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Mark of the Thief #3
Wrath of the Storm
A quest for freedom. The magic of the gods. A storm to destroy a world.
Trouble has a way of finding Nicolas Calva, and it’s not likely to leave him alone any time soon. With Caesar’s magic bulla, the Malice of Mars, and the possibility of a Jupiter Stone in play, all the powers of Rome are circling Nic. He’ll have to maneuver his way through scheming government officials and reawakened magical beasts to save the Empire. Can he manage to keep his friends and family safe, claim his own freedom once and for all, and rescue the Empire—before the magic gets the better of him?
Trouble has a way of finding Nicolas Calva, and it’s not likely to leave him alone any time soon. With Caesar’s magic bulla, the Malice of Mars, and the possibility of a Jupiter Stone in play, all the powers of Rome are circling Nic. He’ll have to maneuver his way through scheming government officials and reawakened magical beasts to save the Empire. Can he manage to keep his friends and family safe, claim his own freedom once and for all, and rescue the Empire—before the magic gets the better of him?
343 pages, Hardcover
First published January 31, 2017
260 people are currently reading
3966 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer A. Nielsen
53 books9,600 followersJennifer lives at the base of a very tall mountain in Northern Utah with her husband, three children, and a naughty puppy. She loves the smell of rainy days, hot chocolate, and old books, preferably all at once. She is a former speech teacher, theater director, and enjoyed a brief but disastrous career as a door-to-door pollster. In her spare time, Jennifer tends to panic, wondering what she has forgotten to do that has allowed her any spare time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 426 reviews
July 24, 2022
Before The End:
WHAT????? NOOOOOOOOOOOOO! 😭😭😭
After The End: ARE YOU KIDDING ME? YESSSSSS! 🤣🤣🤣
Nicolas & Aurelia 💛💛
Livia & Crispus 🧡🧡
It's sad to say 'good bye' to all beloved characters. 3.5⭐😘
After The End: ARE YOU KIDDING ME? YESSSSSS! 🤣🤣🤣
Nicolas & Aurelia 💛💛
Livia & Crispus 🧡🧡
It's sad to say 'good bye' to all beloved characters. 3.5⭐😘
February 17, 2023
p.148 • "‘My grandfather just called you a pig,’ I said. "You are many things, Decimas Brutus, but not a pig."
He hesitated. "No, I am not. Thank you."
"After all," I added, 'that comparison is a terrible insult to pigs.'"
Packed with adventure, sarcasm, and Greek mythology, Wrath of the Storm was a wonderful conclusion to this delightful series written by acclaimed author, Jennifer A. Nielsen. I loved it so much, especially since Nic so fondly reminds me of Jaron, from The False Prince. I mean, his witty comments, and his sarcasm... combine it with Jaron's and it's like:
I must admit, those last thirty pages?- just broke. my. heart. I got so scared and was tempted to scream at the winds and be like, "MRS. NIELSEN WHAT ARE YOU DOING I LOVE YOU SO MUCH BUT NOOO, YOU COUDLN'T HAVE POSSIBLY LET THIS BOOK END THIS WAY-" 😭😭
But I'm alright now :))
Something else that- I guess you can say, peaked my interest?- were the similarities between this series, and the Ascendance series. I felt like Aurelia was like Imogen, Crispus like Tobias, Amarinda like Livia, and maybe Radulf like Connor? I think that there were a lot of similiarities between the the two series, but overall, I'm happy with how the novels turned out. Slay Mrs. Nielsennn <33
-------------------------
Quotes I Saved:
p.11 • "She had seen much sadness in her life, yet her face betrayed none of that."
p.63 • "‘Magic is not good or bad, sir. It’s only what we do with it.’"
p.148 • "‘My grandfather just called you a pig,’ I said. "You are many things, Decimas Brutus, but not a pig."
He hesitated. "No, I am not. Thank you."
"After all, I added, "that comparison is a terrible insult to pigs.'"
p.170 • "Radulf barely spoke, but I heard him. “Fool grandson, how many times must I order you not to save me?”
One corner of my mouth curved upward. ‘As many times as you wish to have your orders ignored, sir.’"
p.170 • "‘Forgiveness is real,’ I said. ‘You’ve suffered enough.’"
p.174 • "I closed my eyes, attempting to summon a depth of courage I knew I did not possess."
p.175 • "I couldn’t do this.
But I had to."
p.207 • "‘Love can be foolish.’"
p.287 • "Forgiveness was real, and with it came love."
p.341 • "Life is a series of ups and downs, and if we get a few scars of our own, then it proves we can heal."
He hesitated. "No, I am not. Thank you."
"After all," I added, 'that comparison is a terrible insult to pigs.'"
Packed with adventure, sarcasm, and Greek mythology, Wrath of the Storm was a wonderful conclusion to this delightful series written by acclaimed author, Jennifer A. Nielsen. I loved it so much, especially since Nic so fondly reminds me of Jaron, from The False Prince. I mean, his witty comments, and his sarcasm... combine it with Jaron's and it's like:
I must admit, those last thirty pages?- just broke. my. heart. I got so scared and was tempted to scream at the winds and be like, "MRS. NIELSEN WHAT ARE YOU DOING I LOVE YOU SO MUCH BUT NOOO, YOU COUDLN'T HAVE POSSIBLY LET THIS BOOK END THIS WAY-" 😭😭
But I'm alright now :))
Something else that- I guess you can say, peaked my interest?- were the similarities between this series, and the Ascendance series. I felt like Aurelia was like Imogen, Crispus like Tobias, Amarinda like Livia, and maybe Radulf like Connor? I think that there were a lot of similiarities between the the two series, but overall, I'm happy with how the novels turned out. Slay Mrs. Nielsennn <33
-------------------------
Quotes I Saved:
p.11 • "She had seen much sadness in her life, yet her face betrayed none of that."
p.63 • "‘Magic is not good or bad, sir. It’s only what we do with it.’"
p.148 • "‘My grandfather just called you a pig,’ I said. "You are many things, Decimas Brutus, but not a pig."
He hesitated. "No, I am not. Thank you."
"After all, I added, "that comparison is a terrible insult to pigs.'"
p.170 • "Radulf barely spoke, but I heard him. “Fool grandson, how many times must I order you not to save me?”
One corner of my mouth curved upward. ‘As many times as you wish to have your orders ignored, sir.’"
p.170 • "‘Forgiveness is real,’ I said. ‘You’ve suffered enough.’"
p.174 • "I closed my eyes, attempting to summon a depth of courage I knew I did not possess."
p.175 • "I couldn’t do this.
But I had to."
p.207 • "‘Love can be foolish.’"
p.287 • "Forgiveness was real, and with it came love."
p.341 • "Life is a series of ups and downs, and if we get a few scars of our own, then it proves we can heal."
November 6, 2018
#1) Mark of the Thief ★★☆☆☆
#2) Rise of the Wolf ★★★★☆
… I’m so disappointed at the moment. While Nielsen’s Mark of the Thief series was never going to live up to the incredible standards set by her debut series, I never thought she would pen something so utterly bland. It was a monumental struggle for me to reach the end of this story. I did not enjoy a single second of it.
For one, the plot was incredibly circular. The first two-thirds were dedicated to building up to the dramatic final battle sequence and very little seemed to happen overall. Most of the scenes felt repetitive and disjointed. Nic either argued with Crispus and Aurelius or he shouted threats at Brutus. Sadly, I have to say it was entirely boring. It did not excite or entertain me like Nielsen’s other books.
The characters also lost their spark. I never felt as connected to Nic or Aurelius as the characters from the Ascendance series and they continue to disappoint me. I was frustrated with Nic for making the same mistakes. Aurelius was just as stubborn but I did, somewhat, admire her strength. Crispus was the only character that acted rationally but I still didn't connect with him. I know what Nielsen is capable of so much more.
The writing was fragmented and simplistic. The general tone was… it was just not captivating. It felt off somehow and failed to pull me into the story. Nielsen’s action sequences were rushed and sloppy, resolved too easily and had no sense of urgency. She was unable to capture any of Nic’s feelings about Aurelius. The story could have done with some lighter moments or at least a bit of humour but Nic’s one-liners felt too forced.
I was definitely disappointed with this finale and the series as a whole fell short of her Ascendance series.
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September 16, 2017
A great finish to an overall excellent series. I listened to the audio version and, again, I can't say enough about the superb quality of the voice acting by narrator MacLeod Andrews, who really brought the story to life. I listen to audiobooks regularly with my two kids (9 and 12), and this series was definitely a hit with both of them.
As a adult listening along I found it equally engaging. There is a nice balance of action and light humour, and for me the ancient Roman setting was a plus. The romance is very light handed and develops slowly and naturally, as seems to be Nielsen's preferred way, and I thought it worked very well and to the enhancement of the story. I loved the way the themes of family, friendship, loyalty, and love were interwoven in this exceptionally enjoyable middle grade tale of magic and the struggle for power.
Recommended for fans of middle grade fantasy, particularly the audio version.
As a adult listening along I found it equally engaging. There is a nice balance of action and light humour, and for me the ancient Roman setting was a plus. The romance is very light handed and develops slowly and naturally, as seems to be Nielsen's preferred way, and I thought it worked very well and to the enhancement of the story. I loved the way the themes of family, friendship, loyalty, and love were interwoven in this exceptionally enjoyable middle grade tale of magic and the struggle for power.
Recommended for fans of middle grade fantasy, particularly the audio version.
October 25, 2018
MY GOODNESS, IT IS SO HEARTBREAKING IN A PART AND I WAS CRYING FOR DAYSSSS!
It's beautiful! 😍😍😍😍😍😍
It's beautiful! 😍😍😍😍😍😍
April 11, 2018
Though I do think this series could easily have been condensed into two books given the plot, it was a fun read as I have come to expect from this author:-) The characters were well developed and likable and the story inventive and engaging.
Find more reviews and bookish fun at http://www.princessandpen.com
Find more reviews and bookish fun at http://www.princessandpen.com
April 23, 2025
"[W]hat I was about to do would prove to be the greatest test of my life. The test of how close I could get to the edge of a cliff before I fell into nothingness. The problem was, the only way to know that the edge is too close is after you've already fallen."
✏️ Review ✏️
Woah! 😦 *stares blankly into empty space* That ending.... The last few chapters of Wrath of the Storm had me on an emotional rollercoaster! My heart: 💔. I was devastated, I was happy, I was — not sure what came after that, maybe I was relieved? Joyful? Satisfied? Yeah, so this was definitely a gripping and dynamic ending of the Mark of the Thief trilogy.
