What do you think?
Rate this book
Gilded #3
Brazen
Sworn to an ancient god of darkness, Jae Hwa fights to gain her freedom and restore the balance of Korea… but first she must gain back the trust of her loved ones.
Jae Hwa Lee spent her sixteenth year in Seoul, trying to destroy the evil immortals who had been torturing her family for centuries. The last thing she expected was to be forced to become their assassin. Trapped in the darkest part of the Spirit World as a servant to the Korean god Kud, fighting to keep her humanity, and unable to contact her loved ones, Jae Hwa is slowly losing hope. Kud, god of darkness, will do anything to keep her as a pawn in his quest for power over all of Korea, her entire family thinks she’s dead, and Jae’s true love, Marc, believes she is lost to him forever.
When Kud sends Jae to find and steal the powerful Black Turtle orb, Jae sees an opportunity to break free and defeat Kud once and for all…but first she needs to regain Marc’s trust and work with him to vanquish the darkness that threatens to overwhelm Korea. There’s much to lose as Jae struggles to save the land she’s come to call home.
Jae Hwa Lee spent her sixteenth year in Seoul, trying to destroy the evil immortals who had been torturing her family for centuries. The last thing she expected was to be forced to become their assassin. Trapped in the darkest part of the Spirit World as a servant to the Korean god Kud, fighting to keep her humanity, and unable to contact her loved ones, Jae Hwa is slowly losing hope. Kud, god of darkness, will do anything to keep her as a pawn in his quest for power over all of Korea, her entire family thinks she’s dead, and Jae’s true love, Marc, believes she is lost to him forever.
When Kud sends Jae to find and steal the powerful Black Turtle orb, Jae sees an opportunity to break free and defeat Kud once and for all…but first she needs to regain Marc’s trust and work with him to vanquish the darkness that threatens to overwhelm Korea. There’s much to lose as Jae struggles to save the land she’s come to call home.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2015
47 people are currently reading
1832 people want to read
About the author
Christina Farley
19 books527 followersAfter teaching and living internationally for ten years in Seoul, South Korea, Christina started writing about her adventures, her school, and life. This inspired her to write the Gilded series. Since then, she hasn't stopped writing and continues to write fantasy and romance for adults, teens, and kids.
Besides writing, Christina loves traveling, running, and eating dark chocolate.
Learn more about her by visiting her at www.christinafarley.com or by chatting with her on Facebook @ChristinaFarley or Instagram @ChristinaLFarley.
Besides writing, Christina loves traveling, running, and eating dark chocolate.
Learn more about her by visiting her at www.christinafarley.com or by chatting with her on Facebook @ChristinaFarley or Instagram @ChristinaLFarley.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Read
November 7, 2022Yes, as a matter of fact I have read this one. And I'm unashamedly bias in my star rating. ;-)
September 24, 2015
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Brazen by Christina Farley
Book Three of the Gilded series
Publisher: Skyscape
Publication Date: September 29, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
Sworn to an ancient god of darkness, Jae Hwa fights to gain her freedom and restore the balance of Korea… but first she must gain back the trust of her loved ones.
Jae Hwa Lee spent her sixteenth year in Seoul, trying to destroy the evil immortals who had been torturing her family for centuries. The last thing she expected was to be forced to become their assassin. Trapped in the darkest part of the Spirit World as a servant to the Korean god Kud, fighting to keep her humanity, and unable to contact her loved ones, Jae Hwa is slowly losing hope. Kud, god of darkness, will do anything to keep her as a pawn in his quest for power over all of Korea, her entire family thinks she’s dead, and Jae’s true love, Marc, believes she is lost to him forever.
When Kud sends Jae to find and steal the powerful Black Turtle orb, Jae sees an opportunity to break free and defeat Kud once and for all…but first she needs to regain Marc’s trust and work with him to vanquish the darkness that threatens to overwhelm Korea. There’s much to lose as Jae struggles to save the land she’s come to call home.
What I Liked:
This was a really great conclusion novel, I'm pleased. I was super nervous before starting this book, because I didn't remember a lot of little AND big details from Silvern. As it would turn out, this was not an issue! I love that Farley wrote Brazen in such a way that you didn't have to remember everything from Gilded and/or Silvern. This conclusion novel was action-packed, heartbreaking, and satisfying to the end.
Jae Hwa has become a servant of Kud, after signing a contract to serve him, in order to save Marc and those she loves. Jae's humanity is slipping away with every day that she is enslaved by Kud, following his orders. He wants her to retrieve the Black Turtle orb, the last orb needed for Kud to take over Korea - and the world. To stop him, Jae will need to strike back - but she can't do it by herself.
I'm going to try and keep this review as short and as vague as possible, given that it is a conclusion novel. I really enjoyed it! Probably my favorite of the series. I love that you don't need to reread the first two books in order to have a clear understanding of what is happening in the beginning of this book. Thank goodness for that, because I remembered little from the first two books, unfortunately.
Jae's life is miserable, as is evident from most of this book. Being a servant (read: slave) of Kud is form of torture, especially since Jae has become a traitor to her people. Everyone thinks that she is dead, or betrayed them, when neither is the case. Jae is trying to save everyone, but it's difficult to do that when Kud can control where you go and what you do. Still, I liked Jae's resilience, even when things were overwhelmingly hard for her. Like in the previous books, Jae proves her kickbutt ninja skills time after time, which is pretty cool!
The story is centered around finding the Black Turtle orb, which only Jae can do. Kud must let her retrieve it, and Jae needs help to do so. But she can't go up to Marc and the Guardians and ask, can she? Especially with Kud breathing down her neck. Still, Jae gets help from unexpected places. Obtaining the Black Turtle is not easy, and Jae faces many trials before coming anywhere near accomplishing her goal. The story is very fast-paced and exciting, so it's not hard to blow through this book in one sitting.
There is little romance in this book, and it's mostly concentrated in the second half of the book. But again, LITTLE romance. The previous two books had more demonstrative romance. But no love triangle. Marc thinks that Jae has betrayed him and the Guardians, but as the story goes on, Marc learns things that he and the Guardians must consider.
This is a conclusion novel that definitely did its job. As always, the world-building and setting of the book is beautiful and well-written. A good portion of this book takes place in China, which was awesome. I enjoyed this book a lot! I think many readers will.
What I Did Not Like:
Hmmm. There isn't anything that is sticking out in my mind... still, this book is getting four stars from me. There could have been more romance, less weirdness with Kud, his shenanigans. The ending could have been more expanded, instead of ending it with the ending of the final battle scene. My "complaints" are very minimal!
Would I Recommend It:
You must read this book if you've read either Gilded, or both Gilded and Silvern. It is totally worth the read. And if you haven't read the series - modern-day fantasy set in Korea/China! Diversity, kickbutt action, smart heroine, sweet romance. Win!
Rating:
4 stars. I enjoyed this book so much! As I said before, this is probably my favorite of the series. It doesn't hurt that the cover is of my favorite color! The covers of all of these books in the series are so beautiful. And with a great story to match!
Brazen by Christina Farley
Book Three of the Gilded series
Publisher: Skyscape
Publication Date: September 29, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
Sworn to an ancient god of darkness, Jae Hwa fights to gain her freedom and restore the balance of Korea… but first she must gain back the trust of her loved ones.
Jae Hwa Lee spent her sixteenth year in Seoul, trying to destroy the evil immortals who had been torturing her family for centuries. The last thing she expected was to be forced to become their assassin. Trapped in the darkest part of the Spirit World as a servant to the Korean god Kud, fighting to keep her humanity, and unable to contact her loved ones, Jae Hwa is slowly losing hope. Kud, god of darkness, will do anything to keep her as a pawn in his quest for power over all of Korea, her entire family thinks she’s dead, and Jae’s true love, Marc, believes she is lost to him forever.
When Kud sends Jae to find and steal the powerful Black Turtle orb, Jae sees an opportunity to break free and defeat Kud once and for all…but first she needs to regain Marc’s trust and work with him to vanquish the darkness that threatens to overwhelm Korea. There’s much to lose as Jae struggles to save the land she’s come to call home.
What I Liked:
This was a really great conclusion novel, I'm pleased. I was super nervous before starting this book, because I didn't remember a lot of little AND big details from Silvern. As it would turn out, this was not an issue! I love that Farley wrote Brazen in such a way that you didn't have to remember everything from Gilded and/or Silvern. This conclusion novel was action-packed, heartbreaking, and satisfying to the end.
Jae Hwa has become a servant of Kud, after signing a contract to serve him, in order to save Marc and those she loves. Jae's humanity is slipping away with every day that she is enslaved by Kud, following his orders. He wants her to retrieve the Black Turtle orb, the last orb needed for Kud to take over Korea - and the world. To stop him, Jae will need to strike back - but she can't do it by herself.
I'm going to try and keep this review as short and as vague as possible, given that it is a conclusion novel. I really enjoyed it! Probably my favorite of the series. I love that you don't need to reread the first two books in order to have a clear understanding of what is happening in the beginning of this book. Thank goodness for that, because I remembered little from the first two books, unfortunately.
Jae's life is miserable, as is evident from most of this book. Being a servant (read: slave) of Kud is form of torture, especially since Jae has become a traitor to her people. Everyone thinks that she is dead, or betrayed them, when neither is the case. Jae is trying to save everyone, but it's difficult to do that when Kud can control where you go and what you do. Still, I liked Jae's resilience, even when things were overwhelmingly hard for her. Like in the previous books, Jae proves her kickbutt ninja skills time after time, which is pretty cool!
The story is centered around finding the Black Turtle orb, which only Jae can do. Kud must let her retrieve it, and Jae needs help to do so. But she can't go up to Marc and the Guardians and ask, can she? Especially with Kud breathing down her neck. Still, Jae gets help from unexpected places. Obtaining the Black Turtle is not easy, and Jae faces many trials before coming anywhere near accomplishing her goal. The story is very fast-paced and exciting, so it's not hard to blow through this book in one sitting.
There is little romance in this book, and it's mostly concentrated in the second half of the book. But again, LITTLE romance. The previous two books had more demonstrative romance. But no love triangle. Marc thinks that Jae has betrayed him and the Guardians, but as the story goes on, Marc learns things that he and the Guardians must consider.
This is a conclusion novel that definitely did its job. As always, the world-building and setting of the book is beautiful and well-written. A good portion of this book takes place in China, which was awesome. I enjoyed this book a lot! I think many readers will.
What I Did Not Like:
Hmmm. There isn't anything that is sticking out in my mind... still, this book is getting four stars from me. There could have been more romance, less weirdness with Kud, his shenanigans. The ending could have been more expanded, instead of ending it with the ending of the final battle scene. My "complaints" are very minimal!
Would I Recommend It:
You must read this book if you've read either Gilded, or both Gilded and Silvern. It is totally worth the read. And if you haven't read the series - modern-day fantasy set in Korea/China! Diversity, kickbutt action, smart heroine, sweet romance. Win!
Rating:
4 stars. I enjoyed this book so much! As I said before, this is probably my favorite of the series. It doesn't hurt that the cover is of my favorite color! The covers of all of these books in the series are so beautiful. And with a great story to match!
September 28, 2015
Super awesome! Unfortunately for you guys, you have to wait till the 8th of October for my full review! I'm in Christina's Blog Tour for BRAZEN! It's super awesome, you should check it out. Especially since there's this super awesome giveaway!
November 17, 2017
I received the first two books in this series as ARC's from Netgalley and I liked them so much that I just had to find out what happened in the final battle. Especially after the end of book two. Don't get me wrong I also had to finish it because I've got this thing where I have to complete every series I start but...🙄ya'know, books.
Anyway, I digress. I enjoyed this series a lot more than I thought I would hence why I've put them off for a few months but once I got into it I really enjoyed hearing the Mythical stories and legends of Korea and all the Mythical creatures and beasts that came with it. I also liked the fact that there was a good and evil side and everyone was after the orbs but only Jae could retrieve them.
I also loved the relationship between Jae and Marc which just seemed to blossom and go from strength to strength as we went through the books. I am so glad that I read them and that I had the pleasure of receiving the first two from netgalley.
The whole series was very enjoyable.
Anyway, I digress. I enjoyed this series a lot more than I thought I would hence why I've put them off for a few months but once I got into it I really enjoyed hearing the Mythical stories and legends of Korea and all the Mythical creatures and beasts that came with it. I also liked the fact that there was a good and evil side and everyone was after the orbs but only Jae could retrieve them.
I also loved the relationship between Jae and Marc which just seemed to blossom and go from strength to strength as we went through the books. I am so glad that I read them and that I had the pleasure of receiving the first two from netgalley.
The whole series was very enjoyable.
June 8, 2017
I really enjoyed the conclusion of this trilogy. Though I thought book 2 wasn't as enjoyable as book 1, this one brought the excitement back to this series for me. I listened to a majority of this series on audiobook and I highly recommend the narrations especially if you're not familiar with the Korean language. I thought Greta Jung did a great job with the voices. Overall, I do recommend this series and will be looking forward to reading more from the author and hearing more of the narrator's work.
May 30, 2021
This was such a fantastic read, it was a great end to the series, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
September 17, 2018
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I love Gilded and all (Silvern is my least favorite), but Brazen is either a tie or my favorite of the entire series.
The third and final book in the Gilded series takes off shortly after Silvern when Jae Hwa signs a contract with Kud, Lord of Darkness and Chaos, to leave behind her family and past life in exchange to save Marc's life. Under Kud's control, Jae Hwa finds ways to save Korea and possibly the world from Kud's potential rule.
There is never a dull moment in Brazen – the book is more action-packed and exciting than the first two books combined (those were exciting in and of themselves, but Brazen is so much more). Jae Hwa's seriously kick butt side also appears as Jae Hwa runs against time to find the Black Turtle orb and returning it to the Heavenly Chest before she loses her humanity or Kud finds the orb for himself. With the contract between Kud branded on her arm, Jae Hwa basically has no one on her side – the Guardians want her head on a platter, Marc is cold and indifferent towards her as expected from the Guardians, and Kud holds the constant threat of harming her loved ones on her head.
But even though almost everyone is against her, Jae Hwa is slowly losing her humanity, and Kud seems to be onto her act sometimes, Jae Hwa still manages to evade revealing her true intentions to the lord of Darkness.
Farley also introduces readers to a little bit of Chinese mythology and history on Jae Hwa's search for the final orb, with plenty of life-threatening trials and obstacles that consist of mercury, tombs, and skeletons (plus, drowning). It also promptly demanded me to suggest that Christina pull a Rick Riordan and collide Chinese and Korean mythology together in a spin-off series (I just read the Percy Jackson/Kane Chronicles crossover at the time...). Fangirl me squealed when Christina said she loved the idea. (Now I'm really going to start counting my lucky book stars for that to happen.)
In reality, the idea is partially for a selfish reason and I honestly don't want to be done with the entire series. Even though I had a few bumpy occurrences with the characters a few times in Gilded and Silvern , I've actually grown to like Jae Hwa and company. All of them have grown so much in the three books that it's really hard to let them all go and carry on with their happily fictional lives.
I also envy anyone who hasn't reached the final book yet. >_< (But I wouldn't have been able to "shove" the book in a friend's face if I didn't get introduced to the series.)
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
I love Gilded and all (Silvern is my least favorite), but Brazen is either a tie or my favorite of the entire series.
The third and final book in the Gilded series takes off shortly after Silvern when Jae Hwa signs a contract with Kud, Lord of Darkness and Chaos, to leave behind her family and past life in exchange to save Marc's life. Under Kud's control, Jae Hwa finds ways to save Korea and possibly the world from Kud's potential rule.
There is never a dull moment in Brazen – the book is more action-packed and exciting than the first two books combined (those were exciting in and of themselves, but Brazen is so much more). Jae Hwa's seriously kick butt side also appears as Jae Hwa runs against time to find the Black Turtle orb and returning it to the Heavenly Chest before she loses her humanity or Kud finds the orb for himself. With the contract between Kud branded on her arm, Jae Hwa basically has no one on her side – the Guardians want her head on a platter, Marc is cold and indifferent towards her as expected from the Guardians, and Kud holds the constant threat of harming her loved ones on her head.
But even though almost everyone is against her, Jae Hwa is slowly losing her humanity, and Kud seems to be onto her act sometimes, Jae Hwa still manages to evade revealing her true intentions to the lord of Darkness.
Farley also introduces readers to a little bit of Chinese mythology and history on Jae Hwa's search for the final orb, with plenty of life-threatening trials and obstacles that consist of mercury, tombs, and skeletons (plus, drowning). It also promptly demanded me to suggest that Christina pull a Rick Riordan and collide Chinese and Korean mythology together in a spin-off series (I just read the Percy Jackson/Kane Chronicles crossover at the time...). Fangirl me squealed when Christina said she loved the idea. (Now I'm really going to start counting my lucky book stars for that to happen.)
In reality, the idea is partially for a selfish reason and I honestly don't want to be done with the entire series. Even though I had a few bumpy occurrences with the characters a few times in Gilded and Silvern , I've actually grown to like Jae Hwa and company. All of them have grown so much in the three books that it's really hard to let them all go and carry on with their happily fictional lives.
I also envy anyone who hasn't reached the final book yet. >_< (But I wouldn't have been able to "shove" the book in a friend's face if I didn't get introduced to the series.)
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
September 21, 2015
Fighting For Life Against All Odds. . .
This is the end to a great series and what an epic end it is! So if you haven't read Gilded or Silvern go and read them first before diving into this terrific book or you'll be lost. The action and adventure in this book continued to become crazier from the last book as Jae Hwa ventured into new lands all to destroy Kud. Sacrifice no matter the cost is a tricky thing and seeing how much the cost for Jae Hwa is really worth makes this book suspenseful to the very end.
Having signed her allegiance and life to the evil dark god Kud, Jae Hwa has only one mission find a way to destroy him. Jae Hwa knows that if she has any chance to be free of her contract she must find the last orb and return it to the heavenly chest before Kud can use it to destroy not only Korea but the world and all whom she loves. The only problem is her contract marks her as Kud's and has an effect on her in a way she didn't expect when she signed it to save Marc's life. Now she has to push even harder to keep her humanity and sense of right while residing in the Kud's world of darkness. Jae Hwa is faced with the hard truth that her choices may have isolated her and that she may no longer have allies, since the guardians of Korea now hold her as an enemy being marked as a slave of Kud. The only people she hopes will listen to her true purpose and mission is Marc and her grandfather, but doubt plagues even Jae Hwa when death and destruction always follow her. In the end Jae Hwa knows she will have to fight for more than just her freedom and it may come at the cost of her life or those dear to her.
Overall, Loved it! Christina Farley kept me turning page after page . . . again. All I kept thinking was poor Jae Hwa, last book was bad enough and this story seemed like she wasn't going to catch a break either, but just when it was darkest there would be a moment of light, or hope shinning through. Jae Hwa fought hard even after many things were against her including her allies; making her an admirable young woman. Oh and I loved how Jae Hwa traveled to China in this story, don't get me wrong I love the fact the book is about Korean Mythology and Korea, but taking the story to China was a great twist which added more imagery and suspense. Now I must say I only wished the ending had be prolonged a little bit because it felt very abrupt after all that just occurred and then all of sudden it was "THE END", I didn't realize that until I flipped to the next page and found the glossary signaling the book and subsequently the series was over. But really I can't be too upset because this book wrapped up the series in a great way covering everything and I can't help but be saddened we won't have more Jae Hwa and Marc, they were just too cute. So if you are into mythology and love action and adventure Y.A. books this is a great book series to get into and this book is a great conclusion.
**I received a free copy in return for an honest review**
------Read more of my reviews at: http://heyitwasfree.blogspot.com/------
This is the end to a great series and what an epic end it is! So if you haven't read Gilded or Silvern go and read them first before diving into this terrific book or you'll be lost. The action and adventure in this book continued to become crazier from the last book as Jae Hwa ventured into new lands all to destroy Kud. Sacrifice no matter the cost is a tricky thing and seeing how much the cost for Jae Hwa is really worth makes this book suspenseful to the very end.
Having signed her allegiance and life to the evil dark god Kud, Jae Hwa has only one mission find a way to destroy him. Jae Hwa knows that if she has any chance to be free of her contract she must find the last orb and return it to the heavenly chest before Kud can use it to destroy not only Korea but the world and all whom she loves. The only problem is her contract marks her as Kud's and has an effect on her in a way she didn't expect when she signed it to save Marc's life. Now she has to push even harder to keep her humanity and sense of right while residing in the Kud's world of darkness. Jae Hwa is faced with the hard truth that her choices may have isolated her and that she may no longer have allies, since the guardians of Korea now hold her as an enemy being marked as a slave of Kud. The only people she hopes will listen to her true purpose and mission is Marc and her grandfather, but doubt plagues even Jae Hwa when death and destruction always follow her. In the end Jae Hwa knows she will have to fight for more than just her freedom and it may come at the cost of her life or those dear to her.
Overall, Loved it! Christina Farley kept me turning page after page . . . again. All I kept thinking was poor Jae Hwa, last book was bad enough and this story seemed like she wasn't going to catch a break either, but just when it was darkest there would be a moment of light, or hope shinning through. Jae Hwa fought hard even after many things were against her including her allies; making her an admirable young woman. Oh and I loved how Jae Hwa traveled to China in this story, don't get me wrong I love the fact the book is about Korean Mythology and Korea, but taking the story to China was a great twist which added more imagery and suspense. Now I must say I only wished the ending had be prolonged a little bit because it felt very abrupt after all that just occurred and then all of sudden it was "THE END", I didn't realize that until I flipped to the next page and found the glossary signaling the book and subsequently the series was over. But really I can't be too upset because this book wrapped up the series in a great way covering everything and I can't help but be saddened we won't have more Jae Hwa and Marc, they were just too cute. So if you are into mythology and love action and adventure Y.A. books this is a great book series to get into and this book is a great conclusion.
**I received a free copy in return for an honest review**
------Read more of my reviews at: http://heyitwasfree.blogspot.com/------
October 6, 2015
Thank you to the author for allowing me to be part of the blog tour and giving me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. Copy also recieved by netgalley.
This series for me has been totally amazing Christina Farley does the most wonderful job of just capturing your heart and then wrecking it piece by brilliant piece, it is just heart wrenching but fabulous all at the same time. I’ve read all three books the last two weeks and I’m so in love with this everything about the world and the characters.
The struggles of the main character Jae Hwa Lee and her family just pull you in until you can’t do anything but be totally immersed in their world and these spellbinding books. Jae Hwa has even more bad ass demons to fight in this book and to top it all off she’s bound to her loathsome enemy Kud for all eternity trapped in his world to do his bidding. Jae Hwa find herself fighting for the wrong side in this book and now must now fight her friends which I loved just because you really get to see how strong Jae truly is her friends have turned there backs on here and she really does find herself fighting the whole of china which was just totally awesome. The story really does just pull on the heartstrings all Jae is trying to do is save the ones she loves from Kud but it ends up costing her dearly.
I loved everything about this book it had so many kick ass moments, and moments where I held my breath wondering if everything Jae had done would be in vain. The ending to this book seriously is just epic I was just so thrilled at the end with the most perfect conclusion not a book to be missed Well I won’t tell you how it all ends I’ll only say that if you haven’t red this book you are truly missing out, this book gilded and silvern are jam packed with mythology, romance, martial arts and just pure spellbinding magic I’m so grateful to have read this wonderful series it has captured my heart and I know it will be one of those series that stays with me for such a long time I truly will miss these wonderful characters and this magical world Christina has created..
This series for me has been totally amazing Christina Farley does the most wonderful job of just capturing your heart and then wrecking it piece by brilliant piece, it is just heart wrenching but fabulous all at the same time. I’ve read all three books the last two weeks and I’m so in love with this everything about the world and the characters.
The struggles of the main character Jae Hwa Lee and her family just pull you in until you can’t do anything but be totally immersed in their world and these spellbinding books. Jae Hwa has even more bad ass demons to fight in this book and to top it all off she’s bound to her loathsome enemy Kud for all eternity trapped in his world to do his bidding. Jae Hwa find herself fighting for the wrong side in this book and now must now fight her friends which I loved just because you really get to see how strong Jae truly is her friends have turned there backs on here and she really does find herself fighting the whole of china which was just totally awesome. The story really does just pull on the heartstrings all Jae is trying to do is save the ones she loves from Kud but it ends up costing her dearly.
I loved everything about this book it had so many kick ass moments, and moments where I held my breath wondering if everything Jae had done would be in vain. The ending to this book seriously is just epic I was just so thrilled at the end with the most perfect conclusion not a book to be missed Well I won’t tell you how it all ends I’ll only say that if you haven’t red this book you are truly missing out, this book gilded and silvern are jam packed with mythology, romance, martial arts and just pure spellbinding magic I’m so grateful to have read this wonderful series it has captured my heart and I know it will be one of those series that stays with me for such a long time I truly will miss these wonderful characters and this magical world Christina has created..
September 16, 2015
I have been waiting to read it as I loved book 2. It didn't disappoint me in the least. In fact I think it was even better than previous one. With exciting and thrilling story line and awesome characters, this book is a must read for all fantasy lovers.
In this installment we find Jae working for Kud and that doesn't seem good. But she has her reasons and in the end it is all for the greater good. Although things are not going to be easy this time, as she might not be able to get much outside help and also her breaking away from Kud seems a little difficult. No doubt she must face many hardships in this journey ahead of her. Most people believe her to be dead. While she is trying to save Korea, once again. This new adventure will take her to new places and we learn some more about her character.
This was a fun read! Thanks to the author for generously providing a complementary copy for review.
In this installment we find Jae working for Kud and that doesn't seem good. But she has her reasons and in the end it is all for the greater good. Although things are not going to be easy this time, as she might not be able to get much outside help and also her breaking away from Kud seems a little difficult. No doubt she must face many hardships in this journey ahead of her. Most people believe her to be dead. While she is trying to save Korea, once again. This new adventure will take her to new places and we learn some more about her character.
This was a fun read! Thanks to the author for generously providing a complementary copy for review.
December 19, 2015
Brazen by Christina Farley
Gilded, #3
Skyscape
Release Date: September 29, 2015
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
I would like to thank the author for providing me with a copy for review.
Christina has given an emotional, action packed, mythical world in this Gilded series. Brazen is no exception. Brazen is full of amazing world building. Christina builds these places so flawlessly that when Jae is in other worlds you can see what she is seeing or sense what she is sensing based on her amazing descriptions. I loved the torment and constant struggling of emotions. This really was a great way to end a series.
FULL REVIEW GO TO:
http://takemeawaytoagreatread.com/201...
Gilded, #3
Skyscape
Release Date: September 29, 2015
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
I would like to thank the author for providing me with a copy for review.
Christina has given an emotional, action packed, mythical world in this Gilded series. Brazen is no exception. Brazen is full of amazing world building. Christina builds these places so flawlessly that when Jae is in other worlds you can see what she is seeing or sense what she is sensing based on her amazing descriptions. I loved the torment and constant struggling of emotions. This really was a great way to end a series.
FULL REVIEW GO TO:
http://takemeawaytoagreatread.com/201...
September 9, 2015
Thanks to NetGalley and Skyscape for the ARC of Brazen by Christina Farley! This is the third book in the Gilded series and it is just as exciting and full of action as the first two books. The ending is wonderful and reminds me of Never-Ending Story by Michael Ende. Marc and Jae Hwa are perfect protagonists!
September 16, 2020
so good i can't imagine how much pain jae has been in since the first book, she had to go through so much that got her stronger, braver and more confident, she lost the ones she loved but she didn't stop she kept on going not giving up :) I really enjoyed this series one of the best i have read so far!!!
January 13, 2016
You can find this review (and more!) at The A P Book Club!
*I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
You guys. This series. I've been anxiously awaiting this conclusion to the Gilded series since I finished reading Silvern, and it did not disappoint. I mean, I loved the first two books - they're full of action, romance, mystery, mythology, friendship, and incredible world-building. But this book. This book is probably my favorite in this series!
First of all, the ending of Silvern almost killed me. I needed this book immediately, and I was so sad that I had to wait a year to read it. I mean, it was SO worth the wait, but the choice Jae had to make was horrible and definitely a no-win situation. Most of this book deals with the consequences of her choice, and follows her as she tries to make amends and right things that are even necessarily her fault. She's separated from her friends, family, and Mark, and most of them believe she's dead. It's terrible, and I don't envy her at all.
One of my favorite things about this series is the incredible world building. I thought that this book would have less, since it is the third book, but I was so wrong. Jae travels to new places in both the real world and the spirit world, and I really enjoyed seeing them through her eyes. There's a lot more showing than telling, which is how I prefer my world building, and the descriptions are beautifully written. I felt like I was in China, and in the temple, and on the docks with Jae. I've never even been to any part of Asia, but I felt like I was seeing all of these incredible places with my own eyes.
I also thoroughly enjoyed seeing all of the mythological creatures and gods. Some are familiar from previous books, some are brand new, and most of them I'd never even heard of before reading this series. I love learning about other religions and myths, even if it's from a fantasy book. I'll probably spend an afternoon researching Korean and Chinese deities now, just so I can reread and get even more from these books. And speaking of deities, Kud is awful. I mean, there are times when he doesn't seem so bad, but then he reverts back to his normal self and it's horrible. I felt so terrible that Jae was in such a bad position.
Without giving too much away, this is a book you NEED in your hands ASAP. Especially if you've read Gilded and Silvern. It ties up pretty much all of the loose ends and is just a really excellent conclusion. I'm so glad this series turned into a trilogy, and I can't wait to read more from Christina! Also, can we just take a moment to admire that cover? GORGEOUS. Absolute favorite in the series. 5/5!!
*I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
You guys. This series. I've been anxiously awaiting this conclusion to the Gilded series since I finished reading Silvern, and it did not disappoint. I mean, I loved the first two books - they're full of action, romance, mystery, mythology, friendship, and incredible world-building. But this book. This book is probably my favorite in this series!
First of all, the ending of Silvern almost killed me. I needed this book immediately, and I was so sad that I had to wait a year to read it. I mean, it was SO worth the wait, but the choice Jae had to make was horrible and definitely a no-win situation. Most of this book deals with the consequences of her choice, and follows her as she tries to make amends and right things that are even necessarily her fault. She's separated from her friends, family, and Mark, and most of them believe she's dead. It's terrible, and I don't envy her at all.
One of my favorite things about this series is the incredible world building. I thought that this book would have less, since it is the third book, but I was so wrong. Jae travels to new places in both the real world and the spirit world, and I really enjoyed seeing them through her eyes. There's a lot more showing than telling, which is how I prefer my world building, and the descriptions are beautifully written. I felt like I was in China, and in the temple, and on the docks with Jae. I've never even been to any part of Asia, but I felt like I was seeing all of these incredible places with my own eyes.
I also thoroughly enjoyed seeing all of the mythological creatures and gods. Some are familiar from previous books, some are brand new, and most of them I'd never even heard of before reading this series. I love learning about other religions and myths, even if it's from a fantasy book. I'll probably spend an afternoon researching Korean and Chinese deities now, just so I can reread and get even more from these books. And speaking of deities, Kud is awful. I mean, there are times when he doesn't seem so bad, but then he reverts back to his normal self and it's horrible. I felt so terrible that Jae was in such a bad position.
Without giving too much away, this is a book you NEED in your hands ASAP. Especially if you've read Gilded and Silvern. It ties up pretty much all of the loose ends and is just a really excellent conclusion. I'm so glad this series turned into a trilogy, and I can't wait to read more from Christina! Also, can we just take a moment to admire that cover? GORGEOUS. Absolute favorite in the series. 5/5!!
December 9, 2015
Before I start rambling on about the epicness of this book let me state this. This is the 3rd book in the series. I think it is possible to read this as a stand alone book BUT its is infinitely better if you start from book one and fully immerse yourself in this amazing world. Now with that being said let me put this review and drive and speed away into the sunset.
This book is based off of Korean mythology. I have had no prior experience with Korean mythology but its is amazing and graceful. All of the gods (as far as I could tell with my extensive google searching) are based on real gods and I feel like the author captured their persona's beautifully.
Ok so I love love love the protagonist with her bravery, ninja skills, courage, and overall badassery. She also has a huge heart and will do anything to save those she loves. I'm so jealous of her martial arts its not even funny. If you love a strong female lead like Buffy or Xena then you need to read this book!
Brazen is filled with action scene after action scene that are done perfectly. When some authors try to do this it turns into a jumbled mess or is too detailed and one single kick takes 3 pages. When Christina Farley does actions scenes you're cheering along and punching imaginary gwishin with the protagonist.
The romance is only part of the story and not the whole story. This is so important because who wants to read a book that's all about feelings? Gross and barf. There is a relationship in this book but it never gets too serious. For all you concerned parents out there, there are kissing scenes and THAT'S IT! so please let your child read this awesome book and they will love you forever. (Or at least I would)
I can not tell you how awesome and in love with this book I am. That would take more space than I have here and I once again recommend you read the first 2 books in the series to get the full awesomeness of this story.
This book is based off of Korean mythology. I have had no prior experience with Korean mythology but its is amazing and graceful. All of the gods (as far as I could tell with my extensive google searching) are based on real gods and I feel like the author captured their persona's beautifully.
Ok so I love love love the protagonist with her bravery, ninja skills, courage, and overall badassery. She also has a huge heart and will do anything to save those she loves. I'm so jealous of her martial arts its not even funny. If you love a strong female lead like Buffy or Xena then you need to read this book!
Brazen is filled with action scene after action scene that are done perfectly. When some authors try to do this it turns into a jumbled mess or is too detailed and one single kick takes 3 pages. When Christina Farley does actions scenes you're cheering along and punching imaginary gwishin with the protagonist.
The romance is only part of the story and not the whole story. This is so important because who wants to read a book that's all about feelings? Gross and barf. There is a relationship in this book but it never gets too serious. For all you concerned parents out there, there are kissing scenes and THAT'S IT! so please let your child read this awesome book and they will love you forever. (Or at least I would)
I can not tell you how awesome and in love with this book I am. That would take more space than I have here and I once again recommend you read the first 2 books in the series to get the full awesomeness of this story.
October 6, 2015
Many series authors talk about having the opportunity to pick up the pace a bit in later books in a series because they’ve already laid the foundation of the worlds and characters. Christina Farley has done this with a vengeance. From page 1, the ride is on nitro-power, afterburners aglow and rarely a breath before the end. It’s almost as if she’s saying “You want action? I’ll give you action!” Now don’t get me wrong, this isn’t dumbed-down action devoid of dialog, characters or continued world building. It is, however, fast. There is a sense that Ms. Farley has grown more comfortable with her characters and their setting as she completes the series. She continues to grow her world with new characters or deeper dives into existing characters, we have China thrown into the mix and see the interaction between Korean and Chinese forces as well as a glimpse into the Chinese mythical world. There is serious strife in the land of Azure Hills. Indeed, even as Kud’s efforts to take over the Spirit World’s equivalent of South Korea make headway, we see prescient rumblings between North and South Korea in the regular world all too familiar to our own recent news. (For a synopsis of the story, see Goodreads. There are spoilers below for those how haven't read Gilded, book 1 or Silvern, book 2. Read those prior to the book and this review)
[Full disclosure: I received an advanced copy for an honest review]
For full review: http://wp.me/p2XCwQ-1f8
[Full disclosure: I received an advanced copy for an honest review]
For full review: http://wp.me/p2XCwQ-1f8
September 24, 2015
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I liked Brazen a bit more than Silvern. But considering that Silvern sufferred a bit from a typical "second book syndrome" I didn't expect to like Brazen. Mind you, I still think that this series had much more potential, but it's not a terrible trilogy.
The story was fast-paced (even too fast). I guess that my biggest problems with this book were two: the fact that I still don't feel anything for the characters and the pace of the novel. I didn't care for Jae and Marc in Gilded and I still don't. They are quite simple characters, they aren't special and I feel like they lack some depth. I mean, I enjoy reading about them but I don't really care for them, which isn't a good thing after three books. Again, the pace of the novel was a problem for me. The ending was way too fast and felt abrupt. And that was disappointing because before the ending I actually thought that the author had improved after all.
I liked Brazen a bit more than Silvern. But considering that Silvern sufferred a bit from a typical "second book syndrome" I didn't expect to like Brazen. Mind you, I still think that this series had much more potential, but it's not a terrible trilogy.
The story was fast-paced (even too fast). I guess that my biggest problems with this book were two: the fact that I still don't feel anything for the characters and the pace of the novel. I didn't care for Jae and Marc in Gilded and I still don't. They are quite simple characters, they aren't special and I feel like they lack some depth. I mean, I enjoy reading about them but I don't really care for them, which isn't a good thing after three books. Again, the pace of the novel was a problem for me. The ending was way too fast and felt abrupt. And that was disappointing because before the ending I actually thought that the author had improved after all.
September 18, 2015
I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley for and honest review.
Full Review here:https://chocomeiske.wordpress.com/201...
The story begins with everyone thinking Jae Hwa is dead. She is not dead however but is trapped in the spirit world and forced to serving Kud, the very evil she wants to defeat. She now bears his mark in an effort to protect her loved ones and to save her homeland, Korea.
How will she able to convince Marc that she is on the side of good while bearing the mark of the evil that is Kud? Will she have the strength and resolve to stand against Kud for the good of Korea and the whole world? She won't have a choice!
Full Review here:https://chocomeiske.wordpress.com/201...
The story begins with everyone thinking Jae Hwa is dead. She is not dead however but is trapped in the spirit world and forced to serving Kud, the very evil she wants to defeat. She now bears his mark in an effort to protect her loved ones and to save her homeland, Korea.
How will she able to convince Marc that she is on the side of good while bearing the mark of the evil that is Kud? Will she have the strength and resolve to stand against Kud for the good of Korea and the whole world? She won't have a choice!
December 2, 2016
*I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
It isn't even worth a word. I am so sad it didn't work, and angry too. There was so much potential: in the plot and the mythology upon which it was based, in the characters -especially the two Kud's assassins here introduced and then dismissed as rubbish- and, generally speaking, in the whole story.
This last installment felt just as if it were written out of laziness. It lacks a strong protagonist, a compelling plot, a deign antagonist. Just not convincing.
What a waste.
It isn't even worth a word. I am so sad it didn't work, and angry too. There was so much potential: in the plot and the mythology upon which it was based, in the characters -especially the two Kud's assassins here introduced and then dismissed as rubbish- and, generally speaking, in the whole story.
This last installment felt just as if it were written out of laziness. It lacks a strong protagonist, a compelling plot, a deign antagonist. Just not convincing.
What a waste.
October 19, 2015
The conclusion of this series.
When all looked dark, I mean literally dark, after all she has signed over her life/being to be forever with the epitome of evil to protect her loved ones, will she be able to escape and ever be re-united in life or the next with her true love and will she lose what little humanity she has and be forever the slave to darkness and evil?
Plenty of adventures, betrayals, twists, and turns to keep you up late at night turning the pages to see what happens and how will it end?
When all looked dark, I mean literally dark, after all she has signed over her life/being to be forever with the epitome of evil to protect her loved ones, will she be able to escape and ever be re-united in life or the next with her true love and will she lose what little humanity she has and be forever the slave to darkness and evil?
Plenty of adventures, betrayals, twists, and turns to keep you up late at night turning the pages to see what happens and how will it end?
Read
September 25, 2015From the beginning of this series, I fell in love with the rich Korean culture and myths that leapt off the pages and made reading magical again. The balance of light and dark, the lies, the danger, and suspense all culminate in an explosive and unexpected finale.
https://youngadultbookmadness.wordpre...
https://youngadultbookmadness.wordpre...
September 24, 2015
I couldn't put it down! A fantastic mix of myth and reality that sucks you into the story. Jae Wae is a badass! A double black belt honor student who sacrifices everything she holds dear for the greater good of a country, the ultimate heroine. And an ending I did not see coming! The whole series is well worth a read, or two!!
October 22, 2015
Entertaining
The series' setting is different, and so are the mythological characters. I like that there is a lot of action going on. Jae is a hero trying to prevent world domination by a Korean deity.
The series' setting is different, and so are the mythological characters. I like that there is a lot of action going on. Jae is a hero trying to prevent world domination by a Korean deity.
August 14, 2015
Outstanding!!Become very pleased to rad the book and want to read again.
September 19, 2021
Farley's Gilded series follows Jae Hwa Lee, a young Korean-American girl recently moved to Korea, despite warnings from her strict, traditional grandfather. Jae's father doesn't listen. He isn't interested in the rantings of an old man, spouting fantastical tales. But there's more truth to Grandfather's warnings than Jae could ever imagine.
Brazen finds Jae dealing with those consequences. Her friends have turned against her, and she's forced to carry out work she dislikes. She still hopes to set things to rights, and protect the land she's come to cherish. Jae must also come to terms with the ramifications of defeating Haemosu, both because the Otherworldly lands he ruled are falling to ruin, and because her repeated forays into the spirit realms is affecting her ability to exist in the physical realm.
Go figure, but one of my favourite characters was recurring antagonist Kud. I'm a sucker for darker deities, and through the series you really get to know Kud and his motivations. Sometimes it's easy to see why villains do the things they do. I'd love to see a story of his past, from his perspective! Highly recommended, especially if you enjoy stories inspired by myth, or set in Korea.
Brazen finds Jae dealing with those consequences. Her friends have turned against her, and she's forced to carry out work she dislikes. She still hopes to set things to rights, and protect the land she's come to cherish. Jae must also come to terms with the ramifications of defeating Haemosu, both because the Otherworldly lands he ruled are falling to ruin, and because her repeated forays into the spirit realms is affecting her ability to exist in the physical realm.
Go figure, but one of my favourite characters was recurring antagonist Kud. I'm a sucker for darker deities, and through the series you really get to know Kud and his motivations. Sometimes it's easy to see why villains do the things they do. I'd love to see a story of his past, from his perspective! Highly recommended, especially if you enjoy stories inspired by myth, or set in Korea.
December 19, 2018
Still like this unfamiliar mythos, and the author's voice, but this book in the series is a bit of a slog. Get yer wading boots, and plod on. The idea is good, the very Asian storytelling aspect of the protagonist basically losing for a good part (if not all of) their story is very clear, and going through this cosmically screwed aspect with the main character are all excellent reading fodder. The problem is that writing these things while maintaining any previous pace, and keeping a good flow going, are extremely difficult writing skills to master. Kudos to the author for giving it a confident effort, but she has a ways to go before this skill solidifies. It took me forever to finish this. Parts of this book didn't stick with me either, as I kept being pushed out of the plot by slow, rough, and unfinished bits of the storytelling. All the base skills are there, though, and with work this author has a future I look forward to.
March 11, 2019
This series was a fun one. I enjoyed the glimpse into South Korean symbols and history. The idea that dark forces were behind threats of war and disunity was interesting. However, I had a hard time seeing Jae Wa working as a dark assassin. The book got bogged down in endless "can we trust her" debates. I was interested enough to keep going and I will likely give the whole series another try in a few months.
March 11, 2018
I actually enjoyed this trilogy...granted the heroine got on my nerves on occasion. She was a combination of Supergirl and a frightened 16 year old....at odd times. But I really enjoyed the Korean mythology as the framework for the story.
July 31, 2018
Book two was the best of the trilogy. I was disappointed to discover that many of the supernatural characters were not real Korean mythology but fictional. Good character development through the series.
September 14, 2020
I enjoyed this series but by the time this one ended I was more than ready for it to be over. I got so frustrated with the continual problems that just seemed to go on and on. That was probably the point and the good writing made me feel what the characters were feeling. Still . . . .
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews