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Drowned Empire #1.5
Son of the Drowned Empire
A Treacherous Oath
Lord Rhyan Hart, Heir Apparent to the Arkasva, High Lord of Glemaria, Imperator to the North, has carried the weight of his title his entire life. But never has he felt it more than now.
After sacrificing everything to protect the girl he loves, a shocking revelation endangers her again. The consequences stretch across the Empire and increase his father's power over him. Rhyan struggles to fight back, and protect his loved ones, but rising threats force new oaths to be sworn–oaths that could ruin everything.
A Deadly Tournament
As the anniversary of the Imperator’s rule approaches, he resurrects one of Glemaria’s deadliest soturion the Alissedari. Soturi must enter the arena on gryphon back in a fight to the death. Rhyan knows he has no choice but to win, no matter the cost to his heart or soul.
A Forbidden Love
When evil invades Glemaria, the lines between friend and foe are blurred. Rhyan has always lived by his oaths. But the only way he can fulfill one oath is to forswear another, and the only way to save a life is to take someone else’s. How can Rhyan tear the final rope apart to protect the girl he loves when he’s not even sure what it means to be a soturion anymore, and every step he takes towards his love puts her in more danger?
Lord Rhyan Hart, Heir Apparent to the Arkasva, High Lord of Glemaria, Imperator to the North, has carried the weight of his title his entire life. But never has he felt it more than now.
After sacrificing everything to protect the girl he loves, a shocking revelation endangers her again. The consequences stretch across the Empire and increase his father's power over him. Rhyan struggles to fight back, and protect his loved ones, but rising threats force new oaths to be sworn–oaths that could ruin everything.
A Deadly Tournament
As the anniversary of the Imperator’s rule approaches, he resurrects one of Glemaria’s deadliest soturion the Alissedari. Soturi must enter the arena on gryphon back in a fight to the death. Rhyan knows he has no choice but to win, no matter the cost to his heart or soul.
A Forbidden Love
When evil invades Glemaria, the lines between friend and foe are blurred. Rhyan has always lived by his oaths. But the only way he can fulfill one oath is to forswear another, and the only way to save a life is to take someone else’s. How can Rhyan tear the final rope apart to protect the girl he loves when he’s not even sure what it means to be a soturion anymore, and every step he takes towards his love puts her in more danger?
486 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 29, 2023
236 people are currently reading
3521 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews
September 4, 2024
this companion novel doesnt necessarily add anything to the main series in terms of plot, but it does make me fall even more in love with rhyan.
anyone who has read these books knows just how perfect he is, so im glad his POV books arent a retelling of the series from his perspective (which i feel would limit his character), but rather an opportunity for growth and development by telling his story and sharing his background.
so, overall, an enjoyable read and an installment that has me eagerly awaiting the next book in the series!
↠ 4 stars
anyone who has read these books knows just how perfect he is, so im glad his POV books arent a retelling of the series from his perspective (which i feel would limit his character), but rather an opportunity for growth and development by telling his story and sharing his background.
so, overall, an enjoyable read and an installment that has me eagerly awaiting the next book in the series!
↠ 4 stars
January 10, 2025
4.39!
A criminally underrated series!
Frankie Diane mallis has one of the BEST storytelling styles. It's so gripping and immersive and like wow so addictive.
I was reluctant going into this book because it was a novella series based on rhyan. Don't get me wrong I absolutely adore rhyan but giving him 4 novellas of the events of each book from his pov made me question it but oh boy I was so wrong for it because this was AMAZING!!!
This takes place during the events of daughter of the drowned empire but it was entirely new. I mean it was a little prior to the events of book 1 but a continuation to solstice. I was thinking of boy it's gonna be like book 1 but just from rhyans pov but it wasn't it was a while new story that was hinted but we didn't know about. There were new character so brilliantly introduced and written that within 400 pages you'll love them and Frankie managed to introduce a loophole through which they won't affec the main story.
The plot was so good and the SCENES were so heartbreaking. Rhyan deserves the BEST. He has been through so much. The conversation between him and Kenna had my heart in a chokehold. This definitely more spicy of you compare it to book 1.
It contributes alot to rhyans character development and really shapes his character and turns him the character that we love. BUT THIS IS A NOVELLA SERIES BY ALL MEANS unlike jlas novellas you can actually skip them because they don't really contribute to the main plot. They are like side quests but really AWESOME SIDE QUESTS. I would honestly recommend it.
I'm honestly more excited for bastard and lord than warrior of the drowned empire 🙈
I would also recommend that you read it in the publication order!
A criminally underrated series!
Frankie Diane mallis has one of the BEST storytelling styles. It's so gripping and immersive and like wow so addictive.
I was reluctant going into this book because it was a novella series based on rhyan. Don't get me wrong I absolutely adore rhyan but giving him 4 novellas of the events of each book from his pov made me question it but oh boy I was so wrong for it because this was AMAZING!!!
This takes place during the events of daughter of the drowned empire but it was entirely new. I mean it was a little prior to the events of book 1 but a continuation to solstice. I was thinking of boy it's gonna be like book 1 but just from rhyans pov but it wasn't it was a while new story that was hinted but we didn't know about. There were new character so brilliantly introduced and written that within 400 pages you'll love them and Frankie managed to introduce a loophole through which they won't affec the main story.
The plot was so good and the SCENES were so heartbreaking. Rhyan deserves the BEST. He has been through so much. The conversation between him and Kenna had my heart in a chokehold. This definitely more spicy of you compare it to book 1.
It contributes alot to rhyans character development and really shapes his character and turns him the character that we love. BUT THIS IS A NOVELLA SERIES BY ALL MEANS unlike jlas novellas you can actually skip them because they don't really contribute to the main plot. They are like side quests but really AWESOME SIDE QUESTS. I would honestly recommend it.
I'm honestly more excited for bastard and lord than warrior of the drowned empire 🙈
I would also recommend that you read it in the publication order!
August 25, 2023
"You're not lost. You never were. You just forgot."
"What did I forget?" I asked.
"Who you were."
I've been in labor for almost 34 hours when I've had my son, and this book was almost as physically painful and emotionally damaging.
Son of the Drowned Empire is a filler book but also a journey that is impossible to skip if you're a fan of this epic series.
Being inside Rhyan's head, getting to know his deepest fears and desires, learning about the scars in his soul, is an experience.
An angsty, brutal one, but it was all about Rhyan and I was totally here for it.
Was all of it necessary? Probably, but not definitely.
There were things I would have rather not known about, others that broke my heart and a few that drove me a little mad, but this Rhyan POV was e v e r y t h i n g, and it made me love Rhyan even more.
I buddy read this with my emoji babes (Lyra🐈⬛, Koisty🐠, Lila☀️ feat. Leni🦦 -who didn't actually read it but was an active supporter and gleefully cheered us all up when we were all collectively suffering in the group chat-).
I know I say this all the time but reading with these ladies is one of my favorite things in the world. And being able to read this book with them just cemented my love for this beautiful fantasy world.
Also, not to be the spoiler queen, but the book opens with fanart of Lord Rhyan Hart.
Bless you, Frankie Diane Mallis. And thank you infinitely for this ARC.
I died a little while reading it, but it was totally worth it.
❗TW: ❗
March 16, 2025
I actually liked it better than the books and I love the books
January 2, 2024
4 Torn Rope Stars ⭐
Spicy Level: 🌶️.5/5
This was agonising, raw, traumatic and unspeakably emotional. This is definitely not something I would classify as "easy reading", as I had to take a step back and emotionally prepare myself for when I could dive back into the story. I even had to tell the wonderful girls I was buddy reading this with that I would be unable to complete the reading allocation on a "workday" as I didn't want to feel heartbroken during the week....
While still being undeniably emotional, I was still in awe at the writing. It is a beautiful and painful depiction of trauma and resilience. The depths of Rhyan's suffering are immense as he deals with his pain and vulnerability. This book shows the haunting reality of someone who has been pushed so far past their limit that they are dead inside and what steps they have to take to climb back out again.
There are aspects of this I wish were not included - I have never in my life WISHED FOR A CLOSED DOOR ROMANCE until now, your girl loves spice...but I DIDN'T NEED THIS SPICE.
Overall while the book is undoubtedly difficult to read, I think it's this "discomfort" that makes it all the more impactful. Ultimately anyone who has read the rest of the Drowned Empire books will absolutely love this addition, as it not only enriches the overarching story but adds so much depth to our dear sweet Not Lord Rhyan Hart.
-----------------------
Thank you to my beautiful Emoji Gang for reading this awesome book with me…
- Lia 🐧
- Lila ☀️
- Lyra 🐈⬛
- Leni (in spirit) 🦦
So many thanks to Frankie Diane Mallis for the gifted ARC!
All thoughts and feelings in this review are my own
Spicy Level: 🌶️.5/5
This was agonising, raw, traumatic and unspeakably emotional. This is definitely not something I would classify as "easy reading", as I had to take a step back and emotionally prepare myself for when I could dive back into the story. I even had to tell the wonderful girls I was buddy reading this with that I would be unable to complete the reading allocation on a "workday" as I didn't want to feel heartbroken during the week....
While still being undeniably emotional, I was still in awe at the writing. It is a beautiful and painful depiction of trauma and resilience. The depths of Rhyan's suffering are immense as he deals with his pain and vulnerability. This book shows the haunting reality of someone who has been pushed so far past their limit that they are dead inside and what steps they have to take to climb back out again.
There are aspects of this I wish were not included - I have never in my life WISHED FOR A CLOSED DOOR ROMANCE until now, your girl loves spice...but I DIDN'T NEED THIS SPICE.
Overall while the book is undoubtedly difficult to read, I think it's this "discomfort" that makes it all the more impactful. Ultimately anyone who has read the rest of the Drowned Empire books will absolutely love this addition, as it not only enriches the overarching story but adds so much depth to our dear sweet Not Lord Rhyan Hart.
-----------------------
Thank you to my beautiful Emoji Gang for reading this awesome book with me…
- Lia 🐧
- Lila ☀️
- Lyra 🐈⬛
- Leni (in spirit) 🦦
So many thanks to Frankie Diane Mallis for the gifted ARC!
All thoughts and feelings in this review are my own
March 12, 2024
I am honestly loving Rhyans Pov's more than Lyrs
March 25, 2024
this idea of a companion novella series from Rhyans POV is such a good idea because its just making me love these characters so much more than I thought I would.
March 12, 2025
Why did this book hurt me so much? Everyone needs to read these novellas as they add so much depth to the main series
September 14, 2023
—⚔️ 5 stars ⚔️—
“Her name in the back of my thoughts felt like a dream I could barely grasp, one I struggled to recall. And yet… she was a dream whose images had been burned into my mind. Branded onto my body. Imprinted onto my heart. My soul.”
————about the book————
Age: NA
Genres: Fantasy romance, Fantasy,
Writing: 10/10
Quotes: 10/10
World building: 9/10
Characters: 9/10
Romance: 8/10
My rating: 9.5/10
trigger warnings: Narcissistic, psychological, and emotional abuse, Domestic violence, Depression, Misogyny, Violence,Sexual coercion, References to off-page rape, Grooming of hero as a child, Attempted CSA, Animal death, Death and grief, Injury detail,
—/—:—:—:—\—
Koisty, Lia, Lila, (and Leni in spirit), thank you for reading this with me!
I’d probably still be in a puddle of tears without you all.
Our buddy reads are always the best (because they’re with the best people), and I can’t wait for our next one. 🥰
———my thoughts———
Lord Rhyan Hart has carried the weight of his title, and the scars from his abusive father his entire life.
But now, after sacrificing everything to protect the girl he loves, it grates on him more than ever.
Entertaining a deadly tournament, Rhyan knows he has no choice but to win—but when he discovers an even deadlier evil invading Glemaria, his faith in himself will be put to the test...
Set before Daughter Of The Drowned Empire and from Rhyan instead of Lyr’s perspective, Son brings a whole new depth to Rhyan’s character.
The things he’s gone through, his experiences, his life, all shaped who he is now, and how he first appears in Daughter.
And let me tell you, I haven’t cried this much in a long time.
I was expecting Son Of The Drowned Empire would break my heart, but I wasn’t expecting my heart to be completely shattered.
Rhyan has been one of my favourite characters for a long time, and while his story may be painful...it’s also beautiful.
I’m fully aware of the amount of times I’ve said this—but Frankie Diane Mallis’s writing is stunning.
It’s not only the world she’s created, it’s the way she writing people, their emotions, and even their thoughts.
And yes, sometimes it was a little...odd reading about Rhyan’s life before Lyr.
But as I said in a message to Lila, “Lyr is Rhyan’s forever.”
So I actually liked knowing who he was, who he was with before.
Because, he wouldn’t be the man he is now without it.
I think what I truly love about Rhyan is how kind he is.
Even when he tries his hardest not to...there’s just something about him that can’t help it.
He might have a hard shell of emotions, built up from years of living with his father...but he’s soft underneath it.
The way he loves Lyr, the way he tries his hardest to protect everyone, and is devastated when he fails.
Every time he cried, I cried along with him.
So I pretty much sobbed nonstop for the last 20%.
All in all...this book completely lived up to my expectations, but there is one thing that I need to say.
Son Of The Drowned Empire may be a prequel, but do not read it first.
Not only does it heavily foreshadow events in Lady, it would also be hard to grasp the worldbuilding if you started here.
So instead of convincing you to read this book...I’m convincing you to read Daughter Of The Drowned Empire.
(You should. It’s very good)
————quotes————
“I just… I never got to tell my side of the story.”
“It was never about breaking an oath. It was about keeping one.”
“You also told me my life was meaningless.” He shrugged. “It may not be an important one. But it’s not meaningless. Not to me.”
“sometimes the ones you most want to protect, they are the very ones you can’t—the ones who need to save themselves.”
“I felt everything. My entire body came alive, my blood was pounding. And then I pushed my feelings down. Forced my heart to still. To stop beating. To stop feeling. To forget. And then I smiled. “Hello, lover.”
“And I loved her. I loved her with everything I was. Everything I had. I couldn’t turn it off. Couldn’t stop. Not if my life depended on it. And though I knew every oath I had sworn, every promise I’d made to myself that I could handle this, that this would be enough, that being alive and being near her and knowing she was safe was enough… It wasn’t.”
“No one is coming to save you.”
“Stop the threat. Become the weapon.”
“And for what? All those deaths. All those lives lost. To save this? To save me? To save a monster who managed to get everyone he’d ever cared about hurt in some way?”
————songs————
Walk On Fire -RAIGN
The Road -In This Moment
Monster -MILCK
Everybody Needs Somebody -Noah Cyrus
Clarity -Foxes
———random extra thoughts———
This book HURT.
