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Forbidden #2
Embolden
The world is trying to tear them apart.
Will they stand together and fight back?
After a season of psychic visions and super-powered drama, Claire Brennan and her angel-gone-AWOL boyfriend Alec MacKenzie can finally be together. Under the protection of Claire’s grandmother, they are trying to lead a normal life, going to high school at Emerson Academy and hanging out with their friends.
But jealous teenagers, vengeful enemies, the city’s new Watcher, and even the school play threaten to break them apart. Not to mention Claire’s surprising second power, which could sabotage the trust of everyone she holds dear. And just when they need to stick together, they finally get a lead on where Claire’s missing father might be.
The threats, which come not only from without but also from within, will test the strength of Alec and Claire’s relationship. Is the love they share enough to keep them safe? If they want to stay together… can they learn to fight together?
Will they stand together and fight back?
After a season of psychic visions and super-powered drama, Claire Brennan and her angel-gone-AWOL boyfriend Alec MacKenzie can finally be together. Under the protection of Claire’s grandmother, they are trying to lead a normal life, going to high school at Emerson Academy and hanging out with their friends.
But jealous teenagers, vengeful enemies, the city’s new Watcher, and even the school play threaten to break them apart. Not to mention Claire’s surprising second power, which could sabotage the trust of everyone she holds dear. And just when they need to stick together, they finally get a lead on where Claire’s missing father might be.
The threats, which come not only from without but also from within, will test the strength of Alec and Claire’s relationship. Is the love they share enough to keep them safe? If they want to stay together… can they learn to fight together?
336 pages, Paperback
Published October 30, 2018
About the author
Syrie James
23 books997 followersSyrie James writes about bold, smart women who defy the odds and overcome daunting obstacles to achieve a cherished creative dream, find truth and justice, or help people in need, often finding love along the way. She is the international, USA TODAY, and Amazon bestselling author of many novels of historical fiction, mystery, romance, and YA which have been published in 21 languages.
Syrie's Historical Murder Mystery series, The Audacious Sisterhood of Smoke & Fire, is set in Victorian England and features sister sleuths who will stop at nothing to uncover the truth. The series includes the Amazon bestseller "The Mysteries of Pendowar Hall," "The Secrets of Thorndale Manor" and the upcoming "Danger at Darkmoor Park."
Los Angeles Magazine dubbed Syrie the “queen of nineteenth century re-imaginings.” Her novel “The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen” sold at auction to HarperCollins and became an international bestseller, and was named Best New Fiction by Regency World Magazine. Her passion for love stories and the paranormal led to her critically acclaimed “Dracula, My Love,” “Nocturne,” and the YA series “Forbidden.” Her enduring love of all things English and 19th century led to her Amazon bestselling Dare to Defy Historical Romance series.
Syrie’s books have received starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly, hit many Best of the Year lists, been designated as Library Journal Editor’s Picks of the Year, and won numerous awards including the national Audiobook Audie Award for Romance and the Women’s National Book Association Great Group Read (“The Secret Diaries of Charlotte Bronte”), and Barnes and Noble’s Romantic Read of the Week and Bookbub’s Best Snowbound Romance (“Nocturne”).
Syrie is also a WGA member with numerous scripts sold to film and television, and a published playwright, actress, and stage director.
Find Syrie at:
syriejames.com,
Facebook,
Instagram
Syrie's Historical Murder Mystery series, The Audacious Sisterhood of Smoke & Fire, is set in Victorian England and features sister sleuths who will stop at nothing to uncover the truth. The series includes the Amazon bestseller "The Mysteries of Pendowar Hall," "The Secrets of Thorndale Manor" and the upcoming "Danger at Darkmoor Park."
Los Angeles Magazine dubbed Syrie the “queen of nineteenth century re-imaginings.” Her novel “The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen” sold at auction to HarperCollins and became an international bestseller, and was named Best New Fiction by Regency World Magazine. Her passion for love stories and the paranormal led to her critically acclaimed “Dracula, My Love,” “Nocturne,” and the YA series “Forbidden.” Her enduring love of all things English and 19th century led to her Amazon bestselling Dare to Defy Historical Romance series.
Syrie’s books have received starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly, hit many Best of the Year lists, been designated as Library Journal Editor’s Picks of the Year, and won numerous awards including the national Audiobook Audie Award for Romance and the Women’s National Book Association Great Group Read (“The Secret Diaries of Charlotte Bronte”), and Barnes and Noble’s Romantic Read of the Week and Bookbub’s Best Snowbound Romance (“Nocturne”).
Syrie is also a WGA member with numerous scripts sold to film and television, and a published playwright, actress, and stage director.
Find Syrie at:
syriejames.com,
Facebook,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 12, 2018
***ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion***
September 1, 2018
It had been six years since I read the first installment. I had to reread it to juggle my memory. Like the first time, I had devoured it again in one sitting and cherished the tandem of Alec and Claire.
I was so ecstatic when I heard the news that the second installment was finally being released. Thank you for granting the pleas of the readers. Book two picked up where book one ended. The story evolved on Claire’s second power and rescuing his long lost father while Alec was busy with his extracurricular of fighting the Fallens and hiding from the Watchers. Deceit and lies would bring such turmoil to Claire and Alec. The addition of new characters made my reading even faster. I felt like I was watching a movie with superb scriptwriting. I couldn’t drop the book. I was so invested and just kept turning the page.
Now, I am biting my nails for I am left with anticipation on what comes next after this. I hope the third installment won’t take another six years to publish again.
I was so ecstatic when I heard the news that the second installment was finally being released. Thank you for granting the pleas of the readers. Book two picked up where book one ended. The story evolved on Claire’s second power and rescuing his long lost father while Alec was busy with his extracurricular of fighting the Fallens and hiding from the Watchers. Deceit and lies would bring such turmoil to Claire and Alec. The addition of new characters made my reading even faster. I felt like I was watching a movie with superb scriptwriting. I couldn’t drop the book. I was so invested and just kept turning the page.
Now, I am biting my nails for I am left with anticipation on what comes next after this. I hope the third installment won’t take another six years to publish again.
September 14, 2018
My biggest issue with the book was the main character Claire. She was very selfish, arrogant, and I didn't like her at all. She lied to her friends and family constantly, used her powers on them behind their back, and was an awful friend to Erica. Erica calls her out for it in the book but then goes back to being her friend with no changes, which I didn't get. I liked the idea of the story and the fact that the mom and grandma were helping with their own powers but the romance was a fail, the big bad was a fail, and the overall book just didn't work for me.
November 13, 2018
Claire’s adventures continue.
There’s no escaping that being half-angel and half-human is awkward. As events continue, Claire is determined to try and find her father.
Problems with friends and relationships make things doubly difficult but Claire shows definite sticking power.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advance copy.
There’s no escaping that being half-angel and half-human is awkward. As events continue, Claire is determined to try and find her father.
Problems with friends and relationships make things doubly difficult but Claire shows definite sticking power.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advance copy.
October 5, 2018
This second book follows FORBIDDEN (2012). Claire has learned that she is half angel and her boyfriend Alec has left the ranks of the Grigori who track down Fallen and is trying to be an ordinary teenage boy.
The main problem that Claire is facing is trying to find her father who disappeared when she was a baby. Her own visions and her grandmother's visions have indicated that he's still alive but they can't track him down. Claire has a number of questions about her life and her gifts, including one that is just manifesting. Her grandmother has told her that it is a dangerous gift and that she shouldn't use it. Nothing could make it more tempting for Claire.
Her new gift has made her particularly attractive to the Fallen who will do anything to try to recruit her, even telling her that they know where her father is. They also threaten to let the Guardians know where Alec is and Claire will do anything to protect him.
Alec and Claire both try out for the school musical. Claire winning the part in Guinevere almost ruins her friendship with her best friend Erica who also wants the part of Guinevere and has wanted it for much longer than Claire. Claire tries out for the musical mostly so that she can spend more time with her friends who are involved in the production. With Alec cast as Arthur, things should be good. But Claire's former boyfriend Neal has been cast as Lancelot which is making Alec jealous. With Erica mad at her and Alec jealous and Brian dating a new girl, Claire's circle of friends is disintegrating.
Alec is also feeling some regrets about leaving the Guardians to spend time with Claire. He still feels the need to stop the bad guys but doesn't have the authority to do so. He and Claire begin keeping secrets from each other; Claire has been experimenting with her new power; and Alec is trying to track down a Fallen plot. That puts even more pressure on their relationship.
This story was entertaining. It was filled with teenage drama, scary but charming villains, friendships tested, paranormal powers, and romance.
The main problem that Claire is facing is trying to find her father who disappeared when she was a baby. Her own visions and her grandmother's visions have indicated that he's still alive but they can't track him down. Claire has a number of questions about her life and her gifts, including one that is just manifesting. Her grandmother has told her that it is a dangerous gift and that she shouldn't use it. Nothing could make it more tempting for Claire.
Her new gift has made her particularly attractive to the Fallen who will do anything to try to recruit her, even telling her that they know where her father is. They also threaten to let the Guardians know where Alec is and Claire will do anything to protect him.
Alec and Claire both try out for the school musical. Claire winning the part in Guinevere almost ruins her friendship with her best friend Erica who also wants the part of Guinevere and has wanted it for much longer than Claire. Claire tries out for the musical mostly so that she can spend more time with her friends who are involved in the production. With Alec cast as Arthur, things should be good. But Claire's former boyfriend Neal has been cast as Lancelot which is making Alec jealous. With Erica mad at her and Alec jealous and Brian dating a new girl, Claire's circle of friends is disintegrating.
Alec is also feeling some regrets about leaving the Guardians to spend time with Claire. He still feels the need to stop the bad guys but doesn't have the authority to do so. He and Claire begin keeping secrets from each other; Claire has been experimenting with her new power; and Alec is trying to track down a Fallen plot. That puts even more pressure on their relationship.
This story was entertaining. It was filled with teenage drama, scary but charming villains, friendships tested, paranormal powers, and romance.
August 28, 2018
Read an exclusive excerpt from the book on my blog at NightlyReading
We waited what felt like forever and a day for this sequel to come out and I am so happy to have been able to read it....finally!
Alec and Claire are still getting use to each other other and the fact that their friends know what they truly are. Which sometimes can be a small battle. Claire finds out the hard way that maybe she should actually listen to her Grandmother and her & Alec's relationship takes a small toll. They both have secrets they are keeping from each other and it kind of blows up in their faces. Claire is so focused on finding her Dad that she tended to get a little whiny and irritating in this installment. She literally acted like a typical teenager!
I really am enjoying this series. The first book captured my attention right from the start and I fell in love with the characters and the the whole premise of angels and half bloods.
A lot happens in this book and the reader really needs to pay attention because the action just keeps on moving and you may miss something important. The ending was not a huge cliffhanger but you can tell that it is open for a third book. I am secretly crossing my fingers and truly hoping so!
Thank you to the author for the review copy in exchange of my honest opinion!
We waited what felt like forever and a day for this sequel to come out and I am so happy to have been able to read it....finally!
Alec and Claire are still getting use to each other other and the fact that their friends know what they truly are. Which sometimes can be a small battle. Claire finds out the hard way that maybe she should actually listen to her Grandmother and her & Alec's relationship takes a small toll. They both have secrets they are keeping from each other and it kind of blows up in their faces. Claire is so focused on finding her Dad that she tended to get a little whiny and irritating in this installment. She literally acted like a typical teenager!
I really am enjoying this series. The first book captured my attention right from the start and I fell in love with the characters and the the whole premise of angels and half bloods.
A lot happens in this book and the reader really needs to pay attention because the action just keeps on moving and you may miss something important. The ending was not a huge cliffhanger but you can tell that it is open for a third book. I am secretly crossing my fingers and truly hoping so!
Thank you to the author for the review copy in exchange of my honest opinion!
November 10, 2018
Title: Embolden
Author: Syrie James and Ryan St. James
Genre: YA, fantasy
Rating: 3 out of 5
Being half angel isn’t easy for Claire Brennan. Her mom and grandmother keep a constant eye on her. She must keep her angel boyfriend, Alec, secret from the local Watcher. She’s trying to find her angel father, who was kidnapped 16 years ago. She tries to avoid her vengeful enemies. And then there’s high school, with all its drama, including the school musical.
