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The Beautiful #3
The Righteous: The third instalment in the The Beautiful series from the New York Times bestselling author of The Wrath and the Dawn
In this latest installment of The New York Times bestselling series that began with The Beautiful, Pippa journeys to the treacherous and beguiling world of the fey in search of answers only to fall in love.Following the explosive events of The Damned , Odette faces a vampire's final death. The Court of the Lions have done everything they can to save her but have failed. A healer from the Sylvan Vale could help her, but only Arjun Desai, as a half fey, can cross the boundary between realms. The Sylvan Vale is a world Arjun despises, and in return, it despises him. But knowing it could save Odette, he returns to the Vale with all haste, leaving the mirrored tare between the two worlds open and unwittingly setting the stage for both love and war.It's mere days until Pippa Montrose is to wed Phoebus Devereux and become a member of his well-heeled family, offering salvation to her own. But Celine is missing. Pippa has no idea where her best friend has gone, but she's certain it's in the company of vampire Sébastien Saint Germain and that Arjun can lead her to them. Pippa enjoins the help of Eloise, the daughter of a powerful sorceress, to discover the gateway Arjun uses to travel between worlds. Pippa, tired of hesitating in life, marches right through in search of her friend. But what she discovers on the other side is a dangerous, duplicitous world full of mischief and magic she doesn't understand, and most unexpectedly, she finds love.Author of the New York Times bestselling duology The Wrath & The Dawn , Renée Ahdieh is back. The Righteous is the can't-miss lead in to what will be a much-anticipated finale of a can't miss quartet.
432 pages, Paperback
First published December 7, 2021
354 people are currently reading
25694 people want to read
About the author
Renée Ahdieh
31 books18k followersRenée Ahdieh is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. When she’s not reading, she enjoys cooking, skincare, and fashion. The first few years of her life were spent in a high-rise in South Korea; consequently, Renée enjoys having her head in the clouds. She and her family live in North Carolina.
She is the #1 New York Times and internationally bestselling author of The Wrath & the Dawn series, the Flame in the Mist series, The Beautiful quartet, and the picture book, Emilio Sloth’s Modern Manners. Park Avenue is her debut adult novel.
** Please note that requests for Advanced Reader Copies should be made through the respective publisher, and all other requests should be submitted through the author's website. **
She is the #1 New York Times and internationally bestselling author of The Wrath & the Dawn series, the Flame in the Mist series, The Beautiful quartet, and the picture book, Emilio Sloth’s Modern Manners. Park Avenue is her debut adult novel.
** Please note that requests for Advanced Reader Copies should be made through the respective publisher, and all other requests should be submitted through the author's website. **
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 842 reviews
December 13, 2021
this wasnt the book i was expecting, there are a lot of decisions RA made that im not quite sure i understand, but i still enjoyed this overall.
things that caught me off guard and how i feel about them:
↠ 3.5 stars
things that caught me off guard and how i feel about them:
- making two side characters now be the main characters (but i ended up loving arjun and pippa, so honestly, not the biggest deal)but with all that aside, i still found this to be pretty light-hearted and enjoyable. it kind of feels like a new series with a new story almost, just because of the different characters and setting. so i am very interested to see if everything manages to come together in the next book just because i do feel like this installment is missing that connection. but arjun alone is totally worth reading this anyway.
- taking the two old main characters and making them feel completely different (celine and bastian get major downgrades personality-wise in this, for the whole two pages they make an appearance lol)
- the set up for the story is for arjun to find a healer and pippa to find celine, but they never actually actively do this (i understand that RA is trying to get the reader to know arjun and pippa better, and i enjoyed seeing them in the land of fae, but it felt weird to ignore the plot that was introduced in the beginning)
- the pacing is pretty consistent up until the 80%ish mark and then utter chaos descends (i went and got an ebook because i thought my copy was missing chapters - the massive skips and time jumps between scenes and just the overall disjointedness of the ending is out of control - i still feel like im missing at least 5 chapters worth of story)
- the crossover with characters from RAs ‘the wrath and the dawn’ series!?!!?!?! (like, is this even possible?!?! i have no idea how thats going to work but im willing to see her try)
↠ 3.5 stars
November 13, 2021
You GUYS!!!! This BOOK!!! Okay, I've been really enjoying the entire series, but The Righteous steps up with so much drama, tension, romance, and some solid twists! It's got the fake engagement trope (LOVE), and spends most of the book in the world of the fae, so if you're into that you really need to get on this series! It's also got casual diversity, intersectional feminism, sex positivity. So really what more do I need to say to sell you on it??
Okay, but I have to mention a THING that she does at the end of the book because I literally SCREAMED. I won't spoil the specifics so that you can discover it for yourself, but she does a thing that connects the world of The Beautiful series with the world of The Wrath and the Dawn!!! Yes, really! (for those who don't know, this was the first series she wrote) Suffice to say I freaking loved this and cannot wait to see where book 4 takes us! I received an advance copy of this book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Okay, but I have to mention a THING that she does at the end of the book because I literally SCREAMED. I won't spoil the specifics so that you can discover it for yourself, but she does a thing that connects the world of The Beautiful series with the world of The Wrath and the Dawn!!! Yes, really! (for those who don't know, this was the first series she wrote) Suffice to say I freaking loved this and cannot wait to see where book 4 takes us! I received an advance copy of this book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
August 13, 2022
I can’t rate this one a full 5* as I did with the previous books honestly. It just wasn’t at all what I was expecting…
I know WHY the story was told as it was and why we had to follow secondary characters for the majority of the book but it just felt a bit like I was being thrown into a completely different series in a way. I did enjoy myself and did really like the book but it just wasn’t what I thought it was going to be at all, compared to book 1 it feels really jarring.
That said I did like following Pippa and Arjun for the majority of the book and I get that it was necessary to make the ending more impactful but it was a bit slow at times and I was just counting the pages till I got to a Bastien/Céline chapter. Hopefully the next book is a bit more balanced in POV’s and the final book comes out later this year so I can get this series finished!
I know WHY the story was told as it was and why we had to follow secondary characters for the majority of the book but it just felt a bit like I was being thrown into a completely different series in a way. I did enjoy myself and did really like the book but it just wasn’t what I thought it was going to be at all, compared to book 1 it feels really jarring.
That said I did like following Pippa and Arjun for the majority of the book and I get that it was necessary to make the ending more impactful but it was a bit slow at times and I was just counting the pages till I got to a Bastien/Céline chapter. Hopefully the next book is a bit more balanced in POV’s and the final book comes out later this year so I can get this series finished!
Want to read
April 2, 2021Update 4/2: WE HAVE A COVER! I was hoping this one would be green.
I can’t wait for a cover reveal! As gorgeous as The Damned was, I don’t know how Penguin is going to top that.
So from the blurb this is going to be a Pippa x Arjun book. I kind of doubt I’ll love them as much as I love Celine and Bastien BUT since we got multiple POV’s in The Damned I can only imagine that there will be multiple POV’s in The Righteous as well. Plus, I loved the interactions between Pippa and Arjun in the last book.
I can’t wait for a cover reveal! As gorgeous as The Damned was, I don’t know how Penguin is going to top that.
So from the blurb this is going to be a Pippa x Arjun book. I kind of doubt I’ll love them as much as I love Celine and Bastien BUT since we got multiple POV’s in The Damned I can only imagine that there will be multiple POV’s in The Righteous as well. Plus, I loved the interactions between Pippa and Arjun in the last book.
October 31, 2022
oh how the mighty fall. i really wish this book was a continuation of bastien and celine's story rather than the aimless and insta-love ridden adventures of pippa and arjun. i love arjun and his back must be hurting from carrying this storyline. but this book had major middle book syndrome where really nothing happens. If the writing weren't pretty and the characters interestingly written, then I definitely would have given up on this. i'm still not convinced that i'll read the final installment though.
December 29, 2021
I love this series. Such a good time.
This felt like a bit of a filler book tbh. But I enjoy Pippa and her relationship in this book was way cuter than I anticipated.
I enjoyed it but it wasn’t the best by any means.
Also Odette. When is my girl gonna get her dues???????
This felt like a bit of a filler book tbh. But I enjoy Pippa and her relationship in this book was way cuter than I anticipated.
I enjoyed it but it wasn’t the best by any means.
Also Odette. When is my girl gonna get her dues???????
December 7, 2021
Initial Reaction: OH MY GOSH. THAT ENDING?? I HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS
I originally gave this a 4 but after a month, I came back to change it to 5 stars because I truly cannot stop thinking about this book. It's no secret that I love Renée Ahdieh's writing, I've posted her books MANY times. She continues to astound me with her characters and the ability to suck me into a story so fast. This books focuses on Pippa and Arjun's story, which was a pleasant move on from Bastien and Celine. I sometimes struggle when a series shifts character focus but this was done extremely well and when I tell you I was INVESTED in Pippa and Arjun.
Which brings to me to the best part of this book: PIPPA AND ARJUN. I LOVE THEM. Dare I say even more than Bastien and Celine. The pure serotonin I was getting from their interactions led to so many screaming voice notes to my friend who buddy read with me. The tropes were spot on and I got my FAVORITE trope, which is terms of endearments in another language and it makes me so happy.
One of the reasons this was originally a four was because the plot outside of the character growth was a tad weak but honestly I don't even care, I was grinning like an idiot during this entire read. And uh the ending??? Way to end a book, oh my goodness. I have so many questions and will be staring outside my window until the next book releases.
TW: violence, mentions of graphic torture, manipulation, substance abuse, abuse, mentions of arson
I received an arc of this title from PenguinTeen in exchange for an honest review.
I originally gave this a 4 but after a month, I came back to change it to 5 stars because I truly cannot stop thinking about this book. It's no secret that I love Renée Ahdieh's writing, I've posted her books MANY times. She continues to astound me with her characters and the ability to suck me into a story so fast. This books focuses on Pippa and Arjun's story, which was a pleasant move on from Bastien and Celine. I sometimes struggle when a series shifts character focus but this was done extremely well and when I tell you I was INVESTED in Pippa and Arjun.
Which brings to me to the best part of this book: PIPPA AND ARJUN. I LOVE THEM. Dare I say even more than Bastien and Celine. The pure serotonin I was getting from their interactions led to so many screaming voice notes to my friend who buddy read with me. The tropes were spot on and I got my FAVORITE trope, which is terms of endearments in another language and it makes me so happy.
One of the reasons this was originally a four was because the plot outside of the character growth was a tad weak but honestly I don't even care, I was grinning like an idiot during this entire read. And uh the ending??? Way to end a book, oh my goodness. I have so many questions and will be staring outside my window until the next book releases.
TW: violence, mentions of graphic torture, manipulation, substance abuse, abuse, mentions of arson
I received an arc of this title from PenguinTeen in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
April 8, 2021this cover reminds me of that scene in the first (or the 2nd??) Pirates with Elizabeth's dress floating through the ocean
December 13, 2021
I'll be the first to say it ... I didn't love this book. Let me tell you why:
Firstly, the writing style/format of the book has changed -yet again- from the series original. I.e. The chapters in The Beautiful are titled (some are named after places and dates), and the main narrator is Celine; The chapters in The Damned are headed by the person they refer too, and are narrated from multiple points of view (POVs); The chapters in The Righteous are headed by literary quotes from the likes of William Shakespeare, Lewis Carroll and Rabindrath Tagore, and are also from multiple POVs, albeit it mainly surrounding Pippa & Arjun. There is no continuity throughout this quartet. Although this is not necessarily a negative trait of the series, it is unusual and didn't sit quite right with me personally.
Secondly, nothing really happens. There is no 'main event,' that structures the story. There are smaller, 'mini events,' but nothing that packs any punch. Sunan returns on page 272 (of 371, I mean, really), and I think that was the most excitement I got out of the entire story.
Finally, despite Celine being our protagonist in the previous stories, I literally hated her in The Righteous. She was hypocritical, power-hungry and selfish. I am all for characters switching sides, but please, we spent two books trying to like her, only to have that effort wasted.
Despite my dislike of certain elements, I do have a huge place in my heart for Arjun (He is a fantastic character!); I will be reading The Ruined #4 - I've already invested hours of my life and the money for the hardbacks; and I do still want to read everything ever written by Renee Ahdieh. Yes, I'm as guilty as Celine for my hypocrisy!
Firstly, the writing style/format of the book has changed -yet again- from the series original. I.e. The chapters in The Beautiful are titled (some are named after places and dates), and the main narrator is Celine; The chapters in The Damned are headed by the person they refer too, and are narrated from multiple points of view (POVs); The chapters in The Righteous are headed by literary quotes from the likes of William Shakespeare, Lewis Carroll and Rabindrath Tagore, and are also from multiple POVs, albeit it mainly surrounding Pippa & Arjun. There is no continuity throughout this quartet. Although this is not necessarily a negative trait of the series, it is unusual and didn't sit quite right with me personally.
Secondly, nothing really happens. There is no 'main event,' that structures the story. There are smaller, 'mini events,' but nothing that packs any punch. Sunan returns on page 272 (of 371, I mean, really), and I think that was the most excitement I got out of the entire story.
Finally, despite Celine being our protagonist in the previous stories, I literally hated her in The Righteous. She was hypocritical, power-hungry and selfish. I am all for characters switching sides, but please, we spent two books trying to like her, only to have that effort wasted.
Despite my dislike of certain elements, I do have a huge place in my heart for Arjun (He is a fantastic character!); I will be reading The Ruined #4 - I've already invested hours of my life and the money for the hardbacks; and I do still want to read everything ever written by Renee Ahdieh. Yes, I'm as guilty as Celine for my hypocrisy!
December 12, 2021
Pippa & Arjun have been my favourite characters throughout this series.
Imagine my excitement to get an entire book dedicated to them.
WHEEEE!!!
I am beyond happy that this is the story Renee Ahdieh decided to make a 5 book series instead of her usual duology.
Now if only the last 2 books were in my greedy little hands.
Imagine my excitement to get an entire book dedicated to them.
WHEEEE!!!
I am beyond happy that this is the story Renee Ahdieh decided to make a 5 book series instead of her usual duology.
Now if only the last 2 books were in my greedy little hands.
December 4, 2023
Reread 12/3/23 - Still loved this book and im excited for the last book but also nervous as to how this series is going to end!
Thank you to Penguin Teen for an ARC in exchange for and honest review.
Was The Righteous what I was expecting? No. Did I still love it? Yes!! While I was really worried that I wouldn’t like this because in the middle of a series the author decided to make some side characters the main characters of this book. I love Celine and Sebastian and was a little hurt that I wouldn’t be reading about them, and would be instead reading about Pippa and Arjun. I am so glad that Ahdieh decided to do this because I really love where this book went and Pippa and Arjun are *chefs kiss*.
I will say that the beginning of this is slow and I didn’t like that there wasn’t really any action, when The Damned left off with so much happening. Once I got about a third of the way in, things started to pick up and I could not put this book down. I will forever love Ahdieh’s writing style and become entranced with the world she creates. I like how we learned SO much more about the fae world. The slow burn between Pippa and Arjun was everything, although I was disappointed there wasn’t more!
The ending was absolutely chaos, but in the best way possible. I have so many questions and was entirely too stressed reading the last like 50 pages. I am really excited with the way this series is going and how it will wrap up in the last book. Also, no spoiler’s but if you’ve read this that ending !?!?! OMG! If you know you know.
The only downside to this is that we do see a tiny bit of Celine and Sebastiana and honestly I did not like Celine. She didn’t feel like the same character from the first two books. I can’t put my finger on what it was, but I honestly didn’t care for reading her parts. I still loved Bastien just as much! I do wish that one of the main points of this book would have been figured out and completed, because I feel like a lot of things happened towards the end and I am scared what that means for the final book. A lot has to be wrapped up.
I am really glad that Ahdieh decided to go this route because it kept my entertained and added so much more to the plot.
Thank you to Penguin Teen for an ARC in exchange for and honest review.
Was The Righteous what I was expecting? No. Did I still love it? Yes!! While I was really worried that I wouldn’t like this because in the middle of a series the author decided to make some side characters the main characters of this book. I love Celine and Sebastian and was a little hurt that I wouldn’t be reading about them, and would be instead reading about Pippa and Arjun. I am so glad that Ahdieh decided to do this because I really love where this book went and Pippa and Arjun are *chefs kiss*.
I will say that the beginning of this is slow and I didn’t like that there wasn’t really any action, when The Damned left off with so much happening. Once I got about a third of the way in, things started to pick up and I could not put this book down. I will forever love Ahdieh’s writing style and become entranced with the world she creates. I like how we learned SO much more about the fae world. The slow burn between Pippa and Arjun was everything, although I was disappointed there wasn’t more!
The ending was absolutely chaos, but in the best way possible. I have so many questions and was entirely too stressed reading the last like 50 pages. I am really excited with the way this series is going and how it will wrap up in the last book. Also, no spoiler’s but if you’ve read this that ending !?!?! OMG! If you know you know.
The only downside to this is that we do see a tiny bit of Celine and Sebastiana and honestly I did not like Celine. She didn’t feel like the same character from the first two books. I can’t put my finger on what it was, but I honestly didn’t care for reading her parts. I still loved Bastien just as much! I do wish that one of the main points of this book would have been figured out and completed, because I feel like a lot of things happened towards the end and I am scared what that means for the final book. A lot has to be wrapped up.
I am really glad that Ahdieh decided to go this route because it kept my entertained and added so much more to the plot.
October 14, 2021
Okay this is gonna be another review where I’m conflicted.
For starters, I wasn’t aware that this was gonna focus on Pippa and Arjun, but emotionally I’m not upset at all. I loved being in their POV and seeing them interact with each other. I loved their banter and the fact that they truly allowed each other the space to be vulnerable. Tbh I love Arjun more than Pippa. It was so nice seeing a South Asian man be a love interest for once.
I also loved the setting!!!
I have a love hate relationship with Fairies in books because they’re so effing annoying, but they also make stories SO much more interesting. I loved that in this book we went from New Orleans into the world of the Sylvan Vale.
Now onto the things I had issues with.
Did I enjoy the book ? Yes, I had a great time reading it but it definitely read more like a novella than a continuation of the series. If you’re big on plot then I don’t think you’re gonna like this one too much. The ONLY POV’s that we get are Arjun and Pippa for exactly 50% of the book. Arjuns supposed to trying to find a healer for Odette and Pippa is supposed to be looking for Celine but neither of these things are actually going on when they’re in fairyland LOL. Bastien and Celine and Michael do make an appearance mid way (barely) and the plot does start coming into fruition but by that point the books almost over.
I understand that the author wanted us to get to know Arjun and Pippa. (Gotta give her props, it’s ballsy as hell to make ur side characters the main characters in the middle of your series) but as I said before it just didn’t fit with the previous 2 books. I’m definitely going to continue the series because the ending had me shook but go into this book as if it’s a novella. If you think about it too much it’ll hurt your feelings 😭
Thank you Penguin Teen for sending me an ARC of The Righteous. All opinions are my own.
For starters, I wasn’t aware that this was gonna focus on Pippa and Arjun, but emotionally I’m not upset at all. I loved being in their POV and seeing them interact with each other. I loved their banter and the fact that they truly allowed each other the space to be vulnerable. Tbh I love Arjun more than Pippa. It was so nice seeing a South Asian man be a love interest for once.
I also loved the setting!!!
I have a love hate relationship with Fairies in books because they’re so effing annoying, but they also make stories SO much more interesting. I loved that in this book we went from New Orleans into the world of the Sylvan Vale.
Now onto the things I had issues with.
Did I enjoy the book ? Yes, I had a great time reading it but it definitely read more like a novella than a continuation of the series. If you’re big on plot then I don’t think you’re gonna like this one too much. The ONLY POV’s that we get are Arjun and Pippa for exactly 50% of the book. Arjuns supposed to trying to find a healer for Odette and Pippa is supposed to be looking for Celine but neither of these things are actually going on when they’re in fairyland LOL. Bastien and Celine and Michael do make an appearance mid way (barely) and the plot does start coming into fruition but by that point the books almost over.
I understand that the author wanted us to get to know Arjun and Pippa. (Gotta give her props, it’s ballsy as hell to make ur side characters the main characters in the middle of your series) but as I said before it just didn’t fit with the previous 2 books. I’m definitely going to continue the series because the ending had me shook but go into this book as if it’s a novella. If you think about it too much it’ll hurt your feelings 😭
Thank you Penguin Teen for sending me an ARC of The Righteous. All opinions are my own.
January 30, 2022
Let me start off by saying this series has been one of my favorite reads of January, I absolutely adored the Beautiful and The Damned. It is rare that a sequel doesn't fall flat, but in this case, it hadn't. This leads me to the third installment of this series, The Righteous.
I had every intention to love this series, I love Celine and Bastien with my whole heart, they quickly had become one of my favorite book couples ever. The chemistry was wonderful, the banter was great, Celine was as headstrong and stubborn as Bastien, if not more. This book however genuinely broke that love for them and the entire series. Now, please enjoy my rant review.
Reasons why I dislike this book are as follows:
- Celine and Bastien are no longer the main characters. Yes, after two previous books the focus of the series has moved from Celine to Celine and Bastien, now to Pippa and Arjun. This would be fine except Pippa is the most infuriating character ever, while she had a redemption arc in this book I will never be able to look past how boring and whiney her character is. While I have no qualms with Arjun I just prefer Bastien more. Sitting there watching the only sensible character be put into five chapters when he was one of the main characters previously is infuriating.
- Celine is an entirely new person. So after watching Celine be this headstrong independent woman, I really adored her. She loved fiercely but trusted so rarely. Now, Celine has randomly decided to trust a woman who has lied to her all her life, and whenever Bastien raises concern over this she sneers his way. Bastien gave up his entire family to support her, is entirely unhappy in the situation yet she upturns her nose at a decent question of his. Like Celine, I get that this is exciting or whatever but there was once a time when you gave up everything for this man, now he does the same and you can't even stand to be in the same room with him? Ok, that makes sense.
- There was literally no plot, like what was the point other than to make Pippa decently more likable and have her and Arjun "fall in love" which, by the way, feels entirely unnatural and I feel bad for Arjun having to put up with Pippa. Pippa, you hate your life. You made bad decisions, lay in your bed. Oh, I'm sorry, I asked you to take responsibility for your actions? I forgot I was talking to an irrational child.
- Michael was literally in this book 4 times. I forgot he existed, to be honest. He was the Jacob to Celine's Bella and I entirely forgot he was here. He popped in at like page 250 just to remind you he still existed, and while the dynamic in the book has changed with our MC's switching, he was still a well-built character who got pushed aside for no reason.
My general consensus for this book is 'WHY?!'. I honestly see no point in this book at all, the plot was pretty much non-existent, and just felt like I was getting force-fed tropes that had somehow not already been put in the series. The only reason I even finished this book was for my main man Bastien, I have never wanted to DNF something so bad.
Renée I still love you please forgive me.
I had every intention to love this series, I love Celine and Bastien with my whole heart, they quickly had become one of my favorite book couples ever. The chemistry was wonderful, the banter was great, Celine was as headstrong and stubborn as Bastien, if not more. This book however genuinely broke that love for them and the entire series. Now, please enjoy my rant review.
Reasons why I dislike this book are as follows:
- Celine and Bastien are no longer the main characters. Yes, after two previous books the focus of the series has moved from Celine to Celine and Bastien, now to Pippa and Arjun. This would be fine except Pippa is the most infuriating character ever, while she had a redemption arc in this book I will never be able to look past how boring and whiney her character is. While I have no qualms with Arjun I just prefer Bastien more. Sitting there watching the only sensible character be put into five chapters when he was one of the main characters previously is infuriating.
- Celine is an entirely new person. So after watching Celine be this headstrong independent woman, I really adored her. She loved fiercely but trusted so rarely. Now, Celine has randomly decided to trust a woman who has lied to her all her life, and whenever Bastien raises concern over this she sneers his way. Bastien gave up his entire family to support her, is entirely unhappy in the situation yet she upturns her nose at a decent question of his. Like Celine, I get that this is exciting or whatever but there was once a time when you gave up everything for this man, now he does the same and you can't even stand to be in the same room with him? Ok, that makes sense.
- There was literally no plot, like what was the point other than to make Pippa decently more likable and have her and Arjun "fall in love" which, by the way, feels entirely unnatural and I feel bad for Arjun having to put up with Pippa. Pippa, you hate your life. You made bad decisions, lay in your bed. Oh, I'm sorry, I asked you to take responsibility for your actions? I forgot I was talking to an irrational child.
- Michael was literally in this book 4 times. I forgot he existed, to be honest. He was the Jacob to Celine's Bella and I entirely forgot he was here. He popped in at like page 250 just to remind you he still existed, and while the dynamic in the book has changed with our MC's switching, he was still a well-built character who got pushed aside for no reason.
My general consensus for this book is 'WHY?!'. I honestly see no point in this book at all, the plot was pretty much non-existent, and just felt like I was getting force-fed tropes that had somehow not already been put in the series. The only reason I even finished this book was for my main man Bastien, I have never wanted to DNF something so bad.
Renée I still love you please forgive me.
January 22, 2024
This book has veered so far from book one that it feels like a completely different story with the same characters. It's still enjoyable, just odd a bit, hahaha. Renee definitely had a Midsummer Night's Dream in mind mixed with Alice in Wonderland.
If I consider it a book separate from the series, it is much more enjoyable.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, but it was a weird addition to the series.
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4.
If I consider it a book separate from the series, it is much more enjoyable.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, but it was a weird addition to the series.
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4.
December 9, 2021
Thanks to Penguin Teen for my physical ARC
Original rating-4.5
"You....are loved,Arjun Desai,"she said softly."so loved"
Arjun swallowed.He pressed his brow to hers. "As high as the sky, and as deep as the ocean," he said.
"That is how much you are loved"
The Righteous picks up few days after the events of The Damned takes place, if you haven't read the previous books you might find bits of the review to be spoilers. The court of lions are left in serious predicament as Bastien is missing in action as he leaves to the Vale with Celene, as a last resort the court turns towards Arjun Desai who leaves for Vale determined to find a solution to preserve his little found family. Pippa Montrose on the other hand is all set to marry her intended but when her best friend disappeared with nothing but a note left for her, she resolves to find her to ensure she is safe, thus setting foot into the Vale which might be the riskiest thing she'd have ever done
The Righteous true to its title is a story about two souls who are not often forerunners risking everything and going to any lengths to ensure the safety of their loved one's, Renée Ahdieh stylish writing continues to thrill the readers even when the story is moved from the Crescent City to Fae lands, I found the transition of the worlds smooth and seamless. I also noticed that writing and pacing in the third installment to be progressively better than its predecessors, Arjun and Pippa's characters added so much depth to this already fascinating supernatural series. I loved the fitting chapter tiles and how they are a nod to Shakespeare and Lewis Carroll's works.
Arjun Desai, let me tell you that he is definitely soul of the story and is a total *chefs kiss*, while you might have found him charming in the last two books, he is going to swoon you off of your feet in this. I can't help but applaud the author for letting Arjun unapologetically embrace his Indian heritage, As an Indian, the descriptions of old Bombay, Paratha, nod to tales of Mahabaratha, Indian monsoons transported me back to home. Pippa on the other hand is such a sweet surprise because so far her character was written in a way that reader neither likes or dislikes her because she is always mysterious and always in the fringes of story in her safe zone. However we will know that she had been right where she wanted to on purpose until the 11th hour, she might be a hesitater but she will take the bull by its horns to protect her loved one's, she had grown on me by the end of the book
I really really enjoyed the relationship between Arjun and Pippa and I will take a step further and say that they are my favorite couple in the series- yes I said what I said, I loved how they allowed themselves to be vulnerable in each other's company while also opening important dialogues about sexual discrimination, colorism all around the world, British colonization leading to their immense character growth.I also found it interesting how the author constantly compared and contrasted the human realm and Fae realm through Arjun's inner monologue's-
"Perhaps all the worlds were filled with contradictions, where one thing mattered great to some while another mattered not at all. Arjun couldn't help but think it might be better if everyone simply minded their own business and allowed people to be who they wished to be an pray how they wished to pray and love who they wished to love"
I knocked off a star because I found a certain shifter POV uninteresting, I thought it didn't add any value to the plot and thus dragging the book a bit
Final Thoughts:
-It is undoubtedly the best book in the series and Arjun Desai is going to entice you so much and he doesn't even need his ethereal charms in the slightest to do that ;).
-"The Ruined" is the perfect title for the next part because we will be pretty ruined by that ending ;)
Original rating-4.5
"You....are loved,Arjun Desai,"she said softly."so loved"
Arjun swallowed.He pressed his brow to hers. "As high as the sky, and as deep as the ocean," he said.
"That is how much you are loved"
The Righteous picks up few days after the events of The Damned takes place, if you haven't read the previous books you might find bits of the review to be spoilers. The court of lions are left in serious predicament as Bastien is missing in action as he leaves to the Vale with Celene, as a last resort the court turns towards Arjun Desai who leaves for Vale determined to find a solution to preserve his little found family. Pippa Montrose on the other hand is all set to marry her intended but when her best friend disappeared with nothing but a note left for her, she resolves to find her to ensure she is safe, thus setting foot into the Vale which might be the riskiest thing she'd have ever done
The Righteous true to its title is a story about two souls who are not often forerunners risking everything and going to any lengths to ensure the safety of their loved one's, Renée Ahdieh stylish writing continues to thrill the readers even when the story is moved from the Crescent City to Fae lands, I found the transition of the worlds smooth and seamless. I also noticed that writing and pacing in the third installment to be progressively better than its predecessors, Arjun and Pippa's characters added so much depth to this already fascinating supernatural series. I loved the fitting chapter tiles and how they are a nod to Shakespeare and Lewis Carroll's works.
Arjun Desai, let me tell you that he is definitely soul of the story and is a total *chefs kiss*, while you might have found him charming in the last two books, he is going to swoon you off of your feet in this. I can't help but applaud the author for letting Arjun unapologetically embrace his Indian heritage, As an Indian, the descriptions of old Bombay, Paratha, nod to tales of Mahabaratha, Indian monsoons transported me back to home. Pippa on the other hand is such a sweet surprise because so far her character was written in a way that reader neither likes or dislikes her because she is always mysterious and always in the fringes of story in her safe zone. However we will know that she had been right where she wanted to on purpose until the 11th hour, she might be a hesitater but she will take the bull by its horns to protect her loved one's, she had grown on me by the end of the book
I really really enjoyed the relationship between Arjun and Pippa and I will take a step further and say that they are my favorite couple in the series- yes I said what I said, I loved how they allowed themselves to be vulnerable in each other's company while also opening important dialogues about sexual discrimination, colorism all around the world, British colonization leading to their immense character growth.I also found it interesting how the author constantly compared and contrasted the human realm and Fae realm through Arjun's inner monologue's-
"Perhaps all the worlds were filled with contradictions, where one thing mattered great to some while another mattered not at all. Arjun couldn't help but think it might be better if everyone simply minded their own business and allowed people to be who they wished to be an pray how they wished to pray and love who they wished to love"
I knocked off a star because I found a certain shifter POV uninteresting, I thought it didn't add any value to the plot and thus dragging the book a bit
Final Thoughts:
-It is undoubtedly the best book in the series and Arjun Desai is going to entice you so much and he doesn't even need his ethereal charms in the slightest to do that ;).
-"The Ruined" is the perfect title for the next part because we will be pretty ruined by that ending ;)
December 2, 2021
Thank you to penguinteen for the ARC!
Initial Thoughts: At first I was like umm there's just not enough Arjun for a book focusing on his story BUT THEN I REALIZED THERE'S A WHOLE OTHER BOOK AFTER THIS WTH RENEE. Also, the ending has shaken me to the core!
Full review:
Y’all, Renee Adhieh really said I’m gonna give you everything you want in a book and here is my proof:
1- Arjun Desai, gorgeous, hilarious desi guy that’s also half fey and you’ll want to give him a big hug (at least)
2- Arjun is unafraid to call out the colonizers and honestly not only do I love that for him but I love that for me.
3- Marriage of convenience! Pippa isn’t a huge fan but there’s definitely some ✨chemistry✨
4- Also there’s. That one trope where one character. Says a term of endearment in a different language so the other person DOESN’T KNOW AND YOU’RE LEFT SCREAMING.
Anyway, if you need more proof that. This book is worth picking up, let me tell you more! Of course, we’re swept away to the Sylvan Vale again and that means more magic and mischief and gorgeous world building! Not only that but we get more insight into the bigger plot which I know is just going to leave us with a banger of a finale which I can’t believe I have to wait for but I know it’ll be worth the wait.
ALSO. THE ENDING. I’M STILL REELING FROM IT OKAY. STILL.
I was so excited to read this book because I knew it was going to follow my favorite, Arjun! Renee really served us the best tropes in this, with the whole fake marriage plotline! I genuinely SCREAMED when that plot started!
The things that have me rating the book 4 instead of 5 are: a) I thought this was going to be the final installment so seeing a the loose ends continue to grow caused me some mild panic and raised a whole lot of questions until I. realized it was a quartet and b) The beginning felt a bit slower and while I think Michael is an interesting character I didn't want to focus on him and genuinely just wanted more of Arjun and Pippa so it was a bit frustrating getting tossed between a story I wasn't as interested in and the one I really wanted to follow.
I absolutely loved the scenes with Arjun and Pippa and getting to see what went on in their minds and how they reacted to different scenarios! I loved how the characters interacted and i was on the edge of my seat waiting for the other shoe to drop!
Surprisingly, the second book of this quartet is still my favorite but this one is a close second just because of the couple and that ENDING reveal!
Initial Thoughts: At first I was like umm there's just not enough Arjun for a book focusing on his story BUT THEN I REALIZED THERE'S A WHOLE OTHER BOOK AFTER THIS WTH RENEE. Also, the ending has shaken me to the core!
Full review:
Y’all, Renee Adhieh really said I’m gonna give you everything you want in a book and here is my proof:
1- Arjun Desai, gorgeous, hilarious desi guy that’s also half fey and you’ll want to give him a big hug (at least)
2- Arjun is unafraid to call out the colonizers and honestly not only do I love that for him but I love that for me.
3- Marriage of convenience! Pippa isn’t a huge fan but there’s definitely some ✨chemistry✨
4- Also there’s. That one trope where one character. Says a term of endearment in a different language so the other person DOESN’T KNOW AND YOU’RE LEFT SCREAMING.
Anyway, if you need more proof that. This book is worth picking up, let me tell you more! Of course, we’re swept away to the Sylvan Vale again and that means more magic and mischief and gorgeous world building! Not only that but we get more insight into the bigger plot which I know is just going to leave us with a banger of a finale which I can’t believe I have to wait for but I know it’ll be worth the wait.
ALSO. THE ENDING. I’M STILL REELING FROM IT OKAY. STILL.
I was so excited to read this book because I knew it was going to follow my favorite, Arjun! Renee really served us the best tropes in this, with the whole fake marriage plotline! I genuinely SCREAMED when that plot started!
The things that have me rating the book 4 instead of 5 are: a) I thought this was going to be the final installment so seeing a the loose ends continue to grow caused me some mild panic and raised a whole lot of questions until I. realized it was a quartet and b) The beginning felt a bit slower and while I think Michael is an interesting character I didn't want to focus on him and genuinely just wanted more of Arjun and Pippa so it was a bit frustrating getting tossed between a story I wasn't as interested in and the one I really wanted to follow.
I absolutely loved the scenes with Arjun and Pippa and getting to see what went on in their minds and how they reacted to different scenarios! I loved how the characters interacted and i was on the edge of my seat waiting for the other shoe to drop!
Surprisingly, the second book of this quartet is still my favorite but this one is a close second just because of the couple and that ENDING reveal!
December 18, 2021
3.5⭐ I have thoughts.
Thank you so, so much to PRH Audio for providing an ALC copy! All thoughts and opinions are still my own.
1. This series is so addictive and bingeable. Once I start on these books I can't put them down. The pacing, the writing, the world, everything is so lush and atmospheric.
2. I was definitely caught off guard by the switch of main characters. It took me awhile to get on board, but I really ended up liking Arjun and Pippa as MCs and their romance.
3. But I'm not a big fan of the fact that the author decided to weave in their previous series, 3 books into this otherwise unconnected series. Because now I'm financially and mentally committed but have no desire to read the Wrath & the Dawn. So...... that's annoying.
4. Bonus! This audiobook is FANTASTIC. I absolutely adore Lauren Ezzo. She brings this entire story/world to life and I can't recommend the audio version of this series enough.
Thank you so, so much to PRH Audio for providing an ALC copy! All thoughts and opinions are still my own.
1. This series is so addictive and bingeable. Once I start on these books I can't put them down. The pacing, the writing, the world, everything is so lush and atmospheric.
2. I was definitely caught off guard by the switch of main characters. It took me awhile to get on board, but I really ended up liking Arjun and Pippa as MCs and their romance.
3. But I'm not a big fan of the fact that the author decided to weave in their previous series, 3 books into this otherwise unconnected series. Because now I'm financially and mentally committed but have no desire to read the Wrath & the Dawn. So...... that's annoying.
4. Bonus! This audiobook is FANTASTIC. I absolutely adore Lauren Ezzo. She brings this entire story/world to life and I can't recommend the audio version of this series enough.
July 30, 2022
This series is so random... It has almost nothing to do with the plot of the first book anymore.
Still, it was entertaining and a very quick read so it deserves 3 stars from me :)
Still, it was entertaining and a very quick read so it deserves 3 stars from me :)
December 18, 2021
Headlines:
Different couple
Sucked in
The vale and the wyld
I thought I didn't want to leave Bastian and Celine behind at the end of The Damned but Renee Ahdieh wrote Anjan and Pippa so well that I changed my focus incredibly quickly and got involved in their story. These two had a subtle but palpable connection that grew.
This story took readers away from familiar territories and into the vale and the wyld. The fey were a nasty bunch and not one of them felt trustworthy. I've come out of this book wondering about some of the characters, who is genuine (or not) and how things will resolve. Errr, yes there is a book four coming.
Good news for all fans of this series is that we got a fair chunk of Bastian and Celine and a little of Michael too. I enjoyed the tentative stepping needed in the vale and wyld, I loved the different fey creatures, especially the mischievious small fey. So right now, I need all my questions answering and the next book, pretty please!
Thank you to Hodder Books for the early review copy.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
Different couple
Sucked in
The vale and the wyld
I thought I didn't want to leave Bastian and Celine behind at the end of The Damned but Renee Ahdieh wrote Anjan and Pippa so well that I changed my focus incredibly quickly and got involved in their story. These two had a subtle but palpable connection that grew.
This story took readers away from familiar territories and into the vale and the wyld. The fey were a nasty bunch and not one of them felt trustworthy. I've come out of this book wondering about some of the characters, who is genuine (or not) and how things will resolve. Errr, yes there is a book four coming.
Good news for all fans of this series is that we got a fair chunk of Bastian and Celine and a little of Michael too. I enjoyed the tentative stepping needed in the vale and wyld, I loved the different fey creatures, especially the mischievious small fey. So right now, I need all my questions answering and the next book, pretty please!
Thank you to Hodder Books for the early review copy.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
September 25, 2022
reread bc i was in my feels
my review got deleted???!? i remember i wrote a pretty long one wth
arjunpippa outsold celinebastien in their own series. idc what anyone says, they should've been the main couple. take out the other povs, literally no one else matters
have to admit, the goblin thing and after the wedding, things started to go downhill. wish there were more chapters. more of them. just More. not satisfied enough!
book 4 better have arjun/pippa povs or I'll riot
my review got deleted???!? i remember i wrote a pretty long one wth
arjunpippa outsold celinebastien in their own series. idc what anyone says, they should've been the main couple. take out the other povs, literally no one else matters
have to admit, the goblin thing and after the wedding, things started to go downhill. wish there were more chapters. more of them. just More. not satisfied enough!
book 4 better have arjun/pippa povs or I'll riot
June 23, 2023
*Update: Time has passed since I originally read this and I remember little to nothing except that this was ehh the more that time has passed not a bad book series just not memorable for me the more that time has passed. So lowering my rating.*
Had some slow moments and that’s why I gave the rating I did other than I have really enjoyed this world and the characters. It did end with a cliffhanger..
Had some slow moments and that’s why I gave the rating I did other than I have really enjoyed this world and the characters. It did end with a cliffhanger..
January 19, 2022
Well, this was something…and by something I really mean bonkers.
I was absolutely here for the Pippa and Arjun story. I’ve enjoyed both of those characters since they graced the page and they really complimented each other. Celine and Bastien are in the book, but very little and they don’t seem like the same pair from the other books.
Plot wise, I don’t even know. There are loads of moving pieces and I finally gave up trying to figure out wtf was going on and just settle in for the ride. And yeah, sure, I’m still a bit confused, but I was absolutely entertained. Oh, and that ending? My mind is blown.
Overall, I am wondering if this rating should be a bit lower, but I was captivated and I’m highly invested in this story. I can’t wait to see how the whole thing wraps up.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
I was absolutely here for the Pippa and Arjun story. I’ve enjoyed both of those characters since they graced the page and they really complimented each other. Celine and Bastien are in the book, but very little and they don’t seem like the same pair from the other books.
Plot wise, I don’t even know. There are loads of moving pieces and I finally gave up trying to figure out wtf was going on and just settle in for the ride. And yeah, sure, I’m still a bit confused, but I was absolutely entertained. Oh, and that ending? My mind is blown.
Overall, I am wondering if this rating should be a bit lower, but I was captivated and I’m highly invested in this story. I can’t wait to see how the whole thing wraps up.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
April 20, 2024
Did I love Pippa swerving to Arjun and their romance? Absolutely. Is the other world giving Elfhame viciousness vibes? Absolutely and it was stunning. But this gave filler.
The pacing shift from the first half being silly goofy romance la-dee-dah time to the second half smooshing a bunch of plot set up for the final book was so abrupt and jolting. It seems like it could’ve been a more thoughtful shift… or had a little more happen in the first half to balance it out.
The pacing shift from the first half being silly goofy romance la-dee-dah time to the second half smooshing a bunch of plot set up for the final book was so abrupt and jolting. It seems like it could’ve been a more thoughtful shift… or had a little more happen in the first half to balance it out.
December 11, 2021
The Damned series really has been quite a ride, while the series has an overall cohesive vibe, each book really has taken on a personality of its own. We started our journey in the dark underbelly of New Orleans and now our characters have find themselves in a totally different realm in the land of fae.
While it is hard to write a review for a third book in a series and not even the last book at that, I will say that this one was probably my favorite in the series. Why? PIPPA AND ARJUN. I really don't care what happens to anyone else at this point in the series but if you hurt my babies Renee then I will be seriously doubting my overall love for this series as a whole. Can the next book please have their POVs. For the love of all that is good and pure. Honestly their backstories were so well done, and their connection was so sweet. Any time the book was on their POV's I was hooked. I loved the magic system in these chapters along with the twist that I didn't see coming but really really enjoyed.
I was a little taken aback by how Celine and Bastien's relationship feels at this point. I feel like a lot of their chemistry has fizzled and Celine almost feels like a different character as she plays puppet to certain characters in this book. The ending was a little out there. There was A LOT to take in. It was like a band of all the evil villains came together and made a statement but you're not quite sure exactly what that statement was and who's on the right side of good vs. evil.
I definitely will go on to read the last book in this series, but mainly just to see if I get more of Pippa and Arjun, because currently at this point, the heart wants what the heart wants.
While it is hard to write a review for a third book in a series and not even the last book at that, I will say that this one was probably my favorite in the series. Why? PIPPA AND ARJUN. I really don't care what happens to anyone else at this point in the series but if you hurt my babies Renee then I will be seriously doubting my overall love for this series as a whole. Can the next book please have their POVs. For the love of all that is good and pure. Honestly their backstories were so well done, and their connection was so sweet. Any time the book was on their POV's I was hooked. I loved the magic system in these chapters along with the twist that I didn't see coming but really really enjoyed.
I was a little taken aback by how Celine and Bastien's relationship feels at this point. I feel like a lot of their chemistry has fizzled and Celine almost feels like a different character as she plays puppet to certain characters in this book. The ending was a little out there. There was A LOT to take in. It was like a band of all the evil villains came together and made a statement but you're not quite sure exactly what that statement was and who's on the right side of good vs. evil.
I definitely will go on to read the last book in this series, but mainly just to see if I get more of Pippa and Arjun, because currently at this point, the heart wants what the heart wants.
May 28, 2022
actual rating: 3.5 stars
check out my full review on the blog, thisbellereadstoo
Odette’s death and Bastien’s leaving affected The Court of Lions. As the only being that could venture into the Sylvan Vale, Arjun returns to a place he absolutely hates. Let’s just say that the fey are always depicted as malicious, mischievous, and evil supernaturals, and it’s no different in The Righteous.
My first impression of Pippa as the main character wasn’t too positive. Her foolishness landed her in a marriage of convenience with her not-actual-fiancé, Arjun. Meanwhile, Arjun is trying to find a healer from the Sylvan Vale quickly to save Odette from her final death and ends up meeting with the mortal.
There were moments when I can’t believe how naive Pippa was about the fey world AFTER experiencing it firsthand in a very horrifying way. Warned multiple times not to trust anything and anybody in that realm and even after learning about it the hard way, Pippa still tried to analyze things in a positive light. However, Pippa’s optimism and kindness are a rarity in the fey world. The contrast actually balances out the horrible nature of the fey.
While Arjun and Pippa are the main characters, readers still get a glimpse of what Bastien and Celine are up to. The introduction was a little abrupt considering we were following the former couple in the first half of the book. Bastien and Celine’s perspectives could’ve been inserted anywhere in between Arjun and Pippa’s chapters when they were thought about but they only appeared in the latter half. This would have helped explain the intertwining of events that ensued later on.
Unfortunately, the disconnect continues. Celine feels like a different person as compared to the initial duology with The Beautiful and The Damned. Is there a correlation between the time she’s spending in the Sylvan Vale and her temper? Is she being brainwashed? Celine in The Righteous didn’t feel like the Celine that I knew. Bastien is struggling with his bloodlust after being turned into a vampire. He also knows that Celine’s mother will never approve of him for her daughter.
The pacing of The Righteous wasn’t super consistent. As we focused on Arjun and Pippa’s impending marriage in the Sylvan Wyld, the sudden change to include a sinister plan of the fey was just weird and caused a distortion. It wasn’t good when I felt that I was missing a few chapters. And this only happened when we switched over to Celine and Bastien’s side. Also, Renée Ahdieh doing a crossover that I never thought would exist ever. I’m excited and afraid simultaneously.
Overall, the author transported me into the world she’s creating. The writing is still engaging as it was when I read her debut, The Wrath and the Dawn. The chemistry between Arjun and Pippa was built up since The Beautiful but Bastien and Celine seemed to have a new whole personality. Not too enthusiastic about that but I’ll wait to see how things panned out in The Ruined.
check out my full review on the blog, thisbellereadstoo
Odette’s death and Bastien’s leaving affected The Court of Lions. As the only being that could venture into the Sylvan Vale, Arjun returns to a place he absolutely hates. Let’s just say that the fey are always depicted as malicious, mischievous, and evil supernaturals, and it’s no different in The Righteous.
My first impression of Pippa as the main character wasn’t too positive. Her foolishness landed her in a marriage of convenience with her not-actual-fiancé, Arjun. Meanwhile, Arjun is trying to find a healer from the Sylvan Vale quickly to save Odette from her final death and ends up meeting with the mortal.
There were moments when I can’t believe how naive Pippa was about the fey world AFTER experiencing it firsthand in a very horrifying way. Warned multiple times not to trust anything and anybody in that realm and even after learning about it the hard way, Pippa still tried to analyze things in a positive light. However, Pippa’s optimism and kindness are a rarity in the fey world. The contrast actually balances out the horrible nature of the fey.
While Arjun and Pippa are the main characters, readers still get a glimpse of what Bastien and Celine are up to. The introduction was a little abrupt considering we were following the former couple in the first half of the book. Bastien and Celine’s perspectives could’ve been inserted anywhere in between Arjun and Pippa’s chapters when they were thought about but they only appeared in the latter half. This would have helped explain the intertwining of events that ensued later on.
Unfortunately, the disconnect continues. Celine feels like a different person as compared to the initial duology with The Beautiful and The Damned. Is there a correlation between the time she’s spending in the Sylvan Vale and her temper? Is she being brainwashed? Celine in The Righteous didn’t feel like the Celine that I knew. Bastien is struggling with his bloodlust after being turned into a vampire. He also knows that Celine’s mother will never approve of him for her daughter.
The pacing of The Righteous wasn’t super consistent. As we focused on Arjun and Pippa’s impending marriage in the Sylvan Wyld, the sudden change to include a sinister plan of the fey was just weird and caused a distortion. It wasn’t good when I felt that I was missing a few chapters. And this only happened when we switched over to Celine and Bastien’s side. Also, Renée Ahdieh doing a crossover that I never thought would exist ever. I’m excited and afraid simultaneously.
Overall, the author transported me into the world she’s creating. The writing is still engaging as it was when I read her debut, The Wrath and the Dawn. The chemistry between Arjun and Pippa was built up since The Beautiful but Bastien and Celine seemed to have a new whole personality. Not too enthusiastic about that but I’ll wait to see how things panned out in The Ruined.
August 5, 2022
WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT???
October 23, 2021
Thank you so much to Penguin Teen for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
OH MY GOD!!! This book was a complete rollercoaster, but NOTHING could have prepared me for the last line of the book, omfg. I audibly gasped and threw my hand over my face because although I had a hint of what was actually going on regarding a certain character, the actual reveal was still so shocking. Renée confirmed a few months ago in an interview that this book would feature some characters from The Wrath and the Dawn, so let me just say that if you are a fan of that duology, you have to read this book.
Okay, backtracking to the beginning of the novel, The Righteous picks up a few days after the events of The Damned, in which Celine and Bastien have fled to the land of the Fey and The Court of Lions is left to deal with the aftermath of the events of The Damned. Meanwhile, Pippa is determined to find out what’s going on with Celine after being left in the dark for so long and sets off on her own journey to track down her best friend.
I knew going into this novel that this book would be Pippa and Arjun’s book and seeing their interactions in The Beautiful and The Damned left me so excited for their scenes together in The Righteous. I won’t spoil anything about what happens between them but oh my God it was glorious. And the desi rep with Arjun’s character was incredible. Renée has proven again and again how easy it is to be an author and respectfully write characters from backgrounds different from your own, and the case was no different with Arjun’s character.
I also really loved the small conversation that Pippa and Arjun had about Arjun’s relationship with his heritage as an Indian man whose country was colonized by Pippa’s country. This characteristic of Arjun (that he even though he moved to London when he was 7, he never considered himself an Englishman) is what made me admire him so much in the previous two books, and I loved how this simple conversation really highlighted the types of conversations that I think are important for interracial couples to have, especially when one party is white.
Celine and Sébastien's chapters were fun to read too, and I think my only critique of this novel was the pacing/storytelling. There were some chapters where a tiny insignificant issue was drawn out for so long and the important issues that came up in The Damned were barely touched upon. There was honestly a lot happening in this book, and it often took me a while to fully wrap my head around everything. It felt a little disconnected from the plot and characters in the first two books, as well. I think this occurred because this book is mainly written as a filler book gearing you up for the finale in Book 4.
Once again, I highly highly recommend this book if you’ve read the first two books in this series, or any of Renée's books before, tbh. Feel free to come scream at me once you’ve finished it because I guarantee that you’ll need to talk to someone about it!!
OH MY GOD!!! This book was a complete rollercoaster, but NOTHING could have prepared me for the last line of the book, omfg. I audibly gasped and threw my hand over my face because although I had a hint of what was actually going on regarding a certain character, the actual reveal was still so shocking. Renée confirmed a few months ago in an interview that this book would feature some characters from The Wrath and the Dawn, so let me just say that if you are a fan of that duology, you have to read this book.
Okay, backtracking to the beginning of the novel, The Righteous picks up a few days after the events of The Damned, in which Celine and Bastien have fled to the land of the Fey and The Court of Lions is left to deal with the aftermath of the events of The Damned. Meanwhile, Pippa is determined to find out what’s going on with Celine after being left in the dark for so long and sets off on her own journey to track down her best friend.
I knew going into this novel that this book would be Pippa and Arjun’s book and seeing their interactions in The Beautiful and The Damned left me so excited for their scenes together in The Righteous. I won’t spoil anything about what happens between them but oh my God it was glorious. And the desi rep with Arjun’s character was incredible. Renée has proven again and again how easy it is to be an author and respectfully write characters from backgrounds different from your own, and the case was no different with Arjun’s character.
I also really loved the small conversation that Pippa and Arjun had about Arjun’s relationship with his heritage as an Indian man whose country was colonized by Pippa’s country. This characteristic of Arjun (that he even though he moved to London when he was 7, he never considered himself an Englishman) is what made me admire him so much in the previous two books, and I loved how this simple conversation really highlighted the types of conversations that I think are important for interracial couples to have, especially when one party is white.
Celine and Sébastien's chapters were fun to read too, and I think my only critique of this novel was the pacing/storytelling. There were some chapters where a tiny insignificant issue was drawn out for so long and the important issues that came up in The Damned were barely touched upon. There was honestly a lot happening in this book, and it often took me a while to fully wrap my head around everything. It felt a little disconnected from the plot and characters in the first two books, as well. I think this occurred because this book is mainly written as a filler book gearing you up for the finale in Book 4.
Once again, I highly highly recommend this book if you’ve read the first two books in this series, or any of Renée's books before, tbh. Feel free to come scream at me once you’ve finished it because I guarantee that you’ll need to talk to someone about it!!
November 23, 2023
4.5/5 stars, I am SO excited for the next book
It was my goal this year to continue reading this series before the final book came out, The Ruined, in December because I have just loved everything about this series. It's been so much fun with the dark vibes, vampires and other creatures of the night, and all the characters. The second book was super fantastic for character development, and the ending was completely a cliffhanger!
Even with that cliffhanger, I was not expecting this book to focus almost solely on Arjun and Pippa, two friends of both Celine and Bastion. While I originally was worried about how I'd enjoy the story because I felt that there has not been a lot of attention on Pippa or Arjun, and because the two main characters would be largely missing, it ended up being an amazing read. I did miss Celine and Bastion I can't lie, but having this focus on Arjun and Pippa made me fall in love with their characters even more than in the previous books.
While I don't remember AS much about the general plot as the first few books, that didn’t mean while reading it I didn’t enjoy it. There was lots happening and we had launched into a unique fae world (which I adore fae so it was so fun) within this story but it was way different then the other books. This didn’t make it forgettable but some of the plot was a little mushed together in my brain. However, I remember being really enthralled when I was reading.
Pippa has always felt like a side character who gets pushed to the side in this series, and I was surprised when she turned out to be a main character for this story. She had never really stuck out to me before as the story had relied so heavily on her just being a best friend to Celine, but am ultimately very glad that she got a story for herself. She in my opinion really grew as a character in this book as well, at least from what I knew of her.
Arjun was given a bit more attention in the second book of this series and I was absolutely loving him in this book as well. In the previous book he started drifting towards my list of favorite characters of the series but he definitely cemented himself there in this book. He showed how much he did care for his friends in the Court of Lions but also Pippa as they began to grow closer. I was really interested in his backstory too and I’m so happy that I got to get to know him better in this story.
Their romance was incredible, a perfect light enemies to lovers who just wanted to help their friends. I immediately felt their connection when the book thrust them together, and it was electric. I think that they do manage to balance each other out fairly well for being from such different lives and pasts, but it was so obvious that they cared a lot for each other. I cannot wait to see more of them in the coming books (hopefully - I'm not sure who the next book will focus on exactly haha) because they brought some good life and energy to the story.
[TW: kidnapping mentioned, child abuse recounted, physical abuse recounted, bullying and assault, war themes]
It was my goal this year to continue reading this series before the final book came out, The Ruined, in December because I have just loved everything about this series. It's been so much fun with the dark vibes, vampires and other creatures of the night, and all the characters. The second book was super fantastic for character development, and the ending was completely a cliffhanger!
Even with that cliffhanger, I was not expecting this book to focus almost solely on Arjun and Pippa, two friends of both Celine and Bastion. While I originally was worried about how I'd enjoy the story because I felt that there has not been a lot of attention on Pippa or Arjun, and because the two main characters would be largely missing, it ended up being an amazing read. I did miss Celine and Bastion I can't lie, but having this focus on Arjun and Pippa made me fall in love with their characters even more than in the previous books.
While I don't remember AS much about the general plot as the first few books, that didn’t mean while reading it I didn’t enjoy it. There was lots happening and we had launched into a unique fae world (which I adore fae so it was so fun) within this story but it was way different then the other books. This didn’t make it forgettable but some of the plot was a little mushed together in my brain. However, I remember being really enthralled when I was reading.
Pippa has always felt like a side character who gets pushed to the side in this series, and I was surprised when she turned out to be a main character for this story. She had never really stuck out to me before as the story had relied so heavily on her just being a best friend to Celine, but am ultimately very glad that she got a story for herself. She in my opinion really grew as a character in this book as well, at least from what I knew of her.
Arjun was given a bit more attention in the second book of this series and I was absolutely loving him in this book as well. In the previous book he started drifting towards my list of favorite characters of the series but he definitely cemented himself there in this book. He showed how much he did care for his friends in the Court of Lions but also Pippa as they began to grow closer. I was really interested in his backstory too and I’m so happy that I got to get to know him better in this story.
Their romance was incredible, a perfect light enemies to lovers who just wanted to help their friends. I immediately felt their connection when the book thrust them together, and it was electric. I think that they do manage to balance each other out fairly well for being from such different lives and pasts, but it was so obvious that they cared a lot for each other. I cannot wait to see more of them in the coming books (hopefully - I'm not sure who the next book will focus on exactly haha) because they brought some good life and energy to the story.
[TW: kidnapping mentioned, child abuse recounted, physical abuse recounted, bullying and assault, war themes]
April 3, 2024
^^^ Literally how I felt this entire book
Guys, I really don't know what I just read. This book felt like a completely different story from the rest of the series and I'm not sure if I like it. Book 1 was so beautifully written with this New Orleans vampire vibe that felt so rich and immersive, and we had our Romeo & Juliet love story. Then Book 2 strayed from that a bit by bringing in multiple POV's and some fae action, which I was like, ok we're expanding the magical world, I can get on board with that - maybe. And that brings us to the clusterfuck that was book 3. Who are these characters and what happened to the plot of the first book?
Let me start off by saying that Ahdieh can write. Her words are beautiful and she can really set a scene. I've been a fan since The Wrath and the Dawn and I will continue to follow her after this series. But I am questioning this series.
I absolutely dislike when authors completely change their characters from one book to the next. Change does not happen overnight. It's a gradual thing. I did not recognize Celine in this book at all. She went from this strong willed, no nonsense character to as simpering child who stopped thinking rationally and just blindly followed her mother. I could not stand her here and even though we only saw her for a brief time, I was over it. I wish Bastien would have left her in the Vale and returned to his family.
Oh and Bastien, what happened to your backbone? Completely gone. Along with any communication he and Celine used to have. It felt like the change in them was only there to push the plot to where it needed to be and I did not like it.
This book also took the spotlight from who we thought the series was about (Celine & Bastien) and put it directly on Pippa and Arjun. While I found Arjun fascinating and was happy to get to know him more, Pippa took some time to warm up to. By the end of the book, I was strictly in their corner but I'm still a little lost as to what the author is trying to do. And what was that ending? Took me a minute to really understand what was happening but now I'm even more confused.
I really just wanted a vampire vs werewolf story set in 1800 New Orleans. Why did we have to overcomplicate that?
September 4, 2023
"Arjun Desai did not tremble. His touch was warm. Firm. Unflinching. He moved with surety and precision, as if daring the world to toy with him."
*4.5 stars*
The Righteous had me captivated right away from the beginning to the heart racing ending! This book focuses more on Pippa and Arjun who we met in the previous books (yes, you need to read them in order).
I'll admit I was slightly skeptical about how I felt about this diverting from Celine and Bastien to focus more on Pippa and Arjun. I usually struggle when the side characters become the main character BUT not in this case! I ABSOLUTELY loved it!
Pippa and Arjun have such good chemistry and banter together! I was swooning, giggling and even feeling emotional over them! They stole my heart! It was so wonderful to see Pippa's growth. I just love her sweet spirit and feistiness! Then, of course, our smart, witty Arjun can do no wrong in my eyes. *clutches pearls and SWOONS.* I loved how he was protective but yet so sarcastic with Pippa! They were an absolute DELIGHT together!
"You ... are loved, Arjun Desai,” she said softly. “So loved." Arjun swallowed. He pressed his brow to hers. “As high as the sky, and as deep as the ocean," he said. “That is how much you are loved."
The end was intense and I'm DYING for the next one! Please go easy on my heart Renee! I need everyone to be okay! Also, it was so exciting when we got to see Celine and Bastien in this as well! Michael's appearances I could have lived without tho. 🙈 You'll definitely wanna read the first two books and preorder this one because the world/characters are FANTASTIC!
*Arc received in exchange for an honest review. thank you so much, Penguin Teen!*
*4.5 stars*
The Righteous had me captivated right away from the beginning to the heart racing ending! This book focuses more on Pippa and Arjun who we met in the previous books (yes, you need to read them in order).
I'll admit I was slightly skeptical about how I felt about this diverting from Celine and Bastien to focus more on Pippa and Arjun. I usually struggle when the side characters become the main character BUT not in this case! I ABSOLUTELY loved it!
Pippa and Arjun have such good chemistry and banter together! I was swooning, giggling and even feeling emotional over them! They stole my heart! It was so wonderful to see Pippa's growth. I just love her sweet spirit and feistiness! Then, of course, our smart, witty Arjun can do no wrong in my eyes. *clutches pearls and SWOONS.* I loved how he was protective but yet so sarcastic with Pippa! They were an absolute DELIGHT together!
"You ... are loved, Arjun Desai,” she said softly. “So loved." Arjun swallowed. He pressed his brow to hers. “As high as the sky, and as deep as the ocean," he said. “That is how much you are loved."
The end was intense and I'm DYING for the next one! Please go easy on my heart Renee! I need everyone to be okay! Also, it was so exciting when we got to see Celine and Bastien in this as well! Michael's appearances I could have lived without tho. 🙈 You'll definitely wanna read the first two books and preorder this one because the world/characters are FANTASTIC!
*Arc received in exchange for an honest review. thank you so much, Penguin Teen!*
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