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Legend of the Gods #2
Shield of Winter
Alana has been captured. She expected an agonizing death to follow, but instead, she now finds herself a guest of the Tsar. Locked away amidst the wealth and luxury, it isn’t long before she learns the reason she was spared – her entire life has been a lie. Her true identity lurks within, chained by magic, but with promises of untold power. It terrifies her, and yet…she must know the truth.
Meanwhile, ex-soldier Devon plans a fresh rebellion in Trola. But after carving his legend in the blood of their people, he’s a marked man. He’ll have to watch his step if he’s to successfully negotiate the shifting tides of the Trolan cause – and not end up dead in the process. Either way, failure is not an option, because without an uprising, Alana will be lost to him forever…
Grab this all new epic fantasy by New York Times Bestselling Author Aaron Hodges.
Meanwhile, ex-soldier Devon plans a fresh rebellion in Trola. But after carving his legend in the blood of their people, he’s a marked man. He’ll have to watch his step if he’s to successfully negotiate the shifting tides of the Trolan cause – and not end up dead in the process. Either way, failure is not an option, because without an uprising, Alana will be lost to him forever…
Grab this all new epic fantasy by New York Times Bestselling Author Aaron Hodges.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 22, 2018
335 people are currently reading
182 people want to read
About the author
Aaron Hodges
53 books295 followersAaron Hodges was born in 1989 in the small town of Whakatane, New Zealand. He studied for five years at the University of Auckland, completing a Bachelor's of Science in Biology and Geography, and a Masters of Environmental Engineering. After working as an environmental consultant for two years, he now spends his time traveling the world in search of his next adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 23, 2019
This second installment in the series picks right up where Oathbreaker left off. In short, all the things that the first book did well were also done well here. While the first book was an introduction to each of the characters, this one explored several of them in much deeper ways, especially Alana and Anala.
One way that this book was better than the first was in the intensity. There was some very well written scenes that were full of emotion, betrayal, and dire consequences.
As a negative, as in the first book, the audiobook narrator consistently pronounced tsar as “tt-zar”.
This book also ends big with a lot of questions about where it will go from here. 4.1/5 stars.
One way that this book was better than the first was in the intensity. There was some very well written scenes that were full of emotion, betrayal, and dire consequences.
As a negative, as in the first book, the audiobook narrator consistently pronounced tsar as “tt-zar”.
This book also ends big with a lot of questions about where it will go from here. 4.1/5 stars.
July 5, 2025
Another short easy read but it was still very unique and I love the way the magic is written! I enjoyed the first book, but this one definitely hooked me. Already onto the next
April 7, 2024
Regrets
Would be an enjoyable read if the characters exhibited even a modicum of intelligence. Look, we are on the run, let's walk into this obvious trap and suddenly forget that we can do magic.
Would be an enjoyable read if the characters exhibited even a modicum of intelligence. Look, we are on the run, let's walk into this obvious trap and suddenly forget that we can do magic.
June 24, 2018
This is the second book in the Legends of the Gods series. It continues straight on from the end of the first book, Oathbreaker, when Alana was taken by Quinn and the Stalkers, leaving Devon, Kellian, the priest Enala and Alana’s younger brother Braidon to escape by a golden dragon. Quinn has taken Alana to the Tsar, the ruler of the Three Nations and the person taking all the magical people from society.
Alana is kept in the Tsar’s castle, but not as a prisoner as she expected, but as a wealthy guest. She soon learns out that the life she had been living was a lie and she may be too terrified to find out the truth and where that will lead. She may have more power and magic than she ever knew, more than her brother.
Devon and Kellian decide to try and rescue Alana, leaving Braidon on Enala’s care to recover from his injury and learn to train with his magical control. Devon teams up with a former foe and travels to find Alana before she is lost from him permanently. He may die in the effort, but he is willing to do anything to save her and reunite her with her brother.
Nothing ever goes right for Devon and company, nor is anything exactly as you expect with Alana and the Tsar! The Tsar is the most powerful Magicker, (user of magic) in the whole of the Three Nations and only has the Magickers of the Northlands to overcome to have all the magic there is. He has plans that may or may not involve his family, Alana or Braidon. Bring in some older characters from previous stories and history and a great battle will commence. Who is on the side for good and who for evil is yet to be found out.
Another great fantasy with links to myths and legends of old. The characters details get more depth to them as they go through each different part of the story. From what happened in Oathbreaker and now through to Shield of Winter, some characters have changed dramatically from what you may have thought originally. A good pace to the storyline, keeping all the multitude of links mixing well and in an easy to read order.
Another interesting read from this author, part of a series and I can’t wait for the next one, to see what happens with my favourite characters from the books. I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Alana is kept in the Tsar’s castle, but not as a prisoner as she expected, but as a wealthy guest. She soon learns out that the life she had been living was a lie and she may be too terrified to find out the truth and where that will lead. She may have more power and magic than she ever knew, more than her brother.
Devon and Kellian decide to try and rescue Alana, leaving Braidon on Enala’s care to recover from his injury and learn to train with his magical control. Devon teams up with a former foe and travels to find Alana before she is lost from him permanently. He may die in the effort, but he is willing to do anything to save her and reunite her with her brother.
Nothing ever goes right for Devon and company, nor is anything exactly as you expect with Alana and the Tsar! The Tsar is the most powerful Magicker, (user of magic) in the whole of the Three Nations and only has the Magickers of the Northlands to overcome to have all the magic there is. He has plans that may or may not involve his family, Alana or Braidon. Bring in some older characters from previous stories and history and a great battle will commence. Who is on the side for good and who for evil is yet to be found out.
Another great fantasy with links to myths and legends of old. The characters details get more depth to them as they go through each different part of the story. From what happened in Oathbreaker and now through to Shield of Winter, some characters have changed dramatically from what you may have thought originally. A good pace to the storyline, keeping all the multitude of links mixing well and in an easy to read order.
Another interesting read from this author, part of a series and I can’t wait for the next one, to see what happens with my favourite characters from the books. I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
June 17, 2019
This is a continuation of Hodges' trilogy Legend of the Gods. And I found it as engaging and intriguing as the first. It does take the path of many center books in a trilogy, complicating the plot as much as it resolves elements of it. In some respects the story concludes with a realization of how much stands in the way of our heroes achieving their goals.
The character development continues, with more depth and even growth for the main characters. The past of Alana and her brother is revealed, as is the past of the Tsar. As I think back over it, Hodges did an excellent job of fleshing out the world and its magical system as the story progressed. We learn more about the war Devon fought in and how the Tsar came to be such a powerful magician.
Hodges kept the pace up, and the consequences of the actions of various characters felt real and substantial. The protagonists do not just innately choose the best path, and their struggle against overwhelming odds keeps the story grounded and relatable.
All in all, I enjoyed it. Unlike the first book, this one did edge towards more descriptive intimate sexual interactions in a few places. For that I would suggest this for adults and not children. The violence is also described pretty bluntly, but not in an overdone way. Hodges just doesn't flinch from describing a would or injury. If you enjoy fantasy stories with very thorough world-building and well developed magical systems, I think you would enjoy this book.
The character development continues, with more depth and even growth for the main characters. The past of Alana and her brother is revealed, as is the past of the Tsar. As I think back over it, Hodges did an excellent job of fleshing out the world and its magical system as the story progressed. We learn more about the war Devon fought in and how the Tsar came to be such a powerful magician.
Hodges kept the pace up, and the consequences of the actions of various characters felt real and substantial. The protagonists do not just innately choose the best path, and their struggle against overwhelming odds keeps the story grounded and relatable.
All in all, I enjoyed it. Unlike the first book, this one did edge towards more descriptive intimate sexual interactions in a few places. For that I would suggest this for adults and not children. The violence is also described pretty bluntly, but not in an overdone way. Hodges just doesn't flinch from describing a would or injury. If you enjoy fantasy stories with very thorough world-building and well developed magical systems, I think you would enjoy this book.
December 25, 2024
And the excitement keeps on revving up in this 2nd book in the Legend of the Gods series, as we see Alana being captured and dragged back to the Tsar's court. She fears she will be executed, however finds herself living in the luxury of the palace, and being called a princess. Alana is confused, but adamant she will get to the bottom of the mystery surrounding her past life. Who was she, really? She had also left her beloved younger brother Braidon behind, and was fearful for him, but hoped against hope he would not also be captured. Meanwhile Devon the ex-soldier who wielded the deadly hammer, once wielded by his ancestor, which had brought havoc on numerous occassions to the people of Kalgan. He was a marked man but he needed to get the Lonians on his side if he was to raise an uprising against the evil Tsar, and to save Alana who he had fallen in love with. Quinn, his nemesis, and a soldier at the court was presently courting Alana who was becoming a real bitch as she discovered her true self, however Braidon, her brother was never far from her mind. I love that in this book we get to once again meet Eric and Enala, now ancient yet still powerful, but will their powers defeat the Tzar who had so many magickers' powers connected to himself and fuelling him? This is another very exciting book full of magic, battles, treachery and betrayals and a lot of courage. Onward to book 3!
May 8, 2019
I need to start off by saying I did not read the first book so keep that in mind with my review. I did find this book a bit confusing throughout it. There were some names of a couple of the characters that were close enough that it made the bouncing between their inner stories a bit confusing. Had I read the first book and I might not have had the trouble I had following the story. There was a lot of action, adventure, and twists and turns in this story that it will keep you on your toes and actively listening. I would say that this is definitely a series that you probably need to read the first book, it's not a stand-alone book. The narrator did a great job with the voices and overall narration, I really enjoyed listening to him.
For the parents out there screening content for their kids there are some sex scenes, mild language and violence although the violence is not overly descriptive. I would say this is more of a young adult read.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
For the parents out there screening content for their kids there are some sex scenes, mild language and violence although the violence is not overly descriptive. I would say this is more of a young adult read.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
June 24, 2018
I love Aaron Hodges’ Oathbreaker (Legend of the Gods Book 1), so it’s no surprise that I was delighted to get my hands on Shield of Winter, book 2 of the series. This book is, quite simply, a total hoot. It’s also full of adventure, really well written and had just what I wanted including a great plot. I frankly adore Alana and Devon and love watching them deal with, well, everything (see the publisher’s blurb - it’s pretty good at describing the “everything”). 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 the next book in this series.
June 23, 2018
Awesome!
This is the second book of Legends of the Gods and flows seamlessly from the first book. With an intricate plot and twists you don't see coming, I couldn't stop reading until the last page! I am totally invested in the characters and storyline. Devon the ex soldier seeking redemption. Alana and Braidon, siblings trying to understand who they really are. The Tsar who wants more power and control of all the magic in the land. This book was extremely well done and I can't wait for the next book!
This is the second book of Legends of the Gods and flows seamlessly from the first book. With an intricate plot and twists you don't see coming, I couldn't stop reading until the last page! I am totally invested in the characters and storyline. Devon the ex soldier seeking redemption. Alana and Braidon, siblings trying to understand who they really are. The Tsar who wants more power and control of all the magic in the land. This book was extremely well done and I can't wait for the next book!
January 16, 2019
This second book of the series The Legends of the Gods is every bit as awesome as the first book. It is filled with magic, betrayal and the quest of attaining freedom from tyranny. I love it and can hardly wait to read the final book in this series. I truly hope that you enjoy it as much as I have. Caution: this is not meant to be a stand-alone book, you definitely need to read book one first.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this ebook from the author and this is my honest and freely given opinion.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this ebook from the author and this is my honest and freely given opinion.
December 6, 2020
A real fantasy book
Listen up. If there are any fantasy lovers out there this is the book for you I really love this book and series. It has everything I look for in a book. The ability to take me oon a journey and make me want to read more. I highly recommend this book and wish you would read it for yourself There are characters to love and hate. There is a plot to keep you interested There is danger romance adventure and humor. All the things a great book should have It’s official Aaron Hodges is my new favorite author
Listen up. If there are any fantasy lovers out there this is the book for you I really love this book and series. It has everything I look for in a book. The ability to take me oon a journey and make me want to read more. I highly recommend this book and wish you would read it for yourself There are characters to love and hate. There is a plot to keep you interested There is danger romance adventure and humor. All the things a great book should have It’s official Aaron Hodges is my new favorite author
November 11, 2018
Aaron Hodges has done it again with an epic fantasy that is stupendous. I love this series and cannot wait to finish it. I am being swept away with all the twists and turns that assail the characters. It is hard sometimes to keep up with who Alana is at certain times. The Tzar has amassed terrible powers. Who, what can defeat him. I look forward to the last book in this series to answer many questions.
December 4, 2018
My third read/listen from author Aaron Hodges picks up where the first book in the series left off. Attention-grabbing and enjoyable. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. Aaron Hodges has moved up on my TBR list and since I own 8 books by him that won't be a problem. I was given an Audible copy of this book & am voluntarily reviewing it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
July 10, 2019
Shield of Winter is the second book in an epic fantasy trilogy, and it doesn’t disappoint. The book’s gripping plot, complex characters, and descriptive language keep the reader (or listener) engaged and eager to find out what happens next.
Contains violence and sexual situations. I’d recommend teen and adult readers.
The narrator does a superb job with the audio books.
I received a complimentary copy of this audio book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Contains violence and sexual situations. I’d recommend teen and adult readers.
The narrator does a superb job with the audio books.
I received a complimentary copy of this audio book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
August 3, 2018
mesmerizing
Would have given five stars but in the kindle edition there were several pages in a row that repeated what the page before said and a couple that missed words to make the thought complete. Enjoyed the story otherwise and have pre-ordered the next in series. Hopefully the author will have it ready edited to fix the problem.
Would have given five stars but in the kindle edition there were several pages in a row that repeated what the page before said and a couple that missed words to make the thought complete. Enjoyed the story otherwise and have pre-ordered the next in series. Hopefully the author will have it ready edited to fix the problem.
October 16, 2018
Needs editing and proofing
I like the series so far but I am six pages i go this ebook and there are already two odd pages with a different font and part of the story is repeated and part missing. If I do s much more of this i will lower my rating as well as try to contact the author. Surely someone else has noticed this by now.
I like the series so far but I am six pages i go this ebook and there are already two odd pages with a different font and part of the story is repeated and part missing. If I do s much more of this i will lower my rating as well as try to contact the author. Surely someone else has noticed this by now.
November 6, 2018
I am torn!!! I had a feeling about Alana and her brother being children of the Tsar. The nickname "Princess" was pretty easy foreshadowing. But I was surprised by their grandmother.
I cannot get over the death of Alana & Devon's budding relationship is particularly difficult. I know I should not expect a happy ending for these two but I hope that things do work out in the end.
I cannot get over the death of Alana & Devon's budding relationship is particularly difficult. I know I should not expect a happy ending for these two but I hope that things do work out in the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2019
This is a really good second book in a series.I loved Oathbreaker and this picks up where that left off.Alana gets captured and figures she will die,but doesn't.There is a quest to rescue her. It's full of twists and turns and magic. David Stifel was a fine narrator,again. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.'
March 11, 2020
Should have known as this was book two that it wouldn't resolve things, but the boss fight was pretty epic!
*spoiler alert*
Alana's multiple personalities perhaps needed a little refinement - the interplay between them was just a little off given the described power balance versus how they played out against each other.
*spoiler alert*
Alana's multiple personalities perhaps needed a little refinement - the interplay between them was just a little off given the described power balance versus how they played out against each other.
June 26, 2018
Damn Aaron, what an ending! You've outdone yourself on this one. I got so caught up in the story that before I knew it,I was at the end. You sure left this one on a high note, you have to hurry now and finish the next one. People will be chomping at the bit, waiting...
June 26, 2018
Magic jumps right out at you in this saga of power and corruption. A sister Alana and a brother Braidon, goes in hiding with a cruel power crazed dad that's wants to rule everything and everyone with magic. Great continuing storytelling, good writing! I received a complimentary copy of this book.
June 27, 2018
I finished this book really quickly! I constantly wanted to know what happened next, the writing was great, and the plot moved along well. I really enjoy Aaron’s writing style and look forward to more books.
July 4, 2018
ThenThree Nations Saga Goes On
Oh I was not ready for the twists of plot in this one. The surprise good and evil. And now I'm still left trying to figure out who is going to lead them all to victory.
Oh I was not ready for the twists of plot in this one. The surprise good and evil. And now I'm still left trying to figure out who is going to lead them all to victory.
July 20, 2018
Heartbreaking
Devon and Killian set out to rescue Alana from the Tsar. Will they find her still alive.
The road to Ardath is full of treachery and some special surprises. Once again can good stand up against evil.
Aaron did a great job with this book.
Devon and Killian set out to rescue Alana from the Tsar. Will they find her still alive.
The road to Ardath is full of treachery and some special surprises. Once again can good stand up against evil.
Aaron did a great job with this book.
August 6, 2023
Good building and development of the story and plot… I love how easy to read these books are. I also enjoy that they give me the old school fantasy… sure there are tropes but it’s just so fun to read.
I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a quick read!
I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a quick read!
June 27, 2018
Good as always
How in the world does the author come up with these crazy, exciting and frightening stories. With magic and dragons oh my
How in the world does the author come up with these crazy, exciting and frightening stories. With magic and dragons oh my
November 21, 2018
See review here - https://www.alwroteabook.com/2018/11/...
January 6, 2019
What a superb story as always. Alana is captured but instead of being put to death, becomes the guest of the Czar. She finds out secrets, like a power she didn’t know existed. Totally enjoyable.
April 3, 2019
Pendantic and boring. I had hoped for more but it did not deliver for me.
January 4, 2020
Amazing sequel, maybe even better than first part. Consumed in audio :)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews