The Heir is the first book in the Verindon Trilogy
Blurb: Sarah hates the prestigious high school she attends. Most of the other students ignore her. School is only made tolerable by the presence of Dan Bradfield, the boy she adores. Dan is the heir to his father's multinational computer company, but he is dating Sarah's best friend, Jillian. When tragedy strikes, Dan is the one who is there for Sarah, but she can't shake the feeling there is something strange about him. Is he protecting her from something? Is there something going on that she doesn't know about? And did she really see a monster in the bushes? Sarah is desperate to uncover the truth, but it could take her to another galaxy, and change everything she believes about who she is. Will it bring Dan and Sarah closer together or tear them apart? |
At first it felt like a normal high school drama to me because the fantasy / sci-fi elements took a while to revel themselves. I say 'fantasy / sci-fi' for there are definitely elements I'd associate with an urban fantasy in there as well as the sci-fi which comes later in the novel.
Protagonist Sarah has a rather large crush on her best friend Jillian's boyfriend which I thought rather naughty of her. But as it went along, I didn't see any attachment at all between Jillian and Dan and he totally encourages Sarah's infatuation. He does come across as rather controlling and I felt she was developing Stockholm Syndrome at one point, developing such a strong connection when he was limiting her freedom. Don't worry though, there is a reason for his behaviour which is gradually revealed through the story.
With many twists and surprises, I was quickly thrust into what became a smashing sci-fi with strong romance and mystery undertones.
I don't want to give away spoilers but will say that the book really grew on me and when I finished, I contacted the author immediately to arrange delivery of the next 2 books. I was delighted when they came that very next day.
Thank you, Australia Post. I don't think I would have lasted the weekend without knowing what comes next. Do yourself a favour and read this series.
The Crown is the second book in the Veridon Series Blurb: Five months after arriving on Verindon, Sarah’s coronation is rapidly approaching. An unknown enemy seems determined to kill her before she can be crowned. With assassins all around her, Keridan and his squad of agents hide her to keep her safe. But will the danger follow her? The Crown is the second book in the Verindon trilogy. |
I drank this book down like I was dying of thirst. Super!
Warning: possible spoilers. Read book 1 first.
The Crown introduces us to the exciting world of Veridon where 2 races coexist peacefully. I did find it intriguing that the apparently weaker race is the one in control and wondered how that came to pass. You'll have to wait for book 3 to understand this further.
Sarah and Dan have a strong bond now but she discovers that their relationship is forbidden as they are different races and she must choose a consort among 20 suitors, none of whom she likes. She is determined to change this law but meets with strong resistance from antagonistic chief of the guard who seems to think he is above the rule of the Overlord. Hmm...who is really in charge here then?
I enjoyed this book more than the first and think I read it in one day. They are rather short novel but still feel like a complete story. My only worry was the cliff-hanger ending, so make sure you have book 3 ready to go straight away.
Plenty of romance, sci-fi and courtly intrigue. The first book felt rather light on the sci-fi but it is much more evident here. Only downside for me is I would have liked more descriptions of the characters as after reading 3 books, I couldn't even tell you what Sarah looks like.
The Reign is the third book in the Verindon Trilogy. Blurb: As Sarah tries to live with the knowledge that she and Keridan can never be together, she accepts a pledge of allegiance from the graduating class of agents. But this allegiance will be tested when an unexpected visitor arrives on Verindon; a visitor with a shocking secret. How will this affect Sarah's reign? |
I highly recommend this series.
Warning: possible spoilers. Read books 1 and 2 first.
Thank goodness I bought books 2 and 3 together as I couldn't wait to read this one and find out the conclusion.
The Reign has plenty of action, adventure and intrigue interwoven with romance and sci-fi galore.
I like how there are a couple of characters that aren't obviously good or bad as it enhances the storyline. I do agree with Susan R. Gerritsen's review that I would have liked more information about the character's emotions and descriptions and not everything was fully explained. There could possibly be more books to come as while this overall plot arc is nicely wrapped up, the characters and world are so compelling, I'd happily read more.
I did feel that a character reminded me of Snape near the end which I consider a compliment. I wasn't sure of their motivation and allegiance until the end stage.
I found the book very satisfying and will keep an eye out for more from Lynne Stringer. Bravo!
Here are sponsored links to the series.
I hope you enjoy reading them too.
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