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The Hundred Halls #2
Web of Lies
Whoever controls the Hundred Halls, controls the world. Aurelia "Aurie" Silverthorne has high hopes for her second year in the Hundred Halls, the world's only magical university, but her expectations are destroyed when she accidentally unleashes a plague of faez-eating thralls and spends week after week getting killed in the Grand Contest. But none of this matters when Aurie learns that the Cabal searches for a powerful magic that will help them get control of the Hundred Halls. If Aurie can't stop them, then passing her classes will be the least of her worries.
- GenresFantasyUrban Fantasy
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2016
103 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
About the author
Thomas K. Carpenter
193 books209 followersThomas K. Carpenter is a full time contemporary fantasy author with over 70 independently published titles. His bestselling, multi-series universe, The Hundred Halls, has over 43 books and counting. His stories focus on fantastic families, magical academies, and epic adventures. All the books can be found at major retailers and directly from the author at https://thomaskcarpenter.com/.
You can sign up for his newsletter at https://www.subscribepage.com/trialso...
When he is not writing, he enjoys playing turn-based strategy games and MTG, skiing, hiking, traveling, and chilling on the couch with his wife and their little dog, Merlin, at home in the beautiful mountains of Colorado.
You can sign up for his newsletter at https://www.subscribepage.com/trialso...
When he is not writing, he enjoys playing turn-based strategy games and MTG, skiing, hiking, traveling, and chilling on the couch with his wife and their little dog, Merlin, at home in the beautiful mountains of Colorado.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 3, 2019
I have wanted to read this book ever since I finished Trials of Magic, the first book in The Hundred Halls series. Thomas K Carpenter created a fantasy world and a pair of sisters that I found extremely compelling. This book is about Pi and Aurie's second year in The Hundred Halls and is full of many adventures and magical escapades. I will admit that I liked the first book better, but I did really enjoy the continuation of the girls' story.
In the first book I found that I related to Pi the most, but in this installment I felt myself drawn to Aurie a lot as well. While Pi took more risks and was a bit more reckless, Aurie tended to be more reserved, but in this book Aurie had some more interesting adventures. She started to learn lying magic and had a romance with a new character, Zayn. I really liked Zayn as an addition to the story and luckily he has his own spin off series that I want to check out.
The plot of this book wasn't as compelling as the fist was. The second year students all compete in a contest which was the focus of most of the novel. I was hoping for some exciting things to happen, but I found the contest to be a bit repetitive as they spent their whole second year trying to solve the same issue. The other thing I didn't like about the plot is that it didn't flow very well. The chapters jumped from one event to the next, making the reading feel a bit choppy.
Although the plot of this installment was not my favorite, I love this world and the characters. I will definitely read the next book, but I also want to check out the spin off series. If you want to read the first book it is available for free on Bookfunnel. Check out my review and see if it's something you would enjoy.
In the first book I found that I related to Pi the most, but in this installment I felt myself drawn to Aurie a lot as well. While Pi took more risks and was a bit more reckless, Aurie tended to be more reserved, but in this book Aurie had some more interesting adventures. She started to learn lying magic and had a romance with a new character, Zayn. I really liked Zayn as an addition to the story and luckily he has his own spin off series that I want to check out.
The plot of this book wasn't as compelling as the fist was. The second year students all compete in a contest which was the focus of most of the novel. I was hoping for some exciting things to happen, but I found the contest to be a bit repetitive as they spent their whole second year trying to solve the same issue. The other thing I didn't like about the plot is that it didn't flow very well. The chapters jumped from one event to the next, making the reading feel a bit choppy.
Although the plot of this installment was not my favorite, I love this world and the characters. I will definitely read the next book, but I also want to check out the spin off series. If you want to read the first book it is available for free on Bookfunnel. Check out my review and see if it's something you would enjoy.
October 14, 2018
*Why Did I Choose This Book?*
I read the first book in this series, Trials of Magic over a year ago and recently saw a blogger posting about that first book.
Having never met another person that had read it (and now reminded of how awesome the first book was), I vowed to begin book 2 immediately.
The story takes place in the city of Invictus, just as book one did. However, I feel that we get to explore a lot more of the city through Aurie and Pi’s eyes in book 2.
A lot of new characters were introduced in book 2, most of which I came to love. As usual, sisters Aurie and Pi (our main protagonists) are just as daring and sneaky as they pursue justice in the city of Invictus.
As usual, Aurie is more cautious and cunning in her escapades, with Pi being far more outspoken and impulsive. One character I adored was Echo, a declared Autistic character with a love of plants. The reason I adored Echo was mainly due to his silent wisdom that no-one else seems to understand at first.
As the novel progresses, we learn a great deal more about Echo and the way he thinks. The way the author represented Echo’s character actually brought a tear to my eye. He speaks about Echo holding too much power inside himself, the power perhaps being a metaphor for his Autistic brain. Either way, the way everything was handled really made me feel included in Carpenter’s world and I can’t thank him enough for it.
*The Plot: A Shocking Magical Journey*
Web of Lies revolves around a second-year magical project that sisters Aurie and Pi are competing in. Students are sorted into teams of six and must complete the project before any other team to win a special prize.
I couldn’t stop turning the pages as I learned more about the second year project, along with a series of increasingly shocking secrets that are revealed to few characters. A lot of things didn’t add up (in a mysterious way) and I found myself craving answers.
The plot was steady to fast-paced, with no loose ends. Everything weaved seamlessly together with twists that either had my heart in my throat or had me cheering on my favourite characters.
I actually liked the small breeze of romance that infiltrated book 2. It was sweet and innocent in ways, but also passionate and shows just how much the main characters are growing up.
*My Overall Feelings*
Overall, Web of lies went beyond my expectations for a sequel. The plot was well thought out, the characters relatable and the twists and turns unpredictable, yet exciting.
I would definitely recommend this series so far. If you love magic, why not take a trip to this magical world.
Rated 5 stars!
I read the first book in this series, Trials of Magic over a year ago and recently saw a blogger posting about that first book.
Having never met another person that had read it (and now reminded of how awesome the first book was), I vowed to begin book 2 immediately.
The story takes place in the city of Invictus, just as book one did. However, I feel that we get to explore a lot more of the city through Aurie and Pi’s eyes in book 2.
A lot of new characters were introduced in book 2, most of which I came to love. As usual, sisters Aurie and Pi (our main protagonists) are just as daring and sneaky as they pursue justice in the city of Invictus.
As usual, Aurie is more cautious and cunning in her escapades, with Pi being far more outspoken and impulsive. One character I adored was Echo, a declared Autistic character with a love of plants. The reason I adored Echo was mainly due to his silent wisdom that no-one else seems to understand at first.
As the novel progresses, we learn a great deal more about Echo and the way he thinks. The way the author represented Echo’s character actually brought a tear to my eye. He speaks about Echo holding too much power inside himself, the power perhaps being a metaphor for his Autistic brain. Either way, the way everything was handled really made me feel included in Carpenter’s world and I can’t thank him enough for it.
*The Plot: A Shocking Magical Journey*
Web of Lies revolves around a second-year magical project that sisters Aurie and Pi are competing in. Students are sorted into teams of six and must complete the project before any other team to win a special prize.
I couldn’t stop turning the pages as I learned more about the second year project, along with a series of increasingly shocking secrets that are revealed to few characters. A lot of things didn’t add up (in a mysterious way) and I found myself craving answers.
The plot was steady to fast-paced, with no loose ends. Everything weaved seamlessly together with twists that either had my heart in my throat or had me cheering on my favourite characters.
I actually liked the small breeze of romance that infiltrated book 2. It was sweet and innocent in ways, but also passionate and shows just how much the main characters are growing up.
*My Overall Feelings*
Overall, Web of lies went beyond my expectations for a sequel. The plot was well thought out, the characters relatable and the twists and turns unpredictable, yet exciting.
I would definitely recommend this series so far. If you love magic, why not take a trip to this magical world.
Rated 5 stars!
September 29, 2018
Spectacular sequel to Trials of Magic!
I think this second book of the Hundred Halls series is even better than the first, Trials of Magic, and that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Some great new characters, yet more twists and turns, and a cracking lot of suspense and action.
Intriguing world building, a great magic system, realistic, likeable and intelligent characters together with a sparkling plot made this a delight to read.
Next book please!
Highly recommended.
I think this second book of the Hundred Halls series is even better than the first, Trials of Magic, and that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Some great new characters, yet more twists and turns, and a cracking lot of suspense and action.
Intriguing world building, a great magic system, realistic, likeable and intelligent characters together with a sparkling plot made this a delight to read.
Next book please!
Highly recommended.
November 2, 2016
I loved the sequel to trials of magic. There were great twists in the plot, very inventive scenarios, and wonderful tie-ins between characters. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy.
June 14, 2018
Great series
I just love these books, the magic, characters and the kiss ass storylines. You cannot put them down once you have started a book. Read in order, much more fun.
I just love these books, the magic, characters and the kiss ass storylines. You cannot put them down once you have started a book. Read in order, much more fun.
August 12, 2018
Wow. I was so wondering how you would trump the first book well the second was that much better . There is a certain way that you create the world of magic that i love. I cant wait to read the next one.
I like how you highlighted the sisters growth and struggles through this book. I would give a bit of a warning that despite the wonderful covers these books are prob rated pg 13. As some of the colorful characters tend to be a bit fowl mouthed. It didnt detract from the story just thought i needed to mention it there is also a mild sex scene. hence the pg rating .
I really cant wait till i can find a copy of the next one as i am hooked .
I like how you highlighted the sisters growth and struggles through this book. I would give a bit of a warning that despite the wonderful covers these books are prob rated pg 13. As some of the colorful characters tend to be a bit fowl mouthed. It didnt detract from the story just thought i needed to mention it there is also a mild sex scene. hence the pg rating .
I really cant wait till i can find a copy of the next one as i am hooked .
July 6, 2018
Good book, good series
The first book was a bit weird for me with the two perspectives, but it was an interesting story and world. This one was much better I feel, and I enjoyed it through and through.
The first book was a bit weird for me with the two perspectives, but it was an interesting story and world. This one was much better I feel, and I enjoyed it through and through.
June 3, 2017
Captivating story
The characters and the world drew me in pulled me forward. Plenty of levels to this story and plenty more directions to go in future books. Overall a fun read.
The characters and the world drew me in pulled me forward. Plenty of levels to this story and plenty more directions to go in future books. Overall a fun read.
November 14, 2018
Wow!
An extremely gripping and breathtaking sequel to book 1, packed with things happening, I loved it! Don't miss this read!!!
An extremely gripping and breathtaking sequel to book 1, packed with things happening, I loved it! Don't miss this read!!!
October 9, 2017
Kindle Unlimited, I found it too slow in places, to repetitive in others, and contradictory in other sections even a paragraph or page apart. Had to force myself to finish reading through, it was that...whatever. Liked the premise but the execution for me was missing...things. Still, promised friend would read all the books so 1-3, 4, and then what usually do is review the sets and individually. Was 3 1/2 which means have to decide to go lower or higher so went with erring on side of higher rating. Read these in the 3 pack set, of which this is #2.
Book Two focuses on 2nd year, and more on whoever controls the Hundred Halls, controls the world. The Cabal searches for a powerful magic that will help them get control of the Hundred Halls, and if they aren't stopped, passing classes will be the least of anyone's worries.
Trials of Magic (The Hundred Halls Book 1)
Web of Lies (The Hundred Halls Book 2)
Alchemy of Souls (The Hundred Halls Book 3)
The Hundred Halls (Books 1-3)
Gathering of Shadows (The Hundred Halls Book 4)
Book Two focuses on 2nd year, and more on whoever controls the Hundred Halls, controls the world. The Cabal searches for a powerful magic that will help them get control of the Hundred Halls, and if they aren't stopped, passing classes will be the least of anyone's worries.
Trials of Magic (The Hundred Halls Book 1)
Web of Lies (The Hundred Halls Book 2)
Alchemy of Souls (The Hundred Halls Book 3)
The Hundred Halls (Books 1-3)
Gathering of Shadows (The Hundred Halls Book 4)
July 3, 2019
Another great story!
Wow, I loved the second story. It makes you want to keep reading. I Love all the characters, especially Pi and Aurie. Thanks
Wow, I loved the second story. It makes you want to keep reading. I Love all the characters, especially Pi and Aurie. Thanks
Read
August 2, 2025I like the characters, and the world in which they exist, but I had more problems with this outing than I did with the first book in the series (which I liked quite a bit).
This time the protagonists motivations seemed a bit strained. The younger sister, in particular seemed motivated by plot driven stupidity rather than anything that made sense (sure, let's go charging into a really dangerous situation, that we were specifically told to stay out of, because of a feeling that there is not enough family connection).
The romance between the elder sister and the guy from the other college also seemed a bit forced to me, particularly given that it does not seem to go anywhere.
Also, one would think that, in a world of magic there would be better protections against the machinations of the bad guy. Perhaps they will set some up now.
That being said, the writing was good, and the characters are still interesting.
This time the protagonists motivations seemed a bit strained. The younger sister, in particular seemed motivated by plot driven stupidity rather than anything that made sense (sure, let's go charging into a really dangerous situation, that we were specifically told to stay out of, because of a feeling that there is not enough family connection).
The romance between the elder sister and the guy from the other college also seemed a bit forced to me, particularly given that it does not seem to go anywhere.
Also, one would think that, in a world of magic there would be better protections against the machinations of the bad guy. Perhaps they will set some up now.
That being said, the writing was good, and the characters are still interesting.
September 26, 2023
A poignant, coming-of-age fantasy. Aurie and Pi are paired with four members from other halls in the Grand Contest for treasures unknown. The Cabal seeks to control the Hundred Halls and, with it, the world.
Thomas K. Carpenter does an excellent job of expanding his world. This is done from the perspective of the main characters. All the while, those characters dig bigger and bigger deficits to their patrons and the communities at large. I look forward to seeing how the story progresses in the next title.
Action-packed. Entertaining. Great world building. Inspirational. Romantic. Scary. Tragic. Twisted. Unpredictable. Whimsical. Wonderful characters.
Part of "The Hundred Halls (Books 1-3) (Hundred Halls Bundles Book 1)"
Thomas K. Carpenter does an excellent job of expanding his world. This is done from the perspective of the main characters. All the while, those characters dig bigger and bigger deficits to their patrons and the communities at large. I look forward to seeing how the story progresses in the next title.
Action-packed. Entertaining. Great world building. Inspirational. Romantic. Scary. Tragic. Twisted. Unpredictable. Whimsical. Wonderful characters.
Part of "The Hundred Halls (Books 1-3) (Hundred Halls Bundles Book 1)"
August 16, 2019
This was a great story :) A bit slow at times, and there were so many twists I'm surprised even the author could keep them straight, but none of them were confusing :) ...I'm not sure how he managed it, but this was very well done :)
September 11, 2020
I loved the first book and I really like the two sisters who are the protagonists. However, it's a shame that the author can't find a better way out of situations rather than finding another spell or cutesie way to avoid trouble. I'm done!!!
July 13, 2023
Feels aimed a little younger than the animalian series. Decent read with a few points plot points I didn’t fully understand from the secondary characters’ point of view, but nothing super memorable. So my typical beach-read rating.
September 13, 2023
Hard to put this book down.
Aurie and Pi proceed on to the second year in Hundred Halls. Things are a little different this time around. They must pass their classes and especially a very difficult group challenge.
Aurie and Pi proceed on to the second year in Hundred Halls. Things are a little different this time around. They must pass their classes and especially a very difficult group challenge.
July 27, 2021
As Good As
What I expected after reading book one. Yes, it might be for children, but JKR and Disney showed that a well written story can be for everyone! And now for book three.
What I expected after reading book one. Yes, it might be for children, but JKR and Disney showed that a well written story can be for everyone! And now for book three.
January 13, 2024
enjoyed the continuation... I will admit I get annoyed with some of the decisions made but i try and look past it...
January 26, 2025
Could have been 4 stars but the first chapter was really bad. Debated to stop reading - glad i pushed through. It gets better.
April 24, 2017
Within the first 30% of the book a couple of the tropes that I’d been happy weren’t in the first book reared their heads. We got some mild angst and a super-hot guy interested in one of our girls. We also had some stupid decisions and some moments of why did it take you so long to do what needed to be done. I could also see the author introducing a love triangle in the future, though a second guy hasn’t been introduced yet.
Overall I was super disappointed in the second book of the Hundred Halls series. Yes, there was more world building, but the main characters weren’t developed further and they were back to getting over the death of their parents. It wasn’t the focus but it was mentioned a lot, especially by Pi who I’m not sure Carpenter knows what to do with at all.
Aurie is supposed to be the selfless smart one, but she makes several selfish stupid decisions. Pi is supposed to be smart and impetuous, and willing to take advantage of a situation to help herself, she mostly lived up to that but she also became a lone wolf and her storyline was pretty much over halfway through. There were definite pacing issues.
Honestly, I’m probably not going to read the next book and I think I’m just going to avoid the genre completely. We’ll see.
2/5
Overall I was super disappointed in the second book of the Hundred Halls series. Yes, there was more world building, but the main characters weren’t developed further and they were back to getting over the death of their parents. It wasn’t the focus but it was mentioned a lot, especially by Pi who I’m not sure Carpenter knows what to do with at all.
Aurie is supposed to be the selfless smart one, but she makes several selfish stupid decisions. Pi is supposed to be smart and impetuous, and willing to take advantage of a situation to help herself, she mostly lived up to that but she also became a lone wolf and her storyline was pretty much over halfway through. There were definite pacing issues.
Honestly, I’m probably not going to read the next book and I think I’m just going to avoid the genre completely. We’ll see.
2/5
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews