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Guardians of the Grove #2
Retribution Dies: Guardians of the Grove Trilogy
Blood will spill. Death awaits ... But who will pay the price?
The battle for Renlock may be won, but the war for Everosia is far from over. As the darkness recoups from his losses, the Guardians hasten towards the Diodon Mountains in search of the next member of their order. Plagued by visions and experiencing losses of her own, Ashalea is faced with overwhelming odds as she struggles to overcome her inner demons ... and those of her family. But a series of mistakes might well be her downfall, and some actions can never be undone. Divided by her secrets and worlds away from saving, the Guardians must forge separate paths to reach the same goal. But that's the least of their problems. The darkness wants something from Ashalea ... and he doesn't ask nicely.
The battle for Renlock may be won, but the war for Everosia is far from over. As the darkness recoups from his losses, the Guardians hasten towards the Diodon Mountains in search of the next member of their order. Plagued by visions and experiencing losses of her own, Ashalea is faced with overwhelming odds as she struggles to overcome her inner demons ... and those of her family. But a series of mistakes might well be her downfall, and some actions can never be undone. Divided by her secrets and worlds away from saving, the Guardians must forge separate paths to reach the same goal. But that's the least of their problems. The darkness wants something from Ashalea ... and he doesn't ask nicely.
386 pages, Hardcover
Published August 7, 2020
5 people are currently reading
388 people want to read
About the author
Chloe Hodge
13 books312 followersI'm the bestselling author of The Cursed Blood series and Guardians of the Grove trilogy. I write all things Fantasy--epic, paranormal, and soon to be RH and urban.
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I'm building a reader group full of fun, bookish babes and I'd love for you to join!
You'll be the first to get teasers, updates, arcs and more, plus be able to interact, make new friends, share recs, and have a laugh.
Join here>>
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
April 5, 2022
I might be a little biased but ... I am so proud of this book! The narrative and the characters have come such a long way since Book One, and my love for this world has only grown. I hope you enjoy this novel and stay with me until the last :)
June 10, 2020
Omg?! What happens next?!
I honestly need to know now! When I first finished this book I rated it a 4.5 but honestly I’ve kept thinking about it so much it can’t be anything but a 5! I need to know where it’s going and what happens next.
I love how Chloe develops relationships throughout both books but I feel like they ramped up more in this one. I can’t wait to read more about Ash, Den and the gang and see what happens next!
I honestly need to know now! When I first finished this book I rated it a 4.5 but honestly I’ve kept thinking about it so much it can’t be anything but a 5! I need to know where it’s going and what happens next.
I love how Chloe develops relationships throughout both books but I feel like they ramped up more in this one. I can’t wait to read more about Ash, Den and the gang and see what happens next!
June 9, 2020
Oh my goodness!! I cannot wait to have the physical copy on my hand because this was absolutely brilliant!!!
This had the perfect pacing, it wasn’t too slow or rushed and had a proper amount of action which I absolutely loved. I loved Shara's character development for this book with also learning more of her background which made me adore her so much more and was a stand out for me💞
We also have a new character and I am so excited for the next book because he is AMAZING!!! Shara and Razakh were definitely my favourite in this book because I loved seeing the relationship develop between them because he really is just a big ol cuddly pupper! I also secretly ship them... Is that weird?
Ashalea and Denavar's relationship really blossomed throughout the book by having that unbreakable relationship. Every step of the way he was supporting her to choose the right path and help her be strong with and without him. I feel like Ash and Shara have developed that trust in their relationship where they can compliment and be cheeky and witty as well.
I like that Ash didn't keep her dark secret too long into the story and was soooo well done for her character development.
Also pinky and batty 🤣🤣🤣🤣 nuff said.
This had the perfect pacing, it wasn’t too slow or rushed and had a proper amount of action which I absolutely loved. I loved Shara's character development for this book with also learning more of her background which made me adore her so much more and was a stand out for me💞
We also have a new character and I am so excited for the next book because he is AMAZING!!! Shara and Razakh were definitely my favourite in this book because I loved seeing the relationship develop between them because he really is just a big ol cuddly pupper! I also secretly ship them... Is that weird?
Ashalea and Denavar's relationship really blossomed throughout the book by having that unbreakable relationship. Every step of the way he was supporting her to choose the right path and help her be strong with and without him. I feel like Ash and Shara have developed that trust in their relationship where they can compliment and be cheeky and witty as well.
I like that Ash didn't keep her dark secret too long into the story and was soooo well done for her character development.
