A Touch of Rage

The Towers of the Earth #2

by Nita Round

As foretold, the Trinity of Truth must finally face the Mistress of the Night.

Lucinda, Ascara, and Magda have survived several dangerous encounters with the various agents of Sh'Na. It is time for them to brave the beast herself in the pyramid from Lucinda's dreams.

Magda, however, has met this Queen of the Desert before. Now her past history has risen to confront her with the evidence of her mistakes, and brings new dangers to the trinity. Although she can draw strength from her bonds with Lucinda and Ascara, she fears that even the power of the three of them will not be enough to withstand Sh'Na's evil.

But there is more to face than just the desert beast. There are other dangers directed at the three women, and they must act with care and forethought, or be caught in the traps of others.

From the city of Port Ruth, their troop travels into the burning lands of sand and sun, where they will face Sh’Na in a battle for more than their lives. Failure will mean the end of the world as they know it. Success will bring a new truth, and the revelation of a new path for all three of them.

The trinity must continue to work together, not only to save the world, but also the very nature of time itself.

“When the Hours are true, the gates of time will open”.

In the end, will the trinity prevail? Or will darkness rise again?

This is the second in the Towers of the Earth fantasy adventure series.

(Note previously published as Raven, Sand and Sun in 2018).

Genres: Steampunk, Fantasy, Paranormal, Lesbian, Magic, Science Fiction, Polyamory

414 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 2, 2020

About the author

Nita Round is a British author who creates vibrant and unique new worlds as quirky as she is. She takes inspiration from her studies of history and blends together ‘what was’ and creates fantastical worlds, ‘what could be’.

Monsters, heroines, magic, and the strange are all woven into tales of hope and courage. Where women battle evil, something with nothing more than a stout heart, and no matter the odds, ultimately prevail.

If you want to know more about new books, then subscribe to Nita's reader's list. Free short story Dark Mission available via website, and exclusive to newsletter.
https://www.nitaround.com

Reviews

[Lex Kent · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Stars. This was another really entertaining book by Round. This is the second book in her Touch of Truth Series. This series would best be described as steampunk-fantasy. While I did enjoy the first book a tad more, this was still a really good second offering and I’m totally hooked on this series. If you are interested, I highly recommend reading book 1, Raven, Fire and Ice first. While each book is complete there is a main storyline that runs through all the books.

Lucinda a powerful witch, Magda an airship captain, and Ascara an Amazon warrior, are all back again to try an defeat the Mistress of the Knight. This time they must travel the desert and fight her in her own territory. Can they stop her once and for all?

While I love the steampunk vibe and the setting of pyramids and the desert, what I really enjoyed about this book was the characters. After two books I have really grown to care about them. What was also great about this book was it answered a lot of questions about Magda and Ascara. Some of the mysteries of who they really are, are finally starting to unravel. We actually find out big secrets about both characters and it makes me really excited for what is to come in future books.

I do need to mention these books don’t have a romance. But, all three women are really connected and have feelings for each other. We don’t see a lot of poly relationships in lesfic, and I don’t know how far Round will take this, but I really like these three women together. They all balance each other perfectly and make a great and believable connection. I would love to see them make a romantic relationship work.

If you are a fantasy or steampunk fan, I would recommend these books. This series has plenty of entertainment and is fun to read. It’s also different, which I really appreciate. Round has a really good imagination and I can’t wait to see where this series goes next.

An ARC was given to me for a honest review.

[Joc · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first one in the series but this one is fantastic. In part because I’ve settled into the world and also because of the development of the characters. Lucinda is still recovering from the events of the first in the series but there’s no time to relax. Still under attack from agents of Sh’Na, Mistress of the Night, the only way to stop them is to find her and stop her themselves. This means more travel for Lucinda, Ascara and Magda to the desert lands of Rabia and Gyptan.

This story is fast-paced with loads of suspense. Magda’s past unfolds with enough information to give the reader empathy for the formerly stoic captain but doesn’t reveal everything. Ascara is still as playful and flirtatious, which makes a lovely contrast for her position of head of security, but there are things about her lineage that also come to light. Lucinda becomes even more fearless and her position as primary of the Raven tower brings about her own changes.

I love this world of magic and machines but the biggest draw for me is the relationship and interaction between Lucinda, Magda and Ascara as well as any combination of two of them. They each have hidden depths which will, no doubt, filter into the stories in time. They have an uncomplicated bond with each other which is as light-hearted as it is powerful. It’s not often that I think this but they would work perfectly in a polyamorous relationship and they work perfectly just as they are.

I really hope there are more instalments because I’ll be right there waiting.

Book received from the author for an honest review.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The trio of witch, warrior and airship captain I have come to love are back for more fantasy adventures. I loved book 1 and book 2 is no exception with its great storytelling and the dynamics between the 3 MCs .

