House of Artifice

Poisoned Houses #2

by Lyn Forester

Shipped off to finishing school for the world’s elite, I finally found a balance and the beginnings of love with Declan, Connor, and Felix, fellow children of the council leaders of Leton. But like all things, my life is not my own, and when political strife rocks the city of Leton, we’re called home to stand as proxy for our parents. Ripped away from the safety of my friends, I’m once more cast into the cold embrace of my family, where my father decides it’s time I choose my future secretary, a person designed to fulfill all of my needs, both professional and private. Nikola is a childhood friend, but the years apart have changed both of us. He looks at me with the expectations of our families. When I lose contact with my friends, I’m left with only Nikola to rely on. Already unsure in love, how do I stay true to myself when every day shows where I lack? I hated the domed finishing school that was my prison, but now I long to be back there with the men who hold my trust and heart before my family twists my mind against me.

Genres: Science Fiction

236 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 12, 2018

About the author

Lyn Forester graduated with a Bachelor in English and an Associates in Graphic Design. She worked in the graphic design industry for ten years before deciding to pursue her other life long dream of becoming a writer. She grew up reading mostly fantasy books, though later in life found a love of urban fantasy and science fiction. She currently works from her home in Washington State where she squeezes in writing time around a busy schedule. When not working, she can be found experimenting with new recipes, reading, or playing video games and the occasional board game.

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Reviews

[Laura Witte · Rating 5 out of 5]

More please!

I love this series and can not wait for the next installment. I am also finding it fascinating how it meshes with the other series based on the same world.

[Jennifer G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caitlyn has only just agreed to try out a relationship with Declan and the twins, Connor and Felix when a national emergency closes the academy and sends all of the students back home. The four grudgingly separate with reminders to each other, "Resist assimilation". However, once back at Lonette Manor Caitlyn feels that her time away was more a dream than reality. Her actual reality is acting the perfect role as a Lonette, representing the family as a demi-Councillor, the role she was created for. To further complicate matters her family is pushing her to choose her secretary, who will fulfill a life-long duty as her aide in all matters, public and private. And as much as this life suffocates her, she is good at it. When the boys all stop returning her communications she's confused, lonely, and doesn't know whom to trust. She's forgotten what it feels like to feel alone. She allowed the guys into her life, her heart and now without them, she's lost. As the national emergency worsens Caitlyn's separation from the guys is extended and her isolation grows. But the boys are resourceful and Caitlyn is strong. They are a team. Their feelings had to be real.

This book is fantastic! It was definitely not what I expected. Unfortunately, the guys and Caitlyn are not together for the majority of the book yet I feel like their relationship was strengthened. Revelations came out about Caitlyn, her family, and future, about the twins, and about Declan. Choices will need to be made, actions taken to prevent their family's wishes from becoming more important than the lives these four want for themselves. Their lives are complicated, full of politics on many levels; expectations are heavy. The intrigue and reasoning behind each action are fascinating. I gained a new appreciation for Caitlyn's Grandmother and enjoyed the continuing connection with Myrrine. The addition of two new characters, Nikola and Garrett, is intriguing. Is the Mulnupti expanding? I am not opposed. I love Declan, Felix, and Connor, but both of the new guys could each bring something of value. I still have a bit of a concern about Declan and Felix. I love a little M/M but I need for the center female to always be the most important person to all of the guys. I still haven't been convinced that either guy feels more for Caitlyn than for the other guy. Connor has made his feelings perfectly clear. How much does Caitlyn truly mean to Declan and Felix? I'm more convinced about Nikola's feelings (although he needs to prove his loyalty) than theirs. I look forward to them both proving their love in the future.

Lyn Forester is exceptional at creating imaginative, detailed worlds. Poison World exists in my mind. I am completely enamored with these young characters of the Upper-Level Houses. Their story is compelling. I look forward to more.

[Claudia Owens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lyn Forester has quickly cemented herself as one of my favorite authors. I love this series. I love the characters, I love the universe, and I had a serious love/hate relationship with this book! It was so frustrating, in the best possible way. It seems like everyone and everything is working against Caitlin and she gets no respite from untrustworthy people and the fakeness demanded of her role. But what fun is a story without a little conflict?

Right from the start, Forester drops us straight back into the daily lives of our 4 MCs. It says a lot about Forester's writing style and the impact of her characters that she can so quickly suck the reader back into this world when it has been months since we last visited (in the real world, not in the timeline), but without doing those cliché recap paragraphs that get so boring to read when you've discovered a series late and are binging book after book.

We don't get to see too much of the boys in this one (no spoiler, since that's in the description), but what little we do shows the same charming characters I remember. Despite minimal screen time we do get to learn more about the boys' home lives and I have to say it breaks my heart. I am fairly confident everyone's going to get an HEA at the end, but the challenges they've faced, and continue to face, are seriously messed up. It makes me love them even more.

We also meet two new characters in this book; I haven't made up my mind about them yet. I feel like both have ulterior motives, but time will tell.

My only complaint about this book is that I so desperately want more of it! I can't wait to see what happens next.

[Vicki · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've been eagerly anticipating this second installment in the Poisoned Houses sci-fi reverse harem series (House of Glass is the first). This series is set in this author's Poison World, though it is standalone from the sci-fi series that starts with Beneath a Holo-Sky. My review is going to have slight SPOILERS AHEAD so stop now if you want to go in blind.

This installment (which is what I call a long novella size on my personal scale) starts shortly after House of Glass ends. Though I think some people will not like that the book separates our main characters I actually really liked the focus it placed on Caitlyn and her life away from the APA. The politics, technologies and other details are so interesting, and I think they are the best part of the Poison World books as a whole.

I continue to really like this author's voice, and I enjoyed the new characters introduced in House of Artifice. One thread of this story had a predictability that I was a teensy bit disappointed in at first, but was encouraged by its status at the end of the installment. I also have wishes for the harem itself that I don't think will come true, though I may still be surprised. For those that it matters to, there are allusions to m/m but it is off-page. Now, I am left eagerly anticipating the next again, hoping the author feels inspired to publish with a shorter gap between isntallments, but willing to wait until she feels it is perfect too.

[Jaliza Burwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worth the wait! This was probably the most tense book I had ever read as Caitlyn fights her way through politics, not sure who to trust, away from her boys, and doubting herself and the guys. I loved it!! There isn't much development between her and the guys, but that's because she's pretty much apart from them the whole time, though she learns to trust her guy and her guy says they are the real deal instead of listening to others trying to make her doubt them.
The only thing I struggle with is the bxb. I had the same issue with the first one. It just takes away that RH factor to me because what could be a sweet moment between her and her men doesn't happy because there's this 'distance' since the other two cuddle each other. I don't know, it's my own hang-up. It's not just her and her men. It's like there are two separate relationships going on and instead of her being the one to comfort, it's the other guy. (I'm horrible with names if you haven't noticed.)
Anyways, definitely glad Lyn released the second book and I'm looking forward to the second. We learn so much about their society in this book and how things are ran. I'm still all tense just thinking about the bull she has to wade through, while fighting to stay true to herself. And I'm definitely confused about who to trust and who not to trust. Lyn did great.

[Gigi McBride · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good and enjoyable, but also disappointing

All students at the APA are unexpectedly forced to go home when an assassination among the higher ranking officials causes political unrest and uncertainty. Caitlyn is struggling to figure out who, if anyone, she can trust and who is manipulating her. She and her guys are separated, while a new man is forced into her life by her father; his pick as her secretary and life companion. With this new man whispering in her ear, she begins to question if Declan, Felix, and Connor were sincere or playing her.

I really have enjoyed this series and went straight from the first to the second book excited to see what would happen next. The writing is good and descriptive with only minor editing errors. My main problem is that not much actually happened in either this or the first book. The premise and characters sucked me in but the story moves slowly and there is a lot of filler that feels unnecessary while not a lot of meat. The books are also VERY short. The price, combined with the short length and not much story progression makes me unsure as to whether I will be picking up the next book. At this point I’m just really disappointed and feeling a little ripped off. I’ll probably keep it on my radar but wait to see the price, length, and other reviews before purchasing.

[Kathleen Bruce · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Poisoned House Series, which is related to the Poison World series.just make sure you read house of glass ti fully appreciate and understand this wonderful world and storyline Lyn Forester has created!

At the end of HoG Caitlyn agreed to try a relationship with Felix, Declan and Conner. And the rug gets pulled out from under them when polital unrest forces them back to their cold lives. And aeay from each other.

We learn more about this world and what it entails, what has to be done to survive. And how wasteful some of the elite are. And what is expected of Caitlyn and her role is to be, and why she wishes to escape it so much. You realise she hadn't really opened up to the guys the extent of her issues. But neither had they and if they aren't careful it could cause major rifts and misunderstandings. I love this world and i cant wait to read more. I really need to read the Poison World series now!

[Stephanie Meadath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book in the Poisoned houses series by Lyn Forester and is not a stand alone. I loved this book and I cannot wait for the next in the series (especially since it ended on a cliffhanger!!) In this book we learn more about Caitlyn, Declan, the twins Felix and Conner. We also learn more about Caitlyn's home life and the politics of their world and the Elite. I cannot wait to see what happens next and how Caitlyn is going to grow and start making changes in her role as Demi-Councillor Lonette like her grandmother is hoping she will. We also meet a few new characters such as Nikola, Garrett, Erinhale and some other and we also catch up with some characters from the 1st book like Myrune and Bastian. I cant wait to see who is really on Caitlyn's side and who is just using her and of course i hope for a little more romance between Caitlyn and her guys!!!

[Miki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot get enough of this story!

House of Artifice is the 2nd book in the Poisoned House Series. It is a slow burn Reverse Harem with plenty of romantic tension.
I was afraid that this book would let me down because I may have built high expectations from the first book. Well I can say, I was not disappointed in the least. I loved it! I especially like the subtle way the author has made poisoned house understandable and how it pertains to the family and politics of this world, not just the atmosphere. I also like thinking maybe what is happening here will be reflected in the Poisoned World Series.
I will be waiting for the next book in the series! I love the intrigue!

[Aimee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been patiently waiting for this book and it did not disappoint! Though you don't get a lot of action between the MC and her guys I liked seeing the perspective of how they cope with being away from each other and playing the roles they must in the society of the book's World. Getting some background of the MC's family life and all the things expected of a girl in her station was very interesting. Seeing her struggle with being herself and following the role set out for her provided some nice insight to her personality. Watching her try and work through her doubts and figure out who to trust as we go along with the story. Definitely a good read and I look forward to the next installment in the series!

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her imagination knows no bounds! Lyn once again blows our minds with another wonderful tale from her Poison World. Her details really stand out as she paints the picture of this amazing world that has you just floored as to how these people managed survive on this horrific world. Of course the society and the structure of this world and how these two species have managed to coexist is amazing. Lyn continues to introduce more new concepts as things unfold. The politics and intrigue that goes along with this story give us plenty to ponder. I am still not sure if this RH is going to stay with the original three guys or if Lyn has plans to add to the harem. Can't wait to see what is in store for them in the next book! Fantastic read!

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I missed this crew.

I fell in love with these characters wayyyyy back when the first book was in the first FFT anthology. I've been patiently waiting for the second book and it's finally here!! Yay! I'm so glad to go back and spend some time with these characters. In this book something happens that causes them to have to leave the school and go their separate ways. While I understand that and know it's part of the story I missed having together time with the guys. We do get to focus more of Caitlyn and what her life is like and why they all want to run away so bad. And poor Declan. Poor sweet Declan. I'm still in love with the characters and hope we get to see what happens next soon.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

First all read this in one of the falling for them books I have decided that Iike to read the more them more one at a time release I read it for a 2nd time enjoyed it more, and i also need to read the first. I so enjoyed the holo world just picture the color lights and then how the how much she loves to disc race, comeing from a rich family and she not going to be the girl they want or raised her to be. The first back talks about how the guys come into her life so I heed to go back and read that..

[SJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This starts from where book one finished and Sparks and her boys are sent back to their homes, they all have their parts to play and outside influences get in the way and tamper with their affections

You get to understand more of the political sides of each family, and their place in the world and the expectations placed on them, with twists and turns and hugh drama I am extremely excited for the next book in the series

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting for this story. I loved these characters in the House of Glass book. I had to do a reread to get back into the story. This book takes off right where we left off and shows us more of this strange world. We see more of the political landscape and hold our breath as Sparks (Caitlyn) has to now deal with life without her men by her side. A great read and another ride from Lyn Forester. As always wish it was longer.

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was better than the first one. Much of it takes place with Caitlyn being back home, having to navigate the sticky world of politics.

It’s pretty crazy, the different things that both Caitlyn and her guys have to deal with in order to survive this manipulative situation. It’s pretty much what you would expect for a storyline that is based around the upper echelon and their manipulative ways.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series so much and after eagerly awaiting for book 2, Lyn Forester did not disappoint. The world she's created with the poisoned houses series is interesting and I love that the humans live alongside an alien race. I can't wait for the next book and to see where Caitlyn and the guys relationship heads and how they handle their familial obligations.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eeeeeek!!! I need more!!

I didn't want it to end!! A great second edition to the series!! I just wish it was longer... Like a lot longer but I soaked up every moment and I just love Felix!!! He is my type of person. Really can't wait til the next fix!! I love this world that you have created!

[Amy Naylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It's a slow burn reverse harem. This book picked up right where the first one left us. Caitlin and her boys get called back home to help with each of their houses during a crisis. They all have families that expect certain things from them that could rip their relationship apart. This book was worth the wait and I'm impatiently waiting for the next book.

[Calm Your Pits · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

Excellent! The struggle she goes through to stay connected to the guys is hard but makes their group even more worthwhile. Too bad she cannot take Declan as her “secretary”! I am very excited to see them getting to go back to school and be together again after the short time they had the first time.

[Nicole Namen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good!!!

I loved this book just as much as I thought I would! I couldn’t put it down!! The issue of Caitlyn’s secretary and her father’s and grandmother’s plans for her life, show a completely different side to her and how desperate she is to be free of all the rules. I’m very much looking forward to reading the next book!!!

[Cora Brand · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a world where you are forced to grow up and conform, this group of young adults, the elites of their society, are striving to be free. This book is even better than the first. I literally inhaled it like it was my last meal. Introducing new characters and digging deeper into relationships, this book definitely deserves five stars! I cannot wait to read the next in the series.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Lyn Forester. I couldn't put it down. Such an amazing series. So many twists and turns, some I cringed at.
I love the extra two guys.. possible haram guys? Or will they disappear?
Loved it!! Love Felix!.

[Kim Latham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series and was just as amazing as book one. Lyn Forester hooked me on page one and I couldn't stop reading. The characters show a lot of change and growth. I have waited a long time for this book and look forward to what awaits me next.

[Jodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally

I feel life I’ve waited forever for this book to come out. Loved the first one in the anthology. The endings are always somewhat anti climactic, a cliffhanger without quite being a cliffhanger. Regardless, lived the story. Gimme the next one!

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

The much awaited and longed-for book two of the Poisoned House series. If you like slow burn reverse harem stories set in a science fiction world then you will love this story. Writing, editing and story building are spot-on.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely amazing. I decided to reread book 1 before starting this book. Of course, book 1 is excellent too so it lead to a two books fully read night and one tired teacher the next day. It is seriously that good. So start it early unless you don’t have to work the next day!

[Margaret Harp · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sturdy sequel

Continues to explore the world and relationships of the first book while adding to the MC. You will be better able to understand her life and struggles and as a plus we finally get a good kiss!

[Heather Musser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worth the wait

I've been waiting for this book since the first one came out in the Falling For Them anthology! It was definitely worth the wait! It flowed from where it ended in the first book. I love the guys. I can't wait for book 3 to see how the relationship develops!

[Tammy J · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great follow up More world building and new characters that really step up the storyline for this Skyfi RH. It's another quick read and although it is a good book it should be at least another hundred pages long.