Looking back at the previous two books and making observations from Wrath of the Storm I do wish that Nielsen hadn't made the MCs appear so immature; like, they always seem to be arguing and yelling at each other (not just a few times but like, a lot). And so this destroys much of the believability and maturity that balances the romance; as result the romance can seem unrealistic. That's my one major gripe about the series: the characters should be consistent — they shouldn't be acting like immature little kids while at the same time expressing strong romantic desires for each other. Leaving that behind....
The plot of this book is definitely intriguing. Sometimes a book delivers a more powerful punch if it's short; and I think Wrath of the Storm could have benefited from such a shorter storyline (my personal opinion 😉) because some parts of the plot just seemed to draw out the story more than necessary. And I kinda became uninterested (I was literally urging the story to move on 🤭). But anyway the ending is the ultimate punch, I suppose (totally worth the wait!).
Nielsen's unique twist on the history of ancient Rome is believable and extraordinary. I'm still not sure how I feel about some of the magic and mythology elements, but, nonetheless, I enjoyed most of this historical/fantastical mashup.
The magical themes culminate to the ultimate outcome in this finale: when power that was never meant for humans to possess (such as magic) falls into the wrong hands, it leads to corruption and destruction. I really enjoyed watching how this theme played a major role in this book, and how it all builds to an action-packed ending.
While it's definitely not as good as Nielsen's Ascendance series, I did find enjoyment in the Mark of the Thief trilogy. Wrath of the Storm wraps this series up well and vividly illustrates the overarching series' theme — too much power in the hands of humans will result in chaos and destruction.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• The ending — what a shocker!
• The intrigue of this plot.
• The writing style — it's straightforward and easy to read.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• The character inconsistency.
• Some portions of the plot — drawn out too much.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓
— Would I recommend this book? Yes*
— To whom? To those who have read and enjoyed books one and two of the Mark of the Thief trilogy.
*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 3.5/5 [rounded down to 3 on Goodreads])
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 3.5/5
— 📝 Writing: 3.5/5
— 👥 Characters: 3/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 1/5
• A few scenes of mild action-adventure violence .
— ⚠️ Sexual: 1/5
• One scene where a guy and girl kiss — it is inferred (but not described) as passionate; one or two other mentions of brief kissing.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• Magic & mythology content: Both magic and mythology are major players in this third and final book in the Mark of the Thief trilogy. Please see my reviews for Mark of the Thief and Rise of the Wolf for more info on this content.
• While Wrath of the Storm and the rest of the Mark of the Thief trilogy are marketed for middle grade readers, I feel like this series would be better suited for YA readers because the romantic relationships become deeper and more developed in the last two books (especially more so in Wrath of the Storm).
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
• (None)
✏️ Review ✏️
Woah! 😦 *stares blankly into empty space* That ending.... The last few chapters of Wrath of the Storm had me on an emotional rollercoaster! My heart: 💔. I was devastated, I was happy, I was — not sure what came after that, maybe I was relieved? Joyful? Satisfied? Yeah, so this was definitely a gripping and dynamic ending of the Mark of the Thief trilogy.
Looking back at the previous two books and making observations from Wrath of the Storm I do wish that Nielsen hadn't made the MCs appear so immature; like, they always seem to be arguing and yelling at each other (not just a few times but like, a lot). And so this destroys much of the believability and maturity that balances the romance; as result the romance can seem unrealistic. That's my one major gripe about the series: the characters should be consistent — they shouldn't be acting like immature little kids while at the same time expressing strong romantic desires for each other. Leaving that behind....
The plot of this book is definitely intriguing. Sometimes a book delivers a more powerful punch if it's short; and I think Wrath of the Storm could have benefited from such a shorter storyline (my personal opinion 😉) because some parts of the plot just seemed to draw out the story more than necessary. And I kinda became uninterested (I was literally urging the story to move on 🤭). But anyway the ending is the ultimate punch, I suppose (totally worth the wait!).
"'My only desire is to right a wrong that was done centuries ago. If we correct that wrong, then we will save an empire.'
'But it will not save me,' I whispered.
'To become free, you must walk through fire,' [she] said. 'Haven't you always known this was how things must end? Every move leads you closer to it. Every attempt to avoid it fails.'"
Nielsen's unique twist on the history of ancient Rome is believable and extraordinary. I'm still not sure how I feel about some of the magic and mythology elements, but, nonetheless, I enjoyed most of this historical/fantastical mashup.
The magical themes culminate to the ultimate outcome in this finale: when power that was never meant for humans to possess (such as magic) falls into the wrong hands, it leads to corruption and destruction. I really enjoyed watching how this theme played a major role in this book, and how it all builds to an action-packed ending.
"[A]s far as I might ever run from the empire or from magic or even from the gods themselves, I could never run away from my own destiny."
While it's definitely not as good as Nielsen's Ascendance series, I did find enjoyment in the Mark of the Thief trilogy. Wrath of the Storm wraps this series up well and vividly illustrates the overarching series' theme — too much power in the hands of humans will result in chaos and destruction.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• The ending — what a shocker!
• The intrigue of this plot.
• The writing style — it's straightforward and easy to read.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• The character inconsistency.
