in the Fated Mates series is a flawless step into the story that the first book hinted at. It mostly stands alone, but for those who have read the first- it connects the dots. There are some loose ends that don’t line up, and the switch from past to present (book 2 to book 1) stumbles, but I’m still hooked and about to start book 3.
I don’t usually like series, but Anaya’s 2nd book in the Fated Mates series is a flawless step into the story that the first book hinted at. It mostly stands alone, but for those who have read the first- it connects the dots. There are some loose ends that don’t line up, and the switch from past to present (book 2 to book 1) stumbles, but I’m still hooked and about to start book 3.
April 30, 2019
Deeper
The second book in this series really deviled into the back story of the healer and the way that your transported from one time to the next is seamlessly beautiful. I honestly liked the second one more than the first one maybe it’s because of the changes in time period but it really brought things together. The whole Japanese mythology and folklore incorporated into the book makes the story enchanting. I will very much continue to finish the series
The second book in this series really deviled into the back story of the healer and the way that your transported from one time to the next is seamlessly beautiful. I honestly liked the second one more than the first one maybe it’s because of the changes in time period but it really brought things together. The whole Japanese mythology and folklore incorporated into the book makes the story enchanting. I will very much continue to finish the series
March 19, 2021
I know Greek and Roman mythology well, but I've never read any Japanese mythology and know very little of the culture. I really enjoyed this book. I found myself Googling kimonos and obi's and katanas, reading a little about Japan on the side. It seems to be a beautiful country and I now added "seeing Japan's cherry blossom trees" on my bucket list.
I enjoyed the back story of Mikomi and Musubi and Katsu - well written and interesting story.
I enjoyed the back story of Mikomi and Musubi and Katsu - well written and interesting story.
March 4, 2018
I'm so glad we were taken back a thousand years ago to what happened and why Hope and the gang are going through what they are going through now! Lots of action and secrecy and why Hope is confused about the two handsome boys ;) I can't wait to get into the third book and where Hope goes with her new knowledge. I was given this ARC for an honest rating and review.
March 6, 2019
Mikomi
Hope is put into a coma so she can remember her first life as a Japanese princess. Her father was an evil Kami and waring against the people. She was a healer and tried to help her people as much as possible. Her father forces her to do his will, and she almost died. She is saved by her betrothed, Katsu( Victor). But Katsu can't heal her, only her soul mate can.
Hope is put into a coma so she can remember her first life as a Japanese princess. Her father was an evil Kami and waring against the people. She was a healer and tried to help her people as much as possible. Her father forces her to do his will, and she almost died. She is saved by her betrothed, Katsu( Victor). But Katsu can't heal her, only her soul mate can.
November 27, 2016
what happens next? thankfully I don't have to wait long to find out I am about to read the next book... fingers crossed book number three will answer all questions and I'm sure it's just as good or even better than book one and two.
February 26, 2018
I like this series. The story starts in present day and then we find, that the main character lived another life in another time. So this section of the book is really her in the hospital, but in her mind reliving her past life. Interesting.
November 25, 2018
Intrigue, mystery, true love
Well developed characters and dialog; engaging story that pulls you in and makes you yearn for true love to be realized for everyone. Dangers without and within to be overcome, the challenges are present and love is the goal.
Well developed characters and dialog; engaging story that pulls you in and makes you yearn for true love to be realized for everyone. Dangers without and within to be overcome, the challenges are present and love is the goal.
March 6, 2019
Well written
Book 2 of the Healer series is an Epic Fantasy within an urban fantasy. We learn of the main character’s 1st life as the Healer and the events leading up to her meeting her soul mate. Very enjoyable
Book 2 of the Healer series is an Epic Fantasy within an urban fantasy. We learn of the main character’s 1st life as the Healer and the events leading up to her meeting her soul mate. Very enjoyable
July 26, 2020
THIS IS MY NEW FAVORITE BOOK SERIES!!!
I live this book and the first book so much. There is countless action, adventure and romance to keep it exciting the entire time. This is a MUST read! I recommend this book to everyone.
I live this book and the first book so much. There is countless action, adventure and romance to keep it exciting the entire time. This is a MUST read! I recommend this book to everyone.
October 28, 2025
The Black Blossom really drew me in much more than the first book. Some parts felt a bit heavier, but since this is where the story truly begins, everything made a lot more sense. The world and characters started to come together, and I enjoyed it much more overall.
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