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Stolen Beauty #2
Ruling Destiny
The second I stepped through the doors of Gray Wolf Academy, my world disintegrated. Here, time is malleable. It can be manipulated, shifted. Changed. And for those of us who Trip—or travel through time—the possibilities are infinite and perilous.
Now my life is caught in the secrets of everyone around me. Arthur, the eccentric billionaire who rules this school. Killian, who could be the only honest person here…or the biggest liar. And Braxton, magnetic, gorgeous, and unfathomable. The only thing I trust about him is our electric connection.
Whether we’re Tripping through Renaissance Italy or thieving from a ball in Regency England, my life’s become a web of lies and strange truths. And beneath the surface is an elaborate puzzle, filled with cryptic symbols and priceless treasures scattered across history—all somehow connected to my strange ability to see through time.
But Arthur has a dangerously ambitious agenda. And if what my dad taught me is true, I’m not just a threat to everyone at Gray Wolf.
…I’m a threat to time itself.
The Stealing Infinity series is best enjoyed in order.
Reading Order:
Book #1 Stealing Infinity
Book #2 Ruling Destiny
Now my life is caught in the secrets of everyone around me. Arthur, the eccentric billionaire who rules this school. Killian, who could be the only honest person here…or the biggest liar. And Braxton, magnetic, gorgeous, and unfathomable. The only thing I trust about him is our electric connection.
Whether we’re Tripping through Renaissance Italy or thieving from a ball in Regency England, my life’s become a web of lies and strange truths. And beneath the surface is an elaborate puzzle, filled with cryptic symbols and priceless treasures scattered across history—all somehow connected to my strange ability to see through time.
But Arthur has a dangerously ambitious agenda. And if what my dad taught me is true, I’m not just a threat to everyone at Gray Wolf.
…I’m a threat to time itself.
The Stealing Infinity series is best enjoyed in order.
Reading Order:
Book #1 Stealing Infinity
Book #2 Ruling Destiny
496 pages, Hardcover
First published June 6, 2023
113 people are currently reading
5,657 people want to read
About the author
Alyson Noel
72books15.7kfollowers*Note to readers: I'm slowly adding to the long list of books I've read, books I'm reading, and books I want to read. I only add books I loved, hence all my ratings are 5 stars.
Alyson Noël is the #1 NYT best-selling author of many award-winning and critically acclaimed novels for readers of all ages.
With 9 NYT bestsellers and millions of copies in print, her books have been translated into 36 languages, and have topped the NYT, USA Today, LA Times, Publisher’s Weekly, Wall Street Journal, NCIBA, and Walmart Bestsellers lists, as well as several international bestsellers lists.
She is best known for THE IMMORTALS series, THE RILEY BLOOM series, and SAVING ZOË, which was adapted into a movie now available on Amazon.
Upcoming works include:
RULING DESTINY- book 2, in the STEALING INFINITY series
STEALING INFINITY- Optioned for TV by Valhalla Entertainment - available now!
FIELD GUIDE TO THE SUPERNATURAL UNIVERSE - Optioned for TV by producers Charles Matthau and Michael Zoumas with Andrew Orenstein and Matt Hastings attached as show runners
Born and raised in Orange County, California, she’s lived in both Mykonos and Manhattan and is now settled in Southern California. Learn more at .
Instagram:
Twitter:
Facebook:
Official me:
Pinterest:
Alyson Noël is the #1 NYT best-selling author of many award-winning and critically acclaimed novels for readers of all ages.
With 9 NYT bestsellers and millions of copies in print, her books have been translated into 36 languages, and have topped the NYT, USA Today, LA Times, Publisher’s Weekly, Wall Street Journal, NCIBA, and Walmart Bestsellers lists, as well as several international bestsellers lists.
She is best known for THE IMMORTALS series, THE RILEY BLOOM series, and SAVING ZOË, which was adapted into a movie now available on Amazon.
Upcoming works include:
RULING DESTINY- book 2, in the STEALING INFINITY series
STEALING INFINITY- Optioned for TV by Valhalla Entertainment - available now!
FIELD GUIDE TO THE SUPERNATURAL UNIVERSE - Optioned for TV by producers Charles Matthau and Michael Zoumas with Andrew Orenstein and Matt Hastings attached as show runners
Born and raised in Orange County, California, she’s lived in both Mykonos and Manhattan and is now settled in Southern California. Learn more at .
Instagram:
Twitter:
Facebook:
Official me:
Pinterest:
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 278 reviews
June 6, 2023
“Throughout history , it’s the nonconformists who are the true wayfinders of their day.�
ALYSON NOEL, WHY MUST YOU HURT ME SO??????
From the prologue this book decided to sink my ship before it could even set sail. I'm heartbroken. Ruined. I will never recover. Goodbye.
DESPITE ALL OF THAT, I'm still holding out hope, that somehow someway you know who will redeem himself and he and Natasha will be together!!! I DO NOT CARE THAT HE'S THE VILLAIN, I REALLY DO NOT.
As for the other guy well, I still don't like him, I'm sorry. There's still no chemistry there, like at all. I feel the two of them are forced together while her chemistry for you know who is off the charts.
Speaking of chemistry, did I highlight a bunch of cute lines concerning those two? Why yes, yes I did.
I'm intentionally trying to be vague here for anyone who didn't yet read the first book and who might stumble upon my review of this one. By the way, if you haven't read Stealing Infinity yet despite my endless screaming about it, go do it now. Thanks.
I've been looking forward to this book for so long, I was checking NetGalley DAILY for when it would appear on there, and it really didn't disappoint (except with ruining my ship but, yeah).
The same feeling from the first book is present here, it's fast paced and you can't stop reading. We learn more secrets, and I can't help but be amazed at how Noel has tied them all together. There's even more to come in the next book.
As for the characters, Natasha got some development, and a few others did too. I wish we saw more of Mason though, I miss him.
In the first book we got introduced to tarot cards right? Well, get ready for magick (with a k)!!! Mostly just the idea of it, for now, but I can't wait to see how it will be used.
I like that I can't predict what's going to happen next, or if something will go wrong (it probably will, you never know with time travel). I could even see this stretching beyond three books? I really hope it does, because I need more of this world like I need air.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
ALYSON NOEL, WHY MUST YOU HURT ME SO??????
From the prologue this book decided to sink my ship before it could even set sail. I'm heartbroken. Ruined. I will never recover. Goodbye.
DESPITE ALL OF THAT, I'm still holding out hope, that somehow someway you know who will redeem himself and he and Natasha will be together!!! I DO NOT CARE THAT HE'S THE VILLAIN, I REALLY DO NOT.
As for the other guy well, I still don't like him, I'm sorry. There's still no chemistry there, like at all. I feel the two of them are forced together while her chemistry for you know who is off the charts.
Speaking of chemistry, did I highlight a bunch of cute lines concerning those two? Why yes, yes I did.
I'm intentionally trying to be vague here for anyone who didn't yet read the first book and who might stumble upon my review of this one. By the way, if you haven't read Stealing Infinity yet despite my endless screaming about it, go do it now. Thanks.
I've been looking forward to this book for so long, I was checking NetGalley DAILY for when it would appear on there, and it really didn't disappoint (except with ruining my ship but, yeah).
The same feeling from the first book is present here, it's fast paced and you can't stop reading. We learn more secrets, and I can't help but be amazed at how Noel has tied them all together. There's even more to come in the next book.
As for the characters, Natasha got some development, and a few others did too. I wish we saw more of Mason though, I miss him.
In the first book we got introduced to tarot cards right? Well, get ready for magick (with a k)!!! Mostly just the idea of it, for now, but I can't wait to see how it will be used.
I like that I can't predict what's going to happen next, or if something will go wrong (it probably will, you never know with time travel). I could even see this stretching beyond three books? I really hope it does, because I need more of this world like I need air.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
August 18, 2023
I’m obsessed. How am I suppose to wait [next book release date hasn’t been been announced!!!] to find out what happens next?! Loved the ending, I was so ready for the twist, such a wild ride.
Content: the entire alphabet of cursing 😂
Content: the entire alphabet of cursing 😂
April 29, 2024
Tanz der Klinge
Natasha ist zu den Blauen aufgestiegen. Sie ist kein Neuling mehr in der Gray Wolf Academy. Sie hat dem Dekan Arthurs Wunsch nach einem Artefakt erfüllt. Natürlich gab es auch heikle Situationen, aber ihre Therapiestunden sind abgeschlossen. Sie ist bereit für die nächste Zeitreise, für das nächste Artefakt. Mit Braxton läuft es ganz gut, wenn sie ihm doch nur immer die Wahrheit sagen könnte. Doch ist sie wirklich bereit für eine ernsthafte Beziehung? Und hat nicht auch Braxton etwas zu verbergen? Doch zunächst muss Natashas Schulfreund Mason seinen ersten Zeitsprung überstehen.
Dies ist der zweite Teil der Romane um die Gray Wolf Academy. Natasha spürt zwar, dass sie anderes ist als andere. Aber so richtig greifen kann sie es nicht. Seit Braxton sie in die Academy gebracht hat, hat sich ihre Situation verbessert. Doch sie fühlt sich verpflichtet Arthur seine Aufträge zu erfüllen, mit denen er sie auf die Sprünge schickt. Natasha meint, für ihre Mutter verantwortlich zu sein. Und wenn sie Visionen von ihrem verstorbenen Vater hat, könnte in ihr der Glaube aufkommen, dass nicht alles so ist wie sie meint. Vielleicht kann sie während der Zeitreisen mehr herausfinden. Doch hat sie auch eine freie Entscheidung, wenn sie mal nicht will, was Arthur ihr aufgibt?
Nachdem schon der erste Teil dieser Trilogie gefallen hatte, war sofort zugreifen angesagt als dieser Roman in der Bücherei zu finden war. Und wieder war das Lesen vergnüglich. Die Vorstellung, durch die Zeit zu reisen, hat einfach was. Und wie häufig geht es um gut gegen böse. Und natürlich um den Richtigen. Natasha ist dabei sympathisch und menschlich, auch wenn sie einige Fähigkeiten besitzt, die nicht jedem Menschen gegeben sind. Sie will das Geheimnis um das Verschwinden ihre Vaters ebenso lösen wie das Rätsel um sie selbst. Wie es sich für einen mittleren Band gehört, kommt einiges zu Tage, während andere Fragen offen bleiben. Eine schöne Mischung, die einen den Abschlussband mit Spannung erwarten lässt. Ein Zufriedenheit auslösender Jugendroman, bei dem man mit Freude feststellt, dass er sich auch für Erwachsene sehr gut eignet.
Natasha ist zu den Blauen aufgestiegen. Sie ist kein Neuling mehr in der Gray Wolf Academy. Sie hat dem Dekan Arthurs Wunsch nach einem Artefakt erfüllt. Natürlich gab es auch heikle Situationen, aber ihre Therapiestunden sind abgeschlossen. Sie ist bereit für die nächste Zeitreise, für das nächste Artefakt. Mit Braxton läuft es ganz gut, wenn sie ihm doch nur immer die Wahrheit sagen könnte. Doch ist sie wirklich bereit für eine ernsthafte Beziehung? Und hat nicht auch Braxton etwas zu verbergen? Doch zunächst muss Natashas Schulfreund Mason seinen ersten Zeitsprung überstehen.
Dies ist der zweite Teil der Romane um die Gray Wolf Academy. Natasha spürt zwar, dass sie anderes ist als andere. Aber so richtig greifen kann sie es nicht. Seit Braxton sie in die Academy gebracht hat, hat sich ihre Situation verbessert. Doch sie fühlt sich verpflichtet Arthur seine Aufträge zu erfüllen, mit denen er sie auf die Sprünge schickt. Natasha meint, für ihre Mutter verantwortlich zu sein. Und wenn sie Visionen von ihrem verstorbenen Vater hat, könnte in ihr der Glaube aufkommen, dass nicht alles so ist wie sie meint. Vielleicht kann sie während der Zeitreisen mehr herausfinden. Doch hat sie auch eine freie Entscheidung, wenn sie mal nicht will, was Arthur ihr aufgibt?
Nachdem schon der erste Teil dieser Trilogie gefallen hatte, war sofort zugreifen angesagt als dieser Roman in der Bücherei zu finden war. Und wieder war das Lesen vergnüglich. Die Vorstellung, durch die Zeit zu reisen, hat einfach was. Und wie häufig geht es um gut gegen böse. Und natürlich um den Richtigen. Natasha ist dabei sympathisch und menschlich, auch wenn sie einige Fähigkeiten besitzt, die nicht jedem Menschen gegeben sind. Sie will das Geheimnis um das Verschwinden ihre Vaters ebenso lösen wie das Rätsel um sie selbst. Wie es sich für einen mittleren Band gehört, kommt einiges zu Tage, während andere Fragen offen bleiben. Eine schöne Mischung, die einen den Abschlussband mit Spannung erwarten lässt. Ein Zufriedenheit auslösender Jugendroman, bei dem man mit Freude feststellt, dass er sich auch für Erwachsene sehr gut eignet.
June 4, 2023
This review can also be found at
I had a great time with this book! This is the second book in the Stealing Infinitely series which really needs to be read in order since this book builds on the information learned in the first book. Natasha is part of the Gray Wolf Academy run by a man named Arthur that sends people with a certain set of skills through time to acquire valuable objects. Arthur has Natasha working to acquire a special set of items that he is desperate to acquire.
Natasha is juggling more than just the demands of the academy. She isn’t sure that her boyfriend, Braxton is telling her everything. He seems to be involved in a lot of secret missions and she cannot help but wonder what is going on. She isn’t quite sure of her friend Killian either. Killian and Braxton have some history together and she isn’t exactly sure what really happened between them.
I thought that the premise of the story was incredibly interesting! I love seeing this group travel through time and I loved the setting of Renaissance Italy. Cameos by a historical figure only added to the fun. The story took a few twists that kept me guessing until the very end. It was a bit of an emotional whirlwind for a bit but I was satisfied with how things worked out in the end.
I would recommend this book to others. I think that this is a fun time-traveling story that kept me glued to the pages. The ending of the book has left me very excited to see what happens next!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Entangled: Teen.
I had a great time with this book! This is the second book in the Stealing Infinitely series which really needs to be read in order since this book builds on the information learned in the first book. Natasha is part of the Gray Wolf Academy run by a man named Arthur that sends people with a certain set of skills through time to acquire valuable objects. Arthur has Natasha working to acquire a special set of items that he is desperate to acquire.
Natasha is juggling more than just the demands of the academy. She isn’t sure that her boyfriend, Braxton is telling her everything. He seems to be involved in a lot of secret missions and she cannot help but wonder what is going on. She isn’t quite sure of her friend Killian either. Killian and Braxton have some history together and she isn’t exactly sure what really happened between them.
I thought that the premise of the story was incredibly interesting! I love seeing this group travel through time and I loved the setting of Renaissance Italy. Cameos by a historical figure only added to the fun. The story took a few twists that kept me guessing until the very end. It was a bit of an emotional whirlwind for a bit but I was satisfied with how things worked out in the end.
I would recommend this book to others. I think that this is a fun time-traveling story that kept me glued to the pages. The ending of the book has left me very excited to see what happens next!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Entangled: Teen.
April 8, 2023
This was a really good follow up to the first book and actually managed to ramp up the mystery, magic and sexual tension. Caught between Braxton and Killian Natasha struggles to decide who she really can trust at Grey Wolf. Add in her fears for her friend Mason who has been dragged into this world of time travel, theft and danger and Nat whilst determined to find out why some students have disappeared still hides her unusual abilities. Thrown from one era to another Nat continues to search for the truth but it's even more shocking than she could ever imagine !
This author mixes so much here with Dark academia , history, art, tarot and magic that enables time travel. There's always a sense that Natasha is alone and cannot really trust anyone and as this book begins with quite literally a blast from the past for this reader the"triangle" just didn't really work. This is YA so things never progress too far if you catch my drift but certainly characters are left frustrated. I think the use of history and how art is integral to the plot was extremely well done and genuinely look forward to what happens to these characters next.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
This author mixes so much here with Dark academia , history, art, tarot and magic that enables time travel. There's always a sense that Natasha is alone and cannot really trust anyone and as this book begins with quite literally a blast from the past for this reader the"triangle" just didn't really work. This is YA so things never progress too far if you catch my drift but certainly characters are left frustrated. I think the use of history and how art is integral to the plot was extremely well done and genuinely look forward to what happens to these characters next.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
October 24, 2023
Ich hasse es wirklich, negative Rezensionen zu schreiben. Vor allem wenn ich SO viele Kritikpunkte habe wie bei diesem Buch. Ich will ja auch nicht alles schlecht reden, aber...
Nachdem mir Band 1 schon nicht gefallen hat, hätte ich vielleicht gar nicht weiterlesen sollen. Doch als am Ende des ersten Buches Killian aufgetaucht ist, habe ich wahnsinnig viele Hoffnungen in ihn gesetzt und mich hat es doch interessiert, ob er es schafft die Geschichte in Band 2 zu einem Besseren zu wenden.
Ja, naja was soll ich groß sagen, siehe Sternebewertung.
Und wie gesagt, ich will nicht alles schlecht reden, deswegen hier einfach nur die Kurzfassung:
Die Story, die Spannung - fand ich gut. Vor allem der historische Hintergrund war gut ausgearbeitet und es ist wirklich durchweg was passiert.
Was die Autorin aber - in meinen Augen! - nicht kann, ist sympathische Charaktere zu schreiben. Ich mochte wirklich KEINEN der Charaktere. Und dank Natasha hätte ich das Buch manchmal gerne mit einem liebevollen Tritt aus dem Fenster befördert.
Über die Beziehung zwischen Natasha und Braxton will ich eigentlich gar nicht reden. WAS WAR DAS?
Und ein letzter großer Kritikpunkt: Die "Elemente", die am Ende des Buches plötzlich auftauchen, obwohl sie bisher nie auch nur annähernd irgendeine Rolle gespielt haben, waren für mich SO unpassend und haben irgendwie den ganzen Vibe vom Buch (wenn es denn einen hatte) kaputt gemacht.
Nachdem mir Band 1 schon nicht gefallen hat, hätte ich vielleicht gar nicht weiterlesen sollen. Doch als am Ende des ersten Buches Killian aufgetaucht ist, habe ich wahnsinnig viele Hoffnungen in ihn gesetzt und mich hat es doch interessiert, ob er es schafft die Geschichte in Band 2 zu einem Besseren zu wenden.
Ja, naja was soll ich groß sagen, siehe Sternebewertung.
Und wie gesagt, ich will nicht alles schlecht reden, deswegen hier einfach nur die Kurzfassung:
Die Story, die Spannung - fand ich gut. Vor allem der historische Hintergrund war gut ausgearbeitet und es ist wirklich durchweg was passiert.
Was die Autorin aber - in meinen Augen! - nicht kann, ist sympathische Charaktere zu schreiben. Ich mochte wirklich KEINEN der Charaktere. Und dank Natasha hätte ich das Buch manchmal gerne mit einem liebevollen Tritt aus dem Fenster befördert.
Über die Beziehung zwischen Natasha und Braxton will ich eigentlich gar nicht reden. WAS WAR DAS?
Und ein letzter großer Kritikpunkt: Die "Elemente", die am Ende des Buches plötzlich auftauchen, obwohl sie bisher nie auch nur annähernd irgendeine Rolle gespielt haben, waren für mich SO unpassend und haben irgendwie den ganzen Vibe vom Buch (wenn es denn einen hatte) kaputt gemacht.
April 14, 2023
I love reading Alyson's writing!
This book picks up where book 1 ended.
(This book also ends on a cliffhanger)
Who the heck do you trust at Gray Wolf?!?!
I love the mystery and suspense this series has, as well as the historical facts that are weaved in (in a fun way - not like you are learning in class 😀).
Again, this series heavily focuses on tarot cards, hidden meanings in art, and artifacts - so if you don't find any of that interesting, but to just move along. If it sounds like something that intrigues you, this book is very much worth the read.
I finished this one in one day and put my family on pause - that's how invested I was.
There were no good stopping points! I NEEDED to know what happened next!
With that said, it was very fast-paced and I very much enjoyed it! Can't wait until the next one is finished and released! ❤️
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and voluntarily review this free eARC!
This book picks up where book 1 ended.
(This book also ends on a cliffhanger)
Who the heck do you trust at Gray Wolf?!?!
I love the mystery and suspense this series has, as well as the historical facts that are weaved in (in a fun way - not like you are learning in class 😀).
Again, this series heavily focuses on tarot cards, hidden meanings in art, and artifacts - so if you don't find any of that interesting, but to just move along. If it sounds like something that intrigues you, this book is very much worth the read.
I finished this one in one day and put my family on pause - that's how invested I was.
There were no good stopping points! I NEEDED to know what happened next!
With that said, it was very fast-paced and I very much enjoyed it! Can't wait until the next one is finished and released! ❤️
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and voluntarily review this free eARC!
June 7, 2023
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. I was in no way compensated for this review.
Alyson Noel’s Ruling Destiny was yet another exciting installment in her Stolen Beauty series! This is an example of time traveling done right! I’ve read many books that involve time traveling and you always run the risk f over complicating things when it comes to the explanation of how it’s done but I feel like Noel does a remarkable job of keeping it scientific and understandable.
Natasha is one of the newest students at Gray Wolf Academy, a school for teenagers who all have different kinds of backgrounds that led them here and it is here they learn the art of time traveling. Arthur, the man who runs the school and provides financially for everyone involved is determined to find the missing pieces to a device that can help him reshape the world.
Natasha is still a bit shaken from her last trip where she was nearly assaulted by a duke, but thanks to Killian’s involvement, it ended better than she could expect. Killian ends up being another one of Arthur’s students who was missing for a few years because he was left behind on a trip. His return isn’t the happy homecoming Natasha would expect from colleagues. Braxton seems especially put out that he’s back, but gives no explanation as to why. He keeps his secrets tightly guarded as much as she does.
Natasha and her friends continue to swipe expensive items through time and when Natasha is given a special trip all on her own where she’s to find hopefully one of the remaining pieces to Arthur’s device. But what should’ve been a romantic trip with Braxton ends up being a trip for two with Killian. Natasha begins having mixed feelings between the two boys. She knows each of them has their secrets but can’t decide who’s being more truthful.
There are many secrets within Gray Wolf Academy and not everyone is being truthful.
This book was a bit more exciting than the first one if memory serves. Since we are already introduced to the ways of the school, it was a bit easier getting into the thick of things this time around. I enjoyed being back and even with my spotty memory I was able to follow along fairly easily. Much gets revealed and explained as the story moves along and there wasn’t a time I ever felt lost.
The pacing was done decidedly well. While things weren’t always moving plot wise, there was still movement in the character development area which is always nice. I loved getting reacquainted with familiar faces and learning more about Killian. I vaguely recalled him showing up at the end of Stealing Infinity, but not much else after that. We get the full backstory in this one and it is outstanding!
Romance wise we do see Natasha and Braxton growing closer but the secrets they both carry might just be the thing that tears them apart. Add in Killian, a third party and we get the ever present love triangle. Natasha still remains faithful to Braxton for the most part, but when secrets start building up Natasha reaches a crossroad and a decision will have to be made and does get made. She’s pretty much made her choice before the end of the book, so be ready for that!
I was quite pleased with how things ended. Yes, I still have plenty of questions. There’s much to come in the next installment and I am eager to see what will come of that. Natasha also makes a rather risky choice at the end that could prove catastrophic, but we will have to wait until the next book to see what will come of that!
Ruling Destiny was a thrilling and exciting read that kept me guessing the entire time. If it wasn’t the heart racing trips back through time or the swooning romantic moments, it was the loaded secrets swimming about. This book kept me thoroughly enchanted from start to finish and I am officially hooked and needing more as soon as possible!
Overall Rating 4.5/5 stars
Alyson Noel’s Ruling Destiny was yet another exciting installment in her Stolen Beauty series! This is an example of time traveling done right! I’ve read many books that involve time traveling and you always run the risk f over complicating things when it comes to the explanation of how it’s done but I feel like Noel does a remarkable job of keeping it scientific and understandable.
Natasha is one of the newest students at Gray Wolf Academy, a school for teenagers who all have different kinds of backgrounds that led them here and it is here they learn the art of time traveling. Arthur, the man who runs the school and provides financially for everyone involved is determined to find the missing pieces to a device that can help him reshape the world.
Natasha is still a bit shaken from her last trip where she was nearly assaulted by a duke, but thanks to Killian’s involvement, it ended better than she could expect. Killian ends up being another one of Arthur’s students who was missing for a few years because he was left behind on a trip. His return isn’t the happy homecoming Natasha would expect from colleagues. Braxton seems especially put out that he’s back, but gives no explanation as to why. He keeps his secrets tightly guarded as much as she does.
Natasha and her friends continue to swipe expensive items through time and when Natasha is given a special trip all on her own where she’s to find hopefully one of the remaining pieces to Arthur’s device. But what should’ve been a romantic trip with Braxton ends up being a trip for two with Killian. Natasha begins having mixed feelings between the two boys. She knows each of them has their secrets but can’t decide who’s being more truthful.
There are many secrets within Gray Wolf Academy and not everyone is being truthful.
This book was a bit more exciting than the first one if memory serves. Since we are already introduced to the ways of the school, it was a bit easier getting into the thick of things this time around. I enjoyed being back and even with my spotty memory I was able to follow along fairly easily. Much gets revealed and explained as the story moves along and there wasn’t a time I ever felt lost.
The pacing was done decidedly well. While things weren’t always moving plot wise, there was still movement in the character development area which is always nice. I loved getting reacquainted with familiar faces and learning more about Killian. I vaguely recalled him showing up at the end of Stealing Infinity, but not much else after that. We get the full backstory in this one and it is outstanding!
Romance wise we do see Natasha and Braxton growing closer but the secrets they both carry might just be the thing that tears them apart. Add in Killian, a third party and we get the ever present love triangle. Natasha still remains faithful to Braxton for the most part, but when secrets start building up Natasha reaches a crossroad and a decision will have to be made and does get made. She’s pretty much made her choice before the end of the book, so be ready for that!
I was quite pleased with how things ended. Yes, I still have plenty of questions. There’s much to come in the next installment and I am eager to see what will come of that. Natasha also makes a rather risky choice at the end that could prove catastrophic, but we will have to wait until the next book to see what will come of that!
Ruling Destiny was a thrilling and exciting read that kept me guessing the entire time. If it wasn’t the heart racing trips back through time or the swooning romantic moments, it was the loaded secrets swimming about. This book kept me thoroughly enchanted from start to finish and I am officially hooked and needing more as soon as possible!
Overall Rating 4.5/5 stars
March 18, 2024
Dare I say I enjoyed Ruling Destiny even more than Stealing Infinity?! Like the first one was fun and I really enjoyed it but the settings and plot twists in this one really takes the cake for me. The love interests and possible love triangle really kept me on my toes even though a certain someone kept giving me the ICK 👀 and I really really had the ick even more by the end 😂.
I don’t read many books based on time traveling and wouldn’t see myself immediately gravitating towards that kind of story but there’s something so fun about this one! It really is like the da Vinci code and National Treasure. I love a good movie/book where the MC is extremely smart and notices as bunch of things that any regular person probably wouldn’t lol. But also they notice this stuff because they’re really smart when it comes to certain history and such. If you watched and loved National Treasure then you know what I’m trying to say lol. The Stolen Beauty series gives off those vibes but with a time traveling fantasy element that I find so fun!
Stealing Infinity really starts building up the romance and tension while also giving us more background to the story. If you read the first one and enjoyed it, don’t hesitate to pick up Stealing Infinity.. especially after that cliffhanger 😉.
I don’t read many books based on time traveling and wouldn’t see myself immediately gravitating towards that kind of story but there’s something so fun about this one! It really is like the da Vinci code and National Treasure. I love a good movie/book where the MC is extremely smart and notices as bunch of things that any regular person probably wouldn’t lol. But also they notice this stuff because they’re really smart when it comes to certain history and such. If you watched and loved National Treasure then you know what I’m trying to say lol. The Stolen Beauty series gives off those vibes but with a time traveling fantasy element that I find so fun!
Stealing Infinity really starts building up the romance and tension while also giving us more background to the story. If you read the first one and enjoyed it, don’t hesitate to pick up Stealing Infinity.. especially after that cliffhanger 😉.
September 11, 2023
4 stars
I absolutely adored the first book in the series and now this one was an amazing follow-up! Now that we know the basics of this time-traveling, art-stealing school it was fun to actually get into the story. We get more background on Natasha's dad and even more angst with not one but now TWO male MCs that are clearly lusting after Natasha. I was 10000% for all the drama of Killian and Braxton.
There's a lot going on in these books ranging from fantasy, mystery, romance, and some information on art, history, and tarot/numerology all wrapped up in a young adult series that everyone can enjoy. I am actually a fan of the whole love triangle thing going on and all the mystery behind the missing students.
Without spoiling anything - THAT ENDING. OH MY GOD. Truly came out of left field and was something I never even imagined. It has me SOOOO ready for the next book and I cannot wait to see how this trilogy gets wrapped up!
Easily a 4-star read and I highly recommend it to fans of romantasy YA books! There isn't a release date yet for the third book but I look forward to seeing when it will come out!
I absolutely adored the first book in the series and now this one was an amazing follow-up! Now that we know the basics of this time-traveling, art-stealing school it was fun to actually get into the story. We get more background on Natasha's dad and even more angst with not one but now TWO male MCs that are clearly lusting after Natasha. I was 10000% for all the drama of Killian and Braxton.
There's a lot going on in these books ranging from fantasy, mystery, romance, and some information on art, history, and tarot/numerology all wrapped up in a young adult series that everyone can enjoy. I am actually a fan of the whole love triangle thing going on and all the mystery behind the missing students.
Without spoiling anything - THAT ENDING. OH MY GOD. Truly came out of left field and was something I never even imagined. It has me SOOOO ready for the next book and I cannot wait to see how this trilogy gets wrapped up!
Easily a 4-star read and I highly recommend it to fans of romantasy YA books! There isn't a release date yet for the third book but I look forward to seeing when it will come out!
May 4, 2023
2/5 stars
Honestly, this book was a big improvement from the last one. Unfortunately, there's still a lot of ground left for this book to cover for me personally.
Pros:
- I definitely liked the writing of this book a lot more than the last one!
- References to art, tarot cards, and historical events were all done really well and integrated very nicely
- Nat was less insufferable with her personality in this book, as was Braxton, so yay character development
- The chemistry in the love triangle was actually so good
Cons (buckle up):
- Literally all of the relationships between characters
- Nat and Mason: Supposedly "best friends" but Mason rarely shows up at all in this book even though Nat should be helping Mason acclimate to Grey Wolf as a friend??
- Nat and Braxton: Oh my god. I hate them. One of the few times I will say the male lead in a YA novel deserves better because... Nat.
- Nat and Killian: ?????????????????????????????? is all I have to say on this. Nat, girl, if your boyfriend doesn't want you to talk to him and says you shouldn't trust him maybe ask him why??? Maybe DON'T trust this guy blindly at the very least????????
- The plot: Honestly, it was just... not there. This book is unfortunately a victim of second book syndrome - even the big reveal that was essentially given away at the start of the book and I was expecting there to be more on the Antikythera Mechanism or something but there was not really anything added to the worldbuilding or series plot at all :(
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book!
Honestly, this book was a big improvement from the last one. Unfortunately, there's still a lot of ground left for this book to cover for me personally.
Pros:
- I definitely liked the writing of this book a lot more than the last one!
- References to art, tarot cards, and historical events were all done really well and integrated very nicely
- Nat was less insufferable with her personality in this book, as was Braxton, so yay character development
- The chemistry in the love triangle was actually so good
Cons (buckle up):
- Literally all of the relationships between characters
- Nat and Mason: Supposedly "best friends" but Mason rarely shows up at all in this book even though Nat should be helping Mason acclimate to Grey Wolf as a friend??
- Nat and Braxton: Oh my god. I hate them. One of the few times I will say the male lead in a YA novel deserves better because... Nat.
- Nat and Killian: ?????????????????????????????? is all I have to say on this. Nat, girl, if your boyfriend doesn't want you to talk to him and says you shouldn't trust him maybe ask him why??? Maybe DON'T trust this guy blindly at the very least????????
- The plot: Honestly, it was just... not there. This book is unfortunately a victim of second book syndrome - even the big reveal that was essentially given away at the start of the book and I was expecting there to be more on the Antikythera Mechanism or something but there was not really anything added to the worldbuilding or series plot at all :(
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book!
February 2, 2024
Nicht mehr ganz so einnehmend wie band 1, aber immer noch sehr gut!
Das Ende! Diese letzten 100 Seiten� haaaach ich will Band 3!!
Das Ende! Diese letzten 100 Seiten� haaaach ich will Band 3!!
June 13, 2023
***3.5/5 Stars***
Ruling Destiny was a fast paced romantasy with a love triangle that will keep you on your toes! With so many answers swirling within the pages, I loved how that ending left us desperately needing that next book now! And with short chapters, it was easy to keep entertained, and always needing to know what happened next.
The two love interests Killian and Braxton left me constantly guessing. Was Killian truly bad or just acting paranoid around Baxton because he couldn't trust him? Or where we supposed to think that Braxton was the one we shouldn't trust? Both of these men kept us and Natasha in the dark. Over what truly happened in their pasts and other aspects about them too. The things we learned, oh my goodness! I almost felt like it was Shatter Me all over again. I always chose the right person in love triangles, except for that series. BUT I'm still holding out hope and doubling down, which may go epically wrong haha. I'm hoping a certain someone will redeem themselves. Because Natasha and that one, oh my heart. They are the WHOLE story for me! The emotions he created within her, even if she wanted to deny them. I feel everything when they were together. So I'm keeping my fingers crossed for that final book. That things will flip around, because I love him so much *cries*! Yes there was so much more going on then the romance, but for me that was everything.
Natasha did such a fabulous job of growing within these pages. While at times I thought she might be naïve, looking back she definitely wasn't. She used her instincts beautifully. It was hard not to be impressed with her. Although her bravery definitely scared me a few times. And as her world expanded, I loved learning more about those that surrounded her. And her world. Ohhhhhh what we learned, it was mind boggling. I didn't even think about those certain aspects. I was completely interested in learning more. So with drama, romance and stealing pieces from the past while trying to put clues together, this book was a magical ride!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
All of us at Gray Wolf� including Braxton, and certainly me� we are all liars here.
Ruling Destiny was a fast paced romantasy with a love triangle that will keep you on your toes! With so many answers swirling within the pages, I loved how that ending left us desperately needing that next book now! And with short chapters, it was easy to keep entertained, and always needing to know what happened next.
“So, which is it?� I snap. “Are you angry or worried?�
Killian loosens his grip. “Can’t I be both?� His voice is thick in a way that has me averting my gaze. “If something were to happen to you—�
“Arthur would never forgive you. I know.� I grind out the words.
“No, Shiv,� Killian says, looking at me in a way I’d rather not see. “It’s me who’d never forgive myself.�
The two love interests Killian and Braxton left me constantly guessing. Was Killian truly bad or just acting paranoid around Baxton because he couldn't trust him? Or where we supposed to think that Braxton was the one we shouldn't trust? Both of these men kept us and Natasha in the dark. Over what truly happened in their pasts and other aspects about them too. The things we learned, oh my goodness! I almost felt like it was Shatter Me all over again. I always chose the right person in love triangles, except for that series. BUT I'm still holding out hope and doubling down, which may go epically wrong haha. I'm hoping a certain someone will redeem themselves. Because Natasha and that one, oh my heart. They are the WHOLE story for me! The emotions he created within her, even if she wanted to deny them. I feel everything when they were together. So I'm keeping my fingers crossed for that final book. That things will flip around, because I love him so much *cries*! Yes there was so much more going on then the romance, but for me that was everything.
Without hesitation, Killian presses a hand to his heart and, in a solemn voice, says, “I swear to you, Shiv. I swear on the moon to every last word.�
Natasha did such a fabulous job of growing within these pages. While at times I thought she might be naïve, looking back she definitely wasn't. She used her instincts beautifully. It was hard not to be impressed with her. Although her bravery definitely scared me a few times. And as her world expanded, I loved learning more about those that surrounded her. And her world. Ohhhhhh what we learned, it was mind boggling. I didn't even think about those certain aspects. I was completely interested in learning more. So with drama, romance and stealing pieces from the past while trying to put clues together, this book was a magical ride!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
September 30, 2023
Band 1 hat mir einen Ticken besser gefallen, aber auch Band 2 kann mit spannenden Elementen, rätselhaften Szenen und ganz viel Zeitreise-Frequenzen glänzen!
✨️ c h a r a k t e r e ✨️
Tasha habe ich in Band 1 kennen & lieben gelernt � Ich mochte ihren Kampfgeist sofort, genau wie die ihr großes Interesse an Kunst und Gemälden, der Geschichte im Generellen � Dass sie niemals aufgibt, mochte ich ebenfalls sehr an ihr - in diesem Band jedoch sind mir 2, 3 Dinge an ihr aufgefallen, die mir nicht mehr ganz so gut gefallen haben. So beispielsweise ihre Sprunghaftigkeit, die in diesem Band erstmals auftaucht, sowie ihre teils leichte Naivität ✨️
Zu Braxton konnte ich in diesem Band leider keine richtige Verbindung aufbauen! In Band 1 hingegen, hatte ich ihn wirklich sehr gemocht, aber da sich Band 2 ein wenig mehr auf Killians Charakter & dessen Entwicklung konzentrierte, ging diese enge Verbindung zu Braxton leider ein wenig unter �
Die Nebencharaktere fand ich wie bereits in Band 1 hingegen unglaublich toll! Mason hat mein Herz und Elodie ist einfach eine dramatische Power-Queen �
✨️ s t o r y l i n e ✨️
Zu Beginn hat mich das Buch stark gefesselt! Bis zum Mittelteil hingegen gab es leichte Längen, aber danach hatte es wieder sehr an Fahrt aufgenommen �
In diesem Band lag der Fokus vor allem auf der Vergangenheit der einzelnen Charaktere und deren daraus resultierenden Verbindungen, sodass man hier eher ein charakterorientiertes und weniger auf direkte Spannung fokussiertes Buch vorfindet �
Die eingebauten Zeitreisen haben mich sofort wieder für sich gewinnen können! Ich habe mich in den Szenen verloren und jedes Detail gierig aufgesaugt, das das Buch über die einzelnen Epochen zu bieten hatte! Gerade gegen Ende konnte ich das Buch kaum noch aus der Hand legen �
Was mir besonders gut gefallen hat, war die Tatsache, dass man bis zur letzten Seite nicht wusste, wem man trauen konnte! So wurde bis zum Ende eine gewisse Grundspannung erzeugt, da man sich immer wieder fragte "Shit, Shit, Shit! Darf ich XY mögen?" / "Omg, Tasha! Ist das richtig? Kannst du der Information WIRKLICH Glauben schenken?"
Gleichzeitig war das aber auch ein klitzekleiner Kritikpunkt meinerseits: Durch diese Tatsache und das dadurch entstehende Love-Triangle gingen mir die Verbindungen der Charaktere leider ein wenig verloren �
✨️ s c h r e i b s t i l ✨️
Der Schreibstil ist sehr konträr. Kurze Kapitel, lange Gedankengänge, hypotaktische, sowie eher verschlungene Sätze. Stellenweise konnte mich der Schreibstil zu 100% catchen, dann wiederum gab es auch Passagen, in denen er mich ein wenig rauwarf, da ich in Tashas Gedankengänge leider den roten Faden ein wenig verlor �
✨️ g r u n d i d e e ✨️
Die Idee rund um die Akademie liebe ich! Gray Wolf mit seinen Zeitreisen gibt ein tolles Setting ab und die verschiedenen Epochen und deren Herausforderungen und Gefahren brachten einen frischen Wind zu den dark academia Vibes �
✨️ f a z i t ✨️
Der 2. Band hat mich auf jeden Fall wieder von sich überzeugen können! Ich bin bereits unglaublich gespannt auf Band 3! Ein paar kleine Kritikpunkte hatte ich zwar schon, was in meinen Augen Band 1 einen Ticken besser gemacht hat, aber die Zeitreise Vibes haben mich einfach völlig gecatcht 😍!
✨️ c h a r a k t e r e ✨️
Tasha habe ich in Band 1 kennen & lieben gelernt � Ich mochte ihren Kampfgeist sofort, genau wie die ihr großes Interesse an Kunst und Gemälden, der Geschichte im Generellen � Dass sie niemals aufgibt, mochte ich ebenfalls sehr an ihr - in diesem Band jedoch sind mir 2, 3 Dinge an ihr aufgefallen, die mir nicht mehr ganz so gut gefallen haben. So beispielsweise ihre Sprunghaftigkeit, die in diesem Band erstmals auftaucht, sowie ihre teils leichte Naivität ✨️
Zu Braxton konnte ich in diesem Band leider keine richtige Verbindung aufbauen! In Band 1 hingegen, hatte ich ihn wirklich sehr gemocht, aber da sich Band 2 ein wenig mehr auf Killians Charakter & dessen Entwicklung konzentrierte, ging diese enge Verbindung zu Braxton leider ein wenig unter �
Die Nebencharaktere fand ich wie bereits in Band 1 hingegen unglaublich toll! Mason hat mein Herz und Elodie ist einfach eine dramatische Power-Queen �
✨️ s t o r y l i n e ✨️
Zu Beginn hat mich das Buch stark gefesselt! Bis zum Mittelteil hingegen gab es leichte Längen, aber danach hatte es wieder sehr an Fahrt aufgenommen �
In diesem Band lag der Fokus vor allem auf der Vergangenheit der einzelnen Charaktere und deren daraus resultierenden Verbindungen, sodass man hier eher ein charakterorientiertes und weniger auf direkte Spannung fokussiertes Buch vorfindet �
Die eingebauten Zeitreisen haben mich sofort wieder für sich gewinnen können! Ich habe mich in den Szenen verloren und jedes Detail gierig aufgesaugt, das das Buch über die einzelnen Epochen zu bieten hatte! Gerade gegen Ende konnte ich das Buch kaum noch aus der Hand legen �
Was mir besonders gut gefallen hat, war die Tatsache, dass man bis zur letzten Seite nicht wusste, wem man trauen konnte! So wurde bis zum Ende eine gewisse Grundspannung erzeugt, da man sich immer wieder fragte "Shit, Shit, Shit! Darf ich XY mögen?" / "Omg, Tasha! Ist das richtig? Kannst du der Information WIRKLICH Glauben schenken?"
Gleichzeitig war das aber auch ein klitzekleiner Kritikpunkt meinerseits: Durch diese Tatsache und das dadurch entstehende Love-Triangle gingen mir die Verbindungen der Charaktere leider ein wenig verloren �
✨️ s c h r e i b s t i l ✨️
Der Schreibstil ist sehr konträr. Kurze Kapitel, lange Gedankengänge, hypotaktische, sowie eher verschlungene Sätze. Stellenweise konnte mich der Schreibstil zu 100% catchen, dann wiederum gab es auch Passagen, in denen er mich ein wenig rauwarf, da ich in Tashas Gedankengänge leider den roten Faden ein wenig verlor �
✨️ g r u n d i d e e ✨️
Die Idee rund um die Akademie liebe ich! Gray Wolf mit seinen Zeitreisen gibt ein tolles Setting ab und die verschiedenen Epochen und deren Herausforderungen und Gefahren brachten einen frischen Wind zu den dark academia Vibes �
✨️ f a z i t ✨️
Der 2. Band hat mich auf jeden Fall wieder von sich überzeugen können! Ich bin bereits unglaublich gespannt auf Band 3! Ein paar kleine Kritikpunkte hatte ich zwar schon, was in meinen Augen Band 1 einen Ticken besser gemacht hat, aber die Zeitreise Vibes haben mich einfach völlig gecatcht 😍!
August 19, 2023
3,5/5 �
I definitely liked this book better than Stealing Infinity. Some of the same things kept bothering me, but on the other hand I was waaaaaay more invested in the story this time. It doesn’t take long to remember what the first book was about again because there are various hints dropped in the first chapters to get you up to speed. De writing style is also very fluent and inviting. Although, just like in book one, certain things are more being told than shown. Sometimes even seemingly coming out of the blue, instead of being slowly and discreetly woven into the story before the big reveal. The thing that bothered me the most is that the secrets being revealed to Tascha in the last 20% of the book are things you already know as a reader from the very beginning of the book because they are mentioned in the prologue that’s being told from another POV. Additionally, Tascha’s decisions and actions made me frown more than once. Nonetheless it was an enjoyable read.
Thank you Netgalley for this eARC.
I definitely liked this book better than Stealing Infinity. Some of the same things kept bothering me, but on the other hand I was waaaaaay more invested in the story this time. It doesn’t take long to remember what the first book was about again because there are various hints dropped in the first chapters to get you up to speed. De writing style is also very fluent and inviting. Although, just like in book one, certain things are more being told than shown. Sometimes even seemingly coming out of the blue, instead of being slowly and discreetly woven into the story before the big reveal. The thing that bothered me the most is that the secrets being revealed to Tascha in the last 20% of the book are things you already know as a reader from the very beginning of the book because they are mentioned in the prologue that’s being told from another POV. Additionally, Tascha’s decisions and actions made me frown more than once. Nonetheless it was an enjoyable read.
Thank you Netgalley for this eARC.
April 14, 2023
I love reading Alyson's writing!
This book picks up where book 1 ended.
(This book also ends on a cliffhanger)
Who the heck do you trust at Gray Wolf?!?!
I love the mystery and suspense this series has, as well as the historical facts that are weaved in (in a fun way - not like you are learning in class 😀).
Again, this series heavily focuses on tarot cards, hidden meanings in art, and artifacts - so if you don't find any of that interesting, but to just move along. If it sounds like something that intrigues you, this book is very much worth the read.
I finished this one in one day and put my family on pause - that's how invested I was.
There were no good stopping points! I NEEDED to know what happened next!
With that said, it was very fast-paced and I very much enjoyed it! Can't wait until the next one is finished and released! ❤️
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and voluntarily review this free eARC!
This book picks up where book 1 ended.
(This book also ends on a cliffhanger)
Who the heck do you trust at Gray Wolf?!?!
I love the mystery and suspense this series has, as well as the historical facts that are weaved in (in a fun way - not like you are learning in class 😀).
Again, this series heavily focuses on tarot cards, hidden meanings in art, and artifacts - so if you don't find any of that interesting, but to just move along. If it sounds like something that intrigues you, this book is very much worth the read.
I finished this one in one day and put my family on pause - that's how invested I was.
There were no good stopping points! I NEEDED to know what happened next!
With that said, it was very fast-paced and I very much enjoyed it! Can't wait until the next one is finished and released! ❤️
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and voluntarily review this free eARC!
May 24, 2023
This is book 2 in a YA fantasy time travel series. You need to read book 1 first as it is not a stand alone.
I love this series! This book has Tasha caught in a love triangle between Braxton and Killian while she time travels to Renaissance Italy to find the “moon�.
There is mystery and suspense plus the added historical world building. I like historical fantasies because it puts a creative spin on history. A few mysteries from the first book are revealed, but there is still more to solve as it does end in a cliffhanger. I like how Tasha doesn’t know who to trust: Braxton or Killian. It will keep you guessing until the very end.
I can’t wait for the third book!
Thank you Entangled Teen for the ARC! ⌛️🖼️�
I love this series! This book has Tasha caught in a love triangle between Braxton and Killian while she time travels to Renaissance Italy to find the “moon�.
There is mystery and suspense plus the added historical world building. I like historical fantasies because it puts a creative spin on history. A few mysteries from the first book are revealed, but there is still more to solve as it does end in a cliffhanger. I like how Tasha doesn’t know who to trust: Braxton or Killian. It will keep you guessing until the very end.
I can’t wait for the third book!
Thank you Entangled Teen for the ARC! ⌛️🖼️�
September 2, 2024
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Young Adult / Science Fiction / Time Travel
*Rating* 3.4-5
*Thoughts*
Alyson Noel's Ruling Destiny is the second installment in the authors Stolen Beauty series. The story’s jumping-off point is an academy called Gray Wolf Academy for teens who travel through time to collect/steal valuables, but it gets much deeper than that when we discover the heroine is linked to the (real-life) mysterious Antikythera. The Antikythera mechanism is an Ancient Greek hand-powered orrery, described as the oldest example of an analogue computer used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses decades in advance.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
*Genre* Young Adult / Science Fiction / Time Travel
*Rating* 3.4-5
*Thoughts*
Alyson Noel's Ruling Destiny is the second installment in the authors Stolen Beauty series. The story’s jumping-off point is an academy called Gray Wolf Academy for teens who travel through time to collect/steal valuables, but it gets much deeper than that when we discover the heroine is linked to the (real-life) mysterious Antikythera. The Antikythera mechanism is an Ancient Greek hand-powered orrery, described as the oldest example of an analogue computer used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses decades in advance.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
May 28, 2023
Really enjoyed this solid second entry of the 'Stolen Beauty' series. Author Alyson Noel gives readers more of everything that made 'Stealing Infinity' great: more action, more mysteries and secrets, more art and tarot puzzles to decode, and more romantic tension between our main character and her two love interests. I'm excited to continue the story, when will book 3 be released?
#RulingDestiny #NetGalley - I voluntarily read a Review Copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else’s.
#RulingDestiny #NetGalley - I voluntarily read a Review Copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else’s.
November 13, 2023
„Ich werde mein Leben riskieren, um dich zu beschützen, aber du musst mich auch ernst nehmen.�
(Killian zu Natasha in Ruling Destiny)
Worum geht’s?
Die Schülerinnen und Schüler der Gray Wolf Academy genießen eine besondere Ausbildung: Sie werden in der Kunst des Zeitreisens unterrichtet und "befreien" für ihren Schulleiter wertvolle Artefakte aus der Vergangenheit. Natasha hat einen ganz besonderen Auftrag erhalten: Sie soll jene Artefakte finden, mit deren Hilfe man die totale Kontrolle über den Lauf der Zeit erhält. Doch das größte Mysterium ist ihre eigene Geschichte und um das zu lösen, wird Natasha die Unterstützung von Braxton, der weiterhin Geheimnisse vor ihr hat, und Killian, den sie aus der Vergangenheit rettete, benötigen. Doch wem der beiden kann sie trauen?
Ruling Destiny ist Band 2 der Gray Wolf Academy-Reihe und eine direkte Fortsetzung, sodass Vorkenntnisse nötig sind. Die Geschichte ist nicht abgeschlossen und geht in Band 3 weiter.
Schreibstil und inhaltliche Hinweise
Die Geschichte ist aus der Ich-Perspektive von Natasha erzählt. Die Geschichte verläuft chronologisch.
Meine Meinung
Nachdem mich Stealing Infinity nach langer Zeit zurück in die Romantasy-Welt geholt hat und das offene Ende mich wahnsinnig gemacht hat, war es absolut klar, dass ich Ruling Destiny lesen muss. Und was soll ich sagen? Band 2 hat mich noch mehr gefesselt als Band 1 und ich brauche eindeutig mehr.
Die Geschichte wird relativ nahtlos dort weitergeführt, wo Band 1 aufgehört hat. Und gleichzeitig ist die Dynamik und vor allem Natashas Wissendurst anders in diesem Teil. Es gibt so viele offene Fragen und in Band 1 war ich ein wenig genervt, dass sie ihre Gedanken nie so wirklich nachgegangen ist. Das ist hier anders. Natürlich lässt sich sie immer noch sehr einlullen und fügt sie in die Erwartungen ein, aber zunehmend merkt man, dass sie anfängt, die Motive zu hinterfragen und den Leuten, insbesondere Killian und Braxton, nicht mehr blind zu vertrauen. Natürlich bleiben einige Aspekte wie in Band 1, etwa die losen Freundschaften, aber generell wirkt das Buch so viel strukturierter und durchdachter. Inhaltlich passiert dabei gar nicht so mega viel, die Verbindung zwischen Natasha und Braxton scheint sich zu festigen, während man gleichzeitig realisiert, wie viele Geheimnisse Braxton hat. Doch das merkt auch Natasha, insbesondere, als sie Stiefel findet, die eine wichtige Geschichte triggern � der Leser erfährt, welche. Natasha später auch und ich kann sagen, dass dies einiges durcheinander wirft, vor allem aber zu einem halben Nervenzusammenbruch bei mir führte, weil ich plötzlich noch weniger verstand, welches Spiel Braxton hier spielt und wie zum Teufel die Reihe bitte enden könnte. Das Buch hat wieder viele Stärken. Es ist sehr spannend, denn hier wird ein bisschen mehr erklärt wie in Band 1, aber gleichzeitig passen die hingeworfenen Puzzleteile immer weniger in das Gesamtbild und es bleiben so große Fragezeichen, dass es wie ein Sog war, weiterzulesen. Ich wurde darin bestätigt, dass Natashas Rolle so viel größer und wichtiger ist, als ich am Anfang dachte. Aber welche genau das ist? Das bleibt eine Freude für Band 3.
Leider bleiben die Charaktere auch in diesem Teil tendenziell eindimensional und erfüllen einfach alle ihre Rolle, haben aber wenig Eigenständigkeit oder gar Einzigartigkeit. Es wird mit einigen Stereotypen gespielt, gleichzeitig werden einige Facetten aufgetan, die nur bedingt Sinn gemacht haben, aber auch hier denke ich, dass Band 3 noch einige Erklärungen bringen wird. In Band 2 wurde auf jeden Fall auch deutlich mehr Fokus auf die Liebesgeschichte � oder eher Natashas Dilemma, ob sie eher Killian oder Braxton anziehend findet � gelegt. Das hat mir gut gefallen, wenngleich ich kein Fan von Dreierkonstellationen bin, aber die Autorin manipuliert den Leser hier ehrlich gesagt ziemlich gut, was dann am Ende zu großen Entsetzen führt. Denn wer sagt hier die Wahrheit und wer hat hier eine dunkle Seite? Nunja, sagen wir es so: Ich bin darauf reingefallen und war entsprechend geschockt vom Ende. Und das Gefühl hatte ich lange nicht mehr, dass ich so blindlings mit einer Protagonistin ins Verderben gelaufen bin. Generell gilt hier halt auch, dass die Charaktere viel vorgeben, aber die meisten irgendwie eine dunkle Seite haben, die Natashas Verderben bedeuten könnte. Ehrlich gesagt glaube ich mittlerweile, Natasha kann nur sich selbst vertrauen.
Etwas lasch fand ich hier leider die Sprünge in die Vergangenheit. Dafür, dass eigentlich alles so gut vorbereitet wird, wirken die immer so chaotisch. Ich weiß, dass das auch viel an Natasha liegt und vor allem sicher auch ihre Stärke und Starrköpfigkeit zeigen soll, aber gleichzeitig passt es irgendwie nicht zu dem Anspruch, den die Academy hat. Ich bin gespannt, wie es jedenfalls im Finale weitergeht und kann trotz allem sagen, dass mir Band 2 mehr gefallen hat und für mich stimmiger und runder war und mich wirklich von Seite 1 bis zum Ende fesseln konnte.
Mein Fazit
Ruling Destiny war eine starke Fortsetzung, die viel Freude beim Lesen gemacht hat und mit der ein oder anderen Überraschung daherkommt, gleichzeitig aber auch einige Schwächen hat, gerade im Bereich der Zeitsprünge. Ich freue mich aber sehr auf Band 3 und bin gespannt, wie alles am Ende zusammenkommt.
[Diese Rezension basiert auf einem vom Verlag oder vom Autor überlassenen Rezensionsexemplar. Meine Meinung wurde hiervon nicht beeinflusst.]
(Killian zu Natasha in Ruling Destiny)
Worum geht’s?
Die Schülerinnen und Schüler der Gray Wolf Academy genießen eine besondere Ausbildung: Sie werden in der Kunst des Zeitreisens unterrichtet und "befreien" für ihren Schulleiter wertvolle Artefakte aus der Vergangenheit. Natasha hat einen ganz besonderen Auftrag erhalten: Sie soll jene Artefakte finden, mit deren Hilfe man die totale Kontrolle über den Lauf der Zeit erhält. Doch das größte Mysterium ist ihre eigene Geschichte und um das zu lösen, wird Natasha die Unterstützung von Braxton, der weiterhin Geheimnisse vor ihr hat, und Killian, den sie aus der Vergangenheit rettete, benötigen. Doch wem der beiden kann sie trauen?
Ruling Destiny ist Band 2 der Gray Wolf Academy-Reihe und eine direkte Fortsetzung, sodass Vorkenntnisse nötig sind. Die Geschichte ist nicht abgeschlossen und geht in Band 3 weiter.
Schreibstil und inhaltliche Hinweise
Die Geschichte ist aus der Ich-Perspektive von Natasha erzählt. Die Geschichte verläuft chronologisch.
Meine Meinung
Nachdem mich Stealing Infinity nach langer Zeit zurück in die Romantasy-Welt geholt hat und das offene Ende mich wahnsinnig gemacht hat, war es absolut klar, dass ich Ruling Destiny lesen muss. Und was soll ich sagen? Band 2 hat mich noch mehr gefesselt als Band 1 und ich brauche eindeutig mehr.
Die Geschichte wird relativ nahtlos dort weitergeführt, wo Band 1 aufgehört hat. Und gleichzeitig ist die Dynamik und vor allem Natashas Wissendurst anders in diesem Teil. Es gibt so viele offene Fragen und in Band 1 war ich ein wenig genervt, dass sie ihre Gedanken nie so wirklich nachgegangen ist. Das ist hier anders. Natürlich lässt sich sie immer noch sehr einlullen und fügt sie in die Erwartungen ein, aber zunehmend merkt man, dass sie anfängt, die Motive zu hinterfragen und den Leuten, insbesondere Killian und Braxton, nicht mehr blind zu vertrauen. Natürlich bleiben einige Aspekte wie in Band 1, etwa die losen Freundschaften, aber generell wirkt das Buch so viel strukturierter und durchdachter. Inhaltlich passiert dabei gar nicht so mega viel, die Verbindung zwischen Natasha und Braxton scheint sich zu festigen, während man gleichzeitig realisiert, wie viele Geheimnisse Braxton hat. Doch das merkt auch Natasha, insbesondere, als sie Stiefel findet, die eine wichtige Geschichte triggern � der Leser erfährt, welche. Natasha später auch und ich kann sagen, dass dies einiges durcheinander wirft, vor allem aber zu einem halben Nervenzusammenbruch bei mir führte, weil ich plötzlich noch weniger verstand, welches Spiel Braxton hier spielt und wie zum Teufel die Reihe bitte enden könnte. Das Buch hat wieder viele Stärken. Es ist sehr spannend, denn hier wird ein bisschen mehr erklärt wie in Band 1, aber gleichzeitig passen die hingeworfenen Puzzleteile immer weniger in das Gesamtbild und es bleiben so große Fragezeichen, dass es wie ein Sog war, weiterzulesen. Ich wurde darin bestätigt, dass Natashas Rolle so viel größer und wichtiger ist, als ich am Anfang dachte. Aber welche genau das ist? Das bleibt eine Freude für Band 3.
Leider bleiben die Charaktere auch in diesem Teil tendenziell eindimensional und erfüllen einfach alle ihre Rolle, haben aber wenig Eigenständigkeit oder gar Einzigartigkeit. Es wird mit einigen Stereotypen gespielt, gleichzeitig werden einige Facetten aufgetan, die nur bedingt Sinn gemacht haben, aber auch hier denke ich, dass Band 3 noch einige Erklärungen bringen wird. In Band 2 wurde auf jeden Fall auch deutlich mehr Fokus auf die Liebesgeschichte � oder eher Natashas Dilemma, ob sie eher Killian oder Braxton anziehend findet � gelegt. Das hat mir gut gefallen, wenngleich ich kein Fan von Dreierkonstellationen bin, aber die Autorin manipuliert den Leser hier ehrlich gesagt ziemlich gut, was dann am Ende zu großen Entsetzen führt. Denn wer sagt hier die Wahrheit und wer hat hier eine dunkle Seite? Nunja, sagen wir es so: Ich bin darauf reingefallen und war entsprechend geschockt vom Ende. Und das Gefühl hatte ich lange nicht mehr, dass ich so blindlings mit einer Protagonistin ins Verderben gelaufen bin. Generell gilt hier halt auch, dass die Charaktere viel vorgeben, aber die meisten irgendwie eine dunkle Seite haben, die Natashas Verderben bedeuten könnte. Ehrlich gesagt glaube ich mittlerweile, Natasha kann nur sich selbst vertrauen.
Etwas lasch fand ich hier leider die Sprünge in die Vergangenheit. Dafür, dass eigentlich alles so gut vorbereitet wird, wirken die immer so chaotisch. Ich weiß, dass das auch viel an Natasha liegt und vor allem sicher auch ihre Stärke und Starrköpfigkeit zeigen soll, aber gleichzeitig passt es irgendwie nicht zu dem Anspruch, den die Academy hat. Ich bin gespannt, wie es jedenfalls im Finale weitergeht und kann trotz allem sagen, dass mir Band 2 mehr gefallen hat und für mich stimmiger und runder war und mich wirklich von Seite 1 bis zum Ende fesseln konnte.
Mein Fazit
Ruling Destiny war eine starke Fortsetzung, die viel Freude beim Lesen gemacht hat und mit der ein oder anderen Überraschung daherkommt, gleichzeitig aber auch einige Schwächen hat, gerade im Bereich der Zeitsprünge. Ich freue mich aber sehr auf Band 3 und bin gespannt, wie alles am Ende zusammenkommt.
[Diese Rezension basiert auf einem vom Verlag oder vom Autor überlassenen Rezensionsexemplar. Meine Meinung wurde hiervon nicht beeinflusst.]
June 8, 2023
Quick Summary: A thrilling ride!
My Review: Ruling Destiny by Alyson Noel is book two in the Stealing Infinity series. It is a masterpiece in storytelling and an epic adventure through time.
There is so much that I could say about this book. Much like the first, it catapults the reader into a stratospheric level of who, what, when, why, and the like. What seems most obvious is that questions, though answered, continue to spiral into more.
My Final Say: With character play, high emotions, and rampant intrigue, this installment rules.
Other: There are so many fantastic novels that should be promoted, but this one needs to be snapped up and broadcasted to the masses in every way possible. It is a whirlwind that deserves to be highlighted. Books, yes! Audios, yes! Series on television, yes! Movie, YES! I need more!!!
Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: T to A
Keeper: Yes
Favorites Shelf: Yes
Series: Yes
Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Entangled Publishing), and to NetGalley, who provided access to a digital ARC of this work in exchange for an honest review.
My Review: Ruling Destiny by Alyson Noel is book two in the Stealing Infinity series. It is a masterpiece in storytelling and an epic adventure through time.
There is so much that I could say about this book. Much like the first, it catapults the reader into a stratospheric level of who, what, when, why, and the like. What seems most obvious is that questions, though answered, continue to spiral into more.
My Final Say: With character play, high emotions, and rampant intrigue, this installment rules.
Other: There are so many fantastic novels that should be promoted, but this one needs to be snapped up and broadcasted to the masses in every way possible. It is a whirlwind that deserves to be highlighted. Books, yes! Audios, yes! Series on television, yes! Movie, YES! I need more!!!
Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: T to A
Keeper: Yes
Favorites Shelf: Yes
Series: Yes
Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Entangled Publishing), and to NetGalley, who provided access to a digital ARC of this work in exchange for an honest review.
October 19, 2024
Ich habe „Ruling Destiny� - Band 2 der „Gray Wolf Academy� Reihe - wieder im Buddyread mit meiner lieben Katja gelesen und der gemeinsame Austausch macht das Eintauchen in die Welt des Zeitreisens immer zu einem besonderen Erlebnis. Die Reihe würde mir nur halb so viel Spaß machen, wenn ich sie alleine lesen müsste. Band 2 hat mir schon deutlich besser gefallen, als Band 1. Die Story nimmt endlich Fahrt auf, lässt aber noch genügend Spielraum für den finalen Teil, die Protagonistin hat sich in gewisser Weise weiterentwickelt und wirkt nicht mehr so verloren, wodurch sie mir auch sympathischer geworden ist, und es werden einige Geheimnisse gelüftet bzw. warten interessante Wendungen auf den Leser/die Leserin. Was mich an der Reihe von Anfang an begeistert hat, ist die Einbindung von Kunst & Geschichte. Ich liebe die ganzen historischen Fakten, die man im Laufe der Geschichte erfährt und die zum Miträtseln anregen. Auch das Setting, das die Autorin mit ihrem angenehmen, atmosphärischen Schreibstil schafft, ist und bleibt ein großer Pluspunkt. Jetzt heißt es: Bis Februar auf Band 3 warten!
February 23, 2025
I enjoyed reading the first book but the second part was even better. I liked that you couldn't tell who was the traitor. I loved Nataschas character. I am still not really found of the relationship with her and Braxton.They don't have any chemistry. I know that what Killian did was wrong but the both just belong together. I can't wait to read the final book of this series.
June 23, 2023
Ruling Destiny is the second book in Alyson Noel’s Stealing Infinity series. I would like to say that this is a standalone read, however, some events/conversations might make more sense if you have read Stealing Infinity, the first book.
After really being left with no choice but to accept the generous offer of reclusive tech billionaire Arthur Blackstone to move to his secluded, off-the-grid Gray Wolf Academy and forget anyone from her “old life�, Natasha (Nat) Clarke is finally feeling settled and at home. Since being at Gray Wolf, Nat has learned that time travel is possible. In fact, as one of Arthur’s Artful Dodgers she has traveled back in time aka tripped a handful of times. These trips aren’t just for fun. Each tripper is tasked with stealing various items from unsuspecting victims of the past, such as a hair clip or pocket watch. Usually, there isn’t anything specific required, but at times, the “get� is something of importance, like the original Mona Lisa. Nat is generally tasked with getting a special “get� that only Arthur knows about. One that she isn’t supposed to tell anyone else about if she’s tripping with several people. It’s a secret between them, and something that only she is able to retrieve.
Nat finds herself in a potential love triangle with two other Trippers. Braxton Huntley and Killian du Luce. Braxton is the guy who has intrigued her since before she arrived at Gray Wolf, whom she shares a connection with. Killian the guy who she rescued on a trip who somehow got stuck for four years in the eighteenth century. They both despise each other and accuse the other of being a liar and someone who can not be trusted.
The lack of trust fits in perfectly at Gray Wolf. “The whole culture at Gray Wolf is one of distrust and paranoia, which keeps us from being honest, open and truthful.� EVERYONE has secrets, including Nat, Braxton, and Killian. But for Nat, figuring out who she can truly trust will be a matter of life and death.
Ruling Destiny was one of those stories that made me excited to be a reader. I was hooked from the very beginning until the last page. The story answered some questions that were left unanswered at the end of Stealing Infinity. The moment when all the pieces are put together and your assumptions are confirmed is truly a moment of astonishment. While there are twists, turns, and secrets revealed more questions arise. Not only are you left wondering who at Gray Wolf is truly on Nat’s side, but what is Nat going to do and how in order to make sure that her family’s legacy remains intact and she fulfills her destiny.
I have no doubt that the final book in the Stealing Infinity series is going to be an intriguing, roller coaster ride, page-turner that will blow my mind in the end. After all, I thought Stealing Infinity was good. Ruling Destiny was even better. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“We’re always writing our own stories, and it’s the ones we play on repeat that determine our destiny.�
“Sometimes you have no choice but to do the wrong thing for all the right reasons.�
“Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.�
“You’re worth the risk.�
“I will always find my way back to you.�
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
After really being left with no choice but to accept the generous offer of reclusive tech billionaire Arthur Blackstone to move to his secluded, off-the-grid Gray Wolf Academy and forget anyone from her “old life�, Natasha (Nat) Clarke is finally feeling settled and at home. Since being at Gray Wolf, Nat has learned that time travel is possible. In fact, as one of Arthur’s Artful Dodgers she has traveled back in time aka tripped a handful of times. These trips aren’t just for fun. Each tripper is tasked with stealing various items from unsuspecting victims of the past, such as a hair clip or pocket watch. Usually, there isn’t anything specific required, but at times, the “get� is something of importance, like the original Mona Lisa. Nat is generally tasked with getting a special “get� that only Arthur knows about. One that she isn’t supposed to tell anyone else about if she’s tripping with several people. It’s a secret between them, and something that only she is able to retrieve.
Nat finds herself in a potential love triangle with two other Trippers. Braxton Huntley and Killian du Luce. Braxton is the guy who has intrigued her since before she arrived at Gray Wolf, whom she shares a connection with. Killian the guy who she rescued on a trip who somehow got stuck for four years in the eighteenth century. They both despise each other and accuse the other of being a liar and someone who can not be trusted.
The lack of trust fits in perfectly at Gray Wolf. “The whole culture at Gray Wolf is one of distrust and paranoia, which keeps us from being honest, open and truthful.� EVERYONE has secrets, including Nat, Braxton, and Killian. But for Nat, figuring out who she can truly trust will be a matter of life and death.
Ruling Destiny was one of those stories that made me excited to be a reader. I was hooked from the very beginning until the last page. The story answered some questions that were left unanswered at the end of Stealing Infinity. The moment when all the pieces are put together and your assumptions are confirmed is truly a moment of astonishment. While there are twists, turns, and secrets revealed more questions arise. Not only are you left wondering who at Gray Wolf is truly on Nat’s side, but what is Nat going to do and how in order to make sure that her family’s legacy remains intact and she fulfills her destiny.
I have no doubt that the final book in the Stealing Infinity series is going to be an intriguing, roller coaster ride, page-turner that will blow my mind in the end. After all, I thought Stealing Infinity was good. Ruling Destiny was even better. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“We’re always writing our own stories, and it’s the ones we play on repeat that determine our destiny.�
“Sometimes you have no choice but to do the wrong thing for all the right reasons.�
“Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.�
“You’re worth the risk.�
“I will always find my way back to you.�
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
June 21, 2023
Ok I just finished this book like 5 minutes ago, and I need the next book now! Oh my god! Alyson has been one of my most favorite authors since 2009 when I read Evermore. Her books continue to make my life better. Thank you Alyson.
January 18, 2025
What was that ??
Je déteste la personnage principale, elle fait juste prendre des décisions poches et irréfléchies. C’était vraiment redondant, ça n’avançait pas, breeeef. J’ai pas aimé.
Je déteste la personnage principale, elle fait juste prendre des décisions poches et irréfléchies. C’était vraiment redondant, ça n’avançait pas, breeeef. J’ai pas aimé.
April 28, 2023
Whoa this series keeps getting better with the twists and turns that keep going . I was lucky enough to receive and ARC of Ruling Destiny and it was fast paced as the first. I couldn’t wait to read more into plot and trying to figure out the pieces of the puzzle. Braxton and Natasha go on journey in Ruling Destiny. I’d you liked the first you definitely will want to read the second.
June 15, 2023
Ruling Destiny is the second part in the Stolen Beauty series by Alison Noel. I really liked the first part called Stealing Infinity and couldn’t wait to continue reading. I had some high expectations, but will this book be able to meet them?
Find out in my review on my blog
Find out in my review on my blog
June 5, 2023
Ruling Destiny by Alyson Noël is the second book in the Stealing Infinity series, and it remains every bit as enjoyable as the first book. It starts a bit slow as Natasha must deal with a bit of a love triangle, but once she puts that aside, the story takes off.
Part of the fun of Ruling Destiny is the time travel at the heart of Gray Wolf Academy. Ms. Noël puts so much detail into these scenes that they are the best parts of the story. She also makes it all too easy to relate to Natasha's fish-out-of-water feelings each time she takes a trip, no matter how much training she has. It is as if Ms. Noël reviewed every time travel story and decided to explain just how WEIRD it would be. Because it would be weird. And otherworldly. And mind-blowing.
Another aspect of Ruling Destiny that surprised me is how well Ms. Noël plays with our knowledge of each side character. This is particularly true with Braxton and Killian. Even though the reader is privy to certain information about each boy and their pasts, it doesn't stop the reader from questioning that knowledge each time they interact with Natasha. This constant guessing game keeps the story from being too predictable and eliminates any advantage in understanding the overarching mystery the reader may have had from the previous information.
The slow start to Ruling Destiny is because Natasha spends the first part of the story questioning her attraction to Braxton and Killian. These scenes are a bit too angsty for my taste, but I'm not the targeted demographic. Once Natasha moves past this obsession, the story goes on a different trajectory that ups the tension. We get a few answers to our questions about the Academy and Natasha's abilities. Thankfully, there remain plenty of unanswered questions to keep our interest.
To me, Ruling Destiny is a fun story. The time travel scenes are exquisite, while Natasha remains a strong hero you can't help but cheer on as she struggles to find answers. Ms. Noël does an excellent job of keeping you on your toes, changing your understanding of the Academy and Trippers with every scene. Given where we last see Natasha, I am eagerly awaiting the next book to learn even more!
Part of the fun of Ruling Destiny is the time travel at the heart of Gray Wolf Academy. Ms. Noël puts so much detail into these scenes that they are the best parts of the story. She also makes it all too easy to relate to Natasha's fish-out-of-water feelings each time she takes a trip, no matter how much training she has. It is as if Ms. Noël reviewed every time travel story and decided to explain just how WEIRD it would be. Because it would be weird. And otherworldly. And mind-blowing.
Another aspect of Ruling Destiny that surprised me is how well Ms. Noël plays with our knowledge of each side character. This is particularly true with Braxton and Killian. Even though the reader is privy to certain information about each boy and their pasts, it doesn't stop the reader from questioning that knowledge each time they interact with Natasha. This constant guessing game keeps the story from being too predictable and eliminates any advantage in understanding the overarching mystery the reader may have had from the previous information.
The slow start to Ruling Destiny is because Natasha spends the first part of the story questioning her attraction to Braxton and Killian. These scenes are a bit too angsty for my taste, but I'm not the targeted demographic. Once Natasha moves past this obsession, the story goes on a different trajectory that ups the tension. We get a few answers to our questions about the Academy and Natasha's abilities. Thankfully, there remain plenty of unanswered questions to keep our interest.
To me, Ruling Destiny is a fun story. The time travel scenes are exquisite, while Natasha remains a strong hero you can't help but cheer on as she struggles to find answers. Ms. Noël does an excellent job of keeping you on your toes, changing your understanding of the Academy and Trippers with every scene. Given where we last see Natasha, I am eagerly awaiting the next book to learn even more!
July 1, 2024
Eu juro que quero amar esta saga...tem tudo aquilo que na teoria eu adoro - alquimia, magia, viagens no tempo, um triângulo amoroso...mas na prática isto não chega para eu amar, e isso deixa-me triste 😔
Claro que é natural não amar todos os mundos mágicos que leio e conheço, mas tenho mesmo pena de não amar este em específico. Nem sei dizer bem o porquê de tal...se é da escrita e voz da autora, ou se é por outro motivo que não consigo expressar.
Ainda assim tenho que referir que este livro superou e muito o anterior, e a autora deixou-me muito curiosa para ler o último, que será o desfecho da história. Por isso sim, eu não amo a saga mas fico sempre intrigada para ler mais 😂
Neste volume os segredos da academia Gray Wolf vêem finalmente ao de cima e as coisas começam a fazer sentido 👀 é super intrigante e até mesquinho se pensarmos bem...os Saltadores, os Guardiões do Tempo - toda a vertente mágica/sobrenatural é muito inteligente.
Gostei da evolução das personagens e de estar na incerteza durante todo o livro em relação às lealdades. Adoro a Natasha e o Braxton e até que adoro o Killian e a Elodie.
Fiquei curiosa com o desfecho que a autora poderá dar à história...confesso que não sei o que esperar do futuro mas quero descobrir.
Claro que é natural não amar todos os mundos mágicos que leio e conheço, mas tenho mesmo pena de não amar este em específico. Nem sei dizer bem o porquê de tal...se é da escrita e voz da autora, ou se é por outro motivo que não consigo expressar.
Ainda assim tenho que referir que este livro superou e muito o anterior, e a autora deixou-me muito curiosa para ler o último, que será o desfecho da história. Por isso sim, eu não amo a saga mas fico sempre intrigada para ler mais 😂
Neste volume os segredos da academia Gray Wolf vêem finalmente ao de cima e as coisas começam a fazer sentido 👀 é super intrigante e até mesquinho se pensarmos bem...os Saltadores, os Guardiões do Tempo - toda a vertente mágica/sobrenatural é muito inteligente.
Gostei da evolução das personagens e de estar na incerteza durante todo o livro em relação às lealdades. Adoro a Natasha e o Braxton e até que adoro o Killian e a Elodie.
Fiquei curiosa com o desfecho que a autora poderá dar à história...confesso que não sei o que esperar do futuro mas quero descobrir.
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