Blackwatch (Wintercraft, #2)

Jul 23, 2012 The Novel Reader rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

In the second book of Jenna Burtenshaw's trilogy, Wintercraft, we start off from where Shadowcry, (or Wintercraft as it's named in the British version) left off. Silas is on the run now, fleeing Albion and headed for the Continent. These two countries have been at war,and Silas tries to escape from being hunted by the wardens and the High Council. Unfortunately for him, he falls afoul to the Blackwatch, a group of elites who work for the Continent and ends of up meeting a dangerous enemy, Dallia...more

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May 27, 2012 Brandy rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012, adventure, for-reviews, speculative-fiction, teen

Following the events of Shadowcry, Kate is on trial for murder--and found guilty by the very people she trusted. Her friend Edgar helps her break out of the prison she's been held in, and in escaping the Skilled they are picked up by the Blackwatch. Meanwhile, Silas Dane has also been hunted by the Blackwatch, and it is his link to Kate that may save--or doom--them both, as it's Kate's rare powers to cross into the veil that interest the mysterious Dalliah.

This probably would have made a lot mor...more

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Dec 10, 2011 Charlotte Phillips rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

There is a book that goes before this one, and it is not one that I have read. But I found that you did not really need to read it in order to understand it fully. Of course if you had read the first one then the story would make full and complete sense, but not having read it, does not ruin the story which this novel holds. I loved the whole action adventure feel that this book has, the way it moved with rush, adrenaline and made my heart race. The piece seemed to have a lot of detail to it tha...more

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Mar 22, 2013 MLE rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: yad

I really like this series. The magic is interesting, and well developed. My favorite part has to be the fact that there is no love triangle. Sure much of the story focuses on Edgar, and Kate running for their lives together, but that is what they are actually doing running for their lives not stopping for make out time, or heartfelt confessions. It's refreshing to read a ya that isn't all about the love story.

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May 22, 2012 Alyssa (Books Take You Places) rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Originally reviewed here.

Blackwatch begins with Kate on trial because she has been falsely accused of murdering one of the leaders of the Skilled. Kate learns who she truly can and cannot trust while on trial and she is disheartened to find that those she believed loyal to her, those she risked her life for, are really not as loyal to her as she believed. Kate and Edgar escape from the Skilled into the underground caverns only to be caught by the Blackwatch, the Continent’s most elite warriors....more Originally reviewed here.

Blackwatch begins with Kate on trial because she has been falsely accused of murdering one of the leaders of the Skilled. Kate learns who she truly can and cannot trust while on trial and she is disheartened to find that those she believed loyal to her, those she risked her life for, are really not as loyal to her as she believed. Kate and Edgar escape from the Skilled into the underground caverns only to be caught by the Blackwatch, the Continent’s most elite warriors. Across the sea, Silas is also being hunted by Blackwatch and it is through Silas and Kate’s blood tie that they are both captured and forced to try both Silas’s patience and Kate’s power.

This story delves deeper into the tie between Silas and Kate and the powers that Kate has inherited as one of the Skilled. One of the reasons I adored Shadowcry was because of how dark it was as a young adult novel, and Blackwatch was no different. Jenna Burtenshaw delves deeper into what the veil represents and how it affects both Kate and Silas as well as how Edgar’s role as Kate’s only confidant will affect her power over the veil. The novel also provides the reader with glimpses into past which assists the reader in understanding both how Wintercraft came to be and how easily one can be consumed by darkness.

A new character, Dalliah Grey was introduced in this novel and she was a nice addition after the absence of Da’ru, though it is still a little unclear if her motives are going to be detrimental to Kate or not. It is no question that she does not have Kate’s best interests at heart and only wants to use her to accomplish her own (less than godly) goals. The shift in POV between Kate and Silas also offers a nice addition so the reader is able to glimpse some of Silas’s inner turmoil as he starts to gain a conscience. That being said, the last few pages of the novel were probably my favorite as they really gave the reader a more solid view on the man that Silas is growing into, no word yet on the romance but one can only hope (okay, pine for.)

Like in Shadowcry, Jenna Burtenshaw uses impeccable descriptions to describe the world Silas and Kate travel through. As I was reading about the caverns underground and the city housed in them I was amazed at how vivid they were in my mind. The climax of the novel was also brilliant in my mind and I found myself feeling a range of emotions as Kate struggled with the situation she was thrown into. I am thrilled to say that my copy of the conclusion to this trilogy, Wintercraft: Legacy, just arrived yesterday and I can’t wait to find out the extent of Kate’s power and Silas’s strength.

This series comes highly recommended!

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Dec 10, 2012 Tess rated it 3 of 5 stars

I love the darkness of this series. Some of the scenes in this book were very creepy but I always love to read them. The first book is still my favorite but this one was still worth the read. I can't exactly say why I didn't like this book as much but the connection I felt with the characters in the last book seemed to have lessened. i might be comparing it to the first book a little to much. I think I was just expecting a little bit more. The second book should either be as good or greater then...more

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Jun 16, 2011 Steph rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Blackwatch is a very quick paced book. There is always so much happening and it was hard to catch my breath while reading. There aren't too many slower parts in this book but that just added to the excitement and intensity of the story. The story isn't all about the excitement though. Burtenshaw builds a completely fascinating world full of things I have never seen in a book before. The ideas of The Skilled, the veil and other things are truly original and I couldn't seem to get enough of learni...more

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Aug 24, 2012 Tricia rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I did not anticipate things getting so much more sinister in this one. I felt the pace was slow and unbelievable to the point where at one point I thought to myself, when have they had time to go pee? Lol. Every second was nearly accounted for and this made things move slowly and unbelievable. I hated how vulnerable and docile Kate was in this one. I wanted to see her be the powerful, stubborn girl I know her to be. I love Silas still. Edgar... Keep on trucking. ;) I'll look for the next one hop...more

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Oct 22, 2012 Elizabeth "Liza" rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: magic, fantasy, series, ya

This was awesome! Can you see me jumping up and down? The Wintercraft series is a fantasy extravaganza of amazing characters that find your way to the heart.

My review of Shadowcraft, first book in the series, can be found here. Blackwatch keeps the same title as its UK counterpart and I’m glad for that. This book picks up where Shadowcraft left off. Silas is on the run from the High Council and Kate and her faithful friend Edgar are hiding in the underground city under Albion. Silas thinks that...more This was awesome! Can you see me jumping up and down? The Wintercraft series is a fantasy extravaganza of amazing characters that find your way to the heart.

My review of Shadowcraft, first book in the series, can be found here. Blackwatch keeps the same title as its UK counterpart and I’m glad for that. This book picks up where Shadowcraft left off. Silas is on the run from the High Council and Kate and her faithful friend Edgar are hiding in the underground city under Albion. Silas thinks that by leaving Kate behind, she will be safer, the opposite is true and now she is an easy prey to all sort of bad things and people. Kate has very strong powers, but she is not trained and is, in essence, a danger to others.

I love to visit again with these characters. I can’t help but be sorry for Kate, her lack of knowledge and resources puts her in constant danger. Edgar continuous to be a rock for Kate, and I like that he is so down to earth and has a great sense of humor. Silas is not, by any means, a likeable character, but I can’t help but like him nonetheless. In Blacwatch Silas falls unwillingly into Dalliah Grey’s hands and this has terrible consequences. Dalliah is a truly awful villain and she is very strong with the veil, but not as strong as Kate is.

The plot of Blackwatch is really good. I never saw any of the twists and turns coming. The imagination of this world and the complexity of the underground city, of the past visions Kate keeps having, of the machinations of the veil are all remarkable. The ending was a true cliffhanger. I emailed Ms. Burtenshaw to ask when the Legacy (book #3) will be published in the US and she gracefully wrote back to say that it won’t be until next year. I don’t think that can wait that long, I’ll probably get the UK version that just came out.

About the cover: I really like this cover. The play of dark colors and the light beyond the horizon. A city far away and a man (Silas?) walking toward it.
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Jun 14, 2012 Kris rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review, fantasy, ya-books, books-reviewed

I hadn't read book one (Shadowcry) before picking this one up; however, I was able to fill in the blanks pretty quickly based off events. Kate has been found guilty for murder that she didn't commit by the people she trusted. After an attempt on her life, Kate escapes with her friend Edgar, uncertain about her future only knowing that she needs to stay alive. Elsewhere, Silas is on the run, wanted for betraying his fellow Councilmen. After hearing about someone like him, he decides to find the w...more I hadn't read book one (Shadowcry) before picking this one up; however, I was able to fill in the blanks pretty quickly based off events. Kate has been found guilty for murder that she didn't commit by the people she trusted. After an attempt on her life, Kate escapes with her friend Edgar, uncertain about her future only knowing that she needs to stay alive. Elsewhere, Silas is on the run, wanted for betraying his fellow Councilmen. After hearing about someone like him, he decides to find the woman in the hopes of finding an ally.

Kate isn't my favorite character. She's timid and acts rationally, allowing herself to be taken prisoner because she doesn't trust herself not to accidentally kill those she cares about. Her powers are beyond comprehension, as she comes from a strong lineage of Walkers, skilled among the Skilled; being the last of her kind, the other Skilled fear her abilities. I like Edgar for his honesty and loyalty, and I like Silas because he's a loner who trusts in his abilities and who remains loyal to his beliefs even when his people distrust him after his ability to die was taken from him.

As much as I like certain characters, however, I can't say the same for the novel overall. I have high expectations for fantasy novels. They were my first love when it came to YA books. Because of the complex world building that it takes to bring fantasy worlds to life, I like my fantasy novels to be descriptive more than any other genre that I read, and I need to be able to follow character motivation. Blackwatch didn't delve deeply enough into the world or character for me to relate to the characters. I wanted to like them, especially Silas and Edgar, but I didn't feel as though I got to know them well enough. While the alternating narration between Kate and Silas should have rounded out the plot, the writing style doesn't seem well suited to fantasy, and I didn't feel the connection.

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For more of my reviews, visit my blog Imaginary Reads.

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Jun 19, 2012 ephrielle rated it 5 of 5 stars

A dark, desperate and compelling read. Situations get increasingly more tight and hope becomes all but a memory. Yet the characters are divine and will keep you turning pages long into the night. A great addition to a riveting tale.

Edgar is a perfect light pivot for this book. Everything is full of despair yet he stands stalwart amidst the onslaught. He almost doesn't grasp the danger or perhaps he has very little fear. Since he can't stop it he just keeps moving forward instead of being overcom...more

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Feb 12, 2012 Regina rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011, fantasy, paranormal, thriller

And the fanart drawings commence! It is a solid sequel even though there are some aspects of the book that feel like filler .Silas is very awesome and i like him even more in this sequel. He just seems so cool even though hes a cold blooded soldier..hmm maybe im just a sucker for these types.This is totally how i picture him except with short hair complete with crow hehe...
image: description

Anyways, heres the break down on the characters:

Kate: her role is so much more passive in this sequel to me for some...more

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Aug 01, 2011 Annamarie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: own

Albion's Skilled community have long feared the dark practices detailed in the book of Wintercraft. Only one girl is powerful enough to manipulate its secrets and now the book is in her possession

Kate Winters is on trial, falsely accused of murdering the Skilled leader. Shunned by her own kind, Kate can see no escape and worse, a sinister threat is arraying outside the underground caverns where she's being kept: the Continent's elite assassins known only as Blackwatch.

Silas Dane is also hunted b...more

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Dec 28, 2011 Sarah rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: books-i-own-print, signed, for-review-read, read-in-2011, british-author

I loved Wintercraft so was looking forward to re-visiting the world Jenna Burtenshaw has created in Blackwatch. This really is a fabulous dark fantasy series and one that I would highly recommend. This story is told from both Kate and Silas's points of view which allows us to follow two very different journeys as they face the aftermath of events in the first book. Kate and her friend Edgar went to the Skilled for help and protection but Kate finds herself wrongly accused of murder and placed un...more I loved Wintercraft so was looking forward to re-visiting the world Jenna Burtenshaw has created in Blackwatch. This really is a fabulous dark fantasy series and one that I would highly recommend. This story is told from both Kate and Silas's points of view which allows us to follow two very different journeys as they face the aftermath of events in the first book. Kate and her friend Edgar went to the Skilled for help and protection but Kate finds herself wrongly accused of murder and placed under arrest. When she is found guilty and imprisoned Edgar is horrified and determined to find a way to release her. Silas is on the run knowing that the whole of the High Council believe him to be a traitor. He flees Albion and heads to the continent in search of Dalliah who he believes could be a strong ally. However nothing is quite what it seems and there are events in motion that neither Kate or Silas are aware of, someone is manipulating them both but who is it and just what are they trying to achieve?

Silas was my favourite character in the first book and that has continued into Blackwatch, in fact I think he's one of my favourite characters of 2011. He is so complex and you're never quite sure what to make of him, he definitely has a bad side - we saw in Wintercraft how lethal he is to his enemies but he also has a kinder side even if he does keep it well hidden. I never know quite what to expect next when it comes to Silas and I love it when a character can surprise me as much as he does. I really like Kate too but I would have liked to have seen a bit more of her using her new found abilities in this book. We hear a lot about how Kate is the most powerful Walker in memory and the Skilled are all afraid of her potential but we don't get to see much of what she is capable of, I'm sure this is something that will change in the next book though. I have a bit of a soft spot for her friend Edgar too, he is so caring and goes out of his way to protect Kate no matter what risk it puts him under.

The plot is so fast paced that I didn't want to put the book down, there are some great twists that I didn't see coming and it makes it really difficult to figure out who Kate can really trust. The ending has left me desperate to get hold of the next book in the series and I can't wait to see what happens next. Another great installment from Jenna Burtenshaw in a series I'd highly recommend.(less)

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Jul 17, 2011 Jesse Owen rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: for-review

A quick warning – I do attempt to keep spoilers from previous books from raising their ugly head in my reviews but from time to time things accidentally slip through the net or are needed to explain points.

After reading Wintercraft I had very high expectations for Blackwatch, the world that Jenna created in that first book was staggering with vivid characters that I loved. Blackwatch delivered more of the same.

We rejoin the story about a month after the night of souls with Silas on the run and K...more A quick warning – I do attempt to keep spoilers from previous books from raising their ugly head in my reviews but from time to time things accidentally slip through the net or are needed to explain points.

After reading Wintercraft I had very high expectations for Blackwatch, the world that Jenna created in that first book was staggering with vivid characters that I loved. Blackwatch delivered more of the same.

We rejoin the story about a month after the night of souls with Silas on the run and Kate essentially in captivity. We soon learn that the pair of them are being hunted down by the infamous Blackwatch who seem almost like an army (not quite the right word) who you would not want to get on the wrong side of, they’re loyal and deadly.

Once again I loved Silas, he proved himself to be loyal and caring despite the image of a ruthless hunter that he portrayed in the first book. His commitment to Kate in Blackwatch was unwavering and throughout he shows that underneath everything there is a man who is compassionate despite everything he’s been through. And then we come to Dalliah Grey, a woman I so didn’t want to meet, she seemed to me cruel, uncaring and manipulative. Enough said about her I think!

I can’t finish talking about characters without talking about Kate and Edgar. Edgar shows himself to be a true friend who would put his life in danger if he thought it would save Kate, he’s loyal, determined and level headed. Without him I’m not sure how Kate would have survived.

The dual narrative continues apace in this book giving us the views from Silas and Kate as well as from time to time from his special crow and it makes sense considering the pairs journey’s – although separate and different ultimately have an effect on each other.

My single criticism would be that (and this is more of a reflection on how long ago I read Wintercraft than anything else) at least to begin with I struggled to remember some parts of the original story and relationships between characters and it took me a couple of chapters to get everything straight in my head. As I say though after a couple of chapters my memory had been jogged and I was back up to speed.

By its very nature Blackwatch is a darker tale than its predecessor – how could it not be when it looks more closely at the veil. It’s a story where strong characters are embedded in a beautifully created world and it leaves us with a fab ending hinting that there is still more to come with Silas & Kate :D

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Apr 14, 2011 Vivienne Serendipity Reviews rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Jenna Burtenshaw has a very dark mind! And I for one, LOVE IT!

This is the second book in the Wintercraft trilogy and I found that it was a much darker fantasy than the first one. Jenna Burtenshaw is excellent at creating a Gothic style world that slowly envelops you until you cannot escape. From the first pages, you are handcuffed and instantly engulfed with a fear of foreboding.

The Skilled have captured Kate and imprisoned her. They fear the power she now has at her fingertips. She is stronger...more Jenna Burtenshaw has a very dark mind! And I for one, LOVE IT!

This is the second book in the Wintercraft trilogy and I found that it was a much darker fantasy than the first one. Jenna Burtenshaw is excellent at creating a Gothic style world that slowly envelops you until you cannot escape. From the first pages, you are handcuffed and instantly engulfed with a fear of foreboding.

The Skilled have captured Kate and imprisoned her. They fear the power she now has at her fingertips. She is stronger than any other Walker who has held the Wintercraft book before her, she is also volatile as she is unable to cope with the power sweeping through her. Whilst the Skilled decide upon Kate's future, others are keen to find her. Blackwatch, a sinister and elite force who fear nothing, will not stop until they have brought Kate to Dalliah Grey, a rather well known character from the past who has constantly defied death for two centuries.

The author has successfully brought back the feisty Kate, the dark, brooding, dangerous Silas and the sarcastic, slightly annoying Edward from the first book. Along with these familiar faces, there are two new characters. Dalliah Grey, a quietly determined woman who gives off an air of benevolence and Banderman, the leader of the Blackwatch, who seems to be constantly defying death; a malignant growth that needs to be surgically removed. Kate worried me as a character, as I felt she on the verge of following a macabre pathway; she is now so unpredictable with the power she holds inside her. Silas is still one of my most favourite characters. As unpleasant and cold as he tries to appear, there is a heart hidden deeply within and occasionally he has to give in to it. He suffers physically and emotionally in this book, which shows a more humane side to his character. Thankfully neither Dalliah or Banderman appear as openly posionous as Daru did in the first book, yet looks can be deceiving and I think Dalliah is yet to reach her full potential of evilness.

Yet again, Jenna Burtenshaw breathes originality in to the fantasy genre. The veil and the spirit wheels are unique to her writing style. Within this book, we are given a deeper understanding about how they came to be, their origins were a lot darker than I would have ever expected.

What I love about the Wintercraft books is the author's use of descriptive language. I find myself getting lost in the world she has built as her descriptions come to life. I find her use of imagery quite outstanding. Within this book, we discover the underground caverns that appear endless, a whole world beneath your feet, ready to be explored. Although the darkness of the underground setting does gives off a claustrophobic feel to the reader. I felt Kate's immense relief on reaching the surface and seeing the stars light up the evening sky.

Within the actual writing, there is never a trace of a clunky phrase or unsuitable word, the prose just continues to flow beautifully. This storyline wasn't as intense as the first book, allowing me to breathe easier this time. Some of the spoken passages by the characters were brilliantly written and eloquently said.

I found myself reading this book in two sittings,as once I had reacquainted myself with Kate and Silas, I didn't want to leave their company. I think if I had to choose between the two books so far in the series, I would have to say that Blackwatch is my favourite, but it is a difficult choice to make as I have enjoyed them both.

This book ends on a cliffhanger, yet the story within the book is wrapped up leaving only the last chapter with loose ends. I can't wait for the final part of the trilogy in order to discover how it all will end.From reading the last pages of this book I can only imagine an apocalyptic finale to the series,

This is a fantasy series I would highly recommend, especially if you are new to this genre. Each book is just under three hundred books and quick to lose yourself in.
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Jun 03, 2011 Susan Mann rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I'm a huge fan of this series and could not wait to read the second book as soon as I finished the first. Jenna's writing is refreshing, it is unlike any of the other authors I have read recently in YA. It is darker, more sinister and intriguing.

Blackwatch is told from Silas and Kate's point of view. It starts just after the last book ended Kate has been captured by The Skilled and in being held underground in the City Below. The Skilled fearing the power Kate has. She is stronger than her ance...more I'm a huge fan of this series and could not wait to read the second book as soon as I finished the first. Jenna's writing is refreshing, it is unlike any of the other authors I have read recently in YA. It is darker, more sinister and intriguing.

Blackwatch is told from Silas and Kate's point of view. It starts just after the last book ended Kate has been captured by The Skilled and in being held underground in the City Below. The Skilled fearing the power Kate has. She is stronger than her ancestors who have held the Wintercraft before her. Kate's spirit is able to move between the worlds of the living and the dead. Others are searching for her, those include the Blackwatch. A sinister group, who will stop at nothing to take Kate to Dalliah Grey, a character who has constantly defied death for two centuries of more. Silas is on the run. I enjoy how the book is taken from both points of view and you can find out what each character is doing until the come back in to contact with each other.

Silas is by far one my favourite characters, in a big, scary, brooding way, mysterious, uncaring and sarcastic way. Yet so lovable. Kate is the real heroine of the story, so brave for someone so young and never gives up. But she's not daft, she knows when to ask for help but she will keep at it. Her determination and bravery is amazing, for someone going through so much. I have to say my favourite is Silas' crow, ever faithful and always there. I wish I had one.

I loved the first book and didn't think this one could be better, but I have to say I enjoyed it more. It is darker and more appealing to me. Jenna has a way of creating an amazing world, through her language that you can find yourself lost in without even realising.

The book is fast paced and you will be unable to put it down once you start. Ending with a cliffhanger which leaves you begging for the last book, as I have. I cannot wait for the last book in the trilogy.

I would highly recommend this book, it's dark, sinister and an amazing read. Jenna Burtenshaw has a dark imagination and an amazing talent.(less)

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Sep 18, 2011 Amanda Makepeace rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

In May I had the pleasure of reading Wintercraft before it was released in the US as Shadowcry, thanks to the wonderful Jenna Burtenshaw. It was everything I imagined and anticipated! Wintercraft is a return to solid Fantasy/Adventure fiction. The lack of over-the-top romance, so prevalent in YA literature today, was refreshing. Genuine characters, magic, adventure, dark forces — Wintercraft has it all.

I expected no less when I began reading Blackwatch. The story picks up right where Wintercraft...more

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May 26, 2011 Lyndsey Rushby rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: ya

One thing I loved so much about the first book in this series, was the fact that it was much darker than other YA books and the setting certainly helped that. This time around, Jenna Burtenshaw steps up her game and goes even darker and even more sinister. It all starts with the cover really, which is black and red. Having a cover with such strong colours not only makes it stand out against other books but also makes you want to know more about the book.

Blackwatch is told from the POV of main c...more One thing I loved so much about the first book in this series, was the fact that it was much darker than other YA books and the setting certainly helped that. This time around, Jenna Burtenshaw steps up her game and goes even darker and even more sinister. It all starts with the cover really, which is black and red. Having a cover with such strong colours not only makes it stand out against other books but also makes you want to know more about the book.

Blackwatch is told from the POV of main characters, Kate and Silas, who find themselves in very different situations. Kate has been captured by The Skilled and is imprisoned in the underground with very few options to escape and Silas is on the run after the end of the previous book. I liked how I still got to find out what was happening with each character throughout and was anxiously waiting for the two of them to finally cross paths again. Unlike many books with multiple POV’s, the chapters don’t state which character is telling the story but as their voices are so distinct and strong, it is easy to follow.

Due to Kate’s circumstances at the beginning of the book, I was unsure about where the story was going to, and could, take her. Stuck in an impossible situation, Kate doesn’t really have much of a choice about what is going on and sees no way out of her predicament but obviously, the book would have been quite boring if she had been stuck underground the whole time! Seeing as Kate is not the kind of character to take things lying down, she finds a way out, along with some help, and off she goes on a massive adventure again. The bravery and determination that she showed was admirable and I wish I could have some of that in myself. Also, she isn’t stupid. Kate knows when things aren’t going her way and she knows when to say enough is enough!

Silas is still my favourite character of this series. He’s dark, brooding and very mysterious. He is also cold, uncaring and a bit heartless at times but I think this is an act more than anything else as he is able to show that he really cares during other moments. Over the course of both books so far, I still don’t feel like I know everything I should about him. While this would normally be a bad thing, I loved this about his character and the way that Burtenshaw has written him. Maybe if too much was revealed about him, I wouldn’t have a such strong attraction to him. Maybe the mystery would disappear and I would end up disappointed and I don’t want that to happen.

Blackwatch is a very quick paced book and at just under 300 pages long, it needed to be. There is always so much happening and it was hard to catch my breath while reading. There aren’t too many slower parts in this book but that just added to the excitement and intensity of the story. The story isn’t all about the excitement though. Burtenshaw builds a completely fascinating world full of things I have never seen in a book before. The ideas of The Skilled, the veil and other things are truly original and I couldn’t seem to get enough of learning more about them all. I can see that the third (and final) book in this series is going to just as amazing as the other two and the world created is full of amazing possibilities.

Blackwatch is a great second book from Jenna Burtenshaw and I can’t wait for her next book! Highly recommended. (less)

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May 23, 2011 SJH (A Dream of Books) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: for-review, young-adult, fantasy

I am a huge fan of Jenna Burtenshaw's debut novel, 'Wintercraft' which was published last year. It absolutely blew me away with its brilliance so I was really eager and very excited to receive a proof copy of the sequel from the wonderful publisher Headline.

The story picks up immediately after the events of 'Wintercraft'. Kate has been imprisoned by the Skilled who believe that she is a huge danger to the world. She is a Walker, and her spirit is able to move between the worlds of the living and...more I am a huge fan of Jenna Burtenshaw's debut novel, 'Wintercraft' which was published last year. It absolutely blew me away with its brilliance so I was really eager and very excited to receive a proof copy of the sequel from the wonderful publisher Headline.

The story picks up immediately after the events of 'Wintercraft'. Kate has been imprisoned by the Skilled who believe that she is a huge danger to the world. She is a Walker, and her spirit is able to move between the worlds of the living and the dead. The Skilled fear this power as Kate is untrained and her very presence can weaken the veil between the two worlds, blurring the boundaries between life and death. Kate is also being hunted by the Blackwatch, who are part of the Continental Army and will stop at nothing to get their hands on Kate. Silas Dane, a significant character from the first book, also makes a return and he too is being held at the mercy of the Blackwatch, whose motives are uncovered as the story progresses.

Kate is a real heroine. She's so brave and has to face such adversity but she never gives up and although she has a difficult path to follow is always prepared to do what's right, even when it might not necessarily be the easy choice. I'm a huge Silas Dane fan and I thought that he was really well developed in this installment. He's often difficult to read as he's quite a complex and mysterious character and you never quite known whether he's good or bad but I think that's what makes him so interesting. I look forward to seeing more of his interactions with Kate and finding out how their relationship will progress. Plus, I love his ever faithful crow - I think we should all have one!

I have to say that Jenna Burtenshaw has done it again! She's created an incredible imaginary world, in Albion and crafted wonderfully three-dimensional characters who come to life on the page. The story flows beautifully and the plot, as in her previous book, is interesting, unpredictable and gripping. I really think that this series could be turned into a film franchise, because everything is described in such vivid detail and I'd love to see these characters up on the big screen. The series so far reminds me a little bit of Narnia crossed with Philip Pullman's Dark Materials books. It's absolutely enchanting and would appeal to those who are fantasy fans, as well as those who are new to the genre.

Jenna Burtenshaw can't write the next installment of this fabulous series quick enough for me, as I'm eager to read more about Kate and Silas and their adventures. 'Blackwatch' was a real page-turner and compulsive reading. Make sure you clear your schedule before you pick it up because once you've started, you won't want to stop.

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Mar 13, 2013 Rhys rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review was originally posted on ThirstforFiction.com

Kate has been taken up by the Skilled, and down in the City Below she is safe from the Wardens. But even the City Below cannot protect her from the Skilled, who are increasingly sure that she killed one of their kind. Silas has left Albion for the continent; he is bent on finding the legendary Dalliah Grey, but they will not stay apart for long. Destiny has a nasty habit of being right, and Dalliah has other plans for the pair of them.

You...more

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Apr 06, 2011 Leanne Bell rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: anti-heroes, black, cliffhanger, demons-and-other-beasties, ghosts, its-a-kinda-magic, read-2011, seriously-evil-bad-guys, titles-with-colours-in-them, young-adult

First of all I would like to thank Jenna and headline publishing for sending me a proof copy to read, and as most of you know I will also be publishing my Interview with Jenna on the 12th of April.
Anyway, Blackwatch is an amazing book and a fantastic edition to the Wintercraft series. All the favourites are back including Kate, Silas, Edgar and of course our feathery friend, Silas’s crow (I want one, their awesome!).

Blackwatch picks up roughly where Wintercraft left off. After the events on the...more First of all I would like to thank Jenna and headline publishing for sending me a proof copy to read, and as most of you know I will also be publishing my Interview with Jenna on the 12th of April.
Anyway, Blackwatch is an amazing book and a fantastic edition to the Wintercraft series. All the favourites are back including Kate, Silas, Edgar and of course our feathery friend, Silas’s crow (I want one, their awesome!).

Blackwatch picks up roughly where Wintercraft left off. After the events on the night of souls, Silas has left for the continent and Kate has decided to try and get help from the Skilled even though she knows there’s a chance that she might be blamed for a murder she hasn’t committed. Things take a sinister turn though, and Kate finds herself in more trouble than ever, whilst Silas finds himself at the mercy of The Blackwatch and a woman named Delliah, also seems to be playing her part on a very twisted turn of events that could possibly change Albion for ever.

I love this series, I simply love it. The characters are so different and Unique and instead of having clear cut ‘bad-guys’ as you would get in most novels there are characters who have different levels of evil and often good reasons for what they do (that doesn’t make them good by a longshot, but it does make a change to have 3-dimensional reasoning and emotions)
Silas is by far my favourite character, as he was in the previous novel. Maybe it’s because I have a thing for the literary bad boys but it’s also the fact that despite his bad points, he is the most complex character in the book. He’s dangerous, ruthless and can be very cold, but at the same time can be equally caring, concerned and capable of doing the right thing. He was the anti-hero of the previous novel, but I think now he’s edging more towards Hero, not that I mind, he is an awesome guy!

Kate also shone in this novel and her bravery never ceased to amaze me. At times she was hunted, stalked and attacked on an almost constant basis and she still stood her ground and stood strong. But at the same time, she wasn’t foolish and she also knew when to admit defeat when she had to and I admired her for that.
Edgar impressed me a lot too! He was such a hero in his own way and added some humour when I felt it was most needed. Some of the things he came out with had me laughing ages after I’d past them in the book. As for his actions at the end I was stunned, he really was brave and I can see his relationship with Silas becoming interesting as well especially since the two of them never really got on. But I can’t say anymore without ruining the ending (or anything else in the book for that matter!)

Anyway, read this! It’s brilliant and it’s released in book store and other very nice book sellers from the 14th April. Read it I tell you! 
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Jun 02, 2013 Llamalover rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Like the book says, you have to see the veil to believe in it, and as a reader, i just couldnt grasp it in my mind. i couldnt understand how the veil was being torn, how that was different than Albion,and how Kate was controlling yet not controlling it. I understood it enough, though, to get through the book.Silas Dane aka my favorite character is awesome, he cant die, and he saved Edgar. When she 'killed' Edgar i practically exploded into tears, because i love him! if i had been him, i wouldve...more

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Feb 26, 2013 Niko Ramsey rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction, paranormal, series, teen, beautiful-cover, boring-as-hell, read-in-2013, meh

This is my second time trying to read Jenna Burtenshaw's work, the first being the initial book in this series. As much as I wanted to like it- and as beautiful as her writing is- I couldn't help but keep flipping to the back of the book, counting the pages until I was done. It was just boring. I was engaged maybe once, and that was early on- but I was determined to finish, and I did.

Overall, not for me.

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Jul 25, 2012 Jillian rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I was sadly disappointed with this novel. It wasn't that the writing or the story was bad, but it was that the middle third of the book was more of a villain's rant of how they were going to do things and the why they were going to do it. I felt like that's goin to ruin the next book and that made the book run slower and less interesting then it all picked up again in the next third.

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Oct 27, 2012 Loretta Johnson rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I read this book without reading book 1 first. I think it might have been better for me if I had read the first book. It took me awhile to know the characters and I was never that invested in them. So. Read book one first!

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Dec 17, 2012 Ceyo rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I love the premise behind these books, I really do, but I found it annoying and completely unrealistic that Kate gets pulled into the veil at times of danger and NEVER gets caught.

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Sep 11, 2011 georgia -ωαт¢н ɱє fℓу- rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: books-i-ve-reviewed

When I read the first book, I enjoyed it but didn't LOVE it. When I found out that it was a series, I thought, sure why not. When I read this, I thought Woah. This book was way better than the first one and I look forward to the next one.

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Oct 20, 2012 Lindsey Kamyn rated it 4 of 5 stars

I wasn't as drawn into the plot for this one as I was for Wintercraft, but it was still very well done. I continue to be impressed by Burtenshaw's writing style.

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Jun 04, 2012 H.D. Tolson marked it as to-read

Does anyone have the first one, Shadowcry, they'd be willing to trade/give me? I got this one for review and am really interesting in reading them! :)

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Blackwatch (Wintercraft #2)

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