The Arcane Ward

Wardens of Issalia #2

by Jeffrey L. Kohanek

An enemy rises, driven by radical beliefs and armed with destructive weapons. The Wardens must respond.

Urgency forces ICON to accelerate the training of their new recruits, for a new Empire has captured the eastern kingdoms and seeks to conquer all of Issalia. Although a raw and untested squad, the Wardens might be the only hope of stopping this imposing threat.

Everson is a gadgeteer, tasked with harnessing a magical power source. Leveraging his brilliance, he enhances existing machines and creates new inventions that astound his superiors. His next amazing discovery might save lives...or it could destroy them.

Destined to become an espion, Quinn hones her skills in preparation of her first mission. Intense training, combined with her fierce determination and fearless nature, transforms her into something more...something lethal. However, skills of a different nature are required when she finds herself alone and surrounded by enemies in a land far from home.

Joined by magic-wielding royal twins and a small group of veterans, these individuals shall become Issalia's shield against monsters and tyranny. Regardless of what occurs, ICON must remain vigilant, for the machinations of their enemy extend far beyond what anyone suspects.

Genres: Fantasy

280 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 6, 2018

About the author

I love fantasy, adventure, and magic. More than that, I adore my readers.

My books are written to entertain -- fantasy adventures filled with compelling characters, spectacular magic, thrilling action, constant intrigue, and a sense of discovery. I equate them to the "Marvel Movie" version of fiction, intended to be a fun escape.

I would love to have you join me and my quirky characters for one outrageous adventure after another. With over a million published words, my author journey has just begun.

Best wishes,
Jeff

_________________________________

Jeffrey L. Kohanek grew up in rural Minnesota where comic books sparked his young imagination, inspiring fantasies of heroes with super-powers saving the day. His tastes later evolved to fantasy epics featuring unlikely heroes overcoming impossible odds to save worlds born from the writer's imagination.

Now residing in Las Vegas, Nevada, Jeff uses that imagination to weave tales of engaging characters caught in fantastic plots to inspire young adults and the child within us all.
_________________________________

"Would you like FREE books and access to exclusive content? Join my author newsletter, which frequently includes special offers and inside info on my books.
Join at www.JeffreyLKohanek.com and download a free eBook today." -Jeff

"I LOVE to hear from readers and fans. Connect with me through email or social media."

Email - author@JeffreyLKohanek.com
Facebook - /JeffreyLKohanek

Reviews

[Khurram · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book with lots of preparations and escalation takes place in this book. These books have been a lot slower pace than the first story arcs of this series, still very good. This is the next generation proving themselves.

Quinn and Everson have found a home in 5he Arcane Ward. A place where ICON trains their wardens. As Everson continues to invent for the benefit of the Kingdom, the Empire is also unleashing new weapons. Quinn is restless for her first mission, but we she be ready for it when it comes, and she might have found a kindred spirit of adventure.

The battleline have not been drawn. The final battles war can not be far off. We the slow start to these books getting to know the new characters, and getting people into position things must be all go in the next book.

[Jennifer (bunnyreads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you enjoyed A Warden’s Purpose you’ll want to read The Arcane Ward, which returns us to the world of Issalia after Quinn and Everson’s recruitment into ICON, the organization that is working to help keep Issalia out of the rule of radicals.

This world is kind of like the first Captain America movie (think Red Skull type of magic enhanced machinery, and Hydra/Shield) meets Agent Cody Banks (teens, action, crushes, and infiltrating enemy territory) in a fantasy world setting. What can I say, it’s fun. It’s the kind of stuff my kid would have loved to read.

We have a lot of new faces this time around- Mainly the twins, Cass and Brandt, who are kind of big trouble-makers because they’re a bit too smart for their britches. So, after a particularly bad prank Dad and mom (who happen to be the King and Queen) send the little brats darlings off to ICON to focus their mischievous natures into something more productive and hopefully curb their teenage penchant for trouble.

