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Star-Crossed #2
Hopeless Magic
After returning home from Romania, and successfully saving her best friend Lilly, Eden Matthews must now come to terms with her future as an Immortal. She's in love with the crown prince, but he's betrothed to someone else. Her family desperately wants her to join their rebellion, but that would mean fighting against her true love, Kiran Kendrick.She must fight off assassins who want her dead, an Immortal rite of passage that takes her to India, and a deadly disease that no one has thus far survived. Danger seems to lurk around every corner as Eden struggles to keep her true identity a secret and protect those that she loves.Eden must find a way to be with Kiran, or turn her back on him forever and fight to save her people. Hopeless Magic is the second installment of the Star-Crossed series.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 6, 2011
469 people are currently reading
2746 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Higginson
122 books3,494 followersRachel Higginson is the best-selling author of The Five Stages of Falling in Love, Every Wrong Reason, Bet on Us and The Star-Crossed Series.
She was born and raised in Nebraska, and spent her college years traveling the world. She fell in love with Eastern Europe, Paris, Indian Food and the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka, but came back home to marry her high school sweetheart. Now she spends her days writing stories and raising five amazing kids.
She was born and raised in Nebraska, and spent her college years traveling the world. She fell in love with Eastern Europe, Paris, Indian Food and the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka, but came back home to marry her high school sweetheart. Now she spends her days writing stories and raising five amazing kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 488 reviews
December 30, 2011
Oh NOOOO!!!!!! Oh, gosh.
Ok, yes Kiran sucks, but he thought he was doing the only thing he could. He thought he had no choice..... I'm torn about him. But I am SOOOO in love with Jericho!!
Started book 3 last night right after this at like 4am. Things are definitely looking up bu I'm still confused as to who she'll end up with.....
Ok, yes Kiran sucks, but he thought he was doing the only thing he could. He thought he had no choice..... I'm torn about him. But I am SOOOO in love with Jericho!!
Started book 3 last night right after this at like 4am. Things are definitely looking up bu I'm still confused as to who she'll end up with.....
May 7, 2016
This was an interesting instalment, and the ending really changed things!
Eden continued to be trouble in this book, and her power continued to grow to the point where she really didn’t know what she was doing with it really.
The storyline in this was about Eden having to go through a rite of passage that she had missed as she had been raised human, and also Eden fighting for Kiran’s affections with his fiancé throwing her weight around as usual. It was the ending that was most surprising though, as things were totally turned upside down! I have no idea what will happen next now!
6 out of 10
Eden continued to be trouble in this book, and her power continued to grow to the point where she really didn’t know what she was doing with it really.
The storyline in this was about Eden having to go through a rite of passage that she had missed as she had been raised human, and also Eden fighting for Kiran’s affections with his fiancé throwing her weight around as usual. It was the ending that was most surprising though, as things were totally turned upside down! I have no idea what will happen next now!
6 out of 10
June 24, 2013
Dear Fictional Women...
Please note: Do not let guys make you feel bad for being a thinking, feeling human being.
When he gets insecure, you pacify him sweetly and make him feel loved.
When you get insecure, he makes you feel stupid and laughs at you.
When he sees you with other guys, he throws a tantrum and breaks shit.
When you see him with other girls, he expects you to deal with it.
"It's all apart of the facade, babe," he tells you. "You're the one I really want."
DO NOT FALL FOR THIS LOAD OF HORSE EXCREMENT!
Be vocal!
Be strong!
Stand your ground!
Don't let him guilt you into being a passive little girlfriend who hasn't got an opinion to rub together. Please! Have a backbone!
You have a right to question the relationship.
You have a right to know where he's been
Who he's been with.
Why he does things.
You shouldn't need his permission to think for yourself!
Paramore said it best in their song 'Playing God':
'Can't make my own decisions
Or make any with precision
Well maybe you should tie me up
So I don't go where you don't want me...'
Please. PLEASE. Be strong and don't back down!
Regards,
Females of the World.
Please note: Do not let guys make you feel bad for being a thinking, feeling human being.
When he gets insecure, you pacify him sweetly and make him feel loved.
When you get insecure, he makes you feel stupid and laughs at you.
When he sees you with other guys, he throws a tantrum and breaks shit.
When you see him with other girls, he expects you to deal with it.
"It's all apart of the facade, babe," he tells you. "You're the one I really want."
DO NOT FALL FOR THIS LOAD OF HORSE EXCREMENT!
Be vocal!
Be strong!
Stand your ground!
Don't let him guilt you into being a passive little girlfriend who hasn't got an opinion to rub together. Please! Have a backbone!
You have a right to question the relationship.
You have a right to know where he's been
Who he's been with.
Why he does things.
You shouldn't need his permission to think for yourself!
Paramore said it best in their song 'Playing God':
'Can't make my own decisions
Or make any with precision
Well maybe you should tie me up
So I don't go where you don't want me...'
Please. PLEASE. Be strong and don't back down!
Regards,
Females of the World.
January 29, 2014
HOLY EFFING SHIT ON A STICK! THAT ENDING....DAMN....
Books just don't end like that. I mean, I've read books with crazy twists and all, but THIS?! My God I wanted to SCREAM.
Of all things HOW COULD THAT HAPPEN?! The name of the series is "Star-Crossed" for God's sake!!
I just...I can't even...
I need to go start the next book...
Books just don't end like that. I mean, I've read books with crazy twists and all, but THIS?! My God I wanted to SCREAM.
Of all things HOW COULD THAT HAPPEN?! The name of the series is "Star-Crossed" for God's sake!!
I just...I can't even...
I need to go start the next book...
August 12, 2018
Hopeless Magic is the second installment of the Star-Crossed Series. It definitely had it's moments where I was frustrated or rolling my eyes but in the end, I honestly really enjoyed this audio. I feel like Eden is sort of growing on me and I'm just hoping that she's realizing she's been a pawn for too long. Now is the time to take action, have revenge, and make everyone her little bitch.
Now the whole little "love triangle" was a bit annoying to still read in this book. I don't know about you but having her like a prince who was engaged to someone else was just frustrating to read about. I honestly almost stopped trying to ship her with him - I was totally down to ship her with Jericho. Maybe a rock.
Of course her little crush doesn't go unnoticed. It's used to people's advantage without her knowledge. Then that ending, which was a bit mind blowing to read about, showed everyone's true colors. She was pissed and I loved her fighting back. Her little revenge was sweet and I'm glad that she knows who has betrayed her now. I'm just sad that her brother has been taken and her friends/family were attacked.
Besides all of that, I did mention that I was frustrated with this book. Mostly with Eden but then again she is only 16 years old. I just wish she wasn't so focused on love or the prince. So much as going on that I was hoping they wouldn't get a happy ever after. After the audio ended, I'm actually pretty happy with the overall book. I'm pumped to dive into the third audio tomorrow and I hope it's even more entertaining.
Now the whole little "love triangle" was a bit annoying to still read in this book. I don't know about you but having her like a prince who was engaged to someone else was just frustrating to read about. I honestly almost stopped trying to ship her with him - I was totally down to ship her with Jericho. Maybe a rock.
Of course her little crush doesn't go unnoticed. It's used to people's advantage without her knowledge. Then that ending, which was a bit mind blowing to read about, showed everyone's true colors. She was pissed and I loved her fighting back. Her little revenge was sweet and I'm glad that she knows who has betrayed her now. I'm just sad that her brother has been taken and her friends/family were attacked.
Besides all of that, I did mention that I was frustrated with this book. Mostly with Eden but then again she is only 16 years old. I just wish she wasn't so focused on love or the prince. So much as going on that I was hoping they wouldn't get a happy ever after. After the audio ended, I'm actually pretty happy with the overall book. I'm pumped to dive into the third audio tomorrow and I hope it's even more entertaining.
October 13, 2011
I will not tire of telling everyone how awesome this book is! The plot, the twists, the ending is very gripping! I love the ending of book two and it makes my mouth water for the 3rd installment! Characters have more depth on this book and I'm liking how the mysterious the story is and I can't predict what will happen next, thus making me want to know what happened all the more. And I really like the pace of this story, not laid back and not too forward either. I will not be surprised if this series will be as huge as Harry Potter or Twilight. It deserves more hype!
December 31, 2013
Okay so there were a couple things that annoyed me about this book.
Cons
-I disliked Eden so very much in this book. It's okay to make mistakes, but when you make mistakes as big as the ones she made, it makes you wonder. First off, I don't like that she's dating Kiran. It's really selfish. She is putting her family and friends at risk just so she can have a few moments with her boyfriend. There's no way I would sacrifice my family and friends for a few moments (and I do mean few seeing as their a secret and can't see each other often) with my boyfriend who just happens to be freaking ENGAGED to another girl. Next, she complains non-stop about how she's not accepted. There was a certain time where I could relate to that. To being in a new group of people and not knowing many of them, but she doesn't even make in effort. It just like hey she's a jerk. I haven't actually had a conversation with her cause I'm selfish and conceited, but I can just tell. For example when a bunch of Resistance teams from around the world come to join with her local Resistance group, there are two girls who come and introduce themselves and maybe their not that nice. So Eden then takes that time, when all the teams are there (partly to see their saviors), that she is going to run away crying, making her self the victim to every one, just because two girls were mean to her. She didn't even try to meet anybody. Made no attempts to talk to anyone. I thought that she was tougher than that, but nope. She ran crying to Kiran. So, long story short, Eden is a confused, self-centered, weak character that annoys the crap out of me!
-Now this next one may be a bit of a surprise, but I also HATED Kiran. Yeah he may be hot and all but, seriously, he is a total jerk. First off, he's not willing to fight for Eden. If she is your soul mate and you love her then freaking fight for her!! Again it could be just me, but I feel like this is a problem. (And also the ending just made me hate him more.)
Pros
-I love all of Eden's friends and family. They all will always be there for her no matter how often she puts them at risk and complains. That's a real family.
-I love Eden's connection with Avalon. I love sibling chemistry that they have. It's cute.
-The plot was interesting and was one of the only things keeping me from giving up on the book. It was adventurous, exciting, and fun. I really liked the plot.
Those are really all the Pros I can thing of. I know you might be saying well there's more pros than cons so is that good? Well no, the cons are a bigger deal to me than the pros. The cons ruined the book for me.
My overall feelings for the book...
Feelings for Eden's family...
Cons
-I disliked Eden so very much in this book. It's okay to make mistakes, but when you make mistakes as big as the ones she made, it makes you wonder. First off, I don't like that she's dating Kiran. It's really selfish. She is putting her family and friends at risk just so she can have a few moments with her boyfriend. There's no way I would sacrifice my family and friends for a few moments (and I do mean few seeing as their a secret and can't see each other often) with my boyfriend who just happens to be freaking ENGAGED to another girl. Next, she complains non-stop about how she's not accepted. There was a certain time where I could relate to that. To being in a new group of people and not knowing many of them, but she doesn't even make in effort. It just like hey she's a jerk. I haven't actually had a conversation with her cause I'm selfish and conceited, but I can just tell. For example when a bunch of Resistance teams from around the world come to join with her local Resistance group, there are two girls who come and introduce themselves and maybe their not that nice. So Eden then takes that time, when all the teams are there (partly to see their saviors), that she is going to run away crying, making her self the victim to every one, just because two girls were mean to her. She didn't even try to meet anybody. Made no attempts to talk to anyone. I thought that she was tougher than that, but nope. She ran crying to Kiran. So, long story short, Eden is a confused, self-centered, weak character that annoys the crap out of me!
-Now this next one may be a bit of a surprise, but I also HATED Kiran. Yeah he may be hot and all but, seriously, he is a total jerk. First off, he's not willing to fight for Eden. If she is your soul mate and you love her then freaking fight for her!! Again it could be just me, but I feel like this is a problem. (And also the ending just made me hate him more.)
Pros
-I love all of Eden's friends and family. They all will always be there for her no matter how often she puts them at risk and complains. That's a real family.
-I love Eden's connection with Avalon. I love sibling chemistry that they have. It's cute.
-The plot was interesting and was one of the only things keeping me from giving up on the book. It was adventurous, exciting, and fun. I really liked the plot.
Those are really all the Pros I can thing of. I know you might be saying well there's more pros than cons so is that good? Well no, the cons are a bigger deal to me than the pros. The cons ruined the book for me.
My overall feelings for the book...
Feelings for Eden's family...
July 22, 2012
I absolutely love this book. I love Kiran- even though he can be an immature, selfish ass- but I also love Jericho! Ugh Team Kiran- No! Team Jericho! Screw it TEAM WHOEVER THE HELL WINS AND THE OTHER ONE HOPE YOU GET A GIRL THAT DESERVES YOU HONEY! Because dammit they are both good and SEXY!...okay maybe Jericho is nicer and Kiran is hotter but they both have balanced redeeming and demeaning qualities!
August 6, 2018
Eden continues to struggle to find her place within the magical community and the Resistance. She is in love with the Prince, but not only is he betrothed to someone else, her family is also striving to end his bloodline. Rock meet hard place. Things get more interesting as the King realizes who she is and the political maneuverings begin including attempts on Eden's life.
Things get moving in the plot in this 2nd installment of the series. Thankfully, there is enough action that it helps distract from how completely annoying Eden's character is. She is a lovesick idiot. I was constantly reminding myself that 16 year olds can be that dramatic, hormonal, and stupid! I forced myself to try to just go with it. If you compartmentalize her drama, the rest of the book is entertaining.
If I could give it 3.5 stars, I would. It was better than the first book, and the ending gave me hope that Eden's character will mature a little in the next book. (Please!!!)
Things get moving in the plot in this 2nd installment of the series. Thankfully, there is enough action that it helps distract from how completely annoying Eden's character is. She is a lovesick idiot. I was constantly reminding myself that 16 year olds can be that dramatic, hormonal, and stupid! I forced myself to try to just go with it. If you compartmentalize her drama, the rest of the book is entertaining.
If I could give it 3.5 stars, I would. It was better than the first book, and the ending gave me hope that Eden's character will mature a little in the next book. (Please!!!)
September 11, 2012
I really enjoyed the Star-Crossed series, though all four books desperately need an editor. My deduction in scoring is primarily for the quality of the final product. If an author wants us to buy books, the least she should do is get her work professionally edited. I mean really, "preface" instead of "pretense", to say nothing of the numerous misplaced words throughout the draft?
All that aside, the story was well-told, the characters mostly believable, and the action well-paced. One major exception: the king was pretty cheesy - he reminded me of a spoiled kid or a Disney villain: his "I can do whatever I want because I'm the king..." attitude grew a little tedious. If he'd had a slightly more believable justification for his craziness, this series would have been much better. I also could have done without any hint of a love triangle, but maybe I'm alone in this opinion.
Eden makes a fun, sassy heroine, though I generally find 1st-person narration tedious, and, in the case of a teenage main character, childish. This series would have been that much better written from a 3rd-person limited perspective, perhaps focused exclusively on Eden the way Harry Potter focuses just on Harry's emotions and thoughts. I also enjoyed the descriptions of magic, though I'd have liked a little bit more on the consequences of using magic. It wasn't clear to me if the Immortals all had just an endless supply of magic always at their beck and call.
All that aside, the story was well-told, the characters mostly believable, and the action well-paced. One major exception: the king was pretty cheesy - he reminded me of a spoiled kid or a Disney villain: his "I can do whatever I want because I'm the king..." attitude grew a little tedious. If he'd had a slightly more believable justification for his craziness, this series would have been much better. I also could have done without any hint of a love triangle, but maybe I'm alone in this opinion.
Eden makes a fun, sassy heroine, though I generally find 1st-person narration tedious, and, in the case of a teenage main character, childish. This series would have been that much better written from a 3rd-person limited perspective, perhaps focused exclusively on Eden the way Harry Potter focuses just on Harry's emotions and thoughts. I also enjoyed the descriptions of magic, though I'd have liked a little bit more on the consequences of using magic. It wasn't clear to me if the Immortals all had just an endless supply of magic always at their beck and call.
April 29, 2024
The Enddddd 🫣 I‘m mad
April 17, 2024
The first book got me wanting to read book 2. I was quite surprised with the twist at the end of this book.
June 4, 2022
4.5 stars! Good pacing & I like the revealing of more background details. Also- one name.. JERICHO! ❤️❤️
October 15, 2023
I am not sure why I am still reading this series. I guess it opened up my inner 11 year old girl
November 6, 2018
2.5 stars. Would have been more like 4, but...
Well. The author certainly gives me plenty of opportunity to make criticisms. Where to begin? The grammar, spelling, punctuation, and repetitive writing style are just the beginning. (I counted about 25 instances of blushing and almost as many rolling of the eyes. I know it's teenagers we're talking about here, but come on!) I have serious issues with the character and plot development. Eden is completely unbelievable. She is probably the most unintelligent, dim-witted heroine I've ever encountered. She "forgets" to use her magic time after time, yet it builds up uncomfortably to the point of forced release if she doesn't? Makes no sense. She is so utterly unsure of herself that she looks to everyone else to constantly validate her. She is the last person to figure anything out - and most of the time she doesn't at all, instead being informed by another character. I know not every heroine can be smart, brave, fearless, etc, but Eden needs to have at least some redeeming qualities to make her worthy of her supposed great power and prophesied future role in the kingdom.
*SPOILERS*
No doubt Higginson was attempting for some big twist to the story with Kiran's betrayal. But it seemed so unrealistic! Okay, so Kiran is willing to do anything to have Eden, that's understandable. But he thinks that she's just going to go along with the sacrifice of her family and friends? “‘Oh but darling, who will give me away at our wedding?’ Eden asked, giggling and blushing.” Riiiiiiight.
I also don't like how Higginson seems to contrive entire scenes just so that some small detail can be revealed. Eden accompanies Jericho alone, all the way to the Mexico border, just to have her meet Silas and for him to proclaim (just like the Romanian gypsy woman did) that she is the next Oracle. Nevermind that for as concerned as they've been for her safety, they were so quick to let her go on such a big trip with ONE person to protect her. It's inconsistent with the rest of the story where she has no less than 4 members of the Resistance staying in her own home to protect her at all times.
Or when she attended Kiran's birthday party, she showed up, danced half a dance with Kiran before his father cut in, she finished the dance with him, then left?! What?? Since when would that be considered acceptable etiquette, which the Immortal society (particularly the royals) seems so concerned with? What was the point of the party scene at all? So that she could be told that Kiran's engagement was ending? Seems like that point could have been made without the unnecessary pages describing Eden preparing for a party that she would leave after 10 minutes. There are plenty of scenes where she goes somewhere only to talk to someone for a couple of minutes, then leaves.
*END OF SPOILERS*
Something else that bugs: where did the names of the characters come from? The author's short list of potential baby names? It's like she's trying too hard to come up with the coolest names and for me, this contributes to the absence of the characters' realism. Jericho, Avalon, Xavier, Xander, Ronan... They all have the same feel and hinders any sense of true individuality they might give the reader.
I think the basic heart of the story is intriguing and does make me interested to find out how it all will end. But so far, I find myself rolling my eyes while reading this series more than Higginson's characters.
Well. The author certainly gives me plenty of opportunity to make criticisms. Where to begin? The grammar, spelling, punctuation, and repetitive writing style are just the beginning. (I counted about 25 instances of blushing and almost as many rolling of the eyes. I know it's teenagers we're talking about here, but come on!) I have serious issues with the character and plot development. Eden is completely unbelievable. She is probably the most unintelligent, dim-witted heroine I've ever encountered. She "forgets" to use her magic time after time, yet it builds up uncomfortably to the point of forced release if she doesn't? Makes no sense. She is so utterly unsure of herself that she looks to everyone else to constantly validate her. She is the last person to figure anything out - and most of the time she doesn't at all, instead being informed by another character. I know not every heroine can be smart, brave, fearless, etc, but Eden needs to have at least some redeeming qualities to make her worthy of her supposed great power and prophesied future role in the kingdom.
*SPOILERS*
No doubt Higginson was attempting for some big twist to the story with Kiran's betrayal. But it seemed so unrealistic! Okay, so Kiran is willing to do anything to have Eden, that's understandable. But he thinks that she's just going to go along with the sacrifice of her family and friends? “‘Oh but darling, who will give me away at our wedding?’ Eden asked, giggling and blushing.” Riiiiiiight.
I also don't like how Higginson seems to contrive entire scenes just so that some small detail can be revealed. Eden accompanies Jericho alone, all the way to the Mexico border, just to have her meet Silas and for him to proclaim (just like the Romanian gypsy woman did) that she is the next Oracle. Nevermind that for as concerned as they've been for her safety, they were so quick to let her go on such a big trip with ONE person to protect her. It's inconsistent with the rest of the story where she has no less than 4 members of the Resistance staying in her own home to protect her at all times.
Or when she attended Kiran's birthday party, she showed up, danced half a dance with Kiran before his father cut in, she finished the dance with him, then left?! What?? Since when would that be considered acceptable etiquette, which the Immortal society (particularly the royals) seems so concerned with? What was the point of the party scene at all? So that she could be told that Kiran's engagement was ending? Seems like that point could have been made without the unnecessary pages describing Eden preparing for a party that she would leave after 10 minutes. There are plenty of scenes where she goes somewhere only to talk to someone for a couple of minutes, then leaves.
*END OF SPOILERS*
Something else that bugs: where did the names of the characters come from? The author's short list of potential baby names? It's like she's trying too hard to come up with the coolest names and for me, this contributes to the absence of the characters' realism. Jericho, Avalon, Xavier, Xander, Ronan... They all have the same feel and hinders any sense of true individuality they might give the reader.
I think the basic heart of the story is intriguing and does make me interested to find out how it all will end. But so far, I find myself rolling my eyes while reading this series more than Higginson's characters.
September 22, 2011
First thoughts:
Where do I start? Compared to the first installment in this saga this one was much more reachable; more deep. The emotions in this book was outstanding, the writing was so precise that I actually empathized with Eden. I could actually feel the emotions she was going through and boy were there a lot. The point is, "Hopeless Magic" is a book like no other and be warned, compared to the first book this one is totally different but in the best possible way.
Summary:
Lilly is finally back but things aren't better. Eden is the middle of two guys fighting over her and trying to keep her idenity a secret even from the man she loves the most. But soon Sabastian is introduced "Kiran's cousin" and he is there on terms that only he knows. But when he discovers that Eden was raised by human and hadn't done the traditional "Eternal Walk" she is sent to India to do just that. But the resistance and her twin brother are skeptical, thinking Luthern the king has plans of his own to take Eden.
Eden is forced to travel, she can't not speak a word till the task is complete and she was walk through the cave to finish her task but she worries her real identity will be revealed and is scared of the outcome.
Throughout this book Eden is put on trial after trial and not until the last few chapters does she discover the biggest trial of all.
Last thoughts:
You really have to appreciate this author on how she is beautiful with words and knows how to change the plot even more and make it better. I never knew this book could be better than the first but I was allowed to see sides of the characters that I hadn't been granted access to before. This is definately a more emotional read and advise if read to be far warned. What you read from this book is something you can cherish to yourself and perhaps learn a thing or two.
Where do I start? Compared to the first installment in this saga this one was much more reachable; more deep. The emotions in this book was outstanding, the writing was so precise that I actually empathized with Eden. I could actually feel the emotions she was going through and boy were there a lot. The point is, "Hopeless Magic" is a book like no other and be warned, compared to the first book this one is totally different but in the best possible way.
Summary:
Lilly is finally back but things aren't better. Eden is the middle of two guys fighting over her and trying to keep her idenity a secret even from the man she loves the most. But soon Sabastian is introduced "Kiran's cousin" and he is there on terms that only he knows. But when he discovers that Eden was raised by human and hadn't done the traditional "Eternal Walk" she is sent to India to do just that. But the resistance and her twin brother are skeptical, thinking Luthern the king has plans of his own to take Eden.
Eden is forced to travel, she can't not speak a word till the task is complete and she was walk through the cave to finish her task but she worries her real identity will be revealed and is scared of the outcome.
Throughout this book Eden is put on trial after trial and not until the last few chapters does she discover the biggest trial of all.
Last thoughts:
You really have to appreciate this author on how she is beautiful with words and knows how to change the plot even more and make it better. I never knew this book could be better than the first but I was allowed to see sides of the characters that I hadn't been granted access to before. This is definately a more emotional read and advise if read to be far warned. What you read from this book is something you can cherish to yourself and perhaps learn a thing or two.
July 16, 2012
This book is a fantastic follow-up to Reckless Magic. I thought I would explode at the end! There is truth to the saying "There's a thin line between love and hate." The love story builds so well in this book and as a reader I was swept up in the emotions. I enjoyed how more characters appeared and you get more background on ones that were in the first book, such as Jericho. The way the male characters express themselves is beautiful. They love and protect the ones they care deeply for. Eden is still behind as usual. I can't say that she is playing catch up because that implies that she knows what or where things are going and she doesn't. She is still very cute and humorous in her land of oblivion. But, to her credit it is not really her fault that people aren't upfront with her. She's been thrown into a world that she never knew existed and is sometimes expected to operate at her full potential. Amory continues to be as wise as ever and Avalon still has my heart, what a great character along with Jericho, too. I have to admit from the beginning I have been taken by Kiran he is definitely a very interesting and intriguing character that is easy to fall for. Again, a great follow-up to the first book, it was even better. I am so looking forward to the 3rd book with heighten anticipation.
December 21, 2011
Eden has not had a good couple of months... While it is great she got Lilly out of prison, barging into a court room where the king is present is not something one would call ‘under the radar’. Eden must also decide which is more important- carrying on her parent’s wishes, and joining the resistance; or be with Kiran, who also happens to be betrothed to someone else.
