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The Lost Gods #1
Treasure
Nine gods ruled the world, until the ultimate betrayal resulted in their destruction. Now, the world is dying and only by restoring the Lost Gods can it be saved.
Nine hundred years ago, the Dragons of the Three Storms, gods of chaos, tried to destroy their land of Kundou. Only by rising up and slaying the Dragons and stealing their power was Kundou saved. Now, that power resides in the royal family and grants them the right to rule.
But that power comes at a terrible price, and Prince Nankyokukai is determined that he will be the last to pay it—even if it means surrendering his chance with the man he has waited for his entire life.
Nine hundred years ago, the Dragons of the Three Storms, gods of chaos, tried to destroy their land of Kundou. Only by rising up and slaying the Dragons and stealing their power was Kundou saved. Now, that power resides in the royal family and grants them the right to rule.
But that power comes at a terrible price, and Prince Nankyokukai is determined that he will be the last to pay it—even if it means surrendering his chance with the man he has waited for his entire life.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
52 people are currently reading
1240 people want to read
About the author
Megan Derr
283 books2,936 followersMegan is a long time resident of queer romance and keeps herself busy reading and writing it. She is often accused of fluff and nonsense. When she’s not involved in writing, she likes to cook, harass her wife and cats, or watch movies. She loves to hear from readers and can be found all over the internet.
meganderr.com
patreon.com/meganderr
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facebook.com/meganaprilderr
meganaderr@gmail.com
@meganaderr
meganderr.com
patreon.com/meganderr
meganderr.blogspot.com
facebook.com/meganaprilderr
meganaderr@gmail.com
@meganaderr
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July 21, 2015My heart is truly broken. I’ve been waiting for a while now for the final print of this series to come out and Derr’s descriptions of it had me dancing with anticipation, but I can’t believe how disappointed I feel after reading it. The prologue was WONDERFUL and totally in line with what I love about Derr’s writing. Sweet and tender. Misery and comfort and companionship in the most unlikely of places. And such a beautiful promise made that it ripped my heart to shreds and really set itself up for a poignant and promising plotline. And that was about it for my joy. Cut to present, and Kio’s story I could deal with. A little mysterious but you can kind of tell he’s ready to find that treasure that they talked about. But then we cut to Kinni and he’s all “fuck”, “cock”, “suck”, “horny”, “I wanna fuck you through the bed” and I was thinking whoa, whoa, whoa what’s happening here?! Why, Megan, why? I didn’t understand the need for vulgarity or the heavy emphasis on sex (though sometimes I can suffer through if the story is good enough). But it seemed so unnecessary and "commercial" and out of place from what the story had set itself up to be. To me, it honestly didn’t seem to help the story along, it just showed that Kinni was gay and it added an unnecessary sex scene. I get that Kinni is at sea, and he’s an adult now, and he has to get his jollies, but why do we have to READ through it when we know he’s looking for Kio? I feel that she could have just said “He found pleasure here and there” or something like that, and it would have been just as effective. And I personally hate to read about protagonists having sex with people other than the one that you know they’re going to be with (or hope they will be with). And let’s face it, after the sweetness of that prologue, we just knew the two main characters were going to end up together, so why was I having to read about Kinni “fucking [a panther] through the bed”?! It was just so common and typical and it ruined the brilliance and beauty of what I thought the story would come to have. It also kind of shattered my illusions about the author and her writing style and the messages I thought she was sending (and in hindsight, maybe that was just wishful thinking on my part…or projection). But after reading Prisoner and some of her other stuff, I became devoted to this author because I thought Ms. Derr was letting people know that gay love stories can be just as beautiful and tender and elegant without being vulgar or exploitative, and without the need to center everything around “fucking”, but again, I guess that was wishful thinking. Needless to say, after that chapter, my enthusiasm for the story waned considerably and I found it never really recovered. Subsequently, everything just seemed so common and….kind of silly, with the mermaids and mermen and such (which I think I may have been more inclined to enjoy if the setup had not plunged so quickly and deeply). So then I basically just began skimming through the pages to finish. I feel like an idiot for having automatically gotten the first four books before reading the first one... Maybe I will get lucky and they won’t be so interconnected and I can start anew in the next one, if I decide to read it. I can't even bring myself to rate this one.
October 3, 2021
I loved the worldbuilding. I just wanted a bit more visuals. When it comes to shifters, I would like to see, if not the shifting process, at least the end result. And I was left with questions about the creatures looks and movements in this book.
I thought I would would be put off by the multi-pov situation, but a truly liked it. We follow two couples (so 4 povs), and it was written in a way that every time we switched pov, the events still continued, so we didn't jump back in time an hour or two to see what the other couple was doing or anything like that. Which also caused that we didn't see one very important conversation, which was a bummer, but in general I was satisfied with this approach.
I liked the characters overall, but I have to admit that by the end I realized that one of them can be called a tstl character, even though he is far from stupid. The decisions Kyo made along the journey almost led to a ruined ending. And even then I can't say I was thrilled how things turned out.
One other character, Raiden is a bit pushy. He tries to act like he is giving time to his love interest, and letting him decide, and trying to hold back. But something he did just rubbed me the wrong way. But I liked their interactions way more than the other couple's, who barely talked to each other.
Taka I absolutely loved. He has values, he is funny and witty and proud. You wouldn't believe he is a secretary.
Kin I also liked, though not that vehemently as Taka. He is the brooding type, and I thought at first he has more depth, but ugh he is a bit shallow and just went after his cock. :/
They all could have "smirked" less, and could have behaved less like a "brat". And the name choice caused a bit of a trouble for the author. Kyo/Kin was often confused. Other than that there were a few typos as well.
I didn't know how old the characters are, I had to guess, but in the end it turned out there was a reason for that, but still it bothered me at the beginning. I imagined them all in their 20s, but it turned out they are all past 30, one of them around 50? I don't even know, it doesn't really matter.
Oh and the passage of time, oh man, ugh. So when I thought we were 2 days into the journey, apparently they were on the sea for 3 weeks already. When I thought a week has passed, they were sailing for a month and a half. So I guess the pov changes didn't do much good to show the passage of time. At least I think that is what caused the confusion.
I know it seems like I had lots of problems with it, but overall it was a good setup. The way the author set up the courts, and the culture, had a lot of potential, she could have done way more with it. But I'm hoping the rest of the series will be more fast-paced and more in-depth.
I thought I would would be put off by the multi-pov situation, but a truly liked it. We follow two couples (so 4 povs), and it was written in a way that every time we switched pov, the events still continued, so we didn't jump back in time an hour or two to see what the other couple was doing or anything like that. Which also caused that we didn't see one very important conversation, which was a bummer, but in general I was satisfied with this approach.
I liked the characters overall, but I have to admit that by the end I realized that one of them can be called a tstl character, even though he is far from stupid. The decisions Kyo made along the journey almost led to a ruined ending. And even then I can't say I was thrilled how things turned out.
One other character, Raiden is a bit pushy. He tries to act like he is giving time to his love interest, and letting him decide, and trying to hold back. But something he did just rubbed me the wrong way. But I liked their interactions way more than the other couple's, who barely talked to each other.
Taka I absolutely loved. He has values, he is funny and witty and proud. You wouldn't believe he is a secretary.
Kin I also liked, though not that vehemently as Taka. He is the brooding type, and I thought at first he has more depth, but ugh he is a bit shallow and just went after his cock. :/
They all could have "smirked" less, and could have behaved less like a "brat". And the name choice caused a bit of a trouble for the author. Kyo/Kin was often confused. Other than that there were a few typos as well.
I didn't know how old the characters are, I had to guess, but in the end it turned out there was a reason for that, but still it bothered me at the beginning. I imagined them all in their 20s, but it turned out they are all past 30, one of them around 50? I don't even know, it doesn't really matter.
Oh and the passage of time, oh man, ugh. So when I thought we were 2 days into the journey, apparently they were on the sea for 3 weeks already. When I thought a week has passed, they were sailing for a month and a half. So I guess the pov changes didn't do much good to show the passage of time. At least I think that is what caused the confusion.
I know it seems like I had lots of problems with it, but overall it was a good setup. The way the author set up the courts, and the culture, had a lot of potential, she could have done way more with it. But I'm hoping the rest of the series will be more fast-paced and more in-depth.
February 4, 2014
promising start, but a little shaky in the plotting.
alas, it only gets worse in subsequent books.
alas, it only gets worse in subsequent books.
April 20, 2012
4.5 stars
It's no secret I'm a huge Megan Derr fan. Every book by her I've read I've loved and this one is no exception.
From the start this book is engaging. The world is made up of all different kinds of people, mythical creatures, customs and traits. The characters themselves are vastly different in not only personalities but appearances. The story has quite a few suspenseful events and a ton of sexual tension. It essentially follows four characters - two couples - Kyo, Kin, Raiden and Taka. In the beginning, the main focus is on Kyo and Kin while the ending revolves a good amount around Raiden and Taka. Both couples are interesting and have their separate problems and interesting resolutions. As well as the roles they play in regards to the Lost Gods.
I will say I loved these characters a lot. Both Kyo and Kin have strong personalities and their stubbornness clashes together for some interesting unsatisfied tension. Although their joining was rather bittersweet for a while because of the quest Kyo sets out on so it left me feeling like there was no hope for them. But fear not! All will work out for the best! Raiden and Taka were different because they weren't trying to refrain from becoming more, Taka was just playing hard to get!
The twists and turns this book took had me enamored with the story. And left me shocked a few times! I couldn't put the book down. Some conflicts and mysteries were a bit predictable but others were quite surprising which made the story very interesting.
My only problems with the book were with the editing mainly. Multiple times names were mixed up, there were inconsistencies with occasional headhopping. I enjoyed the story a lot but I couldn't help but notice how many mistakes there were. Also, I wished there had been more focus on Kyo and Kin. I felt like the farther into their story we went, the less we got of them and more of Taka and Raiden. I just wished we'd have gotten more of Kyo and Kin because the book made it feel like Kyo and Kin were the main couple while Taka and Raiden were a side couple. In the end, it flipped which was a little sad, IMO.
Overall, I loved the story. This is definitely a series I'll be looking forward to reading more of because the world is so fascinating and the characters are just as interesting!
It's no secret I'm a huge Megan Derr fan. Every book by her I've read I've loved and this one is no exception.
From the start this book is engaging. The world is made up of all different kinds of people, mythical creatures, customs and traits. The characters themselves are vastly different in not only personalities but appearances. The story has quite a few suspenseful events and a ton of sexual tension. It essentially follows four characters - two couples - Kyo, Kin, Raiden and Taka. In the beginning, the main focus is on Kyo and Kin while the ending revolves a good amount around Raiden and Taka. Both couples are interesting and have their separate problems and interesting resolutions. As well as the roles they play in regards to the Lost Gods.