Also new- the twins’ elder brother, Broland. As the direct heir he stays back home, but gains a friend in Koni- a lord’s son that is sent to train with Broland. Personally, I would have liked more time with these two, seeing them become friends and hanging out and gaining that connection we are only somewhat shown, and mostly told. It would have added impact to later events, if we had.

Back at the school/headquarters- are Quinn and Everson. We see Everson (if you’ll remember he is this world’s Q) settling in and building interesting things incorporating the Runes magic into tech stuff, and neat little gadgets to help his sister and fellow teammates out while they’re doing field work. And Quinn (of course is his 007) is sent on her first mission alone as handmaid/lady’s maid to a noble lady in hopes that she will hear gossip about stuff around the citadel and get close to the Archon Varius, and find out what the Empire is planning.

There are few other people, some returning (like Jonah, Iko, Rena) and a couple new faces or at least faces I don’t remember (Curan, Chuli a Tantarri- horse breeder/plains-lady type character).

This was a very fast-paced read and it felt like there was a lot going on in this book with stuff happening in different cities and not just all at the school, as we follow separate characters story lines around the country.

Though the story did spend most of its time with the two main lines (the twins and Quinn and Everson) I did wish even more time could have been spent fleshing out the scenes of a couple of the other key people, and dropping some of the minor people because it seemed to move right on through to some of the big events very quickly. But, that might really just be me wanting more time with Koni and Broland’s storyline and after reading several epics in a row, forgetting that this is a YA/teen and that it’s supposed to be quick-paced.



This one also feels a little more grown-up in a lot of ways, as our main characters are the ones that are having to step up and take-action which results in betrayals and death, some of the stuff that we only saw “bad guys” do last time. Still it’s not very graphic or over the top. They’re also seeing some of the people on the other side of this war as human and not totally bad people.



3.5 A few little nitpicky things but still a good addition to the series. I would come back for more because it's a fun little action-packed story, with friendships, and lots of cool rune magic/inspired gadgets.

Other notes:

-occasionally when we are being reminded of something that happened off-screen by characters conversing, it comes off more like narration than characters sharing a memory- which is probably the little nitpick that took a slight amount off my final score. .

-Darn it, Iko! Why must you be so bad?! I have to admit he’s my favorite character because he really does seem to regret his actions even though he follows through with them anyway. Darn him anyway.

-Everson, you came across a bit fickle after that whole thing with Rena, and then Ivy.

-I totally didn’t catch on to that one twist and I probably should have because I wondered half-way through where this person was.


-Thank you to the author Jeffrey L Kohanek, for generously providing a copy through Esme’s tbrinder matchmaking reviewer/author service, which you can find here at The Weatherwax Report-
https://weatherwaxreport.blog/2018/04...

[Natasha Clark-French · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't think my words can ever do this series justice. A Warden's Purpose was one of my favorite books of the year but somehow The Arcane Ward is even better. Kohanek's writing transports you to a different world and leaves you with a sense of loss when you can't be between the pages. This isn't the type of book where you read a couple chapters then go about your day; it's the kind of book where you try to read a couple chapters and an hour later you're surprised to find yourself not in a castle or on a ship.

I love that we get to follow more of Quinn's storyline in this book. She's probably one of my all-time favorite characters and I find the many aspects of her strength inspiring. I wish all little girls had Quinn as a role model.

I can't wait to continue this series. I definitely recommend it to everyone who loves this genre. I will reread it for years to come and I've purchased the entire Runes of Issalia trilogy which I can't wait to dive into as well. Part of me hopes Kohanek will never stray from this world he's creates but another part of me is incredibly curious to see what other magic he can create.

*I volunteered to read and honestly review a free Kindle copy of this book. This, by no means, impacts my opinion or honesty of my review*

[Lejla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just truly love this.
Can't wait to read next one.
I recommend it to everyone!

