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The Golden Lily (Bloodlines, #2)
by Richelle Mead (Goodreads Author)
by Richelle Mead (Goodreads Author)
Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian. Adrian.
5/5 SEXY, SHINY STARS.
Oh, fine. You want more? Well, don't blame me if my Sydrian Gushing button gets stuck ON! (this is actually a shortened review, so... erm...)
The Golden Lily begins with a quietly menacing chapter that, on reflection, is quite a fitting start given where it feels Sydney is headed (hopefully not there, but she's in a dangerous position). Picking up a month after the events of Bloodlines, Dimitri and Sonya are now in Palm Springs, having formed a trio laced with tension alongside Adrian as they test their experiments. Angeline is struggling to fit into a civilised society (but I SO love her antics), Jill is discovering the pains of being a vampire trying to exist beside humans and Eddie - sweet, dedicated warrior - is hiding his true feelings because he feels inadequate. Sigh. Nothing is ever easy for these guys, but I love every minute of their angst.
Sydney Sage is adorable. She may be bounds above her peers on an intellectual level, but when it comes to the rules of dating, she really has no idea. It's such an endearing quality and makes for some amusing scenes... especially given the new, equally smart, equally socially awkward guy in her life. Who is not Adrian Ivashkov, but I couldn't bring myself to view him as a potential threat because I have an iron-clad belief that no woman alive can resist Adrian's charm (Rose? What? Shut up. I don't know what you're talking about. This book features a lily). I quite liked the contrast of these two different relationships in her life. And I've gotta say... Brayden? He was kind of hilarious in the moment right before.. THAT moment!
Sydney has made a clear transformation since we first met her in Blood Promise. Alchemist, she may be, but believer in the cause? Well, that's where the cracks begin to show. She's opening herself up to things she would never have dreamed of doing and becoming friendly with the strictly forbidden. We catch a glimpse of what the Alchemists will do to those who show the slightest hint of favour toward the vampires and it's a scary thing. I worry about Sydney's future, because I stupidly want her to acknowledge what she feels deep down and stick it to the Alchemists (and get nakey with Adrian), but she's walking a line that if crossed, could have terrifying consequences.
Adrian Ivashkov. I can't believe Richelle turned him into a murderer.... of my sanity, that is. There are not enough words in the English, Swedish or Plutonean language to describe my love for this guy. He stole my heart in 2009 and that beautiful bastard has kept it ever since! As usual, we're treated to his ever entertaining wit and charm, but Richelle digs deeper and deeper and once again explores his inner demons. I wanted to envelope him in the biggest hug so many times. His parents prove to be a very sore spot and I'm really hoping someone breaks his father's nose. I'm HAPPY to do the honours. It's thanks to Sydney that we see him open up more. Not even with Rose did he allow himself to be this candid; to trust another with his fears and vulnerabilities. I love that there is finally someone in his life willing to put their faith in him, to stand up for him, and he shows to be the same support for her. HE DESERVES TO BE HAPPY, DAMNIT.
I love the dance between these two - even if Sydney is barely even aware of it, coming from either herself or Adrian. She can be so adorably oblivious! Much of what she does is done unconsciously, but I think that's what made me love it even more, because her actions and feelings were more honest, genuine. Even if she can't see what they truly mean, the reader can. Every moment between them had me with my fist to my mouth, covering an impossibly large grin and trying, without success, to soften the ridiculous noises squawking out of me. They are equal to my love of Rose and Dimitri and it's only the second book in the series! It also needs to be noted that Protector Adrian; the fierce, sweet hero ready to defend Sydney's honor is probably the greatest thing since Poet Adrian, Mustang Adrian and Jet Steele Adrian.
While I guessed the mystery early on and I was hoping for just a teensy bit more action, I wouldn't even think to deduct half a star for these. Because neither could chisel the smile from my face or glue back the cracks in my heart by the end. New and exciting threats are introduced, magic is explored, the swoon levels are set to EXTREME and regardless of whether you think yourself a shipper of Sydney and Adrian, you damn well will be when you read this. Otherwise I will disown you. I'm not even kidding. The Golden Lily is yet another stunning and compulsively readable (as in: don't expect to put it down until you're finished) installment from an author worthy of her bestseller title. The final chapter damaged my heart; it was floating on a puffy cloud in heaven and before it could thud another beat, SOMEONE DRAGGED IT DOWN TO HELL. So I went back to reread the same chapter again, because even though I knew it would hurt, the high before the fall is so f**king worth it!!!
5/5 SEXY, SHINY STARS.
Oh, fine. You want more? Well, don't blame me if my Sydrian Gushing button gets stuck ON! (this is actually a shortened review, so... erm...)
The Golden Lily begins with a quietly menacing chapter that, on reflection, is quite a fitting start given where it feels Sydney is headed (hopefully not there, but she's in a dangerous position). Picking up a month after the events of Bloodlines, Dimitri and Sonya are now in Palm Springs, having formed a trio laced with tension alongside Adrian as they test their experiments. Angeline is struggling to fit into a civilised society (but I SO love her antics), Jill is discovering the pains of being a vampire trying to exist beside humans and Eddie - sweet, dedicated warrior - is hiding his true feelings because he feels inadequate. Sigh. Nothing is ever easy for these guys, but I love every minute of their angst.
Sydney Sage is adorable. She may be bounds above her peers on an intellectual level, but when it comes to the rules of dating, she really has no idea. It's such an endearing quality and makes for some amusing scenes... especially given the new, equally smart, equally socially awkward guy in her life. Who is not Adrian Ivashkov, but I couldn't bring myself to view him as a potential threat because I have an iron-clad belief that no woman alive can resist Adrian's charm (Rose? What? Shut up. I don't know what you're talking about. This book features a lily). I quite liked the contrast of these two different relationships in her life. And I've gotta say... Brayden? He was kind of hilarious in the moment right before.. THAT moment!
Sydney has made a clear transformation since we first met her in Blood Promise. Alchemist, she may be, but believer in the cause? Well, that's where the cracks begin to show. She's opening herself up to things she would never have dreamed of doing and becoming friendly with the strictly forbidden. We catch a glimpse of what the Alchemists will do to those who show the slightest hint of favour toward the vampires and it's a scary thing. I worry about Sydney's future, because I stupidly want her to acknowledge what she feels deep down and stick it to the Alchemists (and get nakey with Adrian), but she's walking a line that if crossed, could have terrifying consequences.
Adrian Ivashkov. I can't believe Richelle turned him into a murderer.... of my sanity, that is. There are not enough words in the English, Swedish or Plutonean language to describe my love for this guy. He stole my heart in 2009 and that beautiful bastard has kept it ever since! As usual, we're treated to his ever entertaining wit and charm, but Richelle digs deeper and deeper and once again explores his inner demons. I wanted to envelope him in the biggest hug so many times. His parents prove to be a very sore spot and I'm really hoping someone breaks his father's nose. I'm HAPPY to do the honours. It's thanks to Sydney that we see him open up more. Not even with Rose did he allow himself to be this candid; to trust another with his fears and vulnerabilities. I love that there is finally someone in his life willing to put their faith in him, to stand up for him, and he shows to be the same support for her. HE DESERVES TO BE HAPPY, DAMNIT.
I love the dance between these two - even if Sydney is barely even aware of it, coming from either herself or Adrian. She can be so adorably oblivious! Much of what she does is done unconsciously, but I think that's what made me love it even more, because her actions and feelings were more honest, genuine. Even if she can't see what they truly mean, the reader can. Every moment between them had me with my fist to my mouth, covering an impossibly large grin and trying, without success, to soften the ridiculous noises squawking out of me. They are equal to my love of Rose and Dimitri and it's only the second book in the series! It also needs to be noted that Protector Adrian; the fierce, sweet hero ready to defend Sydney's honor is probably the greatest thing since Poet Adrian, Mustang Adrian and Jet Steele Adrian.
While I guessed the mystery early on and I was hoping for just a teensy bit more action, I wouldn't even think to deduct half a star for these. Because neither could chisel the smile from my face or glue back the cracks in my heart by the end. New and exciting threats are introduced, magic is explored, the swoon levels are set to EXTREME and regardless of whether you think yourself a shipper of Sydney and Adrian, you damn well will be when you read this. Otherwise I will disown you. I'm not even kidding. The Golden Lily is yet another stunning and compulsively readable (as in: don't expect to put it down until you're finished) installment from an author worthy of her bestseller title. The final chapter damaged my heart; it was floating on a puffy cloud in heaven and before it could thud another beat, SOMEONE DRAGGED IT DOWN TO HELL. So I went back to reread the same chapter again, because even though I knew it would hurt, the high before the fall is so f**king worth it!!!
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Quotes Brodie Liked
“Adrian ordered a martini, earning disapproving looks from his father and me.
"It's barely noon," said Nathan.
"I know," said Adrian. "I'm surprised I held out that long too.”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
"It's barely noon," said Nathan.
"I know," said Adrian. "I'm surprised I held out that long too.”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
“Day 24. Situation is growing worse. My captors continue to find new and horrific ways to torture me. When not working, Agent Scarlet spends her days examining fabric swatches for bridesmaid dresses and going on about how in love she is. This usually causes Agent Boring Borscht to regale us with stories of Russian weddings that are even more boring than his usual ones. My attempts at escape have been thwarted thus far. Also, I am out of cigarettes. Any assistance or tobacco products you can send will be greatly appreciated.
-Prisoner 24601”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
-Prisoner 24601”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
“You need me? You yell. You want to leave? We go. I'll get you out of here, no matter what.”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
“He shook his head. "No. Because there's no one else out there who understands you like I do." I waited for more. "That's it? You're not going to elaborate on what that means?" Those green eyes held me. "I don't think I need to.”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
“He reached out and pulled me to him, one hand on my waist and the other behind my neck. He tipped my head up and lowered his lips to mine. I closed my eyes and melted as my whole body was consumed in that kiss. I was nothing. I was everything. Chills, ran over my skin, and fire burned inside me. His body pressed closer to mine, and I wrapped my arms around his neck. His lips were warmer and softer than anything I could have ever imagined, yet fierce and powerful at the same time. Mine responded hungrily, and I tightened my hold on him. His fingers slid down the back of my neck, tracing its shape, and every place they touched was electric.”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
“I tried to be a better person for her– but it was to impress her, to get her to want me. But when I’m around you, I want to be better because… well, because it feels right. Because I want to. You make me want to become something greater than myself. I want to excel. You inspire me in every act, every word, every glance. I look at you, and you’re like… like light made into flesh. […] You have no clue how beautiful you are or how brightly you shine.”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
“He shouldn't have said that," repeated Adrian, eerily serious. He leaned his face toward mine. "I don't care if he's not the emotional type or the complimentary type or what. No one can look at you in this dress, in all that fire and gold, and start talking about anachronisms. If I were him, I would have said, 'You are the most beautiful creature I have ever seen walking this earth.”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
“Adrian stood there leaning against the doorframe, watching me with his heart in his eyes. In my chest, my own heart was breaking. On my cheek, the lily reminded me who I was. ”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
“I know how you guys feel about us. I'm not stupid, and believe me, I've tried to get you out of my head. But there isn't enough liquor or art or any other distraction in the world to do it. I had to stop going to Wolfe's because it was too hard being that close to you, even if it was all just pretend fighting. I couldn't stand the touching. It was agonizing because it meant something to me－and I knew it meant nothing to you. I kept telling myself to stay away altogether, and then I'd find excuses… like the car… anything to be around you again.”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
“With a few swift steps, Adrian stood in front of me again. The wall was only a couple inches behind me, and I had nowhere to go. He made no threatening moves, but he did clasp my hands and hold them to his chest while leaning down to me.
“No, you will listen. For once, you’re going to hear something that doesn’t fit into your neat, compartmentalized world of order and logic and reason. Because this isn’t reasonable. If you’re terrified, believe me—this scares the hell out of me, too. You asked about Rose? I tried to be a better person for her—but it was to impress her, to get her to want me. But when I’m around you, I want to be better because… well, because it feels right. Because I want to. You make me want to become something greater than myself. I want to excel. You inspire me in every act, every word, every glance. I look at you, and you’re like… like light made into flesh. I said it on Halloween and meant every word: you are the most beautiful creature I have ever seen walking this earth. And you don’t even know it. You have no clue how beautiful you are or how brightly you shine.”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
“No, you will listen. For once, you’re going to hear something that doesn’t fit into your neat, compartmentalized world of order and logic and reason. Because this isn’t reasonable. If you’re terrified, believe me—this scares the hell out of me, too. You asked about Rose? I tried to be a better person for her—but it was to impress her, to get her to want me. But when I’m around you, I want to be better because… well, because it feels right. Because I want to. You make me want to become something greater than myself. I want to excel. You inspire me in every act, every word, every glance. I look at you, and you’re like… like light made into flesh. I said it on Halloween and meant every word: you are the most beautiful creature I have ever seen walking this earth. And you don’t even know it. You have no clue how beautiful you are or how brightly you shine.”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
“Besides, when not hard at work with this research, I'm actually conducting a side experiment on how cigarettes and gin increase charisma. As you might guess, the results are looking very promising.”
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
― Richelle Mead, The Golden Lily
Reading Progress
| 06/12/2012 | page 131 |
|
31.0% |
"I don't HATE Brayden... I just dislike him because he is not Adrian Ivashkov. Also: Previous chapter note... YELLOW!! Hee! He SO chose the wall colour because of... that!" |
| 06/12/2012 | page 188 |
|
45.0% | "I'm feeling ALL KINDS OF THINGS RIGHT NOW. Guh. Adrian and Sydney *sigh*" 7 comments |
| 06/12/2012 | page 248 |
|
59.0% | "OH MY GOSH. CHAPTER 14. I SWOON. *gush* I want to read every single sentence so slowly. I don't want this book to end, I can't tolerate another long wait until #3." |
Comments (showing 1-7 of 7) (7 new)
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Tresa the Book Nerdette
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Jun 12, 2012 04:35pm
lol ... well I guess I best get this book and read it. As I too like the last one. Look forward to reading your review later. ;-)
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Oh DEFINITELY get it, Tresa! I think if you enjoyed Bloodlines, you'll FOR SURE be a fan of this :DI've ALWAYS been Team Adrian, Lisa!!! I just never shipped him with Rose... I LIKED their relationship, but she and Dimitri are pretty much soulmates. R/D relationship made me swoon, but Dimitri himself never captured my heart the way Adrian did. SIGH. HE'S EVEN MORE INCREDIBLE IN THIS. MORE.
SYDRIAN! <3
!*$^^(*!^%*!^%(* TEAM ADRIAN. ADRIAN IS THE ONLY MAN FOR EVERYONE.
Is Dimitri even a LEGAL US CITZEN? O_o
Oh. You're one of THOSE Adrian fangirls.I'd threaten to kick your ass on Dimitri's behalf, but I have a feeling Rose is happy to do that for him. It's been nice knowing you >:D
DUDE. Did you even pay attention during VA? Rose and Dimitri ARE PERFECTION. They were MADE for one another! As are Sydney and Adrian *dreamy sigh* you wait... you'll convert in TGL. You can't NOT.
*prepares smug face*
