| Title | : | Idolatry (Reagalos, #2) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | 269 |
| Publication | : | First published September 4, 2014 |
Lornyc thought it was bad enough that the Cerulean Cult had made him a living god, but now they’ve set loose an entity that is tearing through the dimensions with the potential to cause chaos. He wouldn’t have thought it his problem but the guardians of the multiverse, the Valen, have decided otherwise.
Along with Methian and his own Valen Caveer Guards, Lornyc faces a race through multiple alternative realities if he doesn’t want to be extinguished.
Previously published, this second edition has been edited and reworked for release.
Idolatry (Reagalos, #2) Reviews
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In which Lornyc becomes a God :D
Oh this book is fab, it's a rollercoaster of a ride through space - literally - as Lornyc has to deal with the unexpected fallout of being declared a living deity by the Church of the Orb.
When something breaks free from one of the orbs that give the Reagalos family their power, Lornyc, Methian and his Caveer Guards have to chase it through multiple universes trying to catch it before it causes even more issues.
What follows is a romp into different worlds where Lornyc and Methian have to impersonate their own alternative reality selves as they chase the entity from the orb. It's at times funny, at times poignantly sad, but throughout it all, it becomes very clear that in every world wherever there is a Lornyc, there is a Methian.
More plotting goes on in the wider world of the Five Cities too as Lornyc's family step in to keep an eye on things while he's off through the dimensions.
There are developments in his relationship with Methian, and we get to see more of how they tick as a pairing. Lornyc's own powers are also changing and growing stronger and the reader gets a very strong sense that there is something big on the way.
As with the first book, I was involved as a beta reader for this second publication and it's just my kind of thing, I raced through it both times.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review. -
IDOLATRY is the second book in the Reagalos series and we return to the fantasy world where Lornyc is now the ruler of two kingdoms and, as he finds out, a living god. Of course, he isn't really. It's just his pesky (deceased) relative causing trouble once more.
If you are looking for a nice and simple, easy read then I'm afraid this book won't do it for you. If you're looking for one with multiple twists, intrigue, multiple dimensions, death threats, and jealous lovers, then hold onto your hats, because you're in for one hell of a ride!
There is so much that goes on here, honestly! I didn't see Methian bloom as I'd hoped, but I am seeing the beginnings of it. After speaking with his dad, he is going to take more of a hand in his own kingdom.
Lornyc is definitely the character that takes centre stage in this story. The other characters are there but we don't see as much of them. Vella is still having fun, as Kat's black eye will attest to.
I hope to see more of Methian in future books as I feel he could be a really strong character in his own right, rather than 'just' a consort. He is also heir to his own realm so... yep, I'd like to see more of him. Vella is another great character - loyal to her family, dangerous to those who cross her or those she loves.
Idolatry was a great addition to the series, and I look forward to reading more. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Oct 8, 2021 -
Reviewed by Taylin
4 1/4 Hearts
It is discovered that Lornyc’s deceased reprobate grandfather has been up to even more no-good. He created a cult that has hailed Lornyc as ‘The One’. Grandpops’ wayward instructions unleash a force that Lornyc must capture or face the consequences. The adventure takes him and his friends on a journey through multiple dimensions where the life of Lornyc is very different. And he still hasn’t learned how to control the growing power within himself. An ex-lover also turns up at court, creating friction between Lornyc and Methian. Interesting times are ahead.
Idolatry is a story that I waited a few days after reading to write the review. It is different from almost everything I have read before, and I wasn’t sure what side of the fence I would come down on – brilliance or somewhat messy. I am airing on the side of brilliance because I have enjoyed everything this author has written and because different can good and blaze new trails.
The story is told in the third person from the viewpoints of Lornyc and Methian, though Lornyc’s perspective is dominant. I found the worldbuilding spot-on for my tastes. I also enjoyed the return of some favorite characters from book one alongside some new cast members.
Lornyc’s powers are still a tossed salad, which is a recurring theme from book one – Servitude. Add into the mix that Lornyc is a new leader, where both he and Methian are finding their feet. Plus, the prospect of entering multiple dimensions where there are different ways of life and events was occasionally hard to track. This pretty much sums up aspects of Lornyc’s frame of mind, too, and the author ensures the reader feels some of that confusion. But hang in there because, like book one, the storyline for Idolatry is solved by the end. Whether the lives of Lornyc and Methian become less chaotic has yet to be seen, but it is reasonable to surmise that any new leader will have a tangled start to their reign – even one that doesn’t have an unruly grandfather.
Have to give a little shout-out to Methian. He isn’t heard of often, but the more I read of him, the more he became my favorite. And the more I read of the Valan Caveer Guards, the more they confuse me. From what I’ve read so far, ‘this is what we’re supposed to do, but this is what we’re going to do’ sums them up.
In Idolatry, there is more dry humor and snark, which suits me, provided it doesn’t go OTT. There is a lot of positive information given alongside the consequences of messing up. There were also aspects of the alternate dimensions that I’d have liked to see a little more of as they reflected an array of historical time periods – buuuut the story is long, so I get why some events are a sneaky peak instead of a deep dive.
Whether anyone loves, loathes, or is on the fence by the end of the book, there is no denying that it is a well-thought-out and clever piece of written work that kept me guessing over the way the drama would pan out for a long time. For me, it was a case of close the last page, sit numb for a while then, stands clapping.
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Reviewed for Love Bytes – 4.25 hearts
It is discovered that Lornyc’s deceased reprobate grandfather has been up to even more no-good. He created a cult that has hailed Lornyc as ‘The One’. Grandpops wayward instructions unleash a force that Lornyc must capture or face the consequences. The adventure takes him and his friends on a journey through multiple dimensions where the life of Lornyc is very different. And he still hasn’t learned how to control the growing power within himself. An ex-lover also turns up at court, creating friction between Lornyc and Methian. Interesting times are ahead.
Idolatry is a story that I waited a few days after reading to write the review. It is different from almost everything I have read before, and I wasn’t sure what side of the fence I would come down on – brilliance or somewhat messy. I am airing on the side of brilliance because I have enjoyed everything this author has written and because different can good and blaze new trails.
The story is told in the third person from the viewpoints of Lornyc and Methian, though Lornyc’s perspective is dominant. I found the worldbuilding spot-on for my tastes. I also enjoyed the return of some favorite characters from book one alongside some new cast members.
Lornyc’s powers are still a tossed salad, which is a recurring theme from book one – Servitude. Add into the mix that Lornyc is a new leader, where both he and Methian are finding their feet. Plus, the prospect of entering multiple dimensions where there are different ways of life and events was occasionally hard to track. This pretty much sums up aspects of Lornyc’s frame of mind, too, and the author ensures the reader feels some of that confusion. But hang in there because, like book one, the storyline for Idolatry is solved by the end. Whether the lives of Lornyc and Methian become less chaotic has yet to be seen, but it is reasonable to surmise that any new leader will have a tangled start to their reign – even one that doesn’t have an unruly grandfather.
Have to give a little shout out to Methian. He isn’t heard of often, but the more I read of him, the more he became my favorite. And the more I read of the Valan Caveer Guards, the more they confuse me. From what I’ve read so far, ‘this is what we’re supposed to do, but this is what we’re going to do’ sums them up.
In Idolatry, there is more dry humor and snark, which suits me, provided it doesn’t go OTT. There is a lot of positive information given alongside the consequences of messing up. There were also aspects of the alternate dimensions that I’d have liked to see a little more of as they reflected an array of historical time periods – buuuut the story is long, so I get why some events are a sneaky peak instead of a deep dive.
Whether anyone loves, loathes or is on the fence by the end of the book, there is no denying that it is a well thought out and clever piece of written work that kept me guessing over the way the drama would pan out for a long time. For me, it was a case of close the last page, sit numb for a while then, stands clapping.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes. -
This is the second installment of the “Reagalos” series. I highly recommend reading “Servitude” before venturing into this roller coaster ride of a novel!
Alas, poor Lornyc is carring the weight of two Cities on his shoulders. He has his hands full being Liege of Scura and High Lord of Katraman. Even though he’s made some major changes too Scura and Methian is helping, he has to try and trust others. He feels the need to get back to his homeland Katraman and concentrate on what he needs to learn. He’s going to seek his brother, Anthon’s help in temporally overseeing Scura.
Lornyc also receives an invitation from Halm Grosvenor to attend the Cerulean Cults, Sanctification Ceremony. Another established idea of Romanus’ with an odd list of directions, with one that certainly leads to trouble.
Lornyc has to be careful in who he trusts when it comes to re-establishing his Konsultariate. He can’t let what happen to his parents happen again.
He’s suspicious of the Valen Caveer Guardians, Diam and Cupris. Just what is their purpose and why are they here?
Once he’s returned home, he’s in for another surprise. HIs fathers, brother Nathaniel, returns to Katraman. Lornyc hasn’t seen his uncle for twenty-two years and it’s not a happy reunion. Why now has Nathaniel returned?
Lornycs ex-lover, Davvis, has returned and it causes a stir between Methian and Lornyc.
Kat brings his daughter Josheta to help with Lornyc’s control issue. Her mother is Arial Charta, Supreme Mage and ruler of Beher. Working with Lornyc and his power issue, something new is discovered about Methian and Lornyc’s connection.
It all has Lornyc's head spinning! But the big fiasco at the Sanctification Ceremony will send: Lornyc, Methian, Villa, Kat, Josheta and Nathaniel on a chaotic adventure following the entity into other dimensions.
Rebecca Cohen does not disappoint with this sequel to “Servitude”. At every turn there’s new characters and situations that come into play that keep the story moving along at a fast pace. As much as there is going on the flow of the story is logical and makes it easy to follow. It’s another exciting adventure, with twist and turns, more secrets and new discoveries. More creative world building as the story jumps into different dimensions and Lornyc and Methian will see different versions of themselves as they chase the entity.
I still like Lornyc and I’m getting used to Methian, but they always have a way to prove their love to each other. Lornyc’s siblings: Villa, Talis and Anthon still show their love and loyalty to their younger brother Lornyc. Of course, Kat’s my favorite and I need more of his snark!
And now I’m off to read book three in the “Reagalos” series, “Avarice”, soon to be released November 4th! -
Idolatry is a wonderful sequel to Servitude. This book is a rollercoaster ride of an adventure through dimensions as Lornyc, Methian and their friends deal with the consequence of something breaking from the orbs that gave the Reagalos family their power. They are running against time. Finding and capturing the entity before it causes too much chaos is pertinent as the failure to do so would mean the termination of Lornyc.
This turned out to be an intriguing story. The romp through various worlds each with an alternative Lornyc and Methian who they need to impersonate as they chase the entity from the orb was a fun read. For each dimension they visit, we get a look at the different lives their alternates live. Some have difficult and sad lives, some a blessed life and there are times when each moment can be funny or poignant.
Throughout the journey, we get to see some development in Lornyc and Methian's relationship. Seeing them work through with their current problems while facing the issues found in the worlds they visit was interesting. We get to see more on how they mesh together as they work out how they truly fit in each other's lives and the duties they both need to fulfill as leaders to their cities. The arrival of some exes didn't exactly help make things easier.
We see Lornyc's power grow stronger as he struggles to control it. We also learn how Methian seems to be the only one that can help tame that power. The wider plot for the series is getting more fascinating and one can see that there is something huge about to happen. The pacing in this book is much better and the flow is more fluid though it did felt a bit too long even though it is not. The interactions between the characters and their exchanges were enjoyable to read. The side characters were pleasantly fleshed out and the author was able to make them memorable and more compelling.
Overall, I am giving this 4 stars out of 5 stars. I can't wait to read the next part of this series.
I received an ARC of this book via GRR and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review. -
This is the second book in a series, and you need the context on characters and world building that comes in the first (plus it’s a great read) so make sure you’re caught up before you start this one.
In this book, Lornyc has to deal with the hassles of deification (yeah, who knew, but it’s not all fun and games). Lornyc is a lot of things, many of them admirable, but patient and even tempered are not among his signature qualities. Add to an already fraught and complicated situation the potential repercussions of something getting out of the orbs that give his family their powers and you have the potential for a real mess, one that sends Lornyc and Methian (Lornyc’s long suffering love interest and consort, who definitely deserves more scope to grow and shine as a character) on an inter dimensional adventure.
I loved the range of experiences these two have as they move through the alternative realities: they encounter different versions of themselves that are *very* different in terms of circumstances and life stories, and yet wherever there’s a Lornyc there’s a Methian. There’s a vast range of possible emotional responses to these different versions of themselves, and that was super interesting to see. I love how intricate each of the narrative layers are here: it’s not a simple read by any stretch of the imagination, but the depth is really rewarding.
I have no idea where this story is going to go in the next book— there are so many possibilities— but if the first two books in this series are any indication, it’s guaranteed to be an engrossing experience.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. -
Lornyc is surprised to learn he is a living god according to the Cerulean Cult. They invite him to a dedication and as part of that, they release an entity that tears through a variety of dimensions. Lornyc is tasked with finding and capturing the entity before it causes too much chaos. Lornyc did not think this was his problem but the Valen have decided it is. He must stop it with the help of friends, family, and his own Valen Caveer Guards before he is terminated.
What an intriguing tale this turn out to be. As they visit the various dimensions, we learn that life is completely different for Lornyc and his husband, Methian. Often there are many problems facing them when they arrive in the new dimensions. It was interesting to watch as they worked through the problems as well as facing issues at home. Newlywed, the two are also working out they fit in each other’s lives as a couple as well as duties to their cities. Add in some exes and the two men have a lot of their plates. Beginning to end Idolatry will have you glued to the pages. We shall all look forward to the next story in this excellent series. -
Stop !! If you haven’t read book one then go no further, as you will need to read it, as this series is a continuation from book to the next one.
In this second book we have lots going on, Lornyc is now ruling over two kingdoms, has a deceased relative causing havoc, a church declaring him a living God and something has broken free from the orbs that give the Reagalos family power, meaning Lornyc, Methian and his guard have to chase it through multiple universes to stop more damage being caused. All that and Anne changing and chaotic relationship.
This book is as action filled as the first and can sometimes seem a little confusing, I really enjoyed reading it in the end. The world building continued, the snarky banter was brilliantly placed, the pace of the story was good and well thought out, I wait in anticipation for the next book, I do hope that Methian comes more into his own. -
I enjoyed the travels through the multiverse and watching the changes (and constancies) in the relationship between Lornyc and Methian. There's something heartwarming about knowing regardless of how the world(s) change someone is going to be with you in some form. It was also interesting to see the author tackle an idea that people have about how "wonderful" it would be to be a god or have godlike powers. Here, we see with that comes godlike responsibilities and that might not be something one would want. Don't let all the strange names in the blurb discourage you. You'll quickly get involved in the story and the characters are totally distinct so you will be easily pulled along.
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I made a huge mistake reading this book…I skipped reading book 1, so I probably missed out on the backstory. But I really, really enjoyed both the writing and the characters! There’s no doubt in my mind that Rebecca Cohen knows how to tell a story. I was fascinated by this adventure, and I loved the relationship between the main characters!
I definitely needed some more sexy times, but that might just be me. The chemistry between them was hot, so I wanted more. All in all a great story written so good! -
This is book 2 in the series and continues the story of Lorync and Methian. What a whirlwind of finding out your grandfather started a chapter where Lorync is considered a god. With an or being broken, they need to go through different dimensions to find out who or what did that. It was an interesting story and I look forward to reading book 3.
I received a copy of this book for my review -
I absolutely loved this brilliant book!
A great story that takes us on an adventure through space and other dimensions and I couldn't put it down.
As with the first book the world building is excellent.I adore both main characters and I can't wait to read more books in this series.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review. -
This series has such great world building. Honestly I couldn't keep up with all of it. The Cerulean Cult was funny, Lornyc's grandfather was a bit of strange one.
Lornyc and Methian are having some relationship issues but they have to work together to fix an interdimensional problem.
I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to more in the series. -
Fascinating Series
Rebecca Cohen has created an wonderful world and I can't wait for what comes next.The world building is fascinating and easy to be drawn into. -
I loved this story so much. I can't wait to read more from this author.
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4.5 Stars
This book is really good. I really enjoyed reading it.
In the aftermath of Servitude, Lornyc is left to manage Scura in addition to Katraman and just when things are beginning to settle down, he receives an invitation to the 500th anniversary of the Cerulean Cult of Iconis that recognises him as their living deity. A mishap at the festivities leads to an interdimensional rip and Lornyc is charged by the Valen to fix it, failure to do so will have him extinguished.
This book is mostly from Lornyc's POV and I loved that he is still dealing with the trauma of everything that happened at the end of Servitude which was a detail I really didn't expect to have light shed on and it helped dissipate some of the irritation I had with the ending of the previous book. We, unfortunately, don't get a lot from Methian's POV. I really want to know how he's doing with regards to everything.
I really love Methian and Lornyc. They fit together really well, they aren't perfect but the fact is that they both love each other very much and they put in the effort. This book has Methian dealing with his jealousy and I feel like the whole thing is very well done. It never becomes more than it is meant to but we do undercut to the insecurities fueling his jealousy and that was just amazing.
The plot of this book is fantastic, I liked it the first time around and I loved it this time around as well. I love how the author incorporates the dimensional hopping to spin out so many unique scenarios that were so much fun to read.
I am really looking forward to reading Avarice even though I'm terrified after reading the blurb to that book what with Methian being kidnapped and the secret around his parentage? That blurb is giving me anxiety. Fingers crossed Lornyc and Methian aren't apart for the majority of that book.
The way the overarching plot is progressing seems to aim at consolidating Lornyc's rule over all of the Five Cities of Rystal Lake and I am not sure about the idea of that much power in the hands of someone already as powerful as Lornyc. Given the blurb for the proposed fourth book, Restitution things are definitely headed in that direction but I'm getting ahead of myself.
I really enjoyed this book and it was damn near perfect. I have a new appreciation for Romanus and the amount of trouble he has managed to leave behind for Lornyc, it's extraordinary.
I really can't wait to finally get my hands-on Avarice and I have waited this long but the next 18 days will be unbearable. Also, I can't wait to finally read the prequel because all these allusions to how Lornyc and Methian got together have me insanely fascinated to find out exactly what happened and when exactly Methian learnt that he was in a relationship with the next High Lord of Katraman. -
Idolatry by Rebecca Cohen
Idolatry (Reagalos Book 2)
After reading Idolatry by Rebecca Cohen it makes me wonder why either of these two books was published.
Around Rystal Lake there are four cities: Scura, Xenetra, Iconis, and Beher. The Reagulos family has ruled Scura for many generations. The current High Lord, Lornyc Emaus Reagalos has just escaped an attempted assassination plot from relatives Luka Erion and Liege Korin Erion. Escaping by the use of his magical powers, the book opens with Lornyc trying to cement the rule of his city of Scura as the newly appointed High Lord. The Reagulos power, fortune and magic comes from the certain orbs that are found in underground caves of the cities they rule. They travel through portals within the cities and other dimensions.
Lornyc is married to Methian Hadral, heir to the city of Xenetra, currently ruled by Methian's father, Bartemus Hadral. Unbeknownst to Lornyc, his grandfather had set up a cult, The Cerulion Cult, which stated that Lorync was "The One" and was to be worshipped as a god. On the crowning of Lornyc as "The One" - which happens in the in the city of Iconis, an orb is accidentally opened and a second Lornyc is released which creates an imbalance through the present dimension which is policed by the Valen Brethen.
It's up to Lornyc, his Valen guards Diam and Cupris, and Lornycs' lover, family and a circle of close friends to re-establish the order. Thus we spend a big portion of the book traveling through different dimensions - in which each character has a different role - until the balance is restored.
The book attempts to be narrated from the third person point of view, but the writer jumps from one character to the next, thus creating a universal point of view by default. The book ends up being confusing and hard to follow. It was a dreadful read: the characters are very superficial and not interesting. i did not identify with any one of them. The sex scenes are boring: Ms Cohen has no idea what two men do in bed. The plot is complicated and irrelevant. The book was torture. Being a sequel, the plot from the first book was poorly related, thus I had trouble understanding what any of the prior history was - and if it was relevant. The book does not stand alone well, and personally I am not inclined to bother reading Servitude - the first book in the series.
I hope Ms Cohen has a day job. -
****
Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance****
4.5 Stars!
This was a great sequel to Servitude, taking up shortly after it left off. We are reintroduced to Lornyc, Methian, Kat, Vella and Tanis as well as make the acquaintance of a few new characters. They add to the epic feel of this novel – and it is epic! Traveling dimensions, being seen as a god, and navigating a new marriage in a new role, all take their tolls on Lornyc and Methian.
I loved that we see more of their relationship in this novel. This quote summed up their feelings greatly:
“It seemed an age since they’d spent time together like this, just the two of them being silly, and it reminded Lornyc of what had attracted him to Methian. The man was gorgeous, but if it had been a solely physical attraction, they’d have drifted apart years ago. No, Methian could make him happy at even the worst of times, make him feel like someone loved him for himself and not his name.”
The plot was good, if a little long. It’s kind of like “The Lord of The Rings” extended edition – good, and you enjoy it, but a condensed version would be better. Although it isn’t hugely long, it felt so. I found myself getting distracted and not totally engaged, even though I wanted to see what happened and how the story ended, and I cared about the characters. I understand, though, how difficult it would be to decide what to cut. This is just my opinion. I still loved the story and would love to see more of these characters in another adventure.
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An excellent sequel to the first book,
Servitude.
Rebecca has built on the intriguing world she built there, and gone farther: the plotline of having interdimensional travel gives glimpses of different worlds to ours, with versions of the same characters being found in each. Needless to say, they're a great variety, and I won't spoil it by saying what kinds of Lornycs they come across.
Rebecca writes well, with good flow - never rushed, but it doesn't drag either. There are many glimpses of her humour too.
I very much hope she'll write more with these characters as I'd love to see their world built upon even more, and watch their romance grow as they work together to rule their respective cities. -
I loved the book. I fell in love with both characters, I started reading the prequel to know how they met, and I made the right decision. The story is amazing. I yearn to know more about worldbuilding it has so much potential. Is an amazing story.
Lornyc is such a fascinating character, I loved reading his development and I wish that in the next books we have the same for Methian.
I feel like there were a lot of secondary characters that I wat to know more about Vella and the other Reagalos Family members, and Kat.
It hasn't been the most engaging novel, page eater that sometimes I am. But it's been very enjoyable and I want to read the next installments thing that I cannot say about other books that I read this year. -
Reread and I want to read the next one so bad. Maybe next year?
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Idolatry by Rebecca Cohen:
http://reviews-and-ramblings.dreamwid... 2015 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge) -
3.5 STARS
OK so I did like this book but jeez did it go off on a huge bizarre tangent for a large portion of the book. It is high fantasy but wow, where did that come from.
