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War of Destiny #1
Lost Soul
Julia is a vampire who’s over 500 years old in the present day. Memories of her long life come back in startling clarity and she decides to write everything down, to make sense of the life she has lived.
Her story begins in 1492, when she is born to a wealthy family living in London. She falls deeply in love with the son of one of the servants and is heartbroken when her family, in keeping with the customs of the times, forces her into an arranged marriage. Unfortunately, the man she is married to is a very powerful man with a dark side, who punishes her as he sees fit. Julia finds that she only has herself to depend on to deal with her husband. Although both her sister and brother-in-law try to help, she pushes them away in fear that they too will get hurt.
On the darkest, most painful night of her life, a stranger arrives and offers what only can be a miracle. Desperate, Julia accepts the deal the vampire offers and starts a whole new way of life. She finds that she is given the very things that she had been denied as a human, the promise of things she had wished for her entire life.
Yet her dark past never seems too far away. Frightened and wary she struggles to recapture the joy she had before her marriage. She also begins to hesitantly hope for a reunion with the only man she had ever loved. At the same time, her new friends strive to show her trust and love is still possible, even as the potential of a vampire civil war looms ever closer.
Her story begins in 1492, when she is born to a wealthy family living in London. She falls deeply in love with the son of one of the servants and is heartbroken when her family, in keeping with the customs of the times, forces her into an arranged marriage. Unfortunately, the man she is married to is a very powerful man with a dark side, who punishes her as he sees fit. Julia finds that she only has herself to depend on to deal with her husband. Although both her sister and brother-in-law try to help, she pushes them away in fear that they too will get hurt.
On the darkest, most painful night of her life, a stranger arrives and offers what only can be a miracle. Desperate, Julia accepts the deal the vampire offers and starts a whole new way of life. She finds that she is given the very things that she had been denied as a human, the promise of things she had wished for her entire life.
Yet her dark past never seems too far away. Frightened and wary she struggles to recapture the joy she had before her marriage. She also begins to hesitantly hope for a reunion with the only man she had ever loved. At the same time, her new friends strive to show her trust and love is still possible, even as the potential of a vampire civil war looms ever closer.
399 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 8, 2014
30 people are currently reading
628 people want to read
About the author
Theresa Van Spankeren
6 books90 followersBiography:
Theresa Van Spankeren lives in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois with her husband. She has been writing since an early age, and came up with the idea for the War of Destiny series in high school. She is also an avid reader of multiple genres. When she isn’t reading or writing, she enjoys hiking and swimming. She is an fan of the Legend of Zelda series. She also loves checking out local haunted places.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
December 11, 2024
I honestly have never read 300 pages in 24 hours like this. The story really yanked me right in from the start and kept on it. It is very well written, being very clear, concise and driven to accentuate all the right things at the right times. It is very heavy on character narratives and development, which gradually builds throughout, eventually ending on the brink of much bigger and more intense things. Can't wait to start the next book in this series!!
July 15, 2022
Imagine you live back in the 1500's and your lifestyle is pretty lavish. Julia is a young, 15 year old girl, who is "living the life" of a girl back then. She's in love with her best friend, Adam, but he's only the son of the household servant. He has no formality about him in the way that Julia's parents expect. One day, Julia's dad informs her that she is to marry Gregory. Julia is crushed! Gregory is not the kindhearted man that one would expect in a husband. He's actually quite the contrary! During a very difficult time in Julia's life, she is rescued by a boy named Samuel. Her life will change...but is it really for the better?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It has some very deep, dark moments within it that will make you wish you could reach through the book and exact some revenge yourself. It also have some very moving moments. This is just the beginning of Julia's story with much more to come!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It has some very deep, dark moments within it that will make you wish you could reach through the book and exact some revenge yourself. It also have some very moving moments. This is just the beginning of Julia's story with much more to come!
July 15, 2022
I started off reading this series not sure how I would feel about it, since I've never read any vampire stories prior to this one, but I quickly grew to realize that I enjoy the storyline and characters immensely. Lost Soul is the first book in the War of Destiny Series and it was a great read. The author established all of the characters really well and takes the time to give the background of the main character Juliana. Juliana, or as she likes to be called Julia, is a very relatable character who is very young when she experiences many life altering events. Although she has been through a significant amount of harsh events she is still a very humble and innocent young lady, who has more spunk and desire to live than most. I'm looking forward to reading the next installment of the series to see how her story progresses.
August 3, 2021
Book Name - Lost Soul
( War Of Destiny #1 )
Author- warofdestinybooks
Ratings - 5/5
Description:
Julia is the daughter of a wealthy family living in 16th-century London. She falls in love with Adam, a servant’s son, and is heartbroken when her family forces her into an arranged marriage. Her husband is neither kind nor merciful, and Julia struggles to keep safe those she cares about. When tragedy strikes, a stranger arrives and offers her a deal that could forever alter her destiny. Agreement would give her what she has been denied and grant her fondest wishes: the freedom to do as she pleases and a reunion with her one true love.There’s only one catch. Accepting would also mean joining the Vampire Resistance to fight the King.
Review:
👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.
👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well.Writing style of the author is quite appreciable .
👉This is a 300 page vampire fantasy book. Believe me the content is pretty awesome, full of different emotions, action, twist and turns, with a gripping plot. If you are a vampire lover then this book is your destination and if not, you are probably going to love vampires after this.
👉Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren is the principal book from the War of Destiny series. The story follows the existence of Julia, an adolescent young lady from a rich family living in London. She goes gaga for her beloved companion, Adam. Be that as it may, tragically, he's likewise a worker's child and doesn't coordinate with her family's status. At thepoint when her family becomes more acquainted with about this they drive her into an organized marriage.
👉Her better half is merciless and continually beats and confines her. After an unexpected misfortune, an outsider proposes an arrangement to her which can change her life completely. Be that as it may, in return for the opportunity, she's going to get she needs to turn into a vampire and battle against the ruler.
For complete read do order the book on @amazondotin
👉I found this book to be very engaging. The characters and storyline were well developed.
Happy reading!..
( War Of Destiny #1 )
Author- warofdestinybooks
Ratings - 5/5
Description:
Julia is the daughter of a wealthy family living in 16th-century London. She falls in love with Adam, a servant’s son, and is heartbroken when her family forces her into an arranged marriage. Her husband is neither kind nor merciful, and Julia struggles to keep safe those she cares about. When tragedy strikes, a stranger arrives and offers her a deal that could forever alter her destiny. Agreement would give her what she has been denied and grant her fondest wishes: the freedom to do as she pleases and a reunion with her one true love.There’s only one catch. Accepting would also mean joining the Vampire Resistance to fight the King.
Review:
👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.
👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well.Writing style of the author is quite appreciable .
👉This is a 300 page vampire fantasy book. Believe me the content is pretty awesome, full of different emotions, action, twist and turns, with a gripping plot. If you are a vampire lover then this book is your destination and if not, you are probably going to love vampires after this.
👉Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren is the principal book from the War of Destiny series. The story follows the existence of Julia, an adolescent young lady from a rich family living in London. She goes gaga for her beloved companion, Adam. Be that as it may, tragically, he's likewise a worker's child and doesn't coordinate with her family's status. At thepoint when her family becomes more acquainted with about this they drive her into an organized marriage.
👉Her better half is merciless and continually beats and confines her. After an unexpected misfortune, an outsider proposes an arrangement to her which can change her life completely. Be that as it may, in return for the opportunity, she's going to get she needs to turn into a vampire and battle against the ruler.
For complete read do order the book on @amazondotin
👉I found this book to be very engaging. The characters and storyline were well developed.
Happy reading!..
May 22, 2021
Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren is the first book from the War of Destiny series. The story follows the life of Julia, a teen girl from a wealthy family living in London. She falls in love with her childhood friend, Adam. But unfortunately, he's also a servant's son and does not match her family's status. When her family gets to know about this they force her into an arranged marriage.
Her husband is very cruel and constantly beats and restricts her. After a sudden tragedy, a stranger proposes a deal to her which can change her life totally. But in exchange for the freedom, she's about to receive she has to become a vampire and fight against the king.
Will she be able to fight the king with the help of resistance? or will she be too broken due to her past horror?
The cover is pretty and the title matches the story.
The language used by the author is suitable for beginners and the writing style is lucid and uncomplicated.
The characters are well written and well developed. I loved the character of Julia, Samuel, and Mary Anne.
The book is around 300 pages and is fast-paced so it is much easier to finish it in one sitting.
The author has written the story very beautifully and I was not able to put down the book. I laughed, I cried, I got angry while reading the book. It was filled with many emotions and
The author has successfully managed to keep the readers hooked throughout the book. The story is filled with action and many twists and turns.
I will definitely recommend this book if you love to read the fantasy genre or books with supernatural powers. I can't wait to read the next book from the war of destiny series.
Stars - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
Her husband is very cruel and constantly beats and restricts her. After a sudden tragedy, a stranger proposes a deal to her which can change her life totally. But in exchange for the freedom, she's about to receive she has to become a vampire and fight against the king.
Will she be able to fight the king with the help of resistance? or will she be too broken due to her past horror?
The cover is pretty and the title matches the story.
The language used by the author is suitable for beginners and the writing style is lucid and uncomplicated.
The characters are well written and well developed. I loved the character of Julia, Samuel, and Mary Anne.
The book is around 300 pages and is fast-paced so it is much easier to finish it in one sitting.
The author has written the story very beautifully and I was not able to put down the book. I laughed, I cried, I got angry while reading the book. It was filled with many emotions and
The author has successfully managed to keep the readers hooked throughout the book. The story is filled with action and many twists and turns.
I will definitely recommend this book if you love to read the fantasy genre or books with supernatural powers. I can't wait to read the next book from the war of destiny series.
Stars - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
February 28, 2022
4.5 Stars
Ok, I admit that the author had me at vampires, but I wasn’t prepared for what lay between the interesting, yet somewhat unassuming cover- in a great way. The story took me on a wild emotional ride- and as the first book that I have read from this author, it certainly left me with a taste for more of her work. So, I am happy that there is a series here that I can really sink my teeth into.
This story has all the ingredients needed to keep you enthralled; star-crossed lovers, vampires, an arranged marriage, wonderful atmospheric world building, impending war, a quest for freedom, politics, agendas, dramatic developments, intrigue, interesting characters, and more.
I don’t want to spoil anything by revealing too much, as the blurb does a great job of giving you a taste of what to expect without giving too much away. I think this is one of those stories that you should dive into a little ‘blind’ and let the author and the story surprise you.
If you love an original take on a vampire story, the paranormal, emotion, and intrigue- then this is definitely a book you will want to get your hands on asap.
Looking forward to the rest of the series!
Happy reading!
Thank you, Theresa Van Spankeren!
Ok, I admit that the author had me at vampires, but I wasn’t prepared for what lay between the interesting, yet somewhat unassuming cover- in a great way. The story took me on a wild emotional ride- and as the first book that I have read from this author, it certainly left me with a taste for more of her work. So, I am happy that there is a series here that I can really sink my teeth into.
This story has all the ingredients needed to keep you enthralled; star-crossed lovers, vampires, an arranged marriage, wonderful atmospheric world building, impending war, a quest for freedom, politics, agendas, dramatic developments, intrigue, interesting characters, and more.
I don’t want to spoil anything by revealing too much, as the blurb does a great job of giving you a taste of what to expect without giving too much away. I think this is one of those stories that you should dive into a little ‘blind’ and let the author and the story surprise you.
If you love an original take on a vampire story, the paranormal, emotion, and intrigue- then this is definitely a book you will want to get your hands on asap.
Looking forward to the rest of the series!
Happy reading!
Thank you, Theresa Van Spankeren!
February 24, 2022
At only 15 Julia was forced into an arranged marriage with an abusive man. Julia being as head strong as he is, endures it all for years, watching herself slip away bit by bit. After an event that is basically the final straw, she is done.
A man named Samuel approaches her and tells her that he can help her escape her miserable life and heal her physically if she joins him as a vampire. With no hesitation she says yes thinking this is the answer to her happiness. She doesn’t realize that emotional scars follow you everywhere even into the undead life.
This book was powerfully written and the concept itself is unique. It was written so powerfully morbid and sad but I could not put it down. I loved watching Julia grow into her own and slowly heal from her traumatic life. The author delved deeply into the emotional damage that can be caused by being abused. Julia battles depression and anxiety with the help of Samuel.
I would recommend this book to anyone who isn’t soft. It was amazing. I will be immediately looking for the 2nd book in the series!
A man named Samuel approaches her and tells her that he can help her escape her miserable life and heal her physically if she joins him as a vampire. With no hesitation she says yes thinking this is the answer to her happiness. She doesn’t realize that emotional scars follow you everywhere even into the undead life.
This book was powerfully written and the concept itself is unique. It was written so powerfully morbid and sad but I could not put it down. I loved watching Julia grow into her own and slowly heal from her traumatic life. The author delved deeply into the emotional damage that can be caused by being abused. Julia battles depression and anxiety with the help of Samuel.
I would recommend this book to anyone who isn’t soft. It was amazing. I will be immediately looking for the 2nd book in the series!
February 24, 2022
This is my first book by this author which I enjoyed and look forward to reading more from this author in the future. This is a dark fantasy, paranormal story that is full of action with some romance added in. This is a well written story where the characters bring the story to life and pulled me in from the beginning. This is an engaging story that was hard to put down. A story of falling in love, arranged marriage and the cost of freedom. This is a fast paced story that was easy to read. The characters are connectable, strong, and supportive of each other. They have great growth throughout the story as well. I enjoyed the author’s use of details to make the story entertaining. This is a great story that is worth the pick up. I highly recommend this book.
March 15, 2022
This is book one in the War on Destiny series and oh boy I cannot wait to read the next. Juliana the protagonist made me laugh with her snappy remarks and sarcasm, and made me cry with every heartbreak she is faced with which are numerous. She starts out as a stubborn 15 year old and blossoms into a force to be reckoned with. I found myself rooting for Adam and Samuel at every turn hoping someone could give her all the love she needs. It's been a while since I have read a book as quickly as I finished this one. This book was a lovely read with a fresh take on vampires that left me thirsting for more.
There are some scenes described that may trigger readers sensitive to abuse, discretion is advised.
There are some scenes described that may trigger readers sensitive to abuse, discretion is advised.
March 16, 2022
Julia is forced from the man she loves into an arranged marriage with Gregory, a merciless man. A stranger offers her freedom but the price is a thirst for blood and to join the Vampire resistance.
This novel was more than expected based on the unsuspecting cover. I expected Julia to try to find a way back to Adam but this has twists and turns that I didn't see coming.
I am so happy that this is series and I have more adventures and plot to look forward to.
It is always a great feeling when you finish a book that surprises you in a memorable way.
This novel was more than expected based on the unsuspecting cover. I expected Julia to try to find a way back to Adam but this has twists and turns that I didn't see coming.
I am so happy that this is series and I have more adventures and plot to look forward to.
It is always a great feeling when you finish a book that surprises you in a memorable way.
February 28, 2022
When reading the description I didn't quite picture how this story was going to develop at all. It is such a refreshing take on the usual vampire trope. I engaged with the story so easily and really found it to be well written. This is the first book that I have read by this author and k enjoyed the writing style. It draws you in as a reader and keeps your attention easily. This is a Great book and I would fully recommend it to fans of this genre.
January 20, 2024
Juliana was a headstrong 15yo girl from a wealthy family living in London in the 16th century. She had a pretty good life but her father dislikes her close friendship with the servent's boy Adam and decides it is time for her to be married. Her arranged husband Gregory is not a good bloke and abuses her right from the start.
Julia (as she prefers to be known) is trapped when tragedy strikes. She is given a chance to escape, and she takes it, even though it means making a radical change to her life and becoming a vampire. Not only becoming a vampire but also part of the Resistance against a cruel vampire leader named Valentino.
Julia is young and naive and has no idea about a lot of things, which leads to emotional confusion and silly decisions being made, but also growth. She has had to deal with a lot of damaging events and has to find the strength to cope, which is not easy when she can't always trust her own mind.
I found the writing style to be a little stilted, to begin with, but soon the story started to flow and it was very enjoyable. This take on vampire lore was familiar, yet different.
Julia (as she prefers to be known) is trapped when tragedy strikes. She is given a chance to escape, and she takes it, even though it means making a radical change to her life and becoming a vampire. Not only becoming a vampire but also part of the Resistance against a cruel vampire leader named Valentino.
Julia is young and naive and has no idea about a lot of things, which leads to emotional confusion and silly decisions being made, but also growth. She has had to deal with a lot of damaging events and has to find the strength to cope, which is not easy when she can't always trust her own mind.
I found the writing style to be a little stilted, to begin with, but soon the story started to flow and it was very enjoyable. This take on vampire lore was familiar, yet different.
March 9, 2022
Lost Soul is Book One in the War of Destiny Series. In it we are introduced to young Julia, the daughter of a wealthy family living in 16th Century London. Julia falls head over heels in love with Adam, one of her servant’s sons, which makes her father angry. Julia’s father feels that Adam is not good enough or rich enough for his daughter, so he arranges for her to marry a wealthy man named Gregory. Despite Julia’s protests her father forces her into marriage and forbids her from seeing Adam. At the tender age of 15 Julia finds herself in a loveless marriage with a man who is cold, cruel, and controlling.
When Julia’s husband does the unthinkable and tragedy befalls Julia, she feels helpless with nowhere to turn for help. Suddenly she is presented with an opportunity to escape her miserable existence when she meets a stranger named Samuel. He offers her a deal that will forever alter her destiny and will grant her freedom as well as a reunion with her true love Adam. The only catch is that it would mean that Julia would have to join the Vampire Resistance to fight the King. Will Julia take the deal to gain freedom and be with Adam?
I found this book hard to put down as I read to see what would become of Julia. My heart broke for her as she endured so much mistreatment from those that were supposed to love her. Finding herself married at such a young age to a man who abused her as well as having a father that only cared about his own needs would have been hard to endure. The author did a good job of delving into the topics of depression and anxiety that ultimately stems from trauma and abuse. As a survivor of abuse, I found the book was a hard read at many points but a compelling one as well. I found Julia’s journey intriguing as she fought to gain her strength and independence. I cannot wait to read Book Two in the Series.
When Julia’s husband does the unthinkable and tragedy befalls Julia, she feels helpless with nowhere to turn for help. Suddenly she is presented with an opportunity to escape her miserable existence when she meets a stranger named Samuel. He offers her a deal that will forever alter her destiny and will grant her freedom as well as a reunion with her true love Adam. The only catch is that it would mean that Julia would have to join the Vampire Resistance to fight the King. Will Julia take the deal to gain freedom and be with Adam?
I found this book hard to put down as I read to see what would become of Julia. My heart broke for her as she endured so much mistreatment from those that were supposed to love her. Finding herself married at such a young age to a man who abused her as well as having a father that only cared about his own needs would have been hard to endure. The author did a good job of delving into the topics of depression and anxiety that ultimately stems from trauma and abuse. As a survivor of abuse, I found the book was a hard read at many points but a compelling one as well. I found Julia’s journey intriguing as she fought to gain her strength and independence. I cannot wait to read Book Two in the Series.
March 10, 2022
Julia is fifteen and belongs to a wealthy family in 16th century London, she has two siblings whom she gets on well with with and servants whom she has known most of her life. One family in particular had a son her own age and they grew up together and became closer and closer, but this young, budding love was not to be when Julia’s family tore the two apart and betrothed her to another, they are both heartbroken and are not even allowed to say a proper goodbye.
When Julia is presented with her future husband, she is outraged that she has to have an arranged marriage, especially the one they want and she falls into a depression up until her wedding day. When that fateful day arrives, Julia puts on a brave face and goes through with the ceremony, but as soon as they are alone, the control begins and she comes to realise that her husband will show her no kindness or mercy if she disobeys his rules.
As the marriage deteriorates, Julia keeps on fighting for her life and the ones around her whom she loves, but even escape is out of her reach, until one day tragedy strikes and she is pushed to the edge of her limits. This however, is when a stranger enters her life and offers her everything she has dreamed of, escape, freedom and independence, with nothing left for her in her home, Julia accepts the help and leaves without turning back.
What Julia discovers however, is that there is a price for her freedom and that is to become something and someone different, a vampire and not only that, she will be a Vampire in the Resistance against their King. Will Julia accept the offer, or find another way out of her current life? This is a fantasy which is part coming of age and part adventure and is full of vampires, but whether they are good or evil, is only discovered by reading the story until the end.
When Julia is presented with her future husband, she is outraged that she has to have an arranged marriage, especially the one they want and she falls into a depression up until her wedding day. When that fateful day arrives, Julia puts on a brave face and goes through with the ceremony, but as soon as they are alone, the control begins and she comes to realise that her husband will show her no kindness or mercy if she disobeys his rules.
As the marriage deteriorates, Julia keeps on fighting for her life and the ones around her whom she loves, but even escape is out of her reach, until one day tragedy strikes and she is pushed to the edge of her limits. This however, is when a stranger enters her life and offers her everything she has dreamed of, escape, freedom and independence, with nothing left for her in her home, Julia accepts the help and leaves without turning back.
What Julia discovers however, is that there is a price for her freedom and that is to become something and someone different, a vampire and not only that, she will be a Vampire in the Resistance against their King. Will Julia accept the offer, or find another way out of her current life? This is a fantasy which is part coming of age and part adventure and is full of vampires, but whether they are good or evil, is only discovered by reading the story until the end.
July 8, 2022
Juliana is a young woman whose one, true love is the help's son, Adam. Her father has higher aspirations for her though and forbids her to marry Adam but instead marries her off to Gregory! Unfortunately, he turns out to be an awful, and extremely abusive husband. When she doesn't provide him with a male heir, his threats turn toward their daughter, Marie. One fateful night, Gregory crosses the line and murders their daughter in front of Juliana and almost kills her as well. However, as fate should have it, her rescue comes in the form of Samuel, a vampire. He offers her a different kind of life; one of freedom, power, and safety in friends, known as a Ka-Tet. She chooses this life but finds that she still has a lot of traumas to deal with from her past. Slowly she comes to terms with her choice, only to find out there is a threat to it all, too. Valentino is Samuel's sworn enemy and will do everything in his power to eliminate their Ka-Tet. Can she come into her own power soon enough to help her friends that have given her freedom that she used to only dream about? Can she learn to love again despite her horrible past?
