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Aria Fae #2
The Masked Maiden
HERO OR VILLAIN? YOU DECIDE.
When she decided to become a vigilante, no one told 17-year-old Aria Fae about the possibility of public backlash, or the attention the media would garner by dubbing her The Masked Maiden of Grant City.
On top of this added heat, a rogue supernatural known as The Scarecrow has escaped his prison, and his history with Aria makes her the crazed warlock’s obvious target. Now, she must face her past and defeat The Scarecrow once and for all, or die trying.
When things reach their worst, will The Masked Maiden be the hero Grant City needs, or the villain they’ve made her out to be?
When she decided to become a vigilante, no one told 17-year-old Aria Fae about the possibility of public backlash, or the attention the media would garner by dubbing her The Masked Maiden of Grant City.
On top of this added heat, a rogue supernatural known as The Scarecrow has escaped his prison, and his history with Aria makes her the crazed warlock’s obvious target. Now, she must face her past and defeat The Scarecrow once and for all, or die trying.
When things reach their worst, will The Masked Maiden be the hero Grant City needs, or the villain they’ve made her out to be?
329 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2016
70 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
About the author
H.D. Gordon
46 books622 followersH. D. Gordon is the author of several fantasy series with strong female leads.
She is the mother of two amazing daughters, and a lover of nature. She believes our actions have ripple effects, and in the interconnectedness of all things.
H. D. spends her time with family, eating desserts, and taking strolls through the forests of New Jersey.
Please visit hdgordonbooks.com for more details.
She is the mother of two amazing daughters, and a lover of nature. She believes our actions have ripple effects, and in the interconnectedness of all things.
H. D. spends her time with family, eating desserts, and taking strolls through the forests of New Jersey.
Please visit hdgordonbooks.com for more details.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 18, 2016
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and the second one is no different. This book is filled with superheroes adventures, half-supernatural creatures, danger, evil villains, friendship and some romance drama added in. There was a lot to enjoy about this book and I easily got sucked into the story wanting to know how things went with Aria. It's a bit dark, like the first book, there is an evil villain on the lose and he's looking for Aria. And not every in the city is happy there's a vigilante on the lose and they want to see The Masked Maiden arrested. The pace is really done well and I liked how the different plot lines mingled together. Having some school stuff, or more casual scenes intermingled with the danger and action.
The villain gave me the chills and not in a good way, he was so disturbing and I would almost say he's completely evil and crazy. Let's say I prefer my villains a bit more human and normal, this villain was one twisted creature and the things he did were absolutely disturbing and sometimes a bit too much detail for me.
But then there is so much I did enjoy about the book that I am still giving 4 star anyway. The world and characters Gordon has created in this series are so well done. The city comes alive and just like Aria I've come to care about this crime filled city with people who need protecting. And then there is the end of the book, gah I can't believe the author went there. Have you ever read a book where the character makes a decision you know just isn't right, but you can't do anything to change that? I was so frustrated at the direction things took and I just couldn't believe the decision the character made. In the end I did like how things ended and then we got a scene that's the set-up for the next book and that ruined the nice content ending and added a sense of foreboding instead.
Aria is a great main character. I love how willing she is to help others and there are some great scenes where she shows that in this book. And it's what makes her such a great superhero as well. And then there is her own struggle with who she is and where she belongs and her depression that picks up now and then. I thought her character was very well written. the only thing I missed a bit is knowing her feelings concerning certain characters, but more about that later. Aria and Sam their friendship was one of my favourite parts of the first book and it continues to be in this one, although I felt the focus on their friendship shifted a bit in favour of the love triangle/ square, I still enjoyed the scenes we did see. Sam is such a great friend for Aria and we see how much Aria helped Sam as well. And it's great to see such a good friendship like their.
And that brings me to the romance. The romance was the one thing I wasn't fully happy with as it turns into a love square. I am definitely team Thomas, he's interesting, mysterious and I want to know more about him. I like the scenes between him and Aria and how he shows her he cares. But instead of the love triangle we had in book 1 we get a love square here with 3 potential love interest. And I just didn't feel it. I felt her connection with Thomas and kept routing for them. But then there is Nick and Caleb as well. And while Caleb seems like a nice guy I don't really feel his connection with Aria and he seemed more of an afterthought in this book, there only being 2 or 3 big scenes with him in it. Nick was on the foreground in this book and no mater how hard I tried I just didn't like him and I didn't see what Aria saw in him. We're told they have a past, but I didn't feel it. And I thought he was a bit arrogant with how he thought he knew what was best for Aria and his demanding tone. It just wasn't working for me and I am pretty sure I know who she ends up with, but I also think it's going to take some time to get there. At the end of the book i do feel one of them got removed from the race, so we'll see how that goes in the next book.
