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Royal Scout #2
Unraveling Darkness
Kali’s kingdom is imprisoned—and she may hold the key.
In one breathless moment, royal scout Kali’s world has turned on its head. Bishop Bahir has deposed the king and seized the palace—with Kali’s sister trapped inside. Now on the run, Kali, Trace, and the future king of Dansil have only one place to go for help: Everett. An enemy kingdom of which Trace is the presumed-dead heir.
As Trace reclaims his identity—one that may leave no room for a Dansil spy—Kali faces her own growing magic, which may be their only hope of stopping Bahir.
With shattering secrets, daunting new powers, and uncertain allegiances, Kali must walk a deadly tightrope to protect her kingdom—and her heart.
UNRAVELING DARKNESS, by Amazon bestselling author Alex Lidell, is the final novel in the Scout series. Perfect for fans of Tamora Pierce, Leigh Bardugo, and Sarah J. Maas.
In one breathless moment, royal scout Kali’s world has turned on its head. Bishop Bahir has deposed the king and seized the palace—with Kali’s sister trapped inside. Now on the run, Kali, Trace, and the future king of Dansil have only one place to go for help: Everett. An enemy kingdom of which Trace is the presumed-dead heir.
As Trace reclaims his identity—one that may leave no room for a Dansil spy—Kali faces her own growing magic, which may be their only hope of stopping Bahir.
With shattering secrets, daunting new powers, and uncertain allegiances, Kali must walk a deadly tightrope to protect her kingdom—and her heart.
UNRAVELING DARKNESS, by Amazon bestselling author Alex Lidell, is the final novel in the Scout series. Perfect for fans of Tamora Pierce, Leigh Bardugo, and Sarah J. Maas.
218 pages, ebook
First published May 29, 2018
107 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
About the author
Alex Lidell
79 books1,783 followersAlex Lidell is the Amazon Breakout Novel Awards finalist author of THE CADET OF TILDOR (Penguin) and several Amazon Top 100 Kindle Bestsellers, including the POWER OF FIVE romance series. She is an avid horseback rider who believes in eating dessert first. She writes as both Alex Lidell and A.L. Lidell.
Join Alex's newsletter for news, bonus content and sneak peeks: https://links.alexlidell.com/News
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Find out more on Alex's website: www.alexlidell.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
June 6, 2018
Being a big fan of Mulan since childhood, I always jump at any book that contains females pretending to be someone else to make it in a man’s world. Thus, I was instantly drawn towards Alex Lidell’s Scout duology. From the moment I read the synopsis of Tracing Shadows, I knew I needed to know more. I was more than happy to jump right in, and as soon as I was done I was left desperate for book two.
Unraveling Darkness was a wonderful conclusion to the story, one I really enjoyed. It was not perfect, but I had so many feels moments throughout, powering through the book at a desperate rate to see how everything came together. There is no doubt I will be reading more Alex Lidell in the future, as Scout has confirmed the author sure knows how to pull me in with her fantasy worlds.
Picking up where Tracing Shadows ended, Unraveling Darkness throws us straight into the action. Things are moving from the very start, and do not let up throughout the book. Each chapter brings us something more, each throwing more towards us. There was so much to see, and Alex Lidell delivered so much throughout.
Our characters continue to grow, giving us more of the wonderful interactions we came to enjoy in the first book. The romance was great, causing me to fall in deeper in love with the brewing relationship. The storyline was gripping, being fast paced and filled with everything to keep us turning the pages. The only thing I felt I would have liked more of was the world building. I really enjoyed the world building in the first book, but I do not feel as though it was as strong in this book. There was certainly a lot to see, but I feel as though some questions went unanswered. In some ways I would have liked this to be a trilogy, just so that I could better understand some aspects of the world, and why certain things played out the way they did. It wasn’t bad world building, far from it, it simply wasn’t the level I had hoped for considering everything that occurred throughout this one.
Without a doubt, I really enjoyed this conclusion to the Scout story. This was an insanely addictive duology, and I cannot wait to dive into more from the author.
Unraveling Darkness was a wonderful conclusion to the story, one I really enjoyed. It was not perfect, but I had so many feels moments throughout, powering through the book at a desperate rate to see how everything came together. There is no doubt I will be reading more Alex Lidell in the future, as Scout has confirmed the author sure knows how to pull me in with her fantasy worlds.
Picking up where Tracing Shadows ended, Unraveling Darkness throws us straight into the action. Things are moving from the very start, and do not let up throughout the book. Each chapter brings us something more, each throwing more towards us. There was so much to see, and Alex Lidell delivered so much throughout.
Our characters continue to grow, giving us more of the wonderful interactions we came to enjoy in the first book. The romance was great, causing me to fall in deeper in love with the brewing relationship. The storyline was gripping, being fast paced and filled with everything to keep us turning the pages. The only thing I felt I would have liked more of was the world building. I really enjoyed the world building in the first book, but I do not feel as though it was as strong in this book. There was certainly a lot to see, but I feel as though some questions went unanswered. In some ways I would have liked this to be a trilogy, just so that I could better understand some aspects of the world, and why certain things played out the way they did. It wasn’t bad world building, far from it, it simply wasn’t the level I had hoped for considering everything that occurred throughout this one.
Without a doubt, I really enjoyed this conclusion to the Scout story. This was an insanely addictive duology, and I cannot wait to dive into more from the author.
May 17, 2018
Received an ARC from the author.
book 2 in the Scout duology was quite good. We catch up with Cali, Rune, Wil and their small team going to Rune's homeland in search of help for Dansil which has been taken over by the Goddess' messenger (AKA the high sparrow).
Cali and Rune struggle to decide whether being together is not only the right choice for themselves, but all the right choices for their peoples. The romance was subtle yet sweet and you craved the moments they weren't fighting or trying to "do the right thing."
Wil, while clearly scared, takes in stride his role and Dansil's new king. I liked that he didn't become high and mighty at the weight thrust upon his shoulders. He stayed the same silly Wil, just more jaded and serious in the face of politics.
Violet as usual was just annoying an realized she f'ed up big time. Though, blessedly, her chapters were reduced in book 2.
[Violet's face when she realizes she just a pawn and has f***ed up big time]
As for the plot and world building I'm sad to say it is largely undeveloped. What I expected to learn in book 2 about the world just never happened. The Eye (crystal) plot was poorly explained--and even after reading that part twice, I was still unsure of whether its role was good or evil. The magic structure with the use of crystals, whisperers, and mages was also not delved into nearly enough-in fact, barely at all. I don't think I fully understand their role.
What does it mean for Cali to be the only other of her kind. Tell me more about the whisperers and their powers. What is the upkeep for keeping the crystal mines open and does Wil intend to re-cultivate the mining and go after Viva Sylthia for their cyrstals? What is the relationship between Wil's kingdom and Rune's kingdom at the end?
The book leaves far too many open ended questions at the end. Enough so that I was left deeply unsatisfied with the ending. Is it a decent ending? Yes, definitely. But, Lidell leaves many plots untied with crystals, viva sylthia, toxic air(?), whisperers, relationships, and more. I felt vastly disappointed getting an abrupt ending that felt like it was rushed. If this was to be so, new plot points should not have been introduced. The whole mines of Viva Slythia thing could have been taken out, as could the strife with Rune's kingdom, his daddy issues, etc.
I'd like to take a moment to say that despite all the negatives, it still gets 3 stars because I did quite enjoy the journey. I enjoyed the trek through the forest and the witty banter between characters. I only wish this had been a trilogy to give Lidell the time she needed to develop the world, magic systems, and characters that grew and developed very little. She is far more than capable as seen in her Tildor books as well as her Tides series, if just given the proper time.
book 2 in the Scout duology was quite good. We catch up with Cali, Rune, Wil and their small team going to Rune's homeland in search of help for Dansil which has been taken over by the Goddess' messenger (AKA the high sparrow).
Cali and Rune struggle to decide whether being together is not only the right choice for themselves, but all the right choices for their peoples. The romance was subtle yet sweet and you craved the moments they weren't fighting or trying to "do the right thing."
Wil, while clearly scared, takes in stride his role and Dansil's new king. I liked that he didn't become high and mighty at the weight thrust upon his shoulders. He stayed the same silly Wil, just more jaded and serious in the face of politics.
Violet as usual was just annoying an realized she f'ed up big time. Though, blessedly, her chapters were reduced in book 2.
[Violet's face when she realizes she just a pawn and has f***ed up big time]
As for the plot and world building I'm sad to say it is largely undeveloped. What I expected to learn in book 2 about the world just never happened. The Eye (crystal) plot was poorly explained--and even after reading that part twice, I was still unsure of whether its role was good or evil. The magic structure with the use of crystals, whisperers, and mages was also not delved into nearly enough-in fact, barely at all. I don't think I fully understand their role.
What does it mean for Cali to be the only other of her kind. Tell me more about the whisperers and their powers. What is the upkeep for keeping the crystal mines open and does Wil intend to re-cultivate the mining and go after Viva Sylthia for their cyrstals? What is the relationship between Wil's kingdom and Rune's kingdom at the end?
The book leaves far too many open ended questions at the end. Enough so that I was left deeply unsatisfied with the ending. Is it a decent ending? Yes, definitely. But, Lidell leaves many plots untied with crystals, viva sylthia, toxic air(?), whisperers, relationships, and more. I felt vastly disappointed getting an abrupt ending that felt like it was rushed. If this was to be so, new plot points should not have been introduced. The whole mines of Viva Slythia thing could have been taken out, as could the strife with Rune's kingdom, his daddy issues, etc.
I'd like to take a moment to say that despite all the negatives, it still gets 3 stars because I did quite enjoy the journey. I enjoyed the trek through the forest and the witty banter between characters. I only wish this had been a trilogy to give Lidell the time she needed to develop the world, magic systems, and characters that grew and developed very little. She is far more than capable as seen in her Tildor books as well as her Tides series, if just given the proper time.
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May 15, 2018
Unravelling Darkness picks up immediately where Tracing Shadows ended, with our intrepid band travelling to Everett to seek shelter. As in the previous book, world-building is rather narrow, but the same certainly can't be said of the relationships - they, and the dash of romance, progress organically and believably.
I admit that I skimmed over most of the crystal and magic stuff because I just wasn't that interested, but that may well be just a 'me' issue. I also had to knock a star off because of Violet - no spoilers, but I felt so, so sorry for her! I do think the other characters, especially her own brother, ought to have shown a modicum more concern for her rather than just writing her off like that.
Overall, a solid read with 4/5 stars for characters and 3 for plot. 3.5, here we come!
I admit that I skimmed over most of the crystal and magic stuff because I just wasn't that interested, but that may well be just a 'me' issue. I also had to knock a star off because of Violet - no spoilers, but I felt so, so sorry for her! I do think the other characters, especially her own brother, ought to have shown a modicum more concern for her rather than just writing her off like that.
Overall, a solid read with 4/5 stars for characters and 3 for plot. 3.5, here we come!
July 27, 2018
Kali, Trace, and the uncrowned king of Dansil is on the run. Bishop Bahir has seized the throne, and Kali’s sister is still imprisoned inside the palace. The only place for Kali and her gang to go is to Everett, their enemy kingdom. Once they arrive, Trace fights to keep his rightful inheritance, and Kali learns the truth about who she is. Can Kali save the kingdom of Dansil before it is too late?
Because I was so engaged in Kali’s character, I read this sequel in one sitting to find out what happened to her. Kali still has her spunkiness, but she has grown more mature. She is left with the impossible choice of leaving her sister behind. She has to make plans to restore her kingdom. This takes a burden on her. I was a bit disappointed that she was no longer a fighting warrior. Instead, she realizes that she has magical powers, and has to learn how to use them. Thus, Kali has become more mellow and grown up. I also thought that Kali’s relationship with Trace had deepened. They faced many obstacles and challenges, but they managed to overcome them.
Overall, Unraveling Darkness is a coming of age novel about self-discovery. The novel emphasizes friendship, family, and sacrifice. I still thought that the supporting characters were not well-developed. For instance, I did not understand why Princess Raza hates Kali. The explanation seemed flimsy. The story seemed rushed in most parts. Trace’s background is barely explored with depth. There were also some scenes that I found uncomfortable. Despite these flaws, it was still an enjoyable and worthy sequel! Mrs. Liddell is a talented author, and I look forward to reading more of her series! This series is perfect for fans of Tamora Pierce, Rachel Hartman, and Sara B. Larson.
Because I was so engaged in Kali’s character, I read this sequel in one sitting to find out what happened to her. Kali still has her spunkiness, but she has grown more mature. She is left with the impossible choice of leaving her sister behind. She has to make plans to restore her kingdom. This takes a burden on her. I was a bit disappointed that she was no longer a fighting warrior. Instead, she realizes that she has magical powers, and has to learn how to use them. Thus, Kali has become more mellow and grown up. I also thought that Kali’s relationship with Trace had deepened. They faced many obstacles and challenges, but they managed to overcome them.
Overall, Unraveling Darkness is a coming of age novel about self-discovery. The novel emphasizes friendship, family, and sacrifice. I still thought that the supporting characters were not well-developed. For instance, I did not understand why Princess Raza hates Kali. The explanation seemed flimsy. The story seemed rushed in most parts. Trace’s background is barely explored with depth. There were also some scenes that I found uncomfortable. Despite these flaws, it was still an enjoyable and worthy sequel! Mrs. Liddell is a talented author, and I look forward to reading more of her series! This series is perfect for fans of Tamora Pierce, Rachel Hartman, and Sara B. Larson.
May 16, 2018
I can't believe it's done. This book was everything I hoped it would be. It was fast paced and thrilling with just the right amount of swoon to make my knees go weak. I took my time and savored every page. I didn't want it to end. I wish it was longer.
I love seeing Kali being a badass. I mentioned in my review of the first book that Kali's greatness was more telling than showing and I'm so glad that isn't the case now. She's as fierce and as loyal as the first time I met her and I love her even more for it. I enjoyed seeing her relationship with Trace grow. I'm a huge romantic and I was scarily obsessed every time they're on a scene together. I got swept off my feet EVERY. TIME.
I really do wish the book was longer. I felt like the ending was rushed a little too much. How everything wrapped up felt rather anticlimactic because of this. Or maybe that's just me wanting more of this duology. In which case I'm all for it. I would miss the rest of the gang too. Wil surprisingly grew on me. I love Luca and want more of him. I wish Leaf was more present in the story. I actually kind of like Raza. I really don't like him but Bahir was absent for most of the book considering he's the villain. I didn't feel like he's this powerful man whose putting people's lives at risk.
Overall Unraveling Darkness was amazing! It was so much more than I expected and I loved it. And I'm still absolutely in love with Alex Lidell's writing.
I love seeing Kali being a badass. I mentioned in my review of the first book that Kali's greatness was more telling than showing and I'm so glad that isn't the case now. She's as fierce and as loyal as the first time I met her and I love her even more for it. I enjoyed seeing her relationship with Trace grow. I'm a huge romantic and I was scarily obsessed every time they're on a scene together. I got swept off my feet EVERY. TIME.
I really do wish the book was longer. I felt like the ending was rushed a little too much. How everything wrapped up felt rather anticlimactic because of this. Or maybe that's just me wanting more of this duology. In which case I'm all for it. I would miss the rest of the gang too. Wil surprisingly grew on me. I love Luca and want more of him. I wish Leaf was more present in the story. I actually kind of like Raza. I really don't like him but Bahir was absent for most of the book considering he's the villain. I didn't feel like he's this powerful man whose putting people's lives at risk.
Overall Unraveling Darkness was amazing! It was so much more than I expected and I loved it. And I'm still absolutely in love with Alex Lidell's writing.
June 4, 2018
Superbly fantastic
I cannot even begin to tell you how much I love this little series. I want more... No no correction I need more! I came across book one by happenstance and fell in love with Kali and Trace and Luca and wil! I love the strength and loyalty in them and book two only solidified and made me love it more if possible. This book makes me laugh, scream my frustrations and re-read a sentence multiple times because it is just that fantastic!
Kali was a bit more vulnerable in this book than book one but I enjoyed it it was a good vulnerability . Don't get me wrong she is still BA but if you are fans of Trace you will love it all!
I'm hoping that there is a book three is in the works because there is still a few loose ends that need to be wrapped up. Certain apologies *ahem ahem* need to be made and if we are honest I just need more K and R!!
Brilliant series ( certain parts had me channeling princess bride), flowed perfectly, clenched my heart in my chest and had me squealing like a pig!! *wink wink* This book has me feeling so much I feel adrift now that it's over, whelp only thing left to do is re-read it all again!
I cannot even begin to tell you how much I love this little series. I want more... No no correction I need more! I came across book one by happenstance and fell in love with Kali and Trace and Luca and wil! I love the strength and loyalty in them and book two only solidified and made me love it more if possible. This book makes me laugh, scream my frustrations and re-read a sentence multiple times because it is just that fantastic!
Kali was a bit more vulnerable in this book than book one but I enjoyed it it was a good vulnerability . Don't get me wrong she is still BA but if you are fans of Trace you will love it all!
I'm hoping that there is a book three is in the works because there is still a few loose ends that need to be wrapped up. Certain apologies *ahem ahem* need to be made and if we are honest I just need more K and R!!
Brilliant series ( certain parts had me channeling princess bride), flowed perfectly, clenched my heart in my chest and had me squealing like a pig!! *wink wink* This book has me feeling so much I feel adrift now that it's over, whelp only thing left to do is re-read it all again!
June 6, 2018
Unraveling Darkness is the second book in the two book Scout series. It picks up right where Tracing Shadows left off, with Kali on the run with Trace, the young prince Wil, Luca and three others, after the King was killed and the kingdom taken over by mage and religious leader Bahir and his Holy Guard. The only place they can run to is Everett, the enemy kingdom they’ve been fighting with for years. The ragtag group seeks help from the Everett ruler, but his demands for assisting might be more than they are willing to pay. While Kali doesn’t have much time to master the new power she’s discovered within, she is determined to return to Dansil and rescue her sister Leaf, who was left behind when the group fled, no matter what it takes. Everyone must work together to make their plan to save the kingdom work, using all the skill, determination and courage they can muster. I loved all of the characters and their challenges, the love and camaraderie of most of the group, and the perseverance shown by them all. I’ve enjoyed other work by this author as well, and I can’t wait to read whatever else she comes up with.
July 6, 2018
I enjoyed this second book much more than the first. While it was still fast paced, I feel like it was better written which allowed the story line to flow more easily between scenes. The twist with Kal’s power coming to light was awesome. I knew that there was something different with her but did not quite know what it was. Now the change in Trace/Rune’s demeanor towards everyone once he became the “prince” again was grating, particularly when enforcing the conservative women views. The entire trip to Everett that the group seemed to be pointless other than to discover Kal’s powers and further explain Rune’s backstory, and then the entire team returned to Delta, which is where all that forward movement could have happened. Anyway, I definitely found myself enjoying this second book so much more and I definitely appreciate having everything get nicely wrapped up. Even though this story ended, I feel like it leaves enough of an opportunity for Lindell to come back later and add to it if she would like. I personally would like to read more about the bond that Rube and Kal now have forged between them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2018
Ok, I will admit that I totally adore Alex Lidell’s novels. She is one of my absolute favorite authors and I’ve downloaded - and truly enjoyed - every single one of her novels to date. Her new Scout series is no exception and I was happy to give five stars to my review of its first book, Tracing Shadows. It’s no surprise then that I was delighted to get my hands on Unraveling Darkness, Book 2 of this series. It is also no surprise that this book is, quite simply, superb and definitely recommended. It had just what I wanted and was well written and with a great plot and great cast of characters. I frankly adore Kali and love watching Trace (Rune) and her take on all comers, and the rest of the cast of characters is pretty amazing as well. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to book 3.
May 24, 2018
Unraveling Darkness is the conclusion in the Scout series and I have to say that I wish it weren't over yet.
Kali is just as awesome as I remember from Book 1, and I really enjoyed seeing her relationships with those around her grow as her secret is revealed. I'm always a huge fan of the characters that Alex Lidell creates, and Kali and her crew are no exception!
I've loved the action in this fast-paced series, there never seems to be a dull moment, but it just seemed to end too quickly. I'm not ready to part with these characters or this world yet! I was very satisfied with the ending though, and overall, I think this is a great series that you should definitely read if you haven't already.
Kali is just as awesome as I remember from Book 1, and I really enjoyed seeing her relationships with those around her grow as her secret is revealed. I'm always a huge fan of the characters that Alex Lidell creates, and Kali and her crew are no exception!
I've loved the action in this fast-paced series, there never seems to be a dull moment, but it just seemed to end too quickly. I'm not ready to part with these characters or this world yet! I was very satisfied with the ending though, and overall, I think this is a great series that you should definitely read if you haven't already.
July 17, 2018
This book was so good and I never wanted it to end. After I read the first book I was anxiously waiting for this book to be released and it did not disappoint. This books picks up immediately after the first book, which I appreciated. The group is running from the palace after Bishop Bahir and his order killed the king and seized the palace. With family members left behind and identities kept secret things are pretty tense in the group. There is no choice but to head to the kingdom of Everett and ask for help. But with Trace being the presumed dead heir and his sister being left behind, things may not be so simple.
So so so good! I definitely recommend reading this book. It is fast paced and you won't be able to put it down!
So so so good! I definitely recommend reading this book. It is fast paced and you won't be able to put it down!
May 20, 2018
Book 2 is out and begins from the ending of book 2 as the survivors of a power grab make a run into the woods to save the live of their new King. A wild group with secrets trying to survive and hopefully save the Kingdom from the crazy guy. Some of the secrets we learned in book 2 but how they came out to others was wild and kept me guessing what was going to happen next from the beginning. A few random twists were great as the story went along. I was totally rooting for a happy ending but was not sure how it would actually happen. All the characters were great and I felt like I was right there along for the action. A great story and ending.
November 4, 2018
Mini-Review:
Pros:
- Clear setting & basic magic lore.
- Great support characters.
- Flawed but interesting plot.
- Clear conclusions for main & minor plot lines.
Cons:
- Inconsistent traits & setup of main character: Kali.
- Jarring story pace to connect the dots for story progression.
- Attraction/Sexual Tension/etc - Either be explicit or not.
- Seemed as though the book was meant for an adult audience but the writing leaned heavily to YA.
Conclusion
I like the author's ideas a lot & willing to check in with her future works to keep an eye on how the writing evolves.
Pros:
- Clear setting & basic magic lore.
- Great support characters.
- Flawed but interesting plot.
- Clear conclusions for main & minor plot lines.
Cons:
- Inconsistent traits & setup of main character: Kali.
- Jarring story pace to connect the dots for story progression.
- Attraction/Sexual Tension/etc - Either be explicit or not.
- Seemed as though the book was meant for an adult audience but the writing leaned heavily to YA.
Conclusion
I like the author's ideas a lot & willing to check in with her future works to keep an eye on how the writing evolves.
May 24, 2018
Epic ending to an amazing duology. Alex Lidell has become an insta-read author for me, and her Scout Series in particular has been easily one of my favorite reads of late. Despite a reading slump, I devoured both of these books easily. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, the magic system, and the subtle world building. There are also some heavy themes about religious extremism/fanaticism that I appreciated. Add in a slow-burn romance done right, and you have my perfect idea of a fantasy novel/series.
August 8, 2018
Fantastic ending to a wonderful fantasy series!
It took me 2.5 days to plow through both of these books. I was enthralled. I loved the build up and the high stakes odds. I loved how the twist near the end, I didn’t see it coming, and I loved how even the secondary characters played very important roles. The only thing lacking was the length of this second book. Only around 200 pages. There could have been a hundred more and I wouldn’t have been sad about it. I’ll definitely be checking out all of this author’s works!
It took me 2.5 days to plow through both of these books. I was enthralled. I loved the build up and the high stakes odds. I loved how the twist near the end, I didn’t see it coming, and I loved how even the secondary characters played very important roles. The only thing lacking was the length of this second book. Only around 200 pages. There could have been a hundred more and I wouldn’t have been sad about it. I’ll definitely be checking out all of this author’s works!
March 23, 2019
Ok. Not great.
I think I expected more of this story than I should have. I enjoyed the Power of Five series by this author and thought this might bit similar but it wasn’t. This books is more suited for young teens and more of PG level/slow to negative burn story line versus what is in her other series. It was also highly predictable which is always a bummer. I finished it but was disappointed. I will be more cautious before reading other series by this author and check the reviews to avoid the disappointment.
I think I expected more of this story than I should have. I enjoyed the Power of Five series by this author and thought this might bit similar but it wasn’t. This books is more suited for young teens and more of PG level/slow to negative burn story line versus what is in her other series. It was also highly predictable which is always a bummer. I finished it but was disappointed. I will be more cautious before reading other series by this author and check the reviews to avoid the disappointment.
June 2, 2018
So, as I stated for the 1st book in the series, amazing story but PLEASE redo the covers!!!!! Oh how I love the storyline, the back & forth between Kali & Trace, the world building is wonderful, & I find myself adoring Luca & Wil! The good vs evil in this story is pretty clear cut which I kinda love. Sometimes the storylines are too complicated & become overwhelming to the reader but not so in this book! I know it's a minor detail but I HATE the cover. It makes the book look cheap & unprofessional & if I weren't already a fan of the author & the story, the cover would be a turnoff!
June 3, 2018
This second book in the Scout series is an excellent read, full of action, adventure, twists and turns, plotting and intrigue, and just a twist of romance. I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend it to anyone who read the first - and if you haven't yet, why not give them a go!
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
July 28, 2018
Book Two in the Scout Series finds Lady Kalianna on the run along with two princes of warring provinces. As they enter enemy territory, her troop seeks allies who will listen to reason and will take them to the king. They need an army to take back Wil’s realm and save Kal’s sister. Action, romance, magic and palace intrigue mix together in a fast-paced story until the satisfying conclusion. This story is a page-turner you won’t want to put down.
August 6, 2018
You really need to read book #1 and read it right before this book. They are so tightly wound that they're really part #1/#2 of the same book.
We have a very dystopian society where a religious group has gained prominence until they lead an insurrection. This is very much an action story as our main characters go back to rescue captives, gain allies, and save the country. It's fast-paced and has some unexpected twists. And there's some nice romance, too. :-)
We have a very dystopian society where a religious group has gained prominence until they lead an insurrection. This is very much an action story as our main characters go back to rescue captives, gain allies, and save the country. It's fast-paced and has some unexpected twists. And there's some nice romance, too. :-)
May 31, 2018
I read this as an ARC, and found it a very satisfying conclusion. I like duologies, as often with a long series I get mixed up on details between the books coming out. I felt that the various characters acted in accordance with their own motivations, and there were no Too Stupid To Live moments, and while there was tension there was no needless angst. Thoroughly recommend as YA fantasy.
June 10, 2018
I liked the first book but this one was a bit too angsty for me. I thought the heroine was supposed to be a badass but she came off rather weak and melodramatic in this book. Also, it was surprisingly dark for what I had originally considered a YA fantasy (not that I was opposed to that but it was unexpected).
September 16, 2018
Loved these books! I didn’t want to put them down. Several twits that I didn’t see coming, which I love. The only thing that wasn’t 5 Stars is that sometimes the explanations of the reasons for the actions of the Children, the Order, the Messenger, etc was confusing, or felt a little unnecessary for spending as much time delving into it.
March 11, 2019
More interesting than anticipated from the synopsis. Unraveling Darkness is easy to fall into, even if its been a while since reading the first Scout book. Some moments were cool (magical descriptions, or using wooden wedges to trap doors closed) but there were also some which were underwhelming, especially with the development of supporting characters.
December 26, 2019
Great Conclusion
This series has strong characters that grow between the books to take up the rightful place that they needed to be at. The characters themselves are endearing for their strengths as well as for their weaknesses. I highly recommend this talented author do that you can be swept away in her worlds just like I have been!
This series has strong characters that grow between the books to take up the rightful place that they needed to be at. The characters themselves are endearing for their strengths as well as for their weaknesses. I highly recommend this talented author do that you can be swept away in her worlds just like I have been!
April 17, 2022
Truly entertaining
A Truly believable world. Well rounded with a mixture of large personalities that keep you reading. A well played plot and a few great twists keep you reading. YA to adult readers will enjoy these books. Even though there were a few typos I gave it 5 stars because it truly entertained me!
A Truly believable world. Well rounded with a mixture of large personalities that keep you reading. A well played plot and a few great twists keep you reading. YA to adult readers will enjoy these books. Even though there were a few typos I gave it 5 stars because it truly entertained me!
July 14, 2024
A court of truth and thorns
Thus is the last book in Kalis story. Her and Rune, along with Wil Luca and Calvin and two whisperers, travel to Everett after Bahir takes the throne. We get to see how the other side works and watch as they decide to take their lives and throne back themselves.
Thus is the last book in Kalis story. Her and Rune, along with Wil Luca and Calvin and two whisperers, travel to Everett after Bahir takes the throne. We get to see how the other side works and watch as they decide to take their lives and throne back themselves.
May 16, 2018
What a amazing conclusion to this series!! This novel is full of intensity,self-doubt,love,hate,duty and determination,romance,and topped off with a little bit of steaminess!What's not to like about this above average story?? Read it,and you'll love it too!!!
June 15, 2018
Great finish
Great ending to the series. I think the Everett kind and queen were too "evil" and we never saw enough of them for them to gain depth. But otherwise a very satisfying ending.
Great ending to the series. I think the Everett kind and queen were too "evil" and we never saw enough of them for them to gain depth. But otherwise a very satisfying ending.
June 25, 2018
This was a super fun mix of adventure, fantasy and romance. I am not sure if it's the last in the series (it ended pretty well but does have an opening for more) but if there are more in this series, I'd totally read it!
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