Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love how the author opens up her books. Very unique. After reading book 1 i was nervous about what author was found to put me and her characters through. If you want unpredictable and original, this series is for you. I love the character development and the plot as well. Great writing style.
Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the third installment in the series and it really blew me away. Our writer has a very unique writing style and really knows how to take her time and let the characters, plot, and storyline develop beautifully. Her characters show such development and emotions that its hard to not feel like your right in the middle of story going through everything the characters are. Full of actions, emotions, consequences and more this story will blow you out of the water.
Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I enjoyed the first two books of this series immensely. This one is written so differently than the previous two but once again is a masterpiece.
Julia and her relationship with the Ka-tet is shattered after she betrayed them in the previous book. Especially her relationship with Matthew. She is basically disowned by him. Matthew has moved away from the others and started a new life on his own. When Julia’s leader disappears suddenly, she seeks out Matthew to help.
The author once again built an amazing world and the people within. Even though this book was significantly different, it still had me in a vice and I had to finish it! I enjoyed ‘watching’ Julia deal with the consequences and her feelings towards everything that has happened.
Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I enjoyed the first two books of this series immensely. This one is written so differently than the previous two but once again is a masterpiece.
Julia and her relationship with the Ka-tet is shattered after she betrayed them in the previous book. Especially her relationship with Matthew. She is basically disowned by him. Matthew has moved away from the others and started a new life on his own. When Julia’s leader disappears suddenly, she seeks out Matthew to help.
The author once again built an amazing world and the people within. Even though this book was significantly different, it still had me in a vice and I had to finish it! I enjoyed ‘watching’ Julia deal with the consequences and her feelings towards everything that has happened.
Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 3rd book in the War Of Destiny Series and I loved it. The author does such a good job with the story and the characters. The story had me totally gripped and spellbound through it all. This book deal with some dark emotions such as guilt, regret, despair and at times complete helplessness.
Julie is back. After her actions from the last book we find her being shunned by her vampire family. If that wasn’t bad enough she also has to deal with the guilt for the loss of some of their people due to her actions. She sees no way through this and when she starts to see and hear people who aren’t there things get progressively worse. While she is dealing with theses feelings and the fear she is going mad, Samuel goes missing.
He is devasted by what has happened and when he disappears Julia knows she needs to find him and fast. Will he accept her presence? Will she get to him before its too late?
Add to this the dangers of the Hunters that have arrived and when one of the Hunters looks familiar to Julie this raises more questions.
Once you start this series you won’t be able to put it down and this one just adds to the already amazing series
Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is book three of the series. What a fantastical ride it is. Julia must work with her ka-tet to help her, even with them lacking faith due to her working with Valentino in the last book. Julie and Matthew must save Simon, battle apparitions, and help a rogue vampire. There is a lot going on in the story. This is why it is so good. I was pulled in from the beginning and just couldn’t put it down. I had to continue to know how things were going for Julia. Her loyalies are being tested every time she turns around. She’s seeing things. The plot has a couple of choppy spots but you can get through ok because it still goes together fairly smooth. I loved how the author tied the characters together but life wasn’t perfect; there were still problems. Fun book that I recommend.
Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Between Darkness & Light is the third book in the War of Destiny series. This dark vampiric paranormal, fantasy story is unique and engaging. Theresa is great at storytelling and invites the reader in with cleverly woven threads. I said it before but I will say it again the characters are well written and have depth and meaning. Her world building is exceptionally crafted and cleverly built. The vivid narrative allows you to enjoy every facet of her storytelling. War of Destiny is a multi-layered and exciting series that I will be sad to see it go as I want more and more. Lots of action, intrigue, imagination and twist and turns will keep you glued to the pages.
Don’t miss out on this epic tale. Get ready to devour this series.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Again, amazing installment in the series! Seriously the series just keeps getting better and better. This author has had me hooked since the first book. I am too deep now, and I can not let go! I love how each one fascinates more as you read! A very amazing series I must say, impossible not to love and enjoy!
This one really appealed to me as it was the aftermath of the second book. We follow Julia and where she is at based on the decisions, she made in the second book. I felt for her at times, but she always amazes me in what she decides to do. She always comes out strong, even when she may appear at the lowest point. I devoured this one so easily. I loved the aftermath and the new adventure Julia had to undergo. There was never a dull moment, and the author really knows how to keep you hooked!
Amazing series that keeps on with hype it brings to the reader. Each book in the series catches my attention more and more! Love it so much! Highly recommend this must-read book! Truly!
Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is yet another brilliant continuation of an already great story. It took nothing at all to fall back into the characters and these stories. This story is just as well written and interesting as the previous books. This author has really created such a fascinating world. I love how new it feels, even as the series progresses. Each book builds on the previous one and really adds a whole new level to the series. I would highly recommend this series to any fan of the genre!
Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a refreshing take on a vampire story and is certainly one I enjoy. I would definitely recommend reading them in order to get a full enjoyment of the series. I though they characters were engaging and it made the story exciting to read. The book is well written and fast paced. It is developed so well throughout the whole story. I was taken in with what the author was creating and I really did enjoy what was written. This is a brilliant continuation of the story and I can’t wait to see what the next instalment holds.
Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this paranormal story. This is the third book in this series which I highly suggest reading the previous books to help your enjoyment of this series. Julia is back in another fantasy, adventure full story. I enjoy her character and what she brings to the story. She is connectable, strong and supportive which makes it easy to read the story. She is now faced with repairing relationships and having to ask for help. This is where Matthew enters the story. They both are determined to find out why destiny is being altered and who is behind it. I enjoyed their chemistry which added to the story. This is an entertaining story that is hard to put down. I can’t wait to see what happens next. I highly recommend this book.
Review by @bjwagner
Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Between Darkness & Light is the third book in the War of Destiny series by Theresa Van Spankeren. Julia has been through so much- and things aren’t about to settle down any time soon. Events have left her shunned and lonely. Is she losing her mind as others fear. Julia begins to wonder herself. She is forced to seek help from a former close colleague, who’s turned hostile towards her. With danger closing in and sinister agendas at play, the stakes are high, as the story takes a dramatic turn….
This is a fantastic series; each book builds on what came before, and I am well and truly hooked. A clever and intriguing paranormal saga, with vampires, action, adventure, wonderful atmospheric world building, danger, politics, agendas, unexpected developments, emotion, high stakes, and plenty of tension.
If you love an original take on vampire lore, paranormal elements, high stakes, and agendas- then you will want to dive into this book/series asap.
Can’t wait to see what Book #4 has in store for us!
Happy reading!
Thank you, Theresa Van Spankeren!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a very interesting read, having never read this author before I was really blown away. While this is the second book in the series, I was able to follow the plot and character development without reading the first one. The authors writing style is very unique, and full of plenty of details, action, character development and more. Personally I can’t wait to see what this author does next, but in the mean time I’ll be going back to read the first book.
Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dark Vampire Fantasy
This is the 2nd book in the War of Destiny series. Set up years later, Julia and Samuel have their hands full with the threat from Vampire King. The writing is spot on and draws you in from the start. The characters are well developed as is the world building. Unique twists and turns gad me turning the pages well into the night. Highly recommend.
Plagued by people only she could see and hear, Julia betrayed her ka-tet, those she called family to Valentino, King of the Vampires. They think she is of unsound mind and shun her.
As she tries to repair her relationships, she fears the apparitions’ return. Following her leader’s sudden disappearance, Julia is forced to seek help from estranged ka-tet member, Matthew. Their once-close bond has become unveiled hostility.
Matthew has been living apart from the others since Julia’s betrayal. He has crafted a new life for himself within the powerful Medici family of Florence. Julia’s arrival is neither expected nor welcome.
As enemies close in, Julia and Matthew realize that something much more sinister is at play. Destiny itself is being tampered with, and they must discover who or what is the cause before it destroys them.
Theresa Van Spankeren lives in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois with her husband and pug. She has been writing since an early age, and came up with the idea for the War of Destiny series in high school. She is also an avid reader of multiple genres. When she isn’t reading or writing, she enjoys hiking and swimming. She also loves checking out local haunted places.
Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I started reading this book with high expectations since I absolutely loved the first one of the series. Let me just say that the author did not disappoint!
You once again follow Julia except this time it is 70 years later than in the first book. The Ka-tet is as strong as it should be with their powers ever growing when Valentino decides to show up and take them all down. Samuel and Julia fear they have not had enough time to get strong enough to defeat Valentino so they decide to flee. That did not work so now the Ka-tet has to fight a very strong Valentino with little faith.
I honestly love this author’s writing. It is so dark and unpredictable. The book has a lot of action as well as twists and turns to keep you intrigued from start to finish. There is some romance and some heartbreak. What’s not to love? I highly recommend this series. Do read the first one before attempting this one though as it will be hard to follow without knowing the backstory.
Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Pursuit Into Darkness is the second instalment in the War of Destiny series by Theresa Van Spankeren. It is an original story- a vampire saga with wonderful atmospheric world building, the paranormal, danger, politics, agendas, dramatic developments, intrigue, interesting characters, layers, and emotion.
This is set seventy years after the event of Book One, so I recommend reading the first book before diving into this instalment. Julia’s life has remained fairly undisturbed during this time while her abilities continued to strengthen. But fate has more in store for her now as new danger threatens. Fleeing is no longer an option- with no choice but to stand and fight Julia will need to confront more than just the powerful enemy. What ensues makes for some intense reading.
If you love an original take on a vampire story, paranormal elements, emotion, and intrigue- then this is definitely the book/series for you.
Bring on Book #3!
Happy reading!
Thank you, Theresa Van Spankeren!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 2nd book in the War Of Destiny Series. I really enjoyed this book. I found it just as gripping and as much of a page turner as the first book. The author does an amazing job of building the scenes and character building. You feel like you are actually there and a part of this vampire family. With this being book 2 I would really recommend reading the first book so that you can follow the story and their characters and dive straight back into the story.
This story starts 70 years after the last book. Julia and Adam are settling into their vampire life and adjusting to being part of the resistance. Things seem to be going smoothly until Valentino returns to England aiming to destroy the threat to his power. That threat is Julia and Samuel.
Julia and Samuel know that at this time they aren’t strong enough to defeat him so they plan to avoid him, but when that plan doesn’t work they have to fight for their lives and the lives of the Resistance.
Will they be successful? Will the omens of death and loss at the beginning of the story come true for Julia?
This is a gripping paranormal read that you literally will not be able to put down. The twists and turns will keep you up reading to see how the story unfolds and who will come out of this the victory.
Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have been a die hard fan of this series since the first installment, and this one was certainly no different! I fell in love with the plot and the characters in the first, and I think I simply loved this one even more!
I loved the action and the appeal this book gives to the reader. I loved the story in the first, but this one was different, but in a good way. The writing had its appeal and its own darkness at the same time. I loved Julia even more in this one. She is such a great character, strong willed and very resourceful. I could not put this one down, I just kept on reading. I turned each page with quick pace as I read as I was hooked that much! Loved this book and series so freaking much! One of my favorite series for sure!
Wonderful writing by a very much gifted author. I can not get enough of this series and this one really impacted me greatly! Must read book for sure and I highly do recommend! Loved it truly!
Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
Pursuit into Darkness is the second book in this dark vampiric paranormal, fantasy story. I really like Theresa’s writing style and her unique tales. I have been waiting to see what Theresa had in store for her readers after the first book and I thoroughly enjoyed the narrative. Pursuit into Darkness has a gripping and engaging plot that takes place 70 years after ethe first book. It is full of so many emotions, lots of action, twist and turns. I said it with the first book but I will say it again the characters are well written and well developed. The world building is artfully built and exceptionally crafted. The vividness allows us as a reader to enjoy every nuance of Theresa’s storytelling. Theresa has built a solid foundation for this skilfully woven, multi layered and exciting story.
I am giving nothing away as Theresa’s writing needs to be devoured by each individual so the story is drawn by your own imagination. I am off to get the third book, Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny Book 3).
Reviewed by @jennadb
Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this paranormal story. This is the second book in the series which I highly suggest reading the previous books in this series. This is a well written story that has characters that pull you into the story from the start. A story that is full of fantasy and adventure. I enjoyed the characters. They are strong and supportive of each other. I also enjoyed their growth throughout the story as well as the plot. Julia has agreed to help overthrow the Vampire King. But what happens when the plan fails? She is left to fight but will she lose everything she loves? You don’t want to miss what happens next in this story. This is an engaging story that is hard to put down. I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it.
Review by @bjwagner
Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is full of paranormal suspense and intrigue. The struggles abound. Julia is with Samuel and the rest of the ka-tet llving out their lives. Valentino enters the picture and all heck breaks loose. Her soulmate is killed by him, as well fellow members of the resistance of vampires. The storyline is very engaging. I was pulled into the action from page 1 and couldn’t put down until I finished it. Julia is very strong-willed. She feels she is weak but she fights for what she feels she must do to protect those close to her. The characters are well-developed. The chemistry between her and Samuel is very up and down. It’s like a waning candle but you always feel the spark that is constantly there. The mystery around Kali kept me intrigued as well. That young girl knew more than she should. This is a fun book for fans of paranormal or fantasy. I highly recommend it.
Seventy years have passed since Julia took Samuel’s deal and agreed to help the Resistance overthrow the Vampire King. She and the rest of her ka-tet have lived in relative peace as her strength and abilities develop.
Her tranquil life is shattered with the arrival of Valentino, who seeks to destroy the rising threat to his power. Samuel knows his fledgling is still too young to defeat the King and intends to flee before the enemy gets too close.
When the plan fails, Julia has no choice but to fight. However, the danger is unlike any she has faced before, and the perils to her ka-tet’s safety are everywhere, including her own mind. Can she find a way to stop Valentino, or will he destroy everything she holds dear?
Theresa Van Spankeren lives in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois with her husband and pug. She has been writing since an early age, and came up with the idea for the War of Destiny series in high school. She is also an avid reader of multiple genres. When she isn’t reading or writing, she enjoys hiking and swimming. She also loves checking out local haunted places.
Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Julia is forced from the man she loves into an arranged marriage with Gregory, a merciless man. A stranger offers her freedom but the price is a thirst for blood and to join the Vampire resistance.
This novel was more than expected based on the unsuspecting cover. I expected Julia to try to find a way back to Adam but this has twists and turns that I didn’t see coming.
I am so happy that this is series and I have more adventures and plot to look forward to.
It is always a great feeling when you finish a book that surprises you in a memorable way.
Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I took a chance on this book. I never heard of the author before and the cover was quite unassuming. It sat on my shelf for a bit before I delved in, but, boy I wish I started sooner. This series is looking to be one of my favorites. A true classic in the making. The author’s writing style is very simple, which would be perfect for new readers. The story itself is beautifully done. There is some tough subject matter, including some pretty horrific domestic violence. I love reading about Julia and her growth and gaining of independence, and the paranormal twist is a perfect combination. I’m happy I gave this book a chance and can’t wait to read more from this author.
Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was absolutely incredible. As a new to me author, it looked interesting, but I had no idea what to expect. I was blown away. The horrible things Julia had to endure at such a young age — the author really makes you feel both for her and understand her. It is so descriptive and written with so much feeling. The story itself is so enthralling and really builds up for a fantastic series. This is the beginning of story. While it leaves you wanting more as any good series does, it has just the right amount of content to satisfy you. The realization to her that vampires are real, especially in that era, is both a fear and a relief. I think she is such a great main character and cannot wait to see what happens next in this next beginning of her life.
If you are a fan of paranormal historical fiction, this book is for you with a strong female lead, this book is for you.
Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this novel. I do like books about vampires and this one offered a little something different. Going through Julia’s story was at times heartbreaking because of all the character endured in life and after. It is a good novel and the author has weaved together a vibrant world and story. I look forward to reading more.
Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is book one in the War on Destiny series and oh boy I cannot wait to read the next. Juliana the protagonist made me laugh with her snappy remarks and sarcasm, and made me cry with every heartbreak she is faced with which are numerous. She starts out as a stubborn 15 year old and blossoms into a force to be reckoned with. I found myself rooting for Adam and Samuel at every turn hoping someone could give her all the love she needs. It’s been a while since I have read a book as quickly as I finished this one. This book was a lovely read with a fresh take on vampires that left me thirsting for more.
There are some scenes described that may trigger readers sensitive to abuse, discretion is advised.
Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I just want to say that the opening lines of this novel make you feel like you are delving into a true story. Kudos to the author for giving us those feels right off. The writing style reminds me of some of my favorite authors in my early years of reading. Just enough mystery and action to keep me on the hook. When I read the blurb I wasn’t really expecting just how horrible Juliana’s marriage was to Gregory. Seriously, I was shocked by the events that took place and maybe a little traumatized. Knowing it was a paranormal read kept me going at this point. Juliana is a strong character, and the other characters that are presented in the story all have depth as well. I’m glad this is a series so I can stay in this world a little while longer. Looking forward to next story!
Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Julia is fifteen and belongs to a wealthy family in 16th century London, she has two siblings whom she gets on well with with and servants whom she has known most of her life. One family in particular had a son her own age and they grew up together and became closer and closer, but this young, budding love was not to be when Julia’s family tore the two apart and betrothed her to another, they are both heartbroken and are not even allowed to say a proper goodbye.
When Julia is presented with her future husband, she is outraged that she has to have an arranged marriage, especially the one they want and she falls into a depression up until her wedding day. When that fateful day arrives, Julia puts on a brave face and goes through with the ceremony, but as soon as they are alone, the control begins and she comes to realise that her husband will show her no kindness or mercy if she disobeys his rules.
As the marriage deteriorates, Julia keeps on fighting for her life and the ones around her whom she loves, but even escape is out of her reach, until one day tragedy strikes and she is pushed to the edge of her limits. This however, is when a stranger enters her life and offers her everything she has dreamed of, escape, freedom and independence, with nothing left for her in her home, Julia accepts the help and leaves without turning back.
What Julia discovers however, is that there is a price for her freedom and that is to become something and someone different, a vampire and not only that, she will be a Vampire in the Resistance against their King. Will Julia accept the offer, or find another way out of her current life? This is a fantasy which is part coming of age and part adventure and is full of vampires, but whether they are good or evil, is only discovered by reading the story until the end.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