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in Kantar “The Arcane Ward", sequel to “Warden’s Purpose” begins with the accelerated training of potential wardens in the service of ICON (the Issalian Clandestine Operative Network) as war looms with the Empire after the capital of Kalimar falls in a surprise attack.
Included among trainees at the magic academy at Fallbrandt are Everson Gulagus who uses his genius to harness a magical power source to augment his new inventions and refurbished older machines; his sister Quinn, a warrior training to be an espion (an undercover spy) waiting to be sent on her first mission; as well as King Brock’s royal twin pranksters Brandt and Cassie Talenz, strong telepaths.

Fast-paced, intensity and suspense mount when Prince Broland, the Crown Prince of Kantar finds a new friend and sparring partner in Kany Kearns after the twins leave for Fallbrandt; Chuli and her team are sent on a mission to Hipoint; and Quinn is sent into servitude to the citadel in Sol Polis to gather information on the Empire’s plans for war. With twists and turns that keep you riveted, the action escalates as the danger grows with the Empire’s new weapon used in an attack against the Red Viper, and Quinn’s confrontation when a soldier threatens the life of Varius, pushing the archon into changing a vital decision.

Slow at first as Jeffrey L. Kohanek builds the background of the story and develops relationships between the characters like Brandt and Quinn whose feelings ignite after being propelled into a dangerous situation in the citadel, the main theme picks up momentum halfway through, flowing quickly to an exciting ending that begs for a third book.

Skillfully the author creates multifaceted and compelling characters that bring this story to life like the brilliant, innovative Everson Gulagus who’s awkward around women he cares for; the tough, firm and resolute espion Jacquinn (Quinn) Gulagus; arrogant, overconfident and fearless royal Brandt Talenz; his twin the adventurous, clever and more level-headed Cassilyn (Cassie); and the privileged, responsible heir to the throne, Broland Talenz. All infuse this thrill-ride with tension, depth, and passion.

I enjoyed “the Arcane Ward” as the adventure continues and war looms and can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

[KB · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series is getting better and better! I found Quinn to be the main focus. She has been training to become an espion, a spy for ICON. In The Arcane Ward, she is finally able to go on her first mission, in the heart of the Empire!

The characters are constantly growing. Quinn, a hot-headed soldier who would fight first and ask questions later, learns patience and when she should fight, and when she should hold her tongue. Everson makes a few appearances as well. He's still a bit oblivious to the feelings of those around him, but he's learning to speak up for what he wants, despite the risks.

I want to say that there are good guys and bad guys in this series, but only grey exists. You want to cheer for ICON as we are surrounded by characters from ICON, but not all of the Empire's people are awful. Both sides have committed despicable acts.

I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, releasing in December. There is a war brewing. Who will succeed? ICON with their chaos, or the Empire with their flash bombs? I can't wait to find out!

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great book! My favorite characters are back with new adventures, joined by new characters that are also amazing! I’m so glad I found this author and his books.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are back with Everson and Quinn for part of the book and meet a few new ones for the other part. Cassie and Brandt are twins and have a telepathic connection when makes them valuable to ICON. Add in that they come from very powerful parents and they are the newbies to watch at the Arcane Ward. Lots of action and we even get to travel to some different places. Story was well paced and written so you didn't get confused on who you were reading about. Overall a great addition to the series.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

The next part in Everson and Quinn's journey. I am still loving these two, but the new additions are great as well. This time around the story starts out with other characters, then you get to see Everson and Quinn interacting with them. The twins, Brandt and Cassie, are mischief makers sent to train as wardens. I can't wait to see where this all leads in the next book. I am sure I won't be able to put that one down either.

[Roger · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Arcane Ward (Wardens of Issalia Book 2) my fourth read from author Jeffrey L. Kohanek was amazing, even better than the first three! Well-written with intricately developed characters you can invest heavily in and the story-line with its intricate twists & surprises as the tension & suspense ratchets up throughout the book’s length. 280 pages but reads longer with the attention to detail written into the book. Next up is An Imperial gambit (Wardens of Issalia Book 3)! (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).

[Ola Adamska · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really good book 2. With fantastic characters and engaging plot.
We get here new characters - royal siblings with special powers - they were refreshing and added fierce plot moments to the book to the scene.
I will be happy to read book 3 as a universe created by Mr. Kohanek is really intriguing.

[Jessica Chillcott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this. I couldn’t put this book done. Loved the twins and Quinn. I can’t wait for the next book to co e out. I am going to back and buy the previous series and the first book to this series. That’s how much I loved the book.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing book that has all the old characters and new ones added. It’s impossible to put the book down and once you start you just keep on reading. You feel as if you’re part of the story. Loved it.

[LooseBoots · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This is just great. I enjoyed the first book immensely but the sequel is even better. Love the characters and the storyline. Not giving anything away but you won’t be disappointed if you read this. Magic.

[Janeandjerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arcane Ward (Wardens of Issalia Book 2)

I'm happy to say that this was worth reading and can't wait to read the next book in this series

[John Piper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great series, I love it! Very captivating, and such a unique world Jeffrey has created. Great characters, writing, dialog, storyline and action! I highly recommend checking it out!

[Jas · Rating 4 out of 5]

As with the other books in the Issalian saga, this one is also split into a series of events that take place. In book 1 of this series, we got to meet the brother and sister team of Everson and Quinn, with Quinn being the fighter who just doesn’t stop, and Everson the engineering genius, who has even created mechanical legs charged with chaos for his crippled legs. At the end of book 1, we found out about ICON – the secret organisation that had been set up by King Brock to counter the threat posed by the return of the Empire.
With the re-emergence of the Empire as a Nation State, them having taken all of Vinacci and several other areas using the power of ‘flashpowder’ that was developed by Hedgewick and Jarlish at the end of the Horde war in the Runes series. Jarlish has further enhanced the power of the powder, creating new weapons with it, to try and counter the abilities of those with Chaos powers.
At the start of book 2 we get to meet King Brock and Queen Ashland’s children, Cassilyn (Cassie) and Brandt the twins, as well as Broland the older son, and Heir to the throne.
Initially the story centres around the younger Cassie and Brandt, and we see how they are not only highly intelligent, but mischevious as they are seeking something to keep them entertained, the education they are receiving not being enough to keep them busy enough as it is too far below them. As a result, they are sent to Fallbrandt, where they get a serious culture shock, as they are not the Prince and Princess anymore, just a pair of students who have famous last names. This is the first part of the story, as we follow the pair and learn about their childhood, as well as their induction to Fallbrandt. However, they are not sent to the ‘Academy’ as such, they are sent straight to I.C.O.N. – or the Issalian Clandestine Operative Network to train as either “Espion’s” (Spies) or “Gageteer’s” (Engineers).
At the same time, we continue to learn about Quinn and Everson, who are still at Fallbrandt, and of course, encounter the twins, along with the rest of those from book 1. We also get to meet a few new characters.
This is the second part of the book, and it is a really interesting, and quite fun part of the book, as we learn not only about the twins, and their abilities (which they have some unique and fascinating abilities being the children of Brock and Ashland), but we get to learn all about ICON, and how they operate. There is a lot of political intrigue that unfolds in this particular story as well. We not only get to see Cassie and Brandt’s story, but we get to see Broland’s story as well as he makes a new friend in Kony, a relative who is brought in to help him, not just socially, but with training as well.
I don’t want to give too much away, but as this book progresses, the political events that are unfolding within the story (as in the Empire having taken over part of the Kingdom, and threatening to kill all unchosen), has a serious impact on the two sets of siblings and their friends.
As with all these books, the character work is just exceptional, Kohanek does a masterful job of creating these characters that you immediately fall in love with and get so engaged with. The twins are just brilliant, these young inquisitive minds, that have so much untapped and extraordinary power, but at the same time, they are also unsure of their positions in life, given that they feel that they are kind of ‘spares’ as Broland is the heir, and thus they have no point? Attending ICON gives their lives meaning, and both of them become fully enamoured in not just the academy, but the other students as well (Brandt most certainly does with Quinn in about 5secs after seeing her).
We also get to see a lot of other characters in this book, such as the Tantarri Chuli, the niece of Puri (Cam’s Wife), who has become a Warden as well, a type of Ranger. This aspect of the story, this little band of ‘Rangers’ going on missions is utterly fascinating.
The world building in this story is just outstanding. There are so many different aspects to the storyline, so many different plotlines going on, that you just get lost in this world. It is not just the siblings, and their circle of friends. There is this political world that is turning in the background, moving pieces on this amazing board in the background (and Kohanek has provided this detailed map that he refers to so that you know exactly what is going on, where, and with who at all times, making the political situation so easy to follow). The in-depth nature and intrigue of this element of the story, which is so intricate, is just remarkable, and adds so much extra to this series.
Overall, this is a stunning sequel, in a series that is not on captivating, but so clever, one that any Fantasy lover, regardless of the genre will love. Seriously Epic and not to be missed!!!

[James (ObservantRaven) · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Arcane ward is the sequel to A Warden’s Purpose and the second book in the Warden’s of Issalia series. When I first started reading The Arcane Ward is was intrigued to see how Jeffrey L. Kohanek would progress the story as the ending to A Warden’s Purpose was a very interesting and was left in such a way that there was a lot that could be done with the story.

Upon reading the first chapter I discovered that I was not going to be immediately reunited with Everson and Quinn. Instead we are introduced to two new characters, Brandt and Cassilyn who are the son and daughter of the main character’s Brock and Ashland from the Runes of Issalia series. With this diversion in the story I was intrigued to see how these characters would play out considering how much of an important role their mother and father played in the previous series. What we get are two characters who initially come across as two spoiled, rude and very arrogant children who are always causing trouble for their parents.

When I first started reading about Brandt and Cassilyn I was slightly surprised by their behavior as I found it a little difficult to believe that the son and daughter of Brock and Ashland would grow up to be this way and was slightly disappointed to see them developed this way.

However this is changes when they start to attend the Fallbrandt Academy and they start to develop into more likeable and interesting characters, especially with a special power these two have. There is one particular instance in the book where Cassilyn and Brandt both have their ego’s popped and they quickly realise that they aren’t as talented as the have lead themselves to believe, this quickly changes their attitudes and even humbles them slightly.

One aspect of The Arcane Ward I didn’t enjoy as much as the previous book was the story. Due to the introduction of Cassilyn and Brandt a lot of time is spent developing them and seeing their interactions with Everson and Quinn as well as the other characters at the academy. Due to this we don’t really see any real progression in the story until around the 50% mark. This however is balanced off with the fact that Jeffrey L. Kohanek has made all the characters very interesting in their own way and it makes it a lot easier to progress through the book even when not much is happening with the main plot.

Once you reach the point in the book where the story starts to progress further we quickly start to see where the story is headed and we are treated to some fantastic scenes with Quinn in particular. Due to these scenes and her interactions with other characters I have found Quinn quickly becoming my favourite character in this series.

With how The Arcane Ward ended I am very intrigued to see how the story progresses from here because with most of the main character development out of the way I can see the third book in the series by a very wild and enjoyable ride. Even though I didn’t enjoy this The Arcane Ward as much as the previous book A Warden’s Purpose I still enjoyed it overall and I am really looking forward to seeing what Jeffrey L. Kohanek has planned for the sequel.

[Melinda Cater · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Arcane Ward, the second book in the Wardens of Issalia series is even better than the first! (Is that possible? You may ask… Why yes it is!)

I love this book in particular because of its use of technology and how Chaos can be utilized in it’s creation. I found this whole idea very intriguing. Another aspect of this book I greatly enjoyed is the addition of not one, but two, romantic subplots. Which I myself, do appreciate. And if you have ever read any of Jeffrey L. Kohanek’s other books you would agree he does an exceptional job at writing romance. This was one aspect I very much missed in A Warden’s Purpose but am extremely glad he added.

Now having been interrogated and verified, Quinn and Everson find themselves as new recruits, wardens, in a secret organization known as ICON. Everson is tasked with creating new and exciting uses and technologies that harness the power of Chaos (magic that had been only rediscovered 18 years ago in the Runes of Issalia series). Quinn, on the other hand, finds herself training as an Espion, a spy. She is tasked with developing new persons, the art of subterfuge, and continuing her combat training.

The wardens are on a secret mission to discover the plans of the Empire and thwart them at any cost. If they fail, those who can wheeled this new magic will suffer persecution, imprisonment and death at the hands of the Empire.

In The Arcane Ward we are introduced to an array of new characters, as well as, some old favorites from the Runes of Issalia series. All of which are written excellently.

My favorite character of the entire Issalia world is introduced, Prince Brandt Talenz. He is the 2nd born son of King Brock and Queen Ashland and he and his twin sister Cassilyn (Cassie) are also sent to the Arcane Ward to train as wardens. Brandt is a danger loving, prank playing, absolutely loyal hero, which I enjoy wholeheartedly. His fun loving nature balances perfectly with his need to have a challenge and purpose for his life and he brings a dash of humor to the serious nature of the storyline.

All in all, the Wardens of Issalia continues to get better with each subsequent novel. Intrigue, magic, and creation continue to expand in this amazing world.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I loved most about this book was how it set it up for the next one. I know that probably sounds weird, but I'm so looking forward to seeing how what happened in this book plays out. I so want to know if Brock and co. survived the explosion (I'm so hoping they did) and what's going to happen when Iko returns home to find Quinn as his mother's bodyguard.

This book answered all my questions I had from the last book about the magic system and the Empire.

I really liked the new characters and having more perspectives than just Everson and Quinn's. At first, Brandt and Cassie just irritated me so much. They were so childish and annoying. But once they got to the Ward, I liked them much better.

I knew almost right away that Kony was a traitor. Although I didn't guess that he was really Iko. That's what makes these books so interesting: you don't really know who to trust.

I have a hard time visualizing the descriptive parts of these books. I don't know if it's because I want to know what's going to happen so I just skim over those parts or if it's for some other reason.

I also have a hard time keeping some of the characters straight. Especially the Masters of the Ward. I would really like to see things from one of their perspectives in the next book.

I so so wish we could have spent more time at Chuli's home. I find her people so interesting and we only got to spend like a couple pages there.

I am looking forward to the next book and I so wish it were available already!!

[Rally Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Arcane Ward is a great continuation of Wardens of Issalia. The political intrigue takes front row, with one of the main characters being sent out as a spy. The neighbouring empire seeks to wage war and eliminate chaos wielders (again), but the Wardens of Issalia are having none of it! However, new weapons are discovered to be part of the enemy's arsenal, and things aren't as easy as they seem.

As usual, I adore the characters, new and old. The twins are fabulous, their curious nature and magical talents too good not to mention. And I also LOVED to follow Quinn on her undercover mission. She is such a great character. And, hold on, CAM'S son??? Well, hello there!! I was SO pleased to have him enter the picture!!

The story is well-paced and the political intrigue runs as a red line throughout the entire book. The action is somewhat sparses than earlier Issalia books, but those scenes are fabulously done. Oh, I absolutely loved the twist with the ruler of the Empire, how she is not quite like what one would expect.

Note: I listened to the audiobook and the narrator, Tim Campbell, continues to do a great job bringing the characters to life.

[Alan Behan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic read, The Arcane ward is the sequel to A Warden’s Purpose and the second book in the Warden’s of Issalia series. We are introduced to new characters, more awesome magic of chaos. What I love Jeffrey L.Kohanek's worlds is the magic systems he uses are quite intriguing and very interesting. In this book we follow our Old hero King Brock and Ashland twins Brandt and Cassilyn, they are sent to the academy to learn more about their magic abilities and to be come arcane wards. Everson is a gadgeteer, tasked with harnessing a magical power source. As an espion, Quinn hones her skills in preparation of her first mission. Intense training, combined with her fierce determination and fearless nature, transforms her into a killing machine. Sent into enemy territory to spy. She uncovers that enemy poses destructive weapons. The Empire is rising and with this new information will force the wardens into action. Great worldbuilding, plot and setting, Narrator Cambell gives us another great preformence, highly recommend...😁💥🔥

[Pamela Cunningham · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book of The (Wardens of Issalia book series .

Okay a lot went down in this book and I still don't know if I like the twins I do feel sorry for the circumstances that destroyed all of these young people's lives . But what's bugging me is how I'll can do easily infiltrate all of these important places I mean shouldn't they have some kind of failsafe in place just for spies and assassin's . I mean com on I'll is killing important people left and right and the poor Prince is gonna be crushed if he survives he really liked that bastard Kon/Iko . And Quinn she had a chance too walk away and let Wyke do what needed to be done I get what she was trying to do and she did good but the lasting effects of her choice is not gonna be good . I don't know to's gonna happen know that Iko is headed back home what is Quinn gonna do they can't meet or her cover will be blown and how will the twins react when they find out about their family .

[Kameron · Rating 4 out of 5]

(3.5 stars)

Along the pages of The Arcane Ward, readers will witness battles on sea and land, sparring sessions, magic-infused moments, a few comedic instances and much, much more.

Like Jeffrey’s other works, he developed characters that had ample time to display their strengths/skills. In his creations, a reader will be assured that all genders will have their moment in the spotlight.

If you haven’t read anything by Jeffrey yet, I highly recommend giving his stories a chance.

Oh, one last thing: I’m so happy oversized badgers don’t really exist. A normal size badger can be intimidating enough (in my opinion) but a badger that is 3-4 times larger than a bear…… No, thank you!!!

[Fiona Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must admit to some confusion on starting this book. It seemed to skip from person to person. Once I got past the first four chapters and I’d figured out who was who I found the book enthralling. The twins Cassie and Brandt were born mischief makers and there powers greater than they ever imagined. Being sent to school to train as Wardens is the best thing to happen to them. I found myself caught up with all the different personalities and wondering how they were going to be able to work together. I think it would have helped me greatly if I had read the first book of this series. Saying that I still managed to figure out everything and totally enjoyed the book. Highly recommend.

[Cathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Too many characters; the story got confusing

I liked this book at the beginning, but then it got confusing with the different pairs of brothers and sisters, cousins, aunts and uncles. Then there were the students and the senior instructors; people going on missions not knowing where they are going and being separated from their classmates. I don't want to read any more of these books. Sorry.

[Dylan Everly · Rating 2 out of 5]

The plot is very weak and has wide gaps. The ads for this series compared it to books by Rothfus and Sanderson couldn’t be further from the truth. There’s magic to devine truth, but they just let an unknown person infiltrate the kings family without pause. The cast from the first series are utterly useless in these books even though they are maybe in their 30s and a handful of them were able to conquer the continent without any issue.

[Rosemary Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have submitted this review after listening to the audiobook of this title within the series set box. (Audible Membership)
Both sides of this coming conflict were gathering information and anialinating possible enemies.
Yet, oddly, we get a wistfulness from some on each side that they were wanting the coming war to be diverted.
The use of chaos seems to have been balanced with the flint stone weapons, so if war were to occur, it was going to mean thousands of deaths.

[Tera Comer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being a mother of twins I found Cassie and Brandt rather amusing, their antics keep everyone busy. They are new characters that were not in the first book but fit in perfectly into the story line. Love the characters and the story line, and recommend this series to anyone that wants a good read. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Dániel · Rating 2 out of 5]

As I get older and older (almost reaching up to Methuselah with my 25 whole years), I find myself more and more irritated by teen relationship drama.

Second book was alright, up until robot boy decided to smooch the sad girl, who was crying, because her boyfriend was going away for a while. At this point I came here, looking at low star reviews, and found out, that cyborg chap's love life only gets more complicated later. This made me look for something better to read. (Instead I went and read some even more irritating stuff, but that's not the authors fault.)