What do you think?
Rate this book
The Messenger Chronicles #2
Game of Lies
The Messenger rocked your world, and now she's back. But have her lies finally caught up with her?
Trust doesn't come easy for Kesh Lasota. She survived life as a slave, survived the Dreamweaver's touch, but surviving Marshal Kellee and the mysterious Talen is a whole other game, one she's not sure she's ready for.
When the three are captured by a bloodthirsty fae general sweeping through the last of Halow's human colonies, the only weapons they have left are lies. And so Kesh must pretend to be the gladiator they all expect, while Kellee is forced to fight against her, and Talen is... Well, just who is Talen when he can command soldiers with a glance and move among the fae elite as though he belongs?
Trust doesn't come easy for Kesh Lasota, neither does love. She must survive both, or everything she's fought for will be lost forever, including her men.
The enchanting & mind-blowing Messenger series continues with more action, more romance, and more exciting twists.
PLEASE NOTE: The Messenger Chronicles is a reverse harem. The reverse harem elements develop during the series.
NOTE: Contains graphic sex scenes.
What is a reverse harem? A harem is not all sex. A true harem focuses on the relationships between a group of individuals centered around a single person. In reverse harem, that one person is female. The Messenger series is a true slow-burn reverse harem. The female main character forms relationships (some sexual, some emotional) with more than three males. Slow-burn means the sexual elements of the harem develop over the course of the series.
Trust doesn't come easy for Kesh Lasota. She survived life as a slave, survived the Dreamweaver's touch, but surviving Marshal Kellee and the mysterious Talen is a whole other game, one she's not sure she's ready for.
When the three are captured by a bloodthirsty fae general sweeping through the last of Halow's human colonies, the only weapons they have left are lies. And so Kesh must pretend to be the gladiator they all expect, while Kellee is forced to fight against her, and Talen is... Well, just who is Talen when he can command soldiers with a glance and move among the fae elite as though he belongs?
Trust doesn't come easy for Kesh Lasota, neither does love. She must survive both, or everything she's fought for will be lost forever, including her men.
The enchanting & mind-blowing Messenger series continues with more action, more romance, and more exciting twists.
PLEASE NOTE: The Messenger Chronicles is a reverse harem. The reverse harem elements develop during the series.
NOTE: Contains graphic sex scenes.
What is a reverse harem? A harem is not all sex. A true harem focuses on the relationships between a group of individuals centered around a single person. In reverse harem, that one person is female. The Messenger series is a true slow-burn reverse harem. The female main character forms relationships (some sexual, some emotional) with more than three males. Slow-burn means the sexual elements of the harem develop over the course of the series.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2018
294 people are currently reading
742 people want to read
About the author
Pippa DaCosta
79 books1,557 followersTwo-time DragonCon Finalist & Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award semi-finalist--- "Wait a second. Let's cut to the chase. I write kick-ass urban fantasy & sci-fi novels with conflicted characters, breathless action, and no-holds-barred dialogue. My books may not leave you feeling all fluffy and warm inside, but they will excite you. There will be plot-twists, angst, probably a few dead bodies, and very likely your favorite character will turn out to be the bad guy. Don't say I didn't warn you..."
www.pippadacosta.com
(I review on Goodreads as a reader, not a writer. Reviews here are my personal opinion, not a professional one).
www.pippadacosta.com
(I review on Goodreads as a reader, not a writer. Reviews here are my personal opinion, not a professional one).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
June 30, 2019
Before I review this, I want to thank my buddy-reader, The wonderful Brittain. I had so much fun reading this with you and exchanging theories and opinions throughout, Brittain. Normally, I would have shied away from books that get shelved in the romance section, but reading should be an adventure, and it isn't much of an adventure if we don't take any chances. Thank you for convincing me to step out of my comfort zone, Brittain, without you, I may never have discovered this amazing book series. Our wonderful buddy reads is just one of the 9,438,176 reasons why I'm so happy to be friends with you!
(The fact that we both appreciate and share cute doggy pictures is another of those 9,438,176 reasons!)
Normally, I would start a review with a synopsis of the book, but in this case, it's practically impossible to get into plot points without spoiling the twists of the first book. So, instead of a synopsis, I'll just say that if you haven't read Shoot the Messenger yet, you really should because it is absolutely awesome! And if you have read the first book in the Messenger series, then you don't even need a plot synopsis for this one as chances are you've already read it, since the first book was absolutely awesome!
And now, without further ado, here is my...
”Book, you have the right to a speedy trial” review!
THE DEFENSE
- More character development for Kesh Lasota.
In the first book, Kesh was more of an enigma, so it was hard to really know her. But after learning who she really was, her actions had even more weight this time around. From having to make an impossibly hard choice in the very first chapter, to her own journey of self discovery, Kesh truly does continue to grow throughout the novel. It's a nice change of pace from those book characters who stagnate and don't grow at all from the first page to the last!
(If Michelle Obama tells you to grow up, you grow the f**k up, dammit!)
- More insight given into the secondary characters, too.
My one complaint about the first book was that some of the background characters never really stepped out of the background. Even Kesh's fae companion Talen wasn't given too much to do other than the occasional dialogue. However, once Talen is reunited with the fae, we learn a lot more about him, and we discover that there is still a lot we do not know about him as well. Also, minor characters introduced in this volume are more fleshed out, from the charming yet suspicious diplomat Devere to a seemingly meek servant who is much stronger than she appears.
- A much deeper exploration of the Fae world this time around.
The first book of this science fiction/fantasy series focused more on the sci-fi, but this time around the world has much more of a fantasy flavor to it. I especially found the fae elements fascinating. From new combatants for Kesh like pixies and banshees, to a living spaceship with two beating hearts powering it, Pippa Dacosta really made the organic elements of the fae world come alive!
- Another great villain.
The first book gave us the Dreamweaver as an antagonist, and this one gives us the Harvester. Arrogant yet formidable enough to have earned all that confidence, Sjora the Harvester is exactly the kind of snarky fun villain that we love to root against and for at the same time. Although... "Dreamweaver", "Harvester"... these books are really making me want a cool nickname of my own! But cool nicknames are harder to come up with than you realize...
(Much, much harder!)
- Rich descriptions throughout.
Once again, Pippa DaCosta proves herself to be a very talented storyweaver. From her lush descriptions of the world of the fae, to her exciting accounts of Kesh Lasota as an action heroine in all her ass-kicking, whip-snapping glory, Pippa doesn't tell you a story, she gives you a living, breathing world and makes you feel like a participant in it.
- SMUT ALERT!!!
As I mentioned earlier, I usually shy away from the more *ahem* raunchier reads, and where the first book turned out to be so tame in the romance department, I didn't really have my reading preferences challenged with that one. And while this one only had a few smutty moments, they certainly did heat things up. While I can't honestly say that this book turned me into a convert and convinced me to start shelving up on reverse-harem novels, I will say that Pippa does a masterful job at portraying the emotions in those moments. I'm appreciating this slow-burn approach, as I think it will make it easier for me for when we get to the real debauchery later on in this series!
THE PROSECUTION
- Some pacing problems in the first half.
It may be unfair to judge this book based on the merits of the first book, but after the first book was so fast-paced and exciting, this one really felt like it stalled for much of the first half. So much of the earlier chapters take place in the same setting, giving that portion of the novel an almost "bottle episode" feel to them. Even the action sequences were confined to an arena surrounding and felt a bit forced, like they just there to try to keep things from getting dull instead of really developing the story in any way. The pacing does get much better in the second half, but the static feel of parts of the first half caused me to deduct a star from my rating.
- A little too grim at times.
Again, maybe I was just spoiled after the first book gave us such clever banter, but I was disappointed at how little humor there was in the first half of this novel. In all fairness, things were certainly going to be more serious as the stakes were raised by the events of the first book, but still a little levity in some of those early chapters would have been welcome. While the addition of a snarkier character in the latter half did finally add a few laughs, during the first half, I could really relate to this Dorothy in the face of so much grim!
THE VERDICT
While Game of Lies doesn't quite reach the dizzying heights or fast pace of its predecessor, it is still an incredible novel in its own right. With a multilayered heroine facing high stakes and formidable opponents, this was a lot of fun to read, even when things got a little too grim at times. Pippa DaCosta continues to amaze me with her imaginative and vibrant writing, and I can't wait to read more of this series, especially since I'll be reading with with a wonderful friend!
(The fact that we both appreciate and share cute doggy pictures is another of those 9,438,176 reasons!)
Normally, I would start a review with a synopsis of the book, but in this case, it's practically impossible to get into plot points without spoiling the twists of the first book. So, instead of a synopsis, I'll just say that if you haven't read Shoot the Messenger yet, you really should because it is absolutely awesome! And if you have read the first book in the Messenger series, then you don't even need a plot synopsis for this one as chances are you've already read it, since the first book was absolutely awesome!
And now, without further ado, here is my...
”Book, you have the right to a speedy trial” review!
THE DEFENSE
- More character development for Kesh Lasota.
In the first book, Kesh was more of an enigma, so it was hard to really know her. But after learning who she really was, her actions had even more weight this time around. From having to make an impossibly hard choice in the very first chapter, to her own journey of self discovery, Kesh truly does continue to grow throughout the novel. It's a nice change of pace from those book characters who stagnate and don't grow at all from the first page to the last!
(If Michelle Obama tells you to grow up, you grow the f**k up, dammit!)
- More insight given into the secondary characters, too.
My one complaint about the first book was that some of the background characters never really stepped out of the background. Even Kesh's fae companion Talen wasn't given too much to do other than the occasional dialogue. However, once Talen is reunited with the fae, we learn a lot more about him, and we discover that there is still a lot we do not know about him as well. Also, minor characters introduced in this volume are more fleshed out, from the charming yet suspicious diplomat Devere to a seemingly meek servant who is much stronger than she appears.
- A much deeper exploration of the Fae world this time around.
The first book of this science fiction/fantasy series focused more on the sci-fi, but this time around the world has much more of a fantasy flavor to it. I especially found the fae elements fascinating. From new combatants for Kesh like pixies and banshees, to a living spaceship with two beating hearts powering it, Pippa Dacosta really made the organic elements of the fae world come alive!
- Another great villain.
The first book gave us the Dreamweaver as an antagonist, and this one gives us the Harvester. Arrogant yet formidable enough to have earned all that confidence, Sjora the Harvester is exactly the kind of snarky fun villain that we love to root against and for at the same time. Although... "Dreamweaver", "Harvester"... these books are really making me want a cool nickname of my own! But cool nicknames are harder to come up with than you realize...
(Much, much harder!)
- Rich descriptions throughout.
Once again, Pippa DaCosta proves herself to be a very talented storyweaver. From her lush descriptions of the world of the fae, to her exciting accounts of Kesh Lasota as an action heroine in all her ass-kicking, whip-snapping glory, Pippa doesn't tell you a story, she gives you a living, breathing world and makes you feel like a participant in it.
- SMUT ALERT!!!
