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Esryian Tales #2
The Elven Lord's Concubine: Volume Two
Despite knowing their relationship is founded on circumstance, Cera struggles to resist Isael's seductive allure. As developments in their bond and in her magic make escape impossible, Cera finds herself questioning what eternity will look like while serving the high lord.
The Elven Lord's Concubine is a serialized romance that debuted on Kindle Vella in 2021. Volume Two contains Episodes 17-31 of the Kindle Vella serial and is 60,000 words in length. It has a to-be-continued ending.
The Elven Lord's Concubine is a serialized romance that debuted on Kindle Vella in 2021. Volume Two contains Episodes 17-31 of the Kindle Vella serial and is 60,000 words in length. It has a to-be-continued ending.
ebook
Published February 14, 2023
147 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Leona Sure
6 books54 followersI'm a ghostwriter who got tired of writing other people's bestsellers, so I started publishing my own. I craft slow burn romances with darkly sensual anti-heroes, weak-to-strong heroines, and a liberal smattering of darkness. When I'm not writing the latest Esryian Tales episode, I work as a peer counselor for burn survivors throughout North America. I roost in Mexico City with my wonderfully supportive spouse, our two goofy kids, and five spoiled dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
February 21, 2023
warning: its a serial
As I devour books at a greedy pace, I always try to check that the series is completed beefier I start.
I was mistaken thinking this was a 2 part book series.
The story is serialized and you need to wait to complete (as at feb 2023).
Now i regret starring awake late to read it.. there's no ending in sight.
Truthfully there's probably not enough story momentum to keep my interest past this point.
I'll check back in once vol.3 is released but have lost interest.
Still was good.. but bleh to incomplete
As I devour books at a greedy pace, I always try to check that the series is completed beefier I start.
I was mistaken thinking this was a 2 part book series.
The story is serialized and you need to wait to complete (as at feb 2023).
Now i regret starring awake late to read it.. there's no ending in sight.
Truthfully there's probably not enough story momentum to keep my interest past this point.
I'll check back in once vol.3 is released but have lost interest.
Still was good.. but bleh to incomplete
February 23, 2023
pointless
Do you know when you have a favorite television series and after you’ve turned off the TV you say - “that episode was absolutely pointless and a waste of my hour.” That is book 2- other than introducing a few more characters, this chapter was nothing but the author trying to extend her novel. Very disappointed.
Do you know when you have a favorite television series and after you’ve turned off the TV you say - “that episode was absolutely pointless and a waste of my hour.” That is book 2- other than introducing a few more characters, this chapter was nothing but the author trying to extend her novel. Very disappointed.
March 4, 2024
Cera and Isael's bond strengthens to the point that they can sense where the other is at and communicate non-verbally. The blurbs for this series indicate that Cera is seeing her chance for escape diminishing. When was that ever a possibility? She can’t return to her father and is too conspicuous to blend in with the rest of the people. How would she support herself since it doesn’t seem that she has any skills? Not only that but nothing in the story has really indicated that she has a desire to leave, especially considering how anxious she gets when not in Isael’s presence.
Isael reveals secrets to her, one being that his father is the dragon that legend had him supposedly besting in a duel. His power over the wind was not won but inherited. He also tells her that he will marry her should she prove able to give him offspring. This action would place her into a dangerous position as she would become an even bigger target for jealous elves.
Isael’s relatives arrive, including a woman he grew up with, was once engaged to and who married his twin brother, now deceased. Does she want to rekindle their old romance? A niece seems pretty determined to have Cera become her son’s concubine. Cera’s magic is not only strengthening but she appears to have powers separate from what she inherited from Isael. The niece is supposed to help teach her how to control her magic.
Cera continues to have to engage with high ranking female elves so as not to ruffle anyone’s feathers. These females have a knack for insinuation and insulting her under the guise of a supposed compliment. Cera still manages to break tradition by befriending a pregnant half-breed from where she grew up.
Isael indicates that Cera will accompany him to investigate what a minor lord is claiming as a fae curse. Cera had been brought up practically imprisoned in her father’s home and relishes the chance to visit other places.
Cera realizes the magnitude of problems that her children will cause for Isael and especially herself. She has yet to confess her pregnancy to anyone. Isael plans for them to be married after they return from their trip, despite not knowing she is pregnant.
Isael reveals secrets to her, one being that his father is the dragon that legend had him supposedly besting in a duel. His power over the wind was not won but inherited. He also tells her that he will marry her should she prove able to give him offspring. This action would place her into a dangerous position as she would become an even bigger target for jealous elves.
Isael’s relatives arrive, including a woman he grew up with, was once engaged to and who married his twin brother, now deceased. Does she want to rekindle their old romance? A niece seems pretty determined to have Cera become her son’s concubine. Cera’s magic is not only strengthening but she appears to have powers separate from what she inherited from Isael. The niece is supposed to help teach her how to control her magic.
Cera continues to have to engage with high ranking female elves so as not to ruffle anyone’s feathers. These females have a knack for insinuation and insulting her under the guise of a supposed compliment. Cera still manages to break tradition by befriending a pregnant half-breed from where she grew up.
Isael indicates that Cera will accompany him to investigate what a minor lord is claiming as a fae curse. Cera had been brought up practically imprisoned in her father’s home and relishes the chance to visit other places.
Cera realizes the magnitude of problems that her children will cause for Isael and especially herself. She has yet to confess her pregnancy to anyone. Isael plans for them to be married after they return from their trip, despite not knowing she is pregnant.
June 19, 2023
If you love rich world building, you would love this book/series
This series probably isn’t for everyone, but it is right up my alley. I feel like I’m floating on a lazy river through the story . . . Meeting characters along the way. Learning all about the society and customs where our story takes place. The narrative pacing is definitely on the slow side, and yet I don’t mind it. Perhaps since so many paranormal stories have fast paced, insta-love storylines, this feels different. And nice. Like I can actually settle in, with a cup of tea and get to know my surroundings.
There have been some plot developments that make me feel like this is the calm before the storm. I kind of sense something coming soon on the horizon. Our heroine, Cera, is really coming into her own. Usually I roll my eyes at the “FMC is the most powerful being that ever walked through all the realms” trope, only to find her constantly breaking down into a puddle of tears . . . Where the MMC must save her. Not so here. Sure, Cera is a bit ambivalent and tentative, it rings true given the circumstances she finds herself in. She rises to the occasion and presses on, pushing through her doubts and fears. I mean, I’d have a hard time constantly being faced with my lover’s previous concubines/consorts/fiancees (yes, FIANCEES!) but then what can you expect from an elven king who has lived about a thousand years. I mean, he’s been around the block a time or two. He’s going to have one hell of a past.
I do love our main couple, and can’t wait to see what’s in store for them in the next book in the series.
This series probably isn’t for everyone, but it is right up my alley. I feel like I’m floating on a lazy river through the story . . . Meeting characters along the way. Learning all about the society and customs where our story takes place. The narrative pacing is definitely on the slow side, and yet I don’t mind it. Perhaps since so many paranormal stories have fast paced, insta-love storylines, this feels different. And nice. Like I can actually settle in, with a cup of tea and get to know my surroundings.
There have been some plot developments that make me feel like this is the calm before the storm. I kind of sense something coming soon on the horizon. Our heroine, Cera, is really coming into her own. Usually I roll my eyes at the “FMC is the most powerful being that ever walked through all the realms” trope, only to find her constantly breaking down into a puddle of tears . . . Where the MMC must save her. Not so here. Sure, Cera is a bit ambivalent and tentative, it rings true given the circumstances she finds herself in. She rises to the occasion and presses on, pushing through her doubts and fears. I mean, I’d have a hard time constantly being faced with my lover’s previous concubines/consorts/fiancees (yes, FIANCEES!) but then what can you expect from an elven king who has lived about a thousand years. I mean, he’s been around the block a time or two. He’s going to have one hell of a past.
I do love our main couple, and can’t wait to see what’s in store for them in the next book in the series.
February 24, 2023
Very very very entertaining! Love it 😫💓
Thoroughly enjoyed the political intrigue and how quick-witted Cera was.
It is nice to read a book that doesn't romanticise, downplay, and oversimplify the role of a king. That actually shows that with great power comes great responsibility. Also, how one simple decision might have great repercussions.
I like how, at the beginning of the series, we are led to believe that Isael is a disinterested and bored ruler, when in reality, further along the books, we find that he takes great effort in maintaining a balance in the people he leads. That sometimes its not about what it's fair but what needs to be done in order to maintain a certain equilibrium. Since the idea of a completely fair and just world is only an utopian illusion.
Can't wait for the next volume!!
Thoroughly enjoyed the political intrigue and how quick-witted Cera was.
It is nice to read a book that doesn't romanticise, downplay, and oversimplify the role of a king. That actually shows that with great power comes great responsibility. Also, how one simple decision might have great repercussions.
I like how, at the beginning of the series, we are led to believe that Isael is a disinterested and bored ruler, when in reality, further along the books, we find that he takes great effort in maintaining a balance in the people he leads. That sometimes its not about what it's fair but what needs to be done in order to maintain a certain equilibrium. Since the idea of a completely fair and just world is only an utopian illusion.
Can't wait for the next volume!!
February 16, 2023
Wow, I can’t remember the last time I had such an unproductive day because all I wanted to do was read a book! The worst part of this book is that I have to wait a month for book 3. I should know better about reading unfinished series 🥲
Interesting political dances where everything feels dangerous. Wild magic and powerful instincts coming to life. Dark shadows in every physical and mental corner. Sensual romance—nothing gross or trying too hard; for elves, this feels real.
Does he actually love her? Or because he created her? And I’m not calling out the author—the MFC has these same legitimate questions. It’s refreshing to read a MFC with some sense (but also wanting to believe the fantasy).
Book 1 had my attention, but Book 2 made me an obsessed fan. Can’t wait for Book 3!
Interesting political dances where everything feels dangerous. Wild magic and powerful instincts coming to life. Dark shadows in every physical and mental corner. Sensual romance—nothing gross or trying too hard; for elves, this feels real.
Does he actually love her? Or because he created her? And I’m not calling out the author—the MFC has these same legitimate questions. It’s refreshing to read a MFC with some sense (but also wanting to believe the fantasy).
Book 1 had my attention, but Book 2 made me an obsessed fan. Can’t wait for Book 3!
February 21, 2023
When this launched on Kindle I immediately bought and reread it. Volume II was every bit as good the second time through as the first (which I read via Kindle Vella). The cover art is beautiful, the world continues to unfold, with more and more great details being revealed as the story carries on. I'm still in love with Cera and Isael. I cannot wait for more of this story to be released so that I can devour every word like a junkie getting a sweet, sweet fix.
Leona Sure is an amazing writer and storyteller. Her prose is brilliant, descriptive, and enthralling. The characters, even minor ones, stand out and evoke emotional responses with their actions and words. You will not regret reading this book!
Leona Sure is an amazing writer and storyteller. Her prose is brilliant, descriptive, and enthralling. The characters, even minor ones, stand out and evoke emotional responses with their actions and words. You will not regret reading this book!
May 27, 2023
Frustrating slow-moving filler
The first book is often slower due to introductions and world buiding, I was looking forward to things really developing in book 2 and the epilogue of book 1 made me suppose we were in for an Angel-after-Buffy-sex type event. But in this book there was nary a hint of anything interesting. Israel seemed less interesting, there was lots of politics talk, which can be fine if the protagonists are inclined to shake things up, but so far they seem to be sleepwalking with no clear motivations. Cera had long-winded, circuitous dull internal dialogue, there was virtually no character or plot development. It isn't motivating me to stick around for more, sadly.
The first book is often slower due to introductions and world buiding, I was looking forward to things really developing in book 2 and the epilogue of book 1 made me suppose we were in for an Angel-after-Buffy-sex type event. But in this book there was nary a hint of anything interesting. Israel seemed less interesting, there was lots of politics talk, which can be fine if the protagonists are inclined to shake things up, but so far they seem to be sleepwalking with no clear motivations. Cera had long-winded, circuitous dull internal dialogue, there was virtually no character or plot development. It isn't motivating me to stick around for more, sadly.
February 21, 2023
I'm so excited and frankly apprehensive about continuing the story. Its still the politics and some great sass coming from Cera but stakes are getting higher. Though nothing happens action wise, more worries and annoyances happen as Cera's magic continues to develop and new faces join the company for a celebration. Characters that had me nervous in book 1 have shown that my intuition was sound and I cannot wait to continue to test my intuition with this continuing series. The longing and contentment with each other (Cera and Isael) seem both too good to be true but also I hope it is exactly as it portrays. I love it.
March 6, 2023
★ "Such a willful concubine I have." ★
—>>> As their time together deepens their relationship, changes are noted to Cera’s magic and the circumstances of her being by Isael’s side. She finds herself now elevated in status, even though she is still merely a concubine, and the court becomes more speculative on her value to their lord. We sample the “banality of Viranhildr’s bureaucracy” through her eyes, and I am enjoying both their points of view as well. Thus far, this has been an enthralling read, loving the world and the developing connections between Cera and Isael. Looking forward to the third volume of this series!
—>>> As their time together deepens their relationship, changes are noted to Cera’s magic and the circumstances of her being by Isael’s side. She finds herself now elevated in status, even though she is still merely a concubine, and the court becomes more speculative on her value to their lord. We sample the “banality of Viranhildr’s bureaucracy” through her eyes, and I am enjoying both their points of view as well. Thus far, this has been an enthralling read, loving the world and the developing connections between Cera and Isael. Looking forward to the third volume of this series!
February 18, 2023
Ms.Leona Sure, you have done it again. I keep falling more and more for your hero and heroine. I can't get enough. I love the creativeness of this world full of magic. I'm trying so hard not to spoil anything but in side im squealing and fan girling beacuse i love this series.
I strongly recommend, i just couldn't put it down. I can't wait for book 3.
Magic, strong hero, and smart heroine and together they make a very beautiful book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I strongly recommend, i just couldn't put it down. I can't wait for book 3.
Magic, strong hero, and smart heroine and together they make a very beautiful book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 22, 2023
Good follow up to Volume 1
I like this second volume better because we get farther into the plot. Cera has powerful and potent magic. She also gets her bearings and starts to clearly asses people and their motives. Creepy guy from another "place" is toxic and a threat. I think he's Isael's father. Cera must have some long suppressed magic in her to manifest magic in many ways. Another thing I enjoyed reading was the relationship development between Cera and Isael. It was necessary to write a strong bond between them.
I like this second volume better because we get farther into the plot. Cera has powerful and potent magic. She also gets her bearings and starts to clearly asses people and their motives. Creepy guy from another "place" is toxic and a threat. I think he's Isael's father. Cera must have some long suppressed magic in her to manifest magic in many ways. Another thing I enjoyed reading was the relationship development between Cera and Isael. It was necessary to write a strong bond between them.
March 26, 2023
love it but…
Why does Israel love Cera??? Before she turned into what he is, he didn’t really care for her. Only after she changed he’s suddenly lovestruck and ready to marry her??? Their “mate bond” doesn’t help either in clarifying if it’s their true feelings or not. Other than that, this volume never dragged on and I can’t wait to learn more about the side characters!
Why does Israel love Cera??? Before she turned into what he is, he didn’t really care for her. Only after she changed he’s suddenly lovestruck and ready to marry her??? Their “mate bond” doesn’t help either in clarifying if it’s their true feelings or not. Other than that, this volume never dragged on and I can’t wait to learn more about the side characters!
April 5, 2023
I hate this cover. I much prefer the other ones, sans people. It looks like a silly “bodice ripper” from the 80’s and 90’s.
The contents of the book however are very good. The author did exactly what I hoped she would. Have Cera some darkness and a little more history. Built the world up a bit more and Isael is great. One of my favorite male MC’s in a while.
The contents of the book however are very good. The author did exactly what I hoped she would. Have Cera some darkness and a little more history. Built the world up a bit more and Isael is great. One of my favorite male MC’s in a while.
February 18, 2023
I am enraptured
I found myself totally emerged in this story. I am not a writer so words do not come easily for me but I am enchanted by every aspect of the first two installments. Thank you Leona Sure for taking me with you on this journey.
I found myself totally emerged in this story. I am not a writer so words do not come easily for me but I am enchanted by every aspect of the first two installments. Thank you Leona Sure for taking me with you on this journey.
March 2, 2023
Really well written, unfortunately will not be following the series anymore for reasons listened below:
(WARNING! SPOILERS!!)
I'm not with the pregnancy trope, especially the insta-pregnancy trope.
It was over emphasized and kind of ruins interest in future releases.
(WARNING! SPOILERS!!)
I'm not with the pregnancy trope, especially the insta-pregnancy trope.
It was over emphasized and kind of ruins interest in future releases.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2023
just vivid and beautiful writing
I became enthralled with the first book. Have loved the second and can’t wait for the rest! Isael and Cera just have the best connection and there is definitely humor and intrigue. Really just love the books so far.
I became enthralled with the first book. Have loved the second and can’t wait for the rest! Isael and Cera just have the best connection and there is definitely humor and intrigue. Really just love the books so far.
Read
March 18, 2023One gets lost in fantasy
The story line is very good, filled with adventure and romance. A good tale to wrap around one, like a favorite throw. I look forward to the third book in this series.
The story line is very good, filled with adventure and romance. A good tale to wrap around one, like a favorite throw. I look forward to the third book in this series.
July 11, 2025
Hmmm it’s so close to being so good.
I wanted a little more jealousy and angst. The final couple of chapters really dragged. HOWEVER I enjoy the plot a lot and the characters. There’s so much room to make it great.
I wanted a little more jealousy and angst. The final couple of chapters really dragged. HOWEVER I enjoy the plot a lot and the characters. There’s so much room to make it great.
Read
February 15, 2023I`ll soon write something
February 20, 2023
4 stars. I really liked Isael in this one. The endless patience and care he has for Cera is really nice😩❤️
March 13, 2023
Super great book. Series is a slower pace, so just be warned as it started as Kindle Vella. Other than that I would totally recommend it!
March 20, 2023
Very good
Characters are developing nicely, the world is being built beautifully. Its a good read that captures my attention fully. Well done
Characters are developing nicely, the world is being built beautifully. Its a good read that captures my attention fully. Well done
May 27, 2023
Interesting
Good fantasy. Keeps you interested. King is ruthless. Wish the concubine was more sure of herself. But that's the story her coming into her own.
Good fantasy. Keeps you interested. King is ruthless. Wish the concubine was more sure of herself. But that's the story her coming into her own.
July 2, 2023
Loved it
I really love this book and I'm so happy they are are on Kindle Unlimited. I look forward to more to come.
I really love this book and I'm so happy they are are on Kindle Unlimited. I look forward to more to come.
December 13, 2023
I'm enjoying this historical fantasy <3
April 11, 2024
Maewyn can still absolutely get wrecked. 🔥🔥👹🔥🔥
Anyways. 🥰
5 stars. ✨👍🏼✨
Anyways. 🥰
5 stars. ✨👍🏼✨
June 23, 2023
Volume 2 of this excellent series continues to be mostly from Cera’s perspective, but it opens up Isael’s somewhat more. where volume one had only a prologue and epilogue from Isael, volume 2 has a prologue and three chapters that feature him. So about double the amount of time is spent looking through his eyes, which added depth to the story. The entire book covers a span of a few days, but I didn’t mind that at all. I’m enjoying learning about the world and its history, and I love the political intrigue. I was disturbed by the epilogue of book 1, which I thought was hinting at Isael violently turning against Cera, but that turned out to be a false alarm. His inner dragon has turned very protective of her, I’m happy, to report. Cera is beginning to develop her magic, and the relationship between her and Isael is deepening. There are also hints of the rise of other powers, and the return of the fae, and a couple of interesting and enigmatic dreams, one for Isael and one for Cera. So even though only a few days pass, there’s enough story to completely hold my interest.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews