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The Foundling #4
Rise Against
Welcome to the ferocious world of The Foundling, set in an bayou town where men are men - except when they are also dragons, kitties with wings, crocodiles and . . . well, Miller.
In the previous installment of this bestselling series, Luce Boudreau (ex-cop, current badass and apocalyptic demon), took on Death Herself - how could Luce have guessed that this was merely the beginning? In the brutal aftermath Luce and her loyal coterie face an enemy like no other - they'll need to team up with those they've considered enemies, and try to decide who - if anyone - they can trust . . . for the fate of the world itself rests in their hands.
In the previous installment of this bestselling series, Luce Boudreau (ex-cop, current badass and apocalyptic demon), took on Death Herself - how could Luce have guessed that this was merely the beginning? In the brutal aftermath Luce and her loyal coterie face an enemy like no other - they'll need to team up with those they've considered enemies, and try to decide who - if anyone - they can trust . . . for the fate of the world itself rests in their hands.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 22, 2019
187 people are currently reading
559 people want to read
About the author
Hailey Edwards
106 books2,791 followersHailey Edwards writes about questionable applications of otherwise perfectly good magic, the transformative power of love, the family you choose for yourself, and blowing stuff up. Not necessarily all at once. That could get messy.
Hailey isn't on Goodreads.
Please email her via her website:
https://haileyedwards.net/contact-form/
Hailey isn't on Goodreads.
Please email her via her website:
https://haileyedwards.net/contact-form/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
March 17, 2020
Nothing like reading about the apocalypse during the apocalypse. Speaking of which (switch to read the next part in my whiny voice) is this apocalypse almost over? I'm bored. Yes, it's only our first real day of having my city shut-down, but it felt like a really long day. No more restaurants or bars or movies? No gatherings of over 10 people? I have close to 10 people around me on a daily basis. And, I need to go out. Jilly likes people!
I can't wait to see where this is going...
huh. Exactly as I had hoped.
Okay, so this book got a little better than the last one which was kind of chaotic and messy. This one was also a bit chaotic and messy, but taken down a notch, so... I consider that a win. There were less "reveals", but still a couple that were supposed to be shocking. I don't know. I just don't have it in me anymore to be shocked, so it was more of a "eh, okay....whatever..." instead of a gasp.
This, it was not.
One of my favorite parts was when a guy was explaining lobster biology to our main girl:
"Tell me something I don't know," I said to distract him.
"Lobster bladders are located under their eyes. Essentially, they pee out of their faces."
"Eww." Good thing I wasn't big on seafood. "I didn't ask for something I didn't want to know."
"Lobsters flirt by squirting urine on each other. The female's urine is chockful of pheromones designed to calm the male to prevent aggression and put him in the mood to mate."
"You made it worse." I shuddered. "How it could be worse, I don't know, but you managed."
The good news is that I fact-checked this and it's true. Have fun with all that the next time you want lobster!
Sure it's cute until you remember the urine. That's not water they are dancing in.
Anyway, it looks like the next book is that last one and it will be the usual fighting for the salvation of Earth and what not. Oh, I haven't mentioned that any such thing has been happening? That's because I'm a lousy reviewer who rambles on about random shit instead of actually telling you about the story. It's not like the world's gonna end if I don't do a good job or something. I mean, the world's not ending, right? Right? Asking for a friend.
I can't wait to see where this is going...
huh. Exactly as I had hoped.
Okay, so this book got a little better than the last one which was kind of chaotic and messy. This one was also a bit chaotic and messy, but taken down a notch, so... I consider that a win. There were less "reveals", but still a couple that were supposed to be shocking. I don't know. I just don't have it in me anymore to be shocked, so it was more of a "eh, okay....whatever..." instead of a gasp.
This, it was not.
One of my favorite parts was when a guy was explaining lobster biology to our main girl:
"Tell me something I don't know," I said to distract him.
"Lobster bladders are located under their eyes. Essentially, they pee out of their faces."
"Eww." Good thing I wasn't big on seafood. "I didn't ask for something I didn't want to know."
"Lobsters flirt by squirting urine on each other. The female's urine is chockful of pheromones designed to calm the male to prevent aggression and put him in the mood to mate."
"You made it worse." I shuddered. "How it could be worse, I don't know, but you managed."
The good news is that I fact-checked this and it's true. Have fun with all that the next time you want lobster!
Sure it's cute until you remember the urine. That's not water they are dancing in.
Anyway, it looks like the next book is that last one and it will be the usual fighting for the salvation of Earth and what not. Oh, I haven't mentioned that any such thing has been happening? That's because I'm a lousy reviewer who rambles on about random shit instead of actually telling you about the story. It's not like the world's gonna end if I don't do a good job or something. I mean, the world's not ending, right? Right? Asking for a friend.
August 22, 2019
Luce: ‘Didn’t your mother teach you to wait until you’re invited in to enter a room?’
Santiago: ‘No. My mother ate one of my siblings because she wasn’t a fan of uneven numbers.’
After what felt like a slight wobble in Death Knell, this is a blinding return to form. Fourth and penultimate book in the Foundling Series, this instalment gives us a Luce who seems ready to be herself, finally reconciled with who she is as both human and charun. She’s found her own way to deal with each aspect of her character, including the ever dangerous remnant of Conquest, always eager to resume control. Luce has been knocked down hard by all the revelations, betrayals, and losses, but this book is about her finding a sense of peace with it all. And there’s a reason for that beyond the simple passing of time. There are no more closed eyes, there’s no more holding back. It feels like the calm before the storm. Like the end is coming...
‘Believing you’re flawed, broken, or wrong was ten times easier than trusting you were perfect just the way you were or whole or right. Bad things always stick with us longer than the good. I don’t know if that’s a self-esteem problem or a human problem, but it’s true.’
Outside of the fact that Hailey Edwards has created a stunningly original world and set of characters, what this book proves is that she can pull it all together to make something truly memorable. It’s a story with multiple levels of connection, but its foundation is all heart. That this instalment goes right back to the beginning, to the people who matter the most to Luce, was exactly right. No, more than that, it was goddamn exceptional. Without giving too much away, some much needed conversations were had and a few very important things resolved. Which was to be expected you might imagine, especially as things get closer to the end. But the WAY it was done. Brilliant.
Each new direction, every twist, all the feels had me grinning like crazy.
This book is funny, with the kind of snark that has you laughing out loud. The way it forms the basis of so many of the relationships in the series is perfectly realised, the deep emotional connections so many characters would struggle to verbalise revealed through humour and bitching. Distance closed as effectively by a sarcastic comment as some big life-saving action. It makes you realise how much you love these characters, how much their happiness means to you. These quiet scenes are just as affecting, just as important as the crazy battles and the shock twists. It’s not something I always get from UF, only Ilona Andrews’ Kate Daniels series has a similar emotional hit. Of course, that just makes it all the more stressful to imagine what comes next, what happens when world ending war puts every single character in danger. I’m nervy as hell about it. At the same time, I can’t wait.
Now, if you haven’t read this series before, don’t start here. This isn’t something you can just pick up anywhere and get stuck in. There’s too much emotional build up, never mind the sheer amount of crucial shit that’s happened before this point. Start with Bayou Born and be part of Luce’s journey. She’s the kind of hero you can’t help but love, a real person dumped into all manner of trouble, a fighter who will do anything to save those she loves. I’m with her every step of the way and you will be too.
This is definitely the best book of the series.... with just one more to go. I can't imagine at this point how it can be bettered, but I trust in Hailey Edwards to keep surprising me.
ARC via Netgalley
Santiago: ‘No. My mother ate one of my siblings because she wasn’t a fan of uneven numbers.’
After what felt like a slight wobble in Death Knell, this is a blinding return to form. Fourth and penultimate book in the Foundling Series, this instalment gives us a Luce who seems ready to be herself, finally reconciled with who she is as both human and charun. She’s found her own way to deal with each aspect of her character, including the ever dangerous remnant of Conquest, always eager to resume control. Luce has been knocked down hard by all the revelations, betrayals, and losses, but this book is about her finding a sense of peace with it all. And there’s a reason for that beyond the simple passing of time. There are no more closed eyes, there’s no more holding back. It feels like the calm before the storm. Like the end is coming...
‘Believing you’re flawed, broken, or wrong was ten times easier than trusting you were perfect just the way you were or whole or right. Bad things always stick with us longer than the good. I don’t know if that’s a self-esteem problem or a human problem, but it’s true.’
Outside of the fact that Hailey Edwards has created a stunningly original world and set of characters, what this book proves is that she can pull it all together to make something truly memorable. It’s a story with multiple levels of connection, but its foundation is all heart. That this instalment goes right back to the beginning, to the people who matter the most to Luce, was exactly right. No, more than that, it was goddamn exceptional. Without giving too much away, some much needed conversations were had and a few very important things resolved. Which was to be expected you might imagine, especially as things get closer to the end. But the WAY it was done. Brilliant.
Each new direction, every twist, all the feels had me grinning like crazy.
This book is funny, with the kind of snark that has you laughing out loud. The way it forms the basis of so many of the relationships in the series is perfectly realised, the deep emotional connections so many characters would struggle to verbalise revealed through humour and bitching. Distance closed as effectively by a sarcastic comment as some big life-saving action. It makes you realise how much you love these characters, how much their happiness means to you. These quiet scenes are just as affecting, just as important as the crazy battles and the shock twists. It’s not something I always get from UF, only Ilona Andrews’ Kate Daniels series has a similar emotional hit. Of course, that just makes it all the more stressful to imagine what comes next, what happens when world ending war puts every single character in danger. I’m nervy as hell about it. At the same time, I can’t wait.
Now, if you haven’t read this series before, don’t start here. This isn’t something you can just pick up anywhere and get stuck in. There’s too much emotional build up, never mind the sheer amount of crucial shit that’s happened before this point. Start with Bayou Born and be part of Luce’s journey. She’s the kind of hero you can’t help but love, a real person dumped into all manner of trouble, a fighter who will do anything to save those she loves. I’m with her every step of the way and you will be too.
This is definitely the best book of the series.... with just one more to go. I can't imagine at this point how it can be bettered, but I trust in Hailey Edwards to keep surprising me.
ARC via Netgalley
September 2, 2019
So this is book 4 in the fantastic Foundling series and Luce and Cole finally seem to be on the same page in regards to there ongoing dynamic and current relationship status and I did like how in sync and transparent these two now seem to be.
It was about time they moved forward and became an item I was beginning to think it would never actually happen.
In Rise Against all parties are now in the process of rounding up an army to fight their enemies in the upcoming battle and war and Luce herself is right in the thick of the action.
Also, Rixton Luce's human partner is back in the picture which I was super ecstatic about as I do adore the push and pull between him and Luce just so much and really missed him when he and she were on the outs so was great to welcome him back into the fold and witness his wide-eyed delight.
We also finally get to realise the full extent of Luce's origins and just how she has become the individual she now is and as for Ezra well let's just say my instincts regarding his identity and role in this were mostly spot-on.
There were definitely some surprises to be had here especially in regards to the traitor prepare to be shocked and then shocked again after their identity is finally outed.
Didn't see that one coming at all.
So this was amped up from the start chocka full of action and as all the cards eventually started to settle into there correct places and the players involved eventually revealed their individual hands all is stacked to play-out just how it will.
This really was such a great instalment and after how we left things here I really can't wait for the next book in this addictive series.
I don't know why I thought this was the last book in this series? well, it isn't folks but hey that's fine just means more Luce, Cole and the gang to look forward to in the future.
Finally, before I go just want to say baby Phoebe OMG just so cute: she was just so adorable.
This series and its unique take on the whole good versus evil: demon versus angel is just so fresh and original and imaginative as hell and I am completely smitten.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of Rise Against (The Foundling, #4)
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
August 20, 2019
This book has * all the things*! A real ramping up of the war, secrets revealed, friendships mended and matings achieved! This whole story continues to be outside of the box and hugely enjoyable. Many thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book.
August 27, 2019
Rise Against is the fourth and penultimate novel in The Foundling series, and I feel this is the most enjoyable to date. I mean how can you resist a fantasy focused on the age-old battle between good and evil and a world with dragons and flying kitties? Edwards is seriously underrated in the fantasy genre as she can always be relied upon to craft an immersive and compulsive story. It has a bit of something for everyone: there's mystery, action, humour, emotion, and although I am craving the last book, End Game, I am also sad that we are nearing the conclusion of this epic adventure.
This has to be up there with some of the best worldbuilding I've encountered, but the characterisation is also incredible. So much attention to detail and nothing being left to chance. I appreciated that long-awaited answers were given to some of the questions that arose in previous instalments as that helps build up the picture and make the reading experience fully rounded. There are twists and turns galore and deceit and betrayal are a regular occurrence as people switch allegiances. As Luce builds her army and resides them for the final battle she must remember that they may be enemies in her ranks. Many thanks to Piatkus for an ARC.
This has to be up there with some of the best worldbuilding I've encountered, but the characterisation is also incredible. So much attention to detail and nothing being left to chance. I appreciated that long-awaited answers were given to some of the questions that arose in previous instalments as that helps build up the picture and make the reading experience fully rounded. There are twists and turns galore and deceit and betrayal are a regular occurrence as people switch allegiances. As Luce builds her army and resides them for the final battle she must remember that they may be enemies in her ranks. Many thanks to Piatkus for an ARC.
September 9, 2019
Four books in and I'm still really enjoying this series. A lot of truths are revealed here...with Rixton...with Wu...Luce's father...even Luce herself. This installment focuses less on the dynamics between Conquest and her sisters and more on Wu, Ezra, and the man's (god?'s) plans to raze anything in his wake.
I continue to adore the relationship Luce has with her coterie. I love how many of her followers are choosing to stand behind her--not for Conquest--but for Luce herself.
The relationship between Luce and Cole is spot-on (even though their long awaited consummation felt a little...less than I'd expected) and I really liked the addition of their daughter much more than I expected.
Can't wait to continue on with these books. I am such a fan of Hailey Edwards.
I continue to adore the relationship Luce has with her coterie. I love how many of her followers are choosing to stand behind her--not for Conquest--but for Luce herself.
The relationship between Luce and Cole is spot-on (even though their long awaited consummation felt a little...less than I'd expected) and I really liked the addition of their daughter much more than I expected.
Can't wait to continue on with these books. I am such a fan of Hailey Edwards.
October 15, 2019
I was ready for it to end long before we hit 60%. The simple truth is after all 3 previous books receiving high marks from me, this book just didn’t live up to my expectations. I’m calling it quits.
August 27, 2019
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Rise Against is the Fourth installment in author Hailey Edwards The Foundling series. Luce Boudreau is collecting soldiers for an upcoming war that seems to be forgetting that humans actually live in this world as well. She has reconciled with the fact that she has a dangerous part of her, Conquest, that is leaking out and fighting her at every turn. Even though Conquest is fighting her, Luce still believes she is a human and charun hybrid and that makes her much stronger and unique her sisters Death, War, and Famine.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Rise Against is the Fourth installment in author Hailey Edwards The Foundling series. Luce Boudreau is collecting soldiers for an upcoming war that seems to be forgetting that humans actually live in this world as well. She has reconciled with the fact that she has a dangerous part of her, Conquest, that is leaking out and fighting her at every turn. Even though Conquest is fighting her, Luce still believes she is a human and charun hybrid and that makes her much stronger and unique her sisters Death, War, and Famine.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
September 21, 2019
This book has definitely left me wondering how this story is going to end, what is Luce going to choose? I loved it and something finally happens in this book that I feel all the readers have been waiting for. And also, how can Hailey Edwards make me both feel bad for a character and also be angry at him?
August 10, 2019
First thing that has to be said, any confusion over what was going on here comes from me not realising this wasn’t the first in the series when I requested it on NetGalley.
Luce appears to be part-human and she’s planning to mate with Cole (who is a dragon) but there’s another entity inside her that keeps bursting out. They’re searching for supporters in a battle to come, and there’s lots of plotting/some brutal killings and the odd bit of double-crossing.
Coming to this story with no idea of the background, there were some details that could be picked up quite easily, but there was a fair amount that really didn’t get explained/make sense.
Probably quite an entertaining instalment for those more in the loop.
Luce appears to be part-human and she’s planning to mate with Cole (who is a dragon) but there’s another entity inside her that keeps bursting out. They’re searching for supporters in a battle to come, and there’s lots of plotting/some brutal killings and the odd bit of double-crossing.
Coming to this story with no idea of the background, there were some details that could be picked up quite easily, but there was a fair amount that really didn’t get explained/make sense.
Probably quite an entertaining instalment for those more in the loop.
August 23, 2019
What an interesting world Hailey has built. Everything comes back home and Luce's old partner comes back into the picture. We find out Luce's secret Ezra and who holds her bond. Overall can't wait to see how it ends.
September 9, 2019
What ever happened to the chick Portia used before Maggie?
I dont like the writing i especially hate the flow. -choppy AF.
I dont like the writing i especially hate the flow. -choppy AF.
March 21, 2022
This book dragged. As usual with this author, the series had an excellent start, then it was okay, and now this book was a slow series of small, disjointed events.
One thing this author does that baffles me is that she will forget characters during a scene. There’s three people in a boat. Two start talking, and it’s like the third one isn’t there.
There are also inconsistencies. One character grabs Luce by the throat and threatens her. While her coterie just watches. The overprotective, violent people who bristle when someone touches Luce? Now they’re just looking while this dude cuts off her airways. Make it make sense, sister.
One thing this author does that baffles me is that she will forget characters during a scene. There’s three people in a boat. Two start talking, and it’s like the third one isn’t there.
There are also inconsistencies. One character grabs Luce by the throat and threatens her. While her coterie just watches. The overprotective, violent people who bristle when someone touches Luce? Now they’re just looking while this dude cuts off her airways. Make it make sense, sister.
August 27, 2023
I found this one a little tedious and Luce annoying. She's suddenly become a know it all. I get that she has to save everyone but she's only just learned about it. She pleads ignorance when it suits, then doles out orders and makes promises or threats when it doesn't. I miss old Luce.
August 8, 2019
This author is fast becoming a favorite. This latest in The Foundling series pretty much picks up with Luce trying to win others to her side in the coming war. However, it’s not as easy when forces are against her, even ones she thinks are on her side. This book was filled with the fast action, great characterizations, and terrific writing I’ve come to expect from this author. Everyone is so multi-faceted, you never know what to expect in a good way. I’ve come to really feel for Luce, and all the hardships and betrayals she’s faced. The end of this book was just another blow, and I am dreading and anticipating the next book. I couldn’t put this one down and if you loved the others, this one is just as good if not better. This series is great, and I highly recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
August 25, 2019
Ms. Edwards is an auto-buy for me and she did not disappoint in this installment. The next book finishes the series and needless to say I'm ready for it right now. Very emotional ride.
April 24, 2020
I listened to the audiobook, the narrator did good on some voice and other weren't so great but the narrator is doing a lot of voice.
August 25, 2019
Book 4 of the Foundling series
Wow - wow - wow. I’ve been ready for the latest instalment of Luce for what feels like forever! I devoured this book in two sittings.
The plot is fast paced, excellently crafted and just fabulous.
There are some huge revelations in this book - leading up to a final showdown in book 5.
Thanks Hailey. I love Luce even more!
Wow - wow - wow. I’ve been ready for the latest instalment of Luce for what feels like forever! I devoured this book in two sittings.
The plot is fast paced, excellently crafted and just fabulous.
There are some huge revelations in this book - leading up to a final showdown in book 5.
Thanks Hailey. I love Luce even more!
April 5, 2022
A sombre sequal as things are ramped up towards the oncoming End Game.
September 12, 2019
Cost of Impatience
This book has misused and misspelled words. “Out” where the author meant to write “our”, “you” where the author meant to use “your”. The story is getting sloppier and sloppier as the author introduces ever more characters trying to stretch, contort, and contrive reasons for the mystery from the first chapter of the first book to remain relevant 4 books later. 4 books later, the author still hasn’t gotten around to discussing Portia or Santiago’s true identities even though she has introduced literally dozens of other new characters and new demon/Charon species. The AU simply does not have a structured feel to it like the author has considered where she wants the story to go and is rather winging it from book to book. The world-building is not cohesive and the series suffers for it.
The Beginner’s Guide to Necromancy by this same author and the spin-off series are fantastic books, but another series of hers, the Black Dog series, was a quagmire in which each successive book was less readable than the previous and each spin-off book of that series felt like a punishment. I am utterly pissed at myself for spending $15 on a series of books that desperately needs an editor to show the author where they need to correct their sentences instead of just buying TBGTN and waiting for the next Potentate of Atlanta book to come out.
This book has misused and misspelled words. “Out” where the author meant to write “our”, “you” where the author meant to use “your”. The story is getting sloppier and sloppier as the author introduces ever more characters trying to stretch, contort, and contrive reasons for the mystery from the first chapter of the first book to remain relevant 4 books later. 4 books later, the author still hasn’t gotten around to discussing Portia or Santiago’s true identities even though she has introduced literally dozens of other new characters and new demon/Charon species. The AU simply does not have a structured feel to it like the author has considered where she wants the story to go and is rather winging it from book to book. The world-building is not cohesive and the series suffers for it.
The Beginner’s Guide to Necromancy by this same author and the spin-off series are fantastic books, but another series of hers, the Black Dog series, was a quagmire in which each successive book was less readable than the previous and each spin-off book of that series felt like a punishment. I am utterly pissed at myself for spending $15 on a series of books that desperately needs an editor to show the author where they need to correct their sentences instead of just buying TBGTN and waiting for the next Potentate of Atlanta book to come out.
September 21, 2019
“Rise Against” is one of the best reads in the Foundling series. It is pivotal in installments to come. Why? Because it truly sets the groundwork for the epic battle against Ezra that is yet to come and it will be heartbreaking.
Luce Boudreaux has traveled to a small town to garner support for her side in the war. If course in any major discussion there will be those who wish to challenge you. Luce certainly knows how to handle the situation and all o can say on the outdone is Bon Apetit!
Meanwhile, Luce and Cole finally seal their mating bond. Boy, are the harmones flying. Ruction and his wife are back in the picture and will play a role in the war. We also get to read about Luce’s adoptive father as well.
Treachery is everywhere and so is betrayal. One of my favorite aspects of the read was Cole’s daughter, Phoebe. I just wish there had been more scenes with this character. While this read was definitely one of the best, I struggled at times with reading it. That is the reason for my 4 star rating. I felt that too often the read got bogged down in unnecessary minutiae but that is just mean.
It feels as though the series is coming to an end. While I cannot wait to read the next installment it will be sad to see this series end. Only time will tell how much longer this series will last. I for one plan to enjoy each and every page.
Luce Boudreaux has traveled to a small town to garner support for her side in the war. If course in any major discussion there will be those who wish to challenge you. Luce certainly knows how to handle the situation and all o can say on the outdone is Bon Apetit!
Meanwhile, Luce and Cole finally seal their mating bond. Boy, are the harmones flying. Ruction and his wife are back in the picture and will play a role in the war. We also get to read about Luce’s adoptive father as well.
Treachery is everywhere and so is betrayal. One of my favorite aspects of the read was Cole’s daughter, Phoebe. I just wish there had been more scenes with this character. While this read was definitely one of the best, I struggled at times with reading it. That is the reason for my 4 star rating. I felt that too often the read got bogged down in unnecessary minutiae but that is just mean.
It feels as though the series is coming to an end. While I cannot wait to read the next installment it will be sad to see this series end. Only time will tell how much longer this series will last. I for one plan to enjoy each and every page.
August 25, 2019
*possible, slight spoiler... not bad but be aware.*
Another great offering by an incredibly talented and very underestimated author. Ms. Edwards world building is as good as any I’ve read, her stories are intricate, rich and riveting!
The turn of events at the end of this installment is the only thing that was disappointing. As creative and unique as all this author’s books have been so far, I just can’t believe she is going to sink to the old and very over-used cliche of “I must die in order to save the world...”. PAHLEASE take care of that SUPER annoying trope early on and not let it hang over the entire conclusion. It has been done SO many times before and always (IMHO) lessens the enjoyement of the journey.
Another great offering by an incredibly talented and very underestimated author. Ms. Edwards world building is as good as any I’ve read, her stories are intricate, rich and riveting!
The turn of events at the end of this installment is the only thing that was disappointing. As creative and unique as all this author’s books have been so far, I just can’t believe she is going to sink to the old and very over-used cliche of “I must die in order to save the world...”. PAHLEASE take care of that SUPER annoying trope early on and not let it hang over the entire conclusion. It has been done SO many times before and always (IMHO) lessens the enjoyement of the journey.
March 24, 2020
This was a confused muddle of characters running around without any seeming purpose. I'm not always a huge fan of rehashing previous installments in a series but this time a reminder was desperately needed. At no point in this story are we reminded why Luce is doing anything or why she's the hero of this plot. Nothing was accomplished in this book that moved the overall plot forward and I'm a bit lost as to what that plot actually is. The entire story here can be summed up by: people moved location, people died.
May 17, 2022
Been waiting 500 years for her to crack and release conquest and when she does we (the reader) see none of it ... I get that it's a stylized choice, but if you're going to use this to build tension and heighten stakes for the MC, then there better be a payoff.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2019
I enjoyed this one more than most of the previous entries to the series, but I didn't care for the ending.
October 17, 2019
Luce Boudrou has formed an alliance with Death, and her coterie - and she is now recruiting allies from among the other charun for the forthcoming war against Ezra.
Former enemies will now have to team up if they are to have any chance against the power that opposes them, and protect human kind at the same time.
There are still hidden secrets for Luce and her loyal coterie to discover and they will have a bearing on how this war ends.
How far can they trust Adam Wu? What is he still hiding?
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Rise Against is the fourth book in the highly enjoyable Foundling series by Hailey Edwards - I read the first three books very close together in January this year, but have only just got around to this one, even though it was published in August.
There is a lot to enjoy in this book and some more secrets have been revealed which will make the next one pretty interesting, but it did feel a bit like things were being strung out in this one, rather than getting to the point - although the Luce-Cole relationship has finally progressed.
I have enjoyed this one, but would really like to see the series reaching some sort of resolution in the next book - although I have no idea how many Hailey Edwards plans to write. The next one is probably going to have to be pretty special for me to carry on if this is not the case.
All in all a good read, if you have read the first three, and they have a lot of charm - make sure you read them in the right order though.
Former enemies will now have to team up if they are to have any chance against the power that opposes them, and protect human kind at the same time.
There are still hidden secrets for Luce and her loyal coterie to discover and they will have a bearing on how this war ends.
How far can they trust Adam Wu? What is he still hiding?
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Rise Against is the fourth book in the highly enjoyable Foundling series by Hailey Edwards - I read the first three books very close together in January this year, but have only just got around to this one, even though it was published in August.
There is a lot to enjoy in this book and some more secrets have been revealed which will make the next one pretty interesting, but it did feel a bit like things were being strung out in this one, rather than getting to the point - although the Luce-Cole relationship has finally progressed.
I have enjoyed this one, but would really like to see the series reaching some sort of resolution in the next book - although I have no idea how many Hailey Edwards plans to write. The next one is probably going to have to be pretty special for me to carry on if this is not the case.
All in all a good read, if you have read the first three, and they have a lot of charm - make sure you read them in the right order though.
August 20, 2019
Rise Against is the penultimate book in the Foundling series. Luce is a warrior – Conquest – sent to prepare for her sisters to conquer Earth. Instead, she lost all memory of what she was and her purpose. Adopted by a policeman, she follows in his footsteps to become a cop. Her coterie waited patiently for her to remember her duty and prepare for the coming of her sisters. Instead, she chooses to stand between Earth and her sisters to save humanity. Now she has an even bigger battle as angels and demons fight on Earth for the ultimate showdown.
This book delivered action and many twists and turns. Luce is balancing her human side and Conquest (mostly) and leading her coterie. But she also realizes that she might not have the control over Conquest that she thought. She is recruiting others to follow her as she protects the Earth and humanity. Not quite like previous incarnations of Conquest, people are eager to support her and her cause.
Luce learns more about her origins and why she is different from the other Conquests. She gets even more shocking news as she reels from her creation story. Cole, her mate and a dragon, stands by her side as she tries to understand what has happened to her.
This book definitely delivers action and surprising revelations. It is an excellent set-up for the next and final book in this series. I couldn’t put it down!
ARC provided by the publisher via net galley in exchange for an honest review
This book delivered action and many twists and turns. Luce is balancing her human side and Conquest (mostly) and leading her coterie. But she also realizes that she might not have the control over Conquest that she thought. She is recruiting others to follow her as she protects the Earth and humanity. Not quite like previous incarnations of Conquest, people are eager to support her and her cause.
Luce learns more about her origins and why she is different from the other Conquests. She gets even more shocking news as she reels from her creation story. Cole, her mate and a dragon, stands by her side as she tries to understand what has happened to her.
This book definitely delivers action and surprising revelations. It is an excellent set-up for the next and final book in this series. I couldn’t put it down!
ARC provided by the publisher via net galley in exchange for an honest review
August 18, 2019
Oh, man. So Luce is finally starting to find a measure of balance between her human side and Conquest. She's settling into being the leader of her coterie and all that means. She and Cole are exploring their thing and it's AWESOME.
And...well, nothing is ever easy, is it?
Not for Luce. Not for Cole. Not for anyone tied to her by blood or friendship.
*slow deep breath* So anyway. Things are moving forward for Luce and her crew. She's growing stronger and more confident in her abilities. But...BUT...there are roadblocks. Some of them are pretty hefty. But Luce also inspires crazy loyalty in people because she's very different from the Conquests who have come before. And that means she has people who believe in her even when she doesn't believe in herself.
Luce learns things. We learn things. Some of these things are okay. Some not so great.
The fate of Earth is in Luce and her coterie's hands and they still have a lot to do to secure this world if they want to keep its inhabitants safe. A lot to do and only a little time to do it if I'm reading the signs right. The end is coming and it's going to be a doozy.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
And...well, nothing is ever easy, is it?
Not for Luce. Not for Cole. Not for anyone tied to her by blood or friendship.
*slow deep breath* So anyway. Things are moving forward for Luce and her crew. She's growing stronger and more confident in her abilities. But...BUT...there are roadblocks. Some of them are pretty hefty. But Luce also inspires crazy loyalty in people because she's very different from the Conquests who have come before. And that means she has people who believe in her even when she doesn't believe in herself.
Luce learns things. We learn things. Some of these things are okay. Some not so great.
The fate of Earth is in Luce and her coterie's hands and they still have a lot to do to secure this world if they want to keep its inhabitants safe. A lot to do and only a little time to do it if I'm reading the signs right. The end is coming and it's going to be a doozy.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
August 21, 2019
DEATH KNELL wasn't my favorite installment of The Foundling series so I was a little worried that RISE AGAINST would fall along the same lines. I had nothing to be worried about.
Luce is continuing to learn about herself and her allies. I enjoy each and everyone on her team. I love the slow release of details, but am glad that by the end of RISE AGAINST it seems that Luce is finally in the know about all the things that have been kept from her and some revelations have cleared up some of the lingering questions I have had since book one.
Luce's relationship with Cole is finally strong. They are both on the same page and work really well together. We learned that they had a child (well, Cole and Conquest specifically) in DEATH KNELL and I wasn't really sure how I felt about it. I'm still not totally sure, but by the end of RISE AGAINST, I was more excited about it.
I totally loved the developments having to do with Rixton. I don't want to give anything away, but I was really excited about how that particular portion of the storyline played out in RISE AGAINST.
After I was done reading RISE AGAINST I only wanted to read more.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Luce is continuing to learn about herself and her allies. I enjoy each and everyone on her team. I love the slow release of details, but am glad that by the end of RISE AGAINST it seems that Luce is finally in the know about all the things that have been kept from her and some revelations have cleared up some of the lingering questions I have had since book one.
Luce's relationship with Cole is finally strong. They are both on the same page and work really well together. We learned that they had a child (well, Cole and Conquest specifically) in DEATH KNELL and I wasn't really sure how I felt about it. I'm still not totally sure, but by the end of RISE AGAINST, I was more excited about it.
I totally loved the developments having to do with Rixton. I don't want to give anything away, but I was really excited about how that particular portion of the storyline played out in RISE AGAINST.
After I was done reading RISE AGAINST I only wanted to read more.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
September 16, 2019
If you haven’t read any of the rest of the Foundling series, you should go do that right now, then read Rise Against. The story continues with Luce Boudreau working with her coterie to gather troops for the fight that is coming against Wu’s father. There are some questions answered, as well as revelations of the big picture she hadn’t thought about, old friends reunited and a mole discovered. There is also Phoebe, Cole’s daughter with Conquest, who is technically Luce, which has her confused and apprehensive about how meeting the little girl is going to go. And there are dragons and winged kitties, crocodiles and angels, and assorted other strange creatures great and small. It ends on a good note, with the knowledge that there is more adversity to come and questions about how it will all go, and I can’t wait to read it.
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