salema's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
calllmekali_'s review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
discoveringdee's review against another edition
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
5.0
Wow, I am absolutely speechless. This was such a great sequel and set-up book 3 without making me feel empty. I’m in awe really. I don’t even know what to say honestly just wow 🤩
bf9288's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
I enjoyed reading this book! It has so much depth and complexity to uncover. Freya's character surprised me. Brandi handled everything thrown at her and showed great resilience. I do not doubt that she will continue to be a badass goddess. I was thrilled to see Sarah step up and try to understand the events happening around her. I can't wait for her and Brandi to form a powerful alliance. The character growth in this book is amazing. I even think that Sarah will become someone who Noble will fall for. I'm excited for more between Brandi and her father .The book's message to me was about overcoming your circumstances and not giving up on being your best self.
goatsinspace's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.25
"We Are Dying Gods" by C.M. Lockhart continues the captivating journey begun in the first book of the series. It opens with a bang, mid-battle with emotions still raw. In this installment, the realm's new generation of gods faces the daunting task of safeguarding their world against the time beings. Carrying the weight of their predecessors' powers, they must navigate a treacherous landscape and confront an enemy that could lead to their downfall.
Lockhart weaves a tapestry of intrigue and lore in this sequel, delving deeper into the intricate mythology of the world. The narrative expands what we know already, allowing readers to explore a wider realm and witness the characters' struggles and triumphs. The central character, Brandi, shines even brighter as her complexities are further explored. Her relationships, growth, and the choices she makes are at the heart of the story, showcasing themes of forgiveness, empowerment, difficult choices, and losing faith. The blurred lines between friend and foe add even more depth. As a weary Brandi navigates a path of rebellion and challenges the established order, the story delves into the consequences of taking power. The other character arcs are thoughtfully developed, particularly that of Sarah, whose evolution from vulnerability to strength is a compelling highlight even if I want to shake her often. ;)
Lockhart's ability to balance intricate world-building with character-driven storytelling remains impressive. The intricate relationships, particularly among the gods and their allies, continue to captivate, drawing readers in. "We Are Dying Gods" is an engaging and thoughtful continuation of the series. I absolutely can't WAIT to see more.
I received this as an ARC for the lovely author and this is an honest review.
Lockhart weaves a tapestry of intrigue and lore in this sequel, delving deeper into the intricate mythology of the world. The narrative expands what we know already, allowing readers to explore a wider realm and witness the characters' struggles and triumphs. The central character, Brandi, shines even brighter as her complexities are further explored. Her relationships, growth, and the choices she makes are at the heart of the story, showcasing themes of forgiveness, empowerment, difficult choices, and losing faith. The blurred lines between friend and foe add even more depth. As a weary Brandi navigates a path of rebellion and challenges the established order, the story delves into the consequences of taking power. The other character arcs are thoughtfully developed, particularly that of Sarah, whose evolution from vulnerability to strength is a compelling highlight even if I want to shake her often. ;)
Lockhart's ability to balance intricate world-building with character-driven storytelling remains impressive. The intricate relationships, particularly among the gods and their allies, continue to captivate, drawing readers in. "We Are Dying Gods" is an engaging and thoughtful continuation of the series. I absolutely can't WAIT to see more.
I received this as an ARC for the lovely author and this is an honest review.
booktribe's review against another edition
I read the first book in this series, We Are the Origin, last year and really enjoyed it, so I couldn’t wait for the sequel! However, this one just did not work for me. I DNF’d at 44% in.
There were a few things I did enjoy, so we’ll start with those. I always have and always will love the shaders! And I especially loved the baby shader Ronka who was introduced in this novel. So adorable!😍 I loved the chapter headings and highlighted several of them! The writing of those was gorgeous. And I was very intrigued by some *reveals* that happened in this story. (I obviously can’t say what because of spoilers lol) I found those very interesting and I thought they would move the story forward.
But honestly, I was almost halfway done with this book and NOTHING had happened. All they did was sit in the woods and talk… It felt like one long scene. They didn’t change locations, no action had happened since the first few pages, most of the conversations that were had were either unimportant or could’ve been had later in the book after the actual story started, NOTHING was happening. The story did not move forward at all. And I thought once the *reveals* that I mentioned earlier happened, that the story would move along, but nope, they’re still just sitting in the woods talking…
I also did not enjoy how much meaner (and weaker) the characters were in this novel. I understand that the main character, Brandi, is not supposed to be nice, and I enjoyed her not-so-niceness in the first book, but in this one she’s a straight bully. And Sarah, who is another character that I liked in the first book was so much weaker in this one. And don’t get me started on Noble, who is even meaner than Brandi. I just couldn’t stand any of the characters in this book, and that was very disappointing because I enjoyed some of these characters in the last one.
This was just a disappointing sequel for me. I tried to push through so I could continue the series, but I just can’t. Maybe another day when I can prepare myself for the slow pace, I’ll pick this back up so that I can try the next book.
Thank you to the author for this arc. All opinions are my own.
kutsireads's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
It’s been a few weeks since I finished this book and I’m still not sure if I can put my thoughts into a coherent review without too many spoilers. I tried my best over on the ⏰ app but my review ended up just being me talking about how much I loved the book and how the characters made me feel throughout the book which definitely included a few spoilers. Although I think they are mainly spoilers for the first book 🤷🏾♀️ I don’t know if I’ll be able to write a coherent review for this book but I’m going to give it my best shot.
I loved everything about this book. From the expansion on the world building, the revelations and plot twists and the growth of some of the characters.
Brandi remains one of my favorite FMCs ever. She was really put through the ringer in this book and I loved how she reacted to every revelation and situation. She truly is a badass. Sarah also has a special place in my heart even though she drove me crazy for most of this book. Everyone was also talking crazy to and about Sarah and I really needed them to stop. “Not to much on my girl Sarah” She did need to get it together though. Freya shocked the hell out me in this book. When Chelsea says she writes books about black girls who aren’t all that nice she really means it!!
I will continue to be in awe of Chelsea’s mind because this world she created is so fascinating, beautiful and amazing. Also the way she manages to balance this phenomenal world building with a character driven story is incredibly!
10s across the board!! 5/5⭐️
Y’all need to read this series!! It my favorite New Adult fantasy series!!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review
conjuringliteracy's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
medium-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
We Are Dying Gods is a fast track, action packed fantasy novel that leaves you wanting more rage, vengeance and gore. Brandi and the gang’s ascension will be a story you’ll never get tired of. I really enjoyed watching the characters grow beyond their limits and insecurities, developing new relationships, and watching the rose-tinted glasses slide down their noses as they learn more about their worlds and the gods they serve.
tashamoonx's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
It's time for a book review ✨️
𝐖𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐃𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐨𝐝𝐬 | 𝐂. 𝐌. 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐭
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★★
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: 𝗡𝗔 𝗙𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘀𝘆
⇘ 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 ⇙
💚 Before I start, I would like to thank the author for letting me be able to read the 2nd book of this series.
💚 I absolutely am in love with the first book, and this series is definitely my #1 favorite fantasy series. I am OBSESSED with every little thing! From the story to the characters, to the lore of the world. This book picks up right where the 1st book ends, and it charges straight into the story. From start to finish, again.. I was mind blown by the main character. I never thought I would come across a book where I would feel so attached to character, and I feel this way with Brandi. The way she carries herself and handles each situation is with such boldness, I can't help but love her.
💚 If you read the first book, any questions you have will definitely be answered since a lot of the backstory with Freya unfolds. You even learn more about the Queendom .. which, again, the author does amazing with telling the lore of the world she has created with this story.
💚 I absolutely NEED the 3rd book, and I am so excited for you all to read the 2nd book! This is a 5/5 stars (honestly, it breaks my scale, lol). I am still mind blown by how this ended. This second book will not disappoint you!
𝐖𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐃𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐨𝐝𝐬 | 𝐂. 𝐌. 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐭
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★★
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: 𝗡𝗔 𝗙𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘀𝘆
⇘ 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 ⇙
💚 Before I start, I would like to thank the author for letting me be able to read the 2nd book of this series.
💚 I absolutely am in love with the first book, and this series is definitely my #1 favorite fantasy series. I am OBSESSED with every little thing! From the story to the characters, to the lore of the world. This book picks up right where the 1st book ends, and it charges straight into the story. From start to finish, again.. I was mind blown by the main character. I never thought I would come across a book where I would feel so attached to character, and I feel this way with Brandi. The way she carries herself and handles each situation is with such boldness, I can't help but love her.
💚 If you read the first book, any questions you have will definitely be answered since a lot of the backstory with Freya unfolds. You even learn more about the Queendom .. which, again, the author does amazing with telling the lore of the world she has created with this story.
💚 I absolutely NEED the 3rd book, and I am so excited for you all to read the 2nd book! This is a 5/5 stars (honestly, it breaks my scale, lol). I am still mind blown by how this ended. This second book will not disappoint you!
bookishpixie's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I have so many thoughts about this book and they are all positive. First off, C.M. Lockhart wrote her butt off in this book. The representation I felt in the characters, mainly Brandi, was something I haven't felt since I read Minion by L.A. Banks as a teenager (I'm in my 30s now). I loved the world building, character development, plot twists and magic use. My questions from book one were answered so I am very pleased. 5/5
The concept of forgiveness was a theme i really enjoyed throughout the book because of how the author chose to have the main character handle it. I was not disappointed. Also, respectability politics was addressed and how sometimes a more direct/firm approach is needed.
The pacing of the book didn't bother me. I felt like the author had the characters explain the timeline of everything in the first few chapters so I felt comfortable where with the story was taking me. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the other realms we got to visit and how the realms correlated with Brandi.
Brandi really is a character that I can read about all day. The relationship between Freya and Brandi had me wanting to call my therapist due to my own mommy issues that I'm still trying to work out. This book was very healing in a way that I did not expect.
Now, controversial hot take: I don't hate Sara! I feel like her character is necessary to the storyline. Her character is very realistic and realistically this kind of personality annoys the crap out of me. The fact that Sara can irk my nerves is because she reminds me of people i have had to deal with. Her annoying nature is just a testiment to how well C.M. Lockhart wrote her.
On to my favorite,"Tiki is Tiki." That shader is my favorite character next to Brandi. I was so happy to have more of them in this book.
If you love fantasy and you tend to enjoy more of an antihero vibe from a female lead this is the book for you series for you.
Check Trigger Warnings
The concept of forgiveness was a theme i really enjoyed throughout the book because of how the author chose to have the main character handle it. I was not disappointed. Also, respectability politics was addressed and how sometimes a more direct/firm approach is needed.
The pacing of the book didn't bother me. I felt like the author had the characters explain the timeline of everything in the first few chapters so I felt comfortable where with the story was taking me. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the other realms we got to visit and how the realms correlated with Brandi.
Brandi really is a character that I can read about all day. The relationship between Freya and Brandi had me wanting to call my therapist due to my own mommy issues that I'm still trying to work out. This book was very healing in a way that I did not expect.
Now, controversial hot take: I don't hate Sara! I feel like her character is necessary to the storyline. Her character is very realistic and realistically this kind of personality annoys the crap out of me. The fact that Sara can irk my nerves is because she reminds me of people i have had to deal with. Her annoying nature is just a testiment to how well C.M. Lockhart wrote her.
On to my favorite,"Tiki is Tiki." That shader is my favorite character next to Brandi. I was so happy to have more of them in this book.
If you love fantasy and you tend to enjoy more of an antihero vibe from a female lead this is the book for you series for you.
Check Trigger Warnings
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Death, War, and Death of parent
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