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Salsang Chronicles #2
Stained Hearts
Marcella was a trainee, now she's a Sixth!
There's only one problem...
She had to go rogue to get there!
Marcella and her Brotherhood are on the run. Their only goal? Evade the council who seeks to punish them for crimes committed against the pursangs at Westbrook Academy. Their future isn't exactly bright, especially not with Keiran's actions casting a shadow over their every movement. After all, Marcella was supposed to be trapped at Westbrook Academy for the rest of her life, at the whim of every pursang there, not a powerful Sixth.
Except now?
They've been found!
By the one man who they never wanted to discover them...
Darius Maximus is one of the most ancient pursangs around. More than that, he's the Enforcer who can end their lives with the council's backing!
They have one saving grace...
A sliver of a connection that will buy them some time. Until time itself suddenly becomes a commodity. But, by bartering it, one of Marcella's Brotherhood may be lost to her forever!
Will Marcella and her Brotherhood come out intact?
STAINED HEARTS is the second book in the SALSANG CHRONICLES, a paranormal "why choose" romance series featuring a kick-ass heroine and her part vampire lovers that will leave you breathless and begging for more.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 17, 2019
478 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
About the author
Helen Scott
109 books1,275 followersUSA Today bestselling author Helen Scott spends her time alternating between fantasy and reality. She likes to think she’d be sorted into Hufflepuff and would have been a Physical Kid from Brakebills. Her days are fueled by tea and cuddles from her four-legged kids and amazing husband in their home in the Chicago suburbs.
When not reading or writing, Helen can be found baking, enjoying a walk in the woods, crafting, or playing video games. She’s a lover of sushi and K-Dramas and is convinced there is magic in the world if you know where to look.
Whether paranormal or contemporary, Helen loves writing sassy, kick-butt heroines and drool-worthy love interests. She's the author of the House of Wolves and Magic series, the Cerberus series, and the Of Demons and Dragons series.
Subscribe to Helen’s newsletter for a free book to get started on the adventure today! https://geni.us/HelenScottNewsletter
When not reading or writing, Helen can be found baking, enjoying a walk in the woods, crafting, or playing video games. She’s a lover of sushi and K-Dramas and is convinced there is magic in the world if you know where to look.
Whether paranormal or contemporary, Helen loves writing sassy, kick-butt heroines and drool-worthy love interests. She's the author of the House of Wolves and Magic series, the Cerberus series, and the Of Demons and Dragons series.
Subscribe to Helen’s newsletter for a free book to get started on the adventure today! https://geni.us/HelenScottNewsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
March 22, 2019
BR with the cakeaters @ RHR
It's time to panic
Alien have invaded and abducted the 2 authors who wrote Stained Egos and replaced them with changelings or something (wait changelings are fae whatever)because there is no way the authors who wrote
Also wrote this
yes ok the covers look the same but the content couldn't be more different. I raved about book 1, raved but now I have to wonder was it all a dream? I haven't been this disappointed since Heart of the Assassins and I tired my best to pretend that never happened.
Disjointed, confusing new powers that Marcella suddenly knew how to use (she practised in the car apparently *eye roll*). Sex-manic harem members who seemed to "get hard" at every little thing, Vampires who are not part of the person anymore but seem to be a separate entity and have a mind of their own.... It just was a whoole lotta mess. An into that a 7th that I didn't want or need and what are you left with?
I'm sorry guys I thought we had a winner. Well book 1 is still a winner so do read it but this is just not what it should have been. I'm speculation of course but perhaps the quick release had something to do with it? No-one expected this is be out 3 weeks after the first.
My diagnosis is ..... rush job. I'd much rather wait for a decent book than get instant gratification for lesser.
Give us back our authors Alien scum I want this back the way I found it!
Pre review hype that didn't go to plan
-------------------------------------------
ITS OUT PEOPLE
Now to figure out how to call in sick to work tomorrow...
It's time to panic
Alien have invaded and abducted the 2 authors who wrote Stained Egos and replaced them with changelings or something (wait changelings are fae whatever)because there is no way the authors who wrote
Also wrote this
yes ok the covers look the same but the content couldn't be more different. I raved about book 1, raved but now I have to wonder was it all a dream? I haven't been this disappointed since Heart of the Assassins and I tired my best to pretend that never happened.
Disjointed, confusing new powers that Marcella suddenly knew how to use (she practised in the car apparently *eye roll*). Sex-manic harem members who seemed to "get hard" at every little thing, Vampires who are not part of the person anymore but seem to be a separate entity and have a mind of their own.... It just was a whoole lotta mess. An into that a 7th that I didn't want or need and what are you left with?
I'm sorry guys I thought we had a winner. Well book 1 is still a winner so do read it but this is just not what it should have been. I'm speculation of course but perhaps the quick release had something to do with it? No-one expected this is be out 3 weeks after the first.
My diagnosis is ..... rush job. I'd much rather wait for a decent book than get instant gratification for lesser.
Give us back our authors Alien scum I want this back the way I found it!
Pre review hype that didn't go to plan
-------------------------------------------
ITS OUT PEOPLE
Now to figure out how to call in sick to work tomorrow...
April 9, 2019
Oh, the joys of the buffer book.
THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE DON’T GIVE THANKS.
We must have made a poor sacrifice.
The RH gods found us unworthy.
So this was the buffer book.
A little early on if you ask me.
It’s like the authors saw how book 1 ended and said “fuck it let’s start over”
(what exactly was the problem???)
does anyone know?
NOTHING HAPPENED.
Lots of sex.
A super weird encounter with a chick that was a family squire gone bad.
And then....
A dream. A premonition felt by two of the men and AS THEY WERE EXPLAINING IT
All of the sudden
IT WAS REALITY.
And to top that confusing shit off:
a fucking cliffhanger ending.
Wow. Just wow.
Way to go you two.
This was horrible.
And Marcella?
Who was she?
Was she even herself in this book?
She reminded me A LOT of some of the bitchy self-entitled MC’s floating around in the RH world.
I’m crippled with confusion.
Where did we go wrong Helen and Serena?
Go back to the drawing board!
All the tears.
We must mourn, RHR fam.
The death of yet another RH Potential gone wrong.
We must call upon the gods and ask for some better reading material.
(Needless to say I still need to know what goes on in book 3)
THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE DON’T GIVE THANKS.
We must have made a poor sacrifice.
The RH gods found us unworthy.
So this was the buffer book.
A little early on if you ask me.
It’s like the authors saw how book 1 ended and said “fuck it let’s start over”
(what exactly was the problem???)
does anyone know?
NOTHING HAPPENED.
Lots of sex.
A super weird encounter with a chick that was a family squire gone bad.
And then....
A dream. A premonition felt by two of the men and AS THEY WERE EXPLAINING IT
All of the sudden
IT WAS REALITY.
And to top that confusing shit off:
a fucking cliffhanger ending.
Wow. Just wow.
Way to go you two.
This was horrible.
And Marcella?
Who was she?
Was she even herself in this book?
She reminded me A LOT of some of the bitchy self-entitled MC’s floating around in the RH world.
I’m crippled with confusion.
Where did we go wrong Helen and Serena?
Go back to the drawing board!
All the tears.
We must mourn, RHR fam.
The death of yet another RH Potential gone wrong.
We must call upon the gods and ask for some better reading material.
(Needless to say I still need to know what goes on in book 3)
January 28, 2020
So good.. like eating a good cheese burger.. yummy!
Overall rating:
4*~ Very Good!
Overall rating:
4*~ Very Good!
March 22, 2019
CLIFFHANGER WARNING! I heard bad things about this one, so I was nervous about it. I definitely liked book 1 more overall, but I didn't hate this one like some other people did. Still, I had problems with the MC, the harem, the plot, and the setting. So, everything to a certain degree. The writing itself had typos as well.
1. Marcella is ridiculously overpowered in this book. No one is stronger than she is now, and she can do everything with no visible effort. Her explanation was "I wasn’t sure how I did it, but I’d been practicing." . . . How can you practice something without knowing what you're doing? Also, I'm not sure how she would have managed to practice controlling lightning in a cramped car without anyone noticing. And there's no possible way that she practiced every conceivable use of her power during a single week in a car. Without anyone noticing.
I thought this was the wrong direction for the series to go in because one of my favorite things about book 1 was how Marcella remained vulnerable despite her abilities. She's not really relatable at all anymore, especially since her vampire side keeps taking control and making her completely erratic. I kept waiting for someone to reveal that all that unprotected sex had made a baby and given her pregnancy hormones, but, nope, that's just her crazy vampire. Although the personality shift from book 1 was jarring, I did like that I could actually see that her vampire and thirst made her erratic; I didn't have to just take the authors' word for it.
2. And then the guys. My biggest complaint about book 1 was that I had a hard time distinguishing the guys at times, as they were somewhat underdeveloped. So what do the authors do? Add another love interest to make sure there's even less screentime to go around! And, sure enough, some of the preexisting harem members got hardly any screentime. Sigh. To make matters worse, I'm pretty sure that the authors only added the new guy to get Marcella and the initial guys out of trouble. The relationship definitely didn't feel organic and was obviously a plot device. And sure enough, it caused problems in the group dynamic, which is why I hate when the MC adds a member after the harem first forms. Despite all that, I did better at keep tracking of the guys this time. My only issue there was that I couldn't remember Cade's power when it was mentioned at the end because that was the first time that he'd used it in this book.
3. And then the plot. I already mentioned some of my issues with the plot, but my biggest plot-specific issues came at the end. Some characters have premonitions that some bad shit will go down, and then in the very next chapter, the bad shit immediately goes down. There was no build up of tension there, so warning us about it beforehand in a premonition seemed pointless. It was also confusing because I had absolutely no idea how they got from having the premonition to engaging in the actual events. They hadn't had any plans to go to that place before the premonition, and the premonition didn't tell them where to go. So what led them there? I felt like the book was missing at least one important chapter between those events. And then that cliffhanger. It was actually pretty ineffective (to the point that I just realized that there was in fact a cliffhanger) because I was so confused about what was happening that I wasn't emotionally engaged at all, particularly since I've basically lost my emotional connection to Marcella at this point.
4. And then the setting. I knew that I was going to be disappointed here because the end of book 1 made it clear that the characters would no longer be at the school. However, that corrupt institution was one of my favorite parts of book 1. So, I miss it, but I can't really picture the current incarnations of the characters there either. So I guess it is what it is now.
I'll be honest, I can't picture this series recovering from the changes that the authors made to the characters and their dynamics in this book, but I might book 3 a shot out of morbid curiosity anyway. Although this review makes it sound as if I truly hated this book, I can definitely say that I've read worse ones.
1. Marcella is ridiculously overpowered in this book. No one is stronger than she is now, and she can do everything with no visible effort. Her explanation was "I wasn’t sure how I did it, but I’d been practicing." . . . How can you practice something without knowing what you're doing? Also, I'm not sure how she would have managed to practice controlling lightning in a cramped car without anyone noticing. And there's no possible way that she practiced every conceivable use of her power during a single week in a car. Without anyone noticing.
I thought this was the wrong direction for the series to go in because one of my favorite things about book 1 was how Marcella remained vulnerable despite her abilities. She's not really relatable at all anymore, especially since her vampire side keeps taking control and making her completely erratic. I kept waiting for someone to reveal that all that unprotected sex had made a baby and given her pregnancy hormones, but, nope, that's just her crazy vampire. Although the personality shift from book 1 was jarring, I did like that I could actually see that her vampire and thirst made her erratic; I didn't have to just take the authors' word for it.
2. And then the guys. My biggest complaint about book 1 was that I had a hard time distinguishing the guys at times, as they were somewhat underdeveloped. So what do the authors do? Add another love interest to make sure there's even less screentime to go around! And, sure enough, some of the preexisting harem members got hardly any screentime. Sigh. To make matters worse, I'm pretty sure that the authors only added the new guy to get Marcella and the initial guys out of trouble. The relationship definitely didn't feel organic and was obviously a plot device. And sure enough, it caused problems in the group dynamic, which is why I hate when the MC adds a member after the harem first forms. Despite all that, I did better at keep tracking of the guys this time. My only issue there was that I couldn't remember Cade's power when it was mentioned at the end because that was the first time that he'd used it in this book.
