Review of True Teryn

Post by **Christabel Uzoamaka** » 27 Jan 2022, 08:31

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "True Teryn" by S.G. Blaise.]

4 out of 4 stars

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In True Teryn, the second installment to the series, we continue to follow Lilla’s adventures. The Archgod of Chaos and Destruction (DLD) has been wreaking havoc, and an Era War to restore balance is fast approaching. But first, Lilla, the last Lumenian and Sybil to the Archgoddess, has an important task to complete: she must recruit the Teryn army. Claiming a Teryn prince, Callum, as her spouse through Bride’s Choice should make it easy for her to achieve her mission. But since she is not a Teryn, the Teryn king will not respect her. To prove herself, she agrees to go on the impossible task of capturing the Heart Amulet for Goddess Laoise, the Teryn goddess. While in the spirit realm, she will fight to keep her friends alive and make unlikely allies if she hopes to survive against a powerful foe.

It seems that S. G. Blaise drew inspiration from notable fantasy works written before hers. But her storyline’s execution and her heroine are excitingly unique; this series has the makings of an iconic fantasy series. Lilla is an empathic heroine with a mind of her own, insecurities, a strong personality, and wastes no time to prove herself and put her life on the line for those she loves. It was gratifying to root for her. Even though it is Lilla who narrates the story, we can see how much her friends love and support her without being told. That tight-knit bond easily finds its way through the pages and into readers’ hearts.

Without reading the first book, The Last Lumenian, it can be tasking to settle into True Teryn. There were strange terms, so it was a relief to see a glossary that defined some new words. As this story picked up, I found beautifully executed action scenes. The author arranged a satisfying buildup of getting to know Lilla, her group of friends, and her situation as a Sybil in a strange land. A climax and its resolution quickly followed. The group’s experience on green Teryn was nothing I expected. Readers will be surprised to learn what it means to be a true Teryn. The unpredictability made the story even more splendid.

As a personal opinion, the omniscient narration may have suited this book and the world-building better. Initially, Lilla’s excessive use of adjectives was off-putting, and I wondered how other characters would stand out. Eventually, I could see each character in a distinct light. I felt Rhona’s sass, Ivy’s hilarity, Glenna’s occasional rage, Teague’s gluttony, and Ragnald’s wisdom. I could relate to other characters with ease. The author’s skill in creating such freshly distinct characters is commendable.

Although I had a problem with the author’s initial excessive and obvious use of adjectives, the storyline evened out, and the Seven Galaxies came into focus. I have no other complaints, so a rating of 4 out of 4 is fair. One can read this book as a standalone, but the reading experience will be much better if you read The Last Lumenian first. If you are looking for a new fantasy heroine to love, pick this book! There are strange creatures, magic, a little technology, and a whole new world in this series. While there are instances of couples, including Callum and Lilla, kissing, this book is suitable for teenagers and young adults who like fantasy.

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True Teryn
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Amy Luman · Post by **Amy Luman** » 29 Jan 2022, 12:32

Since this is 2nd in a series, I won’t be reading it until after I read The Last Lumenian. I do like, though, that Lilla is such a strong woman. Thanks for the review!

Sharon Christanto · Post by **Sharon Christanto** » 30 Jan 2022, 11:05

Wow, seems like an exciting book! I should read the Last Lumenian first, then go on with this book. Thank you for the review!

Aisha Yakub · Post by **Aisha Yakub** » 31 Jan 2022, 03:34

If this isn't a standalone novel, I'll probably get lost. Seems like a great book, but I have to read the first installment first. Great review.

Afrochild7 · Post by **Afrochild7** » 15 Feb 2022, 12:27

This review is very well articulated. Reading about deities and the mysteries of the gods excites me, add romance to the mix and I'm done for. This is an idea that can never go trite. again, nice review

NetMassimo · Post by **NetMassimo** » 04 Mar 2022, 16:32

The first book seemed to have an interesting mix of fantasy and science fiction elements. I see that this sequel carries on the same road, which increases my interest. I'll look into this series. Thank you for your great review!

Sou Hi · Post by **Sou Hi** » 10 Jul 2022, 09:46

Thanks for your review. I guess I will need the first book of this series before starting on this volume.

Corrie-Lynn Penny · Post by **Corrie-Lynn Penny** » 10 Jul 2022, 10:11

Wow! The wonderfully written review has me hooked! I shall be adding this to my ever-growing list of books to read after reading the first one. I look forward to learning more about Lilla's adventure.

Jatto Onimisi · Post by **Jatto Onimisi** » 10 Jul 2022, 10:12

This is such a detailed review of a Fantasy action novel. I admire the bond shared between Lilian and her friends. It's interesting to see they also got distinct characteristics. The narration makes me interested in reading the whole series, but i'd first have to start with The Last Lumenian. Hopefully, I'll take a look soon. It's such an impressively plotted story.

amina mohamed 2 · Post by **amina mohamed 2** » 10 Jul 2022, 10:13

This screams like a good book.I like the fantacy part alot and thanks for the review,it’s very well articulated.

Amberly Ayra · Post by **Amberly Ayra** » 10 Jul 2022, 10:19

Sometimes it is difficult to talk about a book already advanced in a series. But I liked that the review takes this into account by mentioning the glossary. I think this review is very clear, it makes the book look very interesting. Also, as a woman, I like female heroes. Thank you very much for sharing this review with us.
Regards.

OTrain Disene · Post by **OTrain Disene** » 10 Jul 2022, 10:22

Action scenes that were well educated seem to be the best last about this book. Friends that support each other a must, and the author narrating this story through the first person point of view makes sure that we put everything together ourselves, without letting out too much and spoiling the fun.

Kanika Tandon · Post by **Kanika Tandon** » 10 Jul 2022, 10:23

I understand that it is a standalone but my personal experience says that it's better to read the book 1 in the series before you get to book 2. I dont find the storyline up to my liking either so I will be giving it a pass. congrats on BOTD.

Jorge Leon Salazar · Post by **Jorge Leon Salazar** » 10 Jul 2022, 10:33

This book is the second installment in this fantasy series. Lilla stands out as an empathetic heroine with a strong personality. In addition, there is a range of characters that shine with their own light. It sounds like a good option for teenagers and young adults who like fantasy.

Petronila O · Post by **Petronila O** » 10 Jul 2022, 10:34

Sci-fi fantasy series in her first mission as the new Sybil lilla must recover the biggest and most dangerous army in the seventh galaxy however the empire won't comply with the command of the arch goddess of the enteral light or order until lilla earns the blessings of the guardians goddess nice book to read