As I mentioned earlier, I usually shy away from the more *ahem* raunchier reads, and where the first book turned out to be so tame in the romance department, I didn't really have my reading preferences challenged with that one. And while this one only had a few smutty moments, they certainly did heat things up. While I can't honestly say that this book turned me into a convert and convinced me to start shelving up on reverse-harem novels, I will say that Pippa does a masterful job at portraying the emotions in those moments. I'm appreciating this slow-burn approach, as I think it will make it easier for me for when we get to the real debauchery later on in this series!
THE PROSECUTION
- Some pacing problems in the first half.
It may be unfair to judge this book based on the merits of the first book, but after the first book was so fast-paced and exciting, this one really felt like it stalled for much of the first half. So much of the earlier chapters take place in the same setting, giving that portion of the novel an almost "bottle episode" feel to them. Even the action sequences were confined to an arena surrounding and felt a bit forced, like they just there to try to keep things from getting dull instead of really developing the story in any way. The pacing does get much better in the second half, but the static feel of parts of the first half caused me to deduct a star from my rating.
- A little too grim at times.
Again, maybe I was just spoiled after the first book gave us such clever banter, but I was disappointed at how little humor there was in the first half of this novel. In all fairness, things were certainly going to be more serious as the stakes were raised by the events of the first book, but still a little levity in some of those early chapters would have been welcome. While the addition of a snarkier character in the latter half did finally add a few laughs, during the first half, I could really relate to this Dorothy in the face of so much grim!
THE VERDICT
While Game of Lies doesn't quite reach the dizzying heights or fast pace of its predecessor, it is still an incredible novel in its own right. With a multilayered heroine facing high stakes and formidable opponents, this was a lot of fun to read, even when things got a little too grim at times. Pippa DaCosta continues to amaze me with her imaginative and vibrant writing, and I can't wait to read more of this series, especially since I'll be reading with with a wonderful friend!
July 16, 2024
✅ Action
✅ Plot and pace
✅ Politics and mysteries
✅ World-building
✅ Characters
✅ Sexual tension
✅🆗 Smut (the RH is slowly building)
This book was definitely as good as the first one! It's darker and grimmer, it's violent, full of distrust and angst, and I LOVED IT. I am in love with this dysfunctional crew that loves and hates each other at the same time. They want to trust each other, long for love and acceptance but are drowning in resentment and anger.
We have the chance to discover more things about the fae space world and to learn more about the characters in this sequel. The way that the author mixed the traditional Faerie (as a living, mythical being) and the space full of technology still amazes me. We also get to see more of Faerie and her magical creatures (banshees, kelpies, pixies) in this book, which adds an extra touch of magic to the sci-fi and tech vibe.
Game of Lies starts right after the end of Shoot the Messenger. The trio is now trying to survive the new fae threat. Kesh is still healing from her time with Eledan (and is having dangerous hallucinations) and they all have to lie their way out of every nasty situation they encounter in Game of Lies. They need to pretend and (try to) trust each other even though Kesh has done nothing but lie to Kellee and Talen, and Talen clearly has a hidden agenda or some dark secrets that he wishes to keep for himself. Once again, there is a grand ending where we meet a surprising new character who I feel will become more important in the next book. I’m not sure yet if I am happy with this new character or not, we’ll see in the next book.
I liked how the first book ended with the big revelation that Kesh was not who she pretended to be, but I must admit that she was a little infuriating in this sequel. I get that being a Saru means that she wants to please and to be noticed by her fae master, it is a part of her, but she spent so much time wondering about good and bad and whether she wanted to change or not that she made bad and selfish decisions and ended up hurting Kellee and Talen (who I both love very much, especially Talen).
In her defense, she does grow a lot in this book though. From the very first chapter, she has to make hard decisions, and she tries her best not to disappoint Kellee and Talen, and to keep them safe. She embarks on a journey of self-discovery in Game of Lies and while she did infuriate me a few times, there is still hope for her, and I am pretty sure that I will end up liking her much more as the series continues.
The romance is evolving really slowly in this series, I kind of like it that way, it was not an insta-love story (though it was insta-lust) as we see in many YA series these days. We are far from insta-love actually, Talen and Kesh have a relationship full of sexual tension (and Talen is HOT), but Talen is being so distant and mysterious at times that I don't see them crossing that line soon (but I KNOW they will someday)... I also like that even though we learned about Talen’s past and about him in general in this book, there is still so much mystery and secrets that need to be uncovered. I mean, the mystery, the dangerous side, the dark secrets, the super-sexiness… what’s not to love?! I want a Talen too, please, and thank you.
Kellee and Kesh is another story, they have a love-hate relationship that is toxic at times... But I love the angst it adds to the story! I'm having a hard time understanding why they are both so inexplicably attracted to her though considering her not-so-nice personality... But I’m not one to turn down a well-done RH series so I’ll just continue and enjoy all the sexiness, hot alpha-males, and sexual tension between them all.
I fell in love with Eledan as a villain in the first book, and I wanted more of him and his illusions in this book. We do have another great villain though, as Kesh and her men are taken in by Sjora, the Harvester, a ruthless and formidable general that is well-developed enough for us to really enjoy hating her. But I still missed Eledan…
Overall, this book was a very good sequel and the title is just perfect. Everything in this book is about trust, lies, counter-lies, unexpected twists, and deception. If you enjoyed the first one, you are in for another wild ride!
1. Shoot the Messenger ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
✅ Plot and pace
✅ Politics and mysteries
✅ World-building
✅ Characters
✅ Sexual tension
✅🆗 Smut (the RH is slowly building)
“Are you afraid of the Wraithmaker?
She'll take your heart. She makes you hate her.
Dare you get close to the Wraithmaker?
Come, little fae, come closer.
Dare you tempt the Wraithmaker?
She killed a Queen, made a King, but they say she thinks it’s all a dream.”
This book was definitely as good as the first one! It's darker and grimmer, it's violent, full of distrust and angst, and I LOVED IT. I am in love with this dysfunctional crew that loves and hates each other at the same time. They want to trust each other, long for love and acceptance but are drowning in resentment and anger.
We have the chance to discover more things about the fae space world and to learn more about the characters in this sequel. The way that the author mixed the traditional Faerie (as a living, mythical being) and the space full of technology still amazes me. We also get to see more of Faerie and her magical creatures (banshees, kelpies, pixies) in this book, which adds an extra touch of magic to the sci-fi and tech vibe.
When the fae had returned to Halow just a month ago, they’d brought their storms with them. In the past, they had called their visit cleansing. A thousand years later, I suspected they no longer bother prettying it up. Rain washed the blood from their path, and that’s all they cared about. What kind of self-respecting fae wanted worthless human blood on their boots?
Game of Lies starts right after the end of Shoot the Messenger. The trio is now trying to survive the new fae threat. Kesh is still healing from her time with Eledan (and is having dangerous hallucinations) and they all have to lie their way out of every nasty situation they encounter in Game of Lies. They need to pretend and (try to) trust each other even though Kesh has done nothing but lie to Kellee and Talen, and Talen clearly has a hidden agenda or some dark secrets that he wishes to keep for himself. Once again, there is a grand ending where we meet a surprising new character who I feel will become more important in the next book. I’m not sure yet if I am happy with this new character or not, we’ll see in the next book.
"Kesh Lasota is the dream of a killer who thinks she can pretend to be good, but you can’t take the fae out of the saru and you can’t take the lies out of the Wraithmaker."
I liked how the first book ended with the big revelation that Kesh was not who she pretended to be, but I must admit that she was a little infuriating in this sequel. I get that being a Saru means that she wants to please and to be noticed by her fae master, it is a part of her, but she spent so much time wondering about good and bad and whether she wanted to change or not that she made bad and selfish decisions and ended up hurting Kellee and Talen (who I both love very much, especially Talen).
In her defense, she does grow a lot in this book though. From the very first chapter, she has to make hard decisions, and she tries her best not to disappoint Kellee and Talen, and to keep them safe. She embarks on a journey of self-discovery in Game of Lies and while she did infuriate me a few times, there is still hope for her, and I am pretty sure that I will end up liking her much more as the series continues.
I’d thought Kellee was dangerous, but Kellee’s threat was brash and obvious, while Talen’s cut like the flash of a precision scalpel – so cleanly you didn’t know you were bleeding until it was too late.
The romance is evolving really slowly in this series, I kind of like it that way, it was not an insta-love story (though it was insta-lust) as we see in many YA series these days. We are far from insta-love actually, Talen and Kesh have a relationship full of sexual tension (and Talen is HOT), but Talen is being so distant and mysterious at times that I don't see them crossing that line soon (but I KNOW they will someday)... I also like that even though we learned about Talen’s past and about him in general in this book, there is still so much mystery and secrets that need to be uncovered. I mean, the mystery, the dangerous side, the dark secrets, the super-sexiness… what’s not to love?! I want a Talen too, please, and thank you.
”What did you think we were, Kesh? Did you think we were something special? Did you think we had a spark?”
I felt the corners of my mouth turn down and couldn’t stop it, couldn’t hide how his words hurt.
“You thought we were friends?”
Kellee likely didn’t want to see it, but in many ways, we were the same. The only thing that separated us was a line of morals. He had them. I didn’t.
Kellee and Kesh is another story, they have a love-hate relationship that is toxic at times... But I love the angst it adds to the story! I'm having a hard time understanding why they are both so inexplicably attracted to her though considering her not-so-nice personality... But I’m not one to turn down a well-done RH series so I’ll just continue and enjoy all the sexiness, hot alpha-males, and sexual tension between them all.
I fell in love with Eledan as a villain in the first book, and I wanted more of him and his illusions in this book. We do have another great villain though, as Kesh and her men are taken in by Sjora, the Harvester, a ruthless and formidable general that is well-developed enough for us to really enjoy hating her. But I still missed Eledan…
”The Wraithmaker has friends?” Sjora asked.
“not many,” Kellee quirked, delighting Sjora.
“Apparently.” I beamed back a him.
“She kills the good ones.”
“Just the assholes and pretty boys.”
Overall, this book was a very good sequel and the title is just perfect. Everything in this book is about trust, lies, counter-lies, unexpected twists, and deception. If you enjoyed the first one, you are in for another wild ride!
1. Shoot the Messenger ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
Read
March 28, 2018“I am everything you fear, every wrong that’s ever been done to you. I can wreck you with a touch…” His fingers brushed so lightly against my chin that I wondered if this was real, if he was real. “…destroy you with a kiss.”
~ Talen, Game of Lies, #2 Messenger
***
Holy stardust, if you thought Shoot the Messenger was mind-blowing, Game of Lies is going to blow you away.
***
I've been getting a bunch of questions so figured I'd answer a few here:
1, Will Kesh be getting more men?
Yes. Her harem is just warming up.
2, Is Sota coming back?
Yes.
3, How many books are planned for the series?
Five.
4, What hair products does Eledan use?
Future L'Oréal Silky & Smooth with extract of stardust, because he's worth it.
