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Elemental Witch Trials #2
Burning Captivation
Gwen Hensley, elemental witch, is ripped from the fairytale of small town life and her undead, wolf familiar, Sebastian. She is called to work undercover for a ruling fate, Greta, to locate another missing elder amid the chaos and politics at witch’s council. The guise of ambassador for the undead seemed a natural cover, but puts her in a precarious position when her peace and power captivate the realm master, Dmitry.
The danger posed by Nikolay, a vampire uneasy with his master bringing a witch into the inner circle, forces her to draw on powers that make her even more prized and dangerous to their kind. When Dmitry marks her as his mistress the subjugation starts her on a new, darker path. Her attention is pulled between the undead and finding the missing elder, which seem interlaced. The more she finds out investigating council, the more she doubts that she can trust anyone, especially those in power.
The danger posed by Nikolay, a vampire uneasy with his master bringing a witch into the inner circle, forces her to draw on powers that make her even more prized and dangerous to their kind. When Dmitry marks her as his mistress the subjugation starts her on a new, darker path. Her attention is pulled between the undead and finding the missing elder, which seem interlaced. The more she finds out investigating council, the more she doubts that she can trust anyone, especially those in power.
213 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 13, 2017
28 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Lucretia Stanhope
86 books115 followersLucretia Stanhope is a relentlessly optimistic crone who refuses to let her growing collection of rare illnesses steal her sparkle. She prefers to think of herself as medically fascinating as opposed to disabled. Seriously, half of these diseases sound less realistic than her most fanciful novels.
Powered by the support of an amazing husband and family, when she isn’t cuddling with her rescue chi-mixes, Thor and Moxie, she spends her days in creative pursuits that range from drawing and painting to crochet and writing.
This is the landing page for all the pen names that include solo and collaborative novels. Please note genres and content advisories as these novels range from YA friendly, to adult only romances and graphic horror, with a touch of everything in between.
Powered by the support of an amazing husband and family, when she isn’t cuddling with her rescue chi-mixes, Thor and Moxie, she spends her days in creative pursuits that range from drawing and painting to crochet and writing.
This is the landing page for all the pen names that include solo and collaborative novels. Please note genres and content advisories as these novels range from YA friendly, to adult only romances and graphic horror, with a touch of everything in between.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
October 19, 2017
Rarely do I read a paranormal romance I don't like but when I'm so hooked I don't even want to stop to eat or interact with the world, that's when I know I've found an AMAZING book. From page one I was drawn in deep into the world the author created, unable to tear my eyes away. It's so well-written, so engrossing, so interesting that I didn't want to put my kindle down.
This is my second read from this series and I have to say I LOVE the author's take on vampires. The're ruthless, bloodthirsty, savage creatures who react impulsively, demand respect, and feed on humans without care. They are properly dark and drink blood, with a hierarchy and chain of command that proves how complicated the relationships between witches, familiars, watchers, vamps, etc. truly are. Fascinating take on paranormal creatures and society that builds from the first book and leaves you wanting more.
I have to say I just adore Gwen. She's feisty and temperamental, sweet and at times vulnerable, strong and independent, and she tries to always do the right thing. Her struggles to find her way in the world and resolve to remain true to herself as well as help the human race are admirable. She's constantly tested in every way and it only makes her a stronger heroine.
So many surprises in this book but I won't spoil them. Suffice it to say this is a MUST READ for fans of supernatural, paranormal, vampires, magic and witches, and romance. 5 outstanding stars!!!
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Word Building: 5/5
Story Flow: 5/5
Picky Bitches OVERALL SCORE: 5/5
November 3, 2017
“Don’t alter human and vampire relations” is good advice, but Gwen, the witch, already has a magical bond with a vampire! Troubles follow fast, exciting and captivating, as if Lucretia Stanhope has grasped the thread of this series and shaken it. Book one was interesting: this one is a five-star winner.
November 23, 2017
More Supernatural Shenanigans.
“I should be Gwen the good witch by day and Gwen the henchwoman of the vampires by night?”
Gwen having recently discovered her heritage as a witch (see Blessedly Bound the first in this series and a very good read), is plunged into the supernatural world by being sent as an emissary to the vampire Lord Dimitry. In fact she is not there in that role alone, her purpose is to uncover the mysterious disappearance of her predecessor Paulette. but she must first submit herself to the might of the vampire lords and avoid becoming a victim of them herself.
This book introduces us to the complex supernatural societies in this world, something barely touched on in the previous book. It opens onto an oppressive and sexually charged world with dangerous diplomatic games being played. Inevitably, dominance and power are the ends sought by most of those involved in them.
“I am with those monsters at your behest. I just want to go home and knit with normal people.”
The writing is solid and the pace is good - except sometimes sidetracked into conversations which slowed the pace and added nothing to the story or our understanding of the characters involved. The characters themselves begin well defined - I liked Percy in particular - but as more join the cast, they tend to blur just a little and become less substantive as individuals.
So what prevented me totally enjoying this book? I have to admit that whilst I really enjoyed Blessedly Bound, I struggled a bit with this book. It didn’t feel like a sequel, in fact, it sometimes felt almost like about a different character. I didn’t like all the ‘subjugation’ stuff with Gwen being treated pretty much like some kind of sexual submissive. Much of the sweet charm and uniqueness that made the first novel so good is lost in this one and the leap from Gwen just coming into her powers to suddenly knowing all about the covens and councils and taking on missions for the witches, was too big for me. It felt to me that there needed to be a book in the middle exploring that transition and introducing all these different groups and factions.
3.5 stars rounded up.
If you are a fan of the supernatural romance genre in the school of Twilight and Vampire Diaries, this is going to be a book to check out. But do read Blessedly Bound first if you can or one or two key events and relationships in this book won’t make full sense to you.
“I should be Gwen the good witch by day and Gwen the henchwoman of the vampires by night?”
Gwen having recently discovered her heritage as a witch (see Blessedly Bound the first in this series and a very good read), is plunged into the supernatural world by being sent as an emissary to the vampire Lord Dimitry. In fact she is not there in that role alone, her purpose is to uncover the mysterious disappearance of her predecessor Paulette. but she must first submit herself to the might of the vampire lords and avoid becoming a victim of them herself.
This book introduces us to the complex supernatural societies in this world, something barely touched on in the previous book. It opens onto an oppressive and sexually charged world with dangerous diplomatic games being played. Inevitably, dominance and power are the ends sought by most of those involved in them.
“I am with those monsters at your behest. I just want to go home and knit with normal people.”
The writing is solid and the pace is good - except sometimes sidetracked into conversations which slowed the pace and added nothing to the story or our understanding of the characters involved. The characters themselves begin well defined - I liked Percy in particular - but as more join the cast, they tend to blur just a little and become less substantive as individuals.
So what prevented me totally enjoying this book? I have to admit that whilst I really enjoyed Blessedly Bound, I struggled a bit with this book. It didn’t feel like a sequel, in fact, it sometimes felt almost like about a different character. I didn’t like all the ‘subjugation’ stuff with Gwen being treated pretty much like some kind of sexual submissive. Much of the sweet charm and uniqueness that made the first novel so good is lost in this one and the leap from Gwen just coming into her powers to suddenly knowing all about the covens and councils and taking on missions for the witches, was too big for me. It felt to me that there needed to be a book in the middle exploring that transition and introducing all these different groups and factions.
3.5 stars rounded up.
If you are a fan of the supernatural romance genre in the school of Twilight and Vampire Diaries, this is going to be a book to check out. But do read Blessedly Bound first if you can or one or two key events and relationships in this book won’t make full sense to you.
September 26, 2017
I read book one in this series and while that one is really a stand alone, this book really sets the scene for the rest of the series. We get deeper into witchcraft and the supernatural creatures like Sebastian. We learn more about Gwen's gifts and she becomes coveted by some pretty dark creatures. The murder mystery aspect of the first book is still there in this one, but you also have vampire and witch politics.
I do have to admit, during certain scenes, seeings what new gifts Gwen was showing, why she didn't use them to just remove herself from a situation she hated and I wasn't quite sure why the witch council was on board with the treatment she was getting as their diplomat. Sometimes I was sitting there shaking my head just wanting to scream BURN BABY, BURN.
