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The Venatrix Chronicles #2
Visions of Fate
Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Leigh Bardugo, this romantic fantasy adventure will leave you hungry for more.
The hunt is on.
But who is the hunter and who is the hunted?
Ayleth and Terryn survived the Witchwood, but they’re no closer to solving the mystery of the dead shade hunter. In their quest for answers, they discover that a witch has escaped through the Great Barrier and is leaving a trail of corpses in her wake.
A murderous witch is only one of Ayleth’s problems, however. Terryn, her infuriating and intriguing rival, will give his all to win their competition. And Kephan, their Outpost Master, conceals more than one dangerous secret.
Worst of all, while pursuing a lead, Ayleth finds herself on the hunt for a three-year-old girl . . . a girl possessed by a unique and powerful shade.
Suddenly, Ayleth must question the teachings of her Holy Order. Is it always right to kill humans possessed by shades? Even a child?
Return to the world of The Venatrix Chronicles, where deadly spirits lurk in the shadows, good and evil wage eternal war, and secrets threaten to tear a kingdom apart. If you love kick-butt heroines, slow-burn romance, breathtaking action, and stories that leave you with a book hangover for days after you finish . . . you need to discover this dark and deadly series. Prepare to turn pages late into the night!
The hunt is on.
But who is the hunter and who is the hunted?
Ayleth and Terryn survived the Witchwood, but they’re no closer to solving the mystery of the dead shade hunter. In their quest for answers, they discover that a witch has escaped through the Great Barrier and is leaving a trail of corpses in her wake.
A murderous witch is only one of Ayleth’s problems, however. Terryn, her infuriating and intriguing rival, will give his all to win their competition. And Kephan, their Outpost Master, conceals more than one dangerous secret.
Worst of all, while pursuing a lead, Ayleth finds herself on the hunt for a three-year-old girl . . . a girl possessed by a unique and powerful shade.
Suddenly, Ayleth must question the teachings of her Holy Order. Is it always right to kill humans possessed by shades? Even a child?
Return to the world of The Venatrix Chronicles, where deadly spirits lurk in the shadows, good and evil wage eternal war, and secrets threaten to tear a kingdom apart. If you love kick-butt heroines, slow-burn romance, breathtaking action, and stories that leave you with a book hangover for days after you finish . . . you need to discover this dark and deadly series. Prepare to turn pages late into the night!
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2019
537 people are currently reading
934 people want to read
About the author
Sylvia Mercedes
44 books2,291 followersHi, there. I'm Sylvia: cat-lover, tea-drinker, book-addict, and avid fan of the Kickbutt Heroine Fantasy Genre! If you like reading about tough heroines with extraordinary powers facing their demons and saving their loved ones . . . then we ought to be friends!
Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter. You get my novel, Song of Shadows, for FREE when you sign up!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
November 11, 2019
Enjoyed this even more than the first. My biggest complaint is that everything happens so quickly. I think that there's just a few days between the start of the first book and the end of this one. It makes it hard to develop meaning relationships between characters if they only know each other for a week across the series. The shades are cool. I'm ready to learn more about them. Using music to control them is also pretty cool. The lore is interesting though a little confusing. Who made all these rules anyway? It even made me tear up a little towards the end. If you read it you'll know where I mean. Looking forward to the next one!
November 14, 2019
4.25/5
This was soooo much better than the first book in this series in my opinion. After finishing Daughter of Shades, I was intrigued to see where the story was going to go, and after finishing Visions of Fate I am hooked! I absolutely love where the story and plot is going and seeing all the mystery intertwined through unravel!
This sequel was such a step up from the first installment in this series. I found that while the writing was so incredible basic in the first book, it was immensely more complex in this book (although I do still think there is room for more improvement). Unlike the first book, I enjoyed the battle scenes and found the whole book flowed a lot better.
As for the characters, I absolutely love them! I am so intrigued to see where each of the characters end up as this series progresses. I absolutely love Ayleth and Terryn. I am so fascinated by both of their pasts and their identities. I am very intrigued in who Ayleth’s true identity is, and Terryn’s history with Ylaire and how the effect of that will play out.
Overall, I am very impressed with the improvement from Daughter of Shade and Vision of Fate. I hope this series continues getting better every installment!
This was soooo much better than the first book in this series in my opinion. After finishing Daughter of Shades, I was intrigued to see where the story was going to go, and after finishing Visions of Fate I am hooked! I absolutely love where the story and plot is going and seeing all the mystery intertwined through unravel!
This sequel was such a step up from the first installment in this series. I found that while the writing was so incredible basic in the first book, it was immensely more complex in this book (although I do still think there is room for more improvement). Unlike the first book, I enjoyed the battle scenes and found the whole book flowed a lot better.
As for the characters, I absolutely love them! I am so intrigued to see where each of the characters end up as this series progresses. I absolutely love Ayleth and Terryn. I am so fascinated by both of their pasts and their identities. I am very intrigued in who Ayleth’s true identity is, and Terryn’s history with Ylaire and how the effect of that will play out.
Overall, I am very impressed with the improvement from Daughter of Shade and Vision of Fate. I hope this series continues getting better every installment!
October 26, 2019
Awesome series. I wish things will speed up though. I have an inkling of who Ayelth is and I want to see it play out. Can't wait till the next book.
October 30, 2021
10.30.2021
You know you're overworking when you go back to a book you read four months ago but now have NO CLUE what happened in the book....
Yeah. Even roughly.
Thankfully you recall the characters and how much you loved them in the story...
It's still rather pathetic, my dear.
So I shall quote Sophism: Is twenty-two too early for retirement? xD
(I intend to skim-review this book and then review it by the end of the year. Now let's see if that happens. And thanks to Sam, Lily, Sophia, and Sarah for liking my "06.18 RTC note" which actually is reminding me that I need to write one. xD <3 )
06.18.2021
RTC
It's been FOREVER since I blew through a book that fast though...
You know you're overworking when you go back to a book you read four months ago but now have NO CLUE what happened in the book....
Yeah. Even roughly.
Thankfully you recall the characters and how much you loved them in the story...
It's still rather pathetic, my dear.
So I shall quote Sophism: Is twenty-two too early for retirement? xD
(I intend to skim-review this book and then review it by the end of the year. Now let's see if that happens. And thanks to Sam, Lily, Sophia, and Sarah for liking my "06.18 RTC note" which actually is reminding me that I need to write one. xD <3 )
06.18.2021
RTC
It's been FOREVER since I blew through a book that fast though...
August 11, 2019
This is the sequel to the fabulous 'Daughter of Shades', the debut by Sylvia Mercedes. Truth be told, I'm always a wee bit wary of the second book in a series as they don't always stand up to the strength and excellence of the first. NEWSFLASH: I can personally assure you that there's nothing to worry about here, folks. It is just as good as, if not even better than, the first one.
Another brilliant, exciting, bum on the edge of the seat story which I absolutely loved. The plot is getting deeper and deeper and I won't spoil it for you, however, it looks like there is no definitive line between good and evil. Not everything is as it first appears. You'll not believe some of what you read!
Mercedes writes very well indeed. Her words conjure up all kinds of things in my imagination, and I feel everything that Ayleth and Terryn go through. I zoomed through the pages at speed, and now have to be a good girl and be patient until the next book comes out. (Please hurry up... "Hunt! Hunt! Mistress.")
I chose this book from a larger selection, then voluntarily read and honestly reviewed it. All opinions are my own.
Another brilliant, exciting, bum on the edge of the seat story which I absolutely loved. The plot is getting deeper and deeper and I won't spoil it for you, however, it looks like there is no definitive line between good and evil. Not everything is as it first appears. You'll not believe some of what you read!
Mercedes writes very well indeed. Her words conjure up all kinds of things in my imagination, and I feel everything that Ayleth and Terryn go through. I zoomed through the pages at speed, and now have to be a good girl and be patient until the next book comes out. (Please hurry up... "Hunt! Hunt! Mistress.")
I chose this book from a larger selection, then voluntarily read and honestly reviewed it. All opinions are my own.
March 9, 2021
So much craziness. Ayleth and Terryn can stop bickering anytime now. They are constantly at each other’s throats while I’m over here praying that they will finally kiss and get along. Is that too much to ask? 🤷🏻♀️ I really enjoyed Venator Du Tam. When our MC’s first encounter him, he made me laugh and later made me feel terrible for him.
I’m rating this 4 stars cause, some of it dragged for me and the non stop fighting between the two mains were grinding on my nerves.
I’m rating this 4 stars cause, some of it dragged for me and the non stop fighting between the two mains were grinding on my nerves.
December 26, 2019
A great continuation to the story! A few questions are starting to be answered, but they just leave more mystery for the next book! Terryn and Ayleth make such a great team! I can't wait to see where the next book takes them!
March 2, 2022
Our poor characters don't get a break after their traumatic adventure in the Witchwood, they are back on the investigation of the lost venerator and the mission to keep the borough safe. Their relationship that had gone squishy for a moment after all the saving-each-others'-lives has hardened back to rivalry while they both try to forget any and all moments of almost trusting each other.
There was a lot going on in this installment, plunging us deeper into the story unfolding behind the scenes even as the characters face the greatest dilemma they've faced yet for their order. I liked getting to know Terryn more. I didn't like all the Terryn abuse that went on, though. I liked getting to know his and Ayleth's mentor and prospective hunt-brother. I didn't like it that they had to split up to pursue different leads. I liked meeting a different religious order, and especially the head priestess, who was hilarious.
Also, Terryn and I have now learned that him coming to her aid when she screams wasn't a one-time thing from their caper in the Witchwood. It is an automatic trigger. I'm going to keep special track of this development as the series goes. For research purposes. Which means I'll have to keep reading. For research purposes.
Note to more sensitive readers: This book had some bad language, violence, horror elements, a character dealing with bad life decisions, and an AWKWARD moment.
There was a lot going on in this installment, plunging us deeper into the story unfolding behind the scenes even as the characters face the greatest dilemma they've faced yet for their order. I liked getting to know Terryn more. I didn't like all the Terryn abuse that went on, though. I liked getting to know his and Ayleth's mentor and prospective hunt-brother. I didn't like it that they had to split up to pursue different leads. I liked meeting a different religious order, and especially the head priestess, who was hilarious.
Also, Terryn and I have now learned that him coming to her aid when she screams wasn't a one-time thing from their caper in the Witchwood. It is an automatic trigger. I'm going to keep special track of this development as the series goes. For research purposes. Which means I'll have to keep reading. For research purposes.
Note to more sensitive readers: This book had some bad language, violence, horror elements, a character dealing with bad life decisions, and an AWKWARD moment.
October 5, 2021
Another great addition to this series! I'm enjoying the action, the adventure, the characters butting heads, and Ayleth continuing to fight for herself.
The story reads like a standalone and didn't progress the overall series in a really big way, but I did find it fun and exciting. The action and horror elements are very strong and creative, which made for a fast-paced read.
Ayleth and Terryn have great moments and are definitely getting to a point where they see themselves as better partners than adversaries. I also appreciated more of the backstory with Terryn, and am growing a lot more interested in his character.
This is a great story for fantasy fans who are looking for a book with rivals who are forced to work together to fight monsters. I can't wait to read more!
The story reads like a standalone and didn't progress the overall series in a really big way, but I did find it fun and exciting. The action and horror elements are very strong and creative, which made for a fast-paced read.
Ayleth and Terryn have great moments and are definitely getting to a point where they see themselves as better partners than adversaries. I also appreciated more of the backstory with Terryn, and am growing a lot more interested in his character.
This is a great story for fantasy fans who are looking for a book with rivals who are forced to work together to fight monsters. I can't wait to read more!
August 15, 2019
This book in one sentence: Ayleth and Terryn hunt down a witch that crossed the barrier, trying to solve a mystery while the number of witch's victims increases.
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steaminess: 1/2 🌶️
My recommendation: It's going to be a long wait until November (release of the book 3 of this series)! I loved this book and gobbled it up in one sitting. The characters are great, the world building is interesting and quite original. But it's the plot that really draws me in. I have yet to decide who the "good guys" really are, and I have no idea what to expect from the next books in the series. For each piece of information that is revealed or question that is answered, I have five new questions. My only complaint is that the book felt somewhat short. Also, I'm not sure how many books are planned total for this series, but it's definitely going to be a longer one, because the overall story arc is progressing fairly slowly.
Tropes: SLOW burn romance, frenemies, wicked witches, mysterious pasts
Content warnings: childhood trauma, violence
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steaminess: 1/2 🌶️
My recommendation: It's going to be a long wait until November (release of the book 3 of this series)! I loved this book and gobbled it up in one sitting. The characters are great, the world building is interesting and quite original. But it's the plot that really draws me in. I have yet to decide who the "good guys" really are, and I have no idea what to expect from the next books in the series. For each piece of information that is revealed or question that is answered, I have five new questions. My only complaint is that the book felt somewhat short. Also, I'm not sure how many books are planned total for this series, but it's definitely going to be a longer one, because the overall story arc is progressing fairly slowly.
Tropes: SLOW burn romance, frenemies, wicked witches, mysterious pasts
Content warnings: childhood trauma, violence
September 3, 2019
Visions of Fate by Sylviva Mercedes
*****5*****
I can't get enough of these books! Ms. Mercedes' writing is compelling and fast paced, never a dull moment from start to finish.
Visions felt like a bit of a darker book than its predecessor Daughter of Shades and I can only see things getting darker still in books to come.
A little bit more world-building and the same kick-ass magic from the first book made this a super easy and enjoyable read. I absolutely love the shade magic Mercedes has created and how the shades are controlled by music. There is a twist to the magic when witches are thrown in the mix, making this a multi-layered magical world.
It was great to see these characters again and get to know them a little bit better. There is still so much mystery surrounding all of them I can't wait for book three.
Highly recommended series and I imagine I will read any future books by this authour as well.
*****5*****
I can't get enough of these books! Ms. Mercedes' writing is compelling and fast paced, never a dull moment from start to finish.
Visions felt like a bit of a darker book than its predecessor Daughter of Shades and I can only see things getting darker still in books to come.
A little bit more world-building and the same kick-ass magic from the first book made this a super easy and enjoyable read. I absolutely love the shade magic Mercedes has created and how the shades are controlled by music. There is a twist to the magic when witches are thrown in the mix, making this a multi-layered magical world.
It was great to see these characters again and get to know them a little bit better. There is still so much mystery surrounding all of them I can't wait for book three.
Highly recommended series and I imagine I will read any future books by this authour as well.
September 21, 2019
Whew - the Venatrix Chronicles are really getting into gear with this one. Another self-contained episode in a much bigger story, VISIONS OF FATE picks up right after the end of the previous story and slings its protagonists into an action-packed adventure which I devoured in a couple of sittings.
Again, the setting and atmosphere is a huge star in this series. I love the world Sylvia Mercedes has created here, reminiscent of Lois McMaster Bujold's Chalion and Garth Nix's Abhorsen, a fantasy world with vivid homages to real medieval history. I remember wishing that Book 1 had been a little darker, nearer in tone to the prequel novella SONG OF SHADOWS, but it turns out the story was just getting started. This one features a juicy ethical dilemma - can Ayleth and Terryn challenge their indoctrination before they're obliged to commit a terrible crime? - and a hint of greater tests to come. I liked it even better than Book 1, and I'm already hungry to read more.
Again, the setting and atmosphere is a huge star in this series. I love the world Sylvia Mercedes has created here, reminiscent of Lois McMaster Bujold's Chalion and Garth Nix's Abhorsen, a fantasy world with vivid homages to real medieval history. I remember wishing that Book 1 had been a little darker, nearer in tone to the prequel novella SONG OF SHADOWS, but it turns out the story was just getting started. This one features a juicy ethical dilemma - can Ayleth and Terryn challenge their indoctrination before they're obliged to commit a terrible crime? - and a hint of greater tests to come. I liked it even better than Book 1, and I'm already hungry to read more.
August 20, 2019
Once again, Sylvia Mercedes has created a wonder of a book. She has so captured her characters, her world, the action in such a mesmerizing way, I forget all my responsibilities of life and do nothing but read. I finished this in twenty-four hours, which for some is no big deal, but for me it is.
Thank you to the author for taking the time and effort to create a perfect book. I was completely satisfied and swept away in this crazy world of shades and venetors/venatrixes and witches.
And that cover! *sighs blissfully*
A great read!
Thank you to the author for taking the time and effort to create a perfect book. I was completely satisfied and swept away in this crazy world of shades and venetors/venatrixes and witches.
And that cover! *sighs blissfully*
A great read!
August 22, 2019
I love this series and flew through this book in 2 sittings. I'm dying for the next one because I suspect how the twist in the plot is going to play out and waiting is killing me. The characters are so unique and the writing brings the scenes to life in way that makes me loose track of time. I seriously can't wait to read the next book!
October 9, 2019
I totally love this book series. It keeps on getting more and more better and mysterious with more captivating magic. It has awesome characters and wickedly good shades.
March 3, 2021
There's no time gap between this book and it's previous, to the point that it begins on them arriving back at Millisendis Outpost after escaping the Witchwood. They are met by venator Kephan, who sends them out again the next day in search of Nane's logbook. Laranta (Ayleth's shade) tracks it down with ease, but a disturbing discovery is made; it appears something, or someone, did escape through the Great Barriar.
The group splits up, Ayleth going after venator Nane's last hunt - an inborn child (a child born of a shade taken mother or father and has a shade intwined with their mortal soul from conception, the only way to seperate them is a violent death - death by fire.) And Terryn and Kephan going to a location they keep from Ayleth: Cró Ular - the Tower of Blood and Eyes, in search of who escaped the Witchwood. Here, Terryn makes disturbing discoveries, but a long dormant curse and the will of a witch prevents him from remembering.
Personally, I much preferred learning Terryn's background through the prologue and the revelas in this book more then the hints we get towards Ayleth's, if I'm honest, I kinda guessed who she was from book one. Despite knowing who the main character is, it doesn't take much away from the storyline - there's still twists and turns and other characters to learn. Admittedly, it's rather frustrating that Terryn conveniently forgets all major plot developments and we're left screaming at the character's when they don't realise what's happening, but I suppose it would be too easy otherwise.
It seems like it's panning out to be a good series, the plot development and premise for the world are interesting, and despite guessing at Ayleth's identity, I'm interested to know how the series continues.
The group splits up, Ayleth going after venator Nane's last hunt - an inborn child (a child born of a shade taken mother or father and has a shade intwined with their mortal soul from conception, the only way to seperate them is a violent death - death by fire.) And Terryn and Kephan going to a location they keep from Ayleth: Cró Ular - the Tower of Blood and Eyes, in search of who escaped the Witchwood. Here, Terryn makes disturbing discoveries, but a long dormant curse and the will of a witch prevents him from remembering.
Personally, I much preferred learning Terryn's background through the prologue and the revelas in this book more then the hints we get towards Ayleth's, if I'm honest, I kinda guessed who she was from book one. Despite knowing who the main character is, it doesn't take much away from the storyline - there's still twists and turns and other characters to learn. Admittedly, it's rather frustrating that Terryn conveniently forgets all major plot developments and we're left screaming at the character's when they don't realise what's happening, but I suppose it would be too easy otherwise.
It seems like it's panning out to be a good series, the plot development and premise for the world are interesting, and despite guessing at Ayleth's identity, I'm interested to know how the series continues.
January 25, 2021
After Ayleth's and Terryn's ordeal in the Witchwood they still had more questions than answers and though they fought to save one another's life they were still far from friends. They were still competing to gain the post at Milisendis outpost in place of Nane the venator who was so brutally killed beyond the barrier of protection which they were meant to maintain. In this book Ayleth is sent in search of answers, and she encounters an inborn child, a hedgewitch, curses, shade taken oxen and the Warpwitch herself. The situation was turning even murkier once Terryn started becoming suspicious of Ayleth, accusing her of being involved with the Crimson Devils. The relationship between these two venators, both harbouring past secrets which were intruding on their present day lives was becoming ever more turbulent. Terryn accused Ayleth of her connections to the witches because through both of her encounters with them she had escaped with her life and this was suspicious to the extreme. When Ayleth encountered the inborn child Nilly and saw Terryn ready to do his job of burning the child she vowed she would fight him, thus going against the teachings of her own order. However it seems that she was not the only one to question whether the killing of a child in order to save her soul was not more evil than the evil they pretended to curtail. With Kephon away from Milisendis, Ayleth and Terryn just had to work together now, in order to keep the barrier safe and the witches behind the barrier but would they be enough to see to this difficult task? Dying to read book 3 of this extremely exciting series where we are discovering that not all venators are without heart after all!
September 14, 2019
An excellent second installment in the Venatrix Chronicles series!!!
"Visions of Fate" pick up right where the first book in the series left us. After a brief recap of the story so far, Ayleth and Terryn continue their mission in finding out who is behind the Milisendis Outpost Venator's death. More adventures await them, as they set out with Venator du Tam to get answers to their questions. Secrets are revealed, and yet more secrets demand answers. We get to learn a bit of Terryn's background, but I'm certain there are more to him than what has been revealed so far. Ayleth's background is still a mystery and I have a feeling the revelations will rock our world.
Sylvia Mercedes continues to expand the amazing universe she has created. Like an elaborate mosaic, a brand new world is formed piece by piece, but we're still quite away from the whole picture. The action is fast-paced and breathtaking. Moral dilemmas arise both in Ayleth and Terryn. What were once rooted beliefs from their training, are being questioned, even if they don't acknowledge it out loud. Is everything as black and white as they have been taught? Or are there multiple shades of grey in between?
There's also the budding romance between Ayleth and Terryn. Being a taboo topic between hunt brothers and sisters, both struggle with their feelings, not letting anything come out in the open. Still they can't deny to themselves the attraction that is there. Will they have a chance at happiness, or are their feelings doomed to stay hidden?
I could keep writing, but I don't want this to turn into an essay. I'll just say that this is one of those books that get under your skin and keep you wanting more. I definitely can't wait for the next installment, to immerse myself in Sylvia's extraordinary world of venators and venatrixes. An excellent book in an excellent series that is a must read for every fan of epic fantasy!!!
"Visions of Fate" pick up right where the first book in the series left us. After a brief recap of the story so far, Ayleth and Terryn continue their mission in finding out who is behind the Milisendis Outpost Venator's death. More adventures await them, as they set out with Venator du Tam to get answers to their questions. Secrets are revealed, and yet more secrets demand answers. We get to learn a bit of Terryn's background, but I'm certain there are more to him than what has been revealed so far. Ayleth's background is still a mystery and I have a feeling the revelations will rock our world.
Sylvia Mercedes continues to expand the amazing universe she has created. Like an elaborate mosaic, a brand new world is formed piece by piece, but we're still quite away from the whole picture. The action is fast-paced and breathtaking. Moral dilemmas arise both in Ayleth and Terryn. What were once rooted beliefs from their training, are being questioned, even if they don't acknowledge it out loud. Is everything as black and white as they have been taught? Or are there multiple shades of grey in between?
There's also the budding romance between Ayleth and Terryn. Being a taboo topic between hunt brothers and sisters, both struggle with their feelings, not letting anything come out in the open. Still they can't deny to themselves the attraction that is there. Will they have a chance at happiness, or are their feelings doomed to stay hidden?
I could keep writing, but I don't want this to turn into an essay. I'll just say that this is one of those books that get under your skin and keep you wanting more. I definitely can't wait for the next installment, to immerse myself in Sylvia's extraordinary world of venators and venatrixes. An excellent book in an excellent series that is a must read for every fan of epic fantasy!!!
November 23, 2020
These books don't feel complete at all. The pacing is good for this one, but it ends too soon. The juvenile writing also let's me read this in five hours and I don't feel like I've read a complete book at all. Yes they overcome the major hurdles of the plot that technically say this is a complete book. But I come out with more questions than answers.
This feels greedy. I need to buy each of these books, paying a full price for each one, only to get fragments of the story. Makes me a li'l angry.
Still love the main character. She's got weaknesses and she's still pretty badass. But the way the author explicitly states some things that would've been funner to find out as an audience via subtle clues . . . makes me frustrated as a reader. It's liek, I know it, how dare the main character not?? Yes I'm talking about Terryn and the Warpwitch.
EDIT: I'm sorry but ❝romantic fantasy adventure❞ this is not. This is as far from romantic as it could get in a ya book. And it's refreshing and nice. I much prefer these two adventurers as competitors and friends than romantic partners. They just don't have that type of chemistry, they dont vibe that way. Even though the author is trying to force it.
This feels greedy. I need to buy each of these books, paying a full price for each one, only to get fragments of the story. Makes me a li'l angry.
Still love the main character. She's got weaknesses and she's still pretty badass. But the way the author explicitly states some things that would've been funner to find out as an audience via subtle clues . . . makes me frustrated as a reader. It's liek, I know it, how dare the main character not?? Yes I'm talking about Terryn and the Warpwitch.
EDIT: I'm sorry but ❝romantic fantasy adventure❞ this is not. This is as far from romantic as it could get in a ya book. And it's refreshing and nice. I much prefer these two adventurers as competitors and friends than romantic partners. They just don't have that type of chemistry, they dont vibe that way. Even though the author is trying to force it.
April 14, 2021
Favorite. Fantasy. Series. OF ALL TIME.
What I love:
✨The WORLD BUILDING. Gah, I about exploded with the brilliance of this magic system. I loved learning the rules, I loved the variety of magic abilities that led to super interesting fight sequences. Stunning.
✨The slow burn romance is to DIE for. This is like my standard for the type of romance I love. I love that it's not the main plot, and that I am compelled to keep reading even when Ayleth and Terryn aren't together, but my favorite scenes are definitely the ones where they're together.
✨The writing is sooo beautiful. Sylvia Mercedes is such a gifted, skilled writer. The writing is so good I want to take it slowly and savor, but the plot is so good I can't help but rush through the pages.
There's much more I could say, but I guess I'll leave those things for my reviews of the other books in this series. 😊
I highly recommend Visions of Fate (and the entire Venatrix Chronicles) to anyone who loves stunning worlds with compelling magic, slow burn rivals-to-lovers romance, and beautiful writing.
Content heads up: violence, mild language. Mild sexual content later in the series.
What I love:
✨The WORLD BUILDING. Gah, I about exploded with the brilliance of this magic system. I loved learning the rules, I loved the variety of magic abilities that led to super interesting fight sequences. Stunning.
✨The slow burn romance is to DIE for. This is like my standard for the type of romance I love. I love that it's not the main plot, and that I am compelled to keep reading even when Ayleth and Terryn aren't together, but my favorite scenes are definitely the ones where they're together.
✨The writing is sooo beautiful. Sylvia Mercedes is such a gifted, skilled writer. The writing is so good I want to take it slowly and savor, but the plot is so good I can't help but rush through the pages.
There's much more I could say, but I guess I'll leave those things for my reviews of the other books in this series. 😊
I highly recommend Visions of Fate (and the entire Venatrix Chronicles) to anyone who loves stunning worlds with compelling magic, slow burn rivals-to-lovers romance, and beautiful writing.
Content heads up: violence, mild language. Mild sexual content later in the series.
September 19, 2019
Much better than the first
Now that the slow introductions and backstory were covered in book 1, book 2 in this series went by much faster for me. I was absolutely hooked and now I can’t wait to start the next. Some interesting twists and turns where there are some clues left for the readers but also some that may end up being a surprise.
Now that the slow introductions and backstory were covered in book 1, book 2 in this series went by much faster for me. I was absolutely hooked and now I can’t wait to start the next. Some interesting twists and turns where there are some clues left for the readers but also some that may end up being a surprise.
July 15, 2021
The mystery and suspense are killing me.
Like I seriously need to know what happens next. So far, this series does a great job of leaving the readers with questions without getting frustrated at not getting answers. The world building and lore is great. This book was definitely better than the first and o hope the third is better still.
Like I seriously need to know what happens next. So far, this series does a great job of leaving the readers with questions without getting frustrated at not getting answers. The world building and lore is great. This book was definitely better than the first and o hope the third is better still.
September 3, 2019
Good read
Another fantastic book in the series, it sets a good pace with lots of intriguing plot. Highly recommend. My only wish is the book was longer!
Another fantastic book in the series, it sets a good pace with lots of intriguing plot. Highly recommend. My only wish is the book was longer!
October 14, 2019
What an exciting read. Nice developments but still many unanswered questions.
April 27, 2021
The pacing in this book was very fast, things happened quickly and all within the span of 1 month. I read it in maybe 3 or 4 hours so it was really quick. I also appreciate starting the book exactly where we left off, that's my jam.
This was more interesting than book 1. However, I find that the synopses of the books in this series on Goodreads are more exciting than the actual books. The big plot points pointed out in the synopsis of this book were not as big in the books. The little girl mentioned is barely in the book and, though she did add to the story, it wasn't till the end of the book that she appears and only in the epilogue do we see her importance. To have such a "big" plot point pushed to the edge of the epilogue? Why? Also, this competition we keep hearing about is no where in the book. I don't feel any competition between the two of them. They are reluctant roommates at worst. The only time competition comes up is when the characters try to distance themselves from each other. But there really isn't any maliciousness or active competing going on.
The book didn't feel substantial. There was a lot of telling, not a lot of showing. The most frustrating thing is there are these good leads that the characters find, but we never expound on them. This is true of both books in the series so far. There are too many almost truths, too many hints, and not enough revelations. It's annoying because there aren't any good reasons why we can't follow those leads. They are simply dropped or dragged on and ultimately we learn nothing. It's unsatisfying but it does make the more determined reader want to continue in hopes of finally getting that satisfying truth despite their frustrations with the writing. It's me. I'm the determined reader.
This was more interesting than book 1. However, I find that the synopses of the books in this series on Goodreads are more exciting than the actual books. The big plot points pointed out in the synopsis of this book were not as big in the books. The little girl mentioned is barely in the book and, though she did add to the story, it wasn't till the end of the book that she appears and only in the epilogue do we see her importance. To have such a "big" plot point pushed to the edge of the epilogue? Why? Also, this competition we keep hearing about is no where in the book. I don't feel any competition between the two of them. They are reluctant roommates at worst. The only time competition comes up is when the characters try to distance themselves from each other. But there really isn't any maliciousness or active competing going on.
The book didn't feel substantial. There was a lot of telling, not a lot of showing. The most frustrating thing is there are these good leads that the characters find, but we never expound on them. This is true of both books in the series so far. There are too many almost truths, too many hints, and not enough revelations. It's annoying because there aren't any good reasons why we can't follow those leads. They are simply dropped or dragged on and ultimately we learn nothing. It's unsatisfying but it does make the more determined reader want to continue in hopes of finally getting that satisfying truth despite their frustrations with the writing. It's me. I'm the determined reader.
January 18, 2024
A fantasy series with a (presumably) straight female main character, who isn't obnoxious at all? A series that doesn't (so far) focus on the romance, and even when it does, I don't hate it? A series where I don't even particularly dislike the (current) male object of desire?
Apparently, they exist.
I really like this one. Ayleth is great. Terryn is... I mean, he's not my favorite, but he's a decent character. He makes sense. He's neither a beast without empathy, nor a man obviously written by a queer woman (Interpret that as you want). He feels like a man you could actually meet in real life, and someone I wouldn't mind being friends with.
I'm curious about "the other guy". The Golden Prince. I assume he'll play a much bigger role later on. I liked him better than Terryn from the get go, but I wouldn't be surprised if he has some issues of his own.
Anyway, I wanted to get into the male characters somewhat, because it's so rare I like any of them in fantasy novels.
But like I mentioned earlier, romance hasn't been a big focus so far, and that, in my opinion, serves the series well. Instead, we delve deeper into the mysteries, what happened in the past, and whether those arcaic rules of society must really be upheld at any cost.
I'll be upfront - this is a pretty predictable story, most of the time. It's very much a comfort read for me. I'm not exactly gasping from surprise at the twists and turns, but I think they're done decently well. Even if I get what's going to happen beforehand, I still enjoy seeing it play out, and I care about the characters.
Apparently, they exist.
I really like this one. Ayleth is great. Terryn is... I mean, he's not my favorite, but he's a decent character. He makes sense. He's neither a beast without empathy, nor a man obviously written by a queer woman (Interpret that as you want). He feels like a man you could actually meet in real life, and someone I wouldn't mind being friends with.
I'm curious about "the other guy". The Golden Prince. I assume he'll play a much bigger role later on. I liked him better than Terryn from the get go, but I wouldn't be surprised if he has some issues of his own.
Anyway, I wanted to get into the male characters somewhat, because it's so rare I like any of them in fantasy novels.
But like I mentioned earlier, romance hasn't been a big focus so far, and that, in my opinion, serves the series well. Instead, we delve deeper into the mysteries, what happened in the past, and whether those arcaic rules of society must really be upheld at any cost.
I'll be upfront - this is a pretty predictable story, most of the time. It's very much a comfort read for me. I'm not exactly gasping from surprise at the twists and turns, but I think they're done decently well. Even if I get what's going to happen beforehand, I still enjoy seeing it play out, and I care about the characters.
July 28, 2022
Ayleth and Terryn survived the witchwood only to have the Outpost Master refuse them entry until they cleaned up. After an extremely cold clean up, the two explain what they found in the witchwood. While they have a few answers, there is still a lot of questions. Can they figure out what is going on before the danger catches up to them.
Terryn is kind of a jerk. He is so suspicious of Ayleth because he has never seen her before. Unfortunately he should be questioning Kephan, the outpost master, who seems to be hiding things.
The story is a bit better than the last one. Some things are being made a little more clear like the magic system, the shades, and the way that the religion affects the way the venators look at shades and how to deal with them.
I am intrigued enough by this book to continue reading the series. Unfortunately the characters are not compelling enough to get me to absolutely LOVE this series. I am interested enough in Ayleth to continue on with the series to find out more about her and her shade and her parentage.
Triggers- The shades possess people and can turn them and animals into hideous monsters. These monsters could be kind of intense and scary for some readers. Death
PG-13 - Violence. Scary monsters. Possession.
Terryn is kind of a jerk. He is so suspicious of Ayleth because he has never seen her before. Unfortunately he should be questioning Kephan, the outpost master, who seems to be hiding things.
The story is a bit better than the last one. Some things are being made a little more clear like the magic system, the shades, and the way that the religion affects the way the venators look at shades and how to deal with them.
I am intrigued enough by this book to continue reading the series. Unfortunately the characters are not compelling enough to get me to absolutely LOVE this series. I am interested enough in Ayleth to continue on with the series to find out more about her and her shade and her parentage.
Triggers- The shades possess people and can turn them and animals into hideous monsters. These monsters could be kind of intense and scary for some readers. Death
PG-13 - Violence. Scary monsters. Possession.
January 19, 2022
This one flowed a lot smoother than the previous books. Though, it definitely was an effort to continue in some places. So many things were revealed, but with those revelations, came a lot more questions. Ayleth still has a lot of secrets. I wonder why in the world Hollis hid her memories. I'm still dead sure that she is that baby left in the woods. With the way the Crimson Devlis acted and Ylaire, I'm wondering if she is the queen or at least the grand daughter of the queen. But then why would Hollis hide her? Obviously the Order is awful. Something is shady with Fendel. Haven't even met the dude and I don't trust him. Terryn also confuses the crap out of me. I feel so bad for what he suffered as a child. And to see his father possessed by one of the crimson devils cannot be easy. I just hope he trusts Ayleth some and they can figure everything out together. Then there is Gerard. Fayline is obviously still around. I dont know why but i have a feeling she is going to play a part in this too. I hope she isnt evil. My heart hurts for Gerard. So many freaking questions!!!
July 20, 2020
Good Continuation
This book definitely felt like a filler but it was still a good read. This one had way fewer mistakes which is a great sign for the rest of the series. This book didn't really seem like a book all it's own, the plot wasn't quite as defined as the first which is why I called it a filler. Yes, we learn more about our villains but that was really the only purpose this book served. I would have liked to have read about Hollis and how she is going to deal with the secrets she covered up, I would have liked to have seen a little development in the potential romance between Ayleth and Terryn. I would also like to read about Terryn's relationship with his shade at some point. All in all, there just was a lot missing from this book that would have improved the plot... But I guess there are, like, seven books in this series so I may get what I'm wanting eventually. Four out of five stars to Visions of Fate.
This book definitely felt like a filler but it was still a good read. This one had way fewer mistakes which is a great sign for the rest of the series. This book didn't really seem like a book all it's own, the plot wasn't quite as defined as the first which is why I called it a filler. Yes, we learn more about our villains but that was really the only purpose this book served. I would have liked to have read about Hollis and how she is going to deal with the secrets she covered up, I would have liked to have seen a little development in the potential romance between Ayleth and Terryn. I would also like to read about Terryn's relationship with his shade at some point. All in all, there just was a lot missing from this book that would have improved the plot... But I guess there are, like, seven books in this series so I may get what I'm wanting eventually. Four out of five stars to Visions of Fate.
April 10, 2021
Book 2 is a continuation of the story. Book one is just the beginning of this saga. The books are not too long and it doesn't give you pages of what has already happened. But I am worried that each book is going to start to feel like it's repeating....they fight shades, they get really hurt, they fight more shades, they get a new lead and fight more shades. I have no idea why I am still reading, but it is entertaining! The books keep you on your toes and their is a point to each one. They do move the story forward there is just a lot of fighting. I wish there was a little more romance and less fighting:} Terryn is still so dang cold! Here's hoping for the next book.
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