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Steel & Stone #4
Reap the Shadows
Piper is feeling a bit overwhelmed. With Seiya and Lyre missing, Ash recovering from near fatal injuries, and the Gaians picking fights with daemons all over the city, a girl can’t help but think she might be in over her head. And this time, she’s on her own.
Before she even has a chance to investigate the Gaians’ new stockpile of mysterious, high-tech weaponry, an old enemy ambushes her: Samael’s henchman Raum. He wants Ash’s help and won’t take “get lost” for an answer. She doesn’t know if she can trust Raum, but even more than that, she can’t trust herself with Ash. Sooner or later he’ll catch up to her, and she fears she won’t be able to walk away from him a second time.
Despite her feelings, it will take their combined strength to face a frightening discovery about the Gaians. She and Ash begin to realize that the daemon war is coming to Earth, and they might be the only ones who can stop it — if it’s not already too late.
--
Steel & Stone Universe Books:
STEEL & STONE
Chase the Dark (#1)
Bind the Soul (#2)
Yield the Night (#3)
Feed the Flames (#3.5)
Reap the Shadows (#4)
Unleash the Storm (#5)
Steel & Stone (#6)
SPELL WEAVER
The Night Realm (#1)
The Shadow Weave (#2)
The Blood Curse (#3)
Before she even has a chance to investigate the Gaians’ new stockpile of mysterious, high-tech weaponry, an old enemy ambushes her: Samael’s henchman Raum. He wants Ash’s help and won’t take “get lost” for an answer. She doesn’t know if she can trust Raum, but even more than that, she can’t trust herself with Ash. Sooner or later he’ll catch up to her, and she fears she won’t be able to walk away from him a second time.
Despite her feelings, it will take their combined strength to face a frightening discovery about the Gaians. She and Ash begin to realize that the daemon war is coming to Earth, and they might be the only ones who can stop it — if it’s not already too late.
--
Steel & Stone Universe Books:
STEEL & STONE
Chase the Dark (#1)
Bind the Soul (#2)
Yield the Night (#3)
Feed the Flames (#3.5)
Reap the Shadows (#4)
Unleash the Storm (#5)
Steel & Stone (#6)
SPELL WEAVER
The Night Realm (#1)
The Shadow Weave (#2)
The Blood Curse (#3)
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 16, 2015
943 people are currently reading
2554 people want to read
About the author
Annette Marie
50 books7,123 followersAnnette Marie is the best-selling author of over thirty books, including the expansive urban fantasy series The Guild Codex, epic urban fantasy series Steel & Stone, and romantic fantasy trilogy Red Winter.
A 2015 Goodreads Choice Awards Finalist in Fantasy and an Amazon Charts Bestseller, Annette has sold over 2 million books. Her books have been translated into French, German, Polish, Ukrainian, and Russian, with readers coming back again and again for her addictive blend of fast-paced adventure, tantalizing forbidden romance, and unforgettable characters.
Annette lives in the frozen winter wasteland of Alberta, Canada (okay, it’s not quite that bad) with her husband and their furry minions of darkness. When not writing, she can be found elbow-deep in her garden or an art project while blissfully ignoring all adult responsibilities.
To find out more about Annette and her books, visit www.annettemarie.ca
A 2015 Goodreads Choice Awards Finalist in Fantasy and an Amazon Charts Bestseller, Annette has sold over 2 million books. Her books have been translated into French, German, Polish, Ukrainian, and Russian, with readers coming back again and again for her addictive blend of fast-paced adventure, tantalizing forbidden romance, and unforgettable characters.
Annette lives in the frozen winter wasteland of Alberta, Canada (okay, it’s not quite that bad) with her husband and their furry minions of darkness. When not writing, she can be found elbow-deep in her garden or an art project while blissfully ignoring all adult responsibilities.
To find out more about Annette and her books, visit www.annettemarie.ca
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 415 reviews
February 7, 2018
Warning: This may contain spoilers for books 1-3.5. This has been your warning.
It's just so good to be back into this world.
I binge read the first three books & the novella. And with each book, I fell more and more into the world Annette Marie created. So, of course, this is probably my favourite in the series so far.
A lot of things happen in this book. Piper is back on her planet and she's not with the people she's supposed to be around. Mysis's betrayal not only got Seiya and Lyre kidnapped, but it also nearly killed Ash. So Piper not only has to find Seiya and Lyre, but she had to leave Ash so he could recover. It's a noble thing she does... but it doesn't make it any less harder.
She's with her dad, at some temporary HQ for the Consulate. When four more apprentices come to support her dad, she's to go with them to extract her uncle from a mission. Only, something happens along the way there, and soon, she finds herself having to take care of someone she met a ways back. That someone needs Ash's help.
Piper's life is a mess right now. Her friends are missing, she's beating herself up about Ash, the Gaians are ruining everything and mysteriously getting more and more dangerous. Daemons aren't safe--she probably no longer knows the meaning of that word anymore because one problem climbs above another.
Reap the Shadows is fast paced, like its predecessors. Things are constantly happening, and Piper is always put in a compromising position. There is danger throughout the book, as well as a lot of angst. (I won't lie, I loved the angst). But Piper is more in this book. In the beginning, she was looking at people to save her. Now, she's in charge of that. She's protecting herself, she's fighting her own battles, she's owning up to exactly who she is. It's definitely not easy, and it the cause for one of the major issues in the book, but it's also extremely crucial to the story. I'm all up for heroines realising they're no damsel in distress. I'm really proud of Piper for this, and every other action/consequence that resulted because of it.
Another thing I loved about this book is that Marie pushes boundaries for Piper. After finding out her heritage and just exactly what she's capable of, Piper is worried about her control. With the Sahar and her new ability to Shade, it's more important than ever for her to learn control. Under their influence, she's a whole new person. She does things that horrify her, and she has to live knowing she'd either done those things or was about to. I admire Piper's fight so much in this book.
I have to admit we see less screen--page?--time of Seiya and Lyre. The latter was crucial in all three other books, but it's almost as if his presence is a little... less. But with that limited page time, we definitely know he's hiding something. And I need to know what that is. What his past is.
This brings me to my next point: character development.
Annette Marie did a wonderful job in this aspect. We get to see not only Piper through new lenses, but Seiya, Raum, and Lyre as well. Especially him. (If you read the novella, Feed the Flames, you definitely know that there's more than meets the eye.) It hooks you into the story because these characters have gone through so much, you can't help being invested and interested in them. You don't want to let them go when the story ends!
One last thing: the romance. Ah, angsty romance. I thought I hated those, but Annette Marie proves me wrong time and time again, with every book in this series. To say things were complicated between Ash and Piper would be an understatement. I thought they'd finally figured out what they meant to each other in Yield the Night, but if anything, the end of that book just caused more tension here.
But, gosh, I just adore them. Every kiss they've shared throughout the series gets me so happy, I even get that flutter in my stomach. They're so passionate and heated and I adore them and all their back and forth. I see where both are coming from, with all the protecting and saving each other, pushing the other away, wanting them close. Despite the romantic aspect to them, I think they work very well together, because in the end, they get things done. They know what to do, how to fix things for each other. They understand each other.
Piper still makes some poor decisions in this book. She admits them to herself, other people tell her the same, but this constant is one I can't get annoyed with. It's just a Piper thing to do, you know? She can't help it--it's do now, think later. And she acts every bit the teenager she is, with the "Um"s and "Ugh"s. Her view of things may have changed, but she still has that spunk in her.
I devoured this book. had it not been for school, I might've stayed up all night reading this. This series may not be for everyone, but I would definitely suggest you give it a try.
I received a free copy of this ebook from the author's Advance Reader Team in exchange for an honest review. Again, thank you SO much for providing it to me!
-
Man I just love this series now. I think this is at a solid 4 right now, maybe 4.5. This was so good.
I might post my review here, not sure yet. But there's definitely one coming.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC!
-
Neeeeeeeed!
It's just so good to be back into this world.
I binge read the first three books & the novella. And with each book, I fell more and more into the world Annette Marie created. So, of course, this is probably my favourite in the series so far.
A lot of things happen in this book. Piper is back on her planet and she's not with the people she's supposed to be around. Mysis's betrayal not only got Seiya and Lyre kidnapped, but it also nearly killed Ash. So Piper not only has to find Seiya and Lyre, but she had to leave Ash so he could recover. It's a noble thing she does... but it doesn't make it any less harder.
She's with her dad, at some temporary HQ for the Consulate. When four more apprentices come to support her dad, she's to go with them to extract her uncle from a mission. Only, something happens along the way there, and soon, she finds herself having to take care of someone she met a ways back. That someone needs Ash's help.
Piper's life is a mess right now. Her friends are missing, she's beating herself up about Ash, the Gaians are ruining everything and mysteriously getting more and more dangerous. Daemons aren't safe--she probably no longer knows the meaning of that word anymore because one problem climbs above another.
Reap the Shadows is fast paced, like its predecessors. Things are constantly happening, and Piper is always put in a compromising position. There is danger throughout the book, as well as a lot of angst. (I won't lie, I loved the angst). But Piper is more in this book. In the beginning, she was looking at people to save her. Now, she's in charge of that. She's protecting herself, she's fighting her own battles, she's owning up to exactly who she is. It's definitely not easy, and it the cause for one of the major issues in the book, but it's also extremely crucial to the story. I'm all up for heroines realising they're no damsel in distress. I'm really proud of Piper for this, and every other action/consequence that resulted because of it.
Another thing I loved about this book is that Marie pushes boundaries for Piper. After finding out her heritage and just exactly what she's capable of, Piper is worried about her control. With the Sahar and her new ability to Shade, it's more important than ever for her to learn control. Under their influence, she's a whole new person. She does things that horrify her, and she has to live knowing she'd either done those things or was about to. I admire Piper's fight so much in this book.
I have to admit we see less screen--page?--time of Seiya and Lyre. The latter was crucial in all three other books, but it's almost as if his presence is a little... less. But with that limited page time, we definitely know he's hiding something. And I need to know what that is. What his past is.
This brings me to my next point: character development.
Annette Marie did a wonderful job in this aspect. We get to see not only Piper through new lenses, but Seiya, Raum, and Lyre as well. Especially him. (If you read the novella, Feed the Flames, you definitely know that there's more than meets the eye.) It hooks you into the story because these characters have gone through so much, you can't help being invested and interested in them. You don't want to let them go when the story ends!
One last thing: the romance. Ah, angsty romance. I thought I hated those, but Annette Marie proves me wrong time and time again, with every book in this series. To say things were complicated between Ash and Piper would be an understatement. I thought they'd finally figured out what they meant to each other in Yield the Night, but if anything, the end of that book just caused more tension here.
But, gosh, I just adore them. Every kiss they've shared throughout the series gets me so happy, I even get that flutter in my stomach. They're so passionate and heated and I adore them and all their back and forth. I see where both are coming from, with all the protecting and saving each other, pushing the other away, wanting them close. Despite the romantic aspect to them, I think they work very well together, because in the end, they get things done. They know what to do, how to fix things for each other. They understand each other.
Piper still makes some poor decisions in this book. She admits them to herself, other people tell her the same, but this constant is one I can't get annoyed with. It's just a Piper thing to do, you know? She can't help it--it's do now, think later. And she acts every bit the teenager she is, with the "Um"s and "Ugh"s. Her view of things may have changed, but she still has that spunk in her.
I devoured this book. had it not been for school, I might've stayed up all night reading this. This series may not be for everyone, but I would definitely suggest you give it a try.
I received a free copy of this ebook from the author's Advance Reader Team in exchange for an honest review. Again, thank you SO much for providing it to me!
-
Man I just love this series now. I think this is at a solid 4 right now, maybe 4.5. This was so good.
I might post my review here, not sure yet. But there's definitely one coming.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC!
-
Neeeeeeeed!
May 12, 2017
Rate: 3.5/4 stars.
October 28, 2017
“Life is short, there and then gone. Don’t waste it waiting for a solution that might not even exist.”
Out of the five books published for this series so far, this is sadly the weakest.
The story by itself isn’t bad – there’s a strong showdown with several villains, the flight scene was fun, and the last 20% of the series was especially good. I loved the eventual outcome with Ash as well. The sister is more bearable since she’s showing a sort of change of heart.
What hurt the book was there is too much angst coating the pages – Piper cannot get pack needing others to help her own, she can’t get over her hang-up that prevents her from accepting Ash because of it, and she can’t get over the inner beast that’s grown inside her. It’s exhausting. Piper used to be a fun heroine who had a lot going for her, but now she can’t accept any blessings because she lets self-doubt cloud everything.
What won with the first book so well was humor mixing in with the dark story, but there’s a glaring absence of that here. Pacing struggled a bit because so much of the action was interrupted by self-pity and self-struggling.
The storyline wasn’t as strong because of so much angst, but every series has its slower point that’s leading up to the finale. The ending half of this book is its best part, which thankfully led up to the next book in the series.
Out of the five books published for this series so far, this is sadly the weakest.
The story by itself isn’t bad – there’s a strong showdown with several villains, the flight scene was fun, and the last 20% of the series was especially good. I loved the eventual outcome with Ash as well. The sister is more bearable since she’s showing a sort of change of heart.
What hurt the book was there is too much angst coating the pages – Piper cannot get pack needing others to help her own, she can’t get over her hang-up that prevents her from accepting Ash because of it, and she can’t get over the inner beast that’s grown inside her. It’s exhausting. Piper used to be a fun heroine who had a lot going for her, but now she can’t accept any blessings because she lets self-doubt cloud everything.
What won with the first book so well was humor mixing in with the dark story, but there’s a glaring absence of that here. Pacing struggled a bit because so much of the action was interrupted by self-pity and self-struggling.
The storyline wasn’t as strong because of so much angst, but every series has its slower point that’s leading up to the finale. The ending half of this book is its best part, which thankfully led up to the next book in the series.
May 2, 2024
5/2/2024: Reread. (Audiobook!)
6/10/2023: Reread. (Audiobook!)
01/04/2023: Reread. (Audiobook!)
12/14/2022: Reread. (Audiobook!)
08/17/2022: Reread. (Audiobook!)
07/24/2021: Reread! (Audiobook!)
06/10/2021: Reread! (Audiobook!)
10/24/2020: Reread! (Audiobook!)
09/03/2020: Reread! (Audiobook!)
09/01/2020: Reread! (Read to my son, Maddox.)
08/24/2020: Reread!
07/24/2020: Reread!
10/23/2019: Reread!
05/16/2019: Reread!
03/04/2019: Reread!
09/12/2018: Reread!
09/04/2018: Reread!
OMG, I need more! This series is blowing my mind! I just finished this book and I am already having withdrawals. I NEED this series. I NEED more. This series is so addicting! So many feels!
What I liked
The progression of this series is fantastic! It's been a while since I've read a series with such incredible storytelling. The details from each book are woven so beautifully to create a story so complex and energizing. I am in such awe of the writing. Annette Marie is such a masterful storyteller. I am a fan for life!
This book made me have so many emotions! I was happy, devastated, anxious...just all over the emotional spectrum.
The characters in this series have grown so much. It has been a while since I have read a series with a group of characters that have overtaken my heart. I love the characters in this series so much. I feel so close to them because Annette Marie writes them so vividly. The way that each character evolves and how the relationships grow is magical.
This series sucks you in. You feel so connected to this world and all of the characters. There is suspense that makes you lose your mind with wanting to know what happens next. I love the pacing in the book and in the series.
What I didn't like
Once in a while a book or series comes along that is truly flawless, and this is one of those books/series. There are no plot holes, no filler, no horribly annoying characters to hate. Everything in this book and in this series is necessary and tells an epic story. There is nothing to dislike.
Would I Recommend It
OMG, YES!! This series just gets better and better! This book will blow you away and make you crave an ending. I feel like an addict with this series, craving another hit. I finished this series a week ago, and it is still ALL I can think about. Get this series NOW and then feel free to drop me your thanks. Hehe.
6/10/2023: Reread. (Audiobook!)
01/04/2023: Reread. (Audiobook!)
12/14/2022: Reread. (Audiobook!)
08/17/2022: Reread. (Audiobook!)
07/24/2021: Reread! (Audiobook!)
06/10/2021: Reread! (Audiobook!)
10/24/2020: Reread! (Audiobook!)
09/03/2020: Reread! (Audiobook!)
09/01/2020: Reread! (Read to my son, Maddox.)
08/24/2020: Reread!
07/24/2020: Reread!
10/23/2019: Reread!
05/16/2019: Reread!
03/04/2019: Reread!
09/12/2018: Reread!
09/04/2018: Reread!
OMG, I need more! This series is blowing my mind! I just finished this book and I am already having withdrawals. I NEED this series. I NEED more. This series is so addicting! So many feels!
What I liked
The progression of this series is fantastic! It's been a while since I've read a series with such incredible storytelling. The details from each book are woven so beautifully to create a story so complex and energizing. I am in such awe of the writing. Annette Marie is such a masterful storyteller. I am a fan for life!
This book made me have so many emotions! I was happy, devastated, anxious...just all over the emotional spectrum.
The characters in this series have grown so much. It has been a while since I have read a series with a group of characters that have overtaken my heart. I love the characters in this series so much. I feel so close to them because Annette Marie writes them so vividly. The way that each character evolves and how the relationships grow is magical.
This series sucks you in. You feel so connected to this world and all of the characters. There is suspense that makes you lose your mind with wanting to know what happens next. I love the pacing in the book and in the series.
What I didn't like
Once in a while a book or series comes along that is truly flawless, and this is one of those books/series. There are no plot holes, no filler, no horribly annoying characters to hate. Everything in this book and in this series is necessary and tells an epic story. There is nothing to dislike.
Would I Recommend It
OMG, YES!! This series just gets better and better! This book will blow you away and make you crave an ending. I feel like an addict with this series, craving another hit. I finished this series a week ago, and it is still ALL I can think about. Get this series NOW and then feel free to drop me your thanks. Hehe.
May 27, 2019
Entertaining but forgettable is no longer enough.
I am done with this series.
Chase the Dark (Steel & Stone #1) - 2.5 stars
Bind the Soul (Steel & Stone #2) - 2.5 stars
Yield the Night (Steel & Stone #3) - 2.5 stars
Reap the Shadows (Steel & Stone #4) - 2 stars
I am done with this series.
Chase the Dark (Steel & Stone #1) - 2.5 stars
Bind the Soul (Steel & Stone #2) - 2.5 stars
Yield the Night (Steel & Stone #3) - 2.5 stars
Reap the Shadows (Steel & Stone #4) - 2 stars
January 19, 2024
First read: 5/2016 - 3 stars
Second read: 2/2021 - 3 stars
Third read: 01/2024 - 2 stars
Oh, well...
If I kept sticking to my review pattern for the rest of this series, I would usually be synopsizing this book's plot at this point. Unfortunately, there really wasn't enough worth summarizing, and the little story there was is too much of a turn of events to just spoil here in one sentence.
To say I feel disappointed by this book would be putting it mildly.
I hated how out of character Piper was portrayed in this installment. She used to be such an amazing heroine, strong and confident, but sometime during book 3, Yield the Night, she started losing her edge and evolved into some kind of damsel in distress. Good news: in this book, she noticed her change for the worse herself. Bad news: instead of doing something about it, she started a pity-party and took on the role of the self-sacrificing martyr (you know, the trite I have to fight my own battles/ we can't be together because you'll just get yourself hurt around me crap).
I feel like a good half of this book was wasted on petty whining and sulking instead of actually furthering the plot, and there was a long stretch somewhere in the middle that had me bored.
The grand finale was no less than spectacular, though, and, along with all the fascinating supporting characters, the absolute saving grace of this book.
I can't wait to finally learn more about Raum!
All that being said, I'm still fangirling over this series, even though it's not entirely perfect. Will I be reading the next book? Heck, yeah. I mean... how could I not?!
August 26, 2017
5 stars
THIS SERIES IS SO GOOD HOW IS IT NOT MORE POPULAR EVERYONE NEEDS TO READ THESE
THIS is what YA should be like. A female MC who knows and understands her limits...a love interest that has good intentions but still does shitty things...lots of moral grey areas that the characters recognize and understand because guess what? Life itself has lots of grey areas. It's not all black and white and nice and neat. It's messy and unfair and uncertain. For a paranormal, this is one of the most realistic series I have ever read. FINALLY!!
---------
I'm ready for more Major Health Issues related to this book/series
<3
THIS SERIES IS SO GOOD HOW IS IT NOT MORE POPULAR EVERYONE NEEDS TO READ THESE
THIS is what YA should be like. A female MC who knows and understands her limits...a love interest that has good intentions but still does shitty things...lots of moral grey areas that the characters recognize and understand because guess what? Life itself has lots of grey areas. It's not all black and white and nice and neat. It's messy and unfair and uncertain. For a paranormal, this is one of the most realistic series I have ever read. FINALLY!!
---------
I'm ready for more Major Health Issues related to this book/series
<3
October 22, 2015
1 star deduction because the author squashed all my naughty hopes @ 84%. I've been waiting for that particular scene for so long now. Not FAIR! :-(
September 8, 2020
Buddy read with Diana!!
As wonderful as it’s predecessors! I love how the relationship between Ash and Piper is building up :))
As wonderful as it’s predecessors! I love how the relationship between Ash and Piper is building up :))
December 1, 2015
Original Post: Reap the Shadows (Steel and Stone 4) at FLYLēF (www.flylef.com)
I KNOW THIS may sound a bit silly but I started reading Reap the Shadows (Steel and Stone 4) with trepidation. In my experience, the second to last book has generally been a huge disappointment because it tends to meander as it sets up for the finale. I was indeed utterly disappointed because…I WANTED MORE! Annette Marie does not disappoint. Her story is well-written with rich characters, emotionally heart-wrenching moments, and exciting adventures that kept me enthralled until the very last page.
Reap the Shadows picks up right after Yield the Night (Steel and Stone 3), with a heartbroken Piper tearfully saying, “I love you” to an unconscious and fatally wounded Ash as she walks away from him forever. It was what she thought needed to happen to protect him from risking his own life for her. With Lyre and Seiya missing, she returns to Earth in search for them only to find the Gaians picking fights with daemons all over the city. As if that wasn’t overwhelming enough, an old enemy from the Underworld surprises her with a request for her help—a request he refuses to take no for an answer. It is a request that brings her right back into Ash’s life. She fears she will not be able to walk away from him a second time. However she may feel about Ash, she knows she needs his help to protect Earth, if it’s not already too late.
I absolutely enjoy reading this Piper. She's matured and possesses a quiet confidence. But despite how outwardly calm she appears, the story is emotionally heavy because of the insurmountable burden she carries. Not only is she fighting a battle against the Gaians and the daemons, she is also at war with herself. With her daemon half unlocked, Piper struggles to control her bloodlust desires. Every time she shades, she fights to control the “raging monster…ruthless killer” that seeks to overtake her. Equally devastating is her turmoil with Ash. She knew she hurt Ash when she left him. Except, she hadn't meant for him to “hate” her. Well, he is a draconian—deadly and passionate by nature. “Ash's coldness was like a poison in her blood that burned through her. She couldn't stand it, but neither could she fix it. She just had to endure.” On a lighter note, I enjoyed the romantic mood that Ms. Annette created with the stolen glances and surprise moments of affection between them.
At times, Piper’s internal struggles do seem slightly repetitive, which slows the story a bit. But the story does have a very exciting climax that ends in a pleasantly serene and tranquil manner. Like the calm before the storm, I have every confidence that Unleash the Night (Steel and Stone 5) will be explosive.
October 6, 2015
This book should come with a warning! Your life will be put on hold because you won't be able to focus on anything else at all and when you do reluctantly finish the book and try to get back into your day to day life these characters will sit in your head and not let go - thus making picking up any other book extremely difficult.
Folks this book was beyond amazing and I was so extremely lucky to get an ARC from the author. However once the dead tree version is available for all books in this series I won't wait to buy them and have them sitting on my shelf.
From the very first second we are sucked straight back into Piper's world. She has found her father and Calder, however the consulate system has taken a beating along with the consulates themselves and something is obviously going awry. Causing friction of course is Piper's search for Seiya and Lyre (if you haven'f read Feed the Flames please do as it adds so much more dimension to the story), whom she believes to have been taken into the Ra embassy as prisoners. Piper of course has no idea of the harsh reality that Seiya and Lyre face and Ash makes a timely appearance. From then on in this story snowballs with full on action. Piper is an amazing character, complete with flaws, doubts and insecurities but at the same time having an increasing ability to kick some ass with the help of her newly discovered daemon powers and the Sahar stone. Despite Piper herself feeling that she is always being rescued, we the reader never believe in her helplessness and she is as much made of steel in her character as the series title. She is truly awesome and I won't ever tire of reading her story. This story is not just what happens but the development and realisation that Piper must go through.
Of course the awesomeness doesn't stop with Piper, Ash is truly a wonderful character and we learn more of the Draconians in this instalment. Ash is understandably a little upset at Piper's abandonment of him whilst he was healing. However the dance around each other these two do is a thing of smouldering chemistry and beauty. What this author has achieved with these two in few actions and words should be the envy of many writers out there. With no explicit action the pages still manage to steam.
This book had me in tears and elation in equal measure. This is why I read and there are times when I want to give an extra star because it was so special. This is one of those times. In the last 3 years only 2 other books have made me go straight back to the beginning and read it all over again, that is what I am doing now. This book has everything, sizzling chemistry, gut wrenching action, blood and guts in the detail, beautiful character development and a story that grips you completely along with characters you truly love and believe in. Go read it folks, you won't regret it, just start from the beginning.
Folks this book was beyond amazing and I was so extremely lucky to get an ARC from the author. However once the dead tree version is available for all books in this series I won't wait to buy them and have them sitting on my shelf.
From the very first second we are sucked straight back into Piper's world. She has found her father and Calder, however the consulate system has taken a beating along with the consulates themselves and something is obviously going awry. Causing friction of course is Piper's search for Seiya and Lyre (if you haven'f read Feed the Flames please do as it adds so much more dimension to the story), whom she believes to have been taken into the Ra embassy as prisoners. Piper of course has no idea of the harsh reality that Seiya and Lyre face and Ash makes a timely appearance. From then on in this story snowballs with full on action. Piper is an amazing character, complete with flaws, doubts and insecurities but at the same time having an increasing ability to kick some ass with the help of her newly discovered daemon powers and the Sahar stone. Despite Piper herself feeling that she is always being rescued, we the reader never believe in her helplessness and she is as much made of steel in her character as the series title. She is truly awesome and I won't ever tire of reading her story. This story is not just what happens but the development and realisation that Piper must go through.
Of course the awesomeness doesn't stop with Piper, Ash is truly a wonderful character and we learn more of the Draconians in this instalment. Ash is understandably a little upset at Piper's abandonment of him whilst he was healing. However the dance around each other these two do is a thing of smouldering chemistry and beauty. What this author has achieved with these two in few actions and words should be the envy of many writers out there. With no explicit action the pages still manage to steam.
This book had me in tears and elation in equal measure. This is why I read and there are times when I want to give an extra star because it was so special. This is one of those times. In the last 3 years only 2 other books have made me go straight back to the beginning and read it all over again, that is what I am doing now. This book has everything, sizzling chemistry, gut wrenching action, blood and guts in the detail, beautiful character development and a story that grips you completely along with characters you truly love and believe in. Go read it folks, you won't regret it, just start from the beginning.
September 9, 2018
Piper is hiding out with her father and the counsels who are being hunted by the Gaians. On the side, she is trying to find Lyre and Seiya who she thinks were captured by the Ras. Several things happen pretty quickly at the beginning of the book - she is reunited with Ash (who she had left behind in the Overworld to heal); they have a new draconian in their group, Kiev, who is running from Samael's death order; and they somehow stumble upon Seiya who escaped the Ras and intercept Lyre before he is sold to Samael. Once the gang is all back together, they realize that the Gaians have been infiltrated by Samael and decide to go warn them.
I am enjoying this series. I love Piper and Ash (sigh) and while it took nearly the entire book, it looks like they have decided that being together is better than being apart (fingers crossed). With a war on the horizon, I think it is best that they stick together too.
I am enjoying this series. I love Piper and Ash (sigh) and while it took nearly the entire book, it looks like they have decided that being together is better than being apart (fingers crossed). With a war on the horizon, I think it is best that they stick together too.
October 21, 2015
The book was awesome. Phenomenal. I had been looking forward to the Ash-Piper reunion for so long! It did not go as I thought it would, but I'm satisfied the way it turned out. The plot was interesting; I didn't expect it to go the way it did. I expected more of a "things-will-all-work-out" set up, but it was the complete opposite. I mean, obviously, I hope things really do work out in the final installment, but as of this point, shit is messed up. I like the change in Lyre. I didn't read book 3.5, so it kind of came out of nowhere for me, but it adds to the intrigue of the character. I like that he is no longer just the flirty daemon simply hanging around. He has a deep past and we finally get a glimpse of that. Kiev, the newbie is also pretty awesome. He and Raum were a very surprising, but sweet new angle in the book, which I am very glad Annette Marie added. The power stuff with Piper was kick. ass. I mean, I kind of expected the bloodthirsty daemon/Sahar side, but holy shit! That went to a whole new level.
My few complaints are ironically, about my favorite part of the series: Ash and Piper. First of all, Ash really should have shown up earlier. It took him too damn long to appear in the book and too damn long to figure things out with Piper. Piper went back and forth with her indecisive whining for 80% of the book! Really? One of the reasons I love this series so much, is because Piper had some serious balls from book one. Here, she got a little annoying with the whole will-I/won't-I situation, and I very much hope that will change in the next book. Also, I hated the fact that this was barely acknowledged in this book, but...um...
Regardless of my complaints, I feel like I am biased towards the book. I looked forward to this book being out for so long, and I love love love Ash + Piper so much, that I really can't say anything terrible about the book. Maybe (maybe?) my praise for the book is a bit higher than it should be, but ah well. Aside from the Piper-Ash slowness (PLEASE put more scenes of the duo in the next book, Annette Marie!), I thought it was ultimately a pretty fantastic book. I lovelovelove this series; can't wait for the next book!
My few complaints are ironically, about my favorite part of the series: Ash and Piper. First of all, Ash really should have shown up earlier. It took him too damn long to appear in the book and too damn long to figure things out with Piper. Piper went back and forth with her indecisive whining for 80% of the book! Really? One of the reasons I love this series so much, is because Piper had some serious balls from book one. Here, she got a little annoying with the whole will-I/won't-I situation, and I very much hope that will change in the next book. Also, I hated the fact that this was barely acknowledged in this book, but...um...
Regardless of my complaints, I feel like I am biased towards the book. I looked forward to this book being out for so long, and I love love love Ash + Piper so much, that I really can't say anything terrible about the book. Maybe (maybe?) my praise for the book is a bit higher than it should be, but ah well. Aside from the Piper-Ash slowness (PLEASE put more scenes of the duo in the next book, Annette Marie!), I thought it was ultimately a pretty fantastic book. I lovelovelove this series; can't wait for the next book!
January 21, 2020
Final rating: 2.5
Compared to the previous books, I didn't end up liking this one as much. Right from the start, I struggled to get into this book as my primary reasons for staying invested in this series - Ash and Lyre - were missing from the main action for the first few chapters. Instead of involving daemons or adventures through the Underworld/Overworld, the plot focused more on the Consuls and Gaians - including some seemingly unimportant new characters - which I really didn't care for. There were also some developments which created more and unnecessary drama within some of the previously established relationships. I was particularly irritated with Piper's parents as their storylines have been going in circles with little change or improvement. Much of this felt needlessly long to me and seems to only be leading up to the big finale.
Despite my apparent negative response to this book, I did like some aspects that this installment contributed to the overall series. As with the previous books, there were a lot of well-written action sequences - some more exciting than others - and further questions raised about the Sahar stone, Natania, and the true intentions of these two powerful daemon families. I liked that Piper's powers are continuing to grow and that she's even learning some tricks which might give her an advantage over full daemons. Being a hopeless romantic, I still am rooting for Ash and Piper and even with all the drama, I appreciated that they were able to have a few cute moments together here. Most of all, I was both surprised and quite intrigued by the hints provided about Lyre's past and abilities. That is definitely something I'm interested in learning more about.
So while it's not my favorite in the series, I'm hoping that the finale makes this all worth my while.
Compared to the previous books, I didn't end up liking this one as much. Right from the start, I struggled to get into this book as my primary reasons for staying invested in this series - Ash and Lyre - were missing from the main action for the first few chapters. Instead of involving daemons or adventures through the Underworld/Overworld, the plot focused more on the Consuls and Gaians - including some seemingly unimportant new characters - which I really didn't care for. There were also some developments which created more and unnecessary drama within some of the previously established relationships. I was particularly irritated with Piper's parents as their storylines have been going in circles with little change or improvement. Much of this felt needlessly long to me and seems to only be leading up to the big finale.
Despite my apparent negative response to this book, I did like some aspects that this installment contributed to the overall series. As with the previous books, there were a lot of well-written action sequences - some more exciting than others - and further questions raised about the Sahar stone, Natania, and the true intentions of these two powerful daemon families. I liked that Piper's powers are continuing to grow and that she's even learning some tricks which might give her an advantage over full daemons. Being a hopeless romantic, I still am rooting for Ash and Piper and even with all the drama, I appreciated that they were able to have a few cute moments together here. Most of all, I was both surprised and quite intrigued by the hints provided about Lyre's past and abilities. That is definitely something I'm interested in learning more about.
So while it's not my favorite in the series, I'm hoping that the finale makes this all worth my while.
October 21, 2015
This was a crazy ride. 4 stars
March 5, 2019
03/04/2019: Read for the third time!
OMG, I need more! This series is blowing my mind! I just finished this book and I am already having withdrawals. I NEED this series. I NEED more. This series is so addicting! So many feels!
What I liked
The progression of this series is fantastic! It's been a while since I've read a series with such incredible storytelling. The details from each book are woven so beautifully to create a story so complex and energizing. I am in such awe of the writing. Annette Marie is such a masterful storyteller. I am a fan for life!
This book made me have so many emotions! I was happy, devastated, anxious...just all over the emotional spectrum.
The characters in this series have grown so much. It has been a while since I have read a series with a group of characters that have overtaken my heart. I love the characters in this series so much. I feel so close to them because Annette Marie writes them so vividly. The way that each character evolves and how the relationships grow is magical.
This series sucks you in. You feel so connected to this world and all of the characters. There is suspense that makes you lose your mind with wanting to know what happens next. I love the pacing in the book and in the series.
What I didn't like
Once in a while a book or series comes along that is truly flawless, and this is one of those books/series. There are no plot holes, no filler, no horribly annoying characters to hate. Everything in this book and in this series is necessary and tells an epic story. There is nothing to dislike.
Would I Recommend It
OMG, YES!! This series just gets better and better! This book with blow you away and make you crave an ending. I feel like an addict with this series, craving another hit. I finished this series a week ago, and it is still ALL I can think about. Get this series NOW and then feel free to drop me your thanks. Hehe.
OMG, I need more! This series is blowing my mind! I just finished this book and I am already having withdrawals. I NEED this series. I NEED more. This series is so addicting! So many feels!
What I liked
The progression of this series is fantastic! It's been a while since I've read a series with such incredible storytelling. The details from each book are woven so beautifully to create a story so complex and energizing. I am in such awe of the writing. Annette Marie is such a masterful storyteller. I am a fan for life!
This book made me have so many emotions! I was happy, devastated, anxious...just all over the emotional spectrum.
The characters in this series have grown so much. It has been a while since I have read a series with a group of characters that have overtaken my heart. I love the characters in this series so much. I feel so close to them because Annette Marie writes them so vividly. The way that each character evolves and how the relationships grow is magical.
This series sucks you in. You feel so connected to this world and all of the characters. There is suspense that makes you lose your mind with wanting to know what happens next. I love the pacing in the book and in the series.
What I didn't like
Once in a while a book or series comes along that is truly flawless, and this is one of those books/series. There are no plot holes, no filler, no horribly annoying characters to hate. Everything in this book and in this series is necessary and tells an epic story. There is nothing to dislike.
Would I Recommend It
OMG, YES!! This series just gets better and better! This book with blow you away and make you crave an ending. I feel like an addict with this series, craving another hit. I finished this series a week ago, and it is still ALL I can think about. Get this series NOW and then feel free to drop me your thanks. Hehe.
October 16, 2015
Wow! This series just keeps getting better and better! Love Piper!
Ms Marie has created an outstanding series that is compelling and soul-stirring. Reap the Shadows sucked me in and kept me riveted until the last page, and even then stuck in my mind long after I’d finished reading. I love Ms Marie’s writing style: she creates powerful scenes and images that are vivid and real. And the characters - they are unique, believable and multi-layered. I love Piper and Ash, but my favourite is Lyre. And Kiev is an intriguing new addition.
Reap the Shadows is very much Piper’s book – and brings the series to a new, deeper level. Piper reflects on how much has changed in her life and how she has changed and matured as a person. She also considers her relationship with Ash and how her actions have impacted on others in her life. That’s not say that there wasn’t plenty of action, mystery and suspense.
I can’t speak highly enough of this series, which I love even more with each book as I get to know and love the characters more completely and become totally engrossed in Piper’s world.
Favourite passages:
It’s better to take the best future you can manage with what you have, than to put your life on hold trying to fix everything in the hopes of a perfect future that might never come.
Vengeance is the most elusive pleasure, but today we will relish it.
Ms Marie has created an outstanding series that is compelling and soul-stirring. Reap the Shadows sucked me in and kept me riveted until the last page, and even then stuck in my mind long after I’d finished reading. I love Ms Marie’s writing style: she creates powerful scenes and images that are vivid and real. And the characters - they are unique, believable and multi-layered. I love Piper and Ash, but my favourite is Lyre. And Kiev is an intriguing new addition.
Reap the Shadows is very much Piper’s book – and brings the series to a new, deeper level. Piper reflects on how much has changed in her life and how she has changed and matured as a person. She also considers her relationship with Ash and how her actions have impacted on others in her life. That’s not say that there wasn’t plenty of action, mystery and suspense.
I can’t speak highly enough of this series, which I love even more with each book as I get to know and love the characters more completely and become totally engrossed in Piper’s world.
Favourite passages:
It’s better to take the best future you can manage with what you have, than to put your life on hold trying to fix everything in the hopes of a perfect future that might never come.
Vengeance is the most elusive pleasure, but today we will relish it.
October 16, 2015
I feel like all the books I'm waiting on are coming out this fall. Hurry up and get here already! I can't take it!
July 27, 2021
way too many characters, a lot of distractions and too much crap happening
the story just needs to be more simplified
the characters are already great.. there’s no need for all the fluff happening
spoilers below ⬇️
some characters:
Piper - haemon- mermaid daemon- can wield the Sahar
Ash - draconian - piper’s love interest
Lyre - Piper & Ash best friend
Seiya - Ash sister
Lilith- club owner that knows all
Samuel - underworld power hungry terrorist
Notes to remember storyline:
Ash recovering
Lyre & Seiya still missing
Piper looking for them
Piper goes to Lilith again makes a deal.. succeeds
Sahar’s power has changed.. it’s harder for Piper to control it
Piper is experiencing bloodlust.. she wants to kill when using her powers.. Ash shares his struggle with bloodlust too when he shades
back and forth with grand battles.. changing allies every two seconds
Piper is losing control of the Sahar.. it starts to control her
Piper watches her mother die
The Sahar takes over Piper.. she kills a lot of people
Lyre had to shoot her in the hand and leg with an arrow and Ash tackled her to stop her
Samuel committing genocide to daemons and planning to kill more
Piper and her crew retreat into remote mountains of the underworld hiding from Sam
they must abandon earth to do so
the story just needs to be more simplified
the characters are already great.. there’s no need for all the fluff happening
spoilers below ⬇️
some characters:
Piper - haemon- mermaid daemon- can wield the Sahar
Ash - draconian - piper’s love interest
Lyre - Piper & Ash best friend
Seiya - Ash sister
Lilith- club owner that knows all
Samuel - underworld power hungry terrorist
Notes to remember storyline:
Ash recovering
Lyre & Seiya still missing
Piper looking for them
Piper goes to Lilith again makes a deal.. succeeds
Sahar’s power has changed.. it’s harder for Piper to control it
Piper is experiencing bloodlust.. she wants to kill when using her powers.. Ash shares his struggle with bloodlust too when he shades
back and forth with grand battles.. changing allies every two seconds
Piper is losing control of the Sahar.. it starts to control her
Piper watches her mother die
The Sahar takes over Piper.. she kills a lot of people
Lyre had to shoot her in the hand and leg with an arrow and Ash tackled her to stop her
Samuel committing genocide to daemons and planning to kill more
Piper and her crew retreat into remote mountains of the underworld hiding from Sam
they must abandon earth to do so
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2017
4 Haemon STARS
November 17, 2017
My last reread in the series before I read book 5 for the first time!
I feel like this book is much more of a bridge between everything that happens in book 3 (and there was a lot) and what the epic finale will be in book 5. Don't get me wrong, I still really liked it but it did feel more filler-y. I did like seeing Piper develop her skills more, and her relationship with Ash continued to grow :). We also got more hints of Lyre's backstory that I really enjoyed. I'm excited to see how everything wraps up in the next one!
I feel like this book is much more of a bridge between everything that happens in book 3 (and there was a lot) and what the epic finale will be in book 5. Don't get me wrong, I still really liked it but it did feel more filler-y. I did like seeing Piper develop her skills more, and her relationship with Ash continued to grow :). We also got more hints of Lyre's backstory that I really enjoyed. I'm excited to see how everything wraps up in the next one!
December 11, 2018
I'm trying to be fair by giving this 3. My enjoyment level was less. I've enjoyed this series so far and I don't think its quality or plotting has lowered in standards, but I've got quite bored of the series. There's only one more in the series, but I'm not sure I'll bother to read it.
October 6, 2015
Sometimes I wish that books were not YA, and this is one of those times. I have read the ARC and I am pleased to inform you that this is another excellent adventure. More complete review coming soon.
October 9, 2020
Slow to Begin, Picks Up Later
*****Spoilers*****
Wow, I surely was surprised by several things that happened in this one. The book started off slowly too but once Ash and crew were back, it moved along pretty well. Piperel being slowly overtaken by Natania wasn't a surprise, her motives were always sketchy and the "advice" she was given Piperel was suspicious. Clearly she wanted out and what better way than through Piperel? Thankfully Natania only had control briefly but in that short time, she caused a lot of damage. I was actually more surprised that all it took was Ash, Raum, and Lyre to wrest the Sahar from her long enough to halt the power. However, it did make me wonder why every time Piperel used the Sahar why the power was used so quickly when it's supposed to be a limitless power source.
The worst parts of this book were the parts trapped inside of Piperel's head as she agonizes over her relationship with Ash and how she's this terrible monster now that she's unleaded her daemon. Both occur much too often for my liking and brought the book down.
Samael. I was very satisfied to see him run from Piperel as Natania. Natania for sure knows how to handle her power and is much more confident than Piperel. I just wish Natania had been able to vaporize him along with the rest of the people she slaughtered but of course it takes more to defeat the bad guy and especially when he's surrounded by reapers that can whisk him away at a moment's notice.
Too bad Piperel's mom dies in this book. I'm not sure if it's just me but I felt worse when Visjovis (sp.) died in the last book. Her mom was trying to do the right thing and clearly cared about Piperel but unfortunately Samael's reapers took her out.
Lyre. Lyre. Lyre. Hidden depths to him. I wish Piperel would pay more attention to him. I like both him and Ash but Lyre a little better. He's fun but apparently no less deadly which is what we've gotten to see from him over the last few books. I really want to know his story even more so now. That Natania refers to Ash as Piperel's moon, I can't help but wonder where Lyre might fit in if at all.
*****Spoilers*****
Wow, I surely was surprised by several things that happened in this one. The book started off slowly too but once Ash and crew were back, it moved along pretty well. Piperel being slowly overtaken by Natania wasn't a surprise, her motives were always sketchy and the "advice" she was given Piperel was suspicious. Clearly she wanted out and what better way than through Piperel? Thankfully Natania only had control briefly but in that short time, she caused a lot of damage. I was actually more surprised that all it took was Ash, Raum, and Lyre to wrest the Sahar from her long enough to halt the power. However, it did make me wonder why every time Piperel used the Sahar why the power was used so quickly when it's supposed to be a limitless power source.
The worst parts of this book were the parts trapped inside of Piperel's head as she agonizes over her relationship with Ash and how she's this terrible monster now that she's unleaded her daemon. Both occur much too often for my liking and brought the book down.
Samael. I was very satisfied to see him run from Piperel as Natania. Natania for sure knows how to handle her power and is much more confident than Piperel. I just wish Natania had been able to vaporize him along with the rest of the people she slaughtered but of course it takes more to defeat the bad guy and especially when he's surrounded by reapers that can whisk him away at a moment's notice.
Too bad Piperel's mom dies in this book. I'm not sure if it's just me but I felt worse when Visjovis (sp.) died in the last book. Her mom was trying to do the right thing and clearly cared about Piperel but unfortunately Samael's reapers took her out.
Lyre. Lyre. Lyre. Hidden depths to him. I wish Piperel would pay more attention to him. I like both him and Ash but Lyre a little better. He's fun but apparently no less deadly which is what we've gotten to see from him over the last few books. I really want to know his story even more so now. That Natania refers to Ash as Piperel's moon, I can't help but wonder where Lyre might fit in if at all.
June 7, 2020
4,5 stars
When you don’t think it could get worse or go faster, you are proven wrong!! I honestly don't know where the author will lead us!
Some key words I jotted down while reading:
-Pipper’s dad is an @ss certainly here even if ….. If having bad parents was an olympic sport she'd get the gold medal hands down!
-Pipper is afraid of what she’s become and who she could become. She has difficulties mastering her shading and bloodlust. She always wanted to be a peacemaker and now she morphs into a killer! Can you imagine having no control on what you are doing? Like when you are super drunk and would do things you'd NEVER do sober and the day after you are confronted with your deed and you are so horrfied that you'd like the earth to poen up and swallow you? Well that's what's happening to Pipper only instead of dancing naked on tables while drunk out or her pretty behind she is killing people!
-I love Ash so much and I want that ship to sail, not sink. Random thought: I was happy to place that expression here as it took me a loooong time to get what readers meant by " a ship that sunk" :lol:
-I want to know more about Lyre and his story because he proves to be much more than a pretty face and a drooling bod! Even if I wouldn't mind encountering said bod in a dark wood at night. I bet I'd leave him ravish me all his content!
-betrayals are everywhere and corruption rampant. Demons are making Earth their playing field and they fight for supremacy. Time to get all your prized possession and hightail in another peaceful place!
-terrible loss here! No spoiler but I'm just saying that I wanted to cry for Pipper. Where are my tissues???
-cliffy at the end. Some hope but also the biggest challenge ahead. You've been warned, read at your own risk and don't complain.
Have you read that series? What did you think of it?
Thanks for reading!
Sophie
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook group : Beware Book Boyfriends Alert
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
When you don’t think it could get worse or go faster, you are proven wrong!! I honestly don't know where the author will lead us!
Some key words I jotted down while reading:
-Pipper’s dad is an @ss certainly here even if ….. If having bad parents was an olympic sport she'd get the gold medal hands down!
-Pipper is afraid of what she’s become and who she could become. She has difficulties mastering her shading and bloodlust. She always wanted to be a peacemaker and now she morphs into a killer! Can you imagine having no control on what you are doing? Like when you are super drunk and would do things you'd NEVER do sober and the day after you are confronted with your deed and you are so horrfied that you'd like the earth to poen up and swallow you? Well that's what's happening to Pipper only instead of dancing naked on tables while drunk out or her pretty behind she is killing people!
-I love Ash so much and I want that ship to sail, not sink. Random thought: I was happy to place that expression here as it took me a loooong time to get what readers meant by " a ship that sunk" :lol:
-I want to know more about Lyre and his story because he proves to be much more than a pretty face and a drooling bod! Even if I wouldn't mind encountering said bod in a dark wood at night. I bet I'd leave him ravish me all his content!
-betrayals are everywhere and corruption rampant. Demons are making Earth their playing field and they fight for supremacy. Time to get all your prized possession and hightail in another peaceful place!
-terrible loss here! No spoiler but I'm just saying that I wanted to cry for Pipper. Where are my tissues???
-cliffy at the end. Some hope but also the biggest challenge ahead. You've been warned, read at your own risk and don't complain.
Have you read that series? What did you think of it?
Thanks for reading!
Sophie
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook group : Beware Book Boyfriends Alert
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
December 20, 2015
This is my absolute favorite YA urban fantasy series right now and this book was even more fantastic than previous books in the series. This book is full of wonderful action, awesome world-building, engaging characters, some romance, and a fast-paced plot. The fifth and final book in the series, Unleash the Storm, is supposed to release in March of 2016.
Piper is having trouble holding everything together. Lyre and Seiya are missing, Ash is still recovering from the ordeals in the last book, Piper is being forced to do typical apprentice activities, and the Gaians are fighting with demons all over the city. Things get even more complicated when Piper’s old enemy, Raum, tracks her down and asks her to take care of an escaped draconian. Then Ash and Piper realize that all this unrest might be about more than Gaians versus demons; Samael might be bringing the fight to Earth itself.
This was a spectacular continuation of this absolutely fantastic YA urban fantasy series! I just love how this series has been such a wonderful balance awesome world-building, engaging characters, fast-paced action, romance, and magic. Once I started reading this book I could not put it down; it just grabbed me and wouldn’t let go.
Marie does a really spectacular job writing action scenes; they are just amazing. She also has excellent description throughout which makes it super easy to picture the characters and surroundings. The other part I loved about this book was how interesting all of the characters continue to be, not just our main heros, but everyone.
A big part of what makes this story so engaging is the dynamic between Ash and Piper. Ash has been Piper’s protector throughout the series because he is so much more powerful than her. However in this book the balance of power starts to shift. Piper is concerned for Ash because she hates putting him in danger because of her weakness so she is striving to become an equal partner to him. I loved to see this dynamic and loved to see that her and Ash are trying to have a healthy and balanced relationship based on mutual respect (yay! for healthy YA relationships that don’t involve stalking).
Piper and Ash both struggle with their powers and the shading that accompanies them. There is a lot of discussion in this book about balancing sanity and power and it gave an interesting dynamic to the story.
The situation with the Gaians also gets a lot more intriguing as well. There are different factions of Gaians and these Gaians are wielding new and dangerous weapons that blend technology and magic into deadly force.
Overall I just absolutely loved this book (and this series so far as a whole). This series does everything right. I would highly recommend to fans of action packed urban fantasy who don’t mind a bit of romance. This has been an incredibly engaging series and I am both excited and sad to see how things wrap up in book 5. I really don’t want this series to ever end….
Piper is having trouble holding everything together. Lyre and Seiya are missing, Ash is still recovering from the ordeals in the last book, Piper is being forced to do typical apprentice activities, and the Gaians are fighting with demons all over the city. Things get even more complicated when Piper’s old enemy, Raum, tracks her down and asks her to take care of an escaped draconian. Then Ash and Piper realize that all this unrest might be about more than Gaians versus demons; Samael might be bringing the fight to Earth itself.
This was a spectacular continuation of this absolutely fantastic YA urban fantasy series! I just love how this series has been such a wonderful balance awesome world-building, engaging characters, fast-paced action, romance, and magic. Once I started reading this book I could not put it down; it just grabbed me and wouldn’t let go.
Marie does a really spectacular job writing action scenes; they are just amazing. She also has excellent description throughout which makes it super easy to picture the characters and surroundings. The other part I loved about this book was how interesting all of the characters continue to be, not just our main heros, but everyone.
A big part of what makes this story so engaging is the dynamic between Ash and Piper. Ash has been Piper’s protector throughout the series because he is so much more powerful than her. However in this book the balance of power starts to shift. Piper is concerned for Ash because she hates putting him in danger because of her weakness so she is striving to become an equal partner to him. I loved to see this dynamic and loved to see that her and Ash are trying to have a healthy and balanced relationship based on mutual respect (yay! for healthy YA relationships that don’t involve stalking).
Piper and Ash both struggle with their powers and the shading that accompanies them. There is a lot of discussion in this book about balancing sanity and power and it gave an interesting dynamic to the story.
The situation with the Gaians also gets a lot more intriguing as well. There are different factions of Gaians and these Gaians are wielding new and dangerous weapons that blend technology and magic into deadly force.
Overall I just absolutely loved this book (and this series so far as a whole). This series does everything right. I would highly recommend to fans of action packed urban fantasy who don’t mind a bit of romance. This has been an incredibly engaging series and I am both excited and sad to see how things wrap up in book 5. I really don’t want this series to ever end….
July 3, 2019
-Chase the Dark (Steel & Stone #1): ★★★★½
-Bind the Soul (Steel & Stone #2): ★★★★
-Yield the Night (Steel & Stone #3): ★★★★½
-Reap the Shadows (Steel & Stone #4): ★★½
-Unleash the Storm (Steel & Stone #5): ★★½
2.5 stars
Honestly, I’m not impressed.
With 4 books read out of 5, this is the worst of them.
The previous books managed to really hook me and make me read non-stop, but this one, sadly, felt… empty. Still, it was entertaining.
My main problem was, again, Piper. Everyone seems to love her but I can’t get myself to do it. And, oh boy, in this book I ended up fucking tired of her. Her growth is… so small is almost nonexistent.
In the outside it may look as if she became better but I swear I keep seeing the same way of thinking as in book one, so naive all the fucking time, cocky when she shouldn’t be, still expecting for Ash to be something he isn't, with a black or white vision in a very grey world (which doesn’t make sense after everything she lived asdkasjldkasd).
And don’t get me started in her endless self-loathing in this installment,, something that irritated me as hell.
Let’s hope the next one is better….
-Bind the Soul (Steel & Stone #2): ★★★★
-Yield the Night (Steel & Stone #3): ★★★★½
-Reap the Shadows (Steel & Stone #4): ★★½
-Unleash the Storm (Steel & Stone #5): ★★½
2.5 stars
Honestly, I’m not impressed.
With 4 books read out of 5, this is the worst of them.
The previous books managed to really hook me and make me read non-stop, but this one, sadly, felt… empty. Still, it was entertaining.
My main problem was, again, Piper. Everyone seems to love her but I can’t get myself to do it. And, oh boy, in this book I ended up fucking tired of her. Her growth is… so small is almost nonexistent.
In the outside it may look as if she became better but I swear I keep seeing the same way of thinking as in book one, so naive all the fucking time, cocky when she shouldn’t be, still expecting for Ash to be something he isn't, with a black or white vision in a very grey world (which doesn’t make sense after everything she lived asdkasjldkasd).
And don’t get me started in her endless self-loathing in this installment,, something that irritated me as hell.
Let’s hope the next one is better….
October 11, 2017
I don’t think I’ll ever not love this series. It came out of nowhere, demanded my attention and has kept me gripped book after book after book. Reap the Shadows is the explosive follow up to the devastating cliffhanger of Yield the Night.
Reap the Shadows takes place a few weeks after Yield the Night with Piper trying to find out were Lyre and Seiya are being held captive. Piper grows a lot in this book, she has finally come to terms with her demon heritage and although she still has a bit to go in terms of emotional growth I still loved her as a main character.
Annette ups the pace, the action never stops the adventure is thrilling and as always there’s a plot twist that will leave readers devastated. In addition to this book really being about Piper, we were also given sneak peeks as to Lyre’s mysterious background and demon magic. Lyre has always had an air of mystery about him and he’s kept his secrets very close to the chest but I love being able to get to know a little more and to see his character’s true depth.
Oh and the romance? Soul-consuming as always. There was the occasional moment were I just wanted to scream at Piper for being a little naïve but overall, I could not put the book down when it came to her and Ash. Ash, ahhh what a heartthrob, he’s like the ultimate book boyfriend and I ship him and Piper an insane amount.Although nowhere near as much as I ship Ash with me, ha!
Reap the Shadows was a fantastic instalment to the Steel and Stone series, I'm really sad it's nearly over as I love the whole cast of characters so much. On the other hand I really can't wait to see what Marie comes up with next!
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Reap the Shadows takes place a few weeks after Yield the Night with Piper trying to find out were Lyre and Seiya are being held captive. Piper grows a lot in this book, she has finally come to terms with her demon heritage and although she still has a bit to go in terms of emotional growth I still loved her as a main character.
Annette ups the pace, the action never stops the adventure is thrilling and as always there’s a plot twist that will leave readers devastated. In addition to this book really being about Piper, we were also given sneak peeks as to Lyre’s mysterious background and demon magic. Lyre has always had an air of mystery about him and he’s kept his secrets very close to the chest but I love being able to get to know a little more and to see his character’s true depth.
Oh and the romance? Soul-consuming as always. There was the occasional moment were I just wanted to scream at Piper for being a little naïve but overall, I could not put the book down when it came to her and Ash. Ash, ahhh what a heartthrob, he’s like the ultimate book boyfriend and I ship him and Piper an insane amount.
Reap the Shadows was a fantastic instalment to the Steel and Stone series, I'm really sad it's nearly over as I love the whole cast of characters so much. On the other hand I really can't wait to see what Marie comes up with next!
Literary-ly Obsessed (Blog) | Twitter | Instagram
September 2, 2018
"Some problems aren’t fixable, but that doesn’t mean you should stop. That sense that you can’t move forward ... that’s the trap."
This one was almost as good as Yield the night!
I'm not ready to leave this cast of characters *sobs*
This one was almost as good as Yield the night!
I'm not ready to leave this cast of characters *sobs*
August 6, 2019
3.5 stars
Probably my least favorite in the series so far, mostly because of Piper's annoying "woe is me" attitude and "I have to stay away because I'm a danger" nonsense. Staaaaaawp it.
Anyway, still loving Ash, Lyre, the whole gang. I don't want this series to end!
Probably my least favorite in the series so far, mostly because of Piper's annoying "woe is me" attitude and "I have to stay away because I'm a danger" nonsense. Staaaaaawp it.
Anyway, still loving Ash, Lyre, the whole gang. I don't want this series to end!
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