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The Guardian Trilogy #2
Choices
Hearts break. Loved ones are lost. Life keeps moving.
Olivia Martin’s afterlife was more dangerous and confusing than her life ever was. She thought she was ready to come back, to forget about Holden and to let go of the rage consuming her. Fulfilling her destiny as a guardian was all that mattered—the past could stay hidden in the crevices of her mind. However, when guardians are murdered and the evidence points towards jinn, she has to do something. To save anyone’s future, Olivia will have to confront the one person from her past she is terrified to see.
Holden waited for Olivia with the hope he would see her one more time. But when she didn’t return, he found salvation in darkness. The black and twisted road made it easier to forget what he lost than to live with the memory of what he had. An unexpected promotion shoves him into a world of intoxicating power and influence. Holden will have to choose between his new life and the woman he thought was gone forever.
From the ashes of Secrets, Choices are born that will change everything.
Olivia Martin’s afterlife was more dangerous and confusing than her life ever was. She thought she was ready to come back, to forget about Holden and to let go of the rage consuming her. Fulfilling her destiny as a guardian was all that mattered—the past could stay hidden in the crevices of her mind. However, when guardians are murdered and the evidence points towards jinn, she has to do something. To save anyone’s future, Olivia will have to confront the one person from her past she is terrified to see.
Holden waited for Olivia with the hope he would see her one more time. But when she didn’t return, he found salvation in darkness. The black and twisted road made it easier to forget what he lost than to live with the memory of what he had. An unexpected promotion shoves him into a world of intoxicating power and influence. Holden will have to choose between his new life and the woman he thought was gone forever.
From the ashes of Secrets, Choices are born that will change everything.
266 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2012
44 people are currently reading
386 people want to read
About the author
Liz Schulte
55 books612 followersMany authors claim to have known their calling from a young age. Liz Schulte, however, didn't always want to be an author. In fact, she had no clue. Liz wanted to be a veterinarian, then she wanted to be a lawyer, then she wanted to be a criminal profiler. In a valiant effort to keep from becoming Walter Mitty, Liz put pen to paper and began writing her first novel. It was at that moment she realized this is what she was meant to do. As a scribe she could be all of those things and so much more.
When Liz isn't writing or on social networks she is inflicting movie quotes and trivia on people, reading, traveling, and hanging out with friends and family. Liz is a Midwest girl through and through, though she would be perfectly happy never having to shovel her driveway again. She has a love for all things spooky, supernatural, and snarky. Her favorite authors range from Edgar Allen Poe to Joseph Heller to Jane Austen to Jim Butcher and everything in between.
When Liz isn't writing or on social networks she is inflicting movie quotes and trivia on people, reading, traveling, and hanging out with friends and family. Liz is a Midwest girl through and through, though she would be perfectly happy never having to shovel her driveway again. She has a love for all things spooky, supernatural, and snarky. Her favorite authors range from Edgar Allen Poe to Joseph Heller to Jane Austen to Jim Butcher and everything in between.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
March 9, 2016
What's one sure way of pissing me off?
By writing about a cheating bastard.
What an ugly way to end a wonderful day. This series just ruined today for me.
By writing about a cheating bastard.
What an ugly way to end a wonderful day. This series just ruined today for me.
October 14, 2018
3.5 Stars
December 16, 2013
AWESOME, AWESOME, AWESOME! I so love this series. I rarely give 5 stars, it has to be one of those books, that I dread ending. I kept putting it down, because I didn't want it to end. I am really looking forward to the next one, but dreading it at the same time. I don't want it to end. Holden is one of my very favorite characters and I adore Olivia. Quintus really got on my nerves though, but that's good, if there isn't someone in a book that gets on your nerves, it would be boring.
May 22, 2020
I'm pretty sure I liked this book more than the previous one, but it almost felt like a completely different world, so be prepared.
This book doesn't start right up after the events of the previous one, but instead there is a bit of a lag between them. Olivia ends up a guardian, paired with Quintus for training. Holden goes super dark and ends up leading a division of baddies. The book is spent almost entirely with them separate from one another, which I actually enjoyed. Holden gets to be bad without Olivia judging. Olivia gets to be a guardian with only Quintus judging.
Overall, I almost wish Olivia would pair up with Quintus and Holden would end up... I don't know, definitely not with the surprise visitor from Olivia's past. He seems to be good at balancing between the worlds, so I'm sure we could write him someone equivalent. It feels almost forced to get Olivia and Holden to eventually have to face one another. After a book building to a big thing, it felt... unnecessary. We get another cliffhanger-y ending and there's still the surprise visitor to handle. Sigh. That person was pretty tough to understand in general. Why were they different? Metal illness? I feel like that was totally unnecessary and confusing.
Gah - this came across a little more negative than I intended, because the ending left a bad taste in my mouth, but overall it wasn't as tough as the first in the series. Will I continue? I started these for a book club that has since been quarantined so... maybe? We'll see.
This book doesn't start right up after the events of the previous one, but instead there is a bit of a lag between them. Olivia ends up a guardian, paired with Quintus for training. Holden goes super dark and ends up leading a division of baddies. The book is spent almost entirely with them separate from one another, which I actually enjoyed. Holden gets to be bad without Olivia judging. Olivia gets to be a guardian with only Quintus judging.
Overall, I almost wish Olivia would pair up with Quintus and Holden would end up... I don't know, definitely not with the surprise visitor from Olivia's past. He seems to be good at balancing between the worlds, so I'm sure we could write him someone equivalent. It feels almost forced to get Olivia and Holden to eventually have to face one another. After a book building to a big thing, it felt... unnecessary. We get another cliffhanger-y ending and there's still the surprise visitor to handle. Sigh. That person was pretty tough to understand in general. Why were they different? Metal illness? I feel like that was totally unnecessary and confusing.
Gah - this came across a little more negative than I intended, because the ending left a bad taste in my mouth, but overall it wasn't as tough as the first in the series. Will I continue? I started these for a book club that has since been quarantined so... maybe? We'll see.
June 5, 2018
I wanted to like this book. I really did. But if not for the fact that I know Schulte's style improved (read Knead to Know series first), I don't think I would have finished this book. The timing between character switches was weird and threw me off repeatedly, and it would take me a paragraph or two to realize the character voice had changed. I feel like the plot of this book could have been covered in a short story. And the big reveal at the end? None of the characters seem to even care, other than Mr. Dimples!
July 1, 2017
I know this isn't exactly a romance book, but dang... why does Holden and Olivia have to be apart for almost all of the story!!!! Then, honestly, it's time to fire the editor or whomever is responsible for the grammar errors! Sometimes it was truly distracting. The only think that kept me going until the end, and why I'm set to start the next book, is the I read the Easy Bake Coven series first and know they end up together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2012
This story was hard to read at times because it switches between three different main perspectives. Once I got used to it and realized that each chapter was from a different person, it was really cool. I enjoy getting to find out how different characters view what is happening in the story. If you have read most of my character interviews, you know that I very rarely pick the main character to ask questions. I wouldn't need to do that for this story since you get Olivia, Holden, AND Quintus's views.
This story picks up from book one with Olivia having decided to follow the path she was born into, to become a Guardian. Essentially, she is a low level angel except she can die...again. She is reborn on earth as pure heavenly light and takes the shape of whatever her mental image of herself happens to have been when she died. Using her light, she is meant to help those in need on Earth, but only those the High Elder Guardians tell her to help. This is a problem for Olivia. She really didn't want to be reborn into the army of heavenly soldiers that just do as they are told. She thought she would be able to help anyone she found that needed it. She is different from other guardians because she is actually able to sense when someone needs help even if she is not the one scheduled to help that person. Most guardians can only see the ones they are assigned to. Instead Olivia can see everyone's pain and even decipher what is the cause. This is very unusual for a guardian and Olivia is not sure that this power is solely hers or if she is pulling it from her mental/physical bond with Holden.
Holden has spent the last three years waiting to hear that Olivia has returned and, dare I say, praying that she will return to him when she is reborn. He loves her dearly and has no clue that Olivia thought he had betrayed her at the end of book one, resulting in her death. Olivia's pain causes her to shut off their mental connection and to try to move on. She still loves Holden, but he is a Jinni and works for Hell. She's a Guardian working for Heaven. It's a doomed match up. Holden doesn't know that she actually is disconnecting from him and therefore throws everything he has into being the best Jinni he can be. This turns out to put him into a leadership role controlling all the North American jinn. He was really good at his job. Now if only Olivia would return so he could turn away from all his evil ways for her. His fear? Would she be able to accept all that he has done since she left him?
Finally, Quintus tells us the story from another Guardian perspective. He was Olivia's protector before she died and afterwards has been charged to train her in the ways of being a Guardian. The problem is that he started falling in love with her before death and being so close to her now has only made his love grow. He knows she still loves Holden. He knows she is having trouble moving on and being a good Guardian. He just can't stop his feelings which seem to be interfering with her training. On the other hand, Olivia seems to be extraordinarily good at some aspects of their job, so he thinks that she will grasp all the concepts will little help. He's wrong of course.
Where does all this lead us? While they are all trying to not be in love with each other, Guardians are disappearing, possibly dying. It looks like Holden might be behind it and the Elder Guardians have made Quintus and Olivia the chief investigators. Quintus is trying to keep Olivia and Holden apart by not letting Olivia know that Holden is there or that he might be the one responsible. Holden is trying to figure out what Juliet (Olivia's best friend from book one who killed herself) is doing as a Jinni and who she's really working for. Olivia is just trying to make it through each day by learning he job skills and NOT thinking of Holden. It's a hot mess and you will be shocked by the ending! Who is really responsible? Will Holden and Olivia ever be together again? What will happen when Olivia discovers her best friend is alive? Read to find out!
Read More Reviews at http://identitydiscovery.net
This story picks up from book one with Olivia having decided to follow the path she was born into, to become a Guardian. Essentially, she is a low level angel except she can die...again. She is reborn on earth as pure heavenly light and takes the shape of whatever her mental image of herself happens to have been when she died. Using her light, she is meant to help those in need on Earth, but only those the High Elder Guardians tell her to help. This is a problem for Olivia. She really didn't want to be reborn into the army of heavenly soldiers that just do as they are told. She thought she would be able to help anyone she found that needed it. She is different from other guardians because she is actually able to sense when someone needs help even if she is not the one scheduled to help that person. Most guardians can only see the ones they are assigned to. Instead Olivia can see everyone's pain and even decipher what is the cause. This is very unusual for a guardian and Olivia is not sure that this power is solely hers or if she is pulling it from her mental/physical bond with Holden.
Holden has spent the last three years waiting to hear that Olivia has returned and, dare I say, praying that she will return to him when she is reborn. He loves her dearly and has no clue that Olivia thought he had betrayed her at the end of book one, resulting in her death. Olivia's pain causes her to shut off their mental connection and to try to move on. She still loves Holden, but he is a Jinni and works for Hell. She's a Guardian working for Heaven. It's a doomed match up. Holden doesn't know that she actually is disconnecting from him and therefore throws everything he has into being the best Jinni he can be. This turns out to put him into a leadership role controlling all the North American jinn. He was really good at his job. Now if only Olivia would return so he could turn away from all his evil ways for her. His fear? Would she be able to accept all that he has done since she left him?
Finally, Quintus tells us the story from another Guardian perspective. He was Olivia's protector before she died and afterwards has been charged to train her in the ways of being a Guardian. The problem is that he started falling in love with her before death and being so close to her now has only made his love grow. He knows she still loves Holden. He knows she is having trouble moving on and being a good Guardian. He just can't stop his feelings which seem to be interfering with her training. On the other hand, Olivia seems to be extraordinarily good at some aspects of their job, so he thinks that she will grasp all the concepts will little help. He's wrong of course.
Where does all this lead us? While they are all trying to not be in love with each other, Guardians are disappearing, possibly dying. It looks like Holden might be behind it and the Elder Guardians have made Quintus and Olivia the chief investigators. Quintus is trying to keep Olivia and Holden apart by not letting Olivia know that Holden is there or that he might be the one responsible. Holden is trying to figure out what Juliet (Olivia's best friend from book one who killed herself) is doing as a Jinni and who she's really working for. Olivia is just trying to make it through each day by learning he job skills and NOT thinking of Holden. It's a hot mess and you will be shocked by the ending! Who is really responsible? Will Holden and Olivia ever be together again? What will happen when Olivia discovers her best friend is alive? Read to find out!
Read More Reviews at http://identitydiscovery.net
September 7, 2012
Choices picks up where Secrets, Book 1 in the Guardian Trilogy, leaves off for the most part. If you haven't had a chance to read it, drop everything, and pick up a copy of it. This really is a must as you'll need that initial back story, and it's an awesome one at that. I highly recommend you read it prior to picking up Choices, and by continuing on, there may be some spoilers. Please consider yourself warned, and in case you don't heed it, I'll give some brief background of what we learned in Secrets!
Alright onto Choices...
Liz Schulte brings us into a wonderful world filled with supernatural beings that reside on Earth, in the Abyss, and in Hell. One can only assume Heaven too, but that is just my assumption since Hell was included. While most of these beings co-exist together, two formed a truce ions ago: Guardians and Jinni. The Guardians work much like what we call guardian angels, except unlike angels, they were once mortal. It's not always so cut and dry, though, and someone has been capturing the Guardians. Left and right Quintus has been watching his friends disappear.
Olivia was a born Guardian, who at the end of the first book had been murdered by her Jinn love, Holden. She must struggle with her love on a daily basis as she knows they can't be together. But she also starts struggling to be a Guardian when she challenges why she can't save who she pleases. Liv also displays some outstanding talents that has Quin wondering why she isn't told about her status as an elder, and he assumes a high elder at that. She is so powerful that she can appear human even to the Jinni, and she quickly uses this to her advantage.
Holden is barely holding onto the humanity that Olivia once made him feel. He tries to drown out his sorrow, anger, and pain by doing what a Jinn does best: havoc, destruction, sex, and recruiting other Jinn. It has been three years since he pulled the trigger, and took away Olivia's choice to become like him. He knew it was the right thing to do, and he did it out of love. Both are no-no's for Jinn. There isn't a “right” anything, nor do they love. His “good deeds” don't go unnoticed in the underworld, and he quickly finds himself as the head of a region. With the exception of his shattered heart, things are looking very well for Holden. That all changes when he starts to feel her again, starts to hear her in his mind, and of course the fateful day Quin pays him a visit almost another year later to let him know, no strike that, to make accusations about the missing guardians.
Can Olivia give up the love she feels for Holden? Was it all a lie, was it just a game? Can Quin get Olivia to understand what it means to be a Guardian without telling her, her own secret? Can the three of them work together to flush out those involved in the Guardian kidnapping plot?
This is where you'll have to read it to find out!
I think Choices is a stellar mid point in this trilogy, and I was happy to read and review both books, but I really think you may find yourself asking a lot of questions if you just pick up Choices. If you've already read Secrets, than this one will not disappoint you one bit. It will leave you craving the final leg of the story which sadly isn't out till Fall 2012 (yes I checked as soon as I finished Secrets, because I knew I was in love with another trilogy!)
Choices has twists and turns, a really suspenseful ending, and exceptional plot and character development. There is almost a reality to her story, even with the fantasy/paranormal edge, and it just really makes it believable. It's almost impossible to explain how her books added a level of actual feeling, it's not like you're just reading the story, but like you're watching it unfold in the audience. Very few authors possess this wonderful ability, and I am thankful for the experience!
Alright onto Choices...
Liz Schulte brings us into a wonderful world filled with supernatural beings that reside on Earth, in the Abyss, and in Hell. One can only assume Heaven too, but that is just my assumption since Hell was included. While most of these beings co-exist together, two formed a truce ions ago: Guardians and Jinni. The Guardians work much like what we call guardian angels, except unlike angels, they were once mortal. It's not always so cut and dry, though, and someone has been capturing the Guardians. Left and right Quintus has been watching his friends disappear.
Olivia was a born Guardian, who at the end of the first book had been murdered by her Jinn love, Holden. She must struggle with her love on a daily basis as she knows they can't be together. But she also starts struggling to be a Guardian when she challenges why she can't save who she pleases. Liv also displays some outstanding talents that has Quin wondering why she isn't told about her status as an elder, and he assumes a high elder at that. She is so powerful that she can appear human even to the Jinni, and she quickly uses this to her advantage.
Holden is barely holding onto the humanity that Olivia once made him feel. He tries to drown out his sorrow, anger, and pain by doing what a Jinn does best: havoc, destruction, sex, and recruiting other Jinn. It has been three years since he pulled the trigger, and took away Olivia's choice to become like him. He knew it was the right thing to do, and he did it out of love. Both are no-no's for Jinn. There isn't a “right” anything, nor do they love. His “good deeds” don't go unnoticed in the underworld, and he quickly finds himself as the head of a region. With the exception of his shattered heart, things are looking very well for Holden. That all changes when he starts to feel her again, starts to hear her in his mind, and of course the fateful day Quin pays him a visit almost another year later to let him know, no strike that, to make accusations about the missing guardians.
Can Olivia give up the love she feels for Holden? Was it all a lie, was it just a game? Can Quin get Olivia to understand what it means to be a Guardian without telling her, her own secret? Can the three of them work together to flush out those involved in the Guardian kidnapping plot?
This is where you'll have to read it to find out!
I think Choices is a stellar mid point in this trilogy, and I was happy to read and review both books, but I really think you may find yourself asking a lot of questions if you just pick up Choices. If you've already read Secrets, than this one will not disappoint you one bit. It will leave you craving the final leg of the story which sadly isn't out till Fall 2012 (yes I checked as soon as I finished Secrets, because I knew I was in love with another trilogy!)
Choices has twists and turns, a really suspenseful ending, and exceptional plot and character development. There is almost a reality to her story, even with the fantasy/paranormal edge, and it just really makes it believable. It's almost impossible to explain how her books added a level of actual feeling, it's not like you're just reading the story, but like you're watching it unfold in the audience. Very few authors possess this wonderful ability, and I am thankful for the experience!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2012
A thrilling paranormal romance I could not put down. Earlier in the week, I started reading Secrets with a pretty hefty TBR pile that I planned to get to right after I finished. But that’s not how it worked out. Once I finished Ms. Schulte’s spectacular, unique story, I had to have more, as I’m sure that was her intentions with the way Secrets ended. So I dove head first into Choices and devoured that book too. I think it’s safe to say I’ve found a new author that I love and a story that I connected with deep down in the depths of my soul. Secrets is told in the first person (my favorite way to read paranormal books) by both Olivia and Holden’s POV. Liv is different than your average twenty-something woman, but the suspense to learn why is perfectly crafted by Ms. Schulte, who uses Holden to help us put the pieces together, only Holden has his own secrets and when Liv finally discovers them, let’s just say her being pissed is an understatement. And then when Holden makes a pretty big decision for Liv, my heart pretty much plummeted. I can’t really delve into much more without giving away key points of the book that I actually enjoyed learning while reading the story.
Choices picks up a few years later, and now we have a 3rd MC to assist with Liv and Holden’s story. Quintas is a guardian and he’s had a little crush on Olivia, but clearly he knows her heart belongs to Holden, even though in this book, Holden attempts to make you hate him by some of the repulsing things he does. But for me, he fails miserably. There’s just something about him that I love and I can’t help but to route for him. Again, I don’t want to say too much because the story is so exciting and I’d hate to spoil that for anyone that hasn’t read it, and just like its prequel, Choices is a thrilling, suspenseful page-turner that will hook its teeth in you and keep your eyes glued until you reach the end and you’re begging Liz for book #3 of this badass trilogy. There is only one negative comment that I have—and it is nothing to do with the story. Both books have several grammar errors, Secrets a little more than Choices, and as I’ve mentioned in other reviews, I am just one of those readers that cannot overlook them. But even though they were there, and attempted to slow down the pace, the story was still juicy enough that I couldn’t help but keep going. I highly recommend both of these books to anyone looking for a different type of paranormal romance. You will not be disappointed. And I am anxiously awaiting the release of Consequences, the 3rd and final installment of this Guardian Trilogy.
http://www.ashleyrobertsonbooks.com/r...
Choices picks up a few years later, and now we have a 3rd MC to assist with Liv and Holden’s story. Quintas is a guardian and he’s had a little crush on Olivia, but clearly he knows her heart belongs to Holden, even though in this book, Holden attempts to make you hate him by some of the repulsing things he does. But for me, he fails miserably. There’s just something about him that I love and I can’t help but to route for him. Again, I don’t want to say too much because the story is so exciting and I’d hate to spoil that for anyone that hasn’t read it, and just like its prequel, Choices is a thrilling, suspenseful page-turner that will hook its teeth in you and keep your eyes glued until you reach the end and you’re begging Liz for book #3 of this badass trilogy. There is only one negative comment that I have—and it is nothing to do with the story. Both books have several grammar errors, Secrets a little more than Choices, and as I’ve mentioned in other reviews, I am just one of those readers that cannot overlook them. But even though they were there, and attempted to slow down the pace, the story was still juicy enough that I couldn’t help but keep going. I highly recommend both of these books to anyone looking for a different type of paranormal romance. You will not be disappointed. And I am anxiously awaiting the release of Consequences, the 3rd and final installment of this Guardian Trilogy.
http://www.ashleyrobertsonbooks.com/r...
May 23, 2012
I had a hard time in the first book Secrets at first trying to keep up with the story since it changes from 2 different character’s perspectives. Although it was my favorite part of the last Twilight book, I wasn’t used to Liz Shulte’s style of writing. By the 3rd chapter of the book I got used to it quickly and I was immediately hooked. This book Choices has three different characters perspectives but because I was already used to her style I caught on quickly.
