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Chronicles of a Reluctant Necromancer #4
Ward Against Destruction
Ward de’Ath used to think that nothing could be more terrible than death. Now he realizes there are worse things. Like his never-ending hunger for blood. Even if he conquers the unbearable cravings that drive him headlong toward destruction, he’s a wanted man with a bleak future.
Assassin Celia Carlyle learns she is the only one who can protect Ward from disaster. She loves him–she wants to help him, but no one can tell her how to save him from himself. And the confusing voices in her head scream to let him go.
But Ward's dark trials keep mounting. A malevolent evil is rising in the land, threatening to unleash horror upon the world. The only way Ward can defeat it, and have the chance to marry Celia, is by accepting his fate and becoming the one thing he swore he would never become...
Assassin Celia Carlyle learns she is the only one who can protect Ward from disaster. She loves him–she wants to help him, but no one can tell her how to save him from himself. And the confusing voices in her head scream to let him go.
But Ward's dark trials keep mounting. A malevolent evil is rising in the land, threatening to unleash horror upon the world. The only way Ward can defeat it, and have the chance to marry Celia, is by accepting his fate and becoming the one thing he swore he would never become...
302 pages, Paperback
First published October 5, 2015
1 person is currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Card
6 books285 followersI have always been drawn to story telling. In fact, I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t telling a story in my head or on paper. In grade school, we had journal writing time which I turned into story telling time, weaving tales of magic and adventure that mimicked the fairy tales and myths that I loved to read. It was there, with the help of two very special teachers, that I nurtured this love and started my journey as a writer.
I write fantasy, paranormal romance, and everything in between, seasoned with a good dash of adventure and mystery. Join me on my tales of magic, adventure, and romance.
I write fantasy, paranormal romance, and everything in between, seasoned with a good dash of adventure and mystery. Join me on my tales of magic, adventure, and romance.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
October 4, 2015
I’ve enjoyed reading books in this definitely different paranormal YA/NA series and this is possibly the last book in it. Whilst the author does fill in background information relating to what happened in the previous books, I recommend reading them in order as things develop through the books and probably make more sense if you’ve read the previous ones.
I know folks hate to read spoilers and I’m going to make every effort to avoid them as much as I can. Ward de'Ath has been through so much in the previous novels and now he’s coping with further changes that he had no control over but will impact on his remaining existence. Through it all he’s been with Celia Carlyle, an assassin who is determined to help him because she loves him but she’s also very confused by what she keeps hearing. There are horrendous events and characters for them to fight, dangers for them to face and far reaching decisions to be made if the two are ever to have their HEA.
The romance aspect of this story is probably the least dominant genre, it is much more about good v evil, fighting for love and life generally against natural and paranormal forces. The characters throughout out are complex, well defined and well written. The plot is full of unexpected twists and turmoil, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat as the events come to a dramatic climax.
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too for provided an ARC for me to read in exchange for this, my honest review.
I know folks hate to read spoilers and I’m going to make every effort to avoid them as much as I can. Ward de'Ath has been through so much in the previous novels and now he’s coping with further changes that he had no control over but will impact on his remaining existence. Through it all he’s been with Celia Carlyle, an assassin who is determined to help him because she loves him but she’s also very confused by what she keeps hearing. There are horrendous events and characters for them to fight, dangers for them to face and far reaching decisions to be made if the two are ever to have their HEA.
The romance aspect of this story is probably the least dominant genre, it is much more about good v evil, fighting for love and life generally against natural and paranormal forces. The characters throughout out are complex, well defined and well written. The plot is full of unexpected twists and turmoil, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat as the events come to a dramatic climax.
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too for provided an ARC for me to read in exchange for this, my honest review.
March 16, 2016
Actual rating: 3-3.5
**Possible Spoilers**
Dear Edward De’Ath, eighth generation necromancer:
What am I going to do with you?? Alas, your quadology has come to a close!
I am deeply saddened to hear that your necromantic reindeer games with Celia and the Naz-dogg are at an end.
On the other hand, I am also relieved and a bit exhausted. I don’t think I could bear one more minute of the prolonged, drawn-out angst, self-doubt, and miscommunication between you and Celia. Methinks that your HEA was just a smidge too little, too late. I guess I wanted MORE, greedy wench that I am (*sigh*).
