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The Waystations Trilogy #2
Those Once Forgotten
They were a memory once forgotten. For millennia, they waited. Now, they are coming.
The galaxy has been plunged into chaos, left reeling from the trap Alvera Renata triggered around the ancient alien waystations.
As the leaders of the allied systems desperately try to prepare for what might be coming, Ridley and Kojan go on the hunt in search of answers. But the one person who might hold the key—the rogue starship captain who started it all—is missing in action, and her old friends aren’t the only ones looking for her…
Meanwhile, tensions between the Coalition and the Idran-Var are at breaking point in the aftermath of a brutal attack. The only hope for peace may lie in a fragile alliance between Rivus and Niole, old enemies thrown unwillingly onto the same side. But even if they can bury their past, what will it take to overcome the centuries of bloodshed dividing their people?
As the mysterious signal coming from the waystations counts down, only one thing is for certain: something is coming, and if the fractured factions of the galaxy can’t find a way to stand against it together, it may be the end for them all.
414 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2022
20 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
N.C. Scrimgeour
8 books133 followersN. C. Scrimgeour is a science fiction and fantasy author whose books focus on character-driven stories in vibrant worlds, from folklore fantasy to space opera.
After completing her Masters in English Literature, she went on to work in journalism and communications while pursuing her passion in writing.
She lives in Scotland, where the weather often provides the perfect excuse to sit in front of a computer and work on her next book (while occasionally getting sidetracked by video games).
When she's not writing, she enjoys reading as much fantasy and science fiction as she can get her hands on and cheering on Edinburgh Rugby.
After completing her Masters in English Literature, she went on to work in journalism and communications while pursuing her passion in writing.
She lives in Scotland, where the weather often provides the perfect excuse to sit in front of a computer and work on her next book (while occasionally getting sidetracked by video games).
When she's not writing, she enjoys reading as much fantasy and science fiction as she can get her hands on and cheering on Edinburgh Rugby.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 3, 2025
A page turner
August 8, 2023
Those Once Forgotten continues the epic story that began in the first book. The characters are back, reeling from the explosive ending and it was awesome to see the character growth continue as they each move forward. A lot of what I loved from the first book continues in this one, everything being familiar. It does read as a setup for the grand finale, as a lot of book twos do.
The strength of the novel was the characters. It was refreshing to see from all of the different POVs again, each with their own thoughts and agendas. Especially as they interact and move towards the goals that had been set. I will say that I was more invested with a few of the characters versus some of them, but overall they are all a pleasure to read.
The author continues to impress with the breadth and scope of this universe, handling all of the small strings that have been so intricately placed to weave a beautiful tapestry of a story. The ideas are familiar but are told with a breath of fresh air that makes a reader want to know more and more. I look forward to the final book in the trilogy and see what happens in the grand finale!!
Thank you for taking the time to read my review. As always, happy reading and Stay Great!!
The strength of the novel was the characters. It was refreshing to see from all of the different POVs again, each with their own thoughts and agendas. Especially as they interact and move towards the goals that had been set. I will say that I was more invested with a few of the characters versus some of them, but overall they are all a pleasure to read.
The author continues to impress with the breadth and scope of this universe, handling all of the small strings that have been so intricately placed to weave a beautiful tapestry of a story. The ideas are familiar but are told with a breath of fresh air that makes a reader want to know more and more. I look forward to the final book in the trilogy and see what happens in the grand finale!!
Thank you for taking the time to read my review. As always, happy reading and Stay Great!!
September 7, 2023
I was so excited when the author sent me an audio copy of Those Once Forgotten. I really enjoyed the first book, Those Left Behind, and knew I wanted to continue the series as soon as I could squeeze it in. Having the audio plus a road trip by myself presented the perfect opportunity.
The author wrote an excellent recap of Those Left Behind on her website, which allowed me to dive back into this series with the details fresh on my mind. It immediately rekindled my excitement and I was able to get back into the story easily. I really enjoyed where the different threads of it left off and continued to enjoy their separate but connected storylines in this second book as well. Each one was very distinct so it was easy to follow along again.
There was one storyline where I struggled a bit with the concept. I won’t spoil it here but it reminds me a lot of a type of magic that I really don’t enjoy so I’m confident in saying that this was a personal problem rather than the author’s writing so don’t let this discourage you from continuing with this series. I did like how it tied back into the story and was something new (to me) to experience in this genre.
The one thing that really stood out to me was Scrimgeour’s ability to control my emotions. I often feel sad or happy or excited when reading books but she also had me very angry, not at the book but a specific character. If I could’ve, I would’ve given that character a piece of my mind. I felt so protective over his opposite character despite that one obviously not needing any protection due to their own badassness (that’s now a word). I don’t remember ever feeling this angry on a character’s behalf before. I recently realized that feeling emotionally connected to either the characters or the story and world is really important to me and Scrimgeour did that really well.
Something else that’s very important to me is that each book in a series has its own arc within the overall series arc. This can sometimes be difficult to do with multiple storylines that go off on their own. I think this book mostly falls into the category of having its own arcs but some of them did feel a little unresolved and more like cliffhangers for the final book. I have a feeling I know where they are going and am excited for that but the ending definitely felt like more of a setup for the end of the series than a clear resolution of its own arcs. Again, this is very much a personal preference in my reading that I have recently realized.
Overall, I really enjoyed my time with this book and will continue to recommend the series to other readers. The characters and emotional impact are excellent, which always is the main reason for me to continue reading an author’s works. I’m so glad she also has a fantasy series now because I will start that as soon as I finish with The Waystations Trilogy. Sea of Souls is one of my most anticipated books of the year!
The author wrote an excellent recap of Those Left Behind on her website, which allowed me to dive back into this series with the details fresh on my mind. It immediately rekindled my excitement and I was able to get back into the story easily. I really enjoyed where the different threads of it left off and continued to enjoy their separate but connected storylines in this second book as well. Each one was very distinct so it was easy to follow along again.
There was one storyline where I struggled a bit with the concept. I won’t spoil it here but it reminds me a lot of a type of magic that I really don’t enjoy so I’m confident in saying that this was a personal problem rather than the author’s writing so don’t let this discourage you from continuing with this series. I did like how it tied back into the story and was something new (to me) to experience in this genre.
The one thing that really stood out to me was Scrimgeour’s ability to control my emotions. I often feel sad or happy or excited when reading books but she also had me very angry, not at the book but a specific character. If I could’ve, I would’ve given that character a piece of my mind. I felt so protective over his opposite character despite that one obviously not needing any protection due to their own badassness (that’s now a word). I don’t remember ever feeling this angry on a character’s behalf before. I recently realized that feeling emotionally connected to either the characters or the story and world is really important to me and Scrimgeour did that really well.
Something else that’s very important to me is that each book in a series has its own arc within the overall series arc. This can sometimes be difficult to do with multiple storylines that go off on their own. I think this book mostly falls into the category of having its own arcs but some of them did feel a little unresolved and more like cliffhangers for the final book. I have a feeling I know where they are going and am excited for that but the ending definitely felt like more of a setup for the end of the series than a clear resolution of its own arcs. Again, this is very much a personal preference in my reading that I have recently realized.
Overall, I really enjoyed my time with this book and will continue to recommend the series to other readers. The characters and emotional impact are excellent, which always is the main reason for me to continue reading an author’s works. I’m so glad she also has a fantasy series now because I will start that as soon as I finish with The Waystations Trilogy. Sea of Souls is one of my most anticipated books of the year!
June 1, 2023
3.5/5
I'm still enjoying the series' pace and characters in book two. From a worldbuilding standpoint, I really am fascinated by how the different species/races are tied in to the larger threat from the mysterious ancients that were introduced in book one.
The antagonistic force in this is intriguing, and I really look forward to how Scrimgeour wraps everything up together at the end. I like so many of the character interactions and relationships, and there were some very hard hitting emotional moments in this middle book. Honestly, there's no middle book slump going on in this!
There were some character motives that threw me for a bit of a loop, and one storyline that I lost a bit of interest in. But overall, I think it's a solid continuation from book one and I'm excited to see what happens at the end!
I'm still enjoying the series' pace and characters in book two. From a worldbuilding standpoint, I really am fascinated by how the different species/races are tied in to the larger threat from the mysterious ancients that were introduced in book one.
The antagonistic force in this is intriguing, and I really look forward to how Scrimgeour wraps everything up together at the end. I like so many of the character interactions and relationships, and there were some very hard hitting emotional moments in this middle book. Honestly, there's no middle book slump going on in this!
There were some character motives that threw me for a bit of a loop, and one storyline that I lost a bit of interest in. But overall, I think it's a solid continuation from book one and I'm excited to see what happens at the end!
December 29, 2023
This is another book where I had a good time listening to the audio edition. Having a good narration obviously helps with the overall enjoyment factor, but I also really liked the progression that we got here. We start off pretty much where we finished book one, which I thought was a really strong ending, so it obviously worked well for me to jump right back in.
What I will say though, is I loved the ending of this one even more. The book itself was probably between 4 and 4.5 stars as I was going through it but the ending was really intense with some great moments in it and that elevated my perception of the book overall to 5 stars and I'm really excited for what that means for book three.
I'm really enjoying the series overall, it's a good military space opera in the vein of The Expanse, but maybe a little bit more condensed. There are some good characters who I'm really enjoying, some different races as well, or different species, as we go through and get a look at the different planets in this universe. Overall, it's just really well written, really enjoyable and it ends off with a really cracking final few chapters.
What I will say though, is I loved the ending of this one even more. The book itself was probably between 4 and 4.5 stars as I was going through it but the ending was really intense with some great moments in it and that elevated my perception of the book overall to 5 stars and I'm really excited for what that means for book three.
I'm really enjoying the series overall, it's a good military space opera in the vein of The Expanse, but maybe a little bit more condensed. There are some good characters who I'm really enjoying, some different races as well, or different species, as we go through and get a look at the different planets in this universe. Overall, it's just really well written, really enjoyable and it ends off with a really cracking final few chapters.
August 17, 2023
An excellent follow-up to book 1 and a great set up for the third and final book.
Further Universe and character building is well done and the action is out of this world.
I can't wait to dive into the final book to see how this superb series concludes.
Further Universe and character building is well done and the action is out of this world.
I can't wait to dive into the final book to see how this superb series concludes.
June 4, 2024
"We are those who resist."
More like a 3.5/75 rounded up? I'm still really enjoying this series, but I felt like things dragged near the middle of this book a bit. My attention wandered in a few chapters, and one of the points of view I really liked from the first book seemed utterly different in this one.
Book two picks up where book one left off, with the waystations starting to pop off with mysterious signals, and each of the main players from the first book off on their own little adventures. We follow these different characters on their stories, with Kojan trying to come to terms with his impending death-by-implant-malfunction, Rivus butting heads with Tarvan over whether they should secure a friendship with the enemy-of-my-mysterious-enemy and create a united front, Niole trying to figure out if she's Idran-Var or a legionnaire, and Ridley waxing hot and cold over Halressan (mostly hot) and supposedly doing stuff plot-related, but not a lot actually happens with her.
If you couldn't tell from that, Ridley's POV was my least favorite in this book. (character/plot spoilers here) But beyond that, the rest of the book was pretty great. Without having to take time to do as much worldbuilding and story setup, this book was very much wall-to-wall action. Lots of flashy things happen to keep you interested, and I particularly liked Rivus's POV in this one. The angst he feels over his best friend is fantastic.
Just an overall really interesting, fun sci-fi book. Absolutely picking up book 3.
More like a 3.5/75 rounded up? I'm still really enjoying this series, but I felt like things dragged near the middle of this book a bit. My attention wandered in a few chapters, and one of the points of view I really liked from the first book seemed utterly different in this one.
Book two picks up where book one left off, with the waystations starting to pop off with mysterious signals, and each of the main players from the first book off on their own little adventures. We follow these different characters on their stories, with Kojan trying to come to terms with his impending death-by-implant-malfunction, Rivus butting heads with Tarvan over whether they should secure a friendship with the enemy-of-my-mysterious-enemy and create a united front, Niole trying to figure out if she's Idran-Var or a legionnaire, and Ridley waxing hot and cold over Halressan (mostly hot) and supposedly doing stuff plot-related, but not a lot actually happens with her.
If you couldn't tell from that, Ridley's POV was my least favorite in this book. (character/plot spoilers here) But beyond that, the rest of the book was pretty great. Without having to take time to do as much worldbuilding and story setup, this book was very much wall-to-wall action. Lots of flashy things happen to keep you interested, and I particularly liked Rivus's POV in this one. The angst he feels over his best friend is fantastic.
Just an overall really interesting, fun sci-fi book. Absolutely picking up book 3.
January 20, 2025
The Waystations Trilogy 02 Those Once Forgotten by N.C. Scrimgeour
challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective sad tense
Medium-paced
Plot or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters are a main focus? Yes
4.25 Stars
As the middle book of a trilogy, this would always be a transition book. We know the characters from the first book, and now we have to recontextualize them within new circumstances that they've been put in.
There is a NEW bad guy in the universe...that no one realized BEFORE. They can remain fighting against each other and lose to the new threat, or they can band together, and STILL lose to the new threat. Yeah, it's that dire.
With this new viewpoint, the Legionnaires and the Idran-Var have to come to grips with this new framework (or not).
The characters, on an individual point...also have to come to see this new circumstance...as opposing what they've always known OR finally figure out that THAT'S why it never made sense in the past, and NOW they have found their place in the universe...with a renewed and TRUE purpose moving forward.
Loved the struggle of Niole.
Also Ridley is still my favourite character, and the bumps in the road for her and the people she's been interacting with (especially on the beach). That was sweet and also frustrating. Ugh.
And now that I understand Alvera a LOT better (having read The Exodus Betrayal, a must read Prequel), her plight is SO much more impactful.
Yeah, I really enjoyed this story, though it is a "transitional" piece between what is known, to what will happen. Yeah, will be picking up Those Who Resist...and of course, I didn't understand the title of the final book...till now. So it makes SO much more sense. A-Ha!
challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective sad tense
Medium-paced
Plot or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters are a main focus? Yes
4.25 Stars
As the middle book of a trilogy, this would always be a transition book. We know the characters from the first book, and now we have to recontextualize them within new circumstances that they've been put in.
There is a NEW bad guy in the universe...that no one realized BEFORE. They can remain fighting against each other and lose to the new threat, or they can band together, and STILL lose to the new threat. Yeah, it's that dire.
With this new viewpoint, the Legionnaires and the Idran-Var have to come to grips with this new framework (or not).
The characters, on an individual point...also have to come to see this new circumstance...as opposing what they've always known OR finally figure out that THAT'S why it never made sense in the past, and NOW they have found their place in the universe...with a renewed and TRUE purpose moving forward.
Loved the struggle of Niole.
Also Ridley is still my favourite character, and the bumps in the road for her and the people she's been interacting with (especially on the beach). That was sweet and also frustrating. Ugh.
And now that I understand Alvera a LOT better (having read The Exodus Betrayal, a must read Prequel), her plight is SO much more impactful.
Yeah, I really enjoyed this story, though it is a "transitional" piece between what is known, to what will happen. Yeah, will be picking up Those Who Resist...and of course, I didn't understand the title of the final book...till now. So it makes SO much more sense. A-Ha!
April 25, 2022
Those Once Forgotten is exactly what a reader wants in a sci-fi sequel - high stakes, fast-paced, a little romance to hit you in the feels, and TONS of adventure. This book was just as good as the first, if not better.
This bold, character-driven space opera is brimming with complexity. The plot was exciting and heartfelt, the characters vivid and multidimensional. I can't wait for the third in the series.
This bold, character-driven space opera is brimming with complexity. The plot was exciting and heartfelt, the characters vivid and multidimensional. I can't wait for the third in the series.
November 4, 2023
i liked the continuation of book 1 - all in action and i teared up towards to end (if you know you know).
it all looks promising for a fantastic final in book 3.
it all looks promising for a fantastic final in book 3.
July 3, 2024
The middle episode of a trilogy can feel like a filler (see Star Wars episode 8) where things mark time and set up the finale - not Those Once Forgotten.
This book picks up where part 1 finishes and the story kicks on at pace. You find out more about the characters’ backstories and motivations, and all of them develop as they face the threat of the curators.
I really enjoy the multi-pov chapters and seeing how each character’s storyline progresses. They each face jeopardy and intrigue and have to find ways to escape to save themselves, their relationships and the galaxy. Lots of good sci-fi action the way I like it - spaceships and aliens, with epic battles thrown in.
A excellent series so far, I’m looking forward to reading the conclusion of The Waystations Trilogy in Those Who Resist.
This book picks up where part 1 finishes and the story kicks on at pace. You find out more about the characters’ backstories and motivations, and all of them develop as they face the threat of the curators.
I really enjoy the multi-pov chapters and seeing how each character’s storyline progresses. They each face jeopardy and intrigue and have to find ways to escape to save themselves, their relationships and the galaxy. Lots of good sci-fi action the way I like it - spaceships and aliens, with epic battles thrown in.
A excellent series so far, I’m looking forward to reading the conclusion of The Waystations Trilogy in Those Who Resist.
Read
August 14, 20234.5 Excellent follow up to book 1 and a great set up for book 3. Superb sci-fi series.
March 27, 2025
They were a memory once forgotten. For millennia, they waited. Now, they are coming.
This book is a continuation of this epic story across the galaxy. We have the same characters and it was really great to have their POVs again. The more we read of our characters the more we get to understand what drives them, what they're looking for, what they're battling. There's definitely some characters I preferred more than others, possibly because of the way they resonated with me.
“You’ve told me plenty of times who you really are. Maybe it’s time I finally listen.”
The main thing with this story is that we get answers behind the larger mystery at play, and I ate it up! I loved this approach to the issues. I wasn't sure where it was going but I'm so glad it went down this path. It feels as though the author has put a lot of thought into her story and not just her overall direction but in the finer details. It's all coming together and it makes complete sense (as funny as it is to say that about a drama in space..) but its important that we can see how they've got to this point to understand the risks at play.
"All at once, she sees how it happened. She understands how immortal, how infinite, an empire built from memories might become. How the fleeting measure of a single life might become as insignificant as a grain of sand. How an age in the life of a galaxy might pass in the echo of a heartbeat."
I loved watching the connections between our characters unfold. We've got different species putting their differences aside and finding a family in one another. We've got others try to mend bridges but with great difficulty. We've got weak alliances and very political dynamics at play. It's so interesting and there's plenty to keep us thinking about.
It's such a complex story with characters that are incredibly deep. The author goes beneath the surface and really connects us with her cast, even ones I didn't agree with I completely understood them.
Filled with action!
There is far more action in this book bringing us scenes which cut me up. Scrimgeour is brilliant at making me feel so many different emotions. The story and action does not relent and I had to pause just to catch up with how quickly things progressed. That's my only slight negative of this book is that it is so fast paced it felt a bit jarring at times, but I quickly caught myself up.
"A sob broke loose from somewhere inside him. It wasn’t pain—pain would have been too easy. He could live with pain. Instead, his body shook with an excruciating emptiness, a loss that numbed him to his core."
This book is a continuation of this epic story across the galaxy. We have the same characters and it was really great to have their POVs again. The more we read of our characters the more we get to understand what drives them, what they're looking for, what they're battling. There's definitely some characters I preferred more than others, possibly because of the way they resonated with me.
“You’ve told me plenty of times who you really are. Maybe it’s time I finally listen.”
The main thing with this story is that we get answers behind the larger mystery at play, and I ate it up! I loved this approach to the issues. I wasn't sure where it was going but I'm so glad it went down this path. It feels as though the author has put a lot of thought into her story and not just her overall direction but in the finer details. It's all coming together and it makes complete sense (as funny as it is to say that about a drama in space..) but its important that we can see how they've got to this point to understand the risks at play.
"All at once, she sees how it happened. She understands how immortal, how infinite, an empire built from memories might become. How the fleeting measure of a single life might become as insignificant as a grain of sand. How an age in the life of a galaxy might pass in the echo of a heartbeat."
I loved watching the connections between our characters unfold. We've got different species putting their differences aside and finding a family in one another. We've got others try to mend bridges but with great difficulty. We've got weak alliances and very political dynamics at play. It's so interesting and there's plenty to keep us thinking about.
It's such a complex story with characters that are incredibly deep. The author goes beneath the surface and really connects us with her cast, even ones I didn't agree with I completely understood them.
Filled with action!
There is far more action in this book bringing us scenes which cut me up. Scrimgeour is brilliant at making me feel so many different emotions. The story and action does not relent and I had to pause just to catch up with how quickly things progressed. That's my only slight negative of this book is that it is so fast paced it felt a bit jarring at times, but I quickly caught myself up.
"A sob broke loose from somewhere inside him. It wasn’t pain—pain would have been too easy. He could live with pain. Instead, his body shook with an excruciating emptiness, a loss that numbed him to his core."
August 18, 2023
One of my constant issues with large-cast books is that I tend to forget names very easily. Those Left Behind had five different points of view and the result was that I had forgotten almost everyone by the time I started this book🤦♀️ Thankfully she recaps in small doses as she goes so that I had no problem picking the story back up!
The big ancient civilization mystery was my favorite part of this one. What are the Curators and what are they doing? I don’t mean Ridley and her little side quest but the Dreamer storyline! While the two main warring factions (told by Rivus and Niole) are trying to find either peace or all out war, we finally learn about what is coming through the Waystations.
It’s… A cool concept that is totally spoilery. Let’s just say I haven’t seen it before.
My other favorite part is that the storylines start to intersect again towards the end. Rivus and Niole, Dreamer and Rivus, Kojan in the middle, and everyone experiences great tragedy. The stakes were high in this installment and I was surprised (and delighted) by the death toll.
Eventually we streamline the storylines towards the end with everyone (except Ridley) coming together to face this new enemy that is bent on wiping out all four races. I honestly just don’t care for Ridley's storyline, she’s trying to show the more “human” side of mass species extinction but I’ve yet to see her really do much and she’s not helping the others yet. That and the 'romance' seems like forced proximity🤷♀️
Overall, I love these books. They combine everything from space opera to first contact to galactic empire with cybernetics and so much more. If you want an exciting sci-fi series that’s packed full of action and interesting characters, definitely check it out . I 100% recommend the audiobooks too!
The big ancient civilization mystery was my favorite part of this one. What are the Curators and what are they doing? I don’t mean Ridley and her little side quest but the Dreamer storyline! While the two main warring factions (told by Rivus and Niole) are trying to find either peace or all out war, we finally learn about what is coming through the Waystations.
It’s… A cool concept that is totally spoilery. Let’s just say I haven’t seen it before.
My other favorite part is that the storylines start to intersect again towards the end. Rivus and Niole, Dreamer and Rivus, Kojan in the middle, and everyone experiences great tragedy. The stakes were high in this installment and I was surprised (and delighted) by the death toll.
Eventually we streamline the storylines towards the end with everyone (except Ridley) coming together to face this new enemy that is bent on wiping out all four races. I honestly just don’t care for Ridley's storyline, she’s trying to show the more “human” side of mass species extinction but I’ve yet to see her really do much and she’s not helping the others yet. That and the 'romance' seems like forced proximity🤷♀️
Overall, I love these books. They combine everything from space opera to first contact to galactic empire with cybernetics and so much more. If you want an exciting sci-fi series that’s packed full of action and interesting characters, definitely check it out . I 100% recommend the audiobooks too!
September 13, 2022
THOSE ONCE FORGOTTEN is the action-packed sequel to THOSE LEFT BEHIND, as the mysterious enemy grows closer and the characters unearth the history and purpose of the unknown enemy, all while getting distracted fighting one another.
The mystery of the enemy the waystations are counting down to was so good. It unfurls over two POVs, the information being gathered from various places to reveal a very chilling enemy. Their goals are so clinical it's unnerving - and their history shows just how hard they're going to be to fight. This book also hints at the cost it's going to take as punches are not pulled and there are irreversible deaths.
The other POVs are following the Idran-Var/coalition war (aka, two old enemies stubbornly duking it out despite people trying to remind them that the waystations are counting down to something.) That is a brutal war, dealing with the fall out of the destruction of a planet in the previous book, as Niole and Rivus struggle to find their place in the conflict. Those are definitely chapters where you're rooting for them to find common ground despite all the barriers in their way - the personal and national affronts.
The "dreamer" sections were intriguing as they were in a different tend to the others (third present, rather than third past). This made them really stand out and added to the unreal sense of what was happening around the dreamer.
The finale, THOSE WHO RESIST, is out soon and I can't wait! Time to read the prequel, THE EXODUS BETRAYAL, in the meantime!
The mystery of the enemy the waystations are counting down to was so good. It unfurls over two POVs, the information being gathered from various places to reveal a very chilling enemy. Their goals are so clinical it's unnerving - and their history shows just how hard they're going to be to fight. This book also hints at the cost it's going to take as punches are not pulled and there are irreversible deaths.
The other POVs are following the Idran-Var/coalition war (aka, two old enemies stubbornly duking it out despite people trying to remind them that the waystations are counting down to something.) That is a brutal war, dealing with the fall out of the destruction of a planet in the previous book, as Niole and Rivus struggle to find their place in the conflict. Those are definitely chapters where you're rooting for them to find common ground despite all the barriers in their way - the personal and national affronts.
The "dreamer" sections were intriguing as they were in a different tend to the others (third present, rather than third past). This made them really stand out and added to the unreal sense of what was happening around the dreamer.
The finale, THOSE WHO RESIST, is out soon and I can't wait! Time to read the prequel, THE EXODUS BETRAYAL, in the meantime!
July 23, 2022
I'm gonna be honest, I think this is step down from Those Left Behind.
Those Once forgotten does what any second book in a trilogy should - it builds and expands upon its predecessor, and sets up the stage for the final show down that is to come in the final installment - and it does it well. We get answers to some questions, but there is enough yet to be revealed that I'm excited for book three.
However, what were minor frustration in Those Left Behind, I found much worse here. I still can't stand Serric and the fact that Scrimgeour seems to be setting up am un-earned romance between him and Niole leaves a bad taste in my mouth. But worse, while Kojan came off as naive in book one, here he's turned into a full-blown miserable whiny twat, and the only truly redeeming aspect of his POV chapters was Eleion. I understand he is distraught over what's happening to him, but transferring your mommy issues to Renata and blaming her for everything and anything is juvenile. Put your grown up pants on, boy, the galaxy is coming to an end.
Ridley continues to be an adorable nerd, and I like her character progression. There's a criminally small amount of Renata in this installment, though what we get to see through her POV is probably the most interesting aspect of the story. I'm still on the fence about Rivus and Niole, but I do have to admit there is a lot of complexity to their stories.
Overall, a good book, though not as good as the previous installment of the series. I look forward to the finale of the trilogy.
Those Once forgotten does what any second book in a trilogy should - it builds and expands upon its predecessor, and sets up the stage for the final show down that is to come in the final installment - and it does it well. We get answers to some questions, but there is enough yet to be revealed that I'm excited for book three.
However, what were minor frustration in Those Left Behind, I found much worse here. I still can't stand Serric and the fact that Scrimgeour seems to be setting up am un-earned romance between him and Niole leaves a bad taste in my mouth. But worse, while Kojan came off as naive in book one, here he's turned into a full-blown miserable whiny twat, and the only truly redeeming aspect of his POV chapters was Eleion. I understand he is distraught over what's happening to him, but transferring your mommy issues to Renata and blaming her for everything and anything is juvenile. Put your grown up pants on, boy, the galaxy is coming to an end.
Ridley continues to be an adorable nerd, and I like her character progression. There's a criminally small amount of Renata in this installment, though what we get to see through her POV is probably the most interesting aspect of the story. I'm still on the fence about Rivus and Niole, but I do have to admit there is a lot of complexity to their stories.
Overall, a good book, though not as good as the previous installment of the series. I look forward to the finale of the trilogy.
June 20, 2022
I've been waiting to get my hands on this book since I finished the first one. It didn't disappoint! The sequel still has all the ingredients of a great space opera and manages to become even more intense than the first book. Everything only grows in scope as the reader uncovers the secrets behind the waystations, the stakes rise even higher, the tension soars, and the characters are pushed to their limits.
This continues to be a character-driven story, with everyone pursuing their goals. Some of the characters undergo considerable growth, some are forced into roles they aren't ready for, and everyone has to make difficult decisions and deal with their consequences. There is also drama, heartbreak, true friendship, twists, turns and high sexual tension along with angst between a couple of characters making it an even more exciting read.
If you loved the first book, Those Once Forgotten will fulfill all the delicious promises it made. If you haven't started the trilogy yet, you might enjoy it if you are into epic space operas, complex characters, interesting aliens, mysterious artifacts, intricate worlds and exciting adventures.
I had lots of fun reading it and can't wait for the final book!
This review was first published on my website about sci-fi where you'll find more reviews, lists, interviews and other stuff.
This continues to be a character-driven story, with everyone pursuing their goals. Some of the characters undergo considerable growth, some are forced into roles they aren't ready for, and everyone has to make difficult decisions and deal with their consequences. There is also drama, heartbreak, true friendship, twists, turns and high sexual tension along with angst between a couple of characters making it an even more exciting read.
If you loved the first book, Those Once Forgotten will fulfill all the delicious promises it made. If you haven't started the trilogy yet, you might enjoy it if you are into epic space operas, complex characters, interesting aliens, mysterious artifacts, intricate worlds and exciting adventures.
I had lots of fun reading it and can't wait for the final book!
This review was first published on my website about sci-fi where you'll find more reviews, lists, interviews and other stuff.
July 4, 2024
Rating - 3.5 Stars.
Liked it but not as much as Book 1 because the pace was too slow for me. I'm primarily a plot driven reader but sadly the plot was hardly moving forward especially in the middle portion.
This installment will be a treat to read for character driven readers.
Ridley's POV throughout the book felt unnecessary and too angsty to me, Kojan's POV similarly irritated me at first because of his constant self pitying and blaming every problem in his life on Alvera Renata. Grow up kid! His chapters were saved by Eleion's presence. Loved her.
Will read the last part because my favourite character Alvera is back. Let's see how this story ends.
Liked it but not as much as Book 1 because the pace was too slow for me. I'm primarily a plot driven reader but sadly the plot was hardly moving forward especially in the middle portion.
This installment will be a treat to read for character driven readers.
Ridley's POV throughout the book felt unnecessary and too angsty to me, Kojan's POV similarly irritated me at first because of his constant self pitying and blaming every problem in his life on Alvera Renata. Grow up kid! His chapters were saved by Eleion's presence. Loved her.
Will read the last part because my favourite character Alvera is back. Let's see how this story ends.
Read
April 26, 2022Those Once Forgotten is OUT NOW!
Releasing a sequel is so much more nerve wracking than the first book—there’s a lot more expectation and a real hope that it delivers the same kind of experience that made readers love the series in the first place. With Those Once Forgotten, I wanted to raise the stakes, up the action, and dive deeper into the characters that resonated with readers so much.
Picking up a few weeks after the end of Those Left Behind, the story continues the journeys of our favourite characters as they each grapple with their own struggles amidst the looming threat of the waystations.
If you enjoyed the first book in the trilogy, Those Once Forgotten will provide you with even more of the things you loved: new planets to be explored, ancient alien secrets to uncover and long-simmering tensions coming to a head.
Give it a shot if you enjoy:
🚀 Character-driven action and adventure in space
�� Found family and heart-warming friendships
⚔️ Old enemies forced to fight together against a greater threat
🪐 Multi-threaded stories spanning the entire galaxy
Releasing a sequel is so much more nerve wracking than the first book—there’s a lot more expectation and a real hope that it delivers the same kind of experience that made readers love the series in the first place. With Those Once Forgotten, I wanted to raise the stakes, up the action, and dive deeper into the characters that resonated with readers so much.
Picking up a few weeks after the end of Those Left Behind, the story continues the journeys of our favourite characters as they each grapple with their own struggles amidst the looming threat of the waystations.
If you enjoyed the first book in the trilogy, Those Once Forgotten will provide you with even more of the things you loved: new planets to be explored, ancient alien secrets to uncover and long-simmering tensions coming to a head.
Give it a shot if you enjoy:
🚀 Character-driven action and adventure in space
�� Found family and heart-warming friendships
⚔️ Old enemies forced to fight together against a greater threat
🪐 Multi-threaded stories spanning the entire galaxy
April 26, 2022
So I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this book and let me TELL YOU. The first book of this series is strong but the second? Unmatched. Scrimgeour takes all these characters that we love from book 1 and pushes them to their limits, revealing the good, the bad, and the ugly of them. The plot and twists are amazing, but it's the characters I keep coming back to, because to be honest I'd read an entire trilogy of slice-of-life happenstances with them. But the epic space battles, the gray area between good and bad, and the way time has a way of warping perceptions all play a part in this epic sequel. The second half of it keeps ramping the tension until I was having to remind myself not to skim, because I was so keen to see what happened. Definitely got startled by someone calling my name because I was enraptured. Second book syndrome who? I can't wait for the conclusion of this trilogy!
She owes me compensation for some of the deaths though I still haven't forgiven. Or forgotten.
She owes me compensation for some of the deaths though I still haven't forgiven. Or forgotten.
May 20, 2025
4.5 stars
Second book in the space opera Waystation trilogy, this continues the events of the previous as the different characters brace themselves for the arriving of a mysterious enemies.
I loooooved this as much as the first book.
The author does such a great job with the world building and I loved the type of big bad enemies the characters are confronted with.
The characters are still compelling in their struggles and arcs though some more than others. I especially liked Niole (queennnn also her relation with Serric is developing in a very interesting direction I’m looking forward to it) and Rivus (his relationship with his best friend was properly angsty just as I like it) PoVs. Loved reading Alvara’s parts which were creepy and added an horror element, Ridley’s was interesting plot wise but the sapphic yearning was the best part, Kojan wasn’t my favourite but I do like his friendship with Eleion.
Plot wise this was great though I felt some elements were developed too quickly.
Still I’m definitely looking forward to reading the third book.
Second book in the space opera Waystation trilogy, this continues the events of the previous as the different characters brace themselves for the arriving of a mysterious enemies.
I loooooved this as much as the first book.
The author does such a great job with the world building and I loved the type of big bad enemies the characters are confronted with.
The characters are still compelling in their struggles and arcs though some more than others. I especially liked Niole (queennnn also her relation with Serric is developing in a very interesting direction I’m looking forward to it) and Rivus (his relationship with his best friend was properly angsty just as I like it) PoVs. Loved reading Alvara’s parts which were creepy and added an horror element, Ridley’s was interesting plot wise but the sapphic yearning was the best part, Kojan wasn’t my favourite but I do like his friendship with Eleion.
Plot wise this was great though I felt some elements were developed too quickly.
Still I’m definitely looking forward to reading the third book.
April 5, 2024
I'm really not sure how to rate this. The first half felt like a 3 stars but the second half felt like 5 so I guess that averages out to 4.
Not much happened in the first half and it really felt like extreme middle-book syndrome of just setting up for book 3. But then a major event happens around the halfway point, along with some major reveals on the big enemy that I had thought would have been relegated to the third book. The second half was a lot more thrilling and I'm excited to see what happens next. There was also one character that sacrificed themself and I was surprised by how much it affected me since my major complaint of the first book was my lack of connection to the characters. I'm excited to read the last book but a bit nervous on how so many plot threads can possibly be wrapped up!
Not much happened in the first half and it really felt like extreme middle-book syndrome of just setting up for book 3. But then a major event happens around the halfway point, along with some major reveals on the big enemy that I had thought would have been relegated to the third book. The second half was a lot more thrilling and I'm excited to see what happens next. There was also one character that sacrificed themself and I was surprised by how much it affected me since my major complaint of the first book was my lack of connection to the characters. I'm excited to read the last book but a bit nervous on how so many plot threads can possibly be wrapped up!
May 12, 2022
I was really looking forwards to reading this after reading the first book and pre-ordering this one, and I wasn't disappointed. Back with our great cast of characters, we get to see them struggle to resolve their own conflicts even as they try to come to terms with the greater conflict evolving around them. Those Once Forgotten dives even further into the different species and factions in its universe, giving tantalising insights into the mind of the enemy.
There were moments of triumph, moments of heartbreak (RIP my favourite(?) ship) and moments of despair. I'm very much looking forwards to the final book in the trilogy to see how it all gets resolved.
There were moments of triumph, moments of heartbreak (RIP my favourite(?) ship) and moments of despair. I'm very much looking forwards to the final book in the trilogy to see how it all gets resolved.
May 21, 2024
Picking up right where Those Left Behind left off, we continue to learn more about the entities that created the waystations that brought the Coalition together as well as their diabolical nature and plan for the galaxy. Told from the perspective of many different characters representing each civilization in the coalition, NC again invites us to a galaxy brimming with life and love and it's these smaller moments amongst the devastation in which the story really shines. The balance of widescreen action and smaller intimate moments of contemplation and the weight of making decisions that affect trillions makes for a very compelling read!
April 9, 2025
I adored the second instalment of this triology. I think book 2 must be a hard balance to strike, setting up the finale without dragging things out, and keeping the story engaging. Scrimgeour does this beautifully.
I'm writing this review a bit of time after I've read it so I don't have as many specifics as I usually do, except to say that it made me want to start book 3 right away. Which I did.
If you love space operas, grab this trilogy.
Rich characterization, amazing worldbuilding, and a very believable and creepy enemy.
I'm writing this review a bit of time after I've read it so I don't have as many specifics as I usually do, except to say that it made me want to start book 3 right away. Which I did.
If you love space operas, grab this trilogy.
Rich characterization, amazing worldbuilding, and a very believable and creepy enemy.
May 6, 2022
An excellent sequel! The plot thickens as the characters delve deeper into the mystery of the waystations and the ultimate fate that could await them should they fail to unravel it in time. The story is fast-paced, the dialogue is snappy, and the characters are down-to-earth and relatable as always. I really enjoyed reading this installment and I can’t wait for Book Three!
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.
June 14, 2024
I was about halfway through THOSE LEFT BEHIND (The Waystations Trilogy, Book One) when I found myself so enraptured by the story that I had to buy the remaining books of the trilogy, including In THOSE ONCE FORGOTTEN.
Scrimgeour delves deeper into the mystery of the four Waystations as the characters face their own conflicts in the subplots, which still feed into the overall struggle. It is quite a feat by Scrimgeour, whose love and passion of great science fiction -- and great storytelling -- are evident in every chapter. In fact, it is safe to say that among modern authors of science fiction, Scrimgeour has set herself apart with this series, and may very well be in a league of her own; she expertly succeeds in providing readers with an incredible, adventurous tale that wisely balances intellectual cognizance with emotional resonance.
When the horrific mystery behind the Waystations is finally revealed in THOSE ONCE FORGOTTEN, readers feel the same sense of despair and hopelessness as the key characters because Scrimgeour has crafted an ancient cosmic nemesis that has endured for eons, making it virtually impossible to defeat. And yet, as with all great stories...
...hope endures.
Scrimgeour delves deeper into the mystery of the four Waystations as the characters face their own conflicts in the subplots, which still feed into the overall struggle. It is quite a feat by Scrimgeour, whose love and passion of great science fiction -- and great storytelling -- are evident in every chapter. In fact, it is safe to say that among modern authors of science fiction, Scrimgeour has set herself apart with this series, and may very well be in a league of her own; she expertly succeeds in providing readers with an incredible, adventurous tale that wisely balances intellectual cognizance with emotional resonance.
When the horrific mystery behind the Waystations is finally revealed in THOSE ONCE FORGOTTEN, readers feel the same sense of despair and hopelessness as the key characters because Scrimgeour has crafted an ancient cosmic nemesis that has endured for eons, making it virtually impossible to defeat. And yet, as with all great stories...
...hope endures.
June 20, 2022
The saga continues and takes a huge step up in every way. With the characters already fleshed out in the previous novel, more time is spent exploring the universe and going deeper into the lore. The Hive is an incredibly cool take on a familiar sci-fi concept and is used in a very well in a refreshing way. The conclusion leaves you excited for the third book.
MVP: Niole.
MVP: Niole.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2022
This was such a fun space adventure. The first one was fantastic, and this ramped up the action, intrigue, and drama. And so much new lore. Absolutely loved it. Can’t wait for the finale, but I also don’t want it to end!
May 8, 2022
This was a good one. It has all, politics, love, adventure and lots of action. The fights jage been extremely well crafted and one can almost feel the action jumping out of the words.
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