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House of Royals #2
House of Pawns
The town of Silent Bend is about to explode into a war. Alivia swore to take the House from Jasmine after what she did, but it won’t happen without retaliation. The whole town is caught in the crosshairs of their manipulation and the body count is climbing.
The explanation for Ian’s change is one he just can’t accept. To Alivia, it should fix all their problems, but Ian has become everything he hates most. And Liv accepting her fate and position will test their relationship to the breaking point.
The threat of the King’s arrival looms just weeks away, and Alivia knows he will kill her as soon as he comes. She’ll need supporters at her side—immortal ones. And that means turning old enemies into loyal subjects…
The explanation for Ian’s change is one he just can’t accept. To Alivia, it should fix all their problems, but Ian has become everything he hates most. And Liv accepting her fate and position will test their relationship to the breaking point.
The threat of the King’s arrival looms just weeks away, and Alivia knows he will kill her as soon as he comes. She’ll need supporters at her side—immortal ones. And that means turning old enemies into loyal subjects…
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 15, 2015
443 people are currently reading
1146 people want to read
About the author
Keary Taylor
82 books2,112 followersKeary Taylor is the USA TODAY bestselling author of over twenty novels. She grew up along the foothills of the Rocky Mountains where she started creating imaginary worlds and daring characters who always fell in love. She now splits her time between a tiny island in the Pacific Northwest and Utah, with her husband and their two children. She continues to have an overactive imagination that frequently keeps her up at night.
Please Note: Keary does not check Goodreads very often, so the best way to get in contact is directly through email: me@kearytaylor.com.
Please Note: Keary does not check Goodreads very often, so the best way to get in contact is directly through email: me@kearytaylor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
April 19, 2021
2.5 Stars
It kept me entertained which is the only reason it has stars, but other than that, I'm so annoyed I can't even fully process what I just read. I literally cannot stand the heroine, and I'm not one for sl*t shaming, but she's a selfish h*e. She has the "love of her life" here who she gets mad at because he's not at her beck and call and has his own family to take care of while going through a big life change, and she supposedly loves him SO MUCH, that has soon as they break up, she cries for a page then moves on with a different dude she just met and is already talking about love. Like, I can't even right now. Then the king comes into the picture like a chapter later and she can't stop thinking about how attractive and blah he is. Like stahppppp you needs to be single for awhile cuz you don't know what you want obviously.
And not only is she a h*e, but she's a dumb h*e too. She can never do wrong, and yet nothing she does is right, SO WHY DOES EVERYONE KEEP COMPLIMENTING HER LIKE SHES SPECIAL OR SOMETHIN WTF?? She literally does nothing and makes everyone else do all the work, while she just assumes and throws her bloodline around like she's all special but she's literally just an idiot omg. At this point she deserves to be betrayed and have the hero go scr*w someone else or something because I just really want her to be in pain rn🤷
It kept me entertained which is the only reason it has stars, but other than that, I'm so annoyed I can't even fully process what I just read. I literally cannot stand the heroine, and I'm not one for sl*t shaming, but she's a selfish h*e. She has the "love of her life" here who she gets mad at because he's not at her beck and call and has his own family to take care of while going through a big life change, and she supposedly loves him SO MUCH, that has soon as they break up, she cries for a page then moves on with a different dude she just met and is already talking about love. Like, I can't even right now. Then the king comes into the picture like a chapter later and she can't stop thinking about how attractive and blah he is. Like stahppppp you needs to be single for awhile cuz you don't know what you want obviously.
And not only is she a h*e, but she's a dumb h*e too. She can never do wrong, and yet nothing she does is right, SO WHY DOES EVERYONE KEEP COMPLIMENTING HER LIKE SHES SPECIAL OR SOMETHIN WTF?? She literally does nothing and makes everyone else do all the work, while she just assumes and throws her bloodline around like she's all special but she's literally just an idiot omg. At this point she deserves to be betrayed and have the hero go scr*w someone else or something because I just really want her to be in pain rn🤷
June 20, 2016
5+ stars
**Don't read this if you haven't read HoR, mild spoilers ahead**
Okay guys, as you recall, I LOOOVED HoR and was super stoked to finally get my hands on the sequel. And lemme tell you, HoP did not disappoint!
PAWNS starts off right where the first one left off: Ian is now a vampire, and everyone has to deal with the implications of his resurrection. Right from the start, this novel hits the ground running and does not let up its death grip on our emotions til the very end with us screaming and demanding for more. The vampire politics in this one was much more centralized and pertinent to the storyline now that Alivia has decided to form her own House. I loved getting to see and understand more of the House members and watch their characters develop more fully. We get to see some of why Markov is the way he is, to see that Samuel is more than a party boy and Cameron is more than a pothead [sort of].
There is also so much Alivia has to deal with in this novel: Ian's transformation, her and Ian's increasingly complicated relationship, Silent Bend's citizens' increasing distrust of her, recruiting [and maintaining] House members, dealing with Jasmine's nonsense, discovering who is spying on her, discovering/uncovering who is turning citizens into Bitten and attacking both Houses (I have theories on this), and to top it all off A LOVE TRIANGLE.
That's right people a LOVE TRIANGLE that I absolutely did not see coming. And you know how much my loyalty lies with Ian, and therefore you can imagine my reaction towards Alivia when she started feeling those feelings towards someone other than my Ian.