My favorite character, besides Olivia, is Holden. I love that even though he is a demon’s minion (jinni) he is still in touch with his humanity. I LOVE the triangle that has formed between Quintus, Olivia and Holden.
The story revolves around loads of mystery and suspense….
1.Why is Juilet (Olivia’s best friend) a jinni? Who is working for?
2.Who is killing Guardians? Is it Holden? Quintus and Olivia are assigned to investigate. What will happen to Olivia if it is?
3.Can Holden and Olivia ever make their relationship work? I have to tell you I am rooting for them!!
4. Can Quintus help Olivia moved past her love for Holden, be the best Guardian she can be, while hiding his ever growing love for her?
5. What will happen when Olivia finds out Juliet’s alive?
One of the parts of the story that really cemented the love I have for Holden’s character is the way he was there for Olivia’s mom after the fall out of both Juliet’s and Olivia’s deaths. Not something you would expect from a Jinni but when has Holden done what’s expected?
What I was really impressed with in this book (Choices) and Secrets is the way Liz actually paints a picture of the story. You feel like an observer- you almost forget that you are reading a book. The characters are easily imagined, relatable and very vivid. I am hooked. This series has been a fabulous escape at night after a long day at work and mom-hood.
I, for one, am holding my breathe for the last book of this trilogy Consequences.
My favorite character, besides Olivia, is Holden. I love that even though he is a demon’s minion (jinni) he is still in touch with his humanity. I LOVE the triangle that has formed between Quintus, Olivia and Holden.
The story revolves around loads of mystery and suspense….
1.Why is Juilet (Olivia’s best friend) a jinni? Who is working for?
2.Who is killing Guardians? Is it Holden? Quintus and Olivia are assigned to investigate. What will happen to Olivia if it is?
3.Can Holden and Olivia ever make their relationship work? I have to tell you I am rooting for them!!
4. Can Quintus help Olivia moved past her love for Holden, be the best Guardian she can be, while hiding his ever growing love for her?
5. What will happen when Olivia finds out Juliet’s alive?
One of the parts of the story that really cemented the love I have for Holden’s character is the way he was there for Olivia’s mom after the fall out of both Juliet’s and Olivia’s deaths. Not something you would expect from a Jinni but when has Holden done what’s expected?
What I was really impressed with in this book (Choices) and Secrets is the way Liz actually paints a picture of the story. You feel like an observer- you almost forget that you are reading a book. The characters are easily imagined, relatable and very vivid. I am hooked. This series has been a fabulous escape at night after a long day at work and mom-hood.
I, for one, am holding my breathe for the last book of this trilogy Consequences.
July 13, 2012
In the interest of full disclosure, I didn't read the first book in this trilogy. Not that I didn't want to but things got a little messy and it just wasn't possible. I'm sorry I missed it because I really could not put this book down. There were some instances during the story that I felt a little lost but there was enough background offered that I finally understood what was happening. You can avoid that by reading Secrets first.
Having said that, Choices by Liz Schulte is a great book with some new perspectives on the fantasy genre. The main character Olivia is not the do-gooder typical of the guardians as they are portrayed in this book. She likes to do things her own way. She still has the empathy and compassion of a guardian (like an guardian angel) but she thinks independently and acts before she has all the details. I like her spunk and the spontaneity of the character.
Of course, as with most protagonists she is exceptional in many ways. Her superior talents lead her into situations that require the ethical merits of a good guy and keep her one step ahead of trouble. Ultimatly trouble finds her and I won't spoil the ending. Suffice it to say this is book two in a trilogy but Liz Schulte excels in character development. I look forward to more of these characters and the development of this storyline.
Personally, I find Liz Schulte to be a fantastic author. I want to read everything she writes. Her stories keep you guessing until the end and she inevitably surprises me. That is rare in an author and I love her work.
Having said that, Choices by Liz Schulte is a great book with some new perspectives on the fantasy genre. The main character Olivia is not the do-gooder typical of the guardians as they are portrayed in this book. She likes to do things her own way. She still has the empathy and compassion of a guardian (like an guardian angel) but she thinks independently and acts before she has all the details. I like her spunk and the spontaneity of the character.
Of course, as with most protagonists she is exceptional in many ways. Her superior talents lead her into situations that require the ethical merits of a good guy and keep her one step ahead of trouble. Ultimatly trouble finds her and I won't spoil the ending. Suffice it to say this is book two in a trilogy but Liz Schulte excels in character development. I look forward to more of these characters and the development of this storyline.
Personally, I find Liz Schulte to be a fantastic author. I want to read everything she writes. Her stories keep you guessing until the end and she inevitably surprises me. That is rare in an author and I love her work.
April 3, 2012
Choices by Liz Schulte
My opinion of this second book in this series Choices by Liz Schulte can be summed up in one word FANTASTIC. I just made her my new best friend. In the Twilight series you have Team Edward and Team Jacob but in Choices you get the same type of triangle Team Quintus and Team Holden. I for one am Team Holden he is one hot Jinn. In this second book they are waiting for Olivia to return. Holden who is evil is haunted by the love that he had for her thinking when she returns that she would seek him out or her mom. Holden is their for Olivia's mom which is strange for some one that works for demons from Hell. I also loved the reintroduction of Femi who is a character in her short story Sweet Little Lies from the wonderful anthology book called Cupid Painted Blind. I love a good book that makes women the bad-ass hero's with assistance from men. I would definitely run out and get her first book in the series Secrets then follow with Choices. Get Cupid Painted Blind which has her short story about Femi and these other great authors have a story in there also Lisa Rayns, Olivia Hardin, C.G. Powell, Cait Lavender, and Stephanie Nelson. The third book continues the story of Olivia and Holden it is called Consequences. Thank you so much for the fantastic and easy flowing storyline with excitement and surprises around every corner.
My opinion of this second book in this series Choices by Liz Schulte can be summed up in one word FANTASTIC. I just made her my new best friend. In the Twilight series you have Team Edward and Team Jacob but in Choices you get the same type of triangle Team Quintus and Team Holden. I for one am Team Holden he is one hot Jinn. In this second book they are waiting for Olivia to return. Holden who is evil is haunted by the love that he had for her thinking when she returns that she would seek him out or her mom. Holden is their for Olivia's mom which is strange for some one that works for demons from Hell. I also loved the reintroduction of Femi who is a character in her short story Sweet Little Lies from the wonderful anthology book called Cupid Painted Blind. I love a good book that makes women the bad-ass hero's with assistance from men. I would definitely run out and get her first book in the series Secrets then follow with Choices. Get Cupid Painted Blind which has her short story about Femi and these other great authors have a story in there also Lisa Rayns, Olivia Hardin, C.G. Powell, Cait Lavender, and Stephanie Nelson. The third book continues the story of Olivia and Holden it is called Consequences. Thank you so much for the fantastic and easy flowing storyline with excitement and surprises around every corner.
October 15, 2012
I had already read Secrets, Book 1 of Liz Schulte's Guardian Trilogy, and thoroughly enjoyed it, so I was very excited for the sequel. Choices definitely did not disappoint. The part I enjoyed the most was learning what it takes to be a guardian, right along with Olivia, and to watch her clumsy attempts at manipulating light and her heartfelt insights into the lives of those she is charged to help.
Not everyone in Olivia's life is as admirable as she sees them. Look for at least one shocking reveal of someone from her past.
But the underlying thread of the whole book is the unresolved relationship between Olivia and Holden. Holden's promotion has entrenched him firmly on the dark side, while Olivia's choice has planted her firmly on the side of light. Now that she has made her decision, will they ever find each other? Will they even be allowed the relationship they both desired and do they both still want it? All the uncertainty makes for an awesome story line. I'd like to tell you it's completely resolved by the end of the book. All I can tell you is you will get some answers, but for the rest, you'll have to wait for Book 3, Consequences, coming in the fall of 2012
Not everyone in Olivia's life is as admirable as she sees them. Look for at least one shocking reveal of someone from her past.
But the underlying thread of the whole book is the unresolved relationship between Olivia and Holden. Holden's promotion has entrenched him firmly on the dark side, while Olivia's choice has planted her firmly on the side of light. Now that she has made her decision, will they ever find each other? Will they even be allowed the relationship they both desired and do they both still want it? All the uncertainty makes for an awesome story line. I'd like to tell you it's completely resolved by the end of the book. All I can tell you is you will get some answers, but for the rest, you'll have to wait for Book 3, Consequences, coming in the fall of 2012
August 1, 2012
So a human, a jinni, a guardian angel, and a demon walk into a bar…. Actually that would be the beginning of a bad joke. But all those characters are in this book. The basic premis of this story is what would happen if a Jinni (person who made a deal for their soul with a demon) who was cursed to do the bidding of hell for eternity fell in love with a human born to be a powerful guardian angel when they died.
In the book Secrets, Olivia falls in love with tall, dark, and brooding Holden, who turns out to be a kind of demi-demon. Because of her destiny to choose or not choose to be a guardian, her ex-boyfriend is killed for planning to do her harm and then her best friend is killed. All these killings are to keep her from becoming a guardian, but Olivia refuses to choose.
This book is really intense at times. It’s sad to see Olivia torn between love and her “destiny”. Even after death she is incapable of choosing. I can’t wait to read Choices to find out what happens next.
I give this book 4 out of 5 clouds. A good read.
This product or book may have been distributed for review; this in no way affects my opinions or reviews.
In the book Secrets, Olivia falls in love with tall, dark, and brooding Holden, who turns out to be a kind of demi-demon. Because of her destiny to choose or not choose to be a guardian, her ex-boyfriend is killed for planning to do her harm and then her best friend is killed. All these killings are to keep her from becoming a guardian, but Olivia refuses to choose.
This book is really intense at times. It’s sad to see Olivia torn between love and her “destiny”. Even after death she is incapable of choosing. I can’t wait to read Choices to find out what happens next.
I give this book 4 out of 5 clouds. A good read.
This product or book may have been distributed for review; this in no way affects my opinions or reviews.
January 10, 2013
I can't believe how much I am enjoying this trilogy! On to book 3!!
Goodreads Synopsis:
Hearts break. Loved ones are lost. Life keeps moving.
Olivia Martin’s afterlife was more dangerous and confusing than her life ever was. She thought she was ready to come back, to forget about Holden and to let go of the rage consuming her. Fulfilling her destiny as a guardian was all that mattered—the past could stay hidden in the crevices of her mind. However, when guardians are murdered and the evidence points towards jinn, she has to do something. To save anyone’s future, Olivia will have to confront the one person from her past she is terrified to see.
Holden waited for Olivia with the hope he would see her one more time. But when she didn’t return, he found salvation in darkness. The black and twisted road made it easier to forget what he lost than to live with the memory of what he had. An unexpected promotion shoves him into a world of intoxicating power and influence. Holden will have to choose between his new life and the woman he thought was gone forever.
From the ashes of Secrets, Choices are born that will change everything.
Goodreads Synopsis:
Hearts break. Loved ones are lost. Life keeps moving.
Olivia Martin’s afterlife was more dangerous and confusing than her life ever was. She thought she was ready to come back, to forget about Holden and to let go of the rage consuming her. Fulfilling her destiny as a guardian was all that mattered—the past could stay hidden in the crevices of her mind. However, when guardians are murdered and the evidence points towards jinn, she has to do something. To save anyone’s future, Olivia will have to confront the one person from her past she is terrified to see.
Holden waited for Olivia with the hope he would see her one more time. But when she didn’t return, he found salvation in darkness. The black and twisted road made it easier to forget what he lost than to live with the memory of what he had. An unexpected promotion shoves him into a world of intoxicating power and influence. Holden will have to choose between his new life and the woman he thought was gone forever.
From the ashes of Secrets, Choices are born that will change everything.
March 8, 2015
Another page-turner, mostly because it's such an easy read.
A few things are really starting to bug me.
1. If your life is THAT horrible, why choose to come back?
2. Spelling mistakes and grammatical errors. Gah!
3. What happened to the time difference between Rome and the US? How is it the same time in both places? Please, find a globe.
4. Girl, get over him! Yes, I know the magical mind-link is still there, but seriously! Actually, I should probably say "Boy, get over her!", as he is the one who has actually been alive the three years she was gone, and didn't feel the link during that time.
And some other stuff, but I will stop listing them, as I will only focus on them, and I want to read the last book without being too frustrated.
Lastly, something which does not have to do with the book, but may explain why it is written in a way I don't really like: Why the frack does the author, in her profile picture on Goodreads, pose with a duck face?! Seriously! You write books as a living! Stop making yourself look incredibly stupid! (OK, that was my little rant. It needed to be said.)
A few things are really starting to bug me.
1. If your life is THAT horrible, why choose to come back?
2. Spelling mistakes and grammatical errors. Gah!
3. What happened to the time difference between Rome and the US? How is it the same time in both places? Please, find a globe.
4. Girl, get over him! Yes, I know the magical mind-link is still there, but seriously! Actually, I should probably say "Boy, get over her!", as he is the one who has actually been alive the three years she was gone, and didn't feel the link during that time.
And some other stuff, but I will stop listing them, as I will only focus on them, and I want to read the last book without being too frustrated.
Lastly, something which does not have to do with the book, but may explain why it is written in a way I don't really like: Why the frack does the author, in her profile picture on Goodreads, pose with a duck face?! Seriously! You write books as a living! Stop making yourself look incredibly stupid! (OK, that was my little rant. It needed to be said.)
May 7, 2012
I think Choices is a stellar mid point in this trilogy, and I was happy to read and review both books courtesy of Promotional Book Tours, but I really think you may find yourself asking a lot of questions if you just pick up Choices (hint-hint!). If you've already read Secrets, than this one will not disappoint you one bit. It will leave you craving the final leg of the story which sadly isn't out till Fall 2012 (yes I checked as soon as I finished Secrets, because I knew I was in love with another trilogy!)
Choices has twists and turns, a really suspenseful ending as well as an exceptional plot and wonderful character development. There is almost a reality to her story, even with the fantasy/paranormal edge, and it just really makes it believable in its own way. It's almost impossible to explain how her books added a level of actual feeling, it's not like you're just reading the story, but like you're watching it unfold in the audience. Very few authors possess this wonderful ability, and I am thankful for the experience!
Choices has twists and turns, a really suspenseful ending as well as an exceptional plot and wonderful character development. There is almost a reality to her story, even with the fantasy/paranormal edge, and it just really makes it believable in its own way. It's almost impossible to explain how her books added a level of actual feeling, it's not like you're just reading the story, but like you're watching it unfold in the audience. Very few authors possess this wonderful ability, and I am thankful for the experience!
July 1, 2012
The thing with sequels is that, it usually gets difficult for the author to live up to the expectations set by the first book. Ms.Schulte has definitely delivered a sequel that’s as good as the first one – if not better.
I am finding it really difficult to review this second book in the trilogy without giving out much spoilers. So, I will keep it really short. The first thing about ‘Choices’ is that you need to read ‘Secrets’ first. Otherwise you may find yourself doing a lot of wondering and asking a lot of questions. The characterization remains to be one of the strengths of the plot. The dialogue delivery was better in this book. And yes, there are a hell lot of twists to keep you turning the pages.
I am finding it really difficult to review this second book in the trilogy without giving out much spoilers. So, I will keep it really short. The first thing about ‘Choices’ is that you need to read ‘Secrets’ first. Otherwise you may find yourself doing a lot of wondering and asking a lot of questions. The characterization remains to be one of the strengths of the plot. The dialogue delivery was better in this book. And yes, there are a hell lot of twists to keep you turning the pages.
October 4, 2013
I enjoyed the second installment. We get a new perspective in this book, that of Quintus, and I loved it. I was never once confused by reading three point of views. It enhanced the book in my opinion. I always find myself rooting for the underdog, in this case Quintus, but I have a feeling he will not be so lucky in the end. We see Olivia in training as a guardian, and she has skills which surpass the other guardians. The elders also have an interest in her, making you wonder what is in store for Olivia. I am looking forward to reading the final installment, and to seeing who gets their HEA in the end.
September 19, 2015
I'm giving this 4 stars, but I'd probably rate it a 3.5 overall.
The book builds nicely from where the first book Choices leaves off, and its interesting to see where and how the characters progress. The world building for the Abyss is really spectacular, and one of the biggest strengths of the book and series. The addition of Femi is a nice touch.
My biggest complaint is the POV for the chapters. I like that we get three different characters, but each chapter is from the first person. It would be nice if the chapters were headed by a symbol for the character, or perhaps the initial of the character.
The book builds nicely from where the first book Choices leaves off, and its interesting to see where and how the characters progress. The world building for the Abyss is really spectacular, and one of the biggest strengths of the book and series. The addition of Femi is a nice touch.
My biggest complaint is the POV for the chapters. I like that we get three different characters, but each chapter is from the first person. It would be nice if the chapters were headed by a symbol for the character, or perhaps the initial of the character.
March 28, 2012
I’ve been completely HOOKED on this series since Chapter 2 of Secrets. It is a must read! I rave about this series to everyone. Why? I’m in love with her “Bad Boy” Holden Smith.
I love Liz’s writing style and her unique ability to draw me in and hold me until the last page. All her books, I read in one sitting because I simply CANNOT put them down. Secrets and Choices are both filled with amazing dialogue, heart-pounding action, high stakes suspense, and I love all that, but Holden has me wrapped around his pinky…hooked!
I love Liz’s writing style and her unique ability to draw me in and hold me until the last page. All her books, I read in one sitting because I simply CANNOT put them down. Secrets and Choices are both filled with amazing dialogue, heart-pounding action, high stakes suspense, and I love all that, but Holden has me wrapped around his pinky…hooked!
December 8, 2012
The series story line is driven with the same conflicts good versus evil, and an impossible love story between two unlikely individuals. HOWEVER, that is where the similarities end. The concept is unique and keeps you interested from page one. I would recommend this to anyone that would like to read an original concept. In the realm of fantasy this series ties the impossible together with the human ability to feel, an unlikely presentation of selfishness, selflessness and sacrifice. I really liked this series.
June 23, 2016
I Love Books review
This book is a little on the boring side. The two main characters, Liv and Olden are separated till the very end of the book. The author has a habit of writing each chapter in a different view point, which can get very confusing. Plus she also repeats herself and its kinda of annoying. I do love the storyline and her characters have a lot of depth. The heroin is not some perfect woman, she is full of mistakes and regrets which make her so much more real. Even with the few drawn backs to this book I will still continue to read this series.
This book is a little on the boring side. The two main characters, Liv and Olden are separated till the very end of the book. The author has a habit of writing each chapter in a different view point, which can get very confusing. Plus she also repeats herself and its kinda of annoying. I do love the storyline and her characters have a lot of depth. The heroin is not some perfect woman, she is full of mistakes and regrets which make her so much more real. Even with the few drawn backs to this book I will still continue to read this series.
July 21, 2012
This sequel definitely lived up to it's expectation. The author leads the reader alongside the characters through confusion and emotions very well. I really like the writing style. This one took a little slower pace in the beginning but towards the end the excitement picks up and we are left once more with anticipation for the final book of the series.
I was provided a review copy courtesy of Promotional Book Tours in exchange for my honest review.
I was provided a review copy courtesy of Promotional Book Tours in exchange for my honest review.
August 24, 2012
The first book (Secrets) felt a little slow to me, so I am glad I went on to the second book, which is a lot livelier. There's a lot more action in Choices, and I felt like I got to know the main characters a lot better in this one. I like that Schulte leaves you with mixed feelings about the characters - no one is all good, and no one is all evil (at least in terms of the main characters). I'm looking forward to the imminent (I hope) release of the final book in the trilogy, Consequences.
January 27, 2013
Three stars for this book. I enjoyed the first in the trilogy, and this second was also good, but it left me just a little with the feeling that it was simply tying together books 1 and 3, with not a great deal of plot development in itself. As for book 1, the characters were interesting, and unresolved questions kept the reader intrigued about where the story was going. Will definitely read book 3 to find out the answers.
February 8, 2016
This trilogy was awesome! The whole read was a roller coaster of emotions! I no point did I want to stop reading this trilogy! I was sucked into this amazing world from the first few pages. A wonderfully laid out story that kept me wanting more. The supporting characters truly made this story. One of my favorite stories involving the underworld. I read this as my "trilogy" for the 2015 Reading Challenge! :)
December 28, 2016
This series is seriously one of my favorites. Actually, the entire fictional universe this author created is one of my favorites.
Olivia Martin is a character after my own heart. Good-natured, but stubborn and sometime vengeful, she handles all of her problems in the best way she can, in her beautifully flawed way. Holden, on the other hand, is a bit of a tool. He is, however, the perfect match to Olivia.
Olivia Martin is a character after my own heart. Good-natured, but stubborn and sometime vengeful, she handles all of her problems in the best way she can, in her beautifully flawed way. Holden, on the other hand, is a bit of a tool. He is, however, the perfect match to Olivia.
October 19, 2012
This roller coaster of a follow up to the Guardian Series: Secrets does NOT disappoint. Sometimes you get a "book 2" in a trilogy that will stall out, but that is most certainly not the case here. Repeatedly read and re-read by me, does not get old, only brings to life "old" friends. Suspenseful and captivating.
January 28, 2013
I am in love with this series!!!! The first book was amazing, keeping you on your toes, never knowing what was going to happen. This one was also amazing. Breezed throughed it in a day. It captivated me. Just bought Consequences and CANNOT wait to start!!!! Love this series and the characters. I wil definitely be reading more by LIz Schulte!!!
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