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Stones of Terrene #2
Void Born
The bloodstone has been stolen. Although the barrier remains, its stability is at risk. And if it falls, all of southern Terrene will be forfeit. After the tragedies in Doldra, the valiant crew of the Sapphire struggles to regain their footing. Jade returns to Lucrum with the escort of Prince Weston only to find herself cornered by Lord Everett's political maneuvering. With her freedom at stake, Jade is faced with a give up her dreams for the future, or watch as those closest to her die. With the help of Raine and Finn, Ben hunts down Victor and his mysterious Void Born. The longer they are together, the harder he falls for the enigmatic swordswoman. But mad sages and ruthless assassins aren't all he needs to fear–if Ben's friends find out his secret, he could lose everything. With Terrene at stake, they cannot lose sight of their goals. Even with the past and the future pulling at them.
- GenresFantasy
484 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 9, 2018
7 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Metcalf
5 books41 followersDuring the day, RJ is a stay at home mom of two active little boys. When she has ‘free time’, she enjoys reading, writing, baking and sewing.
After many years of creative writing classes, writing fanfiction drabbles and daydreaming, it was high time to start writing her husband Mike's story. She dove into the world of Terrene and hasn’t looked back—except for when she runs out of dark chocolate.
Any free time not spent in Terrene is typically expended on hosting dinner and game nights, running amok with the two little monkeys or watching nerdy movies with Mike.
After many years of creative writing classes, writing fanfiction drabbles and daydreaming, it was high time to start writing her husband Mike's story. She dove into the world of Terrene and hasn’t looked back—except for when she runs out of dark chocolate.
Any free time not spent in Terrene is typically expended on hosting dinner and game nights, running amok with the two little monkeys or watching nerdy movies with Mike.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
November 12, 2018
I finished this book in two evenings, which was a mistake because I now have to wait even longer for the next instalment.
Void Born is just as good as Renegade Skyfarer, with a complex and exciting plot and characters that only improve on better acquaintance. As soon as I think I've found a favourite, the viewpoint shifts and I change my mind. I'll admit that I found Jade's indecision and complaining a little annoying for a while, but the rest of the characters and the story soon pushed me past that.
I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I was given a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Void Born is just as good as Renegade Skyfarer, with a complex and exciting plot and characters that only improve on better acquaintance. As soon as I think I've found a favourite, the viewpoint shifts and I change my mind. I'll admit that I found Jade's indecision and complaining a little annoying for a while, but the rest of the characters and the story soon pushed me past that.
I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I was given a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
June 25, 2023
My experience with this book was much the same as what I felt with the first in the series. The worldbuilding still didn't get explored the way I hoped, and there really wasn't much that was accomplished in the plot until about 75% through the book.
I did connect with the main characters more easily this time around, though. If I continue the series, it'll definitely be to see how Jade, Ben, and their friends overcome the new problems that developed at the end.
I'm not sure I will keep going, because so far, this series and I don't seem to be a perfect fit. It might be better if we part ways right here.
But there's still JUST enough curiosity to keep the possibility of continuing in my mind...
I did connect with the main characters more easily this time around, though. If I continue the series, it'll definitely be to see how Jade, Ben, and their friends overcome the new problems that developed at the end.
I'm not sure I will keep going, because so far, this series and I don't seem to be a perfect fit. It might be better if we part ways right here.
But there's still JUST enough curiosity to keep the possibility of continuing in my mind...
November 18, 2018
“Void Born” is the second installment in the Stones of Terrene Series after “Renegade Skyfarer,” which I highly recommend. One of the strengths of the series is the many fascinating world-building elements, like the magical stones, the barrier, and the void born themselves. At times, I might've wished to have a little more depth for certain world-building elements, but this could be a personal preference. (I enjoy understanding the intricacies and logic of everything—while also making abundant connections.) With so many world-building details, however, too much depth could've easily created an overburdened narrative. All in all, I feel the author struck a decent balance between providing enough information—and at a level to facilitate reader understanding and expectation.
Having read book one when it first came out (and thus having a relatively long time in which to forget the details), I found it a little challenging to recall who was who in this large cast of characters—at least at first. As I read on, however, the key memories came back from context. Still, if one has a choice, I would recommend reading this one directly after the first.
Truthfully, in this second book, there's a lot going on. Without giving too much away (I hope), the story essentially splits into two separate narratives, with roughly half the characters pursuing one mission and the other half pursuing another. I didn't consider this to be a problem. Both missions were interesting and both plot lines held my interest throughout. I especially enjoyed seeing a former antagonist's change of heart and, also, the development of a new romance. Though it may sound strange, I also appreciated the author's descriptions of gestures, which were highly vivid (creating pictures in the mind), anything but cliché, and which helped inject realism into the characters' emotions. The overall whimsical mood (present in both books) was also intriguing—especially when juxtaposed against moments of heart-breaking emotion. That first plot point really packs an emotional wallop!
