Hidden Within

Jewel of Life #2

by Ryan D. Gebhart

Alone in the Illumined Wood after fleeing in the midst of the devastating attack on Ceurenyl, and uncertain about the current state of the city, Devlyn wrestles with his doubts and choices. Even as he struggles to understand the meaning of the ancient prophecy, the young elf grows closer to the last phoenix. Meanwhile, the Lucillian Alliance is crumbling and the Erynien Empire continues its devastating march across Eklean, decimating any opposition. Eklean’s various races well remember Erynor’s previous reign. Now though, the Guardians and the Lorenthien aryls who were successful in bringing all the races together to battle their oppressor died at the Fall of Krysenthiel, fourteen hundred years ago. What is Devlyn’s role in Eklean’s reforged war against Erynor?

424 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 15, 2019

About the author

Ryan D Gebhart first started writing the Jewel of Life series in 2012 in Philadelphia, PA, shortly after concluding his undergraduate studies in philosophy. This unexpected passion evolved over the years and has remained a constant companion through his career changes, from a Capuchin Friar, to a Claims Processor, and finally in his current endeavor as an Architectural Graduate Student in Washington, DC. Ryan D Gebhart is originally from Wilmington, DE.

Reviews

[Renata Preciado · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I want to thank book tasters and the author for letting me read this book.
I liked this book a lot; it’s the second book of the series jewel of life by Ryan D. Gebhart.
I loved how Devlyn continued to evolve his powers, and I loved reading about his adventures.
This book is definitely worth reading. The magic system amazed me a lot. Another thing that I like is how the author describes everything very well that I was able to transport myself into the world that the author created.
I usually like the second book more than the first one in the series, and let me tell you that this did not change; the adventures and challenges that Devlyn and his friends needed to pass were so captivating. I loved how the author gives us some chapters with the point of view of other characters because you can know what is happening with the other characters. I can’t wait to read the next book.

[Debbie Viscosi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden Within is the second book of Ryan Gebhart’s series “The Jewel of Life”. This is a continuation of Devlyn’s journey of self discovery. After spending time at school learning about the history and politics of his people, he is to spend approximately a years apprenticeship in the Illumined Wood to discern his future. In his meandering travels, Devlyn continues bonding with Aliel, his phoenix. He is pleasantly surprised to find his sister and her unicorn. Throughout his time in the woods, he thinks about his future and his growing emotional attachment to Ellendren. His time in the woods ends and he must return to Gwilnor. At his return to school, he is dismayed to discover that Erynor has continued his attempt to take over. What will Devlyn’s role be in the upcoming battles? Will his magical powers continue to strengthen?

The first book in this series established the central characters, concepts, and terminology necessary to understand this new world. Hidden Within expands our understanding of Ryan Gebhart’s fascinating magical world. His characters are familiar now and it is interesting to see their relationships develop and new characters interact with them. Ryan Gebhart’s imagination truly knows no boundaries.

This story is absolutely ingenious! Descriptions are vivid, characters are relatable, and the storyline is strong and compelling. Readers will be treated with this second part of the masterful journey as they continue to be entranced by Devlyn. This is a series I highly recommend.

[Nipun Bamania · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second part is as good as the first one. Starting with the queen of Sorenth, Karina thinking about her daughter Myranda, as well as gauging the seige of the kingdom by Tieli and Torsillian forces. Devyln has entered the Illumined Forest in search of some answers. The evil forces of Aren are at work. During his tryst in the Illumined forest, Devyln communicates with a Phoenix and discovers a lot of things about the forest. Queen Karina is assassinated by the evil Aren. A war ensues between Sorenth and Tieli and Torsillian forces. Shadow elves and fire breathing dragons, are a part of the attacking forces. The Sorenth are forced to retreat and Devyln discovers many facts that will help him.further in the battle. A magical journey that will continue in the third part. Waiting to read it.

[Manar Rajab · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now that, my friends, is my type of sequel!

Descriptive, beautifully written and captivating, Hidden Within without a doubt was so much better than Splendor of Dawn. With everything already settled down with the world building in the previous installment, this one focuses on Self-discovery and we get to see Devlyn face some really hard and shocking obstacles on his way and his knowledge of his world expands.

Since sequels (especially the second one) are almost always not interesting as the first book, I had some worries. However Gebhart was 100% capable of making his even better than the first one and reading it was totally worthwhile.

Final rating: 4.5 stars 🌟

Thank you Booktasters and Ryan D. Gebhart. 💙

[Penelope Pirri · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book of the "Jewel of Life" series takes place six months after the events of the previous one. It follows Devlyn as he tries to make his way through the Illumined Wood with the help of an unexpected companion. Once again the story is filled with mystery and adventure and helps us learn more things about the main character but also the world that the story takes place in. It was a wonderful read and can't wait to see the continuation of the story in the third book.

[Chris Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gebhart does it again! Often, a long projected series can go through a 'sophomore slump', especially when the author has already announced the length of the series. Surprisingly, the author does not fall into this trap. The twists and turns continue as the characters grow towards their destinies. A fast read for a book of epic length, this book will please fans of the series and newcomers.

[Eli · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this even more than Splendor of Dawn!! It was truly a thrilling book and I can't wait to read Fading Lights. Just like the first book, I could see every scene in front of me, like watching a film but better!
Hiddin Within got better and better as I read on, so I have high hopes for the next book(s) in the series.

[Irene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hidden Within was nothing I expected!! I just could not put the book down!!!

The world building becomes even more complex and REAL. In this second book you can actually understand and grasp it better thanks to the detailed descriptions!

The continuos turns and twists of the story keeps getting better and better!! I cannot wait for the next book!!

How much do we have to wait??

[cyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Hidden Within even more than Splendor of Dawn if possible. The story grows more with each page but never does the need to keep reading go away until I finished it. Gebhart truly manages to captivate this book that makes me eager to read the next part of this series: Fading Lights.

[Adrianne Lemke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining follow-up

Hidden Within saw Devlyn learning much more of his heritage, how to focus his power, and gain a stronger connection to the Phoenix. It will be interesting to see where the story goes from here. Looking forward to the next installment!