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I diari delle streghe #3
The Captive Part II / The Power
Caught in the struggle between good and evil . . .
Cassie has joined the most alluring—and deadly—in-crowd imaginable. But power comes with a price, and it's more dangerous than she knows. Torn between the dueling desires of the two leaders of the Secret Grcle, she must ultimately choose between saving all of New Salem, and her own dangerous love for the bewitching Adam, which threatens to tear the circle apart. In the ultimate battle between good and evil, will Cassie's supernatural powers be strong enough to lead the coven out of danger? Or will she foil prey to the dark forces within?
. . . will she sacrifice her love for the circle to survive?
Cassie has joined the most alluring—and deadly—in-crowd imaginable. But power comes with a price, and it's more dangerous than she knows. Torn between the dueling desires of the two leaders of the Secret Grcle, she must ultimately choose between saving all of New Salem, and her own dangerous love for the bewitching Adam, which threatens to tear the circle apart. In the ultimate battle between good and evil, will Cassie's supernatural powers be strong enough to lead the coven out of danger? Or will she foil prey to the dark forces within?
. . . will she sacrifice her love for the circle to survive?
390 pages, Paperback
First published February 4, 2009
229 people are currently reading
7,438 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Smith
301books112kfollowersSmith was born in Villa Park, Orange County, California. In interviews, she has said she realized she wanted to be a writer sometime between kindergarten and first grade, “when a teacher praised a horrible poem I’d written�, and began writing in earnest in elementary school. Smith received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Experimental Psychology from the University of California at Santa Barbara in 1987, followed by teaching credentials in Elementary education and Special education from San Francisco State University.
She taught kindergarten and special education for several years before becoming a full-time writer. Her first book, The Night of the Solstice, was published by MacMillan in 1987, followed by, Heart of Valor in 1990, and the 4-volume Vampire Diaries series in 1991-2. Three trilogies followed: The Secret Circle (1992), The Forbidden Game (1994), and Dark Visions (1995). The first installment of her popular Night World series was published in 1996, followed by eight more over the next two years. In 1998, Smith began a decade-long hiatus from writing, returning in 2008 with a new Web site and a series of new short stories. The Vampire Diaries series was reissued in 2007, followed by re-printings of The Secret Circle trilogy and Night World series in 2008/2009. The Night of the Solstice and Heart of Valor was also reissued in 2008. Three new Vampire Diaries installments were published in 2009 and 2010.
Smith lives in the San Francisco Bay area “with one dog, three cats, and about ten thousand books.�
She taught kindergarten and special education for several years before becoming a full-time writer. Her first book, The Night of the Solstice, was published by MacMillan in 1987, followed by, Heart of Valor in 1990, and the 4-volume Vampire Diaries series in 1991-2. Three trilogies followed: The Secret Circle (1992), The Forbidden Game (1994), and Dark Visions (1995). The first installment of her popular Night World series was published in 1996, followed by eight more over the next two years. In 1998, Smith began a decade-long hiatus from writing, returning in 2008 with a new Web site and a series of new short stories. The Vampire Diaries series was reissued in 2007, followed by re-printings of The Secret Circle trilogy and Night World series in 2008/2009. The Night of the Solstice and Heart of Valor was also reissued in 2008. Three new Vampire Diaries installments were published in 2009 and 2010.
Smith lives in the San Francisco Bay area “with one dog, three cats, and about ten thousand books.�
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 612 reviews
March 16, 2018
OH. MY. GOD. 💙💙💙💙💙💙
This book is 400 pages of pure EXCELLENCE!
I’ve got admit that the first book in this series lacked some real suspense and action. But this one has been extremely thrilling, as well as surprising and dark, with many twists and turns. Each member of the Circle has a distinct personality and realistic points of view on each problem they deal with that I began to consider them my own friends as well as Cassie's. They know why everyone is dying in New Salem, but everyone else blames the Circle.
The danger in this book forces all of the Circle's members to bond and stick together through thick and thin. Half of the time, it was like a horror movie, with me screaming at Cassie' NOT TO OPEN THAT DOOR or NOT TO GO IN THERE ALONE! Of course, Cassie never listened and left me gripping the edge of my seat the ENTIRE TIME while she delves deeper into the world of magic and secrets.
L.J. Smith has done it again; her books always leave me wanting more. Bravo!!! 💯👏🏼💯👏🏼💯👏🏼
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This book is 400 pages of pure EXCELLENCE!
I’ve got admit that the first book in this series lacked some real suspense and action. But this one has been extremely thrilling, as well as surprising and dark, with many twists and turns. Each member of the Circle has a distinct personality and realistic points of view on each problem they deal with that I began to consider them my own friends as well as Cassie's. They know why everyone is dying in New Salem, but everyone else blames the Circle.
The danger in this book forces all of the Circle's members to bond and stick together through thick and thin. Half of the time, it was like a horror movie, with me screaming at Cassie' NOT TO OPEN THAT DOOR or NOT TO GO IN THERE ALONE! Of course, Cassie never listened and left me gripping the edge of my seat the ENTIRE TIME while she delves deeper into the world of magic and secrets.
L.J. Smith has done it again; her books always leave me wanting more. Bravo!!! 💯👏🏼💯👏🏼💯👏🏼
June 28, 2016
A much belated review.
