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The Rituals Trilogy #2
The Oathing Stone
Are you ready for a Faerie civil war? A race with time to save the ones you love?
After a year blissfully hidden together in a small village on Ireland’s lush green, Catherine and Bowen are ready to tie the knot. The joining of an ancient druid doctor and a woman blessed with druid magic from the sacred oak tree calls for nothing less than a traditional Celtic ceremony. For this, to connect them to their ancestors and the sacred place where they marry, a key item must be chosen for the ritual. The oathing stone.Their need for discretion allows for only a gathering of Catherine’s closest friends and family. But after the couple’s first night together, strange and sudden events unfold. Blood mingles with fire, and Catherine’s magic becomes unstable.Meanwhile, the mysterious Faerie Kings send a Fae spy to witness Catherine’s magic which disrupts not only her life but her best friend Bella’s when she becomes his sudden obsession. Just after Bella goes missing, it is up to Catherine to get her back, but it is only the beginning of their problems as she finds they’re embroiled in the middle of a Faerie civil war.
After a year blissfully hidden together in a small village on Ireland’s lush green, Catherine and Bowen are ready to tie the knot. The joining of an ancient druid doctor and a woman blessed with druid magic from the sacred oak tree calls for nothing less than a traditional Celtic ceremony. For this, to connect them to their ancestors and the sacred place where they marry, a key item must be chosen for the ritual. The oathing stone.Their need for discretion allows for only a gathering of Catherine’s closest friends and family. But after the couple’s first night together, strange and sudden events unfold. Blood mingles with fire, and Catherine’s magic becomes unstable.Meanwhile, the mysterious Faerie Kings send a Fae spy to witness Catherine’s magic which disrupts not only her life but her best friend Bella’s when she becomes his sudden obsession. Just after Bella goes missing, it is up to Catherine to get her back, but it is only the beginning of their problems as she finds they’re embroiled in the middle of a Faerie civil war.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 14, 2017
2 people are currently reading
389 people want to read
About the author
J.Z.N. McCauley
6 books208 followers★☆Besides the last book in The Rituals Trilogy and Marian Murran (the sequel to A Bell Sound Everlasting) J.Z.N. McCauley will no longer publish her future work under this name. You can find her other upcoming novels under author name JALISSA☆★
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 21, 2018
I received a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
After spending the last year together, Catherine and Bowen are finally ready to take the next step in their relationship and get married. As a couple made up of an ancient druid doctor and a woman with druid magic from the sacred oak tree, they'll have to have a traditional Celtic marriage ceremony. In order to connect with their ancestors and the sacred location of their discreet ceremony, they'll have to select an oathing stone. On the wedding night, Catherine's magic becomes unstable. Meanwhile, the Fae Kings send a Fae spy to check out Catherine's magic disrupting her life and her friend Bella's life when she becomes the spy's obsession. After Bella goes missing, it's up to Catherine to find her. Really, though, their problems are just beginning because they've just landed right in the middle of a Fae civil war.
Although I was slightly underwhelmed by book one in this series, Oak and Mistletoe, I was still interested in seeing where the sequel would go, especially with the way the first installment ended. Here, I particularly liked that we got to see a little more magic and how McCauley incorporates the Fae. Unfortunately, though, Catherine's a bit flat here - she flips back and forth between weak and helpless to strong and magical enough to give me whiplash. I have to admit that her relationship with Bowen kind of bugs me too, especially considering what happened to her twin in book one. Also , in regards to the magic which was fun to see more of, I really wish we learned more about the why and the how it works for Catherine other than the fact that she is favored. On the same note, I was also left wondering more about why the Fae are after her in particular.
Overall, The Oathing Stone is still fun and fast, almost too fast at times, with many elements I enjoy. However, there are still more things that I wish had been addressed. Perhaps that's a good reason to come back for the final book in the trilogy to see how everything turns out and where that leaves our cast. If you're interested in Ireland, druids, mythology, and romance, you may want to try this second book of an NA trilogy.
After spending the last year together, Catherine and Bowen are finally ready to take the next step in their relationship and get married. As a couple made up of an ancient druid doctor and a woman with druid magic from the sacred oak tree, they'll have to have a traditional Celtic marriage ceremony. In order to connect with their ancestors and the sacred location of their discreet ceremony, they'll have to select an oathing stone. On the wedding night, Catherine's magic becomes unstable. Meanwhile, the Fae Kings send a Fae spy to check out Catherine's magic disrupting her life and her friend Bella's life when she becomes the spy's obsession. After Bella goes missing, it's up to Catherine to find her. Really, though, their problems are just beginning because they've just landed right in the middle of a Fae civil war.
