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The Ellwood Chronicles #2
The Enchanter's Soul
Many fall as the last enchanter rises…
The first line of the ancient prophecy keeps playing over and over in my head, but I’m afraid to remember the rest. I don’t want to think about what’s coming for us—what’s coming for him. I’ve been keeping Brinnswick safe for years; I’ve been keeping my coven safe my whole life; and now I was responsible for keeping Sebastian safe, too. It shouldn’t have been a problem, he was my vitmea viramore, after all, and I was used to having the weight of the world on my shoulders.
What Seb doesn’t know is that everyone in the magical community is after him—even if they don’t realize it yet. They’ve been looking for him for centuries; not only for him, but for his soul. But they never counted on him having me. I will protect him with my every breath and take down anyone that gets in our way. His soul belongs with me, not in the arms of evil.
The Enchanter’s Soul is the second book in The Ellwood Chronicles and is a continuation of Sebastian and Ailin’s story. It contains explicit material and is intended for mature adults 18 years of age and older.
Recommended Reading Order:
The Enchanter’s Flame
The Witch’s Seal
The Enchanter’s Soul
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2019
325 people are currently reading
372 people want to read
About the author
Michele Notaro
76 books945 followersMichele is married to an awesome guy that puts up with her and all the burnt dinners she makes—hey, sometimes characters are a bit distracting, and who doesn’t plot when they’re supposed to be cooking? They live together in Baltimore, Maryland with two little monsters, a three-legged princess, a four-legged goofball, and a cutie with giant ears (aka their two kids, their two cats, and their dog). She hopes to rescue another cat soon, and if her hubby wouldn’t kill her, she’d get more than one… and maybe a few more dogs as well.
She loves creating worlds filled with lots of love, chosen family, and of course, magic, but she also likes making the characters fight for that happy ending. She hopes to one day write all the stories in her head—even if there are too many to count!
If you would like updates on my new books or to be notified when a new book is released, please join my mailing list:
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She loves creating worlds filled with lots of love, chosen family, and of course, magic, but she also likes making the characters fight for that happy ending. She hopes to one day write all the stories in her head—even if there are too many to count!
If you would like updates on my new books or to be notified when a new book is released, please join my mailing list:
http://eepurl.com/cseIXT
You can find me on Facebook here:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
Feel free to contact me. I’d love to hear from you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
May 13, 2019
4.5 Stars
Told in dual POV, 1st person. It’s the second installment in "The Ellwood Chronicles" and has to be read in order. I liked book one but I enjoyed this a bit more. Both characters were likable, I couldn’t decide I liked which one more. I liked that they both care about each other, how possessive they were of each other, protective of each other or get jealous... I liked that how Ailin was patient with Seb. Yes, sometimes Seb’s behavior hurt him but he understood where Seb came from and that all of these happenings were overwhelming to him and he needed to process everything. Loved all the secondary characters as well and can’t wait to read their stories! Loved this world Michele Notaro created with all its creatures. At some point it was an intense read (and a bit angsty), sometimes it made me smile and at sometimes it was torturing! Overall, loved it and hope you enjoy it as well!
Told in dual POV, 1st person. It’s the second installment in "The Ellwood Chronicles" and has to be read in order. I liked book one but I enjoyed this a bit more. Both characters were likable, I couldn’t decide I liked which one more. I liked that they both care about each other, how possessive they were of each other, protective of each other or get jealous... I liked that how Ailin was patient with Seb. Yes, sometimes Seb’s behavior hurt him but he understood where Seb came from and that all of these happenings were overwhelming to him and he needed to process everything. Loved all the secondary characters as well and can’t wait to read their stories! Loved this world Michele Notaro created with all its creatures. At some point it was an intense read (and a bit angsty), sometimes it made me smile and at sometimes it was torturing! Overall, loved it and hope you enjoy it as well!
August 11, 2019
I loved the 1st book in this series & was really excited to get my hands on this. But... honestly, it was kind of just meh for me. The excruciatingly long, drawn out, over the top, declarations of love were cute at first but... after awhile they just got exhausting. I don’t feel like like it would be exaggerating to say this book has more “I love you baby, I’ll never leave you, you’re my everything, I’ll protect you with everything I have, you’re family now” than it does actual plot line. Maybe I’m just a bitch, but it all just came off as whiny. I will say though, the world building & magic are pretty cool. There are also some great action scenes in this book. Also some cool monsters get the spotlight. Not sure what it is but there’s something about this series that keeps me coming back for more.
April 18, 2019
Ellwood clan is back! Trouble is brewing in town. Teenage drama and Sebastian's magic abilities keep Ellwood family's days occupied. Ailin and Seb are slowly building their relationship but all is not as it seems. Ailin is keeping secrets, and Seb is resisting his magic. Many secrets are uncovered, Ailin finally makes peace with Emrys, new family members arrive - it's both happy time and a time to prepare for battle.
I loved how patient Ailin was with Seb, how slowly they opened up about their feelings. They constantly bantered. Seb's fear of little critters was hilarious but Ailin was very good-natured about it. This book features Ailin's POV more, and we get to see how much he loves Seb, to what lengths he will go to protect him and keep him safe. He was so tender at times which was in contrast with his usual acerbic demeanor. We finally got to see him as the head of the family, and all the responsibilities he had because of it.
Sebastian still does not want to believe in magic, even though he can feel the connection with Ailin. Always a loner, he has a hard time letting people in. But Ellwoods open their arms to him, and he soaks all the affection like a sponge but one little misstep, and he will revert into his aloof self again. But Seb's hesitation nearly costs him his life, and the help comes from unexpected source, one, that even after it's gone, gives devotion and affection. After the ordeal they've all been through, he will not take his life or his love for Ailin and his family for granted.
There were moments so intense that I was scared they won't make it. Sebastian's enchanter's heritage puts a bullseye on his back. When truth about his past comes out, he finally accepts his destiny. This fight is only the beginning, and it will take all their combined powers to keep everyone alive and safe. I loved it! It was fast-paced, humorous, fierce and a bit romantic. A delightful read that I highly recommend!
I loved how patient Ailin was with Seb, how slowly they opened up about their feelings. They constantly bantered. Seb's fear of little critters was hilarious but Ailin was very good-natured about it. This book features Ailin's POV more, and we get to see how much he loves Seb, to what lengths he will go to protect him and keep him safe. He was so tender at times which was in contrast with his usual acerbic demeanor. We finally got to see him as the head of the family, and all the responsibilities he had because of it.
Sebastian still does not want to believe in magic, even though he can feel the connection with Ailin. Always a loner, he has a hard time letting people in. But Ellwoods open their arms to him, and he soaks all the affection like a sponge but one little misstep, and he will revert into his aloof self again. But Seb's hesitation nearly costs him his life, and the help comes from unexpected source, one, that even after it's gone, gives devotion and affection. After the ordeal they've all been through, he will not take his life or his love for Ailin and his family for granted.
There were moments so intense that I was scared they won't make it. Sebastian's enchanter's heritage puts a bullseye on his back. When truth about his past comes out, he finally accepts his destiny. This fight is only the beginning, and it will take all their combined powers to keep everyone alive and safe. I loved it! It was fast-paced, humorous, fierce and a bit romantic. A delightful read that I highly recommend!
June 5, 2021
That's it, I'm out. This book completely fell apart for me. It was exhausting. I can't, I just can't.
The constant back and forth between Sebastian and Ailin was exasperating. Their insecurities about not being enough for each other became too repetitive and after a while it felt like maybe they shouldn't be together since they clearly had to try so hard to stay together. For a love like theirs that was written in stars and traveled centuries to come to fruition there sure was a lot of resistance, a little too much if you ask me. I get that maybe the author didn't want to fall back on an insta-love situation that would have made the relationship between the two MC's seem disingenuous but some growth and mutual feelings between Sebastian and Ailin would have been appreciated. If it wasn't for the sparse thoughts shared between them I don't think either of them would know how the other felt. There was a serious lack of communication.
This book went on and on but, nothing really happened. Even with the time jumps that marked the passage of time the plot and the characters seemed to be at a standstill. Sebastian didn't grow into his Enchanter magic at all. It was always just there in the background an underlining theme with no intention of being explored. BORING!!
Now moving on to Emrys and Julius:
Dollface?! That's what Emrys calls Julius as a term of endearment, really?! How is that attractive? Like at all. That has to be the most unsexiest thing one adult can say to another (regardless of gender).
When I hear those words all I can picture is this
With the next book being about them I'm pretty sure I'll Insta-DNF after the first Dollface is uttered so, I'm just gonna cut my losses and break up with this series now.
The constant back and forth between Sebastian and Ailin was exasperating. Their insecurities about not being enough for each other became too repetitive and after a while it felt like maybe they shouldn't be together since they clearly had to try so hard to stay together. For a love like theirs that was written in stars and traveled centuries to come to fruition there sure was a lot of resistance, a little too much if you ask me. I get that maybe the author didn't want to fall back on an insta-love situation that would have made the relationship between the two MC's seem disingenuous but some growth and mutual feelings between Sebastian and Ailin would have been appreciated. If it wasn't for the sparse thoughts shared between them I don't think either of them would know how the other felt. There was a serious lack of communication.
This book went on and on but, nothing really happened. Even with the time jumps that marked the passage of time the plot and the characters seemed to be at a standstill. Sebastian didn't grow into his Enchanter magic at all. It was always just there in the background an underlining theme with no intention of being explored. BORING!!
Now moving on to Emrys and Julius:
Dollface?! That's what Emrys calls Julius as a term of endearment, really?! How is that attractive? Like at all. That has to be the most unsexiest thing one adult can say to another (regardless of gender).
When I hear those words all I can picture is this
With the next book being about them I'm pretty sure I'll Insta-DNF after the first Dollface is uttered so, I'm just gonna cut my losses and break up with this series now.
June 7, 2022
Sebastian esta acostumbrando a sus poderes como Enchanter, pero no le gustan, y le gusta mucho menos que esta perdiendo su independencia volviendose cada vez mas apegado a Ailin que ya no sabe si realmente son sus sentimientos o es algun encanto que su mago puso sobre el. Y por si fuera poco, ahora sabe que esta peligro por absolutamente todos los seres sobrenaturales, todos quieren un pedazo del ultimo Enchanter, tendra que depender exclusivamente de Ailin y del Coven para mantenerlo a salvo sino aprende a usar pronto su magia.
Ailin tiene miedo por lo que se le viene a encima a el, a Sebastian y a su Coven, cuando se sepa quien es Sebastian, su poder es grande y su amor por el mucho mas, pero sera suficiente para mantener a salvo a Sebastian de todos los otros seres sobrenaturales? Sebastian le permitira ayudarlo a descifrar la profecia? Como podra el defenderlo de todos los que quieren un pedazo de su amor?
Este libro tiene mucho menos de investigacion y mucho mas fantasia, vemos como la relacion entre Sebastian y Ailin se fortalece, se rompe y se vuelve a armar. Comenzamos a ver los enemigos a los que deberan enfrentarse, y lo mejor de todo es que Sebastian comienza a aceptar su papel en el mundo magico.
La trama se torta mas hacia la profecia y el mundo magico que hacia el mundo real, el autor nos lleva a conocer mas a los personajes y sus interacciones, lo que hace la lectura un poco mas "novela rosa" que aventura, pero entretiene. Creo que nos esta preparando rapidamente para la proxima aventura, que imagino sera mas dificil y oscura que esta.
Casi el 80% del libro es narrado desde el punto de vista de Ailin, cosa que agradeci, porque en el anterior solo conocimos a Sebastian, ahora solo espero ver como van a ser manejados los otros 3 libros, asi que voy a continuar con la lectura, esperando que siga siendo tan entretenido como hasta ahora.
Ailin tiene miedo por lo que se le viene a encima a el, a Sebastian y a su Coven, cuando se sepa quien es Sebastian, su poder es grande y su amor por el mucho mas, pero sera suficiente para mantener a salvo a Sebastian de todos los otros seres sobrenaturales? Sebastian le permitira ayudarlo a descifrar la profecia? Como podra el defenderlo de todos los que quieren un pedazo de su amor?
Este libro tiene mucho menos de investigacion y mucho mas fantasia, vemos como la relacion entre Sebastian y Ailin se fortalece, se rompe y se vuelve a armar. Comenzamos a ver los enemigos a los que deberan enfrentarse, y lo mejor de todo es que Sebastian comienza a aceptar su papel en el mundo magico.
La trama se torta mas hacia la profecia y el mundo magico que hacia el mundo real, el autor nos lleva a conocer mas a los personajes y sus interacciones, lo que hace la lectura un poco mas "novela rosa" que aventura, pero entretiene. Creo que nos esta preparando rapidamente para la proxima aventura, que imagino sera mas dificil y oscura que esta.
Casi el 80% del libro es narrado desde el punto de vista de Ailin, cosa que agradeci, porque en el anterior solo conocimos a Sebastian, ahora solo espero ver como van a ser manejados los otros 3 libros, asi que voy a continuar con la lectura, esperando que siga siendo tan entretenido como hasta ahora.
July 2, 2024
“Many fall as the last enchanter rises
The awakened elder command
He who controls the ancient magic unlocks war or peace."
Típica saga que encuentro de casualidad, con la cual no tengo ninguna expectativa y acabo asombrándome y encariñándome con los personajes.
Esta es la segunda parte de la pentalogía. Por un lado, siento que ha estado mejor que la primera novela, sobre todo desde un punto de vista literario, pero por otro lado siento que en cuanto al argumento se ha quedado como un libro de transición para las siguientes entregas.
Me sigue faltando un poco de contexto y escenario del mundo, no me sirve que sea fantasía urbana, sin embargo, el punto fuerte de estas novelas son los personajes. Tampoco puedo ponerme muy exquisita porque yo ya sabía dónde me metía al leer la saga.
A pesar de todo me lo estoy pasando bien y me distrae que es lo más importante.
The awakened elder command
He who controls the ancient magic unlocks war or peace."
Típica saga que encuentro de casualidad, con la cual no tengo ninguna expectativa y acabo asombrándome y encariñándome con los personajes.
Esta es la segunda parte de la pentalogía. Por un lado, siento que ha estado mejor que la primera novela, sobre todo desde un punto de vista literario, pero por otro lado siento que en cuanto al argumento se ha quedado como un libro de transición para las siguientes entregas.
Me sigue faltando un poco de contexto y escenario del mundo, no me sirve que sea fantasía urbana, sin embargo, el punto fuerte de estas novelas son los personajes. Tampoco puedo ponerme muy exquisita porque yo ya sabía dónde me metía al leer la saga.
A pesar de todo me lo estoy pasando bien y me distrae que es lo más importante.
January 18, 2020
I usually like to read about normal humans learning their world is filled with magic. While I enjoyed that aspect in book one there was nothing really going for book two.
Sebastian and Allin were exhausting. Their back and forth was enough to make me grit my teeth. Sebastian took things way too personal, I could empathize with him initially but after the fifteenelventh time I was over it. I'm yet to decide if I want to read book three.
Sebastian and Allin were exhausting. Their back and forth was enough to make me grit my teeth. Sebastian took things way too personal, I could empathize with him initially but after the fifteenelventh time I was over it. I'm yet to decide if I want to read book three.
April 18, 2019
I love this series. I almost never read paranormal books, but when I do I always find myself wondering why I don't, since I usually enjoy them a lot.
Anyway, this book. I love the interactions between characters, the emotions (truly an emotional rollercoaster haha), the relationships (both romantic, platonic, and family), the humor, the mix between serious and fun, calm moments and exciting ones.
And not to be dramatic but i would die for Sera. (And Thayer)
Also the cover is so pretty ?? I usually don't pay much attention to the cover but something about this just make me want to stare at it haha.
I can't wait for the next book, and for Emrys and Julius' story!
Anyway, this book. I love the interactions between characters, the emotions (truly an emotional rollercoaster haha), the relationships (both romantic, platonic, and family), the humor, the mix between serious and fun, calm moments and exciting ones.
And not to be dramatic but i would die for Sera. (And Thayer)
Also the cover is so pretty ?? I usually don't pay much attention to the cover but something about this just make me want to stare at it haha.
I can't wait for the next book, and for Emrys and Julius' story!
April 29, 2020
I think I liked this more than book one. I definitely preferred Ailin’s perspective to Sebastian's so maybe that's why, but I just love this series in general either way.
Can't wait to start book 3 later on today.
Can't wait to start book 3 later on today.
August 9, 2020
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2019/08/14/...
Rating: 4 Stars – minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
Rating: 4 Stars – minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
May 12, 2019
I really liked it and I love the universe but I preferred book 1.
I found Seb kind of annoying. I like him but his reactions pissed me off most of the time.. That's why I can't give 5 stars. But I still loved everything about this story.
All the characters, the plot. The world building! I'm looking forward for the next book!
And I'm definitely waiting for Emrys's one!!
Oh and Basil... He's a little shit and I hope he'll get his head out of his ass in the next book... I sense a story between him and Thayer... We'll see!
I found Seb kind of annoying. I like him but his reactions pissed me off most of the time.. That's why I can't give 5 stars. But I still loved everything about this story.
All the characters, the plot. The world building! I'm looking forward for the next book!
And I'm definitely waiting for Emrys's one!!
Oh and Basil... He's a little shit and I hope he'll get his head out of his ass in the next book... I sense a story between him and Thayer... We'll see!
April 18, 2019
That was exhausting.
January 9, 2025
4.5 Stars
Fantastic world building, romance scenes, action scenes, all of it.
The relationship development between Ailin and Sebastian is fantastic. The first book was slow burn and this book continues that development at a nice pace that keeps you hooked. These two are soul mates with the full on soul mate bond that I adore. When bad things happen to the other, the reactions are to the high level of drama that I think they should be, and that I think is heavily missing from a lot of other similar stories. Major credit to the author for this.
The animals/reptiles & familiars in this world are fantastic and the secondary characters are as well. I find the coven of youth a bit confusing and would rather just stay out of that completely, but it does pop up once in awhile.
Minor issue - Seb feels at one point that Ailin and Sera heavily break his trust and lie to him, which I strongly disagree with. I felt like his reaction was blown way out of proportion and annoyed me quite a bit. I still loved him but come on. At one point he thinks something like, “I’ve been handling all this magic stuff well so far, haven’t I?” And like, no buddy, you haven’t.
Soft spoiler, animals/reptiles and familiars do get injured or even killed in this world and I wasn’t really ready for that. I spilled some tears for a few in the climax scenes that I wasn’t prepared for. My heart was broken. I would’ve appreciated a trigger warning there. Also, this author has a way with writing gruesome violence that I was surprised about and it honestly is almost too much for me during those scenes. I’d say it’s quite “adult.”
Fantastic world building, romance scenes, action scenes, all of it.
The relationship development between Ailin and Sebastian is fantastic. The first book was slow burn and this book continues that development at a nice pace that keeps you hooked. These two are soul mates with the full on soul mate bond that I adore. When bad things happen to the other, the reactions are to the high level of drama that I think they should be, and that I think is heavily missing from a lot of other similar stories. Major credit to the author for this.
The animals/reptiles & familiars in this world are fantastic and the secondary characters are as well. I find the coven of youth a bit confusing and would rather just stay out of that completely, but it does pop up once in awhile.
Minor issue - Seb feels at one point that Ailin and Sera heavily break his trust and lie to him, which I strongly disagree with. I felt like his reaction was blown way out of proportion and annoyed me quite a bit. I still loved him but come on. At one point he thinks something like, “I’ve been handling all this magic stuff well so far, haven’t I?” And like, no buddy, you haven’t.
Soft spoiler, animals/reptiles and familiars do get injured or even killed in this world and I wasn’t really ready for that. I spilled some tears for a few in the climax scenes that I wasn’t prepared for. My heart was broken. I would’ve appreciated a trigger warning there. Also, this author has a way with writing gruesome violence that I was surprised about and it honestly is almost too much for me during those scenes. I’d say it’s quite “adult.”
April 26, 2023
Book 2 of Ellwood Chronicles continues the adventure of Ailin and Sebastian and their semi-forced living together status... 😆 I am very partial to sentient houses (cue Encanto or Woods of the Raven), so if I was Sebastian, I'd be more than willing to live there but similarly, I am also an introvert and I'll probably pull my hair with the amount of human -- or witch interaction. 😂😂😂
I could do with less fights and reassurances on this book but I get the need for that considering Seb's history and the abrupt changes in his life, discovering he's not human, being marked by A without permission, and feeling forced to give up his independence. It's hard for him to accept that he's now a part of a big family, he's loved, and he has power he doesn't know what to do with. A is still a jerk most of the time but he's very patient with Seb and took the time to reassure him and make him understand that he's in for the long haul.
I was ready to write this off as a so-so installment if not for the heartbreaking last few chapters. If you are not a fan of torture, gore, and blood, consider this a fair warning. Still a HFN and their relationship has become stronger in the end.
I could do with less fights and reassurances on this book but I get the need for that considering Seb's history and the abrupt changes in his life, discovering he's not human, being marked by A without permission, and feeling forced to give up his independence. It's hard for him to accept that he's now a part of a big family, he's loved, and he has power he doesn't know what to do with. A is still a jerk most of the time but he's very patient with Seb and took the time to reassure him and make him understand that he's in for the long haul.
I was ready to write this off as a so-so installment if not for the heartbreaking last few chapters. If you are not a fan of torture, gore, and blood, consider this a fair warning. Still a HFN and their relationship has become stronger in the end.
July 9, 2019
2.5 rounded down
I think it's time I officially give up on this series. I gave it a good faith effort, I did, and it's not bad which is why I kept trying, but it's just not quite working for me, even though I wish it did. The world building here in interesting, but not quite as seamless as I'd like. The characters are interesting, but the dynamics between everybody here are so WEIRD and confusing. Everybody is prickly and there is honestly so much going on between every single person that it's really hard to understand and detangle. Seb seemed overly reluctant to the point of being annoying, and his reaction to the Sara reveal was SO bizarre and overkill, and frankly really pissed me off how everybody acted like Ailin had majorly fucked up, when at most, he'd made a minor mistake. The Emrys stuff continues to be fucking weird, Julian was an asshole, and basically, I just don't enjoy the overly complex relationship dynamics between literally every single person in the book. It's fucking exhausting, and I think I just need to cut my ties now. :/
I think it's time I officially give up on this series. I gave it a good faith effort, I did, and it's not bad which is why I kept trying, but it's just not quite working for me, even though I wish it did. The world building here in interesting, but not quite as seamless as I'd like. The characters are interesting, but the dynamics between everybody here are so WEIRD and confusing. Everybody is prickly and there is honestly so much going on between every single person that it's really hard to understand and detangle. Seb seemed overly reluctant to the point of being annoying, and his reaction to the Sara reveal was SO bizarre and overkill, and frankly really pissed me off how everybody acted like Ailin had majorly fucked up, when at most, he'd made a minor mistake. The Emrys stuff continues to be fucking weird, Julian was an asshole, and basically, I just don't enjoy the overly complex relationship dynamics between literally every single person in the book. It's fucking exhausting, and I think I just need to cut my ties now. :/
August 4, 2024
This was so freaking good. Ailin and Seb’s bond continued to grow but Seb’s fear held him back. There were a few surprises along the way and don’t even get me started on the utterly heartbreaking part towards the end. My tears were flowing and wouldn’t stop - I felt their pain, loss and helplessness.
Seb finally got a beautiful little gift towards the end and my heart melted. He had so much in common with her and understood her fear, sadness and loss.
A gripping instalment - absolutely loved it. Highly recommend!
Seb finally got a beautiful little gift towards the end and my heart melted. He had so much in common with her and understood her fear, sadness and loss.
A gripping instalment - absolutely loved it. Highly recommend!
April 30, 2025
Re-read April 2025
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
April 18, 2020
DNF
The first book was promising and I thought that the lackluster and annoying dynamic between the two MCs would finally improve in this book. I was mistaken. Not only did it not improve, it took a huge nosedive. The characters turned into cardboard caricatures and just fell apart already by chapter 10. Ailin is this controlling "do it all by myself" type and Seb is an insecure whiny and dramatic 13yo girl. His reaction to the revelation that Sera has several forms, manticore being one of them, was to go into a complete hysterical meltdown - "we're DONE and I'm moving out see you never!" - which was just SO bizarre that I decided to quit this series then and there. There's no justification to this over the top reaction of his, considering 1. he's supposedly a grown 30+ year old man who's been on military missions and works in law enforcement, 2. it was a very minor thing that just never came up in conversation, not really some huge dark secret, 3. did Sebastian ever actually ASK anything about Sera or her forms? The answer is no. So why is acting like something groundbreaking and world shattering was kept from him IDEK. It's plain crazy. To then go all, "I don't know if I can ever trust you again" I mean what. Ridiculous and both the characters are annoying af, why are they even together or bothering with this.
Basically, for me, the author failed to create likable and multidimensional characters and build any real relationship between them. By chapter 10 of book 2, I realized that I don't care if they stay together or not, I don't care what happens to them next, I just don't care about them period. Whatever was supposed to be the plot and storyline here, some enchanter prophecy and some villain - all of that took a huge backseat to these two whiny, insecure and annoying MCs who just argue all the damn time about tiny, inconsequential things that don't even matter. This book was exhausting to slog through and I didn't even finish it, because at the rate I was reading, it'd take me weeks, when usually I could finish a book this size in hours.
The first book was promising and I thought that the lackluster and annoying dynamic between the two MCs would finally improve in this book. I was mistaken. Not only did it not improve, it took a huge nosedive. The characters turned into cardboard caricatures and just fell apart already by chapter 10. Ailin is this controlling "do it all by myself" type and Seb is an insecure whiny and dramatic 13yo girl. His reaction to the revelation that Sera has several forms, manticore being one of them, was to go into a complete hysterical meltdown - "we're DONE and I'm moving out see you never!" - which was just SO bizarre that I decided to quit this series then and there. There's no justification to this over the top reaction of his, considering 1. he's supposedly a grown 30+ year old man who's been on military missions and works in law enforcement, 2. it was a very minor thing that just never came up in conversation, not really some huge dark secret, 3. did Sebastian ever actually ASK anything about Sera or her forms? The answer is no. So why is acting like something groundbreaking and world shattering was kept from him IDEK. It's plain crazy. To then go all, "I don't know if I can ever trust you again" I mean what. Ridiculous and both the characters are annoying af, why are they even together or bothering with this.
Basically, for me, the author failed to create likable and multidimensional characters and build any real relationship between them. By chapter 10 of book 2, I realized that I don't care if they stay together or not, I don't care what happens to them next, I just don't care about them period. Whatever was supposed to be the plot and storyline here, some enchanter prophecy and some villain - all of that took a huge backseat to these two whiny, insecure and annoying MCs who just argue all the damn time about tiny, inconsequential things that don't even matter. This book was exhausting to slog through and I didn't even finish it, because at the rate I was reading, it'd take me weeks, when usually I could finish a book this size in hours.
February 5, 2020
4.5 Stars!
This is book 2 in The Ellwood Chronicles series and it needs to be read/listened to in order.
While I was ambivalent over my feelings for Seb and Ailin in the first book, well, not really, I thought Seb was a drama queen and Ailin was a jerk, this changed in this book. I started out loving Ailin and still thinking Sebastian sounded younger and more immature, and I was more than a bit fed up with him being so difficult about everything. Although, I will admit it couldn't have been easy to find out he was the last Enchanter and that a lot of beings were after him to drain him of his power. Sebastian surprised me in the second half of the book and I ended up loving him (finally!).
Seb and Ailin were amazing together, both as a couple and heads of their family and as a force to be reckoned with when they fought against their enemies.
I'm loving most of Ailin's family, with the exception of Basil, who I keep hoping will get over himself. *sighs*
I really enjoyed this one, despite being annoyed at Sebastian so much during the first half of the book, the story captivated me and I can't wait to read what else Ms. Notaro has in store for us.
Kenneth Obi did a fantastic job with this narration, he is truly bringing all these characters to life for me and giving the story the emotion it needs to bring it to the next level.
This is book 2 in The Ellwood Chronicles series and it needs to be read/listened to in order.
While I was ambivalent over my feelings for Seb and Ailin in the first book, well, not really, I thought Seb was a drama queen and Ailin was a jerk, this changed in this book. I started out loving Ailin and still thinking Sebastian sounded younger and more immature, and I was more than a bit fed up with him being so difficult about everything. Although, I will admit it couldn't have been easy to find out he was the last Enchanter and that a lot of beings were after him to drain him of his power. Sebastian surprised me in the second half of the book and I ended up loving him (finally!).
Seb and Ailin were amazing together, both as a couple and heads of their family and as a force to be reckoned with when they fought against their enemies.
I'm loving most of Ailin's family, with the exception of Basil, who I keep hoping will get over himself. *sighs*
I really enjoyed this one, despite being annoyed at Sebastian so much during the first half of the book, the story captivated me and I can't wait to read what else Ms. Notaro has in store for us.
Kenneth Obi did a fantastic job with this narration, he is truly bringing all these characters to life for me and giving the story the emotion it needs to bring it to the next level.
May 20, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 stars
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
The adventure continues and I loved it!!
This story is just as awesome as the first book and continues on with Ailin and Sebastian and them coming to terms with Seb's enchanter powers and their fated connection. It is a thrilling journey, full of new intrigue, mystery, and magic. We see all the favorite characters and get a better insight into their magical world and some weird things that have been happening since their battle with the demon. We are introduced (along with Seb) to some interesting creatures and Seb's reactions are classic!
The story leads to a new battle where all is almost lost. I was on the edge of my seat! I loved the development of Seb and Ailin's connection and the struggles they faced, while magic related, seemed relatable to a 'normal' relationship. I loved the reveal of the bond creatures and the world Michele has created has grown exponentially.
I can't wait to see what happens next as again, Michele left us with a taste of what's to come!! Loving this world and Ailin and Seb are some of my all-time favorite characters!! Another 5 star read for me!!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
The adventure continues and I loved it!!
This story is just as awesome as the first book and continues on with Ailin and Sebastian and them coming to terms with Seb's enchanter powers and their fated connection. It is a thrilling journey, full of new intrigue, mystery, and magic. We see all the favorite characters and get a better insight into their magical world and some weird things that have been happening since their battle with the demon. We are introduced (along with Seb) to some interesting creatures and Seb's reactions are classic!
The story leads to a new battle where all is almost lost. I was on the edge of my seat! I loved the development of Seb and Ailin's connection and the struggles they faced, while magic related, seemed relatable to a 'normal' relationship. I loved the reveal of the bond creatures and the world Michele has created has grown exponentially.
I can't wait to see what happens next as again, Michele left us with a taste of what's to come!! Loving this world and Ailin and Seb are some of my all-time favorite characters!! Another 5 star read for me!!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com
October 7, 2024
Another Meh. Maybe 2.75 this time. But only for the last 25% of the book.
So the first ¾ of the book are Sebastian being all wishy washy about magic, him being abandoned as a kid, etc. I get it. Your life sucked, you’re lonely, and you don’t trust this new relationship or this magic you have. But for the love of all that is holy please STOP TALKING ABOUT IT. It’s exhausting and contributes nothing to the forward propulsion of the plot. Now the last 25 % of the book is very action packed and I found this quite entertaining. Not to get into spoilers, but there should be a trigger warning for torture.
Honestly, I think the I’ll enjoy the 3rd book more as it seems to deal with another couple entirely.
So the first ¾ of the book are Sebastian being all wishy washy about magic, him being abandoned as a kid, etc. I get it. Your life sucked, you’re lonely, and you don’t trust this new relationship or this magic you have. But for the love of all that is holy please STOP TALKING ABOUT IT. It’s exhausting and contributes nothing to the forward propulsion of the plot. Now the last 25 % of the book is very action packed and I found this quite entertaining. Not to get into spoilers, but there should be a trigger warning for torture.
Honestly, I think the I’ll enjoy the 3rd book more as it seems to deal with another couple entirely.
June 30, 2019
**POTENTIAL SPOILER ALERT!!!!****
"You can see it?" Ugh! Michele put SO much feeling into that one sentence that i started crying!!! This second installment had absolutely everything that i look for in a paranormal/fantasy read. Some angst, laughter, tears. Oh the feels! This was the absolutely best. Although, i truly disliked Sebastian in this one. I felt like he was so selfish and invalidated Ailins feelings. Its like he knew he was hurting Ailin but didnt care. Ailin was amazing. I loved seeing his vulnerability and all of the challenges he goes through on a day to day basis. Oh! And Emrys! Oh my goodness. Im going to leave it there. Honestly if you dont read this you are missing out!
"You can see it?" Ugh! Michele put SO much feeling into that one sentence that i started crying!!! This second installment had absolutely everything that i look for in a paranormal/fantasy read. Some angst, laughter, tears. Oh the feels! This was the absolutely best. Although, i truly disliked Sebastian in this one. I felt like he was so selfish and invalidated Ailins feelings. Its like he knew he was hurting Ailin but didnt care. Ailin was amazing. I loved seeing his vulnerability and all of the challenges he goes through on a day to day basis. Oh! And Emrys! Oh my goodness. Im going to leave it there. Honestly if you dont read this you are missing out!
February 17, 2020
Rating: 4 stars
I was a bit disappointed in this book. I loved the first book in the series and really liked Sebastian. In this book I found myself disliking him a bit, especially through the first 70% of it. I think the problem stemmed from the fact that the majority of the book was written from Ailin’s perspective and very little was written from Sebastian’s. This allowed us to see how Sebastian’s actions were affecting Ailin and didn’t really allow us insight to what Sebastian was going through. Still, I did like the story and really want to know what happens next. Unfortunately, it will probably be awhile before we get any answers.
I was a bit disappointed in this book. I loved the first book in the series and really liked Sebastian. In this book I found myself disliking him a bit, especially through the first 70% of it. I think the problem stemmed from the fact that the majority of the book was written from Ailin’s perspective and very little was written from Sebastian’s. This allowed us to see how Sebastian’s actions were affecting Ailin and didn’t really allow us insight to what Sebastian was going through. Still, I did like the story and really want to know what happens next. Unfortunately, it will probably be awhile before we get any answers.
May 30, 2021
That was exhausting!!! This book had sooo much potential to be a great love story with a great storyline. But the constant back and for , hot and cold, doubts and insecurities drove me insane. I had so many breaks from this book it wasn't funny. And don't even get me started on the constant name calling. Too late!! I counted 17 time the phrase 'dont be a dick' was used. Not to mention, dickhead, asshole and my absolute favourite, jerkface. Ugh! Grown men don't act this way. If I didn't know better I'd think the characters were teenage girls. Shame really. I wish Sebastian would've just chilled the fuck out!!!!!
December 30, 2020
I love this series 📖
Sebastian and Ailin are great characters and I love their relationship even though I think Seb over reacts to certain things. I loved all the other characters as well especially the bonded one. They look like little harmless pets but looks are deceiving. I won't ruin it for you all so you can find out yourself. Lots of laughter and tears, so best be prepared.
Sebastian and Ailin are great characters and I love their relationship even though I think Seb over reacts to certain things. I loved all the other characters as well especially the bonded one. They look like little harmless pets but looks are deceiving. I won't ruin it for you all so you can find out yourself. Lots of laughter and tears, so best be prepared.
January 28, 2020
The Enchanter’s Soul
A magical addition to the series. Full of so much emotion I absolutely loved learning more about the characters and watching not only themselves grow but also their relationship. Again this one had me on the edge of my seat and I’m so excited for more!
A magical addition to the series. Full of so much emotion I absolutely loved learning more about the characters and watching not only themselves grow but also their relationship. Again this one had me on the edge of my seat and I’m so excited for more!
May 8, 2019
3.25
The melodrama felt contrived. It really irritated me and so I docked a full star for that.
The melodrama felt contrived. It really irritated me and so I docked a full star for that.
February 7, 2020
Wow 😱 so freaking AMAZING 💫🐉🐾🧚🏼♂️🧙🏻♂️
October 19, 2024
Habe ich diese Geschichte und Band 1 diesen Monat dutzende Male gehört, wenn ich hinten angekommen bin, wieder vorne angefangen? Maybe... 😂🖤
September 3, 2019
Relationship Angst
I found this one a but more frustrating than the first book, largely because of certain character interactions. There was more angst in this one with everything going on and for a time this seemed to simply drag on. Initially the angst is between Ailin and Sebastian about some hidden truths of the magical world and what it means for their relationship. Then there is a whole thing whenever Emrys us around, which was a lot in the second half.
Ailin and Sebastian fairly well cemeted their relationship in the first book it seemed. They were viramores, they had fought for each other, the topic of love had been broached. But now in this book more details about the hidden side of the magic world get revealed and in a way that Sebastian realized they had been kept from him. This drives a huge wedge between the two men. As much as trust was everything, it was hard to truly see this as a breach of trust, so it seemed that the tension was a bit of an overreaction. But building a solid relationship of trust and love between these two is a major part of this book so the fight and the consequences of it were a big part of the story.
The bother with Emrys was from how the characters would act. From the first book, and from the side story Witch's Seal, it had been established that Emrys burned Ailin alive. It has also been established that it wasn't Emrys in control when this happened, though Emrys cannot tell anyone that. Ailin is understandably hesitant around Emrys from this, bit confusingly this makes Emrys angry. Apparently Ailin is supposed to take it as fact that Emrys didn't do it and be comfortable around the man who burned him alive. Ailin not being comfortable makes sense, yet at the same time he gets angry about Emrys being with a vampire and all protective of him. This is crazy hypocritical and does seem nonsensical with everything else. These two keep going in circles when they are together which was frustrating to read and drew back from the story a bit.
As much as these were very frustrating parts to the story line, it was clear they were a part of what is moving the story forwards. I found them a drag to read but that is a personal opinion and may not bug others as much. The story does also continue forward with action and mystery surrounding the prophecy that threatens Sebastian and those he loves, as well as the fate of the world. Much is learned about the past and there is plenty to learn moving forwards. This remains an exciting series with a fascinating world and well formed characters that you care about. Looking forward to future books!
I found this one a but more frustrating than the first book, largely because of certain character interactions. There was more angst in this one with everything going on and for a time this seemed to simply drag on. Initially the angst is between Ailin and Sebastian about some hidden truths of the magical world and what it means for their relationship. Then there is a whole thing whenever Emrys us around, which was a lot in the second half.
Ailin and Sebastian fairly well cemeted their relationship in the first book it seemed. They were viramores, they had fought for each other, the topic of love had been broached. But now in this book more details about the hidden side of the magic world get revealed and in a way that Sebastian realized they had been kept from him. This drives a huge wedge between the two men. As much as trust was everything, it was hard to truly see this as a breach of trust, so it seemed that the tension was a bit of an overreaction. But building a solid relationship of trust and love between these two is a major part of this book so the fight and the consequences of it were a big part of the story.
The bother with Emrys was from how the characters would act. From the first book, and from the side story Witch's Seal, it had been established that Emrys burned Ailin alive. It has also been established that it wasn't Emrys in control when this happened, though Emrys cannot tell anyone that. Ailin is understandably hesitant around Emrys from this, bit confusingly this makes Emrys angry. Apparently Ailin is supposed to take it as fact that Emrys didn't do it and be comfortable around the man who burned him alive. Ailin not being comfortable makes sense, yet at the same time he gets angry about Emrys being with a vampire and all protective of him. This is crazy hypocritical and does seem nonsensical with everything else. These two keep going in circles when they are together which was frustrating to read and drew back from the story a bit.
As much as these were very frustrating parts to the story line, it was clear they were a part of what is moving the story forwards. I found them a drag to read but that is a personal opinion and may not bug others as much. The story does also continue forward with action and mystery surrounding the prophecy that threatens Sebastian and those he loves, as well as the fate of the world. Much is learned about the past and there is plenty to learn moving forwards. This remains an exciting series with a fascinating world and well formed characters that you care about. Looking forward to future books!
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