• Some portions of the plot — drawn out too much.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓
— Would I recommend this book? Yes*
— To whom? To those who have read and enjoyed books one and two of the Mark of the Thief trilogy.
*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 3.5/5 [rounded down to 3 on Goodreads])
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 3.5/5
— 📝 Writing: 3.5/5
— 👥 Characters: 3/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 1/5
• A few scenes of mild action-adventure violence .
— ⚠️ Sexual: 1/5
• One scene where a guy and girl kiss — it is inferred (but not described) as passionate; one or two other mentions of brief kissing.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• Magic & mythology content: Both magic and mythology are major players in this third and final book in the Mark of the Thief trilogy. Please see my reviews for Mark of the Thief and Rise of the Wolf for more info on this content.
• While Wrath of the Storm and the rest of the Mark of the Thief trilogy are marketed for middle grade readers, I feel like this series would be better suited for YA readers because the romantic relationships become deeper and more developed in the last two books (especially more so in Wrath of the Storm).
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
• (None)
Read
February 27, 2017A satisfying conclusion. It was a nail biter though. Love the griffin the dragon and the unicorn. Clearly, I'm a fantasy lover. What a great story overlapping the history of the Roman empire!
December 17, 2019
3.5 stars again because AGGGHHHHHH this book probably could've been shorter. All that happened was Nic running away, everyone screaming in the aftermath, and then Brutus trying to kill him again. Rinse and repeat. So...not my favorite of the series and not the strongest series conclusion. But it's still Nielsen and I still adore her and just YEP.
November 12, 2018
In my opinion, the story started a it slow but it got heated REALLY fast! AMAZING!!!!!!! SOOOOOOOOOOOOO BEAUTIFUL AND YOU JUST GET THE FEEEEEEELS
February 5, 2022
I'm speechless. And I nearly had a heart attack. That's it ✌️
December 18, 2017
FINALLY!!!!
nearly this story killed me to finish. let me just explain the whole book in a 2 scene:
Nic tries to sneak out and do all the heroic stupid stuff himself.
he finds Aurilia and Crispus in his way.
Nic: let me go.
them: no let us come with you we can help!
Nic: No you can't! I can do my work worrying about you!
them: Oh no we actually help you don't you remember? we are coming and you can't stop us.
Nic: OK.
they go, and enemies somehow capture these two idiots EACH TIME and then Nic has to save them again and again.
scene 2:
Nic: if you love me, Aurilia, you will do X.
Aurilia: no if I love you I won't leave you. I will stand by you!
Nic: just do X and let me be sure that at least you are safe!
Aurilia: I can't! I can help you! I'm coming!
and the whole book is a repetition of these 2 scenes every 5 pages. :||||||||||
and though the story happened in Ancient Rome we don't really learn much if not learning false stuff about it.
I usually hate to see the main character die at the end but then I would have appreciated the bravery of killing Nic in this story and not bring him back from death.
I'm not someone to care about a book ranking and other people opinion about it. I read everything because I believe every book deserves the chance and well, actually someone somewhere is thinking like this and I want to know even that one tiny thought. so when I say it wasn't worth the time, just imagine how much reading this book took energy and effort from me. if you see that you are not finding much interest in the first book, then don't read the other 2 hoping to find something better.
nearly this story killed me to finish. let me just explain the whole book in a 2 scene:
Nic tries to sneak out and do all the heroic stupid stuff himself.
he finds Aurilia and Crispus in his way.
Nic: let me go.
them: no let us come with you we can help!
Nic: No you can't! I can do my work worrying about you!
them: Oh no we actually help you don't you remember? we are coming and you can't stop us.
Nic: OK.
they go, and enemies somehow capture these two idiots EACH TIME and then Nic has to save them again and again.
scene 2:
Nic: if you love me, Aurilia, you will do X.
Aurilia: no if I love you I won't leave you. I will stand by you!
Nic: just do X and let me be sure that at least you are safe!
Aurilia: I can't! I can help you! I'm coming!
and the whole book is a repetition of these 2 scenes every 5 pages. :||||||||||
and though the story happened in Ancient Rome we don't really learn much if not learning false stuff about it.
I usually hate to see the main character die at the end but then I would have appreciated the bravery of killing Nic in this story and not bring him back from death.
I'm not someone to care about a book ranking and other people opinion about it. I read everything because I believe every book deserves the chance and well, actually someone somewhere is thinking like this and I want to know even that one tiny thought. so when I say it wasn't worth the time, just imagine how much reading this book took energy and effort from me. if you see that you are not finding much interest in the first book, then don't read the other 2 hoping to find something better.
February 21, 2017
Another great ending to another great series, from another great author! All of her books seems tobe inhale reads for me.
What I like the most about this trilogy is that, in a world of YA books where the story gets sidetracked when a romance is introduced. Then, the story just becomes a romance story, with a fantasy/sci-fi/thriller/etc. element or setting. Here, Nielsen lets the romance develop more naturally, than instantly and with unhealthy reasons. The chemistry and back-and-forth between Nic and Aurelia are great: They bicker and they call each other on their own bluff, but they're more defined as individuals, then as a couple. And that is what makes this trilogy stand out more, to me, than the others.
Also, with the historical element to the mix, it was fun for me to ask myself if there really were items like Caesar's bulla, the Malice or the Jupiter Stone that existed back then.
I would have more to say, but I am emotionally exhausted, yet satisfied to the fullest. If you haven't checked out Jennifer A. Nielsen's books at this point, then in the words of Shia LeBouf: "DO IT!"
What I like the most about this trilogy is that, in a world of YA books where the story gets sidetracked when a romance is introduced. Then, the story just becomes a romance story, with a fantasy/sci-fi/thriller/etc. element or setting. Here, Nielsen lets the romance develop more naturally, than instantly and with unhealthy reasons. The chemistry and back-and-forth between Nic and Aurelia are great: They bicker and they call each other on their own bluff, but they're more defined as individuals, then as a couple. And that is what makes this trilogy stand out more, to me, than the others.
Also, with the historical element to the mix, it was fun for me to ask myself if there really were items like Caesar's bulla, the Malice or the Jupiter Stone that existed back then.
I would have more to say, but I am emotionally exhausted, yet satisfied to the fullest. If you haven't checked out Jennifer A. Nielsen's books at this point, then in the words of Shia LeBouf: "DO IT!"
February 1, 2020
While not the strongest book of the series, this one still had some great moments (especially around the middle).
WHAT I LIKED
-Crispus and Nic are bros now.
-Everything surrounding the trial! The rescue attempt, the political maneuvering in the arena, the lashings (owwww)…
-The epic showdown.
-Nic finally faced some things he's been running from since the very beginning.
-Although maybe a bit cliché, I did like the thematic turn of forgiveness highlighted in the end.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
-Not enough Radolf, especially after all the development between him and Nic in the first two books.
-I still feel like the amulets can be a bit too convenient. It would've been nice to have some clearer parameters around the magic.
-Some things felt kind of repetitive... but maybe that's because I was listening to the audiobook?
CONCLUSION
The Ascendance Trilogy definitely outranks this series for me, but this one was still fun—especially with all the Roman settings and mythology thrown in. I do think the second book's chariot races might've been my favorite part!
3.5 stars.
WHAT I LIKED
-Crispus and Nic are bros now.
-Everything surrounding the trial! The rescue attempt, the political maneuvering in the arena, the lashings (owwww)…
-The epic showdown.
-Nic finally faced some things he's been running from since the very beginning.
-Although maybe a bit cliché, I did like the thematic turn of forgiveness highlighted in the end.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
-Not enough Radolf, especially after all the development between him and Nic in the first two books.
-I still feel like the amulets can be a bit too convenient. It would've been nice to have some clearer parameters around the magic.
-Some things felt kind of repetitive... but maybe that's because I was listening to the audiobook?
CONCLUSION
The Ascendance Trilogy definitely outranks this series for me, but this one was still fun—especially with all the Roman settings and mythology thrown in. I do think the second book's chariot races might've been my favorite part!
3.5 stars.
April 1, 2022
What a way to end a series. I’m sure my heart skipped some beats in the final chapters there.
This was an adventure I’m glad I chose to follow along on!! Definitely worth reading, especially with the nice themes at the end that forgiveness is a form of love. The characters are complex and not what you’d expect.
The parts where Nic was trying to convince his friends/family to leave him and go to safety was a little bit repetitive, but nothing terrible :). Again, too much emphasis was placed on the gods and such for my liking, but that’s the only complaint I have :)).
Another splendid work by Nielsen!
This was an adventure I’m glad I chose to follow along on!! Definitely worth reading, especially with the nice themes at the end that forgiveness is a form of love. The characters are complex and not what you’d expect.
The parts where Nic was trying to convince his friends/family to leave him and go to safety was a little bit repetitive, but nothing terrible :). Again, too much emphasis was placed on the gods and such for my liking, but that’s the only complaint I have :)).
Another splendid work by Nielsen!
October 26, 2017
=============
Original review:
=============
Now this was too expertly amazing. This was the excellent style of book that sets all of my great processing unit into motion in an attempt to resolve all the problems that appear in the storyline. It would seem, however, that this author thought out this book quite well and the problems became quite… oh, bother, I lack an adjective. Such is life, and life is as such.
Of course, just the fact that this thing is set in Rome is a mark for its merit. The humor was brilliant and in just the right situations was it displayed. I do enjoy humor in the midst of a scene where practically the entire world is defying the characters to exist. Just so fun.
And then there were the serious parts, which, though often split in twain by humor, hold their own (they come back together quickly). The plot revealed in them is so wonderfully manifested in events minor and significant.
The writing might have been fairly good.
Or… it may well have been totally, completely, and vastly… well done.
And then there was emotions and familial stuff and all that good rot, which add vastly to the worthiness of the story.
So, allow me to simply state: This was not too bad.
Original review:
=============
Now this was too expertly amazing. This was the excellent style of book that sets all of my great processing unit into motion in an attempt to resolve all the problems that appear in the storyline. It would seem, however, that this author thought out this book quite well and the problems became quite… oh, bother, I lack an adjective. Such is life, and life is as such.
Of course, just the fact that this thing is set in Rome is a mark for its merit. The humor was brilliant and in just the right situations was it displayed. I do enjoy humor in the midst of a scene where practically the entire world is defying the characters to exist. Just so fun.
And then there were the serious parts, which, though often split in twain by humor, hold their own (they come back together quickly). The plot revealed in them is so wonderfully manifested in events minor and significant.
The writing might have been fairly good.
Or… it may well have been totally, completely, and vastly… well done.
And then there was emotions and familial stuff and all that good rot, which add vastly to the worthiness of the story.
So, allow me to simply state: This was not too bad.
September 4, 2018
Reader thoughts: There were so many problems with this book. At least the ending was decently crafted, but I couldn't be satisfied considering all the problems that led up to it.
First, how old are Nic and Aurelia? 16? Then why are they pledging undying love for each other and constantly trying to get themselves killed to save the other one? Plus, they don't really do much for each other to be that interesting. Aurelia doesn't care about money and can use a bow. Nick badmouths authority and has a knack for getting into trouble. Hmm. I guess it's true love.
Why have a griffin if all you use him for is to steal friends/family away from a fight? Why not have the griffin actually fighting?
Oh, and Nic can teleport. He used this power on himself, two people, and even three people. He used this power a few seconds after he had been drained of magic and dropped down a hole, breaking ribs. Clearly, it takes little effort to teleport. There were quite a few times he could have used it and didn't. Sloppy.
After 3 books, I still can't tell what Nic was actually fighting for. Survival? Family? Then why didn't they all just leave Rome, like, teleport 1000 miles away and forget whether the authorities are chasing you? Fighting for Diana? Not a chance. He kept attacking her Mistress and praetors. Fighting for Rome? Nope. He said multiple times that he didn't care what happened to Rome, which had kept them as slaves, and the offer to help destroy Rome was actually tempting to him. Fighting for the gods? Well, he did say destroying the amulets would help the gods (sans Diana), but he never sought to please them or ask them what they wanted and never weighed any of his actions or decisions around ANY authority except spur of the moment feelings.
The lack of planning really bothered me. Sure, Nic and Aurelia can make snap decisions once or twice in a trilogy or even a book. They made snap decisions (without any planning or consultation) EVERY time. Even when they had days to figure something out, all their decisions came across as, "I feel this and so I'm doing that."
There was waaaaay too much LUCK involved. I never felt like character competence helped them all survive. It was either luck or because the bad guys were even less competent. Like, Nic's head is literally on the chopping block when his friend says, "Hey, let him die with dignity. Take off the magic-draining wristband."
What does the executioner do? He removes the wristband. (To be fair, Nic only has a few seconds to regain his magic, and his magic is not what saves him, but it was really really really stupid of the bad guys to do that.)
The arguing got on my nerves. It's not like anyone was even that good at arguing; they just all did it to, what, heighten tension? There were several trials and judges. People argued for execution, release, banishment, or arena-tossing (or whatever the term is for prisoners who are tossed in the gladiator arena). None of the arguments felt professional in the least.
Here is a typical argument when Nic and a friend or two or three run into the praetors or the Mistress.
Brutus: "Surrender or I'll kill you!"
Nic: "I don't care! I'll kill you first! Destiny is on my side!"
"Then I'll kill your friends!"
"Okay, I surrender!"
Repeat this about 5 times. Maybe 8. It was stupidly predictable. And even if Nic and friends are stooping to such immature insults and techniques, why are the bad guys (adults and Roman praetors) stooping to their level to fight them? Why not, I don't know, use real logic or real threats? Why whip Nic? Why not chop off one of his hands or something? Or kill of one of his friends to ensure his cooperation?
Writer thoughts: If I had to point to one issue that made this book fall apart, it would be the loyalty, actually. As a reader, I can't root for Nic when I can't tell what I'm cheering for. If that had been clarified, the other issues could have been dealt with in regards to that. Like, the repetitive nature of arguments and the problem with so much incompetence and immaturity could have partially be a result of Nic not having a clear goal.
First, how old are Nic and Aurelia? 16? Then why are they pledging undying love for each other and constantly trying to get themselves killed to save the other one? Plus, they don't really do much for each other to be that interesting. Aurelia doesn't care about money and can use a bow. Nick badmouths authority and has a knack for getting into trouble. Hmm. I guess it's true love.
Why have a griffin if all you use him for is to steal friends/family away from a fight? Why not have the griffin actually fighting?
Oh, and Nic can teleport. He used this power on himself, two people, and even three people. He used this power a few seconds after he had been drained of magic and dropped down a hole, breaking ribs. Clearly, it takes little effort to teleport. There were quite a few times he could have used it and didn't. Sloppy.
After 3 books, I still can't tell what Nic was actually fighting for. Survival? Family? Then why didn't they all just leave Rome, like, teleport 1000 miles away and forget whether the authorities are chasing you? Fighting for Diana? Not a chance. He kept attacking her Mistress and praetors. Fighting for Rome? Nope. He said multiple times that he didn't care what happened to Rome, which had kept them as slaves, and the offer to help destroy Rome was actually tempting to him. Fighting for the gods? Well, he did say destroying the amulets would help the gods (sans Diana), but he never sought to please them or ask them what they wanted and never weighed any of his actions or decisions around ANY authority except spur of the moment feelings.
The lack of planning really bothered me. Sure, Nic and Aurelia can make snap decisions once or twice in a trilogy or even a book. They made snap decisions (without any planning or consultation) EVERY time. Even when they had days to figure something out, all their decisions came across as, "I feel this and so I'm doing that."
