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Cage of Lies #2
Linked
In a world she never knew existed, Maya is coming to terms with how much her life has changed. Danger lurks around every corner, nothing is as she expects and she's never felt so alive. But the choices she makes could change everything and jeopardise the things she cherishes most. There is so much to learn and so much to love but her heart is pulling her back. The Guardians are hiding in the shadow cast by their Wall, concealing the truth from the people inside. It's a shadow that darkens her happiness and she can't stop fighting until the truth comes to light. It would be easier to walk away but Maya has never run from anything and she's not about to start now.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2015
40 people are currently reading
427 people want to read
About the author
Susanne Valenti
105 books9,196 followersHey!
We are Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, sisters and best selling co-authors of all things dark romance - fantasy and contemporary, M/F and RHs, there’s something for everyone, as long as you love characters who will break your heart, stomp on it and laugh over the pieces before putting them all back together in the end. We live in the South East of England, kinda near London but far enough out to be able to look at fields all wistfully and shit if the mood takes us. We work together from our countryside office through the week, writing down most of the madness that exists in our heads on paper, so that you can come and escape to our imaginary worlds for a little bit too. We don’t shy away from twisted cliffhangers, and love an Alpha asshole, but our leading women are of the badass, take no shit lying down variety, so it’s always a rollercoaster of a ride. We can’t wait for you to buckle up with us!
We are Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, sisters and best selling co-authors of all things dark romance - fantasy and contemporary, M/F and RHs, there’s something for everyone, as long as you love characters who will break your heart, stomp on it and laugh over the pieces before putting them all back together in the end. We live in the South East of England, kinda near London but far enough out to be able to look at fields all wistfully and shit if the mood takes us. We work together from our countryside office through the week, writing down most of the madness that exists in our heads on paper, so that you can come and escape to our imaginary worlds for a little bit too. We don’t shy away from twisted cliffhangers, and love an Alpha asshole, but our leading women are of the badass, take no shit lying down variety, so it’s always a rollercoaster of a ride. We can’t wait for you to buckle up with us!
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 14, 2015
Originally posted on Daydreaming Books.
**I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.**
I'm a mushy mess right now after finishing this book. THAT ENDING!! Somebody kill me now! My eyes are strained as I couldn't put down this book and I read straight 3 hours. It's already after 2 am. I'm having a hard time forming a coherent sentence, I blame the book. But I couldn't go off to sleep without writing down my feelings otherwise I think I would drown.
POSSIBLY CONTAINS MINOR SPOILERS.
Okay, first of all let me start by giving a short synopsis as I usually do. The story starts off from where it was left off. Well, actually a little after 2 months. Maya and Taylor had been training hard. She finally hears about the rescue mission about her parents which are about to start. They all set out on the mission but it's not easy as hell. With every step they face new difficulties but together all of them strive forward. Finally when they think they're going to taste success they are betrayed and something far more worse happens that they didn't even think off.
This book was BAM ON! Right from the start. Usually when it's the second book, something always manages to go wrong and I don't love it as much as the first book. But this was totally different in this case. I absolutely fell in love with this book. So much action, adventure and romance, I was filled with excitement throughout the book, it was a hell of an awsome experience. Also, the surprise element was on a roll, I couldn't guess what was going to happen the next moment and I was kept guessing. Oh and new monsters aside from the Creepers! There was this giant alligator thing that was sucking down the people in the sand and it was terrifying which led to an utter chaos. There was not a single dull moment. There was so much action, I loved the fighting sequences and wanted more. The plot twist was sneakily great, I definitely didn't expect it, I was left with my hand clasping tightly over my wide open mouth. The romance was more intense in this book, I absolutely loved Coal and Maya together and I SHIP THEM HARD! But I'm pretty much devastated after the ending. And I think I sent an embarrassingly outbursty email to the author. Woopsie!
There were so many new characters introduced in this book. We have Gregor who is a bit clingy, Luka who is irritating, Blane who is actually the lost brother of Coal and Alicia. I loved how this turned out, it was such a great moment when they all realised Blane was alive. Though it was weird reunion after fighting with the Creepers. And also Crystal who had a past with Coal and she definitely didn't want anyone to forget that. All these character made a contribution to the plot and made it more thick and strong.
I loved Maya. She came out as a kickass and a strong protagonist. She was simply outstanding to me. She handled everything really well and with her sharp mind it was pretty much hard to catch her. I fell in love with Coal, he was pretty awsome and I loved how he was always ready to do anything for his loved ones. The chemistry between them was intense in this book which I definitely loved. Though Taylor was getting on my nerves. He finally regained his senses and couldn’t stand Coal and Maya together, the reason is obvious. But I'm soooo glad there was no love triangle. Maya was absolutely sure about what she wanted which made me love her even more. And I can't tell how much I adore and love Alicia, she’s a pretty awsome and a kickass character. Laurie and Hunter were great as well. All of them made a hell of an awsome team.
The writing was so, so awsome. It was gripping and descriptive and I could picture everything so clearly it felt I was watching a movie. I pretty much raced throughout the book as something or the other kept happening and it was so hard to stop reading. I had a hard time putting this book down. Honestly, I think this should already be made into a movie which would be pretty awsome! The pace was fast throughout the book, just the way I enjoy it. I absolutely loved how everything was perfectly executed.
Overall, Linked is an awsome book with a great plot and lots of kickass and strong characters. I was kept on an edge throughout the book and I kept guessing as the surprises sprang one by one. It was hard to guess the plot twist, it didn't even occur to me that something like that could even happen. The writing was descriptive and it was pretty fast paced. There were lots of action and romance that I enjoyed every much. I can't wait to get on with the next adventure, specially after how it ended. Oh, and I think I will die if I don't get the third book anytime soon!
Recommend it?
ABSOLUTELY YES!
**I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.**
I'm a mushy mess right now after finishing this book. THAT ENDING!! Somebody kill me now! My eyes are strained as I couldn't put down this book and I read straight 3 hours. It's already after 2 am. I'm having a hard time forming a coherent sentence, I blame the book. But I couldn't go off to sleep without writing down my feelings otherwise I think I would drown.
POSSIBLY CONTAINS MINOR SPOILERS.
Okay, first of all let me start by giving a short synopsis as I usually do. The story starts off from where it was left off. Well, actually a little after 2 months. Maya and Taylor had been training hard. She finally hears about the rescue mission about her parents which are about to start. They all set out on the mission but it's not easy as hell. With every step they face new difficulties but together all of them strive forward. Finally when they think they're going to taste success they are betrayed and something far more worse happens that they didn't even think off.
This book was BAM ON! Right from the start. Usually when it's the second book, something always manages to go wrong and I don't love it as much as the first book. But this was totally different in this case. I absolutely fell in love with this book. So much action, adventure and romance, I was filled with excitement throughout the book, it was a hell of an awsome experience. Also, the surprise element was on a roll, I couldn't guess what was going to happen the next moment and I was kept guessing. Oh and new monsters aside from the Creepers! There was this giant alligator thing that was sucking down the people in the sand and it was terrifying which led to an utter chaos. There was not a single dull moment. There was so much action, I loved the fighting sequences and wanted more. The plot twist was sneakily great, I definitely didn't expect it, I was left with my hand clasping tightly over my wide open mouth. The romance was more intense in this book, I absolutely loved Coal and Maya together and I SHIP THEM HARD! But I'm pretty much devastated after the ending. And I think I sent an embarrassingly outbursty email to the author. Woopsie!
There were so many new characters introduced in this book. We have Gregor who is a bit clingy, Luka who is irritating, Blane who is actually the lost brother of Coal and Alicia. I loved how this turned out, it was such a great moment when they all realised Blane was alive. Though it was weird reunion after fighting with the Creepers. And also Crystal who had a past with Coal and she definitely didn't want anyone to forget that. All these character made a contribution to the plot and made it more thick and strong.
I loved Maya. She came out as a kickass and a strong protagonist. She was simply outstanding to me. She handled everything really well and with her sharp mind it was pretty much hard to catch her. I fell in love with Coal, he was pretty awsome and I loved how he was always ready to do anything for his loved ones. The chemistry between them was intense in this book which I definitely loved. Though Taylor was getting on my nerves. He finally regained his senses and couldn’t stand Coal and Maya together, the reason is obvious. But I'm soooo glad there was no love triangle. Maya was absolutely sure about what she wanted which made me love her even more. And I can't tell how much I adore and love Alicia, she’s a pretty awsome and a kickass character. Laurie and Hunter were great as well. All of them made a hell of an awsome team.
The writing was so, so awsome. It was gripping and descriptive and I could picture everything so clearly it felt I was watching a movie. I pretty much raced throughout the book as something or the other kept happening and it was so hard to stop reading. I had a hard time putting this book down. Honestly, I think this should already be made into a movie which would be pretty awsome! The pace was fast throughout the book, just the way I enjoy it. I absolutely loved how everything was perfectly executed.
Overall, Linked is an awsome book with a great plot and lots of kickass and strong characters. I was kept on an edge throughout the book and I kept guessing as the surprises sprang one by one. It was hard to guess the plot twist, it didn't even occur to me that something like that could even happen. The writing was descriptive and it was pretty fast paced. There were lots of action and romance that I enjoyed every much. I can't wait to get on with the next adventure, specially after how it ended. Oh, and I think I will die if I don't get the third book anytime soon!
Recommend it?
ABSOLUTELY YES!
October 15, 2015
I received a copy of the ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Linked is the second book in the Cage of Lies saga and the sequel to Chained. (See my review for Chained here) It would be better to read Chained first otherwise you'll miss out on important details.
Linked takes place a few months after the ending events of Chained. The gang is still together and Maya, Taylor and Laurie are training harder than ever in preparation for their mission to the Inside. New characters introduced are: Crystal (she was the main character in Cut Glass -review here), Gregor, Luca...and a few others.
Once again, Susanne Valenti's writing style was amazing and the unpredictability was on point. The pace was just right, not rushed and nothing was dragged out for more than it was needed. The world and character building gets better every time and the descriptions are so real I felt like I was there. This book really brought me out of my reading slump, so thank you for that.
I still don't like Crystal but I'll admit that she's better from someone else's point of view. Taylor got so annoying in the book I wanted to slap him. Let's not get to those characters whom I wanted to push off a building. Mostly everyone else were little darlings.
I remember marking the 50% point on Goodreads and realising that although so much had happened, we hadn't reached that big moment. I honestly had no idea about how this book would end and wouldn't have been able to guess.
Books rarely make me cry but this one did. I didn't cry when it happened, but more because of the realisation. I think that was worse for me. I was expecting the butt-kicking, and I got that but I wasn't expecting my heart to be broken in the process.
Amazing plot, amazing characters, amazing writing. I can't wait for the next book in this saga.
Linked is the second book in the Cage of Lies saga and the sequel to Chained. (See my review for Chained here) It would be better to read Chained first otherwise you'll miss out on important details.
Linked takes place a few months after the ending events of Chained. The gang is still together and Maya, Taylor and Laurie are training harder than ever in preparation for their mission to the Inside. New characters introduced are: Crystal (she was the main character in Cut Glass -review here), Gregor, Luca...and a few others.
Once again, Susanne Valenti's writing style was amazing and the unpredictability was on point. The pace was just right, not rushed and nothing was dragged out for more than it was needed. The world and character building gets better every time and the descriptions are so real I felt like I was there. This book really brought me out of my reading slump, so thank you for that.
I still don't like Crystal but I'll admit that she's better from someone else's point of view. Taylor got so annoying in the book I wanted to slap him. Let's not get to those characters whom I wanted to push off a building. Mostly everyone else were little darlings.
I remember marking the 50% point on Goodreads and realising that although so much had happened, we hadn't reached that big moment. I honestly had no idea about how this book would end and wouldn't have been able to guess.
Books rarely make me cry but this one did. I didn't cry when it happened, but more because of the realisation. I think that was worse for me. I was expecting the butt-kicking, and I got that but I wasn't expecting my heart to be broken in the process.
Amazing plot, amazing characters, amazing writing. I can't wait for the next book in this saga.
April 2, 2020
pooled ink Reviews:
This second installment in the Cage of Lies series picks up a couple months after Chained and opens with a bang of energy. It supplies small updates on life since their survival in the previous book and launches right into training, planning, and moving out on a new mission seared with inevitable challenges.
New characters are introduced, familiar characters are further developed, and relationships grow and evolve. Valenti leaves no time to waste nor dull moments to arise between conflicting personalities, high stakes, and the fierceness with which the group are storming their world.
Warning: After reading this book you'll need to read the next!
Read the full review here: https://pooledink.wordpress.com/2015/...
This second installment in the Cage of Lies series picks up a couple months after Chained and opens with a bang of energy. It supplies small updates on life since their survival in the previous book and launches right into training, planning, and moving out on a new mission seared with inevitable challenges.
New characters are introduced, familiar characters are further developed, and relationships grow and evolve. Valenti leaves no time to waste nor dull moments to arise between conflicting personalities, high stakes, and the fierceness with which the group are storming their world.
Warning: After reading this book you'll need to read the next!
Read the full review here: https://pooledink.wordpress.com/2015/...
January 3, 2016
Linked: Cage of Lies bk2
SPOILER ALERT: Well I am happy to have Crystal back, but I am hoping that the city saved Coal, then I can cry happy tears instead of sad ones. I sip potent the last two chapters with a box of Kleenex. There are still many questions, but some of them have been answered. I am curious as to why the city has not previously attacked outsiders before, not sure if that will get answered. This author pulls at your heart strings, instills plenty of comedy and has a multitude of attitudes and personalities in its leading characters. I appreciate that they don't all get along, and I am still wondering about Luca's back story. Suspenseful, thrilling, and fast-paced. A book you don't want to put down.
SPOILER ALERT: Well I am happy to have Crystal back, but I am hoping that the city saved Coal, then I can cry happy tears instead of sad ones. I sip potent the last two chapters with a box of Kleenex. There are still many questions, but some of them have been answered. I am curious as to why the city has not previously attacked outsiders before, not sure if that will get answered. This author pulls at your heart strings, instills plenty of comedy and has a multitude of attitudes and personalities in its leading characters. I appreciate that they don't all get along, and I am still wondering about Luca's back story. Suspenseful, thrilling, and fast-paced. A book you don't want to put down.
June 27, 2017
Love it!
Love the story and characters. Mayas character is so stubborn and strong. Have to read the next one. Can't wait to read on!
Love the story and characters. Mayas character is so stubborn and strong. Have to read the next one. Can't wait to read on!
December 17, 2017
Ahhhhhh!!! I hated hated hated the ending!!!!!! I wanna cry. The rest of the book was awesome but I just didn’t see that happening.
In this book, the group battle the terrors outside the city while trying to make it back to the city to free the others held captive, either literally or figuratively. There are several run-ins with other groups from the outside, some of which are very dangerous.
Gotta read on and hope beyond hope that the ending isn’t permanent somehow- although I think it is.
In this book, the group battle the terrors outside the city while trying to make it back to the city to free the others held captive, either literally or figuratively. There are several run-ins with other groups from the outside, some of which are very dangerous.
Gotta read on and hope beyond hope that the ending isn’t permanent somehow- although I think it is.
March 15, 2017
Great sequel!
Action, adventure, betrayal, creatures, and a little romance. We meet some new characters in this book that only add to the series. Surprise plot twist and I raced right through this book! Well thought out by a talented author.
I highly recommend this series for fans of Hunger Games, The Arena, post apocalyptic and dystopian readers!
Action, adventure, betrayal, creatures, and a little romance. We meet some new characters in this book that only add to the series. Surprise plot twist and I raced right through this book! Well thought out by a talented author.
I highly recommend this series for fans of Hunger Games, The Arena, post apocalyptic and dystopian readers!
January 17, 2018
I loved to see how Maya has grown and progressed throughout this book. Such a fun and fast read. You're not going to want to put it down!!
December 22, 2018
I am loving this series!! I'm so glad I found this author!! I can't put these books down and I'm flying through this series cause I just have to know what happens!!
November 29, 2015
Originally published on my blog: La Foi Aveugle
So I can't post about how I'm behind on my book reviews and not actually post a book review. This one will be short. I read the first book in the Cage of Lies series this month — Chained — and found it to be a quick and interesting read. I was happy to find that the second book was already on Amazon. I didn't read it immediately...as anyone who actually follows my reviews knows, I'm usually a few reviews behind...but I read them close enough. Be forewarned, there are spoilers for Book 1 below!
So without further ado, here's....
Linked (Cage of Lies 2)
by Susanne Valenti
Review:3/5 Moose
A Quick Blurb:
Maya continues her adventures a few months later outside the city wall with Coal, Alicia, Taylor, Laurie and Hunter. There are also new characters thrown into the mix, with Luca, Gregor, "Adam" and Crystal.
I had to look up their names, because honestly, most of these characters can be thrown away. Is Luca gay? Can he and Adam/Blane just get together then? Cause I can't figure out why else someone would be as grumpy as he seems to be about what he seems to be grumpy about. Vague enough? So are his frustrations.
Crystal was a bit stereotypical — I loved Chained because there wasn't any female bitchiness. Alicia wasn't a stuck up sister who didn't want Maya near Coal, and Laurie might be my favorite character of the whole series. So I wasn't surprised when Crystal (who was hinted at in Chained) joined the group. But honestly, half the time I forgot she was there.
The end of Chained had Maya ready to break into the city to save her parents. So when the story begins and they aren't on their way...well I was pleasantly surprised. It's a good thing that they didn't rush off immediately, especially as Taylor spent all of Book 1 knocked out.
And the whole not knowing the outside world and all. It's good to prepare. And while Maya seems to be constantly overly confident of her abilities, Hunter is there to knock her on her ass.
All most immediately, Maya's in trouble and has been kidnapped. Not once (which was resolved quickly) but twice.
Now seriously, I want to like Maya.. I do. She seems smart and typical, but occasionally she is an idiot. (Okay, who isn't??) But when people are constantly trying to save one character, I get tired. I was almost happy that Laurie got hurt, only from the stand point that it wasn't just Maya needing saving.
Eventually, after more than half the book, the group finally sets out to save her parents and tell the citizens of the City how everything is really okay. There are a few twists towards the end that keep it interesting.
Verdict:
I'm starting to wonder if I'm no longer the target audience for these kinds of books. I enjoy Susanne's writing, but I found a portion of the story just lacking. I don't find Coal to be dreamy or swoon worthy, nor do I dislike him — I just mostly find him underdeveloped. But he's a pretty typical YA love interest I guess.
My review is reading a little whiny and definitely all over the place. I really didn't dislike this book, it just left me completely underwhelmed after the first book. Not a lot happens to push the story forward in my opinion, despite a lot of action happening in this book. I would have rather had a tamer book with more character development — I just don't feel like I know or understand the characters much at all.
TL;DR — Susanne can write some action pretty well. The mutated animals in the book are great...the swamp scene was easily my favorite. If you are looking for a YA dystopia that reads quickly, pick these up. I'll probably read book 3 when it comes out — I hate leaving series unfinished.
So I can't post about how I'm behind on my book reviews and not actually post a book review. This one will be short. I read the first book in the Cage of Lies series this month — Chained — and found it to be a quick and interesting read. I was happy to find that the second book was already on Amazon. I didn't read it immediately...as anyone who actually follows my reviews knows, I'm usually a few reviews behind...but I read them close enough. Be forewarned, there are spoilers for Book 1 below!
So without further ado, here's....
Linked (Cage of Lies 2)
by Susanne Valenti
Review:3/5 Moose
A Quick Blurb:
Maya continues her adventures a few months later outside the city wall with Coal, Alicia, Taylor, Laurie and Hunter. There are also new characters thrown into the mix, with Luca, Gregor, "Adam" and Crystal.
I had to look up their names, because honestly, most of these characters can be thrown away. Is Luca gay? Can he and Adam/Blane just get together then? Cause I can't figure out why else someone would be as grumpy as he seems to be about what he seems to be grumpy about. Vague enough? So are his frustrations.
Crystal was a bit stereotypical — I loved Chained because there wasn't any female bitchiness. Alicia wasn't a stuck up sister who didn't want Maya near Coal, and Laurie might be my favorite character of the whole series. So I wasn't surprised when Crystal (who was hinted at in Chained) joined the group. But honestly, half the time I forgot she was there.
The end of Chained had Maya ready to break into the city to save her parents. So when the story begins and they aren't on their way...well I was pleasantly surprised. It's a good thing that they didn't rush off immediately, especially as Taylor spent all of Book 1 knocked out.
And the whole not knowing the outside world and all. It's good to prepare. And while Maya seems to be constantly overly confident of her abilities, Hunter is there to knock her on her ass.
All most immediately, Maya's in trouble and has been kidnapped. Not once (which was resolved quickly) but twice.
Now seriously, I want to like Maya.. I do. She seems smart and typical, but occasionally she is an idiot. (Okay, who isn't??) But when people are constantly trying to save one character, I get tired. I was almost happy that Laurie got hurt, only from the stand point that it wasn't just Maya needing saving.
Eventually, after more than half the book, the group finally sets out to save her parents and tell the citizens of the City how everything is really okay. There are a few twists towards the end that keep it interesting.
Verdict:
I'm starting to wonder if I'm no longer the target audience for these kinds of books. I enjoy Susanne's writing, but I found a portion of the story just lacking. I don't find Coal to be dreamy or swoon worthy, nor do I dislike him — I just mostly find him underdeveloped. But he's a pretty typical YA love interest I guess.
My review is reading a little whiny and definitely all over the place. I really didn't dislike this book, it just left me completely underwhelmed after the first book. Not a lot happens to push the story forward in my opinion, despite a lot of action happening in this book. I would have rather had a tamer book with more character development — I just don't feel like I know or understand the characters much at all.
TL;DR — Susanne can write some action pretty well. The mutated animals in the book are great...the swamp scene was easily my favorite. If you are looking for a YA dystopia that reads quickly, pick these up. I'll probably read book 3 when it comes out — I hate leaving series unfinished.
October 12, 2015
OH MY GOSH!!! I'm still kinda shocked, and my face a little tear stained...but Ill try to start from the beginning.
Linked brings us a bunch of new characters. I cant agree their all good, but they are obviously needed. Blane is the one you will love, he turn out to be a really great ally. Gregor is in love with Alicia and bordering on crazy. Luca, you will love to hate him. Cant wait to see why he has a HUGE chip on his shoulder though (we will find out?!?!). Then there's Crystal. Her and Coal used to have a 'thing' and she doesn't want anyone to forget it, or ignore her. These new characters all have a way of making things interesting.
On to the story.... There's a new mission :) Yes, they went again. Only it didn't work out exactly as planned. They ended up taking a detour to save Maya. She was kidnapped by some idiots! Yes, I say that because they weren't very smart in the beginning. Did they really think they would get a ransom for her? They were very wrong. She ended up escaping before her friends could make it to her. They all meet up in the forest (Maya, her friends, the men who kidnapped her, and the Creepers!). It was a big fight and the Creepers ran away, crying again :) They did help to save the kidnappers though.
Then finally, they get to head for the city!!!! I was so excited for this part. Maya thought her parents were dead for years, she was all alone. Now she knows their alive and she has a chance to free/save them? Well yeah, lets go! But of course other things get in the way. Not only do they have to walk for days but they but also a longggg time walking through mud. This mud just so happens to hide creatures that are eating men.... No thank you!
But after the mud they get to spend some time on a beautiful beach. Which was great because they all needed to bathe!
The relationships in this book kind of surprised me. Maya and Coal make a great couple. Their fierce, focused and plenty capable. But then you throw in Taylor and Crystal, it makes the relationship seem that much better! Taylor and Crystal are not together, just getting in the way! I love Hunter and Laurie together. They seem to enjoy it too. Now if only Alicia an Taylor would get together it would all work or good... Or that's what I thought until the last couple chapters...
Now I'm just sad. I understand sometimes we have to part with characters, but why (tears)!! I am worried about Maya and Alicia. And I'm hoping Taylor doesn't get any ideas now...I still don't think he has a chance, just saying!
I guess I have rambled on enough... Even though I have a million more things I could say, I'm afraid I'll be ruining it for you :( So check Susanne Valenti and Cage of Lies out!!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts and opinions are all mine.
Linked brings us a bunch of new characters. I cant agree their all good, but they are obviously needed. Blane is the one you will love, he turn out to be a really great ally. Gregor is in love with Alicia and bordering on crazy. Luca, you will love to hate him. Cant wait to see why he has a HUGE chip on his shoulder though (we will find out?!?!). Then there's Crystal. Her and Coal used to have a 'thing' and she doesn't want anyone to forget it, or ignore her. These new characters all have a way of making things interesting.
On to the story.... There's a new mission :) Yes, they went again. Only it didn't work out exactly as planned. They ended up taking a detour to save Maya. She was kidnapped by some idiots! Yes, I say that because they weren't very smart in the beginning. Did they really think they would get a ransom for her? They were very wrong. She ended up escaping before her friends could make it to her. They all meet up in the forest (Maya, her friends, the men who kidnapped her, and the Creepers!). It was a big fight and the Creepers ran away, crying again :) They did help to save the kidnappers though.
Then finally, they get to head for the city!!!! I was so excited for this part. Maya thought her parents were dead for years, she was all alone. Now she knows their alive and she has a chance to free/save them? Well yeah, lets go! But of course other things get in the way. Not only do they have to walk for days but they but also a longggg time walking through mud. This mud just so happens to hide creatures that are eating men.... No thank you!
But after the mud they get to spend some time on a beautiful beach. Which was great because they all needed to bathe!
The relationships in this book kind of surprised me. Maya and Coal make a great couple. Their fierce, focused and plenty capable. But then you throw in Taylor and Crystal, it makes the relationship seem that much better! Taylor and Crystal are not together, just getting in the way! I love Hunter and Laurie together. They seem to enjoy it too. Now if only Alicia an Taylor would get together it would all work or good... Or that's what I thought until the last couple chapters...
Now I'm just sad. I understand sometimes we have to part with characters, but why (tears)!! I am worried about Maya and Alicia. And I'm hoping Taylor doesn't get any ideas now...I still don't think he has a chance, just saying!
I guess I have rambled on enough... Even though I have a million more things I could say, I'm afraid I'll be ruining it for you :( So check Susanne Valenti and Cage of Lies out!!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts and opinions are all mine.
October 20, 2015
I cannot stop reading these books. Chained and Linked are two of the best books I have read this year. I have fallen in love with all of the characters. Coal, Maya, Taylor, Laurie, Alicia, Hunter, etc. All of them. Even Crystal! Even though she’s hard to love.
This installment of the Cage of Lies series was even more action packed than the first book. Coal and Maya and the gang meet all kinds of people on the way to the city to save her parents. They run into the Creeper King again, Barlow and his crew of bandits, and the horsemen. The have a few new group members helping them get to the city as well. Crystal, Gregor, Luca, and Adam all have their own dark pasts and quirks.
They face new struggles and dangers that lurk in the wilderness. Some of the dangers, those outside The Wall like Coal’s group have never even com across before.There were so many adventures in this one book! The setting changed a lot and the group expanded, new bonds were formed. It was great. If the next book doesn’t come out soon I’ll have to reread these to get my fix.
I am so impressed with Valenti’s skill. She has truly woven an enchanting, whirlwind adventure. Reading these books make me want to go out and learn survival skills and how to be tough like Maya.
I like how gritty this series is. There’s nothing pretty in it. *Except Coal’s muscles. Those sound pretty hot.* Everything is survival of the toughest, and most determined. Which surprisingly turns out to be tiny Maya half the time. The tiniest are always the toughest though! They have more to prove.
I love how I thought the book was going to end one way and Valenti threw a curve ball and sent it a completely unexpected direction. I MUST READ THE NEXT BOOK. They suspense is driving me mad. I enjoy when writer’s do that, throw you off the trail and what not. I don’t think I could do it. I would get so invested in my characters that I would get too attached to them that I would be afraid to take chances. Knowing that I think that way makes me really appreciate brave writers.
I think readers of any dystopian stories would enjoy Valenti’s books. She takes the whole survival aspect of a dystopian world and takes it to a new level. The plot to this series is so amazing due to all of the rising actions building up to the climax. In a way, it’s like the reader hasn’t even gotten to the main climax yet. Hence why I’m sitting on my seat and getting ready to run straight to the next book as fast as I can. It can’t get here fast enough.
You can find Valenti here :)
You can find Linked here :)
https://desabelle11.wordpress.com/201...
This installment of the Cage of Lies series was even more action packed than the first book. Coal and Maya and the gang meet all kinds of people on the way to the city to save her parents. They run into the Creeper King again, Barlow and his crew of bandits, and the horsemen. The have a few new group members helping them get to the city as well. Crystal, Gregor, Luca, and Adam all have their own dark pasts and quirks.
They face new struggles and dangers that lurk in the wilderness. Some of the dangers, those outside The Wall like Coal’s group have never even com across before.There were so many adventures in this one book! The setting changed a lot and the group expanded, new bonds were formed. It was great. If the next book doesn’t come out soon I’ll have to reread these to get my fix.
I am so impressed with Valenti’s skill. She has truly woven an enchanting, whirlwind adventure. Reading these books make me want to go out and learn survival skills and how to be tough like Maya.
I like how gritty this series is. There’s nothing pretty in it. *Except Coal’s muscles. Those sound pretty hot.* Everything is survival of the toughest, and most determined. Which surprisingly turns out to be tiny Maya half the time. The tiniest are always the toughest though! They have more to prove.
I love how I thought the book was going to end one way and Valenti threw a curve ball and sent it a completely unexpected direction. I MUST READ THE NEXT BOOK. They suspense is driving me mad. I enjoy when writer’s do that, throw you off the trail and what not. I don’t think I could do it. I would get so invested in my characters that I would get too attached to them that I would be afraid to take chances. Knowing that I think that way makes me really appreciate brave writers.
I think readers of any dystopian stories would enjoy Valenti’s books. She takes the whole survival aspect of a dystopian world and takes it to a new level. The plot to this series is so amazing due to all of the rising actions building up to the climax. In a way, it’s like the reader hasn’t even gotten to the main climax yet. Hence why I’m sitting on my seat and getting ready to run straight to the next book as fast as I can. It can’t get here fast enough.
You can find Valenti here :)
You can find Linked here :)
https://desabelle11.wordpress.com/201...
January 16, 2016
Maya has been outside for a few months now, she has been training with Hunter each day, learning how to fight and survive in the world outside. She also now knows that her parents are being held captive in Harbour City and is determined to infiltrate the city and free them. But at what cost?
Need I say anymore. At what cost should practically give it away. Holy shit man, this was another action packed, edge of my seat read, and I really enjoyed it but far out the ending had me nearly in tears. Why would you do that to me?!! I'm also really liking that the main character group has expanded so we have a few more people who add an extra dynamic. I'm still trying to work out Luca's deal and why he's so cranky pants, not to mention Crystal and the way she is, though I gotta say I was a bit surprised she didn't put up more of a fight for Coal, that would have been interesting! Mind you there was enough happening with some love triangle, but not love triangle between Coal, Maya and Taylor. I say not love triangle because Maya knows who she wants (Coal, duh) and while Taylor says he's ok with that his actions speak far louder, and oh my gosh I want to punch him in the face.
I can't really find much that I didn't like in this book. There were a couple of parts where the characters reactions maybe weren't too realistic, for instance, Maya walks in on Hunter and Laurie having sex, is totally embarrassed (as you would be) but then goes back and looks at Coal like she'd never considered that might be something he was interested in and that they might end up doing. I find this surprising given they're right at that age where they should be thinking about sex all the time and humping like bunnies. Maya also doesn't spend much time fretting over it, which is good, I don't mind less drama in books I read but I remember being a 17/18 year old girl and there is a bit of angst around sex no matter how much you love the guy, so maybe a few more words around those kinds of feelings would have made it a bit more believable for me. Anyway, that seemed to be a turning point for her and things got a bit hot and heavy and of course just when you thought they'd get down to it, of course Taylor interrupts, damn you!
I really enjoyed this book and devoured it within a matter of days, I just couldn't put it down. If you're interested in the series, I'd definitely start with the first book in the series, Chained, as the story does continue through them and you'll have a better understanding of it by starting from the beginning.
*A copy of this book was provided for an honest review*
Need I say anymore. At what cost should practically give it away. Holy shit man, this was another action packed, edge of my seat read, and I really enjoyed it but far out the ending had me nearly in tears. Why would you do that to me?!! I'm also really liking that the main character group has expanded so we have a few more people who add an extra dynamic. I'm still trying to work out Luca's deal and why he's so cranky pants, not to mention Crystal and the way she is, though I gotta say I was a bit surprised she didn't put up more of a fight for Coal, that would have been interesting! Mind you there was enough happening with some love triangle, but not love triangle between Coal, Maya and Taylor. I say not love triangle because Maya knows who she wants (Coal, duh) and while Taylor says he's ok with that his actions speak far louder, and oh my gosh I want to punch him in the face.
I can't really find much that I didn't like in this book. There were a couple of parts where the characters reactions maybe weren't too realistic, for instance, Maya walks in on Hunter and Laurie having sex, is totally embarrassed (as you would be) but then goes back and looks at Coal like she'd never considered that might be something he was interested in and that they might end up doing. I find this surprising given they're right at that age where they should be thinking about sex all the time and humping like bunnies. Maya also doesn't spend much time fretting over it, which is good, I don't mind less drama in books I read but I remember being a 17/18 year old girl and there is a bit of angst around sex no matter how much you love the guy, so maybe a few more words around those kinds of feelings would have made it a bit more believable for me. Anyway, that seemed to be a turning point for her and things got a bit hot and heavy and of course just when you thought they'd get down to it, of course Taylor interrupts, damn you!
I really enjoyed this book and devoured it within a matter of days, I just couldn't put it down. If you're interested in the series, I'd definitely start with the first book in the series, Chained, as the story does continue through them and you'll have a better understanding of it by starting from the beginning.
*A copy of this book was provided for an honest review*
May 8, 2016
This was a free arc given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review and does not affect my opinion of it.
This book definitely fell victim to the tragic book two downfall. I did my best to move past it, but the repetition of verbs and adjectives weighed heavily on my opinion of the book. Particularly when it occurred more than once on a page (which is more because I’ve had it drilled into me to vary my language since I was 11). Not to say the narration was bad, but there is definitely improvements to be made.
There was also a lot more focus on the love triangle aspects (what with Taylor actually being awake now). It’s okay every now and again, but even as new characters were introduced and their romantic interests were being forced to the reader’s attention, it did get overwhelming.
The biggest issue I had, by far, was the phrase “big, Asian man” to describe a supposedly intimidating character. As someone whose family roots are firmly planted in Asia, I am not impressed with this use of language. It’s a big generalisation of the 4.4 billion people living in the continent. I’m sure Valenti meant nothing by it, but this is an important problem to raise and is one of the things that made me squirm about Eleanor & Park. It’s clear that the audience is supposed to see him as being ethnically from Eastern Asia (if that’s even the right way to word it, apologies if that makes it even worse!), but it’s better to research what to/what not to say and describe him as an individual rather than generalising.
Admittedly, this almost made me stop reading. But I persevered regardless because I have hope for this series.
Beyond this point (about a third of the way into the book), I didn’t have too many squirmy moments besides the increasing amounts of awkward flirting and make-out scenes.
Besides, again, some minor inconsistencies, it wasn’t too bad to read. It felt like a lot of major events were pushed together, so there was little time for reprieve before the next near-death experience. I wasn’t as pulled through the story as with Chained, but it did pick up. I really enjoyed reading about Maya’s progress in her training with Hunter and her understanding that she’s still got some way to go before she’s proficient, but she’s can hold her own. The action scenes were pretty awesome too. Definitely on a more epic scale to its predecessor.
This book definitely fell victim to the tragic book two downfall. I did my best to move past it, but the repetition of verbs and adjectives weighed heavily on my opinion of the book. Particularly when it occurred more than once on a page (which is more because I’ve had it drilled into me to vary my language since I was 11). Not to say the narration was bad, but there is definitely improvements to be made.
There was also a lot more focus on the love triangle aspects (what with Taylor actually being awake now). It’s okay every now and again, but even as new characters were introduced and their romantic interests were being forced to the reader’s attention, it did get overwhelming.
The biggest issue I had, by far, was the phrase “big, Asian man” to describe a supposedly intimidating character. As someone whose family roots are firmly planted in Asia, I am not impressed with this use of language. It’s a big generalisation of the 4.4 billion people living in the continent. I’m sure Valenti meant nothing by it, but this is an important problem to raise and is one of the things that made me squirm about Eleanor & Park. It’s clear that the audience is supposed to see him as being ethnically from Eastern Asia (if that’s even the right way to word it, apologies if that makes it even worse!), but it’s better to research what to/what not to say and describe him as an individual rather than generalising.
Admittedly, this almost made me stop reading. But I persevered regardless because I have hope for this series.
Beyond this point (about a third of the way into the book), I didn’t have too many squirmy moments besides the increasing amounts of awkward flirting and make-out scenes.
Besides, again, some minor inconsistencies, it wasn’t too bad to read. It felt like a lot of major events were pushed together, so there was little time for reprieve before the next near-death experience. I wasn’t as pulled through the story as with Chained, but it did pick up. I really enjoyed reading about Maya’s progress in her training with Hunter and her understanding that she’s still got some way to go before she’s proficient, but she’s can hold her own. The action scenes were pretty awesome too. Definitely on a more epic scale to its predecessor.
February 9, 2016
Explosive! This is a roller coaster ride of action and adventure. This book picks up several weeks after the end of Chained. Maya, Taylor and Laurie have been training hard in the hopes of returning to Harbour City to rescue Maya’s parents. Getting the mission approved is just the beginning. The core group is joined by Luca, Gregor and Crystal and the each add their strengths and baggage to the story. A scouting mission to the City leads to an unexpected place when the Maya and two others are kidnapped causing the team to come after them with a vengeance. This leads to the inclusion of a new character. Finally able to scout out the city they come up with a brilliant plan that is doable, but takes a heavy toll on the team. The end is twist that no one sees coming.
Fantastic. This book explores more the outside world and the people that inhabit it. It gives so much more insight on the characters we have become attached to, and introduces us to several more. While the main story still focuses on Maya and is in fact told from her prospective, all of the characters are far more developed than in the previous books. There are still some loose ends from book 1 to tie up and we are left with whole lot new ones for the next book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Fantastic. This book explores more the outside world and the people that inhabit it. It gives so much more insight on the characters we have become attached to, and introduces us to several more. While the main story still focuses on Maya and is in fact told from her prospective, all of the characters are far more developed than in the previous books. There are still some loose ends from book 1 to tie up and we are left with whole lot new ones for the next book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
October 18, 2015
Susanne, very kindly, gave me another ARC, to which I say thank you.
The wait has been infinite. The wait has been been excruciating. Now the mission to rescue Maya's parents has been...
Postponed !
But, why?
Because Maya is kidnapped ! No sooner than they start their journey, this complication impedes the venture. Kidnapping combined with Maya's tangled emotions between her new boyfriend, Coal, and her familiar friend, Taylor, are just some of the problems Maya experiences on her way to save her parents How can she resist the stirrings in her stomach for one while ignoring the affection for the other?
But, these are just a couple of the barriers that Maya faces, how does she overcome her fear of heights or the curious creatures that rush with a trail of bubbles accompanying them? You'll have to read it to find out.
At last, the crusaders convene and commitment to infiltrate The City is strong. A fine-tuned plan has been developed and excitement bursts from the warriors. More soldiers have joined the gang and everyone leaves with one mission in mind. But, can things go as smoothly as the plan pertains?
In this story, Valenti maintains tension and adventure - but the twists and exposition spill out right up to the end.
The wait has been infinite. The wait has been been excruciating. Now the mission to rescue Maya's parents has been...
Postponed !
But, why?
Because Maya is kidnapped ! No sooner than they start their journey, this complication impedes the venture. Kidnapping combined with Maya's tangled emotions between her new boyfriend, Coal, and her familiar friend, Taylor, are just some of the problems Maya experiences on her way to save her parents How can she resist the stirrings in her stomach for one while ignoring the affection for the other?
But, these are just a couple of the barriers that Maya faces, how does she overcome her fear of heights or the curious creatures that rush with a trail of bubbles accompanying them? You'll have to read it to find out.
At last, the crusaders convene and commitment to infiltrate The City is strong. A fine-tuned plan has been developed and excitement bursts from the warriors. More soldiers have joined the gang and everyone leaves with one mission in mind. But, can things go as smoothly as the plan pertains?
In this story, Valenti maintains tension and adventure - but the twists and exposition spill out right up to the end.
March 11, 2016
The book continues Maya's endeavour to free her parents, her training continues; she and Taylor need all the fighter training they can get.
With Linked, Susanne Valenti has created a compelling and cleverly elaborated second book in the Cage of Lies series. Maya and her friends/allies have to face many obstacles, the 'friend-or-foe' decisions inside my head were pretty intriguing. I was drawn into the story right away - as a silent (thankfully invisible) ally. Susanne Valenti tells the story in a clever way - giving the reader the opportunity to be very close; she expertly elaborates her characters. As the story proceeds you learn more about the old and new protagonists and the world they live in. There are some real surprises, finding their way nicely into your perception of the story. I had a great time, reading Linked.
This is a book for you if you appreciate a pretty different combination of the science-fiction, young adult and dystopian genres. It is not hard-core science fiction.
A book to read again. Recommended!
4.3 stars
With Linked, Susanne Valenti has created a compelling and cleverly elaborated second book in the Cage of Lies series. Maya and her friends/allies have to face many obstacles, the 'friend-or-foe' decisions inside my head were pretty intriguing. I was drawn into the story right away - as a silent (thankfully invisible) ally. Susanne Valenti tells the story in a clever way - giving the reader the opportunity to be very close; she expertly elaborates her characters. As the story proceeds you learn more about the old and new protagonists and the world they live in. There are some real surprises, finding their way nicely into your perception of the story. I had a great time, reading Linked.
This is a book for you if you appreciate a pretty different combination of the science-fiction, young adult and dystopian genres. It is not hard-core science fiction.
A book to read again. Recommended!
4.3 stars
October 14, 2015
Amazing! Adrenalin-fuelled! Heartbreaking!
If you've read Chained (the first in The Cage of Lies Sage) then don't miss out on the sequel!!
Linked is an action-packed, emotional rollercoaster!
Maya has been training for a few months in the world outside The Wall and now she's ready to take on her enemies in a mission to infiltrate the city and reveal the truth!
With Coal and Taylor by her side she is torn between hurting her friend and following her heart...reaaad it to find out more!!!
If you've read Chained (the first in The Cage of Lies Sage) then don't miss out on the sequel!!
Linked is an action-packed, emotional rollercoaster!
Maya has been training for a few months in the world outside The Wall and now she's ready to take on her enemies in a mission to infiltrate the city and reveal the truth!
With Coal and Taylor by her side she is torn between hurting her friend and following her heart...reaaad it to find out more!!!
November 11, 2016
This series is fantastic! Each book is better than the last. I absolutely adore Coal, and all the other side characters endearing and realistic. I loved to see the subtle changes in Maya throughout this book as she begins training and getting acclimated to her new life outside the city. The love story is heart-melting and the action non-stop. Ms. Valenti constantly surprises me with her twists and turns and makes it impossible to put the book down. If you like YA dystopian books like Hunger Games, Divergent, The Testing, or The Hundred, then you will love this series!
June 24, 2017
great book the story follows on from book one, couldnt out it down loving them so far
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