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Ruling Magic #2
Being Remade
So the entire mage world is looking for me. Who cares?
I’m not going back.
I’ve finally tasted freedom, and even though I hate that I accidentally left my sort-of-boyfriend behind, there’s no way I’m giving this up.
Not yet.
I’ve got things to do here. If I’m going to change the world, I’ll need to see it first. Preferably before Mother reduces everything to dust, waging her deadly war.
So, I’m blending in. Learning what it takes to be a regular mage. Pretending I’m not the missing Heir plastered all over the news.
The only problem is, keeping my Ruling Powers hidden is proving tougher than I thought. The other mages? They’re starting to notice I’m different.
Sooner or later, they’re going to figure me out. And while not everyone looking for me wants me dead, one thing is clear. If I don’t see this mission through...
It’s game over. For all of us.
I’m not going back.
I’ve finally tasted freedom, and even though I hate that I accidentally left my sort-of-boyfriend behind, there’s no way I’m giving this up.
Not yet.
I’ve got things to do here. If I’m going to change the world, I’ll need to see it first. Preferably before Mother reduces everything to dust, waging her deadly war.
So, I’m blending in. Learning what it takes to be a regular mage. Pretending I’m not the missing Heir plastered all over the news.
The only problem is, keeping my Ruling Powers hidden is proving tougher than I thought. The other mages? They’re starting to notice I’m different.
Sooner or later, they’re going to figure me out. And while not everyone looking for me wants me dead, one thing is clear. If I don’t see this mission through...
It’s game over. For all of us.
ebook
First published March 31, 2021
195 people are currently reading
884 people want to read
About the author
Lissa Bolts
10 books118 followersLissa Bolts is an up-and-coming author (see also: noob). A devourer of words and a predictor of endings, she’s here to debut her first full-length novel, The Counterbalance. This is the first book in the Ruling Magic Series. As all authors do, she hopes you'll love it. It’s kind of like her baby. She loves it almost as much as her real baby...er, two-year-old. A native to Utah, Lissa enjoys spending time with her family tearing up the powdery slopes in the winter and long lakeside camping trips in the summer. You can connect with Lissa on Instagram HERE or facebook HERE. You can also visit her website, lissabolts.com, to sign up for fun emails where she’ll sometimes talk about her new releases.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
July 12, 2021
"Ah, but can't you see? I'm not hiding anymore. This is me."
How, just how, can Lissa's books be so extremely amazing!? If you've checked out some of my other book reviews, you'll know that I love taking note of memorable quotes to pepper my reviews with. Well... "Being Remade" hooked me so much, I couldn't be bothered to stop whenever I found an amazing quote. There's quite a number of them, but I needed to know what happened next more than I needed to take note of the quotes! So, um, you're getting a quoteless review!
Long story short, Isla has taken advantage of her anonymity to hide among common people, and learn more about how the Mage community is doing from the inside. She's infiltrated in a team of people who are in charge of building and installing artifacts to spread the magic in wild areas, where gangs and mafia-like organisations rule the territories by controlling access to magic; and she's determined to help the Mages in these areas gain access to magic, and free themselves from their local oppressors. But things start going awry soon, and Isla will find herself involved in bigger trouble than she may be able to handle.
She's done it again, guys. Lissa has written a mindblowingly addictive book, featuring an incredible female main character that I'm certain will stay with me for a long time, and she's managed to make it look easy! The prose flows so well, and the writing is so enjoyable. These books are big Must Reads for any and every fan of YA fantasy, incredible female heroines, and well-written stories. If "The Counterbalance" showed the reader how the elites of the Mage world look like, "Being Remade" takes them on a ride to the less glamurous side: the everyday life of common people, who live far from any palace or court and struggle to gain access to the magic they need to function. This was a great way to explore the different issues that may arise in any society in which there's a resource as vital, but also as difficult to distribute, as magic, and I really loved hearing from characters who are suffering the consequences of a poor distribution network and not enough interest in fixing it.
And Isla!? Gosh, what a woman she is. I'm not one to have many female MC crushes, but I really am head over heels for her! In this second installment, she gets to explore the society she's so worried about, and what she finds troubles her to no end. Her compassion and determination to do what's right are met with the unpredictability of those who don't abide by the law, and her struggles in this book made me want to hug her more times than I could count. There's also the way she meets new people who can see the incredible person she is, even if they don't know her identity. Isla has a magnetic personality, and following her adventures is simply amazing!
Other characters were incredible, too. Sara made me so happy every time she was around, for example; Cynthia, Sam, and the rest of the crew were also adorable; the Magnate was as despicable as ever; and Rik... UHHH RIK. Another big crush. To avoid accidentally spoiling anything, I won't say much about him, but he makes me go weak in the knees!
And... That ending, that ending, that e n d i i i i i n g! I'm still shocked, and it's been a few weeks since I finished "Being Remade". I need answers! And I need them now! Lissa, please hurry up with that third book! Your readers are in need of more!
May 31, 2021
Fast-paced and mesmerizing!😍
🔮If you need a fast-paced, twisty, and eventful YA fantasy novel with lots of magic rules, this book is definitely what you need!
___
Genre: YA fantasy novel
Pages: 304
Language: English
Release date: 2021
📿The Plot: “Being Remade” is the second book in the “Ruling Magic” trilogy (so far). 21 y.o. Isla Luciano, an heir to a modern-day powerful magical dynasty, keeps trying to change the world, helping norms with magic. But this mission appears to be more complicated than the girl expects. She leaves her ‘first love’ behind to restore justice regardless of mortal danger. She is ready for a face-off with her most vicious enemy – her mother. The only nasty problem is that this time Isla needs to counteract with all her secrets out.
🔮The Writing Style: This is my second book by this writer. The writing style hasn’t changed considerably. Maybe, it became a bit faster. I would probably characterize it again as elegant and dynamic. A fabulous mix of humor, sarcasm, wit, heartbreaking, and touching scenes are still present on the pages of this book. The second book was filled with numerous adorable comparisons and metaphors that made me giggled a couple of times.
📿The Characters: The number of characters and sub-characters is numerous. The writer successfully portrayed villains and heroes perfectly enough to make a reader hate, love, and worry about them. The tiniest details in describing their appearances, actions, gestures, and thoughts facilitate visualizing and make you glued to the pages until the end.
🩸Warnings: Murder, assassination attempts, death, tortures, grief, anxiety
🔮The fave quote: “I’ve never felt more like prey.”
💙Would I read other books by this author: Can’t wait to read the third one!
☀️My humble rating is: 5/5
#BeingRemade #LissaBolts #AmWriting #writerslife #writingcommunity #books ##unitedbookstagram #bookstagram #betterreadschallenge
🔮If you need a fast-paced, twisty, and eventful YA fantasy novel with lots of magic rules, this book is definitely what you need!
___
Genre: YA fantasy novel
Pages: 304
Language: English
Release date: 2021
📿The Plot: “Being Remade” is the second book in the “Ruling Magic” trilogy (so far). 21 y.o. Isla Luciano, an heir to a modern-day powerful magical dynasty, keeps trying to change the world, helping norms with magic. But this mission appears to be more complicated than the girl expects. She leaves her ‘first love’ behind to restore justice regardless of mortal danger. She is ready for a face-off with her most vicious enemy – her mother. The only nasty problem is that this time Isla needs to counteract with all her secrets out.
🔮The Writing Style: This is my second book by this writer. The writing style hasn’t changed considerably. Maybe, it became a bit faster. I would probably characterize it again as elegant and dynamic. A fabulous mix of humor, sarcasm, wit, heartbreaking, and touching scenes are still present on the pages of this book. The second book was filled with numerous adorable comparisons and metaphors that made me giggled a couple of times.
📿The Characters: The number of characters and sub-characters is numerous. The writer successfully portrayed villains and heroes perfectly enough to make a reader hate, love, and worry about them. The tiniest details in describing their appearances, actions, gestures, and thoughts facilitate visualizing and make you glued to the pages until the end.
🩸Warnings: Murder, assassination attempts, death, tortures, grief, anxiety
🔮The fave quote: “I’ve never felt more like prey.”
💙Would I read other books by this author: Can’t wait to read the third one!
☀️My humble rating is: 5/5
#BeingRemade #LissaBolts #AmWriting #writerslife #writingcommunity #books ##unitedbookstagram #bookstagram #betterreadschallenge
April 6, 2021
Another amazing book by Lissa Bolts
What an awesome sequel! This book was an emotional rollercoaster (tissues NOT included and very much needed) throughout and I loved it!
***********************************************************SPOILERS AHEAD:
Read past this point at your own risk
***********************************************************
***********************************************************
***********************************************************
Okay so, honestly, at first/times, I was a little bit worried that the addition of too many new villains was going to overwhelm the plot and introduce too many storylines; but I was very pleasantly surprised at how well Lissa Bolts brought the storylines together in the end (minus that cliff hanger, you monster!).
There were also A LOT of new characters introduced along with those new villains in the book and there were a couple of members on her team and some of the allies/other stragglers that I mixed up or didn’t remember details on who exactly each person was just by their names. But, again, even with all of these new characters, which can sometimes overwhelm a sequel (IMO), I loved so many of them as either characters or in relation to the story/plot and the roles they played, that it didn’t bother me as much as it has in the past. This is the only reason I’d give the book a 4.7/5 stars I think, but it definitely falls higher, towards a 5 star review!
I’m HOPING for a little bit more romance and steam in the next book; BUT, for Iz’s character I think the slow burn/ship pace has been appropriate and that her and Rik’s relationship has a ton of chemistry and definite heat despite much schmexy times. Iz needed to go on her Hero’s Journey and find her own strength and place in this new world after being imprisoned and tortured for all of her life. PLUS, the build up in this book for Rik and Iz’s reuniting was crazyyyyy suspenseful and I was SO happy when it finally happened (tissue moment!).
I’m also kind of crossing my fingers that Iz embraces her inner darkness a bit in the next book, let’s that anger out and starts coming into even more powers that she uses to just destroy Mother after a bit of violent and, for some, fatal vengeance (but maybe I’ve just been reading too many Jaymin Eve books lately and I’m just in that mindstate haha 😂). Mind you, I’m not saying that Iz is anything but a TOTAL BADASS; and can totally down baddies and bring the pain, but her heart is so golden and she’s still so innocent! 💛💛 I am all for a little corruption in the form of justice being served cold AND Mr. Sovereign himself 😉😉
Anyways, to wrap up this lengthy review, I would definitely recommend this book/series to my fellow fantasy novel lovers and am still amazed by the fact that this series is the first that Lissa has published. Both her writing style (which is exceptional and flows very nicely) and grammar are on point; which my inner English nerd loves seeing in books, I didn’t recognize any errors! Very nicely done, Lissa! I’m thoroughly excited for book 3!! Eeeeek!
What an awesome sequel! This book was an emotional rollercoaster (tissues NOT included and very much needed) throughout and I loved it!
***********************************************************SPOILERS AHEAD:
Read past this point at your own risk
***********************************************************
***********************************************************
***********************************************************
Okay so, honestly, at first/times, I was a little bit worried that the addition of too many new villains was going to overwhelm the plot and introduce too many storylines; but I was very pleasantly surprised at how well Lissa Bolts brought the storylines together in the end (minus that cliff hanger, you monster!).
There were also A LOT of new characters introduced along with those new villains in the book and there were a couple of members on her team and some of the allies/other stragglers that I mixed up or didn’t remember details on who exactly each person was just by their names. But, again, even with all of these new characters, which can sometimes overwhelm a sequel (IMO), I loved so many of them as either characters or in relation to the story/plot and the roles they played, that it didn’t bother me as much as it has in the past. This is the only reason I’d give the book a 4.7/5 stars I think, but it definitely falls higher, towards a 5 star review!
I’m HOPING for a little bit more romance and steam in the next book; BUT, for Iz’s character I think the slow burn/ship pace has been appropriate and that her and Rik’s relationship has a ton of chemistry and definite heat despite much schmexy times. Iz needed to go on her Hero’s Journey and find her own strength and place in this new world after being imprisoned and tortured for all of her life. PLUS, the build up in this book for Rik and Iz’s reuniting was crazyyyyy suspenseful and I was SO happy when it finally happened (tissue moment!).
I’m also kind of crossing my fingers that Iz embraces her inner darkness a bit in the next book, let’s that anger out and starts coming into even more powers that she uses to just destroy Mother after a bit of violent and, for some, fatal vengeance (but maybe I’ve just been reading too many Jaymin Eve books lately and I’m just in that mindstate haha 😂). Mind you, I’m not saying that Iz is anything but a TOTAL BADASS; and can totally down baddies and bring the pain, but her heart is so golden and she’s still so innocent! 💛💛 I am all for a little corruption in the form of justice being served cold AND Mr. Sovereign himself 😉😉
Anyways, to wrap up this lengthy review, I would definitely recommend this book/series to my fellow fantasy novel lovers and am still amazed by the fact that this series is the first that Lissa has published. Both her writing style (which is exceptional and flows very nicely) and grammar are on point; which my inner English nerd loves seeing in books, I didn’t recognize any errors! Very nicely done, Lissa! I’m thoroughly excited for book 3!! Eeeeek!
May 14, 2021
Lissa Bolts has done it again! Ugh, I love her sassy heroine Iz and strong, sexy hero Rik. So much happens in this book, it was so exciting to see Iz's arc and how she is growing into herself, as well as how the romance side of things is developing. Loved all the new characters and the new scenery, but that cliffhanger ending? Oh my gosh, when can I get the next book!!
If you love urban fantasy, sassy female leads, and a sun-drenched South American setting then you will love this series.
If you love urban fantasy, sassy female leads, and a sun-drenched South American setting then you will love this series.
April 18, 2021
Incredible!
Argh these books are so amazing! Really fallen in love with all the characters and can't wait for the next in the series!!
Argh these books are so amazing! Really fallen in love with all the characters and can't wait for the next in the series!!
April 5, 2021
The twist and turns in this sequel (can be read as a stand-alone) will have your head spinning. I loved it! While Iz and Rik don't get enough page-time, we get to discover the problems they are both facing as royals in this book. Amazing fight-scenes, true friendships, enemies turned friends - you'll love this fast paced 2nd book and I can't wait for the next one!
April 2, 2021
The word I keep coming back to when thinking of this book is kick-ass. Not just from all the action (although it's brimming with that too) but from leading lady Isla who is full of fire! I love this MC and all her snark, especially paired with her genuine joy for the world and people around her. You can tell that after being shut away for so long that this girl wants to LIVE, and that is what she does to say the very least. Had me hooked from start to finish! Highly recommend!
March 30, 2021
The second book in Ruling Magic series didn't disappoint, yet another perfect urban fantasy with lots of action, danger, suspense, magic, heart-break and a bit of romance as well. Another book by Lissa Bolts' that you just must read.
I actually read it from 1am till 9am and that's how much of power this story had over me as I couldn't go to sleep before finishing it. Good it was a Friday night / Saturday morning and I had no real plans for the day, so I could get a few hours of sleep, but no regrets as Being Remade was woth every sleepy and exosting moment afterwards.
I loved the story, the writing and the characters, now I'm just dying for the next book in this amazing series.
I actually read it from 1am till 9am and that's how much of power this story had over me as I couldn't go to sleep before finishing it. Good it was a Friday night / Saturday morning and I had no real plans for the day, so I could get a few hours of sleep, but no regrets as Being Remade was woth every sleepy and exosting moment afterwards.
I loved the story, the writing and the characters, now I'm just dying for the next book in this amazing series.
April 1, 2021
Truly outstanding read by a new author!
I really enjoyed this second book in the series. The author has carefully crafted intriguing characters and a plot with twists that you don't see coming. Read thru Kindle Unlimited. Can't wait for the next book and also to see what else this author can do!
I really enjoyed this second book in the series. The author has carefully crafted intriguing characters and a plot with twists that you don't see coming. Read thru Kindle Unlimited. Can't wait for the next book and also to see what else this author can do!
March 31, 2021
The FMC in this series is such a BAD@SS!!! She is so relatable and makes me want to never put the book down! The need to see what she will do next is unreal! The story and character development is so wonderfully written!!! Must read!!!
April 1, 2021
Loved the characters and depth of the story. Lissa did a great job creating the magical world and making me feel apart of it as a reader. Loved the first book and am obsessed with the second!!
March 29, 2021
“Being Remade” by Lissa Bolts is the second full-length instalment in her fantasy series “Ruling Magic”, which offers some reminiscences of the classical Cinderella tale adapted to a modern setting.
Isla is determined to change her world for the better, engaging the help of his friends, to achieve her goal. Of course, is always easier plan than done, the odds are not really on her side. I don’t want to spoil anything, but it would not come a a total surprise to anyone already acquainted with Book 1 “The Counterbalance”. Isla’s best character trait is her willingness to try, and keep trying whatever the odd against her might be, and that is exactly what makes her such a compelling strong and convincing character. Struggling to keep her Ruling Powers a secret, least the remaining mages decide to solve the ‘problem’ by removing her of existence. Everything is at stake, but Isla don’t cover, on the contrary 😉
Lissa Bolts story is compelling, well-written, and offers interesting and relatable characters embedded into a well-constructed world, in a brand-new take of the Cinderellian trope, showing the struggle of a young female to escape her imposed confinement and fulfill her fate. Easy to read, fast-paced, action-filled, and enjoyable from start to finish. Already looking forward to the book in the series.
Isla is determined to change her world for the better, engaging the help of his friends, to achieve her goal. Of course, is always easier plan than done, the odds are not really on her side. I don’t want to spoil anything, but it would not come a a total surprise to anyone already acquainted with Book 1 “The Counterbalance”. Isla’s best character trait is her willingness to try, and keep trying whatever the odd against her might be, and that is exactly what makes her such a compelling strong and convincing character. Struggling to keep her Ruling Powers a secret, least the remaining mages decide to solve the ‘problem’ by removing her of existence. Everything is at stake, but Isla don’t cover, on the contrary 😉
Lissa Bolts story is compelling, well-written, and offers interesting and relatable characters embedded into a well-constructed world, in a brand-new take of the Cinderellian trope, showing the struggle of a young female to escape her imposed confinement and fulfill her fate. Easy to read, fast-paced, action-filled, and enjoyable from start to finish. Already looking forward to the book in the series.
March 29, 2021
Loved it! This book was a perfect continuation to Iz's story. I literally stayed up until 2 am so I could finish it :) I went through a roller coaster of emotions and loved the new characters, especially Sara. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book!
March 30, 2021
Iz is such a badass and even more so in this book. I felt sooo bad for Rik still because of how desperate he was to find Iz. I was soo glad though when he finally did and they got their moments together. I really love Rik, he just like everything in a book boyfriend.
All the friends Iz made were just freaking awesome, even Merc and Harper. Sara was such a good friend and body guard to her. I really wish the end didn't happen like it did because I loved Sara. Her crew mates for the installations were also so much fun, and a great group of friends.
I loved getting to see Iz use more of her powers and not be totally restricted by her title. Every new ability she had just made her such a badass and I love Master Tye for teaching her.
I really can't wait for the third book because that ending killed me. I really need to stop finishing these books soo quick 😂.
All the friends Iz made were just freaking awesome, even Merc and Harper. Sara was such a good friend and body guard to her. I really wish the end didn't happen like it did because I loved Sara. Her crew mates for the installations were also so much fun, and a great group of friends.
I loved getting to see Iz use more of her powers and not be totally restricted by her title. Every new ability she had just made her such a badass and I love Master Tye for teaching her.
I really can't wait for the third book because that ending killed me. I really need to stop finishing these books soo quick 😂.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2021
Isla is not going back now she has finally tasted freedom.
Great characters that give each other support.
Its all about making the world a better place.
It feels like you are part of this story who wouldn't want to improve the world.
Loved it you will too.
Great characters that give each other support.
Its all about making the world a better place.
It feels like you are part of this story who wouldn't want to improve the world.
Loved it you will too.
March 20, 2021
I absolutely loved this book, couldn’t put it down! Full of kick-ass action, amazing fight scenes and snappy dialogue, this modern version of Cinderella is refreshing and new. When Dora aka Isla, Heir to the wicked Magnate of Splendor goes undercover and joins a techy crew of brainiacs to bring magic to the deprived territories of her enemy, little does she know she’s going to be up to her elbows in trouble. Bolts takes invisible friends to a whole new level and I really loved her new sidekick Sara, just as quick with her sarky tongue as Iz herself. The fight scenes were vivid, the kissing with Rik scenes mind-melting and the few surprise turnarounds made me gasp. If you love a heroine toughened through exeprience into a woman who always thinks for herself and puts her friends first, you have to read this book. Recommended for lovers of YA action-adventure, kickass Cinderella stories, strong female leads and snarky humour.
March 17, 2021
I am literally at a loss for words. For one, I am grateful to be on Lissa's review team because just like the first book, Being Remade sucked me in. The absolute support Isla gains from new friends and allies is astounding and really shows just how strong and determined she is. She wants the world to be a better place, in spite of what it might do to her. I appreciate how confident Isla can be, even when the odds are stacked against her and she still has her own issues to deal with. But it's not a confidence that's predictable, if that's the word. Her confidence stems from the fact that she'll never stop fighting, and won't give in to her mother's sadistic plans.
And when you get towards the end? Oh wow. I can't tell you how many times my limbs flailed about after reading it. So many questions are burning through my head, and I can't wait to see how this wonderful series ends.
Please, oh, please, check out this book. Along with the first book if you haven't already.
So grateful to have received an ARC copy of this book and looking forward to see how Lissa ends it!
And when you get towards the end? Oh wow. I can't tell you how many times my limbs flailed about after reading it. So many questions are burning through my head, and I can't wait to see how this wonderful series ends.
Please, oh, please, check out this book. Along with the first book if you haven't already.
So grateful to have received an ARC copy of this book and looking forward to see how Lissa ends it!
March 23, 2021
Isla is trying to help win the war, while hiding from her mother. You might think that is funny, but her mother is SCARY. This is the second book in the series and I have not yet read the first one but i will. This was an amazing book, it grips you from the beginning. The story moves quickly and the . characters are so relatable. Isla is making new friends along the way. The action is nonstop and the dialogue is well written. Go read this already, you won't regret it!
August 24, 2021
⏱ Sixty second, no spoiler summary
Iz, with her real face, is undercover as Dora and helping to make better magic access points in South America. She was rushed off without being able to tell Rik that she’s going so of course he’s freaking out. And to make matters worse, some cartels in the area they go to do not want to balance of power to be shaken up. A few times Iz is put into perilous situations, but her friends help her figure things out. Lots of fight scenes and a crazy twist. Cliffhanger ending so we have to wait (kind of patiently) for Bolts to finish this series up!
👍🏻Turn Ons
I love the voice of this book. I feel like Iz is speaking directly to me as I’m reading and her inner thoughts are genuine. The fight scenes are great and very climactic. The ending had me gasp aloud and my husband had to ask me what I was gasping about.
👎🏻 Turn Offs
There are quite a few nicknames and I had forgotten that Rik called Iz “Thea” in the first book so that threw me off for a second. It’s not a bad thing and Rik having his nickname was key when someone uses that to discover who Iz really is. I also want to say the cliffhanger ending is a turn off, but it’s not really. I just wanna know what happens LOL
I did notice twice the phrase “I let out a breath I didn’t know I was holding” or something along those lines. I didn’t know this bothered me until I heard a podcast mentioning it. Ha ha. It’s just kind of cliché.
👵🏻 Safe to talk about with Grandma?
My grandma might not read this, but she’d enjoy the plot line. There are a few curse words but no f-words. And not much in the steamy romance part (yet?). The action is intense without being over the top gory.
⭐Rating ⭐
Five stars. I love this debut author and I think she’s doing a phenomenal job of creating captivating characters and a compelling plot line.
Title & Author: Being Remade by Lissa Bolts
Format: Kindle
Read: 4/2/21-4/10/21
Rating: Five Stars
Iz, with her real face, is undercover as Dora and helping to make better magic access points in South America. She was rushed off without being able to tell Rik that she’s going so of course he’s freaking out. And to make matters worse, some cartels in the area they go to do not want to balance of power to be shaken up. A few times Iz is put into perilous situations, but her friends help her figure things out. Lots of fight scenes and a crazy twist. Cliffhanger ending so we have to wait (kind of patiently) for Bolts to finish this series up!
👍🏻Turn Ons
I love the voice of this book. I feel like Iz is speaking directly to me as I’m reading and her inner thoughts are genuine. The fight scenes are great and very climactic. The ending had me gasp aloud and my husband had to ask me what I was gasping about.
👎🏻 Turn Offs
There are quite a few nicknames and I had forgotten that Rik called Iz “Thea” in the first book so that threw me off for a second. It’s not a bad thing and Rik having his nickname was key when someone uses that to discover who Iz really is. I also want to say the cliffhanger ending is a turn off, but it’s not really. I just wanna know what happens LOL
I did notice twice the phrase “I let out a breath I didn’t know I was holding” or something along those lines. I didn’t know this bothered me until I heard a podcast mentioning it. Ha ha. It’s just kind of cliché.
👵🏻 Safe to talk about with Grandma?
My grandma might not read this, but she’d enjoy the plot line. There are a few curse words but no f-words. And not much in the steamy romance part (yet?). The action is intense without being over the top gory.
⭐Rating ⭐
Five stars. I love this debut author and I think she’s doing a phenomenal job of creating captivating characters and a compelling plot line.
Title & Author: Being Remade by Lissa Bolts
Format: Kindle
Read: 4/2/21-4/10/21
Rating: Five Stars
March 31, 2021
2.5/5 stars. Another adventurous narrative compelling enough to read straight-through, but definitely not as quality as The Counterbalance. I attribute this slight letdown to a few main story flaws:
1. The successes felt far too easy. Isla ('Dora') meets the right people at the right time and they generally give the right reactions. But this is book #2--the stakes should be higher, not lower. I really wanted our MC to work harder for her victories.
2. The plot was simple. In book #1, Isla was forced to balance multiple conflicts (her mother's wrath + relationships + discovering the wider world, etc.) A great majority of this book only had one conflict, one goal: implement new technologies for greater magical coverage. Without bisecting plotlines (i.e., relationships + politics + magic discovery), the pacing went awry. Conflicts felt more like casually swatting away a single fly rather than running from an aggressive swarm of killer bees.
3. Isla makes friends like she's in kindergarten.
"Hi! My name's Rel. Will you be my best friend forever?"
"Sure! Do you want to use my crayon?"
I appreciate that kind of trust, but Isla's real superpower has got to be charisma. How else does she make such loyal insta-friends? Convince people she's known for less than a week to turn a blind eye to her illegal activities? Gain the trust of a rival Mexican gang in less than 14 minutes? Convert sworn enemies into champions of her interests? Coax terrified refugees to follow her into gunfire?
4. The dialogue was not as well-worked.
The last 25% of the book was compelling. I'll definitely read book #3 to continue my Counterbalance journey, but I was disappointed that there were so many flaws.
1. The successes felt far too easy. Isla ('Dora') meets the right people at the right time and they generally give the right reactions. But this is book #2--the stakes should be higher, not lower. I really wanted our MC to work harder for her victories.
2. The plot was simple. In book #1, Isla was forced to balance multiple conflicts (her mother's wrath + relationships + discovering the wider world, etc.) A great majority of this book only had one conflict, one goal: implement new technologies for greater magical coverage. Without bisecting plotlines (i.e., relationships + politics + magic discovery), the pacing went awry. Conflicts felt more like casually swatting away a single fly rather than running from an aggressive swarm of killer bees.
3. Isla makes friends like she's in kindergarten.
"Hi! My name's Rel. Will you be my best friend forever?"
"Sure! Do you want to use my crayon?"
I appreciate that kind of trust, but Isla's real superpower has got to be charisma. How else does she make such loyal insta-friends? Convince people she's known for less than a week to turn a blind eye to her illegal activities? Gain the trust of a rival Mexican gang in less than 14 minutes? Convert sworn enemies into champions of her interests? Coax terrified refugees to follow her into gunfire?
4. The dialogue was not as well-worked.
The last 25% of the book was compelling. I'll definitely read book #3 to continue my Counterbalance journey, but I was disappointed that there were so many flaws.
April 6, 2021
Waiting for this one! Gonna reread the first book before the second is out. 🤩🤩🤩 Looking forward to it. Please don't postpone the release. 🙃🙏
Update.
Yes, yes, yes it's out! As I promised I reread the first book, which is great by the way, but this one is muuuuuch better. Much more mage action, clever plots and great twists, nice side characters combined with really nice writting style. (that's soooo important to me). And this reading was truly flowles.
Soooo, now I'm waiting for further installments. I hate this part. 😏
But I think I found a new author to follow and if my predictement is right, we've got a new rising star or a new ruling, magic writer. 🤗
But first let us find out the release date .... 🙏🙏🙏 and than the waiting beggins. 🙄🙃😬
Update.
Yes, yes, yes it's out! As I promised I reread the first book, which is great by the way, but this one is muuuuuch better. Much more mage action, clever plots and great twists, nice side characters combined with really nice writting style. (that's soooo important to me). And this reading was truly flowles.
Soooo, now I'm waiting for further installments. I hate this part. 😏
But I think I found a new author to follow and if my predictement is right, we've got a new rising star or a new ruling, magic writer. 🤗
But first let us find out the release date .... 🙏🙏🙏 and than the waiting beggins. 🙄🙃😬
April 2, 2021
For more reviews please visit https://awindowtomysoul.com/
Iz escaped from Rik's palace with the intention of proving a plot against the Sovereign. Her plan was to uncover the case and return, but her necklace was stolen and no one knew her true face, which does not allow her to return, but at the same time grants her unknown freedom.
Iz, taking the false identity of Dora, is working in the cenote, where caeli is extracted (the element that combined with terra is what creates the magic). In fact, since it is a place full of magic, when Dora dives into the water she literally recharges like the old men from the movie Cocoon 😂.
Being free of her disguise felt better than she expected. Especially when her team is sent to install the new technology that are basically "magic antennas" to the wildest territories of Taramur.
You can imagine my surprise when I discovered that these were the territories of South America, and their first stop was in Santiago, Chile. I felt ridiculously famous 🤩. The only bad thing is that they didn't bring Rik and somehow forget him here 🙈.
This was literally my reaction, I almost jump of happiness 😅
The devices they planned to install allowed for much greater and efficient access to magic, but they weren't counting on local leaders not wanting that access to be made easier.
Dora, as she puts it herself, is literally a Gryffindor. Her hero complex is monumental, but at least this allows her to discover that she is more powerful than she believed herself, as well as helping her find unexpected and very valuable allies. Among them Sara, a Chilean illusionist (yes, I will continue to highlight that they passed through Chile 😅) capable of becoming invisible and who becomes Dora's Royal Guard (and probably my favorite character, what a way to laugh with her).
I have two critics for this book. The first is that I missed Rik 💔. I love him and, although I admit that his participation was quite satisfactory, it was short 🥺.
This was the reason for my anger at Iz at the end of the first book. She left the Sovereign to die of worry. But it is impossible not to love Iz with her strength, sarcasm and above all with her nobility to always put others first. Even if it involves some actions of dubious sanity 🤣. My anger at her literally wore off in a couple of pages.
My second critic is the end. Which is actually great, but something in particular happens that makes me want to throw a book at Lissa. And I get angrier because I can't comment on it without making a massive spoiler, so I'll only complain knowing that as soon as the third book begins, my anger will pass 😅.
In short, I loved this book, but I still want to throw it in Lissa's face for that ending. But then I would apologize and pick it up and take it back to my favorites shelf 😬.
Adventure, I'd said. Someone needed to slap me the next time I even thought about that word.
Iz escaped from Rik's palace with the intention of proving a plot against the Sovereign. Her plan was to uncover the case and return, but her necklace was stolen and no one knew her true face, which does not allow her to return, but at the same time grants her unknown freedom.
The few clothes and things I had were conjured by me, which is what happens when you were a mage with approximately zero dollars to your name. I lived in a constant state of worry that my outfit was suddenly going to up and vanish on me. YOLO.
Iz, taking the false identity of Dora, is working in the cenote, where caeli is extracted (the element that combined with terra is what creates the magic). In fact, since it is a place full of magic, when Dora dives into the water she literally recharges like the old men from the movie Cocoon 😂.
Being free of her disguise felt better than she expected. Especially when her team is sent to install the new technology that are basically "magic antennas" to the wildest territories of Taramur.
That's because you're a badass, Isla Luciano—er, Dora Jakobs— or whoever you are today. Man, this is starting to get confusing, even to me.
You can imagine my surprise when I discovered that these were the territories of South America, and their first stop was in Santiago, Chile. I felt ridiculously famous 🤩. The only bad thing is that they didn't bring Rik and somehow forget him here 🙈.
This was literally my reaction, I almost jump of happiness 😅
The devices they planned to install allowed for much greater and efficient access to magic, but they weren't counting on local leaders not wanting that access to be made easier.
Dora, as she puts it herself, is literally a Gryffindor. Her hero complex is monumental, but at least this allows her to discover that she is more powerful than she believed herself, as well as helping her find unexpected and very valuable allies. Among them Sara, a Chilean illusionist (yes, I will continue to highlight that they passed through Chile 😅) capable of becoming invisible and who becomes Dora's Royal Guard (and probably my favorite character, what a way to laugh with her).
Pretty, but in a fierce I'll-eat-you-for-breakfast-and-not-even-feel-bad-about-it kind of way.
I have two critics for this book. The first is that I missed Rik 💔. I love him and, although I admit that his participation was quite satisfactory, it was short 🥺.
This was the reason for my anger at Iz at the end of the first book. She left the Sovereign to die of worry. But it is impossible not to love Iz with her strength, sarcasm and above all with her nobility to always put others first. Even if it involves some actions of dubious sanity 🤣. My anger at her literally wore off in a couple of pages.
"You aren't asking. Someone has to keep an eye on you. I can already tell that you've got some kind of 'savior complex' going on."
What the hell is a savior complex? He continued, "Besides that, if my suspicions are correct, you're the type that finds trouble wherever she goes."
Okay, so there might be some truth to that...
My second critic is the end. Which is actually great, but something in particular happens that makes me want to throw a book at Lissa. And I get angrier because I can't comment on it without making a massive spoiler, so I'll only complain knowing that as soon as the third book begins, my anger will pass 😅.
In short, I loved this book, but I still want to throw it in Lissa's face for that ending. But then I would apologize and pick it up and take it back to my favorites shelf 😬.
April 25, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyable second book in the Ruling Magic series. Having read the first book, I went straight out and bought the second and it didn't disappoint.
Iz has the opportunity to taste freedom and she grabs it with both hands, only she is different and it is difficult to disguise her ability.
Wish there had been more opportunity to have Iz and Rik together, there repartee is so enjoyable, but Lissa! What are you doing to us??
She throws everything at undercover Iz, who joins a techie team to expand the coverage for their magic, which of course her mother doesn't want to happen, making this an action packed sequel with new friends and more enemies.
Excellent sequel, highly recommended.
Iz has the opportunity to taste freedom and she grabs it with both hands, only she is different and it is difficult to disguise her ability.
Wish there had been more opportunity to have Iz and Rik together, there repartee is so enjoyable, but Lissa! What are you doing to us??
She throws everything at undercover Iz, who joins a techie team to expand the coverage for their magic, which of course her mother doesn't want to happen, making this an action packed sequel with new friends and more enemies.
Excellent sequel, highly recommended.
April 28, 2021
4.3
Much improved over the first book but did you (author) really have to create such an abrupt cliffhanger without having the 3rd book ready for us voracious readers.
Much improved over the first book but did you (author) really have to create such an abrupt cliffhanger without having the 3rd book ready for us voracious readers.
June 18, 2021
Lissa Bolts' Ruling Magic is my guilty pleasure series. I typically read sprawling fantasy and/or sci-fi sagas. This is a young adult fantasy-romance (more on the action than the romance, though). Not generally my bailiwick. But I have grown to really enjoy this series. Although I do not even remember doing so, I entered into a Goodreads giveaway and won a copy of the Counterbalance, book 1 of the Ruling Magic. Bolts' style just worked for me. She has a slightly silly/sarcastic vibe best seen through the main character, Isla. She also mixes in some pop-culture references in an otherwise alternative Earth - where magic exists - and I just find myself zipping through the pages (I think I finished this in basically two nights' worth of reading).
I certainly would not recommend starting Being Remade without reading its predecessor. Being Remade picks up where the Counterbalance ended, with Isla 'unmasked' - ironically, meaning that she is now completely hidden. She decides to see through the project of bringing magical access to the southern territories and, well, it's Isla so obviously trouble follows her.
While Being Remade follows the same general mold as Counterbalance, Bolts' growth as an author can be seen as this novel is deeper in many respects and the writing a bit firmer. It never loses its playful vibe even though there are some darker aspects involved. And don't get me started on how the book ends. Bolts might just enjoy the torture that she puts her readers through...
Final Verdict: 4.5 out of 5
Not that anyone reads my reviews, but for posterity's sake, I want to clarify that I am evaluating this novel, and assigning a numerical score, based on its genre. I mean, is it really fair to compare James Joyce to J.K. Rowling? How do you really assign a number to Ulysses that compares with Harry Potter? You really can't. So, that is why, while I might ultimately have some books rated lower than this (which I might have enjoyed more), this is an appropriate evaluation for this book in my opinion. Based on what the genre is, what Bolts sought to accomplish, this is an excellent book. And if you enjoy the fantasy, young adult genre, I think you are in for a treat.
I certainly would not recommend starting Being Remade without reading its predecessor. Being Remade picks up where the Counterbalance ended, with Isla 'unmasked' - ironically, meaning that she is now completely hidden. She decides to see through the project of bringing magical access to the southern territories and, well, it's Isla so obviously trouble follows her.
While Being Remade follows the same general mold as Counterbalance, Bolts' growth as an author can be seen as this novel is deeper in many respects and the writing a bit firmer. It never loses its playful vibe even though there are some darker aspects involved. And don't get me started on how the book ends. Bolts might just enjoy the torture that she puts her readers through...
Final Verdict: 4.5 out of 5
Not that anyone reads my reviews, but for posterity's sake, I want to clarify that I am evaluating this novel, and assigning a numerical score, based on its genre. I mean, is it really fair to compare James Joyce to J.K. Rowling? How do you really assign a number to Ulysses that compares with Harry Potter? You really can't. So, that is why, while I might ultimately have some books rated lower than this (which I might have enjoyed more), this is an appropriate evaluation for this book in my opinion. Based on what the genre is, what Bolts sought to accomplish, this is an excellent book. And if you enjoy the fantasy, young adult genre, I think you are in for a treat.
August 25, 2025
I didn’t enjoy this like the first book. I got bored of the being Dora and installing the magic technology plot really quick which made this book feel super long. 🥱
Everything came together very conveniently and the banter was cheesy. We don’t see much of Rik as Iz is off on her own adventure and that ruins the relationship build up from book one….also did he just show up near the end and pretty much propose marriage? I think that’s the intentions he shared? Didn’t think the relationship had built up that much, they’ve shared a kiss and a flirt. 🤷🏼♀️
I’m not really sure I want to pick up last book in series but I will because I do want to know if she defeats her mum and gets her brother back.
Everything came together very conveniently and the banter was cheesy. We don’t see much of Rik as Iz is off on her own adventure and that ruins the relationship build up from book one….also did he just show up near the end and pretty much propose marriage? I think that’s the intentions he shared? Didn’t think the relationship had built up that much, they’ve shared a kiss and a flirt. 🤷🏼♀️
I’m not really sure I want to pick up last book in series but I will because I do want to know if she defeats her mum and gets her brother back.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2022
I enjoyed the second book in the "Ruling Magic Series" as much as the first book. Isadora has tasted freedom as no one knows who she really is, but she still managed to get herself into plenty of scrapes. The action was intense and exciting. Once I started listening to the audiobook, I had to continue until the end of it, as I just had to know what would happen next. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. Carolyn Hunter's narration was entertaining. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
May 19, 2022
I did like this book, and I will read the next one. I felt Dora went off tangent a little bit, that whole staying as Dora I was not on board with, and she did have options, so maybe she was running away. She cast away her suspicion that her mother had obtained the support of the U.M. and a lot of other things that needed her attention. And it's almost too much to believe that in a foreign country, she manages to meet the right people at the right time and gain their loyalty just like that. It makes Rik seem useless
August 17, 2023
I just now finished this book, and my heart is beating fast—no exaggeration! Good thing I didn’t put away my box of facial tissues from book one. This series has it all; a fantastic story, believable characters, action, and love. And it’s a fantasy story that isn’t naive, so it’s good for adults, but not rated “Adult.” When I’m finished with this series, I will definitely look for other books by this author.
May 10, 2022
Lissa Bolts did it again. I was drawn in more into Isla’s world and I cannot wait to get to the third book! Stellar story telling that made me want to never put the book down, even when I got so stressed out over what was going on, I had to keep reading. Best fantasy series I’ve read in a long long time and I’m a Lissa Bolts fan for life!
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