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The Veritas Chronicles #2
The Rose and the Sword
Can a rose survive in winter?
Rebecca Veritas is a new college graduate, eager to pursue her dreams as a clinical psychologist. After receiving a full scholarship for an internship recommended by her old professor and friend Dr. Everson, she leaves the quiet suburban town of Cedar Heights for the big city of Los Angeles. As she adjusts to her new surroundings, beginning to work with her assigned mentor and a wide variety of clients with all the enthusiasm of a fresh intern, she finds solace in a mysterious antique bookstore. Yet, as her thoughts still linger on someone from her past, she is unaware that the present has the potential to haunt her the most. As time passes, a growing sense of unease quickly transitions into more disturbing events that make her question if all is as it seems. When circumstances take an eerie turn, Rebecca will find herself a player on a larger scale than she had ever anticipated, a scale that could cause one to pay the ultimate price.
Rebecca Veritas is a new college graduate, eager to pursue her dreams as a clinical psychologist. After receiving a full scholarship for an internship recommended by her old professor and friend Dr. Everson, she leaves the quiet suburban town of Cedar Heights for the big city of Los Angeles. As she adjusts to her new surroundings, beginning to work with her assigned mentor and a wide variety of clients with all the enthusiasm of a fresh intern, she finds solace in a mysterious antique bookstore. Yet, as her thoughts still linger on someone from her past, she is unaware that the present has the potential to haunt her the most. As time passes, a growing sense of unease quickly transitions into more disturbing events that make her question if all is as it seems. When circumstances take an eerie turn, Rebecca will find herself a player on a larger scale than she had ever anticipated, a scale that could cause one to pay the ultimate price.
384 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2016
About the author
Gina Marinello-Sweeney
4 books80 followersGina Marinello-Sweeney is the author of The Veritas Chronicles, a contemporary YA trilogy that has been compared to the writing of L.M. Montgomery. The first book in the series, I Thirst, received the 2013 YATR Literary Award for Best Prologue from Young Adult Teen Readers.
Gina has been writing ever since she was a little girl and turned her bedroom into a “library,” complete with due date slips and a check-out stamp. As her own stories were “checked out” by family and friends, she dreamed of a day in which her work would be available in public libraries. This came true in 2013. Gina is also an avid poet in both the English and Spanish languages. In 2009, she was asked to present her original Spanish poetry at an international literature conference in Costa Rica. Although unable to attend this event, a presentation of the poems was well-received at another scholarly event that same year. Graduating summa cum laude, Gina holds credentials in both elementary education and Spanish. In her spare time, she enjoys going to the beach, reading, and dreaming of Prince Edward Island. Gina lives in southern California with her husband, where she is at work on a fairy tale novel and short story collection.
Visit www.ginamarinellosweeney.com for more information.
Gina has been writing ever since she was a little girl and turned her bedroom into a “library,” complete with due date slips and a check-out stamp. As her own stories were “checked out” by family and friends, she dreamed of a day in which her work would be available in public libraries. This came true in 2013. Gina is also an avid poet in both the English and Spanish languages. In 2009, she was asked to present her original Spanish poetry at an international literature conference in Costa Rica. Although unable to attend this event, a presentation of the poems was well-received at another scholarly event that same year. Graduating summa cum laude, Gina holds credentials in both elementary education and Spanish. In her spare time, she enjoys going to the beach, reading, and dreaming of Prince Edward Island. Gina lives in southern California with her husband, where she is at work on a fairy tale novel and short story collection.
Visit www.ginamarinellosweeney.com for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 4, 2020
I wish I could give this book 4.5 stars! It was so good!
In the first chapter we meet Rebecca at her job at the campus bookstore and begin to accompany her on her day to day adventures. And I have to be honest. The first chapter gripped me and I was hooked. I can't say what exactly did it. Was it that she was a Catholic young lady like myself trying to stay pure in the world and explain her faith to others or was it the grown up atmosphere that college themed books and movies hold? Probably both. I also enjoy how the story is written in first person.
The book does have some mature content throughout (which is not necessarily surprising in a book about college students), so I would suggest it for mature 17 year olds to 18 year olds and up. Of course, there is nothing severely inappropriate. I think the authoress has done a great job writing a thrilling book for young people without including anything inappropriate or scandalous.