3. And then the plot. I already mentioned some of my issues with the plot, but my biggest plot-specific issues came at the end. Some characters have premonitions that some bad shit will go down, and then in the very next chapter, the bad shit immediately goes down. There was no build up of tension there, so warning us about it beforehand in a premonition seemed pointless. It was also confusing because I had absolutely no idea how they got from having the premonition to engaging in the actual events. They hadn't had any plans to go to that place before the premonition, and the premonition didn't tell them where to go. So what led them there? I felt like the book was missing at least one important chapter between those events. And then that cliffhanger. It was actually pretty ineffective (to the point that I just realized that there was in fact a cliffhanger) because I was so confused about what was happening that I wasn't emotionally engaged at all, particularly since I've basically lost my emotional connection to Marcella at this point.
4. And then the setting. I knew that I was going to be disappointed here because the end of book 1 made it clear that the characters would no longer be at the school. However, that corrupt institution was one of my favorite parts of book 1. So, I miss it, but I can't really picture the current incarnations of the characters there either. So I guess it is what it is now.
I'll be honest, I can't picture this series recovering from the changes that the authors made to the characters and their dynamics in this book, but I might book 3 a shot out of morbid curiosity anyway. Although this review makes it sound as if I truly hated this book, I can definitely say that I've read worse ones.
October 22, 2019
DISAPPOINTED! It hasn’t gotten better, in fact it’s getting waaaaay worse. I feel like the author doesn’t really know what she wants, and that shows. In this book there are even more contradictions, the worst of all? They said if a member of the brotherhood dies, they all die as well didn’t they? Well, see for yourself...
I’m not picky like at all, I’m very tolerant. There are typos? Well, I’ll read it anyway. The plot is doesn’t make much sense? If I like the characters I’ll buy it. But what I can’t oversee is the book changing facts over and over again. Make your mind, write the rules of the world you are creating somewhere and FOLLOW THEM until the end, that’s all I ask for.
I’m not picky like at all, I’m very tolerant. There are typos? Well, I’ll read it anyway. The plot is doesn’t make much sense? If I like the characters I’ll buy it. But what I can’t oversee is the book changing facts over and over again. Make your mind, write the rules of the world you are creating somewhere and FOLLOW THEM until the end, that’s all I ask for.
April 13, 2019
3.5 stars
This is so good!! I’m really looking forward to the next book:)
This is so good!! I’m really looking forward to the next book:)
November 2, 2024
DNF.
Questo libro sin da subito mi ha confusa e infastidita.
La protagonista non è più lei, è arrogante e presuntuosa, ad un certo punto dice con una scrollata di spalle e un tono di sufficienza che ha imparato un nuovo e temibile potere in macchina, per ammazzare il tempo, tra un hamburger e un frullato.
E' anche molto civettuola con i ragazzi, non ci sarebbe niente di male, se non fosse che questa è in un' accademia femminile da quando aveva 10 anni, e gli unici uomini che ha visto sono un professore che la trattava come una merda e gli inservienti che la trattavano come una serva, quindi tutta questa sicurezza e seduttività non so da dove esce fuori.
Nei primi capitoli ci viene presentato un nuovo compagno, cosa che mi ha fatto arrabbiare, visto che non solo la protagonista ha legato solo frettolosamente con 2 su 5, ma soprattutto io non riuscivo a distinguerli gli uni dagli altri, e non sono io in difetto, è che nessuno di loro è minimamente caratterizzato.
Tra l'altro questo nuovo compagno è molto più grande e potente, questo ha immediatamente ridimenzionato i membri della fratellanza, facendoli apparire dei ragazzini indisciplinati.
Ho deciso di dare un'occhiata alle recensioni, mi sono detta che lo facevo per capire se la storia sarebbe migliorata, in verità cercavo l'imput per mollare questo libro... e l'ho trovato, altroché se l'ho trovato.
Io mi sono fatta un'idea, e cioè che le 2 scrittrici hanno deciso di scrivere una il primo libro e l'altra questo, solo così si spiega questa totale disconnessione tra l'uno e l'altro.
Decido di mollarlo senza il minimo rimpianto.
Questo libro sin da subito mi ha confusa e infastidita.
La protagonista non è più lei, è arrogante e presuntuosa, ad un certo punto dice con una scrollata di spalle e un tono di sufficienza che ha imparato un nuovo e temibile potere in macchina, per ammazzare il tempo, tra un hamburger e un frullato.
E' anche molto civettuola con i ragazzi, non ci sarebbe niente di male, se non fosse che questa è in un' accademia femminile da quando aveva 10 anni, e gli unici uomini che ha visto sono un professore che la trattava come una merda e gli inservienti che la trattavano come una serva, quindi tutta questa sicurezza e seduttività non so da dove esce fuori.
Nei primi capitoli ci viene presentato un nuovo compagno, cosa che mi ha fatto arrabbiare, visto che non solo la protagonista ha legato solo frettolosamente con 2 su 5, ma soprattutto io non riuscivo a distinguerli gli uni dagli altri, e non sono io in difetto, è che nessuno di loro è minimamente caratterizzato.
Tra l'altro questo nuovo compagno è molto più grande e potente, questo ha immediatamente ridimenzionato i membri della fratellanza, facendoli apparire dei ragazzini indisciplinati.
Ho deciso di dare un'occhiata alle recensioni, mi sono detta che lo facevo per capire se la storia sarebbe migliorata, in verità cercavo l'imput per mollare questo libro... e l'ho trovato, altroché se l'ho trovato.
Io mi sono fatta un'idea, e cioè che le 2 scrittrici hanno deciso di scrivere una il primo libro e l'altra questo, solo così si spiega questa totale disconnessione tra l'uno e l'altro.
Decido di mollarlo senza il minimo rimpianto.
May 13, 2019
If you like hot and steamy paranormal reverse harem reads then this series is for you! Well written with a fab storyline and a kick ass female lead this story is fast paced and will leave you more then a little breathless on occasion. I am enjoying watching the relationships grow and am interested to read what happens next!
July 11, 2021
this one had a lot more going for it than the first one. it had better romance and interactions between the characters and it also was able to evolve more since the relationship between them was formed. it allowed for new plots to be introduced.
honestly tho everything from the last book was thrown away. there was no fear or consequences of their actions which i didnt like and it seems like the first book didnt do anything really that contributed to the story
honestly tho everything from the last book was thrown away. there was no fear or consequences of their actions which i didnt like and it seems like the first book didnt do anything really that contributed to the story
March 6, 2022
Who adds a NEW guy to the harem in the SECOND book of the series????
Jesus fucking christ! I'm out. I'm so done I'm not even reading this any further.
Dnf at 16%
This fucking sucks tho coz i was REALLY looking forward to the series. Fuck this seriously. Fuck this.
Jesus fucking christ! I'm out. I'm so done I'm not even reading this any further.
Dnf at 16%
This fucking sucks tho coz i was REALLY looking forward to the series. Fuck this seriously. Fuck this.
March 25, 2019
So sad for the way this one turned out...
March 26, 2019
This is a really good series. I really enjoyed reading this book. It is really interesting and full of action. The story and the characters were great. I can't wait to read the next one.
April 20, 2019
Underwhelmed
I was underwhelmed. For much of this book there wasn’t much happening in terms of the plot. Storyline that actually would move the plot along was sparse and hurried. I liked Marcella in the first book, but here her OTT responses (especially in her interactions with Darius) and her ridiculous judgments about what other people were thinking/feeling grated on me. I’m on the fence whether to continue with the series. This book felt like filler and it makes me wary this is going to turn into the never ending story.
I was underwhelmed. For much of this book there wasn’t much happening in terms of the plot. Storyline that actually would move the plot along was sparse and hurried. I liked Marcella in the first book, but here her OTT responses (especially in her interactions with Darius) and her ridiculous judgments about what other people were thinking/feeling grated on me. I’m on the fence whether to continue with the series. This book felt like filler and it makes me wary this is going to turn into the never ending story.
March 25, 2019
W.T.F....
ok one minute we have a yes somewhat battle ready virgin who suddenly gets super blood thirsty, morally ambiguous and sexual deviant IN THE SPACE OF ONE CAR TRIP.... like suddenly she becomes totally untouchably special snowflake awesome, making a 1000+ year old vampire bend to her will with the snap of the mate bond.
i just really didn't enjoy this book.. the casual " ill give you a blow job if im wrong" comments sounded very immature cringe worthy banter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2020
I can’t tell if we’ve moved forward or stayed in the same place. Wasn’t expecting a lot of things to happen but I’m also really glad those things happened. Except for that one thing!!! Why???
May 2, 2024
1.75 - 2 ⭐
Book #2 of 5
🆗⬇️ Vampires: pureblood vs mixed
⬇️ Brotherhoods: groups of 5 mixed breed male vampires; militar/police
⬇️ Sixth: trained female pureblood who will be the center of a brotherhood
❌ Instinctive power knowledge
❌ Super powerful special one
❗Bullying (not bully romance)
❗Child abuse (not sexual)
❗Mentions sexual abuse (not MCs) from partner or teacher/headmaster
⬇️❌ Too fast paced
🆗⬇️ Reverse harem: too fast
🔥Smut
❌Romance
⬇️❌ Instant love
🆗⬇️ Main plot ideas
❌ Messy plot/story delivery
❌ Lack of proper introduction/explanation
❌ Plenty of contradictory information
❌ Inconsistencies
❌ Confusing time, space & scene jumps
❌ Abrupt scene transitions
The plot of the story does seem interesting but the delivery...
I did try... I was hoping I was just being too picky...but there are so many contradictions...
It gets so annoying and confusing that I cannot even focus on the plot.
One moment, a certain character is introduced as being able to do something or having a certain personality/power trait or behaviour.
Some scenes later, it is mentioned that the same character has always had a different behaviour or personality trait or a power that was unique to another character.
There are also scenes or when someone mentions that something happened in the past that doesn't fit with what we read that actually happened.
Or knowledge that they didn't have but later on say they have always known.
Not to mention, abrupt changes in attitude with the explanation "I always [thought/felt/believed this] since the beginning" but it is complete BS.
And, if that was not enough, the FMC uses completely new and never seen before powers as if she had trained with them for years. No surprise, no curiosity about those powers. Just calm, certain manipulation as if she knows what to do to get the results she wants.
And the same with the bonds.
Even better, these people are immortal or close to it.
But then they act as if 3 years of experience is a lot. The brotherhood has 3 years of experience!
For immortal beings that is nothing!
In comparison to Darius, the brotherhood is like Marcella: barely an adult. And certainly not knowledgeable nor experienced enough as they claim to be. All that superiority, their assumption, their assuredness...
Try 30 years of experience, to begin.
If you really think about it, the numbers and the academies don't make sense.
With so many students at the academies and with the vampires living for so long, there should exist a lot of brotherhoods. And if so and only those that prove themselves can have a sixth... that would mean:
- 3 years isn't enough to prove themselves (unless they did something really extraordinary, which I don't think they did or there would have been talk of it)
- a lot of sixths would be paired with brotherhoods a lot older than them (if they are paired as soon as they finish their last year at the academy).
It is as if the author doesn't remember what happened before, or the world they are creating. If a certain action is better for the drama, it doesn't matter if it fits with what was introduced before.
It is just so disappointing and frustrating.
This could have been a great story...
But as it is, I find it really messy and confusing to read.
***
As always my complete respect for the author and their work.
No hate nor hurt intended with this review.
Book #2 of 5
🆗⬇️ Vampires: pureblood vs mixed
⬇️ Brotherhoods: groups of 5 mixed breed male vampires; militar/police
⬇️ Sixth: trained female pureblood who will be the center of a brotherhood
❌ Instinctive power knowledge
❌ Super powerful special one
❗Bullying (not bully romance)
❗Child abuse (not sexual)
❗Mentions sexual abuse (not MCs) from partner or teacher/headmaster
⬇️❌ Too fast paced
🆗⬇️ Reverse harem: too fast
🔥Smut
❌Romance
⬇️❌ Instant love
🆗⬇️ Main plot ideas
❌ Messy plot/story delivery
❌ Lack of proper introduction/explanation
❌ Plenty of contradictory information
❌ Inconsistencies
❌ Confusing time, space & scene jumps
❌ Abrupt scene transitions
The plot of the story does seem interesting but the delivery...
I did try... I was hoping I was just being too picky...but there are so many contradictions...
It gets so annoying and confusing that I cannot even focus on the plot.
One moment, a certain character is introduced as being able to do something or having a certain personality/power trait or behaviour.
Some scenes later, it is mentioned that the same character has always had a different behaviour or personality trait or a power that was unique to another character.
There are also scenes or when someone mentions that something happened in the past that doesn't fit with what we read that actually happened.
Or knowledge that they didn't have but later on say they have always known.
Not to mention, abrupt changes in attitude with the explanation "I always [thought/felt/believed this] since the beginning" but it is complete BS.
And, if that was not enough, the FMC uses completely new and never seen before powers as if she had trained with them for years. No surprise, no curiosity about those powers. Just calm, certain manipulation as if she knows what to do to get the results she wants.
And the same with the bonds.
Even better, these people are immortal or close to it.
But then they act as if 3 years of experience is a lot. The brotherhood has 3 years of experience!
For immortal beings that is nothing!
In comparison to Darius, the brotherhood is like Marcella: barely an adult. And certainly not knowledgeable nor experienced enough as they claim to be. All that superiority, their assumption, their assuredness...
Try 30 years of experience, to begin.
If you really think about it, the numbers and the academies don't make sense.
With so many students at the academies and with the vampires living for so long, there should exist a lot of brotherhoods. And if so and only those that prove themselves can have a sixth... that would mean:
- 3 years isn't enough to prove themselves (unless they did something really extraordinary, which I don't think they did or there would have been talk of it)
- a lot of sixths would be paired with brotherhoods a lot older than them (if they are paired as soon as they finish their last year at the academy).
It is as if the author doesn't remember what happened before, or the world they are creating. If a certain action is better for the drama, it doesn't matter if it fits with what was introduced before.
It is just so disappointing and frustrating.
This could have been a great story...
But as it is, I find it really messy and confusing to read.
***
As always my complete respect for the author and their work.
No hate nor hurt intended with this review.
March 23, 2019
This is the second book in Salsang Chronicles. You definitely need to read the first book to fully understand and appreciate the second book. The author has created a complex and fascinating world, but more details are given in the first book that not only provide worldbuilding but show how the characters’ relationships evolve.
Marcella and her Brotherhood are on the run. They think they found a safe house, but it is compromised rather quickly. Darius shows up, and something that I won't give away of a most surprising nature occurs, shocking Marcella, the Brotherhood and Darius. Darius states he is there to give them a mission.
What exactly is this mission? Is Darius what he seems? How will Marcella's relationship with the Brotherhood change in this book? What dangers will they come up against?
I enjoyed seeing how Marcella took to her powers as a newly created but rogue Sixth. She definitely has powers that most Sixths don’t, surprising herself, her Brotherhood, and higher-ups in the council! I also enjoyed watching her evolving relationships with the men in her Brotherhood. Too, it was interesting to watch how the men's interaction changed as their relationship evolved with Marcella.
Like the first book, this one told in alternating viewpoints between Marcella and members of the Brotherhood. As I found previously, I didn't feel like there was enough distinction between their voices to make each narrator truly unique. There was less profanity in this book than the previous one, which I appreciated. For some reason, even though I read both books, I had a hard time distinguishing each member of the Brotherhood. Who's the mindwalker? Who's the half-druid? Who's the half-shifter? Which one's moody? Which one's tough? Which is puppy-like? What exactly is each of their talents? I almost got out an index card to try to keep track of their names, nicknames, abilities, and personalities.
Even though this is the second book of the series and the author states that the first book should be read previous to embarking on this one, I thought there needed to be little refresher course about some of the aspects of this world. It has been a little while since I had read the first book, so had forgotten what some of the specialized vocabulary used here meant.
The book had the common issues with grammar, punctuation, and usage, but I didn't find this overly distracting.
If you enjoy paranormal books that are based on groups working together, you might find this series interesting. I sincerely hope that this series continues for a long time as I do love the world the author has created.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Marcella and her Brotherhood are on the run. They think they found a safe house, but it is compromised rather quickly. Darius shows up, and something that I won't give away of a most surprising nature occurs, shocking Marcella, the Brotherhood and Darius. Darius states he is there to give them a mission.
What exactly is this mission? Is Darius what he seems? How will Marcella's relationship with the Brotherhood change in this book? What dangers will they come up against?
I enjoyed seeing how Marcella took to her powers as a newly created but rogue Sixth. She definitely has powers that most Sixths don’t, surprising herself, her Brotherhood, and higher-ups in the council! I also enjoyed watching her evolving relationships with the men in her Brotherhood. Too, it was interesting to watch how the men's interaction changed as their relationship evolved with Marcella.
Like the first book, this one told in alternating viewpoints between Marcella and members of the Brotherhood. As I found previously, I didn't feel like there was enough distinction between their voices to make each narrator truly unique. There was less profanity in this book than the previous one, which I appreciated. For some reason, even though I read both books, I had a hard time distinguishing each member of the Brotherhood. Who's the mindwalker? Who's the half-druid? Who's the half-shifter? Which one's moody? Which one's tough? Which is puppy-like? What exactly is each of their talents? I almost got out an index card to try to keep track of their names, nicknames, abilities, and personalities.
Even though this is the second book of the series and the author states that the first book should be read previous to embarking on this one, I thought there needed to be little refresher course about some of the aspects of this world. It has been a little while since I had read the first book, so had forgotten what some of the specialized vocabulary used here meant.
The book had the common issues with grammar, punctuation, and usage, but I didn't find this overly distracting.
If you enjoy paranormal books that are based on groups working together, you might find this series interesting. I sincerely hope that this series continues for a long time as I do love the world the author has created.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2021
I think I'm psychic. Or at least, I'm good at predicting predictable books.
This was really hard to get through. I skimmed it for the most part and only paid attention to the sexy times.