Thanks for reading! ❤️
“Her name in the back of my thoughts felt like a dream I could barely grasp, one I struggled to recall. And yet… she was a dream whose images had been burned into my mind. Branded onto my body. Imprinted onto my heart. My soul.”
————about the book————
Age: NA
Genres: Fantasy romance, Fantasy,
Writing: 10/10
Quotes: 10/10
World building: 9/10
Characters: 9/10
Romance: 8/10
My rating: 9.5/10
trigger warnings: Narcissistic, psychological, and emotional abuse, Domestic violence, Depression, Misogyny, Violence,Sexual coercion, References to off-page rape, Grooming of hero as a child, Attempted CSA, Animal death, Death and grief, Injury detail,
—/—:—:—:—\—
Koisty, Lia, Lila, (and Leni in spirit), thank you for reading this with me!
I’d probably still be in a puddle of tears without you all.
Our buddy reads are always the best (because they’re with the best people), and I can’t wait for our next one. 🥰
———my thoughts———
Lord Rhyan Hart has carried the weight of his title, and the scars from his abusive father his entire life.
But now, after sacrificing everything to protect the girl he loves, it grates on him more than ever.
Entertaining a deadly tournament, Rhyan knows he has no choice but to win—but when he discovers an even deadlier evil invading Glemaria, his faith in himself will be put to the test...
Set before Daughter Of The Drowned Empire and from Rhyan instead of Lyr’s perspective, Son brings a whole new depth to Rhyan’s character.
The things he’s gone through, his experiences, his life, all shaped who he is now, and how he first appears in Daughter.
And let me tell you, I haven’t cried this much in a long time.
I was expecting Son Of The Drowned Empire would break my heart, but I wasn’t expecting my heart to be completely shattered.
Rhyan has been one of my favourite characters for a long time, and while his story may be painful...it’s also beautiful.
I’m fully aware of the amount of times I’ve said this—but Frankie Diane Mallis’s writing is stunning.
It’s not only the world she’s created, it’s the way she writing people, their emotions, and even their thoughts.
And yes, sometimes it was a little...odd reading about Rhyan’s life before Lyr.
But as I said in a message to Lila, “Lyr is Rhyan’s forever.”
So I actually liked knowing who he was, who he was with before.
Because, he wouldn’t be the man he is now without it.
I think what I truly love about Rhyan is how kind he is.
Even when he tries his hardest not to...there’s just something about him that can’t help it.
He might have a hard shell of emotions, built up from years of living with his father...but he’s soft underneath it.
The way he loves Lyr, the way he tries his hardest to protect everyone, and is devastated when he fails.
Every time he cried, I cried along with him.
So I pretty much sobbed nonstop for the last 20%.
All in all...this book completely lived up to my expectations, but there is one thing that I need to say.
Son Of The Drowned Empire may be a prequel, but do not read it first.
Not only does it heavily foreshadow events in Lady, it would also be hard to grasp the worldbuilding if you started here.
So instead of convincing you to read this book...I’m convincing you to read Daughter Of The Drowned Empire.
(You should. It’s very good)
————quotes————
“I just… I never got to tell my side of the story.”
“It was never about breaking an oath. It was about keeping one.”
“You also told me my life was meaningless.” He shrugged. “It may not be an important one. But it’s not meaningless. Not to me.”
“sometimes the ones you most want to protect, they are the very ones you can’t—the ones who need to save themselves.”
“I felt everything. My entire body came alive, my blood was pounding. And then I pushed my feelings down. Forced my heart to still. To stop beating. To stop feeling. To forget. And then I smiled. “Hello, lover.”
“And I loved her. I loved her with everything I was. Everything I had. I couldn’t turn it off. Couldn’t stop. Not if my life depended on it. And though I knew every oath I had sworn, every promise I’d made to myself that I could handle this, that this would be enough, that being alive and being near her and knowing she was safe was enough… It wasn’t.”
“No one is coming to save you.”
“Stop the threat. Become the weapon.”
“And for what? All those deaths. All those lives lost. To save this? To save me? To save a monster who managed to get everyone he’d ever cared about hurt in some way?”
————songs————
Walk On Fire -RAIGN
The Road -In This Moment
Monster -MILCK
Everybody Needs Somebody -Noah Cyrus
Clarity -Foxes
———random extra thoughts———
This book HURT.
Thanks for reading! ❤️
June 3, 2025
This book broke my heart into a million pieces OVER AND OVER and yet I still said, “Thank you, Frankie Diane Mallis, may I have another??”
August 21, 2023
Ugh this book was devastating. Truly difficult to read at times because it was so heartbreaking. We knew Rhyan’s story would be a sad one but this was worse than I imagined. Frankie manages to rip my heart out in SOTDE, and I can only hope that she puts it back together in WOTDE.
Rhyan was already a complex character, but this made him even more so. The writing was excellent and the plot still had surprises even though we knew many elements to his story. This book is the definition of a slow burn, and the full circle moment at the end is super satisfying!
Thank you so much Frankie for making me a member of your ARC team for SOTDE, and giving me the opportunity to provide my honest review!
Rhyan was already a complex character, but this made him even more so. The writing was excellent and the plot still had surprises even though we knew many elements to his story. This book is the definition of a slow burn, and the full circle moment at the end is super satisfying!
Thank you so much Frankie for making me a member of your ARC team for SOTDE, and giving me the opportunity to provide my honest review!
January 31, 2025
WOW! Frankie Diane Mallis has done it again! This book was phenomenal! Her writing style, the plot, the character development was all outstanding! It was so exciting being part of this ARC team! I love Rhyan with my whole heart already but this book somehow made me love him even more! To see all the Rhyan goes through before he makes it back to Bamaria. The growth in his character, going through things he never should have had to go through is very inspiring.
I was excited and nervous to see more of his life in Glemaria since Solstice takes place back in Bamaria. It was amazing seeing the characters that had a part in shaping Rhyan into the man we see later on in the series. This book made me feel emotions I wasn’t ready to feel but I am grateful I did. Rhyan just keeps pushing through all of challenges to protect the people he cares about. He finds his inner strength that people were trying to prevent him from finding. I believe he is going to find his redemption eventually and fight back against the people who tried to tear him down.
I loved seeing a few characters from the series in a different pov! Rhyan really went through it but there were people there that let him cry, scream and take the time to work through his emotions. Uncle Sean is a real one, I’m happy to see the relationship between them and how much Sean actually helped Rhyan when he needed it most!
The last line of this book, in love!! I was squealing when I got to that point! I’m very excited to see where this series goes, with Rhyans pov and overall!
Frankie thank you for writing such an amazing series that has taken over my life! Seriously when I’m not reading these books, they are always on my mind! The best series I have picked up! If you have not read the daughter of the drowned empire series, what are you doing? I can only say amazing things about this series as a whole!
I was excited and nervous to see more of his life in Glemaria since Solstice takes place back in Bamaria. It was amazing seeing the characters that had a part in shaping Rhyan into the man we see later on in the series. This book made me feel emotions I wasn’t ready to feel but I am grateful I did. Rhyan just keeps pushing through all of challenges to protect the people he cares about. He finds his inner strength that people were trying to prevent him from finding. I believe he is going to find his redemption eventually and fight back against the people who tried to tear him down.
I loved seeing a few characters from the series in a different pov! Rhyan really went through it but there were people there that let him cry, scream and take the time to work through his emotions. Uncle Sean is a real one, I’m happy to see the relationship between them and how much Sean actually helped Rhyan when he needed it most!
The last line of this book, in love!! I was squealing when I got to that point! I’m very excited to see where this series goes, with Rhyans pov and overall!
Frankie thank you for writing such an amazing series that has taken over my life! Seriously when I’m not reading these books, they are always on my mind! The best series I have picked up! If you have not read the daughter of the drowned empire series, what are you doing? I can only say amazing things about this series as a whole!
August 14, 2023
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of this book- this series is like a never-ending gift that keeps on giving! I found myself completely engrossed in the latest installment, finishing it in just 24 hours because I simply couldn't tear myself away.
Let's take a moment to appreciate how the author kicks things off with a "previously on" section at the beginning of each book. It's a thoughtful touch that makes diving back into the fantastical world a breeze. Personally, I struggle to re-immerse myself in complex series after a long break, but these introductions work like magic, helping me reconnect with the story without a full re-read.
Starting with "Daughter of the Drowned Empire," I was already hooked, and "Son of the Drowned Empire" didn't disappoint in the least! Frankie Diane Mallis has crafted a world that's beyond immersive, and her characters have a vibrant depth that's hard to resist. This latest installment keeps up the tradition. Rhyan, in particular, gets his chance to shine and evolve in this book. It's not just about the main characters, though. The story introduces fresh faces, and the familiar ones? Well, they get even more dimension. The ones you despised? Oh yes, you'll despise them more intensely. And those you loved? Get ready to love them on a whole new level. And oh, those new characters that make an entrance? Brace yourself—they'll have your heart shattered by the time you reach the end.
...when's the next book out again?!
Let's take a moment to appreciate how the author kicks things off with a "previously on" section at the beginning of each book. It's a thoughtful touch that makes diving back into the fantastical world a breeze. Personally, I struggle to re-immerse myself in complex series after a long break, but these introductions work like magic, helping me reconnect with the story without a full re-read.
Starting with "Daughter of the Drowned Empire," I was already hooked, and "Son of the Drowned Empire" didn't disappoint in the least! Frankie Diane Mallis has crafted a world that's beyond immersive, and her characters have a vibrant depth that's hard to resist. This latest installment keeps up the tradition. Rhyan, in particular, gets his chance to shine and evolve in this book. It's not just about the main characters, though. The story introduces fresh faces, and the familiar ones? Well, they get even more dimension. The ones you despised? Oh yes, you'll despise them more intensely. And those you loved? Get ready to love them on a whole new level. And oh, those new characters that make an entrance? Brace yourself—they'll have your heart shattered by the time you reach the end.
...when's the next book out again?!
January 20, 2025
This series, man. I love this series.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from the author and was not able to pace myself. At all. Rhyan Hart. I already knew I loved him but being able to experience his history and story was something else. The writing, as always, was terrific and the story was another page turner.
What I might love most about Rhyan is that he’s a young man who actually expresses his emotions. He has *gasp* feelings. He cries when he feels angry, feels hurt, feels scared, feels hopeless, feels lost. And he’s not afraid to. No toxic masculinity for our boy. (Shoutout to Uncle Sean too!) And when you learn of the depths of the emotional and physical abuse that Rhyan has endured all of his life- at the hands of his POS father- it’s heartbreaking. He just wanted so badly for someone to just say something. Acknowledge that they saw what was happening to him. That they saw him. And don’t even get me started on the sacrifices he has made and continues to make for those he loves. Gut. Wrenching.
I have faith that Rhyan will get his redemption from all the layers of lies his father has spewed and take that scum down. Because he will.
And so help me if anything happens to the red gryphon…. Not allowed. Will survive at all costs. Frankie gets it. Animals > People= Always
———————
Read: 2 times
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from the author and was not able to pace myself. At all. Rhyan Hart. I already knew I loved him but being able to experience his history and story was something else. The writing, as always, was terrific and the story was another page turner.
What I might love most about Rhyan is that he’s a young man who actually expresses his emotions. He has *gasp* feelings. He cries when he feels angry, feels hurt, feels scared, feels hopeless, feels lost. And he’s not afraid to. No toxic masculinity for our boy. (Shoutout to Uncle Sean too!) And when you learn of the depths of the emotional and physical abuse that Rhyan has endured all of his life- at the hands of his POS father- it’s heartbreaking. He just wanted so badly for someone to just say something. Acknowledge that they saw what was happening to him. That they saw him. And don’t even get me started on the sacrifices he has made and continues to make for those he loves. Gut. Wrenching.
I have faith that Rhyan will get his redemption from all the layers of lies his father has spewed and take that scum down. Because he will.
And so help me if anything happens to the red gryphon…. Not allowed. Will survive at all costs. Frankie gets it. Animals > People= Always
———————
Read: 2 times
August 15, 2023
Rating: 5/5*
Once again, a Drowned Empire novel emotionally devastated me. This book broke my heart. The characters, plot and writing were stellar, as always.
*Slight spoiler in this paragraph*
The previous books in the series offered hints of Rhyan's father being despicable, and this book only amplifies the fact. I cannot wait to see how Rhyan claims vengeance in future books. I need to believe he will for my well-being, not including Rhyan's.
*End of spoiler*
At times, I wanted to weep and scream; at others, I was glad to see the happier moments in Rhyan's story.
Finally, if you've read the previous Drowned Empire books, which you should have before reading this, the last scene is something to look forward to.
If you like high fantasy adventures, romance, and angst, read this series. When you've been emotionally battered by the other books, read Son of the Drowned Empire for more.
Once again, a Drowned Empire novel emotionally devastated me. This book broke my heart. The characters, plot and writing were stellar, as always.
*Slight spoiler in this paragraph*
The previous books in the series offered hints of Rhyan's father being despicable, and this book only amplifies the fact. I cannot wait to see how Rhyan claims vengeance in future books. I need to believe he will for my well-being, not including Rhyan's.
*End of spoiler*
At times, I wanted to weep and scream; at others, I was glad to see the happier moments in Rhyan's story.
Finally, if you've read the previous Drowned Empire books, which you should have before reading this, the last scene is something to look forward to.
If you like high fantasy adventures, romance, and angst, read this series. When you've been emotionally battered by the other books, read Son of the Drowned Empire for more.
August 16, 2023
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC from the legend herself, Frankie Diane Mallis, though this book would’ve received 5 stars regardless and let me tell you why.
🖤
Complex world-building, a unique magic system that strays from the clichés of most fantasy novels, and character development that burns through you are only some of the qualities found within this book and the entire Drowned Empire series.
🖤
In Son of the Drowned Empire, readers get to experience Rhyan’s point of view and journey. While you glimpse Rhyan’s history through the series, this book paces through each formative event leading to our favorite Not-Lord’s arrival to Bamaria. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I will say that this book helps clear up a few details I always wondered about.
🖤
For those who want more badassery, up close and personal interactions with our favorite Not Lord, and a last page that will rip out your heart and replace it with butterflies … mark your calendars.
🖤
Complex world-building, a unique magic system that strays from the clichés of most fantasy novels, and character development that burns through you are only some of the qualities found within this book and the entire Drowned Empire series.
🖤
In Son of the Drowned Empire, readers get to experience Rhyan’s point of view and journey. While you glimpse Rhyan’s history through the series, this book paces through each formative event leading to our favorite Not-Lord’s arrival to Bamaria. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I will say that this book helps clear up a few details I always wondered about.
🖤
For those who want more badassery, up close and personal interactions with our favorite Not Lord, and a last page that will rip out your heart and replace it with butterflies … mark your calendars.
August 19, 2023
Thank you Frankie for the ARC for my honest review.
Rhyan will always be one of my top book boyfriends and this book confirms that.
It is absolutely soul crushing. I am in physical pain over what he goes through. But it is written so so beautifully.
The biggest downside to this book, other than the physical pain it caused me, is the fact that I knew I wouldn’t see them together in this book and I already knew how their relationship would progress. So it lost a lot of that “will they, won’t they” tension it could have had.
Due to this, I think I will recommend friends starting the series to read this book after Daughter or Guardian despite there being some foreshadowing to Lady.
I can’t wait for Warrior!!
Rhyan will always be one of my top book boyfriends and this book confirms that.
It is absolutely soul crushing. I am in physical pain over what he goes through. But it is written so so beautifully.
The biggest downside to this book, other than the physical pain it caused me, is the fact that I knew I wouldn’t see them together in this book and I already knew how their relationship would progress. So it lost a lot of that “will they, won’t they” tension it could have had.
Due to this, I think I will recommend friends starting the series to read this book after Daughter or Guardian despite there being some foreshadowing to Lady.
I can’t wait for Warrior!!
June 22, 2024
“𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙. 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙖𝙙."
Son of the Drowned Empire is another addition to Rhyan’s POV companion series and covers the events in his life that lead up to Daughter of the Drowned Empire.
𝙈𝙮 𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨:
God, I am beyond happy that this companion series exists. Even though my eye twitched and I wanted to scream at some points, it answered any and all questions about his life before reuniting with Lyr in Bamaria.
Having to read detail scenes of Rhyan with other women before everything goes down with Lyr was actual, pure torture. 🥲
I don’t know what Mallis puts in these books, but I’ve never rated one below 4 stars and they’ve fallen into my top three favorite series. I don’t understand how they’re not more popular?!
Son of the Drowned Empire is another addition to Rhyan’s POV companion series and covers the events in his life that lead up to Daughter of the Drowned Empire.
𝙈𝙮 𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨:
God, I am beyond happy that this companion series exists. Even though my eye twitched and I wanted to scream at some points, it answered any and all questions about his life before reuniting with Lyr in Bamaria.
Having to read detail scenes of Rhyan with other women before everything goes down with Lyr was actual, pure torture. 🥲
I don’t know what Mallis puts in these books, but I’ve never rated one below 4 stars and they’ve fallen into my top three favorite series. I don’t understand how they’re not more popular?!
August 18, 2023
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, the Drowned Empire is the best series I have ever picked up. Mallis writes in a way that almost forces you to feel the emotions on the page. This book made me smile and cry; make my heart rate skyrocket and my hands shake. Mallis makes me feel so strongly with her writing that after I’ve turned the last page, it takes time for me to realize it wasn’t real. I’ve always believed that a good writer catches your attention, but a Great author makes you feel. In this aspect, Mallis exceeds expectations.
Now, beginning this book I had mixed feelings. Ryan’s novella caught my attention the least of all of the books in the series, and I was nervous that this full length novel would be similarly disappointing. That’s not to say it was bad! It was still a four star read, but I was looking for a continuation of the story, not another point of view of something that already occurred. So I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to get into this one. Boy was I wrong. Here I was, thinking Lyr had it bad, not realizing that Rhyan had a backstory that literally blows her out of the water. Up until this point all we’ve gotten are subjective retellings and biased rumors but the truth is soul crushing.
To start, Rhyan’s father is literally the devil incarnate. Kane comes a close second. I get the feeling that he assaults his own daughter, though it is never implicitly stated, but I got that itchy feeling when he stared at her in her nightgown. I didn’t immediately like Kenna. Of course I wanted to think Rhyan never touched another woman after Lyr, but after his father’s threats, I’m glad he found someone with whom he had a true connection, who understood him when maybe his other friends couldn’t. My heart breaks for Garret. Of course we know this part, but not the true story. And to think Rhyan has to watch the love of his life go through the exact same thing years later. The only difference being that Lyr has him to lean on, Rhyan had no one. I wanted to reach through my screen and shake all of the people who called themselves his friend. You know him! You know what his father is like! No one can be so blind as not to see the abuse all of these children go through and not question a single thing that comes from the mouths of their abusers. And they didn’t. They believed that someone they loved and fought beside could become a monster. Kenna is the only one who stood by him and he even sacrifices himself for her. She had best come into play later, I want her to stand beside him when it counts. I hope she remembers what he did for her.
After his oath to survive, after losing the last of the people who care for him, Rhyan just…fades. He is a warrior, one of the strongest, but he is still a child. A child who is alone and lost and scared. The despair that drips from those pages was utterly breath taking. How desperately he needed someone in his corner; to just believe him. Sean was exactly what he needed.
“I think you have more power over your life than you want to admit, but you’re scared. Because your father spent years of his life trying to convince you otherwise, that he was in control, that he had the power, and that he was the one who was going to tell your story. Well, guess what? He did. He sang his little song about you all over the Empire. And because you’ve been quiet, his voice has been the loudest. Your father is in charge of the story because everyone lets him be. But that doesn’t have to be how it is! You escaped. This is your life. Right now, it’s messy and confusing. And it hurts. But it’s yours. I know you think you failed; I know you carry the weight of Lumeria on your shoulders. And yes, there’s a lot you can control. But there’s a lot you can’t. You lost sight of which is which. Your father’s power…it’s ruined the balance. But you can still decide how you’ll react, still decide to move forward.”
“You’ve come this far, haven’t you?”
“Do you really think I can do this?”
“I’ve only been waiting for you to realize it.”
“Sean, what am I fighting for?”
“You’re fighting for you. Because you’re worth fighting for.”
“What if that’s not enough?”
Let me tell you, chapter 25 fucked me up. Be prepared. Have tissues near by, maybe a therapist on call, cause you’re gonna need them. Call it serious depression, PTSD, truthfully a lethal combination of both but wow. I had to put away my phone and talk myself down, because again, for an entire chapter I had all of his pain on my shoulders too. Absolute world ending terror that it won’t get better. That this is it for me. Sean, somehow, reminds him that once you’re at your lowest, all you can do is go up. Reminds Rhyan that he is stronger than his father, stronger even than this and that he will overcome, he just has to fight for himself. Reminds him that no matter how dark his world seems now, there is someone who will set him on fire again, if only he would fight for her.
The end of this books catches us up to the start of the first. With Rhyan in Bamaria, being bullied. With Lyr coming to some random man’s rescue. It ends where it all started…
And then I smiled.
“Hello, lover.”
(I screeched just as loud as I did the first time I read that line, by the way.)
Thank you Frankie Diane Mallis for blessing me with a spot on your ARC team for Son of the Drowned Empire. As much as I want these two to have their happy ending, I never want it to end, so I will continue to smile through the pain. Thank you for providing this eARC for a completely honest and free review.
Now, beginning this book I had mixed feelings. Ryan’s novella caught my attention the least of all of the books in the series, and I was nervous that this full length novel would be similarly disappointing. That’s not to say it was bad! It was still a four star read, but I was looking for a continuation of the story, not another point of view of something that already occurred. So I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to get into this one. Boy was I wrong. Here I was, thinking Lyr had it bad, not realizing that Rhyan had a backstory that literally blows her out of the water. Up until this point all we’ve gotten are subjective retellings and biased rumors but the truth is soul crushing.
To start, Rhyan’s father is literally the devil incarnate. Kane comes a close second. I get the feeling that he assaults his own daughter, though it is never implicitly stated, but I got that itchy feeling when he stared at her in her nightgown. I didn’t immediately like Kenna. Of course I wanted to think Rhyan never touched another woman after Lyr, but after his father’s threats, I’m glad he found someone with whom he had a true connection, who understood him when maybe his other friends couldn’t. My heart breaks for Garret. Of course we know this part, but not the true story. And to think Rhyan has to watch the love of his life go through the exact same thing years later. The only difference being that Lyr has him to lean on, Rhyan had no one. I wanted to reach through my screen and shake all of the people who called themselves his friend. You know him! You know what his father is like! No one can be so blind as not to see the abuse all of these children go through and not question a single thing that comes from the mouths of their abusers. And they didn’t. They believed that someone they loved and fought beside could become a monster. Kenna is the only one who stood by him and he even sacrifices himself for her. She had best come into play later, I want her to stand beside him when it counts. I hope she remembers what he did for her.
After his oath to survive, after losing the last of the people who care for him, Rhyan just…fades. He is a warrior, one of the strongest, but he is still a child. A child who is alone and lost and scared. The despair that drips from those pages was utterly breath taking. How desperately he needed someone in his corner; to just believe him. Sean was exactly what he needed.
“I think you have more power over your life than you want to admit, but you’re scared. Because your father spent years of his life trying to convince you otherwise, that he was in control, that he had the power, and that he was the one who was going to tell your story. Well, guess what? He did. He sang his little song about you all over the Empire. And because you’ve been quiet, his voice has been the loudest. Your father is in charge of the story because everyone lets him be. But that doesn’t have to be how it is! You escaped. This is your life. Right now, it’s messy and confusing. And it hurts. But it’s yours. I know you think you failed; I know you carry the weight of Lumeria on your shoulders. And yes, there’s a lot you can control. But there’s a lot you can’t. You lost sight of which is which. Your father’s power…it’s ruined the balance. But you can still decide how you’ll react, still decide to move forward.”
“You’ve come this far, haven’t you?”
“Do you really think I can do this?”
“I’ve only been waiting for you to realize it.”
“Sean, what am I fighting for?”
“You’re fighting for you. Because you’re worth fighting for.”
“What if that’s not enough?”
Let me tell you, chapter 25 fucked me up. Be prepared. Have tissues near by, maybe a therapist on call, cause you’re gonna need them. Call it serious depression, PTSD, truthfully a lethal combination of both but wow. I had to put away my phone and talk myself down, because again, for an entire chapter I had all of his pain on my shoulders too. Absolute world ending terror that it won’t get better. That this is it for me. Sean, somehow, reminds him that once you’re at your lowest, all you can do is go up. Reminds Rhyan that he is stronger than his father, stronger even than this and that he will overcome, he just has to fight for himself. Reminds him that no matter how dark his world seems now, there is someone who will set him on fire again, if only he would fight for her.
The end of this books catches us up to the start of the first. With Rhyan in Bamaria, being bullied. With Lyr coming to some random man’s rescue. It ends where it all started…
And then I smiled.
“Hello, lover.”
(I screeched just as loud as I did the first time I read that line, by the way.)
Thank you Frankie Diane Mallis for blessing me with a spot on your ARC team for Son of the Drowned Empire. As much as I want these two to have their happy ending, I never want it to end, so I will continue to smile through the pain. Thank you for providing this eARC for a completely honest and free review.
February 6, 2025
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Rhyan is one of my all time favorite characters! Seriously. Reading his backstory only adds that much more depth to him. I’ve never seen so much growth but at the same time feel so much for a character before.
My heart was breaking for him throughout the book but seeing how he overcame, and knowing where his story goes, just makes him that much more in my mind.
I was sucked in from page 1 and didn’t want to put it down. I loved seeing things from Rhyan’s POV.
My heart was breaking for him throughout the book but seeing how he overcame, and knowing where his story goes, just makes him that much more in my mind.
I was sucked in from page 1 and didn’t want to put it down. I loved seeing things from Rhyan’s POV.
June 19, 2025
Consider me obsessed with Rhyan Hart!! Truly, I love an emotional, yearning man. Poor baby went through so much in this book. I loved getting to see his side of things finally, and I feel ready to jump into warrior of the drowned empire!
August 16, 2023
Frankie...you did it again!
I don't know why I thought this, but from the moment I opened this book I just KNEW what that last line was going to be...and I was thrilled to be right and still get the same fluttery feelings as I did the first time.
It was such a journey through Rhyan's POV prior to him re-entering Lyr's world. I thought I loved him before...but man did this making me adore him EVEN MORE. The depth in which Frankie wrote Rhyan's story made me feel all of the feels and I struggled to go about my day without thinking about him and his story. That is the telltale sign of a fantastic author in my opinion.
If you've read Lady of the Drowned Empire (book 3) then you have an idea of what this story contains, but getting that first hand account...holy wow. Rhyan is such a dynamic character and I was often finding myself rethinking scenes in previous books and his interactions with others knowing what I know now and it just made me appreciate him more. It also broke my heart time and time again when being open with those around him became such a struggle, and I really feel that that can resonate with so many people in today's world. Talking about the negative and scary things in your own personal life with those you feel safest with and closest with is absolutely terrifying. Frankie really captured those scenes so well, and it often had me yelling through my kindle "Just tell them damn it! Stop hiding! Everyone is clearly dealing with something...TALK!" But I know that that is not how reality works either...so bravo Frankie.
Also...knowing what I know now with....I'm going to call them T.R. (hopefully readers will get it), sneaky sneaky T.R. I see you.
Can't wait for book FOUR!!!
I don't know why I thought this, but from the moment I opened this book I just KNEW what that last line was going to be...and I was thrilled to be right and still get the same fluttery feelings as I did the first time.
It was such a journey through Rhyan's POV prior to him re-entering Lyr's world. I thought I loved him before...but man did this making me adore him EVEN MORE. The depth in which Frankie wrote Rhyan's story made me feel all of the feels and I struggled to go about my day without thinking about him and his story. That is the telltale sign of a fantastic author in my opinion.
If you've read Lady of the Drowned Empire (book 3) then you have an idea of what this story contains, but getting that first hand account...holy wow. Rhyan is such a dynamic character and I was often finding myself rethinking scenes in previous books and his interactions with others knowing what I know now and it just made me appreciate him more. It also broke my heart time and time again when being open with those around him became such a struggle, and I really feel that that can resonate with so many people in today's world. Talking about the negative and scary things in your own personal life with those you feel safest with and closest with is absolutely terrifying. Frankie really captured those scenes so well, and it often had me yelling through my kindle "Just tell them damn it! Stop hiding! Everyone is clearly dealing with something...TALK!" But I know that that is not how reality works either...so bravo Frankie.
Also...knowing what I know now with....I'm going to call them T.R. (hopefully readers will get it), sneaky sneaky T.R. I see you.
Can't wait for book FOUR!!!
July 21, 2025
Wow. 5 stars. This series is one of my absolute favorites! And Rhyan is my favorite character! Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This series deserves to be more well known - it has it all! Magic, forbidden love, reincarnation, and strong characters. There are no Mary Sue's in this series, which is fantastic. I love to see characters work for their accomplishments (though I do wish Rhyan would catch a break sometimes!)
Frankie is incredible at fleshing out all of her characters and you really feel what they're going through. Her writing is terrific. This addition really gives insight into Rhyan's character and it was devastating to see his trauma and how he handles it - and there is so much trauma!
I also knew exactly what line this book would end with and I squealed when I was right!!!
Merged review:
Wow. 5 stars. This series is one of my absolute favorites! And Rhyan is my favorite character! Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This series deserves to be more well known - it has it all! Magic, forbidden love, reincarnation, and strong characters. There are no Mary Sue's in this series, which is fantastic. I love to see characters work for their accomplishments (though I do wish Rhyan would catch a break sometimes!)
Frankie is incredible at fleshing out all of her characters and you really feel what they're going through. Her writing is terrific. This addition really gives insight into Rhyan's character and it was devastating to see his trauma and how he handles it - and there is so much trauma!
I also knew exactly what line this book would end with and I squealed when I was right!!!
This series deserves to be more well known - it has it all! Magic, forbidden love, reincarnation, and strong characters. There are no Mary Sue's in this series, which is fantastic. I love to see characters work for their accomplishments (though I do wish Rhyan would catch a break sometimes!)
Frankie is incredible at fleshing out all of her characters and you really feel what they're going through. Her writing is terrific. This addition really gives insight into Rhyan's character and it was devastating to see his trauma and how he handles it - and there is so much trauma!
I also knew exactly what line this book would end with and I squealed when I was right!!!
Merged review:
Wow. 5 stars. This series is one of my absolute favorites! And Rhyan is my favorite character! Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This series deserves to be more well known - it has it all! Magic, forbidden love, reincarnation, and strong characters. There are no Mary Sue's in this series, which is fantastic. I love to see characters work for their accomplishments (though I do wish Rhyan would catch a break sometimes!)
Frankie is incredible at fleshing out all of her characters and you really feel what they're going through. Her writing is terrific. This addition really gives insight into Rhyan's character and it was devastating to see his trauma and how he handles it - and there is so much trauma!
I also knew exactly what line this book would end with and I squealed when I was right!!!
August 25, 2023
THE EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER HOLY COW!
Frankie really knows how to tug on the heart strings and she absolutely killed it with this one. Rhyan's story is beyond heartbreaking at times, but the insight Frankie gave us into why he is the way he is was absolute gold. I have never been more angry at a fictional character until I read this book... iykyk. This book is truly a work of art.
Frankie really knows how to tug on the heart strings and she absolutely killed it with this one. Rhyan's story is beyond heartbreaking at times, but the insight Frankie gave us into why he is the way he is was absolute gold. I have never been more angry at a fictional character until I read this book... iykyk. This book is truly a work of art.
August 21, 2023
Ugh I felt everything!! And then I ate two donuts to make myself feel better.
This book surpassed my expectations. Frankie has a way of writing that makes you feel all the emotions. Even with already knowing some of Rhyan’s past, reading what happened during the actual events was heartbreaking. Garrett, his mother, Bowen, if all hurt. You can’t help but want to protect Rhyan and love him even more.
I loved that there were hints about who Rhyan, Lyr and Aemon really are. I hated that all fathers in Glemaria are POS.
Thank you to Frankie for the ARC! I love this series so much and am so grateful to be a part of your community.
This book surpassed my expectations. Frankie has a way of writing that makes you feel all the emotions. Even with already knowing some of Rhyan’s past, reading what happened during the actual events was heartbreaking. Garrett, his mother, Bowen, if all hurt. You can’t help but want to protect Rhyan and love him even more.
I loved that there were hints about who Rhyan, Lyr and Aemon really are. I hated that all fathers in Glemaria are POS.
Thank you to Frankie for the ARC! I love this series so much and am so grateful to be a part of your community.
February 20, 2025
4.5 ✨
1 🌶️ (this is a prequel and not between the main couple)
Not gonna lie, this one was hard for me to get through! I kinda wish the spice scenes were fade to black 😅 but only because it wasn’t between Rhyan and Lyr (it’s before them being together 😭)
Regardless I always love seeing Rhyan’s past and his trauma. It shows what an amazing character he is and what a wonderful human being he is in this world. I find that these book feel necessary to truly understanding him as a whole and will always recommend reading them!
1 🌶️ (this is a prequel and not between the main couple)
Not gonna lie, this one was hard for me to get through! I kinda wish the spice scenes were fade to black 😅 but only because it wasn’t between Rhyan and Lyr (it’s before them being together 😭)
Regardless I always love seeing Rhyan’s past and his trauma. It shows what an amazing character he is and what a wonderful human being he is in this world. I find that these book feel necessary to truly understanding him as a whole and will always recommend reading them!
August 31, 2023
Son of the Drowned Empire continues the Drowned Empire saga from the point of view of the main love interest, Rhyan Hart, covering the events leading up to his exile from the North and following his journey back to Lyriana’s home country where their paths will cross again.
Going into Son, I was a little nervous because Rhyan’s first POV book, Solstice, was emotionally rough. These books are not light, fluffy fantasy. Frankie wisely includes trigger warnings - take them seriously! Son includes serious depictions of physical and emotional abuse.
While the Rhyan POV books were not originally planned to be part of the series, Frankie chose to write them out of fan service, and I’m so glad things ended up this way. Rhyan’s books serve to flesh out the other half of the Empire, laying groundwork for political and physical landscapes that just wouldn’t be available in Lyr’s POV. When things eventually come full circle and resolve in the North, it will feel earned because of all the time we’ve spent in the trenches with Rhyan in these early books.
Similarly, I also feel that having Rhyan’s POV further legitimizes him as a love interest. While the series are quite different (and I much prefer the Drowned Empire), the main comparison that comes to mind is Rhysand in ACOTAR, specifically during his imprisonment period with Amarantha (IYKYK). For me, none of the pain and stakes of Rhys’s imprisonment hit home because SJM simply tells us it happened in the past. That kind of shortcut doesn’t work for me- as a reader I need to live these important experiences with the character or else they don’t really count. ACOTAR and Rhys felt pretty flat for me as a result. Frankie is doing the work here that SJM didn’t, in my opinion. Rhyan isn’t doing his development off-screen… we’re right there with him, bonding with him as much as much as a protagonist as we are with Lyr in her books.
An important point coming to this series— rest assured if you’re going to the Drowned Empire series after reading ACOTAR and Outlander, you’re going to get a much more thoughtful depiction of trauma than other series have provided. Son is on the same playing field as Outlander in terms of sweeping geopolitical dramas and interpersonal conflicts, but treats its characters with way more care than Diana Gabaldon treats Jaime and Claire. The trauma in these books means something - it’s not just a plot device. That’s why it hits so hard.
Overall, Rhyan’s books are tough, emotional reads, but I’m so glad to have them. Take care while reading especially around topics of parental abuse, but I think there’s something very legitimately cathartic going on in these pages.
Happy to support this series and gratefully writing after receiving an ARC.
Going into Son, I was a little nervous because Rhyan’s first POV book, Solstice, was emotionally rough. These books are not light, fluffy fantasy. Frankie wisely includes trigger warnings - take them seriously! Son includes serious depictions of physical and emotional abuse.
While the Rhyan POV books were not originally planned to be part of the series, Frankie chose to write them out of fan service, and I’m so glad things ended up this way. Rhyan’s books serve to flesh out the other half of the Empire, laying groundwork for political and physical landscapes that just wouldn’t be available in Lyr’s POV. When things eventually come full circle and resolve in the North, it will feel earned because of all the time we’ve spent in the trenches with Rhyan in these early books.
Similarly, I also feel that having Rhyan’s POV further legitimizes him as a love interest. While the series are quite different (and I much prefer the Drowned Empire), the main comparison that comes to mind is Rhysand in ACOTAR, specifically during his imprisonment period with Amarantha (IYKYK). For me, none of the pain and stakes of Rhys’s imprisonment hit home because SJM simply tells us it happened in the past. That kind of shortcut doesn’t work for me- as a reader I need to live these important experiences with the character or else they don’t really count. ACOTAR and Rhys felt pretty flat for me as a result. Frankie is doing the work here that SJM didn’t, in my opinion. Rhyan isn’t doing his development off-screen… we’re right there with him, bonding with him as much as much as a protagonist as we are with Lyr in her books.
An important point coming to this series— rest assured if you’re going to the Drowned Empire series after reading ACOTAR and Outlander, you’re going to get a much more thoughtful depiction of trauma than other series have provided. Son is on the same playing field as Outlander in terms of sweeping geopolitical dramas and interpersonal conflicts, but treats its characters with way more care than Diana Gabaldon treats Jaime and Claire. The trauma in these books means something - it’s not just a plot device. That’s why it hits so hard.
Overall, Rhyan’s books are tough, emotional reads, but I’m so glad to have them. Take care while reading especially around topics of parental abuse, but I think there’s something very legitimately cathartic going on in these pages.
Happy to support this series and gratefully writing after receiving an ARC.
August 29, 2023
“Let me die as myself. While I’m still me. While I still love.”
Summary
Overall rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Spicy rating: 🌶️🌶️ 2.5/5
Fluff rating: 💖💖 2/5
💀 Multiple trauma triggers in this book - sensitive readers check before reading
Every time Frankie published a new book I think it can’t possibly be better than the last. Every time she proves me wrong! The woman is a genius author and I will hear no criticism on that.
This prequel/ side along story from Rhyan’s POV was outstanding and reaffirmed everything I knew in that he is one of the best written MMCs I’ve ever read and must be protected at all costs. This story is set between Solstice and Daughter and gives you so much insight in to Rhyan’s character.
Reading his backstory genuinely hurt my heart. Watching him having to pretend to be the social butterfly, the pressure of wearing the mask of the Heir Apparent whilst dealing with heartbreak was so hard. His trauma and coping mechanisms felt so real and relatable it was scary. But fair warning Frankie if you’re reading this, if you put my baby through any more pain I’m going to confiscate him and Lyr from you.
Frankie has a lovely way of introducing new characters and getting you to love them so deeply that they feel part of your family. So much so I ugly cried about halfway through this book and it took a long time for me to stop. IYKYK. Even with the introduction of Kenna I was so ready to hate her but I couldn’t because of the way Frankie weaves her stories and manipulated your emotions.
There was some beautifully done representation of healthy LGBTQ+ relationship without the boring trope of it being forbidden which I find often accompanies fantasy stories. (Just another reason we will always stan Frankie)
There’s action, adventure, clever political intrigue, peril, family, the most angst out of all of the series so far, a traumatised MMC with the most wonderful bleeding heart and a light sprinkling of spice.
I literally have no notes to improve this.
If you have not started this series yet, what are you waiting for. It is incredible. It’s as good if not better than series like TOG and Fourth Wing and I loved both of those! So you know I’m not lying.
I am so fortunate to be on Frankie’s ARC team and I thank her immensely for letting me be part of it. That being said I also buy every ebook and physical copy once they come out with my own pennies. One to support her as an author but also showing that I’m not biased reviewing a “gifted” as I willingly then spend my own money on it anyway.
Summary
Overall rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Spicy rating: 🌶️🌶️ 2.5/5
Fluff rating: 💖💖 2/5
💀 Multiple trauma triggers in this book - sensitive readers check before reading
Every time Frankie published a new book I think it can’t possibly be better than the last. Every time she proves me wrong! The woman is a genius author and I will hear no criticism on that.
This prequel/ side along story from Rhyan’s POV was outstanding and reaffirmed everything I knew in that he is one of the best written MMCs I’ve ever read and must be protected at all costs. This story is set between Solstice and Daughter and gives you so much insight in to Rhyan’s character.
Reading his backstory genuinely hurt my heart. Watching him having to pretend to be the social butterfly, the pressure of wearing the mask of the Heir Apparent whilst dealing with heartbreak was so hard. His trauma and coping mechanisms felt so real and relatable it was scary. But fair warning Frankie if you’re reading this, if you put my baby through any more pain I’m going to confiscate him and Lyr from you.
Frankie has a lovely way of introducing new characters and getting you to love them so deeply that they feel part of your family. So much so I ugly cried about halfway through this book and it took a long time for me to stop. IYKYK. Even with the introduction of Kenna I was so ready to hate her but I couldn’t because of the way Frankie weaves her stories and manipulated your emotions.
There was some beautifully done representation of healthy LGBTQ+ relationship without the boring trope of it being forbidden which I find often accompanies fantasy stories. (Just another reason we will always stan Frankie)
There’s action, adventure, clever political intrigue, peril, family, the most angst out of all of the series so far, a traumatised MMC with the most wonderful bleeding heart and a light sprinkling of spice.
I literally have no notes to improve this.
If you have not started this series yet, what are you waiting for. It is incredible. It’s as good if not better than series like TOG and Fourth Wing and I loved both of those! So you know I’m not lying.
I am so fortunate to be on Frankie’s ARC team and I thank her immensely for letting me be part of it. That being said I also buy every ebook and physical copy once they come out with my own pennies. One to support her as an author but also showing that I’m not biased reviewing a “gifted” as I willingly then spend my own money on it anyway.
August 30, 2023
Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost from the publisher/author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. I am leaving a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
This book was such an emotional journey. I really love additions to series with a different perspective. I think that it really adds a new element to the story and that is definitely the case with this book.
What really brought me into this series initially was the synopsis for the first book. I quickly discovered a hidden gem because this author's writing is impeccable. The writing style really clicked with me because of the high quality and relatable voice. I devoured this story with rapt intensity.
The characters in this story are so distinct and memorable. Sometimes you come across characters that are so vibrant and jump right off the page so you can't help falling in love with them and that is the case here. There is an unmistakable emotional component to the characters that really shines through in this book.
Overall, this was a heartbreaking but ultimately satisfying read. Fans of this series should definitely pick this one up. Rhyan's perspective adds so much to the overall story. If you haven't picked this series up yet then you should definitely add it to your TBR. I can't recommend this author enough!
BLOG FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM GOODREADS TIKTOK TWITTER BOOKBUB AMAZON PINTEREST KO-FI
⛔My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.
This book was such an emotional journey. I really love additions to series with a different perspective. I think that it really adds a new element to the story and that is definitely the case with this book.
What really brought me into this series initially was the synopsis for the first book. I quickly discovered a hidden gem because this author's writing is impeccable. The writing style really clicked with me because of the high quality and relatable voice. I devoured this story with rapt intensity.
The characters in this story are so distinct and memorable. Sometimes you come across characters that are so vibrant and jump right off the page so you can't help falling in love with them and that is the case here. There is an unmistakable emotional component to the characters that really shines through in this book.
Overall, this was a heartbreaking but ultimately satisfying read. Fans of this series should definitely pick this one up. Rhyan's perspective adds so much to the overall story. If you haven't picked this series up yet then you should definitely add it to your TBR. I can't recommend this author enough!
BLOG FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM GOODREADS TIKTOK TWITTER BOOKBUB AMAZON PINTEREST KO-FI
⛔My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.
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