Even though this is the second book in the series, it stands well on it's own as I haven't read the first one. The book is written exceptionally well with easy to read chapters. I like how the book did not always explain things right away, but left you thinking about what might have happened, or will happen, from chapter to chapter. The book was written in a thought provoking manner and the use of poetry provided ample stimulation for the imagination. Peter quickly became one of my favorite characters and kindred spirits. Of course the best thing about the novel is that the Catholic faith is Rebecca and Peter's center and strength. There aren't many good books about young people in the 21st century who live the beautiful Catholic faith. This book is truly one of them.
Thank you for this wonderful book Miss Sweeney!
In the first chapter we meet Rebecca at her job at the campus bookstore and begin to accompany her on her day to day adventures. And I have to be honest. The first chapter gripped me and I was hooked. I can't say what exactly did it. Was it that she was a Catholic young lady like myself trying to stay pure in the world and explain her faith to others or was it the grown up atmosphere that college themed books and movies hold? Probably both. I also enjoy how the story is written in first person.
The book does have some mature content throughout (which is not necessarily surprising in a book about college students), so I would suggest it for mature 17 year olds to 18 year olds and up. Of course, there is nothing severely inappropriate. I think the authoress has done a great job writing a thrilling book for young people without including anything inappropriate or scandalous.
Even though this is the second book in the series, it stands well on it's own as I haven't read the first one. The book is written exceptionally well with easy to read chapters. I like how the book did not always explain things right away, but left you thinking about what might have happened, or will happen, from chapter to chapter. The book was written in a thought provoking manner and the use of poetry provided ample stimulation for the imagination. Peter quickly became one of my favorite characters and kindred spirits. Of course the best thing about the novel is that the Catholic faith is Rebecca and Peter's center and strength. There aren't many good books about young people in the 21st century who live the beautiful Catholic faith. This book is truly one of them.
Thank you for this wonderful book Miss Sweeney!
June 20, 2017
The Rose and The Sword is the second book I’ve read by Gina Marinello Sweeney and many of the same characters are back! The story is told in first-person from Rebecca Veritas’ view. Rebecca is an intelligent, joyful, often care-free character with compassion, virtue, strong faith, and a quirky sense of humor. She is extremely well-developed through her thoughts and actions.
Sweeney has a unique poetic writing style. Many chapters contain or end with a sort of poetic or symbolic daydream that expresses the main character’s mood or concerns, reminding me of how we often don’t have adequate words to explain how situations make us feel. I especially enjoyed the elements of faith in the story and the lovely poetic thoughts about St. Therese the Little Flower and the Blessed Mother.
This story has so much packed into it! While Rebecca works on her internship with a popular psychiatrist, who is not what she seems, mystery, danger, and an unpleasant surprise sneak up on her. Rather than simply go along with things, Rebecca struggles to find the best way to handle the challenging situations that she faces. She is an admirable character and a good role model.
Sweeney has a unique poetic writing style. Many chapters contain or end with a sort of poetic or symbolic daydream that expresses the main character’s mood or concerns, reminding me of how we often don’t have adequate words to explain how situations make us feel. I especially enjoyed the elements of faith in the story and the lovely poetic thoughts about St. Therese the Little Flower and the Blessed Mother.
This story has so much packed into it! While Rebecca works on her internship with a popular psychiatrist, who is not what she seems, mystery, danger, and an unpleasant surprise sneak up on her. Rather than simply go along with things, Rebecca struggles to find the best way to handle the challenging situations that she faces. She is an admirable character and a good role model.
June 18, 2017
"The Rose and the Sword" is the second book in the "Veritas Chronicles by Gina Marinello-Sweeney. It follows the story of Rebecca, a college student who has been granted an internship with a prominent psychologist. Rebecca soon learns that her mentor is not the person that most people believe she is, and Rebecca must ultimately chose between doing what she thinks is best for her career, or doing what she knows is right. Guided by her Catholic faith and her wits, Rebecca navigates a tangled web of deceit and danger. This book grabs the reader's attention from the beginning and keeps it throughout.
January 5, 2018
I was so excited to hear that Gina had published her second book of the Veritas Chronicles! And while I thought I Thirst was amazing, I was absolutely blown away by The Rose and the Sword. (Those who follow me on tumblr will attest to this – I was live blogging about this book all night.) I finished the entire 373 pages in a few hours – I didn’t even know I could read that fast?? I guess it’s just because I was just so captivated and had to find out what happened next.
The Characters
The characters were all so loveable and relatable?? (My English teacher would murder me if she saw me using the word ‘relatable.’) Rebecca is a characters I relate to quite deeply, but the crazy, quirky Adriana also speaks to me on a spiritual level. Peter is quiet, but such a fun guy. While I loved the play-within-the-story in I Thirst, I fell in love with all the different patients Rebecca worked with. Gina wove in their stories so effortlessly – it was seamless and they all became their own people so quickly. An old man with PTSD, two sisters with emotional problems, a woman who lost her child, a man who was beaten as a child and now believes he is Tybalt from Romeo and Juliet, and a woman who thinks she is ugly and worthless and has grown terrified of mirrors… they are all so near and dear to me, just as much as the main character herself.
The Plot
While I Thirst reminds me of hot summer days and waves lazily lapping against the beach, The Rose and the Sword is as busy and bustling as Los Angeles itself. (I mean, I’ve never been there, but I assume it is busy and bustling.) In other words, it’s faster-paced. Seriously, there’s a lot of running involved. Of course, time slows down for some important moments and deep philosophical thoughts. I just think this novel is such a perfect combination of both the fast-paced and the philosophical.
I love how many of the chapters end with a poem, one of the chapters’ prose even fading into poetry as it ended. Gina is such a talented writer – she has such a way with words that makes this girl who hates a dictionary suddenly fall in love with sophisticated, colourful words. In fact, even the prose sounds like poetry to my ears.
Some Meta-Like Thoughts
I don’t want to go a whole lot into detail, but there was a scene or two I wanted to discuss because it seemed very important to me. This part will probably make more sense to those who have already read the book.
These are just two sections of the book, but I think it is sufficient to show the masterful writing that goes on in The Rose and the Sword – the foreshadowing, the wordplay… It makes me very happy because I love a book that makes me think.
To see a couple of my favourite quotes, you can head over to my blog.
The Characters
The characters were all so loveable and relatable?? (My English teacher would murder me if she saw me using the word ‘relatable.’) Rebecca is a characters I relate to quite deeply, but the crazy, quirky Adriana also speaks to me on a spiritual level. Peter is quiet, but such a fun guy. While I loved the play-within-the-story in I Thirst, I fell in love with all the different patients Rebecca worked with. Gina wove in their stories so effortlessly – it was seamless and they all became their own people so quickly. An old man with PTSD, two sisters with emotional problems, a woman who lost her child, a man who was beaten as a child and now believes he is Tybalt from Romeo and Juliet, and a woman who thinks she is ugly and worthless and has grown terrified of mirrors… they are all so near and dear to me, just as much as the main character herself.
The Plot
While I Thirst reminds me of hot summer days and waves lazily lapping against the beach, The Rose and the Sword is as busy and bustling as Los Angeles itself. (I mean, I’ve never been there, but I assume it is busy and bustling.) In other words, it’s faster-paced. Seriously, there’s a lot of running involved. Of course, time slows down for some important moments and deep philosophical thoughts. I just think this novel is such a perfect combination of both the fast-paced and the philosophical.
I love how many of the chapters end with a poem, one of the chapters’ prose even fading into poetry as it ended. Gina is such a talented writer – she has such a way with words that makes this girl who hates a dictionary suddenly fall in love with sophisticated, colourful words. In fact, even the prose sounds like poetry to my ears.
Some Meta-Like Thoughts
I don’t want to go a whole lot into detail, but there was a scene or two I wanted to discuss because it seemed very important to me. This part will probably make more sense to those who have already read the book.
These are just two sections of the book, but I think it is sufficient to show the masterful writing that goes on in The Rose and the Sword – the foreshadowing, the wordplay… It makes me very happy because I love a book that makes me think.
To see a couple of my favourite quotes, you can head over to my blog.
March 2, 2017
The Rose and the Sword by Gina Marinello- Sweeney, is the second novel in her Veritas Chronicles series. These delightfully charming books follow the life of college student, Rebecca Veritas. If you enjoy beautiful, poetic prose, these books might be just what you’re looking for. Marinello-Sweeney’s writing style is unique and incredibly creative. The imagery she creates in her stories is unlike any other books I’ve read. And, as a fan of mysteries, I thoroughly enjoyed the elements of mystery and suspense added to this novel.
Many young adult novels center around main characters that are in high school, these books however, are about college age students. While this series is completely appropriate for teens, the depth of the relationships and topics put them on a slightly different level than most YA. This book is full of snippets, thoughts and moments of Rebecca’s world as she moves into a new phase of her life, living away from home and working at an internship in psychology.
There are many interesting issues Rebecca has to face in this novel, such as deepening relationships, discovering just how strong she is, standing firm for her beliefs and faith, speaking up for those who are unable, and protecting the vulnerable. I loved seeing the growth of this young woman through the two books. Rebecca is an incredibly likeable and relatable character. In fact, I wish I could meet her for coffee at the fictional Coffee Bean, although she would be drinking “anything but coffee” (This line made me smile, reminding me so much of myself at that age).
The readers of Ms. Marinello-Sweeney’s previous novel will be happy to know that many of the characters are back, friendships grow, relationships deepen and Rebecca remains wonderfully quirky. This is a beautiful, faith-based book for teens and young adults.
Many young adult novels center around main characters that are in high school, these books however, are about college age students. While this series is completely appropriate for teens, the depth of the relationships and topics put them on a slightly different level than most YA. This book is full of snippets, thoughts and moments of Rebecca’s world as she moves into a new phase of her life, living away from home and working at an internship in psychology.
There are many interesting issues Rebecca has to face in this novel, such as deepening relationships, discovering just how strong she is, standing firm for her beliefs and faith, speaking up for those who are unable, and protecting the vulnerable. I loved seeing the growth of this young woman through the two books. Rebecca is an incredibly likeable and relatable character. In fact, I wish I could meet her for coffee at the fictional Coffee Bean, although she would be drinking “anything but coffee” (This line made me smile, reminding me so much of myself at that age).
The readers of Ms. Marinello-Sweeney’s previous novel will be happy to know that many of the characters are back, friendships grow, relationships deepen and Rebecca remains wonderfully quirky. This is a beautiful, faith-based book for teens and young adults.
March 11, 2017
The Rose and the Sword is undoubtedly one of the best books I've read yet this year. The combination of light and dark - the former being Rebecca's faith and personality, the latter being much of the storyline - plus beautiful writing made for a spellbinding story. Read it; you won't be disappointed.
May 26, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed the multi-layered presentation of Ms. Marinello-Sweeney’s first book, “I Thirst”, and looked forward with great anticipation to this follow-up work. While reading the first few chapters of “The Rose and the Sword” I found myself happily settled back into the familiar escape that is the author’s brilliant storytelling rhythm. This unique quality sets Ms. Marinello-Sweeney even further apart from her peers this time around.
Each time I picked up the book, it was like being greeted by the sincere smile of an old friend. An effortless stream of fresh comical musings, clever dialog, poetry, complex relationships and suspenseful adventure followed, completely muting the reality of day-to-day life. When you find yourself dying to squeeze in, “just one more chapter” before retiring for the evening, you know you have a good book on your hands!
It was delightful to revisit these characters again, in particular Rebecca. The author was wonderfully generous in sharing Rebecca’s intimate, private thoughts which covered a wide spectrum of emotions. The exposed vulnerability of the main character greatly intensified my connection to her, and made the story even more satisfying. I was impressed that the author addressed the very real intra-Christian friction among denominations, and from the Catholic point of view. This was depicted in a way relatable to any reader, regardless of their background.
Like its predecessor, prominent Catholic themes are the vehicle that “The Rose and the Sword” uses to progress the story along. I appreciated their presence in this contemporary story because it demonstrates how the tenets of the Church remain relevant today. There is no question that the author has great reverence for the Magisterium of the Church, and reveals these elements in ways that can only be described as beautiful.
Including poetic sequences in modern literature can be a precarious (win-or-spectacular fail) risk. Luckily, great care has been taken by Ms. Marinello-Sweeney to treat the reader to several exquisite sequences of literary imagery that stir the heart, but never come off as adolescent or corny.
There is so much to enjoy in this book! Do yourself a favor and add “The Rose and the Sword” to your reading list. You’ll be glad you did!
Each time I picked up the book, it was like being greeted by the sincere smile of an old friend. An effortless stream of fresh comical musings, clever dialog, poetry, complex relationships and suspenseful adventure followed, completely muting the reality of day-to-day life. When you find yourself dying to squeeze in, “just one more chapter” before retiring for the evening, you know you have a good book on your hands!
It was delightful to revisit these characters again, in particular Rebecca. The author was wonderfully generous in sharing Rebecca’s intimate, private thoughts which covered a wide spectrum of emotions. The exposed vulnerability of the main character greatly intensified my connection to her, and made the story even more satisfying. I was impressed that the author addressed the very real intra-Christian friction among denominations, and from the Catholic point of view. This was depicted in a way relatable to any reader, regardless of their background.
Like its predecessor, prominent Catholic themes are the vehicle that “The Rose and the Sword” uses to progress the story along. I appreciated their presence in this contemporary story because it demonstrates how the tenets of the Church remain relevant today. There is no question that the author has great reverence for the Magisterium of the Church, and reveals these elements in ways that can only be described as beautiful.
Including poetic sequences in modern literature can be a precarious (win-or-spectacular fail) risk. Luckily, great care has been taken by Ms. Marinello-Sweeney to treat the reader to several exquisite sequences of literary imagery that stir the heart, but never come off as adolescent or corny.
There is so much to enjoy in this book! Do yourself a favor and add “The Rose and the Sword” to your reading list. You’ll be glad you did!
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November 29, 2021THE ROSE AND THE SWORD has officially been released!!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0692...
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0692...
September 12, 2016
Great book. Great intriguing story! The characters are really great .
April 28, 2017
If I had to choose a word to describe The Rose and the Sword, I think I'd go with "eclectic." Part poetry, part prose, contemporary with a touch of romance, humor, suspense, peril, and Catholic apologetics, I understand now why one reviewer described it as poetic.
The breaks within chapters develop a rhythm somewhat like verse, leaving the reader to discern reality from imagination. (In that respect, it reminds me of Falling for His Madness by Katharine Grubb.) While the narrative advances with conflict and resolution, it often dallies with simple musings or slices of life that also contribute to the poetic quality.
The characters are well-developed, the writing solid, and the editing excellent. It's also a "clean read" appropriate for both teens and adults. I look forward to reading more from Gina Marinello-Sweeney.
(I received a free evaluation copy from the author. Opinions expressed are my own.)
The breaks within chapters develop a rhythm somewhat like verse, leaving the reader to discern reality from imagination. (In that respect, it reminds me of Falling for His Madness by Katharine Grubb.) While the narrative advances with conflict and resolution, it often dallies with simple musings or slices of life that also contribute to the poetic quality.
The characters are well-developed, the writing solid, and the editing excellent. It's also a "clean read" appropriate for both teens and adults. I look forward to reading more from Gina Marinello-Sweeney.
(I received a free evaluation copy from the author. Opinions expressed are my own.)
May 13, 2016
Plot:
The Rose and the Sword has a more conventional structure than the previous book, I Thirst, which included stories that the characters themselves wrote. I prefer this style much more, as the plot is laser-focused and tightly structured.
Characters:
Humanity, love, hatred, good, evil, are all themes that are explored. Ms. Marinello-Sweeney is one of my favorite writers of characters because she is not afraid to include colorful peccadilloes and weird little idiosyncrasies that are the stuff of life.
The predominant trend in modern cinema and literature is to strive for a type of faux-realism when it comes to characters. Characters are neither good nor bad, they’re merely good because they were formed that way with a sense of duty or they’re merely misguided or heavily flawed. Ms. Marinello absolutely rejects that trend, with a counter-cultural approach between the protagonist and the villain(s). It is classic good versus evil.
And for all the fans of the Peter/Rebecca dynamic, as much as I’d like to, I ain’t sayin’ nuthin’.
Style:
One of the trademarks of Ms. Marinello’s writing is it includes a sentimentality that will make your heart burst. In that regard, this book takes things to the next level. You very much get the feeling that the author has put so much of herself into this book. This effectively transfers to the reader, making the book intensely personal. The story is filled with emotion that will tug at your heartstrings.
The Rose and the Sword has a more conventional structure than the previous book, I Thirst, which included stories that the characters themselves wrote. I prefer this style much more, as the plot is laser-focused and tightly structured.
Characters:
Humanity, love, hatred, good, evil, are all themes that are explored. Ms. Marinello-Sweeney is one of my favorite writers of characters because she is not afraid to include colorful peccadilloes and weird little idiosyncrasies that are the stuff of life.
The predominant trend in modern cinema and literature is to strive for a type of faux-realism when it comes to characters. Characters are neither good nor bad, they’re merely good because they were formed that way with a sense of duty or they’re merely misguided or heavily flawed. Ms. Marinello absolutely rejects that trend, with a counter-cultural approach between the protagonist and the villain(s). It is classic good versus evil.
And for all the fans of the Peter/Rebecca dynamic, as much as I’d like to, I ain’t sayin’ nuthin’.
Style:
One of the trademarks of Ms. Marinello’s writing is it includes a sentimentality that will make your heart burst. In that regard, this book takes things to the next level. You very much get the feeling that the author has put so much of herself into this book. This effectively transfers to the reader, making the book intensely personal. The story is filled with emotion that will tug at your heartstrings.
May 31, 2018
I have never read a book quite like "The Rose and the Sword." While it's definitely a novel, it is also poetry. Not poetry in the sense of lines and lines of verse (although there is a little of that) but rather poetry in the way the author thinks (if that makes sense!) Gina Marinello-Sweeney takes the reader into the mind of her heroine, Rebecca, with deep musings, often about her Catholic faith, which challenges the reader to think. I was impressed how deftly she wove spiritual themes into the story, which is a blend of psychological thriller, coming-of-age, friendship, and discovery of self.
The heroine works in a psychiatric ward, which I found especially interesting.The author handles such a delicate subject with very real compassion, while not compromising her plot or characters.
This book is the sequel to "I Thirst". Although I haven't yet read that one, it was easy to slip into this story without knowing that backstory, so it's not essential to read the other one first.
While the author's style certainly isn't for everyone, I think young adults, new adults, and anyone with a sense of beauty and a love of poetry will enjoy this unique book.
The heroine works in a psychiatric ward, which I found especially interesting.The author handles such a delicate subject with very real compassion, while not compromising her plot or characters.
This book is the sequel to "I Thirst". Although I haven't yet read that one, it was easy to slip into this story without knowing that backstory, so it's not essential to read the other one first.
While the author's style certainly isn't for everyone, I think young adults, new adults, and anyone with a sense of beauty and a love of poetry will enjoy this unique book.
February 10, 2017
In The Rose And The Sword, GIna Marinello-Sweeney has woven a beautiful tapestry of intrigue, romance, and rich poetic expression. Her characters are well-drawn out with dialogue that rings true. The story is interesting and the mysteries to be solved therein will keep you turning the pages. She depicts patients with psychological problems in a compassionate manner which is enlightening and refreshing. Her use of religious imagery and the kindness of the protagonist, Rebecca Veritas, makes this a fine work of Catholic fiction.
September 5, 2016
The Rose and the Sword is a compelling page-turner that will keep you guessing what is going to happen next. The readers will find that the characters are very relatable and will see the concept of true friendship. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a compelling story that leaves you wanting more.
May 12, 2016
4.5 stars. Maybe I really should have only rated I Thirst three stars instead of four, because even though I gave both books four stars, I can really see how Gina Marinello-Sweeney has grown as a writer in this book, and if this one had a higher rating than the first one, it would be clearer. In the first book she had an interesting and unique writing style, and characters who felt like friends. In this book she had both those things, and a much clearer storyline.
I was delighted to see Rebecca, Peter and Adriana again (and I was glad that we got to see more of Adriana.) We also got to meet some new characters, most of whom were likeable. I would have liked to see some more of Jeffrey. He was an interesting character, but we only saw him in three scenes in the book. It took me a bit to warm up to Amelia, but she had proven herself likeable by the end. I also really liked Christy,
At the end of the book,
There were poems in this book as well. While I did enjoy the poetry in this book, I think Yesterday's Chalice from I Thirst is still my favorite.
It took me around 100 pages to finally determine the source of the plot driving conflict, but then the plot did take off. Every now and then the plot did seem to be meandering, drifting from small conflicts or taking a break from conflict altogether, and when this happened I found myself wondering where it thought it was going, but then it would return to the main plot arc and I'd settle back into the story. There were a few other issues I found, such as that I never did figure out what the main antagonist's motivation was (maybe the next book) and the fact that all of the villains enjoyed monologuing to their victims. Gina's strengths are in her wonderful characters and her unique writing style, but her plots could still use a little bit of work. Even so, overall it was an exciting story that I enjoyed even more than I Thirst.
I was delighted to see Rebecca, Peter and Adriana again (and I was glad that we got to see more of Adriana.) We also got to meet some new characters, most of whom were likeable. I would have liked to see some more of Jeffrey. He was an interesting character, but we only saw him in three scenes in the book. It took me a bit to warm up to Amelia, but she had proven herself likeable by the end. I also really liked Christy,
At the end of the book,
There were poems in this book as well. While I did enjoy the poetry in this book, I think Yesterday's Chalice from I Thirst is still my favorite.
It took me around 100 pages to finally determine the source of the plot driving conflict, but then the plot did take off. Every now and then the plot did seem to be meandering, drifting from small conflicts or taking a break from conflict altogether, and when this happened I found myself wondering where it thought it was going, but then it would return to the main plot arc and I'd settle back into the story. There were a few other issues I found, such as that I never did figure out what the main antagonist's motivation was (maybe the next book) and the fact that all of the villains enjoyed monologuing to their victims. Gina's strengths are in her wonderful characters and her unique writing style, but her plots could still use a little bit of work. Even so, overall it was an exciting story that I enjoyed even more than I Thirst.
December 27, 2020
An easy read, with believable (if somewhat annoying) characters. This second instalment is slightly better than the first (in which basically nothing happened), but goes slightly over the top, crushing a psychotic psychiatrist, mental abuse, attempted assault, kidnapping and murder into the second half of the book.
Now, if this sounds concerning, don't worry, this is not Game of Thrones, thank heavens, much of the above is threatened, or implied, or revealed at a later date, there is nothing explicit to scar the reader.
This is clean 'Catholic Fiction', but the 'Catholic' is really shoved down your throat here, and there is a weird 'Catholics aren't Christian' running theme portrayed in the characters Rebecca Veritas meets. Maybe this is something that Americans deal with? I've never come across it on the other side of the pond though, so it seemed very odd to come up so much.
The writing style is also very broken, needlessly skipping through the narrative time-line, sometimes jumping weeks other times just a few minutes, but often without a clear indication of how much time is supposed to have passed - a connective or two here or there would have made the reading experience more pleasurable in my opinion.
Perhaps this is appealing to super Catholic American teens with attention disorders, but for anyone else it is probably of limited interest.
Now, if this sounds concerning, don't worry, this is not Game of Thrones, thank heavens, much of the above is threatened, or implied, or revealed at a later date, there is nothing explicit to scar the reader.
This is clean 'Catholic Fiction', but the 'Catholic' is really shoved down your throat here, and there is a weird 'Catholics aren't Christian' running theme portrayed in the characters Rebecca Veritas meets. Maybe this is something that Americans deal with? I've never come across it on the other side of the pond though, so it seemed very odd to come up so much.
The writing style is also very broken, needlessly skipping through the narrative time-line, sometimes jumping weeks other times just a few minutes, but often without a clear indication of how much time is supposed to have passed - a connective or two here or there would have made the reading experience more pleasurable in my opinion.
Perhaps this is appealing to super Catholic American teens with attention disorders, but for anyone else it is probably of limited interest.
September 25, 2016
Although this is a dramatic story, the author demonstrates her sense of humor. I particularly enjoyed the opening scene when the main character, Rebecca, answers someone asking about the things a Catholic worships. The list and Rebecca's reactions are hilarious. The author also portrays a sensitive, intelligent, and brave Rebecca in this second book of the series as she faces her antagonist. Rebecca's concern and caring for other individuals and her prayers for them touched my heart. Although I purchased the first book of the series, I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
June 4, 2016
Ms. Marinello-Sweeney has endeavored to make a literary statement with this follow-up to her debut and has succeeded. Overflowing with clever one-liners, quirky characters, and a worldview full of wonder, this book hops literary genres and immerses itself in pure fine literature. While having a somewhat more conventional plot structure than it's predecessor, it still delights itself in it's "intermissions" and wondrous social commentary. While I wanted a bit more from a few areas, this book ultimately demonstrates an author well at touch with what she wants to say.
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