I read this a few months ago and have been putting off my review. Not anymore! This is the second bind-up (the second half of the second book and the complete third book) in The Secret Circle series by L. J. Smith. This volume concludes the original series that she wrote in the 90s. Yes, there are a couple more books that pick up where the original trilogy left off, but those were written years later by ghost writers after Harper decided to fire Smith from moving forward with the story. Not cool, Harper! For that reason, I won't be reading those books... at least, I don't think I will. I dunno, I might change my mind considering I did like this series. Is it cheesy? Yes. Is it well-written? No. Are the characters great? No. The book isn't even technically good. But it is oh-so entertaining and I recommend it for that reason alone.
I read this a few months ago and have been putting off my review. Not anymore! This is the second bind-up (the second half of the second book and the complete third book) in The Secret Circle series by L. J. Smith. This volume concludes the original series that she wrote in the 90s. Yes, there are a couple more books that pick up where the original trilogy left off, but those were written years later by ghost writers after Harper decided to fire Smith from moving forward with the story. Not cool, Harper! For that reason, I won't be reading those books... at least, I don't think I will. I dunno, I might change my mind considering I did like this series. Is it cheesy? Yes. Is it well-written? No. Are the characters great? No. The book isn't even technically good. But it is oh-so entertaining and I recommend it for that reason alone.
July 6, 2011
Overall I liked it, but I found it hard to like any of the characters aside from Nick. He was the only one that held my interest from beginning to end. I did manage to warm up to Diana and a few other characters, but Cassie bugged me ever since book one and continued to bug me throughout "The Captive, Part 2." She managed to redeem herself in "The Power" since she wasnt running around acting all secretive and lying to everybody anymore. I was upset over how the love story played out and the ending proved to be a little anticlimactic, but that's probably because I prefer physical action over magic, but it was still good. Even though I prefer "The Vampire Diaries" series, I think "The Secret Circle" is a good series for the YA genre.
April 9, 2020
THE T.V IS A MILLION TIMES BETTER AND YET IT GOT CANCELLED AND I THOUGHT THIS WOULD ANSWER ALL MY QUESTIONS BUT NOOOOOOOOOOOPE. I also now have a really strong urge to rewatch the t.v show, cause maaaaaaaaan it was amazing and spooky and so different from this cliche fluffy shit-show.
Even in the show, I didn't like Adam x Cassie. They actually suck ass, and romanticise cheating?? Usually, I'm all for forbidden love (I mean, I was trash for Clace- until I learned that they were siblings but then got spoiled that they actually weren't but that's beside the point) but in this case? Nope. Diana deserved better dude. You know what??? I honestly would've rated this five stars if Adam yeeted off a cliff and Diana and Cassie got together. OR EVEN FAYE?? They had wayyyyy more romantic tension than Adam and Cassie who barely had TWO CONVERSATIONS before they "fell in love" like pass me a bucket so I can puke. I mean, Cassie calls Faye sensuous, alluring, sexy e.t.c multiple times throughout this book. C'mon guys, my bidar is flashing. CASSIE EVEN CALLED DIANA THE MOST BEAUTIFUL GIRL SHE'D EVER SEEN AND EVEN KINDA STALKED HER AT THE BEGINNING?? AND WAS LOWKEY OBSESSED? If that's not gay, I don't know what is.
But anyway, all jokes aside, Nick and Cassie are a hundred times better as a ship, but ofc the author goes with the bullshit soulmate ending. I was kind of expecting it, but jeezus that stupid, fluffy cliche ending where Diana happily passes of her man to Cassie really made my rating go down to 2 stars. One reason I was loving this book at the beginning was because Nick and Cassie were SUPER CUTE TOGETHER GUYS C'MON, and it happened naturally with some sweet old slow burn!!! There was actual development!!! (Also I'm a sucker for the girl-brings-out-boys-sweet-side and oh boi it was good) Instalove can go suck my ass. I WANT JUSTICE FOR THE LOSS OF THIS BEAUTIFUL SHIP!!!!
I'm just... flabbergasted at the audacity of the author right now. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to binge watch the Secret Circle and cry over the loss of another beautiful ship, Jake x Cassie.
Even in the show, I didn't like Adam x Cassie. They actually suck ass, and romanticise cheating?? Usually, I'm all for forbidden love (I mean, I was trash for Clace- until I learned that they were siblings but then got spoiled that they actually weren't but that's beside the point) but in this case? Nope. Diana deserved better dude. You know what??? I honestly would've rated this five stars if Adam yeeted off a cliff and Diana and Cassie got together. OR EVEN FAYE?? They had wayyyyy more romantic tension than Adam and Cassie who barely had TWO CONVERSATIONS before they "fell in love" like pass me a bucket so I can puke. I mean, Cassie calls Faye sensuous, alluring, sexy e.t.c multiple times throughout this book. C'mon guys, my bidar is flashing. CASSIE EVEN CALLED DIANA THE MOST BEAUTIFUL GIRL SHE'D EVER SEEN AND EVEN KINDA STALKED HER AT THE BEGINNING?? AND WAS LOWKEY OBSESSED? If that's not gay, I don't know what is.
But anyway, all jokes aside, Nick and Cassie are a hundred times better as a ship, but ofc the author goes with the bullshit soulmate ending. I was kind of expecting it, but jeezus that stupid, fluffy cliche ending where Diana happily passes of her man to Cassie really made my rating go down to 2 stars. One reason I was loving this book at the beginning was because Nick and Cassie were SUPER CUTE TOGETHER GUYS C'MON, and it happened naturally with some sweet old slow burn!!! There was actual development!!! (Also I'm a sucker for the girl-brings-out-boys-sweet-side and oh boi it was good) Instalove can go suck my ass. I WANT JUSTICE FOR THE LOSS OF THIS BEAUTIFUL SHIP!!!!
I'm just... flabbergasted at the audacity of the author right now. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to binge watch the Secret Circle and cry over the loss of another beautiful ship, Jake x Cassie.
April 16, 2014
It's fine. I'll understand if you don't want to be my friend anymore.
February 26, 2012
REVIEW:
I really like the Secret Circle. I read the first book a year or two ago, and had to re-read it recently since the show on The CW has really messed up the actual story in my head. Let me just say, unlike Smith's other series The Vampire Diaries, where the show is way better than the books; I actually prefer the Secret Circle novels to the show.
There is something about the books that I really enjoy but I can't really put my finger on it. I really love stories about witches, the kind that use the elements and mother nature, and this book definitely has that. It also has a really good struggle between what is good and what is evil and making your decision on which you would rather try to be.
One thing I didn't really like, but saw a lot less as the story progresses was Cassie's timidness. I felt like she could have been a much stronger character, but then again if she were the story wouldn't have happened the way that it did. I really liked the other characters in the circle as well. I felt that they all played a really important role and in ways were each their own main character. It is really hard to write so many personalities and to make them important and I think Smith did a good job, although I would have liked to see a little less strictness in each of them. They each had something they were good for, and I like when characters are actually like people and are good at multiple things.
All in all, this series is definitely something I would recommend to everyone. I really enjoyed reading it. The writing style was quick and easy to get lost in, and I found myself not being able to stop myself from reading just one more page.
FIRST LINE:
"The voices from above were getting nearer."
RATING BREAKDOWN:
Plot: 18/20
Characters: 17/20
Writing: 17/20
Creativity: 17/20
Ending: 8/10
The 'It' Factor: 8/10
=85/100, B
PARENTAL SUGGESTION:
This book contains the following:
Violence
I really like the Secret Circle. I read the first book a year or two ago, and had to re-read it recently since the show on The CW has really messed up the actual story in my head. Let me just say, unlike Smith's other series The Vampire Diaries, where the show is way better than the books; I actually prefer the Secret Circle novels to the show.
There is something about the books that I really enjoy but I can't really put my finger on it. I really love stories about witches, the kind that use the elements and mother nature, and this book definitely has that. It also has a really good struggle between what is good and what is evil and making your decision on which you would rather try to be.
One thing I didn't really like, but saw a lot less as the story progresses was Cassie's timidness. I felt like she could have been a much stronger character, but then again if she were the story wouldn't have happened the way that it did. I really liked the other characters in the circle as well. I felt that they all played a really important role and in ways were each their own main character. It is really hard to write so many personalities and to make them important and I think Smith did a good job, although I would have liked to see a little less strictness in each of them. They each had something they were good for, and I like when characters are actually like people and are good at multiple things.
All in all, this series is definitely something I would recommend to everyone. I really enjoyed reading it. The writing style was quick and easy to get lost in, and I found myself not being able to stop myself from reading just one more page.
FIRST LINE:
"The voices from above were getting nearer."
RATING BREAKDOWN:
Plot: 18/20
Characters: 17/20
Writing: 17/20
Creativity: 17/20
Ending: 8/10
The 'It' Factor: 8/10
=85/100, B
PARENTAL SUGGESTION:
This book contains the following:
Violence
July 6, 2015
This series has been alright. Interesting enough to keep me reading, but it has annoying bits enough to not make me fangirl or anything. Cassie is continually doubting herself instead of accepting her power..it really irks me that she has such potential but is always a weak character.
July 14, 2023
2,5🌟
tak jak miałam nadzieję przy pierwszym tomie, trochę rzeczy się polepszyło. o ile tam historia pomimo jakiegoś niedorozwinięcia była dość tajemnicza i niepokojąca, tak tutaj strasznie zaczęła przypominać taką laurkową bajkę na zasadzie "razem damy radę, bo tak bardzo się kochamy", choć przynajmniej widać w tym było jakiś sens. niektórzy bohaterowie nabrali głębi, choć inni dalej wydają mi się strasznie stereotypowi. ich wypowiedzi wciąż często były infantylne, z kolei dialogi sztuczne, tak samo relacje między nimi. nieszczególnie przepadam też za motywem odwiecznego przeznaczenia sobie dwójki bohaterów, bratnich dusz i innych takich, bo mam wrażenie że nie zostawia im to wyboru i często jest robione na przymus. rozwinięto fajnie kilka wątków, choć równie wiele zostało tak okropnie dennie pociągniętych, że zwyczajnie żyć się odechciewało. no i wiem, że emocje, ale czy Cassie musiała tak ciągle mdleć, chwiać się, dostawać zawrotów głowy, być porywana itede? to pokazuje niby, że jest taka silna i niezłomna, że mimo przeciwności nieustępliwie brnie naprzód, ale po entym razie zaczęło to po prostu wkurzać. według mnie nie osiągnęłaby absolutnie nic bez bycia ciągle podtrzymywanym przez kogoś z boku, a wszyscy ją uważają za jakiś ósmy cud świata, bo ma takie duże oczy i fajne moce. no i wykorzystywanie czyjejś miłości żeby zapomnieć o kimś innym? nieszczególnie mi się to podoba. może po prostu nie te czasy, ale ta dylogia średnio mi się podobała, nawet jeśli potrafiła wciągnąć.
tak jak miałam nadzieję przy pierwszym tomie, trochę rzeczy się polepszyło. o ile tam historia pomimo jakiegoś niedorozwinięcia była dość tajemnicza i niepokojąca, tak tutaj strasznie zaczęła przypominać taką laurkową bajkę na zasadzie "razem damy radę, bo tak bardzo się kochamy", choć przynajmniej widać w tym było jakiś sens. niektórzy bohaterowie nabrali głębi, choć inni dalej wydają mi się strasznie stereotypowi. ich wypowiedzi wciąż często były infantylne, z kolei dialogi sztuczne, tak samo relacje między nimi. nieszczególnie przepadam też za motywem odwiecznego przeznaczenia sobie dwójki bohaterów, bratnich dusz i innych takich, bo mam wrażenie że nie zostawia im to wyboru i często jest robione na przymus. rozwinięto fajnie kilka wątków, choć równie wiele zostało tak okropnie dennie pociągniętych, że zwyczajnie żyć się odechciewało. no i wiem, że emocje, ale czy Cassie musiała tak ciągle mdleć, chwiać się, dostawać zawrotów głowy, być porywana itede? to pokazuje niby, że jest taka silna i niezłomna, że mimo przeciwności nieustępliwie brnie naprzód, ale po entym razie zaczęło to po prostu wkurzać. według mnie nie osiągnęłaby absolutnie nic bez bycia ciągle podtrzymywanym przez kogoś z boku, a wszyscy ją uważają za jakiś ósmy cud świata, bo ma takie duże oczy i fajne moce. no i wykorzystywanie czyjejś miłości żeby zapomnieć o kimś innym? nieszczególnie mi się to podoba. może po prostu nie te czasy, ale ta dylogia średnio mi się podobała, nawet jeśli potrafiła wciągnąć.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2012
The Captive Part II:
In this story Cassie Blake is still a captive of Faye because she's being blackmailed. The coven is trying to control or get rid of the evil, dark power of the crystal black skull created by an original witch in 1696. They decide on Halloween to go to the school dance and leave early then go to the empty, burnt down lot on their street, Crowhaven, and call the dead. They did that but it wasn't successful. Ironically enough the witches were born days apart from each other in November through early December, except for Cassie who was born on July 23rd. They have a witchy birthday party for the boys. And soon after the coven had to meet to decide who the leader of the coven would be. At first the leader was the beautiful Diana, but her cousin Faye challenged her leadership. Cassie was being blackmailed to vote for Faye. I won't give away who was voted leader, but soon after the vote they all went to the cemetery with the crystal black skull and tried to harness the power. It was unsuccessful and released a menacing figure and an eerie red light devoured Cassie's house. There she found her mother dazed and confused and her grandmother near death with a black figure standing over her. Several of the witches used magic to get rid of the red light and the black figure. Cassie's grandmother tells them the story of Black John and his evil agenda. She gives Cassie her family's Book of Shadows and tells Cassie to be brave and that she has the power to stop Black John. A thrilling segment of the story and an extremely easy read.
The Power:
The story begins with Faye revealing to her cousin, Diana, the secret Cassie had been trying to hide. No longer could Faye blackmail Cassie, but Cassie is distraught by her betrayal of Diana. Diana forgives Cassie. A love triangle is involved here. They discover that Black John can magically reincarnate himself from the grave. And the last time he reincarnated, he killed most of the current coven's parents because they figured out his diabolical plans. He had them all get married and have children all around the same time. He wanted a full circle of witches he could control. He didn't count on Kori and Cassie being born. The coven decides to question their older relatives and comb their Books of Shadows in order to find a way to stop Black John from his diabolical plans and killing more people. Cassie goes to school and discovers a girl she met at Cape Cod before moving to New Salem, Portia, has enrolled in her high school. Portia and her brothers are witch hunters. Cassie discovers that someone has stolen her special stone, hematite. And the coven doesn't know who it was. At Cassie's grandmother's funeral she meets the new Principal, Jack Brunswick. And that's when Cassie realizes he's Black John. Cassie and Nick decide to become an item, although Nick knows she's in love with someone else. Someone she can't have. Cassie gets clues from her dreams. Her family is the most powerful and has the gift of clear sight. Black John used to live in the now burnt down house on Crowhaven Road, number 13. Cassie's mother is really sick since the reappearance of Black John and the older witches in town are taking care of her and trying to cure her. Faye who is now the coven leader has decided to team up with Black John. The coven decide they need to find the original master tools to defeat Black John. Jack Brunswick, as Principal, decides to target the coven members by issuing a list of prohibited activities that are punishable; the worst one being sent to his office. All the outsiders are hypnotized by him and are gratified that the coven no longer has special privileges. The girls decide to do a special magical ritual for the night of Hecate, a goddess of witches. When the ceremony is over, they instruct Cassie, the newest initiate to bury a box somewhere she'll remember, but to not look inside the box, to which she complies. The coven decides to use amethyst crystals to protect them from psychic attack by Black John. The Principal had set up medieval stocks in the cafeteria to place those who get punished in. Cassie got sent to the Principal's office. Nick and the others decide to create a diversion outside the school to save Cassie from Black John. After Cassie is saved, Faye rereads the true identity of Black John and Cassie is floored and horrified by what she discovers. The coven realized that only the original master tools can stop Black John. So Cassie uses a moonstone under her pillow so she could have dreams that will help them discover where the master tools are. Lucky for her it worked and they found the master tools. But the following day Cassie is kidnapped by the witch hunters. But the coven saved her just in time. Then the coven discovers who among them has been influenced by Black John and had been committing the murders involuntarily with no recollection. Black John was using hematite to control this person. The coven realizes that on the eclipse the next week, Black John is planning something diabolical. The coven decide to lie low until then when they will counter-attack. On that day Black John decides to take out the bridge from the mainland because a major storm is rolling through, a storm he is controlling using magic. Since Faye isn't around the coven decides to elect a new leader. I won't tell you who they voted for. But the new leader has to use the master tools to defeat Black John and stop the storm from killing everyone in New Salem. The showdown is at Black John's old house, number 13. I won't tell you if they defeat Black John or how they attempted to do it. At the end of the story the coven decided to have three leaders, a triumvirate. And in the end, the messy love triangle is resolved, but I won't give it away. A great book and an easy read.
In this story Cassie Blake is still a captive of Faye because she's being blackmailed. The coven is trying to control or get rid of the evil, dark power of the crystal black skull created by an original witch in 1696. They decide on Halloween to go to the school dance and leave early then go to the empty, burnt down lot on their street, Crowhaven, and call the dead. They did that but it wasn't successful. Ironically enough the witches were born days apart from each other in November through early December, except for Cassie who was born on July 23rd. They have a witchy birthday party for the boys. And soon after the coven had to meet to decide who the leader of the coven would be. At first the leader was the beautiful Diana, but her cousin Faye challenged her leadership. Cassie was being blackmailed to vote for Faye. I won't give away who was voted leader, but soon after the vote they all went to the cemetery with the crystal black skull and tried to harness the power. It was unsuccessful and released a menacing figure and an eerie red light devoured Cassie's house. There she found her mother dazed and confused and her grandmother near death with a black figure standing over her. Several of the witches used magic to get rid of the red light and the black figure. Cassie's grandmother tells them the story of Black John and his evil agenda. She gives Cassie her family's Book of Shadows and tells Cassie to be brave and that she has the power to stop Black John. A thrilling segment of the story and an extremely easy read.
The Power:
The story begins with Faye revealing to her cousin, Diana, the secret Cassie had been trying to hide. No longer could Faye blackmail Cassie, but Cassie is distraught by her betrayal of Diana. Diana forgives Cassie. A love triangle is involved here. They discover that Black John can magically reincarnate himself from the grave. And the last time he reincarnated, he killed most of the current coven's parents because they figured out his diabolical plans. He had them all get married and have children all around the same time. He wanted a full circle of witches he could control. He didn't count on Kori and Cassie being born. The coven decides to question their older relatives and comb their Books of Shadows in order to find a way to stop Black John from his diabolical plans and killing more people. Cassie goes to school and discovers a girl she met at Cape Cod before moving to New Salem, Portia, has enrolled in her high school. Portia and her brothers are witch hunters. Cassie discovers that someone has stolen her special stone, hematite. And the coven doesn't know who it was. At Cassie's grandmother's funeral she meets the new Principal, Jack Brunswick. And that's when Cassie realizes he's Black John. Cassie and Nick decide to become an item, although Nick knows she's in love with someone else. Someone she can't have. Cassie gets clues from her dreams. Her family is the most powerful and has the gift of clear sight. Black John used to live in the now burnt down house on Crowhaven Road, number 13. Cassie's mother is really sick since the reappearance of Black John and the older witches in town are taking care of her and trying to cure her. Faye who is now the coven leader has decided to team up with Black John. The coven decide they need to find the original master tools to defeat Black John. Jack Brunswick, as Principal, decides to target the coven members by issuing a list of prohibited activities that are punishable; the worst one being sent to his office. All the outsiders are hypnotized by him and are gratified that the coven no longer has special privileges. The girls decide to do a special magical ritual for the night of Hecate, a goddess of witches. When the ceremony is over, they instruct Cassie, the newest initiate to bury a box somewhere she'll remember, but to not look inside the box, to which she complies. The coven decides to use amethyst crystals to protect them from psychic attack by Black John. The Principal had set up medieval stocks in the cafeteria to place those who get punished in. Cassie got sent to the Principal's office. Nick and the others decide to create a diversion outside the school to save Cassie from Black John. After Cassie is saved, Faye rereads the true identity of Black John and Cassie is floored and horrified by what she discovers. The coven realized that only the original master tools can stop Black John. So Cassie uses a moonstone under her pillow so she could have dreams that will help them discover where the master tools are. Lucky for her it worked and they found the master tools. But the following day Cassie is kidnapped by the witch hunters. But the coven saved her just in time. Then the coven discovers who among them has been influenced by Black John and had been committing the murders involuntarily with no recollection. Black John was using hematite to control this person. The coven realizes that on the eclipse the next week, Black John is planning something diabolical. The coven decide to lie low until then when they will counter-attack. On that day Black John decides to take out the bridge from the mainland because a major storm is rolling through, a storm he is controlling using magic. Since Faye isn't around the coven decides to elect a new leader. I won't tell you who they voted for. But the new leader has to use the master tools to defeat Black John and stop the storm from killing everyone in New Salem. The showdown is at Black John's old house, number 13. I won't tell you if they defeat Black John or how they attempted to do it. At the end of the story the coven decided to have three leaders, a triumvirate. And in the end, the messy love triangle is resolved, but I won't give it away. A great book and an easy read.
April 22, 2025
end of book 3: the power
somehow this was really boring despite having the most action in the series thus far. anyway glad it's over! rip l j smith your publishing story is an unfortunate nightmare but your work is iconic.
all the conflict in this series felt pretty stupid - there wasn't a lot of stakes so with any problem that arose you're kind of just like... don't do that then? very dramatic. adam and cassie being fated mates and diana forgiving them for the cheating was all extremely cringe. like just be a throuple maybe. and why do nick so dirty?
there was no relationship development with either of the guys so tbh its hard to be invested, but nick was the correct choice. also faye is gay. so is deborah (pretty sure that is lowkey cannon though, it was hinted at). l j smith might also have been into women. if i had a dime for every time cassie gazed wistfully at any of the beautiful, sexy, embodiment of sunlight female coven members i'd be very rich.
somehow this was really boring despite having the most action in the series thus far. anyway glad it's over! rip l j smith your publishing story is an unfortunate nightmare but your work is iconic.
all the conflict in this series felt pretty stupid - there wasn't a lot of stakes so with any problem that arose you're kind of just like... don't do that then? very dramatic. adam and cassie being fated mates and diana forgiving them for the cheating was all extremely cringe. like just be a throuple maybe. and why do nick so dirty?
there was no relationship development with either of the guys so tbh its hard to be invested, but nick was the correct choice. also faye is gay. so is deborah (pretty sure that is lowkey cannon though, it was hinted at). l j smith might also have been into women. if i had a dime for every time cassie gazed wistfully at any of the beautiful, sexy, embodiment of sunlight female coven members i'd be very rich.
November 17, 2011
Firstly I need to get out there how amazing this book truly was. I loved the atmosphere and the growing relationship between characters. Description: Cassie finally fits into the coven, being seen as one of their own. She begins to realise being apart of the coven isn't all great as it turns out to be. Meanwhile, Faye is in a position to choose which side she is on, this ultimately developing the end results on whether the coven will be able to survive against the evil befalling in New Salem. What secrets are the coven hiding? Will the coven ever find the master tools before it is too late? Cassie begins to realise she has been living a lie. What secrets are hidden within the Blake ancestry? What is her mother and grandmother hiding?
This book had it all, it had betrayal, lust, ambition, love triangles, what more could you ask. I strongly recommend you read the first volume in the series before moving on the the second volume, and if you have read the first, you MUST continue to the second!!!
I still haven't seen the television series as I wanted to see how L.J Smith envisioned her story before seeing it on screen. As all, television series are made to be different from the books, I just hope it contains the same thrill I got when reading this book, I hope that it hasn't changed too much.
L.J Smith writing another Secret Circle book, I was kind of like why. I mean she did leave an opening but I just hope she doesn't spoil this series by continuing the story after 20 years!!!
Anyways, I recommend anyone to read this book! Especially those who are into paranormal fiction/fantasy and romance.
I rate this a 4.5/5.
***SPOLIERS
Throughout the book I was aching for Cassie and Adam to be together but at the end... Its about time!!! I can't believe Black John turns out to be Cassies father, although I must admit I was half expecting it!
*
This book had it all, it had betrayal, lust, ambition, love triangles, what more could you ask. I strongly recommend you read the first volume in the series before moving on the the second volume, and if you have read the first, you MUST continue to the second!!!
I still haven't seen the television series as I wanted to see how L.J Smith envisioned her story before seeing it on screen. As all, television series are made to be different from the books, I just hope it contains the same thrill I got when reading this book, I hope that it hasn't changed too much.
L.J Smith writing another Secret Circle book, I was kind of like why. I mean she did leave an opening but I just hope she doesn't spoil this series by continuing the story after 20 years!!!
Anyways, I recommend anyone to read this book! Especially those who are into paranormal fiction/fantasy and romance.
I rate this a 4.5/5.
***SPOLIERS
Throughout the book I was aching for Cassie and Adam to be together but at the end... Its about time!!! I can't believe Black John turns out to be Cassies father, although I must admit I was half expecting it!
*
March 28, 2018
I loved this book a lot. The writing is not the best but who am I to talk.
I love that everything ended up the way I wanted. cassie grows so much from the moment she arrives in new Salem to the end of the book. Every character grows so much, even Faye ends up being a nice girl.
Cassie and Adam is my life tbh there's so many thinks about this two that makes me love them. I really love Nick too but Nick is not Adam let's be honest. I am the kind of person that really likes a the assholes but in this book I am extremely attracted to Adam.
It was probably the best ending I have ever seen in a series it's really nice and soft and doesn't make you desperately ask for another book which in my opinion is really good.
so all nice things. :)
I love that everything ended up the way I wanted. cassie grows so much from the moment she arrives in new Salem to the end of the book. Every character grows so much, even Faye ends up being a nice girl.
Cassie and Adam is my life tbh there's so many thinks about this two that makes me love them. I really love Nick too but Nick is not Adam let's be honest. I am the kind of person that really likes a the assholes but in this book I am extremely attracted to Adam.
It was probably the best ending I have ever seen in a series it's really nice and soft and doesn't make you desperately ask for another book which in my opinion is really good.
so all nice things. :)
September 17, 2019
Unfortunately I didn't like this as much. It felt really rushed and the wrap up of the villain and romance storylines felt like it was just ticking boxes. I wonder why L.J.Smith only wrote these three tiny stories when there's masses of potential for the characters and world.
I really liked the group of characters, there were probably too many names to remember but the group dyamic worked and I thought the relationships between them all were well developed and believable. I wanted to see more magic dammit!
I may pick up the future books at some point, but for the moment I'm happy with these as it's clearly intended to be a trilogy, even if I disagree.
Oh and Nick deserves better!
I really liked the group of characters, there were probably too many names to remember but the group dyamic worked and I thought the relationships between them all were well developed and believable. I wanted to see more magic dammit!
I may pick up the future books at some point, but for the moment I'm happy with these as it's clearly intended to be a trilogy, even if I disagree.
Oh and Nick deserves better!
July 10, 2015
Continuing the story that started with The Initiation and part 1 of the The Captive, Cassie Blake becomes firmly entrenched in the coven. She has friends at last; she's a part of the group, yet, lies, deceptions, and jealousy may rip the group apart as evil invades New Salem. Will the group survive? Will the group manage to come together to fight an old enemy?
Part paranormal, part romance, this YA novel deals with the cliff-hanger from the first and resolves it satisfactorily.
#huronreader
Part paranormal, part romance, this YA novel deals with the cliff-hanger from the first and resolves it satisfactorily.
#huronreader
September 5, 2018
Pros: This is a great Young Adult read for fans of witchcraft who like girls and boys. Personally I think these two are the best part in the series. The plot gets more serious as we see the death of friends and family close to the Secret Circle of witches.
Cons: I don't understand why the enemy breaks into houses and doesn't kill the hostages after murdering several people who are really important - that doesn't make any sense. Maybe I misunderstood something?
Cons: I don't understand why the enemy breaks into houses and doesn't kill the hostages after murdering several people who are really important - that doesn't make any sense. Maybe I misunderstood something?
April 15, 2019
"There is nothing frightening in the dark if you just face it."
I didn't expect it, but I liked this second installment more than the first one. Obviously, it's a fun and quick read, but the plot was engaging and I liked how everything wrapped up at the end.
~~~
For more bookish goodies, check out my , and :)
I didn't expect it, but I liked this second installment more than the first one. Obviously, it's a fun and quick read, but the plot was engaging and I liked how everything wrapped up at the end.
~~~
For more bookish goodies, check out my , and :)
July 25, 2019
Good book.
October 11, 2022
Actually ended so good, everyone happy everything good
March 6, 2017
OK, I'm going to keep this review short because I read this book too far away from the previous books so really didn't feel as hooked with these two books in the series as I did the previous books. So I'm going to reread the entire series again at some point in the next two years just to give it a fair shot. I also think I may be getting a bit old for these real YA teen books as the characters were just a little annoying.
I could not remember a thing about the previous books in the series other than I enjoyed them enough to buy the next book in the series straight away after finishing. So they must have been decent but I waited too long between reading the first two books in the series and these two so I didn't really connect with the characters or see how the storyline fit into the series.
I'm very sorry, I'm having to leave this rating as a 2.5 stars but this rating and the review are subject to change when I reread the entire series.
I could not remember a thing about the previous books in the series other than I enjoyed them enough to buy the next book in the series straight away after finishing. So they must have been decent but I waited too long between reading the first two books in the series and these two so I didn't really connect with the characters or see how the storyline fit into the series.
I'm very sorry, I'm having to leave this rating as a 2.5 stars but this rating and the review are subject to change when I reread the entire series.
August 28, 2019
There is some REALLY good stuff in here. It’s a shame that it speeds along to fast that it never has time to marinate. Every time something happens, something else immediately kicks into gear and we forget about the other thing.
Honestly, we could have had an entire book about the principal and it could have been epic.
It’s a shame the tv show was canceled because it could have been great.
Oh well. I don’t think I’ll read the ghost written sequels.
Honestly, we could have had an entire book about the principal and it could have been epic.
It’s a shame the tv show was canceled because it could have been great.
Oh well. I don’t think I’ll read the ghost written sequels.
March 6, 2016
This one took me a lot longer to read than expected. Almost a week, which frustrated me seeing as I let my team down for my team challenge. I hope not to need to do that again.
To be honest, the main character, Cassie, just really annoys me. She just whines allll the tiiiiime and says 'oh no, can't do that or it'll really hurt this person, so I just won't', and then she goes and contradicts herself by saying 'oh I can't keep it from her, I need to tell her', and then she doesn't! Gosh it just really bugs me! One thing I did like though was That was nice :) I didn't like how but I did like how I was surprised that but he did always seem weak. I'm glad I read this book, and plan to continue the series.
To be honest, the main character, Cassie, just really annoys me. She just whines allll the tiiiiime and says 'oh no, can't do that or it'll really hurt this person, so I just won't', and then she goes and contradicts herself by saying 'oh I can't keep it from her, I need to tell her', and then she doesn't! Gosh it just really bugs me! One thing I did like though was That was nice :) I didn't like how but I did like how I was surprised that but he did always seem weak. I'm glad I read this book, and plan to continue the series.
November 30, 2009
Adam and Cassie have sworn not to love each other for the sake of their beloved leader Diana. But Faye has caught them in their one embrace. Now she uses it to blackmail Cassie, forcing Cassie to lie to Diana and to dig up the strange crystal skull that gives them all such dangerous visions. Meanwhile, students are being murdered, and the witches are under suspicion. And Faye wants from Cassie the ultimate betrayal: her vote for Faye as coven leader.
Faye rules the Circle, while Diana reels from Cassie’s apparent treachery. Cassie and Adam are drawn more strongly together than ever. A new principal appears who seems to know all the Circle’s secrets and is dedicated to persecuting them. Cassie, no longer the shy girl she was only a few months ago, takes charge in solving the murders, the mystery of the crystal skull, and the true meaning of the Secret Circle. Her reward is her dream come true.
Faye rules the Circle, while Diana reels from Cassie’s apparent treachery. Cassie and Adam are drawn more strongly together than ever. A new principal appears who seems to know all the Circle’s secrets and is dedicated to persecuting them. Cassie, no longer the shy girl she was only a few months ago, takes charge in solving the murders, the mystery of the crystal skull, and the true meaning of the Secret Circle. Her reward is her dream come true.
November 14, 2010
Terza fase della serie (tutta nello stesso pomeriggio) e non ci posso credere: ma sta storia farà un passo avanti o sarà sempre concentrata sullo stesso minimo arco di tempo?
Credo che la smith abbia messo, con questo capitolo, troppa carne a cuocere e sarà difficile sbrogliarla tutta insieme nell'ultimo volume...
Mi piace Nick perchè resta ai margini e quindi non si fa odiare, mentre Cassie è un'adolescente in piena crisi adolescenziale, per l'appunto! Cerca di capire cosa vuoi, una volta per tutte!!!
Ora mi tocca aspettare che anche l'ultimo sia disponibile in formato pdf, perchè non spenderei mai i soldi per comprarlo...
Credo che la smith abbia messo, con questo capitolo, troppa carne a cuocere e sarà difficile sbrogliarla tutta insieme nell'ultimo volume...
Mi piace Nick perchè resta ai margini e quindi non si fa odiare, mentre Cassie è un'adolescente in piena crisi adolescenziale, per l'appunto! Cerca di capire cosa vuoi, una volta per tutte!!!
Ora mi tocca aspettare che anche l'ultimo sia disponibile in formato pdf, perchè non spenderei mai i soldi per comprarlo...
June 5, 2011
When the first book left me wanting more I was glad to see that this one was as fastpassed and interesting. The story is beautiful and with a lot of action. I would like a little bit more witch fights, calling on the elements and stuff, a little bit more active magic and not so much of herbs and crystals. The ending was good but not so much fulfilling, it didn't left me wanting more or being extremely full, it just left me...
A good read for anyone, and I can't wait for the tv series this fall!
A good read for anyone, and I can't wait for the tv series this fall!
December 27, 2011
This is just like the first book in the series and definitely not worth anyones time. If you have to read it then check it out from a library. Has potential which is why I think they made a t.v. series out of it because you can do a lot with it. They use pretty much the names and an evil witch line from the book but that is it. The soul mate connection is there as well but they try too hard to make it more 'adult' and add a ton of sex which is not needed. The book is bland and has no depth. Pretty much a preteen book for ages 10 to 11.
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April 21, 2009Finally...something to satisfy my interest since TWILIGHT! This book had me hooked right from the beginning. It has just the right amount of mischief and tourture mixed in with a little forbidden love.
This is definately a MUST READ for all twilight lovers...and haters! I finished both the first and second book in about 4 days...and i am a very busy person...even i found time to read :) i just couldnt put it down!
This is definately a MUST READ for all twilight lovers...and haters! I finished both the first and second book in about 4 days...and i am a very busy person...even i found time to read :) i just couldnt put it down!
May 21, 2019
Finally finished this trilogy in its entirety after many years of incompletion. I found the receipt tucked in the back of the book, apparently purchased 9 years ago! Sheesh. Even though it wasn't all that it was cracked up to be I still really enjoy L.J. Smith's books. It was a nice nostalgic trip as well as a kind of closure for me since the show was cancelled.
December 28, 2008
I really Loved this trilogy or 2 part story whatever you want to call it. It goes down as a new favorite of mine. I think I could read and reread over and over. I think the soul-mate, but we can't be together thing really got me.awww
July 28, 2019
binged this series over the past weekend and still love it as much as I did when I was fifteen. This time around, I thought Cassie and Adam’s love story is major cringe but thankfully, the story doesn’t focus too much on that.
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