This continues on from book 1 but each one is a complete separate story that has an arc running through it. I would recommend reading book 1 first. Reminded me of watching a gripping favourite TV series in the way the narrative of the worldbuilding created scenes in my mind.

This is not a romance, although there are hints of romantic undertones. Personally I preferred reading a compelling plot with 3 strong female protagonists without romance diluting the story.

[Carolyn Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

As my first act on my brandy new HP all-in-one desk top PC on which I'm supposed to be working from home right now I will instead do this...
I frequently explain about my ultra short attention span and how I lose interest fast if a story does not cook right out of the gate. This series is one of the very few exceptions. It can be slow at times and the books are long. NR is very careful and deliberate with character development and world building and that takes time and detail. She does such a great job of it I don't even seem to notice when the pace slows and I've never been tempted to skim (That is a huge compliment). This one in particular I found slower than the first with lots of time establishing regional culture and politics along with delving into Magda's backstory.
I was really leaving myself open to attaching to another character, but my heart belongs to Magda. She's truly a queen and I love that she actually is an 'Ice Queen' considering she doesn't actually fall into the trope as we in lesfic understand it. It's pretty great.
The trinity's relationship continues to grow and I definitely see readers' attraction to a potential polyamorous relationship, but at the risk of sounding reductive, I really read this as a good old fashioned love triangle.
The lines were really drawn in this book about which woman wants 'more' from which woman and the attraction is not all equal. Just sayin'.
Nevertheless there is no romance...le sigh...and I for sure share in Ascara's frustration with that. Her flirting is outrageous and frustrates everyone because it 'can't happen'? is not appropriate? I don't like it either.
Though it took the entire book to build up to the ending and the big pay off it was really well done and well earned. It was so tense and I really felt for the characters.
Anyhoodle, it's a terrific series and I've ordered the next *rubs hands together gleefully*.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven, Sand and Sun by Nita Round is the second book in the Touch of Truth series. It is a breathtaking dystopian, paranormal and steampunk mashup that lures you in with its beautiful prose then holds you rapt in the talons of its clever plot and engaging characters.
The Trinity of Raven, Fire and Ice return with fiercer and deeper bonds than before, but the women face some harsh trials and pieces of their pasts are revealed exposing vulnerabilities and secrets. The relationship between the three women is a unique and intriguing dynamic, a connection that is forged well beyond the physical (much to the chagrin of Ascara) and yet there are still periods of doubt and conflict experienced by the women. I found it so genuine and engaging watching their bonds grow deeper as each wrestled with their insecurities but ultimately acknowledged their worth.
There is such a wonderful, lyrical flow to Round’s writing throughout this book which not only embraces the steampunk aesthetic (which I love so much!) but also completely immerses you in the environment of the story. The tale flows in a steady rhythm leading the reader along the trio’s journey at an even and natural pace. The world building is original and so well realized I felt as though I was in the middle of the story.
Every turn of the page rewards you with a fabulous combination of intricate world building, engaging characters and intriguing storyline. I was glued to the pages following the unconventional trio’s journey into mysticism, adventure and self-discovery. And as if that weren’t enough, the story is infused with just enough humour to keep it entertaining without overshadowing the mystique. If you enjoy spec-fic you need to dive in to this series.

Full review can be found here: https://www.thelesbianreview.com/rave...

[Shannon👻 · Rating 5 out of 5]

FANTASTIC⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love this book and the series so far.
Right then; on to the next book!!

[Della B · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderfully imaginative series which keeps getting better with each book. I would say more but I cannot wait to read the next book. Suffice to say, read this series and you will be entertained, lose track of time and forget to eat all to head deeper into this well crafted story.

[XR · Rating 5 out of 5]

ASCARA IS SO FREAKING AWESOME IN ALL OF HER WOLF BERSERKER AWESOMENESS!!!!

[Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven, Sand and Sun continues the adventures of Lucinda, Ascara and Magda.

I like the idea of the trinity made up of three women, each with unique skills. At this point in their union, they are still learning what they can do. Not being aware of what they might be able to do makes these women more interesting. And based on what I read in the first two books in this Touch of Truth series, I think, going forward, they will be learning more about their talents. Whether they want to or not.

In Raven, Sand and Sun, we learn more of the background of Ascara and Magda. There are past events that weave fortune and misfortune into the story.

With the three, there is also the hint of mutual attraction between the three. Of the three, Ascara is the most vocal about this chemistry and I like her for it. But still, they do not act on it. At first, I wanted them to become more, but now I kind of like what they have become. A force to be reckoned with. They are fine the way they are.

Lucinda seems to be the primary, the leader, however, she is also lead by Ascara and Magda. Lucinda gets lots of advice and pretty much always takes it. It is good to have whip-smart advisors, but every now and then, I just wanted to Lucinda to prove she was in charge.

The amazing airship from book 1 returns, but it drifts into the background while the trio and their entourage travel through the desert on horse, camel, foot and giant mobile slug. Yes, I said slug. As near as I can tell, it is kind of like a tank, but nicer on the inside. After all, it must accommodate a priestess.

Raven, Fire and Ice was very much a mystery, wrapped up in the paranormal. Raven, Sand and Sun is more of an adventure. And it is a busy story. Many events, many characters. But all nicely laid out. There are multiple story lines, some resolved and others yet to be resolved. There are multiple protagonists, some dealt with and others, well….you know there will be another story.

The author provided a copy of her book in exchange for my honest review.

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is, one hell of, an epic adventure! I’m totally addicted and can’t get enough of it. Everything you could possible dream of is here. Mummies, Magic, Gods, Witches, Pirates, Robots, Krackens, Mermaids, the fight for all humanity, and so much more. I especially love the bond between Magda, Ascara, and Lucinda. With each book their connection and Trinity only strengthens and becomes deeper. I definitely can’t wait for more.

[Susan Welch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent story in the series. I thought this one was a little more cohesive than the first. The steampunk element was heavier in this book, but only by a little. It was good to get to know a little deeper into the characters of Ice and Fire, and to see the Raven settle into the mantle of her power. The relationship between the three women remains interesting, with only minor development in that respect. (It remains PG). This concludes a larger arc from the first book but still contains its own story, and though it isn't a cliffhanger ending it leaves some business unfinished for future books.

[Rhiannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

After first reading the first volume, I wondered where the story was heading beacuse it felt really promising,not putting too much and I wanted to see more of the world building that felt wonderfully shaped and maybe more of a backstory for each of the main characters. I'm liking this and by the end of this 2nd one, I couldn't put it down..I'm not good at giving a long story short review because I think the synopsis says enough to get you going so I am just gonna say combining steampunk notes with magic and mythology is a great starting point for great adventures. Onwards to the next!

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to be there.

[Tatteredturtle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was patiently waiting for this sequel and the wait paid off. Nita Round delivers again in the sequel to Raven, Fire and Ice, the second installment of the Touch of Truth Series. The story starts off right where it left off. Our heroines must ban together to travel across the desert of Gypta to confront Sh’Na, the antagonist thus far. There is a very different distinctive feel to the second book than the first. Raven, Fire and Ice was very much a steam punk, paranormal mystery, but the second book is more of an adventure and is mainly focused on the relationships that have developed.

Her outstanding writing style and ability to explore the complex relationships that have been established in the first installment of the series continues to pull the reader in. Round makes a point in her series to build strong characters (especially female characters), and to emphasize the importance of relationships between all the characters. It seemed in the first book the lens was mainly focused on Lucinda’s life, but in this second installment we get to learn more about Captain Stoner’s background. As a reader, I was curious about Magda Stoner’s icy demeanor and impenetrable walls. A person does not become so closed off without some sort of dark history. I want to add that I was surprised about Magda’s history and it was not as predictable as I had anticipated. We also get to learn why she is drawn more to masculine traits and clothing. Magda has faced a lot of loss, pain and isolation. Round does a great job at pulling together all of these aspects of Captain Stoner’s past, personality, and essence to elevate this character to the level of Lucinda. We are now waiting to learn about how Ascara came to be so fiery, but there are bits and pieces revealed throughout the book and they were enticing slivers of information. Nita really thought through how to set up Ascara’s story for the next book and gave just enough to keep the reader interested without giving too much away.

I really enjoyed yet again, reading about the dynamics between the three main characters. Their relationship(s) are complicated and unconventional , and tend to get a little messy. Again I want to give praise to the author because she has done an amazing job at making a polygamous lesbian relationship work and seem so natural. Though there is no physical relationship (this book) there is an undeniable intimacy between the three. As much as the three are one unit they each have their own individual connections with each other. In this book we get more insight about the tension between Magda and Ascara. It was interesting to discover how much the two have in common and where the jealousy and envy stem from. Neither is truly secure with themselves and each have been hiding a dark past that will reveal their vulnerabilities. I think we will see more commonality between the two in the next book. I thought it was a good idea to separate Lucinda emotionally from Ascara and Magda because it continues to highlight how strong and independent Lucinda can be, but we are reminded how much they all need each other when they are face to face with Sh’Na.

The introduction of the new characters like the Hours, Caro and Banu, has been consistent with Nita’s excellent character building and they have worked as a great way to move the current plot along and of transitioning to the next telling of the story. It’s amazing how Round can create minor character’s, give them dimension and use them to construct the story around the main characters while keeping them fascinating.

It’s amazing how each book in the series has had such different feelings behind them, yet they have created such a tantalizing, arousing and thought-provoking series. At this point I am not too sure where the series is going now that the main antagonist is no more, but we do have the start of a new direction with this series and I can not wait to follow.

[T · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this book since it was title, “A Touch of Rage” would focus more on Ascara. But, these books seem to focus more on Lucinda and Magda. This was Ascara’s time to shine in the desert and it seems like this is mainly about Magda and her last she needs to confront. Especially, with Ascara being apart of the desert and her clan from there. We see more of Ascara in the book but, she should be more present. Especially, with how the author laid out the racial divisions and how people from different geographies were more adapt. The book wants me to care more about Magda and Lucinda in book one and so far 73% through book 2 it’s all about Magda and Lucinda. When does Ascara and Lucinda or Ascara and Lucinda shine? They are a trinity but, so far it just all seems about Magda and Lucinda’s woes. I’ll continue reading but, there needs to be more there for all three of the main characters.

Also, where they navigate to in this book seems like where Ascara is from but we have Magda taking the lead and acting as if she knows the landscape more? It’s not believable.

This is also supposed to be romance but, it more talks then shows. I don’t expect sex scenes but, 700 pages in and no one has kissed?

There is world building here and such but, the only reason I really feel they are together is because they are bonded. A simple kiss between the characters isn’t there?

[Volpot · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars. Once again fairly well written from a technical standpoint, but ultimately not that satisfying for me. I would call these novels character driven. And that's a problem for me since when it was all said and done, I didn't like the way the characters acted. First, the three MCs repeatedly made stupid decisions. Now did the results of these flawed decisions add suspense at various parts of the story? Yes. But stupid is stupid. Second, the author relies at several points on a writing technique I detest: characters keeping secrets from one another just so suspense/conflict can be added to the story. Lastly, the 3 FMC bizarrely still do not act in any way on their romantic/sexual feeling towards one another. These are grown women who act as 13 year-olds. I don't need explicit sex in my books. But it just gets old with the very frequent extent to which the author describes their internal feelings towards each other, the mooning gazes, and the heated suppressed passion without even so much as a kiss between them. I'm done with this series.

[Rochelle Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mesmerizing series

What a unique way to share the themes of love, loyalty to friends and family, the ubiquitous striving of good over evil, and the harnessing of passion for the good of humanity. The characters in this series are quirky, endearing, bold, strong, and full of life. The author describes scenes with such expertise that I felt I was there; I smelled the ocean, the desert, the air, and heard the sounds of the environment. The combination of horror and steam punk genres, fantastical creatures, women loving women, and women warriors is such a treat to read. There’s something here for almost everyone who enjoys a good romp through the dangers and delights of different environments inhabited by monsters, rooting for the good woman, and enjoying the satisfaction of reading a uniquely talented author. I’m looking forward to the remainder of the series.

[Toni · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm really liking this series. The 3 MC's are its crowning glory. In this instalment you get to learn a bit more about Magda and Ascara which i really liked. I think you go through such a mix bag of emotions towards each of the 3 MC's in this book as they navigate their trials and tribulations. I do wish they were'nt always so formal with each other. I get that they may have to present certain images to the world but why do they have to speak and act so formally in the private, less tense moments. I think it kinda takes aways some of the intamacy/bond supposedly created by the 'Trinity'. Maybe its just me. I occassionally find myself wondering if they're even friends the way they sometimes act and talk to each other lol. It does keep me on my toes, at least where the realationship dynamic is going. Maybe thats the plan all along. Hummm! Lol

[DR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nita Round's sucked me into this exciting series. Ascara's raging gift is revealed and I just knew Sh'Na would be cruel with Magda and brutalize Lucinda. Effective descriptions of desert, ocean and sky as the three travel to their next destinations. Supporting characters add strength to the story. Lucinda's still growing into whoever/whatever she'll become and Magda's emotional walls come down. There's great love & friendship between these three women and it's what they cling to as they face much evil. I'm on to the third book in the series.

[Lianne KF · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed book 1 but found this book really hard and slow to read. I don’t know if it was just me but I was disappointed as I was looking forward to reading it.

[Bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great series.

[J H · Rating 5 out of 5]

SAPPHIC BOOK BINGO: full-time writer, butch character, out of your comfort zone, unusual job, not a romance; UNICORN: 400+ pages, faith (possibly other categories)

The second Towers of Earth story (or the fourth, if you included the prequels) was another splendid read. It started off where the first book finished, and the threesome (?) of the MCs participated in it as equally as they had before. More of the women's lives were revealed, and some characters' backstory snippets were more significant to their destinies than the others'. The Raven Tower continued to develop and mold to the needs of the three characters, and it could almost have been considered a secondary character. There was a desert adventure, more trips riding in Verity, and a few new characters that appeared, but the novel maintained the integrity and fantasy we've come to appreciate by Nita Round.

[Mscout · Rating 3 out of 5]

Re-read