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Chronicles of Ylandre #4
Heartstrings
When all else comes to naught, a steadfast heart is the only thing that stands between hope and despair.
Scions of the most powerful House in Ylandre, Ashrian Mithani and Eiren Sarvan were more than just cousins. Lovers of long standing, theirs was a bond that would have been the envy of all were it not for one glaring flaw—Ashrian’s inability to commit himself wholeheartedly to Eiren. Despite the dismay of some and the derision of others, Eiren bore his inconstancy, displaying a loyalty Ashrian seemed incapable of returning. That is, until Ashrian crossed a line and the transgression proved one Eiren could not forgive.
In the wake of grief and remorse, Ashrian seeks to make amends and win Eiren back. But something stands in his way. Or rather someone. And the irony of it all is that Ashrian can neither hate nor help befriending the Deir who is his rival for the heart of Ylandre’s most beloved physician.
Contains hermaphroditism and explicit homoerotic sexual encounters.
Scions of the most powerful House in Ylandre, Ashrian Mithani and Eiren Sarvan were more than just cousins. Lovers of long standing, theirs was a bond that would have been the envy of all were it not for one glaring flaw—Ashrian’s inability to commit himself wholeheartedly to Eiren. Despite the dismay of some and the derision of others, Eiren bore his inconstancy, displaying a loyalty Ashrian seemed incapable of returning. That is, until Ashrian crossed a line and the transgression proved one Eiren could not forgive.
In the wake of grief and remorse, Ashrian seeks to make amends and win Eiren back. But something stands in his way. Or rather someone. And the irony of it all is that Ashrian can neither hate nor help befriending the Deir who is his rival for the heart of Ylandre’s most beloved physician.
Contains hermaphroditism and explicit homoerotic sexual encounters.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2012
6 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
About the author
Eressë
10 books363 followersAKA Eressë Belley
Eressë has always enjoyed reading and writing historical fantasy. Indeed, her pen name is taken from the elvish language J.R.R. Tolkien created for his fantasy epic The Lord of the Rings, a favorite of hers since way back when. However, most of her stories turned into M/M romances because the male leads had more chemistry with each other than with the females. Why she wrote them that way she doesn't know. But this penchant for M/M fantasy romance became the wellspring of her series Chronicles of Ylandre.
Eressë lives in Southeast Asia with her husband, three sons and one dog. She also likes to cook and bake and is a professed chocoholic. But her first love is and always will be writing stories.
Blog: Tales by Eressë
Eressë has always enjoyed reading and writing historical fantasy. Indeed, her pen name is taken from the elvish language J.R.R. Tolkien created for his fantasy epic The Lord of the Rings, a favorite of hers since way back when. However, most of her stories turned into M/M romances because the male leads had more chemistry with each other than with the females. Why she wrote them that way she doesn't know. But this penchant for M/M fantasy romance became the wellspring of her series Chronicles of Ylandre.
Eressë lives in Southeast Asia with her husband, three sons and one dog. She also likes to cook and bake and is a professed chocoholic. But her first love is and always will be writing stories.
Blog: Tales by Eressë
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October 16, 2019
Book #3 on Favourites of 2012 at On Top Down Under Book Reviews
http://bookreviewsandtherapy.blogspot...
***CONTAINS SOME SPOILERS**
The Chronicles of Ylandre is a tremendous series, beautifully descriptive with wonderful use of the English language in its prose. This series smacks of meticulous planning - every book from 1 – 4 spans approximately the same timeline, interweaving the previous books MC's and occurrences with the current book's MC's as their own relationship unfolds. The world building that Eresse has previously constructed serves her well as nothing of any great note is new here, just bits and pieces. There’s really no need, it’s all been gloriously built leading into Heartstrings, allowing for a complex story of love lost, love gained, lessons learned, friendships, and new shared and undying love.
Eiren Sarvan and Ashrian Mithani are cousins who have formed a relationship, been together for over 10 years and, even though Ren secretly craves more of a commitment from Ash, none is forthcoming. Ren is a hard working healer, often giving up his own time to look after the needs of patients suffering from any and all maladies; irrespective of title or hour of the day/night, he’s available to help. Ash is a wealthy blueblood, free spirited, lacking a sense of purpose, experiencing upper class ennui. He has shares in the family holdings however, he is not the oldest son, so he mostly parties and spends time enjoying the local nightlife. Ren is very serious about his career, almost to the exclusion of his relationship and his personal needs. Even on his downtime Ren travels to markets in search of herbs and material for medicinal purposes. Ash is the antithesis of this and, at times, resentfully acts out by bedding other men. Eventually you know something is going to give.
So, there is infidelity in the first part of this book, no two ways about it. Mostly, it’s not in your face, if that bothers you, but it’s there and it's Ash's final transgression that is beyond hurtful to Ren and forms a central part of what transpires and why. Bear in mind that these are both grown men - Ash was a definite cad, he slept around, Ren knew about Ash’s dalliances and allowed him to get away with them, even justified it -
‘It was one thing to try to make amends when he’d left Ashrian wanting, and another matter entirely when Ashrian had chosen to rectify his discontent by taking another Deir to bed. That rankled far more deeply than Eiren was willing to admit to anyone even when they had already guessed at the extent of his hurt. How could he still hold his head up in the face of Ashrian’s indiscretions if he owned himself so deeply in love with his errant cousin that he preferred to deny or endure his transgressions rather than break off their affair and thereby forge a life without him? Their cousins had urged him often enough to give Ashrian an ultimatum—behave or be done with their affair. Each time, Eiren had refused, saying he had no liking for coercive dealings. But the truth was, he was not certain Ashrian cared enough to want to continue their relationship at the cost of his freedom. were their liaison to end, Eiren was certain he would suffer more.’
After a major betrayal, Ren can no longer take anymore of Ashrian's behaviour. He takes up an offer to leave Rikara and work in another hospital, in Camara, for a year, thus leaving Ash and their relationship behind. Ash is devastated and writes to Ren hoping to reconcile but Ren writes back telling him his letter is meaningless. Ash decides to wait, give Ren time, and when he comes back to Rikara he'll be able to win his affections back. When Ren does return, Ash pulls strings to attend his offical home coming party that's normally earmarked for healthcare officials, only to learn that Ren is now mated to another, Firyon. Since Ash has been waiting for Ren to come home with hopes of rekindling their relationship, he is shattered.
This really is a book of two halves. There is Ashrian part 1 and part 2. Ash part 1 leaves much to be desired, he is often egocentric and childish. He has a point to some of his feelings, but not to the extent to which he acts out. Even though he wants Ren back he still doesn't accept nearly the responsibility he should for his actions. Ren part 1 is a kind, hard working man, but lets Ash have too many liberties and works too hard. Ash part 2 makes massive changes to his heart and mind, becomes a better man, worthy of friendship, forgiveness and love. Ren part 2 has come through being hurt, bitter and resigned to accepting bad behaviour from a partner. He now knows there is better to be had.
After Ren and Firyon settle into Rikara, Firyon decides to make a friend of Ashrian, knowing fully of his mate's past with Ashrian. After some snarkiness from Ash, and much effort from Firyon, Ash, Ren, and Firyon do become a close-knit group. There is no physical affair between Ren and Ash whilst Ren is mated to Firyon, but there are dreams shared through a bond. Some may feel funny about the dreams that Ren has that pull Ash into them whilst Ren's married to Firyon, that perhaps the dreams are cheating. Firyon knows of the love that Ren and Ash have for one another, that he is sick, dying. This is what led him to Ren, that he is just passing through Ren and Ash's love, and he is accepting of this fact. On one occasion Firyon said to Ash -
"I’ve often thought that maybe the both of you met in a previous lifetime.... And perhaps ’tis just a whim of mine, but what if you’ve been together before, Ash? Maybe over many life cycles. Though obviously you never soul-bound, else you’d have wed each other long ago. Then again, maybe ’twas as Veres meant it to be.”
“What do you mean?” Ashrian asked in bewilderment.
“Mayhap He didn’t have you bind earlier so that you could lend Eiren to me in this life cycle. To ease my passage from the world.”
Then Firyon to Ren -
“Tis all right" Firyon whispered, correctly discerning his silence, "I'd accepted even before we met that I'd likely never regain my health. But I never imagined I'd get to experience such joy as I've had with you. So you see, you've given me the greatest gift of all. I'm forever grateful I was given this chance to love and be loved. So many folk never do."
So much more could be written in this review because there's quite a bit going on in the book. Know it is angsty and difficult at times - there are subjects touched on that will intrigue some but bother others. This series really is best read from book 1 through to get maximum enjoyment. I guess it could be read as a standalone but I personally wouldn't recommend it. I also want to say that these are the only mpreg books I've ever been interested in reading.
There is a sadness but there is also a lovely HEA in this book which I found incredibly satisying, particularly in the birth of a son for Ash and Ren, and the naming of Ash and Ren's son. So respectful, so endearing, showing how far Ashrian had come. It shows that loved ones can live on in other ways. I loved all three of the MC's. Even though Firyon is not a huge focal point in the book he is an incredibly kind and strong presence, a conduit for change in Ash and Ren's life – soothing Ren’s hurt and bitterness, helping Ash become kinder of heart.
Well, Eresse nails it again for me. Heartstrings certainly pulled at mine, it's another wonderful addition to one of my favourite series. I love these mpreg, sci-fantasy, hermaphroditic men with an absolute passion. I hope there is not as long a wait for the next installment in The Chronicles of Ylandre because I can't get enough.
http://bookreviewsandtherapy.blogspot...
http://bookreviewsandtherapy.blogspot...
***CONTAINS SOME SPOILERS**
The Chronicles of Ylandre is a tremendous series, beautifully descriptive with wonderful use of the English language in its prose. This series smacks of meticulous planning - every book from 1 – 4 spans approximately the same timeline, interweaving the previous books MC's and occurrences with the current book's MC's as their own relationship unfolds. The world building that Eresse has previously constructed serves her well as nothing of any great note is new here, just bits and pieces. There’s really no need, it’s all been gloriously built leading into Heartstrings, allowing for a complex story of love lost, love gained, lessons learned, friendships, and new shared and undying love.
Eiren Sarvan and Ashrian Mithani are cousins who have formed a relationship, been together for over 10 years and, even though Ren secretly craves more of a commitment from Ash, none is forthcoming. Ren is a hard working healer, often giving up his own time to look after the needs of patients suffering from any and all maladies; irrespective of title or hour of the day/night, he’s available to help. Ash is a wealthy blueblood, free spirited, lacking a sense of purpose, experiencing upper class ennui. He has shares in the family holdings however, he is not the oldest son, so he mostly parties and spends time enjoying the local nightlife. Ren is very serious about his career, almost to the exclusion of his relationship and his personal needs. Even on his downtime Ren travels to markets in search of herbs and material for medicinal purposes. Ash is the antithesis of this and, at times, resentfully acts out by bedding other men. Eventually you know something is going to give.
So, there is infidelity in the first part of this book, no two ways about it. Mostly, it’s not in your face, if that bothers you, but it’s there and it's Ash's final transgression that is beyond hurtful to Ren and forms a central part of what transpires and why. Bear in mind that these are both grown men - Ash was a definite cad, he slept around, Ren knew about Ash’s dalliances and allowed him to get away with them, even justified it -
‘It was one thing to try to make amends when he’d left Ashrian wanting, and another matter entirely when Ashrian had chosen to rectify his discontent by taking another Deir to bed. That rankled far more deeply than Eiren was willing to admit to anyone even when they had already guessed at the extent of his hurt. How could he still hold his head up in the face of Ashrian’s indiscretions if he owned himself so deeply in love with his errant cousin that he preferred to deny or endure his transgressions rather than break off their affair and thereby forge a life without him? Their cousins had urged him often enough to give Ashrian an ultimatum—behave or be done with their affair. Each time, Eiren had refused, saying he had no liking for coercive dealings. But the truth was, he was not certain Ashrian cared enough to want to continue their relationship at the cost of his freedom. were their liaison to end, Eiren was certain he would suffer more.’
After a major betrayal, Ren can no longer take anymore of Ashrian's behaviour. He takes up an offer to leave Rikara and work in another hospital, in Camara, for a year, thus leaving Ash and their relationship behind. Ash is devastated and writes to Ren hoping to reconcile but Ren writes back telling him his letter is meaningless. Ash decides to wait, give Ren time, and when he comes back to Rikara he'll be able to win his affections back. When Ren does return, Ash pulls strings to attend his offical home coming party that's normally earmarked for healthcare officials, only to learn that Ren is now mated to another, Firyon. Since Ash has been waiting for Ren to come home with hopes of rekindling their relationship, he is shattered.
This really is a book of two halves. There is Ashrian part 1 and part 2. Ash part 1 leaves much to be desired, he is often egocentric and childish. He has a point to some of his feelings, but not to the extent to which he acts out. Even though he wants Ren back he still doesn't accept nearly the responsibility he should for his actions. Ren part 1 is a kind, hard working man, but lets Ash have too many liberties and works too hard. Ash part 2 makes massive changes to his heart and mind, becomes a better man, worthy of friendship, forgiveness and love. Ren part 2 has come through being hurt, bitter and resigned to accepting bad behaviour from a partner. He now knows there is better to be had.
After Ren and Firyon settle into Rikara, Firyon decides to make a friend of Ashrian, knowing fully of his mate's past with Ashrian. After some snarkiness from Ash, and much effort from Firyon, Ash, Ren, and Firyon do become a close-knit group. There is no physical affair between Ren and Ash whilst Ren is mated to Firyon, but there are dreams shared through a bond. Some may feel funny about the dreams that Ren has that pull Ash into them whilst Ren's married to Firyon, that perhaps the dreams are cheating. Firyon knows of the love that Ren and Ash have for one another, that he is sick, dying. This is what led him to Ren, that he is just passing through Ren and Ash's love, and he is accepting of this fact. On one occasion Firyon said to Ash -
"I’ve often thought that maybe the both of you met in a previous lifetime.... And perhaps ’tis just a whim of mine, but what if you’ve been together before, Ash? Maybe over many life cycles. Though obviously you never soul-bound, else you’d have wed each other long ago. Then again, maybe ’twas as Veres meant it to be.”
“What do you mean?” Ashrian asked in bewilderment.
“Mayhap He didn’t have you bind earlier so that you could lend Eiren to me in this life cycle. To ease my passage from the world.”
Then Firyon to Ren -
“Tis all right" Firyon whispered, correctly discerning his silence, "I'd accepted even before we met that I'd likely never regain my health. But I never imagined I'd get to experience such joy as I've had with you. So you see, you've given me the greatest gift of all. I'm forever grateful I was given this chance to love and be loved. So many folk never do."
So much more could be written in this review because there's quite a bit going on in the book. Know it is angsty and difficult at times - there are subjects touched on that will intrigue some but bother others. This series really is best read from book 1 through to get maximum enjoyment. I guess it could be read as a standalone but I personally wouldn't recommend it. I also want to say that these are the only mpreg books I've ever been interested in reading.
There is a sadness but there is also a lovely HEA in this book which I found incredibly satisying, particularly in the birth of a son for Ash and Ren, and the naming of Ash and Ren's son. So respectful, so endearing, showing how far Ashrian had come. It shows that loved ones can live on in other ways. I loved all three of the MC's. Even though Firyon is not a huge focal point in the book he is an incredibly kind and strong presence, a conduit for change in Ash and Ren's life – soothing Ren’s hurt and bitterness, helping Ash become kinder of heart.
Well, Eresse nails it again for me. Heartstrings certainly pulled at mine, it's another wonderful addition to one of my favourite series. I love these mpreg, sci-fantasy, hermaphroditic men with an absolute passion. I hope there is not as long a wait for the next installment in The Chronicles of Ylandre because I can't get enough.
http://bookreviewsandtherapy.blogspot...
February 11, 2015
Another adventure into Ylandre.
The time period is spread over other books in the story, so there are references to them that without reading will not be hard, but give an idea of how long this encompasses. It's a long, rough journey for Ren and Ash. Filled with a lot of bad decisions and reads a bit like a soap opera turned Hallmark movie. By the end, it's saccharine, yet I was smiling like a loon. I have no justification for this other than I'm very partial to fantasy settings and the concept of Ylandre's hermaphrodism.
Loved the natal shell that the babes are born in. Ren is a healer so a good portion revolves around how his life affected by his work. It's grueling in spots and like Ash you wouldn't mind him being less self-sacrificing.
The time period is spread over other books in the story, so there are references to them that without reading will not be hard, but give an idea of how long this encompasses. It's a long, rough journey for Ren and Ash. Filled with a lot of bad decisions and reads a bit like a soap opera turned Hallmark movie. By the end, it's saccharine, yet I was smiling like a loon. I have no justification for this other than I'm very partial to fantasy settings and the concept of Ylandre's hermaphrodism.
Loved the natal shell that the babes are born in. Ren is a healer so a good portion revolves around how his life affected by his work. It's grueling in spots and like Ash you wouldn't mind him being less self-sacrificing.
August 4, 2013
3.0 Stars
Ashrian Mithani and Eiren Sarvan are true bloods and cousins who have been lovers for the past 10 years. Eiren is a talented physician and always on call. Ash, who resents playing second fiddle to Eiren's patients, is a playboy who cannot commit himself to Eiren, despite caring for him deeply (whatever). Ash's cheating eventually gets to be too much for Eiren (duh!) and he bails. He takes an assignment in another part of the country to get away from Ash. Ash regrets what he's lost but any hope of reconciling is dashed when Eiren comes home happily married. Eiren's mate (Fir) is super-caring and uber-selfless (read: totally unbelievable). He strikes up a friendship with Ash. Uh, what!?!?!? Yup! The three buddy it up (totally platonic, no menage). Since Fir is dying, he extracts a promise from Ash to reconcile with Eiren when he's gone. (gag) After Fir's passing, Ash and Eiren come together for support and eventually rekindle the love and passion they once lost.
Honestly, this one was hard for me to rate. Why? Because it put me through the wringer: I laughed, I cried, I cursed (a lot), but I was happy enough at the end. Although I hated parts of the book (I don't do well with infidelity), I have to give kudos to a book that moves me as much as this one did. I abhorred Ash's inconstancy (that's a nice way of putting it) and had a hard time forgiving him but, surprisingly, I did so by the end. I wanted to like Fir but his selflessness was so over-the-top it fell into martyrdom territory. Blech! I hate that. And, I didn't know what the f*ck to make of Eiren. He was sad at times, selfish at times, and infuriating at times. But ultimately, I liked him alright.
Bottom line: Here's the skinny with this book ... it was one-part cheating, one-part martyrdom, and two-parts reconciliation (by two people who can't communicate for sh*t). Proceed at your own risk.
Ashrian Mithani and Eiren Sarvan are true bloods and cousins who have been lovers for the past 10 years. Eiren is a talented physician and always on call. Ash, who resents playing second fiddle to Eiren's patients, is a playboy who cannot commit himself to Eiren, despite caring for him deeply (whatever). Ash's cheating eventually gets to be too much for Eiren (duh!) and he bails. He takes an assignment in another part of the country to get away from Ash. Ash regrets what he's lost but any hope of reconciling is dashed when Eiren comes home happily married. Eiren's mate (Fir) is super-caring and uber-selfless (read: totally unbelievable). He strikes up a friendship with Ash. Uh, what!?!?!? Yup! The three buddy it up (totally platonic, no menage). Since Fir is dying, he extracts a promise from Ash to reconcile with Eiren when he's gone. (gag) After Fir's passing, Ash and Eiren come together for support and eventually rekindle the love and passion they once lost.
Honestly, this one was hard for me to rate. Why? Because it put me through the wringer: I laughed, I cried, I cursed (a lot), but I was happy enough at the end. Although I hated parts of the book (I don't do well with infidelity), I have to give kudos to a book that moves me as much as this one did. I abhorred Ash's inconstancy (that's a nice way of putting it) and had a hard time forgiving him but, surprisingly, I did so by the end. I wanted to like Fir but his selflessness was so over-the-top it fell into martyrdom territory. Blech! I hate that. And, I didn't know what the f*ck to make of Eiren. He was sad at times, selfish at times, and infuriating at times. But ultimately, I liked him alright.
Bottom line: Here's the skinny with this book ... it was one-part cheating, one-part martyrdom, and two-parts reconciliation (by two people who can't communicate for sh*t). Proceed at your own risk.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2016
3.5-3.75 Stars
***Spoilers Abound - Enter at Own Risk***
So this is probably my least favorite of the series so far, because, whelp...
*
*
*
*
*
CHEATING.
And not only cheating, but Ash-banging-someone-Eiren-can't-fucking-stand cheating.
Holy effin' burn, peeps.
There, there, Val. There, there.
Now, normally this is a deal breaker for me - of epic proportions; however, in this case:
1) I was so invested in the series and the characters that I just had to continue.
2) For whatever reason, cheating doesn't bother me AS MUCH in m/m as it does in m/f. I am not sure why this is the case. It doesn't make sense to me either. But whatevs, it is what it is.
So there's that.
Then, AFTER said cheating, Eiren leaves for a while and comes back.
MARRIED.
To someone ELSE.
And as though that isn't enough, the new guy is a righteous dude and everyone loves him. Even Ash.
So you can't even have the satisfaction of hating the guy.
Some other righteously annoying shenanigans ensue - think death and STDs.
But hey, at least I got some really good groveling and an HEA.
And I still love the series.
***Spoilers Abound - Enter at Own Risk***
So this is probably my least favorite of the series so far, because, whelp...
*
*
*
*
*
CHEATING.
And not only cheating, but Ash-banging-someone-Eiren-can't-fucking-stand cheating.
Holy effin' burn, peeps.
There, there, Val. There, there.
Now, normally this is a deal breaker for me - of epic proportions; however, in this case:
1) I was so invested in the series and the characters that I just had to continue.
2) For whatever reason, cheating doesn't bother me AS MUCH in m/m as it does in m/f. I am not sure why this is the case. It doesn't make sense to me either. But whatevs, it is what it is.
So there's that.
Then, AFTER said cheating, Eiren leaves for a while and comes back.
MARRIED.
To someone ELSE.
And as though that isn't enough, the new guy is a righteous dude and everyone loves him. Even Ash.
So you can't even have the satisfaction of hating the guy.
Some other righteously annoying shenanigans ensue - think death and STDs.
But hey, at least I got some really good groveling and an HEA.
And I still love the series.
July 6, 2012
OMG. This was SO GOOD. I stayed up till 4am! *swoon*
This is one of those series where you have to read the books in order because they all happen in the same timeframe. But that's okay, the others are equally as good.
This book had me SOBBING. Like the messy kind where my face looks like it hit a wall. :) AND Eresse made me feel sorry for the guy who did all the wrong things! Absolutely amazing.
I can't squee enough about this book.
This is one of those series where you have to read the books in order because they all happen in the same timeframe. But that's okay, the others are equally as good.
This book had me SOBBING. Like the messy kind where my face looks like it hit a wall. :) AND Eresse made me feel sorry for the guy who did all the wrong things! Absolutely amazing.
I can't squee enough about this book.
November 3, 2014
I really did enjoy this book but found it a little bit frustrating at times and repetitive. I was annoyed at Ashrian for not realising that he just need to run after Eiren and let him know how much he loved him, and frustrated at Eiren towards the end of the book, when he was oblivious to the fact that Ashrian needed to know how much he cared about him.
I'm always a fan of a HEA and was therefore pleased with the way things ended!
I'm always a fan of a HEA and was therefore pleased with the way things ended!
January 6, 2014
This story was a little bit confusing as it took place around the same time as book one in this series did. Ashrien never redeemed himself in my eyes and should have been smart enough to follow Eiren when he left instead of just not writing any longer. I thought Firyor was a terrific character. I had to admire Eiren for trying to heal his step-brother even after his behavior. Even when Eiren and Ashrien reconciled, It always felt like Ashrien had a hidden agenda.
Want to read
June 29, 2012The covers of this series are pure bliss. Hopefully the content is, too. 
September 14, 2014
3.5 - 4 stars.
This is such a tough one to rate! The story took me on a roller-coaster of emotions..I loved parts of it, was annoyed with others, I went from melting inside to being exasperated and on, and on.
Heartstrings started out quite nice. I liked Eiren, I felt for him, what with Ash being a douche. I liked Ash even more, 'cos I have a weakness for charming rogues. And if Eiren could look past Ash's flaws (mostly), so could I.
The second part, starting with the unexpected stunt Eiren pulled off, annoyed the hell out of me. Again a time-jump with an inexplicable change in behavior..
The third part - reconciliation. I was relieved when Fir finally left the scene, and I really enjoyed the book from that point. Most of all, I loved that for the first time we get the more alpha male bearing a child. BIG yay for that! Second - I adore Ash, but he was just too hard on himself, pining after Ren and blaming himself for the past.. (it reminded me of Rio - though Rio's anguish was much more deserved). Ash mellowed out and lost a healthy dose of that roguish, devil-may-care attitude. Sigh. Still, he was sweet, loving and I wanted to kick Eiren's ass for all the times he hurt Ash.
That being said, I loved the dynamics of this couple. They are on equal footing, both confident(no chicks here!). Their story reminded me of Dylen&Rio's, what with all the betrayal, break up and then making up. ))
Loved the ending.
This is such a tough one to rate! The story took me on a roller-coaster of emotions..I loved parts of it, was annoyed with others, I went from melting inside to being exasperated and on, and on.
Heartstrings started out quite nice. I liked Eiren, I felt for him, what with Ash being a douche. I liked Ash even more, 'cos I have a weakness for charming rogues. And if Eiren could look past Ash's flaws (mostly), so could I.
The second part, starting with the unexpected stunt Eiren pulled off, annoyed the hell out of me. Again a time-jump with an inexplicable change in behavior..
The third part - reconciliation. I was relieved when Fir finally left the scene, and I really enjoyed the book from that point. Most of all, I loved that for the first time we get the more alpha male bearing a child. BIG yay for that! Second - I adore Ash, but he was just too hard on himself, pining after Ren and blaming himself for the past.. (it reminded me of Rio - though Rio's anguish was much more deserved). Ash mellowed out and lost a healthy dose of that roguish, devil-may-care attitude. Sigh. Still, he was sweet, loving and I wanted to kick Eiren's ass for all the times he hurt Ash.
That being said, I loved the dynamics of this couple. They are on equal footing, both confident(no chicks here!). Their story reminded me of Dylen&Rio's, what with all the betrayal, break up and then making up. ))
Loved the ending.
July 7, 2012
In the fourth book we are shown the story of the former mentioned healer Eiren. I'm not sure I remember Ash from the other books, but he is Eiren's lover in this one. While Eiren is a dutiful healer and faithful lover, Ash doesn't seem able to commit to just one lover. So while all their family and friends expect them to bond soon(as does Eiren), Ash is less inclined to follow this through. He is more of a libertine, with Eiren still being his favorite lover and probably one of the few that he is also good friends with.
Eiren does tolerate a lot of his lover's behaviour but after Ash commited a betrayal Eiren couldn't accept, they part ways. It's after Ash lost Eiren, that he understand the errors of his way and repents but sometimes saying sorry is not enough.
While it's a good book, it's not my favorite in this series. First of all I had hoped to read more about Eiren's POV and less of Ash, but I understand that this was intended to endear him to the reader, and boy did he need help for that!
Also it's been a while(or a year)since I've read the previous book, so all the different names thrown at one and the complex relation are confusing. I'm somewhat missing a family tree, plus all the marriages of the Essendri family(or at least of the ones mentioned in the book).
While I loved the first book, reading about the events there for the fourth time, does get a bit tiring.
Still it's a good written romance and it still is my favortie mpreg series. Eiren is an interesting character and I really wish the book would have been more about him and not Ash. I don't really like Ash, he is whiny and a cheater in the first part, though it get's better in the second part, he is still not my favorite character.
Eiren does tolerate a lot of his lover's behaviour but after Ash commited a betrayal Eiren couldn't accept, they part ways. It's after Ash lost Eiren, that he understand the errors of his way and repents but sometimes saying sorry is not enough.
While it's a good book, it's not my favorite in this series. First of all I had hoped to read more about Eiren's POV and less of Ash, but I understand that this was intended to endear him to the reader, and boy did he need help for that!
Also it's been a while(or a year)since I've read the previous book, so all the different names thrown at one and the complex relation are confusing. I'm somewhat missing a family tree, plus all the marriages of the Essendri family(or at least of the ones mentioned in the book).
While I loved the first book, reading about the events there for the fourth time, does get a bit tiring.
Still it's a good written romance and it still is my favortie mpreg series. Eiren is an interesting character and I really wish the book would have been more about him and not Ash. I don't really like Ash, he is whiny and a cheater in the first part, though it get's better in the second part, he is still not my favorite character.
August 4, 2012
3.75
What a wonderfully plotted series! The amount of "history" to track for each story is impressive and humbling. And the world-building continued to (no other way to say it!) build and expand. If you look at one of her sites - http://eresse21.weebly.com/, she has ambitiously plotted out 4 more in the series.
Ashrian and Eiren have been involved for many, many years and during those years, Eiren has tolerated Ashrian's promiscuity. That is until Ash goes too far in his choice of companions. The falling out happens fairly early in the story and the remainder is their journey to reconciliation.
My only niggles:
1) Some typos. I don't recall catching any in previous stories but most are very small, i.e. 'of' instead of 'off' and simply missing a word. There is a mix-up of names in one instance; a speaker identified as Ashrian instead of Aeldan that threw me a little bit.
2) Damn there are a lot of characters to keep track of!! This isn't really a niggle, just me being whiney. After seeing that a total of 8 stories is planned for the series I understand keeping certain characters "alive" even if just minimally. But I'm at the point where I don't try to remember who is a sibling to whom and just enjoy their appearances.
I recommend this to readers. Do you need to have read the previous 3 to enjoy? Not really but it will make more sense if you've read at least the first one, "Sacred Fate".
What a wonderfully plotted series! The amount of "history" to track for each story is impressive and humbling. And the world-building continued to (no other way to say it!) build and expand. If you look at one of her sites - http://eresse21.weebly.com/, she has ambitiously plotted out 4 more in the series.
Ashrian and Eiren have been involved for many, many years and during those years, Eiren has tolerated Ashrian's promiscuity. That is until Ash goes too far in his choice of companions. The falling out happens fairly early in the story and the remainder is their journey to reconciliation.
My only niggles:
1) Some typos. I don't recall catching any in previous stories but most are very small, i.e. 'of' instead of 'off' and simply missing a word. There is a mix-up of names in one instance; a speaker identified as Ashrian instead of Aeldan that threw me a little bit.
2) Damn there are a lot of characters to keep track of!! This isn't really a niggle, just me being whiney. After seeing that a total of 8 stories is planned for the series I understand keeping certain characters "alive" even if just minimally. But I'm at the point where I don't try to remember who is a sibling to whom and just enjoy their appearances.
I recommend this to readers. Do you need to have read the previous 3 to enjoy? Not really but it will make more sense if you've read at least the first one, "Sacred Fate".
July 12, 2013
Wow.... Tears are still rolling down my face. This book was absolutely amazing. It broke your heart beyond repair, showed you the greatness of remorse, forgiveness and love. I cannot praise this book enough. The shock at Ash's betrayal, the extend of ignorance from Ren and the unconditional love, understanding and respect from Fir. This book is the best in the series, no doubt! I'd take it as far as saying it's in my top five books now that I've read it.
To those of you that is unsure of whether to read this book or not, do not fall trapped by the negative reviews. This is a book you don't want to miss out on!
If you worry about the mpreg, then don't. It was such a beautiful journey, and the birth and naming of the child was so intimate and wonderful that I struggled to make out the letters through my tears to end this book.
Gods, I don't have enough good words to say about Heartstrings. Just take my word for what it is and read it! I have faith that you will not be disappointed :)
Oh no spoilers this time, must be a first! lol
To those of you that is unsure of whether to read this book or not, do not fall trapped by the negative reviews. This is a book you don't want to miss out on!
If you worry about the mpreg, then don't. It was such a beautiful journey, and the birth and naming of the child was so intimate and wonderful that I struggled to make out the letters through my tears to end this book.
Gods, I don't have enough good words to say about Heartstrings. Just take my word for what it is and read it! I have faith that you will not be disappointed :)
Oh no spoilers this time, must be a first! lol
December 11, 2015
Absolutely enjoying this world. However, this is probably the weakest book for me so far. I'm not sure why, it just didn't sit well with me like the other books. I personally find cheating an unforgivable offence, especially when done more than once.
I loved the character of Firyon, it just didn't make sense to the overall story. I can understand Ren marrying another after what Ash did to him, but that he loved him when Ash is his soul mate just didn't make sense to me. It made the story one big emotional mess. I still enjoyed this book and am going straight on to the next.
I loved the character of Firyon, it just didn't make sense to the overall story. I can understand Ren marrying another after what Ash did to him, but that he loved him when Ash is his soul mate just didn't make sense to me. It made the story one big emotional mess. I still enjoyed this book and am going straight on to the next.
August 14, 2016
this story is certainly difficult with a lot of ups and downs ... but I really liked this book, not as much as the first book but it is very near the top.
Eiren is a great characters but in the second half, I did not love him as much as Ash ... because even if he is always helpful, he can be hurtful as well without realizing it.
Ash did a lot of groveling and he did it well!!!
Eiren is a great characters but in the second half, I did not love him as much as Ash ... because even if he is always helpful, he can be hurtful as well without realizing it.
Ash did a lot of groveling and he did it well!!!
Want to read
July 2, 2012I think there should be a ebook store that sells it this is bullshit!!!
July 5, 2021
Here is my tier list for the Chronicles of Ylandre books:
Tier 1 (great): Heartstrings, Hallowed Bond
Tier 2 (good): Sacred Fate, Shield Mate, Duty or Desire
Tier 3 (okay): In Fine Form
Tier 4 (bad): Cross Purposes
Tier 5 (awful): By Chance Met
Heartstrings is definitely the best book in the entire Chronicles of Ylandre series. Now that I've read the series twice-through, I can say that Ashrian is the single best MC in all of the novels (also, judging by the cover, he is the hottest as well, but that's neither here nor there lol).
In truth, if you are going to have a character like Ashrian as the protagonist, you have to strike a balance between their deeply embedded flaws and their ability to redeem themselves and become worthy of love. This author manages this balance very well. Ashrian was absolutely an asshole in the beginning, but, throughout the book, it was obvious why he was so deeply loved as well, both by Eiren and by his family and friends. He redeemed himself very well, paying for his mistakes, introspecting his reasons, and sincerely apologizing for the hurt he caused.
He undergoes so much character development and heartache that he puts almost all of the other MCs to shame. I also think he's the only MC who truly paid for his mistakes (to the point that I think he was slightly martyred because he really isn't that bad) and earnestly tried to become a better person (unlike that snake Riodan in Hallowed Bond). Eiren was also a good character, but I sort of wish we had more time in his mind to see him understand his own flaws and try to change for the better as well. Nevertheless, both Ashrian and Eiren were realized characters with distinct personalities and neither of them fit the "chicks with dicks" stereotype that plagued Lassen and Naeth in Sacred Fate and Chance Met respectively.
The book's name is well-deserved, because the events really do hurt your heart. I still have a tough time reading the scene in which I honestly wish the book was longer because I wanted more time with these characters. Even the sex scenes were the best out of the whole series because Ashrian and Eiren were always tender and loving with each other and knew how to bring the other pleasure. There was no BS about using the other as an outlet for work frustration like with Rohyr and Lassen, and Reijir and Naeth. They just genuinely cared for each other and coupled because they desired each other.
I'm also glad that there was little to no political intrigue in this book. I feel like this author tends to boil down politics into: Non-Imcael Essendris/Ylandre good, everyone else bad with little room for nuance. Also, most of Rohyr's advisors are called amazingly smart, but actually seem pretty dumb but we're not going to talk about that here. I also liked how the "villain" was mostly miscommunication and human mistakes... because this author's villains tend to be shallow and portrayed to be stupid in comparison to the MCs (see Tyrde, Malkon, Guyon).
I also loved the relationship between Ashrian and his older brother, Aeldan. I am a huge fan of sibling relationships in novels, and it was sweet to see how much Aeldan loved and protected his younger brother, while at the same time, helping him see his faults and improve. I would honestly love to have an older brother like him.
That being said, I did have some issues with this book. The rest will be under the spoiler:
Just as a fun bonus, I'm going to rank the MCs in terms of beauty based on the cover art:
1. Ashrian: red hair, hazel eyes, gorgeous bone structure, attitude - fucking kill me already.
2. Dylen: love the black hair + green eyes combo; also love the determination and fearlessness in his gaze
3. Rohyr: nice face, but that hairstyle is straight up tragic.
4. Eiren: love dark hair + blue eyes; also like the mischief in his gaze
5. Ranael: why do you gotta be so good looking with such a shitty personality
6. Riodan: you're a snake, but you're pretty.
7. Reijir: is his hair actually purple lol
8. Tristen: more boy-next-door good looks
9. Vaeren: his face looks a bit sunburned
10. Lassen: I pictured someone with more delicate features tbh. He looks like a Slytherin.
11. Yandro: ditto.
12. Keosqe: major DILF vibes
13. Jareth
14. Naeth: looks like a rat
Tier 1 (great): Heartstrings, Hallowed Bond
Tier 2 (good): Sacred Fate, Shield Mate, Duty or Desire
Tier 3 (okay): In Fine Form
Tier 4 (bad): Cross Purposes
Tier 5 (awful): By Chance Met
Heartstrings is definitely the best book in the entire Chronicles of Ylandre series. Now that I've read the series twice-through, I can say that Ashrian is the single best MC in all of the novels (also, judging by the cover, he is the hottest as well, but that's neither here nor there lol).
In truth, if you are going to have a character like Ashrian as the protagonist, you have to strike a balance between their deeply embedded flaws and their ability to redeem themselves and become worthy of love. This author manages this balance very well. Ashrian was absolutely an asshole in the beginning, but, throughout the book, it was obvious why he was so deeply loved as well, both by Eiren and by his family and friends. He redeemed himself very well, paying for his mistakes, introspecting his reasons, and sincerely apologizing for the hurt he caused.
He undergoes so much character development and heartache that he puts almost all of the other MCs to shame. I also think he's the only MC who truly paid for his mistakes (to the point that I think he was slightly martyred because he really isn't that bad) and earnestly tried to become a better person (unlike that snake Riodan in Hallowed Bond). Eiren was also a good character, but I sort of wish we had more time in his mind to see him understand his own flaws and try to change for the better as well. Nevertheless, both Ashrian and Eiren were realized characters with distinct personalities and neither of them fit the "chicks with dicks" stereotype that plagued Lassen and Naeth in Sacred Fate and Chance Met respectively.
The book's name is well-deserved, because the events really do hurt your heart. I still have a tough time reading the scene in which I honestly wish the book was longer because I wanted more time with these characters. Even the sex scenes were the best out of the whole series because Ashrian and Eiren were always tender and loving with each other and knew how to bring the other pleasure. There was no BS about using the other as an outlet for work frustration like with Rohyr and Lassen, and Reijir and Naeth. They just genuinely cared for each other and coupled because they desired each other.
I'm also glad that there was little to no political intrigue in this book. I feel like this author tends to boil down politics into: Non-Imcael Essendris/Ylandre good, everyone else bad with little room for nuance. Also, most of Rohyr's advisors are called amazingly smart, but actually seem pretty dumb but we're not going to talk about that here. I also liked how the "villain" was mostly miscommunication and human mistakes... because this author's villains tend to be shallow and portrayed to be stupid in comparison to the MCs (see Tyrde, Malkon, Guyon).
I also loved the relationship between Ashrian and his older brother, Aeldan. I am a huge fan of sibling relationships in novels, and it was sweet to see how much Aeldan loved and protected his younger brother, while at the same time, helping him see his faults and improve. I would honestly love to have an older brother like him.
That being said, I did have some issues with this book. The rest will be under the spoiler:
Just as a fun bonus, I'm going to rank the MCs in terms of beauty based on the cover art:
1. Ashrian: red hair, hazel eyes, gorgeous bone structure, attitude - fucking kill me already.
2. Dylen: love the black hair + green eyes combo; also love the determination and fearlessness in his gaze
3. Rohyr: nice face, but that hairstyle is straight up tragic.
4. Eiren: love dark hair + blue eyes; also like the mischief in his gaze
5. Ranael: why do you gotta be so good looking with such a shitty personality
6. Riodan: you're a snake, but you're pretty.
7. Reijir: is his hair actually purple lol
8. Tristen: more boy-next-door good looks
9. Vaeren: his face looks a bit sunburned
10. Lassen: I pictured someone with more delicate features tbh. He looks like a Slytherin.
11. Yandro: ditto.
12. Keosqe: major DILF vibes
13. Jareth
14. Naeth: looks like a rat
January 20, 2021
This book, to be honest, impressed me as quite cheesy, but the major elements are all my things: betrayal, abandoning, self-esteem, deliberate, distancing, second chance. So I feel I need to be honest to how I find it, and give it at least 3.5 stars.
Character development is very interesting and more sophisticated than predecessors on the franchise. Ren started with a very benign and saint-like impression, only to be exposed his lack of empathy and too much focus on career, while on the other hand Ash's weakness and how he turned to find of focus and source of self-esteem in life is pretty well done. As a result, even if all the plot twists are cliché and essentially really juvenile (hey, this is a series of 8 fat books of super smart alien aristocratic characters suffering for lack of communication skills, deal with it), I like it and devoured it in 2 days.
Another problem that isn't a problem for me is, again, the pretentious tone (I wouldn't say it's medieval or retro because it's simply not, but I'm ok with it) and tons of jargons that will definitely take some time to get used to. And the caste cultural differences...I feel it might be offensive to some readers, but not a problem for me at least.
So despite I like this book alright, I'm stating clearly this franchise is not for everyone. Only try it if you have the patience for the jargons, pretentious tone and cheesy plot twists with terribly failing communication.
Also...I know the royal relatives are all dark but somehow I always depict Ren as fair.
Character development is very interesting and more sophisticated than predecessors on the franchise. Ren started with a very benign and saint-like impression, only to be exposed his lack of empathy and too much focus on career, while on the other hand Ash's weakness and how he turned to find of focus and source of self-esteem in life is pretty well done. As a result, even if all the plot twists are cliché and essentially really juvenile (hey, this is a series of 8 fat books of super smart alien aristocratic characters suffering for lack of communication skills, deal with it), I like it and devoured it in 2 days.
Another problem that isn't a problem for me is, again, the pretentious tone (I wouldn't say it's medieval or retro because it's simply not, but I'm ok with it) and tons of jargons that will definitely take some time to get used to. And the caste cultural differences...I feel it might be offensive to some readers, but not a problem for me at least.
So despite I like this book alright, I'm stating clearly this franchise is not for everyone. Only try it if you have the patience for the jargons, pretentious tone and cheesy plot twists with terribly failing communication.
Also...I know the royal relatives are all dark but somehow I always depict Ren as fair.
May 18, 2020
Let's address the white elephant shall we?
Cheating
CHEATING
C.H.E.A.T.I.N.G..!!!!!!
Ok. I feel much better.
Now, Cheating is like a complete no-no for me. But, for some reason I was too invested in the characters that I just had to continue. And I was surprised and delighted to notice that the story took an unexpected turn.
Though, Ashrian pissed me off in the beginning, by the middle of the novel my anger dissipated quite a bit. And by the end, I felt a lot of respect for him. Ashrian has definitely become one of the most memorable characters of this series.
I ended up enjoying this installment more than I thought I would.
Cheating
CHEATING
C.H.E.A.T.I.N.G..!!!!!!
Ok. I feel much better.
Now, Cheating is like a complete no-no for me. But, for some reason I was too invested in the characters that I just had to continue. And I was surprised and delighted to notice that the story took an unexpected turn.
Though, Ashrian pissed me off in the beginning, by the middle of the novel my anger dissipated quite a bit. And by the end, I felt a lot of respect for him. Ashrian has definitely become one of the most memorable characters of this series.
I ended up enjoying this installment more than I thought I would.
July 30, 2022
I’m writing this down before I even finish the book, but I hope ash, ren, and fir end up in a relationship together.
okay so that didnt happen but I wish it did there was sm potential! even if the author still had fir die the three of them could have been something until then.
I loved the ending and am so glad ash and eiren named their son after fir it was perfect. eiren and ash had such a long hard road but at the end they were happy and for that I am thankful.
okay so that didnt happen but I wish it did there was sm potential! even if the author still had fir die the three of them could have been something until then.
I loved the ending and am so glad ash and eiren named their son after fir it was perfect. eiren and ash had such a long hard road but at the end they were happy and for that I am thankful.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2018
I love angst very much and this book provide me that in every edges !! Lot and lot of loveeee!!
#reread
#reread
August 6, 2012
5 Hearts
First published at MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.co...
Heartstrings is a very fitting title for this book as it will definitely be pulling at yours. Ashrian (Ash) and Eiren (Ren) have a very tenuous relationship. Ren is committed to Ash, but Ash still lives the high life and enjoys his flirtations. But, one day Ash goes too far and Ren doesn’t think he will ever forgive him and accepts a position that he had been toying with taking. When Ren returns he brings back a new love and dashes Ash’s hope of regaining his love, but circumstances change over the years and a spark returns between Ren and Ash.
This story runs parallel to the other stories in this series and as always we see a wonderful selection of characters that we have fallen in love with in the past. In this story, we have heartbreak, cheating, betrayal, remorse, redemption and forgiveness. Ren and Ash have had a very up and down relationship for many years and Ren has always put up with Ash’s unfaithfulness, but one night Ash sleeps with the wrong person and Ren has had enough. When Ren is gone, Ash realizes exactly what Ren really meant to him. But, by the time Ren comes back, Ren has moved on and there is nothing that Ash can do about it.
As always in a relationship there is always more than one point of view and to make a relationship work there has to be communication, and with Ren and Ash there is a distinct lack of communication. *sigh* When I started to read this one I really wanted to hate Ash, but the further I got into the book the more I began to sympathize with him. because Ren never put his foot down, Ren never really pulled him about anything and just walked around like a martyr with a ‘woe is me, my man cheats on me and I do nothing about it’ attitude. I will be honest all my sympathy went to Ash and I think that Ash and Firyon (I won’t spoil it) were great characters and Ren came into his own much later when he also faced his own faults.
This story is again beautifully written. We are given more world building with fantastic characters. Eressë drags us back into the world of Ylandre, giving us more knowledge about characters we have met in the past. Filling us in with the stories of others and tearing our heartstrings as we become involved with the beloved characters. Ren and Ash’s story with shock you, it will disgust you, it will make you tear up, it will get you angry and it will fill you with forgiveness and happiness but it will never be boring.
I am recommending this to all those who love m-preg, misunderstandings, frustration, despair, angst, forgiveness, happiness, growing relationships and growing people but most of all a happy ever after that is well deserved.
First published at MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.co...
Heartstrings is a very fitting title for this book as it will definitely be pulling at yours. Ashrian (Ash) and Eiren (Ren) have a very tenuous relationship. Ren is committed to Ash, but Ash still lives the high life and enjoys his flirtations. But, one day Ash goes too far and Ren doesn’t think he will ever forgive him and accepts a position that he had been toying with taking. When Ren returns he brings back a new love and dashes Ash’s hope of regaining his love, but circumstances change over the years and a spark returns between Ren and Ash.
This story runs parallel to the other stories in this series and as always we see a wonderful selection of characters that we have fallen in love with in the past. In this story, we have heartbreak, cheating, betrayal, remorse, redemption and forgiveness. Ren and Ash have had a very up and down relationship for many years and Ren has always put up with Ash’s unfaithfulness, but one night Ash sleeps with the wrong person and Ren has had enough. When Ren is gone, Ash realizes exactly what Ren really meant to him. But, by the time Ren comes back, Ren has moved on and there is nothing that Ash can do about it.
As always in a relationship there is always more than one point of view and to make a relationship work there has to be communication, and with Ren and Ash there is a distinct lack of communication. *sigh* When I started to read this one I really wanted to hate Ash, but the further I got into the book the more I began to sympathize with him. because Ren never put his foot down, Ren never really pulled him about anything and just walked around like a martyr with a ‘woe is me, my man cheats on me and I do nothing about it’ attitude. I will be honest all my sympathy went to Ash and I think that Ash and Firyon (I won’t spoil it) were great characters and Ren came into his own much later when he also faced his own faults.
This story is again beautifully written. We are given more world building with fantastic characters. Eressë drags us back into the world of Ylandre, giving us more knowledge about characters we have met in the past. Filling us in with the stories of others and tearing our heartstrings as we become involved with the beloved characters. Ren and Ash’s story with shock you, it will disgust you, it will make you tear up, it will get you angry and it will fill you with forgiveness and happiness but it will never be boring.
I am recommending this to all those who love m-preg, misunderstandings, frustration, despair, angst, forgiveness, happiness, growing relationships and growing people but most of all a happy ever after that is well deserved.
December 31, 2012
This, the fourth novel in the Chronicles of Ylandre series, follows the tumultuous partnership of two royal cousins - Eiren, the foremost healer of their time, and Ashrian, a second son and well-known philanderer - over a course of 16 years or so.
Eiren had always accepted that he loved Ashrian, but had long resigned himself to Ashrian's lack of sexual fidelity. While hurt by his lover's casual flings, he did realize that he held first place in Ashrian's affections, so, somewhat unwillingly, he was prepared to forgive him. That is, until Ashrian strayed just a little too far, and finally destroyed Eiren's trust completely. Devasted, Eiren accepts a clinical placement far away, and it is only when he has gone, does Ashrian realize exactly what he had carelessly thrown away.
Somewhat predictably, the rest of the novel follows Ashrian's attempts to woo his former lover back into his life, and he finds it became a much harder task than he believed it would be when Erien finally returns to the capital. While the course of the novel is largely predictable, there are a few unexpected twists. Sometimes I found the main character's actions (or lack of) rather frustrating, but for the most part, the characters stayed true to form. I found one of the highlights for me was that this novel allowed me to see events covered in the previous 3 novels through two different points of view, particularly the romance of Rohyr and Lassen. Overall, while I enjoyed this novel, I think I still find the very first novel - Sacred Fate - is my favorite.
Eiren had always accepted that he loved Ashrian, but had long resigned himself to Ashrian's lack of sexual fidelity. While hurt by his lover's casual flings, he did realize that he held first place in Ashrian's affections, so, somewhat unwillingly, he was prepared to forgive him. That is, until Ashrian strayed just a little too far, and finally destroyed Eiren's trust completely. Devasted, Eiren accepts a clinical placement far away, and it is only when he has gone, does Ashrian realize exactly what he had carelessly thrown away.
Somewhat predictably, the rest of the novel follows Ashrian's attempts to woo his former lover back into his life, and he finds it became a much harder task than he believed it would be when Erien finally returns to the capital. While the course of the novel is largely predictable, there are a few unexpected twists. Sometimes I found the main character's actions (or lack of) rather frustrating, but for the most part, the characters stayed true to form. I found one of the highlights for me was that this novel allowed me to see events covered in the previous 3 novels through two different points of view, particularly the romance of Rohyr and Lassen. Overall, while I enjoyed this novel, I think I still find the very first novel - Sacred Fate - is my favorite.
October 21, 2014
This is not my favorite of the series, but it's still good. I had a hard time feeling for any of the characters. Ash is a spoiled manwhore at the beginning. He ends up growing by the end, but I felt like he wasn't as to blame or as bad as he was portrayed to be. Yes he lashes out and does a pretty unforgivable thing, but given how he had that pattern and was always forgiven I can't blame him for rationalizing it as no big deal. Ren is fairly oblivious and self centered person who plays the victim. And I honestly do not understand Fir's purpose. He adds nothing concrete. He's just there. Until he's not. The only thing he does is be a saint. It was just weird and I don't get it. All that said...I still love this series, and am so glad I was "forced" to finally start it. I got sad in the sad places, I was happy in the happy places, I felt things. So mission accomplished.
August 31, 2014
This is probably the hardest book in this series to read so far and I applaud the author for taking such a risk. I wasn't excited about reading this story in the beginning but I determined to plow my way through it for the sake of the series. Boy was I unprepared for the rollercoaster. So often romances glance over the shady side of life. Unprotected sex never has any consequences despite his title of greatest lover of all times. Eresse hasn't failed to tackle that subject in this series or book. Eiren seems like the perfect mate. He's passionate and giving and independent...maybe to the extreme? Ashrian is the flawed...openly acknowledged by all but is he unredeemable?
This is no whaam bam I'm sorry baby please forgive me the end story. The character grow and are challenged. Ashrian just doesn't change his character completely from one chapter to the next. Instead a series of events happens that changes his outlook on himself and those around him and enables him to really mature. As others have commented, I like Firyon. I hate it when MCs have to live life unloved until they become mated. Firyon represented an opportu ity for Eiren to experience true devotion and learn to take time for a spouse. When you're not sure if they are going to be there in the morning...you learn to take a little time away from life to nurture them.
I love this series and I'm glad I didn't this book.
This is no whaam bam I'm sorry baby please forgive me the end story. The character grow and are challenged. Ashrian just doesn't change his character completely from one chapter to the next. Instead a series of events happens that changes his outlook on himself and those around him and enables him to really mature. As others have commented, I like Firyon. I hate it when MCs have to live life unloved until they become mated. Firyon represented an opportu ity for Eiren to experience true devotion and learn to take time for a spouse. When you're not sure if they are going to be there in the morning...you learn to take a little time away from life to nurture them.
I love this series and I'm glad I didn't this book.
July 8, 2012
Not as good of a read as the first 3 books. I found I was a bit frustrated and just a tad bit annoyed at all the misunderstanding that occurred between Ren and Ash and the self-pitying ("woe is me") from Ren.
The ending was nice and I loved the fact that the characters in the other books are always present in the following book and readers get a little more detail about certain events. If not for this I would have rated the book a 3 instead of a 4.
The ending was nice and I loved the fact that the characters in the other books are always present in the following book and readers get a little more detail about certain events. If not for this I would have rated the book a 3 instead of a 4.
November 3, 2015
Second chances romance with some cousins in love but on a bumpy road to heartbreak before they find peace and love.
This was realistic in the showing how first love burns passionately, but hurts extremely when it doesn't work out, because 99% of first love doesn't become a person's last love (unless they die young?!)
So we find ourselves in the capital city of Rikara and hanging out with the royal powerful family of Ylandre, Ashrian Mithani and the famous healer Eiren Sarvan who have been long time lovers, but fall apart because Ashrian can't keep his pants zipped up. Eiren makes mistakes as well, but it brings him peace with his new love whereas Ashrian's mistakes just compound his pain and suffering. The continual dreams give hope for Eiren and Ashrian, but it is surprising that Ashrian stays celibate when he no longer has too because he is a free agent. So ironic.
I liked this story, but the STD aspect was gross and unneeded like adding salt to a festering wound. I still like Sacred Fate the best.
164 pages and bought for $6.99
3 stars
This was realistic in the showing how first love burns passionately, but hurts extremely when it doesn't work out, because 99% of first love doesn't become a person's last love (unless they die young?!)
So we find ourselves in the capital city of Rikara and hanging out with the royal powerful family of Ylandre, Ashrian Mithani and the famous healer Eiren Sarvan who have been long time lovers, but fall apart because Ashrian can't keep his pants zipped up. Eiren makes mistakes as well, but it brings him peace with his new love whereas Ashrian's mistakes just compound his pain and suffering. The continual dreams give hope for Eiren and Ashrian, but it is surprising that Ashrian stays celibate when he no longer has too because he is a free agent. So ironic.
I liked this story, but the STD aspect was gross and unneeded like adding salt to a festering wound. I still like Sacred Fate the best.
164 pages and bought for $6.99
3 stars
December 5, 2012
Heartstrings is the fourth book in the Chronicles of Ylandre. This is a particularly heart wrenching, emotional rollercoaster episode. The setting is fantasy; however, the personality flaws of the characters are exceptionally realistic. Both men are members of the royal family, though Eiren seems to be more gifted than Ash. Eiren appears to be the victim because he is the only one who is monogamous. Yet there are underlining traits such as being selfish at times and assuming Ash should know Eiren’s unspoken wishes. Ashrian’s sexual misconduct is the result of his fears of rejection. The main problem Eiren and Ashrian have is that they do not discuss their feelings with each other so both men are victims to their emotions. Still, the love they share is marvelously evident in their sensual lovemaking.
Eresse has created a bittersweet saga that will bring the reader to tears along with the feeling of all hope is lost for Eiren and Ashrian, but keep reading because the storyline builds into a extremely enjoyable happy ever after finale.
Eresse has created a bittersweet saga that will bring the reader to tears along with the feeling of all hope is lost for Eiren and Ashrian, but keep reading because the storyline builds into a extremely enjoyable happy ever after finale.
April 10, 2014
As soon as I read the description and saw that it was going to feature Eiren, I wanted to read this book. Unfortunately, while some parts were very well done - like the beginning, and some angst - other parts just left me... puzzled. I liked the characters well enough, but I just wasn't as invested in them as I was for Rohyn & Lassen, or Dylen & Riohan.
I felt like whenever the "spotlight" left either Eiren or Ashrian, their characters became flat and it became hard to discern their thoughts and motivations. In the beginning, it's more from Eiren's perspective, and everything was going along fine. But afterwards, when we shift to Ashrian's perspective, Eiren's actions didn't seem to make sense anymore. I guess I liked the characters and the concept of the plot, but not the execution of it.
I felt like whenever the "spotlight" left either Eiren or Ashrian, their characters became flat and it became hard to discern their thoughts and motivations. In the beginning, it's more from Eiren's perspective, and everything was going along fine. But afterwards, when we shift to Ashrian's perspective, Eiren's actions didn't seem to make sense anymore. I guess I liked the characters and the concept of the plot, but not the execution of it.
January 8, 2014
Main Characters: Ashrian Mithani & Eiren Sarvan
Key Themes: Reunited, Illness, MPreg, H/C, Infidelity, Paranormal
Location: Ylandre
MM romance involving a doctor/healer (Eiren) and shipping magnate (Ash).
The story is definitely packed with drama – tragedy, betrayal, life-threatening illness, loss, and unrequited love…… but for me the sum of the parts did not equal an amazing story.
Don’t get me wrong, this was a fun book to read, but I was not moved by the drama and I failed to connect with the characters.
I felt Ashrian could have been more dynamic and whilst Eiren was an interesting character, even he was not that memorable. The MCs seemed a bit restrained.
I guess Rohyr and Lassen are still my favorite couple of the series.
Key Themes: Reunited, Illness, MPreg, H/C, Infidelity, Paranormal
Location: Ylandre
MM romance involving a doctor/healer (Eiren) and shipping magnate (Ash).
The story is definitely packed with drama – tragedy, betrayal, life-threatening illness, loss, and unrequited love…… but for me the sum of the parts did not equal an amazing story.
Don’t get me wrong, this was a fun book to read, but I was not moved by the drama and I failed to connect with the characters.
I felt Ashrian could have been more dynamic and whilst Eiren was an interesting character, even he was not that memorable. The MCs seemed a bit restrained.
I guess Rohyr and Lassen are still my favorite couple of the series.
November 26, 2016
This whole series is at the top of my-6-star-favs list. I love the characters, the world, the concept of "turning". Everything is so well written and the characters are all so deep. The only stumbling block for me is the names, it takes me a while to get them anchored in my head since they are not something I'm familiar with and often can't figure out how to pronounce them correctly. But other than that this whole series is amazing and should be read one right after the other. The timelines overlap so we see how things are happening from other points of view.
I can't say enough great things about this series, I can only say...
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
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1st read - Mar 24, 2015
2nd read - Nov 23, 2016
I can't say enough great things about this series, I can only say...
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
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1st read - Mar 24, 2015
2nd read - Nov 23, 2016
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