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Rule #2
Rise
Dark pasts and forbidden romances haunt three ambitious sisters as they fight to inherit the throne in this sequel to Rule, which New York Times bestselling author Elly Blake called "dazzling" and "pulse-pounding."Sisters Akeylah, Ren, and Zofi are all a step closer to their dying father's throne, a step closer to the crown that will allow one of them to rule over Kolonya. But the sisters' pasts continue to haunt them. Each hides a secret marked with blood and betrayal, and now their blackmailer is holding nothing back. When King Andros discovers the sisters' traitorous pasts, the consequences will shake the entire kingdom to its core. As Kolonya's greatest threat stalks closer and closer, weaving a web of fear and deceit around Ren, Zofi, and Akeylah, even the people they love are under suspicion. If the sisters are going to survive, they'll have to learn to trust each other above all else and work together, not only to save themselves, but to protect everyone and everything they hold dear.With shocking reveals and suspenseful storytelling, this breathtaking sequel to Rule will keep you guessing until the very last page.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 11, 2019
43 people are currently reading
4040 people want to read
About the author
Ellen Goodlett
9 books365 followersEllen Goodlett writes because otherwise she would spend her days plotting to take over the world. She figures that the former would benefit humanity ever so slightly more than the latter (which would be disastrous and involve a lot of cats in government positions). Her debut novel, RULE, about three girls competing for the throne in a fantasy world, will publish in fall 2018 with Little Brown.
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September 10, 2018A Brief Summary
RULE: wow, some people are horrible.
RISE: ... oh god, EVERYONE IS ATROCIOUS.
RULE: wow, some people are horrible.
RISE: ... oh god, EVERYONE IS ATROCIOUS.
November 13, 2020
Overall Rating : B
This sequel pulled this duology up to a pretty great piece of work. A little stilted in some parts, and there wasn't very much character development, but the pace of this story kept everything intense and enjoyable. Also, I feel like the reveal of the main antagonist was greatly overshadow by the fact that Let's just say things got pretty weird in this book.
I did like the fact that no one in this book was completely innocent, they just dealt with the hand they had and made the best of it. But Zofi, Ren, and Akeylah had each other's backs the entire time, no matter what. So good to read about a profound sisterhood.
A short, wild, intense read for when you're down in the reading slumps that I believed could have been stretched through multiple books. Good luck everybody!👍
This sequel pulled this duology up to a pretty great piece of work. A little stilted in some parts, and there wasn't very much character development, but the pace of this story kept everything intense and enjoyable. Also, I feel like the reveal of the main antagonist was greatly overshadow by the fact that Let's just say things got pretty weird in this book.
I did like the fact that no one in this book was completely innocent, they just dealt with the hand they had and made the best of it. But Zofi, Ren, and Akeylah had each other's backs the entire time, no matter what. So good to read about a profound sisterhood.
A short, wild, intense read for when you're down in the reading slumps that I believed could have been stretched through multiple books. Good luck everybody!👍
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February 5, 2020Thank goodness this one is coming out this year because the end of RULE was just mean.
Full review 2020:
This is the second in a duology. The first is Rule. I recommend the series for people who like fantasy, courtly politics, and strong female characters.
* * *
The three sisters are still reeling from the events of the first novel. Akeylah, Zofi, and Ren are a step closer to their dying father’s throne, but so is the blackmailer. It’s getting harder and harder for them to keep their secrets. When King Andros discovers their pasts, the consequences for the three sisters and the kingdom are dire. As the blackmailer turns to increasingly dangerous means to get them to reveal their secrets, the three sisters realize there is only one way forward if they want to live: they must trust each other above all else.
*
I listened to this as an audiobook and found the three narrators for Akeylah, Zofi, and Ren very good. I appreciated that there were three separate narrators for them because it gave the book more depth. I’ve been listening to more audiobooks lately and I find that I’m more engaged in ones that have multiple narrators because they raise the stakes so much more.
I feel very so-so about this book, however. I think that if you enjoyed Rule you’ll enjoy this one, but honestly I think the two books could have been one. While the first book introduces the characters and setting incredibly well, there wasn’t a ton of new information introduced in Rise that we didn’t already know as readers. I feel like the stakes were higher, but they were not really changed from the first novel. There were a couple of new stakes, but honestly most of them were a continuation of the previous book’s stakes. And I wanted something different.
I did love how the three characters grew into their roles. Even though they were being tortured by the blackmailer, they became more secure in using their power and their roles as daughters of King Andros. Their character growth was easily the best part of the book. They became more confident in themselves and each other. I’m always here to read more books that have characters growing and supporting each other, especially when they’re sisters.
Unfortunately, there were some plot choices / twists that I really could not get behind. I won’t spoil them, but if you look at other reviews it will be easy to discover what I’m talking about. I honestly found it unnecessary. Between that and the fact that I was able to predict a few of the things about the book I wasn’t super into this book.
That said, I think this is a decent conclusion to the duology and worth a read if you’ve read the first novel. I really enjoyed the writing itself and I liked that it was a fantasy mystery.
* * *
Have you read this series? What are some tropes you can’t get behind?
Full review 2020:
This is the second in a duology. The first is Rule. I recommend the series for people who like fantasy, courtly politics, and strong female characters.
* * *
The three sisters are still reeling from the events of the first novel. Akeylah, Zofi, and Ren are a step closer to their dying father’s throne, but so is the blackmailer. It’s getting harder and harder for them to keep their secrets. When King Andros discovers their pasts, the consequences for the three sisters and the kingdom are dire. As the blackmailer turns to increasingly dangerous means to get them to reveal their secrets, the three sisters realize there is only one way forward if they want to live: they must trust each other above all else.
*
I listened to this as an audiobook and found the three narrators for Akeylah, Zofi, and Ren very good. I appreciated that there were three separate narrators for them because it gave the book more depth. I’ve been listening to more audiobooks lately and I find that I’m more engaged in ones that have multiple narrators because they raise the stakes so much more.
I feel very so-so about this book, however. I think that if you enjoyed Rule you’ll enjoy this one, but honestly I think the two books could have been one. While the first book introduces the characters and setting incredibly well, there wasn’t a ton of new information introduced in Rise that we didn’t already know as readers. I feel like the stakes were higher, but they were not really changed from the first novel. There were a couple of new stakes, but honestly most of them were a continuation of the previous book’s stakes. And I wanted something different.
I did love how the three characters grew into their roles. Even though they were being tortured by the blackmailer, they became more secure in using their power and their roles as daughters of King Andros. Their character growth was easily the best part of the book. They became more confident in themselves and each other. I’m always here to read more books that have characters growing and supporting each other, especially when they’re sisters.
Unfortunately, there were some plot choices / twists that I really could not get behind. I won’t spoil them, but if you look at other reviews it will be easy to discover what I’m talking about. I honestly found it unnecessary. Between that and the fact that I was able to predict a few of the things about the book I wasn’t super into this book.
That said, I think this is a decent conclusion to the duology and worth a read if you’ve read the first novel. I really enjoyed the writing itself and I liked that it was a fantasy mystery.
* * *
Have you read this series? What are some tropes you can’t get behind?
July 1, 2019
This is such an awesome follow-up to Rule. I love the world that Ellen Goodlett has created, and her sisters. They're just so awesome!! Strong in their own ways, with distinct and interesting personalities. This book had so many twists and turns - I truly didn't know how it was all going to shake out, but I love how it did. Great writing, great characters, great world.
January 19, 2020
I liked the first book, it was intriguing and fast-paced. This time around I wasn't so happy. The character growth was good but the pacing was too slow, there were so many unnecessary love scenes, and the plot had so many holes. I just wanted it to be over.
January 8, 2022
La dernière fois que j’ai autant survoler un livre c’était pour le troisième tome de Phobos.
Mais j’ai insisté car je voulais bien connaître qui était le méchant de cette histoire.
Si j’avais trouve le tome 1 sympathique je ne l’avais pas non plus trouvé incroyable (3/5). Là, je pense que j’ai finalement trop attendu avant de lire ce deuxième et dernier tome. Je n’étais plus dans l’histoire.
Tant pis !
Mais j’ai insisté car je voulais bien connaître qui était le méchant de cette histoire.
Si j’avais trouve le tome 1 sympathique je ne l’avais pas non plus trouvé incroyable (3/5). Là, je pense que j’ai finalement trop attendu avant de lire ce deuxième et dernier tome. Je n’étais plus dans l’histoire.
Tant pis !
August 31, 2025
J’ai vraiment ADORÉ cette série! Les personnages, l’univers, la magie, l’intrigue, l’ambiance. Tout était vraiment super, j’ai passé un très très bon moment avec ces deux tomes.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ : Adoré
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ : Adoré
June 4, 2021
Esta segunda parte continúa la historia justo donde se pausó el libro anterior. Seguimos con cientos de incógnitas y mucho suspense respecto a quien es el extorsionador de las tres protagonistas. La verdad es que éstos libros cuentan con bastantes plot twist y no me esperaba lo que ha ocurrido. Es una historia que engancha y te anima a querer saber más y más. Por ponerle una pega, quizá ésta segunda parte se ha hecho más lenta en algunos puntos, pivotando sobre las mismas cuestiones una y otra vez, pero la autora sabe recuperar el ritmo en seguida, y esa pesadez, se te olvida.
En cuanto al final, creo que ha estado bien aunque la forma de cerrar ciertos frentes abiertos, me ha parecido un poco forzada. En su totalidad es una buena bilogía. Se lee muy rápido y es adictiva.
Para terminar, respecto a los personajes, he de decir que Zofi es mi favorita. Akeylah también me ha gustado mucho. Sus historias son las más interesante. En cuanto a Florencia, no conseguí empatizar mucho con ella desde un inicio, su personalidad no acababa de convencerme y la notaba muy prepotente, pero en general, las he cogido cierto cariño a las tres.
Estos libros son muy recomendables para aquellos a los que les guste el salseo, las intrigas palaciegas, el suspense y ciertos toques de fantasía. Ha sido una lectura muy acertada para mi.
En cuanto al final, creo que ha estado bien aunque la forma de cerrar ciertos frentes abiertos, me ha parecido un poco forzada. En su totalidad es una buena bilogía. Se lee muy rápido y es adictiva.
Para terminar, respecto a los personajes, he de decir que Zofi es mi favorita. Akeylah también me ha gustado mucho. Sus historias son las más interesante. En cuanto a Florencia, no conseguí empatizar mucho con ella desde un inicio, su personalidad no acababa de convencerme y la notaba muy prepotente, pero en general, las he cogido cierto cariño a las tres.
Estos libros son muy recomendables para aquellos a los que les guste el salseo, las intrigas palaciegas, el suspense y ciertos toques de fantasía. Ha sido una lectura muy acertada para mi.
Want to read
September 11, 2018Wait, Rule, which I still have to read, just came out today. But the sequel already has a cover and a synopsis!? Well dang, this publisher is working fast. Won't read the synopsis for now though cause I don't wanna be spoiled lol
June 27, 2019
*Source* Library
*Genre* Young Adult, Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Rise, by author Ellen Goodlett, is the second and final installment in the authors Rule duology. Author combines perennially popular fantasy and adventure tropes--a battle for the crown, dark magic, secret heritages--with a romantic, commercial plot, including a central F/F romance. This is the perfect duology for people who like a little bit of Pretty Little Liars with their Game of Thrones. The story picks up immediately where Rule left off and rapidly moves quickly. It is a story filled with betrayals, surprises, and a mystery that held my attention until the very end.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Young Adult, Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Rise, by author Ellen Goodlett, is the second and final installment in the authors Rule duology. Author combines perennially popular fantasy and adventure tropes--a battle for the crown, dark magic, secret heritages--with a romantic, commercial plot, including a central F/F romance. This is the perfect duology for people who like a little bit of Pretty Little Liars with their Game of Thrones. The story picks up immediately where Rule left off and rapidly moves quickly. It is a story filled with betrayals, surprises, and a mystery that held my attention until the very end.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
August 16, 2019
Originally posted on The Nerd Daily | Review by Nathalie DeFelice
A quick warning to those who haven’t picked up Rule, you should stop reading this review now, because I would hate to spoil an amazing story! Now, I’ve been waiting for Rise for about a year, and didn’t have the opportunity to pick it up until very recently. I’d been dying to jump back into the world of Kolonya and the Reaches, and I was definitely in for more than a fair share of surprises, suspense, and so much more. The character development is intense, and Akeylah, Zofi, and Ren were just masterfully created. Their suspicion will seep into your own thoughts, and you’ll be wondering who’s the cause right along with them. If you’ve read Rule and need an excuse to go and pick up Rise, this is definitely it!
As we learned in Rule, Zofi, Akeylah, and Ren are sisters that have been summoned by the ailing king in order to vie for the throne. Unfortunately, each sister has a hidden secret that can rock the kingdom of Kolonya, and someone is using that information to blackmail them. Now in Rise, the blackmailer isn’t holding back any punches, and the king soon finds out of the girls’ betrayals. As the web of fear and lies begins to grow, the sisters will have to trust and rely on one another, if they’d like to protect the kingdom and those they hold dear.
That’s the shortest summary I’ve ever written I think, and it’s mostly because I really can’t say anymore without potentially spoiling something in the story. Like in Rule, the story still has this urgent feeling, like something sinister is afoot and there is nothing anyone can do to stop it. As the girls try to solve the mystery of who’s blackmailing them, it’s clear that it’s not as simple as following breadcrumbs. Everyone has something to gain…or lose, making everyone a suspect. Lots of characters are called into question, and I was definitely shocked to find out who the blackmailer was.
One of my favourite things about Zofi, Akeylah, and Ren is that they’re not damsels in distress. They aren’t waiting for some prince or perfect solution to come along and rescue them. They’ve been hardened by their stations in life, Zofi and Akeylah especially. These girls take matters into their own hands (sometimes at a detriment to their lives) in order to not only help each other, but to help the kingdom survive. There was something to be said about the theme of sisterhood in the story. Despite the fact that the girls were pitted as enemies in Rule, they grow and learn what sisterhood means to each one of them. They use their backgrounds and upbringing to their advantage, and we see three completely different personalities come into play. These girls were completely unforgettable.
There are definitely some darker elements of course, particularly in how magic is practised in the world of Kolonya. It deals with blood-letting, and so if you’ve read Rule and were averse to it then, there’s a little more of that happening in Rise, so I’d steer clear if it makes you uncomfortable. Otherwise, it made for an interesting magic system, and I felt like I definitely got to know more about it in this book. I had so many questions as to how the girls were perceiving certain things, and I felt like those got answered within the story.
I have to say that I loved the romances happening in this book. We had a tenuous relationship develop into a trusting bond, one developing out of mutual friendship despite it’s taboo origins, and another out of rebellion. If that sounds extra vague, it definitely is. I don’t want to give away a single thing from this book. Although I will say that I wished the forbidden romance in this book hadn’t formed in the way it did. It felt a little taboo, but you’ll have to read it to see what I mean.
When I was thinking about things that I didn’t like about this story, I came up empty. I started this late at night and finished the story within three hours. I couldn’t put it down, I was so engrossed in what was going to happen next. If I’m being honest, this would have been an amazing story to turn into a series. There were still some things about Kolonya that I would have loved to see developed. We get to see quite a bit more of the history of some of the people, but not of others. However, the ending of the book was very satisfying for me to read. It’s still an incredible journey that is memorable, and everyone will have some aspect of the story that they love. Whether it be the sisterhood, romances, magic system, or backstabbing kingdom politics, there will surely be something in there for you to love.
I’m rating this a 9/10. It’s a stunning read. You should pick this up and give it a go, because I have a feeling that it will pull others into the world as it did me. You’ll sit on the edge of your seat wondering who the culprit is, and their motivations behind their actions will make you gasp in shock. I cannot say it enough, go and pick this up!
A quick warning to those who haven’t picked up Rule, you should stop reading this review now, because I would hate to spoil an amazing story! Now, I’ve been waiting for Rise for about a year, and didn’t have the opportunity to pick it up until very recently. I’d been dying to jump back into the world of Kolonya and the Reaches, and I was definitely in for more than a fair share of surprises, suspense, and so much more. The character development is intense, and Akeylah, Zofi, and Ren were just masterfully created. Their suspicion will seep into your own thoughts, and you’ll be wondering who’s the cause right along with them. If you’ve read Rule and need an excuse to go and pick up Rise, this is definitely it!
As we learned in Rule, Zofi, Akeylah, and Ren are sisters that have been summoned by the ailing king in order to vie for the throne. Unfortunately, each sister has a hidden secret that can rock the kingdom of Kolonya, and someone is using that information to blackmail them. Now in Rise, the blackmailer isn’t holding back any punches, and the king soon finds out of the girls’ betrayals. As the web of fear and lies begins to grow, the sisters will have to trust and rely on one another, if they’d like to protect the kingdom and those they hold dear.
That’s the shortest summary I’ve ever written I think, and it’s mostly because I really can’t say anymore without potentially spoiling something in the story. Like in Rule, the story still has this urgent feeling, like something sinister is afoot and there is nothing anyone can do to stop it. As the girls try to solve the mystery of who’s blackmailing them, it’s clear that it’s not as simple as following breadcrumbs. Everyone has something to gain…or lose, making everyone a suspect. Lots of characters are called into question, and I was definitely shocked to find out who the blackmailer was.
One of my favourite things about Zofi, Akeylah, and Ren is that they’re not damsels in distress. They aren’t waiting for some prince or perfect solution to come along and rescue them. They’ve been hardened by their stations in life, Zofi and Akeylah especially. These girls take matters into their own hands (sometimes at a detriment to their lives) in order to not only help each other, but to help the kingdom survive. There was something to be said about the theme of sisterhood in the story. Despite the fact that the girls were pitted as enemies in Rule, they grow and learn what sisterhood means to each one of them. They use their backgrounds and upbringing to their advantage, and we see three completely different personalities come into play. These girls were completely unforgettable.
There are definitely some darker elements of course, particularly in how magic is practised in the world of Kolonya. It deals with blood-letting, and so if you’ve read Rule and were averse to it then, there’s a little more of that happening in Rise, so I’d steer clear if it makes you uncomfortable. Otherwise, it made for an interesting magic system, and I felt like I definitely got to know more about it in this book. I had so many questions as to how the girls were perceiving certain things, and I felt like those got answered within the story.
I have to say that I loved the romances happening in this book. We had a tenuous relationship develop into a trusting bond, one developing out of mutual friendship despite it’s taboo origins, and another out of rebellion. If that sounds extra vague, it definitely is. I don’t want to give away a single thing from this book. Although I will say that I wished the forbidden romance in this book hadn’t formed in the way it did. It felt a little taboo, but you’ll have to read it to see what I mean.
When I was thinking about things that I didn’t like about this story, I came up empty. I started this late at night and finished the story within three hours. I couldn’t put it down, I was so engrossed in what was going to happen next. If I’m being honest, this would have been an amazing story to turn into a series. There were still some things about Kolonya that I would have loved to see developed. We get to see quite a bit more of the history of some of the people, but not of others. However, the ending of the book was very satisfying for me to read. It’s still an incredible journey that is memorable, and everyone will have some aspect of the story that they love. Whether it be the sisterhood, romances, magic system, or backstabbing kingdom politics, there will surely be something in there for you to love.
I’m rating this a 9/10. It’s a stunning read. You should pick this up and give it a go, because I have a feeling that it will pull others into the world as it did me. You’ll sit on the edge of your seat wondering who the culprit is, and their motivations behind their actions will make you gasp in shock. I cannot say it enough, go and pick this up!
December 16, 2019
I don't even know where to start because, like the first book, there was a lot that I love--interesting female characters who are allowed to be different, strong sister relationships, fantasy intrigue.
At the same time, though, I felt a little frustrated with the mystery. It dragged on a little too long. While I think the magic system of using one's blood to do magic is neat (although possibly triggering for some readers), it also severely limited the amount of suspects for who was blackmailing the sisters. This led to
So while I have more mixed feelings about this book than I did about the first book, I mostly enjoyed the experience. (I listened to it in two days! I even listened to it in bed again!) Although I was on edge and not sure how I felt the majority of the book, the characters, the writing, and the strength of the ending (I do love an extended resolution with an emphasis on the relationships forged during the story) tipped the balance in favor of the book. I'm very much looking forward to reading more from Goodlett.
[Edited to add that I think it's a missed opportunity Zofi wasn't ace. I got such strong vibes in the first half of book one.]
At the same time, though, I felt a little frustrated with the mystery. It dragged on a little too long. While I think the magic system of using one's blood to do magic is neat (although possibly triggering for some readers), it also severely limited the amount of suspects for who was blackmailing the sisters. This led to
So while I have more mixed feelings about this book than I did about the first book, I mostly enjoyed the experience. (I listened to it in two days! I even listened to it in bed again!) Although I was on edge and not sure how I felt the majority of the book, the characters, the writing, and the strength of the ending (I do love an extended resolution with an emphasis on the relationships forged during the story) tipped the balance in favor of the book. I'm very much looking forward to reading more from Goodlett.
[Edited to add that I think it's a missed opportunity Zofi wasn't ace. I got such strong vibes in the first half of book one.]
dnf
May 3, 2020DNF page 241
I figured out the ending. Often, I'll continue a book even if I have some idea what's going on, but the minute I figured out what as going on, I lost all motivation to continue. I only picked up this book because the first book had a good cliffhanger.
The main three were still pretty great, no complaints other than I found it hard to imagine them as teenagers in this book? I felt maybe NA would've been better?
I figured out the ending. Often, I'll continue a book even if I have some idea what's going on, but the minute I figured out what as going on, I lost all motivation to continue. I only picked up this book because the first book had a good cliffhanger.
The main three were still pretty great, no complaints other than I found it hard to imagine them as teenagers in this book? I felt maybe NA would've been better?
May 9, 2021
4,5⭐️ Ce second tome est encore meilleur que le premier.
Nous avons des révélations qui nous laissent en haleine. En effet, dès qu’il se passait quelques choses, je voulais connaître le point de vue de chaque sœur sur la situation pour comprendre leurs opinions et bien sûr qui était le fameux « maître chanteur ».
Au final, je ne voulais pas poser mon livre tellement j’étais plongé dans l’histoire comme si j’étais présente dans le château.
Nous avons des révélations qui nous laissent en haleine. En effet, dès qu’il se passait quelques choses, je voulais connaître le point de vue de chaque sœur sur la situation pour comprendre leurs opinions et bien sûr qui était le fameux « maître chanteur ».
Au final, je ne voulais pas poser mon livre tellement j’étais plongé dans l’histoire comme si j’étais présente dans le château.
October 10, 2022
okay it was really good. and so underrated. but my favorite couples aren’t confirmed and i don’t like that. (my favorite being ALL of them)
June 13, 2019
Zofis fierce and adventurous with a strong desire to heIp her scorned fellow Travelers. Being a Traveler can make life pretty dangerous, but its instilled a fighting instincts in Zofi that will help her keep fighting when all hope seems lost. Akeylahs abusive upbringing has given her the determination and quiet strenght of a survivor. Shes smart and very perceptive. Being able to read people and hide her emotions were often essential to avoid her fathers wrath and now those skills will help her navigate court life. As for Florencia, shes the only one who has any experience with court thanks to her being raised in the palace as a maid. Her position has given her some insight into how the nobles scheme and manipulate those around them. Knowledge that will be indispensable while she tries to figure out the identity of their blackmailer.
All the three sisters have different strengths and weaknesses that complimented each other. I could tell they were happier and stronger together. They each have their own unique personalities and reasons for wanting the throne, but they ultimately want whats best for their country. My favorite was probably Akeylah, but they were all a amazing to be honest. I especially enjoyed Akeylahs sapphic romance. It has a bit of a taboo element to it because the love interest is married, but since its for political reasons they've agreed to relationships outside their marriage. I was pleasantly surprised with how the different romantic parirings left off. Zofi unlikely alliance and Rens complicated relationship both had this wonderdul hate to love element to it that I really enjoyed.
I just adored the relationship that developped between the three sisters. It had a wonderful message of being able to accomplish more together than we can apart. We get both well developped characters and a gripping plot with the threat of the sisters darkest secrets being exposed. There was a sense of danger and intensity that made the pace very engaging. I really enjoy a mysterious plot. I found each of the sisters perspective and plot lines just as compelling. I found Rens mothers story about how she met the King and Akeylahs scene with her father was super heartwarming. I was a little frustrated with one of the fights at the end when they could have killed their tormenter, but decided to run instead. Im sure once dead the vulgar arts scars would show back up and absolve them of the murder.
The world had an interesting magic system, but it deals with cutting and blood so if you're sensitive to that just be careful going in. In my opinion it's not very graphic, but it could be for someone else. The story mostly takes place at the palace, but we do spend some time with a band of Travelers in a swampy location with bridges and tents on raised platforms. We also get some fascinating Traveler history. The writing was simple and easy to get into. I found it very bingeable and quick to read. Despite the end not shocking me I still enjoyed it. Im sad this is only a duology. Im just not ready for it to be the end. I need more books with these awesome sisters. Ill definitely be reading more from this author and totally recommend this duology for pride month or any month really.
*This book was received for an honest review
All the three sisters have different strengths and weaknesses that complimented each other. I could tell they were happier and stronger together. They each have their own unique personalities and reasons for wanting the throne, but they ultimately want whats best for their country. My favorite was probably Akeylah, but they were all a amazing to be honest. I especially enjoyed Akeylahs sapphic romance. It has a bit of a taboo element to it because the love interest is married, but since its for political reasons they've agreed to relationships outside their marriage. I was pleasantly surprised with how the different romantic parirings left off. Zofi unlikely alliance and Rens complicated relationship both had this wonderdul hate to love element to it that I really enjoyed.
I just adored the relationship that developped between the three sisters. It had a wonderful message of being able to accomplish more together than we can apart. We get both well developped characters and a gripping plot with the threat of the sisters darkest secrets being exposed. There was a sense of danger and intensity that made the pace very engaging. I really enjoy a mysterious plot. I found each of the sisters perspective and plot lines just as compelling. I found Rens mothers story about how she met the King and Akeylahs scene with her father was super heartwarming. I was a little frustrated with one of the fights at the end when they could have killed their tormenter, but decided to run instead. Im sure once dead the vulgar arts scars would show back up and absolve them of the murder.
The world had an interesting magic system, but it deals with cutting and blood so if you're sensitive to that just be careful going in. In my opinion it's not very graphic, but it could be for someone else. The story mostly takes place at the palace, but we do spend some time with a band of Travelers in a swampy location with bridges and tents on raised platforms. We also get some fascinating Traveler history. The writing was simple and easy to get into. I found it very bingeable and quick to read. Despite the end not shocking me I still enjoyed it. Im sad this is only a duology. Im just not ready for it to be the end. I need more books with these awesome sisters. Ill definitely be reading more from this author and totally recommend this duology for pride month or any month really.
*This book was received for an honest review
April 9, 2020
Ellen Goodlett's Rise was a breathtaking conclusion to the Rule duology. She treats readers to court intrigue, death threats, and harrowing politics. Goodlett's writing technique is as perfect as ever. We, the readers, we lead through a series of twists and turns that will have you doubting your every assumption.
The three main characters: sisters Zofi, Akeylah, and Ren are as richly imagined as ever.
Zofi and Vidal's relationship was one of my favorite parts of the book. They seem like a pair so different: a Traveler and a Talon. Somehow, that makes the romance even better. Zofi's band of Travelers vs her sisters was a big mental conflict for her, but she resolved it.
Akeylah was the perfect choice for queen. Zofi is the skilled fighter and Ren the expert at court life, but Akeylah is smart enough to make the right decisions for the Kolonya and all the Reaches.
Ren went through the most stressful drama out of all her sisters. Being accused correctly for the murder of thousands of people isn't easy for the strongest of people. There was also the fact that her best friend for life was actually her murderous half-sister who attempted to kill her.
Would I recommend this book?
I would 100% recommend this book to anyone with a love for a court-life fantasy, though I'm sure fans of dystopian would love it as well.
The three main characters: sisters Zofi, Akeylah, and Ren are as richly imagined as ever.
Zofi and Vidal's relationship was one of my favorite parts of the book. They seem like a pair so different: a Traveler and a Talon. Somehow, that makes the romance even better. Zofi's band of Travelers vs her sisters was a big mental conflict for her, but she resolved it.
Akeylah was the perfect choice for queen. Zofi is the skilled fighter and Ren the expert at court life, but Akeylah is smart enough to make the right decisions for the Kolonya and all the Reaches.
Ren went through the most stressful drama out of all her sisters. Being accused correctly for the murder of thousands of people isn't easy for the strongest of people. There was also the fact that her best friend for life was actually her murderous half-sister who attempted to kill her.
Would I recommend this book?
I would 100% recommend this book to anyone with a love for a court-life fantasy, though I'm sure fans of dystopian would love it as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2021
Ce tome commence direct là où le tome 1 s'est terminé, sans transition, sans rappel : veuillez donc commencer le tome 2 de suite après le tome 1 si vous n'avez pas envie d'être perdue comme moi à se souvenir de qui est qui chez les ambassadeurs et autres nobles ^^
En tout cas, ce tome m'a prise en haleine et j'étais vraiment dedans. J'ai adoré avoir plus d'informations sur les Arts et leur magie, leur fonctionnement, et les voir donc plus à l'oeuvre dans ce tome-ci. Je me demandais sans cesse ce qui allait se passer pour Akeylah, Zofi et Ren, qui allait être la prochaine à pâtir du "véritable héritier", ce qui allait se passer pour elles, pour leur proches.
Il y a énormément de pistes données pour essayer de savoir qui est le méchant, et à un moment donné je suspectais à peu près tout le monde mdr C'était franchement bien tourné. Quant au véritable héritier, j'ai eu des doutes sur son identité mais plus en tant que complice (par exemple, le complice qui dépose les lettres et autres petits objets destinés aux filles). J'ai donc plus ou moins été surprise de l'identité, mais mon dieu que je ne m'attendais pas à toutes les révélations autour de cette personne ! Par contre j'ai beaucoup apprécié le fait d'avoir toute une explication derrière ses raisons et ses actions, et que les 3 filles ne traitent pas ce véritable héritier comme un méchant ni plus ni moins - on a quand même de la sympathie, malgré tout.
La fin m'est plus que satisfaisante, je suis contente pour Akeylah, Zofi et Ren, mais aussi Rozalind, Vidal et Danton ! Cette duologie contient beaucoup de complot, révélations, secret et suspens, et j'ai adoré, tout bonnement.
En tout cas, ce tome m'a prise en haleine et j'étais vraiment dedans. J'ai adoré avoir plus d'informations sur les Arts et leur magie, leur fonctionnement, et les voir donc plus à l'oeuvre dans ce tome-ci. Je me demandais sans cesse ce qui allait se passer pour Akeylah, Zofi et Ren, qui allait être la prochaine à pâtir du "véritable héritier", ce qui allait se passer pour elles, pour leur proches.
Il y a énormément de pistes données pour essayer de savoir qui est le méchant, et à un moment donné je suspectais à peu près tout le monde mdr C'était franchement bien tourné. Quant au véritable héritier, j'ai eu des doutes sur son identité mais plus en tant que complice (par exemple, le complice qui dépose les lettres et autres petits objets destinés aux filles). J'ai donc plus ou moins été surprise de l'identité, mais mon dieu que je ne m'attendais pas à toutes les révélations autour de cette personne ! Par contre j'ai beaucoup apprécié le fait d'avoir toute une explication derrière ses raisons et ses actions, et que les 3 filles ne traitent pas ce véritable héritier comme un méchant ni plus ni moins - on a quand même de la sympathie, malgré tout.
La fin m'est plus que satisfaisante, je suis contente pour Akeylah, Zofi et Ren, mais aussi Rozalind, Vidal et Danton ! Cette duologie contient beaucoup de complot, révélations, secret et suspens, et j'ai adoré, tout bonnement.
December 6, 2022
There was some definite improvement compared to Book 1, that much is clear. The story became more interesting and exciting. Compared to the first book, where everything starts out rather slowly, there's a lot more happening right from the very first page - which picks up only seconds after Book 1 left off - and mystery and danger now seems... bigger, somehow, too. It turns out my first thought of who was behind it, was completely off, and I only figured it out a couple of pages before the main characters themselves did. Not too shabby, I have to say - Ellen Goodlett definitely knew what she was doing and how she needs to keep her readers guessing and scrambling up to the last minute.
The main characters are all a bit more interesting now as well, although I still don't get why all three of them need to have love troubles. I was glad that the three princesses had some more interaction in Rise than they had in Rule too, since I did miss that in the first half of the series. And it was very nice to see Akeylah slowly grow into her role as Queen - that was really well done.
There's not much more to say, I think. The writing style and the world aren't too spectacular, they're just fine. I did love the ending and how everything - literally everything - is solved nicely in just a few chapters. Thank goodness Goodlett is one of those authors who knows it's best to deal with the bad stuff a few chapters before the finish, so there's a nice, calm conclusion to the story as well. I always appreciate it.
8.2/10
Average rating for the series: 8.1/10
The main characters are all a bit more interesting now as well, although I still don't get why all three of them need to have love troubles. I was glad that the three princesses had some more interaction in Rise than they had in Rule too, since I did miss that in the first half of the series. And it was very nice to see Akeylah slowly grow into her role as Queen - that was really well done.
There's not much more to say, I think. The writing style and the world aren't too spectacular, they're just fine. I did love the ending and how everything - literally everything - is solved nicely in just a few chapters. Thank goodness Goodlett is one of those authors who knows it's best to deal with the bad stuff a few chapters before the finish, so there's a nice, calm conclusion to the story as well. I always appreciate it.
8.2/10
Average rating for the series: 8.1/10
January 15, 2025
3.5 stars
The first half of the book I felt like it was very clearly a YA book, and what I mean with that is that things are explained for the reader in a much larger capacity than in a new adult book. Like in new adult books the writer kind of knows that the reader is capable of understanding things without needing it explained? While in YA books some things are explained like, in detail that is not needed to? Like the writer thinks that the reader is not capable of drawing their own conclusions. Idk, it was just a feeling I got in the beginning of the book...
The second half of the book, ngl it had me hooked. The reveal?? The fact that the heir who was causing all the chaos was the twins daughter. *shudders* They really went there....
As always, love a multitude POV book, and I do think that each sister really had a very distinct voice. I also liked that their connection to one another was the most important, and the romance was only a sub-plot.
**would also like to note that the book did not take me over two months to finish. I read like 5% of the book back in November and then the rest during a span of like less than a week in the beginning of 2025, it is a short and easy read
The first half of the book I felt like it was very clearly a YA book, and what I mean with that is that things are explained for the reader in a much larger capacity than in a new adult book. Like in new adult books the writer kind of knows that the reader is capable of understanding things without needing it explained? While in YA books some things are explained like, in detail that is not needed to? Like the writer thinks that the reader is not capable of drawing their own conclusions. Idk, it was just a feeling I got in the beginning of the book...
The second half of the book, ngl it had me hooked. The reveal?? The fact that the heir who was causing all the chaos was the twins daughter. *shudders* They really went there....
As always, love a multitude POV book, and I do think that each sister really had a very distinct voice. I also liked that their connection to one another was the most important, and the romance was only a sub-plot.
**would also like to note that the book did not take me over two months to finish. I read like 5% of the book back in November and then the rest during a span of like less than a week in the beginning of 2025, it is a short and easy read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2024
Encore une erreur... y a 450 pages ( je sais pas pourquoi ça m'énerve autant mdrr )
Ce fut incroyable. ÇA c'est des plot ! Pas comme les petits plot de romance "inattendus" mais que t avais déjà deviné ( j'ai envie d'être aigrie ) ! Là y a eu des retournements de situations omg, même si parfois je m'y attendais, c'était quand même surprenant. La fin m'a pas trop satisfaite, c'est une fin basique comme il y en a des milliers, je m'attendais à plus original. Sinon les personnages sont toujours super bien écrits, le world building est cool et simple à saisir car pas trop de détails politiques.
Je conseille pour ceux qui veulent commencer la fantasy ( pas la romantasy par contre ) car c'est un univers très simple à comprendre. Bon sinon niveau romance bahh c'est pas une romantasy donc y a de la romance mais en dernier plan. MAiS elle est superrrrr bien vraiment waw les petites romances dans cette duologie sont incroyables !
Ce fut incroyable. ÇA c'est des plot ! Pas comme les petits plot de romance "inattendus" mais que t avais déjà deviné ( j'ai envie d'être aigrie ) ! Là y a eu des retournements de situations omg, même si parfois je m'y attendais, c'était quand même surprenant. La fin m'a pas trop satisfaite, c'est une fin basique comme il y en a des milliers, je m'attendais à plus original. Sinon les personnages sont toujours super bien écrits, le world building est cool et simple à saisir car pas trop de détails politiques.
Je conseille pour ceux qui veulent commencer la fantasy ( pas la romantasy par contre ) car c'est un univers très simple à comprendre. Bon sinon niveau romance bahh c'est pas une romantasy donc y a de la romance mais en dernier plan. MAiS elle est superrrrr bien vraiment waw les petites romances dans cette duologie sont incroyables !
October 19, 2022
Read via audio. An easy, engaging listen, would recommend.
4.5 stars. I enjoyed this more than the first book, maybe because I was already more invested in the characters. Maybe because the mystery side of things was better, I felt like we weren't beating down the obvious bushes anymore, but branching out into better thought out options. I loved getting deeper into the history and the final twist was thoroughly enjoyable. Loved the morally grey angles to lots of the characters.
I really enjoyed the development of our 3 MCs, they're all great characters and well distinct of each other. I really enjoyed the sisterly support that they provided each other throughout.
4.5 stars. I enjoyed this more than the first book, maybe because I was already more invested in the characters. Maybe because the mystery side of things was better, I felt like we weren't beating down the obvious bushes anymore, but branching out into better thought out options. I loved getting deeper into the history and the final twist was thoroughly enjoyable. Loved the morally grey angles to lots of the characters.
I really enjoyed the development of our 3 MCs, they're all great characters and well distinct of each other. I really enjoyed the sisterly support that they provided each other throughout.
August 23, 2021
J'ai dévoré ce dyptique fantasy ! A peine le premier tome achevé, il me fallait lire le second, cet engouement ne m'arrive pas si souvent !
Je suis allée de surprise en surprise avec cette histoire que je trouve extrêmement bien construite.
Il est vrai que quand c'est aussi bon, on aimerait qu'il y en ait plus, mais je préfère une histoire courte et captivante qu'une histoire longue qui s'essouffle. J'espère cependant que l'auteure se saisira de sa plume pour me faire vivre d'autres merveilleuse aventures.
Je suis allée de surprise en surprise avec cette histoire que je trouve extrêmement bien construite.
Il est vrai que quand c'est aussi bon, on aimerait qu'il y en ait plus, mais je préfère une histoire courte et captivante qu'une histoire longue qui s'essouffle. J'espère cependant que l'auteure se saisira de sa plume pour me faire vivre d'autres merveilleuse aventures.
October 8, 2019
This duology had its faults but if I ever manage to write something that tugs on heartstrings, entertains, and has such a diverse and wonderful set of characters - I’ll be very proud!
I was worried Rule and Rise would be a bit too soap opera for me but I found both books had a lot more substance than that. I’d recommend them to anyone who reads YA fantasy.
I was worried Rule and Rise would be a bit too soap opera for me but I found both books had a lot more substance than that. I’d recommend them to anyone who reads YA fantasy.
May 8, 2021
4.5
Très bonne lecture. L'histoire évolue à son rythme, sans lenteur. Quelque bonne action, des personnages un peu plus attachantes. Un schéma original, avec un couple lesbienne, assez féministe car les pp sont des femmes, on parle de racisme à travers Zofi et Rozalind
Très bonne lecture. L'histoire évolue à son rythme, sans lenteur. Quelque bonne action, des personnages un peu plus attachantes. Un schéma original, avec un couple lesbienne, assez féministe car les pp sont des femmes, on parle de racisme à travers Zofi et Rozalind
August 12, 2020
Much MUCH better than Rule. Better Character development and a satisfying ending.
June 6, 2022
même si j'ai eu du mal à re-rentrer dedans parce que je ne me souvenais plus de tous les détails, ce livre était génial et les personnages étaient incroyables <3
June 2, 2020
The sequel did not live up to the promise of the first book. Let's call it sophomore slump. Ms. Goodlett is a capable writer and no doubt will improve as she gains experience.
My review, as submitted to the Pittsburgh Post Gazette:
Rise, the concluding novel in Pittsburgh native Ellen Goodlett’s debut series, begins right where its predecessor, Rule, concludes. Three half-sisters, Zofi, Florencia and Akeylah, initially strangers to each other, have been summoned to the castle by the gravely ill monarch. After it is revealed that he is their father, they compete for the crown that will pass to the most worthy of them once the king meets his fate. But, as the sisters learned to their dismay at the conclusion of the first book, their exists another secret, illegitimate heir; an evil heir who will stop at nothing to ascend the throne. The sisters put aside their differences and unite to discover the identity of the heir who is threatening to reveal their dark secrets and lead the kingdom into ruin.
If success is determined by meeting straightforward goals, then Rise is a successful novel. Returning readers who have read Rule and are eager to know the sisters’ fates will not be disappointed; what happens next is what Rise is all about. The pace is steady. The sentences are straightforward. The plot lines are cleanly resolved; there are a few unexpected twists, but nothing too exotic.
However, if readers are looking for more, they will have to look elsewhere. Character development and creative descriptions of an exotic and magical fantasy realm are the products of Rule, not Rise. Rule introduced us to all of the players. Rise does little to develop their personalities; with only one significant exception, who we know is who we get.
Nor are intriguing sub-plots developed. The author initially takes pains to conceal the evil, blackmailing heir’s identity. Then, once the identity of the heir is discovered, the novel’s thrust shifts to whether the sisters will be able to thwart the heir’s usurpation of the throne. This story arc was initiated in Rule and completed in Rise. Nothing less, but nothing more.
Where Rise created a magical world, Rule sometimes forgets the rules of the realm. One sister describes her romantic partner by saying, “He smelled like electricity after a storm.” That’s atmospheric, but, in the Kolonyan empire, electricity has not been harnessed and so does not yet exist. If you don’t know what electricity is, how can you know what it smells like? Another sister “hot-combs” her hair into obedience. How can this be possible in a land of torchlight and horse-drawn wagons?
Inattention to detail and a cohesive world order are apparent in other ways. Akeyleh is romantically entangled with her step-parent. This relationship is matter-of-factly treated in both books, and the complete disregard of any hint of inappropriateness invites readers to share that belief. But simultaneously in Rise, an incestuous relationship between two other characters provokes horrified responses from several persons, including the same sister who is entangled with her step-parent.
In fantasy novels like Rule and Rise, the author is free to unleash her imagination. There can be super powers, magic spells, pink and blue striped moons – whatever strikes the author’s fancy. But If the world is pre-industrial then people cannot smell like electricity; lightening yes; electricity no. Likewise, if the author creates a world where incest is deemed morally wrong, then how can a step-parent/step-child romantic relationship exist without even one raised eyebrow? An author who does not pay close attention to the rules of the world she creates invites questions about her level of commitment.
Rise and its predecessor Rule are eagerly compared by its publisher to the Three Dark Crown novel series and the television Pretty Little Liars series, both of which are very popular. Success in novels and screenplays is often predicated upon complex characters, richly detailed descriptions of places, people and events, and intriguing, ever-changing stories that have complicated and intertwined plots. Through Rule and Rise Ms. Goodlett has provided an interesting tale. She is clearly capable of competently writing a story from beginning to end. But whether the publisher is justified in its lavish comparisons is, as always, for the individual reader to decide.
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