Although I was slightly underwhelmed by book one in this series, Oak and Mistletoe, I was still interested in seeing where the sequel would go, especially with the way the first installment ended. Here, I particularly liked that we got to see a little more magic and how McCauley incorporates the Fae. Unfortunately, though, Catherine's a bit flat here - she flips back and forth between weak and helpless to strong and magical enough to give me whiplash. I have to admit that her relationship with Bowen kind of bugs me too, especially considering what happened to her twin in book one. Also , in regards to the magic which was fun to see more of, I really wish we learned more about the why and the how it works for Catherine other than the fact that she is favored. On the same note, I was also left wondering more about why the Fae are after her in particular.
Overall, The Oathing Stone is still fun and fast, almost too fast at times, with many elements I enjoy. However, there are still more things that I wish had been addressed. Perhaps that's a good reason to come back for the final book in the trilogy to see how everything turns out and where that leaves our cast. If you're interested in Ireland, druids, mythology, and romance, you may want to try this second book of an NA trilogy.
January 21, 2018
I received an ARC for an honest review
Catherine is starting a new life with Bowen in a beautiful small town in Ireland. Things couldn't be more perfect for her, until it all goes wrong.
I was really excited to read the second installment of this trilogy. I adored the first book and couldn't wait to find out how the story had progressed.
Once again I was blown away by the authors beautiful writing style and fantastically descriptive scenes.
Being from Ireland, reading books based on your culture and mythology can sometimes raise a brow or two. But it was clear that McCauley had researched the native way of speaking very well.
The main character of Catherine was really well portrayed and I loved her strength that was also beautifully coupled with her vulnerability. she was real and honest and I could relate to her struggles and feelings of loss in particular.
The story itself never lost pace, I was hooked from the first page and I found myself connecting with every emotion that was so excellently portrayed.
This is definitely a favourite series of mine and I'm very much looking forward to McCauleys future works!!
Catherine is starting a new life with Bowen in a beautiful small town in Ireland. Things couldn't be more perfect for her, until it all goes wrong.
I was really excited to read the second installment of this trilogy. I adored the first book and couldn't wait to find out how the story had progressed.
Once again I was blown away by the authors beautiful writing style and fantastically descriptive scenes.
Being from Ireland, reading books based on your culture and mythology can sometimes raise a brow or two. But it was clear that McCauley had researched the native way of speaking very well.
The main character of Catherine was really well portrayed and I loved her strength that was also beautifully coupled with her vulnerability. she was real and honest and I could relate to her struggles and feelings of loss in particular.
The story itself never lost pace, I was hooked from the first page and I found myself connecting with every emotion that was so excellently portrayed.
This is definitely a favourite series of mine and I'm very much looking forward to McCauleys future works!!
December 29, 2017
Catherine marries Bowen, the man who had lived on when Conall’s group had been sent on by Catherine’s reversing of the curse when she came into her power. He was a druid and the love of her life but their happiness was very short lived as their oathing stone was stolen by the Fae from the dark wood. Bowen is dying in front of her very eyes so Catherine once again ventures into the fae wood and the nightmare begins. The fae are full of illusion, magic and they think very little of humans. This book is full of the lore of the fae, their palaces and illusions are beautifully portrayed as is also their cruelty and lack of conscience towards anyone other than themselves. This book reminded me a lot of the beautiful books written by Anthea Sharp called Feyland. Will Catherine be able to save those she loves namely Bowen, Bella and Danny who had all ended up in the fae wood? Moreover can she keep the human realm safe? A very exciting book which needed to be read in one sitting and comes highly recommended to all those who love the fae, their realms and their quirks, magic and strong woman characters such as that of Catherine. My only regret is that we saw so little of Bowen in this book and I love this character too!
January 6, 2018
I haven’t written a review in months. Months! I’m more then positive I’ve forgotten how to do this. *insert scared face*
J.Z.N. Is an author I’ve had the honor of working with before and I was impressed with how much her writing has grown. I read the first book a couple months ago so I had to go back and refresh my brain a bit because of course I didn’t write a review for the first book even though i could’ve sworn i did (that’s coming later as is a much better review of this one).
Fantasy is a genre that’s hard for me to get into. I’m constantly putting the book down and I won’t lie this took me a while get into because I have been in a bad reading slump where it’s hard for me to *want to read* but on those days I did find desire to read, I enjoyed the story and where this is headed.
I’m battling a migraine on top of a cold right now so this review probably makes no sense but I’ll update this later.
J.Z.N. Is an author I’ve had the honor of working with before and I was impressed with how much her writing has grown. I read the first book a couple months ago so I had to go back and refresh my brain a bit because of course I didn’t write a review for the first book even though i could’ve sworn i did (that’s coming later as is a much better review of this one).
Fantasy is a genre that’s hard for me to get into. I’m constantly putting the book down and I won’t lie this took me a while get into because I have been in a bad reading slump where it’s hard for me to *want to read* but on those days I did find desire to read, I enjoyed the story and where this is headed.
I’m battling a migraine on top of a cold right now so this review probably makes no sense but I’ll update this later.
February 3, 2018
*I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest review*
This series looked so promising. I’m a huge fantasy nut, so anything with magic, fairies, and Ireland sounds fantastic to me, and I couldn’t wait to read to read the first book, Oak and Mistletoe. It kills me to say that I was very disappointed, and had I not been asked to review book 2 in the trilogy, I probably would have DNF’d it. Luckily, it was very fast paced and I was able to power through. The plot was convoluted, I felt no connection to the characters whatsoever, and everything just felt underdeveloped. Needless to say, I was not looking forward to reading The Oathing Stone. While I still wasn’t the biggest fan, I was pleasantly surprised that the second book was a lot better than the first. The plot actually made sense, and was able to hold my attention. Things moved and escalated very quickly with a lot of ups and downs. Being mostly set in the Fae realm, I felt like the author used their magic so that “anything goes,” without actually setting any rules to establish the system of magic. I liked that we got to read from a few different perspectives, and I thought that they were handled well in advancing the plot. The ending was a little strange, but exciting, and ends on a cliff hanger. My biggest problem with this book, and the series in general so far, is that I feel nothing for the characters. The situations they are put in are interesting, but the characters and relationships are very one dimensional and underdeveloped. Catherine and Bowen are supposed to have such a great love, but there was no basis for it. I really wanted to like this trilogy, but I just can’t get on board.
This series looked so promising. I’m a huge fantasy nut, so anything with magic, fairies, and Ireland sounds fantastic to me, and I couldn’t wait to read to read the first book, Oak and Mistletoe. It kills me to say that I was very disappointed, and had I not been asked to review book 2 in the trilogy, I probably would have DNF’d it. Luckily, it was very fast paced and I was able to power through. The plot was convoluted, I felt no connection to the characters whatsoever, and everything just felt underdeveloped. Needless to say, I was not looking forward to reading The Oathing Stone. While I still wasn’t the biggest fan, I was pleasantly surprised that the second book was a lot better than the first. The plot actually made sense, and was able to hold my attention. Things moved and escalated very quickly with a lot of ups and downs. Being mostly set in the Fae realm, I felt like the author used their magic so that “anything goes,” without actually setting any rules to establish the system of magic. I liked that we got to read from a few different perspectives, and I thought that they were handled well in advancing the plot. The ending was a little strange, but exciting, and ends on a cliff hanger. My biggest problem with this book, and the series in general so far, is that I feel nothing for the characters. The situations they are put in are interesting, but the characters and relationships are very one dimensional and underdeveloped. Catherine and Bowen are supposed to have such a great love, but there was no basis for it. I really wanted to like this trilogy, but I just can’t get on board.
December 27, 2017
Absolutly one of the best book I read! I think I hold my breath way to long in the last chapters of the book because I was so worry over how it would end. So now I'm waiting for the 3rd in this triology.
The book is about Faes, and I have no idea how this sort of "creature" really was before I read this book. I do know one thing, no matter what I would never trust one...They are full of mischiefs, tricky and quit evil.
You can read this book as a single book but to get the real feeling for it, you have to read them in order and the first book is awesome too.
The book is filled with action and I couldn't stop reading it. So I give this book 8 of 5 stars, and I want to read the next book right now!
The book is about Faes, and I have no idea how this sort of "creature" really was before I read this book. I do know one thing, no matter what I would never trust one...They are full of mischiefs, tricky and quit evil.
You can read this book as a single book but to get the real feeling for it, you have to read them in order and the first book is awesome too.
The book is filled with action and I couldn't stop reading it. So I give this book 8 of 5 stars, and I want to read the next book right now!
December 27, 2017
I loved this book, I love how the story continued from the first one, how the characters intertwined with each other, I'm hoping there is a third book as I'm not ready to let go of these people.
January 13, 2018
This was just as action packed as the first book. I love that the characters are all so fleshed out in this one. You really get the inside view to what everyone is thinking. The plot was solid and the theme was consistent. There was a bit of an unfinished thread so I'm guessing we'll see another book!
January 8, 2018
Wow! Though much darker then the first novel in this amazing series , this second book was definitely worth the wait. This is a masterpiece of magical tale , with alluring Irish Fae and so much more. Truly amazing words written by Jzn and I look forward to so much more !
March 22, 2018
I need more like yesterday... you can't finish it with a cliffhanger like that!
February 10, 2018
My first impression about this book is that it was amazing, simply because of the setting. I honestly can't recall a book that actually had a setting in Ireland, and I adore the country so I was stoked to read a book set there!
There is so much going on here - Catherine and Bowen's wedding, her magic, Bella's abduction! I could not put the book down for a second because I needed to know what happened. Plus, the drama with the fae made it even more intriguing. I'm all for fun, cutesy little fairies, but it's also perfect when author's depict them as the mischievous and untrustworthy sort that they actually are in myth.
Catherine has so much on her plate to handle in this novel, I couldn't even imagine doing it myself. She might potentially lose her love and her best friend, and the only way to help them is to deal with the fair folk who really don't want to deal with humans at all.
Then there is the ending. I feel like it's just cruel, leaving us to wait to more like that! I seriously cannot even handle the time between now and the next release date!
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
There is so much going on here - Catherine and Bowen's wedding, her magic, Bella's abduction! I could not put the book down for a second because I needed to know what happened. Plus, the drama with the fae made it even more intriguing. I'm all for fun, cutesy little fairies, but it's also perfect when author's depict them as the mischievous and untrustworthy sort that they actually are in myth.
Catherine has so much on her plate to handle in this novel, I couldn't even imagine doing it myself. She might potentially lose her love and her best friend, and the only way to help them is to deal with the fair folk who really don't want to deal with humans at all.
Then there is the ending. I feel like it's just cruel, leaving us to wait to more like that! I seriously cannot even handle the time between now and the next release date!
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
August 14, 2017
I received an e-ARC, and I loved it! The Oathing Stone was a beautifully written sequel to Oak and Mistletoe. It's darker than the first, the prose much lovelier, and it was great to see so much more magic! The same great characters are together again. This time, Bella is very much involved, and I loved that. The plot was really interesting to me since I like fantasy and Celtic myth.
The Irish fae in this are very alluring, but I like that there is a lot of mystery surrounding them continuously throughout the book. There's enough mystery still leftover (I'm assuming for the next book in the trilogy!) I saw online somewhere there will be a spinoff series detailing the faerie realm too, so I'm really excited about that.
I really like how none of the author's books are the same. So, if you don't like one, the other may be your favorite. This one is definitely one of my favorites!
The Irish fae in this are very alluring, but I like that there is a lot of mystery surrounding them continuously throughout the book. There's enough mystery still leftover (I'm assuming for the next book in the trilogy!) I saw online somewhere there will be a spinoff series detailing the faerie realm too, so I'm really excited about that.
I really like how none of the author's books are the same. So, if you don't like one, the other may be your favorite. This one is definitely one of my favorites!
January 5, 2018
The Oathing Stone by J.Z.N McCauley is book two in her Rituals Trilogy. In this book we are reunited with Catherine, Bowen, Danny, Bella and Mary. Catherine and Bowen are preparing for their wedding day that has finally arrived. Catherine and Bowen pick out a stone to be their oathing stone to follow Irish tradition. As they do this and enjoy their wedding day they have no idea that they are being watched by the fae. A shift in power has occurred in the courts of the fae, and it has placed Catherine in the bull’s eye of danger unknown to her and her soon to be husband. Once the object of power is stolen, Catherine and Bowen are thrown into a danger that neither of them saw coming. However, it’s not just Catherine and Bowen who are in danger. Catherine’s best friend, Bella, is also in serious danger and it falls to Catherine to save all of those whom she loves or die trying.
The Oathing Stone is the second book that I have read by this author and of the two books in this trilogy I have to say that I enjoyed this book this most. For me, this story is engaging from start to finish. We get to see how happy Catherine is for her wedding day, to watching her deal with the heartbreak from the fear of losing the man that she loves to some inexplicable magic. They are both under attack, but her new magic is doing its best to protect her from being drained. Quickly Catherine realizes that is the fae who have had something to do with her attack but her best friend going missing as well. Catherine is more engaging in this story in my opinion. She’s a strong character now that she has her magic, and I like that she never backs down and waits on someone to save her. There are some unique surprises and twists in this story that keep me engaged and wanting to know more of what is going to happen next.
There honestly isn’t anything that I don’t like in this story. The author does an excellent job filling in gaps and answering questions. I like the suspense levels used in this story as it is just right in balance. While there are a couple of moments of where I would have preferred a different end, I think that the overall story is well done.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. This story ends with a bit of a cliffhanger, but it only makes me eager to read the next book in this series. I like how this story does not have the “perfect” ending. It leaves the reader wanting more with some questions as to what will happen next. Job well done to the author on this engaging novel.
The Oathing Stone is the second book that I have read by this author and of the two books in this trilogy I have to say that I enjoyed this book this most. For me, this story is engaging from start to finish. We get to see how happy Catherine is for her wedding day, to watching her deal with the heartbreak from the fear of losing the man that she loves to some inexplicable magic. They are both under attack, but her new magic is doing its best to protect her from being drained. Quickly Catherine realizes that is the fae who have had something to do with her attack but her best friend going missing as well. Catherine is more engaging in this story in my opinion. She’s a strong character now that she has her magic, and I like that she never backs down and waits on someone to save her. There are some unique surprises and twists in this story that keep me engaged and wanting to know more of what is going to happen next.
There honestly isn’t anything that I don’t like in this story. The author does an excellent job filling in gaps and answering questions. I like the suspense levels used in this story as it is just right in balance. While there are a couple of moments of where I would have preferred a different end, I think that the overall story is well done.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. This story ends with a bit of a cliffhanger, but it only makes me eager to read the next book in this series. I like how this story does not have the “perfect” ending. It leaves the reader wanting more with some questions as to what will happen next. Job well done to the author on this engaging novel.
July 22, 2023
"The Oathing Stone" takes readers on a captivating journey to an enchanting utopian realm, where druid magic and mystical beings coexist in harmony with their surroundings. This world stands distinct from our natural order, entailing politics that delve into issues far removed from our own. As an enthusiast of fantasy adventures, I found myself irresistibly drawn into the beauty of this book. Its cover art alone enthralls all who encounter it, a testament to the author and illustrator's artistry and cunning.
The narrative commences with a blissful reunion, a fitting prelude for a couple embarking on a life together through the sacred bond of marriage. Catherine and Bowen's connection transcends mere emotions, as one is an ancient druid doctor and the other has been bestowed with druid magic by a wise tree. Yet, this reunion does not come without consequences, foretelling an unfolding journey of trials and challenges. As they confront these new realities, the question looms large: will their love and strength withstand the current of the river they have created, or will they be swept away by its powerful flow?
The novel weaves an exquisitely constructed world, adorned with elements sure to captivate the reader's imagination. I appreciate the author's meticulous attention to world-building, a testament to their commitment in shaping both the setting and characters. However, I must note that this book serves as part two of a series, and to fully immerse oneself in the intricacies of the tale, it is advisable to read its precursor. By doing so, readers can grasp the full spectrum of events and intricacies, avoiding potential confusion that may arise from missed details. Nonetheless, even as a standalone piece, "The Oathing Stone" promises to deliver an enchanting and immersive experience.
The narrative commences with a blissful reunion, a fitting prelude for a couple embarking on a life together through the sacred bond of marriage. Catherine and Bowen's connection transcends mere emotions, as one is an ancient druid doctor and the other has been bestowed with druid magic by a wise tree. Yet, this reunion does not come without consequences, foretelling an unfolding journey of trials and challenges. As they confront these new realities, the question looms large: will their love and strength withstand the current of the river they have created, or will they be swept away by its powerful flow?
The novel weaves an exquisitely constructed world, adorned with elements sure to captivate the reader's imagination. I appreciate the author's meticulous attention to world-building, a testament to their commitment in shaping both the setting and characters. However, I must note that this book serves as part two of a series, and to fully immerse oneself in the intricacies of the tale, it is advisable to read its precursor. By doing so, readers can grasp the full spectrum of events and intricacies, avoiding potential confusion that may arise from missed details. Nonetheless, even as a standalone piece, "The Oathing Stone" promises to deliver an enchanting and immersive experience.
August 1, 2023
I love this book. I love this story. I love seeing all the threads weave together into something intricate and awesome.The story is gorgeously written I really enjoyed this book! Specially because of how it mixed the feel of magics, illusion with romance and mystery.
This book is so detailed, rich with immersive world-building, characters arcs, & so many twists. I loved this second book of this series! First one just left me in curiosity.
So the story revolves around a couple Catherine and Bowen who were finally ready to tie knot together. Things were going just smooth & perfect until it went all wrong. Well, This book is so hard to talk about without giving details away and I think it's a great one to go into blind.
I liked the main character Catherine she was very appealing throughout the story. There were some unique suspense and twists in this story that keep me engaged and wanting to know more of what is going to happen next.
In a nutshell, This book is a perfect read for all those readers who enjoy books based on the theme of love, relationships, mystery magic, illusion and what not. The whole plot of the book is very well designed and the character synchronization with each other adds a bit more magic to the overall narrative. The entire book is longing for so many things but mainly love and living. This book broke me in the most beautiful ways. Through mind blowing, storytelling and writing skills, J.Z.N. McCauley has created a powerful and beautiful book that will resonate with the readers till the very end and will leave an Ever lasting impression on their minds. Hence, It's a must read for all mystery lovers.
This book is so detailed, rich with immersive world-building, characters arcs, & so many twists. I loved this second book of this series! First one just left me in curiosity.
So the story revolves around a couple Catherine and Bowen who were finally ready to tie knot together. Things were going just smooth & perfect until it went all wrong. Well, This book is so hard to talk about without giving details away and I think it's a great one to go into blind.
I liked the main character Catherine she was very appealing throughout the story. There were some unique suspense and twists in this story that keep me engaged and wanting to know more of what is going to happen next.
In a nutshell, This book is a perfect read for all those readers who enjoy books based on the theme of love, relationships, mystery magic, illusion and what not. The whole plot of the book is very well designed and the character synchronization with each other adds a bit more magic to the overall narrative. The entire book is longing for so many things but mainly love and living. This book broke me in the most beautiful ways. Through mind blowing, storytelling and writing skills, J.Z.N. McCauley has created a powerful and beautiful book that will resonate with the readers till the very end and will leave an Ever lasting impression on their minds. Hence, It's a must read for all mystery lovers.
February 9, 2018
Intriguing, mythical, and far from a fairy tale story that takes you to the world of legends and myths long forgotten.
Cathy has finally found her peace, and all she can think of is her upcoming marriage to Bowen. Both of them magical beings, they decide to exchange the vows in a traditional way, binding them together with an oathing stone. But the deceitful fae watch their every step and full of cruelty and machinations, Loic puts his masterplan to motion. Little did he know Cathy is more resourceful that he expected - or the other fae suspected, too. However, great power comes with even greater price.
I really much liked the way magic works in this world. It's both captivating and chilling. The powers are imaginative, attractive, and very dangerous, and falling into wrong hands they might wreak havoc. The image of the glass castle was also breathtaking when one imagines it.
Nevertheless, I did have some problems to process the emotional side of the relationships in the story. Despite the suggestive words and much-saing scenes, I still felt detached from the main characters and could not very well connect to with their emotions. Aside from Mary, which is interesting. I also sometimes felt that the story was slowing down too much to my liking.
However, I liked the way the plot developed and the sometimes unexpected occurrences described in the book. I liked the twists and the very realistic feeling end, leaving wide enough opening to set the base for the next book and provide a brief hint what might the story focus on in the last installment.
Cathy has finally found her peace, and all she can think of is her upcoming marriage to Bowen. Both of them magical beings, they decide to exchange the vows in a traditional way, binding them together with an oathing stone. But the deceitful fae watch their every step and full of cruelty and machinations, Loic puts his masterplan to motion. Little did he know Cathy is more resourceful that he expected - or the other fae suspected, too. However, great power comes with even greater price.
I really much liked the way magic works in this world. It's both captivating and chilling. The powers are imaginative, attractive, and very dangerous, and falling into wrong hands they might wreak havoc. The image of the glass castle was also breathtaking when one imagines it.
Nevertheless, I did have some problems to process the emotional side of the relationships in the story. Despite the suggestive words and much-saing scenes, I still felt detached from the main characters and could not very well connect to with their emotions. Aside from Mary, which is interesting. I also sometimes felt that the story was slowing down too much to my liking.
However, I liked the way the plot developed and the sometimes unexpected occurrences described in the book. I liked the twists and the very realistic feeling end, leaving wide enough opening to set the base for the next book and provide a brief hint what might the story focus on in the last installment.
January 29, 2018
Let me preface this review by saying that I rarely give 5 star reviews; I just don’t. A book has to really wow me to earn one, and this one did! It is obvious, even if I had not seen the subtitle, that this is not the first book in the series. However, the author has done an admirable job catching up the reader without completely re-telling the whole story. There were a couple of times that I felt like there was some information that I’d missed (I’ve not read the first book in the trilogy), but it was certainly not enough to detract me from the rest of the story. I very much enjoyed how the author has woven in threads from Celtic/Irish mythology and has given a fresh look at the world of the fae beyond “light” and “dark”. It takes a special book for me to want to go back and read the book(s) before it in a series so I get a richer perspective, and an even more special book for me to look past a cliffhanger ending. The book was not full of filler sentences to pad the word count, nor was it novella length, hindering the author’s storytelling. Well done! Now, I want to know Danny and Bella’s story!!!!!
Reviewed by HR Duby for Romance Authors that Rock
Reviewed by HR Duby for Romance Authors that Rock
January 31, 2018
Catherine can finally marry Bowen, who has become mortal after Catherine defeated the fae. She is still presumed dead, when in truth her twin Kathleen is the one who died. Mary has been their protector of secrets and has given them a life. They marry at the ruins with her brother Danny and best friend Bella as the guests. They followed an old druid tradition of using an oathing stone to hold the promise of their love.
The morning after their wedding, Caty has an open wound and tattoos appear all over her head and face, Bowen wakes and screams, turning gray and death like. Bella and Mary both go to find help, but Bella disappears and Danny runs into the fae forest to look for her. Caty finds her oathing stone gone when she tries to find Bella. The Fae are determined to end Caty once and for all, so they can take over the land of the humans.
Who will survive this battle? with Caty ever get her happily ever after? You will have to wait for the final book of the trilogy to find out what happens to her little family.
The morning after their wedding, Caty has an open wound and tattoos appear all over her head and face, Bowen wakes and screams, turning gray and death like. Bella and Mary both go to find help, but Bella disappears and Danny runs into the fae forest to look for her. Caty finds her oathing stone gone when she tries to find Bella. The Fae are determined to end Caty once and for all, so they can take over the land of the humans.
Who will survive this battle? with Caty ever get her happily ever after? You will have to wait for the final book of the trilogy to find out what happens to her little family.
August 11, 2018
I just did not get on with this book, but I had not read the earlier instalment. If you read and enjoyed the first book you will probably like this one more than I did. The setting is supposed to be modern Ireland, but it almost all occurs in a forest or a Fae Court, because that's easier than writing about Ireland.
We meet a young woman getting fitted for a wedding dress. She's marrying a druid two hundred years old. Sorry, that is creepy. After that revelation the tale follows the standard pattern of fae people intruding on the mortal realm, mortals getting mixed up with them and going to a glittering, dangerous Fae Court.
Some nasty violent scenes occur, so it's not for the young or anyone who doesn't like horror.
"Her lungs constricted as some powerful force rammed into her back, knocking her to the ground"
J.Z.N. McCauley. The Oathing Stone (Kindle Location 2617). Kindle Edition. Your breath is expelled; your lungs don't constrict.
I downloaded an ARC from the author. This is an unbiased review.
We meet a young woman getting fitted for a wedding dress. She's marrying a druid two hundred years old. Sorry, that is creepy. After that revelation the tale follows the standard pattern of fae people intruding on the mortal realm, mortals getting mixed up with them and going to a glittering, dangerous Fae Court.
Some nasty violent scenes occur, so it's not for the young or anyone who doesn't like horror.
"Her lungs constricted as some powerful force rammed into her back, knocking her to the ground"
J.Z.N. McCauley. The Oathing Stone (Kindle Location 2617). Kindle Edition. Your breath is expelled; your lungs don't constrict.
I downloaded an ARC from the author. This is an unbiased review.
January 7, 2018
Loved Loved Loved this book. Bravo to J.Z.N. McCauley wrote a book that leaves me speechless and wanting more from this author. After reading Book 1 could not wait for Book 2 and after reading it I can not wait for Book 3. It needs to be out now. Anyway, very well written. The story line is very well developed. You are able to almost put a face and figure to the characters of the book. You can feel what they are feeling. In other words this wonderful author is able to bring her characters to life. Book 2 brings all the characters we loved in Book 1 back to a wedding that is happening. Any questions we had in Book 1 have been answered very well and of course there are more questions we have now from Book 2 which will be answered just as well in Book 3. Very well done. You don't want to miss out on this Series. A must read and of course 5 stars out of 5.
January 11, 2018
The oathing Stone is the second instalment of the rituals trilogy. A fantasy full of adventure and romance. I found the book hard to follow although it was slightly better towards the third end of the book. The book seemed too fast paced and I wanted more about the challenges faced rather than rushing through them. It seemed a little disjointed at times which spoiled my enjoyment and I found it hard to connect with the main characters. I found it hard to get to know the main character as she kept swapping from being vulnerable to brave but no explanation. I did enjoy the last part of the book and it may have been that I then had a better understanding of the story and the style of writing from the author. I liked the idea of her plot but wanted more and wanted to engage with the characters. It’s a shame as I know all books don’t satisfy everyone I just wanted more .
January 3, 2018
Hey so I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my completely honest review. All I can say for this book is wow! It was conpletly amazing I laughed, I swooned, I gushed, I cried, and I screamed. This book had everything I was expecting and more, I was so happy that this book didn't get the second book syndrome. I really enjoyed the first one but I have to say I like the sequel more. If you haven't checked out this series you definitely should because this book is amazing. The plot was interesting and properly paced, the romance and passion was on point, the characters were so well developed and still realing from the first book. And to top it all off there is a crazy cliffhanger ending. So I definitely recommend this book to all ages!
March 13, 2018
The first book thrilled me so much that I simply couldn't wait to read the second one and this one is even better! An attractive cover and an alluring title enticed me to read this book and I simply couldn't turn down it's appeal.
Catherine and Bowen!!! Catherine has already become one of my all-time favorites since the last book and I'm so happy to see her tying knot with Bowen in this book. The wonderful ambience created throughout the story kept me glued till the end. There's magic, there's mystery, there's romance and what not!! I simply loved it.
The moment I finished this book I started craving for more. This story took an interesting turn towards the end and I simply can't wait to read the next book in the series!!
Catherine and Bowen!!! Catherine has already become one of my all-time favorites since the last book and I'm so happy to see her tying knot with Bowen in this book. The wonderful ambience created throughout the story kept me glued till the end. There's magic, there's mystery, there's romance and what not!! I simply loved it.
The moment I finished this book I started craving for more. This story took an interesting turn towards the end and I simply can't wait to read the next book in the series!!
January 8, 2018
A fantasy chock full of adventure and romance that just isn't for me. It was too fast-paced and the writing seemed disjointed at times making it difficult for me to engage and fully immerse myself in the story. I also just can't connect with Caty and her frequent shifting between 'helpless, I give up' and 'warrior woman, save everyone' attitudes drove me nuts. I did find the druids and lore very refreshing and the way that the author described the Irish towns and setting has me ready to book my plane ticket. I realize not all books reach people the same way and think I'm simply just not connecting with this author's particular writing style.
January 31, 2018
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The second in The Rituals trilogy, I was drawn in a little more than in the previous book due to more of an inclusion with the fae. Catherine has accepted her magic and has been living with Mary and Bowen when tragedy strikes again, sending her on yet another quest to save those she loves.
A good story with excellent proofreading, however I still didn't feel that chemistry for the couples throughout the book. I couldn't relate with Catherine—she seemed very flat, going from broken and weak to strong and back again in only a few paragraphs. There's really no explanation on why Catherine is so magically powerful (besides the sun favoring her) and why all the fae are after her.
There are a lot of holes that leave me desiring more information, but I wold still like to see the conclusion to this trilogy, if only for closure.
The second in The Rituals trilogy, I was drawn in a little more than in the previous book due to more of an inclusion with the fae. Catherine has accepted her magic and has been living with Mary and Bowen when tragedy strikes again, sending her on yet another quest to save those she loves.
A good story with excellent proofreading, however I still didn't feel that chemistry for the couples throughout the book. I couldn't relate with Catherine—she seemed very flat, going from broken and weak to strong and back again in only a few paragraphs. There's really no explanation on why Catherine is so magically powerful (besides the sun favoring her) and why all the fae are after her.
There are a lot of holes that leave me desiring more information, but I wold still like to see the conclusion to this trilogy, if only for closure.
January 5, 2018
5/5 Stars
This is a thrilling continuation to Oak and Mistletoe. It tells the story of Catherine's life after gaining her Druid abilities.
In the first book, Druids were given a refreshing new spin. And J.Z.N McCauley keeps that up with her Fae. We are introduced to banshees and more. Readers also get more growth in the characters they feel in love with in book one.
There was also a fair amount of action near the end that was beautifully written. Oh this book pulled at my heartstrings! I need more!
This is a thrilling continuation to Oak and Mistletoe. It tells the story of Catherine's life after gaining her Druid abilities.
In the first book, Druids were given a refreshing new spin. And J.Z.N McCauley keeps that up with her Fae. We are introduced to banshees and more. Readers also get more growth in the characters they feel in love with in book one.
There was also a fair amount of action near the end that was beautifully written. Oh this book pulled at my heartstrings! I need more!
January 5, 2018
DISCLAIMER: I voluntarily read an ARC of this book, which was provided by the author. This is my honest review.
After the first book, I was left with so much frustration because I NEEDED to know what would come next!!! There's a wedding in this second installment! Bowen won my heart right over in the last book and I was so happy to see him and Catherine tie the knot. There is a whimsical flow in the story. The characters are amazing. The Oathing Stone is a total page-turner.
After the first book, I was left with so much frustration because I NEEDED to know what would come next!!! There's a wedding in this second installment! Bowen won my heart right over in the last book and I was so happy to see him and Catherine tie the knot. There is a whimsical flow in the story. The characters are amazing. The Oathing Stone is a total page-turner.
January 6, 2018
I am so addicted to this series! The Oathing Stone by J.Z.N McCauley was the perfect second book in The Rituals Trilogy. I absolutely loved all of the Characters and after reading both books in the trilogy I have officially added going to Ireland on my bucket list. I cannot wait for the third instalment and if I had one wish it would be to have this book in my greedy hands today:)
January 6, 2018
This was a nice continuation of Oak and Mistletoe. I really enjoyed following Catherine’s story and and learning more about her and the other characters. I feel like this author does a great job of world building. I have read a lot of fantasy books but not a lot about druids so that is something that compelled me to keep on with this series. Can’t wait to see what book 3 will bring!
January 16, 2018
Not sure about this one. A bit of a disappointment especially since Book 1 was SO great!! While the story itself was good even though it was a bit disjointed, the ending left me with too many unanswered questions. I’m assuming there will be another book in the series that will address the major ones?? I received a free copy of this book via BookFunnel and am voluntarily leaving this review.
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