Title: The Unleashed
Author: Bentz Deyo
Type: Fiction
Genre: YA, Urban Fantasy
Publisher: Third Floor Publishing, LLC
Date published: January 13, 2017
Format: Paperback
Page Count:
Source: Author
A physical copy of the book was kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Summary: Leam Holt has done the unthinkable. He’s saved Harbing from utter destruction by consuming the toxin that was intended for the entire town and he’s rescued Eloa’s father from a prison cell under Darkness Headquarters.
But at what cost? Stricken by the poison and unable to remember who he is or access his Light side, Leam is captured by the evil Gideon and brought in for interrogation and training. Surrounded by Darkness, Leam revels in his undiluted Dark power and connects with other violent and corrupt kids, especially the bold and gorgeous Rylan. Still, Leam tries to piece together memories about his past, including those of Eloa, who he discovers is in grave danger.
While Sebastian and the forces of Light work to free Leam from the grasp of the poison and Gideon, the world is thrown into turmoil from exposure to the toxin. The battle for control over the prospect, the person who will lead the world into complete Darkness or Light, is heating up, and Leam’s role in the war grows murkier.
MY REVIEW
While normally I would like the second book in a series less than I liked the first one, The Unleashed was an exception! I, in fact, liked it more than the first book! This is not to say that the first book was not good, but rather that some of the things which had been set up in book 1, were developed further, or completed in book 2. IT was very satisfying.
Another thing which I wanted to note was that this book clicked better with me in an emotional sense as well. There were a few portions where I was quite on the edge due to events taking place, or holding the book out in front of me so as to avoid damaging the pages with tears. The writing was more engaging as well, and the pacing was steady and with more action. And the plot was also unpredictable (which those of you who have read my past reviews will know that I always appreciate), as well as complex and entertaining.
Now, I am in no way saying that you should all skip book 1 in order to get to book 2, because the second book will not make sense without what The Undelighened has set up for us (regarding the world, the magic system, the characters, etc.) And again, I did enjoy the first book a lot too. I just happened to enjoy this one a little more.
Another positive thing which I wanted to point out, was that I noted a lot of character development taking place, and that character interactions and relationships were just a pleasure to read about. Dialogue was also written effectively, and used adequately to help in setting the mood or tone for particular scenes.
Overall I recommend this book (and this series, in fact) to those who like to read urban fantasy, enjoy a unique magic system, like reading about the battle between Dark and Light, and like plots which keep them engaged and intrigued throughout!
BONUS
I’m sorry but I just LOVE this moving image of The Unleashed! So epic.
FAN PLAYLIST
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Bentz Deyois the author of The Undelighterned as well as its sequel, The Unleashed (January 13, 2017). You can visit him at www.bentzdeyo.com and his Goodreads page. You can also visit and chat with him on Facebook (www.facebook.com/bentzdeyo), on Instagram (@bentzdeyo), or Twitter (@bentzdeyo)!
PURCHASE LINKS
GIVEAWAY
An awesome giveaway bundle from Bentz Deyo (U.S. only)! Included in the bundle are signed paperbacks of The Undelightened AND The Unleashed! You will also win Eloa’s starfish necklace (you’ll have to read the books to know what that’s about 😉 ), some awesome pencils, a magical orb, and an Essie nail polish set of the colours Essie Wicked & Ballet Slippers! Push the yellow button (you’ll have to read the books to know what that’s about too, hehe) below to get re-directed to the Rafflecopter giveaway, and good luck!!!
Great review! I won the first book in a giveaway! So hopefully I’ll get around to reading it soon!
Thanks so much!!! And I hope you get to it soon as well 🙂 it was very different from anything I’ve read before. And I’m quite invested in the series now ;D
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