I will say I loved these characters a lot. Both Kyo and Kin have strong personalities and their stubbornness clashes together for some interesting unsatisfied tension. Although their joining was rather bittersweet for a while because of the quest Kyo sets out on so it left me feeling like there was no hope for them. But fear not! All will work out for the best! Raiden and Taka were different because they weren't trying to refrain from becoming more, Taka was just playing hard to get!
The twists and turns this book took had me enamored with the story. And left me shocked a few times! I couldn't put the book down. Some conflicts and mysteries were a bit predictable but others were quite surprising which made the story very interesting.
My only problems with the book were with the editing mainly. Multiple times names were mixed up, there were inconsistencies with occasional headhopping. I enjoyed the story a lot but I couldn't help but notice how many mistakes there were. Also, I wished there had been more focus on Kyo and Kin. I felt like the farther into their story we went, the less we got of them and more of Taka and Raiden. I just wished we'd have gotten more of Kyo and Kin because the book made it feel like Kyo and Kin were the main couple while Taka and Raiden were a side couple. In the end, it flipped which was a little sad, IMO.
Overall, I loved the story. This is definitely a series I'll be looking forward to reading more of because the world is so fascinating and the characters are just as interesting!
July 14, 2020
3.5
Still a beautiful prolog with the little boys in the warehouse. You really can feel the lifelong connection they're making in that short time which makes the longing later so much more believable and Megan Derr has a knack for a compelling world creation, not too complex to distract from the romance but complex enough to stand of its own.
It's only that I couldn't enjoy the characters as much as the first time I read Treasure and somehow I doubt that Derr would write them the same way today. Latest during the scene at their final destination I stopped liking even one of those 4 guys.
Still a beautiful prolog with the little boys in the warehouse. You really can feel the lifelong connection they're making in that short time which makes the longing later so much more believable and Megan Derr has a knack for a compelling world creation, not too complex to distract from the romance but complex enough to stand of its own.
It's only that I couldn't enjoy the characters as much as the first time I read Treasure and somehow I doubt that Derr would write them the same way today. Latest during the scene at their final destination I stopped liking even one of those 4 guys.
March 2, 2016
A few translations:
Pozhar (Пожар) - Fire (as in: forest on fire, a house on fire, a town on fire, a big fire event)
Krasny (Красный) - Red
Zarya (Заря) - Day Dawn
I think that was it.
Trying to follow two couples at the same time was distracting and the journey was dragging a bit (imho), but overall pretty good.
Loved different hair coloring :)
3.4 stars
Pozhar (Пожар) - Fire (as in: forest on fire, a house on fire, a town on fire, a big fire event)
Krasny (Красный) - Red
Zarya (Заря) - Day Dawn
I think that was it.
Trying to follow two couples at the same time was distracting and the journey was dragging a bit (imho), but overall pretty good.
Loved different hair coloring :)
3.4 stars
September 4, 2021
2.75 stars
I am always so impressed by Megan Derr's ability to create kingdom after kingdom with complex magic systems/mythologies/political structures/etc. They're always so different and creative, and she usually focuses on one particular area to add lots of moving parts that come together perfectly in the end. (In this case, the mythology.) She also creates great, consistent characters whose romances I really *want* to get invested in... but the last two I've read had something missing. The emotions just aren't quite deep enough. They've felt like surface-level stories about very deep worlds. They were fine, and there was plenty to like, and I get that the other option is to create epic after epic if you really want to fully inhabit these worlds...but I do. Want to fully inhabit the world. Alternately, create less complex worlds so you can really inhabit your characters. Either works for me, but I need to remind myself to keep that in mind when picking my next Megan Derr read...
Also, some of the early dynamics in this one come across more like harassment issues than seduction techniques :(
I am always so impressed by Megan Derr's ability to create kingdom after kingdom with complex magic systems/mythologies/political structures/etc. They're always so different and creative, and she usually focuses on one particular area to add lots of moving parts that come together perfectly in the end. (In this case, the mythology.) She also creates great, consistent characters whose romances I really *want* to get invested in... but the last two I've read had something missing. The emotions just aren't quite deep enough. They've felt like surface-level stories about very deep worlds. They were fine, and there was plenty to like, and I get that the other option is to create epic after epic if you really want to fully inhabit these worlds...but I do. Want to fully inhabit the world. Alternately, create less complex worlds so you can really inhabit your characters. Either works for me, but I need to remind myself to keep that in mind when picking my next Megan Derr read...
Also, some of the early dynamics in this one come across more like harassment issues than seduction techniques :(
July 16, 2017
3.5 stars
M'rella gave us some Russian translations, and here are some Japanese ones :D
Ningyo - mermaid
Taiseiyou & Taiheiyou - Atlantic & Pacific Ocean
Takara - treasure :D
Raiden - lightning & thunder
Arashi - storm
Shima - island
I liked this story. It took me about 20-30% to get into it, but after that I couldn't put it down (until 3am last night). Looking forward to the sequel!
M'rella gave us some Russian translations, and here are some Japanese ones :D
Ningyo - mermaid
Taiseiyou & Taiheiyou - Atlantic & Pacific Ocean
Takara - treasure :D
Raiden - lightning & thunder
Arashi - storm
Shima - island
I liked this story. It took me about 20-30% to get into it, but after that I couldn't put it down (until 3am last night). Looking forward to the sequel!
May 9, 2017
My CPU really knows how to choose perfect time to restart itself one second(!!) before I click 'save review' on GR and not to mention no backup whatsoever and that of course resulting me in hysteria mode (grrrr) and feeling sooo stupid and self-hatred for a moment because I didn't even bother (oh whyyy, damn me stupid me) to save backup and now I have to re-type it all and I don't even remember well enough what crap did I write before. So here is the (somewhat) shortened version of it.
Okay. First things first, if you've never read this series and plan to read this book, I must warn you that there are two versions of this book, the older version and the revised version.
To sum it up, it seems the former one is a crap based on negative reviews that I read, and seems like the characters and the full of sex scenes had really disappointed most of the readers (?) to the point it might be the reason that drove the author to revise it later, just my guess.
Luckily for me, I unknowingly picked the newer version so I had no complaints because it's amazing, really, despite some quite annoying typos. Even those had read the older one also admitted that the newer one is better.
Actually, I have two versions on my shelf, older in PDF and newer in ePub. As an ePub/Mobi reader, naturally I'd pick the ePub one, (and then convert it into Mobi because I prefer desktop than smartphone for reading), so yeah, it saved me from reading it twice. I finally realized that the one I read is the revised version after I've finished the book and skimming some reviews before I write my review and then I thought, something is not right here....Do we read the same book? How come those particular scenes don't appear in the one I read? Full of sex? Horny character? Are you kidding? Kinni (the supposedly horny guy in their version) doesn't look like horny guy to me, most of the time he spent it by bickering with everyone (lol) if not working his ass off as captain at his ship. And if there's sex scene, rest assured if you hate it, because the sex scenes were faded to black!, much to my annoyance, lol. Okay, the lost of details of sex scenes is not really disappointing me that much, honest, lol, because the romance part covers it satisfyingly, and if I have to choose, I'd prefer romance than porn/PWP.
What I love the most from the book is the Japanese vibe in it. The characters have Japanese names, and they are carefully picked to suit each individual perfectly, not randomly. (I appreciated that, I had had enough of western authors who didn't bother to do some research about it, such as certain author that I swore to myself that I won't bother to read any books from him, he's arrogantly abusing the Japanese names, honorific, and culture, etc and he didn't even know that by doing so, not only he's disrespecting the Japanese, but also proved his stupidity to the world. To top it off, he even proudly admitted in one interview that he only watched one(!) anime and then he shamefully had this I-know-all-about-Asia-and-Japan attitude. From one anime!)
Not only names, I think the robes/kimono with sash/obi played its part beautifully in the world building of this story. With that details of the kimono that royal family wore in this book, I suppose I just couldn't help but let myself be swept into a really ancient era complete with its myths, legends, dragons, magics, basilisk, prophecies, mermaids etc.
To put it another way, the kimono, the myths, the imperial family, all of those really just made it felt like I was transfered into Heian period (794-1185) but an alternative world where magic exists. I always love kimono, even had yukata when I was 8- to 10-year-old kid. I had two yukatas at that time, the little me at that time was so infatuated with this summer kimono that I often wore them to anywhere, including bookstore and buying manga even, lol. The clerks would smiled at me, and as kiddo I misunderstood the smiles as sneers, thought they were laughing at me but didn't know why. But now that I think about it, it's understandable, I would also do the same like those clerks, certainly it's quite something when you have a Chinese kid with bob haircut who loves reading manga and frequently visit your bookstore every week, lol. This kid must be obsessed with Japan, lol. Actually, it started when I was six years old, thanks to Candy Candy anime.
Okay, I'm straying off topic, lol.
Before I read it, I had skimmed some bad reviews about how bad it is and they made me kinda wary of it despite I'm a big fan of Megan derr who has brilliant talent and creative imagination for fantasy realm. Well, I just need to find it out myself, I might like it right? But better not have high hopes, I thought. So I had approached the prologue without expecting much.
Prologue of the revised version is basically a background story about the myth of three dragons in Kundou, meanwhile the older version's prologue is a story about the first meeting of Kinni and Koori.
To be honest, from the very first page of chapter one (after prologue), I was not really impressed with the way it was told from narrator's POV, it didn't help me to get warm to the characters quicker and as usual with the 1st chapter of fantasy, you tend to find it a bit confusing, just like what I experienced, I don't know but felt like something was off but I blamed it to the storytelling, and was ready to rate it 3.5 stars at best, howeverrrr....it gets better and better and in the end I was soooo immersed in its world that I didn't want to do anything except to read more and more and more. XD
Long story short, it's totally an enjoyable read. Worth to read. Just find it out yourself, you might like it if you love fantasy and adventure with BL romance in it. My only regret is that I didn't read this series sooner. :D
I'm gonna dive to book 2 after this. I hope I don't pick the wrong version of book 2.
Okay. First things first, if you've never read this series and plan to read this book, I must warn you that there are two versions of this book, the older version and the revised version.
To sum it up, it seems the former one is a crap based on negative reviews that I read, and seems like the characters and the full of sex scenes had really disappointed most of the readers (?) to the point it might be the reason that drove the author to revise it later, just my guess.
Luckily for me, I unknowingly picked the newer version so I had no complaints because it's amazing, really, despite some quite annoying typos. Even those had read the older one also admitted that the newer one is better.
Actually, I have two versions on my shelf, older in PDF and newer in ePub. As an ePub/Mobi reader, naturally I'd pick the ePub one, (and then convert it into Mobi because I prefer desktop than smartphone for reading), so yeah, it saved me from reading it twice. I finally realized that the one I read is the revised version after I've finished the book and skimming some reviews before I write my review and then I thought, something is not right here....Do we read the same book? How come those particular scenes don't appear in the one I read? Full of sex? Horny character? Are you kidding? Kinni (the supposedly horny guy in their version) doesn't look like horny guy to me, most of the time he spent it by bickering with everyone (lol) if not working his ass off as captain at his ship. And if there's sex scene, rest assured if you hate it, because the sex scenes were faded to black!, much to my annoyance, lol. Okay, the lost of details of sex scenes is not really disappointing me that much, honest, lol, because the romance part covers it satisfyingly, and if I have to choose, I'd prefer romance than porn/PWP.
What I love the most from the book is the Japanese vibe in it. The characters have Japanese names, and they are carefully picked to suit each individual perfectly, not randomly. (I appreciated that, I had had enough of western authors who didn't bother to do some research about it, such as certain author that I swore to myself that I won't bother to read any books from him, he's arrogantly abusing the Japanese names, honorific, and culture, etc and he didn't even know that by doing so, not only he's disrespecting the Japanese, but also proved his stupidity to the world. To top it off, he even proudly admitted in one interview that he only watched one(!) anime and then he shamefully had this I-know-all-about-Asia-and-Japan attitude. From one anime!)
Not only names, I think the robes/kimono with sash/obi played its part beautifully in the world building of this story. With that details of the kimono that royal family wore in this book, I suppose I just couldn't help but let myself be swept into a really ancient era complete with its myths, legends, dragons, magics, basilisk, prophecies, mermaids etc.
To put it another way, the kimono, the myths, the imperial family, all of those really just made it felt like I was transfered into Heian period (794-1185) but an alternative world where magic exists. I always love kimono, even had yukata when I was 8- to 10-year-old kid. I had two yukatas at that time, the little me at that time was so infatuated with this summer kimono that I often wore them to anywhere, including bookstore and buying manga even, lol. The clerks would smiled at me, and as kiddo I misunderstood the smiles as sneers, thought they were laughing at me but didn't know why. But now that I think about it, it's understandable, I would also do the same like those clerks, certainly it's quite something when you have a Chinese kid with bob haircut who loves reading manga and frequently visit your bookstore every week, lol. This kid must be obsessed with Japan, lol. Actually, it started when I was six years old, thanks to Candy Candy anime.
Okay, I'm straying off topic, lol.
Before I read it, I had skimmed some bad reviews about how bad it is and they made me kinda wary of it despite I'm a big fan of Megan derr who has brilliant talent and creative imagination for fantasy realm. Well, I just need to find it out myself, I might like it right? But better not have high hopes, I thought. So I had approached the prologue without expecting much.
Prologue of the revised version is basically a background story about the myth of three dragons in Kundou, meanwhile the older version's prologue is a story about the first meeting of Kinni and Koori.
To be honest, from the very first page of chapter one (after prologue), I was not really impressed with the way it was told from narrator's POV, it didn't help me to get warm to the characters quicker and as usual with the 1st chapter of fantasy, you tend to find it a bit confusing, just like what I experienced, I don't know but felt like something was off but I blamed it to the storytelling, and was ready to rate it 3.5 stars at best, howeverrrr....it gets better and better and in the end I was soooo immersed in its world that I didn't want to do anything except to read more and more and more. XD
Long story short, it's totally an enjoyable read. Worth to read. Just find it out yourself, you might like it if you love fantasy and adventure with BL romance in it. My only regret is that I didn't read this series sooner. :D
I'm gonna dive to book 2 after this. I hope I don't pick the wrong version of book 2.
April 28, 2014
I picked up Treasure at Rainbow Con due to the cover and nothing else. I was suckered in at the table (those ladies are serious sellers) and I like high fantasy. So beyond the fact that clearly it takes place on the water somehow I knew nothing about the story. It’s a pretty decent high fantasy book with excellent world building and a good story arc that can easily be played out over the entire five book series. My problem is simply I never connected with either couple and so the end left me cold. I can appreciate it intellectually and admire the quality writing but as a romance it did nothing for me. I’d probably recommend this more to high fantasy fans who can appreciate elaborate world building and an incredibly complex plot than to romance fans per se.
The story begins with a prologue showing an interaction Kin and Kyo have as children. The instant bond they make lasts and is the basis for their love later on. Quite some time later, the narrative shows as Kyo the youngest royal prince and must be sacrificed for the family to retain their magic. He decides that he’s going to kill himself in such a way as to take the magic from his family and return it to the lost dragon gods. Knowing his family wouldn’t approve of his plan, Kyo runs away and takes his royal secretary, Taka, with him. Also along for the runaway journey is Kin, the sea captain and childhood friend of Kyo’s, and Raiden, Kin’s merchant boss. Kin doesn’t know that Kyo was the childhood friend he had bonded with and Raiden is determined to seduce Taka. Oh and no one but Kyo knows he’s running away to off himself.
So that’s the basic plot. It’s thankfully not as complicated as it seems and right away the excellent writing helps set up all the various elements in a cohesive and narrative story. This is supplemented with skillful world building. The fantasy world created is perhaps the best character of the book. I didn’t realize until I almost finished the book that not much really happens as the main thrust of the story is setting up the world and the larger story arc that will persist far beyond this first book. I personally didn’t mind as I was engaged in this fictional world, wanting to absorb every detail the story offered. There is some action, mermaid attacks and such, but the story is really a vehicle to introduce this creative new world and the main characters.
Here is where I began to have problems with the book. The prologue introduces Kin and Kyo as the main characters and they carry a large thrust of at least half the story with alternating third person POV narration. Yet Raiden and Taka are also included as third person narrators from the beginning and later become a much more important couple within the story arc. While reading, I wasn’t sure which couple to focus on and so I didn’t really connect to any of the four men. The story fractures its focus between the two couples, trying to show how they’re both important, but I think fails to really capitalize on either. Even with the ending it has, I would have much preferred the first book to focus on Kyo and Kin and allow Raiden and Taka their own, separate, story.
The fact that all four men are crammed into one book definitely hurt their characterization and the potential within the couples for their own epic love story. Not that they needed to be epic love stories but the possibility was definitely there. Instead flip flopping between the various narrators dissipated any built up tension and potential conflict because there wasn’t enough room to really explore and capitalize on the problems. Just when I would be into reading about Kyo and Kin, the story would flip to show how Raiden and Taka were advancing their relationship. It’s not until literally the end of the book that the reader is told why Raiden and Taka are even important other than being just another couple. Not only that, they turn out to be essential to the plot arc that will span the entire series, so I definitely didn’t appreciate their weight to the story as I was reading it until the very end. I also felt as if the history between Kin and Kyo was sorely wasted. Kyo doesn’t reveal that he was the child Kin knew until much later in the story and I’ve no clue why. This was such a great opportunity for tension that was totally wasted. When Kyo finally did reveal the truth, it was a total non-issue and anti-climatic at that point. In fact, Kin didn’t really even care except he could admit his love quickly and easily. Thus I’m left wondering why even include that piece of information. The story literally would have read the same without it.
I definitely wanted to love these couples. I easily and eagerly immersed myself into the fantasy world created and truly enjoy the concept of the lost gods being brought back to life. I think the subsequent books will be entertaining and beyond interesting to see how this arc proceeds and eventually ends. Unfortunately I’m not sure I care enough about the people involved. All four men left me feeling distant and unaffected by their trials and tribulations. The twists included, none of which I saw coming to be honest, didn’t even move me to care about the couples. Part of that is due to the fact the story foreshadows nothing on these twists and they literally come out of nowhere. But the men themselves are complicated, well crafted characters but with so little time taken to develop their interpersonal relationships and let the reader connect to the individual men. I really doubt whether I’d care about any other characters introduced in the subsequent books. On the other hand the writing is very good and clean with excellent world building. I heard there were some editing problems in early versions but they’re almost entirely fixed in the version I got. It’s an enjoyable fantasy story but it didn’t work as a romance for me.
The story begins with a prologue showing an interaction Kin and Kyo have as children. The instant bond they make lasts and is the basis for their love later on. Quite some time later, the narrative shows as Kyo the youngest royal prince and must be sacrificed for the family to retain their magic. He decides that he’s going to kill himself in such a way as to take the magic from his family and return it to the lost dragon gods. Knowing his family wouldn’t approve of his plan, Kyo runs away and takes his royal secretary, Taka, with him. Also along for the runaway journey is Kin, the sea captain and childhood friend of Kyo’s, and Raiden, Kin’s merchant boss. Kin doesn’t know that Kyo was the childhood friend he had bonded with and Raiden is determined to seduce Taka. Oh and no one but Kyo knows he’s running away to off himself.
So that’s the basic plot. It’s thankfully not as complicated as it seems and right away the excellent writing helps set up all the various elements in a cohesive and narrative story. This is supplemented with skillful world building. The fantasy world created is perhaps the best character of the book. I didn’t realize until I almost finished the book that not much really happens as the main thrust of the story is setting up the world and the larger story arc that will persist far beyond this first book. I personally didn’t mind as I was engaged in this fictional world, wanting to absorb every detail the story offered. There is some action, mermaid attacks and such, but the story is really a vehicle to introduce this creative new world and the main characters.
Here is where I began to have problems with the book. The prologue introduces Kin and Kyo as the main characters and they carry a large thrust of at least half the story with alternating third person POV narration. Yet Raiden and Taka are also included as third person narrators from the beginning and later become a much more important couple within the story arc. While reading, I wasn’t sure which couple to focus on and so I didn’t really connect to any of the four men. The story fractures its focus between the two couples, trying to show how they’re both important, but I think fails to really capitalize on either. Even with the ending it has, I would have much preferred the first book to focus on Kyo and Kin and allow Raiden and Taka their own, separate, story.
The fact that all four men are crammed into one book definitely hurt their characterization and the potential within the couples for their own epic love story. Not that they needed to be epic love stories but the possibility was definitely there. Instead flip flopping between the various narrators dissipated any built up tension and potential conflict because there wasn’t enough room to really explore and capitalize on the problems. Just when I would be into reading about Kyo and Kin, the story would flip to show how Raiden and Taka were advancing their relationship. It’s not until literally the end of the book that the reader is told why Raiden and Taka are even important other than being just another couple. Not only that, they turn out to be essential to the plot arc that will span the entire series, so I definitely didn’t appreciate their weight to the story as I was reading it until the very end. I also felt as if the history between Kin and Kyo was sorely wasted. Kyo doesn’t reveal that he was the child Kin knew until much later in the story and I’ve no clue why. This was such a great opportunity for tension that was totally wasted. When Kyo finally did reveal the truth, it was a total non-issue and anti-climatic at that point. In fact, Kin didn’t really even care except he could admit his love quickly and easily. Thus I’m left wondering why even include that piece of information. The story literally would have read the same without it.
I definitely wanted to love these couples. I easily and eagerly immersed myself into the fantasy world created and truly enjoy the concept of the lost gods being brought back to life. I think the subsequent books will be entertaining and beyond interesting to see how this arc proceeds and eventually ends. Unfortunately I’m not sure I care enough about the people involved. All four men left me feeling distant and unaffected by their trials and tribulations. The twists included, none of which I saw coming to be honest, didn’t even move me to care about the couples. Part of that is due to the fact the story foreshadows nothing on these twists and they literally come out of nowhere. But the men themselves are complicated, well crafted characters but with so little time taken to develop their interpersonal relationships and let the reader connect to the individual men. I really doubt whether I’d care about any other characters introduced in the subsequent books. On the other hand the writing is very good and clean with excellent world building. I heard there were some editing problems in early versions but they’re almost entirely fixed in the version I got. It’s an enjoyable fantasy story but it didn’t work as a romance for me.
May 5, 2015
Here's the thing, I had no clue what I was getting into when I picked up this book. It had been recommended to me, but as per usual I hadn't really read the blurb or anything. But it fit a bunch of challenges for the moment and I thought why the hell not.
SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO GLAD I DID! I loved this story so much. I'm a sucker for a good fantasy tale with adventure all wrapped up in one yummy bundle. And this was oh so yummy. I was kept glued to the page as each new twist was revealed. This is definitely an easy smooth read, not all deeply intricate the way an epic fantasy novel would be, but it's all the more enjoyable because of it.
As with any fantasy novel the world takes some getting used to while you figure out the rules. This is no exception, but it's so richly depicted I never felt like there was information I didn't have. It's kept simple in its explanations while still having a very rich and vibrant culture. I loved all the nautical themes here of a country very much dependent on it's seafaring people. The nastiness of the mermaids was disturbing in their sheer violence, but suited well the desperation of the country as the anniversary of the dragons power switching to the royal family approached.
The characters here were wonderful and touching. I loved the prologue that introduced us to two scared little boys from opposite walks of life determined to make something better. Kin and Kyo were such lovely characters. The self sacrificing Kyo determined to take the concerns of his entire country onto his own shoulders, but still wanting to go there via the hands of the man he's dreamed after for years. Kin may be the youngest captain to take command of his ship, but he's made a respected name for himself despite his half breed heritage. Being half mermaid may make them attack his ship more than others, but he's thrown himself into the battle and saved more of his crew than can be expected. Watching these two find each other again was just lovely.
Ok so I particularly enjoyed that there were really two couples going on in this book. Raiden and Taka were just adorable too. I loved Taka's personality his taciturn nature so suited to being the secretary he's grown up as. Of course his reveal may have been one of the biggest of all. Raiden is every inch the dominant personality. His seduction of Taka was fun to watch.
I really loved all the diverse personalities in this story and how all the different elements wound together to play into the prophecy of the Lost Gods. Also the teasers lines tossed out to introduce characters in the later books and the redemptions needed to return the other gods to the world.
This entire world was wonderfully detailed and the romances handled very well. I loved the adventure these four were on and kept cheering for them to open up to each other and be the strength of each other. The ending was ever so satisfying. :)
SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO GLAD I DID! I loved this story so much. I'm a sucker for a good fantasy tale with adventure all wrapped up in one yummy bundle. And this was oh so yummy. I was kept glued to the page as each new twist was revealed. This is definitely an easy smooth read, not all deeply intricate the way an epic fantasy novel would be, but it's all the more enjoyable because of it.
As with any fantasy novel the world takes some getting used to while you figure out the rules. This is no exception, but it's so richly depicted I never felt like there was information I didn't have. It's kept simple in its explanations while still having a very rich and vibrant culture. I loved all the nautical themes here of a country very much dependent on it's seafaring people. The nastiness of the mermaids was disturbing in their sheer violence, but suited well the desperation of the country as the anniversary of the dragons power switching to the royal family approached.
The characters here were wonderful and touching. I loved the prologue that introduced us to two scared little boys from opposite walks of life determined to make something better. Kin and Kyo were such lovely characters. The self sacrificing Kyo determined to take the concerns of his entire country onto his own shoulders, but still wanting to go there via the hands of the man he's dreamed after for years. Kin may be the youngest captain to take command of his ship, but he's made a respected name for himself despite his half breed heritage. Being half mermaid may make them attack his ship more than others, but he's thrown himself into the battle and saved more of his crew than can be expected. Watching these two find each other again was just lovely.
Ok so I particularly enjoyed that there were really two couples going on in this book. Raiden and Taka were just adorable too. I loved Taka's personality his taciturn nature so suited to being the secretary he's grown up as. Of course his reveal may have been one of the biggest of all. Raiden is every inch the dominant personality. His seduction of Taka was fun to watch.
I really loved all the diverse personalities in this story and how all the different elements wound together to play into the prophecy of the Lost Gods. Also the teasers lines tossed out to introduce characters in the later books and the redemptions needed to return the other gods to the world.
This entire world was wonderfully detailed and the romances handled very well. I loved the adventure these four were on and kept cheering for them to open up to each other and be the strength of each other. The ending was ever so satisfying. :)
March 21, 2012
Reviewed on Hearts On Fire... http://heartsonfirereviews.com/
I love a good fantasy book but Ms Derr just did not provide it this time. I came away with more questions than I had at the beginning of the book. The Old Gods have all but died out and humans have stolen their power. Prince Nankyokuki is the third son of the family that controls the Eye of the Storm which is the dragon's power. The power comes at a high cost though and the prince's life is the cost. Prince Kyo has other plans though and travels with a band of friends to a lost island to return the Eye of the Storm to the dragons. There was absolutely no world building in this book which was a big turn off. The reader is expected to just jump over the holes in the story. Why are twins forbidden? Where are the Old Gods? Why are the mermaids so angry? There was a large amount of Kyo, Taka, Kin and Raiden fumbling around in the dark but I never got a sense that they were going anywhere. Ms Derr wrapped everything up in the last six pages of the book and there were still many unanswered questions. Treasure is the first book in The Lost Gods series. I sure hope that the rest of the series has some flair and polish to it.
I love a good fantasy book but Ms Derr just did not provide it this time. I came away with more questions than I had at the beginning of the book. The Old Gods have all but died out and humans have stolen their power. Prince Nankyokuki is the third son of the family that controls the Eye of the Storm which is the dragon's power. The power comes at a high cost though and the prince's life is the cost. Prince Kyo has other plans though and travels with a band of friends to a lost island to return the Eye of the Storm to the dragons. There was absolutely no world building in this book which was a big turn off. The reader is expected to just jump over the holes in the story. Why are twins forbidden? Where are the Old Gods? Why are the mermaids so angry? There was a large amount of Kyo, Taka, Kin and Raiden fumbling around in the dark but I never got a sense that they were going anywhere. Ms Derr wrapped everything up in the last six pages of the book and there were still many unanswered questions. Treasure is the first book in The Lost Gods series. I sure hope that the rest of the series has some flair and polish to it.
April 23, 2012
4,5 stars
Nine Gods ruled the world but then they were destroyed before they destroyed the world or so the people are told. Some barbaric traditions and sacrifices are used to ensure that the Gods stay gone in some nations. Greed rules the world and in it lies the secret of a great betrayal.
I loved the world created by the author and am looking forward to the rest of the books! Kin and Kyo are my favorite couple(there are two of them), but I loved Taka(I love grumpy character, what can I say?). Well not that Raiden wasn't interesting, so you see they grow on you. Mostly because they are all have diffrente personalities, weaknessses and strenght and of course secrets.
The blend of different cultures in a fantasy world is great, with every book we will hopefully discover more of this world of the Nine Gods. There is adventure, fascinating characters, great fantasy world and plot. So why not 5 stars?
Editing was poor, names were mixed up, words missing, wrong word order and this piled up to me wishing to have a Word file to send back with edits.
Otherwise I would highly recommend this book for all fantasy lovers.
Nine Gods ruled the world but then they were destroyed before they destroyed the world or so the people are told. Some barbaric traditions and sacrifices are used to ensure that the Gods stay gone in some nations. Greed rules the world and in it lies the secret of a great betrayal.
I loved the world created by the author and am looking forward to the rest of the books! Kin and Kyo are my favorite couple(there are two of them), but I loved Taka(I love grumpy character, what can I say?). Well not that Raiden wasn't interesting, so you see they grow on you. Mostly because they are all have diffrente personalities, weaknessses and strenght and of course secrets.
The blend of different cultures in a fantasy world is great, with every book we will hopefully discover more of this world of the Nine Gods. There is adventure, fascinating characters, great fantasy world and plot. So why not 5 stars?
Editing was poor, names were mixed up, words missing, wrong word order and this piled up to me wishing to have a Word file to send back with edits.
Otherwise I would highly recommend this book for all fantasy lovers.
March 26, 2012
If you wrote down a lot the primary elements from this book on notecards, shuffled them up, then showed them to me, I'd be eager to get my little paws on it. But the end result is... underwhelming. It follows a fairly predictable path, and there's no dramatic tension or emotional connection to the characters. I actually put this book down in the middle of the big dramatic ending, and didn't pick it up again for about 2 days, with zero separation anxiety.
I doubt I'll remember much about this book in a month, so I can't see myself waiting for each new installment in the series. Maybe when the whole thing is out, I'll read it all from the beginning and feel differently.
I doubt I'll remember much about this book in a month, so I can't see myself waiting for each new installment in the series. Maybe when the whole thing is out, I'll read it all from the beginning and feel differently.
October 11, 2013
Oct. Pick-it-for-me challenge
Project: Broaden my horizon:)
Finally finished and I have to confess that I skimmed quite some parts of the book. It had me gripped, but on the other hand I couldn't get over all this fantasy stuff. Sorry, but totally not my cup of tea. On a positive side - not another DNF for me, yeah!!!
Project: Broaden my horizon:)
Finally finished and I have to confess that I skimmed quite some parts of the book. It had me gripped, but on the other hand I couldn't get over all this fantasy stuff. Sorry, but totally not my cup of tea. On a positive side - not another DNF for me, yeah!!!
March 29, 2016
Well she did it again. Megan Derr has once again written an epic fantasy story that grips the reader from the very beginning and doesn't let go even after the last word is read. This is a story of lost gods, mermaids and mermen, magic, and most of all, love. I was entranced from beginning to end.
October 26, 2012
Amazing world building and characters. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series. :)
October 23, 2011
4.5 stars
I can't wait for
I can't wait for
May 17, 2012
Reviewed for Joyfully Jay 5/16/12.
Rating: 4.75 stars
One night in a deserted warehouse in Kundou, two lonely boys on the run meet and entwine their fates forever. One wishes to become a ship's captain. The other seeks just one night of safety and refuge from beatings at home. They exchange gifts and make a promise to each other. One will buy a ship, name it the Kumiko, and come for the other. And one will wait for him and they will run off together to find the greatest treasure in the world. It will take years before they see each other again.
Nine hundred years ago the Dragons of the Three Storms, Gods of chaos, went insane and tried to destroy the land of Kundou. But King Taiseiyou rose up, killed the dragons, and stole their powers for himself. The cost the royal family pays to retain those magical powers? A sacrifice every hundred years of a member of their family, and now that time is almost upon them.
All around Kundou, the world is in a state of upheaval. Long stable governments are threatened through political unrest, food supplies are imperiled as the seasons can no longer hold to the calendar, and even the supremacy of the seas that Kundou has always held is shaken by constant attacks by mermaids who kill entire crews, discard the cargo, and sink the ships. Prince Nankyokukai and Taka, his friend and royal secretary, have a secret mission, or rather Prince Kyo does. Taka doesn't know the meaning of the errands that Prince Kyo is sending him on, only that they are of the utmost importance to his only friend, and that is all that matters to Taka.
The prince's family, always so cold and distant towards it's youngest son, has been taking more interest in his affairs of late and the heir to the throne has been more obnoxious and overbearing, if that is possible. In secret, Prince Kyo and Taka head to the city docks and a meeting with the city's wealthiest merchant, Master Shimano Raiden. Huge in stature and personality, flamboyant in attire, sure and arrogant in attitude, Shimano Raiden is everything Taka finds disdainful, yet Kyo seems determined to do business with him. Taka is astounded to learn that the reason behind Prince Kyo's meeting is to arrange for clandestine passage out of Kundao immediately. And only one ship's captain and one ship will do, Captain Kindan Ningyo of the Kumiko.
Captain Kindan Ningyo and all aboard the Kumiko have had a rough voyage this trip and are looking forward to a few days to relax in the harbor before Raiden sends them out again. The mermaid attacks are increasing and the ship is a favorite target. Only a very few know the reason behind the ferocity and number of attacks on his ship: that he is half merman and hated by the sea bitches for his very existence. The Captain's dual nature would also bring him trouble on land if known, but Raiden keeps his secret. But Kindan has another more hidden reason that he returns to Kundou's harbor -- he has a promise to keep. Between a secret mission and a promise rests the fate of the world and the destiny of two boys turned men looking for that greatest treasure of all... love.
This book took me back to the years of reading with a flashlight under the covers. Alone in my "cave" I visited alien worlds, met otherworldly beings, and rode on the backs of dragons. It was magical. Everything seemed possible and real. And Treasure brought all that back in one fell swoop. Well, except for the sex of course, but still a wondrous time. And with the worlds and characters she has created here, Derr has given me an old fashioned tale of adventure and fantasy, so satisfying a page turner that I was finishing it at 2 am this morning and yelling for more. Really! My dogs were quite upset at the racket!
There is so much to this story I don't know where to start. There is the seaside kingdom of Kundou, the sea power of the world with merchants and markets to match the cargo the ships bring in. So real is this world that you can feel the ships creak at their moorings, hear the gulls cry overhead, and listen to the shouts of merchants hawking their wares. The palace itself is another wonder whose descriptions made me want a magic amulet the better to see the Shark Room with its mystical floor and lethal inhabitants. A perfect place for palace intrigue and mystery. Derr doesn't stop with Kundou. She brings us the White Beasts of Verdun with their two skins, and Pozhar peopled with beings with hearts and souls of fire. Layer upon fantastical layer, the worlds of Treasure emerge and solidify before our eyes.
Let's not forget the characters because they are unforgettable. You can tell if someone is from Kundou as they carry the colors of the sea in their eyes and hair, from the deepest blue through all the greens and back again. If you come from Pozhar, your hair and eyes display the pigments of fire. And the characters are as colorful as their physical descriptions. Prince Kyo is beautiful, ruthless, and cunning. A priest as well as prince, he is an intriguing combination of religion, royal obligation, and romance wrapped into one. His willingness to sacrifice everything for the good of his people drives the voyage and the story forward. Captain Kindan Ningyo is a wonderful creation, a mix of seafaring Captain and fanged merman at war with his kin, white of skin and hair, but black in his choice of garb. As he and his crew fought back waves of mermaids, decks heaved, sprays of salt water rained over the men as blood flowed and the reader was in the middle of it all, feeling each hit, reeling with each slash of the knife. And then there is Taka and Master Raiden, they may actually be my favorites here. Taka is full of surprises, a little prickly but quick to forgive, a trait that will be of utmost importance before the story is over. He is fire where Kyo is ice, he is loyalty personified and sensitive as to his position in life. I just loved him. Master Shimano Raiden is larger than life right down to the colorful robes and jewels he wears, but he is a shrewd businessman and a complicated personality to match the multicolored layers of clothes he is so fond of. Each character beautifully detailed, so alive as to reach out from the page, grab you and pull you into the adventure with them.
Treasure so enchanted me that at the end I was shocked it was over, the tale a little unfinished. The voyage had come to a satisfactory and surprising end with a twist I relished, but I wasn't quite sure what came next for all those characters I had come to know and love. And it is that uncertainty that gives this tale a 4.75 instead of a 5. The sequel, Burning Bright, is out there waiting to be read. While I am not sure those of the sea fit into a story of flames, I can always hope. A tip of a cup full of wine of the dead to a tale well told and to another voyage on the horizon.
Cover: The cover looks like a seafaring map but I would have wished for a little more embellishment to go with a story of Lost Gods and dragons.
Rating: 4.75 stars
One night in a deserted warehouse in Kundou, two lonely boys on the run meet and entwine their fates forever. One wishes to become a ship's captain. The other seeks just one night of safety and refuge from beatings at home. They exchange gifts and make a promise to each other. One will buy a ship, name it the Kumiko, and come for the other. And one will wait for him and they will run off together to find the greatest treasure in the world. It will take years before they see each other again.
Nine hundred years ago the Dragons of the Three Storms, Gods of chaos, went insane and tried to destroy the land of Kundou. But King Taiseiyou rose up, killed the dragons, and stole their powers for himself. The cost the royal family pays to retain those magical powers? A sacrifice every hundred years of a member of their family, and now that time is almost upon them.
All around Kundou, the world is in a state of upheaval. Long stable governments are threatened through political unrest, food supplies are imperiled as the seasons can no longer hold to the calendar, and even the supremacy of the seas that Kundou has always held is shaken by constant attacks by mermaids who kill entire crews, discard the cargo, and sink the ships. Prince Nankyokukai and Taka, his friend and royal secretary, have a secret mission, or rather Prince Kyo does. Taka doesn't know the meaning of the errands that Prince Kyo is sending him on, only that they are of the utmost importance to his only friend, and that is all that matters to Taka.
The prince's family, always so cold and distant towards it's youngest son, has been taking more interest in his affairs of late and the heir to the throne has been more obnoxious and overbearing, if that is possible. In secret, Prince Kyo and Taka head to the city docks and a meeting with the city's wealthiest merchant, Master Shimano Raiden. Huge in stature and personality, flamboyant in attire, sure and arrogant in attitude, Shimano Raiden is everything Taka finds disdainful, yet Kyo seems determined to do business with him. Taka is astounded to learn that the reason behind Prince Kyo's meeting is to arrange for clandestine passage out of Kundao immediately. And only one ship's captain and one ship will do, Captain Kindan Ningyo of the Kumiko.
Captain Kindan Ningyo and all aboard the Kumiko have had a rough voyage this trip and are looking forward to a few days to relax in the harbor before Raiden sends them out again. The mermaid attacks are increasing and the ship is a favorite target. Only a very few know the reason behind the ferocity and number of attacks on his ship: that he is half merman and hated by the sea bitches for his very existence. The Captain's dual nature would also bring him trouble on land if known, but Raiden keeps his secret. But Kindan has another more hidden reason that he returns to Kundou's harbor -- he has a promise to keep. Between a secret mission and a promise rests the fate of the world and the destiny of two boys turned men looking for that greatest treasure of all... love.
This book took me back to the years of reading with a flashlight under the covers. Alone in my "cave" I visited alien worlds, met otherworldly beings, and rode on the backs of dragons. It was magical. Everything seemed possible and real. And Treasure brought all that back in one fell swoop. Well, except for the sex of course, but still a wondrous time. And with the worlds and characters she has created here, Derr has given me an old fashioned tale of adventure and fantasy, so satisfying a page turner that I was finishing it at 2 am this morning and yelling for more. Really! My dogs were quite upset at the racket!
There is so much to this story I don't know where to start. There is the seaside kingdom of Kundou, the sea power of the world with merchants and markets to match the cargo the ships bring in. So real is this world that you can feel the ships creak at their moorings, hear the gulls cry overhead, and listen to the shouts of merchants hawking their wares. The palace itself is another wonder whose descriptions made me want a magic amulet the better to see the Shark Room with its mystical floor and lethal inhabitants. A perfect place for palace intrigue and mystery. Derr doesn't stop with Kundou. She brings us the White Beasts of Verdun with their two skins, and Pozhar peopled with beings with hearts and souls of fire. Layer upon fantastical layer, the worlds of Treasure emerge and solidify before our eyes.
Let's not forget the characters because they are unforgettable. You can tell if someone is from Kundou as they carry the colors of the sea in their eyes and hair, from the deepest blue through all the greens and back again. If you come from Pozhar, your hair and eyes display the pigments of fire. And the characters are as colorful as their physical descriptions. Prince Kyo is beautiful, ruthless, and cunning. A priest as well as prince, he is an intriguing combination of religion, royal obligation, and romance wrapped into one. His willingness to sacrifice everything for the good of his people drives the voyage and the story forward. Captain Kindan Ningyo is a wonderful creation, a mix of seafaring Captain and fanged merman at war with his kin, white of skin and hair, but black in his choice of garb. As he and his crew fought back waves of mermaids, decks heaved, sprays of salt water rained over the men as blood flowed and the reader was in the middle of it all, feeling each hit, reeling with each slash of the knife. And then there is Taka and Master Raiden, they may actually be my favorites here. Taka is full of surprises, a little prickly but quick to forgive, a trait that will be of utmost importance before the story is over. He is fire where Kyo is ice, he is loyalty personified and sensitive as to his position in life. I just loved him. Master Shimano Raiden is larger than life right down to the colorful robes and jewels he wears, but he is a shrewd businessman and a complicated personality to match the multicolored layers of clothes he is so fond of. Each character beautifully detailed, so alive as to reach out from the page, grab you and pull you into the adventure with them.
Treasure so enchanted me that at the end I was shocked it was over, the tale a little unfinished. The voyage had come to a satisfactory and surprising end with a twist I relished, but I wasn't quite sure what came next for all those characters I had come to know and love. And it is that uncertainty that gives this tale a 4.75 instead of a 5. The sequel, Burning Bright, is out there waiting to be read. While I am not sure those of the sea fit into a story of flames, I can always hope. A tip of a cup full of wine of the dead to a tale well told and to another voyage on the horizon.
Cover: The cover looks like a seafaring map but I would have wished for a little more embellishment to go with a story of Lost Gods and dragons.
April 1, 2017
Wow...that was .... bloody fantastic.
Mermaids, Merman, dragons, fire children, sorcerers, Gods, Priests, Kings, Princes, Chaos, Storms, mer-fights, twins, & sailors This book has it all. It isn't just about Kyo and Kin either, no. It's heavy with Taka and Raiden, who are both great characters and are a joy to watch grow. I do believe "Treasure" is my new favorite endearment. I love all their chemistry, even between Kyo and Taka...and no, it isn't a sexual chemistry.. but their general banter and depth at which they know each other.
The series is called The Lost Gods, so basically they're trying to find said Gods... or perhaps the Gods are trying to find their way back. It's an epic adventure to be sure. Of course, Megan does PNR/Fantasy like no one's business. She hooked me with Tournament of Losers and I haven't looked back and don't regret a minute of it. I can't wait to jump into Burning Bright. I'm thinking our firey mens are up next *wide grin*
Mermaids, Merman, dragons, fire children, sorcerers, Gods, Priests, Kings, Princes, Chaos, Storms, mer-fights, twins, & sailors This book has it all. It isn't just about Kyo and Kin either, no. It's heavy with Taka and Raiden, who are both great characters and are a joy to watch grow. I do believe "Treasure" is my new favorite endearment. I love all their chemistry, even between Kyo and Taka...and no, it isn't a sexual chemistry.. but their general banter and depth at which they know each other.
The series is called The Lost Gods, so basically they're trying to find said Gods... or perhaps the Gods are trying to find their way back. It's an epic adventure to be sure. Of course, Megan does PNR/Fantasy like no one's business. She hooked me with Tournament of Losers and I haven't looked back and don't regret a minute of it. I can't wait to jump into Burning Bright. I'm thinking our firey mens are up next *wide grin*
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April 30, 2020
I was enjoying this to begin with. The writing is fine, but the typos and sometime arduous sentences made it obvious it was a self-published book. My main gripe was the plot, which starts off shaky and gets a lot worse as we go on. It seems to be focused more on gay love triangles than anything else. That would be fine if it had been advertised as such, but no.
October 4, 2019
3.5 stars. A favorite author and an interesting story, it's a winning combination. The fights got a little repetitive but other than that very much enjoyed this!
March 11, 2012
Nine hundred years ago, the gods were lost. Now, in the seafaring land of Kundou the power that the gods once called their own is in the hands of the royal family, including the youngest son, Nankyokukai. Kyo has a duty his family insists he perform to ensure that it stays that way, but Kyo has his own ideas of what needs to be done. To that end, he enlists the aid of merchant Raiden and Raiden's captain Kin, as well as his own acerbic secretary, Taka. Secret pasts and old grudges threaten to overwhelm their journey to a mysterious island very few men know of--and none know just what awaits them upon their arrival.
A quick preface: this is the third incarnation of Treasure that I've read, the other two being while it was available free on the author's website. It's changed a lot since those earlier incarnations--a lot.
The story revolves around four men in two sets of couples: there are the professional couples--Kyo and Taka, Raiden and Kin--and the romantic couples--Kyo and Kin, Raiden and Taka. The pairings are inescapable as they're fairly transparent from the get-go, but predictability has something going for it here.
Kyo tends to swing between two extremes: rather snotty and mired in self-pity and/or doubt. He's fairly frequently referred to as a brat, which he does front himself as, but I find him to be more of an ass most of the time, to be honest. His tortured "No one must learn of my plans!" aspect never really gets resolved until said planned actions are being completed, which makes me want to shake him until he removes his head from his ass, not necessarily in a sympathetic way.
Taka is, hm, spunky--and quite recognizable if you're familiar with the author's works. I'm not complaining much about that as he's one of my favorite archetypes, but he was definitely recognizable. He's argumentative and stubborn, to the point of being rather off-putting at times, but it's that much more enjoyable when he then gives in.
Raiden is another one bound in his secrets, although his weren't approached quite as well as Kyo's and so came a bit out of nowhere at the end. (Knowing said secret due to prior versions and on the lookout for his history to see if it had also changed, I still felt blindsided a bit at the end. There just wasn't much foreshadowing, when more might not have hurt.) His quirks and irreverence made him more appealing, but he wasn't particularly well-developed outside of his eccentricities.
Kin is the angry archetype, like Taka squared. His personality is compounded by his mermaid heritage, which usually manifests in scales, fangs, and pissiness. He's a "Don't take no for an answer!" kind of guy, which is charming most of the time, though the sheer force of his personality does get a bit overwhelming occasionally.
The romance between both couples is a lot of tension for most of the story, followed by a lot of sex. I don't recall anywhere near that much, if any, in the original and actually rather prefer it that way, as despite its heat it sometimes seemed shoehorned in. (For example, approaching the end there is a scene in which the story could follow either Kyo and Kin or Raiden and Taka. I wanted desperately to be party to the conversation between Raiden and Taka, but instead got Kyo and Kin fucking. It was a little disappointing.)
The supporting cast is a lot of set-up for the sequels, with major players for each land with more gods appearing. Aside from those, however, it's pretty well limited to the four main characters--which is just fine, really, as they're enough to carry the story.
The story itself is interesting, though I missed some aspects of the original that were left out here and didn't care for others that were introduced. It's a fun quest romance on its own, just not quite the trip down memory lane that I'd hoped.
Unfortunately, typos and grammatical errors are rife throughout. Even names are swapped here and there. It's usually possible to infer what's meant, but I spent a lot of my time reading with a mental red pen. A touch (or a lot) more editing couldn't have hurt, and may also have helped some of the redundancy and awkward phrasing that cropped up here and there.
I feel I'm judging this harshly as I'm comparing it to my memories, and honestly I probably am. On its own, it is a nice story with interesting romances, but I think that something of its original charm was lost in its evolution. Still, I enjoyed the world enough that I'll be picking up the revised sequels as well, and look forward to seeing how else it has changed.
A quick preface: this is the third incarnation of Treasure that I've read, the other two being while it was available free on the author's website. It's changed a lot since those earlier incarnations--a lot.
The story revolves around four men in two sets of couples: there are the professional couples--Kyo and Taka, Raiden and Kin--and the romantic couples--Kyo and Kin, Raiden and Taka. The pairings are inescapable as they're fairly transparent from the get-go, but predictability has something going for it here.
Kyo tends to swing between two extremes: rather snotty and mired in self-pity and/or doubt. He's fairly frequently referred to as a brat, which he does front himself as, but I find him to be more of an ass most of the time, to be honest. His tortured "No one must learn of my plans!" aspect never really gets resolved until said planned actions are being completed, which makes me want to shake him until he removes his head from his ass, not necessarily in a sympathetic way.
Taka is, hm, spunky--and quite recognizable if you're familiar with the author's works. I'm not complaining much about that as he's one of my favorite archetypes, but he was definitely recognizable. He's argumentative and stubborn, to the point of being rather off-putting at times, but it's that much more enjoyable when he then gives in.
Raiden is another one bound in his secrets, although his weren't approached quite as well as Kyo's and so came a bit out of nowhere at the end. (Knowing said secret due to prior versions and on the lookout for his history to see if it had also changed, I still felt blindsided a bit at the end. There just wasn't much foreshadowing, when more might not have hurt.) His quirks and irreverence made him more appealing, but he wasn't particularly well-developed outside of his eccentricities.
Kin is the angry archetype, like Taka squared. His personality is compounded by his mermaid heritage, which usually manifests in scales, fangs, and pissiness. He's a "Don't take no for an answer!" kind of guy, which is charming most of the time, though the sheer force of his personality does get a bit overwhelming occasionally.
The romance between both couples is a lot of tension for most of the story, followed by a lot of sex. I don't recall anywhere near that much, if any, in the original and actually rather prefer it that way, as despite its heat it sometimes seemed shoehorned in. (For example, approaching the end there is a scene in which the story could follow either Kyo and Kin or Raiden and Taka. I wanted desperately to be party to the conversation between Raiden and Taka, but instead got Kyo and Kin fucking. It was a little disappointing.)
The supporting cast is a lot of set-up for the sequels, with major players for each land with more gods appearing. Aside from those, however, it's pretty well limited to the four main characters--which is just fine, really, as they're enough to carry the story.
The story itself is interesting, though I missed some aspects of the original that were left out here and didn't care for others that were introduced. It's a fun quest romance on its own, just not quite the trip down memory lane that I'd hoped.
Unfortunately, typos and grammatical errors are rife throughout. Even names are swapped here and there. It's usually possible to infer what's meant, but I spent a lot of my time reading with a mental red pen. A touch (or a lot) more editing couldn't have hurt, and may also have helped some of the redundancy and awkward phrasing that cropped up here and there.
I feel I'm judging this harshly as I'm comparing it to my memories, and honestly I probably am. On its own, it is a nice story with interesting romances, but I think that something of its original charm was lost in its evolution. Still, I enjoyed the world enough that I'll be picking up the revised sequels as well, and look forward to seeing how else it has changed.
October 4, 2012
5 Hearts
So for those of you who read the original (like me) on Megan Derr’s website then you are in for a treat and those that haven’t (did you live under a rock?) then this will be a fantastic treat. Prince Nankyokukai (Kyo) is sent on a mission to keep the magic in the family but it is a mission that has terrible costs, with the help of his faithful assistant Taka, the merchant Raiden and the ship’s captain Kin they set off on a journey that will rock the world.
For those of you who read the original let me tell you that this book has been completely rewritten, the plot is the same, the characters are the same but the storyline has changed and it’s BRILLIANT it’s like a dream come true… reading a book that’s just as you remember it but also completely different. Kyo has an important mission to fulfil so that his family can keep the magic that lets them rule but the tribute that he has to give is tearing him apart, when he reunites with the boy who he met when he ran away it affects him even more but he knows what he has to do but there’s something that he doesn’t know, that the diary never spoke of that just might save them all.
This book really is a fantasy story so although there are relationships forming and a touch of sex it is mainly the storyline of the Lost Gods that is the focus, the terrible secret that keeps the royal family in power, the secrets that have been hidden over time, Kyo’s determination to be the last that carries the terrible burden and the bonds that form between Kyo, Kin, Taka and Raiden and the outcome of that bond. We also meet characters from later books Lord Nikolai Krasny (a Duke of Pozhar), Prince Culebra (Prince of Piedre) and Lord Ailill le Blanc (a White Beast of Verde).
All the characters in this book are brilliant and we get to know them quite well, their descriptions will bring them to life and their temperaments will intrigue you as their stories are revealed and we begin to understand what makes them tick as their backgrounds unfold. There is some world building but as this one is mainly set on the open seas we only really get to know the history and legends surrounding Kundou with only some detailed descriptions of the land.
If you are interested (and seriously why wouldn’t you be?) there are mermaids (really nasty evil mermaids) and dragons and superstitions, there is magic and myths and old betrayal’s and lies and a really well written story with a great plot and storyline so honestly I have to recommend this to everyone who likes fantasy even a little bit… actually I will recommend this to everyone and advise you to let your imagination run wild.
So for those of you who read the original (like me) on Megan Derr’s website then you are in for a treat and those that haven’t (did you live under a rock?) then this will be a fantastic treat. Prince Nankyokukai (Kyo) is sent on a mission to keep the magic in the family but it is a mission that has terrible costs, with the help of his faithful assistant Taka, the merchant Raiden and the ship’s captain Kin they set off on a journey that will rock the world.
For those of you who read the original let me tell you that this book has been completely rewritten, the plot is the same, the characters are the same but the storyline has changed and it’s BRILLIANT it’s like a dream come true… reading a book that’s just as you remember it but also completely different. Kyo has an important mission to fulfil so that his family can keep the magic that lets them rule but the tribute that he has to give is tearing him apart, when he reunites with the boy who he met when he ran away it affects him even more but he knows what he has to do but there’s something that he doesn’t know, that the diary never spoke of that just might save them all.
This book really is a fantasy story so although there are relationships forming and a touch of sex it is mainly the storyline of the Lost Gods that is the focus, the terrible secret that keeps the royal family in power, the secrets that have been hidden over time, Kyo’s determination to be the last that carries the terrible burden and the bonds that form between Kyo, Kin, Taka and Raiden and the outcome of that bond. We also meet characters from later books Lord Nikolai Krasny (a Duke of Pozhar), Prince Culebra (Prince of Piedre) and Lord Ailill le Blanc (a White Beast of Verde).
All the characters in this book are brilliant and we get to know them quite well, their descriptions will bring them to life and their temperaments will intrigue you as their stories are revealed and we begin to understand what makes them tick as their backgrounds unfold. There is some world building but as this one is mainly set on the open seas we only really get to know the history and legends surrounding Kundou with only some detailed descriptions of the land.
If you are interested (and seriously why wouldn’t you be?) there are mermaids (really nasty evil mermaids) and dragons and superstitions, there is magic and myths and old betrayal’s and lies and a really well written story with a great plot and storyline so honestly I have to recommend this to everyone who likes fantasy even a little bit… actually I will recommend this to everyone and advise you to let your imagination run wild.
September 20, 2012
I've read the rough draft of this series before I realized that I was only reading the draft and not the published one. Once I knew though, I quickly availed myself of the series and did not let it go until I finished all of them. I must say though, that I'm quite not sure how to react to the changes of the published one from the draft.
What I found good in the changes was how defined the plot regarding the gods became. It explained some of the loose ends in the draft and cinched it perfectly. I also liked the sex. Duh, who doesn't right? It's kind of rare for Derr to actually describe it. Usually the descriptions are limited to the characters imaginations and the real action is a very heady kiss between the characters. It eases my frustrations that there was actually real action in this one. Though I did frown with that scene between Aillil and Kindan. It was hot, yes, but it rebels against the romantic in me. Kyo waited for Kindan and then you show Kindan with another guy? I would have settled with a mention of him in whorehouses but not a description of the sex.
I gave three stars for this because there are a few things I find disappointing. I'm a Megan Derr fan, I like her style. How she builds sexual tension and makes the character frustrated until they both just succumb to the need. But I feel that the tension here is not on the same level as her other books. I can't quite put my finger on it but I just find it lacking somehow. I also didn't like how the characters turned crass. Seriously, the word "fuck" doesn't fit with the whole ambiance of the story. It kind of shifted the focus on developing their personalities towards them being horny men. Finally, I find the emotions of love a little rushed and I blame this on the focus on sex again. Usually, it would be physical attraction first, then getting to know and blossoming of deeper feelings, then restraint and the climax where all are laid down between the characters and they go make love till they drop. That's the Derr style I came to love. Sadly, it's a little warped here. But even with my being fussy about the sex part, I still like it and I kind of hoped for more Kindan and Nankyokukai action. Another disappointment when I thought Kinni and Koori will be the main couple and they suddenly got dropped from main to secondary to Rai and Taka. What the hell?!
Anyway, despite of my many complaints, I still adored the book. It's a Megan Derr story and it's the LOST GODS! Treasure was always my favorite. Who can resist Kin and Kyo? So I give it three stars. Meaning it was ok. Not fabulous but not exactly a waste of time. Thrilling and frustrating at the same time.
What I found good in the changes was how defined the plot regarding the gods became. It explained some of the loose ends in the draft and cinched it perfectly. I also liked the sex. Duh, who doesn't right? It's kind of rare for Derr to actually describe it. Usually the descriptions are limited to the characters imaginations and the real action is a very heady kiss between the characters. It eases my frustrations that there was actually real action in this one. Though I did frown with that scene between Aillil and Kindan. It was hot, yes, but it rebels against the romantic in me. Kyo waited for Kindan and then you show Kindan with another guy? I would have settled with a mention of him in whorehouses but not a description of the sex.
I gave three stars for this because there are a few things I find disappointing. I'm a Megan Derr fan, I like her style. How she builds sexual tension and makes the character frustrated until they both just succumb to the need. But I feel that the tension here is not on the same level as her other books. I can't quite put my finger on it but I just find it lacking somehow. I also didn't like how the characters turned crass. Seriously, the word "fuck" doesn't fit with the whole ambiance of the story. It kind of shifted the focus on developing their personalities towards them being horny men. Finally, I find the emotions of love a little rushed and I blame this on the focus on sex again. Usually, it would be physical attraction first, then getting to know and blossoming of deeper feelings, then restraint and the climax where all are laid down between the characters and they go make love till they drop. That's the Derr style I came to love. Sadly, it's a little warped here. But even with my being fussy about the sex part, I still like it and I kind of hoped for more Kindan and Nankyokukai action. Another disappointment when I thought Kinni and Koori will be the main couple and they suddenly got dropped from main to secondary to Rai and Taka. What the hell?!
Anyway, despite of my many complaints, I still adored the book. It's a Megan Derr story and it's the LOST GODS! Treasure was always my favorite. Who can resist Kin and Kyo? So I give it three stars. Meaning it was ok. Not fabulous but not exactly a waste of time. Thrilling and frustrating at the same time.
May 30, 2012
4.5
It took all of 51 pages for me to get into this book. I honestly thought it was going to be a very slow read and one I would not like very much. I now know better than to underestimate Miss Derr, because she sure knows know how to write a great fantastical story.
This is the first book in the Lost Gods series, and it brought the awesome and some serious ass kicking mermaids. The objective of restoring the gods is to bring chaos to order, because you just can’t have too much order. Prince Nankyokukai (but lets get real, you can’t say it and I can’t say it) so he will be called Kyo. Kyo is to suffer a terrible fate, so his family can retain their power, but Kyo decides he’s going to suffer that fate his way. He brings his secretary and friend Taka, and they voyage out to sea, but Kyo is keeping secrets and everyone wants to know why.
We also meet Kin, the captain of the ship that Kyo and Taka will be using for the journey. Raidan, the rich merchant with his flamboyant clothes and equally flamboyant personality. Together the four men will journey, and become closer than expected. Kin and Kyo share a past, a past both men haven’t forgotten and Raidan will find the ultimate treasure in Taka. This story equally belongs to all the characters, and man they are seriously kick ass.
As I said, slow going in the beginning but it does pick up with some great fight scenes with kick ass mermaids. The richness of the characters and their history also adds something great the story. I enjoy a solid world building, and Treasure has a fantastic one and it never feels like information overload, the right amount at the right time. I find that with books I have read by Megan Derr, there is so much going on that it would be a crime to write about all in a review. It’s just too fantastic to sum up, too fantastic.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this one and have me anticipating a pants losing for book two. I loved all the characters; I am a serious sucker for pretty men with all sorts of coloured hair. It’s as if a Japanese anime kicked me in the face with awesomeness. If you are a fan of fantasy, gods, and magic? Then look no further this book is probably for you. Treasure was a fantastic read.
More of my reviews and ramblings at PANTS OFF REVIEWS
It took all of 51 pages for me to get into this book. I honestly thought it was going to be a very slow read and one I would not like very much. I now know better than to underestimate Miss Derr, because she sure knows know how to write a great fantastical story.
This is the first book in the Lost Gods series, and it brought the awesome and some serious ass kicking mermaids. The objective of restoring the gods is to bring chaos to order, because you just can’t have too much order. Prince Nankyokukai (but lets get real, you can’t say it and I can’t say it) so he will be called Kyo. Kyo is to suffer a terrible fate, so his family can retain their power, but Kyo decides he’s going to suffer that fate his way. He brings his secretary and friend Taka, and they voyage out to sea, but Kyo is keeping secrets and everyone wants to know why.
We also meet Kin, the captain of the ship that Kyo and Taka will be using for the journey. Raidan, the rich merchant with his flamboyant clothes and equally flamboyant personality. Together the four men will journey, and become closer than expected. Kin and Kyo share a past, a past both men haven’t forgotten and Raidan will find the ultimate treasure in Taka. This story equally belongs to all the characters, and man they are seriously kick ass.
As I said, slow going in the beginning but it does pick up with some great fight scenes with kick ass mermaids. The richness of the characters and their history also adds something great the story. I enjoy a solid world building, and Treasure has a fantastic one and it never feels like information overload, the right amount at the right time. I find that with books I have read by Megan Derr, there is so much going on that it would be a crime to write about all in a review. It’s just too fantastic to sum up, too fantastic.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this one and have me anticipating a pants losing for book two. I loved all the characters; I am a serious sucker for pretty men with all sorts of coloured hair. It’s as if a Japanese anime kicked me in the face with awesomeness. If you are a fan of fantasy, gods, and magic? Then look no further this book is probably for you. Treasure was a fantastic read.
More of my reviews and ramblings at PANTS OFF REVIEWS
February 26, 2019
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
I can’t believe it took me seven entire years till I finally got around to reading “Treasure”. I don’t know why I didn’t read it sooner, but it was worth the wait.
Okay, I have a thing for dragons and mermaids and gods and pretty much everything this book had on offer. But it’s so rare to find all these things combined in one single book. Needless to say, I was utterly thrilled to find all of it rolled into one, with an interesting love story on top.
The world building was well done and not something I’ve come across before. There are several names that are actually Japanese or Russian words. But since I don’t speak either of those languages, the meaning escaped me. I’m honestly not entirely sure what to think of real languages in a completely made up world, that has absolutely nothing to do with our own. Even though I’m an atheist in RL, I’m absolutely fascinated by Fantasy religions. And “Treasure” certainly didn’t disappoint in that regard. Religion is actually pretty important part of this universe and I quite enjoyed the concept.
The romance is also vital to the story. We actually have two couples in this book. I think that was a bit ambitious and the second kind of fell by the wayside. I rooted for Kin and Kyo and thought they were absolutely lovely together. But I felt like they were the main couple of the book and kind of expected a second book about the other couple. Their romance just didn’t feel as fully realized.
The plot was full of action and I really didn’t expect the way it ended. That was one hell of a plot twist, that I definitely didn’t see coming!
As much as I enjoyed the book as a whole, it really could have used a slightly more thorough spellcheck. Several times, Kin and Kyo got mixed up and it really pissed me off. If you can’t keep your MCs apart, then maybe you shouldn’t give them such similar names! Mixing them up is a major no-go and I was actually tempted to rage quit just because of that.
The cover by Leburdendesigns is very pretty. The map is quite fitting, the MCs spend most of the book travelling.
I can’t believe it took me seven entire years till I finally got around to reading “Treasure”. I don’t know why I didn’t read it sooner, but it was worth the wait.
Okay, I have a thing for dragons and mermaids and gods and pretty much everything this book had on offer. But it’s so rare to find all these things combined in one single book. Needless to say, I was utterly thrilled to find all of it rolled into one, with an interesting love story on top.
The world building was well done and not something I’ve come across before. There are several names that are actually Japanese or Russian words. But since I don’t speak either of those languages, the meaning escaped me. I’m honestly not entirely sure what to think of real languages in a completely made up world, that has absolutely nothing to do with our own. Even though I’m an atheist in RL, I’m absolutely fascinated by Fantasy religions. And “Treasure” certainly didn’t disappoint in that regard. Religion is actually pretty important part of this universe and I quite enjoyed the concept.
The romance is also vital to the story. We actually have two couples in this book. I think that was a bit ambitious and the second kind of fell by the wayside. I rooted for Kin and Kyo and thought they were absolutely lovely together. But I felt like they were the main couple of the book and kind of expected a second book about the other couple. Their romance just didn’t feel as fully realized.
The plot was full of action and I really didn’t expect the way it ended. That was one hell of a plot twist, that I definitely didn’t see coming!
As much as I enjoyed the book as a whole, it really could have used a slightly more thorough spellcheck. Several times, Kin and Kyo got mixed up and it really pissed me off. If you can’t keep your MCs apart, then maybe you shouldn’t give them such similar names! Mixing them up is a major no-go and I was actually tempted to rage quit just because of that.
The cover by Leburdendesigns is very pretty. The map is quite fitting, the MCs spend most of the book travelling.
April 7, 2013
I agree with Manu's review
Like the magic, the characters, the complex plot..... And absolutely hate, see a Megan Derr book with so many editing errors. Maybe because I just read 3 perfect and amazing books of another series from the same writer (Dance with the Devil, Dance in the Dark & Midnight)and much more, always from the same writer (The Missing Butterfly, Prisoner, Embrace, Something Sweet) and NEVER saw mistakes as I saw in this book. I reeeeeeeeally hate see the main characters and romantic couple (Kyo and Kin) switched! I found 3! For 3 times one name was wrong written, and it annoyed me a lot... I don't know if the problem is such similar names. Certainly it's confusing read their scenes, and I can understand this mistake... But I can't give 5 stars when a mistake annoyed me so much.
This book is a great fantasy story, and the constant twists and surprised pleased me a lot, but IMO it's a 3 stars book... And I (for now) will take a break and don't keep reading this series.
Like the magic, the characters, the complex plot..... And absolutely hate, see a Megan Derr book with so many editing errors. Maybe because I just read 3 perfect and amazing books of another series from the same writer (Dance with the Devil, Dance in the Dark & Midnight)and much more, always from the same writer (The Missing Butterfly, Prisoner, Embrace, Something Sweet) and NEVER saw mistakes as I saw in this book. I reeeeeeeeally hate see the main characters and romantic couple (Kyo and Kin) switched! I found 3! For 3 times one name was wrong written, and it annoyed me a lot... I don't know if the problem is such similar names. Certainly it's confusing read their scenes, and I can understand this mistake... But I can't give 5 stars when a mistake annoyed me so much.
This book is a great fantasy story, and the constant twists and surprised pleased me a lot, but IMO it's a 3 stars book... And I (for now) will take a break and don't keep reading this series.
August 27, 2023
My third book by Megan Derr after Tournament of Losers and Black Magic and again the same good and bad points.
The world building is really intriguing, but the story is told very superficial. The missing depth, all the details that were left out and the fact that the story was told, rather than experienced are again clearly negative aspects.
I really enjoyed the style, the story, the characters and the world building very much, but it had so much potential to be something more. And again no female characters, I'm getting a bit annoyed by that. Females make great side characters, the sister for example could have given us more inside to the prince and the secretary and some additional female side characters could have added positively to the story.
Oh, and the editing. I always have to mention the editing. It happened several times that the wrong names were used...
I like Megan Derr [three years after I wrote this I have to amend it, she is one of my all-time favourite authors], but I wish she worked together with an author of good epic fantasy, together they could create real master pieces.
EDIT:
I didn't read my review before reading this book a second time and I really enjoyed doing so. I have to say the critical points I mentioned are true, but I did not mind them much this time around. This book series could be really epic, but not every book has to be. I knew what to expect and was completely fine with that.
EDIT 2:
There is much to criticise, while at the same time this is one of my all-time favourite series even with all it's flaws! I loved it and will read it again and again, of that I can assure you (I've read the series five times so far and rated this book 4 stars each time, even with its flaws I enjoy it very much).
The world building is really intriguing, but the story is told very superficial. The missing depth, all the details that were left out and the fact that the story was told, rather than experienced are again clearly negative aspects.
I really enjoyed the style, the story, the characters and the world building very much, but it had so much potential to be something more. And again no female characters, I'm getting a bit annoyed by that. Females make great side characters, the sister for example could have given us more inside to the prince and the secretary and some additional female side characters could have added positively to the story.
Oh, and the editing. I always have to mention the editing. It happened several times that the wrong names were used...
I like Megan Derr [three years after I wrote this I have to amend it, she is one of my all-time favourite authors], but I wish she worked together with an author of good epic fantasy, together they could create real master pieces.
EDIT:
I didn't read my review before reading this book a second time and I really enjoyed doing so. I have to say the critical points I mentioned are true, but I did not mind them much this time around. This book series could be really epic, but not every book has to be. I knew what to expect and was completely fine with that.
EDIT 2:
There is much to criticise, while at the same time this is one of my all-time favourite series even with all it's flaws! I loved it and will read it again and again, of that I can assure you (I've read the series five times so far and rated this book 4 stars each time, even with its flaws I enjoy it very much).
July 30, 2011
This is the first book in one of my favorite fantasy series of all time. I first read it when it was in rough form on the Internet, and I am excited to see that it is coming out in e-book format!
Since I haven't read the new edition, these comments are based on the edition I read on the author's website.
This story is the first book in a series that explores what, exactly, love is supposed to be. Yes, there is romantic love - and that stands at the center of each of the installments in the series, but it is also about familial love, the love of friends, and love for one's gods. This is also a book about how love is twisted into hate, envy, fear, and power-lust. If you read this book as a simple romance or as a stand-alone, you will be disappointed because that's not what this book is. It is the beginning of a huge adventure.
This is a book for people who like epics with sweeping world building and large cast of characters. If I had to compare it to another series, I think I would pick the Belgariad - the main difference being that instead of having one group of characters going through all the books, there is one pool of characters, and each book focuses on a different set from within that pool. But like the Belgariad, the relationship between men and gods are out of balance, and the main characters in each installment are caught up, sometimes unknowingly, in trying to set it right.
The main romantic parings are male/male so if that really offends you or just doesn't appeal to you for whatever reason, this might not be your cup of tea. However, even if you are not a usual reader m/m romance, but you like fantasy, then I would strongly recommend you give this a try. It is, in every sense of the word, an EPIC read.
Since I haven't read the new edition, these comments are based on the edition I read on the author's website.
This story is the first book in a series that explores what, exactly, love is supposed to be. Yes, there is romantic love - and that stands at the center of each of the installments in the series, but it is also about familial love, the love of friends, and love for one's gods. This is also a book about how love is twisted into hate, envy, fear, and power-lust. If you read this book as a simple romance or as a stand-alone, you will be disappointed because that's not what this book is. It is the beginning of a huge adventure.
This is a book for people who like epics with sweeping world building and large cast of characters. If I had to compare it to another series, I think I would pick the Belgariad - the main difference being that instead of having one group of characters going through all the books, there is one pool of characters, and each book focuses on a different set from within that pool. But like the Belgariad, the relationship between men and gods are out of balance, and the main characters in each installment are caught up, sometimes unknowingly, in trying to set it right.
The main romantic parings are male/male so if that really offends you or just doesn't appeal to you for whatever reason, this might not be your cup of tea. However, even if you are not a usual reader m/m romance, but you like fantasy, then I would strongly recommend you give this a try. It is, in every sense of the word, an EPIC read.
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