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Griever's Mark #3
Unbound
As the growing conflict forces Logan to embrace his newly discovered heritage, he fights to control a power he has long kept buried—a power that threatens everything he has tried to make of himself. Desperate to spare Astarti yet another burden, he tries to hide his crumbling control, but she has long since learned to recognize a lie. As Logan becomes a danger to himself and those around him, Astarti must find a way to help him, even if he doesn’t want it.
Unfortunately, Astarti has other problems. Good and evil wear ever-shifting faces, the right course of action grows increasingly unclear, and the stakes are only getting higher. In this final installment of The Griever’s Mark trilogy, Astarti must decide, once and for all, what she stands for--and what she is willing to sacrifice.
Previously released under Katherine Hurley.
Unfortunately, Astarti has other problems. Good and evil wear ever-shifting faces, the right course of action grows increasingly unclear, and the stakes are only getting higher. In this final installment of The Griever’s Mark trilogy, Astarti must decide, once and for all, what she stands for--and what she is willing to sacrifice.
Previously released under Katherine Hurley.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 21, 2016
84 people are currently reading
325 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Buel
10 books197 followersKatherine Buel is a fantasy novelist and avid horsewoman. She has an MFA from Northern Michigan University and has lived in eight different states.
She formerly wrote as Katherine Hurley.
She formerly wrote as Katherine Hurley.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
March 3, 2017
Age Rating: Older YA due to sex scenes. (Nothing graphic, just more than typical YA)
It took me a while to get into this one. I don't know if it was that I forgot too much from the sequel or what. It slowly came back as I read, but I needed a bit more backcap.
I loved the first two books, but I didn't enjoy this one as much. (Though it was a matter of personal taste, and not really the book's fault.) After what our characters have gone through, they're broken. Much of this book was dedicated to emotional stuff. It was well done, I just don't like that kind of thing.
The Bad:
Logan and Astarti's relationship is still rocky. They don't talk much and when they do, they fight. With everything else in the world terrible, I'd have liked some levity between them.
It's understandable that Logan still has PTSD, but I didn't enjoy his parts. He's still getting himself beat up, and losing himself in his powers.
They have so many opportunities to kill Bellos, but each time they stupidly let him live! (Yes, I know they have to be honorable and save someone, but how many more people died because Belos lived?)
The Good:
Though there was plenty of relationship stuff, we never went too long before something exciting happened. I've enjoyed the action scenes of this series and they just keep getting better! (The elemental weapons were awesome!)
There are quite a few minor characters and I like all of them! (Particularly Horik. He needs his own short story!)
Aside from the characters, the world building is my favorite part of this series. I didn't understand what the Ancorites were supposed to be, but the Old Ones were interesting, and a nice addition to this world.
Conclusion: I was satisfied how it all ended and I'll read this author again in the future.
Point of View: First Present (Astarti, Logan)
Predictability: 4 out of 5 (Where 1 is totally unpredictable and 5 is I knew what was going to happen way ahead of time.)
Source: Author Request
It took me a while to get into this one. I don't know if it was that I forgot too much from the sequel or what. It slowly came back as I read, but I needed a bit more backcap.
I loved the first two books, but I didn't enjoy this one as much. (Though it was a matter of personal taste, and not really the book's fault.) After what our characters have gone through, they're broken. Much of this book was dedicated to emotional stuff. It was well done, I just don't like that kind of thing.
The Bad:
Logan and Astarti's relationship is still rocky. They don't talk much and when they do, they fight. With everything else in the world terrible, I'd have liked some levity between them.
It's understandable that Logan still has PTSD, but I didn't enjoy his parts. He's still getting himself beat up, and losing himself in his powers.
They have so many opportunities to kill Bellos, but each time they stupidly let him live! (Yes, I know they have to be honorable and save someone, but how many more people died because Belos lived?)
The Good:
Though there was plenty of relationship stuff, we never went too long before something exciting happened. I've enjoyed the action scenes of this series and they just keep getting better! (The elemental weapons were awesome!)
There are quite a few minor characters and I like all of them! (Particularly Horik. He needs his own short story!)
Aside from the characters, the world building is my favorite part of this series. I didn't understand what the Ancorites were supposed to be, but the Old Ones were interesting, and a nice addition to this world.
Conclusion: I was satisfied how it all ended and I'll read this author again in the future.
Point of View: First Present (Astarti, Logan)
Predictability: 4 out of 5 (Where 1 is totally unpredictable and 5 is I knew what was going to happen way ahead of time.)
Source: Author Request
January 27, 2016
Nice closure
This book was full of intense moments and of course evil Belos will be involved. There was much closure and answers, which made this last book perfect in its ending. Astarti and Logan both look inside themselves and find who they really are.
This book was full of intense moments and of course evil Belos will be involved. There was much closure and answers, which made this last book perfect in its ending. Astarti and Logan both look inside themselves and find who they really are.
March 31, 2016
Unbound by Katherine Hurley is the thrilling conclusion to The Griever's Mark Trilogy.
Everything about this series has been quite unique and adventurous from book 1 all the way till book 3. The characters were well written, and the story line was something else. I would give Unbound a 10 out of 10 rating.
The thing I liked the most about this book, was that it was such a well balanced conclusion to the trilogy. It was nicely paced, and spaced out. There were some new elements brought to the table in Unbound, but nothing felt rushed or went unexplained. I also liked that every detail had a purpose or greater meaning.
Since the beginning, I have quite enjoyed the magic system that Katherine Hurley developed. It was a different sort of elemental magic system that I quite enjoyed learning and reading about. I think I especially enjoyed the Drifter's magic and the way you could Drift up weapons. That was a neat aspect portrayed.
SEE THE REST OVER ON MY BLOG BEYOND THE BOOK REVIEWS
Everything about this series has been quite unique and adventurous from book 1 all the way till book 3. The characters were well written, and the story line was something else. I would give Unbound a 10 out of 10 rating.
The thing I liked the most about this book, was that it was such a well balanced conclusion to the trilogy. It was nicely paced, and spaced out. There were some new elements brought to the table in Unbound, but nothing felt rushed or went unexplained. I also liked that every detail had a purpose or greater meaning.
Since the beginning, I have quite enjoyed the magic system that Katherine Hurley developed. It was a different sort of elemental magic system that I quite enjoyed learning and reading about. I think I especially enjoyed the Drifter's magic and the way you could Drift up weapons. That was a neat aspect portrayed.
SEE THE REST OVER ON MY BLOG BEYOND THE BOOK REVIEWS
July 10, 2016
The World of this story is unbelievable innovative. I like the magic, although I am not sure that I can call it like that, the characters with their deep and authentic profiles and the social criticism that I read between the lines.
It was really impressiv that one cannot only understand feelings and thoughts of the two protagonists Astarti and Logan, you can really feel and think like them. However, in this last book of the trilogy it was a bit too much of thoughts and to less of action. Sometimes the doubts of Logan got on my nerves, because it was a returning cycle. With Astarti it worked much better.
The ending was round and in its essence really impressiv too, but unfortunately it was written boringly. There was no excitement.
All in all a good ending but the realization could have been much better.
It was really impressiv that one cannot only understand feelings and thoughts of the two protagonists Astarti and Logan, you can really feel and think like them. However, in this last book of the trilogy it was a bit too much of thoughts and to less of action. Sometimes the doubts of Logan got on my nerves, because it was a returning cycle. With Astarti it worked much better.
The ending was round and in its essence really impressiv too, but unfortunately it was written boringly. There was no excitement.
All in all a good ending but the realization could have been much better.
January 22, 2016
Oh man. I couldn't wait to get my hands on this last book and it completely delivered for me! I felt everything Astarti felt. The author made sure of that! She was such a strong MC and grew so much throughout this series, I loved it! Poor Login, I got frustrated with him occasionally but that's because I don't have the patience and compassion Astarti does. He really suffered in the second book and it was still in here also and had no idea of how to deal with what he was going through. This book kept me anxious waiting to see what would happen next and had next to no downtime! It was perfect for me and hopefully will be for everyone else!
January 25, 2016
Very satisfying
I really enjoyed the last installment of this series. It's been so refreshing to read about strong characters who aren't too stupid to live.
I love the character development and how the main characters come into their own. They overcome so many obstacles, both internal and external.
This was very nicely plotted and paced. I enjoyed the plot turns and was highly satisfied with the ending.
I just wish this author had more books out!
I really enjoyed the last installment of this series. It's been so refreshing to read about strong characters who aren't too stupid to live.
I love the character development and how the main characters come into their own. They overcome so many obstacles, both internal and external.
This was very nicely plotted and paced. I enjoyed the plot turns and was highly satisfied with the ending.
I just wish this author had more books out!
September 12, 2020
This was so satisfying to read. I want to say that it felt so real. Even with magic and gods and all, it felt real. I would have enjoyed to get even closer to some of the characters, known more of them, they were very well written and connectable. I would especially have liked to dive into Astarti fathers cleavers head.
Okay so what is making me give it 5 stars is the main characters inner development. How the book displays right and wrong, how they have to stop hiding from ugly truths and take control and responsibility of their actions. Its really diving down to the core of humanity and it almost made me cry towards the end when many many inner struggles is being started to untangled.
I'm sure my review is a bit messy, but I can't start to explain how good this series is proberly it seems. Anyway here's some of what I have highlighted in this last book.
“Oh, love, that’s not control. That is denial, and it’s not at all the same thing.”
"I do trust you.”
“No, you don’t. You don’t trust me when I say that I want this. You don’t trust me to see you fully and not turn away.”
“Sex is not a dirty word. I don’t want you to be ashamed of it when we step away from our bed, as though it’s something we hide away and don’t talk about and pretend doesn’t happen. I love you, and I love making love to you, and if I don’t speak of it to others it’s not because I think it’s wrong or embarrassing. It’s because it’s only for us, and I won’t share it.”
If I am honest with myself, I have even thought her a little stupid. I have seen the worst, not even knowing if it was true. An ache forms in my chest as I think of how I’ve treated someone who has never been anything but kind to me.
Anything can be justified from the right perspective.
“He has been cutting away his soul, Sunhild, and this is what is left."
Okay so what is making me give it 5 stars is the main characters inner development. How the book displays right and wrong, how they have to stop hiding from ugly truths and take control and responsibility of their actions. Its really diving down to the core of humanity and it almost made me cry towards the end when many many inner struggles is being started to untangled.
I'm sure my review is a bit messy, but I can't start to explain how good this series is proberly it seems. Anyway here's some of what I have highlighted in this last book.
“Oh, love, that’s not control. That is denial, and it’s not at all the same thing.”
"I do trust you.”
“No, you don’t. You don’t trust me when I say that I want this. You don’t trust me to see you fully and not turn away.”
“Sex is not a dirty word. I don’t want you to be ashamed of it when we step away from our bed, as though it’s something we hide away and don’t talk about and pretend doesn’t happen. I love you, and I love making love to you, and if I don’t speak of it to others it’s not because I think it’s wrong or embarrassing. It’s because it’s only for us, and I won’t share it.”
If I am honest with myself, I have even thought her a little stupid. I have seen the worst, not even knowing if it was true. An ache forms in my chest as I think of how I’ve treated someone who has never been anything but kind to me.
Anything can be justified from the right perspective.
“He has been cutting away his soul, Sunhild, and this is what is left."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2016
Everything is out of control before this story begins and the lines between who is right and who is wrong and how far the leadership on all sides is willing to go just blurs. I can't talk about this book without spoiling something in the previous two, so beware.
I thoroughly love this dive into the grey area of real power. The leader of a city or people group has big decisions to make that will effect so many others. There is no answer that is purely right or a choice that will result in no death, so who is willing to go the furthest for their cause? Who will be able to live with themselves afterwards?
Anyone who has had some authority has bumped into this, but the author expands the idea until thousands and hundreds of thousands are effected. The stakes are too high for anyone to back down. In fact, the one who is willing to risk the most seems like they will have the only chance at success.
Yet somehow Astarti and Logan maintain themselves with honor. In fact, they learn to let go of bitterness that could infect their decisions even though it is a painful process, like prying fingers one at a time off of the only control they feel they have. My favorite scenes are the ones where they open up to each other and allow themselves to trust and let go. I'm not sure I've seen bitterness and letting go of it so well portrayed anywhere.
Very realistically, the bad guy turns out to be human (or close enough) all along. The fathers who hold too much of the power are also vulnerable and I held my breath with the world waiting to see what they'll decide.
You shouldn't get to read this one until you've read the first two. It's only fair. And this one's worth reading, so... there you go.
If I found fault, it's only that everything explodes right off the edge of reality this story balances on. Somehow the author made me feel that zipping along energy lines or riding tree/wind currents was completely natural. My neighbor may be able to do it and I just didn't know it. But when it gets to the flow of time and creation of everything... that feel of "this is real" slipped through my fingers. I lost my personal grip and was left watching the big light show. Everything was grand and awe-inspiring enough, I just didn't feel as sold on all of it and I was quite committed, believe me. I don't want to take anything away from it because all the pieces were necessary for that scene, THAT scene... you'll know when you read it. There's one scene that is THAT ONE and it's only possible because of all the nearly-unbelievable other stuff. In the end, worth it, totally, but I do hope that Katherine will take the time to drag my emotions through all the dirt again in future books.
Oh, yes, I'll read anything Katherine Hurley writes, by golly. I'm sold.
4 Stars for this one and the series all together may stay at 4 or grow to 5 if I find I cannot help but return and re-read it. No doubt the reading experience would be completely different now that I know... just the way I like my library. Complex and satisfying.
I thoroughly love this dive into the grey area of real power. The leader of a city or people group has big decisions to make that will effect so many others. There is no answer that is purely right or a choice that will result in no death, so who is willing to go the furthest for their cause? Who will be able to live with themselves afterwards?
Anyone who has had some authority has bumped into this, but the author expands the idea until thousands and hundreds of thousands are effected. The stakes are too high for anyone to back down. In fact, the one who is willing to risk the most seems like they will have the only chance at success.
Yet somehow Astarti and Logan maintain themselves with honor. In fact, they learn to let go of bitterness that could infect their decisions even though it is a painful process, like prying fingers one at a time off of the only control they feel they have. My favorite scenes are the ones where they open up to each other and allow themselves to trust and let go. I'm not sure I've seen bitterness and letting go of it so well portrayed anywhere.
Very realistically, the bad guy turns out to be human (or close enough) all along. The fathers who hold too much of the power are also vulnerable and I held my breath with the world waiting to see what they'll decide.
You shouldn't get to read this one until you've read the first two. It's only fair. And this one's worth reading, so... there you go.
If I found fault, it's only that everything explodes right off the edge of reality this story balances on. Somehow the author made me feel that zipping along energy lines or riding tree/wind currents was completely natural. My neighbor may be able to do it and I just didn't know it. But when it gets to the flow of time and creation of everything... that feel of "this is real" slipped through my fingers. I lost my personal grip and was left watching the big light show. Everything was grand and awe-inspiring enough, I just didn't feel as sold on all of it and I was quite committed, believe me. I don't want to take anything away from it because all the pieces were necessary for that scene, THAT scene... you'll know when you read it. There's one scene that is THAT ONE and it's only possible because of all the nearly-unbelievable other stuff. In the end, worth it, totally, but I do hope that Katherine will take the time to drag my emotions through all the dirt again in future books.
Oh, yes, I'll read anything Katherine Hurley writes, by golly. I'm sold.
4 Stars for this one and the series all together may stay at 4 or grow to 5 if I find I cannot help but return and re-read it. No doubt the reading experience would be completely different now that I know... just the way I like my library. Complex and satisfying.
February 15, 2016
I hate writing reviews
I very rarely even bother, but after completing Unbound, I want to give the author some encouragement.
The series, as a whole, was excellent. The world building, the powers, everything. Great imagination, and great detail. Her two character made me laugh, clench, and cry. I felt the struggle. Sometimes I wanted to slap them both. Sometimes I wanted to hug Astarti because she had no one to talk to. Astarti shouldered a huge burden with Logan. Her strength and restraint was incredible. Good job, Ms Hurley, on showing her fragility as well as her backbone.
The problems I had are issues that will resolve with time and growth as a writer. Her language, her conversations could get repetitive. She used the element of surprise and betrayal a lot. It feels like she got really excited about the story and crammed every thought into the story line. He enthusiasm for her book really shines, but she just may need a steady editor to tell, "You don't need so many surprises" or "Not every battle has to be lost as a result of your main character being 'too slow' to react." Nothing that won't work itself out.
Katherine Hurley is a fantastic writer. I will read more of her in the future. I think her story building could be along the lines of Ilona Andrews, and I don't make that comparison lightly. It was incredibly hard to finish the series, to know it will end. I think as she grows more as a writer, the little things I've mentioned will go away.
I very rarely even bother, but after completing Unbound, I want to give the author some encouragement.
The series, as a whole, was excellent. The world building, the powers, everything. Great imagination, and great detail. Her two character made me laugh, clench, and cry. I felt the struggle. Sometimes I wanted to slap them both. Sometimes I wanted to hug Astarti because she had no one to talk to. Astarti shouldered a huge burden with Logan. Her strength and restraint was incredible. Good job, Ms Hurley, on showing her fragility as well as her backbone.
The problems I had are issues that will resolve with time and growth as a writer. Her language, her conversations could get repetitive. She used the element of surprise and betrayal a lot. It feels like she got really excited about the story and crammed every thought into the story line. He enthusiasm for her book really shines, but she just may need a steady editor to tell, "You don't need so many surprises" or "Not every battle has to be lost as a result of your main character being 'too slow' to react." Nothing that won't work itself out.
Katherine Hurley is a fantastic writer. I will read more of her in the future. I think her story building could be along the lines of Ilona Andrews, and I don't make that comparison lightly. It was incredibly hard to finish the series, to know it will end. I think as she grows more as a writer, the little things I've mentioned will go away.
May 28, 2017
OMG!! could you give me a more perfect cover?? Astarti saving Logan :D I am in love with this cover!!
I really feel like reading another book so I'll keep it short..
GP. FUCKING.BUY. THIS.DAMNED.AWESOME.BOOK!!! Trust me you need this series in your life!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Waaaaaaaaaaaaait!!!! I just realised that I fell for a total good guy!! Logan is totally good!! not a bad bone in his body!! how did this happen?? *wonders*
I really feel like reading another book so I'll keep it short..
GP. FUCKING.BUY. THIS.DAMNED.AWESOME.BOOK!!! Trust me you need this series in your life!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Waaaaaaaaaaaaait!!!! I just realised that I fell for a total good guy!! Logan is totally good!! not a bad bone in his body!! how did this happen?? *wonders*
February 24, 2020
Started as an excellent series, but became to fantastical as it progressed. By this book the whole premise became too convoluted and just plain boring.
March 29, 2016
Great series. Engaging and enjoyable.
January 8, 2018
I rather enjoyed this series, more than I thought it would.
I really liked what Astarti developed into, and the relationship her and Logan formed. It was admirable how strong of a character she was, but certainly not flawed. The antithesis of her was Logan, and even how he dealt with his own issues. I also appreciated that Astarti wasn't portrayed as a savior, like so many other YA female MCers. She played her role well, but it did not become all about Astarti, she was different and important but I felt her role was more about balance than being a main hero.
Logan for me was a huge issue in book one. He was a love sick puppy that had me rolling my eyes. He however took a turn in Chains of Water and Stone and grew on me more and more by the end of the book. I appreciated that Hurley presented a broken and stripped character but also one filled with an immense amount of pride. It gave him more substance than a boy who was smitten with a girl, and it only strengthened his relationship with Astarti when he had to let go and allow her to be his strength.
This series really digs at the core of a person. The good and the bad and finding the balance in that. In forgiving yourself and sometimes even letting go, because it does not help you progress. But also admitting defeat and in that moment putting away your pride so that someone else can be strong for you. And that our lives are driven by OUR choices and those consequences, whether those are good or bad and knowing we are not alone in them. The love story was a bit much for me at times, but it was also a beautiful reminder of what love can be. It can be all consuming and lustful, but it also about allowing the darker parts of ourselves to be opened and healed and loved.
I really liked what Astarti developed into, and the relationship her and Logan formed. It was admirable how strong of a character she was, but certainly not flawed. The antithesis of her was Logan, and even how he dealt with his own issues. I also appreciated that Astarti wasn't portrayed as a savior, like so many other YA female MCers. She played her role well, but it did not become all about Astarti, she was different and important but I felt her role was more about balance than being a main hero.
Logan for me was a huge issue in book one. He was a love sick puppy that had me rolling my eyes. He however took a turn in Chains of Water and Stone and grew on me more and more by the end of the book. I appreciated that Hurley presented a broken and stripped character but also one filled with an immense amount of pride. It gave him more substance than a boy who was smitten with a girl, and it only strengthened his relationship with Astarti when he had to let go and allow her to be his strength.
This series really digs at the core of a person. The good and the bad and finding the balance in that. In forgiving yourself and sometimes even letting go, because it does not help you progress. But also admitting defeat and in that moment putting away your pride so that someone else can be strong for you. And that our lives are driven by OUR choices and those consequences, whether those are good or bad and knowing we are not alone in them. The love story was a bit much for me at times, but it was also a beautiful reminder of what love can be. It can be all consuming and lustful, but it also about allowing the darker parts of ourselves to be opened and healed and loved.
September 26, 2021
"She lets me be weak for a moment, and that is all I need to be strong again."
Fun little fantasy series that uses the elements as powers. It has great character development with mostly everyone, but the main characters Astarti and Logan in particular. They have a wonderful relationship that has some rocky moments due to their own personal trust issues, but they both equally respect one another and try not to hinder the other person from all they can accomplish. That helps them grow as individuals and as a couple.
Fun little fantasy series that uses the elements as powers. It has great character development with mostly everyone, but the main characters Astarti and Logan in particular. They have a wonderful relationship that has some rocky moments due to their own personal trust issues, but they both equally respect one another and try not to hinder the other person from all they can accomplish. That helps them grow as individuals and as a couple.
April 24, 2018
Deep topics
These books resonated with me because of the angst felt by the lead characters. My brother is much the same as Logan - repressing his true feelings for reasons unknown, bottling anger to be released in raging outbursts. His solution will one day hopefully be the same as my brothers. Thank you for writing it so well.
These books resonated with me because of the angst felt by the lead characters. My brother is much the same as Logan - repressing his true feelings for reasons unknown, bottling anger to be released in raging outbursts. His solution will one day hopefully be the same as my brothers. Thank you for writing it so well.
May 18, 2017
Even better than the first book. Great follow up and set up for the finally.
July 24, 2017
Good
Good good good Good good good Good good good Good good good Good good good Good good good Good good good. I liked it a lot.
Good good good Good good good Good good good Good good good Good good good Good good good Good good good. I liked it a lot.
October 9, 2017
I'm in love with these books
December 27, 2017
Hook, line, and shackle
The Griever's Mark Series is heartbreaking and delightful. The plot is woven thoughtfully with well rounded characters. The heroine kicks butt but is real.
The Griever's Mark Series is heartbreaking and delightful. The plot is woven thoughtfully with well rounded characters. The heroine kicks butt but is real.
July 24, 2018
Very nice series recommend for sure.
I've read better but way worse for sure. Take it on vacation and sit back and enjoy. Don't expect too much and will be happy.
I've read better but way worse for sure. Take it on vacation and sit back and enjoy. Don't expect too much and will be happy.
July 24, 2018
Good series, happy ending much appreciated.
Good series. Happy ending much appreciated. Well probably reread this one at some point. Worth buying for sure. Good job.
Good series. Happy ending much appreciated. Well probably reread this one at some point. Worth buying for sure. Good job.
August 22, 2019
Epic
Very well written. A story that shows life is difficult but aspiring to be a better person through overwhelming odds can be & love can conquer anything.
Very well written. A story that shows life is difficult but aspiring to be a better person through overwhelming odds can be & love can conquer anything.