There was waaaaay too much LUCK involved. I never felt like character competence helped them all survive. It was either luck or because the bad guys were even less competent. Like, Nic's head is literally on the chopping block when his friend says, "Hey, let him die with dignity. Take off the magic-draining wristband."
What does the executioner do? He removes the wristband. (To be fair, Nic only has a few seconds to regain his magic, and his magic is not what saves him, but it was really really really stupid of the bad guys to do that.)
The arguing got on my nerves. It's not like anyone was even that good at arguing; they just all did it to, what, heighten tension? There were several trials and judges. People argued for execution, release, banishment, or arena-tossing (or whatever the term is for prisoners who are tossed in the gladiator arena). None of the arguments felt professional in the least.
Here is a typical argument when Nic and a friend or two or three run into the praetors or the Mistress.
Brutus: "Surrender or I'll kill you!"
Nic: "I don't care! I'll kill you first! Destiny is on my side!"
"Then I'll kill your friends!"
"Okay, I surrender!"
Repeat this about 5 times. Maybe 8. It was stupidly predictable. And even if Nic and friends are stooping to such immature insults and techniques, why are the bad guys (adults and Roman praetors) stooping to their level to fight them? Why not, I don't know, use real logic or real threats? Why whip Nic? Why not chop off one of his hands or something? Or kill of one of his friends to ensure his cooperation?
Writer thoughts: If I had to point to one issue that made this book fall apart, it would be the loyalty, actually. As a reader, I can't root for Nic when I can't tell what I'm cheering for. If that had been clarified, the other issues could have been dealt with in regards to that. Like, the repetitive nature of arguments and the problem with so much incompetence and immaturity could have partially be a result of Nic not having a clear goal.
October 18, 2019
Well, there we have it! A great ending to this fantastic series.
What I love about this trilogy is the Ancient Roman historical era. (Pretty sure I actually LEARNED true facts in there, guys!) Also, the writing style is great, sprinkled with a touch of humor at the right moments too.
As for content ratings: There is a bit of romance brewing in the subplot, all very innocent and sweet.
Minimum age to read: 10 and up (adults included!).
What I love about this trilogy is the Ancient Roman historical era. (Pretty sure I actually LEARNED true facts in there, guys!) Also, the writing style is great, sprinkled with a touch of humor at the right moments too.
As for content ratings: There is a bit of romance brewing in the subplot, all very innocent and sweet.
Minimum age to read: 10 and up (adults included!).
December 4, 2021
Overall Series Rating 4 Stars✨
A trilogy about the price of magic and the consequences of using it.
Themes including the importance of Friends, Family and Forgiveness and the lengths people go for those they love.
I thought this was a fantastic ending to a fast paced series. Love Nielsens writing and the ancient city world building. Full of diverse characters and unique plot it flowed effortlessly and did not disappoint. Great series for YA and middle grade readers. Would recommend !
October 30, 2018
omg. it's actually over. thanks Isabella for telling me its okay to cry and she understands the shock I went through. Now what... well I wanted to say that Jennifer Nielson is an AMAZING author and the emotional roller coasters that she puts you on when you read her books are unbelievable.
March 27, 2017
THIS IS A REVIEW FOR ALL THREE MARK OF THE THIEF BOOKS (Mark of the Thief, Rise of the Wolf, and Wrath of the Storm )!
I just finished Wrath of the Storm, the third and final book in the Mark of the Thief Trilogy, so I decided to write a review of the trilogy as a whole, instead of doing one book at a time.
I really, really enjoyed this trilogy. It was super good!
I have to be honest though. I wasn’t really drawn into the series when I read the first book, Mark of the Thief. It may have been because I was still getting over how awesome the Ascendance Trilogy by Jennifer A. Nielsen was. Honestly, the Ascendance Trilogy is like the best trilogy ever! (Review coming soon.)
Anyway, back to the Mark of the Thief Trilogy, as the series went on, I got more intrigued. Rise of the Wolf was good, too, but, still, I wasn’t super duper intrigued. Finally, when I read, Wrath of the Storm, I was SO intrigued. I couldn’t put it down! The series was like an upside-down pyramid. It kept getting better/bigger as it went on. All of the characters were really cool. Nic was absolutely awesome! I loved his sarcastic humor; it was the best!! So, pretty much, I may have found a new fictional crush. (Yup, let’s put him on my never-ending list!)
The covers are all really cool. As soon as you look at them, you are intrigued and you immediately want to find out what the book is about. I will give all three covers together 4 stars!
I will also give the Mark of the Thief Trilogy 4 stars. This trilogy is definitely worth the read!
Title: Mark of the Thief Trilogy
Author: Jennifer A Nielsen
Author’s Website: http://www.jennielsen.com/
Reading Resolution: #17
This review is written in my own opinions and words.
I just finished Wrath of the Storm, the third and final book in the Mark of the Thief Trilogy, so I decided to write a review of the trilogy as a whole, instead of doing one book at a time.
I really, really enjoyed this trilogy. It was super good!
I have to be honest though. I wasn’t really drawn into the series when I read the first book, Mark of the Thief. It may have been because I was still getting over how awesome the Ascendance Trilogy by Jennifer A. Nielsen was. Honestly, the Ascendance Trilogy is like the best trilogy ever! (Review coming soon.)
Anyway, back to the Mark of the Thief Trilogy, as the series went on, I got more intrigued. Rise of the Wolf was good, too, but, still, I wasn’t super duper intrigued. Finally, when I read, Wrath of the Storm, I was SO intrigued. I couldn’t put it down! The series was like an upside-down pyramid. It kept getting better/bigger as it went on. All of the characters were really cool. Nic was absolutely awesome! I loved his sarcastic humor; it was the best!! So, pretty much, I may have found a new fictional crush. (Yup, let’s put him on my never-ending list!)
The covers are all really cool. As soon as you look at them, you are intrigued and you immediately want to find out what the book is about. I will give all three covers together 4 stars!
I will also give the Mark of the Thief Trilogy 4 stars. This trilogy is definitely worth the read!
Title: Mark of the Thief Trilogy
Author: Jennifer A Nielsen
Author’s Website: http://www.jennielsen.com/
Reading Resolution: #17
This review is written in my own opinions and words.
February 7, 2017
First sentence: If I was lucky, I still had another hour to live. Of course, if luck had ever played a role in my life, I wouldn't have been here in the first place.
Premise/plot: Wrath of the Storm is the third book in the Mark of the Thief trilogy by Jennifer A. Nielsen. I'd recommend reading the books in order, and, since I love, love, love, love, love Nielsen's books, I'd definitely recommend you read them sooner rather than later! The series is middle grade fantasy set in ancient Rome. Nicolas Calva may have started out his life a slave, a nobody, but he's not a nobody now. He's got all sorts of attention. And he hates it. Mainly because everyone he loves is in constant danger.
In this one, the big question is WILL NIC MAKE A JUPITER STONE? Is it his DESTINY as everyone says it is? Will he survive the making of it? Will he ever be free to be with Aurelia? How can he best protect his grandfather, his mother, his sister, his best friend, and the love of his life? Will making the Jupiter stone or attempting to make the Jupiter stone lead to their best chance at happiness? And what about the voice in his head? Should he listen to it?!
My thoughts: I really have enjoyed this series. Nic and Aurelia are an interesting pair. At times I wanted to yell at both of them. I think they infuriate one another now and then. They definitely fight--a lot. But they're a great match too. They really love one another, and they want what is best for each other. For Nic, that means he wants her to be SAFE even if that means she leaves the Roman empire. For Aurelia, that means she wants him ALIVE, and if staying in Rome fighting by his side gives him any help at all, she'll do it no matter what he says.
The series is action driven and character driven. Essentially it's an intense way to spend your time. But the characters are memorable for the most part!
Premise/plot: Wrath of the Storm is the third book in the Mark of the Thief trilogy by Jennifer A. Nielsen. I'd recommend reading the books in order, and, since I love, love, love, love, love Nielsen's books, I'd definitely recommend you read them sooner rather than later! The series is middle grade fantasy set in ancient Rome. Nicolas Calva may have started out his life a slave, a nobody, but he's not a nobody now. He's got all sorts of attention. And he hates it. Mainly because everyone he loves is in constant danger.
In this one, the big question is WILL NIC MAKE A JUPITER STONE? Is it his DESTINY as everyone says it is? Will he survive the making of it? Will he ever be free to be with Aurelia? How can he best protect his grandfather, his mother, his sister, his best friend, and the love of his life? Will making the Jupiter stone or attempting to make the Jupiter stone lead to their best chance at happiness? And what about the voice in his head? Should he listen to it?!
My thoughts: I really have enjoyed this series. Nic and Aurelia are an interesting pair. At times I wanted to yell at both of them. I think they infuriate one another now and then. They definitely fight--a lot. But they're a great match too. They really love one another, and they want what is best for each other. For Nic, that means he wants her to be SAFE even if that means she leaves the Roman empire. For Aurelia, that means she wants him ALIVE, and if staying in Rome fighting by his side gives him any help at all, she'll do it no matter what he says.
The series is action driven and character driven. Essentially it's an intense way to spend your time. But the characters are memorable for the most part!
April 18, 2017
Not a great ending to the trilogy--the characters started getting stale, and even annoying. It felt more like a continuation of the second book without really adding anything to the story line. Also, as much as I love a happy ending, it is totally ok to let some characters die--it actually adds depth to the story. It was nice to see Nick struggle with not being magic anymore--except it only lasted maybe one paragraph. The conflict was also stale. Not Nielsen's best work.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2019
This was so good!!! As always Jennifer A. Nielsen’s books keeps me at the edge of my seat with my heart pounding in anticipation of everything coming next. And then that ending!!!! Simply amazing. Astounding. Astonishing. No words to describe this book or any of her other books
April 11, 2017
This was amazing. Definitely my favorite in the series. Definitely...didn't...cry...
June 8, 2017
Still completely head over heels in love with Jennifer A. Neilson's writing and these characters she's created and hope she never stops.
-Reagan
-Reagan
August 27, 2017
so good!!! I am so sad that the series is over, and in my personal opinion, it was a great way to finish the series, and the best book in the series.
March 15, 2020
Ok, WOW. How does Jennifer Nielsen always manage to make me cry???
December 29, 2022
A good ending for the series but like all the other books in the series there was just a lot of repetitive chapters still good though and I enjoyed it.
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