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Growing Veil #2
Bloodlines
“Keening pains for flesh of men, A gate of teeth you cannot bend. White and red and cold and dead, a lightless sun not shining. Deep inside it lies, a world of light, with secrets of undying.”
-Song of the Bitter White, fourth stanza
Carving a bloody path through a trail of slavers, Faron escapes the desert and discovers the location of the lost city of Vam Aranath, ancient seat of the dead gods. This home of the immortal Archons—and his sister’s prison—hides above the Veil in the far north, where no man can go.
To save his sister, Faron will have to brave the world of monsters and face the man who killed his father. When he does, the secrets he uncovers will shake the foundations of what he thinks he knows and change the world forever.
Bloodlines, Book Two of The Growing Veil Series, is a story of blood and sacrifice that explores dark themes of betrayal, the blurred line of morality, and the true meaning of family.
-Song of the Bitter White, fourth stanza
Carving a bloody path through a trail of slavers, Faron escapes the desert and discovers the location of the lost city of Vam Aranath, ancient seat of the dead gods. This home of the immortal Archons—and his sister’s prison—hides above the Veil in the far north, where no man can go.
To save his sister, Faron will have to brave the world of monsters and face the man who killed his father. When he does, the secrets he uncovers will shake the foundations of what he thinks he knows and change the world forever.
Bloodlines, Book Two of The Growing Veil Series, is a story of blood and sacrifice that explores dark themes of betrayal, the blurred line of morality, and the true meaning of family.
- GenresFantasy
Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2020
7 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
T.S. Howard
4 books247 followersI'm T.S. Howard, and I am, above all else, a storyteller. I see stories with my two children, who I love unreasonably, with my wife, who is a grand adventure by herself, and in my daily duties. I see stories in the world around me and feel them burn inside until I can put them to page. I see stories in the faces of those I pass who I don't know and in the lives of those I do. Stories are my life, and it is my undying goal to make them a part of yours.
Ever since the second grade, I knew what I wanted to be: a bestselling author, and I dedicate most of my time to that pursuit. It isn't a vanity or desire to be a household name that drives me, but that same desire for my characters, their names, and their stories.
Still, we aren't only defined by our largest goals. When I'm not writing, I'm tending to my family, obsessing over the quality of coffee and various cheeses (I am, after all, a millennial), and playing as a hobbyist geologist. I am untenably obsessed with garnets and other gemstones and almost always carry one with me. Similarly, if you see me without my headphones, you can safely understand that I'm having an off-day. Finally, when I'm not writing, reading, cooking, cleaning, looking for something shiny, or listening to music, I'm probably getting my ass kicked in an FPS game online.
I'm T.S Howard and if you'd like to stay updated with my latest work, you can find me at tshoward.co.
Ever since the second grade, I knew what I wanted to be: a bestselling author, and I dedicate most of my time to that pursuit. It isn't a vanity or desire to be a household name that drives me, but that same desire for my characters, their names, and their stories.
Still, we aren't only defined by our largest goals. When I'm not writing, I'm tending to my family, obsessing over the quality of coffee and various cheeses (I am, after all, a millennial), and playing as a hobbyist geologist. I am untenably obsessed with garnets and other gemstones and almost always carry one with me. Similarly, if you see me without my headphones, you can safely understand that I'm having an off-day. Finally, when I'm not writing, reading, cooking, cleaning, looking for something shiny, or listening to music, I'm probably getting my ass kicked in an FPS game online.
I'm T.S Howard and if you'd like to stay updated with my latest work, you can find me at tshoward.co.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 9, 2021
I really enjoy the way T.S. Howard writes. A lot of stories is black and white good or evil. The author shakes that all up and gives us this brilliant view of grey. I really love the depth of the characters. You can feel all the feelings the main character goes through. I am looking forward to the third book.
May 1, 2021
Another Stunningly written book. I am even more in love and invested in Faron's story and cannot wait for book three to come out later this year.
September 23, 2021
As I've mentioned before, I'm not a huge fan of fantasy but really enjoyed, Bloodlet (book 1 in The Growing Veil Series) and started Bloodlines immediately after finishing book 1, while I was still completely immersed in the world and Faron's story.
Bloodlines was phenomenal. It was action-packed and the reader gets to know the characters on a deeper level. Faron is on the quest to find his sister and must overcome insurmountable odds on his journey to do so. I was fully invested throughout the entire book.
T.S. Howard does an amazing job at creating morally gray characters which is difficult as an author to pull off.
I'm immediately diving into book 3 because the ending of this book left me with so many questions that I NEED answered as soon as possible.
Bloodlines was phenomenal. It was action-packed and the reader gets to know the characters on a deeper level. Faron is on the quest to find his sister and must overcome insurmountable odds on his journey to do so. I was fully invested throughout the entire book.
T.S. Howard does an amazing job at creating morally gray characters which is difficult as an author to pull off.
I'm immediately diving into book 3 because the ending of this book left me with so many questions that I NEED answered as soon as possible.
September 30, 2021
Oh wow, Blood lines was an amazing second in a series! I couldn't put it down.
Faron is still in his quest to save his sister, Hadria. He's been captured by slavers, and now must continue to struggle with his Morality and what he is willing to do.
I loved this book. It was gruesome, and gross, and thrilling. I never knew what steps Faron would take or how he would get out of the situation he found himself him. I was shocked by twists and turns the story took. The happy moments were still filled with suspicion on my end, never sure if Faron could really trust.
Ugh, I need the 3rd one so bad!
Faron is still in his quest to save his sister, Hadria. He's been captured by slavers, and now must continue to struggle with his Morality and what he is willing to do.
I loved this book. It was gruesome, and gross, and thrilling. I never knew what steps Faron would take or how he would get out of the situation he found himself him. I was shocked by twists and turns the story took. The happy moments were still filled with suspicion on my end, never sure if Faron could really trust.
Ugh, I need the 3rd one so bad!
May 24, 2021
This second novel in the Growing Veil series does not disappoint! As Faron’s journey continues, much more is revealed about his family and what happened that fateful night. After a harrowing journey, he is reunited with Synick who decides to continue with Faron to find Hadria. What they find is mind blowing, and has the reader questing all is known about Faron thus far. This impeccably written novel is just as gripping and intriguing as the first.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2021
This book blew my mind. The writing was suburb, the Story was unique and the characters are amazing. Loved this one even more then the first. I cannot wait for the third book.
May 21, 2021
Well, another 5 star read from T.S. Howard! I loved this book even more than the first one!! This book starts with our hero Faron being captured by slavers once again, and follows him as he escapes and sets out on his journey north to find his missing sister. During his journey we finally see the Veil and Faron gets into trouble so many times as he crosses mountains and frozen wastelands looking for The Lost City where he hopes to find Hadria alive.
Again, I don't want to spoil anything so I won't name any names, but this book touched my heart, took my breath away (I literally forgot to breathe during the action scenes), I laughed, and I cried... The side characters once again are immaculate, and the character growth from everyone is just so good. I rank this book series on the same level as Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings. I will be anxiously waiting for book 3 to come out this summer! (I already pre-ordered it 🤣) I can't wait to continue Faron's story.
Again, I don't want to spoil anything so I won't name any names, but this book touched my heart, took my breath away (I literally forgot to breathe during the action scenes), I laughed, and I cried... The side characters once again are immaculate, and the character growth from everyone is just so good. I rank this book series on the same level as Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings. I will be anxiously waiting for book 3 to come out this summer! (I already pre-ordered it 🤣) I can't wait to continue Faron's story.
June 19, 2021
This was even better than the 1st book. Less world and cities names that I couldn’t understand. To keep track of them I relied on the description of each one. This one took off right from the last chapter of the 1st book which I loved. Seeing Faron really grow into himself on his quest was awesome. This focused really on his journey and survival as things fall into place. There were many shocks and surprises too.
I will say one thing that the bit climax of the book I CALLED IT waaaaay back. Kinda predictable so I’d say it didn’t have any WOW factor. It just needed to be explained a bit more. But I’m still very excited to see what happens next and the choices that Faron will make when it comes to the world and what he can or can’t live with to save it.
I will say one thing that the bit climax of the book I CALLED IT waaaaay back. Kinda predictable so I’d say it didn’t have any WOW factor. It just needed to be explained a bit more. But I’m still very excited to see what happens next and the choices that Faron will make when it comes to the world and what he can or can’t live with to save it.
July 10, 2021
What can I say about this book.... We pick up from the events of the first book and continue with the trials and tribulations of Faron as he quests to find his sister. The world that you are transported into inside these books is immersive and lush. The characters, Faron especially, are complex and loveable (or hateable, depending on the character). I really feel for the struggles they all go through and how nothing is really as black and white as it seems. With that ending all I need to know now is when the physical copy of book 3 will be available for pre-order!
July 17, 2021
Just wanted to give a quick review. As with the previous book, I loved the writing, the world building, and the beautiful descriptions. I found this book to be much more action packed, but still plenty of travel in between. I was so happy to see that Synick was okay. He is my absolute favourite. What a lovely friendship they have. I will say that I had the little plot twist pegged a bit. Not all of it, but the parentage aspect for sure. I think the prologue put that in the back of my mind. Overall, a great story. Cant wait to read book 3.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2021
Again, so so good! The “quest” of Faron to find his sister (who he thought was dead) continues. It’s a difficult/hard journey and I loved every bit of it!! The information Faron gets at the end I already guessed, by a hint in the 1st book. So that didn’t come as a surprise really ;) Anyway... I can’t wait until book 3 comes out, to read the conclusion of this trilogy. Will definitely be ordering it!!
June 19, 2021
Breathtaking action
Wow! Faron’s journey into a wild and treacherous world to search for his sister , Hadria is so action packed i couldn’t turn the page quick enough. Wild lands and creatures lay before him and he becomes stronger, bolder and more determined. What Faron learns in this instalment is nothing short of a bombshell and had me on the edge of my seat. Cannot wait for book 3
Wow! Faron’s journey into a wild and treacherous world to search for his sister , Hadria is so action packed i couldn’t turn the page quick enough. Wild lands and creatures lay before him and he becomes stronger, bolder and more determined. What Faron learns in this instalment is nothing short of a bombshell and had me on the edge of my seat. Cannot wait for book 3
July 20, 2021
Howard Does it Again
Yet again, Howard provides us with a fantasy masterpiece to back up his first release, 'Bloodlet'. Rather than leave us with a languishing middle child as many second books do, he instead provides a heart-pumping, action-packed journey for Faron, with twists and turns you won't see coming. There is simply no choice in the matter: with his beautifully wrought imagery and dialog (some of which will leave you in stitches), you cannot skip over this book.
Yet again, Howard provides us with a fantasy masterpiece to back up his first release, 'Bloodlet'. Rather than leave us with a languishing middle child as many second books do, he instead provides a heart-pumping, action-packed journey for Faron, with twists and turns you won't see coming. There is simply no choice in the matter: with his beautifully wrought imagery and dialog (some of which will leave you in stitches), you cannot skip over this book.
October 7, 2021
Another breathtaking adventure that showed Faron and my favourite Synick from an entirely new angle. No spoilers. He-he-he. I've bonded to the characters, which means book 3 will definitely blow my mind or tear my heart out. What an amazing book!
P.S. My personal and subjective opinion is... well... don't forget to take a nap before reading Bloodlines.
P.S. My personal and subjective opinion is... well... don't forget to take a nap before reading Bloodlines.
June 5, 2021
Once again this was an amazing journey with Faron. I’m very excited to see what happens in the final book. Seeing Faron’s conscience and guilt throughout the first two books has me intrigued on how he will handle these new revelations.
July 7, 2021
This story has twists and turns that make you want to keep reading. The connection between the first and second books are amazing! The plot twist was not what I was expecting at all but I love it. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!!!
January 26, 2022
Simply amazing!
Just when I thought this series couldn't get any better and then it did. WOW! Bloodlines is brilliant. The story of Faron continues on and I was so impressed with the last couple chapters of this book. Well done!
Just when I thought this series couldn't get any better and then it did. WOW! Bloodlines is brilliant. The story of Faron continues on and I was so impressed with the last couple chapters of this book. Well done!
August 2, 2021
I’m even more invested now. I’m loving this story/ adventure so very much. definitely a must read!!
August 17, 2021
Bloodlines is just as incredibly written as the first book Bloodlet. Dark Gothic Fantasy at its finest! I could not put this book down. And I am impatiently awaiting for the 3rd book!!
November 8, 2021
This was a great follow-up to the first book and I am looking forward to the 3rd book!
June 22, 2021
Packed with action and adventure, Faron continues his quest to find his sister Hadria, in book 2 of Howard’s Growing Veil trilogy. Howard’s writing makes you feel every emotion as he draws you in to his character’s lives and their world. Bloodlines was as beautifully written as the first novel (Bloodlet), and I can’t wait to see how the revelations at the end of Bloodlines are dealt with by Faron in Bloodlust (book 3).
April 16, 2023
Excellent story, can't wait to read the last
Wow, so I wasn't thrilled with the first book but this was a terrific read! I felt for Faron every step of his journey. Faron wakes to find he's been enslaved and they plan to sell him. He continues to fight to continue his journey to find his sister, even as he compromises his own values.
He uses the secrets he learned from Ulric as well as some luck to find a way to walk semi- safely beyond the veil.
I loved Synick and the levity he brought into the story. I don't want to spoil it, but just leave your bookmark.... You're not going to want to use it!
Wow, so I wasn't thrilled with the first book but this was a terrific read! I felt for Faron every step of his journey. Faron wakes to find he's been enslaved and they plan to sell him. He continues to fight to continue his journey to find his sister, even as he compromises his own values.
He uses the secrets he learned from Ulric as well as some luck to find a way to walk semi- safely beyond the veil.
I loved Synick and the levity he brought into the story. I don't want to spoil it, but just leave your bookmark.... You're not going to want to use it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2021
Book 2 Did Not Disappoint
Sometimes the middle book in a trilogy can be a bit dull, but that is far from the case here. The momentum of the story and the character introspect make the second part of this saga just as enjoyable as the first. I finished this book at 4am and I've already pre-ordered book 3. It's just that good!
Sometimes the middle book in a trilogy can be a bit dull, but that is far from the case here. The momentum of the story and the character introspect make the second part of this saga just as enjoyable as the first. I finished this book at 4am and I've already pre-ordered book 3. It's just that good!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews