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Reliquary #3
Mosaic
Mattie Carver never thought she’d give up her small-town life to become one half of the best magic-smuggling duo in the business. Until recently, she didn’t even know such a business existed. But as an unusually strong reliquary—able to carry vast quantities of magic in her body, undetected—she’s been pulled into an underworld of organized crime and addictive enchantments. And although she’s determined to keep things professional, her partner, Asa Ward, is a temptation she finds increasingly hard to resist.
Even as their relationship reaches a tipping point, Mattie is wary; Asa already told her he hates cages—literal or otherwise. But when an international black-market magic exchange goes awry, Asa falls into the hands of his enemies. Now, with the man who refuses to be controlled under the command of a ruthless captor, Mattie must decide how far she’s willing to go to rescue him—assuming there’s anything left to save.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2016
186 people are currently reading
597 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Fine
54 books1,998 followersWhen I'm not writing, I'm psychologizing (really, I even get a paycheck for it). Sometimes I do both at the same time. The results are unpredictable.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
January 21, 2017
Crippling ending, but the book in general is REALLY good. The best of the series.
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Mosaic by Sarah Fine
Book Three of the Reliquary series
Publisher: 47North
Publication Date: November 15, 2016
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
Mattie Carver never thought she’d give up her small-town life to become one half of the best magic-smuggling duo in the business. Until recently, she didn’t even know such a business existed. But as an unusually strong reliquary—able to carry vast quantities of magic in her body, undetected—she’s been pulled into an underworld of organized crime and addictive enchantments. And although she’s determined to keep things professional, her partner, Asa Ward, is a temptation she finds increasingly hard to resist.
Even as their relationship reaches a tipping point, Mattie is wary; Asa already told her he hates cages—literal or otherwise. But when an international black-market magic exchange goes awry, Asa falls into the hands of his enemies. Now, with the man who refuses to be controlled under the command of a ruthless captor, Mattie must decide how far she’s willing to go to rescue him—assuming there’s anything left to save.
What I Liked:
Most of you who follow my blog already know much I adore Sarah Fine's books. This is the fourteenth book I've read by her (out of fourteen, if I've counted correctly). None of her books have gotten below three stars. I've definitely struggled with this series more than her other series (see my reviews of Reliquary and Splinter), but I can confidently say that this is probably the best book of the series.
Mattie and Asa have been working together, doing freelance jobs in transporting magic, earning their way and keeping their freedom. But one transaction goes terribly wrong, and Asa is captured by dangerous men. But Mattie is going to have to work with an even more dangerous man, and an elusive woman, to get Asa back. She'll quickly find out just how much she wants to get him back, and how much she'll risk to do so.
Full disclosure: I knew a lot about this book before reading it. Meaning, I knew the ending (and it's cruel). I also knew that the author planned this series with a fourth book in mind. I know that she always intended to publish a fourth book in the series, and did not want to leave readers with the ending of this book (again, it's cruel). With all of that in mind, I think my opinion and rating of the book is extremely fair. I liked this book a lot, up until the last few pages, when the ending hit me in the face. I already knew about the ending, but I also knew that it wasn't supposed to stick (because there was supposed to be a fourth book).
Mattie reaches her full potential as a strong, capable young woman. In the previous books in this series, I accused her of being weak and indecisive, and I didn't enjoy those traits of hers. But in this book, she is much more willful and determined. She is completely driven by her devotion to Asa, and will stop at nothing to get him back. Mattie evolves into a hardened yet passionate and confident person, even without Asa by her side.
I think one of the other reasons why I liked this book so much (besides Mattie's character growth) was the complete lack of Ben in this book. He's gone, and so is Mattie "former" life. There is not a single mention of Ben or Mattie's family, and I was fine with this. None of that was necessary in this book; Mattie had more pressing matters to attend.
I love the new characters that we get to know in this book! Mattie travels a lot, including heading to Russia, where she teams up with that super dangerous guy I mentioned. Spoiler alert - it's Volodya! And he is every bit as deadly, creepy, and certifiably insane as you are led to believe. He is also someone you might not expect. But he proves to be extremely useful in this story, and I felt for him. There is an equally dangerous and important character in this story - a woman - whom I also really liked and felt for. She helps Mattie a lot, and works with Mattie and Volodya. This was an interesting dynamic. I adored Volodya's "nephew", Daniil. Daniil is not related to Volodya at all, but he is highly trusted by Volodya. He's a Strikon but he's a decent guy.
Asa isn't as present with Mattie as he is in the other books, and yet, he consumes all of the pages. While they are separated a quarter of the way into book (when he is captured), he is still very present, in Mattie's thoughts and emotions. It is clear that he suffers a great deal in this book, but he loses none of his cunning and his wit and his ability to get out of sticky situations. The man always has a plan upon a plan.
The romance in this book was perfect. Yes, Mattie and Asa are separated for at least 50% of the book. But the first 25% of the book got really intense, between the two of them. The last 25% was a roller coaster, when they reunite (it's not quite easy at first). The last few scenes are sweet and steamy and really powerful. I liked the romance - it's unconventional in this book, because it exists so powerfully even though the characters are separated. The chemistry between Asa and Mattie is evident in the first 25% of the book, and throughout the rest of their interactions.
I enjoyed the story as I was reading. I wasn't bored, and I wasn't too tense about things. There was no love triangle to be worried about, especially with the magnitude of Asa and Mattie's feelings for each other. I knew that somehow, Mattie would succeed and somehow, she and Asa would find a way. I enjoyed reading the book, and was completely hooked. It's like this book had a different feel to it, compared to the others? It was more adventurous and "fun", even though the stakes were ridiculously high and I should have been biting my nails.
The ending is my only complaint, and I'll talk about that in the next section.
What I Did Not Like:
To be fair, I went on a rampage when I read the ending. I heard about it before I read the entire book, and then I read the ending before I read the entire book. I was furious and heartbroken. But in the long run, I'm glad I knew about the ending beforehand. It's cruel and so unfair to readers, but at least I knew ahead of time (I personally prefer to know).
I didn't like the ending but I take comfort in knowing that the author wanted to publish four books in this series, and that there was going to be a book to follow this one that would finish Mattie and Asa's story and satisfy readers (according to the author). However, the fourth book isn't happening, and we're stuck with this cruel ending and our imaginations. I'm still upset and heartbroken over the lack of fourth book, more than I am about the ending. Because I know (from the author) that this isn't the ending the author wanted. This is why I'm not sinking my rating of this book too much - because the intentions are there. Yes, we're not going to get that fourth book. But at least I know that it wasn't intended to end this way.
Would I Recommend It:
This is actually a tough call. Given that this is the official last book in the series now, and it ends cruelly, I do not recommend the series. I do recommend the book if you've started the series - see the series through. But I don't think I'd recommend the series overall, because it's a difficult series to read (the first two books are), and it doesn't end well at all. Sadly, it wasn't supposed to end this way, but that's the ending we're stuck with.
Rating:
4 stars. Like I've said, I liked this book a lot. I enjoyed it and had a lot of fun reading it... until the ending, which I knew of beforehand. The ending didn't surprise me because I already knew about it, but it will shock and hurt you, the first time you read/hear about it. I totally trust that Sarah Fine would have written a wonderful conclusion novel with a fantastic HEA, had she been given the chance.
Pre-read excitement:
I enjoyed Splinter MUCH more than Reliquary, so I'm officially ready for Mosaic.
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Mosaic by Sarah Fine
Book Three of the Reliquary series
Publisher: 47North
Publication Date: November 15, 2016
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
Mattie Carver never thought she’d give up her small-town life to become one half of the best magic-smuggling duo in the business. Until recently, she didn’t even know such a business existed. But as an unusually strong reliquary—able to carry vast quantities of magic in her body, undetected—she’s been pulled into an underworld of organized crime and addictive enchantments. And although she’s determined to keep things professional, her partner, Asa Ward, is a temptation she finds increasingly hard to resist.
Even as their relationship reaches a tipping point, Mattie is wary; Asa already told her he hates cages—literal or otherwise. But when an international black-market magic exchange goes awry, Asa falls into the hands of his enemies. Now, with the man who refuses to be controlled under the command of a ruthless captor, Mattie must decide how far she’s willing to go to rescue him—assuming there’s anything left to save.
What I Liked:
Most of you who follow my blog already know much I adore Sarah Fine's books. This is the fourteenth book I've read by her (out of fourteen, if I've counted correctly). None of her books have gotten below three stars. I've definitely struggled with this series more than her other series (see my reviews of Reliquary and Splinter), but I can confidently say that this is probably the best book of the series.
Mattie and Asa have been working together, doing freelance jobs in transporting magic, earning their way and keeping their freedom. But one transaction goes terribly wrong, and Asa is captured by dangerous men. But Mattie is going to have to work with an even more dangerous man, and an elusive woman, to get Asa back. She'll quickly find out just how much she wants to get him back, and how much she'll risk to do so.
Full disclosure: I knew a lot about this book before reading it. Meaning, I knew the ending (and it's cruel). I also knew that the author planned this series with a fourth book in mind. I know that she always intended to publish a fourth book in the series, and did not want to leave readers with the ending of this book (again, it's cruel). With all of that in mind, I think my opinion and rating of the book is extremely fair. I liked this book a lot, up until the last few pages, when the ending hit me in the face. I already knew about the ending, but I also knew that it wasn't supposed to stick (because there was supposed to be a fourth book).
Mattie reaches her full potential as a strong, capable young woman. In the previous books in this series, I accused her of being weak and indecisive, and I didn't enjoy those traits of hers. But in this book, she is much more willful and determined. She is completely driven by her devotion to Asa, and will stop at nothing to get him back. Mattie evolves into a hardened yet passionate and confident person, even without Asa by her side.
I think one of the other reasons why I liked this book so much (besides Mattie's character growth) was the complete lack of Ben in this book. He's gone, and so is Mattie "former" life. There is not a single mention of Ben or Mattie's family, and I was fine with this. None of that was necessary in this book; Mattie had more pressing matters to attend.
I love the new characters that we get to know in this book! Mattie travels a lot, including heading to Russia, where she teams up with that super dangerous guy I mentioned. Spoiler alert - it's Volodya! And he is every bit as deadly, creepy, and certifiably insane as you are led to believe. He is also someone you might not expect. But he proves to be extremely useful in this story, and I felt for him. There is an equally dangerous and important character in this story - a woman - whom I also really liked and felt for. She helps Mattie a lot, and works with Mattie and Volodya. This was an interesting dynamic. I adored Volodya's "nephew", Daniil. Daniil is not related to Volodya at all, but he is highly trusted by Volodya. He's a Strikon but he's a decent guy.
Asa isn't as present with Mattie as he is in the other books, and yet, he consumes all of the pages. While they are separated a quarter of the way into book (when he is captured), he is still very present, in Mattie's thoughts and emotions. It is clear that he suffers a great deal in this book, but he loses none of his cunning and his wit and his ability to get out of sticky situations. The man always has a plan upon a plan.
The romance in this book was perfect. Yes, Mattie and Asa are separated for at least 50% of the book. But the first 25% of the book got really intense, between the two of them. The last 25% was a roller coaster, when they reunite (it's not quite easy at first). The last few scenes are sweet and steamy and really powerful. I liked the romance - it's unconventional in this book, because it exists so powerfully even though the characters are separated. The chemistry between Asa and Mattie is evident in the first 25% of the book, and throughout the rest of their interactions.
I enjoyed the story as I was reading. I wasn't bored, and I wasn't too tense about things. There was no love triangle to be worried about, especially with the magnitude of Asa and Mattie's feelings for each other. I knew that somehow, Mattie would succeed and somehow, she and Asa would find a way. I enjoyed reading the book, and was completely hooked. It's like this book had a different feel to it, compared to the others? It was more adventurous and "fun", even though the stakes were ridiculously high and I should have been biting my nails.
The ending is my only complaint, and I'll talk about that in the next section.
What I Did Not Like:
To be fair, I went on a rampage when I read the ending. I heard about it before I read the entire book, and then I read the ending before I read the entire book. I was furious and heartbroken. But in the long run, I'm glad I knew about the ending beforehand. It's cruel and so unfair to readers, but at least I knew ahead of time (I personally prefer to know).
I didn't like the ending but I take comfort in knowing that the author wanted to publish four books in this series, and that there was going to be a book to follow this one that would finish Mattie and Asa's story and satisfy readers (according to the author). However, the fourth book isn't happening, and we're stuck with this cruel ending and our imaginations. I'm still upset and heartbroken over the lack of fourth book, more than I am about the ending. Because I know (from the author) that this isn't the ending the author wanted. This is why I'm not sinking my rating of this book too much - because the intentions are there. Yes, we're not going to get that fourth book. But at least I know that it wasn't intended to end this way.
Would I Recommend It:
This is actually a tough call. Given that this is the official last book in the series now, and it ends cruelly, I do not recommend the series. I do recommend the book if you've started the series - see the series through. But I don't think I'd recommend the series overall, because it's a difficult series to read (the first two books are), and it doesn't end well at all. Sadly, it wasn't supposed to end this way, but that's the ending we're stuck with.
Rating:
4 stars. Like I've said, I liked this book a lot. I enjoyed it and had a lot of fun reading it... until the ending, which I knew of beforehand. The ending didn't surprise me because I already knew about it, but it will shock and hurt you, the first time you read/hear about it. I totally trust that Sarah Fine would have written a wonderful conclusion novel with a fantastic HEA, had she been given the chance.
Pre-read excitement:
I enjoyed Splinter MUCH more than Reliquary, so I'm officially ready for Mosaic.
November 28, 2016
I have to revise my review of Mosaic.
I thought this was the end of the series, and the ending (for me) was a terrible end to the series.
However, the author has said that she doesn't consider this to be the end.
So hopefully, hopefully, hopefully, she will be writing the next book SOON (please, please, please!!!).
As a cliffhanger, this ending was outstanding.
I thought this was the end of the series, and the ending (for me) was a terrible end to the series.
However, the author has said that she doesn't consider this to be the end.
So hopefully, hopefully, hopefully, she will be writing the next book SOON (please, please, please!!!).
As a cliffhanger, this ending was outstanding.
November 5, 2016
I refuse to believe that that is the end of the series. I'm going to need more...that is all.
11/5/16
Mosaic is the third book in the Reliquary series by Sarah Fine. If you haven’t read books one and two yet, don’t dive into this review yet. Go get the series and read all of it. Then come back so we can discuss all the feelings. I am going to try really hard not to spoil anything but be warned!
If you recall, Mattie had made the decision to keep their relationship professional but Asa hasn’t made it super easy for her. She continues to be attracted to him and when she eventually decides to do something about it, things go wrong…which seems to be something that happen often with them. As Mattie and Asa are separated, a number of things happen that made me not able to put this book down.
When Mattie and Asa are separated, Mattie finds herself face to face with Asa’s mother and she learns a lot about not only Asa’s mother and his relationship with her, but also about herself. Mattie really has to think about what she is willing to go through in order to get Asa back and it really isn’t pretty. Thankfully for Mattie she also has some friends to help her out.
While I really like these characters together, it was great to see Mattie trying to survive out on her own and I thought she grew a lot throughout this book. She didn’t have Asa to rely on and get her out of things…in most cases he was the one causing her problems. Mattie had to be smart and she had to be tough and I thought she really came through in this book.
I don’t want to say too much about this book since it is a book three but I do have to say…I can’t believe that this is the end. I am somewhat in denial and I am hoping Fine takes pity on me and writes the next book…YES I SAID IT! The ending on this one killed me and I can’t even tell you about it. Please know that despite the killer ending, I loved everything about this series.
If you haven’t read anything by Sarah Fine yet you need to fix that. She does a fabulous job of creating a story that will pull you in and keep you invested. Her characters are always well developed and she always does a wonderful job of developing the world they inhabit. If you are looking for a great paranormal read, check this series out. It was magic, danger, swoony bits, and a story that will have you turning the pages for more.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the review copy!
11/5/16
Mosaic is the third book in the Reliquary series by Sarah Fine. If you haven’t read books one and two yet, don’t dive into this review yet. Go get the series and read all of it. Then come back so we can discuss all the feelings. I am going to try really hard not to spoil anything but be warned!
If you recall, Mattie had made the decision to keep their relationship professional but Asa hasn’t made it super easy for her. She continues to be attracted to him and when she eventually decides to do something about it, things go wrong…which seems to be something that happen often with them. As Mattie and Asa are separated, a number of things happen that made me not able to put this book down.
When Mattie and Asa are separated, Mattie finds herself face to face with Asa’s mother and she learns a lot about not only Asa’s mother and his relationship with her, but also about herself. Mattie really has to think about what she is willing to go through in order to get Asa back and it really isn’t pretty. Thankfully for Mattie she also has some friends to help her out.
While I really like these characters together, it was great to see Mattie trying to survive out on her own and I thought she grew a lot throughout this book. She didn’t have Asa to rely on and get her out of things…in most cases he was the one causing her problems. Mattie had to be smart and she had to be tough and I thought she really came through in this book.
I don’t want to say too much about this book since it is a book three but I do have to say…I can’t believe that this is the end. I am somewhat in denial and I am hoping Fine takes pity on me and writes the next book…YES I SAID IT! The ending on this one killed me and I can’t even tell you about it. Please know that despite the killer ending, I loved everything about this series.
If you haven’t read anything by Sarah Fine yet you need to fix that. She does a fabulous job of creating a story that will pull you in and keep you invested. Her characters are always well developed and she always does a wonderful job of developing the world they inhabit. If you are looking for a great paranormal read, check this series out. It was magic, danger, swoony bits, and a story that will have you turning the pages for more.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the review copy!
May 21, 2019
0 stars...
Imagine killing off Acheron, Voldermort winning or finding out Romeo was banging someone behind Juliets back
How can such an potentially amazing read fall so far....
This is the most disappointing book i have ever read, after getting invested and falling in love with the characters over three books we get this ending.... seriously.... I will definitely avoid this Author from now on.....
Imagine killing off Acheron, Voldermort winning or finding out Romeo was banging someone behind Juliets back
How can such an potentially amazing read fall so far....
This is the most disappointing book i have ever read, after getting invested and falling in love with the characters over three books we get this ending.... seriously.... I will definitely avoid this Author from now on.....
September 25, 2016
I received an e-ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I consider myself to be one of the top fans of Sarah's writing. I've read all the books, have raved about them not being so known to the reading public but this book had me sit back after finishing it and wonder: "Why? Why did she do this?"
In Mosaic we follow Asa and Mattie as they make their own road, following relics and swapping magic between items. When a horrible event causes Asa to be separated from Mattie, she will do everything she can in order to save him.
While the story was filled with action and Mattie's POV struggling to save Asa, I couldn't help but notice how much depth Sarah Fine gave to both Mattie but also all the secondary characters she wrote. Some revelations were cruel, other pretty hard to understand, but I think that in the end, the whole point was to understand trough all the characters how hard you can fall in love, but also how toxic this love can be to yourself.
I admit it: the ending was horrible. I was crying by the ending of the book. I didn't want any of them to end like this! I'll not spoil but if you want to know, I am open to a discussion. It was unfair to Mattie and cruel from all aspects at least in my opinion.
This series is actually one of the darkest Sarah Fine has written so far. Although I don't know if she'll write a spin-off series, I finally understood that the point in these books wasn't the romance or the action but instead the cruel nature of the human relationship. Recommended if you want to cure your curiosity of the ending.
I consider myself to be one of the top fans of Sarah's writing. I've read all the books, have raved about them not being so known to the reading public but this book had me sit back after finishing it and wonder: "Why? Why did she do this?"
In Mosaic we follow Asa and Mattie as they make their own road, following relics and swapping magic between items. When a horrible event causes Asa to be separated from Mattie, she will do everything she can in order to save him.
While the story was filled with action and Mattie's POV struggling to save Asa, I couldn't help but notice how much depth Sarah Fine gave to both Mattie but also all the secondary characters she wrote. Some revelations were cruel, other pretty hard to understand, but I think that in the end, the whole point was to understand trough all the characters how hard you can fall in love, but also how toxic this love can be to yourself.
I admit it: the ending was horrible. I was crying by the ending of the book. I didn't want any of them to end like this! I'll not spoil but if you want to know, I am open to a discussion. It was unfair to Mattie and cruel from all aspects at least in my opinion.
This series is actually one of the darkest Sarah Fine has written so far. Although I don't know if she'll write a spin-off series, I finally understood that the point in these books wasn't the romance or the action but instead the cruel nature of the human relationship. Recommended if you want to cure your curiosity of the ending.
November 4, 2025
Mosaic is a dark and sinister romp through the magical world of Sarah Fine’s imagination.
The story told from Mattie Carver’s view as she battles to survive the magical world she has unwilling become immersed in. I had a difficult time understanding Mattie’s choices. On one hand, she vacillates often and her choices are rather young and immature but then she does something extremely mature making it difficult to reconcile the two opposing personalities.
Mattie finally decides who she loves only to have that person ripped away and turned into a magical slave.
This is not a romance but an action thriller that thrives off the degradation of humankind. The story is dark and at times intense. Not a fan of the ending, I guess it again shows that not only humankind is cruel but love is shown time and time again as a weakness and a corruption that can’t be afforded in this world.
I received this ARC copy of Mosaic from 47North in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication November 15, 2016.
My Rating: 3 stars
The story told from Mattie Carver’s view as she battles to survive the magical world she has unwilling become immersed in. I had a difficult time understanding Mattie’s choices. On one hand, she vacillates often and her choices are rather young and immature but then she does something extremely mature making it difficult to reconcile the two opposing personalities.
Mattie finally decides who she loves only to have that person ripped away and turned into a magical slave.
This is not a romance but an action thriller that thrives off the degradation of humankind. The story is dark and at times intense. Not a fan of the ending, I guess it again shows that not only humankind is cruel but love is shown time and time again as a weakness and a corruption that can’t be afforded in this world.
I received this ARC copy of Mosaic from 47North in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication November 15, 2016.
My Rating: 3 stars
June 27, 2019
this book was a mind screw but I can't say don't read it cos it still was really good I heard this is not the last book that's why I gave it five stars but if it was the finale I would be very pissed.
March 24, 2018
When you finish a book and scream a bunch of curses because your heart is so broken, then immediately look up the author to see if she is planning on another book in the series, it must be good, right? I really want to give it fewer stars because I am so heartbroken, but that might not be fair. I'm telling YOU now, Sarah Fine, I'm not reading any of your other books until I see another one in this series in the works. Ok, maybe that isn't fair either, but seriously! Don't let leave me hanging like this! What did I do to deserve this emptiness inside?
We begin the story with Mattie and Asa working very professionally together. Of course, there is a lot of romantic tension between them, but they are both scared to cross that line. When Asa is captured, Mattie is forced to do whatever it takes to get him back, even if it means working with most of their known enemies and a few unlikely allies (like Asa's dead mom). For once, Mattie has to be the strong one - a role that she is NOT good at, especially when she realizes that she is up against the exact person that she is trying to save.
I love this series, but it is UNFINISHED (are you hearing me, Sarah???). Even if I took away all the emotional turmoil at the end of this book, there are still 2 original relics out there to find and the mystery of how they all work together. No one is better suited than the damn characters we already love. Please, Sarah, I'm begging you. For the love of all that is good in the world, please???
We begin the story with Mattie and Asa working very professionally together. Of course, there is a lot of romantic tension between them, but they are both scared to cross that line. When Asa is captured, Mattie is forced to do whatever it takes to get him back, even if it means working with most of their known enemies and a few unlikely allies (like Asa's dead mom). For once, Mattie has to be the strong one - a role that she is NOT good at, especially when she realizes that she is up against the exact person that she is trying to save.
I love this series, but it is UNFINISHED (are you hearing me, Sarah???). Even if I took away all the emotional turmoil at the end of this book, there are still 2 original relics out there to find and the mystery of how they all work together. No one is better suited than the damn characters we already love. Please, Sarah, I'm begging you. For the love of all that is good in the world, please???
November 17, 2016
What did I actually just read? Upon finishing Mosaic, I wondered if perhaps there had been a book published between it and Splinter since there were so many gaps in the storytelling. Characters who were missing came forward; characters who were enemies were suddenly working together. Initially I thought that the author would have fun with the timeline and reveal what had happened through flashbacks, but sadly that was not the case.
The relationship between Mattie and Asa was unsatisfactory, but I could overlook that because the characters were perfectly broken. Asa was not obligated to suddenly be cured of all of his issues just because someone fell in love with him. Regardless, the treatment of that relationship was brief and abrupt. I would love to see a fourth book in the series that closely follows the timeline of Mosaic, which frankly would have worked much better cut down and released as a novella to support a broader arc.
Good luck readers. If Reliquary and Splinter were five star reads for you, as they were me, I hope you can make better sense of Fine's decisions in storytelling than I could.
The relationship between Mattie and Asa was unsatisfactory, but I could overlook that because the characters were perfectly broken. Asa was not obligated to suddenly be cured of all of his issues just because someone fell in love with him. Regardless, the treatment of that relationship was brief and abrupt. I would love to see a fourth book in the series that closely follows the timeline of Mosaic, which frankly would have worked much better cut down and released as a novella to support a broader arc.
Good luck readers. If Reliquary and Splinter were five star reads for you, as they were me, I hope you can make better sense of Fine's decisions in storytelling than I could.
December 1, 2016
I received an eARC of this book from Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.
I am so sad writing this review. Sarah Fine is one of my favorite authors. I fell in love with her Guards of the Shadowland series and have been hooked on her writing ever since. But Mosaic was not at all what I was expecting. It didn’t really follow the first two books of the Reliquary series. In fact, I loved Reliquary and Splinter so I was really excited for the series conclusion. However I was so disappointed upon reading that I really don’t even know how to begin this review.
Mosaic picks up an undisclosed amount of time after the end of Splinter. It’s clear on reading that Mattie has been traveling the world and working with Asa. What’s unclear is their relationship. They seem to tiptoe around each other. Mattie still guarding her heart and Asa wanting more but waiting. At least that is the gist of it. Mattie has reverted back to the character she was at the beginning of Reliquary. She’s afraid of commitment, afraid to love, and running from her past headlong into Asa and his underground magic trading.
I could have handled the character regression after what happened to Mattie in the second book. What I couldn’t handle though was the scattered plot. I really had a hard time following what was going on, especially in the beginning of the book. There is no real clear time line on how long Asa and Mattie have been working together and how much time has passed since the second book. I could have handled that, but the odd, violent plot I couldn’t take. Asa and Mattie get in over their heads and Asa is taken by one of the larger magic-mob bosses, the same one that supposedly held his mother. It’s basically his nightmare and honestly I was excited (at first) to see how Mattie would handle saving Asa for a change, but I was so disappointed in its execution. The characters that pop up in this book from previous books don’t align with what we the readers know of them. Characters that have proven to be enemies are now allies, allies can’t be trusted…it’s all really confusing. And the ending….don’t even get me started!
Overall, I want a do-over. At 48% I stopped reading and just skimmed. I couldn’t handle the violence, I couldn’t handle the characters’ odd behaviors (acting unlike they have in previous books), I just couldn’t. And the sweet relationship/friendship that had blossomed between Mattie and Asa…that’s gone! Seriously I was questioning if I was reading the right book because it takes such a drastic turn from the previous two. Mosaic reads more like a second, bridge novel in a series than the concluding novel. Disappointing!
I am so sad writing this review. Sarah Fine is one of my favorite authors. I fell in love with her Guards of the Shadowland series and have been hooked on her writing ever since. But Mosaic was not at all what I was expecting. It didn’t really follow the first two books of the Reliquary series. In fact, I loved Reliquary and Splinter so I was really excited for the series conclusion. However I was so disappointed upon reading that I really don’t even know how to begin this review.
Mosaic picks up an undisclosed amount of time after the end of Splinter. It’s clear on reading that Mattie has been traveling the world and working with Asa. What’s unclear is their relationship. They seem to tiptoe around each other. Mattie still guarding her heart and Asa wanting more but waiting. At least that is the gist of it. Mattie has reverted back to the character she was at the beginning of Reliquary. She’s afraid of commitment, afraid to love, and running from her past headlong into Asa and his underground magic trading.
I could have handled the character regression after what happened to Mattie in the second book. What I couldn’t handle though was the scattered plot. I really had a hard time following what was going on, especially in the beginning of the book. There is no real clear time line on how long Asa and Mattie have been working together and how much time has passed since the second book. I could have handled that, but the odd, violent plot I couldn’t take. Asa and Mattie get in over their heads and Asa is taken by one of the larger magic-mob bosses, the same one that supposedly held his mother. It’s basically his nightmare and honestly I was excited (at first) to see how Mattie would handle saving Asa for a change, but I was so disappointed in its execution. The characters that pop up in this book from previous books don’t align with what we the readers know of them. Characters that have proven to be enemies are now allies, allies can’t be trusted…it’s all really confusing. And the ending….don’t even get me started!
Overall, I want a do-over. At 48% I stopped reading and just skimmed. I couldn’t handle the violence, I couldn’t handle the characters’ odd behaviors (acting unlike they have in previous books), I just couldn’t. And the sweet relationship/friendship that had blossomed between Mattie and Asa…that’s gone! Seriously I was questioning if I was reading the right book because it takes such a drastic turn from the previous two. Mosaic reads more like a second, bridge novel in a series than the concluding novel. Disappointing!
August 5, 2017
DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME!
I never leave one star reviews. If a book doesn't hold my interest enough to warrant at least a 3 halfway through I stop reading it. But this s@#$! I was so invested in these characters and not only was the ending between them completely ridiculously soul crushing, NOTHING was resolved with ANYTHING! It's like the author just decided she had better things to do and slaughtered her readers due to her boredom in that joke of an ending. So upset,3 days after reading it to allow myself time to give a fair review. Well it doesn't even deserve one star!! Uuugghh! Hated this book!
I never leave one star reviews. If a book doesn't hold my interest enough to warrant at least a 3 halfway through I stop reading it. But this s@#$! I was so invested in these characters and not only was the ending between them completely ridiculously soul crushing, NOTHING was resolved with ANYTHING! It's like the author just decided she had better things to do and slaughtered her readers due to her boredom in that joke of an ending. So upset,3 days after reading it to allow myself time to give a fair review. Well it doesn't even deserve one star!! Uuugghh! Hated this book!
November 28, 2016
This series gets better with every installment. I loved the intricate web of magic bosses and mafia styled empires in this book. This world just builds and builds!
Please please please continue and don't let this be the end!
Please please please continue and don't let this be the end!
November 4, 2016
*Source* NetGalley
*Genre* Paranormal Romance
*Rating* 3-3.5
*My Thoughts*
Mosaic is the third installment in Sarah Fine's Reliquary series. The story moves ahead in time months after the ending of Splinter. Having put her small town life, her family, her job, and her ex-fiance behind her, Mattie Carver, reliquary extraordinaire, has hit the road with Asa Ward. They have traveled all over the globe searching for ways to make their fortunes. As the story picks up, Mattie and Asa are after a relic stuffed with ekstazo magic currently being held by Russian boss Volodya.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews 11/04/2016*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
Expected publication: November 15th 2016 by 47North
*Genre* Paranormal Romance
*Rating* 3-3.5
*My Thoughts*
Mosaic is the third installment in Sarah Fine's Reliquary series. The story moves ahead in time months after the ending of Splinter. Having put her small town life, her family, her job, and her ex-fiance behind her, Mattie Carver, reliquary extraordinaire, has hit the road with Asa Ward. They have traveled all over the globe searching for ways to make their fortunes. As the story picks up, Mattie and Asa are after a relic stuffed with ekstazo magic currently being held by Russian boss Volodya.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews 11/04/2016*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
Expected publication: November 15th 2016 by 47North
February 27, 2017
This is not the last book in the series. I don't accept that is the case, based on the ending. If it is, then my rating should lose a star.
However, despite Fine's penchant for trilogies, I don't think she's done with this series, which makes the end of book 3 completely logical and understandable. Fine has a way of ending series that is complete and satisfying, so I think perhaps this series needs 1 or 2 more books, as we don't seem to have come to the end of the Mattie's story.
I remain hopeful and will patiently wait for Fine to write book 4, even though that might not have been the publisher's original intention for this series.
Pages: 310
However, despite Fine's penchant for trilogies, I don't think she's done with this series, which makes the end of book 3 completely logical and understandable. Fine has a way of ending series that is complete and satisfying, so I think perhaps this series needs 1 or 2 more books, as we don't seem to have come to the end of the Mattie's story.
I remain hopeful and will patiently wait for Fine to write book 4, even though that might not have been the publisher's original intention for this series.
Pages: 310
December 16, 2017
Rating 2
Where to begin...??? i had such high hopes for this book as I really liked Reliquary and Splinter. I wanted to read more about Mattie and Asa. There was so much action and stuff going on that there was no “Mattie and Asa”. Three quarters through the book and all I wanted was the story to end, be done and over with. By this time, I really didn't care how. I think the author felt the same because end it did. It wasn't soon enough for me. I don’t need a happy ending; but I do need closure.
Where to begin...??? i had such high hopes for this book as I really liked Reliquary and Splinter. I wanted to read more about Mattie and Asa. There was so much action and stuff going on that there was no “Mattie and Asa”. Three quarters through the book and all I wanted was the story to end, be done and over with. By this time, I really didn't care how. I think the author felt the same because end it did. It wasn't soon enough for me. I don’t need a happy ending; but I do need closure.
November 16, 2016
Brilliant series
I really like the two main characters and the story is brilliant. Fast-paced and totally had me hooked. I couldn't put it down...I anxiously hope there is another instalment as there is still more for Asa and Mattie surely?! Sarah Fine you have done a brilliant job with this series, each one a page turner. Thanks for the wonderful stories, please keep them coming.
I really like the two main characters and the story is brilliant. Fast-paced and totally had me hooked. I couldn't put it down...I anxiously hope there is another instalment as there is still more for Asa and Mattie surely?! Sarah Fine you have done a brilliant job with this series, each one a page turner. Thanks for the wonderful stories, please keep them coming.
December 1, 2016
What a horrible ending to a good series. Totally depressing and infuriating.
March 3, 2017
Well of the three I enjoyed this one the most. Much more interesting story, I actually wish this was the first book. The romance part is still a little much but Matties character is less whiney and therefore more entertaining to read about. ::SPOILERS:: Theresa is probably my favourite character next to Jack in this book, and I'm glad wet got to meet her and find out who Asa's parents are. I still feel like this series is a bit disorganized. This absolutely should have been the first book. It makes the other two seem extra pointless other that the purpose of explaining the magic world, and introducing a few more characters.
November 9, 2017
Wow this book almost got five stars from me. If I hadn't read the final chapter it would have. The book still had the issues from the previous books but you know what? Who cares! I absolutely loved the pacing and action of this book. I love the way you care about what happens to the characters, even the side characters. And I know that books don't always end the way you want them to, but dammit, this one had me ecstatic with the second to last chapter to borderline murderous (ok, slight exaggeration...slight) with the final chapter.
I can forgive this oversight and change my rating to five stars if we get more books set in this world of magic. There is literally so much that is left undone. Like...
Who is the Sorcerer?
What do all the ancient relics do?
What if they all come together?
Does the world end in a blaze of magic-fueled glory if they do?
Beyond the scope of Mattie and Asa, there is so much left to the story that I do hope gets told. And, of course, after the final chapter of Mosaic, I am left in uncertainty in regards to Mattie and Asa as well.
Basically, I really did enjoy this series, I still think Guards of the Shadowlands is my fav from Sarah Fine...but the Reliquary series is firmly in second place.
Again, I am willing to bump my rating to five stars in exchange for more books. I am clearly in the bargaining stage of grief right now... lol
I can forgive this oversight and change my rating to five stars if we get more books set in this world of magic. There is literally so much that is left undone. Like...
Who is the Sorcerer?
What do all the ancient relics do?
What if they all come together?
Does the world end in a blaze of magic-fueled glory if they do?
Beyond the scope of Mattie and Asa, there is so much left to the story that I do hope gets told. And, of course, after the final chapter of Mosaic, I am left in uncertainty in regards to Mattie and Asa as well.
Basically, I really did enjoy this series, I still think Guards of the Shadowlands is my fav from Sarah Fine...but the Reliquary series is firmly in second place.
Again, I am willing to bump my rating to five stars in exchange for more books. I am clearly in the bargaining stage of grief right now... lol
September 9, 2020
If i could give 0 stars to a series it would be this one. Dont read this series. Im upset that I did. I dont get what it is with Authors ending trilogies with the absolute worst ending they could think of. Im so disappointed that I've spent all my time reading and investing myself in characters for an ending like this. If there was a 4th book I wouldn't be upset at all. But its followed by a tween style badly drawn graphic novel. Anyone who has read this series knows how its written and knows ots not really a book series for young teens. So disappointed and will be avoiding this author in the future in fear that she fucks over her fans in other writing as well.
November 29, 2016
What in the actual hell..?
I sure hope there's another book to explain this ending because I, for one, an immensely disappointed. Usually Sarah is my girl, but even before the ending this book lacked the punch her other books held. I'm just frustrated and angry and confused and I suppose that was her intent, but it doesn't make it any easier to come to grips with that ending.
Here's my two frustrated stars, and hoping there's another book to remedy this...
I sure hope there's another book to explain this ending because I, for one, an immensely disappointed. Usually Sarah is my girl, but even before the ending this book lacked the punch her other books held. I'm just frustrated and angry and confused and I suppose that was her intent, but it doesn't make it any easier to come to grips with that ending.
Here's my two frustrated stars, and hoping there's another book to remedy this...
December 3, 2016
I'm very disappointed in this third installment. The only reason I gave it 2 stars is because I enjoyed the other two books. However, I didn't read through three books to have an unhappy ending. Why can't the main characters have a chance at a happy ending? Why does Asa have to be alone? Why can't Mattie have a chance of being with someone to love who loves her right back just once?I feel like I've wasted my time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2016
3.5*
Mattie and Asa. Their story will tear your heart to pieces and leave you thinking about it for days.
I will not be able to deal if this is the last book!! There are so many things left to explore, Mattie's story has barely begun it would seem! It has been so long since I have been so invested in a series. If not for the unresolved ending to this book my rating would have been 4+ stars. Please, for my sanity, tell me there is more Asa to come!
Mattie and Asa. Their story will tear your heart to pieces and leave you thinking about it for days.
I will not be able to deal if this is the last book!! There are so many things left to explore, Mattie's story has barely begun it would seem! It has been so long since I have been so invested in a series. If not for the unresolved ending to this book my rating would have been 4+ stars. Please, for my sanity, tell me there is more Asa to come!
December 8, 2016
Stunning conclusion to the series. But I neeeed more Asa. This can't be the end! What a journey Mattie takes during Mosaic. Not only traveling the world but learning to stand in her own and becoming a strong, independent woman. I hope someday Sarah Fine will take pity on us and we can catch up with these two again. Fantastic series!
December 16, 2016
Hmmmm.... I love you Sarah, but really??? Say it ain't so! There's a book 4, right? RIGHT??? This installment of Reliquary moves along at light speed, taking a few unexpected (some down-right shocking) twists and turns here and there. We get to see Mattie's character develop and grow, but Asa... Oh Asa. Dammit, Sarah. (LOL)
November 24, 2016
If your looking for a happily ever after don't read this book
Full of misery. I wondered when the story was going to have light to counter balance the dark, there really isn't any. Very disappointed with the story and the direction the author took the characters.
Full of misery. I wondered when the story was going to have light to counter balance the dark, there really isn't any. Very disappointed with the story and the direction the author took the characters.
February 28, 2022
This stays a 2 star read until that 4th book comes out and fixes the ending.
November 10, 2016
Three stars: Another action packed adventure, but there is little romance and it has an open ending.
Mattie and Asa have traveled the globe, smuggling magic and doing business. During that time, they have become friends and business partners, but nothing more. Mattie is too afraid to trust Asa with her heart, and Asa is damaged and has too many issues to openly love and trust someone. When things get dicey during a mission, Mattie and Asa agree that they will figure it out once they are safe. Unfortunately, Asa is captured and turned into a magical slave before they have that crucial conversation. Desperate, Mattie finds herself forming alliances with the enemy all in hopes of rescuing Asa, the man she knows she loves. Will she succeed?
What I Liked:
*Mosaic is the third and possibly the final installment in the Reliquary Series. While I had issues with the book and series, I did like that this book delivered plenty of action, and that it showed tremendous character growth on Mattie's part. I am not satisfied with the way it ended, and I am hoping there will be another book.
*This series is packed full of action and danger, and this third and potentially final book proves to be the most dangerous of all. Mattie will risk everything to rescue Asa, even if that means becoming allies with dangerous enemies. I loved seeing her courage, her growth and her sheer determination. She is a fierce fighter!
*One of the threads left open at the end of Splinter was the story line regarding Theresa. She finally makes an appearance in this one and reveals her secrets and the past. It was surprising to learn what she had kept hidden all of these years. I admired her, though, and I appreciated that she came through when it mattered the most.
*I love Jack. He is a double agent, so I am never sure how is going to act. He is smart and cunning and always there in a pinch.
*This book has plenty of big surprises, twists and stunning moments. I especially loved the ending when the bad guys finally meet their match. I didn't see that coming.
And The Not So Much:
*What was the deal with that ending? It was open ended, leaving me wondering if there was more? I am not satisfied with the way it played out because too many story lines are left open. There really needs to be another book.
*The romance is tough in this one. I hated that Asa and Mattie hadn't made any movement in their relationship when the book picks up several months after the second book ends. Then there are split up the majority of the book, so there is no development. Finally, there is a moment, but then something happens leaving me wondering. I don't know, it was just disappointing all the way around. After reading this one, I was thinking I would have been better off just to stop at the end of the second and let it end there.
*I missed Asa. He makes the series shine with his magical tactics and pockets full of tricks. Having him mostly absent made the story dull.
*This entire series is dark and gritty. It isn't for the faint of heart.
*Unless there is going to be another book, I am not sure what the point of this one was. There isn't really much that is explored that is new, other than meeting Theresa and learning her big secrets. Otherwise it is more plotting, fighting, stealing magic and killing over it. The romance doesn't mature and there isn't much that develops with the overall story arc, other than it ends open ended. I think I would have been happier quitting with book two because that book ends on a much more hopeful note, especially if there isn't going to be a fourth book.
Mosaic is a book that left me all kinds of confused. It left too many story lines unfinished, especially regarding the romance. I was frustrated with the ending. If this is the final book in the series, I am extremely disappointed. Sarah Fine is a go to author for me, but unfortunately, this series was not a favorite of mine. I liked many of the elements, but overall, it was a fizzle compared to her other works. If you haven't read anything by this author, I would not recommend starting with this series. I am hoping that another book is in the works, because the story shouldn't end here.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Mattie and Asa have traveled the globe, smuggling magic and doing business. During that time, they have become friends and business partners, but nothing more. Mattie is too afraid to trust Asa with her heart, and Asa is damaged and has too many issues to openly love and trust someone. When things get dicey during a mission, Mattie and Asa agree that they will figure it out once they are safe. Unfortunately, Asa is captured and turned into a magical slave before they have that crucial conversation. Desperate, Mattie finds herself forming alliances with the enemy all in hopes of rescuing Asa, the man she knows she loves. Will she succeed?
What I Liked:
*Mosaic is the third and possibly the final installment in the Reliquary Series. While I had issues with the book and series, I did like that this book delivered plenty of action, and that it showed tremendous character growth on Mattie's part. I am not satisfied with the way it ended, and I am hoping there will be another book.
*This series is packed full of action and danger, and this third and potentially final book proves to be the most dangerous of all. Mattie will risk everything to rescue Asa, even if that means becoming allies with dangerous enemies. I loved seeing her courage, her growth and her sheer determination. She is a fierce fighter!
*One of the threads left open at the end of Splinter was the story line regarding Theresa. She finally makes an appearance in this one and reveals her secrets and the past. It was surprising to learn what she had kept hidden all of these years. I admired her, though, and I appreciated that she came through when it mattered the most.
*I love Jack. He is a double agent, so I am never sure how is going to act. He is smart and cunning and always there in a pinch.
*This book has plenty of big surprises, twists and stunning moments. I especially loved the ending when the bad guys finally meet their match. I didn't see that coming.
And The Not So Much:
*What was the deal with that ending? It was open ended, leaving me wondering if there was more? I am not satisfied with the way it played out because too many story lines are left open. There really needs to be another book.
*The romance is tough in this one. I hated that Asa and Mattie hadn't made any movement in their relationship when the book picks up several months after the second book ends. Then there are split up the majority of the book, so there is no development. Finally, there is a moment, but then something happens leaving me wondering. I don't know, it was just disappointing all the way around. After reading this one, I was thinking I would have been better off just to stop at the end of the second and let it end there.
*I missed Asa. He makes the series shine with his magical tactics and pockets full of tricks. Having him mostly absent made the story dull.
*This entire series is dark and gritty. It isn't for the faint of heart.
*Unless there is going to be another book, I am not sure what the point of this one was. There isn't really much that is explored that is new, other than meeting Theresa and learning her big secrets. Otherwise it is more plotting, fighting, stealing magic and killing over it. The romance doesn't mature and there isn't much that develops with the overall story arc, other than it ends open ended. I think I would have been happier quitting with book two because that book ends on a much more hopeful note, especially if there isn't going to be a fourth book.
Mosaic is a book that left me all kinds of confused. It left too many story lines unfinished, especially regarding the romance. I was frustrated with the ending. If this is the final book in the series, I am extremely disappointed. Sarah Fine is a go to author for me, but unfortunately, this series was not a favorite of mine. I liked many of the elements, but overall, it was a fizzle compared to her other works. If you haven't read anything by this author, I would not recommend starting with this series. I am hoping that another book is in the works, because the story shouldn't end here.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
October 25, 2016
I feel like I was completely unprepared, in a lot of different ways, for this series right from the very beginning. And after that ending..
There's only one series I haven't yet read by Fine (though I plan to) and I have loved everything I've experienced so far. The characters, the worlds, the emotional depths she so expertly navigates.. and the Reliquary series was no different. It had all that and more. Which makes that ending both so hard to take and yet totally understandable.
MOSAIC opens up a few months after the wonderful end of SPLINTER. But before I was given too much time to worry about what was going on with the dynamic of Mattie and Asa we had our girl step up and address the unspoken tension between them. I think it happened at like.. 20%? It made me so happy. Mattie had truly grown and evolved from where she'd been in book two. Of course, right after the almost-talk the pair is torn apart by outside influences. Because they had to be, right? And I didn't mind. I was happier to have that be the reason for their unresolved issues than have it be a result of them not communicating.
And like every other book in this series it is nonstop action, suspense, running back and forth between mob bosses, dodging capture and pain, and being exposed to some pretty brutal and dark situations. These books would actually make one hell of a movie or tv show. It has even given me some nostalgic vibes for the movie Push with Chris Evans (side note, you should watch that movie, if you haven't). We had some amazing reveals that we'd been teased with enough that I had already predicted but the way everything played out was very satisfying.
Brace yourself. The vague portion of this write up starts here.
What wasn't satisfying was the ending. Again, part of me understands it had to be this way. We had been told over and over again, all through the series, infact, to expect this from this particular character. I should have suspected it, or maybe even braced for it. But I didn't want to think it would end up this way. And I definitely don't have to like the fact that it did.
I want to be mad about it, especially in regards to how certain characters react to it, but I suppose in that sense they, too, have had the entire book to prepare. To mature about the reality of wants and needs, to be selfless and not selfish. I honestly can't say much without spoiling and ruining everything. Instead I'll have to stop there.
Overall the Reliquary series gave me most of what I want when I pick up a Fine book though I definitely have to point out that, even with the Ben element, the first book is hands down my favourite (Asa/Mattie roadtripping ftw; though, honestly, every Asa/Mattie interaction made me happy; especially some of the ones in MOSAIC). I did struggle at times but nonetheless that does show her exceptional storytelling ability. I felt so much; awe, humour, disappointment, frustration, excitement, anticipation. Fine's characters are never simple and never two dimensional and while the ending upsets me it is completely in character for the situation and that definitely should be respected. It won't stop me from picking up future books, in continuing to pursue her backlist, and I hope this review doesn't scare others away from reading it. Maybe you'll be happy by the conclusion of this series, maybe you'll be angry but love that you're angry, maybe you'll applaud her. You just have to read it and find out for yourself.
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. **
There's only one series I haven't yet read by Fine (though I plan to) and I have loved everything I've experienced so far. The characters, the worlds, the emotional depths she so expertly navigates.. and the Reliquary series was no different. It had all that and more. Which makes that ending both so hard to take and yet totally understandable.
MOSAIC opens up a few months after the wonderful end of SPLINTER. But before I was given too much time to worry about what was going on with the dynamic of Mattie and Asa we had our girl step up and address the unspoken tension between them. I think it happened at like.. 20%? It made me so happy. Mattie had truly grown and evolved from where she'd been in book two. Of course, right after the almost-talk the pair is torn apart by outside influences. Because they had to be, right? And I didn't mind. I was happier to have that be the reason for their unresolved issues than have it be a result of them not communicating.
And like every other book in this series it is nonstop action, suspense, running back and forth between mob bosses, dodging capture and pain, and being exposed to some pretty brutal and dark situations. These books would actually make one hell of a movie or tv show. It has even given me some nostalgic vibes for the movie Push with Chris Evans (side note, you should watch that movie, if you haven't). We had some amazing reveals that we'd been teased with enough that I had already predicted but the way everything played out was very satisfying.
Brace yourself. The vague portion of this write up starts here.
What wasn't satisfying was the ending. Again, part of me understands it had to be this way. We had been told over and over again, all through the series, infact, to expect this from this particular character. I should have suspected it, or maybe even braced for it. But I didn't want to think it would end up this way. And I definitely don't have to like the fact that it did.
I want to be mad about it, especially in regards to how certain characters react to it, but I suppose in that sense they, too, have had the entire book to prepare. To mature about the reality of wants and needs, to be selfless and not selfish. I honestly can't say much without spoiling and ruining everything. Instead I'll have to stop there.
Overall the Reliquary series gave me most of what I want when I pick up a Fine book though I definitely have to point out that, even with the Ben element, the first book is hands down my favourite (Asa/Mattie roadtripping ftw; though, honestly, every Asa/Mattie interaction made me happy; especially some of the ones in MOSAIC). I did struggle at times but nonetheless that does show her exceptional storytelling ability. I felt so much; awe, humour, disappointment, frustration, excitement, anticipation. Fine's characters are never simple and never two dimensional and while the ending upsets me it is completely in character for the situation and that definitely should be respected. It won't stop me from picking up future books, in continuing to pursue her backlist, and I hope this review doesn't scare others away from reading it. Maybe you'll be happy by the conclusion of this series, maybe you'll be angry but love that you're angry, maybe you'll applaud her. You just have to read it and find out for yourself.
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. **
November 4, 2016
First, I just have to say I hate that cover. It would be great, except for the way the couple is drawn. They just look horrible.
With the way this ended I was so tempted to knock my rating down a star, I was so ticked off. I almost feel incredibly cheated with it. Especially with everything that happens in this book. Unless we get another one (even though I'm pretty sure this is only a trilogy) this is going to bug me every time I think about this series.
Aside from that end, this was actually a really good book. I was thrilled to see the Asa that I love again in the beginning. There was always something going on this time and while I was never crazy excited about getting back into reading it, once I did I would always want to know what happened next. People are stabbing people in the back left and right this time around and it's hard to know who is actually an ally. And how temporarily they will be one. People come back from the dead and there are secrets revealed that have serious impact. The danger is constant and Mattie is faced with decisions that will affect more than just her life. There's always fighting and many people die. But everything is also not always as it seems.
Asa and Mattie have been doing their team thing for months now and have developed a great relationship. All be it one that threatens their hearts. With their latest stolen magic pushing them harder, they reach the point where a decision must be made. And that's a talk Mattie is looking forward to. But before it can happen, they're attacked and Asa is taken. Determined to get him back, Mattie follows any lead she can find and gets involved with some dangerous people. Thinking only of Asa, she'll deal with any pain, make deals with people that she breaks when she has to and is forced to make choices that may change her in the end.
Everything centers around an ancient artifact that is finally being displayed and every magical boss wants it. It could very well be the key to everything in their world. Nobody knows exactly what it is or what's inside of it though. Alliances are made and traitors are everywhere. Mattie also plays her own part in a scheme to take it along with the Russian boss who she has reluctantly teamed up with.
The times that Mattie comes in contact with Asa after he was taken kills her a little more each time. He is not doing well and has become an obedient slave to his captor, doing horrible things. Even fearing that she might be too late to save him, Mattie doesn't give up and realizes what she must do and how she must think to be able to get to him. Everything leading up to the end was great and I was so excited as to where it was going. ...And then we got that last chapter. That chapter really wants to ruin the whole thing for me. That was such a crap ending and I am not happy with it. I want another book that fixes this.
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.
With the way this ended I was so tempted to knock my rating down a star, I was so ticked off. I almost feel incredibly cheated with it. Especially with everything that happens in this book. Unless we get another one (even though I'm pretty sure this is only a trilogy) this is going to bug me every time I think about this series.
Aside from that end, this was actually a really good book. I was thrilled to see the Asa that I love again in the beginning. There was always something going on this time and while I was never crazy excited about getting back into reading it, once I did I would always want to know what happened next. People are stabbing people in the back left and right this time around and it's hard to know who is actually an ally. And how temporarily they will be one. People come back from the dead and there are secrets revealed that have serious impact. The danger is constant and Mattie is faced with decisions that will affect more than just her life. There's always fighting and many people die. But everything is also not always as it seems.
Asa and Mattie have been doing their team thing for months now and have developed a great relationship. All be it one that threatens their hearts. With their latest stolen magic pushing them harder, they reach the point where a decision must be made. And that's a talk Mattie is looking forward to. But before it can happen, they're attacked and Asa is taken. Determined to get him back, Mattie follows any lead she can find and gets involved with some dangerous people. Thinking only of Asa, she'll deal with any pain, make deals with people that she breaks when she has to and is forced to make choices that may change her in the end.
Everything centers around an ancient artifact that is finally being displayed and every magical boss wants it. It could very well be the key to everything in their world. Nobody knows exactly what it is or what's inside of it though. Alliances are made and traitors are everywhere. Mattie also plays her own part in a scheme to take it along with the Russian boss who she has reluctantly teamed up with.
The times that Mattie comes in contact with Asa after he was taken kills her a little more each time. He is not doing well and has become an obedient slave to his captor, doing horrible things. Even fearing that she might be too late to save him, Mattie doesn't give up and realizes what she must do and how she must think to be able to get to him. Everything leading up to the end was great and I was so excited as to where it was going. ...And then we got that last chapter. That chapter really wants to ruin the whole thing for me. That was such a crap ending and I am not happy with it. I want another book that fixes this.
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.
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