The Heart of Betrayal (The Remnant Chronicles #2)

by Mary E. Pearson (Goodreads Author)

Intrigue abounds in this hotly anticipated sequel to The Kiss of Deception!

Held captive in the barbarian kingdom of Venda, Lia and Rafe have little chance of escape. Desperate to save her life, Lia's erstwhile assassin, Kaden, has told the Vendan Komizar that she has the gift, and the Komizar's interest in Lia is greater than anyone could have foreseen.

Meanwhile, nothing is straightforward: there's Rafe, who lied to Lia, but has sacrificed his freedom to protect her; Kaden, who meant to assassinate her but has now saved her life; and the Vendans, whom Lia always believed to be barbarians. Now that she lives amongst them, however, she realizes that may be far from the truth. Wrestling with her upbringing, her gift, and her sense of self, Lia must make powerful choices that will affect her country... and her own destiny.
My Review: 8/10

I have little to say about this book that I waited for with bated breath. I can't remember the last time I anticipated a book so much. Maybe Harry Potter. No, it's not in the same league, but just... feelings.

Anyway, though it's not fair to compare Heart of Betrayal to the first book, that's what's about to happen:

The first book built up a lot of mystery and interweaving side stories. Yet I believe it was still a good stand alone novel. This book would not stand strong on its own; it's the classic in-between book in a trilogy. It relies heavily on established relationships and plot layed out in the first book, and works to set up the third book. I think it covers a much smaller time line, so there is little development or growth, and understandbly, Lia does not travel and is a prisoner, so there are few new characters, adventures, or mysteries uncovered.

However, to give due credit, the characters remained consistent. *mild spoilers* This has not ever been a love triangle, though one character's unrequited love seems to make some people disagree, and I appreciate that Ms. Pearson kept Lia solid in her feelings. I love that she was never confused or waivering. I thought some of the risks she took, fueled by her emotions, were too reckless and not worth it, but I wouldn't say it was unbelievable; I remember being stupid in love myself.

I can't wait to see how Lia's story is resolved and to have all the missing pieces of the puzzle finally come together to reveal the history and truth of this world.