~ Talen, Game of Lies, #2 Messenger
***
Holy stardust, if you thought Shoot the Messenger was mind-blowing, Game of Lies is going to blow you away.
***
I've been getting a bunch of questions so figured I'd answer a few here:
1, Will Kesh be getting more men?
Yes. Her harem is just warming up.
2, Is Sota coming back?
Yes.
3, How many books are planned for the series?
Five.
4, What hair products does Eledan use?
Future L'Oréal Silky & Smooth with extract of stardust, because he's worth it.
September 21, 2023
Rating : 5 stars
1. Don't lose your mind trying to make guesses, you would be wrong anyway;
2. The title is oh so very accurate;
3. There are no good guys. Never never expect things to go smoothly.
Game of Lies is even better than the first book.
It's amazing, it's draining, it's a kick in the gut.
Is it the book I wanted? No.
But that only makes it even better.
This story is messed up, complex, not for the faint of heart. It's not a love story, it's not filled with pretty sentiments, with heroes and selflessness. It's sad, it's violent, full of distrust and disgust and can even become excruciating. But it's always impressive, shocking, with a fantastic world building and a desperately not perfect cast.
Kesh, Talen, Kellee. Three very flawed, fucked up, borderline psychotic characters. One is a master of lies, going madder by the second, feeling like shit most of the time and desperately trying to be good. The second is a mystery, too fae yet too little, someone we know nothing about except an on and off devotion to Kesh. And the third one is a hypocrite, a righteous ass and a monster that lets no emotions out.
They are allies, they are enemies, they loath one another yet long for their acceptance. They don't hold each other hands, they're dysfunctional, toxic but as necessary as oxygen. And I can't get enough of them.
I can't get enough of any of it.
Thank you Pippa DaCosta for providing me this ARC~
booked.unicorn
1. Don't lose your mind trying to make guesses, you would be wrong anyway;
2. The title is oh so very accurate;
3. There are no good guys. Never never expect things to go smoothly.
Are you afraid of the Wraithmaker?
He takes your mind, makes it his, takes your soul, makes you cruel...
She'll take your heart. She makes you hate her.
Dare you get close to the Wraithmaker?
Come, little fae, come closer.
Dare you tempt the Wraithmaker?
Game of Lies is even better than the first book.
It's amazing, it's draining, it's a kick in the gut.
Is it the book I wanted? No.
But that only makes it even better.
This story is messed up, complex, not for the faint of heart. It's not a love story, it's not filled with pretty sentiments, with heroes and selflessness. It's sad, it's violent, full of distrust and disgust and can even become excruciating. But it's always impressive, shocking, with a fantastic world building and a desperately not perfect cast.
Kesh, Talen, Kellee. Three very flawed, fucked up, borderline psychotic characters. One is a master of lies, going madder by the second, feeling like shit most of the time and desperately trying to be good. The second is a mystery, too fae yet too little, someone we know nothing about except an on and off devotion to Kesh. And the third one is a hypocrite, a righteous ass and a monster that lets no emotions out.
They are allies, they are enemies, they loath one another yet long for their acceptance. They don't hold each other hands, they're dysfunctional, toxic but as necessary as oxygen. And I can't get enough of them.
I can't get enough of any of it.
Thank you Pippa DaCosta for providing me this ARC~
booked.unicorn
August 30, 2018
1st read - May 2018
2nd read - August 2018
It's no secret I'm a Pippa DaCosta superfan and I loved everything about Shoot the Messenger so I was ridiculously excited for this sequel and I'm very happy to say I wasn't disappointed. Game of Lies took everything I love about this series and ramped it up to a whole new level. Secrets, hidden identities, forgotten memories, simmering sexual tension, distrust, uneasy alliances, wicked enemies, questionable friends, it all mixes together into a perfect story that will have you gripped from the very first page.
It's really hard to review a series that comes with so many twists because I'd hate to give something away accidentally but Kesh and her allies are left facing an impossible enemy when they are captured by one of the most vicious fae war generals in the Halow system. The revelations at the end of the previous book pretty much destroyed the trust between Kesh, Kellee and Talen but the only way they're going to survive this mess is if they can find a way to get past that and work together once more. You can feel the tension building between all three of them but with so many secrets and lies between them they're definitely not in a good place for romance yet. We also get to meet a surprising new character who I'm really hoping will be joining the harem but I really can't talk about them without ruining a fabulous surprise so you'll just have to read the book for yourself to find out who I'm talking about!
Everything about this book was epic, from the fabulous world building and to the depth of the characters. Game of Lies couldn't have a more perfect title because it is 100% a story of lies and deception, one that will take everything you thought you knew and twist it in a new direction. I can't wait to see where Pippa DaCosta takes us next because it's sure to be a wild ride!
______________________
I have an ARC, I have an ARC, I HAVE AN ARC 🎉🎉🎉🎉 *happy dancing ensues*
This is jumping straight to the top of my to read mountain but I might treat myself to a reread of Shoot the Messenger first just so all the twisty goodness is fresh in my mind going into Game of Lies!
______________________
OMG look at that cover!!
Isn't it gorgeous 😍😍😍
2nd read - August 2018
It's no secret I'm a Pippa DaCosta superfan and I loved everything about Shoot the Messenger so I was ridiculously excited for this sequel and I'm very happy to say I wasn't disappointed. Game of Lies took everything I love about this series and ramped it up to a whole new level. Secrets, hidden identities, forgotten memories, simmering sexual tension, distrust, uneasy alliances, wicked enemies, questionable friends, it all mixes together into a perfect story that will have you gripped from the very first page.
It's really hard to review a series that comes with so many twists because I'd hate to give something away accidentally but Kesh and her allies are left facing an impossible enemy when they are captured by one of the most vicious fae war generals in the Halow system. The revelations at the end of the previous book pretty much destroyed the trust between Kesh, Kellee and Talen but the only way they're going to survive this mess is if they can find a way to get past that and work together once more. You can feel the tension building between all three of them but with so many secrets and lies between them they're definitely not in a good place for romance yet. We also get to meet a surprising new character who I'm really hoping will be joining the harem but I really can't talk about them without ruining a fabulous surprise so you'll just have to read the book for yourself to find out who I'm talking about!
Everything about this book was epic, from the fabulous world building and to the depth of the characters. Game of Lies couldn't have a more perfect title because it is 100% a story of lies and deception, one that will take everything you thought you knew and twist it in a new direction. I can't wait to see where Pippa DaCosta takes us next because it's sure to be a wild ride!
______________________
I have an ARC, I have an ARC, I HAVE AN ARC 🎉🎉🎉🎉 *happy dancing ensues*
This is jumping straight to the top of my to read mountain but I might treat myself to a reread of Shoot the Messenger first just so all the twisty goodness is fresh in my mind going into Game of Lies!
______________________
OMG look at that cover!!
Isn't it gorgeous 😍😍😍
July 15, 2018
4.5 Stars
This is still me in relation to everything about this book:
The woman can write and she can write dysfunctional like a fucking boss. #word
Also Lady Blue Balls. #ugh
Review to come once I stop frothing at the mouth and get me shit together somewhat. I will try. Aaaaah!
This is still me in relation to everything about this book:
The woman can write and she can write dysfunctional like a fucking boss. #word
Also Lady Blue Balls. #ugh
Review to come once I stop frothing at the mouth and get me shit together somewhat. I will try. Aaaaah!
November 8, 2021
Have you ever read something so convoluted that you question your own comprehension skills? How about something that started out oh so right only to go oh so wrong? Shoot the Messenger started with a bang, DaCosta hooked me with space Fae, and one magic whip later I was hoping against all odds that this series would be one I’d be around until the end for. It hurts me to have to acknowledge that’s not the case, but acknowledge it I will, as I endeavor to explain how Game of Lies has failed me so spectacularly.
Kesh is a major player in my personal game of dismay. I put DaCosta on notice last time around that Kesh is lacking both in the likability category as well as in abilities. I left my opinion of Kesh open for further development, hoping to see her live up to her full potential. Well second book down and I’m finally ready to admit, I just don’t like Kesh. Truthfully, it’s not really her personality that does her in, rather her inability to actually be badass coupled with repetitive, inane inner thoughts.
Kesh is the Wraithmaker. It is a title bequeathed to her from the echelon of Fae society. It is a mantle won from the deaths of countless Saru, across an indeterminate amount of years. Yet somehow removing Kesh from Fae society has removed any and all ability to actually start a fight and/or win one. Now what do I mean by this? DaCosta has an annoying habit of writing perpetual posturing. Kesh will talk to an opponent, spend a relentless amount of time ruminating over potential outcomes, flick her whip once, somehow loose and subsequently recover said whip only to start all over again until a random plot point interrupts what we’re supposed to assume is a fight sequence. Simply put, there is no motion to them. There are no attacks or retreats, parries or thrusts, resulting in ‘action’ sequences that do not progress the story because there is no outcome. Take for example how many times the Harvester pits Kesh against someone in an ad-hoc fight. Kesh ‘fights’ Kellee multiple times, in so called death matches, and yet they are consistently interrupted before they start. And if they’re not interrupted, then Kesh is somehow quickly incapacitated by a being that her name suggests she should be able to vanquish with ease. It would be one thing if the actual action of the fight was exciting, but the stilted arm waving and occasional lunge become repetitive while the continuous stops and starts fail to create progress.
Even more than Kesh’s inability to show us the skills for which she is named, her narration is probably the most problematic area of all. 1st person novels are hard. They’re not my first choice when it comes to reading, but I’ll always give them a chance. The reader only gleans information from one lens, shared with the protagonist, so it’s logical to conclude that the reader and main character should generally come to the same consensus as each other. A disconnect forms when the reader can’t understand why the protagonist is making the decisions she’s making when we both share the same information. Now that we have the definitions out the way – back to Kesh. I don’t understand her reasoning for anything. Not a single thing. I don’t particular care what direction DaCosta wants to take her in, make her crazy from the Dreamweaver, untrusting due to circumstance, closed off from relationships, whatever you want DaCosta. The only thing I ask is that she’s consistent, but she’s not.
Kesh’s personality can be summed up by, everything and nothing at all. She’s the Wraithmaker, but she doesn’t want to fight. Fine I can go with this; she’s had a change of heart and wants to do things by the book. Cool. But as soon as she kills Devere she’s shaking in Kellee’s arms behind a box. Why? Why when she has killed countless, is one more death so disturbing to her? And then when the smoke clears, and we’re back to challenging Sjora for the fiftieth time without resolution, why is she back to thinking thoughts such as “I’d gladly kill Sjora where she lay” (DaCosta, 270). Which way are we going Kesh? Are you going to be a killer or not? Are you going to freak out at the sight of blood or not? I need her to commit.
I also need other characters to commit in their reactions to her. She spends the majority of this book captive. She is forced to fight her friends and yet every Fae she encounters has a different reaction to her. They detain her until she stands up to them. She points a knife and suddenly has unimpeded access to all sections of the ship. There are never reinforcements or even a scuffle. Sometimes they just let her pass unmolested. It’s just another example of a confused point of view. I have a hard time understanding her relationship amongst the Fae because DaCosta is not committed to Kesh’s roll amongst them. And she never writes a complete fight scene so we never actually see who would come out on top, once again leaving her title unsubstantiated and her position precarious.
The same goes for her personal relationships. The continuous runaround between her, Kellee, and Talen is particularly frustrating. She’s saru, so she both loves and hates the Fae. Okay. She’s attracted to Talen because he’s a Fae. Cool. Our story begins with our trio being hunted by a fae warcruiser, pursuing them back to their prison home base. Together they create a cover story with Kesh suggesting that they surrender to the Warcruiser in hopes of escaping later. Kesh even says to Talen “…I don’t know what you are to them, but I’ll trust you like you asked, and assume you can move among them without giving Kellee and me up?” (DaCosta, 41) and he agrees. Why then does she spend the remainder of the story, over 250 pages continuously questioning Talen’s loyalty? His only crime being that he spends time in the company of Sjora, which is exactly what Kesh asked him to do! She claims he has betrayed her constantly; she ruminates on his loyalty when he has followed her instructions to the T. And this is coming from a character who actually did betray everyone! Talk about pot calling the kettle black. The singlemindedness with which Kesh deliberately misinterprets intent is maddening. She has the same I hate you/trust you relationship with Kellee resulting in a complete lack of romance in a book slated to become a reverse harem. I found myself questioning if anyone even liked each other, and if they ever would.
I’ve spent the majority of this review laying the blame at Kesh’s feet, and although she’s responsible for the bulk of my consternation, the plot factors in heavily as well. I still enjoy the basics. Space Fae, humanity enslaved, and organic space ships, these ideas are cool; the execution on the other hand… just as spastic as the characterizations. Aside from the aforementioned, DaCosta has given up trying to define anymore of her world. She introduces organic warships, grown from Faerie, and leaves it at that for a long while. It is not until page two hundred and twenty that there is even a mention of how these organic ships differ from any other vessel until Kellee all of a sudden exclaims in a typical chapter ending cliffhanger “He’s her pilot. (Referring to Talen) Once he’s bonded with the ship, he’ll be gone forever.” (DaCosta, 220) What? Where did this come from? There has been absolutely no talk of anything revolving around these ships, nothing to make them special, not even the mention of how these ships function to hint at things to come. And the suddenness with which Kellee reveals the information is jarring. DaCosta is apparently not a fan of laying groundwork. There is no gentle building, setting the stage, or leaving crumbs of information for readers. She likes to drop bombs that are meant to be shocking but they don’t come off this way because there’s absolutely no groundwork set for them. I remember reading this statement, knowing that it is meant to be shocking and being like…ohhkay because even with this revelation I don’t know why I am supposed to care that Talen is a pilot, because I don’t know how anything works. DaCosta has never suggested or defined any kind of Fae hierarchy, and when she finally introduces this bomb two thirds of the way through the only accompanying information is that these Fae are really rare. Oohhkay. This is all I get? Well how are these ships piloted if there’s no special pilot (since they’re so rare)? In passing, it’s mentioned that Talen killed the ship’s current pilot, well if so, what was the ship doing without one? How are we even flying if we don’t have a pilot and Talen is not cooperating? From Talen’s earlier injuries, it seems that Sjora has been trying to get him to bond with the ship for a while but he’s been uncooperative, yet we managed to pilot toward and away from Calicto in this time frame. How? If the answer is that the ship can be piloted by normal Fae then my next question is why is a pilot so important? And regardless of the answer to any of these questions my final question is: What does being a pilot have to do with this story at all?! Talen’s ability has nothing to do with them being captured; it’s just happenstance, one that is meant to have great impact and is instead random and ill-defined.
DaCosta does it with words as well. I’m very familiar with Fae mythology. I read a lot of books about them, so I’ve come in contact with definitions such as Seelie and Unseelie. I expect to see them at some point in any Fae book I see. But even though it’s a common term, it’s still up to the author to define it in her setting. But in typical DaCosta fashion she waits until book 2, page 210 to write; “The fae had killed every vakaru because, inside, they were unseelie.” Okay. This is actually quite interesting, please elaborate DaCosta, oh wait, this is all you’ve got? You’re never going to explain what you mean by this? Are you referring to the caste or are you using unseelie as an adjective for darkness because there is such a lack of world building that I can’t tell. It’s yet another concept thrown in as an aside that can’t gain traction because there’s no framework for unseelie within her plot.
I think it’s finally time to put this to rest. I can’t explain how disappointed I am because I really want to enjoy this. Even having finished book two I’m tempted to read the attached preview of the next book hoping against all odds that all my issues will suddenly disappear, that Kesh will be consistent, that the characters will finally learn to trust each other, or give up, just anything to stop the continuous flirt/repel going on where they don’t like each other, they just sometimes make out. Sadly there are just too many areas of confusion and a lack of direction for me to be able to be able to commit to another book. ***1 fumbling star***
Kesh is a major player in my personal game of dismay. I put DaCosta on notice last time around that Kesh is lacking both in the likability category as well as in abilities. I left my opinion of Kesh open for further development, hoping to see her live up to her full potential. Well second book down and I’m finally ready to admit, I just don’t like Kesh. Truthfully, it’s not really her personality that does her in, rather her inability to actually be badass coupled with repetitive, inane inner thoughts.
Kesh is the Wraithmaker. It is a title bequeathed to her from the echelon of Fae society. It is a mantle won from the deaths of countless Saru, across an indeterminate amount of years. Yet somehow removing Kesh from Fae society has removed any and all ability to actually start a fight and/or win one. Now what do I mean by this? DaCosta has an annoying habit of writing perpetual posturing. Kesh will talk to an opponent, spend a relentless amount of time ruminating over potential outcomes, flick her whip once, somehow loose and subsequently recover said whip only to start all over again until a random plot point interrupts what we’re supposed to assume is a fight sequence. Simply put, there is no motion to them. There are no attacks or retreats, parries or thrusts, resulting in ‘action’ sequences that do not progress the story because there is no outcome. Take for example how many times the Harvester pits Kesh against someone in an ad-hoc fight. Kesh ‘fights’ Kellee multiple times, in so called death matches, and yet they are consistently interrupted before they start. And if they’re not interrupted, then Kesh is somehow quickly incapacitated by a being that her name suggests she should be able to vanquish with ease. It would be one thing if the actual action of the fight was exciting, but the stilted arm waving and occasional lunge become repetitive while the continuous stops and starts fail to create progress.
Even more than Kesh’s inability to show us the skills for which she is named, her narration is probably the most problematic area of all. 1st person novels are hard. They’re not my first choice when it comes to reading, but I’ll always give them a chance. The reader only gleans information from one lens, shared with the protagonist, so it’s logical to conclude that the reader and main character should generally come to the same consensus as each other. A disconnect forms when the reader can’t understand why the protagonist is making the decisions she’s making when we both share the same information. Now that we have the definitions out the way – back to Kesh. I don’t understand her reasoning for anything. Not a single thing. I don’t particular care what direction DaCosta wants to take her in, make her crazy from the Dreamweaver, untrusting due to circumstance, closed off from relationships, whatever you want DaCosta. The only thing I ask is that she’s consistent, but she’s not.
Kesh’s personality can be summed up by, everything and nothing at all. She’s the Wraithmaker, but she doesn’t want to fight. Fine I can go with this; she’s had a change of heart and wants to do things by the book. Cool. But as soon as she kills Devere she’s shaking in Kellee’s arms behind a box. Why? Why when she has killed countless, is one more death so disturbing to her? And then when the smoke clears, and we’re back to challenging Sjora for the fiftieth time without resolution, why is she back to thinking thoughts such as “I’d gladly kill Sjora where she lay” (DaCosta, 270). Which way are we going Kesh? Are you going to be a killer or not? Are you going to freak out at the sight of blood or not? I need her to commit.
I also need other characters to commit in their reactions to her. She spends the majority of this book captive. She is forced to fight her friends and yet every Fae she encounters has a different reaction to her. They detain her until she stands up to them. She points a knife and suddenly has unimpeded access to all sections of the ship. There are never reinforcements or even a scuffle. Sometimes they just let her pass unmolested. It’s just another example of a confused point of view. I have a hard time understanding her relationship amongst the Fae because DaCosta is not committed to Kesh’s roll amongst them. And she never writes a complete fight scene so we never actually see who would come out on top, once again leaving her title unsubstantiated and her position precarious.
The same goes for her personal relationships. The continuous runaround between her, Kellee, and Talen is particularly frustrating. She’s saru, so she both loves and hates the Fae. Okay. She’s attracted to Talen because he’s a Fae. Cool. Our story begins with our trio being hunted by a fae warcruiser, pursuing them back to their prison home base. Together they create a cover story with Kesh suggesting that they surrender to the Warcruiser in hopes of escaping later. Kesh even says to Talen “…I don’t know what you are to them, but I’ll trust you like you asked, and assume you can move among them without giving Kellee and me up?” (DaCosta, 41) and he agrees. Why then does she spend the remainder of the story, over 250 pages continuously questioning Talen’s loyalty? His only crime being that he spends time in the company of Sjora, which is exactly what Kesh asked him to do! She claims he has betrayed her constantly; she ruminates on his loyalty when he has followed her instructions to the T. And this is coming from a character who actually did betray everyone! Talk about pot calling the kettle black. The singlemindedness with which Kesh deliberately misinterprets intent is maddening. She has the same I hate you/trust you relationship with Kellee resulting in a complete lack of romance in a book slated to become a reverse harem. I found myself questioning if anyone even liked each other, and if they ever would.
I’ve spent the majority of this review laying the blame at Kesh’s feet, and although she’s responsible for the bulk of my consternation, the plot factors in heavily as well. I still enjoy the basics. Space Fae, humanity enslaved, and organic space ships, these ideas are cool; the execution on the other hand… just as spastic as the characterizations. Aside from the aforementioned, DaCosta has given up trying to define anymore of her world. She introduces organic warships, grown from Faerie, and leaves it at that for a long while. It is not until page two hundred and twenty that there is even a mention of how these organic ships differ from any other vessel until Kellee all of a sudden exclaims in a typical chapter ending cliffhanger “He’s her pilot. (Referring to Talen) Once he’s bonded with the ship, he’ll be gone forever.” (DaCosta, 220) What? Where did this come from? There has been absolutely no talk of anything revolving around these ships, nothing to make them special, not even the mention of how these ships function to hint at things to come. And the suddenness with which Kellee reveals the information is jarring. DaCosta is apparently not a fan of laying groundwork. There is no gentle building, setting the stage, or leaving crumbs of information for readers. She likes to drop bombs that are meant to be shocking but they don’t come off this way because there’s absolutely no groundwork set for them. I remember reading this statement, knowing that it is meant to be shocking and being like…ohhkay because even with this revelation I don’t know why I am supposed to care that Talen is a pilot, because I don’t know how anything works. DaCosta has never suggested or defined any kind of Fae hierarchy, and when she finally introduces this bomb two thirds of the way through the only accompanying information is that these Fae are really rare. Oohhkay. This is all I get? Well how are these ships piloted if there’s no special pilot (since they’re so rare)? In passing, it’s mentioned that Talen killed the ship’s current pilot, well if so, what was the ship doing without one? How are we even flying if we don’t have a pilot and Talen is not cooperating? From Talen’s earlier injuries, it seems that Sjora has been trying to get him to bond with the ship for a while but he’s been uncooperative, yet we managed to pilot toward and away from Calicto in this time frame. How? If the answer is that the ship can be piloted by normal Fae then my next question is why is a pilot so important? And regardless of the answer to any of these questions my final question is: What does being a pilot have to do with this story at all?! Talen’s ability has nothing to do with them being captured; it’s just happenstance, one that is meant to have great impact and is instead random and ill-defined.
DaCosta does it with words as well. I’m very familiar with Fae mythology. I read a lot of books about them, so I’ve come in contact with definitions such as Seelie and Unseelie. I expect to see them at some point in any Fae book I see. But even though it’s a common term, it’s still up to the author to define it in her setting. But in typical DaCosta fashion she waits until book 2, page 210 to write; “The fae had killed every vakaru because, inside, they were unseelie.” Okay. This is actually quite interesting, please elaborate DaCosta, oh wait, this is all you’ve got? You’re never going to explain what you mean by this? Are you referring to the caste or are you using unseelie as an adjective for darkness because there is such a lack of world building that I can’t tell. It’s yet another concept thrown in as an aside that can’t gain traction because there’s no framework for unseelie within her plot.
I think it’s finally time to put this to rest. I can’t explain how disappointed I am because I really want to enjoy this. Even having finished book two I’m tempted to read the attached preview of the next book hoping against all odds that all my issues will suddenly disappear, that Kesh will be consistent, that the characters will finally learn to trust each other, or give up, just anything to stop the continuous flirt/repel going on where they don’t like each other, they just sometimes make out. Sadly there are just too many areas of confusion and a lack of direction for me to be able to be able to commit to another book. ***1 fumbling star***
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2018
First Sentence:
"The fae have a saying: Rain is the tears of the fallen- those taken to soon by the Hunt."
Genre:
Sci-Fi/Dystopian (RH)
Editing:
I had no issues & have no complaints.
Cover Art:
Not only is the cover art gorgeous it's also accurate.
Romance:
Without giving away any spoilers I will disclose we have some forward momentum between Kesh & some of the men in her life. We also get a surprise. Hint: Some say our first love leaves an impression.
World:
Halow System (One of Earth's sister systems.)
My thoughts:
The author did a fantastic job ensnaring this reader. I was absolutely consumed by this book. I stayed up well past my bedtime & I might not have woken up feeling well rested but I certainly was happy. Not only did we have some progress in the romance departments but the book was action packed (I confess I'm a warmonger). Pippa managed to finesse those fighting & flying scenes like a boss. She also managed some character growth between all that as$ kicking. Kesh finally makes a decision on how she will deal with the democide & defines who she is. She develops a map of her priorities & goals going forward. That said I confess I hate it when authors create silly misunderstandings between their H & h. It's a tricky balance making sure the couple has to work towards a successful relationship & just adding unnecessary angst (making this reader fearful her eyes will just roll straight out their sockets). Pippa managed to enchant me with her characters misunderstandings. As I was reading this book I kept thinking of a quote anytime certain scenes & characters popped up on the page “No god will save us, we must save ourselves.”-Humanist Manifesto II (1973). I thought Kesh, Aeon, & even Talen excellent examples of Secular humanists in that they hold that ethics is consequential, to be judged by results. Survival is paramount & they'll execute a bevy of questionable actions in an attempt to reach the goal, (with fleeting guilt if any) add to this they're secretive to a fault & this made for very interesting reading material. I found Kellee had a more traditional approach with a firm opinion on what was right & wrong. I find this fascinating considering Kellee's species was essentially bred for war. The differences between species have an impact on the way the characters interact. This was never more glaringly obvious than when Aeon (same species as Kesh) popped on the page. Pippa really did a good job differentiating between the species.
Will I continue the series?
Absolutely, this a highly entertaining read.
Recommendation:
I'd recommend this book to fans of slow burn non-traditional romance, subterfuge, magic, space, the fae, Artificial Intelligence, war, assassins, double agents, & dystopian worlds.
Rating:
5 stars
Disclaimer:
eARC kindly provided to me in exchange for a review.
"The fae have a saying: Rain is the tears of the fallen- those taken to soon by the Hunt."
Genre:
Sci-Fi/Dystopian (RH)
Editing:
I had no issues & have no complaints.
Cover Art:
Not only is the cover art gorgeous it's also accurate.
Romance:
Without giving away any spoilers I will disclose we have some forward momentum between Kesh & some of the men in her life. We also get a surprise. Hint: Some say our first love leaves an impression.
World:
Halow System (One of Earth's sister systems.)
My thoughts:
The author did a fantastic job ensnaring this reader. I was absolutely consumed by this book. I stayed up well past my bedtime & I might not have woken up feeling well rested but I certainly was happy. Not only did we have some progress in the romance departments but the book was action packed (I confess I'm a warmonger). Pippa managed to finesse those fighting & flying scenes like a boss. She also managed some character growth between all that as$ kicking. Kesh finally makes a decision on how she will deal with the democide & defines who she is. She develops a map of her priorities & goals going forward. That said I confess I hate it when authors create silly misunderstandings between their H & h. It's a tricky balance making sure the couple has to work towards a successful relationship & just adding unnecessary angst (making this reader fearful her eyes will just roll straight out their sockets). Pippa managed to enchant me with her characters misunderstandings. As I was reading this book I kept thinking of a quote anytime certain scenes & characters popped up on the page “No god will save us, we must save ourselves.”-Humanist Manifesto II (1973). I thought Kesh, Aeon, & even Talen excellent examples of Secular humanists in that they hold that ethics is consequential, to be judged by results. Survival is paramount & they'll execute a bevy of questionable actions in an attempt to reach the goal, (with fleeting guilt if any) add to this they're secretive to a fault & this made for very interesting reading material. I found Kellee had a more traditional approach with a firm opinion on what was right & wrong. I find this fascinating considering Kellee's species was essentially bred for war. The differences between species have an impact on the way the characters interact. This was never more glaringly obvious than when Aeon (same species as Kesh) popped on the page. Pippa really did a good job differentiating between the species.
Will I continue the series?
Absolutely, this a highly entertaining read.
Recommendation:
I'd recommend this book to fans of slow burn non-traditional romance, subterfuge, magic, space, the fae, Artificial Intelligence, war, assassins, double agents, & dystopian worlds.
Rating:
5 stars
Disclaimer:
eARC kindly provided to me in exchange for a review.
June 30, 2019
Oh boy...there is so much to unpack with this book.
But first of all, I would like to acknowledge my reading partner and very dear friend David for being such a good sport with this. In his own words, he "survived the smut" and seems to be enjoying the series! I want to thank him because without this Buddy Read, I probably would have burned through the entire series by now without truly enjoying it and he is teaching me to slow down. What a champ.
Now onto the review.
I am writing this review (and writing a long introduction) with the hopes that someone who is reading this has read the first book and will not be spoiled by me discussing the events of the second book. I will put spoilers for this book under spoiler tags but it is impossible to talk about things otherwise.
Kesh Lasota is back and is ready to kick ass.
This time, she no longer has the help of her trusty robot Sota and instead is being helped along by her allies Kellee and Talen. After her betrayal/revelation in the previous book, they are both holding her at arms length. Who knows where her alliances truly are?
Kesh has a lot of baggage and this book gives us the chance to really dig into her past. The first book was about Calicto and initiating relationships. This one is about going back and revealing insecurities and the sources of those problems. Kesh has internalized so much of her history while acting human that reverting to her saru roots has left her frayed and savage.
Kesh is unapologetic, vicious, and out for blood.
Kellee and Talen are appropriately wary of this new Kesh. They only had a taste of what she really was, despite knowing her reputation as the Wraithmaker. But they need her and intend to use her in order to unseat the root of the Fae's power in the universe. They have their strategy for this and this strategy requires them to become as bloodthirsty as Kesh.
This book is instrumental at letting everybody's monster out and I think that puts everybody in the merry little war party on even keel.
This is the part I was looking forward to.
The boys are let out and their nature begins to show in this book. Kellee becomes the beast. Talen becomes the Fae.
Kellee is vakaru and he didn't seem truly dangerous until this book. He wasn't a predator. You didn't see him let his other side take over which was part of his role. He was smart and cunning. But the new Kellee is rash, headstrong, and driven by hunger and rage. His nature is to kill and it really comes out.
And ooooh let's talk about Talen. He was the nice guy, right? He pledged himself to Kesh and promised to be loyal. He is the one that pulls her out of her nightmares and calms her rage. But now that he is in the presence of his own kind, Kesh is able to see his true nature and see just how Fae he really is.
I am in love with the storytelling of this series. The world building is fantastic and thorough. There aren't any true plot holes so far which is incredibly refreshing. The characters have depth and flaws and undeniable amounts of hubris.
I will say, however, that this is not a 5 star read for me. The beginning was pretty slow to start and I felt like a lot of what transpired was filler. Necessary filler, but still filler. I wanted more action but the emphasis of this book was more flashbacks and tension. Once again, necessary but it seemed to be too much. I just wanted more from the story itself.
The character development was great and definitely made up for the slow start. You want these characters to succeed. You feel their pain and their stress from not knowing where they stand with each other. They are desperate, lonely, and incredibly strong. Their strength is also their weakness as none of them are used to relying on anybody else and suddenly it is their only way to survive. Trust is as foreign to them as an iPhone but they still want it and need it.
Gosh, it really is lovely. And the smut was minimal so don't let that idea scare you off. I meant to make this review more fun and lighthearted but honestly, all I can do is be the obnoxious cheerleader for the series.
I am pumped as fuck for the next book and I will now begin bothering David to read it with me right away.
But first of all, I would like to acknowledge my reading partner and very dear friend David for being such a good sport with this. In his own words, he "survived the smut" and seems to be enjoying the series! I want to thank him because without this Buddy Read, I probably would have burned through the entire series by now without truly enjoying it and he is teaching me to slow down. What a champ.
Now onto the review.
I am writing this review (and writing a long introduction) with the hopes that someone who is reading this has read the first book and will not be spoiled by me discussing the events of the second book. I will put spoilers for this book under spoiler tags but it is impossible to talk about things otherwise.
Kesh Lasota is back and is ready to kick ass.
This time, she no longer has the help of her trusty robot Sota and instead is being helped along by her allies Kellee and Talen. After her betrayal/revelation in the previous book, they are both holding her at arms length. Who knows where her alliances truly are?
Kesh has a lot of baggage and this book gives us the chance to really dig into her past. The first book was about Calicto and initiating relationships. This one is about going back and revealing insecurities and the sources of those problems. Kesh has internalized so much of her history while acting human that reverting to her saru roots has left her frayed and savage.
“Kesh Lasota is the dream of a killer who thinks she can pretend to be good, but you can’t take the fae out of the saru and you can’t take the lies out of the Wraithmaker.”
Kesh is unapologetic, vicious, and out for blood.
Kellee and Talen are appropriately wary of this new Kesh. They only had a taste of what she really was, despite knowing her reputation as the Wraithmaker. But they need her and intend to use her in order to unseat the root of the Fae's power in the universe. They have their strategy for this and this strategy requires them to become as bloodthirsty as Kesh.
This book is instrumental at letting everybody's monster out and I think that puts everybody in the merry little war party on even keel.
This is the part I was looking forward to.
The boys are let out and their nature begins to show in this book. Kellee becomes the beast. Talen becomes the Fae.
Only this last vakaru wasn’t made of the light. It wasn’t pretty, it didn’t seduce, and it was a nightmare made flesh. Seeded inside him, Faerie’s darkest creation waited. The fae had killed every vakaru because, inside, they were unseelie.
Kellee is vakaru and he didn't seem truly dangerous until this book. He wasn't a predator. You didn't see him let his other side take over which was part of his role. He was smart and cunning. But the new Kellee is rash, headstrong, and driven by hunger and rage. His nature is to kill and it really comes out.
I should use the time to get answers out of him, but all I could think about was how it hurt, even now, to see him so fae-like. So distant, so alien. So not the Talen who had dropped to his knee and surrendered himself to me, the Talen who had raced me around the prison circuit, the Talen who had stopped me from leaving. He had stood next to Sjora and looked down on me as though I were just another saru. Was that what I was to him?
And ooooh let's talk about Talen. He was the nice guy, right? He pledged himself to Kesh and promised to be loyal. He is the one that pulls her out of her nightmares and calms her rage. But now that he is in the presence of his own kind, Kesh is able to see his true nature and see just how Fae he really is.
I am in love with the storytelling of this series. The world building is fantastic and thorough. There aren't any true plot holes so far which is incredibly refreshing. The characters have depth and flaws and undeniable amounts of hubris.
I will say, however, that this is not a 5 star read for me. The beginning was pretty slow to start and I felt like a lot of what transpired was filler. Necessary filler, but still filler. I wanted more action but the emphasis of this book was more flashbacks and tension. Once again, necessary but it seemed to be too much. I just wanted more from the story itself.
The character development was great and definitely made up for the slow start. You want these characters to succeed. You feel their pain and their stress from not knowing where they stand with each other. They are desperate, lonely, and incredibly strong. Their strength is also their weakness as none of them are used to relying on anybody else and suddenly it is their only way to survive. Trust is as foreign to them as an iPhone but they still want it and need it.
Gosh, it really is lovely. And the smut was minimal so don't let that idea scare you off. I meant to make this review more fun and lighthearted but honestly, all I can do is be the obnoxious cheerleader for the series.
I am pumped as fuck for the next book and I will now begin bothering David to read it with me right away.
May 16, 2018
ARC graciously provided by the author in exchange of honest review. This in no way affects my rating or review.
I did it! I finally figured out a Pippa twist ahead of the time! I still can't believe it *beams*
I'm a bit at a loss to review Game of Lies without spoiling Shoot the Messenger. It's so interconnected you might need to reread the first book to be sure not to miss anything. You also need to keep an open mind and not expect an orgy just because it's a reverse harem book. I actually like the slow burn. One of the things I dislike in the genre is the lack of relationship buildup. In Game of Lies Kesh, Kellee and Talen's relationship evolves in a natural yet very beautiful way. And as a result of that natural progress Kesh changes as well. Becomes someone much more likeable.
The plotline I enjoyed most had to do with Talen. We learned a lot more about what type of Fae he is and throughout it all I felt giddy because it reminded me of Farscape - the TV show I learned English from. Every time the warcruiser showed up I pictured Moya. I know it doesn't look like that but in my mind that's how it looks. I enjoyed the descriptions of the single-pilot spawns and I wanted to go and pet them. All of the Fae biological slaves are fascinating and I can't wait to learn more about them and see what the warcruiser will do now that
The plot twist I managed to figure out ahead of time has to do with the third member of Kesh's harem and I feel oddly proud of that fact. I not only figured out who he is but also what he did in the end. However, I have no clue how it will progress from now on and the wait will kill me.
I said in the beginning not to expect an orgy but that doesn't mean there weren't some scorching hot scenes. As usual with Pippa DaCosta they're not your typical sex scenes and there was a particular one that made my jaw drop because it developed in a very different way than the one I expected. It just got me hot and bothered and BAM! I really didn't see that one coming! I really feel bad for Kellee for having to deal with the outcome. Actually from all of the males in her life II sympathize with Kellee the most. He's also the one who annoys me the most. Still I love him just like I love all the frustrating males Pippa writes.
I did it! I finally figured out a Pippa twist ahead of the time! I still can't believe it *beams*
I'm a bit at a loss to review Game of Lies without spoiling Shoot the Messenger. It's so interconnected you might need to reread the first book to be sure not to miss anything. You also need to keep an open mind and not expect an orgy just because it's a reverse harem book. I actually like the slow burn. One of the things I dislike in the genre is the lack of relationship buildup. In Game of Lies Kesh, Kellee and Talen's relationship evolves in a natural yet very beautiful way. And as a result of that natural progress Kesh changes as well. Becomes someone much more likeable.
The plotline I enjoyed most had to do with Talen. We learned a lot more about what type of Fae he is and throughout it all I felt giddy because it reminded me of Farscape - the TV show I learned English from. Every time the warcruiser showed up I pictured Moya. I know it doesn't look like that but in my mind that's how it looks. I enjoyed the descriptions of the single-pilot spawns and I wanted to go and pet them. All of the Fae biological slaves are fascinating and I can't wait to learn more about them and see what the warcruiser will do now that
The plot twist I managed to figure out ahead of time has to do with the third member of Kesh's harem and I feel oddly proud of that fact. I not only figured out who he is but also what he did in the end. However, I have no clue how it will progress from now on and the wait will kill me.
I said in the beginning not to expect an orgy but that doesn't mean there weren't some scorching hot scenes. As usual with Pippa DaCosta they're not your typical sex scenes and there was a particular one that made my jaw drop because it developed in a very different way than the one I expected. It just got me hot and bothered and BAM! I really didn't see that one coming! I really feel bad for Kellee for having to deal with the outcome. Actually from all of the males in her life II sympathize with Kellee the most. He's also the one who annoys me the most. Still I love him just like I love all the frustrating males Pippa writes.
September 18, 2025
fae gladiator assassin in space 🚀
✅ the characters, the world
❎ need more background and more romance, more connection
Not sure about reading the next one given it’s not on KU even though some of the reviews say it patches up a lot of the issues with the first two books.
✅ the characters, the world
❎ need more background and more romance, more connection
Not sure about reading the next one given it’s not on KU even though some of the reviews say it patches up a lot of the issues with the first two books.
September 9, 2018
I have been bamboozled, contains graphic sex scenes, my ass! Someone please direct me to the pages with this supposed "graphic sex scenes" cos I sure as hell didn't see it.
This book was like a merry go round, Kesh thinks Talen or Kellee is about to betray her then they tell her they aren't then she thinks it again, Sheesh it was exhausting. Then the little pleasure I could have found with this whole harem thing was no where to be found. Thank you very much , Pippa, thank you!
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
"Contains graphic sex scenes." Don't mind if I do , Pippa, don't mind if I do.
This book was like a merry go round, Kesh thinks Talen or Kellee is about to betray her then they tell her they aren't then she thinks it again, Sheesh it was exhausting. Then the little pleasure I could have found with this whole harem thing was no where to be found. Thank you very much , Pippa, thank you!
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
"Contains graphic sex scenes." Don't mind if I do , Pippa, don't mind if I do.
March 26, 2021
Yup, definitely good
So, we're starting to see the romance part of this RH.
Normally, it's really hard to write a plausible RH, but well, we have Pippa DaCosta here, and a dystopia, so it's all a lot easier. And it works!
The story is getting more and more interesting and the new characters are fun.
Can't wait to see what's next!
So, we're starting to see the romance part of this RH.
Normally, it's really hard to write a plausible RH, but well, we have Pippa DaCosta here, and a dystopia, so it's all a lot easier. And it works!
The story is getting more and more interesting and the new characters are fun.
Can't wait to see what's next!
Want to read
December 31, 2019
April 11, 2024
Enter this world at your own risk, for once in you will not want to leave
Pippa DaCosta has an extraordinary skill for building strange and wondrous new worlds. Add to that her unfailing ability to imbue such life into her characters that they become your friends, and you have a truly magnificent story. The twists and turns of Shoot the Messenger had me spellbound but I knew without a shadow of a doubt that Game of Lies would build upon that foundation and journey me to places I never even suspected could exist. And oh what a fantastical journey it is.
You really need to have read Book 1 of the Messenger Chronicles to fully understand and appreciate this part of the story. The book picks up virtually where Shoot the Messenger finished, with Kesh, Kellee and Talon aiding an escape attempt by the humans who had survived the Fae massacre of Halow. Of course where there's Fae, there's usually Kesh, and where she goes trouble follows.
I can't put into words how much I loved this book. I had some reading commitments but kept finding myself sneaking back to this so that I could read some more of it. It's truly addictive, with plot twists that put a high speed roller coaster to shame. I squealed with glee at having correctly suspected the return of one character, normally being able to guess makes the book feel predictable but the panache and plot pirouettes that the author uses just added another layer of depth and intrigue to the story. The move this character took near the end of the book broke my heart just as much as it did Kesh's, though I don't doubt that there are reasons and solutions to this set of events.
This is one of those books where it's difficult to say anything without giving away spoilers, but I can tell you how amazing the interactions between Kesh and Talon are and how moody and intense
are the scenes between Kesh and Kellee. Oh and Talon in that bath, I admire Kesh's self control, I don't think I would have resisted the temptations on offer. I love how as one secret is revealed another mystery blows in, as one problem is solved another emerges to torment Kesh. I loved how Kesh started to believe in herself and her emerging ability to trust others. I'm sure there will be plenty more agony and confusion for Kesh before the truth emerges and I can't wait to find out what happens next.
Despite being a reverse harem the story has a minimal amount of sexual content, I can't say I noticed any bad language either. That said it still felt pretty steamy at times and is definitely more 'lust inducing' than other work by this author, though I've always had a soft spot for Caleb. I recommend this to anyone who wants a really spell-binding story to read and doesn't mind it being part of a series.
Pippa DaCosta has an extraordinary skill for building strange and wondrous new worlds. Add to that her unfailing ability to imbue such life into her characters that they become your friends, and you have a truly magnificent story. The twists and turns of Shoot the Messenger had me spellbound but I knew without a shadow of a doubt that Game of Lies would build upon that foundation and journey me to places I never even suspected could exist. And oh what a fantastical journey it is.
You really need to have read Book 1 of the Messenger Chronicles to fully understand and appreciate this part of the story. The book picks up virtually where Shoot the Messenger finished, with Kesh, Kellee and Talon aiding an escape attempt by the humans who had survived the Fae massacre of Halow. Of course where there's Fae, there's usually Kesh, and where she goes trouble follows.
I can't put into words how much I loved this book. I had some reading commitments but kept finding myself sneaking back to this so that I could read some more of it. It's truly addictive, with plot twists that put a high speed roller coaster to shame. I squealed with glee at having correctly suspected the return of one character, normally being able to guess makes the book feel predictable but the panache and plot pirouettes that the author uses just added another layer of depth and intrigue to the story. The move this character took near the end of the book broke my heart just as much as it did Kesh's, though I don't doubt that there are reasons and solutions to this set of events.
This is one of those books where it's difficult to say anything without giving away spoilers, but I can tell you how amazing the interactions between Kesh and Talon are and how moody and intense
are the scenes between Kesh and Kellee. Oh and Talon in that bath, I admire Kesh's self control, I don't think I would have resisted the temptations on offer. I love how as one secret is revealed another mystery blows in, as one problem is solved another emerges to torment Kesh. I loved how Kesh started to believe in herself and her emerging ability to trust others. I'm sure there will be plenty more agony and confusion for Kesh before the truth emerges and I can't wait to find out what happens next.
Despite being a reverse harem the story has a minimal amount of sexual content, I can't say I noticed any bad language either. That said it still felt pretty steamy at times and is definitely more 'lust inducing' than other work by this author, though I've always had a soft spot for Caleb. I recommend this to anyone who wants a really spell-binding story to read and doesn't mind it being part of a series.
June 26, 2022
I am in love with this series.
The writing is so engaging and keeps me guessing.
Kesh Lasota/Wraithmaker/ and now The Messenger has me on the edge of my seat.
Kellee and Talen are so great and yet I still want to throat punch them.
The three of them need to communicate better.
I do feel like if Kesh just asked the right questions or spoke up or maybe just stopped blaming things on their natures things would be different.
Kellee is right. Like always.
Also the mind fuck the dreamweaver has going on is insane, I swear I actually shouted 'what the fuck' when the spoiler-y thing happened.
We meet some new, old, people in this book as well, which is a twist I did not see coming.
As for the trust issues, I get it.
Kesh lied, a lot, so she has trouble trusting Talon and Kellee. They do not trust her because she has stabbed them in the back. The fact that she doesn't want to hurt them or lie to them anymore makes it hard for her to hear that they do not trust her even though she understands why. She wants to keep them safe and they want to keep her safe but they don't seem to ever be on the same page about what the plan actually is. It is a cluster fuck.
I know a lot of people are super annoyed with this aspect of the story but I found it relatable, realistic. The faults and issues they have makes me love them more.
I said fuck a lot in this review.
July 30, 2024
good. lord.
why is this so much better than any fae shit i've read. like pippa just slapped laurel k. hamilton AND karen moning AND THEN WRAPPED IT UP BY PUTTING IT IN FREAKING SPACE?!
October 3, 2018
3.5 stars
February 24, 2023
02/23/2023: Reread. (Audiobook!)
This review may contain SPOILERS. Read at your own risk.
The absolutely awesome thing about this series is that it draws you in. I am absolutely obsessed! What first drew me into this story was the concept. I love the idea of sending fantasy and science fiction out on a date because that love has created the most damned beautiful celebrity babies. The meshing of the genres is truly magnificent, and DaCosta manages to nail it.
The world that DaCosta has created is magical and inventive. I love that both genres are present in the world-building. And not only that, but they blend together seamlessly. The world-building is not limited to places though. This book is drenched in secrets and deception and you can smell it and breath it throughout the entire book like it's air.
What I love about the plotting in this series is that it is so unpredictable. The plot twists are brilliant and you will not see them coming even with the foreshadowing. It is truly an art form to be this skilled in plotting stories. This series doesn't follow typical book tropes either. It plays by its own rules and comes out on top. There is plenty of action and the pacing is perfect. The storytelling is so powerful and beautiful.
These characters are so vibrant. They all have their own secrets and pasts and they keep themselves closed off. They just feel so real. These characters aren't fluffy and shiny. These characters are messy, flawed, traumatized, and altogether rough around the edges. I like that these characters dance around morality in varying degrees. They are not black and white and they act according to their own truths. Most of these characters have experienced extreme trauma in their lives and it comes across in their characterization. While there is a lot about these characters that is a mystery, I really felt like I knew them.
The romance gets kicked up a notch in this book of the series, though a small notch. Kesh is growing closer to Talen and Kellee, but things are still pretty much in the air. No one has made any declarations, but it is clear that feelings are there. And since this is a reverse harem book, I am utterly curious to know who is going to be a love interest in the end. The sexual tension is tantalizing and the feelings that the characters have towards each other are both exciting and frightening.
Overall, this was a fantastic sophomore novel to Shoot the Messenger! I am totally engrossed in this world and these characters have taken over my brain. Anyone that loves fantasy and science fiction will adore this series!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
This review may contain SPOILERS. Read at your own risk.
The absolutely awesome thing about this series is that it draws you in. I am absolutely obsessed! What first drew me into this story was the concept. I love the idea of sending fantasy and science fiction out on a date because that love has created the most damned beautiful celebrity babies. The meshing of the genres is truly magnificent, and DaCosta manages to nail it.
The world that DaCosta has created is magical and inventive. I love that both genres are present in the world-building. And not only that, but they blend together seamlessly. The world-building is not limited to places though. This book is drenched in secrets and deception and you can smell it and breath it throughout the entire book like it's air.
What I love about the plotting in this series is that it is so unpredictable. The plot twists are brilliant and you will not see them coming even with the foreshadowing. It is truly an art form to be this skilled in plotting stories. This series doesn't follow typical book tropes either. It plays by its own rules and comes out on top. There is plenty of action and the pacing is perfect. The storytelling is so powerful and beautiful.
These characters are so vibrant. They all have their own secrets and pasts and they keep themselves closed off. They just feel so real. These characters aren't fluffy and shiny. These characters are messy, flawed, traumatized, and altogether rough around the edges. I like that these characters dance around morality in varying degrees. They are not black and white and they act according to their own truths. Most of these characters have experienced extreme trauma in their lives and it comes across in their characterization. While there is a lot about these characters that is a mystery, I really felt like I knew them.
The romance gets kicked up a notch in this book of the series, though a small notch. Kesh is growing closer to Talen and Kellee, but things are still pretty much in the air. No one has made any declarations, but it is clear that feelings are there. And since this is a reverse harem book, I am utterly curious to know who is going to be a love interest in the end. The sexual tension is tantalizing and the feelings that the characters have towards each other are both exciting and frightening.
Overall, this was a fantastic sophomore novel to Shoot the Messenger! I am totally engrossed in this world and these characters have taken over my brain. Anyone that loves fantasy and science fiction will adore this series!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
July 9, 2018
There are a lot of things I like about this and a lot of things I don't. The whole story line in general is awesome. The MC is pretty cool. She's complicated and not some sparkly heroine. Its the love whatever that had me frustrated. I like romantic suspense, but it just felt like petty drama manufacturing for no particular reason.
December 28, 2018
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
Check out this review, and many more, on my blog: https://riaoum.wordpress.com !
"If you weren’t infamous before, you are now. They’re calling what you did the Game of Lies. And they have a new name for you, Messenger. Your name is whispered throughout Halow."
When it comes to Game of Lies by Pippa DaCosta, I'm once again in the minority. While this book was not bad by any means necessary, I also did not find myself fawning over it like many other reviewers. Sigh. It is what it is, I guess.
Game of Lies picks up shortly after Shoot the Messenger. Kesh and her retinue find themselves captured by the Harvester, a bloodthirsty fae general with her own malevolent agenda. And while stuck on this warship, Kesh must once again partake in a game of lies in order to save herself, her friends, and the rest of the human race.
This is probably going to be a shorter review, mainly because I just don't have too much to say about it. I found Game of Lies to be quite similar to Shoot the Messenger: same basic plot, just slightly adjusted. Kesh is captured again, there is another evil villain again, and she must do this, that, and the other... again. That's not to say I was bored with what I was reading; I actually got through this book pretty fast. It's just that it seemed kind of predictable. I wasn't necessarily surprised by anything and I was disappointed by that.
I still don't know how I feel about Kesh's character. Her allegiance is still shifty and her motivations seem to be all over the place. Identity crisis anyone? I guess in certain areas it makes sense, because she is going through this transformation within herself to decide if she is good or not good (I wouldn't consider her evil). But, I'm ready for her to take a stand and pick a side. Also, she's conveniently saved a lot. She is challenged by many things throughout this book, but there always seems to be some acting savoir who swoops in at just the right moment. It makes the challenges seem not so challenging when you get the feeling that she's going to make it out of it just fine. It would be nice to see things not wrapped up in a perfect little bow.
The reverse-harem is starting to get to me, majorly. I just need more. Kesh's relationships with Kellee and Talen are just so back and forth. I get just enough to get me by, like an addict getting a small fix. So, I'm not going to abandon it, because I like it, but I'm constantly yearning for more. Ugh, I need it to pick up or else I'm going to go insane.
Now, this book wasn't completely filled with negatives; if it was, I wouldn't have already decided to read the next one in the series. I'm starting to understand the world and the magic system better now that I've gotten more into it and I like the take that DaCosta has spun for Faerie. I think it's interesting how the fae are considered organic and the humans are not. Typically, or at least in other fae centered books that I've read, humans are the natural and the faeries are the unnatural. In this series, that is not the case. I enjoy how DaCosta really implements this idea throughout the book, especially in her descriptions of the characters, the world, and the various things within it.
Overall, I liked some parts, other parts not so much. Still a good read and I'm looking forward to continuing on with the series.
Check out this review, and many more, on my blog: https://riaoum.wordpress.com !
May 27, 2018
I love Talen! For his beauty, hope, and mythical power that shields Kesh.
I love Kellee! For his strength, brutal honesty, and his force that keeps Kesh grounded.
I can't pick one! But if I had to pick one for Kesh I would be TEAM KELLEE!
Pippa gave us Aeon in this book. Our beautiful boy. Such tenderness and so many feels. What he did was so heartbreaking. I had to shout NO! at Pippa. But the quiet part of me understood and accepted it. His reasoning was so right.
Standing ovation for Pippa DaCosta. A master storyteller. Her extraordinaire talent of writing a story the way I love to read it. Continue on with your badass self, Pippa! This is my number one pre-order series.
February 18, 2025
So good, classic Pippa. Si many twists and turns. Not much romance in this one either. Moving on.
May 17, 2018
I just finished the book and had to immediately write this review so I could write down my impressions while they are still fresh. The first one is: how the hell can we go forward from that end!? I’ll never look at (can’t say the word because spoiler) the same way again! The second thing is: I can’t understand why I love this author so much when she completely twists my heart, emotions, expectations, etc. into gargantuan knots! I did see one of the twists (and only one) coming, but I just loved it. We do get a more deepening relationship with the characters, and more secrets are hinted at, even while some secrets are revealed. As a word of warning, do not ever approach a book by this author if you are thinking hearts, wine, and roses because you won’t get them. What you will get is a wonderfully-written book full of heartbreak and despair, and just when you think things are at their darkest, a ray of light will shine…and then more darkness. However, through it all, you know that the characters will get their own unique happy ending, and you will rejoice. This was a great addition to the series, and I can’t wait for the next one. I highly recommend this with no hesitation whatsoever. I was provided the e-book which I voluntarily reviewed.
May 11, 2018
I want to thank the author for having me read this second volume before its release. I loved the first but again this one. I love the pen of this author with the fluidity of chapters, endearing characters, a story always captivating. Looking forward to read more especially that in the end I read a foretaste of the third volume.
Here we find Kesh the messenger who survived as a slave, she will be captured with two other Marshal Kelee and Talen. They will have to keep a low profile. As for Kesha she will have to pretend to be the gladiatrice. A second volume filled with suspense and twists. I recommend it.
Here we find Kesh the messenger who survived as a slave, she will be captured with two other Marshal Kelee and Talen. They will have to keep a low profile. As for Kesha she will have to pretend to be the gladiatrice. A second volume filled with suspense and twists. I recommend it.
May 27, 2018
Same Review Also Posted On My Blog: Dreamy Addictions
Game of Lies is a second book in the Messenger Chronicles series. I recently read the first book and I absolutely loved it. The ending left me wanting for more so I dived into the second book as soon it was released. Game Of Lies is an exciting ride filled with lots of twists, lies, secrets, and deceit. I immensely enjoyed the book even though the heroine frustrated me at sometimes. It’s a well written Reverse Harem series and it’s not all about romance, but the story too. It has an engaging plot and interesting characters. I loved Kesh, Talen, and Kellee. We get to know a lot more about them in this sequel but Talen stole the show. I’m glad this book gave more focus to Talen because I was so looking forward to know more about him. He is an enigma and I can’t get enough of him.
In the first book, it was revealed that Kesh Lasota is not a normal messenger but a saru slave, a gladiator warrior for the fae. She rose to fame in the fae realm by killing the other saru in the arena. She’s actually working for the current fae king Oberon who sent her on a mission to kill his brother Eledan. After learning the true identity of Kesh, Kellee and Talen felt betrayed by her. Kellee can’t trust her anymore and Talen, the fae who was bonded to her felt hurt by her deceit. She becomes their prisoner until she helps them rescue the remaining human survivors in Halow. When all three of them gets captured by a ruthless fae General they’ve no choice but to lie. Hence begins the Game of Lies. Kesh once again enters the fighting arena but this time she was forced to fight against her vakaru Kellee. Talen on the other hand, no one knows much about him but the fae can sense the power in him. Before their lies catch up with them, Kesh, Kellee, and Talen needs to find a way escape the ship otherwise everything will be lost including their lives.
All the characters in this book are flawed. Kesh is a total badass! She’s pretty complex character who has trust issues. Her whole life is filled with lies so she has a difficult time trusting others including herself. She’s very hard to connect with and sometimes I felt frustrated by her actions but I can’t seem to hate her either. I really enjoyed her character and also her weird relationship with Tallen, Kellee, and Eledan. Kellee is a pretty interesting character. We get to learn more about his origin in this book and man his other side was so dark and beastly. After Kesh’s betrayal, he’s a bit harsh on her and he treats her like a frenemy who might stab them in the back. I seriously miss the fun banters between them. He doesn’t want to trust her but some teeny tiny bit inside him still cares about her. Well coming to Talen, he’s the star of this book. He’s quite a mysterious character filled with so many secrets. Well this book has revealed some of his secrets but there’re still some that haven’t been revealed yet. The sexual tension between him and Kesh was pretty intense and I absolutely enjoyed their angst. And finally not to forget Prince Eledan, who still haunts Kesh’s dreams. I loved the new characters and I can’t wait to know more about them especially Oberon. I can’t say anything about them because revealing them will be a spoiler.
The plot was exciting and engaging! I think this book was mostly focused on the characters and the relationship between them. I’m glad it wasn’t a filler story. It’s a fast paced read filled with twists, action, mystery, and romance. The story was so engaging that it was hard for me to put down the book. The twists will keep you turning the pages till the end. With so many secrets and lies revealed, I can’t wait to know what happens next. There are some hot and steamy scenes so be warned. The action scenes were brutal, just the way I like it. I loved the addictive writing style of the author. The book was told In Kesh’s POV but I wish it was told in multiple pov’s. The world building was simply superb.
Overall, I loved it! It was really a great sequel and even better than the first book. I thoroughly enjoyed it. There is no huge cliffhanger at the end but things are about to get dark in the next book so I really can’t wait to read it.
Game of Lies is a second book in the Messenger Chronicles series. I recently read the first book and I absolutely loved it. The ending left me wanting for more so I dived into the second book as soon it was released. Game Of Lies is an exciting ride filled with lots of twists, lies, secrets, and deceit. I immensely enjoyed the book even though the heroine frustrated me at sometimes. It’s a well written Reverse Harem series and it’s not all about romance, but the story too. It has an engaging plot and interesting characters. I loved Kesh, Talen, and Kellee. We get to know a lot more about them in this sequel but Talen stole the show. I’m glad this book gave more focus to Talen because I was so looking forward to know more about him. He is an enigma and I can’t get enough of him.
In the first book, it was revealed that Kesh Lasota is not a normal messenger but a saru slave, a gladiator warrior for the fae. She rose to fame in the fae realm by killing the other saru in the arena. She’s actually working for the current fae king Oberon who sent her on a mission to kill his brother Eledan. After learning the true identity of Kesh, Kellee and Talen felt betrayed by her. Kellee can’t trust her anymore and Talen, the fae who was bonded to her felt hurt by her deceit. She becomes their prisoner until she helps them rescue the remaining human survivors in Halow. When all three of them gets captured by a ruthless fae General they’ve no choice but to lie. Hence begins the Game of Lies. Kesh once again enters the fighting arena but this time she was forced to fight against her vakaru Kellee. Talen on the other hand, no one knows much about him but the fae can sense the power in him. Before their lies catch up with them, Kesh, Kellee, and Talen needs to find a way escape the ship otherwise everything will be lost including their lives.
All the characters in this book are flawed. Kesh is a total badass! She’s pretty complex character who has trust issues. Her whole life is filled with lies so she has a difficult time trusting others including herself. She’s very hard to connect with and sometimes I felt frustrated by her actions but I can’t seem to hate her either. I really enjoyed her character and also her weird relationship with Tallen, Kellee, and Eledan. Kellee is a pretty interesting character. We get to learn more about his origin in this book and man his other side was so dark and beastly. After Kesh’s betrayal, he’s a bit harsh on her and he treats her like a frenemy who might stab them in the back. I seriously miss the fun banters between them. He doesn’t want to trust her but some teeny tiny bit inside him still cares about her. Well coming to Talen, he’s the star of this book. He’s quite a mysterious character filled with so many secrets. Well this book has revealed some of his secrets but there’re still some that haven’t been revealed yet. The sexual tension between him and Kesh was pretty intense and I absolutely enjoyed their angst. And finally not to forget Prince Eledan, who still haunts Kesh’s dreams. I loved the new characters and I can’t wait to know more about them especially Oberon. I can’t say anything about them because revealing them will be a spoiler.
The plot was exciting and engaging! I think this book was mostly focused on the characters and the relationship between them. I’m glad it wasn’t a filler story. It’s a fast paced read filled with twists, action, mystery, and romance. The story was so engaging that it was hard for me to put down the book. The twists will keep you turning the pages till the end. With so many secrets and lies revealed, I can’t wait to know what happens next. There are some hot and steamy scenes so be warned. The action scenes were brutal, just the way I like it. I loved the addictive writing style of the author. The book was told In Kesh’s POV but I wish it was told in multiple pov’s. The world building was simply superb.
Overall, I loved it! It was really a great sequel and even better than the first book. I thoroughly enjoyed it. There is no huge cliffhanger at the end but things are about to get dark in the next book so I really can’t wait to read it.
May 9, 2018
HOW? Just how does she do it? Every book gets better and better...
When offered and ARC for an honest review of GoL I nearly melted my keyboard typing yes!
After the twist at the end of book one I was MORE than ready for book 2 of the Messenger Chronicles... or I thought I was.
It’s so aptly named... there are more lies, truths and twists than a teen attempt at covering up a secret party! Kesh’s character is so developed and conflicted(but not!)that when you throw in the twists with Talen, Kellee and the Aeon... argh.... my brain is so overwhelmed I cannot even write... I want to tell you EVERYTHING but it will spoil it... just make sure you set aside an evening when you pick this up because you will want to not put it down. And for heavens sake... make sure you have a first aider on hand to help regulate your heart rate after the bath scene!
When offered and ARC for an honest review of GoL I nearly melted my keyboard typing yes!
After the twist at the end of book one I was MORE than ready for book 2 of the Messenger Chronicles... or I thought I was.
It’s so aptly named... there are more lies, truths and twists than a teen attempt at covering up a secret party! Kesh’s character is so developed and conflicted(but not!)that when you throw in the twists with Talen, Kellee and the Aeon... argh.... my brain is so overwhelmed I cannot even write... I want to tell you EVERYTHING but it will spoil it... just make sure you set aside an evening when you pick this up because you will want to not put it down. And for heavens sake... make sure you have a first aider on hand to help regulate your heart rate after the bath scene!
June 5, 2019
This was one heck of a story, every time you thought you had it figured out, it twisted everything on its head! It's exhilarating, confusing, and mysterious all at the same time (and with no warning!). This book left more questions than answers, which leaves you hollering that you need to know what happens next!!!! Seems like a happily ever after is a carrot being dangled and yanked away from everyone involved, hopefully SOMETHING good happens in the next book!! Pippa is a genius of the written word, I can't believe the worlds she's able to create seemingly out of thin air! Extraordinarily well done, and thank you for the opportunity to review this work of art!
May 19, 2018
So, what do you get when you mix the last Vakaru, a mysterious Fae and a human gladiator in space?!? A whole lotta yummy! I loved this second installment even more than the first. We get a peek into Talen's origins and just how powerful he might be. A big taste of Kellee's attitude and Kesh being her amazing Kesh-self. We meet The Harvester and get taken on the wild tug of war between her and Kesh! It's chaos with juuust a hint of courtly intrigue. Of course, we can't forget the ghost of Eledan past as he manages to find his own place in this installment, too. There's a little bit for everyone and YOU definitely need to read this book!
June 19, 2018
This book is like a slowburn trainwreck; I hate all of the characters, and I just can't look away because they're so fascinating and complex. I love it so much.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews