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Planet Lara #2
Planet Lara: Tempest
“I am a work in progress, just like everyone else.”
Although the Dea Vitae cult has been evicted from Thalia Island, Lara J. Clarke and her grandfather’s eco-utopia are still in peril. Rupert’s continued lymphoma treatment in Vancouver deposits Lara at Thalia’s helm—with no idea how to navigate the rough waters. And though Finan is back from the mainland after two tense weeks of silence, the sting of his unscheduled departure lingers.
Beyond the grind of running her own “planet”—while privately grieving the loss of her beloved grandfather and worrying if the cancer will take Number Two—Lara must contend with the reappearance of Jacinta Ramirez, a fugitive Clarke Innovations has been shielding all these years. Jacinta unveils disturbing secrets that reshape the history Lara’s been fed about her mother’s past—and how much that past threatens to derail their cumulative future.
When overwhelming stress sends Lara to the bottom of the whisky bottle, Finan gently reminds her that slipping into old habits won’t fix what’s broken. As she tries to pull herself together, a tragedy strikes that brings her and Finan close again, but with a series of cryptic clues arriving on the island, the mystery of Dea Vitae and its sought-after treasure deepens, with menacing consequences.
Lara and Finan must work with investigators, and a few unsavory players, to dismantle the sinister machinations of Dea Vitae before it destroys their blossoming romance and the sanctity of Thalia Island herself.
The Welcome to Planet Lara series is written like an episodic drama. Books One and Two end in cliffhangers (with storylines resolved in Book Three).
Please note that Planet Lara: Tempest includes medical scenes involving reproductive complications that some readers might find triggering.
Although the Dea Vitae cult has been evicted from Thalia Island, Lara J. Clarke and her grandfather’s eco-utopia are still in peril. Rupert’s continued lymphoma treatment in Vancouver deposits Lara at Thalia’s helm—with no idea how to navigate the rough waters. And though Finan is back from the mainland after two tense weeks of silence, the sting of his unscheduled departure lingers.
Beyond the grind of running her own “planet”—while privately grieving the loss of her beloved grandfather and worrying if the cancer will take Number Two—Lara must contend with the reappearance of Jacinta Ramirez, a fugitive Clarke Innovations has been shielding all these years. Jacinta unveils disturbing secrets that reshape the history Lara’s been fed about her mother’s past—and how much that past threatens to derail their cumulative future.
When overwhelming stress sends Lara to the bottom of the whisky bottle, Finan gently reminds her that slipping into old habits won’t fix what’s broken. As she tries to pull herself together, a tragedy strikes that brings her and Finan close again, but with a series of cryptic clues arriving on the island, the mystery of Dea Vitae and its sought-after treasure deepens, with menacing consequences.
Lara and Finan must work with investigators, and a few unsavory players, to dismantle the sinister machinations of Dea Vitae before it destroys their blossoming romance and the sanctity of Thalia Island herself.
The Welcome to Planet Lara series is written like an episodic drama. Books One and Two end in cliffhangers (with storylines resolved in Book Three).
Please note that Planet Lara: Tempest includes medical scenes involving reproductive complications that some readers might find triggering.
328 pages, Paperback
Published August 24, 2021
6 people are currently reading
93 people want to read
About the author
Eliza Gordon
25 books555 followersA native of Portland, Oregon, Eliza Gordon (a.k.a. Jennifer Sommersby) has lived up and down the West Coast of the United States. Since 2002, home has been a suburb of Vancouver, British Columbia.
When not lost in a writing project, Eliza is a copy editor, mom, wife, bibliophile, Superman freak, and the humble servant of three very spoiled tuxedo cats. Eliza writes stories to help you believe in the Happily Ever After; Jennifer Sommersby writes young adult fiction.
When not lost in a writing project, Eliza is a copy editor, mom, wife, bibliophile, Superman freak, and the humble servant of three very spoiled tuxedo cats. Eliza writes stories to help you believe in the Happily Ever After; Jennifer Sommersby writes young adult fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 6, 2021
I had the pleasure of reading this book in advance of its release, and I'm happy to report you definitely want to grab a copy and hunker down. I did not want to put this book down once I picked it up!
Please, pay attention to the author's note in the beginning. There is a trigger warning and a warning about a cliffhanger. This isn't a mini-cliffhanger. This is a big, omg what is happening, cliffhanger. Please don't read Tempest until book 3 comes out if that's going to make you upset or dissatisfied.
But back to not being able to put the book down. Seriously, Tempest gripped my heart and didn’t let go. This was in part because of the real-to-life issues that Lara faces, the heart-stopping romance, and the fact that I’m not quite sure who I can trust! This is a book for anyone who wants more than just lovers tangled up in sheets and predictable bad guys.
Full of amazingly developed characters and plots, you’ll be left wanting more (that cliffhanger doesn’t hurt those chances any of course). This isn’t your average romance or rom-com. Eliza is writing a story that’s well thought out and full of just enough swoon and suspense to still be believable (no millionaire 20-something Adonis boyfriends here, thankyouverymuch, and it’s not Hallmark Rosé sweet either - those have their place, just not in this series).
Also, major kudos to Eliza for not writing a “Knight in shining armor” type for Finan. Lara might need some salvation but she’s not going to find it in the arms of some guy, and Finan might just be the man to love her enough to let her fix herself before asking her for more than she has to give. But don’t mistake that for a lack of compassion. Finan is the man we all want in our corner when the sh*t hits the fan.
Please, pay attention to the author's note in the beginning. There is a trigger warning and a warning about a cliffhanger. This isn't a mini-cliffhanger. This is a big, omg what is happening, cliffhanger. Please don't read Tempest until book 3 comes out if that's going to make you upset or dissatisfied.
But back to not being able to put the book down. Seriously, Tempest gripped my heart and didn’t let go. This was in part because of the real-to-life issues that Lara faces, the heart-stopping romance, and the fact that I’m not quite sure who I can trust! This is a book for anyone who wants more than just lovers tangled up in sheets and predictable bad guys.
Full of amazingly developed characters and plots, you’ll be left wanting more (that cliffhanger doesn’t hurt those chances any of course). This isn’t your average romance or rom-com. Eliza is writing a story that’s well thought out and full of just enough swoon and suspense to still be believable (no millionaire 20-something Adonis boyfriends here, thankyouverymuch, and it’s not Hallmark Rosé sweet either - those have their place, just not in this series).
Also, major kudos to Eliza for not writing a “Knight in shining armor” type for Finan. Lara might need some salvation but she’s not going to find it in the arms of some guy, and Finan might just be the man to love her enough to let her fix herself before asking her for more than she has to give. But don’t mistake that for a lack of compassion. Finan is the man we all want in our corner when the sh*t hits the fan.
August 20, 2021
I feel so lucky to be on the ARC receiving end of this wonderful series. I’m always a voracious reader but something distinct happens when I’m reading a Planet Lara book, everything else falls away and I just want to keep going, even though I know I’m going to get to the edge of a cliff. What a doozy this cliff was!
The second book, Tempest was so enjoyable. Lara is growing emotionally and through some big challenges we see her growth and are rewarded for rooting for her. The angst to get there was so realistic, not a dramatization for quicker page turning and not something the characters couldn’t come back from. I was so relieved the way her relationships are repairing. The suspense of the cult and her mother’s relationships and whether those intersect is so clever and entertaining. Eliza, the author is so skilled at creating a jumbled but organized web of overlapping pieces that don’t seem connected until they are. I found myself trying to make leaps and connections throughout and I have a theory but it’s probably wrong! I love the relationship forming between Harmony and Lara and think shows Lara’s deeper growth. I can’t wait for resolutions in book three.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The second book, Tempest was so enjoyable. Lara is growing emotionally and through some big challenges we see her growth and are rewarded for rooting for her. The angst to get there was so realistic, not a dramatization for quicker page turning and not something the characters couldn’t come back from. I was so relieved the way her relationships are repairing. The suspense of the cult and her mother’s relationships and whether those intersect is so clever and entertaining. Eliza, the author is so skilled at creating a jumbled but organized web of overlapping pieces that don’t seem connected until they are. I found myself trying to make leaps and connections throughout and I have a theory but it’s probably wrong! I love the relationship forming between Harmony and Lara and think shows Lara’s deeper growth. I can’t wait for resolutions in book three.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 14, 2021
Lara's journey of self-awareness and unexpected leadership continues in Tempest. Like book 1, the story continues at a rapid pace, with character development beautifully integrated and expanded upon. I love that Lara is so human - that she makes stupid mistakes, suffers the consequences and learns from them. Very relatable! In this book, new characters are introduced, and Lara develops some special and unexpected friendships among young and old, as she struggles to learn more about her late mother's history and why a wicked cult is targeting her grandfather's beloved Thalia island. The book ends on a cliffhanger, and I'm really glad the 3rd books is coming out in December because I can't wait to see what happens next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 8, 2021
A brilliant, fast-paced, and witty sequel to Welcome to Planet Lara. In Tempest, Lara continues to show that being human is not linear, but a constant roller coaster of events, emotions, and experiences. Relationship dynamics shift between Lara and Finan, while an uncanny young companion enters Lara’s world. Tempest is a sequel that endures the hype of the first and leaves you on a heart racing cliffhanger that will have you craving the final novel.
July 29, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. I’m so glad the author chose to continue Lara’s journey into becoming a new and better version. I enjoyed seeing her lapse back into old habits due to all the things being thrown at her. This seemed like a real world response to the stress. I loved that she wasn’t magically changed by her new relationship with Finan. And Finan is not perfect but he is exactly who she needs in her corner. Part mystery, part romance, part suspense and everything you can ask for in well rounded book. Team Lara all the way. I can't wait for the next installment.
August 21, 2021
Nooooo.... you're going to make me wait until December for a conclusion to this story? That's just mean!!
In this second outing of the Planet Lara saga, Lara has grown; grown up, grown on me, and grown into a reasonable human being and like any human, she certainly has her moments but she’s connecting with people and I just love her relationship with Harmony.
Eliza Gordon's writing is so easy to read, the world building and the story she has crafted makes for a page turner and she has created such a wonderful cast of characters to fill out the pages. This ongoing tale has made me laugh out loud, almost brought me to tears and shocked me with the twists and turns in the story. As you could probably tell from my opening sentence, the story ends with a cliffhanger, so I guess I'll just have to wait & wait I will, to get to what I'm sure will be satisfying conclusion to the story and find out what the heck happens!
4 months and counting...
I received an advance review copy of this and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In this second outing of the Planet Lara saga, Lara has grown; grown up, grown on me, and grown into a reasonable human being and like any human, she certainly has her moments but she’s connecting with people and I just love her relationship with Harmony.
Eliza Gordon's writing is so easy to read, the world building and the story she has crafted makes for a page turner and she has created such a wonderful cast of characters to fill out the pages. This ongoing tale has made me laugh out loud, almost brought me to tears and shocked me with the twists and turns in the story. As you could probably tell from my opening sentence, the story ends with a cliffhanger, so I guess I'll just have to wait & wait I will, to get to what I'm sure will be satisfying conclusion to the story and find out what the heck happens!
4 months and counting...
I received an advance review copy of this and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 21, 2021
This book was an ARC given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Book 1 "Welcome to Planet Lara" ended off with a giant cliffhanger. Book 2 starts up exactly where book 1 ended. We find Lara meeting her dead mother's girlfriend Jacinta. We're basically out of the gate running. I barely stopped to take a breath. This book was a rollercoaster ride of thrills and suspence. Will they? Won't they? Who is Lara's father? That's what I want to know.
Lara, a poor little rich girl, was forced to put on her big girl panties and grow up in Book 1. She met the man of her dreams, and a cult in one easy lesson. Then lost them both. With book 2 Lara starts her new journey by getting to know the woman who was her dead mother's lover and friend, but Jacinta is in hiding. Lara's mission is clear, she needs to get to the bottom of her mother's life and death, make sure Thalia Island community thrives, and get past the emotional scarring of a diabolical cult and a turn tail boyfriend. Sounds simple enought right? Suspense and intrigue - so much more than book 1, but in the best possible way. Ms. Gordon pre-warns readers that this book contains a HUGE cliffhanger. She wasn't kidding. Lara is catapulted into relearning how to be friends with the man of her dreams (Finan), how to negotiate a community of people on Thalia Island without her dear friend Rupert, and unpack the mystery surrounding her mother's life with the aid of Jacinta. And dont forget Dea Vitae, that pesky cult. Lara's not finished with them eiher. All this culminating in a mother lode of a cliffhanger. Don't even get me started on the new characters we're introduced to. Harmony is my favourite. And I might add the Lara is learning to wear her big girl panties well.
Ms. Gordon has set the bar high this time. I wait with bated breath with where Ms. Gordon will go from here.
Book 1 "Welcome to Planet Lara" ended off with a giant cliffhanger. Book 2 starts up exactly where book 1 ended. We find Lara meeting her dead mother's girlfriend Jacinta. We're basically out of the gate running. I barely stopped to take a breath. This book was a rollercoaster ride of thrills and suspence. Will they? Won't they? Who is Lara's father? That's what I want to know.
Lara, a poor little rich girl, was forced to put on her big girl panties and grow up in Book 1. She met the man of her dreams, and a cult in one easy lesson. Then lost them both. With book 2 Lara starts her new journey by getting to know the woman who was her dead mother's lover and friend, but Jacinta is in hiding. Lara's mission is clear, she needs to get to the bottom of her mother's life and death, make sure Thalia Island community thrives, and get past the emotional scarring of a diabolical cult and a turn tail boyfriend. Sounds simple enought right? Suspense and intrigue - so much more than book 1, but in the best possible way. Ms. Gordon pre-warns readers that this book contains a HUGE cliffhanger. She wasn't kidding. Lara is catapulted into relearning how to be friends with the man of her dreams (Finan), how to negotiate a community of people on Thalia Island without her dear friend Rupert, and unpack the mystery surrounding her mother's life with the aid of Jacinta. And dont forget Dea Vitae, that pesky cult. Lara's not finished with them eiher. All this culminating in a mother lode of a cliffhanger. Don't even get me started on the new characters we're introduced to. Harmony is my favourite. And I might add the Lara is learning to wear her big girl panties well.
Ms. Gordon has set the bar high this time. I wait with bated breath with where Ms. Gordon will go from here.
August 24, 2021
I have the privilege of receiving this book in advance as an ARC copy and I am so honored to tell everyone that it has not left my hands since I received it. Eliza has completely engulfed me in Lara’s little world!
“OK, well, I see you in a whole new light now, Lara Clarke”
We return to Thalia Island and find that so much has changed with the spoiled heiress. As the events of the last book unfold we find a new, caring, lovable Lara who cares for this community she is building and is having meaningful relationships that help her through all the insane things happening in her life! Dea Vitae is off the island and Lara is trying to find herself and start getting her new life back on track when more obstacles are thrown her way. Be prepared to read this book straight through as I could NOT put it down! A thrilling suspenseful roller coaster with just the right amount of romance and sass thrown in. Eliza has made an evolving character that makes this book a total masterpiece. We are taken on an adventure with Lara filled with so many twists and a cliff hanger that will have you screaming for more. Truly her best work yet!!
“OK, well, I see you in a whole new light now, Lara Clarke”
We return to Thalia Island and find that so much has changed with the spoiled heiress. As the events of the last book unfold we find a new, caring, lovable Lara who cares for this community she is building and is having meaningful relationships that help her through all the insane things happening in her life! Dea Vitae is off the island and Lara is trying to find herself and start getting her new life back on track when more obstacles are thrown her way. Be prepared to read this book straight through as I could NOT put it down! A thrilling suspenseful roller coaster with just the right amount of romance and sass thrown in. Eliza has made an evolving character that makes this book a total masterpiece. We are taken on an adventure with Lara filled with so many twists and a cliff hanger that will have you screaming for more. Truly her best work yet!!
August 20, 2021
Must read book one! Tempest takes place immediately following the first book, there will be a few subtle reminders for story plots and characters. There is a new emphasis on Lara’s mother and her activities before her death. Lara has struck a new relationship with a very spunky and precocious ten year old, Harmony. She’s a tiny tornado with a huge brain. It’s like they say in movies, dogs and kids will upstage you every time. Harmony and Big Dog bring plenty of comic relief in stressful times. With all the crazy cult people gone from the island you’d think things would settle down and go back to normal. But it wouldn’t be Thalia Island without a little mystery and a ton of small town shenanigans. Fortunately I received an early copy from the author and was more than happy to leave my honest review voluntarily.
August 27, 2021
Be aware of authors warning - trigger warnings and cliffhanger ending:
This is book 2 in Planet Laura series and while book 1 ends in a cliffhanger, this starts where book 1 leaves off. A rollercoaster ride of thrills, full of suspense . Laura is growing as a character which I love but this cliffhanger!!! Can't wait for book 3!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is book 2 in Planet Laura series and while book 1 ends in a cliffhanger, this starts where book 1 leaves off. A rollercoaster ride of thrills, full of suspense . Laura is growing as a character which I love but this cliffhanger!!! Can't wait for book 3!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 24, 2021
Another beautifully written tale, exploring Thalia Island and all the drama that ensues for its residents.
Brilliant characters, an intriguing plot and masterfully written... even if it did end on a cliffhanger 🙈
Thank you for another delightful read. Bring on December and book 3!
Brilliant characters, an intriguing plot and masterfully written... even if it did end on a cliffhanger 🙈
Thank you for another delightful read. Bring on December and book 3!
August 12, 2021
"Despite the tempest rolling around everything else, I am, in this moment, incredibly grateful for the safe harbor that is Finan Rowleigh."
A storm is coming and it will whirl you around in a maelstrom of emotions that leave you gasping.
***Obligatory cliffhanger (and possible trigger) warning. Don't say no one told you. You've been warned***
Raw, emotional, and gripping with an intricately complex mystery that will keep you guessing and questioning who can be trusted.
"Having him near makes me stronger. Makes me feel less alone, like there's one person left on this planet I can trust."
Planet Lara is the MUST-READ series of 2021. Taking the best of women's fiction and romantic suspense to create something wholly unique: Enviromance. So shove whatever book you're currently reading back onto your to-be-read pile and pick this up NOW! Seriously, Netflix, Hulu, your move, because this is your next smash hit.
I absolutely adore Lara's character arc and how Eliza Gordon has infused the series with heart, humor, a little bit of heat, hope, and all the messy, complicated emotions of REAL characters and REAL relationships.
Gordon will have you laughing, crying, screaming in frustration, and engaging your mind as you challenge yourself to unravel the mystery of evils plaguing Lara Clarke and Thalia Island.
NOTE
***It's CLEARLY stated in MULTIPLE places (the book itself, the blurb, the author's website) that book 1 and 2 end in cliffhangers.
So don't be angry or shocked. It's not a surprise. So sit back and enjoy the Planet Lara series like your favorite episodic summer drama.
Welcome to Planet Lara (Planet Lara, book 1) ends in a mild cliffhanger. Like a rolling hill leading you into book 2. Tempest (Planet Lara, book 2) by comparison, is like a sheer drop off. So if your heart can't take the emotional burden, stock up on book 1 and 2 as you wait for Sanctuary (Planet Lara, book 3) coming December 14, 2021 and prepare to binge read!***
Merged review:
"Despite the tempest rolling around everything else, I am, in this moment, incredibly grateful for the safe harbor that is Finan Rowleigh."
A storm is coming and it will whirl you around in a maelstrom of emotions that leave you gasping.
***Obligatory cliffhanger (and possible trigger) warning. Don't say no one told you. You've been warned***
Raw, emotional, and gripping with an intricately complex mystery that will keep you guessing and questioning who can be trusted.
"Having him near makes me stronger. Makes me feel less alone, like there's one person left on this planet I can trust."
Planet Lara is the MUST-READ series of 2021. Taking the best of women's fiction and romantic suspense to create something wholly unique: Enviromance. So shove whatever book you're currently reading back onto your to-be-read pile and pick this up NOW! Seriously, Netflix, Hulu, your move, because this is your next smash hit.
I absolutely adore Lara's character arc and how Eliza Gordon has infused the series with heart, humor, a little bit of heat, hope, and all the messy, complicated emotions of REAL characters and REAL relationships.
Gordon will have you laughing, crying, screaming in frustration, and engaging your mind as you challenge yourself to unravel the mystery of evils plaguing Lara Clarke and Thalia Island.
NOTE
***It's CLEARLY stated in MULTIPLE places (the book itself, the blurb, the author's website) that book 1 and 2 end in cliffhangers.
So don't be angry or shocked. It's not a surprise. So sit back and enjoy the Planet Lara series like your favorite episodic summer drama.
Welcome to Planet Lara (Planet Lara, book 1) ends in a mild cliffhanger. Like a rolling hill leading you into book 2. Tempest (Planet Lara, book 2) by comparison, is like a sheer drop off. So if your heart can't take the emotional burden, stock up on book 1 and 2 as you wait for Sanctuary (Planet Lara, book 3) coming December 14, 2021 and prepare to binge read!***
A storm is coming and it will whirl you around in a maelstrom of emotions that leave you gasping.
***Obligatory cliffhanger (and possible trigger) warning. Don't say no one told you. You've been warned***
Raw, emotional, and gripping with an intricately complex mystery that will keep you guessing and questioning who can be trusted.
"Having him near makes me stronger. Makes me feel less alone, like there's one person left on this planet I can trust."
Planet Lara is the MUST-READ series of 2021. Taking the best of women's fiction and romantic suspense to create something wholly unique: Enviromance. So shove whatever book you're currently reading back onto your to-be-read pile and pick this up NOW! Seriously, Netflix, Hulu, your move, because this is your next smash hit.
I absolutely adore Lara's character arc and how Eliza Gordon has infused the series with heart, humor, a little bit of heat, hope, and all the messy, complicated emotions of REAL characters and REAL relationships.
Gordon will have you laughing, crying, screaming in frustration, and engaging your mind as you challenge yourself to unravel the mystery of evils plaguing Lara Clarke and Thalia Island.
NOTE
***It's CLEARLY stated in MULTIPLE places (the book itself, the blurb, the author's website) that book 1 and 2 end in cliffhangers.
So don't be angry or shocked. It's not a surprise. So sit back and enjoy the Planet Lara series like your favorite episodic summer drama.
Welcome to Planet Lara (Planet Lara, book 1) ends in a mild cliffhanger. Like a rolling hill leading you into book 2. Tempest (Planet Lara, book 2) by comparison, is like a sheer drop off. So if your heart can't take the emotional burden, stock up on book 1 and 2 as you wait for Sanctuary (Planet Lara, book 3) coming December 14, 2021 and prepare to binge read!***
Merged review:
"Despite the tempest rolling around everything else, I am, in this moment, incredibly grateful for the safe harbor that is Finan Rowleigh."
A storm is coming and it will whirl you around in a maelstrom of emotions that leave you gasping.
***Obligatory cliffhanger (and possible trigger) warning. Don't say no one told you. You've been warned***
Raw, emotional, and gripping with an intricately complex mystery that will keep you guessing and questioning who can be trusted.
"Having him near makes me stronger. Makes me feel less alone, like there's one person left on this planet I can trust."
Planet Lara is the MUST-READ series of 2021. Taking the best of women's fiction and romantic suspense to create something wholly unique: Enviromance. So shove whatever book you're currently reading back onto your to-be-read pile and pick this up NOW! Seriously, Netflix, Hulu, your move, because this is your next smash hit.
I absolutely adore Lara's character arc and how Eliza Gordon has infused the series with heart, humor, a little bit of heat, hope, and all the messy, complicated emotions of REAL characters and REAL relationships.
Gordon will have you laughing, crying, screaming in frustration, and engaging your mind as you challenge yourself to unravel the mystery of evils plaguing Lara Clarke and Thalia Island.
NOTE
***It's CLEARLY stated in MULTIPLE places (the book itself, the blurb, the author's website) that book 1 and 2 end in cliffhangers.
So don't be angry or shocked. It's not a surprise. So sit back and enjoy the Planet Lara series like your favorite episodic summer drama.
Welcome to Planet Lara (Planet Lara, book 1) ends in a mild cliffhanger. Like a rolling hill leading you into book 2. Tempest (Planet Lara, book 2) by comparison, is like a sheer drop off. So if your heart can't take the emotional burden, stock up on book 1 and 2 as you wait for Sanctuary (Planet Lara, book 3) coming December 14, 2021 and prepare to binge read!***
September 15, 2021
4.5 Stars!
Book one (Welcome to Planet Lara) managed to hook me with a crazy and somewhat creepy mystery but kept me charmed with the promise of love between Lara and Finan. Book two kept the promise alive with a love that was hard-won, but not without some major interference from that creepy cult, a questionable underground journalist, and some island resident drama. This second book is not without its cliffhanger, but come on... it's a trilogy. What did you expect? Although, for those non-cliffy readers, the third and final book is coming very soon and you can read them all back to back.
I often find the second book in a trilogy to be increased filler with less substance. Thankfully, that wasn’t the case here. While there were many moments that allowed for relationship growth between Lara and Finan, as well as some focus on island life and new inhabitants, there were also additional clues to untangle regarding the Dea Vitae (that creepy cult) and the rise of a potential new adversary.
This story is also not without its angst. Lara and Finan struggle over relationship hurdles, while Lara faces the demons from her previous life. I found the portrayal of those struggles authentic with nice pacing and balance between the romance and mystery/suspense. Overall, this was an impressive second book and I'm anxiously awaiting the third and final one this December.
November 25, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks BookSirens for the ARC.
OMG I am hooked on this series. I finished the first book and immediately picked up the next one and finished it in one sitting. Now I have to wait … which will be worth it if the first two books are any indication.
In this instalment we see Lara learn more about her mother and grandfather, as well as the mysterious cult that is intertwined with her family history. She also learns a lot about herself and uses her new-found strength and purpose to overcome some pretty major life challenges.
She also dedicates some time to healing her relationship with Finan and allowing herself to be vulnerable. I am liking her character so much more - I'm glad I didn't give up on her!
I am on tenterhooks now, waiting for the finale. It's going to be an absolute treat!
OMG I am hooked on this series. I finished the first book and immediately picked up the next one and finished it in one sitting. Now I have to wait … which will be worth it if the first two books are any indication.
In this instalment we see Lara learn more about her mother and grandfather, as well as the mysterious cult that is intertwined with her family history. She also learns a lot about herself and uses her new-found strength and purpose to overcome some pretty major life challenges.
She also dedicates some time to healing her relationship with Finan and allowing herself to be vulnerable. I am liking her character so much more - I'm glad I didn't give up on her!
I am on tenterhooks now, waiting for the finale. It's going to be an absolute treat!
March 11, 2022
This book picks up from the first one. So, you really do need to read these books in chronological order. Plus, each one ends on a ciffhanger that will leave you waiting until the next book.
The first book felt like it moved a little slow but was a nice introduction to Lara and Thalia Island. With book two, things picked up and moved at a faster pace. Also, I had established the starting relationship with everyone. So, it was nice to see them again. The quirkiness that I liked from the first book was still here.
In the first book there was talk about the "mysterious" Jacinta. So, to get to meet her in person in this book was great. Some questions were answered but just like the first book, this one ends on a cliffhanger. I look forward to reading the third book to see how it all ends.
The first book felt like it moved a little slow but was a nice introduction to Lara and Thalia Island. With book two, things picked up and moved at a faster pace. Also, I had established the starting relationship with everyone. So, it was nice to see them again. The quirkiness that I liked from the first book was still here.
In the first book there was talk about the "mysterious" Jacinta. So, to get to meet her in person in this book was great. Some questions were answered but just like the first book, this one ends on a cliffhanger. I look forward to reading the third book to see how it all ends.
August 28, 2021
Oh my goodness! Planet Lara: Tempest is soooooooo good! Tempest picks up right where Welcome to Planet Lara ends off. Books 1 & 2 end in a cliffhanger. I went back and read the last 2 chapters of Book 1 so I would be able to drop right into Book 2. So much is uncovered in Book 2, but we are also left with so many questions that I know Eliza Gordon will reveal in Book 3. Red Beryl?!?!?!?! Have I said too much? Oh well!
There is drama, suspense, broken hearts, mended hearts, and a wonderful new sidekick Harmony. Lara really grows in this book. She is still self-destructive, but she is realizing that she needs to put in the work, and love herself so that she can be loved. A medical emergency is sort of a turning point for Lara, and it is wonderful to see her heal in more ways than one.
I came to the end of Planet Lara: Tempest and I immediately wanted more. But fear not fellow readers, the conclusion is just months away.
There is drama, suspense, broken hearts, mended hearts, and a wonderful new sidekick Harmony. Lara really grows in this book. She is still self-destructive, but she is realizing that she needs to put in the work, and love herself so that she can be loved. A medical emergency is sort of a turning point for Lara, and it is wonderful to see her heal in more ways than one.
I came to the end of Planet Lara: Tempest and I immediately wanted more. But fear not fellow readers, the conclusion is just months away.
December 29, 2021
OMG, this one was so much better then the first book. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed the first book but I loved this second book. Now onto the third and final book, maybe. More intrigue, more of the cult Dae Vitae, and more Lara and Finan. Can't wait to start on the third book, and hope it doesn't end in a cliff hanger like these first two books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 23, 2021
And the mystery continues. In the second installment of Lara's life, she and Finan find themselves deeper in trouble, some due to a weird cult, some due to nature. This book will make the reader laugh as well as ponder solving a crime. Relationships between our heroine and hero as well as Number Two, along with a little Harmony make this an enjoyable read.
I would caution the reader that one should definitely read the first book in the series before reading this book. There is a cliffhanger, but the author promises resolution in the third installment of this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I would caution the reader that one should definitely read the first book in the series before reading this book. There is a cliffhanger, but the author promises resolution in the third installment of this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 29, 2021
I really enjoyed this book! Love following Lara and her adventures. I enjoyed getting more of a back story in thins installment but that cliffhanger ending though!!! I can’t wait until the final part of the trilogy!
March 15, 2023
Woah! The plot thickens. The characters are more developed. More action. And another cliffhanger. Bring on the next book. #teamLara
August 29, 2021
I’m loving this series! The setting, conflict, romance, friendships, mysteries, and character growth keep me turning pages. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
March 18, 2022
Book 1 ended on a cliff hanger and book 2 picks up right where book 2 ended. I loved watching Lara mature and turn into a responsibility adult.
All the things I loved in book 1 continue in book 2, including chapter titles, a beloved fur baby, a little bit of romance and some mystery plus an additional adorable young girl who loves to run her mouth and tell her mom's secrets. No secret is safe with a kid. IYKYK
What a great sequel. It ends on a cliffhanger, thank goodness book 3 is already out
All the things I loved in book 1 continue in book 2, including chapter titles, a beloved fur baby, a little bit of romance and some mystery plus an additional adorable young girl who loves to run her mouth and tell her mom's secrets. No secret is safe with a kid. IYKYK
What a great sequel. It ends on a cliffhanger, thank goodness book 3 is already out
August 11, 2021
An excellent follow up to the first book in the series!
Lara - with police help - has kicked the Dea Vitae cult off Thalia Island, but that's really just the beginning. There are still mysteries to solve, new problems introduced, and her relationship, or lack there of, with Finan to figure out.
It is easy to see the growth Lara has experienced. She still stumbles and makes mistakes, but for the amount of time she's actually been on the island she is learning a lot. I also love Wes, Rupert, Catrina, Dakota, Harmony, Finan and the rest of Team Lara. They all support her in different ways and it's great seeing her form genuine relationships.
This story is a great mix of romance, drama, mystery, and more. It should not be read as a standalone and does end with a cliffhanger. So I highly recommend reading book one first, and I cannot wait for the third book!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Lara - with police help - has kicked the Dea Vitae cult off Thalia Island, but that's really just the beginning. There are still mysteries to solve, new problems introduced, and her relationship, or lack there of, with Finan to figure out.
It is easy to see the growth Lara has experienced. She still stumbles and makes mistakes, but for the amount of time she's actually been on the island she is learning a lot. I also love Wes, Rupert, Catrina, Dakota, Harmony, Finan and the rest of Team Lara. They all support her in different ways and it's great seeing her form genuine relationships.
This story is a great mix of romance, drama, mystery, and more. It should not be read as a standalone and does end with a cliffhanger. So I highly recommend reading book one first, and I cannot wait for the third book!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
October 23, 2021
Just finished this wonderful book and I'm in a trance. Wow. I read this book right after I finished the 1st one as I know both the 1st and 2nd books end with a cliffhanger, but, I really need the 3rd book ASAP. Welcome to Planet Lara really coax me into reading Tempest and I can confidently say that Tempest did a great job tempting me to further reading this wonderful Planet Lara trilogy. Counting days until December.
In this book, we can see how Lara and Finan relationship evolved and also more of Lara self growth. There's some conflict nearing the end of the first book and I'm glad it was solved in this book. Some tragedy happened to both Lara and Humboldt so be sure to check the trigger warning before diving into this book.
There's also the wonderful characters introduced like Harmony and Dakota, Lara's new friends. Harmony is such a wonderful and bright kid. She is perfect.
Amidst all the mishap, Thalia Island's settlers really can't get away without any dramas among themselves. Some humour and heat here and there are very much appreciated.
More and more clues regarding her mother past and Dea Vitae were fed throughout this book and I can't help but wanting more. The mystery is such a page turner. Also, the sudden appearance of Jacinta Ramirez, really heat the mystery up. A person who is very dear and knows Lara's mother really well.
Planet Lara: Tempest is a wonderful book as Eliza Gordon writing is very engaging and fun to follow along. I assure you that you won't disappoint if you were to pick this amazing book up.
𝓐 4.5★ 𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭
I willingly request this arc from BookSirens so the review is solely based on my honest opinion.
In this book, we can see how Lara and Finan relationship evolved and also more of Lara self growth. There's some conflict nearing the end of the first book and I'm glad it was solved in this book. Some tragedy happened to both Lara and Humboldt so be sure to check the trigger warning before diving into this book.
There's also the wonderful characters introduced like Harmony and Dakota, Lara's new friends. Harmony is such a wonderful and bright kid. She is perfect.
Amidst all the mishap, Thalia Island's settlers really can't get away without any dramas among themselves. Some humour and heat here and there are very much appreciated.
More and more clues regarding her mother past and Dea Vitae were fed throughout this book and I can't help but wanting more. The mystery is such a page turner. Also, the sudden appearance of Jacinta Ramirez, really heat the mystery up. A person who is very dear and knows Lara's mother really well.
Planet Lara: Tempest is a wonderful book as Eliza Gordon writing is very engaging and fun to follow along. I assure you that you won't disappoint if you were to pick this amazing book up.
𝓐 4.5★ 𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭
I willingly request this arc from BookSirens so the review is solely based on my honest opinion.
October 22, 2021
OMG! So many amazing twists I never saw coming. I am do enjoying the characters and voice in this series- counting the minutes till December 14 and madly reading to see what happens next. Inspiring romance/thriller.
October 14, 2021
4.5/5 stars! I REALLY wanted to take away a star for the way this book ends. BUT I think the fact that I finished it in a day, then immediately set a reminder on my calendar for when book three’s released (December 14) shows just how much I’ve fallen in love with this quirky, feel good trilogy, Thalia Island, and the characters that inhabit it. Also, Harmony’s character is just *chef’s kiss* perfection.
Thank you to Eliza Gordon and Booksirens for gifting me a free copy in exchange for my honest review!
Thank you to Eliza Gordon and Booksirens for gifting me a free copy in exchange for my honest review!
October 4, 2021
This is the second book in the Planet Lara series and it does not disappoint. I love that the talented author Eliza Gordon continues to write Lara as a slightly flawed but always improving woman who continues to grow into a better person with each new adventure and challenge that she faces. I love that Finan is her on-again off-again romantic partner rather than trying to be her rescuer. The team of characters that live on the island are absolutely great and of course Lara’s number one fan Rupert who is keeping her honest from afar while he heals will steal everyone’s heart with his grumpy but loveable demeanor. I could not put this book down, much like the first one, and I cannot wait for book 3 to see what new adventures Lara and the island dwellers will face.
This is not your standard romance. It will make you think about your life habits and will make you fall in love with book characters in a way you never thought you could. Highly recommended to all!
This is not your standard romance. It will make you think about your life habits and will make you fall in love with book characters in a way you never thought you could. Highly recommended to all!
September 20, 2021
Lara & the gang are characters I can't help rooting for! Lara's grown so much since the beginning of book one, and I'm happy to see her continuing to progress. Once I started, I couldn't put the book down. I think Harmony may now be one of my most favorite characters. I do hope we'll get to see more of her in book three.
This entry in the series does end on a cliffhanger, but the third book and resolution is expected in December. The author is very upfront about the cliffhanger so be prepared or wait until the complete series is available if you don't handle to-be-resolved endings well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entry in the series does end on a cliffhanger, but the third book and resolution is expected in December. The author is very upfront about the cliffhanger so be prepared or wait until the complete series is available if you don't handle to-be-resolved endings well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 24, 2021
I know she warned us there is a cliff hanger… but MAN! That is SOME Cliff hanger!!! Cannot wait for book three.
I’ve really become invested in Lara and Finan and harmony and Rupert, and all the characters of Thalia island.
I really enjoyed book two- I loved the added mystery and crime element, and I liked following along with Lara as she unpacks clues to what is really going on.
Can’t help but love Finan and their relationship- and I really liked the introduction of the young Harmony: what a fun, spunky kid!
Another great book- looking forward to seeing how it all ends…. :)
I’ve really become invested in Lara and Finan and harmony and Rupert, and all the characters of Thalia island.
I really enjoyed book two- I loved the added mystery and crime element, and I liked following along with Lara as she unpacks clues to what is really going on.
Can’t help but love Finan and their relationship- and I really liked the introduction of the young Harmony: what a fun, spunky kid!
Another great book- looking forward to seeing how it all ends…. :)
September 24, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I loved the first book and was excited to read the second. It did not disappoint. The writing was engaging and the plot moved quickly.
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