don't love the audiobook, will come back to later

Okay. So. I hadn't remembered fully what I thought of the first book but my review definitely refreshed my memory. LOL

The second book was much improved on the first book. I actually liked the heroine....who I DETESTED last time. I fell in love with the Isolatan family......but this book was far from groundbreaking.

The romance needed to be amped up. One relatively chaste kiss and that was it. They were in love. Granted there was the typical boy and girl who hate each other fall in love trope. Still, I remember thinking this duology was going to be steamy. Far from it.

Additionally, I kind of guessed how the book was going to end up midway through my read. Sure the romance plot was easy but the differences between Coroa and Isolte, yeah, not surprised how those got wrapped up either.

Oh Kiera, I love you....but I will always say The Selection is better! ( )

I didn’t know what to think as this book began, especially with the heartbreak of the last book. But The Betrayed picks up just where The Betrothed left off. Hollis has lost everything, her parents and new husband and is determined to find out who did it, though she’s got a pretty good idea. The book is filled with plenty of heart pounding moments as she fights for what’s fair and just for her family. I was surprised by a part (no spoilers) but I was happy for how this moment turns the whole book on it’s side and just heightens the anticipation. Etan is a welcomed characters and in the end I was rooting for him just as much as I was rooting for Hollis. I have always loved Kiera Cass’ rich storytelling and priceless one liners and this book is no exception. There are a few memorable quotes thrown within the book and more than once I found myself in stitches at something someone said. I will admit I was slightly disappointed in the end, only because I need to know more. I hope there’s a third book coming but I’m not sure what else Kiera could write about. Overall, loved this book and read it in one sitting. ( )

I've been a big Kiera Cass fan for years. It pains me to say it, but this is just not good. It felt lazy in terms of plot. Everything just magically falling into place by chance and a romance plot that didn't feel like it matched the first book. While this book was a very quick read, it did not deliver the same satisfaction as The Selection series or The Siren. While I will continue to read her works, this duology is one you can skip. ( )

Cass delivers again. Book and narration are well done. I enjoy Cass's books.

FROM AMAZON: Can you follow your heart when it’s already broken?

After fleeing Coroa and leaving the memory of her beloved Silas behind, Hollis is unsteadily adjusting to life in Isolte. The Eastoffe family’s affection is a balm on her weary spirit, though Etan, a surly cousin with a deep distaste for Coroans, threatens to upset the uneasy peace she’s found.

While tensions at home ratchet up, disquiet in the kingdom of Isolte is reaching a fever pitch. The Eastoffes may have the power to unseat a tyrannical king - but only with Hollis’ help. Can a girl who’s lost it all put the fate of her adopted homeland over the secret longings of her heart? ( )