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The A'vean Chronicles #2
Surrender
Sophia Woodville's life is anything but ordinary. You can't be ordinary when you've discovered your'e an Earth-born Angel. Alone and suddenly powerless in the stinking heat of the Daimon realm, Sophia has been betrayed by the one person she trusted most. She must find a way to escape and continue her quest to unravel the clues left for her eyes only, fighting the Zombie-like Rogues to preserve the prophecies of Enoch. Only then can the Fallen Angels return to their homeland and humanity be released from the grip of Yeqon and his evil horde.
394 pages, ebook
Published December 31, 2016
2 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
August 1, 2018
I read the first book in this series early last year and thoroughly enjoyed it. My only slight criticism being it took a long time for the story to get going. That certainly wasn't the case here. With a bang, we were hurled straight into the middle of the action. No recap or summing up, you were expected to shut up and keep up, as the author plunged us headlong back into the fantastical world she'd created in Awaken.
Not a short book, it is nevertheless a fast read. All the action seems to take place over a very short period of time, and there's very much a feeling of urgency and immediacy to the writing, which I really enjoyed. Left breathless at times by the pace and sheer speed of the plot, it was a total rush from first to last page.
The main character, Sophia, develops both her powers and her character nicely. Becoming so much more than a passive "Bella Swan" personality, she begins to take charge of her destiny and is much more proactive than in the first book. Rather than just letting things happen to her, she actively tries to fight back against her seemingly inevitable fate. As my pet peeve is pathetic heroines, I was cheering her on from the touchlines, as she realises there's always a choice, even if it's a hard one.
The introduction of a surprising new main character was well done and took me completely by surprise (no spoilers). Along the way, there were shocks and revelations galore, and we were left teetering on a cliffhanger. As I hate abrupt endings, I really hope book three will be out soon.
The book is well written and nicely paced, and there was a great sense of the author settling into her characters and her plot.
All in all, an exciting, rollercoaster of a read for all those who enjoy YA fantasy.
Not a short book, it is nevertheless a fast read. All the action seems to take place over a very short period of time, and there's very much a feeling of urgency and immediacy to the writing, which I really enjoyed. Left breathless at times by the pace and sheer speed of the plot, it was a total rush from first to last page.
The main character, Sophia, develops both her powers and her character nicely. Becoming so much more than a passive "Bella Swan" personality, she begins to take charge of her destiny and is much more proactive than in the first book. Rather than just letting things happen to her, she actively tries to fight back against her seemingly inevitable fate. As my pet peeve is pathetic heroines, I was cheering her on from the touchlines, as she realises there's always a choice, even if it's a hard one.
The introduction of a surprising new main character was well done and took me completely by surprise (no spoilers). Along the way, there were shocks and revelations galore, and we were left teetering on a cliffhanger. As I hate abrupt endings, I really hope book three will be out soon.
The book is well written and nicely paced, and there was a great sense of the author settling into her characters and her plot.
All in all, an exciting, rollercoaster of a read for all those who enjoy YA fantasy.
April 26, 2017
G.R. Thomas' novels are always well written, full of imagery, strong diction choice, perfectly paced and full of characters that are relatable, loved and intriguing. The storyline is strong. Have you ever had an author that you would recognize their style? That's how I feel about Thomas. She has a way with words that is refreshing. I would love to tell you everything I loved about it, but I just can't without giving details away. It's a must read. Simple as that. Oh, and have you seen the covers? Brilliant.
January 9, 2021
Surrender is the second installment in The A'vean Chronicles and this time we follow Sophia (quite literally) into hell. It picks up right where Awaken ends, which I love, and launches into a fast-paced, descriptive rollercoaster of a ride. The imagery is very strong and you definitely feel that you're being swept along into another realm. Full marks for a hot destination that won't be on anyone's vacation list!
We see the return of old favourites with a smattering of new ones and the addition of some pretty nasty little demonic creatures. I particularly liked the Asmodai, but you'll have to read to find out what they are ;)
Sophia definitely grows as a character and she has to make some pretty difficult choices along the way. We get answers to questions from book one and more posed for book three, which is exactly how a middle book should run.
This is a tale filled with loyalty, friendship, a betrayal you don't see coming, and some fight scenes that will have you at the edge of your seat. We await the final installment with baited breath!
We see the return of old favourites with a smattering of new ones and the addition of some pretty nasty little demonic creatures. I particularly liked the Asmodai, but you'll have to read to find out what they are ;)
Sophia definitely grows as a character and she has to make some pretty difficult choices along the way. We get answers to questions from book one and more posed for book three, which is exactly how a middle book should run.
This is a tale filled with loyalty, friendship, a betrayal you don't see coming, and some fight scenes that will have you at the edge of your seat. We await the final installment with baited breath!
October 5, 2020
Sophia's story continues and certainly does not disappoint, love all the places she goes to, the descriptions make you feel like you are there. Hard to put down.
December 16, 2016
Actual rating 4.75.
I really enjoyed Awaken (Book 1 in the series) and fell in love with Thomas' writing then, so I knew I had to have this one, too! I was especially chuffed when she offered me an ARC (or rather, I begged for one), so my repeated thanks to the author! ^-^
It was really nice to be back in Thomas' world. Her writing has this odd familiarity to it, which made this read just as smooth as the first book in the series.
Because of everything that happened at the end of Awaken Sophia missed everyone badly, and I did, too. Her characters are so real and human that reading about them again felt like a small reunion.
The fire in my palms burned harder, yet my resolve weakened. I had nothing, I thought I had nothing, but right there on the floor under threat of an excruciating death, I had something. And I couldn't let that go.
If you've spent any time on here at all you'll know that I love a good plot twist, and this book has a few which packed one hell (... no pun intended) of a punch, especially towards the end. One right near the end specifically hit me hard.
We already knew that there's someone amongst Sophia's newly gained family who spied on them and betrayed them, and in Surrender the mystery thickened. I really hoped it'd be someone I knew and loved because that would have hurt more, but I guess I'm just a little masochistic when it comes to plot twists.
The characters developed beautifully, especially Sophia who had to decide between her loved ones and the greater good several times. She has grown a lot in Surrender, and it was great to see how she coped with these decisions.
A place of dread both had only ever heard talk of, and there they were, in the central station of Earth's very own Hell.
My personal favourite was a scene near the end; a conversation between Koi and Belial. It was such a thoughtful exchange and so beautifully written that I'll be marking it for future reference.
Surrender is a fantastic sequel to Awaken. It has answered some of the questions from Book 1, and has left plenty others to be answered in the concluding title. If you haven't read this series already I highly recommend that you do!
I really enjoyed Awaken (Book 1 in the series) and fell in love with Thomas' writing then, so I knew I had to have this one, too! I was especially chuffed when she offered me an ARC (or rather, I begged for one), so my repeated thanks to the author! ^-^
It was really nice to be back in Thomas' world. Her writing has this odd familiarity to it, which made this read just as smooth as the first book in the series.
Because of everything that happened at the end of Awaken Sophia missed everyone badly, and I did, too. Her characters are so real and human that reading about them again felt like a small reunion.
The fire in my palms burned harder, yet my resolve weakened. I had nothing, I thought I had nothing, but right there on the floor under threat of an excruciating death, I had something. And I couldn't let that go.
If you've spent any time on here at all you'll know that I love a good plot twist, and this book has a few which packed one hell (... no pun intended) of a punch, especially towards the end. One right near the end specifically hit me hard.
We already knew that there's someone amongst Sophia's newly gained family who spied on them and betrayed them, and in Surrender the mystery thickened. I really hoped it'd be someone I knew and loved because that would have hurt more, but I guess I'm just a little masochistic when it comes to plot twists.
The characters developed beautifully, especially Sophia who had to decide between her loved ones and the greater good several times. She has grown a lot in Surrender, and it was great to see how she coped with these decisions.
A place of dread both had only ever heard talk of, and there they were, in the central station of Earth's very own Hell.
My personal favourite was a scene near the end; a conversation between Koi and Belial. It was such a thoughtful exchange and so beautifully written that I'll be marking it for future reference.
Surrender is a fantastic sequel to Awaken. It has answered some of the questions from Book 1, and has left plenty others to be answered in the concluding title. If you haven't read this series already I highly recommend that you do!
April 18, 2017
Loved it as much, if not more, than the first. GR Thomas is to be congratulated on another job well done. Surrender had me hooked every step of the way. I never once struggled to pick it up and keep going. I can't wait to see where the story goes in book 3 for Sophia and co.
July 8, 2017
Fantastic story! I LOVED Awaken and have been on pins and needles waiting to finally have the chance to read Surrender. The author did not disappoint. The action, the emotion, the constant thrill and heartache, kept me on the edge of my seat from the beginning to the very end! I really can't say enough good things about this book, because the entire story was a crazy, exciting, nail-biting ride! The author did a splendid job continuing the story from Awaken and careening us into a dark, dreadful, frustrating, but fantastically described and written sequel. All I can say is, brilliant job! I was sucked in and couldn't stop reading. LOVED it! I can't wait for book three!
February 5, 2017
Surrender by GR Thomas is the second book following Awaken. With the first book we are slowly taken on Sophia's journey of realisation as the book unfolds...but here in Surrender, you get thrown straight into the thick of it. Picking up the story right where the first one ends, there's no time for breaths...GR has you in her grasp as you battle alongside Sophia. It's fast-paced war between angels and demons, with additions of some new characters and unfolding plots of the existing ones. Intertwined now with Sophia's own emotional battles as she deals with her twists of love, loyalty and family. I wasn't ready for this one to end...I felt rather bereft and left longing for the final instalment. Brilliant! Another huge 5 Stars.
February 5, 2023
What a book! I don’t even know where to start this review as so much happened in this book! I just want to say the whole time I just couldn’t stop reading especially closer to the end! I wish I could’ve read it all in a day or two but I was super busy so I couldn’t.
There were some small plot twists in this book but they were good ones! I enjoyed getting to know a bit about Sophia’s family and when she & Ben had those little conversations during Sophias birthday ”party”. In this book we also get to see what it’s like in the daimon realm? I think you’d call it.
I can’t wait to read what happens next!!
There were some small plot twists in this book but they were good ones! I enjoyed getting to know a bit about Sophia’s family and when she & Ben had those little conversations during Sophias birthday ”party”. In this book we also get to see what it’s like in the daimon realm? I think you’d call it.
I can’t wait to read what happens next!!
February 6, 2017
I read Awaken and Surrender back to back, and I am excited for the third instalment of The A'vean Chronicles. I really want to know what happens to Sophia and everyone else in the series. Poor Sophia has been through the wars, hopefully for her sake it all lets up soon. Excellent job to the Author G R Thomas, and felt very grateful that I was the first person other than you to own a Paperback copy of Surrender.
July 27, 2021
A wonderful journey through betrayal and redemption. This author continues to impress with witty banter, immersive description, and well-imagined and endearing characters.
March 9, 2017
This continuation story of Sophia, the Earthborn Angel, was an enjoyable read. The characters have grown on me through the two books, and I find Ben to be the most intriguing and deep character. I did feel like it ran on and could have been condensed, but there was a lot of action, and kept a steady pace throughout.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review and opinion.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review and opinion.
August 10, 2020
With a complex story and world, G.R Thomas beautifully writes this in an engaging way that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. The story goes into a more complex detail and plot of the world of A'vean and the many interesting characters in this novel. Each character is unique and beautifully written including the villains! I was left with a big cliff hanger at the end of the first novel so I was very eager to read this.
May 30, 2023
With the characters, myths, world-building, and main story established in book 1, book 2 of The A’vean Chronicles concentrates on two main events: Sophia escaping the prison she’s being held in, and the other angels and watchers looking for her.
This does make the book feel as if not a lot is happening, but there are important surprises, like the discovery of a box in the continuing quest for clues that’ll lead the angels home, and Sophia finding a long-lost family member. There are also some very interesting developments in her love/hate relationship with Ben and a great twist by the author in regards to the way she’s able to reset their relationship with some demon trickery. Another cliffhanger ending is the perfect lead into the next book in this adventurous series.
This does make the book feel as if not a lot is happening, but there are important surprises, like the discovery of a box in the continuing quest for clues that’ll lead the angels home, and Sophia finding a long-lost family member. There are also some very interesting developments in her love/hate relationship with Ben and a great twist by the author in regards to the way she’s able to reset their relationship with some demon trickery. Another cliffhanger ending is the perfect lead into the next book in this adventurous series.
January 10, 2017
The Action Continues.
The action continues for Sophia in the Sequel, Surrender, the second book in G.R Thomas’s epic saga. I was lucky enough to receive an Arc copy of this book. I loved it so much I just had to buy the Ebook version the moment it became available. I hope to have the paperback copy in my possession soon.
From the get go, we are thrown into the action. Sophia's life hangs in the balance. Held prisoner by the one person she has always trusted. Someone intent on handing her over to the foulest evil entity ever to have existed; all to fulfill a desperate need for vengeance.
Betrayed and confused, Sophia struggles to come to terms with her traitorous feelings for her friend who has secretly spied on her and fed the enemy information all her life. Sophia is perplexed by her captor's mixed loyalties and complicated innuendo’s and begins to question his motives. Is he really her enemy or an ally in disguise?
Not only has her life become complicated by her imprisonment and misaligned love, but also by her ever growing A'vean powers. As Sophia’s inevitable fate beckons, her newly adopted A’vean family, and friends search tirelessly in the hopes of finding her before Enoch’s prophecy comes to pass. Many battles are fought in the effort to save the earth-born Saviour and many more will be fought before the end draws near. Sophia's struggles are only just beginning as she fights to control her new abilities. Her precarious predicament will test her inner strength time and time again.
I absolutely love The A’vean Chronicles and am eagerly waiting for the 3rd and final instalment with baited breath. The Author weaves a dark, twisted tale of love and betrayal in a compelling, well-written, descriptively beautiful book. Congratulations to the author on a wonderfully crafted larger-than-life tale.
The action continues for Sophia in the Sequel, Surrender, the second book in G.R Thomas’s epic saga. I was lucky enough to receive an Arc copy of this book. I loved it so much I just had to buy the Ebook version the moment it became available. I hope to have the paperback copy in my possession soon.
From the get go, we are thrown into the action. Sophia's life hangs in the balance. Held prisoner by the one person she has always trusted. Someone intent on handing her over to the foulest evil entity ever to have existed; all to fulfill a desperate need for vengeance.
Betrayed and confused, Sophia struggles to come to terms with her traitorous feelings for her friend who has secretly spied on her and fed the enemy information all her life. Sophia is perplexed by her captor's mixed loyalties and complicated innuendo’s and begins to question his motives. Is he really her enemy or an ally in disguise?
Not only has her life become complicated by her imprisonment and misaligned love, but also by her ever growing A'vean powers. As Sophia’s inevitable fate beckons, her newly adopted A’vean family, and friends search tirelessly in the hopes of finding her before Enoch’s prophecy comes to pass. Many battles are fought in the effort to save the earth-born Saviour and many more will be fought before the end draws near. Sophia's struggles are only just beginning as she fights to control her new abilities. Her precarious predicament will test her inner strength time and time again.
I absolutely love The A’vean Chronicles and am eagerly waiting for the 3rd and final instalment with baited breath. The Author weaves a dark, twisted tale of love and betrayal in a compelling, well-written, descriptively beautiful book. Congratulations to the author on a wonderfully crafted larger-than-life tale.
December 18, 2016
Surrender is the fantastic sequel to Awaken, the first book in the A'vean Chronicles. I was incredibly lucky to be offered the chance to read the ARC version of this book.
Book 1 dragged me into the main character's, Sophia's, world and it was far from kicking and screaming. G.R. Thomas' writing style has the ability to smoothly make you feel like you are living the adventures alongside the characters, not just reading them.
Book 2 continues Sophia's journey as the Earth-born, as she matures, develops and continues to learn more about herself and her powers. We also find out who else has been spying on Sophia and her newly found family. The action is fast-paced and at times relentless, and there are several plot twists along the way. And a number of them are BIG plot twists.
Like a lot of great trilogies, Surrender is darker in its context than Awaken, but that more than helps the characters develop, both individually and with each other, and definitely adds charm to an already great read.
Whereas a number of pertinent questions from Book 1 have been answered in Book 2, Surrender has also left a number of other questions unanswered for Book 3, and the conclusion to this fantastic trilogy can't come quick enough!
Another fantastic read by G.R. Thomas, and a worthy sequel to her amazing debut novel. If you haven't already either of these books, then you definitely need to do so. You will NOT be disappointed!!
Book 1 dragged me into the main character's, Sophia's, world and it was far from kicking and screaming. G.R. Thomas' writing style has the ability to smoothly make you feel like you are living the adventures alongside the characters, not just reading them.
Book 2 continues Sophia's journey as the Earth-born, as she matures, develops and continues to learn more about herself and her powers. We also find out who else has been spying on Sophia and her newly found family. The action is fast-paced and at times relentless, and there are several plot twists along the way. And a number of them are BIG plot twists.
Like a lot of great trilogies, Surrender is darker in its context than Awaken, but that more than helps the characters develop, both individually and with each other, and definitely adds charm to an already great read.
Whereas a number of pertinent questions from Book 1 have been answered in Book 2, Surrender has also left a number of other questions unanswered for Book 3, and the conclusion to this fantastic trilogy can't come quick enough!
Another fantastic read by G.R. Thomas, and a worthy sequel to her amazing debut novel. If you haven't already either of these books, then you definitely need to do so. You will NOT be disappointed!!
May 27, 2023
Fast paced, the story expands, the questions I had from book 1 are answered (and more are being asked).
I enjoyed this book much more than the first, I think it was because I knew what was going on a little more, I had some answers and the world/ characters were established in my mind so I could concentrate on the plot. Plus the writing flowed better (for me) and the delivery kept me captivated.
With more revelations, I found I fell into the story more and started to FEEL along with the characters. I was able to connect with the characters and the story more in this book.
It’s safe to say I’m very intrigued as to where this is all going.
Onwards to book 3!
I enjoyed this book much more than the first, I think it was because I knew what was going on a little more, I had some answers and the world/ characters were established in my mind so I could concentrate on the plot. Plus the writing flowed better (for me) and the delivery kept me captivated.
With more revelations, I found I fell into the story more and started to FEEL along with the characters. I was able to connect with the characters and the story more in this book.
It’s safe to say I’m very intrigued as to where this is all going.
Onwards to book 3!
August 2, 2025
Enthralling
It takes what we have known and places a news spin on those beliefs and understandings whilst grappling with consequences brought about through the choices made.
It takes what we have known and places a news spin on those beliefs and understandings whilst grappling with consequences brought about through the choices made.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews