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The Quatrefoil Chronicles #2
Of Tainted Heart
ALL’S FAIR IN LOVE . . . AND MAGIC.
SLATE
Somehow, we survived.
It was supposed to be over. No more curses. No more magic. Just a calm, little life in Brume.
For the first time ever, I’m ready for calm. So. Damn. Ready.
Just so happens that the girl I love doesn’t like to leave things unfinished.
Fine. So our little crew will assemble the Quatrefoil and bring magic back to the world. We’ve already faced death.
This can’t be worse.
Or can it?
CADENCE
I could have let things be. Maybe I should have let things be.
My crew is alive. Slate is by my side. And life is returning to normal.
Except the university is a giant pile of rubble. Papa is still stuck in a wheelchair. And a girl is dead.
If magic can change all that, I want to try one last time to bring it back.
Hopefully, I won’t regret it.
*Warning: profuse cursing (and not just the magical kind).
SLATE
Somehow, we survived.
It was supposed to be over. No more curses. No more magic. Just a calm, little life in Brume.
For the first time ever, I’m ready for calm. So. Damn. Ready.
Just so happens that the girl I love doesn’t like to leave things unfinished.
Fine. So our little crew will assemble the Quatrefoil and bring magic back to the world. We’ve already faced death.
This can’t be worse.
Or can it?
CADENCE
I could have let things be. Maybe I should have let things be.
My crew is alive. Slate is by my side. And life is returning to normal.
Except the university is a giant pile of rubble. Papa is still stuck in a wheelchair. And a girl is dead.
If magic can change all that, I want to try one last time to bring it back.
Hopefully, I won’t regret it.
*Warning: profuse cursing (and not just the magical kind).
430 pages, Paperback
First published July 29, 2021
About the author
Olivia Wildenstein
43 books4,409 followersOlivia is a USA Today best-selling author of romantasy. When she’s not swooning over her characters’ steamy escapades, or plotting their demise, you can find her sipping wine and crafting her next twisted, romantic masterpiece, all while trying to convince her children and leading man that she loves them more than her laptop.
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WEBSITE: http://oliviawildenstein.com
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TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@owildwrites
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TWITTER: https://twitter.com/OWildWrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
June 13, 2021
We’re done! What a story you’re in for.
To answer a few questions:
1/ Is this the last book in the series?
Yes. The QC was never intended to be more than a 2-book series, so Katie and I will be saying goodbye to the crew.
2/ Is it a real love triangle?
Not really, but get ready for a rocky road to a HEA, because what would be the fun in making it too easy for Slate and Cadence?
3/ Will Spike make a cameo in this book?
Slate wouldn’t be Slate without his prized and precious Eve’s Needle.
To answer a few questions:
1/ Is this the last book in the series?
Yes. The QC was never intended to be more than a 2-book series, so Katie and I will be saying goodbye to the crew.
2/ Is it a real love triangle?
Not really, but get ready for a rocky road to a HEA, because what would be the fun in making it too easy for Slate and Cadence?
3/ Will Spike make a cameo in this book?
Slate wouldn’t be Slate without his prized and precious Eve’s Needle.
July 14, 2021
I loved Of Tainted Heart even more than book 1! Again, I’m impressed with what these two wonderful authors have done with this story and also how well their writing blends together! There were so many emotional moments and twists! Cadence and Slate are so incredibly perfect together! Truly magical, romantic, and breathtaking!
July 29, 2021
I thank the authors for giving me an opportunity to read and review this amazing book/series.
Of Tainted Heart is the second book in the Quatrefoil Chronicles.
Cadence and Slate along with Adrien, Gaelle, Alma and Bastian continue to finish the quests to bring magic back to Brume. But this time, it’s Cadence who wears the Bloodstone ring.
Cadence’s need to set things right forced her to put the Bloodstone ring on. She wants to finish the trials and win this time and bring magic back once and for all. Also successfully completing the trials will undo all the wrongs that happened before or will happen in this fight.
Slate did not expect that Cadence would so recklessly put the ring on that almost killed him. But he understands her need to win the trials, so he would be there for her, fight with her and fight for her if he has to.
This time there’s more, everyone thought that right after they found Cadence’s leaf it would be over, magic would finally come back and everything would go back to the way it was before, but that was not how it played out. Now they have five more tasks to complete and every single task has a time limit. If the task is not completed within the given time then the consequences for that are pretty grave; not to mention all the tasks are difficult and will take you to different places and alternate times and dimensions; which are so perfect you wouldn’t want to leave.
Of Tainted Heart is a book filled with intrigue and holds-your-hand-and-takes-you-on-a-heart-pumping-journey thrill and isn’t that exactly what we want in a book? I was instantly pulled into the book. One second we are enjoying steamy soup in cauldrons and the next we are fighting a downpour of Spiders of all shapes and sizes. I literally jumped out of my skin because of that scene. However, that is not the only thing that will have you pacing about. The book is really fast paced, there is no breathing time. Plot twists appear in the blink of an eye and either they leave you shocked or they leave you really creeped out. This book is a mix of fantasy, paranormal, adventure, mystery, horror and a bit of romance that just feels perfect. It is packed people.
Cadence and Slate are absolutely perfect. They are made for each other. Even if they are separated, some way or the other they always find a way back to each other.
For a small part in the book Adrien and Cadence's ship sailed for a bit, which I absolutely didn’t like. But not to worry a massive Slate shaped wave came and demolished that ship and floated away with Cadence in it’s arms. I loved how Slate and Cadence grew together. They grew stronger together, they fought side by side and never left the other alone even if they wanted to be alone.
The last 20 chapters or so were dizzying; huge yay for short chapters, I love short chapters they just instantly make you want to read more. There were a few secrets that were uncovered, trusts were broken, hearts were shattered and of course people died. However there are some good parts too- like Slate who was an orphan his whole life. Now has a family, not just with his parents but with the people he met and bonded with and of course fell in love with.
The ending was so satisfying, I loved every bit of it. The authors have written the book so beautifully; it is so gripping and tantalizing. The winter theme was just the cherry on top. Oh and because of this book I learned how to swear in french so that is just amazing. This series is amazing.
Of Tainted Heart is the second book in the Quatrefoil Chronicles.
Cadence and Slate along with Adrien, Gaelle, Alma and Bastian continue to finish the quests to bring magic back to Brume. But this time, it’s Cadence who wears the Bloodstone ring.
Cadence’s need to set things right forced her to put the Bloodstone ring on. She wants to finish the trials and win this time and bring magic back once and for all. Also successfully completing the trials will undo all the wrongs that happened before or will happen in this fight.
Slate did not expect that Cadence would so recklessly put the ring on that almost killed him. But he understands her need to win the trials, so he would be there for her, fight with her and fight for her if he has to.
This time there’s more, everyone thought that right after they found Cadence’s leaf it would be over, magic would finally come back and everything would go back to the way it was before, but that was not how it played out. Now they have five more tasks to complete and every single task has a time limit. If the task is not completed within the given time then the consequences for that are pretty grave; not to mention all the tasks are difficult and will take you to different places and alternate times and dimensions; which are so perfect you wouldn’t want to leave.
Of Tainted Heart is a book filled with intrigue and holds-your-hand-and-takes-you-on-a-heart-pumping-journey thrill and isn’t that exactly what we want in a book? I was instantly pulled into the book. One second we are enjoying steamy soup in cauldrons and the next we are fighting a downpour of Spiders of all shapes and sizes. I literally jumped out of my skin because of that scene. However, that is not the only thing that will have you pacing about. The book is really fast paced, there is no breathing time. Plot twists appear in the blink of an eye and either they leave you shocked or they leave you really creeped out. This book is a mix of fantasy, paranormal, adventure, mystery, horror and a bit of romance that just feels perfect. It is packed people.
Cadence and Slate are absolutely perfect. They are made for each other. Even if they are separated, some way or the other they always find a way back to each other.
For a small part in the book Adrien and Cadence's ship sailed for a bit, which I absolutely didn’t like. But not to worry a massive Slate shaped wave came and demolished that ship and floated away with Cadence in it’s arms. I loved how Slate and Cadence grew together. They grew stronger together, they fought side by side and never left the other alone even if they wanted to be alone.
The last 20 chapters or so were dizzying; huge yay for short chapters, I love short chapters they just instantly make you want to read more. There were a few secrets that were uncovered, trusts were broken, hearts were shattered and of course people died. However there are some good parts too- like Slate who was an orphan his whole life. Now has a family, not just with his parents but with the people he met and bonded with and of course fell in love with.
The ending was so satisfying, I loved every bit of it. The authors have written the book so beautifully; it is so gripping and tantalizing. The winter theme was just the cherry on top. Oh and because of this book I learned how to swear in french so that is just amazing. This series is amazing.
July 25, 2021
We're BAAAAAAACK! Wow! Olivia and I hope we brought this duet to an epic conclusion. All I can say is...expect a WILD ride.
April 15, 2023
I almost DNF.
The theme word for this book is “annoying”.
The female main character was obnoxious. The plot had so much potential but this continuation of the plot felt like a repetition of previous books except for an annoying plot driver twist added.
The ending made sense and tied things up neatly which is really good.
I really liked the concept of the series though.
The theme word for this book is “annoying”.
The female main character was obnoxious. The plot had so much potential but this continuation of the plot felt like a repetition of previous books except for an annoying plot driver twist added.
The ending made sense and tied things up neatly which is really good.
I really liked the concept of the series though.
July 23, 2021
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. Fantastic read!! Great ending the only complaint, and I'm trying not to spoil anything but SPIDERS!!! Really! Dear God I was itching the whole time I was reading those chapters! I kept thinking they were all over me!! Definitely never a dull moment when reading one of these authors books!
July 16, 2021
Of Tainted Heart is the second and final instalment to the Quatrefoil series by Katie Hayoz and Olivia Wildenstein. Together they have written a fantastic finale that had me completely absorbed from the first page.
Cadence, Adrian, Gaelle and Slate are the diwallers, from the founding families of Brume and are the only ones who can restore magic. The story begins where it left of, Rainer lied, Slate lives despite his attempts otherwise. Cadence and the others are well and there's a new budding relationship brewing between quiet, shy Bastian and loud, fun-loving Alma.
Their failed attempt at restoring magic means nothing to the others but Cadence is overcome with guilt over her failure. Her beloved father will never walk again, and everything else that went wrong whilst trying to get their four leaves will never be undone. But when she and the other diwallers are given another chance to restore magic they grasp it with both hands! Until the trials they need to pass reveal that failure this time will result in even worse consequences, the loss of further human life.
However, their second attempt is not as easy as they first believe. Olivia and Katy throw twist after twist after twist at our beloved characters. Putting each of them through the worst pain they could ever endure, force them to make the hardest of choices. Slate is once again given the hardest trials of all and my heart ached for the pain he has to endure. Olivia and Katie ripped out my heart with a particular twist concerning our curse loving, bad boy Slate.
Speaking of Slate, he is ever more determined to prove that Cadence's father Rainer de Morel is not who he appears to be. As secrets begin to reveal themselves the truth Slate hunts for turns darker than he could have imagined. But Slate's love for Cadence only hardens his resolve to see things through and show Cadence who her father truly is and reveal his web of lies, secrets and the ultimate betrayal he is guilty off. Slate also finds an unexpected ally in his quest... the Quatrefoil!
The anticipation for this book was fierce and the ladies did not disappoint in the slightest. Pick up the epic conclusion to the Quatrefoil series to find out if they are truly able restore magic? Will the curse be reversed? Will little Emilie return? Will Slate and Cadence get their happily ever after? Will Slate's beloved Eve's Needle survive? With surprises around every corner this is a story you don't want to miss!
Cadence, Adrian, Gaelle and Slate are the diwallers, from the founding families of Brume and are the only ones who can restore magic. The story begins where it left of, Rainer lied, Slate lives despite his attempts otherwise. Cadence and the others are well and there's a new budding relationship brewing between quiet, shy Bastian and loud, fun-loving Alma.
Their failed attempt at restoring magic means nothing to the others but Cadence is overcome with guilt over her failure. Her beloved father will never walk again, and everything else that went wrong whilst trying to get their four leaves will never be undone. But when she and the other diwallers are given another chance to restore magic they grasp it with both hands! Until the trials they need to pass reveal that failure this time will result in even worse consequences, the loss of further human life.
However, their second attempt is not as easy as they first believe. Olivia and Katy throw twist after twist after twist at our beloved characters. Putting each of them through the worst pain they could ever endure, force them to make the hardest of choices. Slate is once again given the hardest trials of all and my heart ached for the pain he has to endure. Olivia and Katie ripped out my heart with a particular twist concerning our curse loving, bad boy Slate.
Speaking of Slate, he is ever more determined to prove that Cadence's father Rainer de Morel is not who he appears to be. As secrets begin to reveal themselves the truth Slate hunts for turns darker than he could have imagined. But Slate's love for Cadence only hardens his resolve to see things through and show Cadence who her father truly is and reveal his web of lies, secrets and the ultimate betrayal he is guilty off. Slate also finds an unexpected ally in his quest... the Quatrefoil!
The anticipation for this book was fierce and the ladies did not disappoint in the slightest. Pick up the epic conclusion to the Quatrefoil series to find out if they are truly able restore magic? Will the curse be reversed? Will little Emilie return? Will Slate and Cadence get their happily ever after? Will Slate's beloved Eve's Needle survive? With surprises around every corner this is a story you don't want to miss!
August 1, 2021
Overall Rating: 5/5
Spice: 0/5
Plot: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
World-Building: 5/5
Things I loved:
* Slate Ardoin takes my #1 spot of things I loved about this book - again. He is seriously the best character - for several reasons. His persistence, his dedication, his rough around the edges attitude, his love for all things cacti. He is up there in top favorite male book characters - I am talking alongside the Rhysands and Casteels of the world. He is witty, sarcastic and quite unique with his curse words. Most importantly he is dedicated to getting through everything in the book and fighting with everything he has to make sure him and his found family are safe and together. The love story between him and Cadence won me over in this book. I won’t spoil it, but trust me, you need to see their love story unfold because it is *chefs kiss*.
* Cadence really shines in this book. Her personality is on full display and everything she does is very Cadence. She is strong willed and clever but she also handles some really tough things in stride and it’s nice to see that in a book character. She keeps pushing forward no matter what.
* The plot twist in this book literally shocked me and hooked me in for the rest of the wild ride. I literally was sitting with my mouth hanging open. When you get to it, you’ll know and then have to finish the rest of the book in one sitting or you won’t know peace until you do!
* Justice for Alma and Bastian - I needed more of my precious babies in this book. I love them as sidekicks to our main characters and I swear I could read a book just about them.
Things I liked:
* The action in this book is top tier. I almost thought the trials were a little too easy in the first book. Our characters struggled but got through pretty well for the most part. This book takes that and goes, haha you thought it was easy? Here have this. The action, the things the characters have to go through in this book - all amazing. It kept me on the edge of my seat.
* The magic and world building in this are fantastic. It’s modern day but still has that magical feel and there’s nothing in the book that is hurt by it being modern day. I think it makes it feel more real to me!
Things:
* My things column remains the same as the first book. Papa de Morel is my least favorite character, by far. This book solidifies that and boy oh boy do we get to learn a lot about ole Papa in this one. It’s a wild ride but it has a satisfying conclusion, at least.
* Adrien just rubs me the wrong way still, Quatrefoil crew or not. He’s there and he’s doing stuff but he could definitely be kicked out of the crew and I wouldn’t complain. Your miles may vary with him though!
Overall, this is a fantastic conclusion to this series. I wish it wasn’t over - that is how much I loved these characters and this world. But the ending makes up for it and didn’t leave me hanging. Just wanting more of these wonderful characters! This book is a fun, exciting ride. Highly, highly recommend!
Spice: 0/5
Plot: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
World-Building: 5/5
Things I loved:
* Slate Ardoin takes my #1 spot of things I loved about this book - again. He is seriously the best character - for several reasons. His persistence, his dedication, his rough around the edges attitude, his love for all things cacti. He is up there in top favorite male book characters - I am talking alongside the Rhysands and Casteels of the world. He is witty, sarcastic and quite unique with his curse words. Most importantly he is dedicated to getting through everything in the book and fighting with everything he has to make sure him and his found family are safe and together. The love story between him and Cadence won me over in this book. I won’t spoil it, but trust me, you need to see their love story unfold because it is *chefs kiss*.
* Cadence really shines in this book. Her personality is on full display and everything she does is very Cadence. She is strong willed and clever but she also handles some really tough things in stride and it’s nice to see that in a book character. She keeps pushing forward no matter what.
* The plot twist in this book literally shocked me and hooked me in for the rest of the wild ride. I literally was sitting with my mouth hanging open. When you get to it, you’ll know and then have to finish the rest of the book in one sitting or you won’t know peace until you do!
* Justice for Alma and Bastian - I needed more of my precious babies in this book. I love them as sidekicks to our main characters and I swear I could read a book just about them.
Things I liked:
* The action in this book is top tier. I almost thought the trials were a little too easy in the first book. Our characters struggled but got through pretty well for the most part. This book takes that and goes, haha you thought it was easy? Here have this. The action, the things the characters have to go through in this book - all amazing. It kept me on the edge of my seat.
* The magic and world building in this are fantastic. It’s modern day but still has that magical feel and there’s nothing in the book that is hurt by it being modern day. I think it makes it feel more real to me!
Things:
* My things column remains the same as the first book. Papa de Morel is my least favorite character, by far. This book solidifies that and boy oh boy do we get to learn a lot about ole Papa in this one. It’s a wild ride but it has a satisfying conclusion, at least.
* Adrien just rubs me the wrong way still, Quatrefoil crew or not. He’s there and he’s doing stuff but he could definitely be kicked out of the crew and I wouldn’t complain. Your miles may vary with him though!
Overall, this is a fantastic conclusion to this series. I wish it wasn’t over - that is how much I loved these characters and this world. But the ending makes up for it and didn’t leave me hanging. Just wanting more of these wonderful characters! This book is a fun, exciting ride. Highly, highly recommend!
July 17, 2021
Well, I thought I loved the first book and then Olivia and Katie somehow delivered an even better story with more action and adventure, more humor, all the feelings...I absolutely could not put this book down! It's a wonderful sequel and I think ends things in a perfect way. Things definitely weren't easy for Slate and Cadence, but I had fun watching them navigate and interesting new challenge, and I also loved all of the different moments with all the other characters. I'm a little sad it's the end but also really satisfied with how things ended. This series is definitely one I'll find myself re-reading at some point!
July 28, 2021
Well, they did it AGAIN! Another absolutely brilliant 5 star read (honestly I’d give it more stars if I could) - finishing up the Quatrefoil Chronicles with this gem. This duology is hands down one of my most favorite new series of the past year.
The first book, Of Wicked Blood, blew my mind and left me so impatient for the conclusion…which was SO WORTH THE WAIT! I devoured this in a single day, not wanting to put it down for anything.
The dark academia & urban fantasy vibe continues in this conclusion to the duology - but this one’s a bit darker and more complex than the first. Which honestly I found to be perfect - it felt like such a natural progression from the prior book.
I mean this has it all - dark academia, fantasy, magic, folklore, swearing (with a handy little translation key so if you don’t swear in French already, look you get a new skill just from that alone), romance, mystery, friendship, drama & a special very loved cactus 😜🌵
Thank you so much to the authors, Olivia Wildenstein & Katie Hayoz, for the e-ARC of this one! I cannot wait to add the print version to my shelves to go with my copies of “Of Wicked Blood”.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The first book, Of Wicked Blood, blew my mind and left me so impatient for the conclusion…which was SO WORTH THE WAIT! I devoured this in a single day, not wanting to put it down for anything.
The dark academia & urban fantasy vibe continues in this conclusion to the duology - but this one’s a bit darker and more complex than the first. Which honestly I found to be perfect - it felt like such a natural progression from the prior book.
I mean this has it all - dark academia, fantasy, magic, folklore, swearing (with a handy little translation key so if you don’t swear in French already, look you get a new skill just from that alone), romance, mystery, friendship, drama & a special very loved cactus 😜🌵
Thank you so much to the authors, Olivia Wildenstein & Katie Hayoz, for the e-ARC of this one! I cannot wait to add the print version to my shelves to go with my copies of “Of Wicked Blood”.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 30, 2021
Must read
My love this book is epic. We find ourselves finishing our journey in Brume at the end of cadence n slates journey. What a ride this book was action packed with twists n turns that'll have your emotions doing all sorts of things. This is the 2nd n final book in this series start your journey in of wicked blood.
Alls fair is love and .........magic
My love this book is epic. We find ourselves finishing our journey in Brume at the end of cadence n slates journey. What a ride this book was action packed with twists n turns that'll have your emotions doing all sorts of things. This is the 2nd n final book in this series start your journey in of wicked blood.
Alls fair is love and .........magic
August 19, 2021
What a fantastic conclusion to the Quatrefoil Chronicles!! I dare to say I enjoyed this one more than the first, but only because I listened to the audiobook version of #1 and I can read faster than they can perform. Slate will forever be a character fav: snarky, spontaneous, handsome, and such a great-hearted guy. I feel like he carries this series more than any of the others, but that's not to say that the rest of the lineup isn't just as dynamic and amazing. I hate to leave Brume but I'm so glad to have experienced the magic of true storytelling! Wildenstein and Hayoz have a seamless writing style and are gifted world-builders for sure!
July 29, 2021
Our Quatrefoil gang is back with a BANG for the final installment of the Quatrefoil Chronicles - Of Tainted Heart.
Just as the dust settled of from the turbulent events in Of Wicked Blood and everything seems calm,everyone is safe....and Brume is back to the old cold and foggy self...in a blink of an eye our merry band is fighting for their lives AGAIN and to complete the Quatrefoil quest that throws at them more dangerous tasks,with higher stakes than ever....but at the same time, it turns out that every quest leads them to a shocking truth and it seems every quest is a clue that unravels something no one expects.
This book is a little bit darker and gritty from the first and a helluva roller-coaster ride of emotions - loss,laughter,love....did i mentioned spiders 😂😂😂😁😁😁
I would say Slate's character evolved the most of our gang,and the maturity he shows in multiple occasions shows that(but to be honest i miss the old dangerous and reckless Slate more...i mean....bad guys are always a soft spot🙊😄😄).
The writing chemistry between Katie Hayoz and Olivia Wildenstein is absolutely brilliant and i really hope we will see more collaborations from them in the future❤
Just as the dust settled of from the turbulent events in Of Wicked Blood and everything seems calm,everyone is safe....and Brume is back to the old cold and foggy self...in a blink of an eye our merry band is fighting for their lives AGAIN and to complete the Quatrefoil quest that throws at them more dangerous tasks,with higher stakes than ever....but at the same time, it turns out that every quest leads them to a shocking truth and it seems every quest is a clue that unravels something no one expects.
This book is a little bit darker and gritty from the first and a helluva roller-coaster ride of emotions - loss,laughter,love....did i mentioned spiders 😂😂😂😁😁😁
I would say Slate's character evolved the most of our gang,and the maturity he shows in multiple occasions shows that(but to be honest i miss the old dangerous and reckless Slate more...i mean....bad guys are always a soft spot🙊😄😄).
The writing chemistry between Katie Hayoz and Olivia Wildenstein is absolutely brilliant and i really hope we will see more collaborations from them in the future❤
July 19, 2021
Absolutely wonderful conclusion to the Quatrefoil Chronicles. Jam packed with magic, curses, traumatic trials, secrets, betrayals, tension, unexpected twists and turns, I was glued to the pages as revelations poured off the pages. I was desperate to find out just how things would end for the four intrepid diwallers and their mystical town of Brume.
These two authors have created a story full of depth, detail and a camaraderie with a crew of very different personalities that had to put aside their fears and mistrust and work together to survive. It certainly wasn't an easy journey, especially for the budding romance between Slate and Cadence. My heart cracked for what they were put through but I loved them both, their strength and tenacity shone amongst the vulnerability.
OTH was a beautiful, intricate web of magic, fantasy, myths and legends with a darker twist. It was pretty brutal at times, the curses were devastating in their effects, but the authors also added in some good humour to break up tension and intensity.
I absolutely loved it and I hope we may get more from this world someday, but it was a fabulous and satisfying conclusion to a magical duet I'd definitely recommend.
5 Spikey stars (he couldn't go without a mention lol)
These two authors have created a story full of depth, detail and a camaraderie with a crew of very different personalities that had to put aside their fears and mistrust and work together to survive. It certainly wasn't an easy journey, especially for the budding romance between Slate and Cadence. My heart cracked for what they were put through but I loved them both, their strength and tenacity shone amongst the vulnerability.
OTH was a beautiful, intricate web of magic, fantasy, myths and legends with a darker twist. It was pretty brutal at times, the curses were devastating in their effects, but the authors also added in some good humour to break up tension and intensity.
I absolutely loved it and I hope we may get more from this world someday, but it was a fabulous and satisfying conclusion to a magical duet I'd definitely recommend.
5 Spikey stars (he couldn't go without a mention lol)
July 19, 2021
This duology is one of my new favorite series of all time, and I can't wait until I can get my hands on a physical copy.. In this awsome sequel Candice, Slate and the others are off on another Quatrefoil adventure.. There are more tests that get harder and crazier.. Slate ends up cursed, and ends up with his hands full trying to help the others to figure out how to end the trials and bring magic, and hopefully everone that died as a result of the Quatrefoil back.. Slate is my absolute favorite person ever I just love his personality. I love him and Candice together.. She brings out all of his softer emotions..
I also love his brother Bastien, and Spike.. I mean you know its a good story when your emotionally invested in a cactus..
All the secrets are finally revealed, and everything comes together..
I loved the epilogue.. Seeing what happens with Slate and Candice after the trials are finally over..
If you havent started this series you should definitely read Of Wicked Blood, and you should absolutley read this one when its released.
I also love his brother Bastien, and Spike.. I mean you know its a good story when your emotionally invested in a cactus..
All the secrets are finally revealed, and everything comes together..
I loved the epilogue.. Seeing what happens with Slate and Candice after the trials are finally over..
If you havent started this series you should definitely read Of Wicked Blood, and you should absolutley read this one when its released.
September 22, 2021
This is the second and final book in a duology, woo!
This novel picks up pretty quickly where the previous one left off and most of this novel I just really wanted to shake Cadence so damn hard! A lot of action and adventure in this, some heartbreak at times and a VERY karma finished things off appropriately ending! A very enjoyable novel and I will be looking into more of these authors books!
This novel picks up pretty quickly where the previous one left off and most of this novel I just really wanted to shake Cadence so damn hard! A lot of action and adventure in this, some heartbreak at times and a VERY karma finished things off appropriately ending! A very enjoyable novel and I will be looking into more of these authors books!
August 3, 2021
Of Tainted Heart is the stunning conclusion to the Quatrefoil Chronicles by Olivia Wildenstein and Katie Hoyz. This duology is everything, Of Tainted Heart, was just as amazing as, Of Wicked Blood, the story is filled with magic, romance, trials, deception, curses, and a jaw-dropping mystery.
We're back in the magical village of Brume and the gang is once again facing danger when Candace slips the moonstone ring on and starts a whole new set of magical trials. Candace being the big-hearted perfectionist that she is can't let sleeping dogs lie, she failed at putting her piece of the quatrefoil into the clock so not only did all the people who died from magic didn't get to come back but her father doesn't have use of his legs again and magic is still slumbering. Candace feels like she felled everyone so she takes it upon herself to put the ring on to finish putting her piece in the clock. Little did she know that she was starting a new series of trials that will leave no one unscathed.
However, Candace doesn't have to do it alone the other dwellers (magic holders), Slate, Adrien, and Gaelle are there to help, and not only them this time Alma, Bastion, and even Adrien's father Geoffrey is there to help. The four have more difficult and dangerous puzzles to solve and it's gonna take everyone to get through it. These magical trials, the curses, are traumatic for everyone, and going through something like that, something unique, special (in its own way), and the trauma has bonded them in a way that will be difficult to break. The trials this time around are most definitely more team-centered than individual and it almost seems as if the magic is trying to tell them something, bringing up past events, making the players take a good look at the people around them it was really interesting.
The magic is changing each of the characters making them grow and new sides of the characters are shown. Candace who seems to be the type that needs proof starts to believe, also her rose-colored glasses about people seem to come off. Slate who was detached from pretty much everyone, except for Candace and Bastion, heart grows. Adrien who seems so put together so compassionate, anger is released and he's something other than the mask he wears. Then there is Gaelle, who has been through so much, two attempts at magic (not counting what's happening in this book), the loss of her husband, raising a few children on her own has been so strong, breaks down, releases the pinned-up emotions that she's been carrying. Seems like magic is really turning the players on their heads but it's Slate that really gets me. I love seeing this new side to him, seeing how much he cares about Candace, seeing the connection they have is adorable and seeing him starting to care for others is heartwarming.
I loved the setting of this little village, it provided a very creepy atmosphere that seems like magic would have been possible no matter what and the magic itself was interesting. This time it centered on pieces around Brume like a puzzle and then events occurred that gave the characters a new perspective on the life they knew and the life that could have been. The trials were exciting and the magic so unbelievable, I almost forgot that there was a bit of a mystery revealed in Of Wicked Blood, questioning if someone had been murdered or not. It comes up again in OTH and then things start to connect together, start to make a whole lot of sense until finally the truth is revealed, and what a shocking truth it was. I didn't expect the story to end the way it did for some of the characters. However, I did get my HEA for some and I am happy I did because this is Olivia we are talking about she doesn't give her characters perfect endings but I think this is close as she could have gotten and I love her for it.
I cannot express how much I loved this book. Of Tainted Heart was a wicked conclusion to an epic urban fantasy, emotions were raw, the magic was dangerous, and the bonds were real, Olivia and Katie have done a fantastic job with this duology and I will miss the characters more than I can say.
We're back in the magical village of Brume and the gang is once again facing danger when Candace slips the moonstone ring on and starts a whole new set of magical trials. Candace being the big-hearted perfectionist that she is can't let sleeping dogs lie, she failed at putting her piece of the quatrefoil into the clock so not only did all the people who died from magic didn't get to come back but her father doesn't have use of his legs again and magic is still slumbering. Candace feels like she felled everyone so she takes it upon herself to put the ring on to finish putting her piece in the clock. Little did she know that she was starting a new series of trials that will leave no one unscathed.
However, Candace doesn't have to do it alone the other dwellers (magic holders), Slate, Adrien, and Gaelle are there to help, and not only them this time Alma, Bastion, and even Adrien's father Geoffrey is there to help. The four have more difficult and dangerous puzzles to solve and it's gonna take everyone to get through it. These magical trials, the curses, are traumatic for everyone, and going through something like that, something unique, special (in its own way), and the trauma has bonded them in a way that will be difficult to break. The trials this time around are most definitely more team-centered than individual and it almost seems as if the magic is trying to tell them something, bringing up past events, making the players take a good look at the people around them it was really interesting.
The magic is changing each of the characters making them grow and new sides of the characters are shown. Candace who seems to be the type that needs proof starts to believe, also her rose-colored glasses about people seem to come off. Slate who was detached from pretty much everyone, except for Candace and Bastion, heart grows. Adrien who seems so put together so compassionate, anger is released and he's something other than the mask he wears. Then there is Gaelle, who has been through so much, two attempts at magic (not counting what's happening in this book), the loss of her husband, raising a few children on her own has been so strong, breaks down, releases the pinned-up emotions that she's been carrying. Seems like magic is really turning the players on their heads but it's Slate that really gets me. I love seeing this new side to him, seeing how much he cares about Candace, seeing the connection they have is adorable and seeing him starting to care for others is heartwarming.
I loved the setting of this little village, it provided a very creepy atmosphere that seems like magic would have been possible no matter what and the magic itself was interesting. This time it centered on pieces around Brume like a puzzle and then events occurred that gave the characters a new perspective on the life they knew and the life that could have been. The trials were exciting and the magic so unbelievable, I almost forgot that there was a bit of a mystery revealed in Of Wicked Blood, questioning if someone had been murdered or not. It comes up again in OTH and then things start to connect together, start to make a whole lot of sense until finally the truth is revealed, and what a shocking truth it was. I didn't expect the story to end the way it did for some of the characters. However, I did get my HEA for some and I am happy I did because this is Olivia we are talking about she doesn't give her characters perfect endings but I think this is close as she could have gotten and I love her for it.
I cannot express how much I loved this book. Of Tainted Heart was a wicked conclusion to an epic urban fantasy, emotions were raw, the magic was dangerous, and the bonds were real, Olivia and Katie have done a fantastic job with this duology and I will miss the characters more than I can say.
July 23, 2021
4.5 stars
Review to come.
I would like to say a huge thank you to the authors for providing me with the e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review to come.
I would like to say a huge thank you to the authors for providing me with the e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2021
Be still my beating tainted heart
So I have been read for this since I closed book one. It did not disappoint. Oh the truth does come out, and that ending. I can’t say too much as I don’t want to spoil as yet but I’ll come back and update! What I can say, I LOVE spike! My own cactus George wants to be friends! I love the puzzles and the friendships and the magic! I’m so glad I picked of wicked blood to request as an arc on netgalley, it has kept me sane and given me joy! I’m secretly hoping for a spin off in the future with magic a plenty!
So many thankyou to Katie and Olivia for this fantastic duo!!
So I have been read for this since I closed book one. It did not disappoint. Oh the truth does come out, and that ending. I can’t say too much as I don’t want to spoil as yet but I’ll come back and update! What I can say, I LOVE spike! My own cactus George wants to be friends! I love the puzzles and the friendships and the magic! I’m so glad I picked of wicked blood to request as an arc on netgalley, it has kept me sane and given me joy! I’m secretly hoping for a spin off in the future with magic a plenty!
So many thankyou to Katie and Olivia for this fantastic duo!!
July 28, 2021
The Quatrefoil crew is back in Of Tainted Heart! There’s some unfinished business to be addressed and it’s about to get interesting. Book two is full of even more curses, magic and trials for our crew and I loved every bit of it! While I’m sad to leave this magical town, the ending did not disappoint.
Olivia Wildenstein and Katie Hayoz, thank you for including me in the O.K. Crew, hilarious writing process and early access to this amazing book ❤️
Olivia Wildenstein and Katie Hayoz, thank you for including me in the O.K. Crew, hilarious writing process and early access to this amazing book ❤️
July 12, 2021
**Spoilers **
Olivia & Katie have done it again I absolutely loved the final book in the quatrefoil story and how it wasn’t to predictable. Slate being cursed to be forgotten was definitely a welcome twist in the story. I was happy that it was finished with a happy ending for the main crew & slate got his parents back. If a spin off book was to be written it would be nice to find out how things progressed with Bastion & Alma. The writing & detail that Olivia and Kate went into for all the trials & the brum history was vivid & helped build up the visual images while reading.
I initially listened to the first book on audible which I recommend as the voice over on it is brilliant and matches the characters personas perfectly
Olivia & Katie have done it again I absolutely loved the final book in the quatrefoil story and how it wasn’t to predictable. Slate being cursed to be forgotten was definitely a welcome twist in the story. I was happy that it was finished with a happy ending for the main crew & slate got his parents back. If a spin off book was to be written it would be nice to find out how things progressed with Bastion & Alma. The writing & detail that Olivia and Kate went into for all the trials & the brum history was vivid & helped build up the visual images while reading.
I initially listened to the first book on audible which I recommend as the voice over on it is brilliant and matches the characters personas perfectly
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2021
This was my most anticipated release this year and it did not disappoint! I loved the first book in the Quatrefoil series so much, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one. This story has so many twists! I'm usually good at guessing what will happen next, but this book surprised me at every turn. I loved the action, humor, and romance, and while I was sad to let these characters go, the story had an ending that was satisfying and perfect. I recommend going back and reading book one before this one for maximum enjoyment :)
July 11, 2021
Of Tainted Heart is the second book in this series. This book picks up where the previous book left off with the crew of four who tried to restore magic to the Quatrafoil but ended up failing. Mostly everyone wants to move on with their lives but Cadence just couldn’t let it be.
In order to restore magic this time around the crew needs to go through different trials and pass them, because to fail them means lives will be lost. There is also lies and betrayal that will be uncovered.
Of Tainted Heart takes us on a magical ride that has humour, love, lies and betrayal. I loved this story and thought it was a fitting end to this amazing series!
In order to restore magic this time around the crew needs to go through different trials and pass them, because to fail them means lives will be lost. There is also lies and betrayal that will be uncovered.
Of Tainted Heart takes us on a magical ride that has humour, love, lies and betrayal. I loved this story and thought it was a fitting end to this amazing series!
July 13, 2021
While this picks up exactly where the last book left off, the adventure is just as exciting and keeps you flipping as fast as you can. At one point, it should be the conclusion and then the magic kicks in and another trial starts the just keeps challenging the key four (five?). This was flawlessly co-written and I would love to see more in their world.
July 30, 2021
Slate, Cadence and crew are back and it was good to be with them again. They thought Quatrefoil was over and they could move on. But Cadence wanted to try again because she didn't want to leave things unfinished. Their trials were interesting and also how they solved those. A lot happened to them and I really liked this book.
An ARC was provided in exhange for an honest review.
An ARC was provided in exhange for an honest review.
August 1, 2021
One of the best series I have read!!! ❤️
I love, love, love this series so much, it totally deserves to be turned into a movie or TV show!!! 🤩
The plot is so twisted and enthralling, and those Slate fun moments are priceless 😂
He is the best, I fell in love with him immediately and was rooting for him the whole time, I'm so happy with this finale, it's perfect!!! 🥰
Wonderful characters, scary trials, heart-stoping moments, a freezing magical town and Spike🌵will suck you in this fantastic world Olivia and Katie have created... And you won’t want to leave!!! 🤗😍
I love, love, love this series so much, it totally deserves to be turned into a movie or TV show!!! 🤩
The plot is so twisted and enthralling, and those Slate fun moments are priceless 😂
He is the best, I fell in love with him immediately and was rooting for him the whole time, I'm so happy with this finale, it's perfect!!! 🥰
Wonderful characters, scary trials, heart-stoping moments, a freezing magical town and Spike🌵will suck you in this fantastic world Olivia and Katie have created... And you won’t want to leave!!! 🤗😍
August 6, 2021
Thank you Olivia for providing an eArc of this book. I'm leaving the review voluntarily.
I'm sad I'm more than sad that I didn't like this book as much as I did the first one.
So what bothered me? It could have been shorter, and less trials. The thing is I just got confused along the way and as I didn't have any expectations I was still dissatisfied. Honestly for me the story could have ended with the first book. And I don't know perhaps the fact that there wasn't much romance in it I didn't enjoy as much. Oh and at 67% I was going to dnf but I took a break and came back to finish because it was bothering me lol.
Oh my precious man Slate, if it wasn't for him I would have definitely dnf sooner.
I'm sad I'm more than sad that I didn't like this book as much as I did the first one.
So what bothered me? It could have been shorter, and less trials. The thing is I just got confused along the way and as I didn't have any expectations I was still dissatisfied. Honestly for me the story could have ended with the first book. And I don't know perhaps the fact that there wasn't much romance in it I didn't enjoy as much. Oh and at 67% I was going to dnf but I took a break and came back to finish because it was bothering me lol.
Oh my precious man Slate, if it wasn't for him I would have definitely dnf sooner.
July 18, 2021
I have difficulty differentiating my feelings towards this books and Of Wicked Blood, mainly because the issues I had reading the first book followed over to Of Tainted Heart. At the same time though I liked this book better than the first, which is good, but also along with previous issues new issues came forth.
At the start I liked Of Tainted Heart and really thought it would be a big improvement from the previous one. This because of how it focused a bit more on the characters and the romance, which was one of the things I felt bereft of in book one. Sadly this didn’t hold up throughout the book, since as soon as Slate and Cadence split up the world and magic took sole focus again. I mean, I liked the plot and everything, but since the characterization took the back burner I wasn’t as invested in the trials and hardships the characters went through. Still, I am impressed with the plot when it came to Slate’s curse, Geoffrey’s new role and the part Rainier played. I found it very cleverly written and they were the main parts that kept me in the story. The biggest pull however was the Romance.
I have always liked Slate, mostly because he is a complex and perfectly flawed character with his rough upbringing and charm. Although I am not as fond of Cadence, her more innocent and rule abiding character made their relationship work very well. With Slate cursed it brought a whole new dynamic to the romance as well which I loved, especially when the drama with Adrien was thrown in. The only downside was it took a while for the book to build up to this since it took so much time to the plot and trials which became kind of repetitive. As soon as it got there though I was all in.
Sadly when the story an romance was at its best it too quickly tried to rush for a happily ever after. Sure, there were revelations and losses on its way but it became kind of underwhelming, messy and rushed since every unanswered question and revelation was crammed into the ending along with every solution and conclusion. This in turn made that HEA feel unrealistic and almost had a fairy tale/children’s book feel to it. This because everyone got exactly what the wanted or deserved and then the whole people coming back, magic school and the Merlin and Vivienne aspect … well, lets just say it was not my cup of tea.
I am not unhappy with the conclusion per say. I had just hoped for a more climatic and clever ending, especially when it came to Rainier and Geoffrey, as well as a more realistic sort of bittersweet ending for Adrien and Charlotte considering how badly Adrien had behaved towards Charlotte previously. I also didn’t really get the whole flirtatious Claire and then Amandine and Geoffrey aspect in the book since it never really lead anywhere or was cleared up. When it came to Slate and Cadence however, I am over the moon happy with how their story ended, so I am satisfied enough to give the book three stars.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
At the start I liked Of Tainted Heart and really thought it would be a big improvement from the previous one. This because of how it focused a bit more on the characters and the romance, which was one of the things I felt bereft of in book one. Sadly this didn’t hold up throughout the book, since as soon as Slate and Cadence split up the world and magic took sole focus again. I mean, I liked the plot and everything, but since the characterization took the back burner I wasn’t as invested in the trials and hardships the characters went through. Still, I am impressed with the plot when it came to Slate’s curse, Geoffrey’s new role and the part Rainier played. I found it very cleverly written and they were the main parts that kept me in the story. The biggest pull however was the Romance.
I have always liked Slate, mostly because he is a complex and perfectly flawed character with his rough upbringing and charm. Although I am not as fond of Cadence, her more innocent and rule abiding character made their relationship work very well. With Slate cursed it brought a whole new dynamic to the romance as well which I loved, especially when the drama with Adrien was thrown in. The only downside was it took a while for the book to build up to this since it took so much time to the plot and trials which became kind of repetitive. As soon as it got there though I was all in.
Sadly when the story an romance was at its best it too quickly tried to rush for a happily ever after. Sure, there were revelations and losses on its way but it became kind of underwhelming, messy and rushed since every unanswered question and revelation was crammed into the ending along with every solution and conclusion. This in turn made that HEA feel unrealistic and almost had a fairy tale/children’s book feel to it. This because everyone got exactly what the wanted or deserved and then the whole people coming back, magic school and the Merlin and Vivienne aspect … well, lets just say it was not my cup of tea.
I am not unhappy with the conclusion per say. I had just hoped for a more climatic and clever ending, especially when it came to Rainier and Geoffrey, as well as a more realistic sort of bittersweet ending for Adrien and Charlotte considering how badly Adrien had behaved towards Charlotte previously. I also didn’t really get the whole flirtatious Claire and then Amandine and Geoffrey aspect in the book since it never really lead anywhere or was cleared up. When it came to Slate and Cadence however, I am over the moon happy with how their story ended, so I am satisfied enough to give the book three stars.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 26, 2021
Well, book 2 certainly went in unpredictable directions that I never could have predicted after finishing the first book. This was non stop, super messed up action at it's finest- seriously, blink and you might miss out on some huge reveal or challenge, so much was crammed in the story, way more than book 1. Keep in mind this is the sequel and needs to be read in order since there was no backstory here, the story just picks right up where book 1 ended.
I adore Slate, that sarcastic criminal with the secret heart of gold can do no wrong in my eyes. He is romantic and chivalrous, loyal and steadfast, and he got the shaft left and right within these pages. It was so brutal, the terrible feels and actions that went against him hurt my heart- at one point I was ready for him to just kidnap Bastian and take Spike the cactus and skip town, screw everyone else.
And that leads me to naive, clueless bad judgement Cadence. This girl made bad choices left and right, the first being putting the ring back on and basically being responsible for all the current bad things. It was one thing for angry/drunk/unsuspecting Slate to put on the ring in the first book, but for her to choose the ring with all the knowledge she had was irresponsible and put me off on her from the first chapter here. And my opinion of her went downhill as the story progressed. But my Cadence negativity was not enough for me to not love the heck out of this story.
I was a little disappointed at how quickly and easily the book wrapped up, it did not seem to match the rest of the hard and complicated book and I would have liked more. There was an epilogue that was 5 years later and it hinted at what happened but there was so much more that could have expanded on. Overall this was a really good duaology, I just wanted more, which might be a me problem and not something other's would have an issue with.
I adore Slate, that sarcastic criminal with the secret heart of gold can do no wrong in my eyes. He is romantic and chivalrous, loyal and steadfast, and he got the shaft left and right within these pages. It was so brutal, the terrible feels and actions that went against him hurt my heart- at one point I was ready for him to just kidnap Bastian and take Spike the cactus and skip town, screw everyone else.
And that leads me to naive, clueless bad judgement Cadence. This girl made bad choices left and right, the first being putting the ring back on and basically being responsible for all the current bad things. It was one thing for angry/drunk/unsuspecting Slate to put on the ring in the first book, but for her to choose the ring with all the knowledge she had was irresponsible and put me off on her from the first chapter here. And my opinion of her went downhill as the story progressed. But my Cadence negativity was not enough for me to not love the heck out of this story.
I was a little disappointed at how quickly and easily the book wrapped up, it did not seem to match the rest of the hard and complicated book and I would have liked more. There was an epilogue that was 5 years later and it hinted at what happened but there was so much more that could have expanded on. Overall this was a really good duaology, I just wanted more, which might be a me problem and not something other's would have an issue with.
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