The Breaker

The Secret of Spellshadow Manor #2

by Bella Forrest

The highly anticipated second book of the Spellshadow series.

"We walk in dreams," the Head had said. "It was only a matter of time before a nightmare followed us back."

"Kingstone Keep. Falleaf House. Stillwater House. Spellshadow Manor. Seek these places, and do not leave them. Cower within their walls..."

Alex doesn't have all the answers yet, but he and his friends are running out of time. With Aamir's new position as a professor, they hoped he might be able to help them make a breakthrough in uncovering the Manor and its Head's secret, but it soon becomes terrifyingly clear that Aamir's situation is anything but advantageous...

As rules begin tightening around Alex like a noose to his neck, he is forced to rely on his own strengths more and more -- and when events at Spellshadow take a truly shocking turn, it will take all that he has not to break...

Prepare for a hair-raising ride.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Fiction, Magic, Paranormal, Audiobook, Mystery

412 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2017

About the author

UPDATE MARCH 11, 2024:

BELLA IS BACK!

*** New, updated online store at https://BellaForrest.com

*** New books coming soon

*** Possible Film/TV series coming soon

*** Stay up to date by joining our e-mail list at https://BellaForrest.com/join

###

Bella Forrest is a lover of fantasy, romance, action, and mystery infused stories with twists you don’t see coming. She has sold over fifteen million books since her first novel was published in 2012.

Check out her website for a full list of her books: https://BellaForrest.com

Official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BellaForrest...

Here's a list of some of Bella's books:

DARKLIGHT

Darklight (Book 1)
Darkthirst (Book 2)
Darkworld (Book 3)
Darkblood (Book 4)
Darktide (Book 5)
Darkbirth (Book 6)
Darkfall (Book 7)
Darkwilds (Book 8)
Darkhunt (Book 9)

A LOVE THAT ENDURES (Trilogy)
A Love that Endures 1
A Love that Endures 2
A Love that Endures 3

HARLEY MERLIN AND THE SECRET COVEN

Harley Merlin and the Secret Coven (Book 1)
Harley Merlin and the Mystery Twins (Book 2)
Harley Merlin and the Stolen Magicals (Book 3)
Harley Merlin and the First Ritual (Book 4)
Harley Merlin and the Broken Spell (Book 5)
Harley Merlin and the Cult of Eris (Book 6)
Harley Merlin and the Detector Fix (Book 7)
Harley Merlin and the Challenge of Chaos (Book 8)
Harley Merlin and the Mortal Pact (Book 9)
Finch Merlin and the Fount of Youth (Book 10)
Finch Merlin and the Lost Map (Book 11)
Finch Merlin and the Djinn's Curse (Book 12)
Finch Merlin and the Locked Gateway (Book 13)
Finch Merlin and the Forgotten Kingdom (Book 14)
Finch Merlin and the Everlasting Vow (Book 15)
Finch Merlin and the Blood Tie (Book 16)
Finch Merlin and the Legend of the Luminary
Persie Merlin and Leviathan's Gift (Book 18)
Persie Merlin and the Door to Nowhere (Book 19)
Persie Merlin and the Witch Hunters (Book 20)
Persie Merlin and the Dying Song (Book 21)

THE CHILD THIEF

The Child Thief (Book 1)
Deep Shadows (Book 2)
Thin Lines (Book 3)
Little Lies (Book 4)
Ghost Towns (Book 5)
Zero Hour (Book 6)

HOTBLOODS

Hotbloods (Book 1)
Hotbloods (Book 2): Coldbloods
Hotbloods (Book 3): Renegades
Hotbloods (Book 4): Venturers
Hotbloods (Book 5): Traitors
Hotbloods (Book 6): Allies
Hotbloods (Book 7): Invaders
Hotbloods (Book 8): Stargazers

THE GENDER GAME

The Gender Game (Book 1)
The Gender Secret (Book 2)
The Gender Lie (Book 3)
The Gender War (Book 4)
The Gender Fall (Book 5)
The Gender Plan (Book 6)
The Gender End (Book 7)

THE GIRL WHO DARED TO THINK

The Girl Who Dared to Think (Book 1)
The Girl Who Dared to Stand (Book 2)
The Girl Who Dared to Descend (Book 3)
The Girl Who Dared to Rise (Book 4)
The Girl Who Dared to Lead (Book 5)
The Girl Who Dared to Endure (Book 6
The Girl Who Dared to Fight (Book 7)

A SHADE OF VAMPIRE

Season 1: Derek & Sofia’s story

Books 1 to 7

Season 2: Rose & Caleb’s story

Books 8 to 16

Season 3: The Shade continues with a new hero...

