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The Traitor in the Game
The sequel to explosive YA thriller A GAME OF LIFE OR DEATH: At the end of book one, Asha Kennedy (Lisbeth Salander for a new generation) uncovered the dark secret at the heart of Virtual Reality game 'Shackle' - You don't play the game; it plays you - and must now go deeper into a dangerous world of corruption and greed: who is the puppet master of the game and what is their ultimate goal?
Set in New York, this is a whiplash-paced, twisty mystery and scorching romance where Asha's enemies may be closer than she could ever imagine...
Perfect for fans of The Hunger Games and A Good Girl's Guide to Murder
A guaranteed page turner full of heart, tension and twists you won't see coming!
The second book in a major new YA series
Set in New York, this is a whiplash-paced, twisty mystery and scorching romance where Asha's enemies may be closer than she could ever imagine...
Perfect for fans of The Hunger Games and A Good Girl's Guide to Murder
A guaranteed page turner full of heart, tension and twists you won't see coming!
The second book in a major new YA series
- GenresYoung Adult
352 pages, Paperback
Published February 29, 2024
9 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
Triona Campbell
3 books24 followersHi! Thanks so much for stopping by this page. I’m only on this site occasionally, so if you’d like to send me a message, please use my website: https://trionacampbell.com/
I can also be found on Instagram, and I love connecting with readers. So if you're looking for more information about my books, the most up to date news can be found on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/triona_camp...
I can also be found on Instagram, and I love connecting with readers. So if you're looking for more information about my books, the most up to date news can be found on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/triona_camp...
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 9, 2024
Bring on part 3
March 17, 2024
Great sequel!
The pace of the book is great and all of the plot-twists are well timed to keep you invested.
Already excited for book 3!
The pace of the book is great and all of the plot-twists are well timed to keep you invested.
Already excited for book 3!
May 1, 2024
*4.5 stars*
We left off in A Game Of Life Or Death with Asha exposing the hidden monstrosities behind an innovative new reality game called SHACKLE—but she can’t stop there. Armed with blurry facts and the strong will to avenge her sister Maya’s death, Asha powers on to continue searching for answers to her pending questions. Who actually wanted Maya dead? And is that the person behind Zu Tech, the illusive origin of the sinister virtual reality game? All that Asha can think of is getting the justice her sister deserves—and if she can find out where the boy she loves, Dark, is hiding out, she can get on the right track.
But journeys with no clear vision always steer off the road, and Asha and her team of friends find themselves in peril. To the puppet-masters of SHACKLE, their lives are worthless, and whoever is behind the master plan will stop at nothing, even if it means killing again. When they enter an eSports tournament set in New York, they hope to get answers, but when enemies are closer than previously thought, there’s no room for game play when the cards were never going to fall in Asha’s favour. With the risk of losing more people she loves whilst battling a thick cloud of grief that has never quite healed, the wound raw and open, her heart isn’t the only thing on the line when her life is too.
Overall, The Traitor In The Game was explosive, impressive and absolutely absorbing—everything I hoped it would be and more. Like in A Game Of Life Or Death, Triona’s character building takes shine. Asha’s grief was written in such an authentic way, and equally the slow-burn of her romantic relationship with Dark had a way of warming my heart. So much surprised me in this one, and although I did sort-of sense one of the plot twists, Triona manages to pull the rug out from underneath the reader several times which makes for a story that truly felt like I was watching a TV show in my head, some kind of high-tech thriller that you binge-watch because it’s impossible to tear your eyes away from. I think (?) that this story isn’t over, and I would love to read anything Triona writes again. A marvellous read.
We left off in A Game Of Life Or Death with Asha exposing the hidden monstrosities behind an innovative new reality game called SHACKLE—but she can’t stop there. Armed with blurry facts and the strong will to avenge her sister Maya’s death, Asha powers on to continue searching for answers to her pending questions. Who actually wanted Maya dead? And is that the person behind Zu Tech, the illusive origin of the sinister virtual reality game? All that Asha can think of is getting the justice her sister deserves—and if she can find out where the boy she loves, Dark, is hiding out, she can get on the right track.
But journeys with no clear vision always steer off the road, and Asha and her team of friends find themselves in peril. To the puppet-masters of SHACKLE, their lives are worthless, and whoever is behind the master plan will stop at nothing, even if it means killing again. When they enter an eSports tournament set in New York, they hope to get answers, but when enemies are closer than previously thought, there’s no room for game play when the cards were never going to fall in Asha’s favour. With the risk of losing more people she loves whilst battling a thick cloud of grief that has never quite healed, the wound raw and open, her heart isn’t the only thing on the line when her life is too.
Overall, The Traitor In The Game was explosive, impressive and absolutely absorbing—everything I hoped it would be and more. Like in A Game Of Life Or Death, Triona’s character building takes shine. Asha’s grief was written in such an authentic way, and equally the slow-burn of her romantic relationship with Dark had a way of warming my heart. So much surprised me in this one, and although I did sort-of sense one of the plot twists, Triona manages to pull the rug out from underneath the reader several times which makes for a story that truly felt like I was watching a TV show in my head, some kind of high-tech thriller that you binge-watch because it’s impossible to tear your eyes away from. I think (?) that this story isn’t over, and I would love to read anything Triona writes again. A marvellous read.
September 7, 2025
The page turning, (and VR infused) follow-up to A Game of Life and Death, was even pacier than the first; with higher stakes, and more twists than I could possibly count. I really enjoyed this!
Following on from the shocking events at Zu Tech and revelations about SHACKLE; Asha is facing an uphill battle. The publicity surrounding her is immense, as is the conspiracy aimed at destroying her and her reputation.
But clues alluding to the true culprits of it all point to New York, where Asha and her team happen to be competing (in a new VR based competition.) Only this one may prove even deadlier than the last.
From the rampant PR spin, technological corruption, to the exploration of love and betrayal; we run the full gamut of emotions (and dangerous twists) that had me on the edge of my seat.
The writing was just as suspenseful and saturated with even more urgency, which felt like a rollercoaster charging headfirst into danger. And I honestly wasn’t sure if our protagonist, Asha would even make it out alive this time!
Still grief stricken at the loss of her sister, and the knowledge that the perpetrators are still at large. Asha does start the novel in an emotional spiral that looks impossible to detach from. But she’s determined, resourceful and won’t go down without a fight (one of the things I loved most about her.) Showcasing just how resilient humans can be when faced with uncertainty and corruption.
I do think the found family vibes weren’t as strong as they were in the previous instalment. However, I enjoyed exploring Asha’s dynamics with Augie who haven’t shared as much time together (though Dark will always have my heart.)
It’s really difficult not to accidentally spoil anything, so I’ll just say this was a plot twisty read exploring power, corruption, and the human costs of unethical practices — that YA Thriller fans should definitely consider checking out!
Also, thanks to Lorraine Keating PR and Scholastic UK for the PB copy.
Following on from the shocking events at Zu Tech and revelations about SHACKLE; Asha is facing an uphill battle. The publicity surrounding her is immense, as is the conspiracy aimed at destroying her and her reputation.
But clues alluding to the true culprits of it all point to New York, where Asha and her team happen to be competing (in a new VR based competition.) Only this one may prove even deadlier than the last.
From the rampant PR spin, technological corruption, to the exploration of love and betrayal; we run the full gamut of emotions (and dangerous twists) that had me on the edge of my seat.
The writing was just as suspenseful and saturated with even more urgency, which felt like a rollercoaster charging headfirst into danger. And I honestly wasn’t sure if our protagonist, Asha would even make it out alive this time!
Still grief stricken at the loss of her sister, and the knowledge that the perpetrators are still at large. Asha does start the novel in an emotional spiral that looks impossible to detach from. But she’s determined, resourceful and won’t go down without a fight (one of the things I loved most about her.) Showcasing just how resilient humans can be when faced with uncertainty and corruption.
I do think the found family vibes weren’t as strong as they were in the previous instalment. However, I enjoyed exploring Asha’s dynamics with Augie who haven’t shared as much time together (though Dark will always have my heart.)
It’s really difficult not to accidentally spoil anything, so I’ll just say this was a plot twisty read exploring power, corruption, and the human costs of unethical practices — that YA Thriller fans should definitely consider checking out!
Also, thanks to Lorraine Keating PR and Scholastic UK for the PB copy.
April 14, 2024
Wow, what a show stopping sequel to A Game of Life and Death. I didn't think I could like this series more but sure enough, I have. The second in a trilogy will make or break a series and this book shows how it's done. It's the definition of tense! I had that cross between racing to the finish line or putting the book in the freezer; I'm so invested in these characters, I was scared for them.
The most terrifying part about this series is how it frighteningly depicts technology and how it's growing and changing. It felt too real at times which just ramped up my need to keep reading.
Without giving spoilers, be prepared to have your heart assaulted and then to experience shock! I'm actually still recovering and wish I had the ability to fast forward time just so I can read what will happen next!
Whilst very modern, I got vibes of films I loved growing up like T2 and Antitrust. I highly, wholeheartedly recommend this series for every tbr.
I will finish with my favourite Augie and Asha moment...
"It's a nightmare. You're OK. Safe."
I move closer. Safe. I murmur the word under my breath. "Stay."
His body moves to lie beside mine, holding me. I think I hear him whisper "Always", before the darkness comes back, and this time I don't dream.
The most terrifying part about this series is how it frighteningly depicts technology and how it's growing and changing. It felt too real at times which just ramped up my need to keep reading.
Without giving spoilers, be prepared to have your heart assaulted and then to experience shock! I'm actually still recovering and wish I had the ability to fast forward time just so I can read what will happen next!
Whilst very modern, I got vibes of films I loved growing up like T2 and Antitrust. I highly, wholeheartedly recommend this series for every tbr.
I will finish with my favourite Augie and Asha moment...
"It's a nightmare. You're OK. Safe."
I move closer. Safe. I murmur the word under my breath. "Stay."
His body moves to lie beside mine, holding me. I think I hear him whisper "Always", before the darkness comes back, and this time I don't dream.
March 25, 2024
TW: murder, death, PTSD, grief, flashbacks, terminal illness, death of a loved one, blood, violence, gore
The Traitor in the Game was one of those books that just utterly consumes you while you’re reading. I loved A Game of Life or Death but this was a true level up.
The terror in this book comes from just how believable its technological advancements (and their sinister undertones) are – you almost feel like we could be starting to slide down that path. Campbell’s background in the gaming industry really shines through with the level of detail and authenticity on page. These feels like the type of games the world would obsess over and they are beautifully realised on page. However, the terror also comes from the level of trust and love you have built up for our central team. They are all such well-crafted characters with their own quirks and burdens to shoulder. I enjoyed getting to see more of them and their witty, sometimes fiery banter between themselves and other teams.
In this series though, my heart utterly belongs to Asha. This is someone who has had their entire world demolished and everytime they start to love someone, something catastrophic seems to happen. I said it with A Game of Life or Death, but I’ll say it again because it’s worth repeating. Campbell’s depiction of grief is stunning in its rawness, its vulnerability and its messiness. Grief is not some simplistic experience, it is layered and it can make us the worst versions of ourselves at times. Asha is deeply hurt and channeling this into a destructive path of revenge occasionally, but you empathise with her all the while. Her character arc is one that I’m really enjoying and excited to see continue in the next book.
My heart was in my mouth for most of the final third of this book. It was so well built up to, with pacing that kept you glued to the page. I was not prepared for just how explosive these twists would be though. Campbell hits you with them thick and fast, but they still have a massive impact. Like Asha, you are overwhelmed and deeply hurt by the revelations.
The Traitor in The Game lives up to its title with a nefarious plot, but still retains its hope in humanity as a whole even as that light dwindles.
The Traitor in the Game was one of those books that just utterly consumes you while you’re reading. I loved A Game of Life or Death but this was a true level up.
The terror in this book comes from just how believable its technological advancements (and their sinister undertones) are – you almost feel like we could be starting to slide down that path. Campbell’s background in the gaming industry really shines through with the level of detail and authenticity on page. These feels like the type of games the world would obsess over and they are beautifully realised on page. However, the terror also comes from the level of trust and love you have built up for our central team. They are all such well-crafted characters with their own quirks and burdens to shoulder. I enjoyed getting to see more of them and their witty, sometimes fiery banter between themselves and other teams.
In this series though, my heart utterly belongs to Asha. This is someone who has had their entire world demolished and everytime they start to love someone, something catastrophic seems to happen. I said it with A Game of Life or Death, but I’ll say it again because it’s worth repeating. Campbell’s depiction of grief is stunning in its rawness, its vulnerability and its messiness. Grief is not some simplistic experience, it is layered and it can make us the worst versions of ourselves at times. Asha is deeply hurt and channeling this into a destructive path of revenge occasionally, but you empathise with her all the while. Her character arc is one that I’m really enjoying and excited to see continue in the next book.
My heart was in my mouth for most of the final third of this book. It was so well built up to, with pacing that kept you glued to the page. I was not prepared for just how explosive these twists would be though. Campbell hits you with them thick and fast, but they still have a massive impact. Like Asha, you are overwhelmed and deeply hurt by the revelations.
The Traitor in The Game lives up to its title with a nefarious plot, but still retains its hope in humanity as a whole even as that light dwindles.
April 11, 2024
Plot 4.25/5
Characters 4/5
Ending 4.5/5
Interest 4.75/5
Overall 4.25/5
-I actually throughly preferred this book to the first one. I was so invested in the story, the twists and turns of the whole plot of this book. I like how the story evolved from being just about a game to it being a whole mystery and scary experience for the characters to have. There were a lot of elements that left me mouth a gape and I just couldn’t put it down.
-The characters aren’t the reason why I love this book even though I really like them. The found family is quite cute although for some reason I wasn’t that fond of it. The romances for Asha were conflicting to me. On the one hand, I love Dark and he’s always been there for Asha and it really feels like she loves him more even after everything that happens. But on the other hand, Augie is so sweet and caring that he’s more deserving of Asha. Both of them are just great.
-At first I wasn’t that invested din the story so I didn’t particularly seek out the second book but after reading it, I need the third book. The ending took such an unexpected turn and I really want to know what happens next to these characters.
Characters 4/5
Ending 4.5/5
Interest 4.75/5
Overall 4.25/5
-I actually throughly preferred this book to the first one. I was so invested in the story, the twists and turns of the whole plot of this book. I like how the story evolved from being just about a game to it being a whole mystery and scary experience for the characters to have. There were a lot of elements that left me mouth a gape and I just couldn’t put it down.
-The characters aren’t the reason why I love this book even though I really like them. The found family is quite cute although for some reason I wasn’t that fond of it. The romances for Asha were conflicting to me. On the one hand, I love Dark and he’s always been there for Asha and it really feels like she loves him more even after everything that happens. But on the other hand, Augie is so sweet and caring that he’s more deserving of Asha. Both of them are just great.
-At first I wasn’t that invested din the story so I didn’t particularly seek out the second book but after reading it, I need the third book. The ending took such an unexpected turn and I really want to know what happens next to these characters.
April 2, 2024
I was thrilled to find out the sequel was out there and I broke my book buying ban to get it. I needed it. I needed to know what happens next to Asha and Dark and all the other characters I've grown to love. I also needed to know if my gut feeling about Jones was right. And let me tell you, I'm not saying anything. Just read this book please. The pace was extraordinary, the plot twists and turns around every corner and you don't even notice when you turn the page, since the world around you just disapears when reading. The AI and technology is still a big part of the story and I couldn't help myself and wonder if this will be our future? It does not even sound that strange to me. My heart is broken, glued back together and stomped on at the same time. I love Asha and I want to just give her a big hug, and keep her safe. We can't. We can't keep anyone safe. AI is the future. When will book 3 be there?
May 26, 2024
The end of 'a game of Life or Death' left readers with a big cliffhanger and this sequel provides a new story full of twists and new journeys with the favourite characters from the last book: Asha, Dark, Ruby and Josh, Augie and Jones. we find out more about Dark and his past and the question of who can be trusted remains a suspenseful ending to this book. A great read and again, a great storyline.
April 21, 2024
ANOTHER CLIFF HANGER I CANT DO THIS
July 26, 2024
<<<<<<<3
December 26, 2024
I loved this book. The second in the series. Can’t wait for h to r third instalment.
January 28, 2025
Looking forward to book 3!
May 20, 2025
I love dark and asha!! Did not see the cliffhanger coming, can’t wait for the next one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews