I cannot say enough good things about this book series. I absolutely loved the first in the series, and Treason was even better. The first thing that impressed me with the series is the focus isn't on the love story, in fact the first book barely mentioned it. It was more prevalent in this book, but it still took backstage to everything else. Even when it was the focus it was realistic and took place at a normal speed. I appreciate that so much, as most fantasy novels with a female lead are completely geared toward the love story. Treason was definitely darker, and the torture scenes were painful to read, but in the right way. You could understand how the torture would drive some insane and how it could break someone. It wasn't over the top & it wasn't too dark. It was difficult and it challenged the reader to overcome the torture just like the characters in the book. This book also had many twists and turns, one in particular that I wasn't expecting (I can't mention it because..spoilers.) I really liked how the author worked Kara's past into the current story. I'm headed to buy the third one now. Also, seriously, someone make this a movie.. and if you read this and liked it..convince others. More books like this need to exist. “You’re a hero, Kara. You don’t get to be happy.”—TwinBraeden and Kara have faced enemies together and formed a bond both of them are afraid to admit. In a world where love is weakness and power is everything, they must decide how far they’re willing to go to save the same people that are determined to destroy them. Friends become foes and alliances crumble as Braeden and Kara fight for what they believe in. Neither will ever be the same…“All I wanted was to unite you all. And I did. I just didn’t expect to become the thing you united against.”—KaraWhat a powerful sequel! Although called “Treason,” I feel like it would be more aptly named as “Betrayals” or “Alliances? What Alliances?” or “Ourea Politics: Making US Politics Seem Friendly” or “Power Trips: How to Kidnap in Style” or “Rulers: Who Says They Can’t Be Insane?” or “A Tale of Several Romances that Makes Romeo and Juliet Seem Like a Story With a Happy Ending.” Let’s just say that Ourea is a seriously dark place and will keep you on your toes as you won’t know what is coming next!There’s a lot of political intrigue going on in here. We’ve got rulers and beings coming out of the woodworks, each thinking they know what’s best for Ourea and their people. Not only do you have the self-serving Bloods who conspire together despite the fact that they can’t fulfill their hare-brained plans, which seem to center on controlling Kara and subsequently killing those she cares about, we have Isen amping up their roles, a ghostly Vagabond trying to live vicariously through Kara to get his redemption, and the Muses—who we learn are a bunch of folks that are not fun when angry. There were so many times I thought someone was looking out for Kara and Braeden’s best interests and then discovered they were more nefarious than I expected. Then there were those that I was sure were going to be up to something, and it turned out… nope, that one really is a tragic character. I loved that the author keeps us guessing throughout!As for Kara and Braeden themselves…wow! They are my favorite non-couple couple! What’s a non-couple couple? Well, two people that should clearly be a couple but can’t be because of complicated political reasons, blackmail, and some good ole’ self-doubt. The romance between them is so sweet and honest that it’s heart-breaking that they’re star-crossed. They’re not the only ones that have romantic issues. There are quite a few other couples that have learned that relationships are as easy as ruling an empire with assassins out to get you. We literally have no idea who will be alive and together as this crazy war continues.The world-building and story-telling is again superb, and I easily found myself drawn into the book with the author’s descriptive imagery. We have a few small but important cross-overs into the real world, but most of the book is firmly in the dark and frightening world of Ourea. There was one huge shocker I hadn’t expected (along with many minor ones), but I love how it’s going to make the next books so much more interesting and even more complicated! Overall, this is a 5 out of 5 for me!(Originally posted on my blog; I received a copy for review in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
Do You like book Treason (2000)?
Absolutely love this series. Can't wait until book 3 comes out. I know it's going to be stellar.
—andy
Couldn't put it down...... Immediately downloaded the third
—Rachel