Books 17 to 24

Season 4: A Clan of Novaks

Books 25 to 32

Season 5: A Dawn of Guardians

Books 33 to 41

Season 6: A Gift of Three

Books 42 to 50

Season 7: A Call of Vampires

Books 51 to 59

Season 8: A Voyage of Founders

Books 60 to 68

Season 9: A Birth of Fire

Books 69 to 77

Season 10: An Origin of Vampires
An Origin of Vampires (Book 78)
A Game of Death (Book 79)
A Veil of Dark (Book 80)
A Bringer of Night (Book 81)
A Circle of Nine (Book 82)
A Bender of Spirit (Book 83)
A Memory of Time (Book 84)
A Shard of Soul (Book 85)
A Break of Seals (Book 86)

Season 11: A Shade of Mystery
A Shade of Mystery (Book 87)
An Isle of Mirrors (Book 88)
A Sanctuary of Foes (Book 89)
A Ruler of Clones (Book 90)
A Gate of Light (Book 91)
A Dawn of Worlds (Book 92) ➜ Coming soon!

Reviews

[Mikayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Better than ge first one for sure, but still confusing

[Kathryn Ford · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book as it delved deeper into the magical world and the different types of magic. Alex starts to stand up as a sort of leader and explore his unique magic as well. The mystery of Amir was interesting and heart breaking. I loved Professor Gaze and all her teas. Elias really intrigues me. I just can't figure out what his motives are, but he is a really good written character. I of course enjoyed the battle at the end of the book. I wonder what on earth the 5 students have gotten themselves into for the next book in the series.

[Judy Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

ABSOLUTELY SPELLBINDING !!!
Title: The Breaker
Series: The Secret of Spellshadow Manor
Author: Bella Forrest
Designation: Book Two of Series, Full-Length Novel (400 pages), NOT A Standalone, Cliffhanger Ahead
Genre: #fantasy #sciencefiction #actionadventure #mystery #comingofage #romance
Reading Platform: Kindle Edition (Verified Purchase Amazon US)
My Rating: Five Spellbinding Stars*****
Oh my! Oh my! Oh my! Bella Forrest rocked my world AGAIN with The Breaker, the second release in her captivating new magical fantasy series, The Secret of Spellshadow Manor! And great balls of fire, it's even better than the first! Forrest has been a busy little beaver! After publishing a new season of the international bestselling A Shade of Vampire series in the past twelve months as well as introducing two other new blockbuster series, The Gender Game and the Detective Erin Bond mystery thriller series, you'd think Forrest would be ready to sit back and take a breather. Nope, just the opposite! I honestly don't think Forrest ever sleeps. Not that I'm complaining... not one little bit! Like thousands of my fellow Bella Forrest fans around the world, I've been hooked since the first book of Forrest's megahit A Shade of Vampire series and now 43 books later, I still eagerly await each new release. I don't even care what genre it is. If Forrest writes it, I'll read it! And it comes as no surprise, Forrest has delivered another new installment in this gripping fantasy adventure that curls our toes, makes our hearts pound and keeps us begging for more! The Secret of Spellshadow Manor is a beautifully written young adult saga unlike any I've ever read. If you loved Harry Potter or Percy Jackson and the Olympians, The Secret of SPellshadow Manor is definitely for you. Quite simply, it's an irresistibly delicious all-you-can-eat buffet of magic, fantasy, action, adventure, mystery, danger, suspense, angst, and blossoming coming of age romance. But never fear, my friends, it's also a deliciously tasty treat for us older adults who remain young at heart! The story is well crafted, imaginative, thrilling, fast paced, action packed, suspenseful, sweet, romantic and at times, also dark and mysterious. Whew, what a mouthful, but these are only a few of the words that come to mind after reading The Secret of Spellshadow Manor. The narrative is exceptionally well written in the third person with a primary perspective from seventeen-year-old high school senior Alex Webber of Middledale, Iowa. The dialogue is smart, well executed and flows effortlessly. Although the premise and storyline for this series is beyond intriguing, and the vividly depicted world of Spellshadow Manor is nothing short of extraordinary, it's truly the cast of complex characters that truly steals the show. They are well developed, fascinating, engaging, endearing, and most importantly, memorable. They literally explode from the pages, grab your imagination, capture your heart and hold you completely enthralled from beginning to end. Forrest skillfully combines every single one of these elements to craft a beautifully written coming of age fantasy filled to the brim with magic, danger, action, adventure, fantasy, mystery, suspense, magic, loyalty, and heartbreak, lies, deceit, secrets, angst, young love, and plot twists that will blow your mind. After reading every single one Forrest's books, there are two things I've learned beyond a shadow of a doubt. First, when reading anything written by Bella Forrest, always expect the unexpected and two, absolutely nothing is ever impossible as any of her readers have witnessed time and time again. In each book Forrest pens, she takes her readers on an emotionally thrilling roller coaster ride, unlike any other, one that keeps us on the edge of our seat and riveted to each page while screaming, "OMG - that didn't just happen!" And the icing on the cake, Forrest's books are always exceptionally well-crafted, edited, formatted and have gorgeous covers! Did I like this book? No, I LOVED it! Would I recommend it? You bet, and I am, for ages 12 to 112. Will I read this author again? Of course, just as soon as Forrest publishes her next book. Forrest has the most extraordinary imagination of any author I've ever read, one which knows no bounds! And finally, was I entertained? OMG, YES! Completely! I was glued to my seat, completely enthralled, white-knuckling my ereader with my heart beating wildly in my chest as the pages flew as quickly as the time, and all the while screaming, "Don't do it!" OMG! I was a nervous wreck! lol... I can hardly wait to see what's in store for Alex, Natalie and their friends in Book Three, The Chain! Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!

Book One:
Unlike his friends, seventeen-year-old Middledale, Iowa high school senior Alex Webber spends all his free time learning to write computer code and building websites. He's becoming quite the young entrepreneur. Unfortunately, his efforts are born from necessity rather than pleasure. Since Alex's mother was diagnosed with a debilitating long-term illness leaving her unable to work, he desperately needs to earn enough money to supplement their meager monthly income. Hosting a foreign exchange student was supposed to be just another way to add much-needed funds to their dwindling monthly budget... until Alex meets the student...a lovely young seventeen-year-old female student from France named Natalie Chevalier. Oh my! What normal red-blooded seventeen-year-old young man wouldn't appreciate the beauty of a charming french girl, right? When the two teenagers meet, they instantly become fast friends with each looking forward to the upcoming new school year. They're just a couple of normal teenagers who want to enjoy their senior year, right? Hmm... But Alex and Natalie may not be quite so normal after all. What happens when these two seemingly unremarkable young people, brought together by fate, realize they may not be as ordinary as they thought? In fact, they may be quite extraordinary. After seeing a strange and very frightening ghostly figure following Natalie, which apparently one no one else could see, Alex is faced with a life-altering decision that may interrupt his well-laid plans and change his life forever. But there is only one choice for the pragmatic yet sensitive young Alex - no matter the risk, he must protect his new friend Natalie. But at what cost?

The Breaker: Book 2
It's been several months since Natalie was abducted by the ghostly phantom known as Finder, and Alex was mistaken to also be a new recruit for the magical school located within the walls of Spellshadow Manor. No matter their efforts to escape, Alex and Natalie find themselves still imprisoned behind the ivy-covered walls of the mysterious manor. There's only one little problem and it gets worse with each passing day. Unlike the other students at the school, including Natalie, Alex has no magical ability at all. In fact, his problem is just the opposite. Alex discovers he is a spellbreaker and possesses an inherited genetic trait enabling him to wield a power called anti-magic, an anomalous force which counteracts magic when used correctly. But according to the limited information available, it appears Alex may be the sole surviving spellbreaker. And why is he the last? Because the other spellbreakers have been hunted to extinction and destroyed by Finder and his predecessors, which means his unnatural new ability is very dangerous to his continued well-being at Spellshadow Manor and must be kept a secret. Of course, we all know seventeen-year-olds are never good at keeping secrets, especially not when he needs the help of his friends Natalie, Aamir and Jari to cover for his lack of magic. Unfortunately, Aamir may no longer be an ally. Alex's friend and former roommate, Aamir Nagi, is now Professor Nagi. To avoid the impending questionable fate of 'graduation', two weeks ago Aamir challenged and defeated the now missing Professor Derhin in a magical duel. Alex and his friends had hoped this would give them an advantage, possibly helping them to escape, but by all outward appearances, Aamir now seems to be controlled by a magical golden band placed around his wrist by the headmaster of the school, The Head. Yup, you read that correctly; the headmaster is named The Head and he is one scary dude! Nothing is as it seems but Alex is still determined to rescue Natalie and orchestrate their escape. Join our brave, young heroes as they continue their perilous adventure where they must learn to navigate the ever-changing hallways of the mysterious, magical, and very dangerous new world of Spellshadow Manor, where nothing is as it seems, and where one mistake could cost them their lives. For lurking in the shadows at every twist and turn, Alex discovers even more treacherous forces, laden with dark magic and murky secrets, all waiting to make an appearance. But are they friend or foe? We'll see!

[Judy Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

ABSOLUTELY SPELLBINDING !!!
Title: The Breaker
Series: The Secret of Spellshadow Manor
Author: Bella Forrest
Designation: Book Two of Series, Full-Length Novel (400 pages), NOT A Standalone, Cliffhanger Ahead
Genre: #fantasy #sciencefiction #actionadventure #mystery #comingofage #romance
Reading Platform: Kindle Edition (Verified Purchase Amazon US)
My Rating: Five Spellbinding Stars*****
Oh my! Oh my! Oh my! Bella Forrest rocked my world AGAIN with The Breaker, the second release in her captivating new magical fantasy series, The Secret of Spellshadow Manor! And great balls of fire, it's even better than the first! Forrest has been a busy little beaver! After publishing a new season of the international bestselling A Shade of Vampire series in the past twelve months as well as introducing two other new blockbuster series, The Gender Game and the Detective Erin Bond mystery thriller series, you'd think Forrest would be ready to sit back and take a breather. Nope, just the opposite! I honestly don't think Forrest ever sleeps. Not that I'm complaining... not one little bit! Like thousands of my fellow Bella Forrest fans around the world, I've been hooked since the first book of Forrest's megahit A Shade of Vampire series and now 43 books later, I still eagerly await each new release. I don't even care what genre it is. If Forrest writes it, I'll read it! And it comes as no surprise, Forrest has delivered another new installment in this gripping fantasy adventure that curls our toes, makes our hearts pound and keeps us begging for more! The Secret of Spellshadow Manor is a beautifully written young adult saga unlike any I've ever read. If you loved Harry Potter or Percy Jackson and the Olympians, The Secret of SPellshadow Manor is definitely for you. Quite simply, it's an irresistibly delicious all-you-can-eat buffet of magic, fantasy, action, adventure, mystery, danger, suspense, angst, and blossoming coming of age romance. But never fear, my friends, it's also a deliciously tasty treat for us older adults who remain young at heart! The story is well crafted, imaginative, thrilling, fast paced, action packed, suspenseful, sweet, romantic and at times, also dark and mysterious. Whew, what a mouthful, but these are only a few of the words that come to mind after reading The Secret of Spellshadow Manor. The narrative is exceptionally well written in the third person with a primary perspective from seventeen-year-old high school senior Alex Webber of Middledale, Iowa. The dialogue is smart, well executed and flows effortlessly. Although the premise and storyline for this series is beyond intriguing, and the vividly depicted world of Spellshadow Manor is nothing short of extraordinary, it's truly the cast of complex characters that truly steals the show. They are well developed, fascinating, engaging, endearing, and most importantly, memorable. They literally explode from the pages, grab your imagination, capture your heart and hold you completely enthralled from beginning to end. Forrest skillfully combines every single one of these elements to craft a beautifully written coming of age fantasy filled to the brim with magic, danger, action, adventure, fantasy, mystery, suspense, magic, loyalty, and heartbreak, lies, deceit, secrets, angst, young love, and plot twists that will blow your mind. After reading every single one Forrest's books, there are two things I've learned beyond a shadow of a doubt. First, when reading anything written by Bella Forrest, always expect the unexpected and two, absolutely nothing is ever impossible as any of her readers have witnessed time and time again. In each book Forrest pens, she takes her readers on an emotionally thrilling roller coaster ride, unlike any other, one that keeps us on the edge of our seat and riveted to each page while screaming, "OMG - that didn't just happen!" And the icing on the cake, Forrest's books are always exceptionally well-crafted, edited, formatted and have gorgeous covers! Did I like this book? No, I LOVED it! Would I recommend it? You bet, and I am, for ages 12 to 112. Will I read this author again? Of course, just as soon as Forrest publishes her next book. Forrest has the most extraordinary imagination of any author I've ever read, one which knows no bounds! And finally, was I entertained? OMG, YES! Completely! I was glued to my seat, completely enthralled, white-knuckling my ereader with my heart beating wildly in my chest as the pages flew as quickly as the time, and all the while screaming, "Don't do it!" OMG! I was a nervous wreck! lol... I can hardly wait to see what's in store for Alex, Natalie and their friends in Book Three, The Chain! Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!

Book One:
Unlike his friends, seventeen-year-old Middledale, Iowa high school senior Alex Webber spends all his free time learning to write computer code and building websites. He's becoming quite the young entrepreneur. Unfortunately, his efforts are born from necessity rather than pleasure. Since Alex's mother was diagnosed with a debilitating long-term illness leaving her unable to work, he desperately needs to earn enough money to supplement their meager monthly income. Hosting a foreign exchange student was supposed to be just another way to add much-needed funds to their dwindling monthly budget... until Alex meets the student...a lovely young seventeen-year-old female student from France named Natalie Chevalier. Oh my! What normal red-blooded seventeen-year-old young man wouldn't appreciate the beauty of a charming french girl, right? When the two teenagers meet, they instantly become fast friends with each looking forward to the upcoming new school year. They're just a couple of normal teenagers who want to enjoy their senior year, right? Hmm... But Alex and Natalie may not be quite so normal after all. What happens when these two seemingly unremarkable young people, brought together by fate, realize they may not be as ordinary as they thought? In fact, they may be quite extraordinary. After seeing a strange and very frightening ghostly figure following Natalie, which apparently one no one else could see, Alex is faced with a life-altering decision that may interrupt his well-laid plans and change his life forever. But there is only one choice for the pragmatic yet sensitive young Alex - no matter the risk, he must protect his new friend Natalie. But at what cost?

The Breaker: Book 2
It's been several months since Natalie was abducted by the ghostly phantom known as Finder, and Alex was mistaken to also be a new recruit for the magical school located within the walls of Spellshadow Manor. No matter their efforts to escape, Alex and Natalie find themselves still imprisoned behind the ivy-covered walls of the mysterious manor. There's only one little problem and it gets worse with each passing day. Unlike the other students at the school, including Natalie, Alex has no magical ability at all. In fact, his problem is just the opposite. Alex discovers he is a spellbreaker and possesses an inherited genetic trait enabling him to wield a power called anti-magic, an anomalous force which counteracts magic when used correctly. But according to the limited information available, it appears Alex may be the sole surviving spellbreaker. And why is he the last? Because the other spellbreakers have been hunted to extinction and destroyed by Finder and his predecessors, which means his unnatural new ability is very dangerous to his continued well-being at Spellshadow Manor and must be kept a secret. Of course, we all know seventeen-year-olds are never good at keeping secrets, especially not when he needs the help of his friends Natalie, Aamir and Jari to cover for his lack of magic. Unfortunately, Aamir may no longer be an ally. Alex's friend and former roommate, Aamir Nagi, is now Professor Nagi. To avoid the impending questionable fate of 'graduation', two weeks ago Aamir challenged and defeated the now missing Professor Derhin in a magical duel. Alex and his friends had hoped this would give them an advantage, possibly helping them to escape, but by all outward appearances, Aamir now seems to be controlled by a magical golden band placed around his wrist by the headmaster of the school, The Head. Yup, you read that correctly; the headmaster is named The Head and he is one scary dude! Nothing is as it seems but Alex is still determined to rescue Natalie and orchestrate their escape. Join our brave, young heroes as they continue their perilous adventure where they must learn to navigate the ever-changing hallways of the mysterious, magical, and very dangerous new world of Spellshadow Manor, where nothing is as it seems, and where one mistake could cost them their lives. For lurking in the shadows at every twist and turn, Alex discovers even more treacherous forces, laden with dark magic and murky secrets, all waiting to make an appearance. But are they friend or foe? We'll see!

[Clara Harding · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Explosive Novel in This New Exciting Series!!

I am a fan of Bellas extensive works already and this new series has blown the roof off sky high with hair raising excitement and magical twists and turns that will leave you gripped. After the mass success of the first Spellbreaker novel I was unsure how the second novel was going to measure up but I wasn't left wanting at any point, if anything the overall tempo is kicked up by several notches with Alex having to overcome much more in this chapter aided by his friends Natalie and Jari.
Amair at the end of the last novel became a teacher but the golden bracelet all left us wondering just how things were going to go from here for the plucky group. Each student has their cross to bare in this one, individually being pulled apart as well as coming together for something BIG! Of which I can't tell you as I want to avoid suppliers but more people learn of Alex's secret and help him when he needs it, Elias's plans are to some degree laid out for all to see but yet relent of who he used to be come to the forefront when it is least expected. Some astounding feats of both magicl branches (anti-magic/magic) are pulled off and the fast paced rhythm sucks you in without warning leading me to read this novel in one go, I simply could not put it down and pre-ordered my copy of the 3rd instalment of the series within seconds of finishing this one!
Do not delay, read this series, as a Harry Potter fan I can tell you now you WILL be HOOKED!!!!

[Shelley]

Continuation of book 1 and learning about the depths of friendships and what the characters are willing to sacrifice for it. On to book 3.

[Iohn · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF. I got bored like a quarter of the way in.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love the series.

I love how Bella always keeps me wanting more. I have read all of her books and am always looking forward to their release date. Can't wait to see what happens next in this series!

[Debbie · Rating 2 out of 5]

As in the first book this one ends without completing a story arc. It is disappointing that the author could not develop a single story arc within the wider multi-book arc that could be resolved in one book. It just seems like the book ends in the middle. Not satisfying at all and seems like just a push to make you buy the next book. I won't be.

[Lina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Many unanswered questions remain

I'm annoyed that I still don't have answers to fundamental pieces of the plot. I feel these series are dragging and there is little resolution to be expected in any of the sequels. I stopped caring towards the second half of this book and won't be reading the third book.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

What a twist on where I thought the book was going. I have to start the next book as soon as possible.

[Abbi · Rating 5 out of 5]

*spoilers ahead* - You have been warned!

Wow. What a thrilling sequel. This is becoming an outstanding series. Bella continued to enchant us with her writing and displaying great creative skill in what is becoming a thick plot. Bella continues to improve as an author with each of her books developing both descriptively and creatively and I love being a part of it.

There are so many possibilities with this series which will keep us guessing throughout the next books. Firstly, Natalie. I strongly believe that this Mage is going to become so powerful with her dark magic. I think it would be really exciting if this sweet girl becomes engulfed by her own power. I think the groundwork is already there for this as Natalie displays a growing interest in life magic and starts using dark magic during the battle. I am really intrigued to see how this plays out.

Elias is another tricky character in this book. We've always known that he's particularly shady (pardon the pun!) but the epilogue does finally reveal that there is a bigger plan and we start to get some details about Elias's true intention. However, Bella is careful not to reveal too much in order to keep her readers involved and excited. I love this about her work too! I also have a sneaky suspicion that Elias may have attacked Ellabell during that night in the Head's Office. I'm not sure what benefit Elias would have gotten from this if he did it but here's hoping we find out more in Book 3.

While I'm on the topic of Ellabell, does anyone else totally ship Alex and Ellabell? Throughout this entire book I've been itching for some sort of romantic involvement and I think the final chapter in the Head's Office maybe hinted towards it. However, it could've just been a powerful friendship moment. I'm not sure if it's particularly necessary for a romance element in this series at the moment but a girl can dream, right?

I feel that this book was a drastic step up from it's predecessor in terms of reality. Whilst death is always a present theme in the first book, it's never a present threat but this book jumps dramatically to students being killed in cold blood by their teachers. I feel like there's more to that incident and I'm not sure how to respond to it yet. I did appreciate the sense of reality it brought to a fantasy book.

