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Hades Castle Trilogy #2
Rapture
The angel of death locked me in one of his castle rooms, surrounded by books and delicious food. Not bad, right? Except for the loneliness, and the lust-fueled dreams that torment me every night. Specifically, dreams of Samael. And did I mention a psychotic ghost keeps trying to kill me? Because no one else believes me about that.
Now, I’m desperate to get out of the castle and hunt down the murderous Free Men who led to my imprisonment. Samael wants to destroy them, too. We have the same goal, but don't trust each other. When distrust shifts into passion, it only makes things more complicated.
Despite what we feel, we’re destined to be enemies. If we can’t rewrite our fates, we will lose each other forever--and one of us will end up dead.
Now, I’m desperate to get out of the castle and hunt down the murderous Free Men who led to my imprisonment. Samael wants to destroy them, too. We have the same goal, but don't trust each other. When distrust shifts into passion, it only makes things more complicated.
Despite what we feel, we’re destined to be enemies. If we can’t rewrite our fates, we will lose each other forever--and one of us will end up dead.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2021
1453 people are currently reading
2950 people want to read
About the author
C.N. Crawford
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C.N. Crawford are Wall Street Journal bestselling authors of romantasy books, including books with fae, demons, and magical academies.
We write fantasy romance, urban fantasy, and portal romance. Our books often include trials, banter, and enemies to lovers stories.
CN Crawford’s books are perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, K.F. Breene, and Laura Thalassa.
Note: We are actually two people--a former biologist (Nick) and a former school psychologist (Christine).
To join C.N. Crawford's fan group and chat to the authors, Click here.
To stalk on instagram, Click here.
For a free standalone novel, Sign up here.
C.N. Crawford are Wall Street Journal bestselling authors of romantasy books, including books with fae, demons, and magical academies.
We write fantasy romance, urban fantasy, and portal romance. Our books often include trials, banter, and enemies to lovers stories.
CN Crawford’s books are perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, K.F. Breene, and Laura Thalassa.
Note: We are actually two people--a former biologist (Nick) and a former school psychologist (Christine).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 290 reviews
August 16, 2021
Book 2 was AWESOME!!! So much going on ! Loads of passion and great snarky banter and out of this world sexual chemistry!!! Samael Angel of death is friggin hot! And lila is delightful and quick with come backs and knows how to get angel boy all hot and bothered. With the ghost of lilth tormenting lila every chance she gets and samael giving her the cold shoulder and keeping her locked up its a wonder she's still sane. But after finn and her sisters betrayal she wants revenge. She just has to convince Samuel that their on the same side. Oh! and control her sexual fantasies having to do with a certain hot sexy fallen angel Its best to keep her hand out of panties and keep angel boy at arm's length,but what fun would that be. I'm on to book 3 in this series and can't wait to read! Until next time Luv's💕💋
April 2, 2021
Rapture builds more of the story from The Fallen. We learn more about angels and demons. We hear more about Samael’s past and his relationship with Lilith. Lila is haunted by ghostly visions that terrify her. Through all this, we find out who Lila really is and what she is capable of.
The story has progressed with more details to fill in the mystery. Lila has developed as an interesting character. Her slight humor is fun. Samael has more character development as well. Just as I was getting sick of them keeping secrets from one another, they were finally honest. Of course, that’s when chaos breaks loose. The story ends on yet another cliffhanger.
I never thought acorns would be romantic but now I see them differently. A pretty good read. Fun fantasy about angels and demons, souls and roiling emotions. I’ll have to wait patiently for the third installment to see where Lila and Samael end up.
The story has progressed with more details to fill in the mystery. Lila has developed as an interesting character. Her slight humor is fun. Samael has more character development as well. Just as I was getting sick of them keeping secrets from one another, they were finally honest. Of course, that’s when chaos breaks loose. The story ends on yet another cliffhanger.
I never thought acorns would be romantic but now I see them differently. A pretty good read. Fun fantasy about angels and demons, souls and roiling emotions. I’ll have to wait patiently for the third installment to see where Lila and Samael end up.
December 9, 2022
I don’t feel like this book is suffering from middle book syndrome. I’d say it’s a 3.25 to “The Fallen” rating of 3.0, maybe even 2.5. It was really fun. I have read many of C.N. Crawford’s books some I adored like the Court of the Sea Fae series and the Night Elves trilogy others have been a total flop for me ie Shadow & Flame series. The development of Lila was well done in the first book. I truly did not understand her justifications for doing what she did. Here she is coming into her own. I saw the “twist” coming but still it was fun. This is obviously not an epic fantasy with fantastic world building but it builds enough for me to enjoy the romantic plot line without my mind questioning all the places and things because of lack of development. Also the claim to a Hades/Persephone retelling finally kind of shows up in the plot though I don’t see enough Greek Mythology to justify the series title being Hades Castle. It never really made sense to me why it was called that because they are in a completely fantastical world not just a magickified version of our world.
January 20, 2021
1) The Fallen ★★★☆☆
The middle book in a trilogy is always a hit or miss, but Rapture was a good follow-up to The Fallen. The chemistry between Lila and Samael is on top, and the characters' development is good. Maybe a bit too short compared to the first book, but it was still a very good read and we have the answer as to why this is a Hades and Persephone retelling. While this series isn't the best I've read or groundbreaking in any way, it's very enjoyable and addictive, and I hope the conclusion will be as good!
The middle book in a trilogy is always a hit or miss, but Rapture was a good follow-up to The Fallen. The chemistry between Lila and Samael is on top, and the characters' development is good. Maybe a bit too short compared to the first book, but it was still a very good read and we have the answer as to why this is a Hades and Persephone retelling. While this series isn't the best I've read or groundbreaking in any way, it's very enjoyable and addictive, and I hope the conclusion will be as good!
December 4, 2022
🔸2.25 stars🔸
Slightly more direct plot.
Things are making sense now.
Still not 100% sure of the world building, but I am warming up to it.
Loved the exploration of Lila’s powers.
And the acorn thing? That was the most perfect thing ever.
Despite the lower rating I was genuinely invested in the story. Let’s see how it ends, shall we?
Read: 10/02/2022
1st rating: 2.75 stars
Genre/tropes: Paranornal/angels/demons/magic
Cover: 4.5 stars
POV’s: Multiple 1st person (Lila, Lilith & Samael)
Will I recommend: For a different take on a Hades/Persephone myth? Yes.
Slightly more direct plot.
Things are making sense now.
Still not 100% sure of the world building, but I am warming up to it.
Loved the exploration of Lila’s powers.
And the acorn thing? That was the most perfect thing ever.
Despite the lower rating I was genuinely invested in the story. Let’s see how it ends, shall we?
Read: 10/02/2022
1st rating: 2.75 stars
Genre/tropes: Paranornal/angels/demons/magic
Cover: 4.5 stars
POV’s: Multiple 1st person (Lila, Lilith & Samael)
Will I recommend: For a different take on a Hades/Persephone myth? Yes.
January 13, 2021
4.5 ⭐️ I feel like I say this about every CN Crawford book but I really didn’t see that coming! The chemistry between Lila and Samuel is definitely not “mediocre”. I love how they both don’t want to like each other but they just can’t help it. We get a lot of answers regarding Lila’s magic/origin story. I really don’t want to give anything away so writing this review is so hard! Samuel is 🥰😍 UGH this book was amazing! Also I give it 3/5 🍆🍆🍆 spicer than book 1 but I want more 😜
January 14, 2021
Here I was, happily reading a great book and all of a sudden... no more pages!!!
How could you just leave it at that? Whyyyyyy?
Okay, tantrum over... but still ;)
Worldbuilding:
While there weren't that many large-scaled scenes, there were many different locations and I feel the author has done a great job giving us as many details as we needed to lose ourselves in the story without wondering where we were.
In this instalment, we got a hell of a lot of information about the world and how it got to the current state in general. Many questions were answered, though many more still remain.
Character development:
You can't not root for Lila and Samael, seriously... Trying to stay away from each other (well, okay, Samael trying to stay away from Lila) but being drawn to one another anyway *sigh*.
We learned a lot about both of them, and Lila had some maaaaaaaaaajor big revelations going on (I had some flashbacks to a certain Brad Pitt movie, you'll know what I mean when you get there). They both opened up a lot, to themselves and to each other. But what I really like about those two, is the interaction between them, you can just feel the connection they have to each other, it jumps from the pages.
Oswald and Emma are great characters, both making me laugh and facepalm (sometimes at the same time). I did, however, miss Sourial (a lot!), he was my favourite in the first instalment, so I'm hoping we get to see a lot more of him in the last book!
Pacing and flow:
Consider yourself fully committed until you've reached the end and add some more extra time for afterwards, cause you will be moping that there wasn't more. Really nice balance between the action and conversations. A lot happens, but the transitions were very smooth.
The book:
The book itself was well written with no (noticeable) errors. Yes, there is sex described (if that is important to you).
The book is 244 pages long, spread over 35 chapters and has multiple point of views (POV's).
Final thoughts:
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book and all in all, I was truly confused when there wasn't more to read. And then I was sad. It was a really good book and a great continuation of the series. The story had me ensnared, a worthy 5*!
How could you just leave it at that? Whyyyyyy?
Okay, tantrum over... but still ;)
Worldbuilding:
While there weren't that many large-scaled scenes, there were many different locations and I feel the author has done a great job giving us as many details as we needed to lose ourselves in the story without wondering where we were.
In this instalment, we got a hell of a lot of information about the world and how it got to the current state in general. Many questions were answered, though many more still remain.
Character development:
You can't not root for Lila and Samael, seriously... Trying to stay away from each other (well, okay, Samael trying to stay away from Lila) but being drawn to one another anyway *sigh*.
We learned a lot about both of them, and Lila had some maaaaaaaaaajor big revelations going on (I had some flashbacks to a certain Brad Pitt movie, you'll know what I mean when you get there). They both opened up a lot, to themselves and to each other. But what I really like about those two, is the interaction between them, you can just feel the connection they have to each other, it jumps from the pages.
Oswald and Emma are great characters, both making me laugh and facepalm (sometimes at the same time). I did, however, miss Sourial (a lot!), he was my favourite in the first instalment, so I'm hoping we get to see a lot more of him in the last book!
Pacing and flow:
Consider yourself fully committed until you've reached the end and add some more extra time for afterwards, cause you will be moping that there wasn't more. Really nice balance between the action and conversations. A lot happens, but the transitions were very smooth.
The book:
The book itself was well written with no (noticeable) errors. Yes, there is sex described (if that is important to you).
The book is 244 pages long, spread over 35 chapters and has multiple point of views (POV's).
Final thoughts:
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book and all in all, I was truly confused when there wasn't more to read. And then I was sad. It was a really good book and a great continuation of the series. The story had me ensnared, a worthy 5*!
December 4, 2022
1,5 stars
January 22, 2021
Rapture is the 2nd installment of the Hades Castle series by C. N. Crawford. I have to say, I am really enjoying this series. I loved the first book (Fallen) and instantly fell in love with Samael. I love his brooding and darkness, but also the vulnerability of his innocence towards humans and the world in general.
In this second book, we pick up a few months later from where we left off. Samael and Sourial have more or less recovered from their encounter with Lila, and have now locked her up where she cannot be a threat to anyone. It would seem though, for all the loathing Samael wants to feel towards Lila, he absolutely loves her (no one will convince me otherwise). Lila on the other hand might be going insane in her isolation. She is tormented by a poltergeist of sorts and fed information from Samael's past. She also realizes that she has deeper feelings for the Angel of Death and is basically longing for him, probably as much as he does for her. We are taken on a journey in Samael's hunt for the Free Men who wish to bring evil to the city of Dovren (and the world in general), Lila's need for redemption to the angels and retribution for the betrayal by her childhood friend, Finn and her "missing" sister, Alice- and Lila facing her true self and what she is to become.
I don't want to spoil too much, but I appreciate the plot twist regarding Lila and her ghost. I also LOVE, LOVE, LOVE how Samael is changing because of his interactions with Lila. In this story, relations between angels and humans cause the angel to become temporarily human. It would seem though, Lila's humanity is rubbing off on Samael even though they have almost no sexual contact (There is one scene in which they do the deed, it's very short, not very detailed.) Back to Samael's humanity- there are little things he does that proves not only his love of Lila, but also his consideration for the humans around him. The purchasing of boutonnieres from a child, hunting for acorns in order to give Lila to make her feel safe, etc. I feel his personality in this book has expanded a lot compared to the first book.
There was also one part of the story that made me slightly emotional. There is a scene in which Lila realizes what will happen to her and pleads with Samael in what he must do to stop her. In that moment, Samael makes a decision:
"I would keep her safe first. I would protect her before I protected others. I would let the world around me burn to keep her from harm. Because she mattered more than everyone else."
Lila is so in love with Samael that she does not want to become the evil she is destined to be and almost begs him to complete his task should it come down to it, in order to keep him, the city and the world safe. In turn, Samael will do anything to keep Lila as he knows her- despite the warning that she is not who they thought she was initially.
Sorry for the long post. All in all, I loved the story, loved the characters and I can't wait for the finale.
In this second book, we pick up a few months later from where we left off. Samael and Sourial have more or less recovered from their encounter with Lila, and have now locked her up where she cannot be a threat to anyone. It would seem though, for all the loathing Samael wants to feel towards Lila, he absolutely loves her (no one will convince me otherwise). Lila on the other hand might be going insane in her isolation. She is tormented by a poltergeist of sorts and fed information from Samael's past. She also realizes that she has deeper feelings for the Angel of Death and is basically longing for him, probably as much as he does for her. We are taken on a journey in Samael's hunt for the Free Men who wish to bring evil to the city of Dovren (and the world in general), Lila's need for redemption to the angels and retribution for the betrayal by her childhood friend, Finn and her "missing" sister, Alice- and Lila facing her true self and what she is to become.
I don't want to spoil too much, but I appreciate the plot twist regarding Lila and her ghost. I also LOVE, LOVE, LOVE how Samael is changing because of his interactions with Lila. In this story, relations between angels and humans cause the angel to become temporarily human. It would seem though, Lila's humanity is rubbing off on Samael even though they have almost no sexual contact (There is one scene in which they do the deed, it's very short, not very detailed.) Back to Samael's humanity- there are little things he does that proves not only his love of Lila, but also his consideration for the humans around him. The purchasing of boutonnieres from a child, hunting for acorns in order to give Lila to make her feel safe, etc. I feel his personality in this book has expanded a lot compared to the first book.
There was also one part of the story that made me slightly emotional. There is a scene in which Lila realizes what will happen to her and pleads with Samael in what he must do to stop her. In that moment, Samael makes a decision:
"I would keep her safe first. I would protect her before I protected others. I would let the world around me burn to keep her from harm. Because she mattered more than everyone else."
Lila is so in love with Samael that she does not want to become the evil she is destined to be and almost begs him to complete his task should it come down to it, in order to keep him, the city and the world safe. In turn, Samael will do anything to keep Lila as he knows her- despite the warning that she is not who they thought she was initially.
Sorry for the long post. All in all, I loved the story, loved the characters and I can't wait for the finale.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2021
Begging for more
I have to say that I passed this series up many times prior thinking it was going adult (not that there is anything wrong with that). I have now read both and wow just wow! This is an amazing story and I can't wait for more!!
I have to say that I passed this series up many times prior thinking it was going adult (not that there is anything wrong with that). I have now read both and wow just wow! This is an amazing story and I can't wait for more!!
January 14, 2021
In this book will see Lila and Samuel's relationship mend a little at a time. They have some hurdles to overcome. Lila will also try to find out information about where she comes from and what she is. Lila is thrown by this information. She will also have to deal with those how betrayed her. Lila will have to make Samuel see that she was set up. Samuel still needs Lila for his plans. Samuel is having his own issues from the bombing. Samuel will slowly come to realize somethings about his life.
I didn't want to write to much as I am not spoiling this for anyone. The was such a great book. The author really pulls you with this book. There are some wonderful twist and turns in this book, you will be hooked. The author does some reveals that will blow your mind. I recommend reading this book
I didn't want to write to much as I am not spoiling this for anyone. The was such a great book. The author really pulls you with this book. There are some wonderful twist and turns in this book, you will be hooked. The author does some reveals that will blow your mind. I recommend reading this book
October 1, 2022
I love this trilogy ❤️
This gripping and fascinating fantasy book is definitely something else.
It's full of suspense and unexpected events.
Angels, demons and power-seeking fanatics fight to gain the upper hand.
Although the leaders of the lunatics remain still a mystery 🤔
Lila is a great badass character, even more in her demonic evil personality.
Samael, the grumpy fallen angel, the beautiful angel of death is my new bookboyfriend for sure.
Don't get me wrong, he's still as deadly as before, maybe even more so now, but he's changed drastically and it finally gives the story an aura of romance 🥰
Sourial will hopefully get his own book soon. He's the epitome of bad choices, in a very funny flirty way.
I can't wait for his story.
Now off to the grand finale, book 3 is waiting for me too 🤩
This gripping and fascinating fantasy book is definitely something else.
It's full of suspense and unexpected events.
Angels, demons and power-seeking fanatics fight to gain the upper hand.
Although the leaders of the lunatics remain still a mystery 🤔
Lila is a great badass character, even more in her demonic evil personality.
Samael, the grumpy fallen angel, the beautiful angel of death is my new bookboyfriend for sure.
Don't get me wrong, he's still as deadly as before, maybe even more so now, but he's changed drastically and it finally gives the story an aura of romance 🥰
Sourial will hopefully get his own book soon. He's the epitome of bad choices, in a very funny flirty way.
I can't wait for his story.
Now off to the grand finale, book 3 is waiting for me too 🤩
January 17, 2021
Hmmm
While I’m glad we find out what’s going on with Lila, secrets being revealed, and Samael’s hopeless romantic side coming out I was slightly disappointed with the sex scene. The sexual tension was nicely built up but the actual act was over in a couple sentences.
Lila’s humor is always great.
It was also nice to finally understand why this is considered a Hades and Persephone retelling apart from his castle being called Castle Hades.
While I’m glad we find out what’s going on with Lila, secrets being revealed, and Samael’s hopeless romantic side coming out I was slightly disappointed with the sex scene. The sexual tension was nicely built up but the actual act was over in a couple sentences.
Lila’s humor is always great.
It was also nice to finally understand why this is considered a Hades and Persephone retelling apart from his castle being called Castle Hades.
January 22, 2021
So good!
Second book in this series that I've read in as many days. Now I have to wait for the third! I really need to know what's going to happen with Lila and Samael. Is a HEA even possible?
Second book in this series that I've read in as many days. Now I have to wait for the third! I really need to know what's going to happen with Lila and Samael. Is a HEA even possible?
May 8, 2021
Now, this was way better than the first.
I loved Samael and Lila in this books and I think that the third will be rounding up all the things.
I just want that fucking Alice to die a gruesome death, is that too much to ask???
I loved Samael and Lila in this books and I think that the third will be rounding up all the things.
I just want that fucking Alice to die a gruesome death, is that too much to ask???
June 22, 2022
I’m gonna start this by saying was this the best book series I’ve ever read? No. Was I highly entertained through the whole thing? Yes. Did I almost dnf the first book because the heroine was on my last nerve? Also yes. Do I think you should read it? Yes. Will this review make any sense? Probably not 😂
We have fallen angels, demons, reincarnation, magic and mortal uprisings. The Count needs a mortal bride and when his vision shows Lila he pays her to marry him.
All her life Lila has been raised to think the Count was the bad guy. She has been searching for her missing sister who has been seen walking in Castle Hades and never seen again. So her goal is to find the counts weakness and kill him and find her missing sister. Somehow Lila can always sneak around undetected. Kill guard twice her size. She has unmatched strength and a magic of darkness she’s not sure where it comes from. When secrets start coming to light can Lila find out just what she is? And will Sameal (The Count) kill her because of it. Or will their love be strong enough.
In the first two books the romance wasn’t very strong but the plot kept me interested. There was a couple plot holes that I had issues with that just didn’t make sense to me but there was something about the story that kept me going. I needed to know all the secrets Lila had and more about Samael. By the 3rd book I was obsessed with them and their relationship and I really thought the last book was best of all.
In the final book the show down with the Free Man was on and just who was the Baron and the leader. I didn’t actually guess who he was but I do think the ending was just too easy. But I’m glad they got their happy ending together.
3.75-4/5 ⭐️
1.5/5 🌶
We have fallen angels, demons, reincarnation, magic and mortal uprisings. The Count needs a mortal bride and when his vision shows Lila he pays her to marry him.
All her life Lila has been raised to think the Count was the bad guy. She has been searching for her missing sister who has been seen walking in Castle Hades and never seen again. So her goal is to find the counts weakness and kill him and find her missing sister. Somehow Lila can always sneak around undetected. Kill guard twice her size. She has unmatched strength and a magic of darkness she’s not sure where it comes from. When secrets start coming to light can Lila find out just what she is? And will Sameal (The Count) kill her because of it. Or will their love be strong enough.
In the first two books the romance wasn’t very strong but the plot kept me interested. There was a couple plot holes that I had issues with that just didn’t make sense to me but there was something about the story that kept me going. I needed to know all the secrets Lila had and more about Samael. By the 3rd book I was obsessed with them and their relationship and I really thought the last book was best of all.
In the final book the show down with the Free Man was on and just who was the Baron and the leader. I didn’t actually guess who he was but I do think the ending was just too easy. But I’m glad they got their happy ending together.
3.75-4/5 ⭐️
1.5/5 🌶
July 7, 2022
My Booktube
now see THIS was giving me the cute romantic moments I was wanting. With the reveals at the end about what a hopeless romantic he is??? oh I was eating it up!! its my favorite trope I think.
we also get more background information/worldbuilding that help make the world just FEEL better to be around. And I love the inclusion of Oswald and Emma, easily some of the better side characters in the series (Suriel (sp??) is also pretty cool but he like... appears maybe twice in the whole book for minor things, but I did like him a lot in book 1).
Though it did get kinda annoying with how much he refused to trust her, I get why and it does technically make sense. But I swear when she's using the same "lie" over and over, wouldn't you at some point think she's being honest??? That's what really got me. And I appreciated the moments of honesty here and the little arguments. Its very weird to feel like the middle book is the best in a series but here we are. (I haven't finished book 3, but I don't think it'll top book 2 for me atm).
now see THIS was giving me the cute romantic moments I was wanting. With the reveals at the end about what a hopeless romantic he is??? oh I was eating it up!! its my favorite trope I think.
we also get more background information/worldbuilding that help make the world just FEEL better to be around. And I love the inclusion of Oswald and Emma, easily some of the better side characters in the series (Suriel (sp??) is also pretty cool but he like... appears maybe twice in the whole book for minor things, but I did like him a lot in book 1).
Though it did get kinda annoying with how much he refused to trust her, I get why and it does technically make sense. But I swear when she's using the same "lie" over and over, wouldn't you at some point think she's being honest??? That's what really got me. And I appreciated the moments of honesty here and the little arguments. Its very weird to feel like the middle book is the best in a series but here we are. (I haven't finished book 3, but I don't think it'll top book 2 for me atm).
April 7, 2021
It keeps getting better and better
The next installment continues were the last book left off and there is clear trust issues between Lila and Samael.
Now she also has a malicious ghost to contend with that’s intent on killing her and worst of all no one believes her.
Did find myself screaming at her for being dishonest the whole time
We find some more back story
And the banter between Lila and samael had me roaring laughing at times
It was tender and tense and loving
I just adore this series
Also I want a shadow wolf 🐺
The next installment continues were the last book left off and there is clear trust issues between Lila and Samael.
Now she also has a malicious ghost to contend with that’s intent on killing her and worst of all no one believes her.
Did find myself screaming at her for being dishonest the whole time
We find some more back story
And the banter between Lila and samael had me roaring laughing at times
It was tender and tense and loving
I just adore this series
Also I want a shadow wolf 🐺
January 14, 2021
OMG! I loved the first book so was very eager to read this and once I started I just could not put it down! It’s action packed and the world building is simply incredible and you get so lost in Lila and Sameals world that when the book ends you are stunned and a little lost. There’s twists and turns galore and secrets are revealed as this sends us on one hell of a emotional rollercoaster ride of heartbreak, excitement, attraction, chemistry, romance and a little laughter. A fantastic continuation and I am way eager to read more!
February 1, 2021
Even the reaper can be an angel
Seriously loved this book! Lila and Samuel are falling hard for each other. I love how he starts to do things for her that he never had thought about before. During this blossoming love we have a war brewing. Who is really on what side? How will Lila and Samuel handle some newly discovered problems? You will not be able to put this intricate twist and turn story down. I’m going to be waiting on pins and needles for the next book!
Seriously loved this book! Lila and Samuel are falling hard for each other. I love how he starts to do things for her that he never had thought about before. During this blossoming love we have a war brewing. Who is really on what side? How will Lila and Samuel handle some newly discovered problems? You will not be able to put this intricate twist and turn story down. I’m going to be waiting on pins and needles for the next book!
January 15, 2021
So freaking amazing!
I ended up reading this in one sitting! Couldn’t put it down. What a great continuation from the first book and now I’m dying for the last installment!
I ended up reading this in one sitting! Couldn’t put it down. What a great continuation from the first book and now I’m dying for the last installment!
September 23, 2024
I like to torture myself
February 5, 2021
Good continuation
The world building is sort of confusing but the story still holds my attention. Be prepared it ends very abruptly
The world building is sort of confusing but the story still holds my attention. Be prepared it ends very abruptly
November 17, 2021
I didn't love this book, it fell flat and could have been combined with one of the other books. There was so much potential, and while I got through the book in a couple hours I just wished there was more to the story.
January 21, 2021
DNF. Got to 60% and was bored and didn’t care. The writing was eloquent but it wasn’t lively or fun. It was very somber and monotonous.
June 21, 2022
Yes. Loved it so much. Thank you again CN Crawford for giving me this gem of a series
January 16, 2021
You can't help but notice the trend throughout the fiction of the long-livved does the human psyche associate it more so as a curse than a gift: this holds resolute herein. Authors are oft a good index of the idio-cultural philosophies of life captured in each generation, transcendence being the restrictive hold on said forms of knowledge, as inferred from their constructs about life, fiction/non-fiction making no tangible difference. One such cultural aspect herein (and for me) is the lesson of "how looks can be deceiving."
Another resounding reflection found whilst reading Rapture, is the conception of mortality versus immortality, and the secret desires and postures of both experiences as humans conceive them. This oft reflects as a very definite trade-off between quantity and quality, the human (author’s) psyche coming through in the way immortality is envisaged as a burden, and mortality a gift.
Grasping the idiosyncrasies regarding “loss” is as I interpret it, at the heart or crux of this resolution: the plot continuing to make it exemplary therein. You cannot help but think that everything about our existence can be rolled down to just the one paradigm: Time! Anyone awakening to the blare of their alarm would I imagine agree wholeheartedly, and with the vigour seen herein. Rapture both uses and conveys this paradox.
A quality throughout the Hades Castle Trilogy to date, and in C.N. Crawford’s library in general, is that their two personalities and styles combine so complementarily as to be rare as hen’s teeth. It is as if they can both read and write in the exact moment in which you are the reader. Frequently throughout their library I experience this in the manner in which no sooner than do two to five pages pass from a realisation I’m missing/wanting something, that I do promptly get my resolution: simply because they seem to be able to predict this so efficiently. To be sure, this is not in a way meant to imply confusion, as it occurs more as inquisitive retrospection than the former.
A new structural feature of the new addition has been pulled off to great effect, increasing the immersive qualities Rapture is able to achieve or facilitate. I felt whilst reading it, that similar experience you get whilst playing Cluedo, but by comparison the latter is wanting. It’s that experience where a glimpse offered into the mystery to be solved, contradicts that saying that a rolling stone gathers no moss.
You (our rolling stone) collect bits and pieces that are attempted to be reconciled into a whole, rewardingly in that the whole time there’s no clear resolution. This prologue of sorts manifests more in-situ moments that act in a temporal manner, a time loop between many gotcha moments and dumbo ones too. Unlike Cluedo, though, you're piecing together doesn’t rightly involve any foregone conclusions whatsoever: as there’s no “foregone” about it.
I reviewed and rated The Fallen as a four star experience, noting that I was a little too shy of the score when rounding up is appropriate. This is in no way I’d do it for Rapture. Instead Rapture has enough additional qualities to round up to five! I hope the final book improves in a manner either similar or new. If it’s to be new then I expect I’ll lament the inability to rate the finale as a six star novel (five be buggered).
Another resounding reflection found whilst reading Rapture, is the conception of mortality versus immortality, and the secret desires and postures of both experiences as humans conceive them. This oft reflects as a very definite trade-off between quantity and quality, the human (author’s) psyche coming through in the way immortality is envisaged as a burden, and mortality a gift.
Grasping the idiosyncrasies regarding “loss” is as I interpret it, at the heart or crux of this resolution: the plot continuing to make it exemplary therein. You cannot help but think that everything about our existence can be rolled down to just the one paradigm: Time! Anyone awakening to the blare of their alarm would I imagine agree wholeheartedly, and with the vigour seen herein. Rapture both uses and conveys this paradox.
A quality throughout the Hades Castle Trilogy to date, and in C.N. Crawford’s library in general, is that their two personalities and styles combine so complementarily as to be rare as hen’s teeth. It is as if they can both read and write in the exact moment in which you are the reader. Frequently throughout their library I experience this in the manner in which no sooner than do two to five pages pass from a realisation I’m missing/wanting something, that I do promptly get my resolution: simply because they seem to be able to predict this so efficiently. To be sure, this is not in a way meant to imply confusion, as it occurs more as inquisitive retrospection than the former.
A new structural feature of the new addition has been pulled off to great effect, increasing the immersive qualities Rapture is able to achieve or facilitate. I felt whilst reading it, that similar experience you get whilst playing Cluedo, but by comparison the latter is wanting. It’s that experience where a glimpse offered into the mystery to be solved, contradicts that saying that a rolling stone gathers no moss.
You (our rolling stone) collect bits and pieces that are attempted to be reconciled into a whole, rewardingly in that the whole time there’s no clear resolution. This prologue of sorts manifests more in-situ moments that act in a temporal manner, a time loop between many gotcha moments and dumbo ones too. Unlike Cluedo, though, you're piecing together doesn’t rightly involve any foregone conclusions whatsoever: as there’s no “foregone” about it.
I reviewed and rated The Fallen as a four star experience, noting that I was a little too shy of the score when rounding up is appropriate. This is in no way I’d do it for Rapture. Instead Rapture has enough additional qualities to round up to five! I hope the final book improves in a manner either similar or new. If it’s to be new then I expect I’ll lament the inability to rate the finale as a six star novel (five be buggered).
April 24, 2023
If you thought the angst in the first book was real, you’re in for a wild ride with this second book. Sexual tension and the banter between the MCs was so snarky and sardonic, but in a good way and I loved it so much more! “Welielding swords” could be a dangerous game when it comes to the heart. I devoured this book within and couple of hours. This is when the enemies becomes lovers. Close proximity, betrayal and trying to gain trust again. “Who did this to you” vibes. I thought it was weird at first that a ghost was visiting Lila and trying to get in her head, but it totally makes sense in the end. I wasn’t really giving the author enough credit for creating a plot that involves ghosts. Kind of like how Samael didn’t really believe her ghost stories at all. When Lila finds out he was the one collecting acorns and arranging fruit tarts for her, it made me melt in a puddle on the floor.
“I wasn’t trying to win them over. I was trying to scare them into submission.” “When people are desperate and starving, they forget to be scared.”
⬆️⬆️⬆️
THAT is the reason why Samael needs a person like Lila in his life. To give him reason to rule over a kingdom. You can be king once you realize the turmoil people go through. It was sweet to see Samael actually taking Lila’s words into consideration and started to buy and gather food to pass out to the people less unfortunate in the villages.
Lila:
“Do you know what a constrictor knot is? If you struggle against it, it only gets tighter on your wrists. Maybe that’s what you’re doing. If you fight against your desire, maybe it gets worse.” A constrictor knot …
“All I know, Samael, is that if you’re here in my room in the middle of the night, I must be occupying your thoughts an awful lot.”
Somewhere, deep down, I might be evil. For once, I wanted to be alone in that little room. Maybe I didn’t feel quite as scared of the ghost now. If I’d crawled from the soil of an old ruin, maybe that bitch should be scared of me.
I was starting to feel like we were made for each other. And if he had faith in me, I’d have faith, too. I wanted more of him.
Samael:
“I wouldn’t kill you. I might slaughter everyone else. But you might be an exception.”
“Maybe I like your strange, rambling stories about Dovren … the way you make this disgusting city come alive.”
I would keep her safe first. I would protect her before I protected others. I would let the world around me burn to keep her from harm. Because she mattered more than everyone else. That was not how I was created. And yet here I was—falling all over again, losing myself. I knew how dangerous this was, and yet I couldn’t stop it. I was hers, and she was mine, and I had no choice in the matter.
“Just so we're clear,” I whispered into her hair, “you aren't just any woman strutting around half naked, and I wouldn't have risked my life for anyone but you.” “Just so we’re clear,” she said, “you are absolutely not mediocre, and I would never let anyone else tie me up like that.”
“I wasn’t trying to win them over. I was trying to scare them into submission.” “When people are desperate and starving, they forget to be scared.”
⬆️⬆️⬆️
THAT is the reason why Samael needs a person like Lila in his life. To give him reason to rule over a kingdom. You can be king once you realize the turmoil people go through. It was sweet to see Samael actually taking Lila’s words into consideration and started to buy and gather food to pass out to the people less unfortunate in the villages.
Lila:
“Do you know what a constrictor knot is? If you struggle against it, it only gets tighter on your wrists. Maybe that’s what you’re doing. If you fight against your desire, maybe it gets worse.” A constrictor knot …
“All I know, Samael, is that if you’re here in my room in the middle of the night, I must be occupying your thoughts an awful lot.”
Somewhere, deep down, I might be evil. For once, I wanted to be alone in that little room. Maybe I didn’t feel quite as scared of the ghost now. If I’d crawled from the soil of an old ruin, maybe that bitch should be scared of me.
I was starting to feel like we were made for each other. And if he had faith in me, I’d have faith, too. I wanted more of him.
Samael:
“I wouldn’t kill you. I might slaughter everyone else. But you might be an exception.”
“Maybe I like your strange, rambling stories about Dovren … the way you make this disgusting city come alive.”
I would keep her safe first. I would protect her before I protected others. I would let the world around me burn to keep her from harm. Because she mattered more than everyone else. That was not how I was created. And yet here I was—falling all over again, losing myself. I knew how dangerous this was, and yet I couldn’t stop it. I was hers, and she was mine, and I had no choice in the matter.
“Just so we're clear,” I whispered into her hair, “you aren't just any woman strutting around half naked, and I wouldn't have risked my life for anyone but you.” “Just so we’re clear,” she said, “you are absolutely not mediocre, and I would never let anyone else tie me up like that.”
August 31, 2021
Sometimes funny and really good, other times not so
I liked the second book less than the first. Essentially, nothing happened here. The heroine is captured, then she tries to escape, the hero enlists her help to find the cult members. In the end, they have to get married for some mysterious reason.
What I didn't like about this book is that there was a leap from that they desire each other, to that they have feelings for each other, without any background.
They just decided in one chapter that they had feelings for each other, although everything that was previously described as lust.
Well, the biggest disappointment is the scene of their first(and only) sex, it seems from the description that everything took a minute. That's what I call fast coitus. So much tension before and then this? Huh? I anticipated so much more.
No character development. We are told that the hero is closet romantic, but we do not see this. He buys her different wedding dresses, arranges flowers for their fake wedding. He gives the heroine a wedding ring, with a very intimate and personal inscription, but why? When he does this, they have not seen each other for two months, and before that they had known each other for no more than a week. When he managed to fall in love with her? If the theme is involved here, that she is his destined or mate, then we are not told anything about it. It's just a fact that he loves her.—Ok, I must admit I liked this revelation about acorns. But that's it.
The heroine has no goal, she does something, just because. But I like her because she makes funny comments.
Oh, and it was absolutely annoying that no one took seriously what the heroine said about the ghost.
Again, the second book should be a part of the first. Making a trilogy out of this is ridiculous.
Of the undeniable advantages, the book is written with humor and the dialogues are hilarious.
Of the minuses, secondary characters are non-existent. And I would like more chapters written on behalf of the hero.
Again after finishing the feeling that something important is missing, if not to it this might be a great book. But how we have it now is not too deep and too much plain.
I liked the second book less than the first. Essentially, nothing happened here. The heroine is captured, then she tries to escape, the hero enlists her help to find the cult members. In the end, they have to get married for some mysterious reason.
What I didn't like about this book is that there was a leap from that they desire each other, to that they have feelings for each other, without any background.
They just decided in one chapter that they had feelings for each other, although everything that was previously described as lust.
Well, the biggest disappointment is the scene of their first(and only) sex, it seems from the description that everything took a minute. That's what I call fast coitus. So much tension before and then this? Huh? I anticipated so much more.
No character development. We are told that the hero is closet romantic, but we do not see this. He buys her different wedding dresses, arranges flowers for their fake wedding. He gives the heroine a wedding ring, with a very intimate and personal inscription, but why? When he does this, they have not seen each other for two months, and before that they had known each other for no more than a week. When he managed to fall in love with her? If the theme is involved here, that she is his destined or mate, then we are not told anything about it. It's just a fact that he loves her.—Ok, I must admit I liked this revelation about acorns. But that's it.
The heroine has no goal, she does something, just because. But I like her because she makes funny comments.
Oh, and it was absolutely annoying that no one took seriously what the heroine said about the ghost.
Again, the second book should be a part of the first. Making a trilogy out of this is ridiculous.
Of the undeniable advantages, the book is written with humor and the dialogues are hilarious.
Of the minuses, secondary characters are non-existent. And I would like more chapters written on behalf of the hero.
Again after finishing the feeling that something important is missing, if not to it this might be a great book. But how we have it now is not too deep and too much plain.
March 24, 2021
C N Crawford
Beware the Mythos
In book two of CN Crawford's new 'Hades Castle Trilogy' we get a new twist on the myth of Persephone. In the original mythos Persephone is a fertility goddess who is painted in a light, hopeful, innocent manner. In CN Crawford's tale she is far more dark.
In Rapture Lila and Samael move through many up and downs. Lila begins the story in captivity after helping the Free Men plant a bomb in Samael's bedroom. The nature of her captivity is such that she can't leave the Iron Castle without being struck down by Samael's magic. While in this captivity Lila is being accosted by a vicious phantom whose identity is key to Lila's predicament. As Lila sets out to discover the identity of this murderous phantom she uncovers truths from the Dovren's past.
Samael will face his own demons from the past and come face to face with a foe that he thought he had bested before.
The Free Men continue to be a thorn in everyone's side and Alice! What do I say about Alice? There are not enough descriptive words to adequately express my feelings on the topic of Lila's adoptive sister.
Rapture leads us through a story of betrayal. The betrayal of Lila, Samael, Alice, Lilith and the Free Men.
I liked Rapture. I liked the mystery of it, the hidden past, the puzzle of what new mysteries would be unveiled. The new darker take on the Persephone mythos was truly fun and twisty. Mixing Angels and Demons a traditionally Judeo-Christian iconography with the Greek Mythos of Persephone and doing it so well was truly inspired. If I could ask just one thing it would be to know how CN Crawford came up with this?!
The only caution I'll give you readers is watch out for that cliff hanger at the end! It's a DOOZY!
Beware the Mythos
In book two of CN Crawford's new 'Hades Castle Trilogy' we get a new twist on the myth of Persephone. In the original mythos Persephone is a fertility goddess who is painted in a light, hopeful, innocent manner. In CN Crawford's tale she is far more dark.
In Rapture Lila and Samael move through many up and downs. Lila begins the story in captivity after helping the Free Men plant a bomb in Samael's bedroom. The nature of her captivity is such that she can't leave the Iron Castle without being struck down by Samael's magic. While in this captivity Lila is being accosted by a vicious phantom whose identity is key to Lila's predicament. As Lila sets out to discover the identity of this murderous phantom she uncovers truths from the Dovren's past.
Samael will face his own demons from the past and come face to face with a foe that he thought he had bested before.
The Free Men continue to be a thorn in everyone's side and Alice! What do I say about Alice? There are not enough descriptive words to adequately express my feelings on the topic of Lila's adoptive sister.
Rapture leads us through a story of betrayal. The betrayal of Lila, Samael, Alice, Lilith and the Free Men.
I liked Rapture. I liked the mystery of it, the hidden past, the puzzle of what new mysteries would be unveiled. The new darker take on the Persephone mythos was truly fun and twisty. Mixing Angels and Demons a traditionally Judeo-Christian iconography with the Greek Mythos of Persephone and doing it so well was truly inspired. If I could ask just one thing it would be to know how CN Crawford came up with this?!
The only caution I'll give you readers is watch out for that cliff hanger at the end! It's a DOOZY!
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