But even I have to admit I was slightly intrigued by Taylor's choice in Alivia's momentary distraction. Totally unexpected and out-of-the-blue, but still interesting. I also loved the conflict Alivia feels inside herself and towards Ian because of who she is and who she feels she needs to be. She wants/needs to grow and adapt to the new scenarios she's facing, but Ian and his sexy stubbornness is wholly against Alivia becoming anything but the girl she once was. This causes Alivia to then question almost every action and choice she has to make, which made her transformation into a Queen so believable and real for me. It wasn't an easy journey for her to become someone of an entirely different species, but she knows this is who she is meant to be and is willing to work for it and ultimately put herself first--which is a great quality for our heroine to have.
Overall, I loved this one--almost as much as the first. It was engrossing, surprising, and entertaining while still maintaining an air of mystery and romance between Ian and Alivia. I loved every word, and I CANNOT BELIEVE THAT WE WERE LEFT WITH ANOTHER IAN CLIFFY. Ms. Taylor, you are surely trying to kill us all off.
My Ian :)
**eCopy provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
Us. Here. Like this. It changes everything we ever thought before about Ian and Alivia.
**Don't read this if you haven't read HoR, mild spoilers ahead**
Okay guys, as you recall, I LOOOVED HoR and was super stoked to finally get my hands on the sequel. And lemme tell you, HoP did not disappoint!
PAWNS starts off right where the first one left off: Ian is now a vampire, and everyone has to deal with the implications of his resurrection. Right from the start, this novel hits the ground running and does not let up its death grip on our emotions til the very end with us screaming and demanding for more. The vampire politics in this one was much more centralized and pertinent to the storyline now that Alivia has decided to form her own House. I loved getting to see and understand more of the House members and watch their characters develop more fully. We get to see some of why Markov is the way he is, to see that Samuel is more than a party boy and Cameron is more than a pothead [sort of].
There is also so much Alivia has to deal with in this novel: Ian's transformation, her and Ian's increasingly complicated relationship, Silent Bend's citizens' increasing distrust of her, recruiting [and maintaining] House members, dealing with Jasmine's nonsense, discovering who is spying on her, discovering/uncovering who is turning citizens into Bitten and attacking both Houses (I have theories on this), and to top it all off A LOVE TRIANGLE.
That's right people a LOVE TRIANGLE that I absolutely did not see coming. And you know how much my loyalty lies with Ian, and therefore you can imagine my reaction towards Alivia when she started feeling those feelings towards someone other than my Ian.
But even I have to admit I was slightly intrigued by Taylor's choice in Alivia's momentary distraction. Totally unexpected and out-of-the-blue, but still interesting. I also loved the conflict Alivia feels inside herself and towards Ian because of who she is and who she feels she needs to be. She wants/needs to grow and adapt to the new scenarios she's facing, but Ian and his sexy stubbornness is wholly against Alivia becoming anything but the girl she once was. This causes Alivia to then question almost every action and choice she has to make, which made her transformation into a Queen so believable and real for me. It wasn't an easy journey for her to become someone of an entirely different species, but she knows this is who she is meant to be and is willing to work for it and ultimately put herself first--which is a great quality for our heroine to have.
Overall, I loved this one--almost as much as the first. It was engrossing, surprising, and entertaining while still maintaining an air of mystery and romance between Ian and Alivia. I loved every word, and I CANNOT BELIEVE THAT WE WERE LEFT WITH ANOTHER IAN CLIFFY. Ms. Taylor, you are surely trying to kill us all off.
My Ian :)
**eCopy provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
January 4, 2016
I don’t think I can wait until March to read the next book in this series. I’m freaking out!! I went to bed angry because I don’t have the next book on hand, that’s how excited I am. I devoured this book in one sitting. Just so good!!
If you all thought Alivia was a badass in the first book you just wait until you read this one. Alivia takes it to a whole new level and slays! A war is breaking out in Silent Bend and the House knows who to side with. Let me tell you, things get down right dirty in this war. Our heroine is strong, courageous, smart and will do what is necessary to protect those whom she calls friends. What I love about Alivia is that she doesn’t complain or whine about the cards she’s been dealt, she accepts them and rises to the responsibility that was placed on her shoulders. It’s honestly so refreshing to read.
The anticipation of the Kings arrival and what Jasmine has been plotting kept me on my toes the entire novel and I can’t wait to see how things turn out in the next book. I’m so disappointed in Ian though and I hope in House of Kings he can get is stuff together. That’s if he makes it out alive. I know he has a lot on his plate but his personality is back to where we were in the beginning of House of Royals and I miss my old Ian. Also can we talk about Raheem for a minute?! I love him, and I love him with Alivia, but I don’t want to love him. I think if I start wanting Alivia and Raheem together things are going to end so badly. But I just love his character. I love that he is mysterious and I love the fact that he is Middle Eastern. I love the POC representation in these books. I just have a lot of love for these books okay. Now let’s talk about the King. Wow, I didn’t expect him to be so young and charming! I can’t wait to learn more about him. I get a Hades vibe from him if you know what I mean. All the support characters in this novel were A++. They were well developed and even though they are only minor characters I’m really becoming attached to them.
Totally off topic but I just need to share with you my gut feeling and prediction. Rath is suppose to be the most loyal character in this novel. He was best friends with Henry for God only knows how many years, but I have such a bad feeling about him. I’m starting to wonder if he is the one that killed Henry and that is why there is a curse in Silent Bend. There, I said it. I really hope that I’m wrong. I need to get my hands on a copy of House of Kings, I need to know what happens next!
If you all thought Alivia was a badass in the first book you just wait until you read this one. Alivia takes it to a whole new level and slays! A war is breaking out in Silent Bend and the House knows who to side with. Let me tell you, things get down right dirty in this war. Our heroine is strong, courageous, smart and will do what is necessary to protect those whom she calls friends. What I love about Alivia is that she doesn’t complain or whine about the cards she’s been dealt, she accepts them and rises to the responsibility that was placed on her shoulders. It’s honestly so refreshing to read.
The anticipation of the Kings arrival and what Jasmine has been plotting kept me on my toes the entire novel and I can’t wait to see how things turn out in the next book. I’m so disappointed in Ian though and I hope in House of Kings he can get is stuff together. That’s if he makes it out alive. I know he has a lot on his plate but his personality is back to where we were in the beginning of House of Royals and I miss my old Ian. Also can we talk about Raheem for a minute?! I love him, and I love him with Alivia, but I don’t want to love him. I think if I start wanting Alivia and Raheem together things are going to end so badly. But I just love his character. I love that he is mysterious and I love the fact that he is Middle Eastern. I love the POC representation in these books. I just have a lot of love for these books okay. Now let’s talk about the King. Wow, I didn’t expect him to be so young and charming! I can’t wait to learn more about him. I get a Hades vibe from him if you know what I mean. All the support characters in this novel were A++. They were well developed and even though they are only minor characters I’m really becoming attached to them.
Totally off topic but I just need to share with you my gut feeling and prediction. Rath is suppose to be the most loyal character in this novel. He was best friends with Henry for God only knows how many years, but I have such a bad feeling about him. I’m starting to wonder if he is the one that killed Henry and that is why there is a curse in Silent Bend. There, I said it. I really hope that I’m wrong. I need to get my hands on a copy of House of Kings, I need to know what happens next!
December 2, 2015
House of Pawns is the sequel to House of Royals and hot damn, Keary continues to make me want more and more from her books!! I had the amazing privilege of receiving an ARC of this awesomeness!!
I really don't know how to write this review without giving any important parts of the plot away. So, I won't tell you anything about the plot except that Keary really knows how to build up the tension and leave you anticipating what happens next.
Alivia is one hell of a strong heroine!! She is put through so much emotionally, physically and mentally. Yet she always remains strong. Ian, yea, well he's Ian. LOL
We were left with a ton of questions in House of Royals and some of those questions were answered in House of Pawns but now there are even more secrets and questions that need answered. I love this world that Keary is creating - I feel like I know everything about it yet at the same time, I don't. I love that feeling - it's what keeps me gripped in the story!
The pace of this book (this whole enter series) is perfect. I love how everything flows together. It feels like just as everything falls into place, another secret passage is added to the maze. I can not wait til House of Kinds comes out!!
I really don't know how to write this review without giving any important parts of the plot away. So, I won't tell you anything about the plot except that Keary really knows how to build up the tension and leave you anticipating what happens next.
Alivia is one hell of a strong heroine!! She is put through so much emotionally, physically and mentally. Yet she always remains strong. Ian, yea, well he's Ian. LOL
We were left with a ton of questions in House of Royals and some of those questions were answered in House of Pawns but now there are even more secrets and questions that need answered. I love this world that Keary is creating - I feel like I know everything about it yet at the same time, I don't. I love that feeling - it's what keeps me gripped in the story!
The pace of this book (this whole enter series) is perfect. I love how everything flows together. It feels like just as everything falls into place, another secret passage is added to the maze. I can not wait til House of Kinds comes out!!
April 5, 2017
I think I might have enjoyed this book more than the first (and I'm already 3/4 way though book 3). Alivia has certainly visibly maturing and her tortured relationship with Ian begins to make a noticeable metamorphisis.
Her relationship with those around her perhaps is the result of the initiation of that inevitable process. Alivia begins to make more solid relationships with the characters of the township, and this also develops her overall immersion into the life she is becoming bound to.
Her relationship with those around her perhaps is the result of the initiation of that inevitable process. Alivia begins to make more solid relationships with the characters of the township, and this also develops her overall immersion into the life she is becoming bound to.
July 9, 2023
Ian is getting on my last nerve!!!
Secondary characters are killing it!
Storyline keeps getting deeper and better!
But if you are in the mood for some 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 this may not be the read for you.
Happy reading,
DD🥂
Secondary characters are killing it!
Storyline keeps getting deeper and better!
But if you are in the mood for some 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 this may not be the read for you.
Happy reading,
DD🥂
November 27, 2015
Originally posted on Paranormal Sisters: http://paranormalsisters.blogspot.com...
*Was given a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review*
Oh my god, what a brilliant sequel! I was totally behind every move Alivia made, she knew what she had to do and did it, without backing down. But I was also behind Ian on him not wanting her to go too far but I also understand that in this world she fell into that she has to go to some pretty dark places if she wants to survive in this world. Alivia is such a badass, ohmigod! Her moves were genius and such a mastermind, just wow!
I was hooked from the very beginning, I was just dying to know what happened next after that twist ending from the first one, House of Royals! All I have to say is Mrs. Taylor writes brilliant endings in this series! Perfect build up from the next books! I'm in awe with how they end and the ending for House of Pawn was just as fabulous! My gosh, I'm sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for the next book!
I was seriously glued to my iPad, it killed me when I had to put it down! Never once I was bored, I was constantly sitting on the edge of my seat! This was such a emotional roller coaster too, my heart was breaking after reading chapter 15th!
Though Alivia got her heart broken twice by Ian, she held her own and made sure she didn't show any emotions in front of him. She is one strong person and I just absolutely love her! The ending is just that much more heartbreaking!
I also understand why Ian had to go, he became the one thing he hates and used to hunt. He's going through so much, finding out things no child wants to hear about their parents. I understand why he had to leave to go process what the hell is going on. Though I wished he was more understanding about Alivia. Sometimes he would just irk me because of that.
The only thing I didn't like about this was the potential of other love interests, not after the heart break we just got from Ian, too soon.....just too soon. But I let that slide because I truly couldn't get enough of this book! Seriously, just wow! The first one I wasn't completely head over heels with but once I started reading House of Pawns and watching it develop in such a kickass read, I'm officially on cloud nine with this series! It's such a refreshing read in the vampire world! Haven't read one like it before!
Overall if you enjoyed the first one House of Royals then buckle down because House of Pawns is a roller coaster ride! You will not be disappointed! I devoured this, I was completely consumed by it and I can't wait till it comes out so I can buy both the first one and this one so they can look pretty on my bookshelf! This is such a twisty story line, that there's just constantly surprise after surprise that I have no idea where all of it is leading to and that is absolutely exciting in my eyes! I'm on my toes waiting for the next one!
January 7, 2018
It's been a long time since I read the first one but I found it so easy to get back into this world. I love all its politics and danger. We get to meet a lot more characters and the world is getting a little more complex so it sucked me in.
Alivia has an interesting character development path in this one. Her reaction to certain things (mostly of the romance variety) at the end frustrated me. But we get some interesting plot developments so I'm curious to see what happens next!
Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!
Full Review: https://wp.me/p7hLUw-1eN
Actual Rating: 4/5
November 11, 2017
Well well....
This book is even better than the first. The first was the set up... this is the continuation.
I'm just so impressed that I have found a new vampire story that's actually riveting and original.
This book is even better than the first. The first was the set up... this is the continuation.
I'm just so impressed that I have found a new vampire story that's actually riveting and original.
September 17, 2016
4.5 Stars
Full Review:
*I received a free ecopy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
I just knew this book would be amazing after the things that happened in the first one, and I'm so happy that I was right! This book was everything I expected and more. The blurb is spot on—it promises angst and conflict, and it delivers. I will unashamedly admit I stayed up until 5 in the morning just to read it in one sitting.
And I got way too into it! (Not that there is such a thing when it comes to books.) Here’s a list of things I literally proclaimed out loud while reading:
-“I freaking love Alivia!”
-“He did NOT just say that.”
-“Damn, girl.”
-“Alivia is intense!”
-Various other squealing, ooh-ing, ahh-ing, aww-ing, mumbling, grimacing noises and words.
Seriously though, the thing I love most in books is emotion, and the relationship problems, the inner demons Alivia was dealing with as she struggled with changes and realizations, and the inner struggle Ian was going through really made me feel for both of them.
I also loved Alivia even more. She was just as mature and level-headed, but this time she was also intense and, sometimes, kind of ingenius. I thought Ian was being unfair to say she was a different person because I felt she was only doing what she had to… but then I started to notice some changes myself, not just in her actions but also in her thoughts. But it was written in a way that was subtle and insidious so that, by the time I noticed, I couldn’t help but agree with her, or at least understand, and I still loved her character.
A lot of the characters were interesting, well-written, and stood out in their own way though, like Luke with how brave and good he was, Fred with how understanding he was, Raheem with how accepting he was, etc. Keary Taylor does seem to have a real skill for making not just her main characters but also her side characters rounded out and unique.
There was also a lot more plot happenings. The relationship was important, but the focus this time was on Alivia making allies and readying herself for King Cyrus. Normally I’m not big on politics in my books, but this never felt like politics. It was just intriguing and kept me excited and on my toes.
This was a fantastic book in the series that had even more action, angst, emotion, intrigue, and vampires than the first!
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1 in Keary Taylor's House of Royals Series. Readers who like character growth, complicated relationships, chosen family, intrigue, and a different take on vampires.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Full Review:
*I received a free ecopy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
I just knew this book would be amazing after the things that happened in the first one, and I'm so happy that I was right! This book was everything I expected and more. The blurb is spot on—it promises angst and conflict, and it delivers. I will unashamedly admit I stayed up until 5 in the morning just to read it in one sitting.
And I got way too into it! (Not that there is such a thing when it comes to books.) Here’s a list of things I literally proclaimed out loud while reading:
-“I freaking love Alivia!”
-“He did NOT just say that.”
-“Damn, girl.”
-“Alivia is intense!”
-Various other squealing, ooh-ing, ahh-ing, aww-ing, mumbling, grimacing noises and words.
Seriously though, the thing I love most in books is emotion, and the relationship problems, the inner demons Alivia was dealing with as she struggled with changes and realizations, and the inner struggle Ian was going through really made me feel for both of them.
I also loved Alivia even more. She was just as mature and level-headed, but this time she was also intense and, sometimes, kind of ingenius. I thought Ian was being unfair to say she was a different person because I felt she was only doing what she had to… but then I started to notice some changes myself, not just in her actions but also in her thoughts. But it was written in a way that was subtle and insidious so that, by the time I noticed, I couldn’t help but agree with her, or at least understand, and I still loved her character.
A lot of the characters were interesting, well-written, and stood out in their own way though, like Luke with how brave and good he was, Fred with how understanding he was, Raheem with how accepting he was, etc. Keary Taylor does seem to have a real skill for making not just her main characters but also her side characters rounded out and unique.
There was also a lot more plot happenings. The relationship was important, but the focus this time was on Alivia making allies and readying herself for King Cyrus. Normally I’m not big on politics in my books, but this never felt like politics. It was just intriguing and kept me excited and on my toes.
This was a fantastic book in the series that had even more action, angst, emotion, intrigue, and vampires than the first!
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1 in Keary Taylor's House of Royals Series. Readers who like character growth, complicated relationships, chosen family, intrigue, and a different take on vampires.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
December 17, 2015
This was a really good book and follow up to House of Royals. Alivia knows that she's going to die from her human life and come back as a Born Vampire. She knows that the King will come to see if she's his reincarnated wife - the Queen. At the end of the first book, Alivia wants revenge on Jasmine and to take the House from her since it's what she loves. Jasmine took what Alivia loved by killing Ian but no one knew that he would come back as a Born Vampire. The small town of Silent Bend is stuck in a war between the two sides.
Alivia is changing drastically and she's becoming a ruler that she was born to be. She doesn't know how to help Ian since he's become something he hated. Alivia is trying to find Allies since she knows she will need them for when the King comes to town. She's doing some wonderful things for the town of South Bend but she just wants them see that there is more to her than the Conrath name. She's finding a new family with her Allies and she's trying to be ready for when the King comes.
Ian has become his own worst nightmare. He grew up and especially after seeing Vampires kill his parents, he grew to hate them and did his best to protect the town. He knew Alivia was going to become a Born Vampire in town but was trying to enjoy time with her before that happened. He didn't mean to fall in love with her. Now he doesn't know what to do with what he has become. He's also having trouble dealing with the changes in Alivia. He still prioritizes his family above all else.
Definitely worth reading. Just waiting for the next book in the series.
Alivia is changing drastically and she's becoming a ruler that she was born to be. She doesn't know how to help Ian since he's become something he hated. Alivia is trying to find Allies since she knows she will need them for when the King comes to town. She's doing some wonderful things for the town of South Bend but she just wants them see that there is more to her than the Conrath name. She's finding a new family with her Allies and she's trying to be ready for when the King comes.
Ian has become his own worst nightmare. He grew up and especially after seeing Vampires kill his parents, he grew to hate them and did his best to protect the town. He knew Alivia was going to become a Born Vampire in town but was trying to enjoy time with her before that happened. He didn't mean to fall in love with her. Now he doesn't know what to do with what he has become. He's also having trouble dealing with the changes in Alivia. He still prioritizes his family above all else.
Definitely worth reading. Just waiting for the next book in the series.
February 7, 2016
This is not a standalone. You need to read book one to understand everything taking place in book two.
Alivia is back and she's ready to battle. After what Jasmine put her through, Alivia is determined to take the House from her. But that won't be without its problems. She needs to build her own group of vampires. Luckily, she's able to sway some of Jasmine's over to her side. Jasmine isn't giving up without a fight, however. The King is also coming and preparations need to be made.
Alivia kicked some serious butt in this book. New characters are met and I didn't expect to feel for them. I loved Raheem. I also kind of like the King. We only get a quick glimpse of him at the end, but it's enough for now. And let's not forget about Ian. There is a lot going on with him and he doesn't like the changes he sees in Alivia.
Love, lust, suspense, it all comes together in this second book in the House of Royals series. This story was amazing! I finished this book and quickly looked to see when book three is coming out. I can't wait!
Book received in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha.
Alivia is back and she's ready to battle. After what Jasmine put her through, Alivia is determined to take the House from her. But that won't be without its problems. She needs to build her own group of vampires. Luckily, she's able to sway some of Jasmine's over to her side. Jasmine isn't giving up without a fight, however. The King is also coming and preparations need to be made.
Alivia kicked some serious butt in this book. New characters are met and I didn't expect to feel for them. I loved Raheem. I also kind of like the King. We only get a quick glimpse of him at the end, but it's enough for now. And let's not forget about Ian. There is a lot going on with him and he doesn't like the changes he sees in Alivia.
Love, lust, suspense, it all comes together in this second book in the House of Royals series. This story was amazing! I finished this book and quickly looked to see when book three is coming out. I can't wait!
Book received in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha.
November 24, 2015
I won’t ruin this for you with any spoilers. Suffice it to say, the keyword here is anticipation. I received an ARC of House of Pawns and didn't stop reading until I devoured the whole thing. Keary Taylor's follow-up to House of Royals is equally as engrossing as its predecessor. Keary knows how to develop a character so that I forget I’m reading about a character and, instead, fall head first into a mesmerizing tale I’m unwilling to put down until I turn that last page. In this installment, the citizens of Silent Bend are anticipating an increase in their vampire neighbors, and the accompanying melee. The vampires are anticipating the arrival of the vampire king. I’m already anticipating how the rest of the story will play out. The anticipation is killing me!
September 9, 2017
Another great installment in the House of Royals series. I'm loving the characters and all the fun twists the author created. This is a must read series! Five glittery stars!
December 23, 2021
Continuing Good Content
Well this series continues to impress me. By this time I am well & truly hooked. The author has created an entirely original take on the usual vampire tropes, & I am falling in love with the twisted web of politics she has woven. House of Pawns picks up right where it's predecessor, House of Kings, left off. From the first pages you dive right in & from there the story moves quickly forward while Alivia sets into motion her plan to overthrow Jasmine & take over the House that is her Royal birthright. But while most of the last book dealt with her learning about her past, falling for Ian, & figuring out her place, this time Alivia has even more to contend with. She's at war with the other vampire House in Silent Bend. She's trying to win over the townspeople who still rebuke & fear her due to what they know of her father. She's trying to build her own House & deal with the impact of the last book's cliffhanger revelation. But perhaps the largest focus involves the King's impending arrival. He comes to verify her Royalty, & brings with him the end of Alivia's human life. Though there is a lot going on, it is clearly structured & makes for a fast, fun read. What I've most enjoyed is getting to know some of the secondary characters, specifically the vampires that have joined House Conrath. Each of them is uniquely flawed & equally beautiful, which makes them feel very real. This series is proving to have unexpected layers & I can't get enough! The writing remains smooth & uncluttered, although I did find a few more editing issues in this one than in the previous. Nothing too egregious, just minor grammatical errors & the occasional out of place punctuation. Usually I go for lengthier books, simply because they have more room for character & plot development, but so far, despite the short length of these books, I have been happy with the content quality. The story doesn't come across as rushed, even though months are packed into a mere 200 pages. It is a testimony to the writer's skill that she manages to bring the characters so fully to life while maintaining such brevity. Once again it ended on a cliffhanger, but it is a completed series (on Kindle Unlimited, to boot!) so I can let that slide despite my extreme dislike for cliffhangers in novels...it just seems like such lazy writing & I don't appreciate the story ending in the middle. Still, I am excited to dig into book 3. This book will appeal to vampire lovers as well as to readers of paranormal romance or other speculative fiction. They are worth a reading if only for a fresh perspective in the done-to-death vampire genre.
Well this series continues to impress me. By this time I am well & truly hooked. The author has created an entirely original take on the usual vampire tropes, & I am falling in love with the twisted web of politics she has woven. House of Pawns picks up right where it's predecessor, House of Kings, left off. From the first pages you dive right in & from there the story moves quickly forward while Alivia sets into motion her plan to overthrow Jasmine & take over the House that is her Royal birthright. But while most of the last book dealt with her learning about her past, falling for Ian, & figuring out her place, this time Alivia has even more to contend with. She's at war with the other vampire House in Silent Bend. She's trying to win over the townspeople who still rebuke & fear her due to what they know of her father. She's trying to build her own House & deal with the impact of the last book's cliffhanger revelation. But perhaps the largest focus involves the King's impending arrival. He comes to verify her Royalty, & brings with him the end of Alivia's human life. Though there is a lot going on, it is clearly structured & makes for a fast, fun read. What I've most enjoyed is getting to know some of the secondary characters, specifically the vampires that have joined House Conrath. Each of them is uniquely flawed & equally beautiful, which makes them feel very real. This series is proving to have unexpected layers & I can't get enough! The writing remains smooth & uncluttered, although I did find a few more editing issues in this one than in the previous. Nothing too egregious, just minor grammatical errors & the occasional out of place punctuation. Usually I go for lengthier books, simply because they have more room for character & plot development, but so far, despite the short length of these books, I have been happy with the content quality. The story doesn't come across as rushed, even though months are packed into a mere 200 pages. It is a testimony to the writer's skill that she manages to bring the characters so fully to life while maintaining such brevity. Once again it ended on a cliffhanger, but it is a completed series (on Kindle Unlimited, to boot!) so I can let that slide despite my extreme dislike for cliffhangers in novels...it just seems like such lazy writing & I don't appreciate the story ending in the middle. Still, I am excited to dig into book 3. This book will appeal to vampire lovers as well as to readers of paranormal romance or other speculative fiction. They are worth a reading if only for a fresh perspective in the done-to-death vampire genre.
June 24, 2018
House of Pawns indeed! What a chess game this was. I felt it and I was right! This series is only getting better.
I have always loved novels that put the scheming above the romance and I hate when a female lead stay pining over on one guy across the entirety of a series. This is not the case with Alivia Ryan Conrath!
The end of book 2 has left me equal parts excited and ready for the next installment. The possibilities are so many and all the new elements just leave me craving more.
I felt like we got the time to know the members of the House while getting some insight into the members or the King's. They aren't just Jasmine lackeys any more, they are individuals with their own stories, despite some inconsistencies with Lillian. I know their strengths, weakness and more importantly, where their loyalties lie.
No one has had sex, on page, and the "love interest" with the exception of Ian aren't fully understood but I love where it's going and I am patient enough to see if this is a romance novel or a political one. Somehow I don't think it can be both.
We spend a lot of time preparing for the King and not transitioning Ian as you would think from the ending of book 1. In all honesty, he is inconsequential to this novel. I don't even remember or care when he goes off to do whatever it is that Ian Ward does as a new vamp. I am too focused on this waltz between, the King, Jasmine and Alivia.
Don't expect much to be resolved because all it does is stir even more shit but I have found myself caring way more and growing fond of them all. Even the King. It's the perfect filler novel at the perfect time and I don't mind because I already know book three is out :P
Silent bend here I come! .... again x3
I have always loved novels that put the scheming above the romance and I hate when a female lead stay pining over on one guy across the entirety of a series. This is not the case with Alivia Ryan Conrath!
The end of book 2 has left me equal parts excited and ready for the next installment. The possibilities are so many and all the new elements just leave me craving more.
I felt like we got the time to know the members of the House while getting some insight into the members or the King's. They aren't just Jasmine lackeys any more, they are individuals with their own stories, despite some inconsistencies with Lillian. I know their strengths, weakness and more importantly, where their loyalties lie.
No one has had sex, on page, and the "love interest" with the exception of Ian aren't fully understood but I love where it's going and I am patient enough to see if this is a romance novel or a political one. Somehow I don't think it can be both.
We spend a lot of time preparing for the King and not transitioning Ian as you would think from the ending of book 1. In all honesty, he is inconsequential to this novel. I don't even remember or care when he goes off to do whatever it is that Ian Ward does as a new vamp. I am too focused on this waltz between, the King, Jasmine and Alivia.
Don't expect much to be resolved because all it does is stir even more shit but I have found myself caring way more and growing fond of them all. Even the King. It's the perfect filler novel at the perfect time and I don't mind because I already know book three is out :P
Silent bend here I come! .... again x3
February 22, 2019
Super addicting!!! Love love love this series!!!
In this book, Ian comes back as a Born and you would think that would resolve the self set expiration date between him and Liv, but coming back as the one thing he hates and learning one of his parents had an affair is not an easy pill to swallow. Liv begins her path to vengeance against Jasmine for taking Ian from her, vowing to take from her what she loves most, her House.
Trying to build alliances before the kings arrival, Liv recruits from Jasmine’s own vampires, which is not too hard to do considering they only followed her out of fear instead of loyalty. Meanwhile the king’s visit still looms on the horizon and a curse has been started, centering over their small southern town, in the form of a dark storm, with frosty temperatures Mississippi has never seen the likes of.
Will Liv and Ian be able to mend their rift? Will Liv be the king’s resurrected wife, who’s been missing for over two and a half centuries? Will the House of Conrath survive the king’s visit and the curse? Can’t wait to find out!!!
In this book, Ian comes back as a Born and you would think that would resolve the self set expiration date between him and Liv, but coming back as the one thing he hates and learning one of his parents had an affair is not an easy pill to swallow. Liv begins her path to vengeance against Jasmine for taking Ian from her, vowing to take from her what she loves most, her House.
Trying to build alliances before the kings arrival, Liv recruits from Jasmine’s own vampires, which is not too hard to do considering they only followed her out of fear instead of loyalty. Meanwhile the king’s visit still looms on the horizon and a curse has been started, centering over their small southern town, in the form of a dark storm, with frosty temperatures Mississippi has never seen the likes of.
Will Liv and Ian be able to mend their rift? Will Liv be the king’s resurrected wife, who’s been missing for over two and a half centuries? Will the House of Conrath survive the king’s visit and the curse? Can’t wait to find out!!!
April 2, 2023
This book is a huge let down from the 1st one. Where is the mystique? Where is the politics, and twisty plot, the plotting? Instead I get a MFC who is always moping. Where is the strength,the steel from last book! But everybody keeps telling how strong and unique and great and obviously 'E ssspecial’ she is. All the vampires are toothless in this book, they are not allowed to hunt otherwise Alivia will not be ‘essspecial’ anymore. But the author keeps telling how terrifying they are and the whole town is afraid of them. The MMC keeps coming back in the story like the unwanted pimples on my face before my period which I wish everytime were not there. I have never read such a pathetic and cowardly book H in my life. What is the poison of his creation.. hope he redeems himself in the later books or he can die.
January 29, 2018
Ugh!
What was this book about? Alivia building her house and not much else. Of course it ended where it did. So frustrating. Obviously the novels are short just to entice the reader to keep buying more. But dang it, I really like the characters. They are what make this series. I really want to know what happens with them, but to end the novel on a cliffhanger is so frustrating, and to make the reader pay for more to find out what happens when a novella could have been a novel is so wrong.
Note. Once again the grammar blows. If the books are so good and getting so many reviews, it’s time to invest the money and get a better editor.
And unfortunately I am a sucker and am going to read the next one.
Reader Rated for ages 17+ for moderate sensuality.
What was this book about? Alivia building her house and not much else. Of course it ended where it did. So frustrating. Obviously the novels are short just to entice the reader to keep buying more. But dang it, I really like the characters. They are what make this series. I really want to know what happens with them, but to end the novel on a cliffhanger is so frustrating, and to make the reader pay for more to find out what happens when a novella could have been a novel is so wrong.
Note. Once again the grammar blows. If the books are so good and getting so many reviews, it’s time to invest the money and get a better editor.
And unfortunately I am a sucker and am going to read the next one.
Reader Rated for ages 17+ for moderate sensuality.
August 9, 2024
I want to but can't
I want to enjoy this series, but I can't. The editing has been terrible and this book was whiplash after whiplash. One moment Alivia is in love with Ian, the next Nial, then Raheem, and then Cyrus and then back to Ian... Um, hello?! Make up your mind. Then she's all over the place with her actions that make you question if it's the same person throughout the book.
The story seems forced. It actually moved too quickly in some ways -- and the forced suspense is just not believable. Unless I become desperate, I think I'm walking away from this series.
2 stars because I like that Ian is an EMT (or Paramedic? Because the author doesn't seem to know the difference and that breaks my Paramedic heart).
I want to enjoy this series, but I can't. The editing has been terrible and this book was whiplash after whiplash. One moment Alivia is in love with Ian, the next Nial, then Raheem, and then Cyrus and then back to Ian... Um, hello?! Make up your mind. Then she's all over the place with her actions that make you question if it's the same person throughout the book.
The story seems forced. It actually moved too quickly in some ways -- and the forced suspense is just not believable. Unless I become desperate, I think I'm walking away from this series.
2 stars because I like that Ian is an EMT (or Paramedic? Because the author doesn't seem to know the difference and that breaks my Paramedic heart).
August 26, 2024
⭐⭐⭐☆☆
“House of Pawns” by Keary Taylor is a mixed bag that feels rushed at times, yet still manages to keep me hooked. The plot is chaotic, with the threat of war looming and Alivia’s complicated relationships adding tension. Despite the uneven pacing and some frustrating elements, I can’t seem to stop reading. It’s a solid three-star read that leaves me curious enough to continue with the series.
Get it at…
📗 - Hard Copy -📗
Your Local Canadian Book Seller
Indigo - (Not Available at Time of Review)
Amazon Canada
📱 - Digital - 📱
Kobo - (Not Available at Time of Review)
Kindle
🎧 - Audio - 🎧
Audible
Libro.FM - (Not Available at Time of Review)
January 24, 2018
Another fantastic book. Even better than the first and that is pretty hard to match.
The second book starts off where the first book ended. The story continues to develop that will keep u turning the page. By the end of the book, I didn’t realize I was at the end until I turned the page and it said the end. I looked over and it was Two in the morning. I don’t know how I fell asleep with my heart racing.
Only in Alivia POV.
We are introduced to several new characters.
No sex. Mild kissing. Lots of drama. Intense. Page turner.
I recommend and can not wait for book 3!
The second book starts off where the first book ended. The story continues to develop that will keep u turning the page. By the end of the book, I didn’t realize I was at the end until I turned the page and it said the end. I looked over and it was Two in the morning. I don’t know how I fell asleep with my heart racing.
Only in Alivia POV.
We are introduced to several new characters.
No sex. Mild kissing. Lots of drama. Intense. Page turner.
I recommend and can not wait for book 3!
July 30, 2018
That's more like it
So much better than book one was, I am completely compelled to know what happens next in this story! The book was still a little slow but definitely had more action, I now know I do not like Ian, I didn't like him much in book one, but I now know I don't like him. I am in love with Markov, but that's just me, he's my type, dark dangerous, lethal and a bit on the crazy side, too bad Alivia doesn't look at him that way at all. I wish this were an TH book, so she could have all of these delicious men!
So much better than book one was, I am completely compelled to know what happens next in this story! The book was still a little slow but definitely had more action, I now know I do not like Ian, I didn't like him much in book one, but I now know I don't like him. I am in love with Markov, but that's just me, he's my type, dark dangerous, lethal and a bit on the crazy side, too bad Alivia doesn't look at him that way at all. I wish this were an TH book, so she could have all of these delicious men!
August 25, 2018
Now that Alivia (Liv) has been exposed to the creatures, vampires, living in Silent Bend, there is more conflict and danger. Also, Liv has begun a relationship with Ian, the vampire hunter that almost ended her life on her first day in town. Constant conflict between Liv and the current ruling group of vampires brings about some devastating results. This book was another fast read that left me anxious about Liv and Ian's future. I found this exciting tale very addictive and couldn't wait to read more!
October 17, 2024
I honestly don’t know how I feel about this second book wasn’t as good as the first one and felt like the kings arrive was dragged on a bit to long to only left on a cliff hanger to make us read the next book. I’m not sure if I’ll read the next book as this book disappointed me.
It had a lot of potential but there were things going on like the attacks that got unanswered and the book just continually going on about the kings arrival. For only the kings arrival to be at the last bit of the book. Was disappointed by the second book unfortunately.
It had a lot of potential but there were things going on like the attacks that got unanswered and the book just continually going on about the kings arrival. For only the kings arrival to be at the last bit of the book. Was disappointed by the second book unfortunately.
July 7, 2022
Well. It entertained me enough to finish it. I do like the concept of this series and the story line is pretty good. There were choices in this book I think the author could have done differently to stick with the character traits she built up in the first book. Again, I was entertained enough to finish it. Simple fast read. Since the books go fast enough I will read the next just to know where the story goes.
January 27, 2020
Let the games begin!
Best to read these in order of the series.
Things start heating up with the politics of the vampire world when Alivia takes on Jasmine for leadership of the House, even though she hasn’t become a vampire herself yet.
Can she remain true to herself and her beliefs when so much twisted darkness is thrust at her?
Best to read these in order of the series.
Things start heating up with the politics of the vampire world when Alivia takes on Jasmine for leadership of the House, even though she hasn’t become a vampire herself yet.
Can she remain true to herself and her beliefs when so much twisted darkness is thrust at her?
February 22, 2022
Kindle Unlimited.
Since the series was available on Kindle Unlimited in an omnibus edition, I ended up reading these books back to back.
In book two, we see the ugly side of Ian. His refusal to accept himself (and Alivia) drives them apart. Also, super random, but Ian is a virgin? Weird thing to mention.
Minor grammatical errors.
Since the series was available on Kindle Unlimited in an omnibus edition, I ended up reading these books back to back.
In book two, we see the ugly side of Ian. His refusal to accept himself (and Alivia) drives them apart. Also, super random, but Ian is a virgin? Weird thing to mention.
Minor grammatical errors.
August 13, 2023
Better
The writing in this book was better than the first one, and I enjoyed the story with a couple of twists. The plot is mostly straightforward and what you expect. I am curious to see how it plays out in the next book, especially with the characters. Alivia has gathered many different people around her, though Ian has been a great disappointment.
The writing in this book was better than the first one, and I enjoyed the story with a couple of twists. The plot is mostly straightforward and what you expect. I am curious to see how it plays out in the next book, especially with the characters. Alivia has gathered many different people around her, though Ian has been a great disappointment.
July 19, 2024
This book was definitely better than the first one! There were some unexpected twists and I’m very excited for the next book. Is it bad that I kind of like the king? Oh and I just know something is going on with that blind lady (I’m sorry, I can’t for the life of me remember her name).
🧛Vampires
🗡️Hunters
🏘️Small Town
👑Royalty
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🚫/🌶️
🧛Vampires
🗡️Hunters
🏘️Small Town
👑Royalty
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🚫/🌶️
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