February 27, 2021
LM
Enjoyed the Trilogy, the story from start to finish had all the elements for a great read that ended well.
Enjoyed the Trilogy, the story from start to finish had all the elements for a great read that ended well.
October 14, 2016
Great series! Ordered them in paper back to add to my library after I read it through kindle.
December 30, 2023
Unbound, the conclusion of The Griever trilogy was satisfying - it’s nice when things are wrapped up nicely. Astarti’s precarious relationship with her father, Heborian, made me uncomfortable. I would welcome the insight that a prequel about Heborian’s younger days could bring; something that would recount the events that made him ruthless towards himself and his family. His callousness would often be on par with Belo, the main villain of the trilogy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2017
**Some Spoilers Might Be Mentioned**
I am so glad I randomly started reading this series. I have said it many times before in my reviews for the first two books (The Griever’s Mark and Chains of Water and Stone) and I will say it again, this series is great and you should read it.
So! I was right. Heborian is shady af, I loved his character though and feel that he got an ending that was fitting for the story. I was sooo frustrated with Astarti and her refusal to push Logan of confronting his demons and insecurities. I mean I felt that she should have done that in the second book and was rolling my eyes at her throughout the book. He LOVES you and you LOVE him! Just ASK the damn questions!!! Alas, she does and Logan starts healing and accepting himself, thereby quitting the self-harm techniques he was using to keep himself together. Thank you, sweet baby Jesus.
We learn and see a LOT more of Belos and I am satisfied with the information and insight that we gain for him. Makes his character more real and the loathing more satisfying. We get to see Sybil in this book and learn more about her. The pacing is timed well, fast when it needs to be, slow when it needs to be. Horick (my all time fave of the book) is amazing and I love him. Katherine writes hints of him finding someone to love and I am happy for him (but totally jealous, is that weird?), he deserves a happy ending. I could go on and on but I won’t, I will give you my top 3s and leave you to read it and see for yourself!
Top 3 things I loved about this book:
1.Everything is tied up in a neat little bow by the end. I love that. I like that all my questions are answered and nothing is left unsaid, making me feel content and satisfied with my life.
2.I like that Heborian and Astarti end with a realistic ending. No hate or anger but they weren’t made to automatically love and forgive each other. In the end, this allows Astarti and Roon to form a relationship that is built on trust.
3.Belos. I know, how weird I would put that sphincter on here. We get to see insight into Belos, letting us feel the full sense of justice when he meets up with his poetic ending.
Top 3 things that I disliked about this book:
1.Astarti chilling with her mom when she steps into her past timeline. I don’t think it was a good idea and was disruptive to the narrative as a whole. I get that the author was trying to give Astarti a tangible reason to believe that her mom loved her but it was just weird. Her mom completely chill with some stranger popping up out of nowhere and watching her baby. Wasn’t concerned at all that no one else could see her. Nah, I think some other way to tie up that loose end may have been better.
2.The Ancorites were lame. They were these powerful demigods that sucked and their demise was anticlimactic. Don’t misunderstand me, they were characters that were vital to the story but they weren’t as potent in the story as I feel they should have been.
3.Belos and his deal with being rejected by Gaiana. I know it was supposed to be the thing that really pushed him to be all evil and what have you, but it seemed a little forced and unnecessary. It is brought up in this book often.
Overall, the third book was fulfilling and well done. It answered most of the questions that were left over from the first two books. It wrapped up some character conflicts and storylines while providing a story that draws you in until the end. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and the books that came before it. I would recommend this book for teens and adults that enjoy complex characters and fanciful story settings. I loved the entire series and can’t wait to see what I read next by Katherine Hurley!
I am so glad I randomly started reading this series. I have said it many times before in my reviews for the first two books (The Griever’s Mark and Chains of Water and Stone) and I will say it again, this series is great and you should read it.
So! I was right. Heborian is shady af, I loved his character though and feel that he got an ending that was fitting for the story. I was sooo frustrated with Astarti and her refusal to push Logan of confronting his demons and insecurities. I mean I felt that she should have done that in the second book and was rolling my eyes at her throughout the book. He LOVES you and you LOVE him! Just ASK the damn questions!!! Alas, she does and Logan starts healing and accepting himself, thereby quitting the self-harm techniques he was using to keep himself together. Thank you, sweet baby Jesus.
We learn and see a LOT more of Belos and I am satisfied with the information and insight that we gain for him. Makes his character more real and the loathing more satisfying. We get to see Sybil in this book and learn more about her. The pacing is timed well, fast when it needs to be, slow when it needs to be. Horick (my all time fave of the book) is amazing and I love him. Katherine writes hints of him finding someone to love and I am happy for him (but totally jealous, is that weird?), he deserves a happy ending. I could go on and on but I won’t, I will give you my top 3s and leave you to read it and see for yourself!
Top 3 things I loved about this book:
1.Everything is tied up in a neat little bow by the end. I love that. I like that all my questions are answered and nothing is left unsaid, making me feel content and satisfied with my life.
2.I like that Heborian and Astarti end with a realistic ending. No hate or anger but they weren’t made to automatically love and forgive each other. In the end, this allows Astarti and Roon to form a relationship that is built on trust.
3.Belos. I know, how weird I would put that sphincter on here. We get to see insight into Belos, letting us feel the full sense of justice when he meets up with his poetic ending.
Top 3 things that I disliked about this book:
1.Astarti chilling with her mom when she steps into her past timeline. I don’t think it was a good idea and was disruptive to the narrative as a whole. I get that the author was trying to give Astarti a tangible reason to believe that her mom loved her but it was just weird. Her mom completely chill with some stranger popping up out of nowhere and watching her baby. Wasn’t concerned at all that no one else could see her. Nah, I think some other way to tie up that loose end may have been better.
2.The Ancorites were lame. They were these powerful demigods that sucked and their demise was anticlimactic. Don’t misunderstand me, they were characters that were vital to the story but they weren’t as potent in the story as I feel they should have been.
3.Belos and his deal with being rejected by Gaiana. I know it was supposed to be the thing that really pushed him to be all evil and what have you, but it seemed a little forced and unnecessary. It is brought up in this book often.
Overall, the third book was fulfilling and well done. It answered most of the questions that were left over from the first two books. It wrapped up some character conflicts and storylines while providing a story that draws you in until the end. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and the books that came before it. I would recommend this book for teens and adults that enjoy complex characters and fanciful story settings. I loved the entire series and can’t wait to see what I read next by Katherine Hurley!
March 2, 2017
Overall I really enjoyed this series, I liked the progression of the plot and characters.
Astarti and Logan were a little too insta-lovey for my taste but they took the romance slowly and although it was definitely integral to the plot, it wasn't only about their love story.
I will say that I did not appreciate how Logan's time in captivity overshadowed Astarti's whole life in captivity. I would have liked more reflection on her part about that time, I appreciated her ability to rise about the situation but she seemed so unaffected by it after book 1. It became all about the shadows of Logan's experience and I wanted to know more about her struggles as well.
Astarti and Logan were a little too insta-lovey for my taste but they took the romance slowly and although it was definitely integral to the plot, it wasn't only about their love story.
I will say that I did not appreciate how Logan's time in captivity overshadowed Astarti's whole life in captivity. I would have liked more reflection on her part about that time, I appreciated her ability to rise about the situation but she seemed so unaffected by it after book 1. It became all about the shadows of Logan's experience and I wanted to know more about her struggles as well.
January 16, 2016
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review
OOOHHHH The good feels from this book!!!!
I was so excited to get an ARC of this book because I loved the first two SOOO MUCH! And let me just say - this may have been the best of the three!
Recap if it's been a while:
We left book 2 With Astarti & Logan being in love but still getting some heat for going against the law, Logan finally found out who his dad was (Yeah an "Old One" aka a god...no biggie), Astarti finds out who her parents were and meets her daddy (Heborian aka a king, once again no biggie), and they are forced into an all out altercation with Belos and the Ancorites. Belos tries to bind Logan and fails and we don't know where he went.
This book picks up after that and there were SO MANY amazing things about this book!
1. There is never a love triangle (YAY) - Logan and Astarti always love each other and although they face incredible difficulties they are always on the same team. This book is a definite shift from book 1 where Astarti is the emotionally & skill weak one, because in Unbound Logan is fighting his inner demons. His internal struggles are incredibly well written and Astarti's compassion and patience are astounding.
2. The bad guy in this...who is the bad guy? Is it Kronos? is it Belos? Is it ....Heborian? THey all try to manipulate Astarti & logan - but to what end? OMG all of the incredible, captivating, well written character complexities!!!! SO SO SO good!
3. Sometimes final book in a series hit what I call "fast forward syndrome" where the last book is slow for 200 pages and then speeds up to light year proportions attempting to tie up loose ends and really just leaving the reader with serious jet lag and disappointment. THIS BOOK DID NOT DO THAT. This book left me walking on cloud 9 - closure for the thing I need closure - open ended enough that IF I (or Katherine) wanted to return to this series we could - paced well - and completely addictive. It was the perfect end to this series.
I highly recommend! If you haven't read the first two - check them out. If you did read the first two and just haven't gotten to read this yet - just wait. January 21st will be a great day!
Book type: YA Paranormal Romance/Fantasy
Book rating: 4.5/5
Read time: 3 hours
For more reviews check out my blog: www.booksandchai.com
With love, parchment, and freshly mowed grass,
Kendall
OOOHHHH The good feels from this book!!!!
I was so excited to get an ARC of this book because I loved the first two SOOO MUCH! And let me just say - this may have been the best of the three!
Recap if it's been a while:
We left book 2 With Astarti & Logan being in love but still getting some heat for going against the law, Logan finally found out who his dad was (Yeah an "Old One" aka a god...no biggie), Astarti finds out who her parents were and meets her daddy (Heborian aka a king, once again no biggie), and they are forced into an all out altercation with Belos and the Ancorites. Belos tries to bind Logan and fails and we don't know where he went.
This book picks up after that and there were SO MANY amazing things about this book!
1. There is never a love triangle (YAY) - Logan and Astarti always love each other and although they face incredible difficulties they are always on the same team. This book is a definite shift from book 1 where Astarti is the emotionally & skill weak one, because in Unbound Logan is fighting his inner demons. His internal struggles are incredibly well written and Astarti's compassion and patience are astounding.
2. The bad guy in this...who is the bad guy? Is it Kronos? is it Belos? Is it ....Heborian? THey all try to manipulate Astarti & logan - but to what end? OMG all of the incredible, captivating, well written character complexities!!!! SO SO SO good!
3. Sometimes final book in a series hit what I call "fast forward syndrome" where the last book is slow for 200 pages and then speeds up to light year proportions attempting to tie up loose ends and really just leaving the reader with serious jet lag and disappointment. THIS BOOK DID NOT DO THAT. This book left me walking on cloud 9 - closure for the thing I need closure - open ended enough that IF I (or Katherine) wanted to return to this series we could - paced well - and completely addictive. It was the perfect end to this series.
I highly recommend! If you haven't read the first two - check them out. If you did read the first two and just haven't gotten to read this yet - just wait. January 21st will be a great day!
Book type: YA Paranormal Romance/Fantasy
Book rating: 4.5/5
Read time: 3 hours
For more reviews check out my blog: www.booksandchai.com
With love, parchment, and freshly mowed grass,
Kendall
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2016
~~~This will be a full series review, do not read if you want to avoid spoilers~~~
The Griever's Mark series, for me, receives a rating of 3 stars out of 5. While I enjoyed it, I didn't feel that the third book lived up to the expectations the first two books set for me. I felt that the ending of Unbound left me unfulfilled. I felt like there were a lot of unanswered questions, which I personally hate when a series ends.
Astarti is marked by a scar given to her at birth called the griever's mark. It is only given to those who are meant to die, and yet she lives. It is a source of incredible shame and embarrassment for her. She works for Belos, a horrible and cruel boss who asks her to complete his evil tasks. Astarti is ashamed to comply; but to disobey means to be Leashed, making her a puppet controlled by Belos. By complying, she maintains her mind and her free will- as much free will as she has in this situation. Astarti manages to escape Belos and his Seven, finding her rescuer to be Primos Loganos, a prince of the Earthmaker people.
The first book of this series started out strong. I was intrigued and, while it wasn't high on my list of series to continue the fact that I could read all of the books on Amazon Prime definitely made me want to continue reading.
Katherine Hurley's writing left me feeling confused. Maybe it's because I drank champagne as I finished Unbound, but I felt that the last quarter of the book was discordant and was hard to follow. In fact, that's how I felt about all of the endings for these books. I definitely enjoyed the story, but towards the half-way mark, I felt that all of the books somewhat lost sight of the plot and were rushed because Ms. Hurley wanted to fit everything into the story.
To sum it up, 5/10 not sure if I would read again, but it was a good concept. The characters were nicely developed, but they still didn't feel real. I wouldn't stop someone from reading this, but I don't know if I would encourage someone to read it either.
The Griever's Mark series, for me, receives a rating of 3 stars out of 5. While I enjoyed it, I didn't feel that the third book lived up to the expectations the first two books set for me. I felt that the ending of Unbound left me unfulfilled. I felt like there were a lot of unanswered questions, which I personally hate when a series ends.
Astarti is marked by a scar given to her at birth called the griever's mark. It is only given to those who are meant to die, and yet she lives. It is a source of incredible shame and embarrassment for her. She works for Belos, a horrible and cruel boss who asks her to complete his evil tasks. Astarti is ashamed to comply; but to disobey means to be Leashed, making her a puppet controlled by Belos. By complying, she maintains her mind and her free will- as much free will as she has in this situation. Astarti manages to escape Belos and his Seven, finding her rescuer to be Primos Loganos, a prince of the Earthmaker people.
The first book of this series started out strong. I was intrigued and, while it wasn't high on my list of series to continue the fact that I could read all of the books on Amazon Prime definitely made me want to continue reading.
Katherine Hurley's writing left me feeling confused. Maybe it's because I drank champagne as I finished Unbound, but I felt that the last quarter of the book was discordant and was hard to follow. In fact, that's how I felt about all of the endings for these books. I definitely enjoyed the story, but towards the half-way mark, I felt that all of the books somewhat lost sight of the plot and were rushed because Ms. Hurley wanted to fit everything into the story.
To sum it up, 5/10 not sure if I would read again, but it was a good concept. The characters were nicely developed, but they still didn't feel real. I wouldn't stop someone from reading this, but I don't know if I would encourage someone to read it either.
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