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The Treemakers Trilogy #2
The Soultakers
"What a journey you have been on, Joy Montgomery. But it isn't over yet . . . . No . . . I'm afraid you have much farther to go." Joy Montgomery is a hero. The Treemakers are finally home, safe and free in a well-deserved and long dreamed of paradise. The children can now settle into normal, carefree lives. Or so they thought. Troubled by secrets their newfound paradise reveals, coupled with tangled feelings toward those she loves, Joy sees the painful truth: they're still prisoners forever wounded by the effects of a traumatic past. An ominous warning from a trusted friend strengthens her resolve to never let down her guard, to always be prepared, to be ready for war . . . both inside and out. Once again, the Treemakers are faced with escaping disaster, and Joy's strength is pushed to its limit, her sanity pushed to the brink of collapse. Just when their situation couldn't get any more desperate, they're thrust into a series of shocking tribulations that are nothing short of nightmarish. Will the Treemakers of Greenleigh annihilate the forces of evil that seek to capture and control their souls? Or will the magic Joy thought she found turn out to be just another illusion? This is the second book in the Treemakers Trilogy. This series is intended for mature YA audiences, as there are certain mature themes (abuse, character deaths, etc., ) which may be too emotionally intense for younger readers.
387 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2015
41 people are currently reading
980 people want to read
About the author
Christina L. Rozelle
14 books414 followersChristina L. Rozelle is the author of the bestselling YA Dystopian Scifi series, The Treemakers Trilogy, which includes her groundbreaking debut, “The Treemakers,” and its sequels, “The Soultakers,” and “The Seeker’s Keys.” Hailed for its strong, believable, and relatable characters, original and complex plotting, and phenomenal world-building, The Treemakers Trilogy appeals to lovers of dystopian literature who are looking for something refreshing and new.
Rozelle’s writing roots sprouted with poetry and prose in countless journals in her early years, continuing through her tumultuous teenage years, and well into her turbulent young adult life. Though her younger self dreamed of scribing non-fiction and poetry someday, when she discovered the magic in creating fiction she never looked back. Overcoming countless obstacles of her own, the wisdom gained along her personal path through healing breathes life into her beautifully dark, yet hopeful tales of triumph. Filled with an array of emotional triggers, not many topics are off limits in her works. Rozelle’s exceptional storytelling dives deep into the survival and growth journeys of diverse, broken characters and unlikely heroes. Authentic, gritty, intricate, and wildly imaginative, her stories also offer hope—a light in the dark—as her characters discover their own inner strengths and worth in the midst of debilitating adversity.
Though her wanderlust calls her to a nomadic life of traveling the world in planes, trains, ships, and RVs, Christina happily resides in a small town in Colorado, USA, with her children.
Rozelle’s writing roots sprouted with poetry and prose in countless journals in her early years, continuing through her tumultuous teenage years, and well into her turbulent young adult life. Though her younger self dreamed of scribing non-fiction and poetry someday, when she discovered the magic in creating fiction she never looked back. Overcoming countless obstacles of her own, the wisdom gained along her personal path through healing breathes life into her beautifully dark, yet hopeful tales of triumph. Filled with an array of emotional triggers, not many topics are off limits in her works. Rozelle’s exceptional storytelling dives deep into the survival and growth journeys of diverse, broken characters and unlikely heroes. Authentic, gritty, intricate, and wildly imaginative, her stories also offer hope—a light in the dark—as her characters discover their own inner strengths and worth in the midst of debilitating adversity.
Though her wanderlust calls her to a nomadic life of traveling the world in planes, trains, ships, and RVs, Christina happily resides in a small town in Colorado, USA, with her children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
December 11, 2015
"They were blinded by sorrow and despair, unable to grasp and hold onto what was most important for our survival: to spread our wings before we hit the ground, soaring up again, despite the weight of our loss. Same way we'll fly from here."
"I've learned...fear does sometimes have its place in the grand scheme of things. If we let it, the Universe can make right from wrong, light from darkness, life from death."
Wow! What an awesome story. So much adventure and so superbly told. The depth of the characters, the tension, the struggles become even more epic in this second installment. Rozelle has me hooked!
"I've learned...fear does sometimes have its place in the grand scheme of things. If we let it, the Universe can make right from wrong, light from darkness, life from death."
Wow! What an awesome story. So much adventure and so superbly told. The depth of the characters, the tension, the struggles become even more epic in this second installment. Rozelle has me hooked!
November 9, 2015
There is nothing more wild than Rozelle's books. I feel like this every time I read one of her twisty-turny-lala-loopy adventures!
Because you hopefully HOPEFULLY have read book one first. The Treemakers : Wait, what? OMG GO READ IT NOW BECAUSE>>>>>> I can't even.
Okay, so as I was saying, because you have NOW done the appropriate thing, the RIGHT thing, and read both books I can now say to you this review is too hard to put into words without spoilers. I will INSTEAD explain it in a similar experience....
Once upon a time...
When I decided I wanted to go into the shark cage adventure here in Hawaii, I, of course, logged on to read the tripadvisor reviews. They offered advice about not sticking your arms out of the cage. (yeah, I know right?) and also you might want some medication for sea sickness, because it's choppy and hey, also, they leave you in the cage and the boat is like some odd meters away from you so you are not able to call for help, and but otherwise this is a ONCE IN A LIFE experience and a must do.
This advice exactly.
For Soultakers I'd tell you keep your hands in the cage while reading,
oh and also, take some medication because things get...a bit choppy, 
and yeah, the boat leaves you at some point stranded in the ocean, 
..but hey.....SO. WORTH. IT!
If you are expecting a sweet gondalo voyage,
.. LOOK ELSEWHERE> this is the shark cage, yo.
I commend the author on being able to keep things as exciting (if not more so) this round, even in the same world, the whole thing is one surprise after another!
It's hard to set yourself apart from the dystopian YA's but she does it WITH STYLE! I mean that. Characterizations out the wazoo!
Such a talented gal!
Get this when it comes out, wait in line, do what you have to, but get it!
You won't be disappointed :D
Because you hopefully HOPEFULLY have read book one first. The Treemakers : Wait, what? OMG GO READ IT NOW BECAUSE>>>>>> I can't even.
Okay, so as I was saying, because you have NOW done the appropriate thing, the RIGHT thing, and read both books I can now say to you this review is too hard to put into words without spoilers. I will INSTEAD explain it in a similar experience....
Once upon a time...
When I decided I wanted to go into the shark cage adventure here in Hawaii, I, of course, logged on to read the tripadvisor reviews. They offered advice about not sticking your arms out of the cage. (yeah, I know right?) and also you might want some medication for sea sickness, because it's choppy and hey, also, they leave you in the cage and the boat is like some odd meters away from you so you are not able to call for help, and but otherwise this is a ONCE IN A LIFE experience and a must do.
This advice exactly.
For Soultakers I'd tell you keep your hands in the cage while reading,
oh and also, take some medication because things get...a bit choppy, and yeah, the boat leaves you at some point stranded in the ocean, ..but hey.....SO. WORTH. IT!
If you are expecting a sweet gondalo voyage,
.. LOOK ELSEWHERE> this is the shark cage, yo.
I commend the author on being able to keep things as exciting (if not more so) this round, even in the same world, the whole thing is one surprise after another!
It's hard to set yourself apart from the dystopian YA's but she does it WITH STYLE! I mean that. Characterizations out the wazoo!
Such a talented gal!
Get this when it comes out, wait in line, do what you have to, but get it!
You won't be disappointed :D
October 26, 2015
I’ve been patiently waiting to read this sequel to the Treemakers, and it does not disappoint! I was on the edge of my seat after the ending to the last book, and I’m so happy I was lucky enough to receive an ARC so I could find out what happened! Joy Montgomery is one of my hands down, favorite badass heroines in fiction. She is such a strong, amazing lead character that I love to read about. The situations in this book are no less heart wrenching than the first. I cried at what they have to go through, but even then it doesn’t break her, and I found her resilience inspiring. The settings are brilliant, I can’t even compare them to any other book because the places Rozelle describes totally her own. The originality is one of the things I love about this series, both in setting, character, and story! I won’t give too much away – but there is a character in this book that is just pure evil and I’m still creeped out over. There is a brilliant story arc that answers a lot of questions, but ends in a perfect point for me to be waiting on the edge of my seat for the next book!
November 5, 2015
This series is amazing. I'm kind of getting depressed that there's only one book left. This heart wrenching tale of Joy and company continually keeps the reader on their toes. Love and loss are a constant theme and surprises abound to throw you off! The author is a beautiful story teller. I cannot wait for the next book. *I received an ARC for an honest review*
December 2, 2015
I received a advanced reading copy in exchange for a honest review.
Even though I received a copy I will be purchasing both ebook and a hard copy. I'm obsessed with this series. The Treemakers was phenomenal and to be given the honor of reading The Soultakers was such a privilege. I was blown away by how much the writing has progressed from the first book. The author is a master of her craft. I laughed and ugly cried during several parts of this story. It started about half way through and I couldn't stop. My heart belongs to Joy. Her internal struggle makes for the perfect narrator of this series. I love each of these characters for different reasons. I love Joy because she is strong and selfless. I love Jax because he is conflicted and evolving. I love Johnny because of how far he has come since the first book. I love Mateo because he is the symbol of love. I love Smudge because she is a symbol of learning and understanding. Lastly I love Baby Lou because she is the symbol of innocence. Thank you for sharing this story with me.
Even though I received a copy I will be purchasing both ebook and a hard copy. I'm obsessed with this series. The Treemakers was phenomenal and to be given the honor of reading The Soultakers was such a privilege. I was blown away by how much the writing has progressed from the first book. The author is a master of her craft. I laughed and ugly cried during several parts of this story. It started about half way through and I couldn't stop. My heart belongs to Joy. Her internal struggle makes for the perfect narrator of this series. I love each of these characters for different reasons. I love Joy because she is strong and selfless. I love Jax because he is conflicted and evolving. I love Johnny because of how far he has come since the first book. I love Mateo because he is the symbol of love. I love Smudge because she is a symbol of learning and understanding. Lastly I love Baby Lou because she is the symbol of innocence. Thank you for sharing this story with me.
November 2, 2015
Christina did it again. Just when I thought Joy and The Treemakers were finally living their happy ever after, BAM! She goes and uproots them all. I enjoyed following the group on their new journey. Chaos and destruction of all kinds took me on another highly emotional Roller Coaster ride of emotions. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat. It will make you question everything you thought you knew. Will Joy and the others find their new safe haven? Will they ever truly feel safe? Will the secrets Joy and Smudge are hiding tear the group apart, or bring them closer together? You’ll have to read to find out.
I was so drawn into this book. I felt as though I was going through everything with Joy. Christina has such an amazing way of making you feel as though you ARE part of the story. You feel all of the raw emotions. Cry when they cry, get angry along with them, and will enjoy every moment of it. Thank you for again welcoming me into such an amazing world filled with mystery.
I was so drawn into this book. I felt as though I was going through everything with Joy. Christina has such an amazing way of making you feel as though you ARE part of the story. You feel all of the raw emotions. Cry when they cry, get angry along with them, and will enjoy every moment of it. Thank you for again welcoming me into such an amazing world filled with mystery.
December 8, 2015
***** 5 Cranky Stars *****
I was very excited to read this second instalment to Treemakers after thoroughly enjoying the first one.
It started with the adventurers’ new life at Zentao and Joy’s dilemma about keeping secrets from her friends. A brief narrative to refresh readers up-to-date with previous events which was quite expected. Then as I was getting settled into the story…BHAM!!! It took off and sent my beloved characters into turmoil after turmoil.
If that wasn’t bad enough, the plot suddenly flipped me upside down making me wonder what the heck just happened and kept me in the dark with Joy for several chapters. It felt like a roller coaster ride that was intent on scaring the life out of me as it took me to such highs just to plummet downhill and twist me around in a loop-de-loop. Just when I thought the ride would come to a gentle stop, it suddenly moves me backwards and forces me to experience the thrill in reverse.
Man, it’s that good!
As with the first book, we lost a few loved souls which made my heart ache. Yet we gained new characters who made my heart break. Seriously, this author is intent on making my heart bleed!
What’s so good is that we get answers to the previous story’s puzzles. What’s so bad is that the answers opened up even more puzzles and made me long for book 3 to be in my hands NOW. However, Ms Rozelle tied up the story in a nice little bow rather than leaving me frustrated with unresolved conflicts in the end unlike some book series tend to do.
I could actually tell you more details about the story itself but that would take the excitement of discovery from you. I’ll let Ms Rozelle do that in her spectacular way.
If you haven’t grabbed your copy or started the series, you’d better start reading now and be prepared to get your mind blown-away!
I was very excited to read this second instalment to Treemakers after thoroughly enjoying the first one.
It started with the adventurers’ new life at Zentao and Joy’s dilemma about keeping secrets from her friends. A brief narrative to refresh readers up-to-date with previous events which was quite expected. Then as I was getting settled into the story…BHAM!!! It took off and sent my beloved characters into turmoil after turmoil.
If that wasn’t bad enough, the plot suddenly flipped me upside down making me wonder what the heck just happened and kept me in the dark with Joy for several chapters. It felt like a roller coaster ride that was intent on scaring the life out of me as it took me to such highs just to plummet downhill and twist me around in a loop-de-loop. Just when I thought the ride would come to a gentle stop, it suddenly moves me backwards and forces me to experience the thrill in reverse.
Man, it’s that good!
As with the first book, we lost a few loved souls which made my heart ache. Yet we gained new characters who made my heart break. Seriously, this author is intent on making my heart bleed!
What’s so good is that we get answers to the previous story’s puzzles. What’s so bad is that the answers opened up even more puzzles and made me long for book 3 to be in my hands NOW. However, Ms Rozelle tied up the story in a nice little bow rather than leaving me frustrated with unresolved conflicts in the end unlike some book series tend to do.
I could actually tell you more details about the story itself but that would take the excitement of discovery from you. I’ll let Ms Rozelle do that in her spectacular way.
If you haven’t grabbed your copy or started the series, you’d better start reading now and be prepared to get your mind blown-away!
November 5, 2015
Ms. Rozelle has done it again! Between her and Logan Keys, I may have to rethink my stance of disliking dystopian tales.
The Soultakers picks up where The Treemakers left off, and never slows down with unnexpected twists and turns and quite a rollercoaster of emotions as well as surprises.
Christina is a fantastic storyteller and continues to hone her skills to amazing new heights. I have no idea where the imagination comes from to create these futuristic (and horrifying) worlds, but she does an amazing job of bringing them to life as well as those that inhabit them, from terrifying monsters (some of the worst of those, as in our times, wear the guise of humanity) to amazing human hybrids. We met a lot of these in the first book, but the attachment to them certainly grows in book two.
Joy and her "family" face so many trials and tribulations, overcoming so many, but with so much still left unfinished as well. As thrilled as I am to have been given an ARC copy of The Soultakers, it just means that much longer to wait for book three!
Highest recommendations for all who have read The Treemakers, and highest recomendations of the series to all who like dystopian fiction ... and even to those who don't. It is impossible not to get caught up in this world.
The Soultakers picks up where The Treemakers left off, and never slows down with unnexpected twists and turns and quite a rollercoaster of emotions as well as surprises.
Christina is a fantastic storyteller and continues to hone her skills to amazing new heights. I have no idea where the imagination comes from to create these futuristic (and horrifying) worlds, but she does an amazing job of bringing them to life as well as those that inhabit them, from terrifying monsters (some of the worst of those, as in our times, wear the guise of humanity) to amazing human hybrids. We met a lot of these in the first book, but the attachment to them certainly grows in book two.
Joy and her "family" face so many trials and tribulations, overcoming so many, but with so much still left unfinished as well. As thrilled as I am to have been given an ARC copy of The Soultakers, it just means that much longer to wait for book three!
Highest recommendations for all who have read The Treemakers, and highest recomendations of the series to all who like dystopian fiction ... and even to those who don't. It is impossible not to get caught up in this world.
November 8, 2015
I was given an ARC for an honest review..and I am literally awe struck! This book is so dark and lovely and scary and wonderful! I absolutely loved the Treemakers and couldn't wait to get my hands on Soultakers, with fear in my heart for what more these beautiful characters were going to have to experience. And can I just say...Christina is a genius, a dark and scary genius! I had so many guesses of where this book would take them, and I couldn't have been more wrong. Intense! That is the best word I can think of to describe it. So much sadness filled with hope and the fight to never give up. I laughed, not often, but I did, I read wide eyed with a rock in my tummy, I cried...more than a few times, and I had moments of pure joy and happiness laced with more hope. Absolutely wonderful, but now I sit here waiting for book 3 in anticipation of what is to come next, and wondering if these poor souls will ever get their happily ever after!
November 16, 2015
If you loved The Treemakers by Christina Rozelle, hold on tight! The Soultakers will take you for a wild ride! Taking off where book one left off, book two is fast action, a whirlwind of emotion and one heck of a dystopian story. It has feels, non-stop drama, highs as well as lows and this reviewer was more than ecstatic to receive an ARC for review.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a great dystopian novel. The Soultakers has a mix of terrifying scenes, jaw-dropping twists and emotional swings to keep you turning page after page.
Well done, Rozelle!
Five stars!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a great dystopian novel. The Soultakers has a mix of terrifying scenes, jaw-dropping twists and emotional swings to keep you turning page after page.
Well done, Rozelle!
Five stars!
November 13, 2015
Joy is at peace. Finally. After leading her young band of survivors through hardship after hardship and from sanctuary to sanctuary only to keep discovering they aren't the safe refuges they'd hoped. She has found her home . . .or has she? "This darkness has revealed the truth . . . the light we thought we’d found is a lie. And it’s not the only lie.” And so Joy embarks on another perilous journey only to find even worse betrayal and anguish than before.
The Soultakers is the perfect sequel to The Treemakers, Ms Rozelles first YA dystopian in this amazing series. If you are looking for a retelling of the Hunger Games or The Mazerunner, stop right here. Ms Rozelles world is uniquely her own, the characters ingenious and the storyline deliciously unpredictable. Much better than either Collins or Dashner. However, if I were to compare it to another YA dystopian, I would class Ms Rozelles work up there with The Giver for dystopian and with Ursula le Guin for her spectacular use of language..." Something pierces my heart, its shrapnel finding raw soul, a forever scar with the others imprinted there." In this world, "a thousand lilac stars twinkle above" and the perfect lines of a rock's intricate swirl patterns are reminders of a faraway galaxy. "A tiny universe right here in my palm."
This is a rending but beautifully rendered tale. The dialogue is smooth, the characters are fully rounded, with sumptuous descriptions that yank you fully into this raw and compelling world.
In Joy's friend Cheyenne's words, "What a journey you have been on, Joy Montgomery. But it isn’t over yet . . . " and to our great fortune, the journey will continue in her next book... but not soon enough for me.
I received an ARC copy of this book because I messaged the author to tell her to hurry with the next book. To my delight she offered an advanced copy. I am definitely going to buy it as soon as it comes out!
The Soultakers is the perfect sequel to The Treemakers, Ms Rozelles first YA dystopian in this amazing series. If you are looking for a retelling of the Hunger Games or The Mazerunner, stop right here. Ms Rozelles world is uniquely her own, the characters ingenious and the storyline deliciously unpredictable. Much better than either Collins or Dashner. However, if I were to compare it to another YA dystopian, I would class Ms Rozelles work up there with The Giver for dystopian and with Ursula le Guin for her spectacular use of language..." Something pierces my heart, its shrapnel finding raw soul, a forever scar with the others imprinted there." In this world, "a thousand lilac stars twinkle above" and the perfect lines of a rock's intricate swirl patterns are reminders of a faraway galaxy. "A tiny universe right here in my palm."
This is a rending but beautifully rendered tale. The dialogue is smooth, the characters are fully rounded, with sumptuous descriptions that yank you fully into this raw and compelling world.
In Joy's friend Cheyenne's words, "What a journey you have been on, Joy Montgomery. But it isn’t over yet . . . " and to our great fortune, the journey will continue in her next book... but not soon enough for me.
I received an ARC copy of this book because I messaged the author to tell her to hurry with the next book. To my delight she offered an advanced copy. I am definitely going to buy it as soon as it comes out!
November 17, 2015
Wow, make sure you've taken your heart medication before you read The Soultakers! Christina Rozelle is the queen of emotional rollercoasters and this was a wild ride! I thought that the first book was an incredible concept and was very impressed by the way the story and characters were layered. This one is just as good, if not better, and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
It starts out with Joy and her crew's time in the peaceful utopia coming to an ubrupt end that is violently shocking. And that's just the beginning; it only gets more intense from there. The new characters are complex and intriguing. Her descriptions of them are so vivid that it's impossible not to have a perfect picture of them in your mind. There are plenty of heartbreaking moments for which you may want to keep a box of tissues handy. The end leaves you desperately wanting to know what comes next. Will the children ever be truly safe and carefree?!
I'm waiting very impatiently for book three to come out as I'm positive that this new one will top the first two even though they were mind-blowing! Is a happy ending in the cards for Joy?
It starts out with Joy and her crew's time in the peaceful utopia coming to an ubrupt end that is violently shocking. And that's just the beginning; it only gets more intense from there. The new characters are complex and intriguing. Her descriptions of them are so vivid that it's impossible not to have a perfect picture of them in your mind. There are plenty of heartbreaking moments for which you may want to keep a box of tissues handy. The end leaves you desperately wanting to know what comes next. Will the children ever be truly safe and carefree?!
I'm waiting very impatiently for book three to come out as I'm positive that this new one will top the first two even though they were mind-blowing! Is a happy ending in the cards for Joy?
December 15, 2015
Where to start.....
This book takes up a few weeks after The Treemakers ends. It was a very emotional and heart breaking journey that I went with joy on. This book kept me up till the wee hours of the morning. I also picked it up one night after a few drinks and was still able to get sucked into the book and remember what I read the next morning. (When I do that I rarely remember what I read.)
I had a very great time reading this book, if you are looking for something different, in a dystopian world that takes the main character to the brink of her sanity then this series is right for you.
There was a few times when I thought geezzz poor Joy how has she not broken yet!!?? But she is a very determined loving character that puts others before herself.
More secrets are revealed, more questions arise that need answered, people that still need saving, and a new placed that await them. I cant wait for the third book!! This series has to be one of my favorites by far!!!
PS its also a great indicator when you want to through your kindle across the room at some point.
This book takes up a few weeks after The Treemakers ends. It was a very emotional and heart breaking journey that I went with joy on. This book kept me up till the wee hours of the morning. I also picked it up one night after a few drinks and was still able to get sucked into the book and remember what I read the next morning. (When I do that I rarely remember what I read.)
I had a very great time reading this book, if you are looking for something different, in a dystopian world that takes the main character to the brink of her sanity then this series is right for you.
There was a few times when I thought geezzz poor Joy how has she not broken yet!!?? But she is a very determined loving character that puts others before herself.
More secrets are revealed, more questions arise that need answered, people that still need saving, and a new placed that await them. I cant wait for the third book!! This series has to be one of my favorites by far!!!
PS its also a great indicator when you want to through your kindle across the room at some point.
May 21, 2016
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
The Soultakers picks up right where The Treemakers left off, with the same group mere days after the first book ends. After finding refuge in paradise things start happening that make the Treemakers of Greenleigh realize that everything isn’t what it seems. In this novel it is up to Momma Joy with the assistance of Smudge along with other to yet again find safety for the orphans of Greenleigh.
This book went above and beyond every expectation that I had for it. To say that Christina blew my mind would be the understatement of the century! Christina proved once again that she knows exactly how to build worlds and exactly how to tug on the heart strings of each and every person that picks up her novels! If by some miracle have yet to read The Treemakers hop to it so you are ready for The Soultakers when it releases on December 3rd!
The Soultakers picks up right where The Treemakers left off, with the same group mere days after the first book ends. After finding refuge in paradise things start happening that make the Treemakers of Greenleigh realize that everything isn’t what it seems. In this novel it is up to Momma Joy with the assistance of Smudge along with other to yet again find safety for the orphans of Greenleigh.
This book went above and beyond every expectation that I had for it. To say that Christina blew my mind would be the understatement of the century! Christina proved once again that she knows exactly how to build worlds and exactly how to tug on the heart strings of each and every person that picks up her novels! If by some miracle have yet to read The Treemakers hop to it so you are ready for The Soultakers when it releases on December 3rd!
December 4, 2015
I received an ARC copy of The Soultakers by Christina Rozelle for an honest review. I am very impressed with this author's writing ability. She has a highly creative imagination and does an excellent job putting her thoughts to paper. This story is about survival, redemption and rediscovery where a group of teens and young kids have already escaped a dreadful place of slavery only to find themselves in an even worse situation of captivity. They make their way to a place that resembles paradise and after a narrow escape, find themselves captured by an evil Lord who thrives on causing pain and suffering. Without giving too much of the story away, I can say that the chararacters are well developed and loveable. The story is fast-paced, and events occur that make it hard to put the book down. I highly recommend The Soultakers...it is an excellent read.
November 2, 2015
I received an arc of The Soultakers for an honest review. And honestly, I'm not sure mere words can do it justice. Once again, I find myself sucked into the world of Joy Montgomery -swept along on waves of emotions, my mind completely absorbed by the suspense, gasping at the curve balls Christina keeps throwing. I've been overcome with grief, felt surges of anger, laughed at the humor & victories. All while on the edge of my seat & being shocked with surprises. But I have a feeling everything is slowly coming to a close; that we are getting closer to the secrets & mysteries being revealed & pieces of the puzzle being clicked gradually into place. I have loved my journey so far, but the greed in me can't wait to reach Joy's final destination.
November 8, 2015
Ms. Rozelle is making great strides in her writing craft and her growing talent is evident. She just keeps getting better and better. You don't want to miss the continuing saga of Joy, Jax, Smudge, and the rest of the group of this Y/A Dystopian roller coaster ride! The Soul Takers had me up until the wee hours of the night/morning saying "just one more chapter!" I could not put it down! What a roller coaster ride of emotion and what a vivid, imaginative world Ms. Rozelle creates! The Soul Takers is a great tale of overcoming fear and heartbreak to accomplish super feats of courage and love in order to save those she loves! I look forward to book three!
November 13, 2015
Fantastic, everything went on hold while I read this book.
Christina Rozelle is a master at writing in such a way that the pain, loss and anger of her characters leap from the page and into your heart.
This is an incredible tale, complex and riveting, with characters of such depth that I felt like I was there with them.
I was so sad to reach the end but happy to know there is another book to come as Joy and her family continue their journey to freedom.
I would recommend this series to everyone, young or not so young.
*This was an ARC. My opinions are my own.*
Christina Rozelle is a master at writing in such a way that the pain, loss and anger of her characters leap from the page and into your heart.
This is an incredible tale, complex and riveting, with characters of such depth that I felt like I was there with them.
I was so sad to reach the end but happy to know there is another book to come as Joy and her family continue their journey to freedom.
I would recommend this series to everyone, young or not so young.
*This was an ARC. My opinions are my own.*
November 3, 2015
OMG! She has done it again! There is so much love, loss and drama contained in these pages. The world continues to grow and expand with the magic and tragedy. Everyone in these pages have come alive in my mind and heart. I will anxiously await the next step in Moma Joy and her expanding and contracting family. I wish I could say more but do not want to diminish your experience in traveling this world.
December 2, 2015
Wow!
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book carries on from where the Treemakers left off. There's more adventure, love and heartache. The book ends far too soon. I can't wait for the next book to see if Joy and her'family' find the forvever home they are searching for.
In my opinion, this is a must read.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book carries on from where the Treemakers left off. There's more adventure, love and heartache. The book ends far too soon. I can't wait for the next book to see if Joy and her'family' find the forvever home they are searching for.
In my opinion, this is a must read.
November 17, 2015
Another fantastic book in this series! The same characters I loved from the Treemakers are back with new characters I love just as much. So much adventure, nonstop action and feels. My only complaint was it was over much too soon and I want more please! Although I think my family is probably happy to have me back. Can't wait for the next book.
November 23, 2015
When I was a kid I wanted to go on adventures, real proper adventures, not like the ‘famous five’ but proper real adventures where real stuff happened, bad stuff that needed some fixing, but ultimately in the end it was all ok and we were all stronger for it, more worldly, tougher, taken seriously, we knew the good because we’d battled the evil. That’s what I fantasised about, think Harry Potter but less of the magic and more of the suffering and the anguish, this is what you get with Rozelle, a no-nonsense take-no-prisoners hardcore adventure where things go down, and most of it ain’t pretty, in fact it’s downright bleaker than bleak.
Receiving an ARC copy of the book was a great honour, I knew as soon as I received the book it would only be a mere matter of days before I’d be racing to extol its virtues to other readers…
I’d been a big fan of the first book ‘The Treemakers’ and so I had high hopes that this second book ‘The Soultakers’ would match the first for sheer depth of narrative, and with the same intensity of the characters (characters that lived on in my mind way after reading the Treemakers). I wasn’t disappointed! It was hard to imagine Momma Joy going through more hardship than when we’d first read about her, but hey this is a dystopia that keeps on dystopying further and further plummeting down to the most hellish of situations.
Rozelle clearly takes delight in putting her now more familiar cast through a tough pace, but this was no copy of the first, the literary gems shine to dazzling heights particularly around half way through where the story takes an unexpected turn, and I am not giving away any spoilers if I said that there’s definitely some kind of ‘Alice in Wonderland’ twang running through the plot, the reader joins Joy in being unaware at times what is real and what’s not, a dark cocktail of doubt and paranoia with a definite dash of surrealism fuelling the winding story.
A truly rewarding read. A great satisfying book where you are left feeling greater for the story and for the insight, and where when you finish the book you immediately want to read the next one! A triumph of a series, it has the depth and intertwined levels that make these books an ease to recommend, simply a must-read, it is un-put-downable. The creativity is inspirational, and the pace breathtaking, love love love the Soultakers, even better than the first, more please!
Receiving an ARC copy of the book was a great honour, I knew as soon as I received the book it would only be a mere matter of days before I’d be racing to extol its virtues to other readers…
I’d been a big fan of the first book ‘The Treemakers’ and so I had high hopes that this second book ‘The Soultakers’ would match the first for sheer depth of narrative, and with the same intensity of the characters (characters that lived on in my mind way after reading the Treemakers). I wasn’t disappointed! It was hard to imagine Momma Joy going through more hardship than when we’d first read about her, but hey this is a dystopia that keeps on dystopying further and further plummeting down to the most hellish of situations.
Rozelle clearly takes delight in putting her now more familiar cast through a tough pace, but this was no copy of the first, the literary gems shine to dazzling heights particularly around half way through where the story takes an unexpected turn, and I am not giving away any spoilers if I said that there’s definitely some kind of ‘Alice in Wonderland’ twang running through the plot, the reader joins Joy in being unaware at times what is real and what’s not, a dark cocktail of doubt and paranoia with a definite dash of surrealism fuelling the winding story.
A truly rewarding read. A great satisfying book where you are left feeling greater for the story and for the insight, and where when you finish the book you immediately want to read the next one! A triumph of a series, it has the depth and intertwined levels that make these books an ease to recommend, simply a must-read, it is un-put-downable. The creativity is inspirational, and the pace breathtaking, love love love the Soultakers, even better than the first, more please!
November 19, 2015
A light in the darkness. Hope when there should be nothing to hope for except an untimely end. Joy and her little family is in danger. She knows this paradise is too good to be true (because it isn’t), but wants to illusion––the lie––the continue as long as she can. The kids have had too many painful moments and deserve some happiness. Happiness eludes them again. The illusion shatters. The magic is gone.
I loved this book. One of the main reasons I read dystopian is because the characters can find the tiniest glimmer of hope in the direst of situations. Even when the pain sends them to their knees, they find their footing again. And again. And again. Joy is the embodiment of this genre. She takes on the guilt and pain from making promises she can’t keep, even though she’s doing everything she can. A lesser person would break after carrying the world on her shoulders for so long.
I enjoyed watching the hidden truths unravel and secrets becoming exposed. I loved Joy’s horrible adventures in trying to find herself again and watching as she again tried to protect those dearest to her.
A great read and awesome storytelling, The Soultakers makes an amazing sequel to The Treemakers. Check it out!
Related...isn't her cover amazing!? I love it.
I loved this book. One of the main reasons I read dystopian is because the characters can find the tiniest glimmer of hope in the direst of situations. Even when the pain sends them to their knees, they find their footing again. And again. And again. Joy is the embodiment of this genre. She takes on the guilt and pain from making promises she can’t keep, even though she’s doing everything she can. A lesser person would break after carrying the world on her shoulders for so long.
I enjoyed watching the hidden truths unravel and secrets becoming exposed. I loved Joy’s horrible adventures in trying to find herself again and watching as she again tried to protect those dearest to her.
A great read and awesome storytelling, The Soultakers makes an amazing sequel to The Treemakers. Check it out!
Related...isn't her cover amazing!? I love it.
November 20, 2015
Absolutely spellbinding! Book 2 picks up right where 1 ended. It got the ground running and was a fast paced page turning read. Christina weaves a tale so eloquently and mesmerizing that it played out like a movie in my mind's eye. Absolutely no filler...NONE! Will Joy finally find what she has always been longing for? Will she find peace or heartache? The brave group of teens take the world upon their shoulders to do what is right. Will their outcome be what they had hoped for? I was so happy to also learn more about Smudge (personally my favorite character) and wasn't disappointed. This book has me anxiously awaiting book 3. I don't know how I can possibly wait that long as I can't stop thinking about everything and all of the amazing characters. Kudos on a BEYOND 5 star book!! This series is a MUST read! Such a refreshingly new take on a rather saturated genre. This author is one to watch for sure! True talent!
November 21, 2015
Wow, I really had to step back mentally with this book when I finished the last page. So very deep and thought provoking. I thought Joy had to be a tough young woman in the first book, yet after all of this I wonder how she holds herself together. I would have had a break down. You won't want to read this one if you haven't read The Treemakers first. This one you start to see some of the wider picture and it's not all sunshine and roses. What a crazy world being led by crazy people. How the heck do you keep going if your happy ending is a fraud? I'm ready for the next one Christina, bring it on!
November 23, 2015
On the second leg of their adventure, we sit side by side with Joy's family on a never-ending roller coaster; taking us from the highest of highs, to the darkest of lows. It's sure to grab your attention from the very beginning and leave you hanging on to the edge of your seat, as you never know what new adversary lurks around the corner of the next page. Joy's story is thought provoking, mysterious and will evoke every emotion from elation to fear, to PURE JOY. A very well written story that will make you want to visit it again and again.
I loved it and I cannot wait to see what the world has in store for Joy next!
I loved it and I cannot wait to see what the world has in store for Joy next!
November 27, 2015
Oh wow! I thought the first book was good, this one is even better. So many twists and turns that surprise the reader. I could not put this book down and was reading into the wee hours of the morning lol. It is very well written and easy to follow. The author has a vivid imagination as this is out of the ball park. Recommend this book, but must read the first book before.
November 10, 2015
Very good book. I really enjoyed it, was not expecting some of the events. I really hope book 3 comes out soon!
December 3, 2016
BLURB
Joy Montgomery is a hero. The Treemakers are finally home, safe and free in a well-deserved and long dreamed of paradise. The children can now settle into normal, carefree lives. Or so they thought.
Troubled by secrets their newfound paradise reveals, coupled with tangled feelings toward those she loves, Joy sees the painful truth: they’re still prisoners forever wounded by the effects of a traumatic past. An ominous warning from a trusted friend strengthens her resolve to never let down her guard, to always be prepared, to be ready for war . . . both inside and out.
Once again, the Treemakers are faced with escaping disaster, and Joy’s strength is pushed to its limit, her sanity pushed to the brink of collapse. Just when their situation couldn’t get any more desperate, they’re thrust into a series of shocking tribulations that are nothing short of nightmarish.
Will the Treemakers of Greenleigh annihilate the forces of evil that seek to capture and control their souls? Or will the magic Joy thought she found turn out to be just another illusion?
CHARACTERS
In The Soultakers we once again meet Joy, Smudge, Jax, Mateo and the rest of the Treemakers and the Saltminers. Joy is like before, a wonderful character who in this book faces danger, doubts and fear. Her character development isn't as pronounced as in The Treemakers but is still interesting to see.
"What a journey you have been on, Joy Montgomery. But it isn’t over yet . . . "
Jax was well not a favourite for me. Under the current circumstances, he needs to understand what's more important and not dwell on his ego and jealousy. I liked Mateo in this book. He seems more mature and his attitude at the end of the book towards all that was happening around him made me want to hug him. I liked that Joy's relationship with Jax and Mateo wasn't central to the plot and yet was inserted and handled beautifully.
There are certain other characters I liked but can't talk about them without giving away major spoilers! But I'll say that the author despite having created a lot of characters has still created them in a detailed manner.
PLOT
A little into the book, there is a huge plot twist and suddenly everything seems confusing. I had no idea what was going on and couldn't make much sense of the happenings. But soon things were cleared up and the book started moving at a breakneck speed. The plot of The Soultakers is much more darker and sinister than the first book. There were times when I wondered if what I was reading was what was actually happening or was it simply a hallucination. This book answers a lot of question from The Treemakers but poses it's own set of questions at the end.
WRITING
As always, the author's writing is exquisite. I finished the book in one sitting, the words gripping me with such imagery. The writing quite successfully transported me into the book and held me there with vivid descriptions I could visualize in my mind.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THE BOOK
- The characters
- The plot
- The writing
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK
- Not a thing!
CONCLUSION
A fantastic sequel to The Treemakers that makes one desperately want The Seeker's Keys (Book Three)
Joy Montgomery is a hero. The Treemakers are finally home, safe and free in a well-deserved and long dreamed of paradise. The children can now settle into normal, carefree lives. Or so they thought.
Troubled by secrets their newfound paradise reveals, coupled with tangled feelings toward those she loves, Joy sees the painful truth: they’re still prisoners forever wounded by the effects of a traumatic past. An ominous warning from a trusted friend strengthens her resolve to never let down her guard, to always be prepared, to be ready for war . . . both inside and out.
Once again, the Treemakers are faced with escaping disaster, and Joy’s strength is pushed to its limit, her sanity pushed to the brink of collapse. Just when their situation couldn’t get any more desperate, they’re thrust into a series of shocking tribulations that are nothing short of nightmarish.
Will the Treemakers of Greenleigh annihilate the forces of evil that seek to capture and control their souls? Or will the magic Joy thought she found turn out to be just another illusion?
CHARACTERS
In The Soultakers we once again meet Joy, Smudge, Jax, Mateo and the rest of the Treemakers and the Saltminers. Joy is like before, a wonderful character who in this book faces danger, doubts and fear. Her character development isn't as pronounced as in The Treemakers but is still interesting to see.
"What a journey you have been on, Joy Montgomery. But it isn’t over yet . . . "
Jax was well not a favourite for me. Under the current circumstances, he needs to understand what's more important and not dwell on his ego and jealousy. I liked Mateo in this book. He seems more mature and his attitude at the end of the book towards all that was happening around him made me want to hug him. I liked that Joy's relationship with Jax and Mateo wasn't central to the plot and yet was inserted and handled beautifully.
There are certain other characters I liked but can't talk about them without giving away major spoilers! But I'll say that the author despite having created a lot of characters has still created them in a detailed manner.
PLOT
A little into the book, there is a huge plot twist and suddenly everything seems confusing. I had no idea what was going on and couldn't make much sense of the happenings. But soon things were cleared up and the book started moving at a breakneck speed. The plot of The Soultakers is much more darker and sinister than the first book. There were times when I wondered if what I was reading was what was actually happening or was it simply a hallucination. This book answers a lot of question from The Treemakers but poses it's own set of questions at the end.
WRITING
As always, the author's writing is exquisite. I finished the book in one sitting, the words gripping me with such imagery. The writing quite successfully transported me into the book and held me there with vivid descriptions I could visualize in my mind.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THE BOOK
- The characters
- The plot
- The writing
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK
- Not a thing!
CONCLUSION
A fantastic sequel to The Treemakers that makes one desperately want The Seeker's Keys (Book Three)
June 3, 2016
I was asked to review this work for an honest review. I must say it was a spectacular read that made me gush tears at the end. I can't wait for the third book.
Captivating, treacherous, a journey that is unlike any other.
Your emotions will run high for sure in this action-packed, love infused, terror induced, euphoric novel that took a year in the making.
A new journey awaits the treemakers when they must leave their newfound "home" in order to travel to Alzanei which may or may not better their chances for a hopeful life.
Still scared of Lord Daumier and the clergy, they're going to risk their lives to save the ones they love for a future that may not seem bright right now, but eventually, it'll be worth it.
Around each corner, Joy Montgomery and her friends face new terrors that just get them ready for the next. However, they do not know what's in store once they reach the surface.
Will they find out who the soul takers really are? do they know what Lord Daumier evil schemes include? Can they trust each other, or should they pick and choose who not to befriend? Not everything is as it seems, but sometimes you just have to believe that the magic in the world will eventually save you. The main goal in the story is to prove that no matter how much darkness occurs there will always be a light at the end of the tunnel. That's why Christina L Rozelle clearly states in book one 'The Treemakers', that we take the dark with the light and build on... but what are we making a structure for? Are we building for a better future, hoping for a lover, another day to stay alive, for food to eat each day, orare we just simply looking for a way out? I guess it just depends on each person's outlook of what's about to occur. Simply we cannot suggest that each person's situation is the same but in reality, were all after one goal… And that my friend, is happiness.
We are born into this world with nothing and die with nothing, but while we are on this earth, it's our job to make sure that others survive to see another day, if possible. We don't have to help anyone, rather we choose to safeguard others to not be isolated at the end, right? Wrong, every life is precious and should try to be saved. Death is a scary feat, although as long as we stay positive and go through life doing good, shouldn't we escape it's evil clutches? Everything happens for a reason. Some we agree with, where as others, we don't. It's just a simple tweak of perspective. But in the end, what occurs ultimately leads us to a better tomorrow. With success comes sacrifice for the majority. It's better to lose a little and save a lot, than be left with one.
Tips for survival:
1) trust no one
2) always be on the lookout
3) nothing is as it seems
4) don't let love get in the way
5) think of a better tomorrow
6) always light way for others because who knows, maybe you'll need help next
7) don't keep secrets
8) always be kind
9) don't eat the mush
10) watch what you say because you never know who might be listening.
Captivating, treacherous, a journey that is unlike any other.
Your emotions will run high for sure in this action-packed, love infused, terror induced, euphoric novel that took a year in the making.
A new journey awaits the treemakers when they must leave their newfound "home" in order to travel to Alzanei which may or may not better their chances for a hopeful life.
Still scared of Lord Daumier and the clergy, they're going to risk their lives to save the ones they love for a future that may not seem bright right now, but eventually, it'll be worth it.
Around each corner, Joy Montgomery and her friends face new terrors that just get them ready for the next. However, they do not know what's in store once they reach the surface.
Will they find out who the soul takers really are? do they know what Lord Daumier evil schemes include? Can they trust each other, or should they pick and choose who not to befriend? Not everything is as it seems, but sometimes you just have to believe that the magic in the world will eventually save you. The main goal in the story is to prove that no matter how much darkness occurs there will always be a light at the end of the tunnel. That's why Christina L Rozelle clearly states in book one 'The Treemakers', that we take the dark with the light and build on... but what are we making a structure for? Are we building for a better future, hoping for a lover, another day to stay alive, for food to eat each day, orare we just simply looking for a way out? I guess it just depends on each person's outlook of what's about to occur. Simply we cannot suggest that each person's situation is the same but in reality, were all after one goal… And that my friend, is happiness.
We are born into this world with nothing and die with nothing, but while we are on this earth, it's our job to make sure that others survive to see another day, if possible. We don't have to help anyone, rather we choose to safeguard others to not be isolated at the end, right? Wrong, every life is precious and should try to be saved. Death is a scary feat, although as long as we stay positive and go through life doing good, shouldn't we escape it's evil clutches? Everything happens for a reason. Some we agree with, where as others, we don't. It's just a simple tweak of perspective. But in the end, what occurs ultimately leads us to a better tomorrow. With success comes sacrifice for the majority. It's better to lose a little and save a lot, than be left with one.
Tips for survival:
1) trust no one
2) always be on the lookout
3) nothing is as it seems
4) don't let love get in the way
5) think of a better tomorrow
6) always light way for others because who knows, maybe you'll need help next
7) don't keep secrets
8) always be kind
9) don't eat the mush
10) watch what you say because you never know who might be listening.
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