What do you think?
Rate this book
The Heirs of Watson Island #2
Persuasion
Grieving the death of her godfather and haunted by her cousin Cassie’s betrayal, Barrie returns from a trip to San Francisco to find the Watson plantation under siege. Ghost hunters hope to glimpse the ancient spirit who sets the river on fire each night, and reporters chase rumors of a stolen shipment of Civil War gold that may be hidden at Colesworth Place. The chaos turns dangerous as Cassie hires a team of archeologists to excavate beneath the mansion ruins, because more is buried there than treasure.
A stranger filled with magic arrives at Watson’s Landing claiming that the key to the Watson and Beaufort gifts—and the Colesworth curse—also lies beneath the mansion. With a mix of threats and promises, the man convinces Barrie and Cassie to cast a spell there at midnight. But what he conjures may have deadly consequences.
While Barrie struggles to make sense of the escalating peril and her growing and forbidden feelings for Eight Beaufort, it’s impossible to know whom to trust and what to fight for. Millions of dollars and the fate of the founding families is at stake. Now Barrie must choose between what she feels deep in her heart and what will keep Watson’s Landing safe.
A stranger filled with magic arrives at Watson’s Landing claiming that the key to the Watson and Beaufort gifts—and the Colesworth curse—also lies beneath the mansion. With a mix of threats and promises, the man convinces Barrie and Cassie to cast a spell there at midnight. But what he conjures may have deadly consequences.
While Barrie struggles to make sense of the escalating peril and her growing and forbidden feelings for Eight Beaufort, it’s impossible to know whom to trust and what to fight for. Millions of dollars and the fate of the founding families is at stake. Now Barrie must choose between what she feels deep in her heart and what will keep Watson’s Landing safe.
442 pages, Hardcover
First published October 27, 2015
About the author
Martina Boone
12 books1,987 followersMartina Boone was born in Prague and spoke several languages before learning English. She's the award-winning author of feel-good romances set in magical places, including COMPULSION and the Heirs of Watson Island trilogy from Simon & Schuster/Simon Pulse and the Celtic Legends series starting with LAKE OF DESTINY.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
October 18, 2015
I need more stars to thank all the people who are responsible for pulling this book together! My editor and the amazing team at Simon Pulse, my critique partners and beta readers, and the wonderful Compulsion street team members who helped out with ideas, reading, and mental health support! You all ROCK! Thank you! : )
December 23, 2015
Cover: Absolutely GORGEOUS! ❤️❤️❤️
We have kissing like THIS:
Hold on to the edge of your seat, because PERSUASION takes you on a ride that will leave you breathless. Martina Boone does an extraordinary job weaving together history, magic, mystery, and modern times. She unspools questions like the Fire Carrier unspools his ball of flames across the river. Readers will swoon over Eight and Barrie, pray that they'll make it as a couple. Is Eight with Barrie because she wants him and he wants to give her whatever she wants? Is their love for each other real? Or is it because of the magical gifts each one has: Barrie's ability to find things and his ability to know what other people want.
The questions won't stop there. Readers are introduced to Obadiah and his magic. Who is he? Is he evil? What is his connection to the curse plaguing Cassie? And what is going on with Cassie? More games? What kind of persuasion is influencing these characters? Why did Seven break up with Pru years ago, when clearly he loves her? Why is Seven keeping secrets from Eight? Can the curse be broken? Will Barrie get to keep her gift? Will Eight be burdened by his??? Will the archeologists find the missing gold or something unexpected, perhaps evil, on the Colesworth estate?
The biggest question of all? WHAT'S GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT?!
So, take a breath . . .
Get comfort where you can . . .
And be patient. OKAY, I CAN'T BE PATIENT!
I absolutely, positively MUST have the third book in this series!!!!!!!!!!!
If you haven't read COMPULSION, get it now!
Fall in love with the history, Southern charm, romance, magic, mystery, rich scenes, clever, smart writing, and all those questions. (Oh! And I forgot to mention the food references!!!!!! I will be searching for recipes, just like the amazing COMPULSION Woopie pie cake Heidi from YA Bibliophile made for our Novel Cuisine Luncheon http://www.whorublog.com/2014/12/16/t... ! - which is once again mentioned in PERSUASION! Drool!)
Without any doubt, PERSUASION will be on my top-reads list of 2015!
Thank you so much to SimonTeen and Martina Boone for the advanced copy.
We have kissing like THIS:
Hold on to the edge of your seat, because PERSUASION takes you on a ride that will leave you breathless. Martina Boone does an extraordinary job weaving together history, magic, mystery, and modern times. She unspools questions like the Fire Carrier unspools his ball of flames across the river. Readers will swoon over Eight and Barrie, pray that they'll make it as a couple. Is Eight with Barrie because she wants him and he wants to give her whatever she wants? Is their love for each other real? Or is it because of the magical gifts each one has: Barrie's ability to find things and his ability to know what other people want.
The questions won't stop there. Readers are introduced to Obadiah and his magic. Who is he? Is he evil? What is his connection to the curse plaguing Cassie? And what is going on with Cassie? More games? What kind of persuasion is influencing these characters? Why did Seven break up with Pru years ago, when clearly he loves her? Why is Seven keeping secrets from Eight? Can the curse be broken? Will Barrie get to keep her gift? Will Eight be burdened by his??? Will the archeologists find the missing gold or something unexpected, perhaps evil, on the Colesworth estate?
The biggest question of all? WHAT'S GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT?!
So, take a breath . . .
Get comfort where you can . . .
And be patient. OKAY, I CAN'T BE PATIENT!
I absolutely, positively MUST have the third book in this series!!!!!!!!!!!
If you haven't read COMPULSION, get it now!
Fall in love with the history, Southern charm, romance, magic, mystery, rich scenes, clever, smart writing, and all those questions. (Oh! And I forgot to mention the food references!!!!!! I will be searching for recipes, just like the amazing COMPULSION Woopie pie cake Heidi from YA Bibliophile made for our Novel Cuisine Luncheon http://www.whorublog.com/2014/12/16/t... ! - which is once again mentioned in PERSUASION! Drool!)
Without any doubt, PERSUASION will be on my top-reads list of 2015!
Thank you so much to SimonTeen and Martina Boone for the advanced copy.
June 12, 2015
Just as magical as Compulsion! Martina sure knows how to write a beautiful story with compelling characters, mystery, magic, romance, and southern recipes that make me hungry!
I can't wait for the third book in this series! And I hope we get to see more of Berg! I have a new crush!
I can't wait for the third book in this series! And I hope we get to see more of Berg! I have a new crush!
June 4, 2015
Amazing sequel! video review coming today
August 3, 2015
Beautiful, lyrical, haunting, mysterious, romantic, rich, thoughtful, dangerous, atmospheric and complex.
I love this book.
(Review to come)
I love this book.
(Review to come)
October 20, 2015
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Persuasion by Martina Boone
Book Two of The Heirs of Watson Island series
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Publication Date: October 27, 2015
Rating: 2 stars
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
Summary (from Goodreads):
Grieving the death of her godfather and haunted by her cousin Cassie’s betrayal, Barrie returns from a trip to San Francisco to find the Watson plantation under siege. Ghost-hunters hope to glimpse the ancient spirit who sets the river on fire each night, and reporters chase rumors of a stolen shipment of Civil War gold that may be hidden at Colesworth Place. The chaos turns dangerous as Cassie hires a team of archeologists to excavate beneath the mansion ruins. Because more is buried there than treasure.
A stranger filled with magic arrives at Watson’s Landing claiming that the key to the Watson and Beaufort gifts—and the Colesworth curse—also lies beneath the mansion. With a mix of threats and promises, the man convinces Barrie and Cassie to cast a spell there at midnight. But what he conjures may have deadly consequences.
While Barrie struggles to make sense of the escalating peril and her growing and forbidden feelings for Eight Beaufort, it’s impossible to know whom to trust and what to fight for—Eight or herself. Millions of dollars and the fate of the founding families is at stake. Now Barrie must choose between what she feels deep in her heart and what will keep Watson’s Landing safe in this stunning addition to a series filled with “decadent settings, mysterious magic, and family histories rife with debauchery” (Kirkus Reviews, on Compulsion).
What I Liked:
Another heavily disappointing novel. Yesterday's review (Scandal Takes the Stage by Eva Leigh) was not impressive, and this book was unfortunately similar in disappointment. It's awkward because I'm a member of Martina's private street team, and I love Martina! I just met her on Saturday (at the Baltimore Book Festival), and she was the sweetest. I love working with her, so I'm extremely disappointed that I didn't like this novel. More mad at myself than the book, I think!
Barrie is still recovering from the crushing grief over Mark's death, as well as the trauma from what her cousin Cassie did to her and Eight. Back at Watson's Landing, Barrie discovers a new magic, through a stranger who doesn't seem human. He wants her to find something that will break the Colesworth curse, or he'll take away her ability. Find it and he'll grant a favor. But Barrie must sneak around behind everyone's back, include Eight's. Will she risk it all, including losing Eight, in order to save everyone?
I'm sitting here completely still, trying to dredge up things that I liked about this book. The cover, for one, though that's completely out of the author's control. The author's handling of PTSD, in one of the secondary characters. I was not expecting PTSD in this particular character, nor did I expect the trauma that the character suffered. The author did an excellent job of setting up this shocking secret. It's not a big secret the changes the plot of the book or series, but it is quite important and is a big part of the climax.
I'm also a huge fan of my cameo in this book! There is an "Alyssa" in this book, specifically because myself and Alyssa H. are part of Martina's street team. Very cool!
Okay, moving on, unfortunately.
What I Did Not Like:
I'll try to keep this as short as possible, because I know I have a tendency to go on and on, and I don't want to say too many specific things. Things with which I had issues: Barrie & Eight's relationship, Barrie, the story.
Barrie are and Eight fighting literally from the beginning of the story. And then they're kissing all the time. And then back to arguing. It's exhausting. I was sick of their s*** by the end of the first few chapters. Barrie develops a complex in which she feels the need to push Eight away, and then Seven wants her to stay away from Eight too. And yet, Barrie will be arguing with Eight, and in the next page, they'll be kissing.
To me, there is nothing romantic about this. It was a total turn-off, to go from arguing to kissing to arguing and then to kissing. Barrie and Eight's relationship is so messed up. Barrie is hiding just about everything in her life from him. When she meets the weird stranger who seems to be able to disappear into the air, she lies and tells Eight that it's nothing. Everything is "nothing" to Barrie - she doesn't trust anyone.
And she is incredibly selfish, and hypocritical. She expects everyone to be totally up-front and honest with her, and yet, she lies to EVERYONE. Not just Eight - Pru, Seven, herself. Her lies hurt people. Her lies are selfish. She lies and then makes decisions for people without asking or at least telling them. So many lies in this book, especially to Eight. And Eight knows when she is lying (he can tell if she is trying to hide what she wants from him), yet he doesn't want to give up on her.
See, their relationship is so imbalanced. I felt like Eight was saying a lot of "I can't stay mad at you" and "gosh what you do to me" and "you are amazing", "my life is nothing without you", etc. The usual cliche, melodramatic BS (sorry not sorry). Meanwhile, Barrie is lying and sneaking around and being hypocritical and yelling at Eight at every turn. And still expects him to forgive her. This relationship is so one-sided! Eight is the one making all the effort, and Barrie is doing a great of taking advantage of him, whether or not she realizes it (she does).
Not to mention that Barrie makes some ridiculous, dumb decisions. With some of her decisions, if she didn't make a few of them, there would be no book. But... all of her decisions are so incredibly stupid. She's supposed to be smart? It didn't show at any point in this book, unfortunately.
Basically, I had a ton of issues with Barrie, Barrie and Eight's relationship, and all things related to Barrie. Difficult dislike to have, no?
The story was also boring, disjointed, and very anticlimactic. I can't say much without giving away spoilers, but I was highly disappointed in how the plot moved, as well as the climax. The climax was not nearly as epic and interesting as I'd expected. NOTHING is resolved, especially in terms of history. So disappointing!
Bottom line - Barrie and Eight's relationship was too toxic for me to actually enjoy this story. Eight is so one-dimensional (perhaps it was hard for the author to construct the characters in third person limited?), and Barrie is hard to like (in this book). While I think the author is trying to show character development in Barrie, she has turned Barrie into a highly unlikable character, and it reflects badly on the plot.
Would I Recommend It:
This is tricky. While I clearly didn't love this novel, I think I might still read Illusion (book three) next year. The ending of this book was good, so I might give book three a chance. So, I don't recommend Persuasion, but I liked Compulsion, and I am curious enough to want to read the next book in the series.
Rating:
2.5 stars -> rounded down to 2 stars. I am disappointed that I did not like this novel, but glad that I read it. It's unfortunate that so much of the story was just character/relationship driven, and the plot story outside of the romance is in poor shape. If you've read this novel, let me know what you thought of it!
Persuasion by Martina Boone
Book Two of The Heirs of Watson Island series
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Publication Date: October 27, 2015
Rating: 2 stars
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
Summary (from Goodreads):
Grieving the death of her godfather and haunted by her cousin Cassie’s betrayal, Barrie returns from a trip to San Francisco to find the Watson plantation under siege. Ghost-hunters hope to glimpse the ancient spirit who sets the river on fire each night, and reporters chase rumors of a stolen shipment of Civil War gold that may be hidden at Colesworth Place. The chaos turns dangerous as Cassie hires a team of archeologists to excavate beneath the mansion ruins. Because more is buried there than treasure.
A stranger filled with magic arrives at Watson’s Landing claiming that the key to the Watson and Beaufort gifts—and the Colesworth curse—also lies beneath the mansion. With a mix of threats and promises, the man convinces Barrie and Cassie to cast a spell there at midnight. But what he conjures may have deadly consequences.
While Barrie struggles to make sense of the escalating peril and her growing and forbidden feelings for Eight Beaufort, it’s impossible to know whom to trust and what to fight for—Eight or herself. Millions of dollars and the fate of the founding families is at stake. Now Barrie must choose between what she feels deep in her heart and what will keep Watson’s Landing safe in this stunning addition to a series filled with “decadent settings, mysterious magic, and family histories rife with debauchery” (Kirkus Reviews, on Compulsion).
What I Liked:
Another heavily disappointing novel. Yesterday's review (Scandal Takes the Stage by Eva Leigh) was not impressive, and this book was unfortunately similar in disappointment. It's awkward because I'm a member of Martina's private street team, and I love Martina! I just met her on Saturday (at the Baltimore Book Festival), and she was the sweetest. I love working with her, so I'm extremely disappointed that I didn't like this novel. More mad at myself than the book, I think!
Barrie is still recovering from the crushing grief over Mark's death, as well as the trauma from what her cousin Cassie did to her and Eight. Back at Watson's Landing, Barrie discovers a new magic, through a stranger who doesn't seem human. He wants her to find something that will break the Colesworth curse, or he'll take away her ability. Find it and he'll grant a favor. But Barrie must sneak around behind everyone's back, include Eight's. Will she risk it all, including losing Eight, in order to save everyone?
I'm sitting here completely still, trying to dredge up things that I liked about this book. The cover, for one, though that's completely out of the author's control. The author's handling of PTSD, in one of the secondary characters. I was not expecting PTSD in this particular character, nor did I expect the trauma that the character suffered. The author did an excellent job of setting up this shocking secret. It's not a big secret the changes the plot of the book or series, but it is quite important and is a big part of the climax.
I'm also a huge fan of my cameo in this book! There is an "Alyssa" in this book, specifically because myself and Alyssa H. are part of Martina's street team. Very cool!
Okay, moving on, unfortunately.
What I Did Not Like:
I'll try to keep this as short as possible, because I know I have a tendency to go on and on, and I don't want to say too many specific things. Things with which I had issues: Barrie & Eight's relationship, Barrie, the story.
Barrie are and Eight fighting literally from the beginning of the story. And then they're kissing all the time. And then back to arguing. It's exhausting. I was sick of their s*** by the end of the first few chapters. Barrie develops a complex in which she feels the need to push Eight away, and then Seven wants her to stay away from Eight too. And yet, Barrie will be arguing with Eight, and in the next page, they'll be kissing.
To me, there is nothing romantic about this. It was a total turn-off, to go from arguing to kissing to arguing and then to kissing. Barrie and Eight's relationship is so messed up. Barrie is hiding just about everything in her life from him. When she meets the weird stranger who seems to be able to disappear into the air, she lies and tells Eight that it's nothing. Everything is "nothing" to Barrie - she doesn't trust anyone.
And she is incredibly selfish, and hypocritical. She expects everyone to be totally up-front and honest with her, and yet, she lies to EVERYONE. Not just Eight - Pru, Seven, herself. Her lies hurt people. Her lies are selfish. She lies and then makes decisions for people without asking or at least telling them. So many lies in this book, especially to Eight. And Eight knows when she is lying (he can tell if she is trying to hide what she wants from him), yet he doesn't want to give up on her.
See, their relationship is so imbalanced. I felt like Eight was saying a lot of "I can't stay mad at you" and "gosh what you do to me" and "you are amazing", "my life is nothing without you", etc. The usual cliche, melodramatic BS (sorry not sorry). Meanwhile, Barrie is lying and sneaking around and being hypocritical and yelling at Eight at every turn. And still expects him to forgive her. This relationship is so one-sided! Eight is the one making all the effort, and Barrie is doing a great of taking advantage of him, whether or not she realizes it (she does).
Not to mention that Barrie makes some ridiculous, dumb decisions. With some of her decisions, if she didn't make a few of them, there would be no book. But... all of her decisions are so incredibly stupid. She's supposed to be smart? It didn't show at any point in this book, unfortunately.
Basically, I had a ton of issues with Barrie, Barrie and Eight's relationship, and all things related to Barrie. Difficult dislike to have, no?
The story was also boring, disjointed, and very anticlimactic. I can't say much without giving away spoilers, but I was highly disappointed in how the plot moved, as well as the climax. The climax was not nearly as epic and interesting as I'd expected. NOTHING is resolved, especially in terms of history. So disappointing!
Bottom line - Barrie and Eight's relationship was too toxic for me to actually enjoy this story. Eight is so one-dimensional (perhaps it was hard for the author to construct the characters in third person limited?), and Barrie is hard to like (in this book). While I think the author is trying to show character development in Barrie, she has turned Barrie into a highly unlikable character, and it reflects badly on the plot.
Would I Recommend It:
This is tricky. While I clearly didn't love this novel, I think I might still read Illusion (book three) next year. The ending of this book was good, so I might give book three a chance. So, I don't recommend Persuasion, but I liked Compulsion, and I am curious enough to want to read the next book in the series.
Rating:
2.5 stars -> rounded down to 2 stars. I am disappointed that I did not like this novel, but glad that I read it. It's unfortunate that so much of the story was just character/relationship driven, and the plot story outside of the romance is in poor shape. If you've read this novel, let me know what you thought of it!
October 20, 2015
"Perceptions were fickle things, as formless as smoke and just as dangerous. Weeks ago, when Barrie had first seen the plantation her mother had run away from in her teens, the light clawing through the the haunts of Spanish moss along the avenue of ancient oaks had seemed ominous, and the down-at-the-heels mansion beyond the trees had appeared forbidding."
Persuasion is the sequel to the phenomenal book Compulsion about a young girl who has the ability to "find" lost things. Persuasion picks up right where Compulsion left off and Barrie is recovering from her godfather, Mark's, death and she is still trying to figure out why Cassie betrayed her when she is thrown into another intriguing mystery at Watson's Island.
I was completely and utterly wrapped up in Compulsion and had no idea how Persuasion could be any better.....and then I opened the book.
Persuasion is so full of emotion and heart and the writing is so lyrical and descriptive and I really felt as though I was experiencing each moment right along with Barrie and Eight. The story is an breath-taking family saga with deep dark secrets that can affect every aspect of Barrie and Eight's lives and their friends and family. The secrets and twists are so much more intense in Persuasion and really dig into human nature and real life issues.
I loved the introduction of new characters and all the new mysteries that came along with them...and of course I LOVE the southern aspect of the story since I am from the South and totally understand the charm that really sets the atmosphere for this amazing book.
The one thing that bothered me a little was how much turmoil that was going on within Barrie and Eight's relationship. They seemed to be so tense with each other and so many issues kept occurring that seemed to pull them apart. I really wanted Barrie and Eight to experience happiness and hopefully the 3rd book will reflect this!!
"At that moment, the gifts didn't matter. There was only skin, and breath, and touch. For that moment, in that moment, they were each enough."
The whole story was so fascinating and I just felt like the intensity just continued to build throughout the whole book. Each chapter was so engaging and a new twist was introduced and just totally had me engrossed in this phenomenal story.
I still feel as though there is more to Seven & Barrie's Mothers story and I really hope we learn more about their past in Book 3, Illusion.
Southern charm meets spell-binding mystery in this amazing sequel to Compulsion....full of suspense, magic, intrigue, and secrets...this book will have you turning pages deep into the night.
October 13, 2015
It is funny how a story can grab you right from the beginning and you really can't say why. Not because the writing isn't good, because it was, nor because the characters weren't quirky and lovable, because again, they were. But just because for whatever reason, the story, while not completely original but totally unique in design, was just so much fun to read and had you eagerly turning the pages.
That is what book one, Compulsion, did for me. So it was without a second thought, that I picked up Persuasion, and dived right in. I was ready for more Berrie and Eight and all the crazy happenings that went along with them and Watson Island.
I was not disappointed. The danger is greater, the risks are higher, and the secrets are more hurtful, deadly, and in overabundance.
I absolutely loved how strong Berrie is getting. How determined to do what is right, regardless of the consequences and regardless of who she is helping. But most of all, I love Eight and Berrie together, but sadly, Berrie being Berrie, is also what tears them apart and it was sad to see so much arguing, anger, and hurt happening between these two but it was also completely understandable.
More than anything, the atmosphere of Watson Island, with it's magic and curses, hoodoo and voodoo, is what really makes this novel shine. I love the lore, the mystery and the dark mysterious and sometimes gothic setting of the island. It truly screams out to me and makes me crave more.
I loved where this whole series is going and I wasn't quite ready for it to end, no matter how painful that ending was. I want so much for the Watson's and the Beaufort's and I truly truly hope, they all get their happily every after.
Boone once again enchanted me with her writing, her ability to paint a beautiful dark scene and her talent for making it all stand out, stand up, and shine.
*An ARC Copy of this was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
That is what book one, Compulsion, did for me. So it was without a second thought, that I picked up Persuasion, and dived right in. I was ready for more Berrie and Eight and all the crazy happenings that went along with them and Watson Island.
I was not disappointed. The danger is greater, the risks are higher, and the secrets are more hurtful, deadly, and in overabundance.
I absolutely loved how strong Berrie is getting. How determined to do what is right, regardless of the consequences and regardless of who she is helping. But most of all, I love Eight and Berrie together, but sadly, Berrie being Berrie, is also what tears them apart and it was sad to see so much arguing, anger, and hurt happening between these two but it was also completely understandable.
More than anything, the atmosphere of Watson Island, with it's magic and curses, hoodoo and voodoo, is what really makes this novel shine. I love the lore, the mystery and the dark mysterious and sometimes gothic setting of the island. It truly screams out to me and makes me crave more.
I loved where this whole series is going and I wasn't quite ready for it to end, no matter how painful that ending was. I want so much for the Watson's and the Beaufort's and I truly truly hope, they all get their happily every after.
Boone once again enchanted me with her writing, her ability to paint a beautiful dark scene and her talent for making it all stand out, stand up, and shine.
*An ARC Copy of this was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
May 29, 2015
So much love for this series! Book 2 is very different from 'Compulsion,' but still completely engrossing. Martina Boone does an amazing job of exploring more of the characters introduced in the first book--especially Cassie and Seven. We also learn more about the curse and its conditions, as well as the history of Watson Island. It has more of an eerie feel than the first book, and the stakes are definitely even higher in the sequel. And of course, there's plenty of the stalwart and sassy Eight Beaufort. *swoon* I can't wait for book 3!
May 24, 2015
Dark voodoo magic, southern charm, family secrets, complicated love, southern folklore, buried treasure, and ancient curses. This combination makes for an amazing second book to a wonderful series. Read my full review at www.booklovinalicia.blogspot.com
Thanks to Edelweiss for allowing me to read a digital ARC!!!
Thanks to Edelweiss for allowing me to read a digital ARC!!!
Read
May 31, 2015THE RAINBOW READATHON: Violet
I'm changing the violet book I originally planned on reading for the readathon. Since I got approved for this arc, I can't help but not want to read this first.
Thank you Simon and Schuster for approving my request.
I'm changing the violet book I originally planned on reading for the readathon. Since I got approved for this arc, I can't help but not want to read this first.
Thank you Simon and Schuster for approving my request.
September 9, 2015
Oh my word!!! Martina's writing is just wonderful and spot on. I love it.
Barrie and Eights story continues with no less drama and action along the way.
From this book:
I'm more in love with the yunwi!
Cassie holds a spot in my heart.
I love the memories from some references mentioned.
I'm dying for the rest of this story!!!!!
Barrie and Eights story continues with no less drama and action along the way.
From this book:
I'm more in love with the yunwi!
Cassie holds a spot in my heart.
I love the memories from some references mentioned.
I'm dying for the rest of this story!!!!!
June 3, 2015
Amazing, as fantastic, if not better, than Compulsion! Review closer to publication date!
December 2, 2014
Beta read and it was fantastic. Can't wait for the final product and i just happen to make an awesome cameo! HA!
August 26, 2015
I absolutely adored Compulsion and was thrilled when I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Persuasion. Martina absolutely knows how to write a paranormal mystery in her own way. There are no cliche troupes or been-there-done-that scenes. She creates a complex narrative that builds and builds throughout both books.
Barrie is dealing with the death of Mark, Cassie's betrayal, and her growing knowledge of her family's history all while trying to find her footing in her life, which is now being overrun by ghost hunters and reporters. One of the things I love about reading Persuasion from Barrie's point of view is that we only know what she knows. We don't get hints dropped from being in the head's of other characters. We learn as Barrie learns and we feel betrayal as Barrie feels betrayal. This is one of my favorite narratives, next to first person, because we really get into the head of one character, which pulls up deeper into the story. Yes, there are times when third person omniscient narrator works, but for this go round third person limited is perfect.
The romance with Eight isn't quite up to OTP level (though it's terribly terribly close), but I blame Barrie for that. She's pulling the typical "I'm going to handle everything on my own even though it will be hugely beneficial for me to discuss these things with Eight." I'll admit this is one a character traits that bothers me the most and I just want to smack her upside the head. This especially comes into play with the addition of Obadiah, whom I don't even know how to describe. A good-ish bad guy? A bad-ish good guy? All I can say is that he's iffy on the trust scale and I'm curious about his true intentions.
Just like Compulsion, Martina's narrative and story telling are on point. She pulls her readers into the story with her Southern charm, romance, and magic. I devoured both books in this series and I'm anxiously awaiting the conclusion, Illusion, and to find out how everything is going to be wrapped up - fingers crossed that it's with a pretty bow!
***
Read this review and more at Bookish Lifestyle
Barrie is dealing with the death of Mark, Cassie's betrayal, and her growing knowledge of her family's history all while trying to find her footing in her life, which is now being overrun by ghost hunters and reporters. One of the things I love about reading Persuasion from Barrie's point of view is that we only know what she knows. We don't get hints dropped from being in the head's of other characters. We learn as Barrie learns and we feel betrayal as Barrie feels betrayal. This is one of my favorite narratives, next to first person, because we really get into the head of one character, which pulls up deeper into the story. Yes, there are times when third person omniscient narrator works, but for this go round third person limited is perfect.
The romance with Eight isn't quite up to OTP level (though it's terribly terribly close), but I blame Barrie for that. She's pulling the typical "I'm going to handle everything on my own even though it will be hugely beneficial for me to discuss these things with Eight." I'll admit this is one a character traits that bothers me the most and I just want to smack her upside the head. This especially comes into play with the addition of Obadiah, whom I don't even know how to describe. A good-ish bad guy? A bad-ish good guy? All I can say is that he's iffy on the trust scale and I'm curious about his true intentions.
Just like Compulsion, Martina's narrative and story telling are on point. She pulls her readers into the story with her Southern charm, romance, and magic. I devoured both books in this series and I'm anxiously awaiting the conclusion, Illusion, and to find out how everything is going to be wrapped up - fingers crossed that it's with a pretty bow!
***
Read this review and more at Bookish Lifestyle
June 5, 2015
Gahhh I am a huge fan of Martina Boone's and Compulsion was my favorite YA book of 2014. I was lucky enough to receive an eARC of Persuasion from Edelweiss and boy could I not have been more excited to read the next installment. I'll be sure to post a fuller review closer to October, but here's a little preview.
"You're torn between wanting to be closer and wanting to push me away," he said, "So I vote for closer. I'll always vote for closer."
The romance between Eight and Barrie is heating up, but it's not without it's drama. Boone writes her version of Romeo and Juliet with an achy hopefulness that makes the reader simultaneously swoon and sob. Never before have I rooted for two characters to find a way to make it work.
"It took vulnerability to forge strength, the way true courage required fear."
Around every corner, these characters are evolving and growing. No one is stagnant. Where Compulsion laid the groundwork for the myths of Watson's Island, Persuasion is about developing these characters into people. They are flawed, they are wonderful, and they are family. No one plays second fiddle. No one is ignored. Boone manages to make you invested in everyone, even the adults.
Guys, I am so excited for you to read this next installment. Boone really knocks it out of the park. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll be scared, but overall you'll enjoy.
"You're torn between wanting to be closer and wanting to push me away," he said, "So I vote for closer. I'll always vote for closer."
The romance between Eight and Barrie is heating up, but it's not without it's drama. Boone writes her version of Romeo and Juliet with an achy hopefulness that makes the reader simultaneously swoon and sob. Never before have I rooted for two characters to find a way to make it work.
"It took vulnerability to forge strength, the way true courage required fear."
Around every corner, these characters are evolving and growing. No one is stagnant. Where Compulsion laid the groundwork for the myths of Watson's Island, Persuasion is about developing these characters into people. They are flawed, they are wonderful, and they are family. No one plays second fiddle. No one is ignored. Boone manages to make you invested in everyone, even the adults.
Guys, I am so excited for you to read this next installment. Boone really knocks it out of the park. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll be scared, but overall you'll enjoy.
November 3, 2015
COMPULSION hooked me with it's alluring Southern Gothic charms, beautiful writing, and made me fall in love with it's richly rooted Southern history. Then PERSUASION came along and swept me off my feet with it's enchanting mysteries, magic, and oh so addicting romance! This sequel was everything I loved about COMPULSION and a whole lot more!
Read my FULL REVIEW here http://mundiemoms.blogspot.com/2015/1...
Read my FULL REVIEW here http://mundiemoms.blogspot.com/2015/1...
March 20, 2016
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Persuasion has all the magic and beauty and wonderful things that I loved about Compulsion, but we get a lot more insight into the origins all the lore surround Watson's Island. In this book, we get more details about the curse, the gifts, and the impact of these things on the lives of the Barrie and Eight (and Cassie too). We are introduced to Obadiah and his voodoo, which I am sure we will learn more about in the next book. Relationships are emerging and changing. Barrie and Eight, Seven and Pru, Barrie and Cassie, Barrie and Pru, Seven and Eight, Seven and Barrie -- each of these relationships is explored to some extent as we get to learn more about these characters. I loved collecting all the pieces of information and assembling them to get the big picture of how all these people's lives are intertwined and how they are connected to the past. I also was very impressed with some of the topics Boone explored (PTSD, sexual assault, dyslexia). I was intrigued throughout the story and cannot wait to see where this is going
Persuasion has all the magic and beauty and wonderful things that I loved about Compulsion, but we get a lot more insight into the origins all the lore surround Watson's Island. In this book, we get more details about the curse, the gifts, and the impact of these things on the lives of the Barrie and Eight (and Cassie too). We are introduced to Obadiah and his voodoo, which I am sure we will learn more about in the next book. Relationships are emerging and changing. Barrie and Eight, Seven and Pru, Barrie and Cassie, Barrie and Pru, Seven and Eight, Seven and Barrie -- each of these relationships is explored to some extent as we get to learn more about these characters. I loved collecting all the pieces of information and assembling them to get the big picture of how all these people's lives are intertwined and how they are connected to the past. I also was very impressed with some of the topics Boone explored (PTSD, sexual assault, dyslexia). I was intrigued throughout the story and cannot wait to see where this is going
February 16, 2016
*rubs hands* Okay then, let’s do this! For those of you who haven’t read Compulsion, reading beyond this point may be a bad idea because spoilers. BEWARE.
I have A LOT of things to say about Persuasion. And since, being me, I love to dissect the books that I love, Persuasion is going to pretty much get the same royal treatment :P
Persuasion begins with Barrie Watson, our protagonist, coming back to Watson’s Landing from San Francisco. And that was amazing, and exactly what I hoped for, because she’d gone to San Francisco for her godfather’s funeral in the first place, and I didn’t want to see that as a part of the book. Why? Simply because I didn’t want to start the book in tears. Barrie is heartbroken and just absolutely devastated and coming back to Watson’s Landing is supposed to be helpful and calming. Instead, reporters, curious locals, and archaeologists are flocking the place to catch a glimpse of the Fire Carrier and discover the hidden gold at Colesworth Place.
Seeing Barrie’s reaction—her instant dislike for the negative attention and her fierce protectiveness for the place—made me realise just how much Barrie has grown both as a character and as an individual. She was less shallow than she was in Compulsion, less selfish and definitely en route to becoming one of my favourite female leading ladies of all time! Her decisions, though sometimes stupid and reckless, were all guided by love and a deep slated need to do right by Watson Island and its inhabitants. Barrie completely and absolutely became a mama bear in this book, and from a YA character, it became both unique and awesome to read.
Within the first 10% of the book, we get to see Cassie Colesworth again, Barrie’s cousin, and almost the reason of her death. Cassie, I have to say, may be the most evil and misguided of characters in the book, but I have to say that as a reader, she is one of the most developed and complex characters I have ever read. Cassie had her own shades of grey and it was absolutely fascinating to see the many facets of humanity through this one girl. Of course, her motivations and her way of doing things were questionable, but as a character, she is hands down the most brilliant! Again, with Persuasion, new secrets are revealed about the Colesworths, Cassie included, and I was absolutely taken aback by what I read! Believe me, you will be too! Complete, complete shocker, done flawlessly in a way that only Martina Boone can!
It was honestly so amazing to see Eight Beaufort again! He was one of my favourite characters in Compulsion because, um obviously, and I’m glad to report that he still holds in spot in Persuasion! But here’s the thing—Eight changed. A Lot. What with his gift of knowing exactly what people want and being compelled to give it to them, Eight and Barrie have a hard time trying to understand exactly what it is that keeps them together—does Eight love her because it is what she wants, or because he wants to love her? It’s kind of tricky and after how Eight and Barrie left it at the end of Persuasion, I’m flipping out to see how this particular part of the plot is resolved in Illusion.
And of course, the character I can talk about for dayyssss but won’t talk about much because spoilers. The “stranger filled with magic” who arrives at Watson’s Landing. This stranger is the reason I wanted to savour the book and did not want to read the end ever! You see, he’s not your typical villain. Hell, I’m not sure if he’s a villain at all! This guy has got to be one of my favourite villains of all time and I am not even kidding. He’s got style and motive, powers and threats, and goddamn it, I’m really into him! This guy was both scary and full of charm, and it was completely love at first creep with him and me ❤
I can honestly say it was great to see all the old characters from Compulsion! I felt like I understood Pru, Seven, Mary, even Mark so much better than Compulsion, and without them, Barrie and Eight would be lost. Of course, everyone in Watson Island seems to have a secret of their own, but one of the most intriguing secrets is the relationship (or lack thereof) between Pru and Seven. Cannot wait to find out what really happened there, and how they’re going to move forward!
Once again, Martina Boone writes with a talent that is unmatched. I don’t know how she does it, but she kind of dragged me into Southern Goth and it’s a genre that is completely new to me! Her writing has a skill and it is absolutely graceful—which is something that is unique and captivating! She makes the reader think and feel, but most importantly, she helps you get lost in the wonderful world she has created. With this series going the way it is, and each book only getting better, Illusion is going to blow my head off. I just know it.
I WAS PROVIDED A FREE ECOPY OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE OF AN HONEST REVIEW. THIS DID NOT IN ANY WAY, HOWEVER, INFLUENCE THE CONTENT OF THIS REVIEW.
I have A LOT of things to say about Persuasion. And since, being me, I love to dissect the books that I love, Persuasion is going to pretty much get the same royal treatment :P
Persuasion begins with Barrie Watson, our protagonist, coming back to Watson’s Landing from San Francisco. And that was amazing, and exactly what I hoped for, because she’d gone to San Francisco for her godfather’s funeral in the first place, and I didn’t want to see that as a part of the book. Why? Simply because I didn’t want to start the book in tears. Barrie is heartbroken and just absolutely devastated and coming back to Watson’s Landing is supposed to be helpful and calming. Instead, reporters, curious locals, and archaeologists are flocking the place to catch a glimpse of the Fire Carrier and discover the hidden gold at Colesworth Place.
Seeing Barrie’s reaction—her instant dislike for the negative attention and her fierce protectiveness for the place—made me realise just how much Barrie has grown both as a character and as an individual. She was less shallow than she was in Compulsion, less selfish and definitely en route to becoming one of my favourite female leading ladies of all time! Her decisions, though sometimes stupid and reckless, were all guided by love and a deep slated need to do right by Watson Island and its inhabitants. Barrie completely and absolutely became a mama bear in this book, and from a YA character, it became both unique and awesome to read.
Within the first 10% of the book, we get to see Cassie Colesworth again, Barrie’s cousin, and almost the reason of her death. Cassie, I have to say, may be the most evil and misguided of characters in the book, but I have to say that as a reader, she is one of the most developed and complex characters I have ever read. Cassie had her own shades of grey and it was absolutely fascinating to see the many facets of humanity through this one girl. Of course, her motivations and her way of doing things were questionable, but as a character, she is hands down the most brilliant! Again, with Persuasion, new secrets are revealed about the Colesworths, Cassie included, and I was absolutely taken aback by what I read! Believe me, you will be too! Complete, complete shocker, done flawlessly in a way that only Martina Boone can!
It was honestly so amazing to see Eight Beaufort again! He was one of my favourite characters in Compulsion because, um obviously, and I’m glad to report that he still holds in spot in Persuasion! But here’s the thing—Eight changed. A Lot. What with his gift of knowing exactly what people want and being compelled to give it to them, Eight and Barrie have a hard time trying to understand exactly what it is that keeps them together—does Eight love her because it is what she wants, or because he wants to love her? It’s kind of tricky and after how Eight and Barrie left it at the end of Persuasion, I’m flipping out to see how this particular part of the plot is resolved in Illusion.
And of course, the character I can talk about for dayyssss but won’t talk about much because spoilers. The “stranger filled with magic” who arrives at Watson’s Landing. This stranger is the reason I wanted to savour the book and did not want to read the end ever! You see, he’s not your typical villain. Hell, I’m not sure if he’s a villain at all! This guy has got to be one of my favourite villains of all time and I am not even kidding. He’s got style and motive, powers and threats, and goddamn it, I’m really into him! This guy was both scary and full of charm, and it was completely love at first creep with him and me ❤
I can honestly say it was great to see all the old characters from Compulsion! I felt like I understood Pru, Seven, Mary, even Mark so much better than Compulsion, and without them, Barrie and Eight would be lost. Of course, everyone in Watson Island seems to have a secret of their own, but one of the most intriguing secrets is the relationship (or lack thereof) between Pru and Seven. Cannot wait to find out what really happened there, and how they’re going to move forward!
Once again, Martina Boone writes with a talent that is unmatched. I don’t know how she does it, but she kind of dragged me into Southern Goth and it’s a genre that is completely new to me! Her writing has a skill and it is absolutely graceful—which is something that is unique and captivating! She makes the reader think and feel, but most importantly, she helps you get lost in the wonderful world she has created. With this series going the way it is, and each book only getting better, Illusion is going to blow my head off. I just know it.
I WAS PROVIDED A FREE ECOPY OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE OF AN HONEST REVIEW. THIS DID NOT IN ANY WAY, HOWEVER, INFLUENCE THE CONTENT OF THIS REVIEW.
August 31, 2020
For as much as I loved Compulsion, Persuasion was a pretty mediocre follow up. Will definitely finish up the trilogy... I'm holding out hope the last one is better than this one.
February 10, 2015
I adored every page of this contemporary fantasy. Although Persuasion is an action packed mystery, filled with twist and turns, heartache and longing, it is primarily a story of a young woman, Barrie, coming to terms with who she is and what she wants. Magic abounds in this paranormal romance, but it is Barrie’s strength and determination, even when she faces impossible choices, that is the most compelling. If you’re looking for a beautifully written, deliciously atmospheric novel that captivates you from the first page then Persuasion is for you. I highly recommend it.
July 7, 2015
Martina did it again! I fell right back in to Barrie's beautiful world. The writing is so gorgeous but somehow it doesn't detract at all from the fast paced storyline. I especially enjoyed seeing Barrie and Eight's relationship grow and cover some rocky ground. Cassie was wonderful too. She's such a deep character now! And I have to say I think Obadiah is one of my all time favorite villains.
The book covered heavier subject matter in just the right balance to deepen the world and story. I'm so glad Martina went there! I can't wait for the next book.
The book covered heavier subject matter in just the right balance to deepen the world and story. I'm so glad Martina went there! I can't wait for the next book.
Read
December 16, 2015Another piece of gorgeousness from Martina Boone!! *happy sigh*
August 31, 2015
Having lived in South Carolina for so long, diving back into this series was like coming home for me. Again, the author manages to capture the rich history, Southern charm, and eerie magic of the Charleston Low Country area.
This book gives the reader a better understanding of the gifts of the Watsons and Beauforts and the Colesworth curse. Some questions are answered, but other emerge and there are still secrets to be exposed and the motivations of some characters to be learned.
Some of the characters have some interesting developments - some I liked and some surprised me. I enjoyed seeing Pru take a more active role at Watson's Landing and learning more about her past in regards to Seven, but some of Seven's actions were questionable. As easy as Cassie makes it to dislike her, there may be more to her than previously thought. Again, Eight is just a sweetheart of a character.
I was a little disappointed in the emphasis on the relationship drama between Barrie and Eight. Conflict is expected, of course, there wouldn't be much of a plot without it, but it distracted me from the primary story of the goings on at Watson's Landing.
There are still many decisions to be made, secrets to be exposed, and mysteries to be solved at Watson's Landing and I'll be impatiently waiting for the next book in this haunting, highly addictive series.
This review is based on a digital copy from the publisher through Edelweiss.
This book gives the reader a better understanding of the gifts of the Watsons and Beauforts and the Colesworth curse. Some questions are answered, but other emerge and there are still secrets to be exposed and the motivations of some characters to be learned.
Some of the characters have some interesting developments - some I liked and some surprised me. I enjoyed seeing Pru take a more active role at Watson's Landing and learning more about her past in regards to Seven, but some of Seven's actions were questionable. As easy as Cassie makes it to dislike her, there may be more to her than previously thought. Again, Eight is just a sweetheart of a character.
I was a little disappointed in the emphasis on the relationship drama between Barrie and Eight. Conflict is expected, of course, there wouldn't be much of a plot without it, but it distracted me from the primary story of the goings on at Watson's Landing.
There are still many decisions to be made, secrets to be exposed, and mysteries to be solved at Watson's Landing and I'll be impatiently waiting for the next book in this haunting, highly addictive series.
This review is based on a digital copy from the publisher through Edelweiss.
October 26, 2015
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: Gorgeous sequel filled with action packed adventure, a lush setting and an unforgettable romance! This is a series you do not want to miss!
Opening Sentence: The last miles of the journey stretched eternally, and Watson’s Landing pulled more and more on Barrie’s finding gift.
The Review:
Barrie Watson has a unique gift where she has the ability to find anything that is lost. She was born with the gift and eventually she figures out that it’s a family trait that has been passed down for generations! After losing her mother and beloved godfather Barrie leaves the only home she has ever known to live with an aunt she has never met! With its mysterious magic and interesting history Barrie has never felt like she belonged anywhere until arriving at Watson Island. It turns out that she’s not the only person to have a special gift. The Beaufort’s across the river have the ability to sense what people want and the Coleworth’s next door have been cursed with bad luck. There is a lot going on at Watson Plantation but Barrie can’t imagine ever wanting to live anywhere else!
But Barrie’s not the only person to find Watson Plantation fascinating. There are some ghost-hunters that have been snooping around trying to catch a glimpse of the mysterious fire catcher that lights the river on fire each night. Then a group of archaeologists show up to look into the rumor of buried treasure at the Colesworth Place. Finally, a mysterious magical man appears and claims to know how to break the curse that has plagued the Colesworth’s for all these years. But in order to break the curse he will need Barrie’s help finding something that has been lost for centuries!
Barrie is a wonderful and interesting protagonist. She is smart, witty, and a very independent girl that is easy to admire. She’s also a sweet girl and always tries to see the best in everyone. Sometimes her willingness to always help others gets her into trouble, but her kindness is one of her best qualities. The one thing that I didn’t particularly love about Barrie was how insecure she is about her relationships with other people in her life. I get that growing up she didn’t really have many examples of good relationships, so it has been hard for her to make strong connections with others because she can’t open up easily. She has so many fears of being hurt, so she tends to push people away. The only reason this bugged me was because I felt it caused a lot of unnecessary drama in the story. But overall, I loved Barrie and I really enjoyed being inside her head.
I fell madly in love with Eight in Compulsion and it was no surprise to me that I fell even more in love with him in Persuasion! Not only is he ridiculously good looking, he is also sweet, charming, and just overall amazing. He has an abundance of patience when it comes to Barrie and he seriously treats her so good. But he also has his own set of insecurities that make him imperfect but relatable. He has dyslexia, which has caused him to struggle academically but he hasn’t let that stop him from fulfilling his dreams of going to college and making something of himself away from the Beaufort family. I really admire and respect Eight and he has become one of my favorite book boys! (Just read the excerpt below and you will see one of the many reasons why I love him so much!)
In Compulsion you get to experience the start of the relationship between Eight and Barrie. That beginning of a relationship is always fun and exciting because everything is so fresh and full of promise. But sometimes after the newness wears off relationships can become dull and boring. Unfortunately, this not only happens in real life, but I find that my interest in book couples will wane at times once they have been together for a while. I’m so happy to say that this wasn’t the case with Eight and Barrie. I fell even more in love with them as a couple in Persuasion. They went from having a timid new beginning of something that could be great to an epic romance that is the forever kind. I loved watching them fall in love and create everlasting memories. But their relationship isn’t all peaches and roses. They both have insecurities they have to work through and of course there are things/people that threaten to tear them apart. But through their struggles they become better people and they grow closer together. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for them in the final book!!!
Persuasion is filled with action-packed adventure, a lush setting and an unforgettable romance! Surprisingly in my opinion it was actually better then the first book in the series. I really enjoyed Compulsion but I loved Persuasion. The plot had some great twists and it easily kept my interest until the very last page. There was never a dull moment and I honestly didn’t want it to end. Speaking of endings this one had a pretty terrible cliffhanger, which is frustrating because now I have to wait an entire year to read the next book! But if you can’t tell by my raving review, I am really looking forward to reading Illusion in 2016! If you are looking for a great paranormal story filled with adventure, humor, and amazing characters you should definitely check out this series!
Notable Scene:
“Even if I got to USC and I date every girl in Southern California,” he said, “I’m not going to find another girl like you. Not in a year, or ten, or even a hundred years. I’m not stupid enough to let that go without a fight, so whatever assurances you need, I’ll figure out how to give them to you.” He tossed her one of his careless smiles. “I’ve been out with enough girls to know what I want. I know. You and me together? We’re not the same plain vanilla let’s-date-while-we’re-in-high-school, let’s-go-to-prom, let’s-promise-we’ll-talk-in-college relationship. We’re more like those fireworks on the Fourth of July that keep exploding with new bursts every time they’re done. Before we know it, we’ll be in rocking chairs side by side on the porch, holding hands and watching a houseful of great grandchildren chasing blue ghost fireflies on the lawn.”
FTC Advisory: Simon Teen provided me with a copy of Persuasion. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Gorgeous sequel filled with action packed adventure, a lush setting and an unforgettable romance! This is a series you do not want to miss!
Opening Sentence: The last miles of the journey stretched eternally, and Watson’s Landing pulled more and more on Barrie’s finding gift.
The Review:
Barrie Watson has a unique gift where she has the ability to find anything that is lost. She was born with the gift and eventually she figures out that it’s a family trait that has been passed down for generations! After losing her mother and beloved godfather Barrie leaves the only home she has ever known to live with an aunt she has never met! With its mysterious magic and interesting history Barrie has never felt like she belonged anywhere until arriving at Watson Island. It turns out that she’s not the only person to have a special gift. The Beaufort’s across the river have the ability to sense what people want and the Coleworth’s next door have been cursed with bad luck. There is a lot going on at Watson Plantation but Barrie can’t imagine ever wanting to live anywhere else!
But Barrie’s not the only person to find Watson Plantation fascinating. There are some ghost-hunters that have been snooping around trying to catch a glimpse of the mysterious fire catcher that lights the river on fire each night. Then a group of archaeologists show up to look into the rumor of buried treasure at the Colesworth Place. Finally, a mysterious magical man appears and claims to know how to break the curse that has plagued the Colesworth’s for all these years. But in order to break the curse he will need Barrie’s help finding something that has been lost for centuries!
Barrie is a wonderful and interesting protagonist. She is smart, witty, and a very independent girl that is easy to admire. She’s also a sweet girl and always tries to see the best in everyone. Sometimes her willingness to always help others gets her into trouble, but her kindness is one of her best qualities. The one thing that I didn’t particularly love about Barrie was how insecure she is about her relationships with other people in her life. I get that growing up she didn’t really have many examples of good relationships, so it has been hard for her to make strong connections with others because she can’t open up easily. She has so many fears of being hurt, so she tends to push people away. The only reason this bugged me was because I felt it caused a lot of unnecessary drama in the story. But overall, I loved Barrie and I really enjoyed being inside her head.
I fell madly in love with Eight in Compulsion and it was no surprise to me that I fell even more in love with him in Persuasion! Not only is he ridiculously good looking, he is also sweet, charming, and just overall amazing. He has an abundance of patience when it comes to Barrie and he seriously treats her so good. But he also has his own set of insecurities that make him imperfect but relatable. He has dyslexia, which has caused him to struggle academically but he hasn’t let that stop him from fulfilling his dreams of going to college and making something of himself away from the Beaufort family. I really admire and respect Eight and he has become one of my favorite book boys! (Just read the excerpt below and you will see one of the many reasons why I love him so much!)
In Compulsion you get to experience the start of the relationship between Eight and Barrie. That beginning of a relationship is always fun and exciting because everything is so fresh and full of promise. But sometimes after the newness wears off relationships can become dull and boring. Unfortunately, this not only happens in real life, but I find that my interest in book couples will wane at times once they have been together for a while. I’m so happy to say that this wasn’t the case with Eight and Barrie. I fell even more in love with them as a couple in Persuasion. They went from having a timid new beginning of something that could be great to an epic romance that is the forever kind. I loved watching them fall in love and create everlasting memories. But their relationship isn’t all peaches and roses. They both have insecurities they have to work through and of course there are things/people that threaten to tear them apart. But through their struggles they become better people and they grow closer together. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for them in the final book!!!
Persuasion is filled with action-packed adventure, a lush setting and an unforgettable romance! Surprisingly in my opinion it was actually better then the first book in the series. I really enjoyed Compulsion but I loved Persuasion. The plot had some great twists and it easily kept my interest until the very last page. There was never a dull moment and I honestly didn’t want it to end. Speaking of endings this one had a pretty terrible cliffhanger, which is frustrating because now I have to wait an entire year to read the next book! But if you can’t tell by my raving review, I am really looking forward to reading Illusion in 2016! If you are looking for a great paranormal story filled with adventure, humor, and amazing characters you should definitely check out this series!
Notable Scene:
“Even if I got to USC and I date every girl in Southern California,” he said, “I’m not going to find another girl like you. Not in a year, or ten, or even a hundred years. I’m not stupid enough to let that go without a fight, so whatever assurances you need, I’ll figure out how to give them to you.” He tossed her one of his careless smiles. “I’ve been out with enough girls to know what I want. I know. You and me together? We’re not the same plain vanilla let’s-date-while-we’re-in-high-school, let’s-go-to-prom, let’s-promise-we’ll-talk-in-college relationship. We’re more like those fireworks on the Fourth of July that keep exploding with new bursts every time they’re done. Before we know it, we’ll be in rocking chairs side by side on the porch, holding hands and watching a houseful of great grandchildren chasing blue ghost fireflies on the lawn.”
FTC Advisory: Simon Teen provided me with a copy of Persuasion. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
November 8, 2015
"Persuasion" the second book in "The Heirs of Watson Island" blends family myth, magic and romance in a mystery that began in Watson's Landing with a curse placed on three founding families- the Colesworths, Watsons, and Beauforts.
After returning from San Francisco with her godfather's ashes so they can be buried on the plantation, a grieving Barrie Watson is disturbed when her finding ability draws her to a disk engraved with a raven. When a stranger in a dark suit with dreadlocks snaking over his shoulders confronts her, Barrie is coerced into making a bargain that could mean not only finding the treasure but removing the Beaufort/Colesworth curses. If she doesn't agree he threatens to take away the Watson curse which would mean losing her ability and her bond to the land and yunwi who she's grown to love. When Barrie and her Aunt Pru attend the funeral of Cassie's father she finds a team of archaeologists have been hired to excavate beneath the mansion ruins which could endanger her deal with Obadiah.
Set in the South where three families suffer a curse that gives them a magical ability and binds them to the land, Barrie is not only determined to help find the treasure so the Colesworth curse can be lifted but to help Cassie overcome the trauma of her kidnapping and sexual assault at age thirteen when her father tried to leave the drug cartel he worked for. The plot progresses smoothly and quickly after she makes a deal with Obadiah, only to find that Cassie has hired archaeologists to excavate the land which infuriates the spirits that protect the spot near the ruins where Barrie senses intense loss. Mystery infuses the plot from the first page to the last while suspense and intensity is heightened with the added dimension of PTSD and trauma from a sexual assault that often makes Cassie catatonic.
Although they're constantly arguing Barrie and Eight have grown closer, their passion escalating. In this story he has refused the baseball scholarship to the college in California because he wants to stay closer to home, but Barrie is afraid his ability may have influenced his decision. With their feelings being forbidden because of their family curses, Barrie's filled with doubts and uncertainty. She begins not only keeping secrets but making choices that affect Eight, forgetting that he has a right to make his own decisions. After an explosive confrontation with a Colesworth adversary Barrie finally confronts the depth of her feelings for Eight but it could be too late.
As in "Compulsion" Martina Boone creates characters that are realistic, fiery and complex as they face one challenge after another. Barrie who's kind and considerate continues to fight for what she feels is right, impulsively making decisions because she wants to make those she loves happy. Eight who struggles with dyslexia is insecure, wanting to be appreciated by his family for more than his baseball prowess. Logical but stubborn, he wants his opinion to be respected enough to make his own decisions. Cassie hides a great deal of pain behind bravado and a hot-temper. Often she makes reckless decisions without thinking. Berg Walters is the quiet, controlled archaeologist who often helps Cassie recover when she seems unaware and lost. All these characters and more add energy and drama to a story that keeps you breathless until the end.
I thoroughly enjoyed "Persuasion" with its tragic family legacy, corruption, mystery and magic. Although not new in concept, its brilliantly conceived, well-developed and completely mesmerizing.
After returning from San Francisco with her godfather's ashes so they can be buried on the plantation, a grieving Barrie Watson is disturbed when her finding ability draws her to a disk engraved with a raven. When a stranger in a dark suit with dreadlocks snaking over his shoulders confronts her, Barrie is coerced into making a bargain that could mean not only finding the treasure but removing the Beaufort/Colesworth curses. If she doesn't agree he threatens to take away the Watson curse which would mean losing her ability and her bond to the land and yunwi who she's grown to love. When Barrie and her Aunt Pru attend the funeral of Cassie's father she finds a team of archaeologists have been hired to excavate beneath the mansion ruins which could endanger her deal with Obadiah.
Set in the South where three families suffer a curse that gives them a magical ability and binds them to the land, Barrie is not only determined to help find the treasure so the Colesworth curse can be lifted but to help Cassie overcome the trauma of her kidnapping and sexual assault at age thirteen when her father tried to leave the drug cartel he worked for. The plot progresses smoothly and quickly after she makes a deal with Obadiah, only to find that Cassie has hired archaeologists to excavate the land which infuriates the spirits that protect the spot near the ruins where Barrie senses intense loss. Mystery infuses the plot from the first page to the last while suspense and intensity is heightened with the added dimension of PTSD and trauma from a sexual assault that often makes Cassie catatonic.
Although they're constantly arguing Barrie and Eight have grown closer, their passion escalating. In this story he has refused the baseball scholarship to the college in California because he wants to stay closer to home, but Barrie is afraid his ability may have influenced his decision. With their feelings being forbidden because of their family curses, Barrie's filled with doubts and uncertainty. She begins not only keeping secrets but making choices that affect Eight, forgetting that he has a right to make his own decisions. After an explosive confrontation with a Colesworth adversary Barrie finally confronts the depth of her feelings for Eight but it could be too late.
As in "Compulsion" Martina Boone creates characters that are realistic, fiery and complex as they face one challenge after another. Barrie who's kind and considerate continues to fight for what she feels is right, impulsively making decisions because she wants to make those she loves happy. Eight who struggles with dyslexia is insecure, wanting to be appreciated by his family for more than his baseball prowess. Logical but stubborn, he wants his opinion to be respected enough to make his own decisions. Cassie hides a great deal of pain behind bravado and a hot-temper. Often she makes reckless decisions without thinking. Berg Walters is the quiet, controlled archaeologist who often helps Cassie recover when she seems unaware and lost. All these characters and more add energy and drama to a story that keeps you breathless until the end.
I thoroughly enjoyed "Persuasion" with its tragic family legacy, corruption, mystery and magic. Although not new in concept, its brilliantly conceived, well-developed and completely mesmerizing.
November 28, 2015
I knew that would happen at the end! I think at the beginning, it is a little slow but right at the middle it speeds up and the goes a bit fast. It is more creepy than Compulsion. I was shivering at points. I kind of feel bad for Cassie. There's a lot more about her that we don't know. And the "flashback/memory" scene? I almost started crying with Barrie. I can't wait for Illusion though!
October 20, 2015
'Persuasion' is the enchanting second installment in a young adult paranormal series that will leave readers begging for more. The story picks up where the first book left off - Barrie returns to Watson Island to find the plantation overrun with ghost hunters and reporters all trying to get a piece of the paranormal action and the story of lost treasure. When Cassie hires a team of excavators to dig up the land beneath the mansion - they find a lot more than they bargained for. Then a stranger with magic shows up on the island and convinces Barrie and Cassie to cast a spell on the ground beneath the mansion - but what they've conjured might just prove to be deadly.
After reading and loving the first book in this series so much, I have to admit that I was both incredibly excited and a little wary to read this book. I was afraid that it wasn't going to live up to the expectations and hopes and I had from the first one. Luckily, I didn't need to worry. Unlike some second installments in series, this book was just as good as the first - and continues to keep this series at the top of my all time favorites list. Barrie continues to be a great main character for the series. She's intelligent, determined, devoted, and willing to do anything to protect who and what she loves. We get to see her character grow even more in this book - both emotionally and mentally. I enjoyed watching her handling difficult situations with a more level head and with greater maturity. The bit of romance threaded throughout the novel continued to be juicy - I loved watching Barrie and Eight together as their relationship continues to grow and change. Cassie remains another great character in the story and seems to be the one always causing trouble for Barrie.
The plot was once again original and full of fascinating twists and mystery. I always try to figure out what's going to happen next or what's really happening in a story before the characters do, but I wasn't able to do that with this book. There were lots of turns and surprises sprinkled throughout the novel, which is always a huge plus for me. I was easily pulled back into the world of Watson Island from the very beginning of the book, and I didn't resurface until I had finished the entire things - which ended up only taking a few hours since I couldn't stop reading. The author's writing style along with the detailed descriptions and imagery made the book come to life right before my eyes - it felt like I was right there beside Barrie while everything happened. I absolutely adored the Southern Gothic feel that it has - I think it brings everything together perfectly and adds that certain "je ne sais quoi" to the series as a whole. Overall, this is a magnificent second book in a phenomenal series that continues to surprise and impress me. I'm eagerly awaiting the release of the next book - the wait being the only downside (why does it have to be so long?!). I very highly recommend this book and series to fans of the genre along with those who enjoy fantasy, paranormal, ghost stories, mysteries, and suspense/thrillers. If you haven't read these books yet - do it - now! I promise you won't be disappointed.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
After reading and loving the first book in this series so much, I have to admit that I was both incredibly excited and a little wary to read this book. I was afraid that it wasn't going to live up to the expectations and hopes and I had from the first one. Luckily, I didn't need to worry. Unlike some second installments in series, this book was just as good as the first - and continues to keep this series at the top of my all time favorites list. Barrie continues to be a great main character for the series. She's intelligent, determined, devoted, and willing to do anything to protect who and what she loves. We get to see her character grow even more in this book - both emotionally and mentally. I enjoyed watching her handling difficult situations with a more level head and with greater maturity. The bit of romance threaded throughout the novel continued to be juicy - I loved watching Barrie and Eight together as their relationship continues to grow and change. Cassie remains another great character in the story and seems to be the one always causing trouble for Barrie.
The plot was once again original and full of fascinating twists and mystery. I always try to figure out what's going to happen next or what's really happening in a story before the characters do, but I wasn't able to do that with this book. There were lots of turns and surprises sprinkled throughout the novel, which is always a huge plus for me. I was easily pulled back into the world of Watson Island from the very beginning of the book, and I didn't resurface until I had finished the entire things - which ended up only taking a few hours since I couldn't stop reading. The author's writing style along with the detailed descriptions and imagery made the book come to life right before my eyes - it felt like I was right there beside Barrie while everything happened. I absolutely adored the Southern Gothic feel that it has - I think it brings everything together perfectly and adds that certain "je ne sais quoi" to the series as a whole. Overall, this is a magnificent second book in a phenomenal series that continues to surprise and impress me. I'm eagerly awaiting the release of the next book - the wait being the only downside (why does it have to be so long?!). I very highly recommend this book and series to fans of the genre along with those who enjoy fantasy, paranormal, ghost stories, mysteries, and suspense/thrillers. If you haven't read these books yet - do it - now! I promise you won't be disappointed.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2015
PERSUASION is the intriguing and fascinating second installment in the Heirs of Watson Island series that takes readers back to a world full of mystery and magic, gifts and curses, dark secrets, envy, and enmity. New threats arise, more complications emerge, and greater challenges must be faced in this instantly captivating sequel.
Returning to Watson Island after attending Mark’s funeral, Barrie realized there is no place she’d rather be. Even with traumatic events that occurred that almost ended with Eight and her deaths. She missed the connection she had with the land and the spirits that reside there. She missed seeing the Fire Carrier.
But her return reveals that things at the Watson plantation have changed, and not for the better, and that she was kept in the dark by those she trusted. Anxious to regain the privacy and security they once had and to find a way to reopen the Tearoom, Barrie will have to move past their betrayal if she’s to have any hope of getting things back to the way they were.
Though with the arrival of a mysterious man who claims to be able to break the curse and remove their gifts, and insists upon her help in making at least the former happen, it doesn’t seem likely that a return to the way things were will ever be possible.
Forced to choose between secrets and honesty, kindness and vengeance, trust and doubt, mistakes will be made, lives will be put at risk, and Barrie could lose the one person she can’t imagine her life without.
PERSUASION moves the story forward while at the same time introduces a new twist - the possibility of breaking the Colesworth curse and removing the Watson and Beaufort gifts. More will be uncovered about the Colesworth’s history. The search for the hidden gold continues. Something from Cassie’s past will come to light. And Barrie will learn more about her gift and discover something about Eight’s, something he doesn’t know but that could change everything.
Martina Boone introduces a number of interesting and thought-provoking issues in her story - compassion toward those that might not deserve it, choice and free will, a human’s capacity for evil, for kindness, and for forgiveness, and the need for faith and the ability to trust. She creates conflict between Barrie and Eight, adding in the need for secrets and heightening Barrie’s insecurity about their relationship, which makes for a bumpy ride for the two. And she leaves many questions still to be answered about the magic, the spirits, the curse, the gifts, about the newcomer’s true intent, and about Barrie, Eight, Cassie and all the families’ futures in the next installment in the series.
PERSUASION is an enchanting and engaging and beautifully-written read. The world is magical and danger-filled. The characters are appealing. The mystery is gripping. It is a sequel that is sure to leave readers anxious for the next book.
Returning to Watson Island after attending Mark’s funeral, Barrie realized there is no place she’d rather be. Even with traumatic events that occurred that almost ended with Eight and her deaths. She missed the connection she had with the land and the spirits that reside there. She missed seeing the Fire Carrier.
But her return reveals that things at the Watson plantation have changed, and not for the better, and that she was kept in the dark by those she trusted. Anxious to regain the privacy and security they once had and to find a way to reopen the Tearoom, Barrie will have to move past their betrayal if she’s to have any hope of getting things back to the way they were.
Though with the arrival of a mysterious man who claims to be able to break the curse and remove their gifts, and insists upon her help in making at least the former happen, it doesn’t seem likely that a return to the way things were will ever be possible.
Forced to choose between secrets and honesty, kindness and vengeance, trust and doubt, mistakes will be made, lives will be put at risk, and Barrie could lose the one person she can’t imagine her life without.
PERSUASION moves the story forward while at the same time introduces a new twist - the possibility of breaking the Colesworth curse and removing the Watson and Beaufort gifts. More will be uncovered about the Colesworth’s history. The search for the hidden gold continues. Something from Cassie’s past will come to light. And Barrie will learn more about her gift and discover something about Eight’s, something he doesn’t know but that could change everything.
Martina Boone introduces a number of interesting and thought-provoking issues in her story - compassion toward those that might not deserve it, choice and free will, a human’s capacity for evil, for kindness, and for forgiveness, and the need for faith and the ability to trust. She creates conflict between Barrie and Eight, adding in the need for secrets and heightening Barrie’s insecurity about their relationship, which makes for a bumpy ride for the two. And she leaves many questions still to be answered about the magic, the spirits, the curse, the gifts, about the newcomer’s true intent, and about Barrie, Eight, Cassie and all the families’ futures in the next installment in the series.
PERSUASION is an enchanting and engaging and beautifully-written read. The world is magical and danger-filled. The characters are appealing. The mystery is gripping. It is a sequel that is sure to leave readers anxious for the next book.
October 27, 2015
If you are not aware, I am a huge fan of Martina's books. I love her writing and the awesome plot and story she has come up with. I loved how in Persuasion everything came as a surprise. All these twists and turns and how all these secrets and new information was constantly being dug up. That really contributed to wanting to keep reading to find out what happens next! We got to see more of Barrie and Eight and it all made for a great read. Persuasion is a perfect mix between uncovered secrets, a mysterious curse, and a story that is more to what meets the eye. Definitely a read I would recommend for all contemporary lovers.
Persuasion picks up right after the ending of Compulsion and Barrie is learning more about her curse and the family's past. Things are changing with Cassie, Eight, Watson's Landing, and there is this shift in energy in the book because of what has happened in Compulsion. Now that Barrie knows that there is more to the curse than what people talk about, she's curious! She wants to know more! That's what I really love about this book; how the more knowledge about a death or event was dug up, the more exciting this book got. (And let me tell you, there was a lot of that kind of stuff!)
A lot of Barrie's personality is mentioned in my Compulsion review so here, I am just going to talk about what has really changed in her. Barrie has always been a curious person but her curiosity really just goes over in this book and to the point where I do think she was getting a bit reckless. Sometimes these decisions she made would just bug me because of how reckless they were. This is what lowered my rating. Even though the things she did helped her learn more about her past, she still shouldn't have done what she did. Hopefully she does become wiser with her decisions because it has already caused certain people so much burden with them AND THEN there is me, who is slowly dying from all the damage Barrie has caused with all this damage and ah! I think the real problem with her is that she just needs to step out of the thought that she has to do everything by herself and GET SOME HELP. Or you know, at least let someone know on what she's doing!
One thing I needed to mention before I end off this review is how excited I am to get the next book. The ending left me so surprised and GAH! Really need another book because this series is starting to get sososo great. I really can't wait to uncover more about the curse and I honestly need to find out more about Barrie and Eight because to finally see these two in a "normal" relationship was the best thing ever and I honestly need more of it.
I gave this book 4 stars because I loved everything about it except I was annoying with the decisions Barrie made in this book.
Full review: http://next-page-please.blogspot.com/...
Persuasion picks up right after the ending of Compulsion and Barrie is learning more about her curse and the family's past. Things are changing with Cassie, Eight, Watson's Landing, and there is this shift in energy in the book because of what has happened in Compulsion. Now that Barrie knows that there is more to the curse than what people talk about, she's curious! She wants to know more! That's what I really love about this book; how the more knowledge about a death or event was dug up, the more exciting this book got. (And let me tell you, there was a lot of that kind of stuff!)
A lot of Barrie's personality is mentioned in my Compulsion review so here, I am just going to talk about what has really changed in her. Barrie has always been a curious person but her curiosity really just goes over in this book and to the point where I do think she was getting a bit reckless. Sometimes these decisions she made would just bug me because of how reckless they were. This is what lowered my rating. Even though the things she did helped her learn more about her past, she still shouldn't have done what she did. Hopefully she does become wiser with her decisions because it has already caused certain people so much burden with them AND THEN there is me, who is slowly dying from all the damage Barrie has caused with all this damage and ah! I think the real problem with her is that she just needs to step out of the thought that she has to do everything by herself and GET SOME HELP. Or you know, at least let someone know on what she's doing!
One thing I needed to mention before I end off this review is how excited I am to get the next book. The ending left me so surprised and GAH! Really need another book because this series is starting to get sososo great. I really can't wait to uncover more about the curse and I honestly need to find out more about Barrie and Eight because to finally see these two in a "normal" relationship was the best thing ever and I honestly need more of it.
I gave this book 4 stars because I loved everything about it except I was annoying with the decisions Barrie made in this book.
Full review: http://next-page-please.blogspot.com/...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews