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Severed Realms #2
A Tune to Make Them Follow
She’s a wanted criminal, but he doesn’t have to know that.
Piper’s job is simple.
Take the children.
Don’t get caught.
The rules she binds on herself; however… Well, they’re a tad more complicated.
Kidnapped as a child for her connection with the Old Magic—the one that grants her the ability to enchant others with her music—Piper knows good and well the rules of the Coup, the underground organization intent on bringing down the fae regime. As the Coup’s first “recruiter,” she’s supposed to take the strong, the good-boned, the clever, the healthy.
Except Piper doesn’t always do what she’s supposed to.
Instead, she makes a few rules of her own.
Like how she only takes the children who need taking—the children who suffer harm and neglect in their current homes, the ones who come with her willingly.
The children for whom a life bound in service to the Coup would be a mercy.
But when a deadly oversight leaves Piper injured, stranded in the forest, and unable to protect the no-nonsense child to whom she’s promised a better life, she’s left with no other choice. She strikes a bargain with a handsome archer whose aim is almost as deadly as his past.
Oh, but there’s another rule too.
Don’t fall in love.
Especially not with a human who has no idea who Piper really is.
Fast-paced and action-packed, this second installment in The Severed Realms series transports the reader across Alondria to Avelea, a kingdom full of wicked forest faeries, underground rebellions, and a king with a secret of his own.
A Tune to Make Them Follow is the second book in a series of interconnected fairytale retellings. This book can serve as a standalone, or as an entry point into the series.
Piper’s job is simple.
Take the children.
Don’t get caught.
The rules she binds on herself; however… Well, they’re a tad more complicated.
Kidnapped as a child for her connection with the Old Magic—the one that grants her the ability to enchant others with her music—Piper knows good and well the rules of the Coup, the underground organization intent on bringing down the fae regime. As the Coup’s first “recruiter,” she’s supposed to take the strong, the good-boned, the clever, the healthy.
Except Piper doesn’t always do what she’s supposed to.
Instead, she makes a few rules of her own.
Like how she only takes the children who need taking—the children who suffer harm and neglect in their current homes, the ones who come with her willingly.
The children for whom a life bound in service to the Coup would be a mercy.
But when a deadly oversight leaves Piper injured, stranded in the forest, and unable to protect the no-nonsense child to whom she’s promised a better life, she’s left with no other choice. She strikes a bargain with a handsome archer whose aim is almost as deadly as his past.
Oh, but there’s another rule too.
Don’t fall in love.
Especially not with a human who has no idea who Piper really is.
Fast-paced and action-packed, this second installment in The Severed Realms series transports the reader across Alondria to Avelea, a kingdom full of wicked forest faeries, underground rebellions, and a king with a secret of his own.
A Tune to Make Them Follow is the second book in a series of interconnected fairytale retellings. This book can serve as a standalone, or as an entry point into the series.
596 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 9, 2023
452 people are currently reading
4672 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
December 31, 2022
When I first started this book, I was upset that it followed a new set of characters because I loved the ones in the first book so much. However, it didn’t take me long to love the new characters! Since all of the characters are intertwined I can’t wait to see if they all get to meet up in the next book, or if we will meet new characters. By the end of this book, I ended up liking it more than the first. The magic “system” is so creative and interesting! I was also not sure about there being a story, within a story, within a story, and so on. But it has been perfectly executed in these books.
This story is YA Fantasy with romance sub-plots (no smut). This specific book did vaguely mention/insinuate SA, but is not graphic.
I definitely recommend!
This story is YA Fantasy with romance sub-plots (no smut). This specific book did vaguely mention/insinuate SA, but is not graphic.
I definitely recommend!
July 17, 2024
like idk- im kinda attached to this series now, its lowkey kinda eating. like rip piper, you would of loved hozier. his voice oml and they're both musicians, so they can idk sing and do flute stuff together yk? tho the ml being named marcus made me think of this kid in my grade which kinda took me outta it and im doing it, are you vibes i didnt say that, but i cant look at a toothbrush the same way again. like i support girls rights and wrongs, but that was a wrong i cant support, i hate u ginny. yk who else i hate? ian. i was minding my own business going on a hot girl walk listening to chappell roan and lipsyncing to her while giving my dog a whole concert. and yk how u just wave to ur neighbors, like thats the nice thing to do yk? sometimes ill wave to a random kid whos older than me and i dont know them. this time it was this annoying kid named ian and i didnt realize until it was too late and he saw me lipsyncing and acting psycho to my poor little alpha, so me and my dog sprinted away, as i lipsynced to red wine supernova, cuz no ian, u cant go to my house and i do not have a california king and i have just realized that he now knows the general location of where i live. save me man, please.
March 14, 2023
It's rare when I find a sequel get better than the first book but T.A. Lawrence just keeps hooking me! I told myself I would take my time but I read it in one sitting... I genuinely couldn't put it down. At first I was saw that it was different characters in the same universe but the story line, characters, continue world building and same plot from book 1... it was absolutely wonderful. I can't wait until April for the 3rd book! 10/10 recommend
January 20, 2023
I personally would not have fallen in love with my sibling's kidnapper but that's just me
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2023
I am so stinking glad I discovered this series! The love I have for it is crazy. Like obsessed! The first book was ridiculously good, Kiran and Asha are one of my all time favorite enemies to more. And the world the author has created is full of terrific characters and amazing storylines. There is so much potential, so much yet to explore, so much to dissect, so much to savor!
The second book in the series gives us Piper’s story. We meet her toward the end of AWSFS and she is gifted like Asha. Piper, being half-fae and gifted, is abandoned by her family and left to die. When Bronger finds her, he raises her, then begins to manipulate her and her gift, to build an army of stolen children, an army to take down the fae king. She feels she is saving these children from a life of harm and hunger. But in reality they are taken from one dangerous situation to another.
Things start to go horribly wrong after Piper plays her tune and “rescues” Amity. She is injury, they are set upon by traffickers…then a mysterious man appears offering aid and protection.
Marcus and Piper are two tortured souls. Consumed with guilt, tortured by the pasts. They are alone on the world. They are both harboring secrets, neither are what they claim to be. Their paths verge, then diverge — all the while not knowing it crossed and bonded them long before they realize. They are brought together, then torn apart.
There are sooo many things I loved! When Piper channels her inner Katniss Everdeen I was like BOOM, YES! Did I know it was coming? I had an inkling. Did I care? Heck no! When she plays her tune for the unwanted, hurt children and Marcus is the one it calls to! I was so happy to see Elias. I loved his introduction and have been dying to find out about who he really worked for. Then I found out who Marcus worked for 🤯😡, like no way! And Shya?!?! Yes, girl, I saw you! You can’t fool me!
I need more! I need more Kiran and Asha! I need more Marcus and Piper! I need more Elias and you know who. Oh, you don’t know who? Well, then go find out!
The second book in the series gives us Piper’s story. We meet her toward the end of AWSFS and she is gifted like Asha. Piper, being half-fae and gifted, is abandoned by her family and left to die. When Bronger finds her, he raises her, then begins to manipulate her and her gift, to build an army of stolen children, an army to take down the fae king. She feels she is saving these children from a life of harm and hunger. But in reality they are taken from one dangerous situation to another.
Things start to go horribly wrong after Piper plays her tune and “rescues” Amity. She is injury, they are set upon by traffickers…then a mysterious man appears offering aid and protection.
Marcus and Piper are two tortured souls. Consumed with guilt, tortured by the pasts. They are alone on the world. They are both harboring secrets, neither are what they claim to be. Their paths verge, then diverge — all the while not knowing it crossed and bonded them long before they realize. They are brought together, then torn apart.
There are sooo many things I loved! When Piper channels her inner Katniss Everdeen I was like BOOM, YES! Did I know it was coming? I had an inkling. Did I care? Heck no! When she plays her tune for the unwanted, hurt children and Marcus is the one it calls to! I was so happy to see Elias. I loved his introduction and have been dying to find out about who he really worked for. Then I found out who Marcus worked for 🤯😡, like no way! And Shya?!?! Yes, girl, I saw you! You can’t fool me!
I need more! I need more Kiran and Asha! I need more Marcus and Piper! I need more Elias and you know who. Oh, you don’t know who? Well, then go find out!
February 2, 2024
Ok these are for sure not the quickie romance novels that I thought they were but im not mad about it. These twists and turns have me invested 🧐hit me with book 3!
January 7, 2023
I was sent an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As in the first book, the author has a beautiful way of taking human negative experiences and turning them into an adventure.........after all, that's what life is.
Trigger warnings: themes of human trafficking, rape suggestion (no actual rape scenes), child neglect and abandonment, Stockholm syndrome.
Piper has a gift, a musical gift. One that enables her to sorce out children that are unfortunate enough to find themselves in a less than loving family.
Pipers keeper exploits this gift and uses it for his advantage...........until, Amity comes along .
This is a story of love, adventure and healing.
I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first one. It was a bit slower and I struggled to connect to the characters as much as in the first one. For that 3.5 🌟.
I'm still excited to read the rest of the series and see how it all pieces together .
As in the first book, the author has a beautiful way of taking human negative experiences and turning them into an adventure.........after all, that's what life is.
Trigger warnings: themes of human trafficking, rape suggestion (no actual rape scenes), child neglect and abandonment, Stockholm syndrome.
Piper has a gift, a musical gift. One that enables her to sorce out children that are unfortunate enough to find themselves in a less than loving family.
Pipers keeper exploits this gift and uses it for his advantage...........until, Amity comes along .
This is a story of love, adventure and healing.
I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first one. It was a bit slower and I struggled to connect to the characters as much as in the first one. For that 3.5 🌟.
I'm still excited to read the rest of the series and see how it all pieces together .
January 26, 2023
4.5
En A tune to make them follow nos encontramos siguiendo la historia de Piper, quien es mitad Humana mitad Fae y quien además posee un regalo muy particular.
Esta historia está inspirada en el flautista de Hamelin. Lo cual me pareció original, no hay muchas historias que adopten este clásico.
La verdad se queda en 4.5 porque estaba queriendo continuar con los protagonistas del primer libro con los cuales había disfrutado muchísimo, así que los primero capítulos se me hicieron un poco cuesta arriba pero una vez empezamos a conocer a Piper y a nuestra querida Amity, todo empieza a fluir así que para cuando conocemos a Marcus ya llevamos un muy buen ritmo.
Me encanta la forma en la que la autora habla de problemas internos, la moralidad de los personajes y siempre nos hace cuestionarnos nuestro concepto del bien y el mal.
Amo a Marcus 💕
Estoy deseando poder continuar con la saga.
Super recomendados
En A tune to make them follow nos encontramos siguiendo la historia de Piper, quien es mitad Humana mitad Fae y quien además posee un regalo muy particular.
Esta historia está inspirada en el flautista de Hamelin. Lo cual me pareció original, no hay muchas historias que adopten este clásico.
La verdad se queda en 4.5 porque estaba queriendo continuar con los protagonistas del primer libro con los cuales había disfrutado muchísimo, así que los primero capítulos se me hicieron un poco cuesta arriba pero una vez empezamos a conocer a Piper y a nuestra querida Amity, todo empieza a fluir así que para cuando conocemos a Marcus ya llevamos un muy buen ritmo.
Me encanta la forma en la que la autora habla de problemas internos, la moralidad de los personajes y siempre nos hace cuestionarnos nuestro concepto del bien y el mal.
Amo a Marcus 💕
Estoy deseando poder continuar con la saga.
Super recomendados
July 2, 2024
Bonne suite du premier livre réécriture originale
June 24, 2023
This one was good romance a tad rushed?? But good nonetheless I really wanna know more about the king and Che whatever
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2023
Lovely book
November 1, 2023
I am enjoying the series and loved pipers story! I’m excited to see how they tie together.
January 3, 2023
I just love this book and this series so much!
I was completely surprised when I realized the second book was about a different set of characters but very quickly fell in love with Piper, Marcus, and all of the characters we met along the way. It’s once again full of twists and turns that left me surprised at every turn.
The story moves at a really nice pace and helps us get to the meat of it very quickly, while constantly putting the reader on edge.
It’s such a beautiful story of forgiveness and redemption and tackling the perception we have of those around us.
Can’t wait for the next one!
I was completely surprised when I realized the second book was about a different set of characters but very quickly fell in love with Piper, Marcus, and all of the characters we met along the way. It’s once again full of twists and turns that left me surprised at every turn.
The story moves at a really nice pace and helps us get to the meat of it very quickly, while constantly putting the reader on edge.
It’s such a beautiful story of forgiveness and redemption and tackling the perception we have of those around us.
Can’t wait for the next one!
January 10, 2023
I've found this author on instagram and just like that decided to read the first volume of Severed Realms. I've love it. I'm brazilian so english isn't natural for me, but I decided to give it a try and it was espectacular. I've never read a book in another language so fast and I was so envolved in this new universe.
When I've saw that it would have a sequel with another couple as protagonists I've thought that maybe this one wouldn't be so great, but I've had to give it a try and I couldn't be more greatful that I've did. I can't wait to continue to read Lawrence books and I'm pretty sure she's one of the promises for the future in the fantasy books genre.
When I've saw that it would have a sequel with another couple as protagonists I've thought that maybe this one wouldn't be so great, but I've had to give it a try and I couldn't be more greatful that I've did. I can't wait to continue to read Lawrence books and I'm pretty sure she's one of the promises for the future in the fantasy books genre.
January 3, 2023
HOLLY FUCK!!! this book is just AMAZING!
leave it to TA LAWRENCE to give you a plot that you just won’t know what will happen next!!!
Gigi was by far my favorite ❤️ and i hope we will get to know her more.
the epilogue was just magnificent! and of course i can’t wait to read the next beautiful creation of this author!
leave it to TA LAWRENCE to give you a plot that you just won’t know what will happen next!!!
Gigi was by far my favorite ❤️ and i hope we will get to know her more.
the epilogue was just magnificent! and of course i can’t wait to read the next beautiful creation of this author!
February 20, 2024
The best book I've read this year.
Who would have thought a retelling of the pied Piper would be so good.
Who would have thought a retelling of the pied Piper would be so good.
March 12, 2023
A Tune for Them to Follow- 3.25⭐️ 2.25🌶️
She’s a wanted criminal, but he doesn’t have to know that.
Piper’s job is simple.
Take the children.
Don’t get caught.
The rules she binds on herself; however… Well, they’re a tad more complicated.
Kidnapped as a child for her connection with the Old Magic—the one that grants her the ability to enchant others with her music—Piper knows good and well the rules of the Coup, the underground organization intent on bringing down the fae regime. As the Coup’s first “recruiter,” she’s supposed to take the strong, the good-boned, the clever, the healthy.
Except Piper doesn’t always do what she’s supposed to.
Instead, she makes a few rules of her own.
Like how she only takes the children who need taking—the children who suffer harm and neglect in their current homes, the ones who come with her willingly.
The children for whom a life bound in service to the Coup would be a mercy.
But when a deadly oversight leaves Piper injured, stranded in the forest, and unable to protect the no-nonsense child to whom she’s promised a better life, she’s left with no other choice. She strikes a bargain with a handsome archer whose aim is almost as deadly as his past.
Oh, but there’s another rule too.
Don’t fall in love.
Especially not with a human who has no idea who Piper really is.
This second installment in The Severed Realms series transports the reader across Alondria to Avelea, a kingdom full of wicked forest faeries, underground rebellions, and a king with a secret of his own.
——————
✨My Opinion✨
A clean young adult fantasy (with a touch of romance) retelling of the Pied Piper.
In this book the magic system was revealed a little more, and the Old Magic had a name… so I’ll count it as a character, I guess?
Piper is an abused child who steals away abused children. You have to respect that.
Gigi is the magic living within Piper since birth. I enjoyed her quiet addition to the story.
This romance was far more believable and natural. Marcus was a fine hero, vulnerable, grouchy. But I didn’t understand his cloak? Where did it come from? What did it do? How did it work?!
The real star of this book is Amnity! She was fiesty. She was dating! She was cunning! And most of all she had a fighting spirit! I was rooting for her every time she was on page!
I started reading because I wanted to know if the bad guy from book 1 is revealed.
I kept reading for Amnity.
She’s a wanted criminal, but he doesn’t have to know that.
Piper’s job is simple.
Take the children.
Don’t get caught.
The rules she binds on herself; however… Well, they’re a tad more complicated.
Kidnapped as a child for her connection with the Old Magic—the one that grants her the ability to enchant others with her music—Piper knows good and well the rules of the Coup, the underground organization intent on bringing down the fae regime. As the Coup’s first “recruiter,” she’s supposed to take the strong, the good-boned, the clever, the healthy.
Except Piper doesn’t always do what she’s supposed to.
Instead, she makes a few rules of her own.
Like how she only takes the children who need taking—the children who suffer harm and neglect in their current homes, the ones who come with her willingly.
The children for whom a life bound in service to the Coup would be a mercy.
But when a deadly oversight leaves Piper injured, stranded in the forest, and unable to protect the no-nonsense child to whom she’s promised a better life, she’s left with no other choice. She strikes a bargain with a handsome archer whose aim is almost as deadly as his past.
Oh, but there’s another rule too.
Don’t fall in love.
Especially not with a human who has no idea who Piper really is.
This second installment in The Severed Realms series transports the reader across Alondria to Avelea, a kingdom full of wicked forest faeries, underground rebellions, and a king with a secret of his own.
——————
✨My Opinion✨
A clean young adult fantasy (with a touch of romance) retelling of the Pied Piper.
In this book the magic system was revealed a little more, and the Old Magic had a name… so I’ll count it as a character, I guess?
Piper is an abused child who steals away abused children. You have to respect that.
Gigi is the magic living within Piper since birth. I enjoyed her quiet addition to the story.
This romance was far more believable and natural. Marcus was a fine hero, vulnerable, grouchy. But I didn’t understand his cloak? Where did it come from? What did it do? How did it work?!
The real star of this book is Amnity! She was fiesty. She was dating! She was cunning! And most of all she had a fighting spirit! I was rooting for her every time she was on page!
I started reading because I wanted to know if the bad guy from book 1 is revealed.
I kept reading for Amnity.
August 20, 2025
Piper has a big secret and one job; bring strong, clever and healthy children to the Coup. And she does her job well (thanks to her old magic that enchants others with her music), except for the fact that she only takes those who need saving. So when her next assignment finds her hurt, secluded and unable to care for her charge, she does everything possible to get the child back safely, even if that includes a bargin with a stranger who has secrets of his own.
✨️ A Pied Piper imaginitive retelling
✨️ Fast paced and action packed plot.
✨️ Unique 'old' magic with an intriguing history
✨️ A new couple in a series of interconnected standalones
✨️Big found family vibes
Another retelling that I havent read before is the Pied Piper. It's wasn't a story I particularly enjoyed as a kid so I didn't have high hopes for this one, but I was so pleasantly surprised by how imaginative the author was when writing Piper's character. Enchanting children with magical tunes was a great plot device and one I really enjoyed unfurling.
I loved the characters because they felt whole and each had their own traumas and hurdles. They were each lovable in their own way but Aminity was by far my favourite. She was so bloody adorable! I also loved the found family vibes this book leaves you with and the ending felt hard won and deserved.
✨️ A Pied Piper imaginitive retelling
✨️ Fast paced and action packed plot.
✨️ Unique 'old' magic with an intriguing history
✨️ A new couple in a series of interconnected standalones
✨️Big found family vibes
Another retelling that I havent read before is the Pied Piper. It's wasn't a story I particularly enjoyed as a kid so I didn't have high hopes for this one, but I was so pleasantly surprised by how imaginative the author was when writing Piper's character. Enchanting children with magical tunes was a great plot device and one I really enjoyed unfurling.
I loved the characters because they felt whole and each had their own traumas and hurdles. They were each lovable in their own way but Aminity was by far my favourite. She was so bloody adorable! I also loved the found family vibes this book leaves you with and the ending felt hard won and deserved.
October 9, 2023
My rating system:
5 stars - Absolutely loved it! I would definitely read again anytime!
4 stars - Really liked it! Will most likely read again sometime.
3 stars - Liked it. Glad I read it but probably won't read again.
2 stars - Didn't like it. Glad I'm done with the book and I'll never read it again.
1 star - Very rare rating. Absolutely hated the book. Will never read again and I'll probably burn any copies I come across.
Really good! I enjoyed the story and it had a couple of good twists and surprises. I really liked the first book as well, but the story could have benefitted from a little more editing. The author's writing has definitely improved in this book and I am excited to continue with the series and keep reading her work!
It says "This book can serve as a standalone, or as an entry point into the series" but I would suggest starting with A Word So Fitly Spoken because there are some appearances of characters we meet in that book and we also already have the beginning storyline that's going to carry across the entire series. It seems like each book is going to have its own mini plot, but there's a bigger game at play and we learn about it in the first book. Without that knowledge you will miss some easter eggs that give more insight into events and people.
5 stars - Absolutely loved it! I would definitely read again anytime!
4 stars - Really liked it! Will most likely read again sometime.
3 stars - Liked it. Glad I read it but probably won't read again.
2 stars - Didn't like it. Glad I'm done with the book and I'll never read it again.
1 star - Very rare rating. Absolutely hated the book. Will never read again and I'll probably burn any copies I come across.
Really good! I enjoyed the story and it had a couple of good twists and surprises. I really liked the first book as well, but the story could have benefitted from a little more editing. The author's writing has definitely improved in this book and I am excited to continue with the series and keep reading her work!
It says "This book can serve as a standalone, or as an entry point into the series" but I would suggest starting with A Word So Fitly Spoken because there are some appearances of characters we meet in that book and we also already have the beginning storyline that's going to carry across the entire series. It seems like each book is going to have its own mini plot, but there's a bigger game at play and we learn about it in the first book. Without that knowledge you will miss some easter eggs that give more insight into events and people.
October 14, 2024
🪈BOOK REVIEW🪈 A Tune To Make Them Follow by T. A. Lawrence
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
3.5
This will probably be a short review 😬 I had a really hard time getting into this book, I’m not gonna lie. Some are petty reasons…others I feel are justifiable😅
Anyway. I was having a relatively hard time with it in the beginning with Piper. And then Marcus comes along…and his name is Marcus🤢 I’ve never liked this name because I had a strange uncle with this name, so I cringe now whenever I see it. Then he has a SHAVED HEAD! Which I thought meant he was bald, but apparently he just had a buzz cut which isn’t much better, but that’s fine.
I didn’t care for Piper either though. I couldn’t get a good grasp on her as a character (or Marcus, really) I don’t know what it was about her, but I just didn’t care for her all that much.
I didn’t find I loved the story line of this one either. I stayed confused a lot. I also HATE the travel, make camp, get up, travel, make camp story line. It really just makes me want to poke my eyes out in any genre😳🙊
Um…there were parts I liked about it. Can’t really talk much about it because of spoilers. There were romance moments that I liked, and some of the plot I liked as well and can see how this one adds to the overall plot of the series. 🤷🏼♀️
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
3.5
This will probably be a short review 😬 I had a really hard time getting into this book, I’m not gonna lie. Some are petty reasons…others I feel are justifiable😅
Anyway. I was having a relatively hard time with it in the beginning with Piper. And then Marcus comes along…and his name is Marcus🤢 I’ve never liked this name because I had a strange uncle with this name, so I cringe now whenever I see it. Then he has a SHAVED HEAD! Which I thought meant he was bald, but apparently he just had a buzz cut which isn’t much better, but that’s fine.
I didn’t care for Piper either though. I couldn’t get a good grasp on her as a character (or Marcus, really) I don’t know what it was about her, but I just didn’t care for her all that much.
I didn’t find I loved the story line of this one either. I stayed confused a lot. I also HATE the travel, make camp, get up, travel, make camp story line. It really just makes me want to poke my eyes out in any genre😳🙊
Um…there were parts I liked about it. Can’t really talk much about it because of spoilers. There were romance moments that I liked, and some of the plot I liked as well and can see how this one adds to the overall plot of the series. 🤷🏼♀️
February 24, 2023
This book was going to be rated by me around the 3.5 star mark, until I reached the ending. I thought for sure it was a stand-alone, and never saw the connection that was revealed at the end coming.
Piper is a half Fae with magical powers to find children that suffer from abuse and neglect, and then leads them to her handler who is busy creating an army to overthrow the King. Marcus is the neither of one of those children - her first mission that Piper believes had died due to her own incapabilities and immaturity.
The 🌶️ factor is definitely a 0 in this book. I would put this in the category of YA rather than NA. But aside from that it’s a unique storyline with strong main and supporting characters. Amity pretty much saves the day.
I don’t understand the whole Magic concept in this book though. Is it sentient? It seems like it’s alive and functions with its own life. I’d like a little more understanding of “Gigi”, because those chapters are definitely a puzzle. Likely that’s intentional, but it is just confusing to me.
Piper is a half Fae with magical powers to find children that suffer from abuse and neglect, and then leads them to her handler who is busy creating an army to overthrow the King. Marcus is the neither of one of those children - her first mission that Piper believes had died due to her own incapabilities and immaturity.
The 🌶️ factor is definitely a 0 in this book. I would put this in the category of YA rather than NA. But aside from that it’s a unique storyline with strong main and supporting characters. Amity pretty much saves the day.
I don’t understand the whole Magic concept in this book though. Is it sentient? It seems like it’s alive and functions with its own life. I’d like a little more understanding of “Gigi”, because those chapters are definitely a puzzle. Likely that’s intentional, but it is just confusing to me.
June 12, 2025
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this book, but it didn't hook me like book one did.
I felt that the main character's feelings of self-doubt, depression, and guilt were important to the story, but the thoughts and discussions about them seemed repetitive. I understand how this was all the character could feel after having been raised the way she was, and the things she's done. But, as the reader, I didn't feel that it needed to be repeated so much. The book felt longer than it should have been.
However, I enjoyed the story and seeing ties to the first book. I'm not usually a fairytale retelling reader, but this Pied Piper retelling had twists that I liked.
The way this author writes is really good and I can feel the pace speed up in times of peril, which I really appreciate when reading. However, like the first book, the editing started to lack in the last quarter of the book.
🎙️no language
❤️🔥no spice (some kisses)
⚠️: violence, death, child abuse and neglect, kidnapping, fear of rape (but none happens)
I enjoyed this book, but it didn't hook me like book one did.
I felt that the main character's feelings of self-doubt, depression, and guilt were important to the story, but the thoughts and discussions about them seemed repetitive. I understand how this was all the character could feel after having been raised the way she was, and the things she's done. But, as the reader, I didn't feel that it needed to be repeated so much. The book felt longer than it should have been.
However, I enjoyed the story and seeing ties to the first book. I'm not usually a fairytale retelling reader, but this Pied Piper retelling had twists that I liked.
The way this author writes is really good and I can feel the pace speed up in times of peril, which I really appreciate when reading. However, like the first book, the editing started to lack in the last quarter of the book.
🎙️no language
❤️🔥no spice (some kisses)
⚠️: violence, death, child abuse and neglect, kidnapping, fear of rape (but none happens)
July 17, 2025
FINALLY! I’ve been getting bummed out with the recommendations on my feed turning out terrible, but this book. WOW! The world building, the fluidity of the writing, the characters, EVERYTHING! A Word So Fitly Spoken was good for sure, but this was fantastic. I genuinely couldn’t put it down. I wasn’t expecting the second book in the series to triumph the first.
I loved how many twists there were and how complicated the characters were. I really hope if you are thinking about it, that you read this book. I thought the dialogue and banter was witty and just what I want. I feel like in other books the relationships between the characters fall flat, but in this book you can really feel the genuine love grow. Not just romantically, but with the found family as well. Literally so tender. Just a 10/10 book, honestly.
So refreshing to read and be swept up into the story again. Thank you for giving me that.
I loved how many twists there were and how complicated the characters were. I really hope if you are thinking about it, that you read this book. I thought the dialogue and banter was witty and just what I want. I feel like in other books the relationships between the characters fall flat, but in this book you can really feel the genuine love grow. Not just romantically, but with the found family as well. Literally so tender. Just a 10/10 book, honestly.
So refreshing to read and be swept up into the story again. Thank you for giving me that.
August 2, 2023
First 30% is kind of slow but it picks up right after that. The second half of this book is wild. This story is really plot heavy and pretty light on the romance but there is a heavy amount of pining throughout it. I wish some plot details were expanded upon more but all in all this was a solid sequel. Piper and Marcus were okay protagonists. Marcus fell a little flat for me but Piper was pretty interesting and had a lot of depth to her character. One thing about this book I didn't love is that it's very family coded and by that I mean Piper = Mom; Marcus = Dad; and Amity = Daughter. It's a found family scenario where the protagonists basically end up becoming parental roles to this little girl who never really had people who cared for her. I don't really like children in stories. But there were a lot of themes in this story I think people will enjoy.
December 31, 2022
Holy crap, this book was amazing. I don’t know what T.A. Lawrence does but it is like she puts a spell on you while reading. 😊 She makes it so easy to just immerse yourself into this world and feel like you’re apart of it. I loved book one, A Word so Fitly Spoken, but this one was like a whole other level of good. I was excited to get back to reading this book and looked forward to reading it. I rarely finish a book at this length so quickly. I just couldn’t seem to stop reading, it was that good. I loved the action packed suspense, adventure, mystery, betrayal, danger, and obviously the touch of romance. 😋 If you love books with the Fae, you will love this series. I am super excited for the next book in this series. Can’t wait to see which couple it’s about.
February 27, 2025
A Captivating Melody of Magic and Rebellion: "A Tune to Make Them Follow" Delivers!
T.A. Lawrence returns to the enthralling world of the Severed Realms with "A Tune to Make Them Follow," a captivating tale that builds upon the foundation of its predecessor while forging its own unique path. This installment introduces us to Piper, a complex and morally gray FMC whose backstory immediately pulls you in.
Piper's mission is simple: take the children. But her rules, and her heart, make her journey anything but straightforward. Lawrence skillfully crafts a protagonist who defies easy moral categorization. Piper is a kidnapper, yes, but she's also a protector, a rebel with a conscience. Her internal conflict between her duty to the Coup and her own moral compass creates a compelling narrative that keeps you invested and guessing.
The introduction of Marcus, the handsome archer with a haunted past, adds another layer of intrigue to the story. Their forbidden connection, born from proximity and fueled by a shared sense of isolation, grief and trauma, is both tender and fraught with danger. Lawrence masterfully portrays the push and pull of their attraction and their love-hate relationship, highlighting the risks they both face by giving in to their feelings.
The world-building continues to be a strong point in this series. Avelea, with its wicked forest faeries, old magic, and underground rebellions, is a vividly realized setting that adds depth and complexity to the story. Lawrence seamlessly weaves together elements of fairy tales and political intrigue, creating a world that feels both familiar and refreshingly original.
The found family trope, particularly Piper's connection with Amity, is beautifully executed. Their relationship is heartwarming and adds a touch of emotional resonance to the story. I found myself rooting for Piper to defy the odds and create a safe haven for Amity, even as the dangers surrounding them intensified.
Even with a new heroine, I was able to jump right into the story and was utterly captivated throughout. Lawrence has created a world that is rich, immersive, and filled with compelling characters. I'm thoroughly invested in the Severed Realms series and eagerly anticipate the next installment. If you're looking for a fantasy romance with a strong heroine, a touch of magic, and a dash of rebellion, "A Tune to Make Them Follow" is a must-read!
T.A. Lawrence returns to the enthralling world of the Severed Realms with "A Tune to Make Them Follow," a captivating tale that builds upon the foundation of its predecessor while forging its own unique path. This installment introduces us to Piper, a complex and morally gray FMC whose backstory immediately pulls you in.
Piper's mission is simple: take the children. But her rules, and her heart, make her journey anything but straightforward. Lawrence skillfully crafts a protagonist who defies easy moral categorization. Piper is a kidnapper, yes, but she's also a protector, a rebel with a conscience. Her internal conflict between her duty to the Coup and her own moral compass creates a compelling narrative that keeps you invested and guessing.
The introduction of Marcus, the handsome archer with a haunted past, adds another layer of intrigue to the story. Their forbidden connection, born from proximity and fueled by a shared sense of isolation, grief and trauma, is both tender and fraught with danger. Lawrence masterfully portrays the push and pull of their attraction and their love-hate relationship, highlighting the risks they both face by giving in to their feelings.
The world-building continues to be a strong point in this series. Avelea, with its wicked forest faeries, old magic, and underground rebellions, is a vividly realized setting that adds depth and complexity to the story. Lawrence seamlessly weaves together elements of fairy tales and political intrigue, creating a world that feels both familiar and refreshingly original.
The found family trope, particularly Piper's connection with Amity, is beautifully executed. Their relationship is heartwarming and adds a touch of emotional resonance to the story. I found myself rooting for Piper to defy the odds and create a safe haven for Amity, even as the dangers surrounding them intensified.
Even with a new heroine, I was able to jump right into the story and was utterly captivated throughout. Lawrence has created a world that is rich, immersive, and filled with compelling characters. I'm thoroughly invested in the Severed Realms series and eagerly anticipate the next installment. If you're looking for a fantasy romance with a strong heroine, a touch of magic, and a dash of rebellion, "A Tune to Make Them Follow" is a must-read!
July 14, 2025
This has to be the least romantic romantasy series I've ever read and not because they're closed door most of the YA books I read as a teenager were too and as much as I love a smuty book these days my bookish roots started with sweet chaste YA books and I firmly believe you don't need smut to make a good romance for instance this series being a fairytale retelling about individual couples but intertwined to one major storyline is very reminiscent of one of my all time favorite series The Lunar Chronicles but not nearly as good in fact at multiple points I've considered scraping this and rereading The Lunar Chronicles but I would love to see how this story ends so I'm just gonna keep going I guess
February 25, 2023
Ok so first going into this book I was a bit hesitant since it involves two new characters, and I love the OG ones from the first book. However, this book is absolutely amazing and just as good as the first one. The story has you captivated, the characters are well written, and the plot keeps you coming back for more. I loved being able to explore more of this world and how interconnected everything is. I am so excited for the third book. If you need a good series, this is a fantastic one to pick up. I love it and honestly did not think I was going to love it so much from just a simple quote I saw on bookstagram. These retellings? Chefs kiss.
April 29, 2024
This book was so much easier to get into than the last. The plot moved at a good pace and the memories of the magic (or in this book, it’s called the Gift) were much shorter and easier to follow and understand how they applied to the main story.
Piper and Marcus were also much easier characters for me to connect with and Amity was adorable.
Clean, well written, and enjoyable fantasy with a little romance on the side!
Side note - while this is a sequel, I think this could be read as a standalone. Understanding the fae and the magic and a brief understanding of Queen Asha from book 1 could be helpful, but the characters are completely different except for in the epilogue where Lydia makes a short appearance and Azrael is mentioned.
Piper and Marcus were also much easier characters for me to connect with and Amity was adorable.
Clean, well written, and enjoyable fantasy with a little romance on the side!
Side note - while this is a sequel, I think this could be read as a standalone. Understanding the fae and the magic and a brief understanding of Queen Asha from book 1 could be helpful, but the characters are completely different except for in the epilogue where Lydia makes a short appearance and Azrael is mentioned.
April 15, 2025
Book 2 in the series.
This one wasn’t as exciting as book 1 but still enjoyable.
There are a few Trigger warnings readers should be aware of: Child Abandonment and neglect and Human trafficking
We meet our gal Piper who has a musical gift. She is a half human half fae. She utilizes her gift to call upon children who want something more.
This is a new take at the pipped piper story.
The story takes off with Piper taking Amity from her home as they start their adventures.
This story is a bit slower than the first and the characters while grew on me eventually aren’t as likeable as the first book in my opinion.
This one wasn’t as exciting as book 1 but still enjoyable.
There are a few Trigger warnings readers should be aware of: Child Abandonment and neglect and Human trafficking
We meet our gal Piper who has a musical gift. She is a half human half fae. She utilizes her gift to call upon children who want something more.
This is a new take at the pipped piper story.
The story takes off with Piper taking Amity from her home as they start their adventures.
This story is a bit slower than the first and the characters while grew on me eventually aren’t as likeable as the first book in my opinion.
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