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Soul Chronicles #2
Awakened
The monster has awakened.
After her escape from the Tower and from her father's experiments, Kat Bloodmayne wakes up to discover the dark power inside of her has grown stronger. Now more than ever she needs to find the doctor who holds the key to healing her, but the only one who can help her find him is Stephen Grey, the very man who betrayed her.
Stephen Grey cannot change the past or what he did to Kat, but he will do everything he can to help her now. But will Kat let him? Or will his transgression be too much to overcome?
Time races against them as they travel with sky pirates through harrowing storms and across the war-torn country of Austrium in search of the doctor who can cure Kat. But can he cure what is broken inside of her? Or will the monster inside of Kat consume her soul?
After her escape from the Tower and from her father's experiments, Kat Bloodmayne wakes up to discover the dark power inside of her has grown stronger. Now more than ever she needs to find the doctor who holds the key to healing her, but the only one who can help her find him is Stephen Grey, the very man who betrayed her.
Stephen Grey cannot change the past or what he did to Kat, but he will do everything he can to help her now. But will Kat let him? Or will his transgression be too much to overcome?
Time races against them as they travel with sky pirates through harrowing storms and across the war-torn country of Austrium in search of the doctor who can cure Kat. But can he cure what is broken inside of her? Or will the monster inside of Kat consume her soul?
256 pages, Paperback
Published November 14, 2017
16 people are currently reading
1001 people want to read
About the author
Morgan L. Busse
21 books1,233 followersMorgan L. Busse is a writer by day and a mother by night. She is the author of the Follower of the Word series and the award-winning steampunk series, The Soul Chronicles. Her debut novel, Daughter of Light, was a Christy and Carol Award finalist. During her spare time she enjoys playing games, taking long walks, and dreaming about her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
December 9, 2022
About this book:
“The monster has awakened.
After her escape from the Tower and from her father's experiments, Kat Bloodmayne wakes up to discover the dark power inside of her has grown stronger. Now more than ever she needs to find the doctor who holds the key to healing her, but the only one who can help her find him is Stephen Grey, the very man who betrayed her.
Stephen Grey cannot change the past or what he did to Kat, but he will do everything he can to help her now. But will Kat let him? Or will his transgression be too much to overcome?
Time races against them as they travel with sky pirates through harrowing storms and across the war-torn country of Austrium in search of the doctor who can cure Kat. But can he cure what is broken inside of her? Or will the monster inside of Kat consume her soul?”
Series: Book #2 in the “Soul Chronicles” duology. Review of Book #1 Here!
Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures read, thought over, remembered, & mentioned (multiple times); Prayers & Thanking God; Thinking about God; 'H's are not capital when referring to God; Kat isn’t sure if God cares about “monsters like her”, but asks for Him to help her, if He’s real; Stephen hasn’t talked to God in two years due to an upsetting event, but recalls the story of the prodigal and turns back to God again; Stephen isn’t sure how Kat’s condition fit into his understanding of the world, or of God, but he knows that God could do anything, including curing Kat; Stephen has a feeling that Kat’s knowledge of God was limited or even non-existent based on her father, but wonders if his aunt shared with her about God; A scientist says that “souls are God’s province” and that only God can bring someone back to life; *Major Spoiler* ; Mentions of God; Mentions of the Bible & the story of the prodigal son; Mentions of a doctor writing down bits of Scriptures and posting them around a war camp & that it comforts those who are dying (another doctor says that the words “sound like there is more to death than just the end of existence”); A few mentions of talking to & knowing God; A few mentions of a man not putting much stock into religion, but believing he witnessed a miracle & someone else asking why his “angel” didn’t save anyone else (he thinks God healed him, *Spoiler* ); A couple mentions of prayers & praying; A couple mentions of Heaven (in regards to Kat recalling Ms. Stuart telling her that God lived in Heaven and that Heaven in somewhere in the sky); A couple mentions of a family Bible; A mention of God dying and coming back to life; A mention of a man not being religious but finding some of Scriptures shared interesting; A mention of a cathedral; A mention of a doctor doing miracles for soldiers in a war; A mention of someone asking forgiveness for the evil he committed;
*Note: A scientist wants to be able to bring the dead back to life & straying from science to get answers (he wants to unlock the power around death); Mentions of scientists trying to harness the power of life and death; Mentions of a scientist saying that after he learned more about God, he realized that there are powers humans should never temper with because “of the destruction they could cause” and that they were “past the physical and into the spiritual, a place where we could potentially sever our souls”; Mentions of souls & Kat wondering if her soul is dying due to her powers; Mention of a scientist using pagan rituals, “dark arts”, incantations, and symbols on the floor in his experiments; A mention of a couple people who have passed away being said to have “gone to that dark place where science could not reach” (thought by Kat); A mention that if Kat’s father had a god, it would be knowledge; A mention of a scientist saying “we call ourselves enlightened, but we often deny the fact that there is more to us than our physical bodies”; A mention of someone calling Kat’s powers “black magic”.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a form of ‘dumb’, a ‘gah!’, a ‘get the blazes out of here’, a ‘like blazes’, two forms of ‘how the blazes’/’how in the blazes’, two ‘what the—‘s, five forms of ‘what the blazes’/’what in the blazes’s, and eleven ‘blazes’s; Mentions of curses (said, not written); Fires, Pain, Injuries, Blood/Bleeding, Being injected by a needle, & Passing out (up to semi-detailed); Being under attack (on an airship), Gunfire/Shootouts, Shooting at others (self-defense), Seeing others shot, Explosions, Bombs, A Head Concussion, Pain, & Blood/Bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Being tied-up, gagged, tested on, being attacked by rodents, & killing the rodents (which Kat didn’t want to do, up to semi-detailed); Seeing someone fall out of an airship (up to semi-detailed); Kat has a power that when she gets very emotional, she can cause fires from her hands, control and objects or people, & freeze time (After it happens, she passes out and is then numb around her heart once awakening (she has to calm down a few times, is unsuccessful a couple times, and also tries to control it (which causes her pain); when uncontrolled, it’s said to releases “another side of her” and that scares both herself and Stephen)); Kat cuts herself to show Stephen that she can’t feel pain in that area (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Kat thinks that she could crush a man’s throat with even touching him, but cuts off that thought & later has to cut off other thoughts of harming or causing harm; Kat thinks that if she dies, “the world would be rid of a monster”; Kat thinks she is a monster due to her powers & wonders if she is dying; Kat feels like she’s drowning in an unconscious state/dream (a few times), Nightmares, & Recalling past events that were like nightmares (including fires and being choked, up to semi-detailed); When unconscious and struggling in a dream of drowning, Kat has a voice in her head telling her to just let go and stop fighting (which Kat doesn’t want to die, so she fights against the voice); *Spoiler* ; *Major Spoilers* ; Kat longs for her father’s approval & attention, but he just sees her as an experiment; All about many, many mentions of ill people disappearing, grave robbers, dead bodies, testing on humans, seeing it happen, dissecting humans, the smell of decay and dead bodies, screams/moans of pain, & scientists trying to bring the dead back to life (*Spoiler* , up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of wars, fighting, creating human weapons, & deaths; Many mentions of fires, smoke, screams, others in pain, & injuries/burns (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of injuries, pain, stitches, blood/bleeding, someone being injected with a needle, & passing out (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of bounty hunters, murders/murderers, criminals, crimes, & arrests Mentions of weapons (guns, cannons, and people like Kat), gunfire/shootouts, shooting at others (self-defense), seeing others shot, being shot at, explosions, fighting, fights, & an airship attack (up to semi-detailed): Mentions of alcohol, drinking, & taverns; Mentions of smoking, cigars, & pipes; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of throwing up (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of tattoos; A few mentions of a murder (Book #1); A few mentions of hatred; A couple mentions of rumors; A couple mentions of animal testing; A mention of threats; A mention of poison; A mention of a man saying that men aren’t interested in intelligent women (Book #1); A mention of someone looking at another like a raven might look at a carcass.
Sexual Content- Two semi-detailed kisses; Recalling a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Dancing, Warmth, Nearness, & Smelling (including a “revolting” touch by a young man to Kat, border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (including Kat’s curves while in a thin dress (which leaves little to the imagination and Stephen tries not to look at her), barely-above-not-detailed); Stephen goes to undress an unconscious Kat due to her wet clothing, but only takes off her boots because he doesn’t have a clue on how to take a corset off; Kat unbuttons part of her blouse to tell Stephen that she can’t feel her heart/chest area anymore (they both blush and he looks away, but she is determined to show him and cuts herself to show that she doesn’t feel pain there); Stephen is shirtless (when injured) and pulls up the covers, thinking that Kat has never seen a man without his shirt on (she blushes and looks away); Mentions of kisses & kissing (barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of an affair, seeing the couple in bed together, & betrayal (Book #1); A couple mentions of a female friend being assaulted by young men (& also recalling his comment about kissing a smart girl) (Book #1); A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of a man carefully bandaging an injured young woman (being a gentleman); Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Kat’s blouse is torn open for a test, but it’s done by another female and she tried to keep Kat as modest as possible (Stephen keeps his eyes elsewhere); Mentions of a mother who died giving birth & the husband resenting their child because of it (*Spoiler*); A mention of a woman’s neckline being lower than any lady would wear; A mention of women from a dancing hall and their short skirts.
-Kathryn “Kat” Bloodmayne, around age 20
-Stephen Grey
P.O.V. switches between them, Jake (x5), & Dr. Bloodmayne (x1)
256 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Two Stars
{Ratings are based on content}
That felt very short. Which is a positive, I suppose, meaning it kept my attention as I read it fast, but at the same time, I wish that last chapter had been longer.
After reading the first book in this duology, I really wasn’t a fan of Stephen because of a huge mess-up he did and wasn’t thrilled about the idea of a relationship between him and Kat. I’m still not completely sold on that idea after reading this final book, but I do appreciate that communication happened between the two of them pretty quickly and we were able to somewhat move on from that part.
Another maybe slightly odd thing to note, but something I want to comment on was a…commonality between this duology and the “Skyworld” duology. Both that series and this one has villain-like characters that are serious burn victims, which has obviously altered their appearances, but also their personalities getting worse. Both characters are described in blunt…not gruesome or crude ways, but in a way that implies that’s part of their evil character. Which I might be totally sensitive to this element as I’ve known people that are burn and major burn victims, but after seeing it in both series I’ve read by this author, it didn’t settle well with me. I definitely don’t think the author had any ill-intent, but I would warn readers with burns that the characters with burns in these two series aren’t good-character representation.
You’ll see above in the Spiritual Content section that I gave a lot of details about the faith content that’s in this book. Personally, I’m not sure how I feel about certain elements of the theology found in this story.
I think, though, that this duology just isn’t for me. The human experimenting and Kat’s father being the basic villain father that dislikes his kid because his wife died giving birth. I can see why other readers may enjoy this book with it’s fast-paced and unique plot, but this duology had different elements that made it not for me, personally.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
“The monster has awakened.
After her escape from the Tower and from her father's experiments, Kat Bloodmayne wakes up to discover the dark power inside of her has grown stronger. Now more than ever she needs to find the doctor who holds the key to healing her, but the only one who can help her find him is Stephen Grey, the very man who betrayed her.
Stephen Grey cannot change the past or what he did to Kat, but he will do everything he can to help her now. But will Kat let him? Or will his transgression be too much to overcome?
Time races against them as they travel with sky pirates through harrowing storms and across the war-torn country of Austrium in search of the doctor who can cure Kat. But can he cure what is broken inside of her? Or will the monster inside of Kat consume her soul?”
Series: Book #2 in the “Soul Chronicles” duology. Review of Book #1 Here!
Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures read, thought over, remembered, & mentioned (multiple times); Prayers & Thanking God; Thinking about God; 'H's are not capital when referring to God; Kat isn’t sure if God cares about “monsters like her”, but asks for Him to help her, if He’s real; Stephen hasn’t talked to God in two years due to an upsetting event, but recalls the story of the prodigal and turns back to God again; Stephen isn’t sure how Kat’s condition fit into his understanding of the world, or of God, but he knows that God could do anything, including curing Kat; Stephen has a feeling that Kat’s knowledge of God was limited or even non-existent based on her father, but wonders if his aunt shared with her about God; A scientist says that “souls are God’s province” and that only God can bring someone back to life; *Major Spoiler* ; Mentions of God; Mentions of the Bible & the story of the prodigal son; Mentions of a doctor writing down bits of Scriptures and posting them around a war camp & that it comforts those who are dying (another doctor says that the words “sound like there is more to death than just the end of existence”); A few mentions of talking to & knowing God; A few mentions of a man not putting much stock into religion, but believing he witnessed a miracle & someone else asking why his “angel” didn’t save anyone else (he thinks God healed him, *Spoiler* ); A couple mentions of prayers & praying; A couple mentions of Heaven (in regards to Kat recalling Ms. Stuart telling her that God lived in Heaven and that Heaven in somewhere in the sky); A couple mentions of a family Bible; A mention of God dying and coming back to life; A mention of a man not being religious but finding some of Scriptures shared interesting; A mention of a cathedral; A mention of a doctor doing miracles for soldiers in a war; A mention of someone asking forgiveness for the evil he committed;
*Note: A scientist wants to be able to bring the dead back to life & straying from science to get answers (he wants to unlock the power around death); Mentions of scientists trying to harness the power of life and death; Mentions of a scientist saying that after he learned more about God, he realized that there are powers humans should never temper with because “of the destruction they could cause” and that they were “past the physical and into the spiritual, a place where we could potentially sever our souls”; Mentions of souls & Kat wondering if her soul is dying due to her powers; Mention of a scientist using pagan rituals, “dark arts”, incantations, and symbols on the floor in his experiments; A mention of a couple people who have passed away being said to have “gone to that dark place where science could not reach” (thought by Kat); A mention that if Kat’s father had a god, it would be knowledge; A mention of a scientist saying “we call ourselves enlightened, but we often deny the fact that there is more to us than our physical bodies”; A mention of someone calling Kat’s powers “black magic”.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a form of ‘dumb’, a ‘gah!’, a ‘get the blazes out of here’, a ‘like blazes’, two forms of ‘how the blazes’/’how in the blazes’, two ‘what the—‘s, five forms of ‘what the blazes’/’what in the blazes’s, and eleven ‘blazes’s; Mentions of curses (said, not written); Fires, Pain, Injuries, Blood/Bleeding, Being injected by a needle, & Passing out (up to semi-detailed); Being under attack (on an airship), Gunfire/Shootouts, Shooting at others (self-defense), Seeing others shot, Explosions, Bombs, A Head Concussion, Pain, & Blood/Bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Being tied-up, gagged, tested on, being attacked by rodents, & killing the rodents (which Kat didn’t want to do, up to semi-detailed); Seeing someone fall out of an airship (up to semi-detailed); Kat has a power that when she gets very emotional, she can cause fires from her hands, control and objects or people, & freeze time (After it happens, she passes out and is then numb around her heart once awakening (she has to calm down a few times, is unsuccessful a couple times, and also tries to control it (which causes her pain); when uncontrolled, it’s said to releases “another side of her” and that scares both herself and Stephen)); Kat cuts herself to show Stephen that she can’t feel pain in that area (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Kat thinks that she could crush a man’s throat with even touching him, but cuts off that thought & later has to cut off other thoughts of harming or causing harm; Kat thinks that if she dies, “the world would be rid of a monster”; Kat thinks she is a monster due to her powers & wonders if she is dying; Kat feels like she’s drowning in an unconscious state/dream (a few times), Nightmares, & Recalling past events that were like nightmares (including fires and being choked, up to semi-detailed); When unconscious and struggling in a dream of drowning, Kat has a voice in her head telling her to just let go and stop fighting (which Kat doesn’t want to die, so she fights against the voice); *Spoiler* ; *Major Spoilers* ; Kat longs for her father’s approval & attention, but he just sees her as an experiment; All about many, many mentions of ill people disappearing, grave robbers, dead bodies, testing on humans, seeing it happen, dissecting humans, the smell of decay and dead bodies, screams/moans of pain, & scientists trying to bring the dead back to life (*Spoiler* , up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of wars, fighting, creating human weapons, & deaths; Many mentions of fires, smoke, screams, others in pain, & injuries/burns (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of injuries, pain, stitches, blood/bleeding, someone being injected with a needle, & passing out (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of bounty hunters, murders/murderers, criminals, crimes, & arrests Mentions of weapons (guns, cannons, and people like Kat), gunfire/shootouts, shooting at others (self-defense), seeing others shot, being shot at, explosions, fighting, fights, & an airship attack (up to semi-detailed): Mentions of alcohol, drinking, & taverns; Mentions of smoking, cigars, & pipes; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of throwing up (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of tattoos; A few mentions of a murder (Book #1); A few mentions of hatred; A couple mentions of rumors; A couple mentions of animal testing; A mention of threats; A mention of poison; A mention of a man saying that men aren’t interested in intelligent women (Book #1); A mention of someone looking at another like a raven might look at a carcass.
Sexual Content- Two semi-detailed kisses; Recalling a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Dancing, Warmth, Nearness, & Smelling (including a “revolting” touch by a young man to Kat, border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (including Kat’s curves while in a thin dress (which leaves little to the imagination and Stephen tries not to look at her), barely-above-not-detailed); Stephen goes to undress an unconscious Kat due to her wet clothing, but only takes off her boots because he doesn’t have a clue on how to take a corset off; Kat unbuttons part of her blouse to tell Stephen that she can’t feel her heart/chest area anymore (they both blush and he looks away, but she is determined to show him and cuts herself to show that she doesn’t feel pain there); Stephen is shirtless (when injured) and pulls up the covers, thinking that Kat has never seen a man without his shirt on (she blushes and looks away); Mentions of kisses & kissing (barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of an affair, seeing the couple in bed together, & betrayal (Book #1); A couple mentions of a female friend being assaulted by young men (& also recalling his comment about kissing a smart girl) (Book #1); A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of a man carefully bandaging an injured young woman (being a gentleman); Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Kat’s blouse is torn open for a test, but it’s done by another female and she tried to keep Kat as modest as possible (Stephen keeps his eyes elsewhere); Mentions of a mother who died giving birth & the husband resenting their child because of it (*Spoiler*); A mention of a woman’s neckline being lower than any lady would wear; A mention of women from a dancing hall and their short skirts.
-Kathryn “Kat” Bloodmayne, around age 20
-Stephen Grey
P.O.V. switches between them, Jake (x5), & Dr. Bloodmayne (x1)
256 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Two Stars
{Ratings are based on content}
That felt very short. Which is a positive, I suppose, meaning it kept my attention as I read it fast, but at the same time, I wish that last chapter had been longer.
After reading the first book in this duology, I really wasn’t a fan of Stephen because of a huge mess-up he did and wasn’t thrilled about the idea of a relationship between him and Kat. I’m still not completely sold on that idea after reading this final book, but I do appreciate that communication happened between the two of them pretty quickly and we were able to somewhat move on from that part.
Another maybe slightly odd thing to note, but something I want to comment on was a…commonality between this duology and the “Skyworld” duology. Both that series and this one has villain-like characters that are serious burn victims, which has obviously altered their appearances, but also their personalities getting worse. Both characters are described in blunt…not gruesome or crude ways, but in a way that implies that’s part of their evil character. Which I might be totally sensitive to this element as I’ve known people that are burn and major burn victims, but after seeing it in both series I’ve read by this author, it didn’t settle well with me. I definitely don’t think the author had any ill-intent, but I would warn readers with burns that the characters with burns in these two series aren’t good-character representation.
You’ll see above in the Spiritual Content section that I gave a lot of details about the faith content that’s in this book. Personally, I’m not sure how I feel about certain elements of the theology found in this story.
I think, though, that this duology just isn’t for me. The human experimenting and Kat’s father being the basic villain father that dislikes his kid because his wife died giving birth. I can see why other readers may enjoy this book with it’s fast-paced and unique plot, but this duology had different elements that made it not for me, personally.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
September 14, 2018
OH MY GOSH! I AM SO EXCITED FOR THIS BOOK! I'VE BEEN DYING FOR IT TO COME OUT!
I READ TAINTED IN ONE DAY AND I JUST KNOW THIS ONE IS GOING TO BE AMAZING, AWESOME, EPIC, FANTASTIC, FABULOUS, STUPENDOUS, MARVELOUS, WONDERFUL, TREMENDOUS, EXCITING, BRILLIANT, AND ALL THE THINGS!!!!
AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!
asdfghjkl;!!!!
I JUST CAN'T EVEN.
Updated 12/21/17
Dear Awakened,
Just like your sister, Tainted, I read you in one day. Wow!
You were such an awesome story and totally worth the wait.
BUT HOW AM I SUPPOSE TO COPE NOW?!
Sincerely, Emmy
I READ TAINTED IN ONE DAY AND I JUST KNOW THIS ONE IS GOING TO BE AMAZING, AWESOME, EPIC, FANTASTIC, FABULOUS, STUPENDOUS, MARVELOUS, WONDERFUL, TREMENDOUS, EXCITING, BRILLIANT, AND ALL THE THINGS!!!!
AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!
asdfghjkl;!!!!
I JUST CAN'T EVEN.
Updated 12/21/17
Dear Awakened,
Just like your sister, Tainted, I read you in one day. Wow!
You were such an awesome story and totally worth the wait.
BUT HOW AM I SUPPOSE TO COPE NOW?!
Sincerely, Emmy
December 31, 2021
This book definitely dragged a bit more than the other one, but Kat and Steven are the cutest thing ever.
Torture scenes were a bit much tbh tho.
Torture scenes were a bit much tbh tho.
September 15, 2020
4.5 stars.
A very thrilling and satisfying conclusion to the Soul Chronicles! I read both books in a span of four days and I don't know what to do with my life now XD
A very thrilling and satisfying conclusion to the Soul Chronicles! I read both books in a span of four days and I don't know what to do with my life now XD
September 3, 2021
4 stars!!
STEPHEN!!! What were you THINKING??!!
Thats how im going to start this review... and for those of you who have read it- you know exactly why. This one picks up immediately where book one left off.
After making a terrible decision, Stephen is running out of time to fix it! After finding the Lancelot, an airship, (two words.... SKY PIRATES so MUCH FUN.) Steven has his hands full with righting this wrong.
Meanwhile the Monster has awakened and Kat needs all the help she can get. The darkness is growing stronger and she has to find a way to rid herself of it before she loses her soul for good.
I thought this was an excellent ending to this duo. It really painted a beautiful picture of how darkness can overtake ones soul if you continue to feed it. There has to be a heart change.
I appreciated the spiritual elements that were involved and the whole story behind the story if ya know what I mean, and I loved how it wasn't done in a CS LEWIS sort of way but more woven into the story and it just clicks in an organic fashion. This was my second series by Mrs. Busse and it will not be my last :P
Read
December 11, 2022****Skimmed to the End after DNFing book 1, Tainted****
Since I was having such trouble wanting to read Tainted I just went ahead and skimmed this whole book to the end and was happy about the ending even though I do wonder why the last chapter was so short—it would have been better and far more satisfying to be longer. I’m also glad the betrayal misunderstanding was cleared up quickly and if most of this had been the first book I would have liked it a lot more.
Maybe this author isn’t for me since I only mildly liked The Ravenwood Saga and didn’t officially finish this series? I will still try her other steampunk series but if that one doesn’t work I may just cease trying this author’s books.
Since I was having such trouble wanting to read Tainted I just went ahead and skimmed this whole book to the end and was happy about the ending even though I do wonder why the last chapter was so short—it would have been better and far more satisfying to be longer. I’m also glad the betrayal misunderstanding was cleared up quickly and if most of this had been the first book I would have liked it a lot more.
Maybe this author isn’t for me since I only mildly liked The Ravenwood Saga and didn’t officially finish this series? I will still try her other steampunk series but if that one doesn’t work I may just cease trying this author’s books.
April 19, 2020
I loved this duology. Kat's struggle to control the monster, the relationship between her and Stephen, the interesting characters, the steampunk world--I disappeared into World City for a few days. The happy ending tied up the story in a lovely way.
May 13, 2019
~4,5 stars~
December 2, 2020
Fantastic ending to a series, and I loved how it talked about tough topics like not tampering with things that should not be touched by humans, and there are some places that science should not go. Action packed story, with great characters, faith, and love.
April 12, 2018
Given the way this book picks up immediately where book one leaves off, the two volumes could really constitute one stand-alone novel (it sufficiently concludes in the end, so I suspect there will be no more installments). I'm glad to see things I had noted in the previous book--sky pirates, the war, corruption--all have a larger role in this story!
I enjoyed that the story was meaningfully symbolic without diving deep into allegory (allegory just not being my thing). And I really liked that the author doesn't hold back--she could have gone an easier route, but the story definitely has a stronger impact for the climax as is. I guess it might be a little on the dark end for Christian fiction (though nothing compared to a lot of mainstream fantasy), but ultimately it points to light and God. An enjoyable conclusion.
I enjoyed that the story was meaningfully symbolic without diving deep into allegory (allegory just not being my thing). And I really liked that the author doesn't hold back--she could have gone an easier route, but the story definitely has a stronger impact for the climax as is. I guess it might be a little on the dark end for Christian fiction (though nothing compared to a lot of mainstream fantasy), but ultimately it points to light and God. An enjoyable conclusion.
November 15, 2017
Excellent conclusion! I love the characters and the adventure. The world Busse has built is captivating and realistic, with the sort of gritty beauty that truly makes you feel like part of it. A delightful steampunk-ish romp with a lot of heart, some deep symbolism, and great imagination. Highly recommended.
November 18, 2018
Having read “Tainted”, the first in this 2-part series, I was looking forward to seeing what came of Kat Bloodmayne. In Tainted her character – her strength but vulnerability and her desire to be loved by her father, particularly grabbed me. And her father, is truly a very wicked man.
Having escaped with the help of Stephen Grey, Kat is desperate to find the one man whom she believes can help heal her. Being chased by 3 bounty hunters who her father has engaged to find her and bring her back, Stephen and Kat escape on Robert Grim’s spaceship, Lancelot. Funny, that is truly that: a ship that flies. Grim, an old friend of Stephen’s describes himself as a ‘good pirate’, one with a moral conscience.
We soon see Kat’s increasingly strengthening powers in a number of episodes which firstly help save the ship and then later innocent civilians on Austrium, that is at war with World City, Kat and Stephen’s home.
All the while, Kat and Stephen’s affection for each other develops.
The story follows a relatively predictable path: they find Dr Latimer, the bounty hunters find and capture Kat and return to the Tower, with Stephen and Dr Latimer in pursuit. Kat’s father re-starts his experiments on Kat to draw out the ‘monster’ within but mistakenly believes he can control that power.
And it is this theme that I found so absorbing. The good and evil within all of us; we all have a monster inside waiting to consume us, if we let it. And the more we give ourselves over to the lusts of the flesh, the more energy we give to the monster until he can consume us and our ability to experience the wonders of the light or good diminish. But God. He can heal us. But we need to choose to turn to Him, to the good, to the light; otherwise our nature will keep feeding the monster.
The story reaches a predictable end except I was surprised at the extent of the damage the monster was able to create. I found this quote shocking but it is a good example of when we feed on evil, one never knows what havoc may come as a result.
Kat’s internal struggle was absorbing. Interestingly, she was able to control the monster until it came too difficult and it ‘killed off’ the good Kat. The imagery of deadness in her soul was a fascinating analogy. But it was love that saved her. Of course. Because it is the most powerful force of all.
I found I enjoyed Awakened more than Tainted.
Having escaped with the help of Stephen Grey, Kat is desperate to find the one man whom she believes can help heal her. Being chased by 3 bounty hunters who her father has engaged to find her and bring her back, Stephen and Kat escape on Robert Grim’s spaceship, Lancelot. Funny, that is truly that: a ship that flies. Grim, an old friend of Stephen’s describes himself as a ‘good pirate’, one with a moral conscience.
We soon see Kat’s increasingly strengthening powers in a number of episodes which firstly help save the ship and then later innocent civilians on Austrium, that is at war with World City, Kat and Stephen’s home.
All the while, Kat and Stephen’s affection for each other develops.
The story follows a relatively predictable path: they find Dr Latimer, the bounty hunters find and capture Kat and return to the Tower, with Stephen and Dr Latimer in pursuit. Kat’s father re-starts his experiments on Kat to draw out the ‘monster’ within but mistakenly believes he can control that power.
And it is this theme that I found so absorbing. The good and evil within all of us; we all have a monster inside waiting to consume us, if we let it. And the more we give ourselves over to the lusts of the flesh, the more energy we give to the monster until he can consume us and our ability to experience the wonders of the light or good diminish. But God. He can heal us. But we need to choose to turn to Him, to the good, to the light; otherwise our nature will keep feeding the monster.
The story reaches a predictable end except I was surprised at the extent of the damage the monster was able to create. I found this quote shocking but it is a good example of when we feed on evil, one never knows what havoc may come as a result.
Kat’s internal struggle was absorbing. Interestingly, she was able to control the monster until it came too difficult and it ‘killed off’ the good Kat. The imagery of deadness in her soul was a fascinating analogy. But it was love that saved her. Of course. Because it is the most powerful force of all.
I found I enjoyed Awakened more than Tainted.
June 12, 2021
If you wonder if a steampunk novel can clearly point to God, let me assure you, it can and it did in this story!
The follow up to Tainted was everything I expected! So much adventure and poor Kat trying to hold back the darkness inside her. This story is a perfect example showing that we all need salvation. There's something inside of us that separates us from God and Kat learns that through the power that she has. It rules her, as much as she doesn't want it to. Without a heart change, her soul will only get darker and die.
Stephen is once again trying his best to save her from herself and her father. You can feel the spiritual wrestling he does. He has known God, but turned away after leaving his fiancé. In the midst of all of this, you can sense his feelings for Kat growing deeper.
I have to admit, I thoroughly enjoyed his friend Robert who captained the flying ship! He kept cracking me up wanting to get his bad eye replaced with a laser one that he admires from the other bounty hunter. I liked his calm steadiness throughout the story.
Don't get me started on Kat's nut job of a "father". That fella has a few screws loose.
I look forward to reading more in this genre and hope more authors will fill it with great stories!
The narrator did a good job with the different voices.
The follow up to Tainted was everything I expected! So much adventure and poor Kat trying to hold back the darkness inside her. This story is a perfect example showing that we all need salvation. There's something inside of us that separates us from God and Kat learns that through the power that she has. It rules her, as much as she doesn't want it to. Without a heart change, her soul will only get darker and die.
Stephen is once again trying his best to save her from herself and her father. You can feel the spiritual wrestling he does. He has known God, but turned away after leaving his fiancé. In the midst of all of this, you can sense his feelings for Kat growing deeper.
I have to admit, I thoroughly enjoyed his friend Robert who captained the flying ship! He kept cracking me up wanting to get his bad eye replaced with a laser one that he admires from the other bounty hunter. I liked his calm steadiness throughout the story.
Don't get me started on Kat's nut job of a "father". That fella has a few screws loose.
I look forward to reading more in this genre and hope more authors will fill it with great stories!
The narrator did a good job with the different voices.
December 6, 2019
3.75⭐️
After his monumentally poor judgement, Stephen must risk everything to break into the Tower and save Kat. Finding her on the brink of death, he organizes a mad dash for an airship in hopes of escape. If she ever regains consciousness from her harrowing experience at the hands of her scientists father, will she be able to forgive Stephen’s betrayal?
Now they are on the Lancelot fleeing World City with a crew of legendary bounty hunters on their tail.
Their destination? The front lines of war to find the fugitive, Dr.Latimer whom they can only hope will have some answers for Kat and her mysteriously powerful abilities.
—-
I had hoped to love this book as much as the first one, but I didn’t care for it as much. It is much shorter than Tainted, so maybe that had something to do with it.
There were a few times in this second book where I felt like things happened a bit too conveniently and I almost wonder if this storyline would’ve benefited if written as a trilogy...🤔
I think there is supposed to be some kind of parallels from this story to the Christian faith but I couldn’t quite get there. 🤷🏼♀️
After his monumentally poor judgement, Stephen must risk everything to break into the Tower and save Kat. Finding her on the brink of death, he organizes a mad dash for an airship in hopes of escape. If she ever regains consciousness from her harrowing experience at the hands of her scientists father, will she be able to forgive Stephen’s betrayal?
Now they are on the Lancelot fleeing World City with a crew of legendary bounty hunters on their tail.
Their destination? The front lines of war to find the fugitive, Dr.Latimer whom they can only hope will have some answers for Kat and her mysteriously powerful abilities.
—-
I had hoped to love this book as much as the first one, but I didn’t care for it as much. It is much shorter than Tainted, so maybe that had something to do with it.
There were a few times in this second book where I felt like things happened a bit too conveniently and I almost wonder if this storyline would’ve benefited if written as a trilogy...🤔
I think there is supposed to be some kind of parallels from this story to the Christian faith but I couldn’t quite get there. 🤷🏼♀️
May 17, 2019
Not my favorite book ever, but still not bad. I really like Kat, but I just don't really care for Stephen. I looved Kat's story arc over the duology, and the steampunk, and the twisty, villainous plots though! I really enjoy Busse's writing and stories. This just wasn't my favorite book/series by her. But I think it's more me than anything else.
January 3, 2021
I liked this one better than the first. It just fell short of four stars in my tastes for some horror. Nothing worse than LOTR, but still not something that I just love to read. Busse's Ravenwood books were much more enjoyable to me.
February 11, 2023
Not my favourite Frankenstein (ish) retelling.
August 23, 2025
I was very curious where this story was going to go and the author took it in a beautiful direction. 🥹 Seriously, it was done so well. I love, love, loved it!! Highly recommend this series!
November 24, 2018
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed Tainted (book #1), and I couldn’t wait to read Awakened. I’m usually a bit leery about sequels, as they usually don’t compare to the first book in the series. However, that wasn’t the case this time. Book #2 was amazing! I could totally envision scenes unfolding as though I were watching a movie (and I think the series should be made into movies!). Busse’s characters and scenes truly come to life!
I flew through this book in less than a day, as I found it that engaging. I loved the characters, and the adventure is full of fast-paced action, so it quickly (and totally) captivates the reader. The symbolism is well done in this imaginative tale. The characters show how there is good and evil in all of us, and the more we feed the monster inside, the more it builds. The religious angle reminds the reader that, with God, we can fight back. He can heal us if we let Him. (However, this book isn't preachy or overly religious in any way). And then there’s the impact that love can have on someone, no matter how dark the soul may appear. Wonderfully done! I will note that it’s very important to read Tainted first, as this one picks up where that one leaves off. The ending is satisfying (though I really wish Busse had written a third book in the series!).
If this is any indication of what the steampunk genre is, I’ll be adding far more of this genre to by TBR pile!
I really enjoyed Tainted (book #1), and I couldn’t wait to read Awakened. I’m usually a bit leery about sequels, as they usually don’t compare to the first book in the series. However, that wasn’t the case this time. Book #2 was amazing! I could totally envision scenes unfolding as though I were watching a movie (and I think the series should be made into movies!). Busse’s characters and scenes truly come to life!
I flew through this book in less than a day, as I found it that engaging. I loved the characters, and the adventure is full of fast-paced action, so it quickly (and totally) captivates the reader. The symbolism is well done in this imaginative tale. The characters show how there is good and evil in all of us, and the more we feed the monster inside, the more it builds. The religious angle reminds the reader that, with God, we can fight back. He can heal us if we let Him. (However, this book isn't preachy or overly religious in any way). And then there’s the impact that love can have on someone, no matter how dark the soul may appear. Wonderfully done! I will note that it’s very important to read Tainted first, as this one picks up where that one leaves off. The ending is satisfying (though I really wish Busse had written a third book in the series!).
If this is any indication of what the steampunk genre is, I’ll be adding far more of this genre to by TBR pile!
July 17, 2019
Great story about finding God...
November 14, 2017
Awakened, the second in Morgan Busse’s steampunk series, was everything I hoped it would be.
The story picks up right where the first book left off. Despite Stephen’s daring rescue at the tower, it takes a while for Kat to trust him again. Kat is trying to keep the monster within at bay while they desperately search for Dr. Latimer, the only person who may be able to save her from herself. As Stephen learns more about how Kat gained her horrific powers, he can’t help but fear what may become of her. If they don’t find a way to reverse the experiment, she may be lost forever.
I loved the world Morgan crafted in this story. Airships, automatons, it’s like an imaginative version of the World’s Fair. The characters were full of life, I loved how Stephen and Kat were two broken people trying to find hope in a broken world. They didn't necessarily know where they stood with God in the beginning, Stephen slowly finding his way back and Kat questioning His existence. The story wasn’t preachy but there was some artful shadowing of God’s provision and grace in the hard times. There were a few spots where they got off a little too easy and some characters were just a little too willing to help, but overall it really wasn’t much of a problem for the story. The author didn’t hold back in this story. The story gracefully covered some pretty gritty territory. I loved the story.
I did receive an advance copy in order to post an early review, however I pre-ordered it the day it became available so I’m not going to count that. I’ll definitely read this book again!
The story picks up right where the first book left off. Despite Stephen’s daring rescue at the tower, it takes a while for Kat to trust him again. Kat is trying to keep the monster within at bay while they desperately search for Dr. Latimer, the only person who may be able to save her from herself. As Stephen learns more about how Kat gained her horrific powers, he can’t help but fear what may become of her. If they don’t find a way to reverse the experiment, she may be lost forever.
I loved the world Morgan crafted in this story. Airships, automatons, it’s like an imaginative version of the World’s Fair. The characters were full of life, I loved how Stephen and Kat were two broken people trying to find hope in a broken world. They didn't necessarily know where they stood with God in the beginning, Stephen slowly finding his way back and Kat questioning His existence. The story wasn’t preachy but there was some artful shadowing of God’s provision and grace in the hard times. There were a few spots where they got off a little too easy and some characters were just a little too willing to help, but overall it really wasn’t much of a problem for the story. The author didn’t hold back in this story. The story gracefully covered some pretty gritty territory. I loved the story.
I did receive an advance copy in order to post an early review, however I pre-ordered it the day it became available so I’m not going to count that. I’ll definitely read this book again!
September 2, 2025
Before I actually get into my review of Awakened, I just want to say that because I listened to the audiobook, it took me a while to get through it. So, my thoughts are a little fuzzy on some aspects.
I liked how we got to explore more of the world in Awakened, The steampunk setting continued to be fun and fresh. The new locations, like the Lancelot and Austrium, also gave a little bit of a different feel to Awakened than was in Tainted, which was nice.
Busse really excelled in making you like the good guys, and hate the bad guys. *cough* Doctor Bloodmayne. *cough* The side characters and new characters that we get to know more or meet in Awakened are fun.
The plot felt well-paced. With some strategic POV chapters, Busse did a nice job of creating tension and suspense. The character arcs also seemed well done.
Overall, Awakened was a good book, but it didn't wow me.
A small note: I wouldn't completely base my theology about souls off of this duology. While Busse didn't have anything in the series that really made me uncomfortable theology-wise, it is a work of fiction.
As I said at the beginning, I listened to the audiobook of Awakened. Like Tainted, the audiobook is well done. Jamie, the narrator, does a nice job of giving each character a distinct voice and conveying the emotion, tone, and pacing of the scenes.
Cautions: semi-graphic violence; moderate romance; a few kisses*
*Because I listened to Awakened over a longer period of time, I may have forgotten a few cautions
I liked how we got to explore more of the world in Awakened, The steampunk setting continued to be fun and fresh. The new locations, like the Lancelot and Austrium, also gave a little bit of a different feel to Awakened than was in Tainted, which was nice.
Busse really excelled in making you like the good guys, and hate the bad guys. *cough* Doctor Bloodmayne. *cough* The side characters and new characters that we get to know more or meet in Awakened are fun.
The plot felt well-paced. With some strategic POV chapters, Busse did a nice job of creating tension and suspense. The character arcs also seemed well done.
Overall, Awakened was a good book, but it didn't wow me.
A small note: I wouldn't completely base my theology about souls off of this duology. While Busse didn't have anything in the series that really made me uncomfortable theology-wise, it is a work of fiction.
As I said at the beginning, I listened to the audiobook of Awakened. Like Tainted, the audiobook is well done. Jamie, the narrator, does a nice job of giving each character a distinct voice and conveying the emotion, tone, and pacing of the scenes.
Cautions: semi-graphic violence; moderate romance; a few kisses*
*Because I listened to Awakened over a longer period of time, I may have forgotten a few cautions
November 11, 2020
Awakened is the second book in the steampunk Soul Chronicles series by Morgan Busse. It continues the story of Kat and Stephen as they run from the villains hunting Kat for her abilities, struggle with Kay’s inner monster, and seek a man who might be able to help end the monsters once and for all.
Awakened is another exciting novel by Morgan Busse. Like Tainted, it has a dark tone, especially since Kat struggles internally with some kind of monster. The book digs deep into the soul and what it means to be human even as the characters race through adventure and danger with sky pirates, magic, and battles. The romantic relationship continues to grow and develop, and they have a long way to go considering that he betrayed her. And the ending that summarizes the entire duology, sheds light on the why’s behind her powers, and brings understanding to the soul-searching was pretty awesome. I loved the ending.
I enjoyed Awakened and recommend it to older YA and NA readers because it’s a bit too dark for younger teens.
I received a complementary copy of this book. All opinions are my own, and I am not obligated to provide a positive review.
Awakened is another exciting novel by Morgan Busse. Like Tainted, it has a dark tone, especially since Kat struggles internally with some kind of monster. The book digs deep into the soul and what it means to be human even as the characters race through adventure and danger with sky pirates, magic, and battles. The romantic relationship continues to grow and develop, and they have a long way to go considering that he betrayed her. And the ending that summarizes the entire duology, sheds light on the why’s behind her powers, and brings understanding to the soul-searching was pretty awesome. I loved the ending.
I enjoyed Awakened and recommend it to older YA and NA readers because it’s a bit too dark for younger teens.
I received a complementary copy of this book. All opinions are my own, and I am not obligated to provide a positive review.
December 29, 2024
DNF at 40% or 102 pages.
I am sorry, but I just can't. This book is soooo boring. I have been debating doing this for two days now, so this decision doesn't surprise me in the least. Yes, I know this is a short read at 250 pages and perfect for adding to the Goodreads challenge with three days left before new year, but it was sooooooo bad and sooooo boring that I just can't read another page without speed skimming every other sentence. I genuinely am not interested in the least at finding out how this ends.
Also, I did not care for how judgmental this instalment was. I am a Christian, but I cannot stand preachy books that shove every minuscule opinion of theirs down your throat and expect you to be okay with it. It's just bad writing in my opinion when I have seen it done so well in other novels. It's not what was said, it was how it was said. Morgan is just...not a very talented storyteller.
I stand by my notes of the first book, Tainted was forgettable but a good read. This one? Not worth a read at all. I am genuinely shocked so many people love this.
Here's to hoping that the Skyworld duology lives up to Winter's Maiden standards and not-whatever this is.
I am sorry, but I just can't. This book is soooo boring. I have been debating doing this for two days now, so this decision doesn't surprise me in the least. Yes, I know this is a short read at 250 pages and perfect for adding to the Goodreads challenge with three days left before new year, but it was sooooooo bad and sooooo boring that I just can't read another page without speed skimming every other sentence. I genuinely am not interested in the least at finding out how this ends.
Also, I did not care for how judgmental this instalment was. I am a Christian, but I cannot stand preachy books that shove every minuscule opinion of theirs down your throat and expect you to be okay with it. It's just bad writing in my opinion when I have seen it done so well in other novels. It's not what was said, it was how it was said. Morgan is just...not a very talented storyteller.
I stand by my notes of the first book, Tainted was forgettable but a good read. This one? Not worth a read at all. I am genuinely shocked so many people love this.
Here's to hoping that the Skyworld duology lives up to Winter's Maiden standards and not-whatever this is.
March 25, 2018
If you follow me and my reviews, you know I adore author Gail Carringer and the Finishing School YA series. The Soul Chronicles duology is nothing like Gail's writing (Gail's other series is Soulless, so this series is begging for a comparison) but that doesn't mean I didn't enjoy it.
I already described Tainted as darker and not as light a read as the Finishing School YA series, or even Soulless. Awakened is darker yet, with more references to scripture and the Christian analogy of being born again is very plain. I did have a difficult time accepting everything the main character did, then watching her essentially walk free, although I can see why the author did it.
I would not read Awakened unless you have already read the first in the series, Tainted, as to me they felt more like one book than two in a series, but don't worry, they are both quick, enjoyable reads.
Highly recommended if you like darker steampunk, especially written with a Christian world-view.
I already described Tainted as darker and not as light a read as the Finishing School YA series, or even Soulless. Awakened is darker yet, with more references to scripture and the Christian analogy of being born again is very plain. I did have a difficult time accepting everything the main character did, then watching her essentially walk free, although I can see why the author did it.
I would not read Awakened unless you have already read the first in the series, Tainted, as to me they felt more like one book than two in a series, but don't worry, they are both quick, enjoyable reads.
Highly recommended if you like darker steampunk, especially written with a Christian world-view.
June 30, 2020
Picking up right were Tainted left off, Awakened takes you on the final leg of this epic journey.
These two books feel like part one and two of the same story.
This book is about Kat and the struggle that she constantly faces and feels like she is loosing. Her and Steven are on the search for a cure.
I saw Steven's growth and how he finally let go of the hurt that was tainting his life.
This series has a dark, quite spooky quality to it that I found really fit with the setting and the themes explored in the story.
One thing that I really appreciate about this author's work is that the gospel message is clear and in the open, yet does not feel preachy. The message of life and rebirth is so woven into the story that it is vital and seamless with the action and peril that takes place.
I fully enjoyed this story and I really hope we can come back to this world for more memorable adventures. Pleeeeese can we have Captain Grimm's story, I am addicted to airships!
These two books feel like part one and two of the same story.
This book is about Kat and the struggle that she constantly faces and feels like she is loosing. Her and Steven are on the search for a cure.
I saw Steven's growth and how he finally let go of the hurt that was tainting his life.
This series has a dark, quite spooky quality to it that I found really fit with the setting and the themes explored in the story.
One thing that I really appreciate about this author's work is that the gospel message is clear and in the open, yet does not feel preachy. The message of life and rebirth is so woven into the story that it is vital and seamless with the action and peril that takes place.
I fully enjoyed this story and I really hope we can come back to this world for more memorable adventures. Pleeeeese can we have Captain Grimm's story, I am addicted to airships!
August 7, 2020
The steampunk adventure that Stephen Grey and Kat Bloodmayne have been propelled into ratches up as the monster inside Kat wants out and total control of her. There is only one hope of escape from this horrible beast devouring her soul. She needs to get to the doctor that possibly has the key. Stephen has rescued her from the Tower and with the help of his sky pirate friends they travel toward the Austrium in hopes of getting the doctor’s aid. Stephen is determined to help Kat, even at the cost of his own life. Together they plunge deeper into a dark world not only created by the monster inside Kat, but must flee the bounty hunters aggressively on their tail.
This is a compelling story of sinister ideas and things that pull not only at the soul but at the heart. Awakened will pull the reader into a place that will keep them spellbound page after page.
This is a compelling story of sinister ideas and things that pull not only at the soul but at the heart. Awakened will pull the reader into a place that will keep them spellbound page after page.
November 2, 2017
Morgan gets better and better with every book. I enjoyed "Awakened" Morgan's descriptiveness is wonderful. Her story line draws you in. Although the story line is predictable, the journey to the conclusion is exciting. I find myself not able to set the book aside. I did find the dialogue a little stiff. Use of conjunctions, I'm instead of I am, etc. may ease the flow. Maybe a little over use of references to that stray curl, and working a little too hard to show propriety in Stephen and Kat's behavior are minor things that I noticed. Over all, I love Morgan's writing. An interesting story teller, bringing a good read along side wonerful underlying messages to be heard, reliance on God, grace to welcome us back when we stray.
January 17, 2018
It seemed like I waited forever for this sequel to be released, but I've gotta say, it was definitely worth the wait. It was SO good, just as fantastic and maybe even better than the first.
It starts off almost immediately where Tainted left off. I didn't think it possible, but Awakened was even more fast-paced than its predecessor. There was a lot of action and suspense. And often times, I'd find myself holding my breath in anticipation of what was to come and the situations the characters found themselves in.
Awakened was such a gloriously fantastic conclusion to this series. There was so much meaning and depth embedded into this story. I absolutely loved it and highly recommend it to everyone!
It starts off almost immediately where Tainted left off. I didn't think it possible, but Awakened was even more fast-paced than its predecessor. There was a lot of action and suspense. And often times, I'd find myself holding my breath in anticipation of what was to come and the situations the characters found themselves in.
Awakened was such a gloriously fantastic conclusion to this series. There was so much meaning and depth embedded into this story. I absolutely loved it and highly recommend it to everyone!
November 15, 2024
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
The novel picks up immediately after the end of book 1 of the daring rescue of Kat by Stephen from the Tower. The first half of the novel is more about them working things out and of forgiveness. The later half is about saving/curing Kat.
Ignoring the 'Christianity' tag on the book, I would be too impressed with the way things really turned out and of this saving/curing business. However, when I applied Christianity theology and reading between the lines, I can see where the reason why the author wrote this in such a way. It's actually quite clever without being too bible bashy. It is set in a very different world so God wasn't quite well defined here.
Being a romantic, I did very much enjoy the ending!
The novel picks up immediately after the end of book 1 of the daring rescue of Kat by Stephen from the Tower. The first half of the novel is more about them working things out and of forgiveness. The later half is about saving/curing Kat.
Ignoring the 'Christianity' tag on the book, I would be too impressed with the way things really turned out and of this saving/curing business. However, when I applied Christianity theology and reading between the lines, I can see where the reason why the author wrote this in such a way. It's actually quite clever without being too bible bashy. It is set in a very different world so God wasn't quite well defined here.
Being a romantic, I did very much enjoy the ending!
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