Title: Awakening (The Fortress book #2)
Author: Lisa M James
Genre: Historical Fantasy
Publication: 18 December 2020
My rating: 5/5

You will receive no more pardon. You will pay for your crimes against me.

Since discovering his gift of visions, Kiatra had little reason to doubt her slave’s allegiance to her. Yet, there was something about Isaac that she did not trust. She was certain he was keeping something of importance from her, though this knowledge did nothing to suppress her feelings for the man. When Isaac is accused of murder, Kiatra must decide between her love for him and her duty as Chieftess of the Fortress.

After being falsely accused of murder, Isaac is forced to flee the Fortress and return to the people who abandoned him ten years ago. While battling with the new strength of his abilities and fears of facing his past, he struggles to understand the vision that has haunted him for five years. A vision of his death at the hands of his mistress. Would he be able to prove his innocence and save his life, or was his death by the woman he secretly loved inevitable?

Awakening is the second book in the Fortress Series by Lisa James. I adored the first book so much and had high expectations when I started this. I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. My love for Kiatra has increased after reading this book. She is my favourite character from this duology and I love her the most for being the sassy queen she is.

Isaac’s character was transparent and powerful here than in the first book which made me love him even more. The relationship between him and Kiatra was secretive until half of the book. Later it was put into light. I loved the second half more as there were more Kiatra and Isaac scenes.

Special mention to the characters Titus, Andal and Natalie for being the best companions for both Kiatra and Isaac throughout. They all have been each other’s support system, fought many struggles together till the very end and captured the Fortress back. A character that I hate the most in this series is Sabrina, Kiatra’s step-sister. She is pure evil.

This book was fast-paced and event-filled. The author had done a great job in world-building. Outstanding narrative by her that makes us feel as we are a part of the Fortress itself. The ending was satisfying. If you like historical fantasy, then you might enjoy this book. I highly recommend it.

*Thanks to the author for the review copy. All opinions are my own.*