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The Royal Assassin
Reis, the Royal Assassin to the Royal House of Darkness and Shadow had waited for Essence, the Heir of the Chalice to grow up and become his wife only for her to be taken away by Phantom another Heir of the Chalice to be his consort.
Reis petitioned the Royal House but the Royal Advocate stood on the side of Phantom and Reis lost her. He was given compensation however in the form of being allowed to train one of their children to be an assassin for the Royal House and or a consort if he so chooses.
Reis has no idea when he grudgingly visits Phantom and Essence to give his congratulations and inspect their children he would be blessed with a vision of the goddess Mysteria. He is shocked yet relieved when Mysteria whispers for him to claim their daughter Shadowen to train and be his consort.
Reis now must wait for her to grow up and come into her magic so his claim will be sanctioned in the Royal House. But he has no idea how furious Phantom is or the lengths he will go through to keep Reis from his new consort. Once Reis fully comprehends the obsession Phantom has for his daughter, the true Heir of the Chalice, he vows not only to train her but also to protect and cherish her for eternity as his consort.
Reis petitioned the Royal House but the Royal Advocate stood on the side of Phantom and Reis lost her. He was given compensation however in the form of being allowed to train one of their children to be an assassin for the Royal House and or a consort if he so chooses.
Reis has no idea when he grudgingly visits Phantom and Essence to give his congratulations and inspect their children he would be blessed with a vision of the goddess Mysteria. He is shocked yet relieved when Mysteria whispers for him to claim their daughter Shadowen to train and be his consort.
Reis now must wait for her to grow up and come into her magic so his claim will be sanctioned in the Royal House. But he has no idea how furious Phantom is or the lengths he will go through to keep Reis from his new consort. Once Reis fully comprehends the obsession Phantom has for his daughter, the true Heir of the Chalice, he vows not only to train her but also to protect and cherish her for eternity as his consort.
- GenresFantasyParanormalFiction
206 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2011
1 person is currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Shireen Nemnich
3 books8 followersShireen presently calls the picturesque Williamsburg, Virginia her home, which she shares with her teenage daughter and two cats. She's been a nurse working with geriatrics since 1992. She is a retired "wizard" for the internet mud game, Genesis the original Lpmud, which she still plays and interacts on when time permits.
February 2011 she released her first novel The Royal Assassin from the series, Shadows of Myst, which takes place in the fictional realm Valantis. She is working diligently on releasing several other books in the Shadows of Myst series along with working on her vampire series, The First Ones.
Shireen's writing genres - Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Romance and Science Fiction.
Her favorite fictional authors - Christine Feehan and Lisa Kleypas.
Her favorite non-fictional authors - Dr. Wayne Dyer, Michael Bernard Beckwith and Abraham-Hicks.
You can follow her on twitter @snemnich and facebook.
One of her favorite sayings - Life is what we make it... so I'm making mine with chocolate!
February 2011 she released her first novel The Royal Assassin from the series, Shadows of Myst, which takes place in the fictional realm Valantis. She is working diligently on releasing several other books in the Shadows of Myst series along with working on her vampire series, The First Ones.
Shireen's writing genres - Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Romance and Science Fiction.
Her favorite fictional authors - Christine Feehan and Lisa Kleypas.
Her favorite non-fictional authors - Dr. Wayne Dyer, Michael Bernard Beckwith and Abraham-Hicks.
You can follow her on twitter @snemnich and facebook.
One of her favorite sayings - Life is what we make it... so I'm making mine with chocolate!
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
February 20, 2012
THE ROYAL ASSASSIN (Shadows of Myst) by Shireen Nemnich
THE ROYAL ASSASSIN is the premiere release for Shireen Nemnich’s Shadows of Myst series.. The Royal Assassin novella introduces the people of the Royal House of Darkness and Shadow in the magical land of Myst—a group of beings bathed in the power of magic and shadows.
Reis, part Nightelf, part Mystic, and the Royal Assassin for the Royal House of Darkness and Shadow, must bestow congratulations onto Essence-the Heir to the Chalica, and the woman who should have been his consort. But 4 years after the birth of her twins, and marriage to Phantom, he is still reluctant to acknowledge their union. And to complicate matters, one of their children was offered as a consort and/or apprentice in training, as compensation for his loss of a consort. With great reluctance, Reis bestows his blessing upon the couple’s children, but not before, he is enthralled by their 4year old daughter--a child, so innocent and sweet, that he loses his heart and soul, when he realizes that she will be his consort and mate. But Reis senses an evil presence within the shadows surrounding the couple, especially when their young boy is offered into servitude without consideration or thought.
Shadowen and her twin Shade, have a connection, unlike anything Reis has ever seen, in children so young. They seem to communicate without talking, and feel without touching. The power of their magic engulfs Reis with a feeling of both wonder and awe, but there is also darkness within the House of the Royal Chalice. When it becomes apparent that something evil lives within the family, Reis is determined to claim his consort, before further injury is dealt.
For eight years, Reis must hide in the shadows, in order to protect his young consort. He must sit back and watch as she grows into a young woman, and begins to fall for Darken, the young neighbor boy. But when Shadowen’s pain overtakes Reis, he knows it is time free her from her parent’s care. The cruelty and abuse inflicted by her father, are more than either can bear. Their connection already strong, Reis rescues the 12 year old, but not without threat to his life and family. But sadness pales the young child, when she must leave her twin brother behind and at the mercy of their twisted parents. Shadowen’s magic and her use of the shadows in the land of Myst, both surprise and scare Reis. There are time when she literally disappears into herself. Is she communicating with another?
In the land of Myst, the citizens travel using the shadows and darkness, and it is these shadows, that also encompass the very essence of their being. The shadows surrounding the individual vibrate with sensuality, anger, love or anxiety, depending on the action of the moment, and it is among these shadows, that magic proceeds. When an attempted abduction by her own father, sends Shadowen into the darkness, Reis is lost, in the knowledge, that he was unable to protect his future mate, as well as his grandmother. But a call from the Royal Magistrates’s office, to answer to charges of neglect, for the disappearance of the young woman, only reinforces their love for one another. Her parents are refused visitation and contact, but this also brings the realization to Shadowen, on the loss of her twin-no contact with her parents, also means no contact with her brother.
Over the next 5 years, Reis and Shadowen’s relationship grows, as does the woman. Shortly after her 17th birthday, Reis claims Shadowen’s heart as well as her body, but her connection to her brother and family is so strong, that they sense what has happened, and her father is outraged and seeks to destroy their lives. He is determined that she is his property and wants her back.
Several forces of magic play into the lives of the people of Myst, including dark, light, life and death magic, as well as different planes of existence. Many different levels of the Royal House involve political allies and enemies-all will converge in this storyline, to defend and protect the young couple, as well as fight for dominance in the world of political intrigue. The Royal Seer, Reis’ father, has been long absent from his son’s life, and has only recently renewed a relationship with his only child. The Royal Conjurer takes it upon herself to mentor and teach Shade, the ways of a skilled warrior, and ,a heritage of shadows from family long gone, seem to embody the spirits that drive the current generation of the people of Myst.
When Reis is called away , to fulfill his duty as the Royal Assassin, Shadowen reveals that she is with child. But when Reis is captured and held prisoner, Shadowen and the child suffer from the loss, but not before Darken lays claim and wishes to be her new consort. Once again, Reis is overcome with guilt, at his own actions, leaving his pregnant mate behind, but when Shade affects his escape, Reis is determined never to leave her side again.
There are heartbreaking losses that affect the young couple, as well as the duty Reis must perform for his father, that will wrench one’s soul. The death of a child or parent, can be one of the most devastating losses, and it is within the pages of this books, that love will heal the broken and shattered heart.. The Royal Assassin is my first peak into one of Shireen Nemnich’s novels. It was an easy read, but the premise is new and unusual. I liked The Royal Assassin, and I am hoping to continue the series, as soon as possible.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Shireen Nemnich was born and raised in Phoenix Arizona, but now calls Virginia her home. She is the mother of 3, and the grandmother of 2. As well as a registered practical nurse, Shireen follows her dreams of writing, and published her first book of poetry on lulu.com, but has since entered the world of self-publication. Her writing genre is romance, whether it is fantasy or science fiction.
THE ROYAL ASSASSIN is the premiere release for Shireen Nemnich’s Shadows of Myst series.. The Royal Assassin novella introduces the people of the Royal House of Darkness and Shadow in the magical land of Myst—a group of beings bathed in the power of magic and shadows.
Reis, part Nightelf, part Mystic, and the Royal Assassin for the Royal House of Darkness and Shadow, must bestow congratulations onto Essence-the Heir to the Chalica, and the woman who should have been his consort. But 4 years after the birth of her twins, and marriage to Phantom, he is still reluctant to acknowledge their union. And to complicate matters, one of their children was offered as a consort and/or apprentice in training, as compensation for his loss of a consort. With great reluctance, Reis bestows his blessing upon the couple’s children, but not before, he is enthralled by their 4year old daughter--a child, so innocent and sweet, that he loses his heart and soul, when he realizes that she will be his consort and mate. But Reis senses an evil presence within the shadows surrounding the couple, especially when their young boy is offered into servitude without consideration or thought.
Shadowen and her twin Shade, have a connection, unlike anything Reis has ever seen, in children so young. They seem to communicate without talking, and feel without touching. The power of their magic engulfs Reis with a feeling of both wonder and awe, but there is also darkness within the House of the Royal Chalice. When it becomes apparent that something evil lives within the family, Reis is determined to claim his consort, before further injury is dealt.
For eight years, Reis must hide in the shadows, in order to protect his young consort. He must sit back and watch as she grows into a young woman, and begins to fall for Darken, the young neighbor boy. But when Shadowen’s pain overtakes Reis, he knows it is time free her from her parent’s care. The cruelty and abuse inflicted by her father, are more than either can bear. Their connection already strong, Reis rescues the 12 year old, but not without threat to his life and family. But sadness pales the young child, when she must leave her twin brother behind and at the mercy of their twisted parents. Shadowen’s magic and her use of the shadows in the land of Myst, both surprise and scare Reis. There are time when she literally disappears into herself. Is she communicating with another?
In the land of Myst, the citizens travel using the shadows and darkness, and it is these shadows, that also encompass the very essence of their being. The shadows surrounding the individual vibrate with sensuality, anger, love or anxiety, depending on the action of the moment, and it is among these shadows, that magic proceeds. When an attempted abduction by her own father, sends Shadowen into the darkness, Reis is lost, in the knowledge, that he was unable to protect his future mate, as well as his grandmother. But a call from the Royal Magistrates’s office, to answer to charges of neglect, for the disappearance of the young woman, only reinforces their love for one another. Her parents are refused visitation and contact, but this also brings the realization to Shadowen, on the loss of her twin-no contact with her parents, also means no contact with her brother.
Over the next 5 years, Reis and Shadowen’s relationship grows, as does the woman. Shortly after her 17th birthday, Reis claims Shadowen’s heart as well as her body, but her connection to her brother and family is so strong, that they sense what has happened, and her father is outraged and seeks to destroy their lives. He is determined that she is his property and wants her back.
Several forces of magic play into the lives of the people of Myst, including dark, light, life and death magic, as well as different planes of existence. Many different levels of the Royal House involve political allies and enemies-all will converge in this storyline, to defend and protect the young couple, as well as fight for dominance in the world of political intrigue. The Royal Seer, Reis’ father, has been long absent from his son’s life, and has only recently renewed a relationship with his only child. The Royal Conjurer takes it upon herself to mentor and teach Shade, the ways of a skilled warrior, and ,a heritage of shadows from family long gone, seem to embody the spirits that drive the current generation of the people of Myst.
When Reis is called away , to fulfill his duty as the Royal Assassin, Shadowen reveals that she is with child. But when Reis is captured and held prisoner, Shadowen and the child suffer from the loss, but not before Darken lays claim and wishes to be her new consort. Once again, Reis is overcome with guilt, at his own actions, leaving his pregnant mate behind, but when Shade affects his escape, Reis is determined never to leave her side again.
There are heartbreaking losses that affect the young couple, as well as the duty Reis must perform for his father, that will wrench one’s soul. The death of a child or parent, can be one of the most devastating losses, and it is within the pages of this books, that love will heal the broken and shattered heart.. The Royal Assassin is my first peak into one of Shireen Nemnich’s novels. It was an easy read, but the premise is new and unusual. I liked The Royal Assassin, and I am hoping to continue the series, as soon as possible.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Shireen Nemnich was born and raised in Phoenix Arizona, but now calls Virginia her home. She is the mother of 3, and the grandmother of 2. As well as a registered practical nurse, Shireen follows her dreams of writing, and published her first book of poetry on lulu.com, but has since entered the world of self-publication. Her writing genre is romance, whether it is fantasy or science fiction.
April 30, 2021
THE ROYAL ASSASSIN (Shadows of Myst) by Shireen Nemnich
THE ROYAL ASSASSIN is the premiere release for Shireen Nemnich’s Shadows of Myst series.. The Royal Assassin novella introduces the people of the Royal House of Darkness and Shadow in the magical land of Myst—a group of beings bathed in the power of magic and shadows.
Reis, part Nightelf, part Mystic, and the Royal Assassin for the Royal House of Darkness and Shadow, must bestow congratulations onto Essence-the Heir to the Chalica, and the woman who should have been his consort. But 4 years after the birth of her twins, and marriage to Phantom, he is still reluctant to acknowledge their union. And to complicate matters, one of their children was offered as a consort and/or apprentice in training, as compensation for his loss of a consort. With great reluctance, Reis bestows his blessing upon the couple’s children, but not before, he is enthralled by their 4year old daughter--a child, so innocent and sweet, that he loses his heart and soul, when he realizes that she will be his consort and mate. But Reis senses an evil presence within the shadows surrounding the couple, especially when their young boy is offered into servitude without consideration or thought.
Shadowen and her twin Shade, have a connection, unlike anything Reis has ever seen, in children so young. They seem to communicate without talking, and feel without touching. The power of their magic engulfs Reis with a feeling of both wonder and awe, but there is also darkness within the House of the Royal Chalice. When it becomes apparent that something evil lives within the family, Reis is determined to claim his consort, before further injury is dealt.
For eight years, Reis must hide in the shadows, in order to protect his young consort. He must sit back and watch as she grows into a young woman, and begins to fall for Darken, the young neighbor boy. But when Shadowen’s pain overtakes Reis, he knows it is time free her from her parent’s care. The cruelty and abuse inflicted by her father, are more than either can bear. Their connection already strong, Reis rescues the 12 year old, but not without threat to his life and family. But sadness pales the young child, when she must leave her twin brother behind and at the mercy of their twisted parents. Shadowen’s magic and her use of the shadows in the land of Myst, both surprise and scare Reis. There are time when she literally disappears into herself. Is she communicating with another?
In the land of Myst, the citizens travel using the shadows and darkness, and it is these shadows, that also encompass the very essence of their being. The shadows surrounding the individual vibrate with sensuality, anger, love or anxiety, depending on the action of the moment, and it is among these shadows, that magic proceeds. When an attempted abduction by her own father, sends Shadowen into the darkness, Reis is lost, in the knowledge, that he was unable to protect his future mate, as well as his grandmother. But a call from the Royal Magistrates’s office, to answer to charges of neglect, for the disappearance of the young woman, only reinforces their love for one another.
Over the next 5 years, Reis and Shadowen’s relationship grows, as does the woman. Shortly after her 17th birthday, Reis claims Shadowen’s heart as well as her body, but her connection to her brother and family is so strong, that they sense what has happened, and her father is outraged and seeks to destroy their lives. He is determined that she is his property and wants her back.
Several forces of magic play into the lives of the people of Myst, including dark, light, life and death magic, as well as different planes of existence. Many different levels of the Royal House involve political allies and enemies-all will converge in this storyline, to defend and protect the young couple, as well as fight for dominance in the world of political intrigue. The Royal Seer, Reis’ father, has been long absent from his son’s life, and has only recently renewed a relationship with his only child. The Royal Conjurer takes it upon herself to mentor and teach Shade, the ways of a skilled warrior, and ,a heritage of shadows from family long gone, seem to embody the spirits that drive the current generation of the people of Myst.
There are heartbreaking losses that affect the young couple, as well as the duty Reis must perform for his father, that will wrench one’s soul. The death of a child or parent, can be one of the most devastating losses, and it is within the pages of this books, that love will heal the broken and shattered heart.. The Royal Assassin is my first peak into one of Shireen Nemnich’s novels. It was an easy read, but the premise is new and unusual. I liked The Royal Assassin, and I am hoping to continue the series, as soon as possible.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Shireen Nemnich was born and raised in Phoenix Arizona, but now calls Virginia her home. She is the mother of 3, and the grandmother of 2. As well as a registered practical nurse, Shireen follows her dreams of writing, and published her first book of poetry on lulu.com, but has since entered the world of self-publication. Her writing genre is romance, whether it is fantasy or science fiction.
THE ROYAL ASSASSIN is the premiere release for Shireen Nemnich’s Shadows of Myst series.. The Royal Assassin novella introduces the people of the Royal House of Darkness and Shadow in the magical land of Myst—a group of beings bathed in the power of magic and shadows.
Reis, part Nightelf, part Mystic, and the Royal Assassin for the Royal House of Darkness and Shadow, must bestow congratulations onto Essence-the Heir to the Chalica, and the woman who should have been his consort. But 4 years after the birth of her twins, and marriage to Phantom, he is still reluctant to acknowledge their union. And to complicate matters, one of their children was offered as a consort and/or apprentice in training, as compensation for his loss of a consort. With great reluctance, Reis bestows his blessing upon the couple’s children, but not before, he is enthralled by their 4year old daughter--a child, so innocent and sweet, that he loses his heart and soul, when he realizes that she will be his consort and mate. But Reis senses an evil presence within the shadows surrounding the couple, especially when their young boy is offered into servitude without consideration or thought.
Shadowen and her twin Shade, have a connection, unlike anything Reis has ever seen, in children so young. They seem to communicate without talking, and feel without touching. The power of their magic engulfs Reis with a feeling of both wonder and awe, but there is also darkness within the House of the Royal Chalice. When it becomes apparent that something evil lives within the family, Reis is determined to claim his consort, before further injury is dealt.
For eight years, Reis must hide in the shadows, in order to protect his young consort. He must sit back and watch as she grows into a young woman, and begins to fall for Darken, the young neighbor boy. But when Shadowen’s pain overtakes Reis, he knows it is time free her from her parent’s care. The cruelty and abuse inflicted by her father, are more than either can bear. Their connection already strong, Reis rescues the 12 year old, but not without threat to his life and family. But sadness pales the young child, when she must leave her twin brother behind and at the mercy of their twisted parents. Shadowen’s magic and her use of the shadows in the land of Myst, both surprise and scare Reis. There are time when she literally disappears into herself. Is she communicating with another?
In the land of Myst, the citizens travel using the shadows and darkness, and it is these shadows, that also encompass the very essence of their being. The shadows surrounding the individual vibrate with sensuality, anger, love or anxiety, depending on the action of the moment, and it is among these shadows, that magic proceeds. When an attempted abduction by her own father, sends Shadowen into the darkness, Reis is lost, in the knowledge, that he was unable to protect his future mate, as well as his grandmother. But a call from the Royal Magistrates’s office, to answer to charges of neglect, for the disappearance of the young woman, only reinforces their love for one another.
Over the next 5 years, Reis and Shadowen’s relationship grows, as does the woman. Shortly after her 17th birthday, Reis claims Shadowen’s heart as well as her body, but her connection to her brother and family is so strong, that they sense what has happened, and her father is outraged and seeks to destroy their lives. He is determined that she is his property and wants her back.
Several forces of magic play into the lives of the people of Myst, including dark, light, life and death magic, as well as different planes of existence. Many different levels of the Royal House involve political allies and enemies-all will converge in this storyline, to defend and protect the young couple, as well as fight for dominance in the world of political intrigue. The Royal Seer, Reis’ father, has been long absent from his son’s life, and has only recently renewed a relationship with his only child. The Royal Conjurer takes it upon herself to mentor and teach Shade, the ways of a skilled warrior, and ,a heritage of shadows from family long gone, seem to embody the spirits that drive the current generation of the people of Myst.
There are heartbreaking losses that affect the young couple, as well as the duty Reis must perform for his father, that will wrench one’s soul. The death of a child or parent, can be one of the most devastating losses, and it is within the pages of this books, that love will heal the broken and shattered heart.. The Royal Assassin is my first peak into one of Shireen Nemnich’s novels. It was an easy read, but the premise is new and unusual. I liked The Royal Assassin, and I am hoping to continue the series, as soon as possible.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Shireen Nemnich was born and raised in Phoenix Arizona, but now calls Virginia her home. She is the mother of 3, and the grandmother of 2. As well as a registered practical nurse, Shireen follows her dreams of writing, and published her first book of poetry on lulu.com, but has since entered the world of self-publication. Her writing genre is romance, whether it is fantasy or science fiction.
August 31, 2012
Reis was promised the Heir of the Chalice as a companion, only to have her stolen away by another man. Frustrated and confused, Reis avoids the couple as long as possible, but is shocked when his promised gift comes in the form of his stolen lover's child. The question now, is whether or not Reis can protect his beloved Shadowen from not only her vicious father, but from a dangerous fate Reis never expected.
One of the most compelling aspects of this book is the world the characters live in. Valantis is an underground society ruled by magic, but not your typical fantasy-style magic. Valantis is ruled by shadows. These shadows are everywhere. They can be used to travel, drawn from to gain power, and to a select few they can do even more. I enjoyed this unique style of magic for its creative slant as well as its somewhat dark quality.
The relationship that develops between Shadowen and Reis was very good as well. Reis meets Shadowen when she is a small child and immediately knows she will be his. That may seem a little creepy on the surface, but Nemnich handles it well, keeping Reis focused on her protection through the early years, then easing the relationship into a more romantic stage. This was a very tortured relationship, and the tension between them made it quite compelling. Shadowen has had a very difficult life which causes her to fear Reis' love. Put that up against Reis' desire for Shadowen fighting against his need to guide and protect her, and you start to see what I mean. As a warning to younger readers, there were several sex scenes and adult topics, that while not terribly graphic, were descriptive.
The overall storyline was also interesting. This book is a small glimpse into the arching plot of the Chalice, the effect corruption has on this world, and the fates of these two characters. Nemnich gives you good reason to keep reading further into the series.
Aside from the interesting story and world, and good romantic relationship, there were a few areas that gave me some trouble. The beginning of the story was quite slow. There was a lot of explaining about the world as Reis went through day to day motions rather than letting the reader experience this world first hand. This was a show vs. tell issue that mainly held up the first several chapters, but was also an issue throughout the book.
I also felt like the language used wasn't fantasy based and it took away from the reality of the story. This came through in the prose as well as the dialog. Straight up fantasy usually leans toward a more formal writing style, even when it comes to internal thoughts and dialog, and this felt to modern for me to really fall into the fantasy mindset. Serious fantasy readers may have the same issue.
Another area that needed improvement was the editing. With indie publishing, it is hard for the author to catch all the mistakes on their own, but there were enough errors that it was distracting. Another pass at cleaning this up would help improve the overall experience.
As a whole, the story and characters were interesting and entertaining. The modern language, editing errors, show vs. tell, and over-explaining gave the manuscript a less than polished feel. For some this won't be a problem, for others it will. The Royal Assassin has good potential as a series, but it did have shortcomings that will hopefully be addressed in future books.
Would I recommend this book? I would because the story was good, but only selectively. Hard core fantasy readers may struggle with the writing style, the sex scenes and adult topics were enough that I wouldn't pass it on to my nieces, and the more technical issues will hold up picky readers.
Who would I recommend this book to? Adult readers, mainly light fantasy readers who lean toward urban fantasy than strict fantasy and won't be bothered by the more modern style. Those readers looking for a good romance will enjoy Reis and Shadowen as well.
Check out the rest of my review on The Edible Bookshelf
One of the most compelling aspects of this book is the world the characters live in. Valantis is an underground society ruled by magic, but not your typical fantasy-style magic. Valantis is ruled by shadows. These shadows are everywhere. They can be used to travel, drawn from to gain power, and to a select few they can do even more. I enjoyed this unique style of magic for its creative slant as well as its somewhat dark quality.
The relationship that develops between Shadowen and Reis was very good as well. Reis meets Shadowen when she is a small child and immediately knows she will be his. That may seem a little creepy on the surface, but Nemnich handles it well, keeping Reis focused on her protection through the early years, then easing the relationship into a more romantic stage. This was a very tortured relationship, and the tension between them made it quite compelling. Shadowen has had a very difficult life which causes her to fear Reis' love. Put that up against Reis' desire for Shadowen fighting against his need to guide and protect her, and you start to see what I mean. As a warning to younger readers, there were several sex scenes and adult topics, that while not terribly graphic, were descriptive.
The overall storyline was also interesting. This book is a small glimpse into the arching plot of the Chalice, the effect corruption has on this world, and the fates of these two characters. Nemnich gives you good reason to keep reading further into the series.