Claire is developing new powers, ones that will have every person in her life afraid, but it’s the only way to find her father and keep Alec safe. Except Alec is keeping secrets of his own, secrets that could prove dangerous for them both.
I read Forbidden and Embolden back-to-back. I like the premise of angels and Nephilim but have a few difficulties with the basic set-up of these books. Like, why is Alec, over a hundred years old, interested in a teenager? That’s a little creepy. No matter what he looks like, the life experience puts a pretty big gap between them. And Claire herself is…basically a selfish, clueless teenager. She has no problem using her powers on those around her. She only wants to talk about her problems and can’t understand her friends wanting to have their own lives. She’s willful, whiny, and childish, and somehow thinks it’s a good idea to tell all her friends the details of the whole angel/Nephilim world, which is supposed to be a secret. So, not smart, either. Again, interesting concept, but the characters detracted significantly from the execution.
(Galley provided by LDLA Publishing in exchange for an honest review.)
More reviews at Tomorrow is Another Day
Author: Syrie James and Ryan St. James
Genre: YA, fantasy
Rating: 3 out of 5
Being half angel isn’t easy for Claire Brennan. Her mom and grandmother keep a constant eye on her. She must keep her angel boyfriend, Alec, secret from the local Watcher. She’s trying to find her angel father, who was kidnapped 16 years ago. She tries to avoid her vengeful enemies. And then there’s high school, with all its drama, including the school musical.
Claire is developing new powers, ones that will have every person in her life afraid, but it’s the only way to find her father and keep Alec safe. Except Alec is keeping secrets of his own, secrets that could prove dangerous for them both.
I read Forbidden and Embolden back-to-back. I like the premise of angels and Nephilim but have a few difficulties with the basic set-up of these books. Like, why is Alec, over a hundred years old, interested in a teenager? That’s a little creepy. No matter what he looks like, the life experience puts a pretty big gap between them. And Claire herself is…basically a selfish, clueless teenager. She has no problem using her powers on those around her. She only wants to talk about her problems and can’t understand her friends wanting to have their own lives. She’s willful, whiny, and childish, and somehow thinks it’s a good idea to tell all her friends the details of the whole angel/Nephilim world, which is supposed to be a secret. So, not smart, either. Again, interesting concept, but the characters detracted significantly from the execution.
(Galley provided by LDLA Publishing in exchange for an honest review.)
More reviews at Tomorrow is Another Day
June 30, 2019
Fans of “Forbidden” will love its sequel “Embolden.” This story picks up immediately after the first novel’s end, and the level of paranormal activity picks up dramatically as well. Claire discovers she has an additional psychic power, while Alec has to cope with a new and more aggressive group of magical ne’er-do-wells. As the story unfolds, the high-school sweethearts must learn to balance their romantic and school-based commitments with their increasingly complex obligations to their other-worldly comrades and rivals. The text of “Embolden” is chock full of pop references (ranging from Camelot to The X-Men), and Ms. James even manages to sneak a some Jane Austen-inspired namedropping. Fast-paced and exciting, this book is a worthy successor to “Forbidden,” and will leave fans of the series clamoring for more.
“Forbidden” and “Embolden” are quite unlike the novels I usually indulge in. But it was really fun to see a best-selling author take on the challenge of trying out a new genre. And I especially loved that Ms. James co-wrote these books with her teenage son. As the mother of four daughters, each with a literary bent of her own, I found this undertaking both charming and inspiring. Way to go, Syrie!
“Forbidden” and “Embolden” are quite unlike the novels I usually indulge in. But it was really fun to see a best-selling author take on the challenge of trying out a new genre. And I especially loved that Ms. James co-wrote these books with her teenage son. As the mother of four daughters, each with a literary bent of her own, I found this undertaking both charming and inspiring. Way to go, Syrie!
April 27, 2023
With the conclusion (I assume) of the forbidden series I was quite disappointed in a lot of things. First there needed to be an editor or something that told them they needed to elaborate in certain areas or trim back in others. I felt like in certain parts where it really benefited the story or plot progression there was a lot left out and you had to come up with your own interpretation, where in other parts it was elaborated too much especially when it didn't help character development or plot progression.
Next, I feel like this story is a jumbled up mess. Of course in the first book we got a straight forward plot and a straight forward conclusion. This was all over the place, trying to find her father, trying to fight the fallen, trying to keep away from the Watchers and I could just go on. There was too much and not enough book written.
If there is a 3rd one that comes out, I think I'll be passing. I loved the first book but this one fell very flat for me.
Next, I feel like this story is a jumbled up mess. Of course in the first book we got a straight forward plot and a straight forward conclusion. This was all over the place, trying to find her father, trying to fight the fallen, trying to keep away from the Watchers and I could just go on. There was too much and not enough book written.
If there is a 3rd one that comes out, I think I'll be passing. I loved the first book but this one fell very flat for me.
April 3, 2019
I loved this book! Unlike most series, this book does NOT have second book syndrome. Everything just felt like it flowed and like it was natural, not forced like a lot of other books I've read. The ending was really good, and I love how Niel was included this time. He REALLY needed to know what was actually going on if he was going to make up with Claire.
Speaking of Claire, I really loved her and Alec's relationship. Sure they had some troubles, but what good couple doesn't? I do wish that there were more romantic scenes between them without having to worry about the end of the world, but that's the only thing I'd change about this book.
This was a great read and I highly recommend the first book, Forbidden!
Speaking of Claire, I really loved her and Alec's relationship. Sure they had some troubles, but what good couple doesn't? I do wish that there were more romantic scenes between them without having to worry about the end of the world, but that's the only thing I'd change about this book.
This was a great read and I highly recommend the first book, Forbidden!
November 20, 2024
Dnf, after one.chapter.
I decided to look at the comments, only to find that this.series has been either abandoned OR there has been SIX YEARS between books.one and two...
No thanks!
It's bad enough that I wanted, and hunted for book two but, this book was what? 2018?
In theory, it should be out next year however, I refuse to read unfinished series with extremely long wait times. To me? A year or two is too long so, six years... I would rather have all my teeth pulled, one at a.time, with no pain killer. It would be less pain than waiting for book three.
No thank you!
I decided to look at the comments, only to find that this.series has been either abandoned OR there has been SIX YEARS between books.one and two...
No thanks!
It's bad enough that I wanted, and hunted for book two but, this book was what? 2018?
In theory, it should be out next year however, I refuse to read unfinished series with extremely long wait times. To me? A year or two is too long so, six years... I would rather have all my teeth pulled, one at a.time, with no pain killer. It would be less pain than waiting for book three.
No thank you!
October 12, 2018
I had hopes for this one... but this one failed me even more... To me, it was 1.5 stars as plot had not developed till half of the book, and even after that events were like passing by me as I had not enjoyed what was going on...
An attempt to create an intriguing story, but failed in the execution of it. For sure I will not be reading book 3, as Claire and Alec's story had drained my patience for it...
An attempt to create an intriguing story, but failed in the execution of it. For sure I will not be reading book 3, as Claire and Alec's story had drained my patience for it...
December 30, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and LDLA publishing for this partnership.
I was immediately attracted by the cover and you see Claire and Alec side by side.
Claire and Alec are in a relationship, Claire's grandmother protects them, they go to high school at Emerson Academy and want to live a normal life.
Except that threats made against them will try to separate them.
A second volume captivating and full of suspense and twists and turns. Looking forward to reading on.
I was immediately attracted by the cover and you see Claire and Alec side by side.
Claire and Alec are in a relationship, Claire's grandmother protects them, they go to high school at Emerson Academy and want to live a normal life.
Except that threats made against them will try to separate them.
A second volume captivating and full of suspense and twists and turns. Looking forward to reading on.
May 31, 2019
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. This the second book of this series. Claire is trying to find her father that disappeared when she was a baby. Her visions tell her that he is still alive, but she is unable to locate him. Plus she gains a new gift and her grandmother tells her that she should not use it. It does draw the attention of the Fallen. Looking forward to what comes next.
January 11, 2022
PLEASE make a 3rd book! Now!!
I loved this sequel! So full of action and the right amount of drama. I definitely need more Alec and Claire romance but man, such a good story! I keep checking to see if there is news for a 3rd book. I would love to see Erica with Niel haha. And omg, Helena is my favorite character. I laughed out twice from her quotes in this book. Love her. Never get rid of her. These 2 books are now on my reread in 6 months list.
I loved this sequel! So full of action and the right amount of drama. I definitely need more Alec and Claire romance but man, such a good story! I keep checking to see if there is news for a 3rd book. I would love to see Erica with Niel haha. And omg, Helena is my favorite character. I laughed out twice from her quotes in this book. Love her. Never get rid of her. These 2 books are now on my reread in 6 months list.
August 28, 2018
A fairly typical supernatural romance. Unfortunately for me, I think my cynicism has turned into a lack of imagination as I just can’t buy into someone aged in their hundreds who falls for a teenager. And rather a silly one at that. I did not enjoy the character of Claire and had to agree with Erica that she was rather self obsessed. I enjoyed the first novel more than this one.
February 14, 2019
I was so excited to read this book. But the first book sucked me in I couldn't put it down I had a harder time with this one . I dont know if it was that it took them forever to get this book out (please be quicker with the 3rd) or the whiney mess Erika and Claire were . I just had a harder time finishing it. And I dont like the lies between Claire and Alec it is so much drama almost to much.
February 19, 2024
A fairly typical supernatural romance. Unfortunately for me, I think my cynicism has turned into a lack of imagination as I just can’t buy into someone aged in their hundreds who falls for a teenager. And rather a silly one at that. I did not enjoy the character of Claire and had to agree with Erica that she was rather self obsessed. I enjoyed the first novel more than this one.
March 25, 2020
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for a honest review, thank you for that.
Structured well enough to keep me guessing and reading all in one sitting. This was an amazing sequel to a fantastic first book
I definitely recommend this book and the author Syrie James and Ryan M. James.
Structured well enough to keep me guessing and reading all in one sitting. This was an amazing sequel to a fantastic first book
I definitely recommend this book and the author Syrie James and Ryan M. James.
October 8, 2020
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for a honest review, thank you for that.
Structured well enough to keep me guessing and reading all in one sitting. This was an amazing sequel to a fantastic first book
I definitely recommend this book and the author Syrie James and Ryan M. James.
Structured well enough to keep me guessing and reading all in one sitting. This was an amazing sequel to a fantastic first book
I definitely recommend this book and the author Syrie James and Ryan M. James.
May 14, 2023
Good addition to the series
I’m glad this story continued after book 1. Holding back additional stars cuz it took so long, and I’m not sure about book 3. Will there be one? Will we have to wait 10 yrs for it?
I’m glad this story continued after book 1. Holding back additional stars cuz it took so long, and I’m not sure about book 3. Will there be one? Will we have to wait 10 yrs for it?
June 24, 2019
OKAYYYYY WHERE IS THE NEXT ONE!!! I fell in love with this series. In 2 days I finished both books...but you have soooooooooo met your match! 1oo thumbs up!
August 12, 2019
Honestly found this really hard to read. It was predictable and cliche, and at times a little ridiculous. I just didn't care very much about the story or characters, and the writing didn't help that
December 10, 2020
Fantastic book. Wish there was more to the series.
I enjoyed Alec & Claire’s story and adventures
I enjoyed Alec & Claire’s story and adventures
July 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 24, 2018
This book is the continuation of Claire Brennan's adventure from Forbidden
After Forbidden where we discovered that she possesses angel powers, because she's half-angel, Claire leaves in search of her father, who disappeared 16 years ago.
In the midst of visions, new discoveries, jealous friends, family problems, lies and disagreements, in this book we are in a whirl of emotions compared to the first one.
I confess that with this book I was much more concerned about Claire and her destiny, because damn, there were so many complications!
But Claire showed us her strenght and didn't let the others save her: she was her hero! She made great decisions for a person who discovered their origins and actual abilities recently.
I did not like was some of Claire's arrogance and the fact that shortly after the characters talked about the possibility of a second power, Claire discovered it right after. I think the authors could have given more time for the story to unfold. This situation seemed a little bit forced to me.
I also felt that in this book the relationship between Alec and Claire, whose romance we realized was going to happen from the first glance, became more solid and not a mere teenage romance as we see in so many books. I really enjoyed the growth of these two as a couple, as friends, but above all as individuals.
Did I loved Claire and Neil's friendship? No doubt. I loved that they did not turn the book into another romance with a love triangle and instead, they give a real perspective on what the various types of friendship we can have throughout our lives.
I would like to thank to the authors for allowing me to read this book via netgalley!
Disclaimer: This book was sent to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely mine.
After Forbidden where we discovered that she possesses angel powers, because she's half-angel, Claire leaves in search of her father, who disappeared 16 years ago.
In the midst of visions, new discoveries, jealous friends, family problems, lies and disagreements, in this book we are in a whirl of emotions compared to the first one.
I confess that with this book I was much more concerned about Claire and her destiny, because damn, there were so many complications!
But Claire showed us her strenght and didn't let the others save her: she was her hero! She made great decisions for a person who discovered their origins and actual abilities recently.
I did not like was some of Claire's arrogance and the fact that shortly after the characters talked about the possibility of a second power, Claire discovered it right after. I think the authors could have given more time for the story to unfold. This situation seemed a little bit forced to me.
I also felt that in this book the relationship between Alec and Claire, whose romance we realized was going to happen from the first glance, became more solid and not a mere teenage romance as we see in so many books. I really enjoyed the growth of these two as a couple, as friends, but above all as individuals.
Did I loved Claire and Neil's friendship? No doubt. I loved that they did not turn the book into another romance with a love triangle and instead, they give a real perspective on what the various types of friendship we can have throughout our lives.
I would like to thank to the authors for allowing me to read this book via netgalley!
Disclaimer: This book was sent to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely mine.
November 4, 2018
I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I made myself read Forbidden first because I wanted to fully understand the backstory of the plot and characters. As soon as I finished it, I began reading Embolden. It had a slow start compared to the first book in the series, but halfway through it really started to pick up. I enjoyed the world it was set in. Born and raised in Los Angeles myself, I was happy to read about places I was familiar with.
Overall, this was a fun read. I enjoyed it knowing that my 16-year-old self would have absolutely loved and devoured this book full of teenage paranormal angst and drama.
Check out my full review and others on The Reading Conspiracy: https://www.thereadingconspiracy.com
I made myself read Forbidden first because I wanted to fully understand the backstory of the plot and characters. As soon as I finished it, I began reading Embolden. It had a slow start compared to the first book in the series, but halfway through it really started to pick up. I enjoyed the world it was set in. Born and raised in Los Angeles myself, I was happy to read about places I was familiar with.
Overall, this was a fun read. I enjoyed it knowing that my 16-year-old self would have absolutely loved and devoured this book full of teenage paranormal angst and drama.
Check out my full review and others on The Reading Conspiracy: https://www.thereadingconspiracy.com
June 23, 2025
The sequel raises the stakes as Claire and Alec face internal and external threats to their relationship. The tension is well-paced, and Claire’s emerging powers add fresh complexity. Though some plot threads feel a bit typical for the genre, the emotional core between the leads keeps the story compelling. Readers invested in Forbidden will appreciate this continuation of love and loyalty under pressure.
September 3, 2018
I Read Forbidden And Embolden in Three Days. Absolutely Loved Them Both. I love Syrie James So As Soon As I Saw Her Name I Had To Read It.
Can't Wait For The Third Installment, And Definitely Hope It's Soon And Not In A Ton Of Time.
3 And A Half Stars
Can't Wait For The Third Installment, And Definitely Hope It's Soon And Not In A Ton Of Time.
3 And A Half Stars
October 22, 2018
Rating 4/5
This was a fun teenage drama filled read with a touch of paranormal! I really enjoyed the theatrics with it and especially liked the characters - even the villains were enjoyable! It was very entertaining and I hope there's not a huge gap like this one if there is another book :)
This was a fun teenage drama filled read with a touch of paranormal! I really enjoyed the theatrics with it and especially liked the characters - even the villains were enjoyable! It was very entertaining and I hope there's not a huge gap like this one if there is another book :)
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