This book could be best described as urban fantasy/ superhero genre in my opinion. The focus is on Aria her life in the city and we see enough of her normal life as well as the supernatural side of things. The fantasy aspect is mild, but nicely integrated in the plot. We slowly learn more about the supernatural world, but as that isn't where this story takes place it's not as important ad that works just fine for this series. We learn a bit more about the Halflings and how they are trained, there are quite some flashbacks in this book and while I got a bit tired of them after a while I also see where they served a purpose and it give me a feel of the Peace Brokers and Halfling society.
To summarize: I really enjoyed this book. It's well written and I easily got into this book. I enjoyed following Aria her adventures in this book. There is a big bad villain again in this book that Aria is up against, while also getting some casual scenes of her life and friendships. I didn't like the villain, we're not supposed to I think, he's twisted and does the most disturbing things. It even ventured into gruesome detail territory for me, but the rest of the book was good enough to keep me reading through that. There is also some chapters at the end that really frustrated me as I felt that Aria was making the wrong decision, but I liked how things got resolved eventually. I really like Aria an dhow helpful she is and always willing to help others, while she also has her own struggles. I also like her friendship with Sam and with Rose. I wasn't a fan of the love square as I firmly one team. I didn't feel her connection as much with the other two love interests. The world building is done nicely and through some flashbacks and other scenes we learn more about the halflings, peace brokers and their society in this book. All in all a solid read, that turned a bit too dark for me at times, but with enough to hook me and keep reading. I am looking forward to the next book!
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and the second one is no different. This book is filled with superheroes adventures, half-supernatural creatures, danger, evil villains, friendship and some romance drama added in. There was a lot to enjoy about this book and I easily got sucked into the story wanting to know how things went with Aria. It's a bit dark, like the first book, there is an evil villain on the lose and he's looking for Aria. And not every in the city is happy there's a vigilante on the lose and they want to see The Masked Maiden arrested. The pace is really done well and I liked how the different plot lines mingled together. Having some school stuff, or more casual scenes intermingled with the danger and action.
The villain gave me the chills and not in a good way, he was so disturbing and I would almost say he's completely evil and crazy. Let's say I prefer my villains a bit more human and normal, this villain was one twisted creature and the things he did were absolutely disturbing and sometimes a bit too much detail for me.
But then there is so much I did enjoy about the book that I am still giving 4 star anyway. The world and characters Gordon has created in this series are so well done. The city comes alive and just like Aria I've come to care about this crime filled city with people who need protecting. And then there is the end of the book, gah I can't believe the author went there. Have you ever read a book where the character makes a decision you know just isn't right, but you can't do anything to change that? I was so frustrated at the direction things took and I just couldn't believe the decision the character made. In the end I did like how things ended and then we got a scene that's the set-up for the next book and that ruined the nice content ending and added a sense of foreboding instead.
Aria is a great main character. I love how willing she is to help others and there are some great scenes where she shows that in this book. And it's what makes her such a great superhero as well. And then there is her own struggle with who she is and where she belongs and her depression that picks up now and then. I thought her character was very well written. the only thing I missed a bit is knowing her feelings concerning certain characters, but more about that later. Aria and Sam their friendship was one of my favourite parts of the first book and it continues to be in this one, although I felt the focus on their friendship shifted a bit in favour of the love triangle/ square, I still enjoyed the scenes we did see. Sam is such a great friend for Aria and we see how much Aria helped Sam as well. And it's great to see such a good friendship like their.
And that brings me to the romance. The romance was the one thing I wasn't fully happy with as it turns into a love square. I am definitely team Thomas, he's interesting, mysterious and I want to know more about him. I like the scenes between him and Aria and how he shows her he cares. But instead of the love triangle we had in book 1 we get a love square here with 3 potential love interest. And I just didn't feel it. I felt her connection with Thomas and kept routing for them. But then there is Nick and Caleb as well. And while Caleb seems like a nice guy I don't really feel his connection with Aria and he seemed more of an afterthought in this book, there only being 2 or 3 big scenes with him in it. Nick was on the foreground in this book and no mater how hard I tried I just didn't like him and I didn't see what Aria saw in him. We're told they have a past, but I didn't feel it. And I thought he was a bit arrogant with how he thought he knew what was best for Aria and his demanding tone. It just wasn't working for me and I am pretty sure I know who she ends up with, but I also think it's going to take some time to get there. At the end of the book i do feel one of them got removed from the race, so we'll see how that goes in the next book.
This book could be best described as urban fantasy/ superhero genre in my opinion. The focus is on Aria her life in the city and we see enough of her normal life as well as the supernatural side of things. The fantasy aspect is mild, but nicely integrated in the plot. We slowly learn more about the supernatural world, but as that isn't where this story takes place it's not as important ad that works just fine for this series. We learn a bit more about the Halflings and how they are trained, there are quite some flashbacks in this book and while I got a bit tired of them after a while I also see where they served a purpose and it give me a feel of the Peace Brokers and Halfling society.
To summarize: I really enjoyed this book. It's well written and I easily got into this book. I enjoyed following Aria her adventures in this book. There is a big bad villain again in this book that Aria is up against, while also getting some casual scenes of her life and friendships. I didn't like the villain, we're not supposed to I think, he's twisted and does the most disturbing things. It even ventured into gruesome detail territory for me, but the rest of the book was good enough to keep me reading through that. There is also some chapters at the end that really frustrated me as I felt that Aria was making the wrong decision, but I liked how things got resolved eventually. I really like Aria an dhow helpful she is and always willing to help others, while she also has her own struggles. I also like her friendship with Sam and with Rose. I wasn't a fan of the love square as I firmly one team. I didn't feel her connection as much with the other two love interests. The world building is done nicely and through some flashbacks and other scenes we learn more about the halflings, peace brokers and their society in this book. All in all a solid read, that turned a bit too dark for me at times, but with enough to hook me and keep reading. I am looking forward to the next book!
May 11, 2016
Title: The Masked Maiden
Author: H. D. Gordon
Publisher: Black Quill Publishing
ISBN: BO1ETKD6SO
Buy Link: http://www.hdgordonbooks.com/#!books/...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
I received a free ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
The Aria Fae 2
No good deed goes unpunished, and no one understands this better than 17-year-old Aria Fae.
Recently cast out of a secret supernatural organization where she’d spent her entire existence, Halfling Aria Fae is just getting used to her new life in Grant City… Until ghosts from her past start showing up.
A rogue supernatural known as The Scarecrow has escaped his prison, and his history with Aria makes her the crazed Warlock’s obvious target.
With the children of Grant City at stake, Aria knows she must face her past and defeat The Scarecrow once and for all, or die trying.
When things reach their worst, will the citizens of Grant City turn against their newfound young hero, or will the media and city leaders make The Masked Maiden out into a villain, and send Aria running back to her own kind?
Summary:
Imagine loosing everything and being forced to start again and you would have a small feeling for how Aria felt. In spite of all her problems, Aria managed to build a new family for herself with friends who stood with her through tragedy and danger. After all she has gone through, it seems that her old life wasn't done with her when Nick, a peace broker form her past, arrived with an offer; help them apprehend the Scarecrow, a dangerous paranormal, and be reinstated to the Peace Brokers. If that wasn't enough, Aria and Nick have their own history between them that adds to her confusion. Aria was kidnapped and almost killed by the Scarecrow and she knows that he must be stopped. As the danger ramped up, it as inspiring how Aria and her friends stood together putting their lives on the line to protect Grant City even when the city seemed to turn on them. The distress that Aria felt over her decision over what path she would take brought the story to life as she struggled to remain true to herself and what her life stood for. The book ended with a foreshadow the dangers to come and I can't wait to happens next!
Author: H. D. Gordon
Publisher: Black Quill Publishing
ISBN: BO1ETKD6SO
Buy Link: http://www.hdgordonbooks.com/#!books/...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
I received a free ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
The Aria Fae 2
No good deed goes unpunished, and no one understands this better than 17-year-old Aria Fae.
Recently cast out of a secret supernatural organization where she’d spent her entire existence, Halfling Aria Fae is just getting used to her new life in Grant City… Until ghosts from her past start showing up.
A rogue supernatural known as The Scarecrow has escaped his prison, and his history with Aria makes her the crazed Warlock’s obvious target.
With the children of Grant City at stake, Aria knows she must face her past and defeat The Scarecrow once and for all, or die trying.
When things reach their worst, will the citizens of Grant City turn against their newfound young hero, or will the media and city leaders make The Masked Maiden out into a villain, and send Aria running back to her own kind?
Summary:
Imagine loosing everything and being forced to start again and you would have a small feeling for how Aria felt. In spite of all her problems, Aria managed to build a new family for herself with friends who stood with her through tragedy and danger. After all she has gone through, it seems that her old life wasn't done with her when Nick, a peace broker form her past, arrived with an offer; help them apprehend the Scarecrow, a dangerous paranormal, and be reinstated to the Peace Brokers. If that wasn't enough, Aria and Nick have their own history between them that adds to her confusion. Aria was kidnapped and almost killed by the Scarecrow and she knows that he must be stopped. As the danger ramped up, it as inspiring how Aria and her friends stood together putting their lives on the line to protect Grant City even when the city seemed to turn on them. The distress that Aria felt over her decision over what path she would take brought the story to life as she struggled to remain true to herself and what her life stood for. The book ended with a foreshadow the dangers to come and I can't wait to happens next!
May 4, 2016
First I must say that I liked this book, I really, really did. There are just a couple of problems that I couldn't bring myself to overlook. The first being that, no matter the arguments for or against, I personally have a really big problem with YA books that incorporate sex into the heroine's storyline. One may argue that the heroine (Aria) is 17 and almost an adult but studies prove that a very high number of YA readers are middle school age. I know, I know but I'm a Mom and I would never want my 6th or 7th grade daughter reading this. Not only because Aria has sex but it is with someone she isn't even in a relationship with AND while she is seriously attracted to someone else. Plus, it is treated as such a casual thing. After such a momentous decision, she gets up the next day and nothing more is ever said about it. So, make the heroine 18 and slap a NA on it. At least then it would be more appropriate.
The second reason is that frustrating habit the author has of not really filling the reader in on important points that would allow for SO much more depth in the story! It happened in the first installment but I overlooked it thinking it was just a "first of a Series" glitch and that it would be explained in the second book. Nope. Not only are the reason's for Aria being on earth in the first place still extremely vague, but in this story, the very climatic decision that she must make - the one readers have been anticipating throughout the entire book - is completely overlooked! We get the superbly written work-up to the scene, then... Poof! It's later in the day and the decision has been made. We were cheated of the whys, reasoning and reactions that we needed to understand! UGH!!
Then, of course there is the very best scene in the book - the ending with the man of her choice.... But, same thing. It's brushed over with the very minimum of explanation (absolutely none where it concerns him, btw.) Again, instead of allowing us that depth of understanding that turns a good book into a 5 star book, we are left frustrated and wishing those small but ever so important points had been taken care of.
The second reason is that frustrating habit the author has of not really filling the reader in on important points that would allow for SO much more depth in the story! It happened in the first installment but I overlooked it thinking it was just a "first of a Series" glitch and that it would be explained in the second book. Nope. Not only are the reason's for Aria being on earth in the first place still extremely vague, but in this story, the very climatic decision that she must make - the one readers have been anticipating throughout the entire book - is completely overlooked! We get the superbly written work-up to the scene, then... Poof! It's later in the day and the decision has been made. We were cheated of the whys, reasoning and reactions that we needed to understand! UGH!!
Then, of course there is the very best scene in the book - the ending with the man of her choice.... But, same thing. It's brushed over with the very minimum of explanation (absolutely none where it concerns him, btw.) Again, instead of allowing us that depth of understanding that turns a good book into a 5 star book, we are left frustrated and wishing those small but ever so important points had been taken care of.
April 30, 2016
** I was given an ARC copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review**
OH this book!!! First a little history. This is the second book in The Ariana Fae Series. I have read the first book and you can check out that review on my goodreads page if you like. This book continues on with Aria and her friends fighting to protect the citizens of Grant City but this time it's from an enemy from Aria's past.
I so had a love/hate relationship with this book, Ok not really hate however, it absolutely had me pacing the floor in frustration at times. Oh Ms. Gordon, you clever little lady bug you, but I'm getting ahead of myself.
Let's start with the cover, isn't this cover just beautiful. I love it.
I have been waiting for this book since I finished The Halfling, and this book did not disappoint even though I had my doubts. I love the how the author builds her worlds and the characters in them. The villains were done so well that I had a vivid picture of what they looked like and the whole book played out just like a movie in my mind. I also have fallen in love with these characters and here comes the rub. Now I love a good love triangle but this was more of a love square. There was just too many guys. I get that Aria had not really grown up with the emotions of love but this made it feel like she was falling for anyone who gave her attention. There were several times I wanted to reach into the pages and smack Aria for jumping between these guys. It bothered me enough to invoke an emotional response which is a true testament to the author. Then Ms.Gordon, you sly girl, you make it all better and now having chomping at the bit for book number three. I will be counting down the days till I can jump back into this world with the next adventure for Aria and her crew.
This series is truly shaping up to be a really great one. I recommend it for sure.
you can read more of my reviews at my blog.
www.daydreamingbetweenthelines.wordpr...
OH this book!!! First a little history. This is the second book in The Ariana Fae Series. I have read the first book and you can check out that review on my goodreads page if you like. This book continues on with Aria and her friends fighting to protect the citizens of Grant City but this time it's from an enemy from Aria's past.
I so had a love/hate relationship with this book, Ok not really hate however, it absolutely had me pacing the floor in frustration at times. Oh Ms. Gordon, you clever little lady bug you, but I'm getting ahead of myself.
Let's start with the cover, isn't this cover just beautiful. I love it.
I have been waiting for this book since I finished The Halfling, and this book did not disappoint even though I had my doubts. I love the how the author builds her worlds and the characters in them. The villains were done so well that I had a vivid picture of what they looked like and the whole book played out just like a movie in my mind. I also have fallen in love with these characters and here comes the rub. Now I love a good love triangle but this was more of a love square. There was just too many guys. I get that Aria had not really grown up with the emotions of love but this made it feel like she was falling for anyone who gave her attention. There were several times I wanted to reach into the pages and smack Aria for jumping between these guys. It bothered me enough to invoke an emotional response which is a true testament to the author. Then Ms.Gordon, you sly girl, you make it all better and now having chomping at the bit for book number three. I will be counting down the days till I can jump back into this world with the next adventure for Aria and her crew.
This series is truly shaping up to be a really great one. I recommend it for sure.
you can read more of my reviews at my blog.
www.daydreamingbetweenthelines.wordpr...
April 22, 2016
The Masked Maiden was a pretty great sequel! Aria's vigilante persona is starting to get a lot of attention in Grant City. While Aria only harms those who are harming others, not everyone believes she's a hero. Especially when The Scarecrow shows up and leaves a note for the Masked Maiden with the dead body of a young girl. Aria has a history with this killer, and she knows she has to take him out now for good or else he'll keep terrorizing the city she's grown to love. Not to mention, doing so might give her the opportunity to return home to her own kind.
The Masked Maiden was a lot darker than the first book. I did miss some of the humor between Sam and Aria, but I still enjoyed the more serious turn. We learn a lot more about Aria's past as a Peace Broker. The things she went though as part of her training were pretty intense, especially when things went wrong and she meets The Scarecrow. He is such a disturbing villain! He seriously gave me the creeps.
There's quite a bit of romance in The Masked Maiden. I was hoping to get some kissing, and I was certainly not disappointed! I do think that maybe there was a bit too much going on in Aria's love life, but I did like how she handled everything. She basically does what she wants and isn't ashamed! That is wonderful! Yes, there is some love geometry going on here, and no, I'm not on any particular team. Although I'd totally be cheering for Sam if she were in the running!
The Masked Maiden was just another fun and exciting addition to this series. I'm really enjoying watching Aria try to figure out where she belongs: with her own kind who kicked her out, or with the humans who can never fully understand her? There are several surprises throughout and I can't wait for more!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
The Masked Maiden was a lot darker than the first book. I did miss some of the humor between Sam and Aria, but I still enjoyed the more serious turn. We learn a lot more about Aria's past as a Peace Broker. The things she went though as part of her training were pretty intense, especially when things went wrong and she meets The Scarecrow. He is such a disturbing villain! He seriously gave me the creeps.
There's quite a bit of romance in The Masked Maiden. I was hoping to get some kissing, and I was certainly not disappointed! I do think that maybe there was a bit too much going on in Aria's love life, but I did like how she handled everything. She basically does what she wants and isn't ashamed! That is wonderful! Yes, there is some love geometry going on here, and no, I'm not on any particular team. Although I'd totally be cheering for Sam if she were in the running!
The Masked Maiden was just another fun and exciting addition to this series. I'm really enjoying watching Aria try to figure out where she belongs: with her own kind who kicked her out, or with the humans who can never fully understand her? There are several surprises throughout and I can't wait for more!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
July 3, 2016
Another absolutely fabulous book from this author, she never disappoints! I loved the progression and where the story went, there are a couple of things I wasn't so happy about but they ended up being resolved. A special swoon goes out to Thomas Reid in all of his badass, brooding, secretive glory! You were made for our girl
April 28, 2018
Similar regression to the wolf wars series
It feels like both second books in the series the main character regresses in maturity. I'm fine with most of the book, but the trio of ambigous love interests and rash decision making just don't make sense compared to the first book. Maybe it's her mind state being more erratic, but it doesn't feel natural. Also not sure how Nick is even a love interests his only trait is he's from the past besides that he has no meaningful non generic lines Caleb is equally boring and bland.
It feels like both second books in the series the main character regresses in maturity. I'm fine with most of the book, but the trio of ambigous love interests and rash decision making just don't make sense compared to the first book. Maybe it's her mind state being more erratic, but it doesn't feel natural. Also not sure how Nick is even a love interests his only trait is he's from the past besides that he has no meaningful non generic lines Caleb is equally boring and bland.
July 9, 2018
Just brilliant
yet again the series makes you shudder in the evil that lurks Aria has a sinister monster to catch from her past . We learn slot more about each of the characters which made me love them more as in the first book there is more going on which leaves you guessing . Brilliant read can't wait for the next.
yet again the series makes you shudder in the evil that lurks Aria has a sinister monster to catch from her past . We learn slot more about each of the characters which made me love them more as in the first book there is more going on which leaves you guessing . Brilliant read can't wait for the next.
June 10, 2018
A story worth your time.
This is a must read and a must series. Ms. Gordon just knows how to tell a story and she always captivated my attention and keeps it. The story was great and I can’t wait to read more.
This is a must read and a must series. Ms. Gordon just knows how to tell a story and she always captivated my attention and keeps it. The story was great and I can’t wait to read more.
November 27, 2020
A good read
As I did the first book, The Halfling, this book was good too.
Of course Aria had some decisions to make and I feel that she made the right decision.
And I was saddened to find out who had ratted/snitched on her too. Such a shame as I liked her too.
As I did the first book, The Halfling, this book was good too.
Of course Aria had some decisions to make and I feel that she made the right decision.
And I was saddened to find out who had ratted/snitched on her too. Such a shame as I liked her too.
December 2, 2016
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
3.5 stars
The Masked Maiden was a fun second chapter in the Aria Fae Series. If you like superhero stories than this is a series for you. Note: This is a continuation of the same story from The Halfling, book one in the series.
Area Fae is a vigilante. She roams the streets of Grant City, with the help of her friends, trying to stop crime. She is doing good, helping people, but not everyone sees it that way. She is starting to see some public backlash from the good deeds she has done. Some people are saying she is a menace and should be stopped. And she doesn't really know what to do with that. She always thought she was doing good, so why are people not happy?
Add to that an escaped warlock who is out to get her and things are not so good for our Aria Fae. She has a lot on her plate as it is, but right from the start things keep piling up. Her crush and old partner from the Peace Brokers comes back and offers her what she thought she always wanted - him and a chance to go back to her old life. If he would have shown up before she got settled there would be no question that she would go back, but now can she really leave? Can she go back to the people who kicked her out not that long ago? Or will she stay and help protect Grant City and the people she has grown to care about there?
I really enjoy these Aria Fae books. She is fun to read and such a selfless person most of the time. Once she hears someone in trouble she has to go help even if it means putting herself in grave danger. She is conflicted at times about what to do, but she is also really young. She is only seventeen and you can see that. Not always, but as the stories go I hope we get to see her grow and become stronger. You get to see a bit of that in this book, facing her past and trying to move forward with her life. These are just fun reads.
Now there is one thing that did bug me about this story and that was all of the guys who like Aria and how she treats them. It seems guys cannot help but want to be with her, which is fine, but Aria just makes out with and uses whoever is around at the time. She never thinks like maybe I shouldn't make out with this other guy since I was just kissing a different guy yesterday and telling him how much I liked being around him. It was a bit frustrating as she had no consideration for them, for what they might think or feel if they find out she is doing whatever with everyone. She didn't know at all what she wanted (even though it is a bit obvious she feels more for some than others, or what she should do in a situation) and could be a bit whiny about it. Hopefully as the books progress she can at least take others feelings into consideration. A small thing in the grand scheme, but bugged me none the less.
Overall this was a good read. Fun and exciting and I can't wait for the next installment.
3.5 stars
The Masked Maiden was a fun second chapter in the Aria Fae Series. If you like superhero stories than this is a series for you. Note: This is a continuation of the same story from The Halfling, book one in the series.
Area Fae is a vigilante. She roams the streets of Grant City, with the help of her friends, trying to stop crime. She is doing good, helping people, but not everyone sees it that way. She is starting to see some public backlash from the good deeds she has done. Some people are saying she is a menace and should be stopped. And she doesn't really know what to do with that. She always thought she was doing good, so why are people not happy?
Add to that an escaped warlock who is out to get her and things are not so good for our Aria Fae. She has a lot on her plate as it is, but right from the start things keep piling up. Her crush and old partner from the Peace Brokers comes back and offers her what she thought she always wanted - him and a chance to go back to her old life. If he would have shown up before she got settled there would be no question that she would go back, but now can she really leave? Can she go back to the people who kicked her out not that long ago? Or will she stay and help protect Grant City and the people she has grown to care about there?
I really enjoy these Aria Fae books. She is fun to read and such a selfless person most of the time. Once she hears someone in trouble she has to go help even if it means putting herself in grave danger. She is conflicted at times about what to do, but she is also really young. She is only seventeen and you can see that. Not always, but as the stories go I hope we get to see her grow and become stronger. You get to see a bit of that in this book, facing her past and trying to move forward with her life. These are just fun reads.
Now there is one thing that did bug me about this story and that was all of the guys who like Aria and how she treats them. It seems guys cannot help but want to be with her, which is fine, but Aria just makes out with and uses whoever is around at the time. She never thinks like maybe I shouldn't make out with this other guy since I was just kissing a different guy yesterday and telling him how much I liked being around him. It was a bit frustrating as she had no consideration for them, for what they might think or feel if they find out she is doing whatever with everyone. She didn't know at all what she wanted (even though it is a bit obvious she feels more for some than others, or what she should do in a situation) and could be a bit whiny about it. Hopefully as the books progress she can at least take others feelings into consideration. A small thing in the grand scheme, but bugged me none the less.
Overall this was a good read. Fun and exciting and I can't wait for the next installment.
April 27, 2016
I fell in love with Aria Fae in THE HALFING which released a couple of months ago. I was introduced to author H.D. Gordon with her book, JOE. I have to go back to that review and see who recommended it to me, but I bought it on a whim and was surprised: I normally hate books with alternating points of view, but I found myself loving this one. I then met H.D. Gordon at a book signing in Atlantic City and promptliy bought a hard copy of Joe and the first book in the Alexa Montgomery Series. Sticking this in here in the midst of my review: I fully expect amazon to pull my review. They seem to do that if you really like an author and buy all of their books and review all of their books, too. So if you're still reading this, cool. If it disappears, well ask amazon where it went because I paid for this book and should be allowed to review things I spend my hard earned money on.
When I started reading the Alexa Montgomery series, I had to buy the whole omnibus because there was no way I could not read that series start to finish.
Enter Aria Fae in THE HALFLING. H.D. Gordon is going to be releasing these roughly two months apart for this whole series and let me tell you that it has been a VERY LONG EIGHT WEEKS since The Halfling! Aria is...well, half Fae and half Human. Kicked out of the Peace Brokers, she's made her way to Grant City. With her heightened senses and strengths and a strong moral fiber, she becomes the superheroine vigilante of Grant City.
But hey, who said they wanted one?
In THE HALFLING, we're introduced to Aria's background and her new counterparts: the uber rich son of the Grant City powerhouse family, Caleb Cross, her mysterious and hot neighbor Thomas Reid, and her new BFF Samantha Shy and Matt (darn it I'm forgetting his name). Sam and Matt are Aria's secret lair buddies. With their smarts and inventions, they help Aria patrol. It was a wild ride as Aria started to ruffle feathers.
Now, Aria is firm in her role as THE MASKED MAIDEN. And her past is coming back to haunt her. An old friend returns with the news that an old enemy has surfaced. Aria is not only dealing with nightmares come to life, but the fact that certain people in Grant City want her eliminated, and the messy emotions of several guys she is interested in and has feelings for...but which one has her heart?
Thrilling with lots of action, I loved this fantasy urban paranormal. The third book releases in June and I for one am already counting the weeks!
When I started reading the Alexa Montgomery series, I had to buy the whole omnibus because there was no way I could not read that series start to finish.
Enter Aria Fae in THE HALFLING. H.D. Gordon is going to be releasing these roughly two months apart for this whole series and let me tell you that it has been a VERY LONG EIGHT WEEKS since The Halfling! Aria is...well, half Fae and half Human. Kicked out of the Peace Brokers, she's made her way to Grant City. With her heightened senses and strengths and a strong moral fiber, she becomes the superheroine vigilante of Grant City.
But hey, who said they wanted one?
In THE HALFLING, we're introduced to Aria's background and her new counterparts: the uber rich son of the Grant City powerhouse family, Caleb Cross, her mysterious and hot neighbor Thomas Reid, and her new BFF Samantha Shy and Matt (darn it I'm forgetting his name). Sam and Matt are Aria's secret lair buddies. With their smarts and inventions, they help Aria patrol. It was a wild ride as Aria started to ruffle feathers.
Now, Aria is firm in her role as THE MASKED MAIDEN. And her past is coming back to haunt her. An old friend returns with the news that an old enemy has surfaced. Aria is not only dealing with nightmares come to life, but the fact that certain people in Grant City want her eliminated, and the messy emotions of several guys she is interested in and has feelings for...but which one has her heart?
Thrilling with lots of action, I loved this fantasy urban paranormal. The third book releases in June and I for one am already counting the weeks!
September 22, 2016
I'm giving The Masked Maiden five Superhero stars. I'm in complete awe as of this moment. Truth be told, I just finished reading it about two minutes ago, so excuse me if this sounds off. From the beginning, there's doubts. Is Aria a hero or a villain? Does Grant City appreciate her efforts? Will they ever? With a bad guy from Aria’s past on the loose, doing very bad things, it's up to Aria to send him back and if she does, she just might get to have her old life back. Hey, let's not forget, Aria has a few romantic prospects vying for her affection. Three guys!! This is a messed up love-rectangle, hehehe. Na, but in the end it becomes a triangle. And one of them, has a secret of his own. So while all of this going on, she, herself, is wondering if she's what the people of Grant City need or not. Are the people she considers friends truly her friend or something more like family? Truth be told, I was 83% in when I felt like I wanted to give up on Aria. I know, that sounds horrible. But I felt like Aria just kept making the wrong choice again and again. Even after the two-word letter!! (I was an emotional wreck after THAT-being when she received it-to reading it- scene) I was frustrated is all. When I was settled down enough to turn to the next page, I felt something of a shock because my frustration was unwarranted. The Author had my heart in some weird limbo state, where I knew which way it should've gone. And yet, it was kind of watching the proverbial train wreck Aria was about to get on. You want to look away but you just can't help it. And I just couldn't help myself, by turning page after page of this whirlwind ride of Aria’s. I'm definitely left with the biggest smile on my face. It might have something to do with the awesome storytelling, characters, & the emotions it brought forth. But in all honesty, I think it's because Thomas Reid finally kissed the girl!! (& yes, that's totally a Disney reference, lol!!) So yes, yes, to everything about this book. And I want future female readers to beware, Thomas Reid is MINE!!
September 4, 2016
I received a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This in no way reflects my opinion of the book.
If you like a good action packed book with twists and turns, and some fantasy thrown into the mix than this one is for you.
I really loved this book. I thought that it was beautifully written, besides a few slight spelling errors, but hey that comes with an ARC copy. I thought this book was extremely exciting, and fun to read. It even had some survival scenes in it, which made it even better. I was happy with the ending, but also shocked. Then came a slight, not a huge one, but a small cliffhanger. It was enough to make me want to read the next book as soon as possible. I think if I read more of this series it will definitely keep me from being bored.
I was at my parents house taking care of the dogs while reading it. I love reading out loud, and so I read out loud, and all the dogs gathered around and laid down on the dog beds by the chair. If I had to pause to refill my water, they would look at me as if asking why did you stop. When I sat back down so did they to listen. So it is safe to say that the dogs enjoyed the book as much as I did.
I would definitely recommend this book to other readers that love the fantasy genera. There were a few provocative moments, but nothing huge that would shy me away from recommending this book to ages 16 and up.
If you like a good action packed book with twists and turns, and some fantasy thrown into the mix than this one is for you.
I really loved this book. I thought that it was beautifully written, besides a few slight spelling errors, but hey that comes with an ARC copy. I thought this book was extremely exciting, and fun to read. It even had some survival scenes in it, which made it even better. I was happy with the ending, but also shocked. Then came a slight, not a huge one, but a small cliffhanger. It was enough to make me want to read the next book as soon as possible. I think if I read more of this series it will definitely keep me from being bored.
I was at my parents house taking care of the dogs while reading it. I love reading out loud, and so I read out loud, and all the dogs gathered around and laid down on the dog beds by the chair. If I had to pause to refill my water, they would look at me as if asking why did you stop. When I sat back down so did they to listen. So it is safe to say that the dogs enjoyed the book as much as I did.
I would definitely recommend this book to other readers that love the fantasy genera. There were a few provocative moments, but nothing huge that would shy me away from recommending this book to ages 16 and up.
April 27, 2016
H.D. Gordon did her magic once again, bringin to us an amaizing story with nothing but action and a good plot.
Her character development as always is flawless and you can dig into de skin of your favorite character just by reading a bit.
I try to find important plotholes but to be a second it is actually very good, nothing mayor, and as I don´t want to spoil I will just say "YOU HAVE TO READ THIS"
As a 2nd book, I think it is actually better that the 1st one, thing that almost neve happens, but well, we are talking about H.D.Gordon, we couldn't ask for less!!!
Definitely one of my favorite books from this author and will also make a space in my bookshlef for it.
5 out of 5 this is what I call ART
Her character development as always is flawless and you can dig into de skin of your favorite character just by reading a bit.
I try to find important plotholes but to be a second it is actually very good, nothing mayor, and as I don´t want to spoil I will just say "YOU HAVE TO READ THIS"
As a 2nd book, I think it is actually better that the 1st one, thing that almost neve happens, but well, we are talking about H.D.Gordon, we couldn't ask for less!!!
Definitely one of my favorite books from this author and will also make a space in my bookshlef for it.
5 out of 5 this is what I call ART
April 28, 2016
Love Our Girl Aria
Stayed up late and finished this book in one sitting. The words flew off the pages and it was a enjoyable effortless read! I love all the quirky things that comes out of her mouth especially when she's embarrassed. There is a lengthy love triangle in this one. I re read the first book this morning finding all my favorite parts and I gotta say Enjoyable read. Love our tough girl. She gets the job done. I love the balance of toughness and finding release and then getting back up. Thomas gets my vote.
Stayed up late and finished this book in one sitting. The words flew off the pages and it was a enjoyable effortless read! I love all the quirky things that comes out of her mouth especially when she's embarrassed. There is a lengthy love triangle in this one. I re read the first book this morning finding all my favorite parts and I gotta say Enjoyable read. Love our tough girl. She gets the job done. I love the balance of toughness and finding release and then getting back up. Thomas gets my vote.
May 7, 2017
I enjoy this young protagonist and her naïve yet earnest belief in justice. Gordon walks a fine line, giving us enough fantasy to like Aria and feel sympathetic, and not so over the top we die of sugar overload. What I like most about the series is the solid story lines and likeable characters-- yeah, a masked vigilante is not wholly realistic, but sheesh, sometimes you just read a story to enjoy the writing. I think having three possible male love interests confuses the plot, but they are all fairly decent guys, so it's not unbearable when she can't make a choice. Enjoy, it's just a story!
August 30, 2016
I was hesitant to pick this book up because I wasn’t completely sold on the first book in the series. So I put it off for a while and rediscovered it in the process of catching up on back reviews. I’m absolutely floored. I really don’t know where to start because this is such a drastic change from book 1. I am now 100%, completely, and totally invested in this series.
Read more here:
https://youngadultbookmadness.wordpre...
Read more here:
https://youngadultbookmadness.wordpre...
September 30, 2016
This story just keeps on getting better.
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