Alas, that would have ruined the plot for later books and obviously Dmitri has other plans for Gwen. I hope in later books, he does eventually get his at her hands and she stands up to him. There was a preview for book 3 and I"ll have to get my hands on it if it's out
I do have to admit, during certain scenes, seeings what new gifts Gwen was showing, why she didn't use them to just remove herself from a situation she hated and I wasn't quite sure why the witch council was on board with the treatment she was getting as their diplomat. Sometimes I was sitting there shaking my head just wanting to scream BURN BABY, BURN.
Alas, that would have ruined the plot for later books and obviously Dmitri has other plans for Gwen. I hope in later books, he does eventually get his at her hands and she stands up to him. There was a preview for book 3 and I"ll have to get my hands on it if it's out
October 6, 2017
The overall impression of this book is it lacks sophistication, but that is not too much of a problem if you are targeting a YA audience. More concerning is the lack of depth and development. The bones of the story are there and I understand what the writer is trying to do, but I feel it falls short.
The story is told in the 3rd person mainly from Gwen’s perspective. We discover she is a witch with valuable magical powers. Dmitry is sinister, demanding and controlling and as a villain he has a significant presence. He does not like to be challenged or contradicted and in this area Gwen tests his patience. The nature and threat of Dmitry’s enemy is more obscure, it is hinted at, but only really given a name towards the end of the book. In chapter 18 Mikhail smells another royal vampire on Gwen and this reinforces the idea that she is also at risk. Dmitry appears to have a challenger and Gwen is his weapon of defence.
The twin driver of the story is Paulette’s disappearance, yet we seem to be given very few clues or suspects. Gwen meets various people at Council, but the relationships seem to go nowhere and this begs the question if their name was omitted would it alter the story? Nikolay dies around the middle of the book, do we need to know about his intervention with Willow? In chapter 15 we see Willow ask Nikolay ‘can you really make her spare him?’ suggesting Paulette has some hold over Willow. This gives a motive for the killing and demonstrates Gwen’s ability to see, but still does not reinforce any of the characters significance in the story. Perhaps if Paulette appeared as more significant the reader would care what happened to her, but even Greta, in chapter 2, refers to Paulette’s disappearance as just a cover for Gwen.
Mikhail and Mitchell seem interchangeable despite one being a vampire and the other a witch. One is there to train and the other protect. Both exude a fondness for Gwen, but Mitchell’s appears more ambivalent and less consistent. There is a change in narrator in chapter 17 where Mitchell wonders ‘if she somehow remembered something from yesterday, or if the trusting feeling he implanted hadn’t worked.’ This is a strong basis from which to suggest all is not what it seems. Previously in chapter 14 Mitchell had told her that they had been meeting in secret and he wished she could remember, but he needed to wipe this from her mind for her own safety. We do not see any romantic connection or affection between them and the reader is told it has previously existed. The feelings therefore do not ring true and as a character this makes him difficult to define. If we had proof of Mitchell’s feelings and he then betrays Gwen it would be more dramatic. The feelings do not need to be true, they just need to deceive the reader long enough to draw them in.
Mikhail in this sense is a better character. As a vampire he finds human emotions strange and you can see this in the way he questions Gwen. Yet out of loyalty to Dimitry he must protect her. There is almost an affection banter in the way he calls her boss, a recognition of her status if not her superiority.
The final battle shows Gwen’s power and ends the threat to Dmitry’s authority and is a fitting conclusion to the book, having already established Paulette’s demise. This is an easy straightforward read, but would make more of an impression on the reader with less narration and more revelation.
The story is told in the 3rd person mainly from Gwen’s perspective. We discover she is a witch with valuable magical powers. Dmitry is sinister, demanding and controlling and as a villain he has a significant presence. He does not like to be challenged or contradicted and in this area Gwen tests his patience. The nature and threat of Dmitry’s enemy is more obscure, it is hinted at, but only really given a name towards the end of the book. In chapter 18 Mikhail smells another royal vampire on Gwen and this reinforces the idea that she is also at risk. Dmitry appears to have a challenger and Gwen is his weapon of defence.
The twin driver of the story is Paulette’s disappearance, yet we seem to be given very few clues or suspects. Gwen meets various people at Council, but the relationships seem to go nowhere and this begs the question if their name was omitted would it alter the story? Nikolay dies around the middle of the book, do we need to know about his intervention with Willow? In chapter 15 we see Willow ask Nikolay ‘can you really make her spare him?’ suggesting Paulette has some hold over Willow. This gives a motive for the killing and demonstrates Gwen’s ability to see, but still does not reinforce any of the characters significance in the story. Perhaps if Paulette appeared as more significant the reader would care what happened to her, but even Greta, in chapter 2, refers to Paulette’s disappearance as just a cover for Gwen.
Mikhail and Mitchell seem interchangeable despite one being a vampire and the other a witch. One is there to train and the other protect. Both exude a fondness for Gwen, but Mitchell’s appears more ambivalent and less consistent. There is a change in narrator in chapter 17 where Mitchell wonders ‘if she somehow remembered something from yesterday, or if the trusting feeling he implanted hadn’t worked.’ This is a strong basis from which to suggest all is not what it seems. Previously in chapter 14 Mitchell had told her that they had been meeting in secret and he wished she could remember, but he needed to wipe this from her mind for her own safety. We do not see any romantic connection or affection between them and the reader is told it has previously existed. The feelings therefore do not ring true and as a character this makes him difficult to define. If we had proof of Mitchell’s feelings and he then betrays Gwen it would be more dramatic. The feelings do not need to be true, they just need to deceive the reader long enough to draw them in.
Mikhail in this sense is a better character. As a vampire he finds human emotions strange and you can see this in the way he questions Gwen. Yet out of loyalty to Dimitry he must protect her. There is almost an affection banter in the way he calls her boss, a recognition of her status if not her superiority.
The final battle shows Gwen’s power and ends the threat to Dmitry’s authority and is a fitting conclusion to the book, having already established Paulette’s demise. This is an easy straightforward read, but would make more of an impression on the reader with less narration and more revelation.
December 5, 2017
In the array of realms that exist, earth resides in a tenuous position, one that could be easily overthrown by potent hostile powers. The balance is governed by a council of beings from various realm origins, while power and politics come to the forefront. Among the proponents of the earth is a coven of witches whose magic can command the elements. So it is that a relatively young and unknown witch arrives as an envoy to the council. Though assigned to investigate a missing person, she quickly becomes wrapped up in the wings of intrigue and danger. Her role is much more critical and holds a key to governance of the realm.
Captivation is a grim and diabolical ride. The forces of peace and serenity are constantly being assaulted by the might of a physically (and mystically) superior opponent. The main character is continuously subjected to the whims of others and struggles to maintain her sanity and courage through it all. Her spirit rising after each indignity and atrocity. This grim depiction can be wearying, with the author offering only the briefest respites between sessions. The plight of the characters are generally up in the air, although you never truly feared for the life of the main character, instead, you would fear what she was to endure.
With this dark depiction of events, you would think the book was too heavy-handed on the characters. Strangely enough, I found myself caught up in it all and wanted to read on, despite Gwen’s constant return to futility. The author has written a good story which kept me engaged through the whole read. I was happy to reach the end and breath out a sigh of relief. I had learned to root for certain characters, mourn with them and genuinely hate others.
In regards to book elements, the mystery that runs through the novel is sufficient to activate the reader’s curiosity instincts. I enjoyed reminiscing about the realm structure, which I found interesting. I liked the author’s approach to the elemental powers of the witches, with less emphasis on traditional tropes. The monster approach was a refreshing perspective on the vampire archetype as well. While vampires have been done in many ways, the author presents the hidden monster behind the glamour, as a constant physical reminder of their true nature. This is not only an important plot feature but serves to create an impressive picture of evil.
So, I admit I am conflicted on where I stand. I was disturbed (but not in any excessive graphic way) but also intrigued. In the end, I have to throw in with 3.5 stars and round up to 4. This book it a solid entry into the series and promises more developments to come. If you enjoy the supernatural aspects of fantasy in a modern setting, you can get into this series. The grim-dark atmosphere may be just what you are after.
Captivation is a grim and diabolical ride. The forces of peace and serenity are constantly being assaulted by the might of a physically (and mystically) superior opponent. The main character is continuously subjected to the whims of others and struggles to maintain her sanity and courage through it all. Her spirit rising after each indignity and atrocity. This grim depiction can be wearying, with the author offering only the briefest respites between sessions. The plight of the characters are generally up in the air, although you never truly feared for the life of the main character, instead, you would fear what she was to endure.
With this dark depiction of events, you would think the book was too heavy-handed on the characters. Strangely enough, I found myself caught up in it all and wanted to read on, despite Gwen’s constant return to futility. The author has written a good story which kept me engaged through the whole read. I was happy to reach the end and breath out a sigh of relief. I had learned to root for certain characters, mourn with them and genuinely hate others.
In regards to book elements, the mystery that runs through the novel is sufficient to activate the reader’s curiosity instincts. I enjoyed reminiscing about the realm structure, which I found interesting. I liked the author’s approach to the elemental powers of the witches, with less emphasis on traditional tropes. The monster approach was a refreshing perspective on the vampire archetype as well. While vampires have been done in many ways, the author presents the hidden monster behind the glamour, as a constant physical reminder of their true nature. This is not only an important plot feature but serves to create an impressive picture of evil.
So, I admit I am conflicted on where I stand. I was disturbed (but not in any excessive graphic way) but also intrigued. In the end, I have to throw in with 3.5 stars and round up to 4. This book it a solid entry into the series and promises more developments to come. If you enjoy the supernatural aspects of fantasy in a modern setting, you can get into this series. The grim-dark atmosphere may be just what you are after.
October 6, 2017
Gripping
This is not my usual genre, but I found the story captivating. I have not read the first book in the series and was delighted to find that it did not keep me from enjoying the second in the series. Although this fascinating story on relationships between otherworldly creatures and humans has piqued my interest on what I may have missed in book one.
The main character, Gwen is filled with a vast amount of endearing qualities. She is feisty, temperamental, independent, courageous, and warm as she struggles to do the right thing in the new world she has been sent to. She is regularly tested and can trust no one, but in the end she comes out stronger than ever.
This book Is full of surprises as it winds through the lives of vampires, witches and their magic. If you enjoy horror mixed with romance, you will definitely want to check out this series.
This is not my usual genre, but I found the story captivating. I have not read the first book in the series and was delighted to find that it did not keep me from enjoying the second in the series. Although this fascinating story on relationships between otherworldly creatures and humans has piqued my interest on what I may have missed in book one.
The main character, Gwen is filled with a vast amount of endearing qualities. She is feisty, temperamental, independent, courageous, and warm as she struggles to do the right thing in the new world she has been sent to. She is regularly tested and can trust no one, but in the end she comes out stronger than ever.
This book Is full of surprises as it winds through the lives of vampires, witches and their magic. If you enjoy horror mixed with romance, you will definitely want to check out this series.
July 2, 2018
Gwen’s journey takes a turn into the darkness in this second installment in the Elemental Witch Trials series. As an envoy between the vampires and the humans, Gwen is on a mission to search out who is responsible for witch Paulette’s death. Her journey takes her deeper into the world of vampires, sending her on such a dangerous trail that she must question the motives of everyone around her. Despite it all, she learns that vampires aren’t the only evil that endangers her. Witches can be evil too.
Gwen seemed a lot more strongly written in this second book. She doesn’t cower or give up. Even when she is hurt by the people she loves, she fights back. I also loved the new characters introduced in this story and the way the author set up the book for part three. Great stuff!
Gwen seemed a lot more strongly written in this second book. She doesn’t cower or give up. Even when she is hurt by the people she loves, she fights back. I also loved the new characters introduced in this story and the way the author set up the book for part three. Great stuff!
January 13, 2018
Burning Captivation is the extraordinary fantasy tale in which Gwen, a young witch is to be the future bride of vampire master, Dmitry. The story is told from two main perspectives, that of Gwen, and Dmitry himself.
Moving away from the belief that vampires are unfeeling creatures, unable to feel the true depth of compassion, Dmitry’s character (although an adept at hiding his emotions from Gwen) practically oozes it. From the beginning, I could see how much he cared for Gwen in his own way, his sarcastic and somewhat cocky attitude making him a rather intriguing and likable character.
Gwen, a sassy and at times headstrong individual copes well with all the dramatic twists and turns that come her way. Gwen shows true courage, what with having been thrust into a different realm where she is to one day be used as a weapon. She remains calm (as calm as any of us could be in such a terrifying situation) and assesses whatever is happening around her at the time, to assist her husband to be in any way possible.
As we watch Gwen take on the quest to find a missing witch, Pauline, we see the actual strain she is being put under from her new life. Being separated from a true love (Sebastian) would drive anyone insane, but Gwen ensures that she remains calm and composed, to best protect her new vampire master. However, we do see Gwen’s true hopelessness and misery at times when it seems like she and her love, Sebastian might never get to be together. It is at these times that she appears to crave the familiar, comforting presence of a loved one that we all crave when at our wit’s end.
This was a beautifully crafted tale of duty and sacrifice that wrapped up nicely toward the end.
Other than Gwen and Dmitry only having known each-other for seven days, there was nothing I could find that I disliked about the book.
I would happily rate Burning Captivation as 5 stars, and would recommend it to lovers of fantasy, vampires, and witchcraft.
November 1, 2017
I really enjoyed this well-written story about the realms of vampires and witches.
Gwen, an elemental witch, is tasked with solving the disappearance of another witch but is thrust into far more.
I liked the world-building, which gave the story depth and reality. The characters were intriguing, though some more complex than others. Percy is particularly interesting.
Themes such as power, control, arrogance, war, cruelty, betrayal and romance, and a great writing style, make for a compelling read.
Gwen, an elemental witch, is tasked with solving the disappearance of another witch but is thrust into far more.
I liked the world-building, which gave the story depth and reality. The characters were intriguing, though some more complex than others. Percy is particularly interesting.
Themes such as power, control, arrogance, war, cruelty, betrayal and romance, and a great writing style, make for a compelling read.
October 12, 2017
4.5*
I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Amazing cover pic again !! So much meaning behind it.. All elements hidden in one pic !!
That being said here is my review.
Plot : 5
Main Characters : 4
Side Characters : 4
Feel/Emotions : 4
Twists : 4
Writing Style: 5
My thoughts : Woah !! So much better than the first book in the series. So, the plot is good, vampire war !! With Gwen learning more and more about her power, which is really nice to read. We need to have more scenes of her being bad-ass. She has the power, she should have more control! Her relation with Sebastian is progressing.. Though I confess I would have loved it to be more passionate and earth-shattering than depicted.
The new characters are a great addition ! Percy is so endearing :)
So, we had a grey (almost black) character Nikolay, a blue-rose Mikhail, a bossy Dmitri (annoying too) and some other minor characters all adding to the story.I was sad to see Sebastian pushed to the back. I really wanted to see his power.. Maybe he could have had powers equal to Dmitri..but he just submitted :(
What I don't understand is, if Gwen really is so powerful, why is she letting herself get manipulated. One one hand, I feel bad for her. All other people are making decisions for her,not giving her a say. But, she let's them !! Whatadoin gal ??? Just burn them punks!! It's like she just accepted that she cannot trust or love monsters (monsters, really ?? )..like it's not meant to be.. Well, that's why you have them powers sweety..Show'em who's the boss !!
But the story had some more gaps.. How did Gwen come to work for Greta ?? If she has blood-married Seb, how can she be Dmitri's mistress ?? What is the history of the vampire war ? Is it just sibling rivalary ??
And the preview of the 3rd book?? Woah.. really..Dmitri is going too low.. Hope Gwen sees through all this master vampire BS !! I am definitely going to read it..
Overall, this story was almost there !! I enjoyed the book and I would have given it 4.5 stars..But since the gratification seemed just out of reach.. I will give it 4 stars !!
I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Amazing cover pic again !! So much meaning behind it.. All elements hidden in one pic !!
That being said here is my review.
Plot : 5
Main Characters : 4
Side Characters : 4
Feel/Emotions : 4
Twists : 4
Writing Style: 5
My thoughts : Woah !! So much better than the first book in the series. So, the plot is good, vampire war !! With Gwen learning more and more about her power, which is really nice to read. We need to have more scenes of her being bad-ass. She has the power, she should have more control! Her relation with Sebastian is progressing.. Though I confess I would have loved it to be more passionate and earth-shattering than depicted.
The new characters are a great addition ! Percy is so endearing :)
So, we had a grey (almost black) character Nikolay, a blue-rose Mikhail, a bossy Dmitri (annoying too) and some other minor characters all adding to the story.I was sad to see Sebastian pushed to the back. I really wanted to see his power.. Maybe he could have had powers equal to Dmitri..but he just submitted :(
What I don't understand is, if Gwen really is so powerful, why is she letting herself get manipulated. One one hand, I feel bad for her. All other people are making decisions for her,not giving her a say. But, she let's them !! Whatadoin gal ??? Just burn them punks!! It's like she just accepted that she cannot trust or love monsters (monsters, really ?? )..like it's not meant to be.. Well, that's why you have them powers sweety..Show'em who's the boss !!
But the story had some more gaps.. How did Gwen come to work for Greta ?? If she has blood-married Seb, how can she be Dmitri's mistress ?? What is the history of the vampire war ? Is it just sibling rivalary ??
And the preview of the 3rd book?? Woah.. really..Dmitri is going too low.. Hope Gwen sees through all this master vampire BS !! I am definitely going to read it..
Overall, this story was almost there !! I enjoyed the book and I would have given it 4.5 stars..But since the gratification seemed just out of reach.. I will give it 4 stars !!
November 10, 2017
An Intense Paranormal Thriller
From the first pages of Burning Captivation, we are introduced into the dark world of vampires. Sebastian’s easygoing nature is not seen in this cutthroat underworld Gwen has found herself immersed in. Gwen seems to be a magnet for uncomfortable situations as she investigates a missing person case, rather than a murder like we saw in the first book in this series. The introduction of the witches’ and vampires’ worlds are intriguing, getting glimpses of how they govern themselves with possibly more regulations than us mere mortals. The action and tension keeps you reading all the way to the end, although it doesn’t have the happily ever after…or does it? I look forward to reading the next book, Fateful Attractions, to find out what happens next!
From the first pages of Burning Captivation, we are introduced into the dark world of vampires. Sebastian’s easygoing nature is not seen in this cutthroat underworld Gwen has found herself immersed in. Gwen seems to be a magnet for uncomfortable situations as she investigates a missing person case, rather than a murder like we saw in the first book in this series. The introduction of the witches’ and vampires’ worlds are intriguing, getting glimpses of how they govern themselves with possibly more regulations than us mere mortals. The action and tension keeps you reading all the way to the end, although it doesn’t have the happily ever after…or does it? I look forward to reading the next book, Fateful Attractions, to find out what happens next!
November 8, 2021
Burning Captivation starts out promisingly enough, with elemental witch Gwen Hensley tasked with solving the disappearance of another witch while undercover as an envoy to the realm’s vampires. The author’s take on magic breaks away from some of the common tropes of pop-culture witchcraft, and aside from Gwen’s steadfast aversion to killing anything, I found the magical element refreshingly believable.
Written in close third person, Burning Captivation is clearly a sequel meant to be read shortly after reading the first book in the series. Many details, such as the main character’s appearance and the location of the council grounds where the investigation takes place, are never covered. I’m not even sure what time period the story is meant to take place in. There are details that seem positively medieval, like the disturbing master/submissive thing the vampires adhere to, and the fact that rooms are often heated with fireplaces. On the other hand, at one point a cell phone video is introduced as evidence.
Most of the story is told through Gwen’s eyes, but occasionally the perspective abruptly shifts to one of the male characters around her. There’s no warning and the sudden change is somewhat jarring. I would have liked a more solid delineation between character viewpoints.
I also would have liked to see more personal agency out of the main character. There are very few books that I just can’t get into, but Burning Captivation has joined that short list.
Gwen is easy to pity– she’s done nothing to deserve her horrific treatment– yet difficult to like. Her thoughts sound like the internal monologue of an abuse victim with crippling social anxiety, and I found it very frustrating that she never really fights back. She doesn’t even want to kill vampires who have abused her when she’s explicitly ordered to.
Given her magical ability to burn the creatures alive, and the fact that she possesses an object that allows her to teleport to safety, I found it very confusing that Gwen never takes advantage of her skills to free herself or rid her realm of the ‘monsters’ (her term, but quite aptly used in this story.) Gwen’s passiveness in the face of horrific circumstances is as perplexing as the abuse she endures is sickening.
I really hoped to see her grow a spine and fight back before the end of the novel– but if you’re hoping for a happy ending to this pain train, you’ll be sorely disappointed. The conclusion sees Gwen more or less stripped of her support network and “rewarded” with a vacation for giving in to the master vampire’s demands. It’s revealed that the vacation is just another part of the master vampire’s plan to get Gwen knocked up and produce more witches with her powers. This was the final nail in the coffin, as it were, for any chance of me having any interest in what happens next. 2.5 stars.
Written in close third person, Burning Captivation is clearly a sequel meant to be read shortly after reading the first book in the series. Many details, such as the main character’s appearance and the location of the council grounds where the investigation takes place, are never covered. I’m not even sure what time period the story is meant to take place in. There are details that seem positively medieval, like the disturbing master/submissive thing the vampires adhere to, and the fact that rooms are often heated with fireplaces. On the other hand, at one point a cell phone video is introduced as evidence.
Most of the story is told through Gwen’s eyes, but occasionally the perspective abruptly shifts to one of the male characters around her. There’s no warning and the sudden change is somewhat jarring. I would have liked a more solid delineation between character viewpoints.
I also would have liked to see more personal agency out of the main character. There are very few books that I just can’t get into, but Burning Captivation has joined that short list.
Gwen is easy to pity– she’s done nothing to deserve her horrific treatment– yet difficult to like. Her thoughts sound like the internal monologue of an abuse victim with crippling social anxiety, and I found it very frustrating that she never really fights back. She doesn’t even want to kill vampires who have abused her when she’s explicitly ordered to.
Given her magical ability to burn the creatures alive, and the fact that she possesses an object that allows her to teleport to safety, I found it very confusing that Gwen never takes advantage of her skills to free herself or rid her realm of the ‘monsters’ (her term, but quite aptly used in this story.) Gwen’s passiveness in the face of horrific circumstances is as perplexing as the abuse she endures is sickening.
I really hoped to see her grow a spine and fight back before the end of the novel– but if you’re hoping for a happy ending to this pain train, you’ll be sorely disappointed. The conclusion sees Gwen more or less stripped of her support network and “rewarded” with a vacation for giving in to the master vampire’s demands. It’s revealed that the vacation is just another part of the master vampire’s plan to get Gwen knocked up and produce more witches with her powers. This was the final nail in the coffin, as it were, for any chance of me having any interest in what happens next. 2.5 stars.
February 12, 2018
The vampires don't sparkle.
Normally, I'd say that's a good thing. In this case...sparkling probably would have been preferable to everything else.
As a reviewer, I kind of always cringe when I'm asked to review a book that's a continuation of a series. I feel like I can't really be fair in questioning certain things, when I have no idea whether they're explained in the previous book. And this book is no exception. It's easy enough to jump into the story here without knowing what happened before, as it's explained fairly well on the fly, or just not relevant to this book's story arch. But there were things I still had to question, like the setting. What's the time period? What type of place, exactly, does all this happen in? No idea. Different "realms" are talked about, and characters hop back and forth between them. One of those realms seemed to a modern earth. Still, that's not apparent till the bonus chapter at the end, from the next book. When a cell phone showed up at one point, I was pretty shocked. Gwen wears a shawl almost all the time that connects her to her magical monster love. Last time I saw someone wear a shawl was...? Maybe things are really well set up in the previous installment, and all of this makes sense. Along those lines, the other thing that really bothered me was the use of magic. There doesn't seem to be any discernable rhyme or reason to what can or can't be done, plus several seeming discrepancies. Again, it's possible that was all explained in the first book, but not having read it, for me the magic system seemed illogical and at the mercy of whatever whim of plot was needed.
The overall story flows well, and is easy to read, with the exception of some abrupt point-of-view changes, and I found the concept pretty interesting. A witch is sent to investigate someone's disappearance, but ends up caught in a web of dangerous politics. Even the person who ordered her to investigate seems to be against her succeeding, and soon you realize no one is as they seem.
Gwen's character is intriguing. I like the concept of her, but more (as the story progresses) because of different players' reactions to her, than for herself. The political machinations that she has to deal with are twisty, turny, interesting, but often infuriating, as she allows herself to be a pawn in everyone else's games. I have a very low tolerance for 'victim' characters, with 'victim' thoughts, and while Gwen is easy to pity, I don't read a book in order to pity someone. Pity does not equal admiration, or likeability. If she wasn't going to pull out her special witchy powers and fry all those vampires because she was playing the political game, then ok, fine. But for a woman who's supposed to be smart enough to investigate a mysterious disappearance, she does a whole lot of mental whimpering and not a lot of actual thinking. Thus, I found myself liking Mikhail's character much more than her, and kind of wished he was a bigger player in the story. The intrigue between characters in positions of power grew more complex further into the book, which was great. But (other than Mikhail, a vampire), I didn't really connect with any of them. Most are bad. A few are good. But the story is focused so microscopically on Gwen most of the time that it excludes building any other personalities.
Overall, this would have been a good, easy read. There was one other thing though that bothered me so much, I feel like it needs mentioned. There's a LOT of abuse here. Lots of domination, 'feeding' on people's blood, and it's really, really disturbing. I've read some rough stuff before, from thrillers to gruesome war and true crime stories, and that didn't bother me like this bothered me. The abuse and domination here is very intimate. Not sexual, but intimate, non-the-less, and it's RAMPANT. It seemed like every other page involved Gwen being mentally and physically brutalized. Her mantra throughout is "adapt," but that feels like a pretty weak battle cry when the ravaging continues chapter after chapter, with no foreseeable end. And, perhaps worse of all, there's no point to it all. One or two mentions would have sufficiently got the point across, but it's over and over again, and to what end? None that I could see, whether to build character or build plot. It's just there. I don't have a background of abuse, and I was really bothered by the way it was handled, so if that's something that you've struggled with, then I would recommend steering clear of this book. On the other hand, if that type of thing doesn't bother you at all, and you like magical stories of monsters and machinations, then you might enjoy.
Normally, I'd say that's a good thing. In this case...sparkling probably would have been preferable to everything else.
As a reviewer, I kind of always cringe when I'm asked to review a book that's a continuation of a series. I feel like I can't really be fair in questioning certain things, when I have no idea whether they're explained in the previous book. And this book is no exception. It's easy enough to jump into the story here without knowing what happened before, as it's explained fairly well on the fly, or just not relevant to this book's story arch. But there were things I still had to question, like the setting. What's the time period? What type of place, exactly, does all this happen in? No idea. Different "realms" are talked about, and characters hop back and forth between them. One of those realms seemed to a modern earth. Still, that's not apparent till the bonus chapter at the end, from the next book. When a cell phone showed up at one point, I was pretty shocked. Gwen wears a shawl almost all the time that connects her to her magical monster love. Last time I saw someone wear a shawl was...? Maybe things are really well set up in the previous installment, and all of this makes sense. Along those lines, the other thing that really bothered me was the use of magic. There doesn't seem to be any discernable rhyme or reason to what can or can't be done, plus several seeming discrepancies. Again, it's possible that was all explained in the first book, but not having read it, for me the magic system seemed illogical and at the mercy of whatever whim of plot was needed.
The overall story flows well, and is easy to read, with the exception of some abrupt point-of-view changes, and I found the concept pretty interesting. A witch is sent to investigate someone's disappearance, but ends up caught in a web of dangerous politics. Even the person who ordered her to investigate seems to be against her succeeding, and soon you realize no one is as they seem.
Gwen's character is intriguing. I like the concept of her, but more (as the story progresses) because of different players' reactions to her, than for herself. The political machinations that she has to deal with are twisty, turny, interesting, but often infuriating, as she allows herself to be a pawn in everyone else's games. I have a very low tolerance for 'victim' characters, with 'victim' thoughts, and while Gwen is easy to pity, I don't read a book in order to pity someone. Pity does not equal admiration, or likeability. If she wasn't going to pull out her special witchy powers and fry all those vampires because she was playing the political game, then ok, fine. But for a woman who's supposed to be smart enough to investigate a mysterious disappearance, she does a whole lot of mental whimpering and not a lot of actual thinking. Thus, I found myself liking Mikhail's character much more than her, and kind of wished he was a bigger player in the story. The intrigue between characters in positions of power grew more complex further into the book, which was great. But (other than Mikhail, a vampire), I didn't really connect with any of them. Most are bad. A few are good. But the story is focused so microscopically on Gwen most of the time that it excludes building any other personalities.
Overall, this would have been a good, easy read. There was one other thing though that bothered me so much, I feel like it needs mentioned. There's a LOT of abuse here. Lots of domination, 'feeding' on people's blood, and it's really, really disturbing. I've read some rough stuff before, from thrillers to gruesome war and true crime stories, and that didn't bother me like this bothered me. The abuse and domination here is very intimate. Not sexual, but intimate, non-the-less, and it's RAMPANT. It seemed like every other page involved Gwen being mentally and physically brutalized. Her mantra throughout is "adapt," but that feels like a pretty weak battle cry when the ravaging continues chapter after chapter, with no foreseeable end. And, perhaps worse of all, there's no point to it all. One or two mentions would have sufficiently got the point across, but it's over and over again, and to what end? None that I could see, whether to build character or build plot. It's just there. I don't have a background of abuse, and I was really bothered by the way it was handled, so if that's something that you've struggled with, then I would recommend steering clear of this book. On the other hand, if that type of thing doesn't bother you at all, and you like magical stories of monsters and machinations, then you might enjoy.
November 1, 2017
Vampire Scenes That Give Anne Rice A Run For Her Money
Book Two of the Elemental Witch Trials series, “Burning Captivation” is an aptly titled novel packed with scorching vampire intensity thanks to the rich descriptive writing rippling through each tense and alarming encounter.
Introduced to the chillingly cold Dmitry by Nikolay at the opening of the novel, our protagonist Gwen Hensley, an elemental witch and a survivor intent on discovering the fate of fellow witch Paulette, has become an envoy in Dmitry’s domain. A vampire in Dmitry’s elevated position must know with certainty those who serve him are devoted, and as such, he repeatedly puts Gwen to the test throughout her stay.
Missing home and, in particular, Sebastian, Gwen meets an array of colorful characters throughout her ordeal in this land of vampires. Throughout the novel, it is almost palpable how much she wants to go home. David (a cook), Kelly, (a groundskeeper), and Wendy (a server), all seem pleasant enough, but she can consider none of them friends. Robin the healer is helpful when Gwen needs to recover from either bites or battles, and my favorite character of all, Percy (a creature made of vines and bark), is an earth elemental who can help replenish Gwen’s energy. On the flip side, there are those who are downright antagonistic, like watchers Sara and Laura.
The novel is replete with detailed physical descriptions and scenery one can readily picture. Now… read no further, unless you want to know how things unfold. As the plot evolves, Nikolay is no longer Gwen’s mentor. She is assigned to Mikhail, who tries to track Paulette’s trail for Gwen, but as it turns out, Paulette is dead, as Paulette’s best friend Robin has intuited. However, Paulette’s murderers still need to be apprehended and she must be laid to rest with the proper rites.
Dmitry continues to mentor and support Gwen because he considers her his treasure, but it is somewhat of a “Taming of the Shrew” relationship, insofar as Gwen is so stubborn. Mitchell enters the picture, destined to teach her how to fight monsters and strengthen her elemental magic while also letting her know, in no uncertain terms, he is romantically interested in her.
Gwen has a vision through Paulette’s murderer's eyes and comes away from the experience wondering who Alexei is. Mikhail lets her know that he is Dmitry's youngest brother and, in his bid for Dmitry’s realm, he has pitted Viktor and Inessa against each other and created the day walkers. Finally, she knows that Mitchell killed Paulette.
Knowing that Gwen knows about him, Mitchell attacks Mikhail and Gwen, but they manage to subdue him so that Dmitry can read his thoughts. Afterwards, Dmitry tells Gwen that they are going to put an end to any thought of a coup Viktor might be planning and they they will work together to fight Alexei. When all goes well, Gwen has been elevated to the position of Dmitry’s mistress. They win the battle and have successfully destroyed Tatyana, but Gwen is badly injured and taken to Percy.
Finally ready to let Gwen return home, it is understood that Dmitry will be calling on Gwen in the future whenever the need arises. When she returns home, however, things have changed. Sebastian has decided to leave her, and says it is for her sake. As a result, Gwen returns to Dmitry’s realm for solace and to recover from her heartbreak, reminded that monsters can’t be loved.
Book Two of the Elemental Witch Trials series, “Burning Captivation” is an aptly titled novel packed with scorching vampire intensity thanks to the rich descriptive writing rippling through each tense and alarming encounter.
Introduced to the chillingly cold Dmitry by Nikolay at the opening of the novel, our protagonist Gwen Hensley, an elemental witch and a survivor intent on discovering the fate of fellow witch Paulette, has become an envoy in Dmitry’s domain. A vampire in Dmitry’s elevated position must know with certainty those who serve him are devoted, and as such, he repeatedly puts Gwen to the test throughout her stay.
Missing home and, in particular, Sebastian, Gwen meets an array of colorful characters throughout her ordeal in this land of vampires. Throughout the novel, it is almost palpable how much she wants to go home. David (a cook), Kelly, (a groundskeeper), and Wendy (a server), all seem pleasant enough, but she can consider none of them friends. Robin the healer is helpful when Gwen needs to recover from either bites or battles, and my favorite character of all, Percy (a creature made of vines and bark), is an earth elemental who can help replenish Gwen’s energy. On the flip side, there are those who are downright antagonistic, like watchers Sara and Laura.
The novel is replete with detailed physical descriptions and scenery one can readily picture. Now… read no further, unless you want to know how things unfold. As the plot evolves, Nikolay is no longer Gwen’s mentor. She is assigned to Mikhail, who tries to track Paulette’s trail for Gwen, but as it turns out, Paulette is dead, as Paulette’s best friend Robin has intuited. However, Paulette’s murderers still need to be apprehended and she must be laid to rest with the proper rites.
Dmitry continues to mentor and support Gwen because he considers her his treasure, but it is somewhat of a “Taming of the Shrew” relationship, insofar as Gwen is so stubborn. Mitchell enters the picture, destined to teach her how to fight monsters and strengthen her elemental magic while also letting her know, in no uncertain terms, he is romantically interested in her.
Gwen has a vision through Paulette’s murderer's eyes and comes away from the experience wondering who Alexei is. Mikhail lets her know that he is Dmitry's youngest brother and, in his bid for Dmitry’s realm, he has pitted Viktor and Inessa against each other and created the day walkers. Finally, she knows that Mitchell killed Paulette.
Knowing that Gwen knows about him, Mitchell attacks Mikhail and Gwen, but they manage to subdue him so that Dmitry can read his thoughts. Afterwards, Dmitry tells Gwen that they are going to put an end to any thought of a coup Viktor might be planning and they they will work together to fight Alexei. When all goes well, Gwen has been elevated to the position of Dmitry’s mistress. They win the battle and have successfully destroyed Tatyana, but Gwen is badly injured and taken to Percy.
Finally ready to let Gwen return home, it is understood that Dmitry will be calling on Gwen in the future whenever the need arises. When she returns home, however, things have changed. Sebastian has decided to leave her, and says it is for her sake. As a result, Gwen returns to Dmitry’s realm for solace and to recover from her heartbreak, reminded that monsters can’t be loved.
October 18, 2017
Burning Captivation is a story about Gwen, a very unique witch who because of the sins of her family has been forced to be the mistress of a very powerful vampire of the royal class. He is called Dmitry and is fascinated with her because she has power like no other witch he has ever known. In this world there are several realms with vampires and abominations called the "turned," witches and familiars, healers and day walkers. Gwen uses her magical skills to investigate what happened to a witch named Paulette, within a world that both witches and vampires occupy because of an otherworldly tear between realms. The reason why she has become Dmitry's wife is unclear to me, but he soon finds out how valuable she could be to him in a war against his siblings. She can call the power of the sun to burn to death any vampire that threatens her. "Gwen focused her full intent, imagining the sun infusing her on a cellular level, dancing with and swimming in her blood as it was drawn out." During this journey she uses her magic to feel out the various witches and vampires around her, gathering information and getting a sense of what really happened to the missing witch, and eventually finds out that something much deeper than she ever could have imagined is at play.
The story was difficult to follow, as there were so many characters and different worlds with vague explanation. This may be because I did not read the first book, but it did say it could stand alone. There was so much wonderful imagery and elements, for example: The way one of the witches grew flowers from the earth, how she could envision what happened to Paulette by the creek, she can see the vampires as they are through their glamors, how she was touched by something incredibly powerful but could only be scented by other vampires, realm walking and the smell of frost bite when Dmitry fought his enemies. So very cool.
Overall, the story was just too vague for me to really get into, and a bit slow despite the imaginative concepts. I would have liked more character development in a well crafted world. Again, maybe if I had read the first it would have made sense. I loved the ending though, where Gwen walks through the tear with Dmitry into a dark world where she can only feel the creatures who want to kill her and... I can't say anymore, but it's awesome!
The story was difficult to follow, as there were so many characters and different worlds with vague explanation. This may be because I did not read the first book, but it did say it could stand alone. There was so much wonderful imagery and elements, for example: The way one of the witches grew flowers from the earth, how she could envision what happened to Paulette by the creek, she can see the vampires as they are through their glamors, how she was touched by something incredibly powerful but could only be scented by other vampires, realm walking and the smell of frost bite when Dmitry fought his enemies. So very cool.
Overall, the story was just too vague for me to really get into, and a bit slow despite the imaginative concepts. I would have liked more character development in a well crafted world. Again, maybe if I had read the first it would have made sense. I loved the ending though, where Gwen walks through the tear with Dmitry into a dark world where she can only feel the creatures who want to kill her and... I can't say anymore, but it's awesome!
October 13, 2017
With Burning Captivation, Elemental Witch Trials Novel 2, Lucretia Stanhope dares her readers to enter the world of witches and vampires, a world that is at once terrifying but also captivating and touching at times. Gwen is a witch with powers beyond her understanding, even beyond the understanding of the Vampire Royalty she's given to - Dmitry. Throughout the story we follow Gwen as she's handed off to a series of other vampire protectors, servants to Dmitry who are charged with protecting his Mistress, and with each one she manages to build a friendship under the most unlikely of circumstances. Heartbreaking as it is, she realizes that even though these protectors are monstrous, would kill her if it meant saving themselves, they are also dedicated to her in a way - but a way that is not the friendship she craves.
Gwen learns to adapt, the best she can, to her new role as Mistress to Dmitry (and oh, how I loved her spicy retorts, even knowing she'd be punished!). Dmitry, despite his monstrous demeanor, does learn to understand who Gwen is, what her power is, and comes surprisingly to show compassion for her as a witch. He respects Gwen for her powers, which are even far greater than he thought possible when (spoiler!) she used them in battle to protect Dmitry against his older and far more powerful sister. He also shows a compassionate side unknown by Gwen in the vampires.
This was a wonderful read - anyone interested in vampires, witches and the ages old wars that rage in the magical realm, will LOVE this book. I highly recommend it. The writing is superb and the story beautiful. It runs at breakneck speed - grab hold of your hat!
Gwen learns to adapt, the best she can, to her new role as Mistress to Dmitry (and oh, how I loved her spicy retorts, even knowing she'd be punished!). Dmitry, despite his monstrous demeanor, does learn to understand who Gwen is, what her power is, and comes surprisingly to show compassion for her as a witch. He respects Gwen for her powers, which are even far greater than he thought possible when (spoiler!) she used them in battle to protect Dmitry against his older and far more powerful sister. He also shows a compassionate side unknown by Gwen in the vampires.
This was a wonderful read - anyone interested in vampires, witches and the ages old wars that rage in the magical realm, will LOVE this book. I highly recommend it. The writing is superb and the story beautiful. It runs at breakneck speed - grab hold of your hat!
October 21, 2017
A murdered witch, hostile vampires, and an elemental witch named Gwen who is far more powerful than anyone, including herself, realizes. There is lots of intrigue and mystery, none of it predictable. The characterization was marvelous. The characters were complex and believable, the relationships and dialogue realistic. Mt biggest praise, though, is for the vampires. I don't particularly like vampires. There was a time when I did, but they got so popular and the literary world so glutted with them that I just got sick of them. Don't even get me started on Twilight. Ms. Stanhope's vampires are what vampires ought to be - pure evil. Their appearance is beautiful, but it's only an illusion, one that Gwen sees through. She can clearly see their true demonic selves. Yet as the story progresses, we see the vampires can be very complex characters. While packing enough evil to swallow the dark side of the Force and enough arrogance to make Harvey Weinstein look like a kindergarten choir boy, we come to see that at least one of them could potentially be something more. By going through horrendous experiences together, Gwen forms a bond with one... or does she? Gwen's character also develops as the story progresses. She starts out as a terrified witch thrust into a situation she cannot comprehend, and by the end she wields enough power to fry a master vampire. The story and characters are all very complex and the various threads are masterfully woven. Even though I didn't read book 1, I still understood this one. My only criticism is a few grammatical errors. Otherwise, this is an excellent story and I highly recommend it.
October 21, 2017
An entertaining fun read. The main character, Gwen, sets out to investigate the disappearance of Paulette, a witch like herself. There are several realms and tribes with vampires, witches, ‘turned’ who are slaves, familiars, healers, seers, and daywalkers.
The book opens strong with Gwen facing Dmitry, and immediately we side with her. He’s a master vampire and powerful. Soon, Gwen discovers a new gift. By calling out her power, it radiates out of her like a sun and burns those around her. As such, Dmitry develops an interest in her while Gwen goes on trying to find Paulette’s murderer.
With such a power, I do wonder why Gwen doesn’t eliminate Dmitry. She’s afraid of him as he regularly feeds from her, leaving her weak. By the end of the book, Dmitry has plans for her gift –he sees her as a weapon. He manipulates her in the hope of becoming a grandmaster.
Not everything is lost for Gwen. She has a shawl that connects her with Sebastian, her beloved, and lets her see through the glamour of the monster-vampires. She also has Mikhail and supporters. We root for her as she navigates this realm without fully knowing the rules. More so when she has to decide whether to trust a monster-vampire or a witch, her kind.
I was lost in the beginning with the different realms and the array of characters. But I haven’t read book one so that might explain it. I didn’t get the gist for the rivalry and war, but it seems the Council is just a name and has no power over the dominant vampires.
Overall, well-written prose and book kept me engaged. Throughout the read, I’m shouting for her to BURN THEM ALL, but I think Gwen has a lot of more scruples about killing monsters than me.
The book opens strong with Gwen facing Dmitry, and immediately we side with her. He’s a master vampire and powerful. Soon, Gwen discovers a new gift. By calling out her power, it radiates out of her like a sun and burns those around her. As such, Dmitry develops an interest in her while Gwen goes on trying to find Paulette’s murderer.
With such a power, I do wonder why Gwen doesn’t eliminate Dmitry. She’s afraid of him as he regularly feeds from her, leaving her weak. By the end of the book, Dmitry has plans for her gift –he sees her as a weapon. He manipulates her in the hope of becoming a grandmaster.
Not everything is lost for Gwen. She has a shawl that connects her with Sebastian, her beloved, and lets her see through the glamour of the monster-vampires. She also has Mikhail and supporters. We root for her as she navigates this realm without fully knowing the rules. More so when she has to decide whether to trust a monster-vampire or a witch, her kind.
I was lost in the beginning with the different realms and the array of characters. But I haven’t read book one so that might explain it. I didn’t get the gist for the rivalry and war, but it seems the Council is just a name and has no power over the dominant vampires.
Overall, well-written prose and book kept me engaged. Throughout the read, I’m shouting for her to BURN THEM ALL, but I think Gwen has a lot of more scruples about killing monsters than me.
October 6, 2017
A sequel equally as enchanting as the first book in the series.
The sequel to Blessedly Bound (which I have also read and reviewed) sees Gwen's life take a turn in a direction that neither she nor the reader of the first book in the series expected.
A mystery that Gwen must solve becomes increasingly complicated by developments in her own life that spiral beyond her control. Still discovering the extent of her own power and what it means for her life, she is thrust into a world plagued by intrigue, political machination and vain ambition. Stanhope's supporting characters are complex and multi-dimensional, making them a challenge for both Gwen and the reader to figure out. The delicious way in which she blurs the lines between good and bad, friend and foe, adds layers of intrigue to the story and engages the reader deeply in the story.
As with the first book in the series, the central mystery is solved, but other questions remain in its wake. The reader is left with the suggestion that something big is about to happen in the next book, but also with the knowledge that it could be something that might just complicate Gwen's life futher before things improve for her again.
For anyone who hasn't read Blessedly Bound, this story could stand alone quite effectively. But then - why only read one great book when you can read two?
Again, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's another five stars from me.
The sequel to Blessedly Bound (which I have also read and reviewed) sees Gwen's life take a turn in a direction that neither she nor the reader of the first book in the series expected.
A mystery that Gwen must solve becomes increasingly complicated by developments in her own life that spiral beyond her control. Still discovering the extent of her own power and what it means for her life, she is thrust into a world plagued by intrigue, political machination and vain ambition. Stanhope's supporting characters are complex and multi-dimensional, making them a challenge for both Gwen and the reader to figure out. The delicious way in which she blurs the lines between good and bad, friend and foe, adds layers of intrigue to the story and engages the reader deeply in the story.
As with the first book in the series, the central mystery is solved, but other questions remain in its wake. The reader is left with the suggestion that something big is about to happen in the next book, but also with the knowledge that it could be something that might just complicate Gwen's life futher before things improve for her again.
For anyone who hasn't read Blessedly Bound, this story could stand alone quite effectively. But then - why only read one great book when you can read two?
Again, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's another five stars from me.
March 10, 2018
Witches AND Vampires, I'm there. One of the main strengths of Burning Captivation was capturing the differences between the two, emotionally, physically, mentally. Gwen's (witch) forced proximity to Dmitry (Vampire) showcases the dichotomy through a series of brutal interactions throughout the book. Sometimes the way Dmitry acts feels almost normalized and other times the reader sees the vampires as true monsters.
While the characterization is good, there were occasions where it felt unnecessary. There were a lot of characters to keep track of right off the bat, with some of these turning out to be minor characters with little impact on the plot. At times this made the pacing a bit slow as I was unsure who I should be focusing on and becoming invested in. At one point, I questioned if this front-loading of characters was intentional to generate suspects (as Gwen is supposed to be investigating a disappearance) and if it was used as a tool to convey her frustration: "there were so many people she had yet to even glimpse". I would love to see more of Gwen's internal reaction if that were the case.
However, every time a character is introduced, the author does a great job of painting a mental picture. Descriptions are rich and thorough. Sensory detail is used expertly throughout the book, which I find critical to my ability to enjoy a read.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
While the characterization is good, there were occasions where it felt unnecessary. There were a lot of characters to keep track of right off the bat, with some of these turning out to be minor characters with little impact on the plot. At times this made the pacing a bit slow as I was unsure who I should be focusing on and becoming invested in. At one point, I questioned if this front-loading of characters was intentional to generate suspects (as Gwen is supposed to be investigating a disappearance) and if it was used as a tool to convey her frustration: "there were so many people she had yet to even glimpse". I would love to see more of Gwen's internal reaction if that were the case.
However, every time a character is introduced, the author does a great job of painting a mental picture. Descriptions are rich and thorough. Sensory detail is used expertly throughout the book, which I find critical to my ability to enjoy a read.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2017
This is the second book in the serie about Gwen, an elementary witch, a heroine with a big heart. In this book she meet a lot of challenge and betray. Gwen seems to be drawn to people that will betrey her when she's least expect it. But Gwen is hard-nosed and have a lot of courage so she remains on her feet.
I've really tried to see/feel what makes this books SO good, I haven't fall for a witch this hard for a long time. The only thing I came up with is that the books captures me as Harry Potter did when I was reading them for my kids. You can't tell if it is the dialogue or environmental description, the characters that want you to read as fast as you can to know what's happening and at the same time read so slow so it want end.
Gwen and her friends and enemies stay in your mind, you can't stop thinking What will happen? How she's gonna tackle this?
This book is more exciting then the first, it takes you to new magical places and it's darker. You can read this book even if you haven't read the first but it will be so much better if you read them in order. I already long to lay my hands on the 3d.
I get this book for free from the author if I leave an honest review. And I have, I think this book has the same potiental for a little older generation to get their own Harry Potter named Gwen. You'll really get addicted to her!
I've really tried to see/feel what makes this books SO good, I haven't fall for a witch this hard for a long time. The only thing I came up with is that the books captures me as Harry Potter did when I was reading them for my kids. You can't tell if it is the dialogue or environmental description, the characters that want you to read as fast as you can to know what's happening and at the same time read so slow so it want end.
Gwen and her friends and enemies stay in your mind, you can't stop thinking What will happen? How she's gonna tackle this?
This book is more exciting then the first, it takes you to new magical places and it's darker. You can read this book even if you haven't read the first but it will be so much better if you read them in order. I already long to lay my hands on the 3d.
I get this book for free from the author if I leave an honest review. And I have, I think this book has the same potiental for a little older generation to get their own Harry Potter named Gwen. You'll really get addicted to her!
November 20, 2017
“Burning Captivation,” book two in the Elemental Witch Trials series, was just as good as the first one; only, this time, the story takes place in a magical realm and not a quiet, peaceful town, and Gwen’s life is even in more danger now. Having been sent to the magical realm to investigate the disappearance of another witch, Gwen soon finds herself in the thick of it, trapped in a world where no one can be trusted, and from which there is seemingly no escape. On top of it, when the master of the realm, Dmitry, discovers a gift Gwen possesses, her life becomes even more valuable to him, and a direct threat to the others.
I truly enjoyed the setting of this novel where the descriptions were so vivid and real that I felt like I was actually there. All of the characters were complex and multi-dimensional, and to be honest, one of the main villains - Nikolay - was so well written that I even started to enjoy his word-fencing with Gwen.
If you’re a fan of the fantasy genre, you definitely should check this series out. It’s captivating and enthralling, and I will definitely read all of the following books. Five stars.
I truly enjoyed the setting of this novel where the descriptions were so vivid and real that I felt like I was actually there. All of the characters were complex and multi-dimensional, and to be honest, one of the main villains - Nikolay - was so well written that I even started to enjoy his word-fencing with Gwen.
If you’re a fan of the fantasy genre, you definitely should check this series out. It’s captivating and enthralling, and I will definitely read all of the following books. Five stars.
November 8, 2017
Reading about Gwen's struggles and investigation into a missing witch in this book definitely kept my attention. I was fascinated by the various worlds, and also by the monsters and witches and the politics between them. It was creepy at times and I was definitely scared for Gwen.
If I could have one thing on my wish list from this series going forward it would be more visual descriptions of the world itself. I wanted the author to paint pictures in my mind of all these wonderful places, to see them as she does.
Something thing I really liked about this book is that even though the story is filled with monsters, it's also filled with heart and hope. Even the darkest of characters can change in the face of goodness and love.
One character that I grew particularly attached to was a wood creature named Percy. He was so sweet!
The story ends with closure on many points, but also leaves things open for a follow up book.
If I could have one thing on my wish list from this series going forward it would be more visual descriptions of the world itself. I wanted the author to paint pictures in my mind of all these wonderful places, to see them as she does.
Something thing I really liked about this book is that even though the story is filled with monsters, it's also filled with heart and hope. Even the darkest of characters can change in the face of goodness and love.
One character that I grew particularly attached to was a wood creature named Percy. He was so sweet!
The story ends with closure on many points, but also leaves things open for a follow up book.
January 17, 2018
My review.
Burning Captivation, written by Lucretia Stanhope
Gwen the brave. Trying to do the right thing at the same time, trying to survive. The love for Sebastian, keeps her going while solving the mystery of a missing person. Can she find out what really happened or will she be betrayed and find herself missing or dead.
In a world of paranormal, Gwen must find the strength to keep moving before she becomes a plaything in the vampire world, especially when Dmitry marks her as his mistress the subjugation starts her on a new, darker path. On the other hand, can Gwen’s hidden witch abilities save her from becoming another snack, to the vampires? Time is slowly running out for Gwen, or has the witch’s council only been using Gwen for their own gain?
Great read. Enjoyed it. Recommend it to anyone. Download a copy today.
Burning Captivation, written by Lucretia Stanhope
Gwen the brave. Trying to do the right thing at the same time, trying to survive. The love for Sebastian, keeps her going while solving the mystery of a missing person. Can she find out what really happened or will she be betrayed and find herself missing or dead.
In a world of paranormal, Gwen must find the strength to keep moving before she becomes a plaything in the vampire world, especially when Dmitry marks her as his mistress the subjugation starts her on a new, darker path. On the other hand, can Gwen’s hidden witch abilities save her from becoming another snack, to the vampires? Time is slowly running out for Gwen, or has the witch’s council only been using Gwen for their own gain?
Great read. Enjoyed it. Recommend it to anyone. Download a copy today.
February 3, 2018
Burning Captivation is a well-written, riveting book that draws the reader in and captivates them from beginning to end. This novel is the second in a series of paranormal fantasy books about Gwen, an elemental witch, who learns to use her growing powers to combat others, while using her intelligence to solve mysteries. Stanhope creates a wonderfully imaginative world with fascinating healers created from components of the earth, enchanting familiars, and vampires who are both good and evil. Lucretia’s dynamic skill at detailing competing love interests and battles for the very survival of mankind makes this a thrilling tale that is hard to put down. I’m excited to learn more about realm master Dmitry, and the other undead characters that will surely battle for supremacy in her future works.
June 8, 2019
Instead of following straight on, this book seems to take a left turn. This isn’t a bad thing, just unexpected. The story stays with Gwen, but is as much about vampires as it is witches and their familiars. Gwen is growing as a witch, and as a person, but so is the danger she is facing. New and interesting characters are introduced as well as a new mystery. My questions from the first book have not yet been answered, but I am expecting this delay will lead to a great build-up and final confrontation in later books and that the first two in the series are laying the necessary groundwork.
Though this is book 2 in a series and you get more out of it if you read book 1 first, the story is good enough for it to stand on its own, which is rare for a book which is part of a series. I’ve already purchased books 3 and 4 and am looking forward to reading them
Though this is book 2 in a series and you get more out of it if you read book 1 first, the story is good enough for it to stand on its own, which is rare for a book which is part of a series. I’ve already purchased books 3 and 4 and am looking forward to reading them
January 19, 2018
This is a richly woven world that the author introduces. The mix of supernatural races living side by side, each with their own customs and secrets. Gwen navigates this strange realm somewhat reluctantly as she tries to find a missing witch. There are a lot of characters to keep track of, but the author does a good job with their individual characterizations. I love how the world became more intricate as the story developed and the darkness of the tale. I also loved that Gwen wasn't your typical kickass demon fighter with unrealistic all conquering powers. I like a good dollop of realism within my fantasy worlds. Not every hero has to go to it willingly and find they are a natural superhero after the first kick. So I thank the author for this refreshing take
April 23, 2019
Great addition to the series
This is a dark fantasy with witches, occult, vampires and paranormal themes. Almost a year ago, I read the first in the series, Blessedly Bound. I was expecting more of the same and was pleasantly surprised by how different I found the second. Truth be told, I enjoyed this book more than the first book. I liked catching up with enhanced elemental witch, Gwen, and her new situation. New characters in this book add strength and complications to Gwen's supernatural world. In this book, the supernatural societies are revealed in more detail such that you now understand the power struggles between them. The world building is good and gives depth to the story. The characters are believable, engaging and fit perfectly into the world and the story. Recommended.
This is a dark fantasy with witches, occult, vampires and paranormal themes. Almost a year ago, I read the first in the series, Blessedly Bound. I was expecting more of the same and was pleasantly surprised by how different I found the second. Truth be told, I enjoyed this book more than the first book. I liked catching up with enhanced elemental witch, Gwen, and her new situation. New characters in this book add strength and complications to Gwen's supernatural world. In this book, the supernatural societies are revealed in more detail such that you now understand the power struggles between them. The world building is good and gives depth to the story. The characters are believable, engaging and fit perfectly into the world and the story. Recommended.
April 25, 2018
This book was quite a captivating read from start to finish. Lucretia Stanhope’s writing capabilities really shine through this story of vampires and witches. Gwen is a refreshing character that I find relatable even in this dark, paranormal universe. Stanhope’s take on vampires is by far one of my favorites. I like how she paints them as dark monstrous creatures that are not all beauty all the time. It gets tiresome when vampires are always seen as dark and gorgeous. Burning Captivation is full of twists, romance, action, and depth. I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for their next book to read!
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