This is a very fast-paced read. There's a lot of action, conflicts, and some romance thrown in there. It was hard for me to connect to Juliana because of her abusive background. I imagine that this would be very triggering for people who do have that kind of history in their lives. I did feel like the author did a good job conveying the abuse, the emotions, and the fall out of said abuse. The story drew me in rather quickly and before I knew it, the book was over! Looking forward to book 2!
This is a very fast-paced read. There's a lot of action, conflicts, and some romance thrown in there. It was hard for me to connect to Juliana because of her abusive background. I imagine that this would be very triggering for people who do have that kind of history in their lives. I did feel like the author did a good job conveying the abuse, the emotions, and the fall out of said abuse. The story drew me in rather quickly and before I knew it, the book was over! Looking forward to book 2!
July 14, 2022
Julia is in 16th century London. She is the daughter of a wealthy family. She has grown up with servants and has wanted for nothing. When she starts to fall in love with Adam, a servant's son her father and older brother shatter her heart. They arrange a marriage and force her into it. Her husband is cruel. He's not kind in any way. He's a monster with no mercy. Julia tries to keep the people she cares about safe from his wrath, but it's becomes harder and harder throughout their 3 years of marriage. Her husband finally does the unthinkable. He lands a blow to Julia that devastates her and she can't see a way out. When a stranger shows up and offers her a way out she takes it. With nothing else to live for she agrees to a deal that will change her life and destiny forever. Said agreement will grant her freedom, but there is ALWAYS a catch! Accepting this deal will put her into a vampire resistance against a strong vampire king who refuses to step down and he'll destroy anyone who is against him. Will Julia accept? Will she choose freedom and another enemy just to be rid of her husband? What will her husband think and do? Will Julia end up dead no matter the path she chooses? And will her love ever forgive her for all she has kept from him? What an interesting book! It took me a little to get into because the author was building the story and slowly sucking me in, but man oh man was it good! I can't wait to read the others in the set! If you haven't given this one a chance do it!! Read half of it at least! If you aren't sucked in by then I would be really really really really surprised! Give it a chance! You won't regret it!
May 23, 2015
Reviewed for Readers Favorite
Julia was not always a Lost Soul, she was once the daughter of a wealthy man about town in a time when daughters were nothing more than property to be bartered off to the highest bidder in marriage. Julia begins the story telling us that she is going to write down her history to hopefully rid herself of her nightmares, and given some of the things she experiences, if all she has are nightmares she is lucky. Julia begins her life naive and thinking that she is worth something, only to be crushed by her father and husband. Luckily someone is watching out for her and she begins her life as a vampire. Author Theresa Van Spankeren gives the vampire community progressive ideals for the time period, the believe women are equal to men and not just property. Throughout her life Julia learns more with the vampires than she ever would have in her worldly life.
Lost Soul (War of Destiny) (Volume 1) begins Julia's story and sets the stage for a saga to be set forth in the vampire community. There is a war brewing, to live among the humans and befriend them or to use them only as food and kill them. Theresa Van Spankeren gives the reader a look into the world throughout different time periods with the history of different vampires, yet at the same time they all are very progressive in their thoughts, or at least the band that Julia belongs to. The reader is easily able to identify with them and feel for them, wanting them to succeed in their endeavors to bring about change and equalities. It is a great read for adults or older more mature teens.
Julia was not always a Lost Soul, she was once the daughter of a wealthy man about town in a time when daughters were nothing more than property to be bartered off to the highest bidder in marriage. Julia begins the story telling us that she is going to write down her history to hopefully rid herself of her nightmares, and given some of the things she experiences, if all she has are nightmares she is lucky. Julia begins her life naive and thinking that she is worth something, only to be crushed by her father and husband. Luckily someone is watching out for her and she begins her life as a vampire. Author Theresa Van Spankeren gives the vampire community progressive ideals for the time period, the believe women are equal to men and not just property. Throughout her life Julia learns more with the vampires than she ever would have in her worldly life.
Lost Soul (War of Destiny) (Volume 1) begins Julia's story and sets the stage for a saga to be set forth in the vampire community. There is a war brewing, to live among the humans and befriend them or to use them only as food and kill them. Theresa Van Spankeren gives the reader a look into the world throughout different time periods with the history of different vampires, yet at the same time they all are very progressive in their thoughts, or at least the band that Julia belongs to. The reader is easily able to identify with them and feel for them, wanting them to succeed in their endeavors to bring about change and equalities. It is a great read for adults or older more mature teens.
March 9, 2022
Lost Soul
War of Destiny : Book 1
By: Theresa Van Spankeren
Review By: Susan Ratchford
5 stars
As a daughter of a wealthy family in 16th century London, Julia is expected to act accordingly and follow the wishes that her father and brother have for her life. Neither of which wanted her to fall in love with Adam, the son of a servant, a kind boy though he was, and she dreamed of being with him forever. The dream doesn't last however, and Julia is forced into an arranged marriage to the cruel and powerful Gregory. Heartbroken and trapped in a life she never wanted with a man whose mercilessness knows no bounds she is forced to make a decision. Stay in her current life or join a kind stranger who offers her everything she's ever wanted: Freedom. Freedom comes with a catch, the need to drink blood, and to join the Vampire Resistance to fight the King.
This book was so intense it kept me up all night!!! So exciting and fast paced I didn't want to put it down!!! I really felt for Julia’s character and couldn't imagine going through the things she went through and the decisions she had to make to stay alive. There were parts that moved me to tears. I also loved her character development and how it showed it really does take time to heal, maybe even centuries. I also really liked her relationship with Samuel and how patient he was with her through the difficult times. Such a powerful read with great action!!! I highly recommend it for any paranormal or dark fantasy lovers !!!
War of Destiny : Book 1
By: Theresa Van Spankeren
Review By: Susan Ratchford
5 stars
As a daughter of a wealthy family in 16th century London, Julia is expected to act accordingly and follow the wishes that her father and brother have for her life. Neither of which wanted her to fall in love with Adam, the son of a servant, a kind boy though he was, and she dreamed of being with him forever. The dream doesn't last however, and Julia is forced into an arranged marriage to the cruel and powerful Gregory. Heartbroken and trapped in a life she never wanted with a man whose mercilessness knows no bounds she is forced to make a decision. Stay in her current life or join a kind stranger who offers her everything she's ever wanted: Freedom. Freedom comes with a catch, the need to drink blood, and to join the Vampire Resistance to fight the King.
This book was so intense it kept me up all night!!! So exciting and fast paced I didn't want to put it down!!! I really felt for Julia’s character and couldn't imagine going through the things she went through and the decisions she had to make to stay alive. There were parts that moved me to tears. I also loved her character development and how it showed it really does take time to heal, maybe even centuries. I also really liked her relationship with Samuel and how patient he was with her through the difficult times. Such a powerful read with great action!!! I highly recommend it for any paranormal or dark fantasy lovers !!!
September 9, 2021
Lost Soul is a work of fiction in the fantasy genre and was penned by the author Theresa Van Spankeren . Lost Soul is the first book in the War of destiny series. The story is exciting and will keep you on the edge of the seat till last. The world-building was incredible and the character development was brilliant as well.
So, this is the story of Julia, who belongs to a rich family living in 16th century London. She falls in love with Adam, a servant's son. Julian loved Adam very much and wanted to marry him. But Julia's family members did not want her to marry Adam because he was the son of a servant and doesn't match with her family's status. Later, Julian's father arranged her marriage to someone else. But, Julia was not happy with her marriage because her husband's behaviour was not good and used to treat her badly. Suddenly, a stranger comes into her life and offers a deal that could forever alter her destiny. It is such an agreement that would give her freedom and a chance to get back her true love. But in return, Julia would have to become a vampire and fight against the king.
I really enjoyed this book very much. This is a well-written story and beautifully crafted by the author. The story has strong plot points and the author weaves elements into the story that make it suspenseful and utterly gripping.
The author's writing style is simple, descriptive and easily read. Overall, it was an amazing experience to read this masterpiece.
So, this is the story of Julia, who belongs to a rich family living in 16th century London. She falls in love with Adam, a servant's son. Julian loved Adam very much and wanted to marry him. But Julia's family members did not want her to marry Adam because he was the son of a servant and doesn't match with her family's status. Later, Julian's father arranged her marriage to someone else. But, Julia was not happy with her marriage because her husband's behaviour was not good and used to treat her badly. Suddenly, a stranger comes into her life and offers a deal that could forever alter her destiny. It is such an agreement that would give her freedom and a chance to get back her true love. But in return, Julia would have to become a vampire and fight against the king.
I really enjoyed this book very much. This is a well-written story and beautifully crafted by the author. The story has strong plot points and the author weaves elements into the story that make it suspenseful and utterly gripping.
The author's writing style is simple, descriptive and easily read. Overall, it was an amazing experience to read this masterpiece.
February 26, 2022
This was a first time author for me, but this book was a powerful read for me, and one I could not simply get enough from. I loved the lay out of the story, the characters, the plot twists and turns, and was simply on the edge of my seat swept away in all things that happened through out this delightful book!
I loved the fantasy and paranormal mix that crafted this story. It was different, but certainly in a good way. It made me think, at what dues would we pay to have a life we want? That was something the character Julia was faced with. Basically live the truest form of her life at a cost, or lost it all to something that was no even close to what she would define as happy. I loved the plot twists that developed after her decision. key the thoughts of all magic come with a price, and this story made that to be true. The story was very visual for the reader as well, very easy to get lost into the details and envision you are in the world in which the book takes place. The book was amazing, and so was this author! I can not wait for the next in the series, I need more, kind of right now sort of thing! Amazing read!
Amazing and really good read. It was a book I could not put down. This author is a must read as well. I will very much enjoy reading more by them. I can not wait for the next in the series, as I have said. The book was a powerful read that developed oh so well! Perfect read! Highly recommend!
I loved the fantasy and paranormal mix that crafted this story. It was different, but certainly in a good way. It made me think, at what dues would we pay to have a life we want? That was something the character Julia was faced with. Basically live the truest form of her life at a cost, or lost it all to something that was no even close to what she would define as happy. I loved the plot twists that developed after her decision. key the thoughts of all magic come with a price, and this story made that to be true. The story was very visual for the reader as well, very easy to get lost into the details and envision you are in the world in which the book takes place. The book was amazing, and so was this author! I can not wait for the next in the series, I need more, kind of right now sort of thing! Amazing read!
Amazing and really good read. It was a book I could not put down. This author is a must read as well. I will very much enjoy reading more by them. I can not wait for the next in the series, as I have said. The book was a powerful read that developed oh so well! Perfect read! Highly recommend!
December 18, 2021
The first thing that comes to mind is that this is a wonderful read! I usually don't prefer books which are more than 200 pages and usually, I can finish a book in a few hours, but this took a bit to get through for me. The reason is whenever I start a series, I read the first book with full concentration so that I can fall in love with the plot and the characters. It’s a good book — an excellent idea for a fantasy movie.
This book is as much adventurous as it is magical. The story is as follows magic, curses, and mystical mind control re-occurring throughout the story and often foreshadow what the reader can expect next — described with great detail and vividness- allowing the reader to sense every aspect of this story’s magic.
The author does a commendable job creating a fictional world filled with magic, adventures, and war, and she describes this world skillfully, allowing the reader to feel as though we are also a part of this fantasy dimension.
I was slow in the starting, the first few chapters are set up. But once it gets going there are inviting characters and a very interesting world the author has created. Good start to what is obviously going to be a good series. Can't wait to read the next part.
This book is as much adventurous as it is magical. The story is as follows magic, curses, and mystical mind control re-occurring throughout the story and often foreshadow what the reader can expect next — described with great detail and vividness- allowing the reader to sense every aspect of this story’s magic.
The author does a commendable job creating a fictional world filled with magic, adventures, and war, and she describes this world skillfully, allowing the reader to feel as though we are also a part of this fantasy dimension.
I was slow in the starting, the first few chapters are set up. But once it gets going there are inviting characters and a very interesting world the author has created. Good start to what is obviously going to be a good series. Can't wait to read the next part.
February 28, 2022
This is book one in the War of Destiny series. I was really captivated by this book. It was such a fast paced, gripping story that I read it in 24 hours. I just didn't want to put it down. The author does an amazing job with the characters and you are transported back to a time when arrange marriages was a thing and people often lived unhappy abusive lives.
Julia is a 15 year old girl. She thinks her life is great and she falls for her childhood friend. However this love isn't going meant to be as her farther think Adam is below them and refuses to let Julia marry him.
Hoping to destroy this budding romance Julia is then placed into an arranged marriage with Gergory. What follows is a story that breaks your heart as Julia is forced to deal with grief, heartbreak over not being with the man she loves and abuse at the hands of her husband
She feels like there is no way out.
That is until one man offers her it all, a chance to be with the love of her life, freedom from her abusive husband, everything she has dreamed off. However as with most things there is a catch and this catch will change Julia's life forever.
This story is a great mixture of historical story and paranormal vampire aspect. I can't wait to see where the story leads.
Julia is a 15 year old girl. She thinks her life is great and she falls for her childhood friend. However this love isn't going meant to be as her farther think Adam is below them and refuses to let Julia marry him.
Hoping to destroy this budding romance Julia is then placed into an arranged marriage with Gergory. What follows is a story that breaks your heart as Julia is forced to deal with grief, heartbreak over not being with the man she loves and abuse at the hands of her husband
She feels like there is no way out.
That is until one man offers her it all, a chance to be with the love of her life, freedom from her abusive husband, everything she has dreamed off. However as with most things there is a catch and this catch will change Julia's life forever.
This story is a great mixture of historical story and paranormal vampire aspect. I can't wait to see where the story leads.
August 11, 2021
Addictive, creative, fascinating tale that weaves something that could have been either cliched or overly creepy into something brilliant and original. The plot itself is great. I liked the flow of the story and how the book ended. Everything wrapped up nicely.
The story resolves around Julia, who is the daughter of a wealthy family living in 16th-century London. But her love story was unique because she falls in love with a servant’s son. Because of her family status, she was forced by her parents into an arranged marriage and trapped with a husband who was not a good person. Later, a stranger arrives and offers her a deal that could change her life and she can live freely. But nothing comes easy and there is a twist which made the story more exciting.
I don’t want to get into too much detail as part of the book’s charm for me was the layers of the story slowly unfolding itself within the atmosphere the excellent writing creates.
I really liked the plot, it's unique and exciting. The excellent writing and layered worldbuilding made this a whole experience to read, so intriguing from the very first page onwards.
The story resolves around Julia, who is the daughter of a wealthy family living in 16th-century London. But her love story was unique because she falls in love with a servant’s son. Because of her family status, she was forced by her parents into an arranged marriage and trapped with a husband who was not a good person. Later, a stranger arrives and offers her a deal that could change her life and she can live freely. But nothing comes easy and there is a twist which made the story more exciting.
I don’t want to get into too much detail as part of the book’s charm for me was the layers of the story slowly unfolding itself within the atmosphere the excellent writing creates.
I really liked the plot, it's unique and exciting. The excellent writing and layered worldbuilding made this a whole experience to read, so intriguing from the very first page onwards.
July 7, 2022
5/5 Stars
Lost Soul (War of Destiny #1) by Theresa Van Spankeren
This is the first book I've read by the author. Lost Soul is the first book in the War of Destiny Series. I recommend getting all the books available because it will be hard to put it down. I didn't want to stop and I loved this book.
Julianna (aka Julia aka Sunshine) grows up close with Adam, her brother and her sister. When the time comes for her to be married off she is. Then her husband becomes violent and she is a victim of abuse. She has a baby, but it's not the son he wants. She is found by a vampire, but will she want that? The quote I chose for Julia is: “Stop calling me Sunshine, Sammy. And yes, I can stand on my own. Though I could use some help walking."
Samuel is a friend of Julia's brother-in-law. Her younger sister is worried for her and the baby. Can Samuel help her? Will he be able to save her in time? Will he be able to gain her trust and help her learn to love again? The quote I chose for Samuel is: “Do not worry, Julia. He’s probably killed many an innocent during his robberies.”
Highly recommended for Vampire Paranormal lovers.
Lost Soul (War of Destiny #1) by Theresa Van Spankeren
This is the first book I've read by the author. Lost Soul is the first book in the War of Destiny Series. I recommend getting all the books available because it will be hard to put it down. I didn't want to stop and I loved this book.
Julianna (aka Julia aka Sunshine) grows up close with Adam, her brother and her sister. When the time comes for her to be married off she is. Then her husband becomes violent and she is a victim of abuse. She has a baby, but it's not the son he wants. She is found by a vampire, but will she want that? The quote I chose for Julia is: “Stop calling me Sunshine, Sammy. And yes, I can stand on my own. Though I could use some help walking."
Samuel is a friend of Julia's brother-in-law. Her younger sister is worried for her and the baby. Can Samuel help her? Will he be able to save her in time? Will he be able to gain her trust and help her learn to love again? The quote I chose for Samuel is: “Do not worry, Julia. He’s probably killed many an innocent during his robberies.”
Highly recommended for Vampire Paranormal lovers.
November 26, 2021
Lost Soul (War of Destiny) is a fast-paced, action-packed paranormal book that keeps you invested in the story and the characters since page 1. Rereading my favorite parts in this book gives me the same feels! Just like the first time, it's still so amazing.
This is a great urban fantasy read. The characters are well developed, the story moves along at a good clip and it's full of suprises you never saw coming. I am so happy to revisit the beautiful world and enjoy the characters and the fantastic scenes.
I liked the fact that we have a world so wonderfully constructed, and so thoughtfully created, that drags you in immediately. I usually am the person that struggles with new worlds and incredible amounts of creatures, but this was a great exception.
Lost Soul changed the way I looked a fantasy novels. I am a huge fan now. I defiantly recommend this book for any hunger games, divergent, harry potter, and twilight fans out there. It is truly a fantastic series.
This is a great urban fantasy read. The characters are well developed, the story moves along at a good clip and it's full of suprises you never saw coming. I am so happy to revisit the beautiful world and enjoy the characters and the fantastic scenes.
I liked the fact that we have a world so wonderfully constructed, and so thoughtfully created, that drags you in immediately. I usually am the person that struggles with new worlds and incredible amounts of creatures, but this was a great exception.
Lost Soul changed the way I looked a fantasy novels. I am a huge fan now. I defiantly recommend this book for any hunger games, divergent, harry potter, and twilight fans out there. It is truly a fantastic series.
March 10, 2022
This was such a great story! It is kind of like the movie, Interview With Vampire, taking place in 1492, and is a good combination of historical romance and vampires. I warn you, though, that there is quite graphic abuse and could be a trigger for some. The main character is Juliana Kendrick or Julia. Her father marries her off at the age of 15 to a nasty man, Gregory Smith. Gregory treats her quite horrifically, brutally beating her, and even murdering her baby. Samuel steps in to save her when it looks like all hope is lost. He tells her that he and others are actually vampires and gives her the option to join them. She accepts which allows her to heal from her physical injuries, but it can’t fix her psychological and emotional injuries. There is a love story mixed in with what is largely a story about domestic violence recovery. I enjoyed this so much and am really looking forward to the next book in the series!
February 25, 2022
This story was fast paced and had me on the edge of my seat throughout. It is a paranormal story with a bit of romance. It contains an arranged marriage, vampires, abusive partners, tragedy, hope and love.
I lost myself in this book and was not able to put it down! I fell in love with the characters easily and felt angry with the villains. It has been a long time since I have been able to fully emerge myself in a book, but this one did it. I can not wait to read book 2. If I had the entire series today, I believe I'd finish it all in a weekend. Highly recommended to young adult readers as well as anyone who loves to get lost in a paranormal story. Possibly slightly triggering to some readers who have been in an abusive relationship. However I felt empowered by the way she dealt with her recovery.
I lost myself in this book and was not able to put it down! I fell in love with the characters easily and felt angry with the villains. It has been a long time since I have been able to fully emerge myself in a book, but this one did it. I can not wait to read book 2. If I had the entire series today, I believe I'd finish it all in a weekend. Highly recommended to young adult readers as well as anyone who loves to get lost in a paranormal story. Possibly slightly triggering to some readers who have been in an abusive relationship. However I felt empowered by the way she dealt with her recovery.
February 28, 2022
An interesting tale of a girl who becomes a woman amidst treacherous family and horrible misdeeds. Married off by her father at the tender age of 15, she is destroyed when she cannot be with the boy she loves, and must marry a man she knows nothing about. The marriage does not go well, and Julia is forced to realize how few people she can actually count on. When a solution arrives that can take her away from her troubles, she must decide what she can live with, and live without.
Julia's transformation in this novel is interesting and complex. I enjoyed seeing her come into her own, and figure out how to gain the strength and independence that she needed. I found the writing a bit angsty in places, more emotionally fraught than I prefer. However, the story and characters were sound, and the plot moved along nicely. A good read.
Julia's transformation in this novel is interesting and complex. I enjoyed seeing her come into her own, and figure out how to gain the strength and independence that she needed. I found the writing a bit angsty in places, more emotionally fraught than I prefer. However, the story and characters were sound, and the plot moved along nicely. A good read.
March 4, 2022
Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren. This is such a good series. I can't wait for the next book. Once I started reading I didn't want to put it down. I also felt like I was swept back in the time period of this book. Its the story of Julia who at 15is forced into an abusive, horrible marriage. She has fallen in love with her best friend Adam but her father thinks that Adam is beneath them so he makes her marry Gregory. Once married she is abused in every way possible, mentally and especially physically. She is finally offered a solution but it entails her becoming a vampire and fighting against the king. Can she withstand this solution? This is a great paranormal, historical, romantic read. Just be prepared to finish when you start. I was turning pages late in the night.
March 7, 2022
Julia is the eldest daughter of a wealthy family in the 16th century. Her life should be simple but she is made to grow up quickly when she is married off at 15 to a man she doesn’t know, instead of the boy she loves. Life doesn’t get any easier when her husband begins beating her for various infractions. Things go from bad to worse, creating an unbearable life for Julia. Enter Samuel, a complete stranger who shows up and offers to take her away from her current life. The catch, he is a vampire.
I enjoyed the writing style of this book. I was able to connect with the characters and find myself embroiled in the story line. I think the backstory about vampires and human relations could have been written about a bit more in depth just to give the reader more backstory.
I look forward to book 2!
I enjoyed the writing style of this book. I was able to connect with the characters and find myself embroiled in the story line. I think the backstory about vampires and human relations could have been written about a bit more in depth just to give the reader more backstory.
I look forward to book 2!
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