The immaturity, dialogue, overly protective assholes, instalove without relationship development, Mary Sue and Special Snowflake Syndrome, "she's more powerful than anyone in history and getting more powerful by the day" shit, secret keeping even though they have literal bonds and need to be open with each other in order to survive and trust one another, unbelievable circumstances and plot points, lack of plot, rampant jealousy, and the plethora of abusive parents made this book intolerable.
Also. Can we talk about how their only insult is using the word "bitch?" And how freaking judgemental Marchella is? She's annoying and is prone to mood swings. Her personality has done a 180 and she's not the same as she was in the first book. I don't know if this a good thing or not, tbh, but I didn't like her either way. Also, the amount of nicknames for Marchella in this book is ludicrous. And because I'm me and I want you to suffer with me, I wrote each and every one of them down:
Ocelle, inamorata, sweetness, sugar, baby,
darling, sweet, sweetheart, sweets, Chella,
Ella, little one, piccola, doll, cherub, sexy
I mean... Goddamn. 16 NICKNAMES. Pick one and stick with it. Jesus.
I knew this series would become unbearable, but I was keeping my hopes up. I really don't want to continue this series, but I'll probably skim book 3 just so I can read Marchella's consummation with her final mate. The sex is the only good thing here. Trust me.
Would I re-read this book? No.
Would I recommend this book? No, unless you only read the smut. Then have at it, but it's still probably not worth it.
Was I entertained? I'm all for an RH romance, but this one made me suffer a little.
Happy reading, Goodreads fiends.
This was really hard to get through. I skimmed it for the most part and only paid attention to the sexy times.
The immaturity, dialogue, overly protective assholes, instalove without relationship development, Mary Sue and Special Snowflake Syndrome, "she's more powerful than anyone in history and getting more powerful by the day" shit, secret keeping even though they have literal bonds and need to be open with each other in order to survive and trust one another, unbelievable circumstances and plot points, lack of plot, rampant jealousy, and the plethora of abusive parents made this book intolerable.
Also. Can we talk about how their only insult is using the word "bitch?" And how freaking judgemental Marchella is? She's annoying and is prone to mood swings. Her personality has done a 180 and she's not the same as she was in the first book. I don't know if this a good thing or not, tbh, but I didn't like her either way. Also, the amount of nicknames for Marchella in this book is ludicrous. And because I'm me and I want you to suffer with me, I wrote each and every one of them down:
Ocelle, inamorata, sweetness, sugar, baby,
darling, sweet, sweetheart, sweets, Chella,
Ella, little one, piccola, doll, cherub, sexy
I mean... Goddamn. 16 NICKNAMES. Pick one and stick with it. Jesus.
I knew this series would become unbearable, but I was keeping my hopes up. I really don't want to continue this series, but I'll probably skim book 3 just so I can read Marchella's consummation with her final mate. The sex is the only good thing here. Trust me.
Would I re-read this book? No.
Would I recommend this book? No, unless you only read the smut. Then have at it, but it's still probably not worth it.
Was I entertained? I'm all for an RH romance, but this one made me suffer a little.
Happy reading, Goodreads fiends.
April 16, 2023
What happened?!? Book 1 was sooooo gooood!! I couldn't wait to read Book 2, but now I wish Book 1 was just a standalone. The MC went from humble, meek, and powerful, to b****y, immature, and irrational. The way she treated Darius pissed me off, especially considering, he was right. She went from acting like a 24-year old young adult, to a 13-yeard old spoiled brat, & I love that Darius couldn't hide how much that irritated him. The authors ruined her character development for me. The only reason why this book got 2 stars is because of Darius, without his character it would definitely be 1 star.
Also, I don't remember reading in the first book how their vampire form is a separate entity like it has a personality of it's own and a heating cycle? Give me a break. That would totally make sense with animal shifters. Not vampires. Another thing is the awkward sex scenes, and the cringey dialogue attached to them. For example, "Take me like the b**** I am." Are you kidding me? I'm sure some women probably say phrases like that, but for the character that was presented to us in Book 1, this just doesn't seem like something she would say. Why change her personality so dramatically? I don't think I've ever connected and disconnected with a female MC so quickly.
I'm hoping things pick up and the authors get things back on track. If not, this will be another series going in the DNF pile.
Also, I don't remember reading in the first book how their vampire form is a separate entity like it has a personality of it's own and a heating cycle? Give me a break. That would totally make sense with animal shifters. Not vampires. Another thing is the awkward sex scenes, and the cringey dialogue attached to them. For example, "Take me like the b**** I am." Are you kidding me? I'm sure some women probably say phrases like that, but for the character that was presented to us in Book 1, this just doesn't seem like something she would say. Why change her personality so dramatically? I don't think I've ever connected and disconnected with a female MC so quickly.
I'm hoping things pick up and the authors get things back on track. If not, this will be another series going in the DNF pile.
May 22, 2019
Theres some substance missing
Okay while i enjoy the characters and some of their interactions i have a few major issues.
1- the first part of the book darius seems to know nothing about pursang mating and then magically he knows everything about it not even a day after it was established he didnt know anything and that was why Marcella was stuck unconscious for days
2- most of the book is just them sitting around doing nothing and the mystery / job they have is barely address and all the "problems" are "fixed" off screen if you will. its just stated its solved with out any real problem solving.
then the last few chapters of the book create this big mysterious vision that just is gibberish and everything is just not tied together as neatly or seeming planned out before hand.
I also started book three to see how it was going but in this first chapter I've already noticed a flaw, in this book two Elizabeth says her boyfriend is named "Jasper laraby" and the supplier is "Martin Krempt" (loc 2252) which is never addressed the rest of the book and then in the first chapter of book three it says her boyfriend is named "Lucian"
I feel like a lot more effort and thought was put into book one and book two was just a bunch of random half thoughts tossed together :\
Idk if im going to finish book three
Okay while i enjoy the characters and some of their interactions i have a few major issues.
1- the first part of the book darius seems to know nothing about pursang mating and then magically he knows everything about it not even a day after it was established he didnt know anything and that was why Marcella was stuck unconscious for days
2- most of the book is just them sitting around doing nothing and the mystery / job they have is barely address and all the "problems" are "fixed" off screen if you will. its just stated its solved with out any real problem solving.
then the last few chapters of the book create this big mysterious vision that just is gibberish and everything is just not tied together as neatly or seeming planned out before hand.
I also started book three to see how it was going but in this first chapter I've already noticed a flaw, in this book two Elizabeth says her boyfriend is named "Jasper laraby" and the supplier is "Martin Krempt" (loc 2252) which is never addressed the rest of the book and then in the first chapter of book three it says her boyfriend is named "Lucian"
I feel like a lot more effort and thought was put into book one and book two was just a bunch of random half thoughts tossed together :\
Idk if im going to finish book three
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2019
This is a well written, imaginative and very entertaining sequel to Stained Egos. We find the unsanctioned Alpha brotherhood trying to stay under the radar. Not surprisingly, the pursang they’re especially avoiding is the one that easily finds them – Darius Maximus, their Enforcer. As an ancient vampire, Darius is arrogant, controlled and dominant. Naturally, he pushes all of Marcella’s buttons and not in a good way. I found Darius’ arrival to be highly entertaining and didn’t anticipate the game-changing events that transpired or the resulting consequences. While the brotherhood grows stronger as a unit through their bond with Marcella, no one anticipates her new capabilities or the formidable power she wields through the conduit. Is she capable of controlling her newly acquired skills or is she a ticking time bomb in the making? There’s plenty of action, magic, drama, and humour, along with several very steamy encounters. I look forward to the next installment in the Salsang Chronicles.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2019
Buddy read with the cakeaters of RHR
I’m still trying to figure out what I thought of this one. On one hand it was better than the first because it didn’t have the mean girl bullying. That being said it seems like the conflict was just replaced with sex and her brotherhood are now walking talking sex juice boxes, so I take that back. The only consistency was the awesome cover artwork.
Straight away felt a little side swiped with the expected unexpected addition. Felt sorry for Gid. I did enjoy the sex scene I never knew I wanted. Ends on a cliffhanger but the ending felt like the last five minutes of an exam rushing to get it done.
Kinda lost me on the plot, bits and pieces didn’t make sense. All in all it felt like there were too many ideas and it was kinda a mess. One of those hot off the press where no one questioned anything. I didn’t like the generic cliche ending. Will probably read the next one because I do like the characters, I’m just hoping the connection like book 1 is still there.
I’m still trying to figure out what I thought of this one. On one hand it was better than the first because it didn’t have the mean girl bullying. That being said it seems like the conflict was just replaced with sex and her brotherhood are now walking talking sex juice boxes, so I take that back. The only consistency was the awesome cover artwork.
Straight away felt a little side swiped with the expected unexpected addition. Felt sorry for Gid. I did enjoy the sex scene I never knew I wanted. Ends on a cliffhanger but the ending felt like the last five minutes of an exam rushing to get it done.
Kinda lost me on the plot, bits and pieces didn’t make sense. All in all it felt like there were too many ideas and it was kinda a mess. One of those hot off the press where no one questioned anything. I didn’t like the generic cliche ending. Will probably read the next one because I do like the characters, I’m just hoping the connection like book 1 is still there.
October 14, 2024
First book was actually pretty awesome, but this one? I'm confused as to what happened here. The FMC has brand new powers that she practiced in the car (how convenient) that no one knew about so they just come out of nowhere. Then, some parts of the FMCs background story changes a bit. Her mom went from being a thrall who sold herself for blood and biz because her master wouldn't give her any blahblah. Now...her mom was ALSO some big bad vampires mate? And even though the FMC says she spent every waking minute practicing and being awesome she also somehow had a ton of time to research and learn all kinds of BS.
Essentially what I'm saying is that there was a lot of lazy writing in this. Even the last 2 chapters were VERY lazy. There's a "premonition" and the next chapter is jumping straight to it? It makes no sense why the guys know one of them will get hurt in this event....say that the FMC has to do a certain thing to make this event happen. Why wouldn't you try to avoid the event? Really made no sense.
Essentially what I'm saying is that there was a lot of lazy writing in this. Even the last 2 chapters were VERY lazy. There's a "premonition" and the next chapter is jumping straight to it? It makes no sense why the guys know one of them will get hurt in this event....say that the FMC has to do a certain thing to make this event happen. Why wouldn't you try to avoid the event? Really made no sense.
December 7, 2024
The end of the line for me
This is not the same heroine we had in book 1. Can't say I like the way her characterisation is going. Bratty, angry and on a power trip.... What did Darius do to her exactly to raise so much ire..?? Look at her wrong when they first met, like really?? is it necessary to be witchy to him. Somehow though she feels indifferent about her mother and father it doesn't fit. Why would a thousand year old ancient vampire have to sink to her level?? which in this book, is a childish level.
The writing style, what the heck is going on? It's almost like the authors didn't know which way to go with the plot. Nonsensical things are stretched out and the important things rushed, worst of all the repetitive POVs. I found myself in skipping the narration in between every conversation line. Just thought can we just get the question answered instead of a history lesson.
It's all a shame as I did want to know what would happen to the heroine in book 1 but not with how her characterisation is going in this book. It's sloppy.
This is not the same heroine we had in book 1. Can't say I like the way her characterisation is going. Bratty, angry and on a power trip.... What did Darius do to her exactly to raise so much ire..?? Look at her wrong when they first met, like really?? is it necessary to be witchy to him. Somehow though she feels indifferent about her mother and father it doesn't fit. Why would a thousand year old ancient vampire have to sink to her level?? which in this book, is a childish level.
The writing style, what the heck is going on? It's almost like the authors didn't know which way to go with the plot. Nonsensical things are stretched out and the important things rushed, worst of all the repetitive POVs. I found myself in skipping the narration in between every conversation line. Just thought can we just get the question answered instead of a history lesson.
It's all a shame as I did want to know what would happen to the heroine in book 1 but not with how her characterisation is going in this book. It's sloppy.
March 21, 2019
I devoured this book. This series has quickly become a favorite. I just love everything these two authours have created in this story. This is such a well paced and well written series with a great amount of romance and steam, action, drama and mystery. Not to mention a few " What?!" moments! And the ending?! oh my goodness the suspense! The third book cannot come fast enough. I need, like really NEED to know what the heck is going on! I really like the relationships that Marcella is developing with her Brotherhood, while other relationships have left me feeling quite curious! Marcella is a great character who is coming into her own and its really great to see her strength and resolve. The twists and turns this story has been taking is like the greatest roller coaster ride I've been on in a long time! This book kept me intrigued and entertained right to the very major cliffhanger end ! I loved it
August 14, 2020
Dnf at 21%
I was so so so disappointed lmao
My least favorite trope in RH is when we have a first big group of guys, 5 is a big number when it's the number of your significant others, and there is another/others added along the way. It really fucks with the balance and fairness of the relationship in my mind. So warning, in this book, Marcella finds out she's the mate of Darius, her brotherhood's enforcer. What's worse is she find this out when she isn't even fully linked to all the brothers, meaning 20% into this second book, she's only formed a bond with 2/5 when they've been on the run for 2 days, making the imbalance in the bonds really show. And causing unnecessary jealousy.
Not to speak on the lack of world building or logic that comes with the beginning of this book or the fct that "mates" are sometihing that weren't introduced AT ALL before the moment Darius declares Marcella his mate.
I usually try not to rate books I DNF so early but this one pissed me off.
Disappointed. Don't recommend
I was so so so disappointed lmao
My least favorite trope in RH is when we have a first big group of guys, 5 is a big number when it's the number of your significant others, and there is another/others added along the way. It really fucks with the balance and fairness of the relationship in my mind. So warning, in this book, Marcella finds out she's the mate of Darius, her brotherhood's enforcer. What's worse is she find this out when she isn't even fully linked to all the brothers, meaning 20% into this second book, she's only formed a bond with 2/5 when they've been on the run for 2 days, making the imbalance in the bonds really show. And causing unnecessary jealousy.
Not to speak on the lack of world building or logic that comes with the beginning of this book or the fct that "mates" are sometihing that weren't introduced AT ALL before the moment Darius declares Marcella his mate.
I usually try not to rate books I DNF so early but this one pissed me off.
Disappointed. Don't recommend
March 28, 2019
2,5 stars
I liked the sex scenes. The universe is deepened, we learn things about the past of magical creatures, about customs, practices ... that was interesting.
But this book is not as good as the first one.
- Lots of unanswered questions during the story (Marcella is unconscious for 5 days, and nobody washed her during this time, and she's covered in crusted blood. Why?)
- Full of inconsistencies (while she was unconscious, no one thought of giving him their own blood. Not even Darius. Unbelievable...).
- An ellipse much too big to be understandable at the end ().
So, I'm not sure I will read the next one... Maybe.
- Still no action.
I liked the sex scenes. The universe is deepened, we learn things about the past of magical creatures, about customs, practices ... that was interesting.
But this book is not as good as the first one.
- Lots of unanswered questions during the story (Marcella is unconscious for 5 days, and nobody washed her during this time, and she's covered in crusted blood. Why?)
- Full of inconsistencies (while she was unconscious, no one thought of giving him their own blood. Not even Darius. Unbelievable...).
- An ellipse much too big to be understandable at the end ().
So, I'm not sure I will read the next one... Maybe.
- Still no action.
February 3, 2022
Marcella and the Brotherhood are on the run from Westwood Academy, the school where Marcella had been training. Cade, Barclay, Gideon, Kieran and Raven feared for Marcella's life so they grabbed her and fled. The council is looking for them and just when they think they may have found a safe house to catch their breath in, Darius, their Enforcer from the council, shows up and destroys the calm. Each Brotherhood consists of five men and their Sixth, which they had. When Darius gets close to Marcella an ages old mate bond clicks between them. It throws more chaos into the group's lives but also gives them a lifeline. It is the one thing that will save them from being declared rogue due to Darius being a council member. But they have a case to solve and that's the curveball that keeps them in their toes. Will they ever catch a break?
July 7, 2019
Bad plot development
Ok, so this book was much better than the last. I enjoyed it allows up to the last two chapters. Because they LITERALLY MADE NO SENSE. You cannot go from giving someone a vision to jumping ahead to the future vision. Why were they at the bank? How did they discover the motivation? Like what we're they doing there? It cannot be as basic as oh there was a vision so we turned up. Surely they had the warning that one of them was going to die so there should have been a plan and a plot and defensive measures. It made zero sense to go from the panic of the vision to it happening. Why on earth did Cade throw a rock? Like seriously this weird plot failure made no sense and ruined it for me.
Ok, so this book was much better than the last. I enjoyed it allows up to the last two chapters. Because they LITERALLY MADE NO SENSE. You cannot go from giving someone a vision to jumping ahead to the future vision. Why were they at the bank? How did they discover the motivation? Like what we're they doing there? It cannot be as basic as oh there was a vision so we turned up. Surely they had the warning that one of them was going to die so there should have been a plan and a plot and defensive measures. It made zero sense to go from the panic of the vision to it happening. Why on earth did Cade throw a rock? Like seriously this weird plot failure made no sense and ruined it for me.
May 31, 2025
Well… that was something I guess
Would give it a 2.5 maybe but adding another person in the Harem felt too weird. They also just started throwing in more terms without really explaining what it meant and the FMC lost a lot of her personality I feel like? Just a lot of nothing in this book and Gideon really got left out like Jesus! I think in the first book it was decently even in the povs but this time not only was he left out of that but also the whole harem for over half the book!
Then the ending was just confusing, it was a dream/premonition that turned into reality? I’m not sure. I don’t think I will continue with this series which sucks because I was really looking forward to reading more after the first book.
Would give it a 2.5 maybe but adding another person in the Harem felt too weird. They also just started throwing in more terms without really explaining what it meant and the FMC lost a lot of her personality I feel like? Just a lot of nothing in this book and Gideon really got left out like Jesus! I think in the first book it was decently even in the povs but this time not only was he left out of that but also the whole harem for over half the book!
Then the ending was just confusing, it was a dream/premonition that turned into reality? I’m not sure. I don’t think I will continue with this series which sucks because I was really looking forward to reading more after the first book.
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