Accidental Sorceress

Hardstorm Saga #2

by Dana Marton

--Book 2 of the Hardstorm Saga from New York Times bestselling author Dana Marton.

“Marton excels at worldbuilding and character development.” Kirkus Review

Tera, a powerful healer, travels with her beloved warrior, the High Lord Batumar, on a secret mission to forge alliances to stop the bloodthirsty Emperor Drakhar. Surviving vicious pirates, slave traders, and an ancient enemy of dark power is only the beginning. The journey brings Tera unimaginable hardships and loss, testing her spirit and heart as she gathers her own allies and fulfills her destiny. Adding a tiger and a wraith as companions on her journey, Tera struggles to survive with her wits and healing skills while protecting her light from the dark power that seeks to claim her.

“The splendor of the author’s vision cannot be overlooked.” RT Book Review

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Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Fantasy Romance, Magic, Paranormal Romance, Audiobook, Adult

292 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 16, 2015

About the author

Dana Marton writes fast-paced action-adventure romances that take her readers all over the globe. She is a Rita Award finalist and the winner of the Daphne du Maurier Award of Excellence. She loves writing stories of intrigue, filled with dangerous plots that try her tough-as-nails heroes and the special women they fall in love with. Her books have been published in seven languages in eleven countries around the world.

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Reviews

[Jacque Brant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly MAGICAL!!!

I'm at a loss for words!! I have so much to say, but can't spoil this amazing story for anyone. Tera is one of my most favorite character of all the books I've ever read!! Dana Marton created such complex characters, making each unique and working them all into this story was brilliant. The traditions set long ago by men and women and woven into this story had me spellbound. I love history and the ways people lived thousands of years ago. I can't say exactly when this took place, if it's in Dana's creative mind, but it all worked together and I'm so sad it's done...I know she's working on the third book in this series, so I can't wait to read what's next. Incredible book!! So much better than any movie because you really get to know what's in the characters deepest thoughts and their heart. A MUST read for anyone!!! Superb writing...on to the next Dana Martin book for me!! Happy reading!!

[Quinn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although not without its faults, Accidental Sorceress is a solid continuation of Reluctant Concubine. I am impressed by the amount of character development Marton is able to cram into 280 pages and even more so surprised by her ability to do it without sacrificing plot. The Tera we met sequestered on her small Shahala shores is a far-way from the woman we know now and it is through her maturing voice that Marton skillfully navigates readers through some of her more 'interesting' author decisions that with a weaker narrator might put readers off.

Initially I was overjoyed to find Batumar and Tera travelling together on a mission to save their kingdom. I found that while they spent a decent amount of time physically together in Reluctant Concubine they didn't truly have a chance to interact and get to know one another. I was hoping that having them on a mission together would fix this and initially it did. I quickly devoured the dash through the mountain onwards through the Hardstorm pirate adventure. I love Batumar's quiet strength and intensity, and yet he is steadfast and sweet with Tera, and never overbearing. He is an ideal romance hero built on his strength of character more than his physical attractiveness. He's awesome, hands down.

My issue first arises with Marton's decision to 'separate' them in a seemingly finite manner. Now anyone who has made a conscious decision to seek out a ROMANTIC fantasy knows (just as any author who writes this type of book and wants to keep their readership also knows) you can't kill the hero. You just can't. So most of us probably knew in reading that Batumar wasn't dead (although I did skim ahead to double check - cause I may have stopped reading had it been any other scenario) so now the success of this decision lies solely in what Marton chooses to accomplish within this separation time frame, and her ability to reunite them in a meaningful and useful manner.

Not going to lie, Marton already had a strike from me when we hit this part because anyone who has read a review from me knows I can't stand the "Book 2 Breakup" for any reason. I simply cannot understand how authors cannot figure out how to keep a relationship fresh so they simply split them apart by some seemingly insurmountable problem only to reunite them later once the series has wrapped up. It is the most eye-rolling obnoxious section of any series and I'm waiting for someone to figure out how not to use it. Now having stated my severe dislike of this plot device I will now give Marton a bone. She did a solid job filling in the space of separation with meaningful growth for Tera. It is in this section of meandering travel that Tera truly comes into her own. She learns to conserve her healing powers and to simply persevere. She has a strong sense of self and once she has decided on her goal she plods endlessly towards it refusing to be sidetracked. She does not spend endless chapters moping while being tended too, nor must she be constantly rescued due to reckless decisions. For me, as Tera continued to growth leaps and bounds so did my faith in Marton's ability to make the best of an otherwise asinine plot twist.

Just as Tera's strength pulls us ever forward, so do the additional cast of characters. I admit I was decidedly uninterested in the guardians of book 1 so I was more than happy with the introduction of Graho, Orz, and Marga. I've been wanting Tera to have a battle tiger since they were first introduced and to find our momma tiger from book 1 was beyond awesome. Add to that our mysterious merchant and silent hollow and there are more than enough characters to distract (mostly) from Batumar's disappearance. Add the reintroduction of Lord Karnagh and a ready supply of Selorn soldiers and I was almost happy through the following 50% of the book. And if not completely happy then I was at least readily committed to Tera's journey.

Although there is decidedly more action in Accidental Sorceress, I still found the final battle again felt rushed in its completion. I find that Marton could spend more time on her sieges to build tension (although I get it's not really an action story so I appreciate the time that was spent on it). And just as the final battle felt rushed so did Batumar's reintroduction to the story. Not gonna lie, I didn't really buy it. Having him be Orz all this time, while a decent resolution, filled with potential shock value, was not given enough resolution time to truly make it plausible. Resolving at around 97% through, I needed more than his summary explanation of "I don't really remember, somehow sold to the mysterious sorcerer we've never met, mutilated, patched together, endlessly scarred, wanted you to have a decision because I'm mutilated even though you're a healer who could just heal me, hiding something vague under my shirt" cobbled together explanation doesn't cut it. Although my heart twinged with the "Orz" explanation, I still don't understand why we can't just heal him or he can't show us what's truly wrong - except for the obvious explanation of typical, holding secrets for book 3 to create drive scenario.

So like I said earlier, the success of the "Book 2 Breakup" must fulfill two categories. The time between must be used in a meaningful way and the reunion must also make sense. I'll give Marton half credit here (which is actually a big complement because I don't think anyone has ever gotten a positive out of me for this). Tera's growth almost distracts me from the cut and paste ending.

I don't want this review to sound angry. All in all I actually did enjoy Accidental Sorceress and I'm in no way put off in finishing the series. It is solid for the type of story it is and had way more plot then I would have expected to find, emphasized by the gathering of armies and martial movements. Even with Marton's choice to use my least favorite romantic interlude I accept that she used the time wisely and developed the remaining characters. I'll definitely be reading Guardian Queen, and as long as Batumar and Tera can actually be together I'm sure I'll be very pleased. ***3.75 stars***

[Laura (Kyahgirl) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5; 4 stars; B+

Continuing where book 1 left off, Tera and the High Lord set out on a secret quest to try and stop the invading forces from coming through the gates and over-runinng their land. It was interesting and kept my attention. The romance aspect was second to the fantasy feel of the book which suited me just fine. It felt well balanced.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful ending to a wonderful story there is no wonder both of the Hardstorm Sage books have been in the top 5 placement on Amazon. The book takes right off where book 1 left off with more outstanding spins, twist that only Dana can do. Dana’s characters are strong, loving and caring ones as you will find in Accidental Sorceress.

Tera is a healer that only wants to help and keep her people free, she will have to give up and go through so much before she is through. She still has a lot to learn the road is very rocky. She is truly an amazing character, her strength, love, caring and giving nature makes her the wonderful person she is. Everywhere she goes she touches many hearts and souls. She will be tested and tried many times before journey is done. She loves one man and would give up her life for him let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.

The tiger is amazing Dana puts together an amazing story of how the two met and became friends. The trying times they go through. Two kindling spirit each out for the same thing freedom.

High Lord Batumar is a man of power, he is a giving and loving man that has lost so much in his lifetime. He is strong and will go through must for the love of his people and the women he loves. To love again is hard, to give of one’s heart you must trust make them one with yourself. He has a hard job and a hard road to travel. The end is near let’s hope it will not be the end of his life.

Dana brings many more wonderful characters to this story, some you will love and others you will not like so much. They travel on a journey to bring peace to their people, to keep them free. There are many roads they most cross, many tests they must pass, this is a life or death road only the strong will savior. Come take the journey as Dana spins her tale of fantasy of a world that is falling apart where power is the target but freedom is the goal. One woman could make all their dreams come true if she can keep her spirit and heart out of the darkness.

There is not a lot you can say without giving the story away. There is so much heartbreak and Tera loses so much but she never loses sight of her goal. She moves on and gives so much of herself. I love the people that give her support, the man who follows her, the merchant even with him selling children he is a mystery. The camel scene was well you have to read it but I am sure you won’t forget it anytime soon. This will be one story you will not forget for a long time. You could read this as a standalone but to get the full effect you really should read book one.

Dana writes a story that you feel like you are there, you see the scenes as the author draws the pictures. They feel real and the story is very believable, it is hard to keep in mind this is fantasy as she pulls you in and gives us an outstanding tale of mystery, spirits, healers, killers, evil, and so much more . There is no doubt that Dana has a brilliant mind that she brings to each of her stories. No one can touch your heart and bring you to tears along with laughter as this author can. Her plots are outstanding, her writing is smooth and easy to follow, her twists will keep you spinning as she shows us in Accidental Sorceress. I highly recommend this series as I do all of Dana’s books. One taste and you will become a fan as so many of us are.

[Between My BookEndz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I totally fell into “fascination” with the world Dana Marton created in the first book of her Hardstorm Saga series, The Reluctant Concubine. The author started her series in the first book in a quiet, shimmering place…..the home of the healer-people, the Shahala…...a warm clime where peaceful people, who can help others by healing them, live in harmony. Within pages, we are ripped away and tossed into the brutal world of the Kadar, where instead of pale shades of ocean waves and sunlight, gray fortresses splattered with blood is the main color palate.

The journey of Tera from her life as Shahala healer to the lover of the Kadar High Lord, Batumar, continues in this book. The story picks ups with a new journey that has Batumar and Tera embarking on together: crossing through a mountain to get to the sea, crossing through hardstorms on an “uncrossable” ocean, crossing lands to gather support to fight an evil leader and his army threatening all of the worlds. Again Ms. Marton paints vivid scenes of life and death in this fantasy land. But I as I think more about this book, I realize there were other journeys traveled by Tera herself: her journey discovering her powers, her heritage, and her strength through incredible loss. I was walking with her every step of the way, feeling the triumph, the despair, and the anger that Tera felt as well. And nothing can trump the journey Batumar takes….

As with the first book, I loved this story. I come into this series as a non-fantasy fiction reader, so I have no baseline as to what a fantasy story “should be like.” In my perspective as a romantic suspense/romance reader, I enjoyed every often-bruta, sometimes-hopeful word of this tale. And the last two lines in the book - just perfect! I cannot await the next book in the series, and anticipate seeing more of some secondary characters as well.

[Donna Kranz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series and Dana Marton did not disappoint her readers with this one. She once again takes you on a magical journey into the next chapter of the heroines life. I cried and laughed while reading this book..it was wonderful. I could see how much research the author did for this book and it was highly entertaining. I would recommend it to anyone who like to read. I can't wait for book three.

[Ann (annreads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Spirit, be strong. Heart, be brave.”

I have to say, I didn't enjoyed this one as much as the first one. Basically the main character and her love interest spend the whole book separate, and I absolutely HATE that trope, so that took a little bit of my enjoyment. Other than that, the book was great, and I loved seeing how much Tera has changed since the first book!

3.25/5★★★

[Kim Pow · Rating 3 out of 5]

Better than Book 1

Not bad, not the best, but not bad. The plot is not unique, the characters nothing special and the pacing of the story lackluster.

[Kristian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this story even better than the first! When Tera accompanies her warlord lover Bartumar on a dangerous journey extraordinary events will test her will. Theirs is a desperate plan to try and stop enemy forces from invading their island home, but first they must make their way across uncrossable ocean and a war-torn land, with dangers they do not expect and cannot prepare for.

In many ways, this is Tera's story of coming into her own, her Hero's Journey- or, at least, her journey to become the hero prophecy has foretold she is. You really see her grow, emotionally. Marton is masterful at showing-without ever feeling angsty or coy about it- how events affect and change characters. The emotions are very nuanced,making Tera a person, and therefore someone you are rooting for and engaged with so very much.

Because this is a book about her growth, focus is really on the plot, on the journey. For the most part, it is very well paced and appropriate weight is lent to the battles and the effects of war. The only real complaint I had was that the climax- which included a battle and a big plot twist reveal- and the events after the climatic scenes felt rushed; I would have appreciated hearing a bit more about their recovery and how all deal with the fall-out of what happened. It should be noted that there is, perhaps, less romance in this book than the first, as both plot and character development take more page time, but what you do see of it is lovely and tenderly heartbreaking. Likewise, for all the friendships and tenuous partnerships forged. All the characters seem fully formed and interesting in this tale- even a few new characters who take up a significant part in the story: a wraith, a battle tiger, and a merchant who seems to trade in beggar children and slavery.

As Tera ventured further abroad in this fantasy world Marton has created, we get a chance to see more of Marton's world building. Sadly, a lot of the other cultures seem less fully formed or at least less well explained/shown than the Shahala and Kardar did in the previous book. This may because Tera is on the move during much of the story though, and we do see a few interesting tidbits including a bit more about the Battle Tigers and their lords which were mentioned in the first book.

There are a lot of situational twists and several really big surprises in the plot, but all feel very natural in a world at war and the devastating after-affects war leaves. I couldn't put it down and- am already anxious to see the next part of Tera's journey and the journeys of those beside her.

[Theresa]

I have been waiting since 2012 to get my hands on this book, and now I finally have a copy for my kindle. I loved the first book obviously, my first real dive into fantasy that was a real adventure. So far this book is written just as beautifully as I expected, and boy it's kinda creepy. Highly Recommended! If you have not jumped on this wagon yet, the ebook for book one is only 99 cents on Amazon, and worth it. I see some reviews saying that they weren't sure because of the title, but don't let that fool you. I am a huge fan of this tale.

My Review for book one: Reluctant Concubine http://lovemebooksandstuffblog.blogsp...

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Series!
This is a great series; this is the second book in the Hardstorm Saga series by Dana Marton. This book picks up where the first book left off so it is best if you read these books in order. Tera is a powerful healer and travels with her beloved warrior to bring peace to their people. If you are looking for a great book then you need to read this one, The story and characters are wonderful and will leave you ready to read the next book in this series.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great continuation of the Reluctant Concubine and pretty much picked up right after the ending. It had been a while since I had finished book 1, and I was tempted to re-read the last couple of chapters, but only the 1st chapter was challenging to make the connections to the previous story. I enjoyed the flow and the drama of this story which is ultimately a long love story for me. The authors way of describing this world and the different regions and traditions were very visual. I enjoyed the journey and look forward to the next book I already foresee multiple challenges to overcome.

[Judy C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book!!!!!!!!! great 2 book story

What a wonderful ending to the story. It picks up where the first book ends but can be read as a stand alone but you won't get connection or emotions. Tera has gone through so much in her life and is the one the guardians believe is the one who can save everyone. It is a fast pace book filled with a woman who is willing to give everything she has including her life to save someone she believe to be more valuable in the quest. Tera is a healer but at a cost to her own body by taking on their pain.

[Mskychick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love what a strong character Tera is, even though she doesn't see herself as strong. The pace is relentless and the tragedies keep mounting, but courageous Tera keeps plodding forward, advancing to protect those around her. I love her so much!

I got to 96% then got to stop for a prolonged bout of squeeing. When you get there, you'll totally understand why I'm being cadgey about this. But omg- so fantastic!!

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this one much more than the first----though a romance, it definitely had more action and fantasy than looooove. It was somewhat predictable, and I called the end plot twist at the beginning, but I enjoyed it nontheless (and constantly questioned my prediction, which is always good!).

I highly recommend this series to those who like romance and fantasy. There is definitely some obnoxious "he's the only one for me" BS in here, but you kind of have to expect that from a romance novel.

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

not as good as book one, and you must read book one first....

I really enjoyed the first book. The second book is.....fine. A little confusing with all the descriptions of random towns we never were introduced to before. Some great twists and turns. This is an adult book, 18 and older in my view. I tend to be somewhat conservative in what I suggest my teens read, this one is out. I do want to read the next book however....

[Noodle The Naughty Night Owl · Rating 4 out of 5]

7/10: Good solid read, something to get your teeth into.

Oh, I'm so glad I took a chance on book two of this series. It was so worth it.

Fast paced, it had me turning the pages, begging for more.

Heart wrenching, even if I figured out the surprise early on, the story itself enthralled.

Action packed, never a dull moment. No scroll learning in this one, it was absolutely all go.

Loved it, and am very pleased where it ended. I'll go to bed happy tonight.

Well done!

[Ang · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I enjoyed the first book in this series, this one was better. Tera grows in personal strength and resolve. She makes active choices for her life, rather than letting life happen to her. She is a hero I respect and enjoy. My only complaint is that the book ended too soon. I will eagerly await the next in the series.

[lajacbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable read

I loved book 2 as much if not more than the first. Both had fantasy, tragedy, hardship, action, and love that kept my interest. Tera was a great character and I enjoyed her story. The side characters were fun and never left me bored. This is a good read for anyone that likes a lot of content with good world building and balanced content. Fun and entertaining.

[Jennifer Leggett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic

Such twists and turns, I was always surprised. This story brought me to tears several times. There are not enough words to praise this book and Dana for her brilliant mind. I absolutely loved how the book came together.

[Jeanne Becker Trinkaus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another hit!

Part two is just as vibrant and well written as part one proved to be! I cannot recommend this author enough! She's the real deal!! Now comes the hard part...waiting for the next installment!!

[Kellie Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reluctant herione

This author can really put you in the scene. This book has it all evil vs good, fear and trust, loss and gain, a little bit of magic and love. The MC seems all too human with her struggle to be selfless, and her reluctance to lead. Looking forward to book three.

[sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great Read!

This is the second book in the series and I can't wait for the third! The author spins an action packed tale but doesn't fail to engross you in the character development.
Worth your time and money to pick up this series!

[CHRISTINE E REILLY · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worth reading

Very well written. Characters had depth and worked well with each other. Story made sense and was a complete story with nothing contrived. Will read more from this author

[Lisa Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed this book

Thoroughly enjoyable read. From page one of book one the characters, the setting were woven together to tell a tale that I enjoyed all the way to the last page. Thank you.

[Shandi R. Kaufman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read

I really enjoyed this book, as well as the first. The story is filled with action and drama, keeping the reader enthralled enough to keep the pages turning long into the night. A great heroine with a heart of gold! Highly recommended!

[Mia Lor · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story is incredible and suspenseful. The characters are well-developed. I felt as though I was part of the journey as well.

I would recommend this series if you are into strong female lead characters, powerful adventures and great romances. Time flew by.

[Jessica McMath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Surprise

I loved these two books! I really hope a third is written! Romance, tragedy, and suspense. Such a pleasant surprise!

[Vera Hupertz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

I was impressed by th world thAt Dana Marton developed but more importantly loved the characters. I was so sad if ended and hope to read a sequel soon.

[Maicie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story!

I wanted to ignore the real world while reading this book! Full of adventure and keeps you entertained all of the way through!