Aside from the interesting story and world, and good romantic relationship, there were a few areas that gave me some trouble. The beginning of the story was quite slow. There was a lot of explaining about the world as Reis went through day to day motions rather than letting the reader experience this world first hand. This was a show vs. tell issue that mainly held up the first several chapters, but was also an issue throughout the book.
I also felt like the language used wasn't fantasy based and it took away from the reality of the story. This came through in the prose as well as the dialog. Straight up fantasy usually leans toward a more formal writing style, even when it comes to internal thoughts and dialog, and this felt to modern for me to really fall into the fantasy mindset. Serious fantasy readers may have the same issue.
Another area that needed improvement was the editing. With indie publishing, it is hard for the author to catch all the mistakes on their own, but there were enough errors that it was distracting. Another pass at cleaning this up would help improve the overall experience.
As a whole, the story and characters were interesting and entertaining. The modern language, editing errors, show vs. tell, and over-explaining gave the manuscript a less than polished feel. For some this won't be a problem, for others it will. The Royal Assassin has good potential as a series, but it did have shortcomings that will hopefully be addressed in future books.
Would I recommend this book? I would because the story was good, but only selectively. Hard core fantasy readers may struggle with the writing style, the sex scenes and adult topics were enough that I wouldn't pass it on to my nieces, and the more technical issues will hold up picky readers.
Who would I recommend this book to? Adult readers, mainly light fantasy readers who lean toward urban fantasy than strict fantasy and won't be bothered by the more modern style. Those readers looking for a good romance will enjoy Reis and Shadowen as well.
Check out the rest of my review on The Edible Bookshelf
February 3, 2013
this is the first book I read by Shireen. I read the entire book in one sitting. I could not put it down. Her style of writing draws in the reader and keeps you "turning the pages". Her characters come to life and stay with you after reading. I am a definite fan and can't wait for future books
November 21, 2014
I one clicked this book years ago but seeing as it's an unfinished series, I kept putting it off from my tbr. Now I'm glad I picked it up because of a reading challenge.
The whole book is on the H's POV and though I'm a bit wary at first, I got used to it. Not to repeat what the other reviewers said I want to add that for me, the book's appeal was in the created world. It's a new take on paranormal for me so I was intrigued and thought it was an interesting world.
Reis, as a hero, can bring all range of emotions. From his happiness when he outmanoeuvred his rival/enemy and finding his consort. Then to watch him get frustrated towards his girl-woman consort and his pain when he has to make hard decisions for them. The heartbreaking moment when he has to loss big to win the war.... He is a character worth reading. Though he is almost too perfect in his integrity, honor and skills his bad moments makes him relate-able. His reactions are not over dramatic yet you know if you're in his shoes, you'd do the same thing.
The heroine though, and her brother, now they brook my heart. They annoy me at first but when their layers are revealed as the story progressed, I am ready to do battle for them. If any characters needs winning, rescuing, and more winning it's this two.
But mostly, the story and it's intrigued kept me reading. I can meet these characters at almost any book I pick up today but the world they are thrown into in this story will bring out their steel backbone, iron will and strong heart to win.
Great book.
The whole book is on the H's POV and though I'm a bit wary at first, I got used to it. Not to repeat what the other reviewers said I want to add that for me, the book's appeal was in the created world. It's a new take on paranormal for me so I was intrigued and thought it was an interesting world.
Reis, as a hero, can bring all range of emotions. From his happiness when he outmanoeuvred his rival/enemy and finding his consort. Then to watch him get frustrated towards his girl-woman consort and his pain when he has to make hard decisions for them. The heartbreaking moment when he has to loss big to win the war.... He is a character worth reading. Though he is almost too perfect in his integrity, honor and skills his bad moments makes him relate-able. His reactions are not over dramatic yet you know if you're in his shoes, you'd do the same thing.
The heroine though, and her brother, now they brook my heart. They annoy me at first but when their layers are revealed as the story progressed, I am ready to do battle for them. If any characters needs winning, rescuing, and more winning it's this two.
But mostly, the story and it's intrigued kept me reading. I can meet these characters at almost any book I pick up today but the world they are thrown into in this story will bring out their steel backbone, iron will and strong heart to win.
Great book.
June 1, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. It is original, well written and left me anxious to see where it was going to go from here. These are all points which defines what a series is supposed to be like. I am going to be watching for the next to come out.
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