Also pinky and batty 🤣🤣🤣🤣 nuff said.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2024
A plus character development, plot development, and perfect pacing! There's nothing I hated or disliked about this book! Everything was so good. I finished this book in one sitting. Shara developed so well. Learning about her past made me love her more! She really stood out and became a favorite. Also the new character, Razakh, is amazing!!! Ashalea and Denavar's relationship blossomed into something so beautiful. He supported her and helped her every step of the way. Even if she did something without him, he helped her see the right path. When she struggled, he was there. But also let her be free. Book was so good and will definitely be a favorite!
May 16, 2021
This was such a fun read! I loved getting to know the characters introduced in book one better, and the new additions to the cast were fun as well. My favorite part of this book was the banter between all of the characters. I loved their interactions and the found family aspect as well!
𝑹𝒆𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒃𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑫𝒊𝒆𝒔 is everything I could’ve asked for out of a sequel to Vengeance Blooms. I can’t wait to see how this epic trilogy concludes! This book, book 2, had a ton of magical battles, plot twists, and great romance as well. I really enjoyed this book, and I’m so hyped for the next one!
𝑹𝒆𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒃𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑫𝒊𝒆𝒔 is everything I could’ve asked for out of a sequel to Vengeance Blooms. I can’t wait to see how this epic trilogy concludes! This book, book 2, had a ton of magical battles, plot twists, and great romance as well. I really enjoyed this book, and I’m so hyped for the next one!
January 12, 2021
I found myself struggling to put this book down. Chloe's words are engaging and emotive (sometimes even funny), and this sequel shows that she continues to grow as a writer as she practices her craft. I also think her copyeditor is a brilliant human.
May 5, 2022
This one was quite better than previous one. Much more interesting and suspense
Loved it again.
The Cliffy !!!
On the way to final book....
Loved it again.
The Cliffy !!!
On the way to final book....
July 21, 2021
What a sequel! I absolutely loved the first book Vengeance Blooms when I read it in December, and now have absolutely loved reading Retribution Dies. Once again Chloe has done an amazing job 💜
The world building in this book was amazing, you got to go to some interesting new places. I also feel like the character’s personalities showed even more in this book, plus new characters, one of which is now my new favourite 💜
Definitely got the sad feels more in this book than the previous 🥺😢
But holy damn what an ending, completely shook. Can’t wait for book 3!
The world building in this book was amazing, you got to go to some interesting new places. I also feel like the character’s personalities showed even more in this book, plus new characters, one of which is now my new favourite 💜
Definitely got the sad feels more in this book than the previous 🥺😢
But holy damn what an ending, completely shook. Can’t wait for book 3!
August 1, 2024
Did I stay up late last night reading even after I told myself to go straight to bed after finishing uni work?? Of course I did! And I finished this beautiful book! I am in love this this trilogy and the ending of this book was such a cliffhanger!! Love a good fantasy series and this one is definitely a new fav!
June 1, 2021
I'll start off my saying that if you're a fan of the Throne of Glass series, then I would definitely suggest this series. You will not be disappointed!
Book two picks up exactly where book one left off and I could not be happier! It was action packed from the get go.
I think my favorite thing about this book was honestly the characters' journey to find themselves, even while they dealt with everything going on around them. Shara had a beautiful journey to find herself and developed new relationships along the way (her friendship with Razakh was hilarious because they were both so stubborn and so much alike).
Ashalea's journey with herself and her own darkness and morals was also refreshing to see. I always enjoy a potential hero-turned-villain arc and how they work their way through it.
I also want to talk about the bi rep in this novel! It was so nice to see and it was beautifully written in that it wasn't explicitly addressed, but it was just another part of the story, just like any other relationship. I'm always looking for more LGBTQ representation representation books so I was pleased with this!
This book also edges a little more into the new adult realm compared to the first book. I also feel the need to mention that we get some spicier scenes in this book (I'm all about it!) But I would take that into consideration if that's not something you're into.
Now... the ending. Holy cow the ending. I have a love/hate relationship with cliffhangers but this one?? I need the next book in my hands like yesterday. I'm so excited to see where the next leg of Ashalea's journey takes her.
Overall rating: 4.5/5
Book two picks up exactly where book one left off and I could not be happier! It was action packed from the get go.
I think my favorite thing about this book was honestly the characters' journey to find themselves, even while they dealt with everything going on around them. Shara had a beautiful journey to find herself and developed new relationships along the way (her friendship with Razakh was hilarious because they were both so stubborn and so much alike).
Ashalea's journey with herself and her own darkness and morals was also refreshing to see. I always enjoy a potential hero-turned-villain arc and how they work their way through it.
I also want to talk about the bi rep in this novel! It was so nice to see and it was beautifully written in that it wasn't explicitly addressed, but it was just another part of the story, just like any other relationship. I'm always looking for more LGBTQ representation representation books so I was pleased with this!
This book also edges a little more into the new adult realm compared to the first book. I also feel the need to mention that we get some spicier scenes in this book (I'm all about it!) But I would take that into consideration if that's not something you're into.
Now... the ending. Holy cow the ending. I have a love/hate relationship with cliffhangers but this one?? I need the next book in my hands like yesterday. I'm so excited to see where the next leg of Ashalea's journey takes her.
Overall rating: 4.5/5
December 28, 2020
Retribution Dies takes the characters, world and themes the first book established and uses them in an engrossing and innovative way. Coming into the book, I was worried it would follow the typical sequel beats and act a bridge between other books, but found it rather ups the ante and makes strong decisions regarding characters and plot points.
The mature themes and immature banter between characters are perfectly balanced, with moments of drama not undercut by jokes. Each character feels fully fleshed out by the end of this book, and newcomers like Razakh are quickly established and its made clear how they differ from other characters.
Again the locations visited in Everosia are diverse and creative. with deserts featuring heavily but not making the story bland when they are featured. My favourite locations had to be the brief introduction to the Moonglade Meadows at the end - the description of a misty valley/forest protecting the meadows reminded me of a hedge maze.
The conclusion to this novel doesn't feature a gigantic clash like the first did, but rather a more nuanced encounter that doesn't feel like a downgrade due to the high stakes. I'm very excited for the final part of the trilogy, particularly the direction characters will be taken.
The mature themes and immature banter between characters are perfectly balanced, with moments of drama not undercut by jokes. Each character feels fully fleshed out by the end of this book, and newcomers like Razakh are quickly established and its made clear how they differ from other characters.
Again the locations visited in Everosia are diverse and creative. with deserts featuring heavily but not making the story bland when they are featured. My favourite locations had to be the brief introduction to the Moonglade Meadows at the end - the description of a misty valley/forest protecting the meadows reminded me of a hedge maze.
The conclusion to this novel doesn't feature a gigantic clash like the first did, but rather a more nuanced encounter that doesn't feel like a downgrade due to the high stakes. I'm very excited for the final part of the trilogy, particularly the direction characters will be taken.
October 4, 2021
I enjoyed ‘Retribution Dies’ even more than ‘Vengeance Blooms’ – because the characters were already established in book one, it was fun to get to see their personalities and relationships bloom (pun intended) in this book. Retribution dies is a rollercoaster adventure filled with wonderfully imaginative monsters, creatures, magic(ka) and beings. I loved the visual Hodge paints in this book describing each of the monsters – especially one in particular… You’ll know the one when you meet it. Most of all, I loved the characters’ development in this book. Shara was my favorite in book one, and now she, Razakh, and Telilah are my favorites – I wouldn’t mind a spin-off featuring just them! I’m excited to see how their relationships develop further. Shara is a complex, beautifully haunted character – my favorite kind. Telilah is sure to become a crowd favorite in book three, because she stole every scene she was in. (And of course, the rest of the crew, Wezlan, Ashalea, and Denevar, are wonderful characters too!) If you’re a fan of Lord of the Rings, Wheel of Time, Mistborn, etc, I’m sure you’ll enjoy this trilogy. I’m very excited to see how everything concludes in Fury Burns!
May 15, 2021
Book 2 of the Guardians of the Grove Trilogy, Retribution Dies picks up where Vengeance Blooms left off. As with my review of Vengeance Blooms, there will be no spoilers here.
This is hands down an amazing tale of friendship, family, allegiances and destiny. In my opinion, Book 1 was mostly story driven, setting the scene while introducing us to the main characters, building its pace towards to gripping finale.
Where Book 2 succeeds even more is that not only does it start at a cracking pace and never slows down. And we also get more backstories to the main characters as well as introducing new ones to the story.
The world and characters that inhabit it are as vivid and colourful as before. The Author's writing flows beautifully and is a joy to read.
This book does what all good books should do, it draws you into its world so that you feel that you are right there in the story. I found it hard to put this one down. And what a cliff hanger to leaves us hanging on for Book 3!
Once again, this book gets a big thumbs up from me. This is movie material.
This is hands down an amazing tale of friendship, family, allegiances and destiny. In my opinion, Book 1 was mostly story driven, setting the scene while introducing us to the main characters, building its pace towards to gripping finale.
Where Book 2 succeeds even more is that not only does it start at a cracking pace and never slows down. And we also get more backstories to the main characters as well as introducing new ones to the story.
The world and characters that inhabit it are as vivid and colourful as before. The Author's writing flows beautifully and is a joy to read.
This book does what all good books should do, it draws you into its world so that you feel that you are right there in the story. I found it hard to put this one down. And what a cliff hanger to leaves us hanging on for Book 3!
Once again, this book gets a big thumbs up from me. This is movie material.
February 16, 2022
oh Chloe, you did so well on this one! I am so proud and inspired.
I absolutely loved the characters this time around, they certainly felt more developed and we got to know them a bit deeper than in the first book. The banter was wonderful between them. Ashalea unfortunately irritated me in the exact same way that Aelin does, they just sit a bit high on their horse sometimes and it bothers me. Denavar reminded me of Rowan also but I actually did not mind him this time around, I liked their relationship, it was adorable at times but I side with Shara. Speaking of Shara, I fell so in love with her in this book, first one I did not trust her that much but I love her now, she is so badass and I am just absolutely besotted with her fiery spirit. I also just connected with how hopeless and lost she felt at times, I really liked her storyline alot. Wezlan, no words. Love the sweet old wizard so so much.
Lastly, The Diodonians! Oh my goodness. I love them so much!!
Cannot wait to keep reading the series.
I absolutely loved the characters this time around, they certainly felt more developed and we got to know them a bit deeper than in the first book. The banter was wonderful between them. Ashalea unfortunately irritated me in the exact same way that Aelin does, they just sit a bit high on their horse sometimes and it bothers me. Denavar reminded me of Rowan also but I actually did not mind him this time around, I liked their relationship, it was adorable at times but I side with Shara. Speaking of Shara, I fell so in love with her in this book, first one I did not trust her that much but I love her now, she is so badass and I am just absolutely besotted with her fiery spirit. I also just connected with how hopeless and lost she felt at times, I really liked her storyline alot. Wezlan, no words. Love the sweet old wizard so so much.
Lastly, The Diodonians! Oh my goodness. I love them so much!!
Cannot wait to keep reading the series.
July 25, 2020
WOW! Ok so technically this book hasn't been released but I need book 3 now!
This installment of the Guardians of the Grove has so much depth, not just for the storyline but for the development of the characters. I love that in this book we aren't just taken through the throughts and feelings of Ashalea but there are multiple POVs that offer an insight into the other chatacters and gives the scope for them to have their moment to shine and grow.
The plotline follows directly on from the aftermath of the battle at Renlock Academy and moves at an even pace to an ending that I did not see coming with so much going on inbetween - no spoilers here.
I love Shara and her bitey quips, especially to a new character we meet. I loved this book so much and am so happy I was given the privilege to read this as an ARC. Now to get my hands on a physical copy. ❤
This installment of the Guardians of the Grove has so much depth, not just for the storyline but for the development of the characters. I love that in this book we aren't just taken through the throughts and feelings of Ashalea but there are multiple POVs that offer an insight into the other chatacters and gives the scope for them to have their moment to shine and grow.
The plotline follows directly on from the aftermath of the battle at Renlock Academy and moves at an even pace to an ending that I did not see coming with so much going on inbetween - no spoilers here.
I love Shara and her bitey quips, especially to a new character we meet. I loved this book so much and am so happy I was given the privilege to read this as an ARC. Now to get my hands on a physical copy. ❤
September 22, 2020
Oh. My. God.
I’m pretty sure this book is just trying to destroy me emotionally, but it was completely epic and I loved it.
The characters grow so much through this book, I love Shara coming to terms with everything she’s been through and her friendship with Razakh! I’m also very interested to learn more about Telilah!!
I also loved Ashalea and Denavar growing more individually but also together! But also Wezlan :((((( I am not okay!
And that ending ahhhhh. I am going to struggle to wait for Book3!!!
I’m pretty sure this book is just trying to destroy me emotionally, but it was completely epic and I loved it.
The characters grow so much through this book, I love Shara coming to terms with everything she’s been through and her friendship with Razakh! I’m also very interested to learn more about Telilah!!
I also loved Ashalea and Denavar growing more individually but also together! But also Wezlan :((((( I am not okay!
And that ending ahhhhh. I am going to struggle to wait for Book3!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2020
I devoured this book as part of a buddy read and it was great reading along with others to bounce our theories off and message eachother all of the OMGs and whoooaaa wowzzers that this book so thoroughly deserves! I loved book one. I loved book two and cannot wait for book three!
Chloe out did herself with the action, dark and descriptive scenes and I love the new characters and getting to know more about the existing ones. highly recommend.
it loses half a star because of the cliff hanger! hahaha sorry but I just need to know what happens next!
Chloe out did herself with the action, dark and descriptive scenes and I love the new characters and getting to know more about the existing ones. highly recommend.
it loses half a star because of the cliff hanger! hahaha sorry but I just need to know what happens next!
March 24, 2021
I need book 3 right now!
Our cast of characters reached wonderful new depths in the second book of the Guardians of the Grove series, and I loved how complicated the each are! Getting to see further into Shara's head more was great - it's always good getting a morally grey perspective.
I did find the pacing off this book to be a little off - there were a few times where it felt a little dragged out.
The plot and the villain are both fantastic, and I can't wait to see what happens next!
Our cast of characters reached wonderful new depths in the second book of the Guardians of the Grove series, and I loved how complicated the each are! Getting to see further into Shara's head more was great - it's always good getting a morally grey perspective.
I did find the pacing off this book to be a little off - there were a few times where it felt a little dragged out.
The plot and the villain are both fantastic, and I can't wait to see what happens next!
June 19, 2020
Chloe's world building skills continue to grow in her latest novel. I enjoyed the character development of old favourites and new.
Chloe's writing reminds me of a Tolkein type quest, modernized for today's more mature NA (new adult) readers with a splash of sexy times.
I highly recommend checking out this series.
Chloe's writing reminds me of a Tolkein type quest, modernized for today's more mature NA (new adult) readers with a splash of sexy times.
I highly recommend checking out this series.
September 28, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyed this one! It was even better than the first. The character development grew, and especially in Shara’s POV, we saw her come to terms with events from her past. She’s my fave character!
I loved meeting the new characters, and I was engrossed with the multiple POV’s in this book. Can’t wait to see what happens next! When’s book 3 out!? 😍
I loved meeting the new characters, and I was engrossed with the multiple POV’s in this book. Can’t wait to see what happens next! When’s book 3 out!? 😍
June 4, 2021
What a fantastic follow up to Vengeance Blooms! Retribution Dies had a great balance of action, drama and seduction! Was awesome to follow the journey of our heroes as the trekked to find the last of the Guardians of the Grove. A cliffhanger ending too, lucky the last book in the series is just around the corner, can't wait! Highly recommend for lovers of all genres, but particularly YA.
March 14, 2022
I found this book very hard to put down, was very fast paced with characters that have their own unique personality and a fantastic ending that made me want to read the next book in the series straight away. Chloe has become one of my favourite fantasy writers and I highly recommend the Guardians of the Grove Trilogy
November 20, 2020
Just as quickly as I finished book #1 in the series, I finished book #2. And just like the first, it was amazing! So much action, twists and turns, excitement - I was hooked! Can’t wait for book #3! Hope I don’t have the wait long cause the ending...oh my god! I need to know what happens next!!!
April 16, 2021
I need to get my hands on the next book. Seriously. Watching the relationships bloom and grow and the characters develop by themselves and having support was great.
Ahagdhdjakjsdh and now I’ve got nothing else to do but wait for the next one :(((
Ahagdhdjakjsdh and now I’ve got nothing else to do but wait for the next one :(((
June 13, 2021
This author never ceases to amaze me with yet another fantastic book to the guardians of the groove trilogy. Retribution Dies had me captivated from start to finish. Some books fall off at book #2 but it only gets better with this series. Highly recommend this trilogy!
December 19, 2022
Much more interesting, I love the different points of views that the chapters have.
I loved the twists & turns, the ending was amazing.
I adore how her writing has developed and Shara’s character also, it’s just amazing!!
I’m obsessed
I loved the twists & turns, the ending was amazing.
I adore how her writing has developed and Shara’s character also, it’s just amazing!!
I’m obsessed
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2020
Loved this book even more than the first one! Couldn't put it down and can't wait for the final book!
April 2, 2021
Ahh this was so good! Book One was amazing and this was even better. Can’t wait to read the third one soon!!
Read
June 7, 2021dnfed at 20%
June 9, 2021
After reading the first one I could not wait for book two. I was not disappointed! Again, enjoyed every bit of it from start to finish! Bring on book three!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews