Ryn Tyler finally found her home—and demons are out to destroy it.
After a lifetime of searching for where she belongs, Ryn knows it's in Eagle Valley... but war threatens to take that all away. Attending an angels-only high school should help her master her magical abilities, but stopping the upcoming battle is more important.
Ryn trains in secret with the help of her mentor, Marek, a bad boy who can't decide between duty and love—and who's already stolen Ryn's heart. But the arrival of another Davina complicates things, and Ryn finds herself torn between the two boys.
Above all, she needs to find Grace. The ancient Davina warrior is Eagle Valley's last hope.
The demons will do anything to stop Ryn from reaching Grace. Lives are on the line, and the future of the Davina—and the entire world—is at stake.
Alicia Rades is a USA Today Bestselling Author of over forty young adult and new adult paranormal novels. Her stories follow characters in equal-dynamic romantic relationships and feature themes of discovering and claiming one's inner power. When she's not dreaming up magical stories, she's either binge-watching paranormal TV shows, meditating, or making crafts and cooking with her family. Her favorite tropes are small-town mysteries, witches, and magical academies set in the modern world. She has an unhealthy obsession with psychic characters and writes with a deck of tarot cards next to her computer.
This was another good read in the trilogy. I was surprised by who was the bad guy. I felt bad that she was betrayed. However, I'm sure in this last book things will all get resolved and karma will be served.
Ryn has decided to embrace her destiny as Grace’s conduit and enrols at Galen High, a school which trains Davinas to utilise their powers. Learning to access her abilities is proving to be a challenge, however, and with time running out it’s more important than ever that they find Grace.
Ryn is flattered when a fellow Davina by the name of Trenton, shows interest in her. In contrast she manages to fall foul of the Queen of Mean, Casey, who is irked by Ryn’s friendship with Marek. When several attempts are made on her life, Ryn realises that the stakes are higher than she could have possibly imagined. Will she find Grace’s whereabouts in time?
Touched by Grace is the second instalment of the Divine Fate series. While the strength of the first book lay in the exceptional world building, I felt that the characterisation suffered as a result. I hoped that the second instalment would elaborate on character development. Unfortunately I found myself struggling somewhat with the female protagonist and the usual formulaic and predictable cliches that all YA heroines seem to fall into. Mainly where girl finds out she’s imbued with some special power, who instantly falls for the handsome boy for no other reason than the fact that he’s hot and wears a leather jacket and just happens to save her life. In fact, three quarters of the book is devoted to Ryn being distracted by her infatuation with Marek rather than any real leeway being made with the plot. It’s not until the last three chapters that Ryn finally develops a backbone and we see some action, albeit fleeting.
I also felt that the plot was more predictable than the previous book as I saw the villain a mile away. The first clue was in the colour of their wings as well as their endless questions - not to mention the blatant stalking.
I’m lined up to read the third instalment of the Divine trilogy and hope that the final instalment will be the saving grace (no pun intended 😉) of the series.
I received an advanced free audible copy of Touched By Grace which was narrated by Natalie Naudus and I am voluntarily reviewing it. Having listened to Natalie’s narration in the first book, I felt that she did an equally smooth and concise delivery in this sequel.
In this second installment we continue to follow Ryn and her friends in their adventures. Still hunting Grace, she continues to train to save the place that she calls home and all of those she loves who live there. Though can she find her before her whole world is destroyed? I really enjoyed this second installment more than the first book. We are able to learn more about the characters and see more interaction not only between Ryn and the others but between the other characters and their friends as well. Also, normally I do not care for love triangles but in this book, I did not mind it at all. I also enjoyed learning more about their town and town history as well as learning more about the devinas. I look forward to reading the final book in this series though at the same time I am sad that the series is coming to an end. If you are looking for a good trilogy about angels and demons filled with action and magic than this series is a perfect fit for you.
The stakes are much higher in this book, as Ryn and her friends continue to search for Grace. Time is running out, but every time they take one step forward, they seem to take two steps back. Ryn is still training with Malek, even though her crush on him distracts her a lot, and she still has problems with her mother. The world doesn't stop for one girl, but Ryn must juggle everything to save it.
I have to admit, the more I see Ryn's relationship with her mother, the more I dislike her character in general. Even when she and her mother were trying to have conversations, she would just get up when things got difficult. She basically has no respect for her mother at this point in the story, and this is her biggest character flaw to me. Hopefully, this will be fixed by the end of the series.
Besides this issue, I did like this novel! I felt that Ryn truly took the training Malek gave her seriously, despite her distraction, and was determined to not be a damsel in distress. There was a bit of a love triangle in the story, but I didn't mind it. The fact that she wasn't dating either boy at the time really allowed me to just fly through the scenes without too much dislike of the main character. I also didn't think that the love triangle took over the majority of the story.
The story moved smoothly as the characters were on an intense time limit to find Grace. New characters were introduced in this story as they all worked together towards a common goal. Even though the characters never tried to hide Ryn's powers and heritage from her, she still has a lot to learn about their world. This book delves a little bit deeper into the more intricate parts of that world.
This book definitely ended on a very dramatic note, and I can't wait to complete the trilogy in the next few days and see how everything plays out! This has been an exciting series, and I hope it will end on a high note.
I would recommend this series to anyone looking for a new YA paranormal romance/fantasy story to read.
I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
This is my review of the audio version as posted on Audible:
The second part of the trilogy definitely deserves more than the 3.5 stars part one got from me. The story is more logical, more concise, and all elements, all events serve it in the end - no loose plotlines this time:)
Ryn is now a full time student, training openly with her team and in secret with Marek - nobody but a few chosen ones are supposed to know about her connection to Grace and the powers she can control. She also has another task to carry - a more important one, one that is crucial for the survival of the world - she has to actually find Grace and wake her up. Will she be able to do that in time? And will she still have help from her friends? Or will she turn to a new guy who shows great interest in her person?
The plot develops fast, the events force Ryn to make difficult decisions and what we get is an amazing adventure fantasy with a bit of a bitter-sweet teenage romance. That's a big plus from me, the way Ryn's angsts and doubts and fears are shown. In her insecurities about Marek and their relationship she's very real, very relatable, very human:) Also, the imagery and descriptive skills of Ms Rades' that I loved in the first book are still there; the final battle will again scare you and then move you to tears...
As for the narration, Ms Naudus does a really good job; the pace is right, emotions conveyed brilliantly, female voices spot on. The only thing that can bother you at times is the fact that male voices sound a little bit too similar to one another, that's why the narration got 4, not 5 stars from me (I'd give it 4.5 stars, in fact - only no halves allowed, unfortunately...).
DISCLAIMER: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Having come to terms with who and what she is, Ren continues to go to school to learn to use her powers and to fight to defend herself. Along with her friends, they attempt to locate Grace. They are still unsure what everything means and if a real threat truly looms. They will soon find out the answers. My only negative with the story is hearing of Ren’s constant distraction by her infatuation of Marek. I don’t mind a little romance or infatuation, but for her to be constantly distracted by wanting to kiss him became little redundant and a bit much to read about (even if likely realistic for a teenager ).
This is the second book I’ve read/listened to by this author. I previously listened to Book 1: Chosen by Grace. I would definitely listen to another.
This is the second book I’ve listened to by this narrator (Natalie Nauru’s) since she also did Chosen by Grace. Once again, she did an excellent job voicing all the characters in producing a comfortable listen and engaging story.
There are no explicit sex scenes, excessive violence or swearing.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily left this unbiased review
Chosen by Grace set up this story for an EPIC adventure filled with a girl who's just trying to get through one of the most difficult chapters of her life: highschool.
The second installment fails to delivery on that. One moment, we see Ryn struggling to NOT use purple essence, and the next it's like she has perfect control. The adults are relatively absent, and even Fletcher, who I thought would get more important as the story continue, got sidelined!
The angst between this new Davina and Marek isn't even believable, as it never feels like Ryn is even slightly more interested in him than Mr. End-Game. In fact, that way it's written presents Ryn in the most AWFUL light as 1. just interested in the other guy to spite/make Marek jealous 2. a cheater.
The book was bogged down by people talking while aimlessly looking for Grace instead of showing Ryn actively working through her problems.
While I was seriously intrigued by Chosen by Grace, because there aren't many supernatural stories that deal with angels/demons, Touched by Grace just seemed to be all tell, little show when it came to the storytelling!
Do you know how awesome it is to start a series that gives you not only a great first book but also a great second book?
I was seriously on the edge of my seat with nerves the entire book! It was so so so good!
All of the things that I loved about the first book I spent loving with the second book! :) I don't like spoilers of any kind and avoid them as much as I can. I also try really hard not to write anything in a review that will give readers even an inkling of what could happen in the story. Some might say that my reviews are just simple - "oh it's such a good story" the end. But I promise you, I will NEVER rate a book 5 stars and leave a positive review in combination if I didn't actually REALLY and truly love the story!
One of the things I have really been loving about this series thus far, is that I don't see things coming because I am SO into the story! It is so refreshing to have that and thankfully it was the same for me with book 2!
I am seriously, so so SO excited for book 3! I'm counting down the days! <3
This was an amazing sequel! The stakes are higher for Ryn to learn how to use her magic, find Grace, and hide who she truly is all while trying to juggle her normal life. Ryn is a little more sassy and disrespectful in this book, but I think it’s because she’s had trouble with authority figures and is under so much pressure. I feel like her friends and teachers were all trying to help, but at the same time were creating obstacles and issues making it harder for her to train and find Grace. I liked that we got to see more of the all angel school and see how Davinas are taught and trained along with learning more about their history. This book had a love triangle, suspense, and a lot of action and I can’t wait to see how it all turns out! Natalie did another wonderful job with this narration! She portrayed every character’s emotions very well, especially Ryn’s. Her performance was well done, spoken at a steady pace, and kept me entertained and wanting more! *I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Touched by Grace was a good book, and even better than the first in the series.
I loved how much action there was in this book. There was never a dull moment, and there was so much suspense. The characters were so full, and the storyline flowed well.
The love story in this book was really good. It was just enough to please a romance lover like me without taking over the whole story. I was getting frustrated with the love triangle at first, but then realized that there was a good reason for it.
The ending was really good. After reading it, I got mad because now I need the final book! It left me hanging!
I have one minor complaint with this book, but it wasn't big enough for me to dock the rating. I found that Ryn could be unnecessarily sassy and rude to the adults in her life. This mainly bugged me in the beginning of the book and got better as the story progressed.
* I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own *
This is the story of Ryn Tyler who moved to Eagle Valley and discovered that demons are real and after defeating a demon with Marek she needs to learn a few things fast. Ryn attends a school for Angels, where she can control her powers and also keep searching for Grace an ancient Davina warrior who is the last hope for Eagle Valley, and so they can stop the coming battle. This was a great story by Alicia Rades, the characters kept you on the edge of your seat, with Ryn becoming more confident with using and controlling her powers and the also the romantic side between Ryn and Marek. I would recommend reading the “Chosen by Grace” first and then following on from this book will be the third book in the series “Awakened by Grace” out in May 2018, so keep a look out for it you won’t regret it.
This fantasy series contains doses of reality, it seems that teenagers are the same everywhere. Ryn has a lot on her shoulders and it's clear that she's not having an easy time of it, her friends seem to alternate between helping and being part of the problem. Then again so do the adults around her when they decide they know what she needs better than she does.
This second book in the series follows quickly on the heels of the first and while many second books aren't as good as the first I think this one stacks up well.
More character development, more world building and lots of action there's plenty going on.
The narration is well done, good character voices and a smooth clear delivery.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and/or narrator and/or publisher and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
Book two in the Divine fate series continues with Run learning all she can as fast as she can as she searches for Grace. Her training intensifies as she tries to learn what everyone around her already seems to know.
I love this author, and she does not disappoint in the second book in the series. The readers get to know more about the characters from the first book as they are also introduced to new characters. The book is a fast paced entertaining continuation of Ryn's story. I would recommend this series to my YA paranormal fantasy reading friends.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in this highly entertaining series.
**I received an ARC and giving my honest opinion**
Alicia is a knock out author and this latest series is proof of her amazing work! "Touched By Grace" had me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails all the way through the book. I couldn't put it down!
The characters have fantastic development, a strong story line that flows beautifully throughout the book, lots of action & suspense!
Ryn is finally getting some control over her powers, her frustration with Marek, plus her new crazy bff Allie and add in the ever competitive, witchy Casey and Ryn is all set for hs at Galen high
This second book provides more insight into the characters and their motivations. Ryn does put a few of the votes together and uncovers a potential key 🗝️ to Grace. The scenes with Meg at her house didn't make much sense to me. Like why?! When it's that important to make someone listen. Anyhow...
I figured that Trenton was part of the issue even thought it was supposed to be so shocking. 🙄 It also felt like an abrupt ending. Almost like the author thought ... Oh! and today's my deadline so here's what I've written so far ... I will likely read the last book... Just not at the top of my list.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
An awesome, T&YA paranormal & urban fantasy romance. As Ryn begins training, Marek becomes cold to her. Thus, when another boy shows interest, she becomes confused. Add to that the stress of finding Grace, she's a mess.
Alicia Rades's story demonstrates a keen understanding of the psyches of high school boys and girls. The dynamics are realistic from the book's perspective. The ending is not a happy one. Hopefully, the end of the next title will be better.
Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Great world building. Romantic. Scary. Tragic. Twisted. Unpredictable. Wonderful characters.
I received a review copy of this book from a third party. This is my honest review.
My second read (back to back) from author Alicia Rades and it was a page-turner. I don't do spoilers so you'll have to read blurbs for those. Rades character development is excellent. She creates first a primary character and then a supporting cast that the reader gets invested in. The story continues seamlessly from Chosen by Grace Book 1. Coupled with a somewhat unique plot the book becomes a page turner that you can't wait to complete and then get into the next book which isn't scheduled to publish until May 22, 2018 (yes I looked it up).
This was a great book and we finally get to see Ryn learning more about how to control and use her powers and also finally learning to trust her instincts and be a bit more confident about her destiny. We also get to finally see some romantic development too, and I like how it was written, made me like Ryn and Marek even more. There are some things unexpected and the end just make you want to keep reading. Can't wait for the next one! I asked for an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review of it.
Book 2 was a bit more predictable than I would have liked with the love interest and of course the concept of good and bad.
With that said, I still enjoyed the story and look forward to the final book . I will say that the author ended this one with a bit of a surprise for me that had me having mixed feelings. When our heroine had to deal with the aftermath of this situation I felt almost a bit heartbroken. Let's just say that there is more than meets the eye when it comes to Grace, the war and all the players.
This book was better than the first. I liked the lead-up to the battle, and the intensity of it was well done. However, I'm only giving it 3 stars because there were several instances where the way the characters handled or reacted to situations was illogical and made no sense, and it felt like it was written that way for unnecessary drama. It was just drawn out and frustrating at times. The characters also haven't developed much since the first book. But again, still good enough of a story to continue the series, so on to book 3.
I suggest you read these in order to get the full story and believe me, You want the full story!! Touched By Grace continues Ryn's journey and we follow as she grows into her powers. Book two is a faster pace than the first book, I found it hard to put down because I was so entranced in the story and wanting to know what came next. The author does a great job progressing the story but still leave the reader wanting more. I am excited to see where the next book leads.
Touched by Grace starts where chosen ended. Ryn has now gotten more familiar of the place she now considers home even having thoughts of a possible relationship. However, there is a lot of pressure to find how to awaken grace more than before not the mention to tell her mom the truth. Action from the very beginning and lots of good complex characters in the story. Can’t wait to listen to the last one.
This book was as good as the first one, if not better. The story continues! The storyline is fast-paced and filled with action, intrigue and suspense. I can't wait for the third and last book in the Series, Awakened by Grace. The narration was great and easy to listen, as always with Natalie Naudus. I love her voice!! I received this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review. I have read and listened this book.
Rated 5 stars because this book gives everything you’d want in a story. You have romance, action, and a strong plot with unexpected twists.... Trenton... I had such high hopes for him.... That's all I will say on that. This series is proving to be such and edge of your seat kind of series. Give it a read, it will not disappoint.
Now that Ryn knows her purpose for coming to Eagle Valley, her and her friends must find Grace so they can wake her and save the world. But their enemies are closer than they think. Not all make it out when a fight breaks out. Will they be able to wake Grace before the Aedes' attack? Can't wait to read the final chapter in this book!
This is the second book in the series and picks up where book two ended. Ryn has slowly learned how to deal with her life as she has come to terms with who she is and having a hard time with a few new gifts. I was completely shocked with who the bad guy was and it made so much sense once we find that out on why she was having so many issues.
This story started moving, and fast! Where book one was more of just an intro, Touched by Grace really gets into the thick of things with plenty of action and plot points.
And I got my wish with this book! Ryn is becoming more if a bad-ass! Yay!
I wanted to absolutely love this book. She kept us of center just enough for me to be frustrated. I'm ready for the end. Book 3 don't disappoint me please. . .
I am loving this series so much. It is the second book and I am hooked. In this Ryn is looking for Grace to help them and still learn how to control her powers and learn everything she can before the fight ensues. Just love her, Marek and their friends. So ready to read the next book
It was a ride, very enjoyable. I think I really do like the Character Ryn, and her relationship with Marek was quite interesting too. Now I need to catch my breath and prepare for book no 3, Awakened By Grace.