BUT...I do admit: a gradual slow burn is always more welcome than insta-love. Over the course of these books, you and Celia mature as separate individuals, learn to accept each other for who he/she truly is, and discover a deep respect for one another. And when you finally do , it is that much more profound and sweet.
Despite your and Celia's repetitive inner-monologues and the slightly slow, confusing start to Ward Against Destruction, it turned out to be a solid conclusion, on par with the other novels in this series.
Oh Ward! You taught me how to overcome my prejudice and root for a male main character, which I so rarely do! You are a clever, cute, and well-written little beta male, and for that I thank you (*Peta sighs proudly and wipes away a tear*). Set against a decently crafted, interesting world (amongst a sea of crappy YA/NA world-building), your adventures are unique and heartfelt.
I shall miss your adorable, bloody shenanigans.
**Possible Spoilers**
Dear Edward De’Ath, eighth generation necromancer:
What am I going to do with you?? Alas, your quadology has come to a close!
I am deeply saddened to hear that your necromantic reindeer games with Celia and the Naz-dogg are at an end.
On the other hand, I am also relieved and a bit exhausted. I don’t think I could bear one more minute of the prolonged, drawn-out angst, self-doubt, and miscommunication between you and Celia. Methinks that your HEA was just a smidge too little, too late. I guess I wanted MORE, greedy wench that I am (*sigh*).
BUT...I do admit: a gradual slow burn is always more welcome than insta-love. Over the course of these books, you and Celia mature as separate individuals, learn to accept each other for who he/she truly is, and discover a deep respect for one another. And when you finally do , it is that much more profound and sweet.
Despite your and Celia's repetitive inner-monologues and the slightly slow, confusing start to Ward Against Destruction, it turned out to be a solid conclusion, on par with the other novels in this series.
Oh Ward! You taught me how to overcome my prejudice and root for a male main character, which I so rarely do! You are a clever, cute, and well-written little beta male, and for that I thank you (*Peta sighs proudly and wipes away a tear*). Set against a decently crafted, interesting world (amongst a sea of crappy YA/NA world-building), your adventures are unique and heartfelt.
I shall miss your adorable, bloody shenanigans.
October 8, 2015
**I received this book for free from (Publisher) via (NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.**
*Genre* Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*My Thoughts*
Ward Against Destruction is the fourth and final novel in the Chronicles of a Reluctant Necromancer series. Picking up right where Ward Against Disaster left off, this could be the most dangerous and hardest challenge our group of heroes (Ward de'Ath, Celia Carlyle, and Nazarius) has faced since Ward brought Celia back from the dead. I have expressed my love for this series since the beginning. Here is a character in Ward who has been run out of medical school, yet never gave up his love for saving people in need, but is now something he didn't see coming. He is the dark sheep of a family of necromancer who now want him dead.
*Full Review Posting @ Gizmos Reviews 10/09/2015* Link to Follow*
Published: October 5th 2015
*Genre* Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*My Thoughts*
Ward Against Destruction is the fourth and final novel in the Chronicles of a Reluctant Necromancer series. Picking up right where Ward Against Disaster left off, this could be the most dangerous and hardest challenge our group of heroes (Ward de'Ath, Celia Carlyle, and Nazarius) has faced since Ward brought Celia back from the dead. I have expressed my love for this series since the beginning. Here is a character in Ward who has been run out of medical school, yet never gave up his love for saving people in need, but is now something he didn't see coming. He is the dark sheep of a family of necromancer who now want him dead.
*Full Review Posting @ Gizmos Reviews 10/09/2015* Link to Follow*
Published: October 5th 2015
October 22, 2015
Ward and Celia have fled assassins, innocresti and seers yet can they escape the dark fate that seems determined to ensnare them.
Well... This is book 4 in the chronicles of the necromancer series and it's as good as the others. Having left Dulthyne following the battle which irrevocably changed Ward's fate, Ward, Celia and Nazarius find themselves in a village ruled by an innocresti and his pirate friends. Discovering the mythical gate to the Dark Son's realm, Ward and the others stay to prevent it's opening whilst trying to avoid Ward's necromancer Grandfather.
This is a masterful book, I could not put it down. The action sequences were heart stopping and the romance, whilst long overdue, was sweet yet fiery. Melanie Ward managed to keep me guessing at the motivations of one of the characters for entirity of the book and I loved the final revelation about Ward's powers. Ward continued to surprise and endear me throughout the book and Celia is as amazing as ever. I am now putting in a request for a book from Nazarius' POV as his character is great fun.
I am now feeling a little bereft. I would love to see more of this world, perhaps exploring the reasons why women with magic are distrusted or doing more with the Quayestri. The world building is great and it nice to see a take on necromancy that isn't forbidden or sordid. I want to know more about the ancients and the magic. So please Melanie Card, write more... Not necessarily Ward and Celia but more about the world.
I will now give a small confession, whilst I was given access to this book as a free ARC, I failed to download it before it was archived, but as I loved the rest of the series and wanted to review this as part of this tour, I purchased this book from Amazon. I love this series so much that I will be purchasing the physical books for my bookshelves.
Well... This is book 4 in the chronicles of the necromancer series and it's as good as the others. Having left Dulthyne following the battle which irrevocably changed Ward's fate, Ward, Celia and Nazarius find themselves in a village ruled by an innocresti and his pirate friends. Discovering the mythical gate to the Dark Son's realm, Ward and the others stay to prevent it's opening whilst trying to avoid Ward's necromancer Grandfather.
This is a masterful book, I could not put it down. The action sequences were heart stopping and the romance, whilst long overdue, was sweet yet fiery. Melanie Ward managed to keep me guessing at the motivations of one of the characters for entirity of the book and I loved the final revelation about Ward's powers. Ward continued to surprise and endear me throughout the book and Celia is as amazing as ever. I am now putting in a request for a book from Nazarius' POV as his character is great fun.
I am now feeling a little bereft. I would love to see more of this world, perhaps exploring the reasons why women with magic are distrusted or doing more with the Quayestri. The world building is great and it nice to see a take on necromancy that isn't forbidden or sordid. I want to know more about the ancients and the magic. So please Melanie Card, write more... Not necessarily Ward and Celia but more about the world.
I will now give a small confession, whilst I was given access to this book as a free ARC, I failed to download it before it was archived, but as I loved the rest of the series and wanted to review this as part of this tour, I purchased this book from Amazon. I love this series so much that I will be purchasing the physical books for my bookshelves.
October 4, 2015
I received an ARC through NetGalley.
Ward Against Destruction was an exciting finish to this unique series! The story picks up immediately where we left off, but Ward, Celia, and Nazarius aren't safe yet. In fact, they'll have to face death one more time before being done with all of this chaos. There's an evil presence on a small island near the village they wind up in, and it's much worse than anything they've faced before. Ward still has his unshakable sense of duty, so he's going to do whatever it takes to make sure the villagers are safe.
Ward Against Destruction did start off a bit rough for me. There's a lot of repetition and it got annoying. We're reminded of some facts, which was great as a recap the first time, but I really didn't need each character to tell me the exact same thing multiple times. But once that's past, the story picks up the pace quite a bit. Ward is really struggling with his new reality as a "monster" because he still has this overwhelming need to heal people, even if their blood calls to him more than ever. Luckily, he has Celia to reign him in when things get too much.
Speaking of Celia, she and Ward continued to drive me crazy! You'd think that with the soul bond, they'd finally figure out that they both feel the same way about each other. Well, nope! There's still a ton of miscommunication! Ward's feelings may be influences by the fact that Celia saved him. Ward thinks Celia is disgusted by what he's becoming rather than guilty for what she had to do. You guys, get to kissing! Of course, being the last book, the tension has to be resolved and I was very happy with how it all turned out.
Ward Against Destruction was a good ending to this series. It's a pretty typical good trumps evil type ending, but that's what it's been building to this entire time.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
Ward Against Destruction was an exciting finish to this unique series! The story picks up immediately where we left off, but Ward, Celia, and Nazarius aren't safe yet. In fact, they'll have to face death one more time before being done with all of this chaos. There's an evil presence on a small island near the village they wind up in, and it's much worse than anything they've faced before. Ward still has his unshakable sense of duty, so he's going to do whatever it takes to make sure the villagers are safe.
Ward Against Destruction did start off a bit rough for me. There's a lot of repetition and it got annoying. We're reminded of some facts, which was great as a recap the first time, but I really didn't need each character to tell me the exact same thing multiple times. But once that's past, the story picks up the pace quite a bit. Ward is really struggling with his new reality as a "monster" because he still has this overwhelming need to heal people, even if their blood calls to him more than ever. Luckily, he has Celia to reign him in when things get too much.
Speaking of Celia, she and Ward continued to drive me crazy! You'd think that with the soul bond, they'd finally figure out that they both feel the same way about each other. Well, nope! There's still a ton of miscommunication! Ward's feelings may be influences by the fact that Celia saved him. Ward thinks Celia is disgusted by what he's becoming rather than guilty for what she had to do. You guys, get to kissing! Of course, being the last book, the tension has to be resolved and I was very happy with how it all turned out.
Ward Against Destruction was a good ending to this series. It's a pretty typical good trumps evil type ending, but that's what it's been building to this entire time.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
November 11, 2015
This is perhaps the darkest book in The Chronicles of A Reluctant Necromancer, and it's a very fast read.
Ward and Celia take off exactly where they left off in the previous book - on the run from Ward's grandfather. There are a few threads and players but what it boils down to is: the crew passes through a village which got besieged by an evil necromancer - Innocroesti, who is trying to open the gates to hell.
Of course, despite Celia's need to run, Ward is determined to help. The Seer pushes him to help the villagers, who are getting sacrificed left, right and centre. Celia wants them to keep running, and The Quaestri tracker is tired of all the games and agrees with Celia.
There is lots of fighting, healing and magicking. You will also be glad to know that Celia's and Ward's torturous love for each other finally finds its way to express itself. The balance of power is totally messed up, and Ward is the one who has to fight against the tide of darkness which threatens to swallow him whole, while Celia loses some of her unshakable determination.
Melanie Card's style is very straightforward and will work well with a fantasy novice. She gives you what you need to know when you need to know and doesn't infodump anything on an unsuspecting reader. Both Celia and Ward are dynamic, charismatic characters, and while their feelings and thoughts might lack complexity, they are compelling and you admire their strength and sense of camaraderie.
I enjoyed it. Recommended.
Ward and Celia take off exactly where they left off in the previous book - on the run from Ward's grandfather. There are a few threads and players but what it boils down to is: the crew passes through a village which got besieged by an evil necromancer - Innocroesti, who is trying to open the gates to hell.
Of course, despite Celia's need to run, Ward is determined to help. The Seer pushes him to help the villagers, who are getting sacrificed left, right and centre. Celia wants them to keep running, and The Quaestri tracker is tired of all the games and agrees with Celia.
There is lots of fighting, healing and magicking. You will also be glad to know that Celia's and Ward's torturous love for each other finally finds its way to express itself. The balance of power is totally messed up, and Ward is the one who has to fight against the tide of darkness which threatens to swallow him whole, while Celia loses some of her unshakable determination.
Melanie Card's style is very straightforward and will work well with a fantasy novice. She gives you what you need to know when you need to know and doesn't infodump anything on an unsuspecting reader. Both Celia and Ward are dynamic, charismatic characters, and while their feelings and thoughts might lack complexity, they are compelling and you admire their strength and sense of camaraderie.
I enjoyed it. Recommended.
September 21, 2015
3.5 stars
Things really move forward in this installment! It feels like the final book of the series but it's also left open enough for more adventures.
Action packed with BIG developments but Celia and Ward got pretty frustrating with all the does he like me? Does she hate me? stuff. The reasons were solid but just stop and talk for a second already! Take away the relationship drama and this is a four star read - overall 3.5 stars
Things really move forward in this installment! It feels like the final book of the series but it's also left open enough for more adventures.
Action packed with BIG developments but Celia and Ward got pretty frustrating with all the does he like me? Does she hate me? stuff. The reasons were solid but just stop and talk for a second already! Take away the relationship drama and this is a four star read - overall 3.5 stars
November 14, 2015
Love it!!!! This series has been an amazing one. I like the topic and the way the story grows and gets complicated. Ward is an adorable and funny character and the interaction with Celia is great. I believe the end is great and I can easily see space for more adventures that I will be happy to read.
January 9, 2016
Review to come, but... Good wrap to the series - a bit much of the "misunderstanding" going on but liked the bit of the twist to Ward's fate.
October 6, 2015
Review to come :3
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews