With a storm on the horizon, who will stand against the darkness?Conor and Aine have barely escaped Seare with their lives. Conor knows he must return to find the harp that could end the Red Druid’s reign of terror, but he must first see Aine safely to her family home on the isle of Amanta. When an unnatural storm tears them apart, they find themselves in even more danger than that which they … that which they fled.
Because magic is not the only thing to fear in Aine’s homeland, where the Sofarende invaders harry the coasts and shifting clan alliances make it impossible to know who to trust. Conor and Aine must cling to the whispers of Comdiu’s plans for them and their enduring love for one another, even when the future looks darkest.
But with betrayal at every turn, will they give into fear? Or will they learn to depend on Comdiu completely … before all hope is lost?
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This is the second book in the Song of Seare series. I have not read the first one at all but decided to push through and read it anyhow. I did add the first book to my TBR list to read at a later time. I do recommend you read the first one as it will introduce you to the culture and religion of the realm you are reading about. Plus you won’t be as lost as I was in the beginning of the story. I was so intrigued by everything thought that it was easy to get submerged into this story and be captured by it!
In this story you continue the story with some amazing characters. Granted for me it was the first time I was meeting them and I thought they were superb. I sadly don’t know how much growth they have gone through since I just met them but I loved seeing the development of their gifts throughout the story. There is not shadow of doubt on who is good and evil in this book which I really appreciated it. There is plenty of action to keep you engaged.
A fantasy book has to grab me from the beginning for me to even read it. That’s why books like Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings and Narnia stand out for me. I really enjoyed the magical world that the respective authors have created in these books. Carla has done the same with this book and series. She has created an amazing magical world. I am always in awe at the authors that can do this. I mean the imagination that they have is utterly amazing and I can appreciate that. There is talk of dark magic in this book and I know there are some that immediately that is a turn off. If that’s not your thing then I completely understand but don’t bash it. To me it was very clear that the Gospel of Jesus is written throughout and conveyed in this story. I definitely saw great lessons in this story that demonstrated God’s faithfulness.
Overall I thought the author did an amazing job at creating this magical world. I can’t wait to read the first one and the last one to see how it all began and how it all ends. If you enjoy fantasy books, especially Christian Fantasy then I would put this at the top of your list!
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This is book two of a trilogy. I have to say that I have been enjoying this series even though this genre isn’t my favorite. It might have something to do with the characters names though. We have a little girl named Ainne and a boy named Liam in our little Irish household so I’m partial to the names!
I like the parallel to God and how this book does have a bit of The Lord of the Rings and Narnia flare to it though definitely written for a slightly older audience as you do have the two main characters being married.
For this book and series I would rate them as clean Christian fantasy fiction. The characters are somewhat relatable even though they have mystical powers etc. I like the parallels of the good vs the evil of the magic world as that can even be part of our everyday life now as there are still realms of dark magic.
Overall I think this is a great young adult into adult fiction book and I highly recommend you read the series in order to get the most from the books.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Picking up shortly after the end of the previous book, Conor and Aine are separated by a storm that sends them on separate journeys where they are challenged and tested by temptations. I loved how this book features one of my favorite characters Eoghan even more prominently as he does what he can to serve the brotherhood and aid Conor and Aine. I loved how his humbleness shines through, as his future becomes more uncertain.
I would definitely read this series in order as much of this story relies on past events and relationships formed in the previous book. The stakes raise as war becomes imminent, and they learn more about their God-given gifts. The lore of the story becomes clearer, though I still struggled with pronunciations despite a handy guide, and I liked the twists along the way.
Overall, a great installment to the series and did a good job adding to the main storyline, with character growth and more insight into the setting. Plenty of action, more magic, and constantly raising stakes, and excellent choice for fans of Christian fantasy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
In the depths of magic and characters who try to survive in this world the author has made, lays truth and understanding in the Spiritual World. The story is fast paced and danger seems to be everywhere. A fatal shipwreck pulls two people in love apart. I liked that we get to follow Conor and Anie as they travel through their own journey to reunite.
Anie is rescued from certain death but I wasn’t sure if she was better off with these men. They are dangerous and have no problem taking revenge on someone. I gasped when one of them is painfully murdered before Aine’s eyes. She must be thinking what is to become of her after witnessing a horrible scene. I couldn’t wait to follow her as she tries to figure out who to trust. The shock of finding out something very important about her heritage places her in more danger along with her ability to heal. I liked that the author shared a glimpse of what revenge can do to someone who only wants peace when harm comes their way.
Conor is desperate to find Aine but first he needs to escape from his captures. You witness how much he cares for Aine as he confesses that he would kill for her or die for her. That kind of love is unconditional and Conor will go through much pain and hard decisions as he searches for her. He is a warrior that will not give up so I knew we were in for an adventure that would take us to the brink of danger and temptation.
The story is filled with twists as the characters are guided by deceit, pride and prophecy that will change the course for many. I enjoyed reading the undertones of faith in the book and how creative the author is. The ending is good and I can’t wait til the next book comes out.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
The second book in The Song of Seare series, Beneath the Foresaken City contniues the story of Conor and Aine. This story of faith, love, and willingness to pursue the path they have been set upon caught my attention. This book obviously is a Christian allegory with struggles of faith. The author created relatable characters that you desire to see succeed and find the true path they need to follow.
With the story taking place during the Dark Ages, magic and mystery play a major role in the plot. The suspense in this book will keep you reading on the edge of your seat, unable to put the book down. Filled with action, danger, and adventure, this book lived up to my expectations from the first book. I anticipate reading the third and final book in the series to find out how the series concludes.
So if you enjoy reading Christian fantasy check out this book and this series for yourself. I definitely recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but it in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Conor and Aine pick up right where we left them at the end of Oath of the Brotherhood. I was immediately sucked in and held tightly until the end. I was so happy that they were reunited and starting a new life together. And then…The pace picks up immediately and there is no putting the book down until you get some answers. Conor and Aine find themselves on different paths, equally challenging and critical to them overcoming the darkness that threatens to separate them forever. Their faith in Camdiu has so many poignant parallels to Gospel. I loved the character growth and development. There were some surprising twists and turns that have me counting the days for the third book. Carla has created a fantasy world that I just did not want to leave. I thought of the characters and the possibilities long after I put the book away. This is the type of book to grab your attention, challenge you, encourage you and utterly delight your reading desires. I cannot recommend this one highly enough.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
Award-winning author Carla Laureano’s second novel in her medieval Celtic-inspired epic fantasy series is filled with adventure, romance, magic, faith, and superstition.
In Beneath the Forsaken City, Conor is separated from his bride, Aine, during a violent storm while they are sailing towards Aine’s homeland. They don’t know if the other one even survived. Now they face danger on their own, especially not knowing who to trust as they try to follow Comdiu’s leading. Will they be reunited? Will they play their role in overcoming darkness?
Laureano weaves in Celtic elements (ancient history, mythology, druids, etc.) in the Sword of Seare trilogy. Originally published in 2015 under C. E. Laureano, this faith-based series is back in print with a new publisher and some additional material. The author’s note about her research is particularly interesting.
Known for her inspirational contemporary romances, Laureano creates a fantasy world that will delight epic fantasy and Christian fiction readers because it includes strong main characters, as well as a clear battle between good and evil. Her characters face betrayal, faithfulness, death, and love as they continue on their journey. The books should be read in order, as they build on one another. The second book is filled with more emotion, more faith journeys, more action, testing of their devotion to one another, and more hope for the future, despite the overwhelming odds against them.
From the first page, readers encounter plot twists, relatable characters, and a story that will keep them eagerly reading until the book’s conclusion. They will eagerly await the next book, The Sword and the Song, coming in January 2022.
Recommended for Laureano’s fans, as well as fans of epic fantasy.
Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.
I am really loving this series! I love the characters of Conor and Aine, especially how their characters are growing and how each one continues to discover what their gifts are and how to use them properly. The battle and struggle between good and evil is so realistic and relevant showing that we all have gifts and can choose whether to use those gifts for good or for evil, for selfish gain or for greater good. Since this book is #2 in the series you should definitely read the first book before reading this one, otherwise you won’t grasp the full scope of what’s going on. This book is clean, though it does have some fight scenes but nothing gory is told. I think anyone who enjoys a good fantasy book would enjoy this book.
“Leadership is a privilege and a responsibility, not a right. Those who are trusted with much are expected to do much.”
Wow. And I had thought I loved the first book in the series. I love this one more! This second book has more excitement, adventure, suspense, action, magic, betrayal, and stark, raw human emotions, along with deeper faith and a more evident hand of the One who calls these incredible characters to Himself. This is a series that has to be read in order because the author creates a marvelous world in her first book that is the basis of all that happens in this one. If you enjoy Christian fantasy, you will absolutely love this book and series. If you’ve never read Christian fantasy, then you should totally try out this series; it will captivate you completely.
I loved that Eoghan, Liam, and Riordan have bigger roles and voices in this book. Oh, man – Eoghan is such a lovable character with his unusual gift of communicating directly with Comdiu (God) , his steadfast loyalty and faithfulness, and his maturity. Conor and Aine share separated for most of the book but their gifts grow and expand. The testing of their love and devotion, not knowing if the other is dead or alive, is painful and Conor’s insecurity is so real and heart-breaking. The first book concentrated mostly on Conor’s warrior training and status but this book created a more deeply layered Conor with his scholarly knowledge, intelligence, and musical gifts that bring out God’s power. Aine becomes more perceptive and her increasing gifts are almost astounding. There are plenty of surprising twists and turns in the plot and the group of secondary characters, though quite a few in number, is excellent. As their war against the evil forces rages on, the prophecy regarding ‘sword and song’ bringing peace for a time and the coming of the High King is still a mystery. I can’t wait for the third book!
I received the book from the author and Enclave Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.
Book two in the Song of Seare series picks up right where book one left off. It has a lot of action, including one epic battle scene that is creepy enough to send tingles down your spine. It’s easy to be invested in the lives of the characters and to hope all will turn out well for them. This is definitely a Christian allegory, and readers will see the characters struggling with their faith, and or lack of it. These struggles provide for deeper character growth for Conor, Aine, and Eoghan. What’s more, their struggles are with things we all find challenging at times. That’s really a great element to a book – the ability to relate to the characters’ struggles. All in all, I think this is a superb book with a good message. It’s a cliff-hanger, so know going in you won’t have a resolution until the final book.
I read the 1st book in The Song of Seare trilogy and loved it, even though I didn’t think I’d like Christian fantasy. I was very pleasantly surprised because I discovered that I very much enjoyed the book.
Now, I’ve read the 2nd book in the series, Beneath the Forsaken City. This one was amazingly good! It truly deserves more than the 5 stars I’m allowed to give it. This book takes up where the first left off and hits the ground running and never lets up. Even to the last sentence.
Beneath the Forsaken City is set in the Dark Ages, in a time of myth, magic and sorcery. There are some, however, who believe in the true god, Comdiu and His Son, Balus. This book takes the reader on a journey both frightening and thrilling at the same time.
Conor and Aine have just barely escaped Seare before being killed. Married by the captain of the vessel in which they leave, they hope for a new life that is happy, but fear the worst because of the war back in their homeland. Soon, they are parted again cruelly, each left to wonder long months if the other is even alive. Conor knows he must return to Seare at some point to find the harp and hopefully end the reign of terror began by the malicious Red Druid. Aine, too, knows that she must return to find Conor for their future lies in Seare. Both despair of on their own and find themselves in grave danger. The enemy tries to kill their love for one another and their hope in Comdiu. The danger is from both mortal and sorcery avenues. Will Conor and Aine give in to the despair surrounding them or will they trust Comdiu to fulfill His plans for their lives? Even if it means they never see each other again?
Carla Laureano weaves a tale full and rich that draws the reader in from the very first sentences and does not let go, even when the book ends! Because you’re so desperately longing for the third book to see what happens! She has created a land much as Tolkien created Middle Earth. She has also created characters that get down into your heart, characters that leave you thinking about them long after you finish the book. I am finding it hard to pick up another book because I’m still concentrating on the folks in Beneath The Forsaken City. I don’t want to leave them, actually. The authors draws the reader into the story so well that I felt as if I were there, seeing the destruction, feeling the dismay and heartache. This was a mighty fine book and I hated to see it end. Very well written novel, one that made me think about my own relationship with God and how I react to Him during difficult times.
I guarantee you will not be disappointed with either book. If you do read them, you must start with Oath of the Brotherhood; otherwise the second book will not make sense.
*I thank Enclave Publishing and the author for a copy of this book. I received no compensation and the opinion here is my own.
I enjoyed reading the first book from Carla Laureano’s Song of Seare series, Oath of the Brotherhood. I was excited to have the opportunity to read the second installment, Beneath the Forsaken City. Even though this is part of a series, I believe it can be read as a stand alone. I thought it was a good read that kept my attention most of the time reading it. It was a nice get away to take with Conor and Aine. They are good characters getting to know and I had to find out what would happen next with them.
I am giving Beneath the Forsaken City four stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean fantansy/ science fiction/ magical tales. I look forward to reading the next book from the Song of Seare series, The Sword and the Song, to see what happens next.
I received a digital copy of Beneath the Forsaken City from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.