If I had to pick the storyline I liked more, it would be the one that follows Ben and crew because it allowed for more new story development. Also, the characters in that thread seemed to have a bit more agency. In the other thread—which I still enjoyed—the characters were more trapped and, at times, that might've led to a little bit of a recirculation of inner and outer conflict. For example, the emotional introspection in a few places was a little repetitive, bringing my attention to the fact that I might've preferred a little more momentum. Nevertheless, my interest in the story held, and the momentum surged ever faster toward the end.
Like any good novel should do, this story's dramatic arc displays an ever-ratcheting tension. I really enjoyed all the drama and action leading up to the end, which leaves plenty of questions for the next book. In other words—spoiler alert!—prepare yourselves for an Empire-Strikes-Back-style ending.
I can't wait to see what happens next!
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.
Having read book one when it first came out (and thus having a relatively long time in which to forget the details), I found it a little challenging to recall who was who in this large cast of characters—at least at first. As I read on, however, the key memories came back from context. Still, if one has a choice, I would recommend reading this one directly after the first.
Truthfully, in this second book, there's a lot going on. Without giving too much away (I hope), the story essentially splits into two separate narratives, with roughly half the characters pursuing one mission and the other half pursuing another. I didn't consider this to be a problem. Both missions were interesting and both plot lines held my interest throughout. I especially enjoyed seeing a former antagonist's change of heart and, also, the development of a new romance. Though it may sound strange, I also appreciated the author's descriptions of gestures, which were highly vivid (creating pictures in the mind), anything but cliché, and which helped inject realism into the characters' emotions. The overall whimsical mood (present in both books) was also intriguing—especially when juxtaposed against moments of heart-breaking emotion. That first plot point really packs an emotional wallop!
If I had to pick the storyline I liked more, it would be the one that follows Ben and crew because it allowed for more new story development. Also, the characters in that thread seemed to have a bit more agency. In the other thread—which I still enjoyed—the characters were more trapped and, at times, that might've led to a little bit of a recirculation of inner and outer conflict. For example, the emotional introspection in a few places was a little repetitive, bringing my attention to the fact that I might've preferred a little more momentum. Nevertheless, my interest in the story held, and the momentum surged ever faster toward the end.
Like any good novel should do, this story's dramatic arc displays an ever-ratcheting tension. I really enjoyed all the drama and action leading up to the end, which leaves plenty of questions for the next book. In other words—spoiler alert!—prepare yourselves for an Empire-Strikes-Back-style ending.
I can't wait to see what happens next!
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.
November 18, 2018
Void Born
It took me about 50 pages to get super sucked into the story but once I hit that point I was hooked. If you want to read this you really need to pick up Renegade Skyfarer first. This is a series enjoyed best if you read the books in order.
There are some points where the story is a little slow, and drags, but that never lasts for more than a few pages and that might just be my personal taste because this is not a genre I read as often as others.
There are also a lot of characters to try to keep track of but there is a handy list in the back of the book and you should be fine if you can follow other books by Tolkien and those like him.
Content warning:
Violence: Those sensitive to violence may be a little cautious with this book. I think the, sometimes rough, fight scenes added to the story greatly but I could see where those who disliked them would get a little squeamish but it is not too bad. Appropriate for most teens.
Sexual Themes: A brothel is mentioned and a character is described as running several. There is mention of a sexual assault. Mentions of sex, paramours, rape but no sex scenes. It is done pretty clean and tastefully.
The characters quickly suck you in and have you rooting for them. Each storyline gripped me so tightly I was disappointed when I chapter would switch to someone else until I remembered what was going on in their story and I needed to know what would happen next.
There is a constant state of mystery with the plot but enough questions are answered along the way you do not get frustrated. The perfect balance of suspense and relief.
Once you get to the end you’ll wish Traitor’s Crown was coming out sooner so you could find out what is going to happen next.
I am giving the story 4 stars. if you could do half stars I might give it a 3.5. The book is a really good read. Not perfect but very good for an author’s first series and you should definitely give R J Metcalf a chance if you like Sci-fi/fantasy books.
I was given an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
It took me about 50 pages to get super sucked into the story but once I hit that point I was hooked. If you want to read this you really need to pick up Renegade Skyfarer first. This is a series enjoyed best if you read the books in order.
There are some points where the story is a little slow, and drags, but that never lasts for more than a few pages and that might just be my personal taste because this is not a genre I read as often as others.
There are also a lot of characters to try to keep track of but there is a handy list in the back of the book and you should be fine if you can follow other books by Tolkien and those like him.
Content warning:
Violence: Those sensitive to violence may be a little cautious with this book. I think the, sometimes rough, fight scenes added to the story greatly but I could see where those who disliked them would get a little squeamish but it is not too bad. Appropriate for most teens.
Sexual Themes: A brothel is mentioned and a character is described as running several. There is mention of a sexual assault. Mentions of sex, paramours, rape but no sex scenes. It is done pretty clean and tastefully.
The characters quickly suck you in and have you rooting for them. Each storyline gripped me so tightly I was disappointed when I chapter would switch to someone else until I remembered what was going on in their story and I needed to know what would happen next.
There is a constant state of mystery with the plot but enough questions are answered along the way you do not get frustrated. The perfect balance of suspense and relief.
Once you get to the end you’ll wish Traitor’s Crown was coming out sooner so you could find out what is going to happen next.
I am giving the story 4 stars. if you could do half stars I might give it a 3.5. The book is a really good read. Not perfect but very good for an author’s first series and you should definitely give R J Metcalf a chance if you like Sci-fi/fantasy books.
I was given an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 23, 2019
Void Born picks up where Renegade Skyfarer leaves us—following Ben on his quest to get back to wherever he is from. It felt like there was more political angle in this book, as the reluctant Princess Jade finds herself in a difficult situation with regards to her people and the life she truly desires to have. I know a lot of people like the political intricacy type plots. I typically I do not, but I have to say it grew on me towards the end. Also, there are a lot of characters to keep track of, aside from the main ones. R.J. Metcalf has included a register to make it easier to look up if you find yourself wondering who is who.
There is more of the forbidden romance between Jade and her bodyguard, which now has the possibility of going wrong in several different ways and I cannot wait to find out where it ends.
I believe this second installment of Stones of Terrene was better than the first one. It is more fast-paced with lots of twists and turns. The world building continues as we discover more of the feared and hated Elph, and what is at stake if they succeed in completing their mission.
I really enjoyed this second book and the way the characters are developing. I look forward (impatiently) to discovering what becomes of them and whether Ben finds what he has been searching for.
February 13, 2019
This book took me from mildly interested in the series to full on wanting the next book. The twists, the characters, the suspense. Tension is high, the characters keep getting into worse situations, and the dilemmas they face are riveting. The foreshadowing resulted in a nice blend of surprise and feeling smart for figuring things out.
The only complaint I can make is that sometimes it didn't touch in on a storyline where I really wanted to know what was happening. And even then it wasn't leaving those characters in immediate peril for their lives, just with questions. The biggest question I've got now is: Why are there Void Born?
The only complaint I can make is that sometimes it didn't touch in on a storyline where I really wanted to know what was happening. And even then it wasn't leaving those characters in immediate peril for their lives, just with questions. The biggest question I've got now is: Why are there Void Born?
February 17, 2019
Took a while to get going but good when it got there
I found this one did what other sequels sometimes do, and wander around in narrative without much action for chunks of the book. The latter third really picked up and I'm sticking with the series for sure. Love the world the author has created! The characters are believable and likeable and there's a rich depth of developing various characters without there being so many it gets confusing. Enjoying the series!
I found this one did what other sequels sometimes do, and wander around in narrative without much action for chunks of the book. The latter third really picked up and I'm sticking with the series for sure. Love the world the author has created! The characters are believable and likeable and there's a rich depth of developing various characters without there being so many it gets confusing. Enjoying the series!
October 14, 2019
This one was a bit slower at first, but the action really came in with a wham towards the end. I thought Jade's reactions were fairly realistic, it did drive me nuts that she spent so much time crying. I have a new OTP and I think it has a fair chance of being cannon.
I thought the addition of the bad guy's perspective was very interesting. It added a darker tone to this novel.
That ending.
I thought the addition of the bad guy's perspective was very interesting. It added a darker tone to this novel.
That ending.
January 11, 2019
What the cliff hanger? Why?????? 😭🤯😑😭
Okay now that I can think again, it's time for a real review.
Void Born is the second book in R.J. Metcalf's Stones of Terrene series. Like the first book (Renegade Skyfarer), Void Born is full of plot twists, steampunk goodness, and Dragons who are really dinosaurs. This novel still features multiple view point characters but unlike the first book where everyone mostly stayed together, this novel sees them split up, causing it to feel almost like two different stories.
My favorite characters are still Jade and Ben. I love Ben's unique back story that I can't tell you because of spoilers.
The only thing I did not like was the massive cliffhanger that the author chose to end this book on. I need the next book and I need it now.
*I received a free ebook of this novel. My opinion is my own and is freely given.*
Okay now that I can think again, it's time for a real review.
Void Born is the second book in R.J. Metcalf's Stones of Terrene series. Like the first book (Renegade Skyfarer), Void Born is full of plot twists, steampunk goodness, and Dragons who are really dinosaurs. This novel still features multiple view point characters but unlike the first book where everyone mostly stayed together, this novel sees them split up, causing it to feel almost like two different stories.
My favorite characters are still Jade and Ben. I love Ben's unique back story that I can't tell you because of spoilers.
The only thing I did not like was the massive cliffhanger that the author chose to end this book on. I need the next book and I need it now.
*I received a free ebook of this novel. My opinion is my own and is freely given.*
March 11, 2019
Excellent series!
R.J. Metcalf is definitely worth the price of admission. She has created a world of magic that is unique It is impossible not to love these characters. I eagerly await reading the next in the series.
R.J. Metcalf is definitely worth the price of admission. She has created a world of magic that is unique It is impossible not to love these characters. I eagerly await reading the next in the series.
May 20, 2024
Normally I’m rarely invested in romance plots/sub plots, but the relationships in this series have me fully invested.
All the characters just feel so real, and they jump alive off the page in a way that’s hard to find.
I’m simultaneously excited and terrified to see where all these characters end up.
All the characters just feel so real, and they jump alive off the page in a way that’s hard to find.
I’m simultaneously excited and terrified to see where all these characters end up.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews