The Essence
Kimberly Derting“Danger, dread, mystery, and romance” (Booklist) continue in the second book of The Pledge trilogy, as Charlie’s reign is under siege from the most unusual of enemies.
At the luminous conclusion of The Pledge, Charlaina defeated the tyrant Sabara and took her place as Queen of Ludania. But Charlie knows that Sabara has not disappeared: The evil queen’s Essence is fused to Charlie’s psyche, ready to arise at the first sign of weakness.
Charlie is not weak, but she’s being pushed to the brink. In addition to suppressing the ever-present influence of Sabara, she’s busy being queen—and battling a growing resistance determined to return Ludania to its discriminatory caste system. Charlie wants to be the same girl Max loves, who Brook trusts, but she’s Your Majesty now, and she feels torn in two.
As Charlie journeys to an annual summit to meet with leaders of nearby Queendoms—an event where her ability to understand all languages will be the utmost asset—she is faced with the ultimate betrayal. And the only person she can turn to for help is the evil soul residing within.
It has been few months since Charlie became the Queen of Ludania. So many things has changed: new place to live, new responsibilities, New Equality law. But what hasn't changed is Sabara. She is still inside of Charlie - taunting her during nights, trying to gain power.
When the Ambassador arrives from the northern country, Charlie is invited to a Summit where she could have a chance establishing more connections that could help her country. But before she is scheduled to live, there is a threat against her life. During second book of Pledge Series, Charlie will find herself trying to fight Sabara, figure out her feelings with Niko, and try to stay herself without listening to the voice inside of her.
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What a great addition to the series! From the beginning, I wasn't sure if I liked Charlie. She presented herself as an immature girl who is not happy with anything. But as the book went on, I really gained a lot of respect for her and what she was trying to do for the country. All of the side characters were amazing as well. This time we actually get to hear Brooklyn's side of the story which makes us see the softer side of the Commander.
I couldn't stop reading. The only reason behind 4.5 star rating is because I couldn't connect with any of the characters from the beginning. But I turned the pages as the story went on and loved it! Cannot wait for the next book in the series - The Offering.
CHECK OUT MY REVIEW OF "The Pledge", FIRST BOOK IN "The Pledge" SERIES!