We have so many questions left that need to be answered and I can't wait until we get them. I've already got The Chain on pre-order.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The beginning of the book finds the kids right where the first book ended. Aamir and Derhin had their dual. Derhin is gone and the Head has whisked Aamir away to teach him 'the ways' of Spellshadow Manor. When he comes back, Alex, Natalie, and Jari are hoping they can get info from Aamir but Aamir wears a golden line around his wrist and will inflict pain on him if he says or reveals too much. After a few weeks, Aamir disappears with the Head presumably to recruit new students in Malachi Greys absence.
Since Alex has discovered who he is or more specifically what he is, he has been trying to find ways to improve his magic/anti-magic. Natalie begins working with Renmark to improve her skills and Jari is doing the same. Alex learns the history of his kind and how supposedly they were all killed in a battle back in 1908.
The Head sends a Deputy Head to take over in his absence and he inflicts more and more rules upon the students. Before he makes his presence known, Alex, Jari and Ellabell try to break into the Head's office. During that time, Alex finds what he thinks happens during graduation day and he is terribly saddened by it. A few weeks later, alex is called into The Deputy Head's office where the Deputy Head proceeds to tell Alex that he knows what Alex is and that he is prepared to send alex back to the real world. Before Alex reveals his answer, though, Natalie and Jari break into the office and start a magical dual with the Deputy Head which is then revealed to be Aamir. They incapacitate Aamir and begin an uprising to battle the Head when he comes back to the Manor.
In my review, I have failed to mention a shadowy figure that appears usually only to Alex named Elias. Elias has been of some help to Alex in helping him figure out how to further his powers and figure out some of the secrets of Spellshadow Manor. Read the book to find out how it ends.

[Sarah1983 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series came up on my facebook feed as one of those “if you loved Harry Potter blah blah blah” ads that I normally completely ignore. But for some reason I clicked on this one and since it was available on Kindle Unlimited I gave it a try.

Firstly, there aren't many similarities to Harry Potter at all in my opinion. Or at least it's no more similar to that series than it is to many other fantasy series. I really enjoyed the first 2 books in this series though. I like the fact it focuses on the darker side of things rather than simply how wonderful magic is. Even after reading the two books that are currently available I'm not sure what the antagonists goals are. Or even who the real antagonist actually is for that matter. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series when it comes out. And will give the authors other non vampire books a try too, some sound very good.

[Gemma Cameron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great sequel to the Secret of Spellshadow Manor and continues the adventures of Alex, Natalie and Jari and reveals some more secrets about the mysterious head.

This book was fast paced and had me turning page after page to find out more and it did not disappoint. It's an original take on magic, mages and has a dark undercurrent. There is so many turns and excitements I don't want to spoil it for you but The Breaker is a tale of trials within friendships that ultimately shows how friends are there in the end no matter what has happened previously. It's a tale of strength in numbers, of adventure, learning and standing for a shared purpose.

This book takes the reader on many twists and turns and the author brings out many emotions showing the talent in her writing. There is also an undercurrent of a love interest for Alex which I would like to see play out and the books ends on such a cliffhanger I am left with that empty feeling.

A great book for YA readers!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this series through the Amazon Facebook recommendation for Harry Potter lovers. I am a huge Harry Potter fan, and was excited to find a related series.

The first book book started slow for me. It took at least 1/2 to 3/4 of the book to really draw me in and at the middle of the book, I wasn't sure I would continue with the series once I'd finished reading the first in the set. However, it definitely picked up at the end, and even though it took me nearly a month to finish the first book, I finished the second in about a week and I am more than halfway through the third in less than a day! I am definitely enjoying the series now and feel like the author really got her groove by midway through the second book.

In the second in the series, I feel like the characters were developed much more in depth, and the storyline became clearer and more dimensional, making the book much more enjoyable.

[Elizabeth Curtin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The characters in the second book of the Spellshadow Manor have really developed. I really enjoyed getting to know more about Ellabell and how she begins to fit in the story.

Alex is the constant voice of reason in the story but even he can be human as well, and I find that refreshing to see in his thoughts and feelings.

Natalie is really coming into her own and her story could take many different paths, which I'm excited to read more about.

Jari and Aamir's friendship is more explained and developed as well.

The other surrounding characters in the book are also becoming more in depth and interesting to read about.

The true mystery of Spellshadow Manor is beginning to unravel with more magic and intrigue, leaving me excited to read the third book.

[doleary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll admit it - the first one hooked me...hooked me enough that I had to read the second. The second is good enough that I can hardly wait to read the third. Hoping my pre-teen will hurry and read it so we can turn it in and get the third book from the Kindle Library very soon!

These kids are tough. You worry their friendship is fractured by the goings on - but they find their way back to each other and come together. I so want to know what happens next!

One of the challenges with multi-book series - will the second be as good as the first? Yes! No momentum was lost...it has kept building...and I can't wait to see where the third book takes us!

[Ann Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn't wait to read this book after finishing the first book in the series, and it is just as well written and just as gripping. I loved the characters and the unexpected twists in the plot. I only gave this book four stars because I was really disappointed in the ending. Other reviewers obviously loved it, and I will read the next book to find out what happens to the characters I have fallen in love with, but the end was a damp squib. No spoilers, but after ratcheting up the tension, the final twist was a disappointment.

[M.H. Elrich · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I read to 93% of this book and my Kindle Unlimited ended and returned it (in my defense, I thought I had a day left on Kindle Unlimited). Sad sigh. Anyway, I enjoyed the book, but it is sooo slooow. It literally is mostly reading, studying books and practicing their magic. Then a few scenes of action. I finally felt like they were getting somewhere when the book went back into cyberspace. Here's to hoping I can finish it in the future and find out if the studying ever stops-and the action and mysteries are revealed.

[Bryony · Rating 4 out of 5]

This follows on from the first book with no time gap in between, they have fought their way and survived and now have to do it again with a difference set of challenges. Alex's secret gets revealed to other people, however this isn't all bad news for them. Their friendships are tested even more in this book than the last, with having the deal with the temporary loss of one of their group.

Again another easy read but packed with a lot of adventure, the action keeping you in the edge of your seat always wanting to know what happens next.

[Kevin Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Bit Drawn Out.

Yeah, sadly book two in this series is a bit slow to get going but eventually gets there in the last six chapters. It's still a good story, much like the Harry Potter novels and would make for great entertainment if turned into a movie, or movies and I'm sure the special effects would look amazing on the big screen. Meanwhile, book three will be with me soon, so I'll get ready for what's about to happen next.

[Lucile · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I wanted to give the first Spellshadow Manor book a 4 1/2 (and couldn't) I gave book 2 of the series a solid 5. The characters are developing more fully, often the case in a series, and the action has increased. Lines have been drawn and we are beginning to see the characters take sides. Some of the secrets of Spellshadow have been revealed but many remain.

I suggest you try book 1 and get on the bandwagon before you have a lot of catching up to do!

[Patricia Anne Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anti-Magic

The story continues as Alex Webber finally becomes a Spellbreaker, he learns how to control his anti-Magic. He and Natalie are still trying to discover a way out of the manor. A great uprising occurs with the students trying to banish the Head of the school. The friends launch an attack and escape into another realm not knowing where they are. Great Book loved it can't wait to read the next book. 5 Stars

[Ana Gutierrez · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very exciting continuation of this series and its only book two! A bit anxty in a few places but that's to be expected with age of the characters and the trials they are facing. I'm looking forward to seeing how things progress. There are wonderfully teasing hints dropped at almost every turn; peaks into the world of Spellshadow Manor and the past events that have shaped the darkness hanging over it.

[Caitlin · Rating 2 out of 5]

I felt a bit frustrated with this book. None of the questions from the last book were answered, nor did the mystery give way a little so the readers had some clues. We didnt really learn anything new, except one new reveal about the Head. I feel like the author could have done a better job with enticing us to learn further along with the characters. Hopefully the next in the series will do a better job with storytelling and fresh plot development.

[Athena · Rating 3 out of 5]

i'm kind of ambiguous about this book; i think it was really slow-paced and draggy through the beginning, and even though it picked up the pace by the end, it felt crammed and unevenly paced. at first it kind of felt like those really long shows that always drag the seasons out in order to get as many views as possible, and i'm pretty sure i skipped around a bit and skimmed some chapters. that being said, i liked the ending enough to want to read the next one.

[Karen Broughton · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Breaker

Second installment to Alex and Natalie's magical story was just as gripping as the first. Totally hooked
By this series. Loving how Alex is piecing together his anti magical heritage. The secrets that are slowly coming up to the surface as Alex uncovers them, just enough information to keep you invested with more questions left unanswered. Mysterious, magical, hidden secrets, deep friendships this series has it all.

[Elki · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the second installment of this story. It's much slower to get started than the first but does get going in the end. However the writing wasn't as snappy in this one and it wasn't particularly well-edited which I found to be a little distracting at times. All in all though, an enjoyable book.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely amazing! It shed new light on the entire series, adding more to it and making the series more interesting and fun to read! Sometimes I just read a series to finish it, not because I enjoy it. But this one never brings a dull moment, and there is so much adventure involved. No complaints from me, reminded me a lot of Harry Potter!!