Now, the king knows that something about Eden isn’t normal, or at least not normal in the realms of immortals. Somehow, she keeps fighting off those that are coming after her- even with the impossible odds. The unwanted attention is not only going to make those odds worse, but life-threatening.
My Thoughts: Holy cow, the cliff hanger at the end of this novel is insane. I finished the book and was like, “Well now I have to read the next one.” While I think that Eden’s love for Kiran isn’t exactly reciprocated, it is her first real love, and it made the story so much more realistic. I am also someone that usually likes the first book more than the second because the story is more developed- but I have to say that this is at a tie with the first book. I would recommend this book to those who liked the Collide Series by Shelly Crane, and enjoy just as much adventure as romance.
Now, the king knows that something about Eden isn’t normal, or at least not normal in the realms of immortals. Somehow, she keeps fighting off those that are coming after her- even with the impossible odds. The unwanted attention is not only going to make those odds worse, but life-threatening.
My Thoughts: Holy cow, the cliff hanger at the end of this novel is insane. I finished the book and was like, “Well now I have to read the next one.” While I think that Eden’s love for Kiran isn’t exactly reciprocated, it is her first real love, and it made the story so much more realistic. I am also someone that usually likes the first book more than the second because the story is more developed- but I have to say that this is at a tie with the first book. I would recommend this book to those who liked the Collide Series by Shelly Crane, and enjoy just as much adventure as romance.
August 4, 2017
Book 30 of 2017 is Hopeless Magic from the Star-Crossed series the by Rachel Higginson.
I read the first book from this series a month ago and enjoyed it enough to want to read the second book.
After finishing this arduous read with a whining teenage girl and her band of merry teenage men chasing her along with the "once you have sex you are bonded for life" message, I was glad it ended. There will be no more reading from this conservative non-subtle instruction on how young women cause trouble by speaking their minds and should think carefully of who they will marry because he owns you forever.
It. Was. Painful.
This had to have been written by a middle aged suburban housewife who wished she had never married her boring muggle husband.
1 spoilt Omaha teenage victim out of 5.
Should I read this? No. The first book ends implying more lies ahead in this book but nothing does.
What did I learn? First books in a series should be standalone.
I read the first book from this series a month ago and enjoyed it enough to want to read the second book.
After finishing this arduous read with a whining teenage girl and her band of merry teenage men chasing her along with the "once you have sex you are bonded for life" message, I was glad it ended. There will be no more reading from this conservative non-subtle instruction on how young women cause trouble by speaking their minds and should think carefully of who they will marry because he owns you forever.
It. Was. Painful.
This had to have been written by a middle aged suburban housewife who wished she had never married her boring muggle husband.
1 spoilt Omaha teenage victim out of 5.
Should I read this? No. The first book ends implying more lies ahead in this book but nothing does.
What did I learn? First books in a series should be standalone.
September 25, 2018
Whew... the first half of the book was a solid 3 stars, but diving into the second half things started to get intense... 78% I was swooning and shipping Jericho soooo hard- at 90% I was screaming NOOOOOO Eden you are so STUPID at 92% I was CRYING MY EYES OUT... and at 94% to the end I was straight up pissed and ready to put on my imaginary armor, shape shift, get a magical tattoo and run into battle mode. So first half 3 stars 🌟 second half 4.5 stars 🌟!! I’m pretty sure I’m fully invested in this series after this book- bring on book 3.
March 29, 2014
Quitting at 18%. All the things I disliked in the first book are more pronounced in this one. AND, although our main character is now more aware of who she is, knows more of the magical world, and is (simply by living) getting a bit a older, she seems to have regressed and become less intelligent, more self-centered, and more juvenile. It's hard to root for a heroine who is willfully stupid. Likewise, it's hard to read a book where the plot is dependent on our heroine being obtuse.
May 28, 2017
DEEP BREATH! Firstly, Eden is a badass, even if it took great loss and sacrifice for her to own it! The last 30% or so of this book was absolutely wonderful and engaging. I experienced so many emotions. Honestly, if I wasn't so hooked I would take a day or two to recover from the rollercoaster, Lol! It is absolutely awesome when a book can do that to you and rare!
February 21, 2018
HOLY SHIT.
I made so many notes while reading this book that I don’t possibly have the time to turn them into a more coherent review. I’m just going to tidy them up & drop them right here.
ON WHY I HATE KIRAN...
There is no way I could watch Kiran & Seraphina all over each other day in, day out & be okay with stolen moments with him. I mean he’s so not worth this effort. Have some pride Eden.
Why doesn’t she confront Kiran after what Jericho tells her? I question how convincing he really needs to be with Seraphina? I’m sure he’s supposed to make an effort but it’s also an arranged marriage. I don’t think anyone is expecting romance ffs. He even says this later in the book but then why has he been so attentive with her so far?! I JUST DON’T LIKE HIM.
I’m not sure how to feel about the charity that Kiran shows in India. If this is truly supposed to make me like him as a character I think it’s come too late.
The whole dance/fight was brilliant, good to see kirans true colours & see Jericho stand up for Eden. But her sadness on seeing Kiran upset is so nausiating. What the F is wrong with this girl! Why does she explain her self to him. Suggesting she shouldn’t have gone to dance. What about him & Seraphina? Should she stay hidden until he wants her.
She expresses that she feels less stressed when Kiran is not around. This is not healthy.
So Amory seems to believe Kiran & I trust Amory but I just can’t like Kiran. I worry he is the intended love interest & I’m just hating him more and more. Should I give him a chance? NOPE.
ON HOW IT SUCKS TO BE EDEN...
Sucks that she’s an outsider with both the resistance & the students at school. The resistance judges her but she didn’t choose to be raised as human. On the flip side of that though she doesn’t want to join the resistance but still wants their help. YOU CAN’T HAVE IT BOTH WAYS EDEN.
ON WHY I LOVE JERICHO...
I am so team Jericho.
“She is the most self-determined, amazing woman I have ever met and if I have to wait for her, I will”
The whole Sebastian asking Eden to the dance & Jericho saving the day thing is awesome!
ON RANDOM THINGS...
I really enjoyed the section about her journey to the caves in India & the whole ritual around preparing for the Eternal Walk.
The significance of the colours of the wind makes me all kinds of suspicious of Kiran & the necklace that he gave her at the end of the last book. Then he goes & reacts strangely when she changes the colour to match her dress. He seemed ‘betrayed’ what was that about?!
ON AVALON...
I love all the brotherly moments with Avalon; How he tries to get her with Jericho, how be blurts out about Kiran wanting sex at Thanksgiving & how he doesn’t want her to go out in that dress. SO SWEET.
ON THAT ENDING...
When everything is revealed & she finds her dark side! YES! I mean threatening Sebastian with Amelie! That shit was DARK.
“In that moment I lost a good piece of me, a piece that stood for justice and virtue. In its place grew the darkness of hate and righteous anger. A sticky, consuming cloud of malicious vengeance spread through my veins like wild fire and clarity found me. Dangerous, vengeful clarity cleared my mind and I let out a feral battle cry, announcing that I had arrived.”
How Kiran acts after the battle is completely batshit kookoo. I’m shocked at how obvious it is (does that mean something, I hope not) & ya know it sucks for everyone but at the same time I’m like YES I WAS RIGHT. I WAS RIGHT & KIRAN IS AN ASSHOLE.
SO IN SUMMARY... this book is a roller coaster of love & hate. I love this book & I hate Kiren.
I made so many notes while reading this book that I don’t possibly have the time to turn them into a more coherent review. I’m just going to tidy them up & drop them right here.
ON WHY I HATE KIRAN...
There is no way I could watch Kiran & Seraphina all over each other day in, day out & be okay with stolen moments with him. I mean he’s so not worth this effort. Have some pride Eden.
Why doesn’t she confront Kiran after what Jericho tells her? I question how convincing he really needs to be with Seraphina? I’m sure he’s supposed to make an effort but it’s also an arranged marriage. I don’t think anyone is expecting romance ffs. He even says this later in the book but then why has he been so attentive with her so far?! I JUST DON’T LIKE HIM.
I’m not sure how to feel about the charity that Kiran shows in India. If this is truly supposed to make me like him as a character I think it’s come too late.
The whole dance/fight was brilliant, good to see kirans true colours & see Jericho stand up for Eden. But her sadness on seeing Kiran upset is so nausiating. What the F is wrong with this girl! Why does she explain her self to him. Suggesting she shouldn’t have gone to dance. What about him & Seraphina? Should she stay hidden until he wants her.
She expresses that she feels less stressed when Kiran is not around. This is not healthy.
So Amory seems to believe Kiran & I trust Amory but I just can’t like Kiran. I worry he is the intended love interest & I’m just hating him more and more. Should I give him a chance? NOPE.
ON HOW IT SUCKS TO BE EDEN...
Sucks that she’s an outsider with both the resistance & the students at school. The resistance judges her but she didn’t choose to be raised as human. On the flip side of that though she doesn’t want to join the resistance but still wants their help. YOU CAN’T HAVE IT BOTH WAYS EDEN.
ON WHY I LOVE JERICHO...
I am so team Jericho.
“She is the most self-determined, amazing woman I have ever met and if I have to wait for her, I will”
The whole Sebastian asking Eden to the dance & Jericho saving the day thing is awesome!
ON RANDOM THINGS...
I really enjoyed the section about her journey to the caves in India & the whole ritual around preparing for the Eternal Walk.
The significance of the colours of the wind makes me all kinds of suspicious of Kiran & the necklace that he gave her at the end of the last book. Then he goes & reacts strangely when she changes the colour to match her dress. He seemed ‘betrayed’ what was that about?!
ON AVALON...
I love all the brotherly moments with Avalon; How he tries to get her with Jericho, how be blurts out about Kiran wanting sex at Thanksgiving & how he doesn’t want her to go out in that dress. SO SWEET.
ON THAT ENDING...
When everything is revealed & she finds her dark side! YES! I mean threatening Sebastian with Amelie! That shit was DARK.
“In that moment I lost a good piece of me, a piece that stood for justice and virtue. In its place grew the darkness of hate and righteous anger. A sticky, consuming cloud of malicious vengeance spread through my veins like wild fire and clarity found me. Dangerous, vengeful clarity cleared my mind and I let out a feral battle cry, announcing that I had arrived.”
How Kiran acts after the battle is completely batshit kookoo. I’m shocked at how obvious it is (does that mean something, I hope not) & ya know it sucks for everyone but at the same time I’m like YES I WAS RIGHT. I WAS RIGHT & KIRAN IS AN ASSHOLE.
SO IN SUMMARY... this book is a roller coaster of love & hate. I love this book & I hate Kiren.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2018
Loved this one even more than book one!! I was so torn between rooting for Eden and Kiran versus Eden and Jericho, but by the end of this book was just absolutely heart broken at everything that had taken place.
My heart ached near the end when Kiran left Eden with Sebastian and things started to unravel, my heart broke when Eden was with Amory near the end, and it was completely destroyed when Eden and Avalon were talking in their heads making life-altering decisions. Oh the tears.
I cannot wait to continue the series—I am totally hooked! I would recommend to any lovers of clean romance with some paranormal-ish elements (while they make the novel what it is, they are incorporated in such a way that I don’t feel alienates lovers of the romance genre).
Romance: clean
Language: clean with a few words throughout novel
My heart ached near the end when Kiran left Eden with Sebastian and things started to unravel, my heart broke when Eden was with Amory near the end, and it was completely destroyed when Eden and Avalon were talking in their heads making life-altering decisions. Oh the tears.
I cannot wait to continue the series—I am totally hooked! I would recommend to any lovers of clean romance with some paranormal-ish elements (while they make the novel what it is, they are incorporated in such a way that I don’t feel alienates lovers of the romance genre).
Romance: clean
Language: clean with a few words throughout novel
October 2, 2022
Hopeless Magic
Format : audiobook || Free on Audible subscription
Rating : 3.7 stars
Genre : YA, Magic
No spoilers -
This was definitely a big improvement from the last book! I enjoyed this one so much more and wow that ending was great!
Things that I liked :
1. India. Overall I think the description of India was done well and respectful. The description done throughout the time here made me feel as if I actually visited the place.
2. Progression of story and lore. We learnt a lot more and pacing is good.
3. We got more Jericho
4. More loving scenes with Amery
5. That ending !
Looking forward to the next one
Format : audiobook || Free on Audible subscription
Rating : 3.7 stars
Genre : YA, Magic
No spoilers -
This was definitely a big improvement from the last book! I enjoyed this one so much more and wow that ending was great!
Things that I liked :
1. India. Overall I think the description of India was done well and respectful. The description done throughout the time here made me feel as if I actually visited the place.
2. Progression of story and lore. We learnt a lot more and pacing is good.
3. We got more Jericho
4. More loving scenes with Amery
5. That ending !
Looking forward to the next one
February 27, 2018
Eden is still too self absorbed and whiney, but I will keep trudging on through the next book.
July 15, 2022
Intense!
This series gets better and better!! So much action and so intense and so much heartache! I have to see where it goes from here!!
This series gets better and better!! So much action and so intense and so much heartache! I have to see where it goes from here!!
March 5, 2014
Holy mother-fucking hell that was
freakin INTENSE
!! Like habanero peppers mixed with tabasco sauce intense. Just wha--why--how--who--what? What the hell did I just read!! Oh my god I seriously can't believe the book ended how it did.
HOW COULD KIRAN DO THAT!!!!!
I never really liked Kiran because he's been an asshole to Eden since the first book, but I really wanted to believe the best of him and give him the benefit of the doubt despite having a bastard of a father and being a bit--or a lot--of a prick himself. But no, he just had to prove that he was just like his father.
I felt so so so so soooooooo terrible for Eden. She absolutely loved Kiran and then he goes and betrays her in the worst way possible. He totally killed their love, and I can't understand how he could think that Eden would forgive him for that. For a second I thought he was insane, like literally psycho, acting like everything was fine and telling Eden they had to leave like nothing had happened. He was totally unreasonable in believing Eden would keep loving him after what he did.
This the first book I've read where two people are soul mates and absolutely love each other and one of them betrays the other in such an atrocious and horrible way. I have absolutely no idea how Eden and Kiran could possibly come back from this. How do you even forgive something like that? I would find it impossible to do. I'm on the edge of my seat because I desperately want to know what happens next. Is Eden going to hook up with Jericho? Will she meet someone else? Will she forgive Kiran? Or will she stay by herself? The possibilities are endless.
I do think she will get back with Kiran because, hello, they ARE soul mates, but that kind of betrayal leaves a lasting scar on a relationship; I don't see how things could ever be the same between them. I'll be excited to see how Ms Higginson handles this situation.
On a positive note, because of what Kiran did, Eden turned into a total badass, and I hope she stays that way, because I'm not really a fan of wimpy, whiny, cry-baby, woe-is-me heroines. I was really getting tired of her being this helpless girl who everyone had to protect and who was always being submissive. I have high hopes that all that is over and that she is now more mature and tough.
On another note, I love how the plot of the series is developing, with all the drama of Eden being the only hope of saving the Immortal race. I'm super excited to see how much stronger Eden's magic is going to get and how she is going to bring down the Kendrick line. If it weren't for the awesome plot full of magic, intrigue, action and mystery, I would have stopped reading a long time ago, because the romance is DEFINITELY not up to par. I find Kiran to be cowardly, wimpy and totally lacking as the hero, but well, that's just my opinion, you might not think so. To be honest, throughout most of this book, I actually liked Kiran and wanted his relationship with Eden to succeed. But now, not so much.
There are so many more things that happened but I'm not going to reveal anything specific; you'll have to read the book and find out for yourself!!! Rarely do I give a book five stars, so believe me when I say this book is AMAZING.
I felt so so so so soooooooo terrible for Eden. She absolutely loved Kiran and then he goes and betrays her in the worst way possible. He totally killed their love, and I can't understand how he could think that Eden would forgive him for that. For a second I thought he was insane, like literally psycho, acting like everything was fine and telling Eden they had to leave like nothing had happened. He was totally unreasonable in believing Eden would keep loving him after what he did.
This the first book I've read where two people are soul mates and absolutely love each other and one of them betrays the other in such an atrocious and horrible way. I have absolutely no idea how Eden and Kiran could possibly come back from this. How do you even forgive something like that? I would find it impossible to do. I'm on the edge of my seat because I desperately want to know what happens next. Is Eden going to hook up with Jericho? Will she meet someone else? Will she forgive Kiran? Or will she stay by herself? The possibilities are endless.
I do think she will get back with Kiran because, hello, they ARE soul mates, but that kind of betrayal leaves a lasting scar on a relationship; I don't see how things could ever be the same between them. I'll be excited to see how Ms Higginson handles this situation.
On a positive note, because of what Kiran did, Eden turned into a total badass, and I hope she stays that way, because I'm not really a fan of wimpy, whiny, cry-baby, woe-is-me heroines. I was really getting tired of her being this helpless girl who everyone had to protect and who was always being submissive. I have high hopes that all that is over and that she is now more mature and tough.
On another note, I love how the plot of the series is developing, with all the drama of Eden being the only hope of saving the Immortal race. I'm super excited to see how much stronger Eden's magic is going to get and how she is going to bring down the Kendrick line. If it weren't for the awesome plot full of magic, intrigue, action and mystery, I would have stopped reading a long time ago, because the romance is DEFINITELY not up to par. I find Kiran to be cowardly, wimpy and totally lacking as the hero, but well, that's just my opinion, you might not think so. To be honest, throughout most of this book, I actually liked Kiran and wanted his relationship with Eden to succeed. But now, not so much.
There are so many more things that happened but I'm not going to reveal anything specific; you'll have to read the book and find out for yourself!!! Rarely do I give a book five stars, so believe me when I say this book is AMAZING.
April 13, 2016
Eden was a bit more enlightened this time around although she was still being a love sick teenager. All she could see was her and Kiran, nothing else, she was blinded by her love for him. She couldn't open her eyes and see what's taking place around her, what's happening to her people. She also didn't have any respect for herself when she was okay with sneaking around with Kiran when he was betrothed to another. I had hoped she would tell him she couldn't see him anymore while he's still engaged to Seraphina. She has to see Seraphina all over him everyday and him giving her presents and taking her out, and accept it. But it was okay for him to be openly jealousy and cause a scene when she's with Jericho.
I couldn't believe it when Eden was hoping to get Lucan's approval to marry Kiran, didn't she see how bad that was. She wanted the approval of the man who's been hunting her parents for a 150 years to kill them, the man who's ancestors have being trying to kill her grandfather for centuries. How could she want to be in the same place with this man. Eden was never able to see the big picture she was living in a teenage fantasy world where the only thing important to her was her boyfriend. Yes, she is a teenager but she wasn't too young to grasp the situation her people are in and that she and her brother are their only hope.
I always believed that Kiran loved her but I also knew he was his father's son and wondered, how much like him his he? I didn't think she was fooling Kiran and his father anymore about her relationship with Amory and Avalon. But Eden was naive enough to believe that. Avalon and Jericho gave up on convincing her about her blindness to things since she wasn't happy with them when they tried.
Don't know who Eden will end up with in the end, Kiran or Jericho. Since Jericho appeared I've be so on on his team and then I found out he was into her, and she obviously has strong feelings for him too. I've been hoping she might choose him but Eden feels Kiran his her soul mate and nothing can happen between her and Jericho. It seemed impossible for her and Kiran and his public affections towards Seraphina didn't have to be like that since it was an arranged engagement. But I prefer Jericho mostly because I want it to be him, his love for Eden is so pure and honest.
I just knew that something terrible would have to take place for Eden to realize the importance of the need to take action and bring down the monarchy. Of course it had to be at the expense of her family and friends. I think Avalon and Amory knew what was going to happen when Eden accepts Kiran's proposal but they didn't talk her out of it and probably decided they would sacrifice themselves for her safety. I was bawling and yelling at the pages towards the end of the book, it was such a sad ending. Can't wait to see how Eden sets out to make things right in the next book.
I couldn't believe it when Eden was hoping to get Lucan's approval to marry Kiran, didn't she see how bad that was. She wanted the approval of the man who's been hunting her parents for a 150 years to kill them, the man who's ancestors have being trying to kill her grandfather for centuries. How could she want to be in the same place with this man. Eden was never able to see the big picture she was living in a teenage fantasy world where the only thing important to her was her boyfriend. Yes, she is a teenager but she wasn't too young to grasp the situation her people are in and that she and her brother are their only hope.
I always believed that Kiran loved her but I also knew he was his father's son and wondered, how much like him his he? I didn't think she was fooling Kiran and his father anymore about her relationship with Amory and Avalon. But Eden was naive enough to believe that. Avalon and Jericho gave up on convincing her about her blindness to things since she wasn't happy with them when they tried.
Don't know who Eden will end up with in the end, Kiran or Jericho. Since Jericho appeared I've be so on on his team and then I found out he was into her, and she obviously has strong feelings for him too. I've been hoping she might choose him but Eden feels Kiran his her soul mate and nothing can happen between her and Jericho. It seemed impossible for her and Kiran and his public affections towards Seraphina didn't have to be like that since it was an arranged engagement. But I prefer Jericho mostly because I want it to be him, his love for Eden is so pure and honest.
I just knew that something terrible would have to take place for Eden to realize the importance of the need to take action and bring down the monarchy. Of course it had to be at the expense of her family and friends. I think Avalon and Amory knew what was going to happen when Eden accepts Kiran's proposal but they didn't talk her out of it and probably decided they would sacrifice themselves for her safety. I was bawling and yelling at the pages towards the end of the book, it was such a sad ending. Can't wait to see how Eden sets out to make things right in the next book.
May 23, 2013
The first one in this series was interesting - just interesting enough to get you to the second one which blows the original story out of the water. After reading Hopeless Magic, I realize Reckless Magic was more of a vehicle to plod the reader through the world building and introduction of characters and relationships. It was done painlessly enough, if not somewhat juvenile. Smart move to make it a free purchase on Amazon - I became a more forgiving reader since it cost me nothing but free time and it allowed me to get deliciously hooked on the series with Hopeless Magic.
It starts off in the same vein as Reckless Magic. We're back at the prep school, Kiran and Eden are hiding their relationship. School dances, rivalries, Resistance meetings and the introduction of a love triangle take up the first half of the book. I had a problem buying into Kiran and Eden's relationship. While technically it was insta-love since they hated each other at first, the switch from hate to love happened with little explanation and the progression to undying, deep love happened with very little reason. For the reviewer who hated the constant use of the "smirk" for a facial expression - I am right there with you. Surely there are other ways to express Kiran's arrogance: playful sneer, sly smile, cocky grin (if the author is reading this review, just shoot me a message - there's more where that came from.) Also, whenever Kiran and Eden had any physical contact, the earth moved, magic melded, angels sang, the well of deep love rose up to the heavens...you get the idea. Sometimes subtlety goes a long way in portraying a deep longing or steadfast love. It's a very effective method and doesn't feel like emotion is being force-fed to the reader. Which is why Jericho was a much more believable match for Eden. Their quiet interactions demonstrated a growing attraction and love for one another. While I am definitely a root for the hero kind of gal, if a relationship with Jericho spares me from more of those over-the-top scenes between Kiran and Eden, I may have to switch to the underdog. The world building is amazing, though. The set up, the characters, the magic, all of it while a little stilting at first, became flawless as I continued into this second book. Almost as if I were experiencing and learning this world just as Eden did, choppy and confusing at first before fitting in. Very impressive on the part of the author. And not TOO many long run-on explanations from characters to speed up the knowing and by-passing the showing through natural story plots.
But seriously, the last 20 pages of the book are brilliant. Excellent main character development, incredible cliff hanger, the best set up for the next in the series. Bravo, Ms. Higginson. While there are many missteps in your writing in general, you certainly know how to tell a story. Which makes forgiving the other stuff a piece of cake.
It starts off in the same vein as Reckless Magic. We're back at the prep school, Kiran and Eden are hiding their relationship. School dances, rivalries, Resistance meetings and the introduction of a love triangle take up the first half of the book. I had a problem buying into Kiran and Eden's relationship. While technically it was insta-love since they hated each other at first, the switch from hate to love happened with little explanation and the progression to undying, deep love happened with very little reason. For the reviewer who hated the constant use of the "smirk" for a facial expression - I am right there with you. Surely there are other ways to express Kiran's arrogance: playful sneer, sly smile, cocky grin (if the author is reading this review, just shoot me a message - there's more where that came from.) Also, whenever Kiran and Eden had any physical contact, the earth moved, magic melded, angels sang, the well of deep love rose up to the heavens...you get the idea. Sometimes subtlety goes a long way in portraying a deep longing or steadfast love. It's a very effective method and doesn't feel like emotion is being force-fed to the reader. Which is why Jericho was a much more believable match for Eden. Their quiet interactions demonstrated a growing attraction and love for one another. While I am definitely a root for the hero kind of gal, if a relationship with Jericho spares me from more of those over-the-top scenes between Kiran and Eden, I may have to switch to the underdog. The world building is amazing, though. The set up, the characters, the magic, all of it while a little stilting at first, became flawless as I continued into this second book. Almost as if I were experiencing and learning this world just as Eden did, choppy and confusing at first before fitting in. Very impressive on the part of the author. And not TOO many long run-on explanations from characters to speed up the knowing and by-passing the showing through natural story plots.
But seriously, the last 20 pages of the book are brilliant. Excellent main character development, incredible cliff hanger, the best set up for the next in the series. Bravo, Ms. Higginson. While there are many missteps in your writing in general, you certainly know how to tell a story. Which makes forgiving the other stuff a piece of cake.
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