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After the Rift #6
The Return of Absent Souls
In this stunning conclusion to the After The Rift series, Josie and her friends return home to find Glancia on the brink of war and their enemies in power. With political machinations and court intrigue bringing danger at every turn, they must tread carefully. But being careful won’t bring resolutions and answers. It won’t bring back lost memories or stop the nation hurtling into war.
The only thing that can make everything right is the ultimate sacrifice. But will Josie make it?
At the heart of it all is the magic that stole the memories of so many. The magic that some people will do anything to get their hands on. In a palace full of lies and betrayal, Josie and her friends must be careful who they can trust – or suffer the consequences.
The only thing that can make everything right is the ultimate sacrifice. But will Josie make it?
At the heart of it all is the magic that stole the memories of so many. The magic that some people will do anything to get their hands on. In a palace full of lies and betrayal, Josie and her friends must be careful who they can trust – or suffer the consequences.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2020
427 people are currently reading
699 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Archer
95 books5,616 followersC.J. Archer is the USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of historical mystery and historical fantasy novels including the GLASS AND STEELE series, the CLEOPATRA FOX MYSTERIES, the MINISTRY OF CURIOSITIES and THE GLASS LIBRARY series.
She has loved history and books for as long as she can remember and feels fortunate that she found a way to combine the two. She has at various times worked as a librarian, IT support person and technical writer but in her heart has always been a fiction writer. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her husband, 2 children and Coco the black and white cat.
Subscribe to C.J.'s newsletter to be notified when she releases a new book. Join via her website: www.cjarcher.com
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She has loved history and books for as long as she can remember and feels fortunate that she found a way to combine the two. She has at various times worked as a librarian, IT support person and technical writer but in her heart has always been a fiction writer. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her husband, 2 children and Coco the black and white cat.
Subscribe to C.J.'s newsletter to be notified when she releases a new book. Join via her website: www.cjarcher.com
You can follow her on social media to get the latest updates on her books:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CJArcherAuthorPage
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorcjarc...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
March 13, 2023
By far my favorite CJ Archer series thus far! What a spectacular ending to the series that won my heart. Did those nasty Deerhorn’s get their revenge or what they deserved? A near death of of a beloved friend. A would be king that decides he’d rather be a Lord? Then end of a monarchy and the beginnings of a democracy? Do our favorite couples get their happily ever afters? Read the series to find out. You won’t be disappointed!!
February 23, 2021
It is over.
I am so sad to be leaving the world of the Rift, but I feel complete. CJ Archer did a great job of ending the series for me.
SPOILERS >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
There was one thing I could NOT stand- The was the whole self-sacrificing Josie did. Thinking she could never be with Dane if he was King. That was kind of annoying to have that after they got together. Also, I did not know that they had gotten "together" on the river bank. I don't know if I felt it was spelled out correctly when it happened because I was surprised wen she mentioned it. Though, I do like subtlety when it comes to that stuff.
I am really happy with how things turned out. I don't know if I wanted Dane to be king, so I was glad with him deciding to change the government. I like the idea of making a republic. And I am so relieved that Bal is still alive! I was so nervous when he got stabbed!
So much happened in this book! Honestly, I feel like books 1-3 felt totally different than books 4-6. But I enjoyed both journeys. Loved this series. I think at this point I would enjoy anything CJ Archer writes.
I am so sad to be leaving the world of the Rift, but I feel complete. CJ Archer did a great job of ending the series for me.
SPOILERS >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
There was one thing I could NOT stand- The was the whole self-sacrificing Josie did. Thinking she could never be with Dane if he was King. That was kind of annoying to have that after they got together. Also, I did not know that they had gotten "together" on the river bank. I don't know if I felt it was spelled out correctly when it happened because I was surprised wen she mentioned it. Though, I do like subtlety when it comes to that stuff.
I am really happy with how things turned out. I don't know if I wanted Dane to be king, so I was glad with him deciding to change the government. I like the idea of making a republic. And I am so relieved that Bal is still alive! I was so nervous when he got stabbed!
So much happened in this book! Honestly, I feel like books 1-3 felt totally different than books 4-6. But I enjoyed both journeys. Loved this series. I think at this point I would enjoy anything CJ Archer writes.
July 23, 2020
3.5 Stars.
My feelings about this series have remained the same throughout. The premise is good, the characters are well-developed, and the writing is actually excellent. The problem is that the main plot was stretched thin over six books. One well-developed book would have been a stunner. The side plots used to uphold the real plot were just too flimsy for me.
I think this is a problem with publishing overall these days - not every story needs to be a series.
That being said, it was well-written and I may try another of this author's books in the future. It was certainly an easy and pleasant read, and that's not a bad thing!
My feelings about this series have remained the same throughout. The premise is good, the characters are well-developed, and the writing is actually excellent. The problem is that the main plot was stretched thin over six books. One well-developed book would have been a stunner. The side plots used to uphold the real plot were just too flimsy for me.
I think this is a problem with publishing overall these days - not every story needs to be a series.
That being said, it was well-written and I may try another of this author's books in the future. It was certainly an easy and pleasant read, and that's not a bad thing!
November 27, 2021
Doesn't stick the landing all the way, but mostly wraps everything up well. I think it would have worked better as a trilogy or four book series as some events were thrown in to make for more drama/angst. But overall I think this was the best ending we could have gotten for these characters.
September 8, 2023
3.50 / 4 Stars
**HOOPLA Audio**
MC's: Josie and Dane
I never go into the storyline for the After The Rift series because many have already reviewed it and described the plot...so I just put my thoughts on the characters.
If you've read my reviews over the last 5 books you know I'm not a fan of TSTL moments. Especially when the character does it 0ver and over and over again. You also know I've been rating the books 4 Stars when I really think it should be 3.50, and I feel that way about the whole series. I'm just not allowed to give that as an official rating. Since I feel CJA did have a good storyline I can't pop it down to 3 Stars. I'm caught in the GR rating loop....🤨
Once again Josie doesn't wait for Dane before she opens the door to whom she "thinks" it is. She's quickly manhandled AGAIN, smacked in the alley wall twice and viciously slapped. Her impulsiveness puts Meg and her family at risk. Of course, as throughout the series, the gem is the bargaining chip and Josie didn't have it...nor knew where it was. 🙄 Don't know why anyone seeking it ever believes her. I still liked the majority of the characters...they worked well together.
The ending was decent and we do get a HEA.
**HOOPLA Audio**
MC's: Josie and Dane
I never go into the storyline for the After The Rift series because many have already reviewed it and described the plot...so I just put my thoughts on the characters.
If you've read my reviews over the last 5 books you know I'm not a fan of TSTL moments. Especially when the character does it 0ver and over and over again. You also know I've been rating the books 4 Stars when I really think it should be 3.50, and I feel that way about the whole series. I'm just not allowed to give that as an official rating. Since I feel CJA did have a good storyline I can't pop it down to 3 Stars. I'm caught in the GR rating loop....🤨
Once again Josie doesn't wait for Dane before she opens the door to whom she "thinks" it is. She's quickly manhandled AGAIN, smacked in the alley wall twice and viciously slapped. Her impulsiveness puts Meg and her family at risk. Of course, as throughout the series, the gem is the bargaining chip and Josie didn't have it...nor knew where it was. 🙄 Don't know why anyone seeking it ever believes her. I still liked the majority of the characters...they worked well together.
The ending was decent and we do get a HEA.
August 28, 2024
This story was long and draw out a lot more then it needed to be, but the final book ties up all the loose ends and explains the various questions. I like this author, but this time she just made the story go on far longer then Nessesary. Narrator does a good job with the various characters voices and the entire storyline.
October 8, 2021
Though, I feel like there was a ton of build up for a couple of...well. I don't want to spoil...but I am feeling let down...a tad! Still loved the overall story and characters, BUT I am left with the need for more...
July 13, 2020
After some angst the book tied everything together and delivered a decent conclusion to the series.
November 12, 2020
Josie doesn't get any smarter in this installment.
The village is cold to me. But whyyyyy? Someone explains to Dimwit why she's the plague who brings destruction to all those who come in contact with her. Dimwit still doesn't get it.
Somebody: There's a guy named Brandt at the door who wants to speak with you. Dimwit: Woo hoo! We can have a reasonable discussion. Dimwit answers the door. Bad guy threatens all Dimwit's friends. OK! I'LL GIVE YOU THE GEM.
Then when everyone gets their memories back, she feels sorry for herself because she doesn't belong. Truly.
The magical story is fun, but Josie and her relationship with Dane is tiresome.
The village is cold to me. But whyyyyy? Someone explains to Dimwit why she's the plague who brings destruction to all those who come in contact with her. Dimwit still doesn't get it.
Somebody: There's a guy named Brandt at the door who wants to speak with you. Dimwit: Woo hoo! We can have a reasonable discussion. Dimwit answers the door. Bad guy threatens all Dimwit's friends. OK! I'LL GIVE YOU THE GEM.
Then when everyone gets their memories back, she feels sorry for herself because she doesn't belong. Truly.
The magical story is fun, but Josie and her relationship with Dane is tiresome.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2021
What happened to Josie? She drove me bonkers in this book. I kind of hated her.
Fairly predictable ending. Still… much better than a lot of books I’ve read in this genre.
Fairly predictable ending. Still… much better than a lot of books I’ve read in this genre.
July 9, 2020
Perfect book.
Altho the ending felt a bit unfinished in my mind eventho it wrapped upngood without ubfinished buisness but stil.felt a bit rushed the ladt chapter
Altho the ending felt a bit unfinished in my mind eventho it wrapped upngood without ubfinished buisness but stil.felt a bit rushed the ladt chapter
July 26, 2022
The final book of this marvelous series. It rounded out the series in a way to make the heart pitter-patter. Loved it.
August 7, 2024
Loved this series! I read all 6 books in a very short time and couldn't put them down!
August 6, 2020
I read this book in one sitting I needed to know how it was going to end that badly. Though there were definitely parts that I anticipated happening there were enough twists and turns for it to still be such a fun read that I enjoyed immensely from beginning to end.
I will definitely miss reading this series but I’m glad it ended where it did because to do more wouldn’t do justice to the series. I’m so glad for the outcome of this series and I’m ready for more CJ ARCHER in the future!!
I will definitely miss reading this series but I’m glad it ended where it did because to do more wouldn’t do justice to the series. I’m so glad for the outcome of this series and I’m ready for more CJ ARCHER in the future!!
July 10, 2020
This is the final book in a six book series. It takes you through numerous twists and turns before successfully wrapping up all the loose ends in a most satisfying way. As much as I enjoy Ms. Archer's writing, I sometimes think that she will carry on a series for too long, letting them become a little stale, and that there are a couple of series she has written that would actually be better as a whole if they were one or two books shorter. Not so with this series. Ms. Archer clearly had the events for these books planned out in advance and got the pace just right for the series. All six books were well written and thoroughly enjoyable with highly likeable characters, a wonderfully imagined world with intrigue and just enough magic to make things interesting and a pace that never lagged. Although this series is nicely finished off and the main characters stories feel complete, I do hope that Ms. Archer returns to write more in this world someday as there are one or two minor characters who could well step up to have adventures of their own or maybe we could re-visit Glancia in the future when the Sorcerer is found once again and more magical havoc ensues.
July 19, 2020
My heart is absolutely brimming over with joy! That happily ever after was so difficult to attain! It seemed a bit of touch and go, but it was worth all the angst and drama. Josie and Dane were so very easy to root for. They belonged together. Their friends were wonderfully written and I've more than a few that I'll be missing now that this beautifully told series has concluded. There were some surprises and twists along the way that easily held me captive. I found that I was frowning and releasing breaths that I didn't know that I was holding. I'm so sad to see the last of this world and it's memorable characters. I loved every single page!! Ms. Archer is truly a gifted storyteller who delights in weaving magic with her words!
July 9, 2020
Truly wonderful series.
A wonderful ending to an amazing series with a fairytale ending. From the moment you start this series you will fall in love with characters and want to know how this series will transpire. Great mystery, twists and turns and amazing resilient loyal characters, as well as some truly nasty ones. Not a stand alone book but the last instalment in a six book series but one so worthwhile starting from the beginning.
A wonderful ending to an amazing series with a fairytale ending. From the moment you start this series you will fall in love with characters and want to know how this series will transpire. Great mystery, twists and turns and amazing resilient loyal characters, as well as some truly nasty ones. Not a stand alone book but the last instalment in a six book series but one so worthwhile starting from the beginning.
July 9, 2020
Finally!!
Loved the series!! But I’m ecstatic with the sixth and finale book. Although I’ll miss Dane, Josie, Bal, Max, Eric, Quentin, Theodore... not to forget Meg, Kitty and Miranda... I’m so thankful for the time I got to spend with them. From book one when we meet Josie and her father to her ‘ending’ it’s a beautiful story and I truly loved it! Woven like a tapestry designed by the finest artist. Just perfect!
Loved the series!! But I’m ecstatic with the sixth and finale book. Although I’ll miss Dane, Josie, Bal, Max, Eric, Quentin, Theodore... not to forget Meg, Kitty and Miranda... I’m so thankful for the time I got to spend with them. From book one when we meet Josie and her father to her ‘ending’ it’s a beautiful story and I truly loved it! Woven like a tapestry designed by the finest artist. Just perfect!
September 30, 2020
As we reach the conclusion of this series, there are still twists and turns, murder and mayhem to be sifted through before reaching the end.
Josie, Dane, Meg, Max, Balthazar, Erik, Kitty, Quentin and Theodore must all stand and face their own destinies.
C.j Archer has written this last book with emotion, humour and passion. Tying up all the loose ends in a very clever and memorable way. Making this an extremely enjoyable series.
Josie, Dane, Meg, Max, Balthazar, Erik, Kitty, Quentin and Theodore must all stand and face their own destinies.
C.j Archer has written this last book with emotion, humour and passion. Tying up all the loose ends in a very clever and memorable way. Making this an extremely enjoyable series.
July 7, 2020
Neatly wrapped
I've been waiting with great anticipation,for the final book in the After the Rift series. There is a ton of action and intrigue that is wrapped up neatly. I encourage all readers to begin with the first book, Palace of Lost Souls and find themselves taken on a journey that will keep you enthralled. Enjoy!
I've been waiting with great anticipation,for the final book in the After the Rift series. There is a ton of action and intrigue that is wrapped up neatly. I encourage all readers to begin with the first book, Palace of Lost Souls and find themselves taken on a journey that will keep you enthralled. Enjoy!
July 7, 2020
A Fitting Ending
I'm sad this series is over and have enjoyed every word of it. I loved Josie and Dane but got a bit worried half way through the book. I shouldn't have though as Archer delivered as usual
I'm sad this series is over and have enjoyed every word of it. I loved Josie and Dane but got a bit worried half way through the book. I shouldn't have though as Archer delivered as usual
July 17, 2020
So going to miss this series.
Another satisfying series by CJ Archer. Like the Necromancer series I will miss Josie, Dane, Meg, Max, Bal, Theo, Quentin and definitely Kitty/Eric. I shall be rereading over and over.
Another satisfying series by CJ Archer. Like the Necromancer series I will miss Josie, Dane, Meg, Max, Bal, Theo, Quentin and definitely Kitty/Eric. I shall be rereading over and over.
April 17, 2021
I enjoyed the ending to this story. I love Josie and Dane. They are fantastic! I was surprised by the identity of the person attempting to permanently stop Dane from becoming King. I was also surprised by Dane's ultimate decision. I really do love C.J. Archer.
December 18, 2021
Overall I was satisfied with the way the series ended. Although the main character Josie seemed to get more and more foolish as the book wore on... How many times does a person have to be threatened, chased, attacked and kidnapped to learn not to trust everyone?
January 19, 2022
Hopefully this will not give away anything... I really enjoyed the ending, I loved that it wasn't the default happily ever after.
The ride was great, and I have gotten too attached to the characters.
I will definitely re-read this series.
The ride was great, and I have gotten too attached to the characters.
I will definitely re-read this series.
July 9, 2020
I want more, more, more! Why does the series have to end?
September 14, 2020
Loving this Series
I chose this rating because I love the series.😍😍 I was hoping for this ending and got! Thank you, C.J. Archer! I'm loving your different series sets.
I chose this rating because I love the series.😍😍 I was hoping for this ending and got! Thank you, C.J. Archer! I'm loving your different series sets.
October 2, 2020
A terrific series to read
So hard to put down. Have to keep reading to find out what happens to all the characters. So very good finish!
So hard to put down. Have to keep reading to find out what happens to all the characters. So very good finish!
October 29, 2020
Highly addictive!
Once I got started I was eager for more. The story was very well written. I couldn't wait to read the next chapter. Thanks for a great read!
Once I got started I was eager for more. The story was very well written. I couldn't wait to read the next chapter. Thanks for a great read!
December 14, 2020
Wonderful Series, could not stop and put it down till the end.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews