What do you think?
Rate this book
Elder Races #6
Kinked
Two opponents must confront the cause of their obsessive fury in the latest Novel of the Elder Races…
As a harpy, Sentinel Aryal is accustomed to dealing with hate, but Sentinel Quentin Caeravorn manages to inspire in her a burning ire unlike anything she’s ever known. Aryal believes the new Sentinel to be a criminal, and vows to take him out as soon as the opportunity arises. But the harpy’s incessant wrath has pushed Quentin to the limit, and forces him to make a deadly vow of his own.
To put an end to the conflict, Dragos, Lord of the Wyr, sends them on a reconnaissance mission to the Elven land of Numenlaur. Forced to work together, Aryal and Quentin’s mutual antagonism escalates. Each fight draws forth more passion—culminating in an explosively sexual confrontation. But when their quest reveals real danger, Aryal and Quentin must resolve their differences in ways beyond the physical, before the entire Wyr is threatened.
As a harpy, Sentinel Aryal is accustomed to dealing with hate, but Sentinel Quentin Caeravorn manages to inspire in her a burning ire unlike anything she’s ever known. Aryal believes the new Sentinel to be a criminal, and vows to take him out as soon as the opportunity arises. But the harpy’s incessant wrath has pushed Quentin to the limit, and forces him to make a deadly vow of his own.
To put an end to the conflict, Dragos, Lord of the Wyr, sends them on a reconnaissance mission to the Elven land of Numenlaur. Forced to work together, Aryal and Quentin’s mutual antagonism escalates. Each fight draws forth more passion—culminating in an explosively sexual confrontation. But when their quest reveals real danger, Aryal and Quentin must resolve their differences in ways beyond the physical, before the entire Wyr is threatened.
294 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 5, 2013
175 people are currently reading
4052 people want to read
About the author
Thea Harrison
63 books5,492 followersI write paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and other stuff. I taught myself to read when I was four. That was around the time I tried to ride my tricycle to work. I wasn't sure where work was, but I knew it had to be interesting if people went there every day. Now I combine my love of books with work, and I don't have to ride my tricycle to get there. My Elder Races series began May, 2011. You can also find me on Twitter and Facebook!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 663 reviews
June 19, 2016
I've got to say that I wasn't a very big fan of Aryal going into this story. She was very much a harpy like her Wyr form. Always on the attack and fierce. Her obsession with Quentin's crimes was frustrating. This book allows us to get to know her. While she is those things I've mentioned, she is also loyal and determined. She is compassionate and selfless. We really got a shot at seeing her from a different perspective and underneath the layers. Quentin was fighting demons of his own. One of which was an inconceivable attraction to the woman wanting to see him go down. I must admit that reading all that sexual frustration between them including the big fight they had was sexy as hell. They were sent on mission to work it all out and boy did they. There was still danger and the big plot continues to grow. A great addition to the series. Safety: No OW/OM/Sharing after they get together. There is a OW encounter in the beginning of the story that might not sit well. No condoms. Neither is a V. No rape. There is fighting so yes to physical abuse.
June 19, 2017
I wasn't expecting to enjoy this book because I didn't like Aryal going into this book (I wonder how many people's reviews will start with this?) but this book shot right into my top three favorite in the series, along with Dragon Bound and Oracle Moon. This is one I'll definitely be re-reading.
What particularly worked for me was the progression of the relationship that the author took us through, but also that she didn't make the hero so uber-likeable that the heroine became some unlikeable bitch. She made them both flawed and difficult and how they come to fall in love totally works. I also appreciated the slightly...different take on their relationship she took (I'm not telling!) And, last, Aryal went from someone I didn't care for to someone I was totally invested in, and I think that's a very hard task when you have a difficult heroine.
Fans of this series should anticipate this one & pick it up right away, it's a great read and I'm looking forward to reading it again.
Edited to add: I loved the last scene in this book. Loved.
What particularly worked for me was the progression of the relationship that the author took us through, but also that she didn't make the hero so uber-likeable that the heroine became some unlikeable bitch. She made them both flawed and difficult and how they come to fall in love totally works. I also appreciated the slightly...different take on their relationship she took (I'm not telling!) And, last, Aryal went from someone I didn't care for to someone I was totally invested in, and I think that's a very hard task when you have a difficult heroine.
Fans of this series should anticipate this one & pick it up right away, it's a great read and I'm looking forward to reading it again.
Edited to add: I loved the last scene in this book. Loved.
November 13, 2016
Kinked, book #6 in Thea Harrison's Elder Race Series actually turned out to be a surprise!!! A good surprise.........because I wasn't look forward to Aryal's story.
She has not been a favorite of mine in the series. I found her surly, abrasive, domineering ....in fact, totally unlikeable. By the end of the book....she had hooked her claws into me....and I actually liked her!!! Not that she became a "tamed" harpy Sentinel......not in a million years.......but somehow she just grows on you!!!
What an intense and adventure filled journey these two go on. I loved watching the way their animosity and hatred and their attraction growing towards each other.....these are two forceful and controlling characters..........both are sexually aggressive and dominant..neither wanting to give in or submit......but wow...when they give in to each other.......
This book had mystery, adventure, great characters and the BEST...........Peanut!!!!! OMG............Dragos and Pia's little Dragon has arrived..........and I am in love!!!!
One of my favorite quotes in this book - Pia's comment about the effect her son "peanut" aka Liam had on the Wyr Sentinel, Aryal
She has not been a favorite of mine in the series. I found her surly, abrasive, domineering ....in fact, totally unlikeable. By the end of the book....she had hooked her claws into me....and I actually liked her!!! Not that she became a "tamed" harpy Sentinel......not in a million years.......but somehow she just grows on you!!!
She didn’t fit the concept of what a modern female should be like, and that made her even more annoying to a modern, entitled male such as he. She didn’t defer to his opinion or mask her own spiky personality to fit the concept of any modern behavior, because she wasn’t modern.
So, here we have Aryal, ordered by Dragos, to go on a joint and secret reconnaissance mission to the Elven land of Numenlaur......with none other than someone she hates and distrusts............the winner of the Sentinel Games and new sentinel member, Quentin Caeravorn.
What an intense and adventure filled journey these two go on. I loved watching the way their animosity and hatred and their attraction growing towards each other.....these are two forceful and controlling characters..........both are sexually aggressive and dominant..neither wanting to give in or submit......but wow...when they give in to each other.......
She quieted that internal whip that drove him because she became the whip, her soul as sharp as a knife. He could cut himself on her, wrap her in his arms and be her buffer. Heal her from herself, bruise himself on her. Let her heal him. Let her be his buffer. They were so unapologetic, so kinked.Aryal and Quentin’s back story also made me understand them a bit more. In the end, I was happy that these two got their HEA!!!!
He said, “We’re perfect.”
This book had mystery, adventure, great characters and the BEST...........Peanut!!!!! OMG............Dragos and Pia's little Dragon has arrived..........and I am in love!!!!
One of my favorite quotes in this book - Pia's comment about the effect her son "peanut" aka Liam had on the Wyr Sentinel, Aryal
February 20, 2018
Aryal and Quentin
Quentin Caeravorn is the winner of the Sentinel Games that took place during Lord's Fall. Dragos needed new sentinels after Rune and Diago abandoned him to ve with their mates and Quentin the panther will be the newest member of his little army. Aryal is a harpy and a Drago's sentinel for many many years. It is not easy for her to accept Quentin whom she also hates for her own reasons. Maybe because she knows that Quentin hinds secrets and maybe because she suspects that he is a bad guy.
This is a 'haters to lovers' story for these two powerful dominant creatures, so you will get all the sexual tension, the animal magnetism and the building up, until they get together.
For the main part of the book Aryal and Quentin are sent to a mission by the Dragos at the land of Elves, Nonmelaur in order to help any remaining Elves who survived Garvarel. They need to work together, so that they will survive. During this awesome adventure, they will learn so many things about themselves.
Another amazing book with a happy ending that takes place in the fantasy world Thea Harrison has created.
"Can you control her?"
"Of course I can control her," said Quentin nastily. "Every time she lets me."
Quentin Caeravorn is the winner of the Sentinel Games that took place during Lord's Fall. Dragos needed new sentinels after Rune and Diago abandoned him to ve with their mates and Quentin the panther will be the newest member of his little army. Aryal is a harpy and a Drago's sentinel for many many years. It is not easy for her to accept Quentin whom she also hates for her own reasons. Maybe because she knows that Quentin hinds secrets and maybe because she suspects that he is a bad guy.
This is a 'haters to lovers' story for these two powerful dominant creatures, so you will get all the sexual tension, the animal magnetism and the building up, until they get together.
For the main part of the book Aryal and Quentin are sent to a mission by the Dragos at the land of Elves, Nonmelaur in order to help any remaining Elves who survived Garvarel. They need to work together, so that they will survive. During this awesome adventure, they will learn so many things about themselves.
Another amazing book with a happy ending that takes place in the fantasy world Thea Harrison has created.
December 29, 2013
Two of Dragos' Sentinels tearing things up...aka Aryal and Quentin.
Likes:
• I loved the enemies to lovers theme. Aryal and Quentin were sooo funny when they were fighting!
• I don't know why I'm always surprised at how TH can make her characters come alive and endear themselves to you...especially characters you didn't really care for before.
• The bargaining was great!
• The wings! Aww...that was sooo touching and heart breaking. I love how everyone came out at the end.
• I loved how honest Aryal was....and her "promise". She really surprised me.
• I like having the prior characters involved in the current book...especially when they are Dragos and Pia.
• I'm really liking Grym and I'm hoping his book is next. A gargoyle...I know TH can do it. But I'm still waiting for Graydon's book.
Dislikes:
• I could really do without the cheesy sex lines:
"pump his rocket engine and not let go until they both shot to the moon"
and
"incredibly lush prison of her inner flesh". Blah!
• I really wanted to see more of Quentin's elf side and have more of his powers come out.
• The BDSM...really wasn't anything. I was definitely expecting more because of the title. But I'm glad that Aryal and Quentin's relationship was different.
• I didn't like Aryal "seeing" him with another woman.
Overall:
I really was surprised at how much I enjoyed Aryal and Quentin together. Maybe I wished they would've fought the mating a bit more but there was too much other stuff going on in Numenlaur. I can't wait to see what TH comes up with next!
Favorite quotes:
❥ "We all recognize something of our own wildness in you."
❥ "He roared, “IF YOU STOP I WILL MURDER YOU!–"
❥ “I will never betray my mate and never endanger his life with my carelessness or impetuosity. I will fight for and with him, and always have his back whenever he might need me. I will not leave him, and I will not lie to him, and if he will only be patient and forgiving, I will learn how to forgive too, because he will be the most important thing, ever, in the world to me. I will give everything I have to him, along with everything I can be, if he will only do the same for me.”
❥ "As the panther found his peace, the harpy stroked his hair and discovered tenderness."
❥ “I think you might be both my suicide and my salvation.” And he needed her for both. “I love you like a heart attack, woman.”
❥ "You need reassurance now? You really are high maintenance, aren’t you?"
"You know everything’s always all about me."
❥ "You really do poop sparkly rainbows."
Likes:
• I loved the enemies to lovers theme. Aryal and Quentin were sooo funny when they were fighting!
• I don't know why I'm always surprised at how TH can make her characters come alive and endear themselves to you...especially characters you didn't really care for before.
• The bargaining was great!
• The wings! Aww...that was sooo touching and heart breaking. I love how everyone came out at the end.
• I loved how honest Aryal was....and her "promise". She really surprised me.
• I like having the prior characters involved in the current book...especially when they are Dragos and Pia.
• I'm really liking Grym and I'm hoping his book is next. A gargoyle...I know TH can do it. But I'm still waiting for Graydon's book.
Dislikes:
• I could really do without the cheesy sex lines:
"pump his rocket engine and not let go until they both shot to the moon"
and
"incredibly lush prison of her inner flesh". Blah!
• I really wanted to see more of Quentin's elf side and have more of his powers come out.
• The BDSM...really wasn't anything. I was definitely expecting more because of the title. But I'm glad that Aryal and Quentin's relationship was different.
• I didn't like Aryal "seeing" him with another woman.
Overall:
I really was surprised at how much I enjoyed Aryal and Quentin together. Maybe I wished they would've fought the mating a bit more but there was too much other stuff going on in Numenlaur. I can't wait to see what TH comes up with next!
Favorite quotes:
❥ "We all recognize something of our own wildness in you."
❥ "He roared, “IF YOU STOP I WILL MURDER YOU!–"
❥ “I will never betray my mate and never endanger his life with my carelessness or impetuosity. I will fight for and with him, and always have his back whenever he might need me. I will not leave him, and I will not lie to him, and if he will only be patient and forgiving, I will learn how to forgive too, because he will be the most important thing, ever, in the world to me. I will give everything I have to him, along with everything I can be, if he will only do the same for me.”
❥ "As the panther found his peace, the harpy stroked his hair and discovered tenderness."
❥ “I think you might be both my suicide and my salvation.” And he needed her for both. “I love you like a heart attack, woman.”
❥ "You need reassurance now? You really are high maintenance, aren’t you?"
"You know everything’s always all about me."
❥ "You really do poop sparkly rainbows."
July 19, 2016
Best non-Dragos book of the series.
Those two were epic!!! The fights between them (physical and verbal), the chemistry, the dialogue... Perfect!!!
Though, I wish we could've seen that last bargain, one day for him and one day for her *.* but oh well :D
January 25, 2014
I'm not going to lie, I think a huge part of me didn't want to like this book (before I actually started reading it, of course). But Thea Harrison's writing gives me a lady boner... okay, Dragos and a couple of the other males in her novellas do the trick but you get my point.
Because when I saw that this was Aryal's book...
Blah.
I wouldn't be surprised if that was everyone's reaction at first. And then I started reading it and here I am. I loved it. Ms. Harrison managed to turn a character that I was not a fan of into one that I really admired and grew to respect along the way. I'm now a part of Aryal's fan club.
And then there's dirty Quentin. I think my ovaries went for a walk a couple of times. When he called her a dumb ass, I gave him one of the many keys to my heart. Their relationship totally worked for me.
Anyway, I thought this was fantastic and I can't wait for another ER novel or novella, I'm not picky, I don't care. Anything. (But I'd really like a grown up baby white dragon at some point, I'm just going to throw that out there).
Because when I saw that this was Aryal's book...
Blah.
I wouldn't be surprised if that was everyone's reaction at first. And then I started reading it and here I am. I loved it. Ms. Harrison managed to turn a character that I was not a fan of into one that I really admired and grew to respect along the way. I'm now a part of Aryal's fan club.
And then there's dirty Quentin. I think my ovaries went for a walk a couple of times. When he called her a dumb ass, I gave him one of the many keys to my heart. Their relationship totally worked for me.
Anyway, I thought this was fantastic and I can't wait for another ER novel or novella, I'm not picky, I don't care. Anything. (But I'd really like a grown up baby white dragon at some point, I'm just going to throw that out there).
February 6, 2015
I was fully prepared to give this a 1 start rating until the last chapter. The last scene of the book bumped it up to 2. This book was slow. Really slow. Not a lot happened and what did happen was separate from the Wyr community and the other Sentinels, which bummed me out as they are my favorite aspect of the series.
Also, I didn't feel that connected to Quentin and Aryal. I didn't dislike them or anything. In fact, I kind of just didn't care about them either way. Not a good way to feel about the main two characters.
Also, I didn't feel that connected to Quentin and Aryal. I didn't dislike them or anything. In fact, I kind of just didn't care about them either way. Not a good way to feel about the main two characters.
October 9, 2013
KINKED is an entertaining, aggression-filled ride!
Read this review in its entirety at Fresh Fiction
Read this review in its entirety at Fresh Fiction
November 10, 2013
Spoilers
I was so excited for this, I thought it would be brilliant because the heroine (Aryal) was a favourite of mine from earlier books. Unfortunately, the hero (Quentin) was rubbish and ruined the whole book. The plot wasn't all that great either.
-What's what: Aryal (immortal harpy/Dragos's sentinel) and Quentin (wyr panther/one of Dragos's new sentinels/Pia's friend) hate each other. Their mutual hatred of each other turns into violence. As punishment they're banished, forced to work together, and given an ultimatum — they make peace or they lose their sentinel position. Naturally, sexy times ensue.
-The plot mainly focused on the hate-to-love romance between Quentin and Aryal, everything else took a back seat. Like their assignment to protect some elven land (Numenlaur) of some sort. When they arrived in Numenlaur there was a mysterious bad guy but instead of focusing on that they spent most of their time fighting and lusting after each other, and then falling in love. Yea, the Numenlaur arc/the bad guy mostly seemed like an afterthought/forgettable background to Quentin and Aryal’s relationship. Which would have been fine if the romance had been amazing. Sadly, it wasn’t.
-I loved Aryal, she had a lot more attitude and presence than other female characters in the series. She wasn’t a Mary Sue who was all powerful and beloved by all, she had a dominant and bitchy personality, worked hard, and wasn't coddled by all the alpha men around her. Aryal was definitely the best thing about Kinked, even though she fell in love, she never lost her personality — she’s definitely my favourite Elder Races heroine.
-Quentin didn’t leave much of an impression on me in earlier books, and after reading this I still found him utterly unremarkable. I honestly didn’t know what Aryal saw in him.
-I did initially enjoy Quentin and Aryal’s banter and chemistry, they were very entertaining together. I liked that Aryal and Quentin genuinely loathed each other and would have happily killed the other. Some of their banter was hilarious. Unfortunately, as soon as they fell in 'love' I lost interest in them as a couple. Also, I was put off by Quentin coming across as more concerned about himself than Aryal, every time they were fighting for their lives, it seemed like he cared more for his own safety than Aryal's… And whenever Aryal was hurt, Quentin was so meh about it. Yea, I really would have liked a more passionate and caring hero.
-I wasn't convinced of Quentin's love for Aryal at all — he said he loved her but from his thoughts and actions it didn't ring true. Especially when she was dying, he didn't even seem that bothered, he was more bothered about himself. Ugh.
-I was put off by Aryal/Quentin's violence towards each other, especially Quentin. He seemed far more violent towards Aryal, he started fights and provoked her whilst she was more reactionary and defensive.
All in all, this was a bit of a mixed bag — the plot was rather weak, but I did adore Aryal’s character, the romance started off well but went down hill fast, and I didn’t like Quentin at all.
I was so excited for this, I thought it would be brilliant because the heroine (Aryal) was a favourite of mine from earlier books. Unfortunately, the hero (Quentin) was rubbish and ruined the whole book. The plot wasn't all that great either.
-What's what: Aryal (immortal harpy/Dragos's sentinel) and Quentin (wyr panther/one of Dragos's new sentinels/Pia's friend) hate each other. Their mutual hatred of each other turns into violence. As punishment they're banished, forced to work together, and given an ultimatum — they make peace or they lose their sentinel position. Naturally, sexy times ensue.
-The plot mainly focused on the hate-to-love romance between Quentin and Aryal, everything else took a back seat. Like their assignment to protect some elven land (Numenlaur) of some sort. When they arrived in Numenlaur there was a mysterious bad guy but instead of focusing on that they spent most of their time fighting and lusting after each other, and then falling in love. Yea, the Numenlaur arc/the bad guy mostly seemed like an afterthought/forgettable background to Quentin and Aryal’s relationship. Which would have been fine if the romance had been amazing. Sadly, it wasn’t.
-I loved Aryal, she had a lot more attitude and presence than other female characters in the series. She wasn’t a Mary Sue who was all powerful and beloved by all, she had a dominant and bitchy personality, worked hard, and wasn't coddled by all the alpha men around her. Aryal was definitely the best thing about Kinked, even though she fell in love, she never lost her personality — she’s definitely my favourite Elder Races heroine.
-Quentin didn’t leave much of an impression on me in earlier books, and after reading this I still found him utterly unremarkable. I honestly didn’t know what Aryal saw in him.
-I did initially enjoy Quentin and Aryal’s banter and chemistry, they were very entertaining together. I liked that Aryal and Quentin genuinely loathed each other and would have happily killed the other. Some of their banter was hilarious. Unfortunately, as soon as they fell in 'love' I lost interest in them as a couple. Also, I was put off by Quentin coming across as more concerned about himself than Aryal, every time they were fighting for their lives, it seemed like he cared more for his own safety than Aryal's… And whenever Aryal was hurt, Quentin was so meh about it. Yea, I really would have liked a more passionate and caring hero.
-I wasn't convinced of Quentin's love for Aryal at all — he said he loved her but from his thoughts and actions it didn't ring true. Especially when she was dying, he didn't even seem that bothered, he was more bothered about himself. Ugh.
-I was put off by Aryal/Quentin's violence towards each other, especially Quentin. He seemed far more violent towards Aryal, he started fights and provoked her whilst she was more reactionary and defensive.
All in all, this was a bit of a mixed bag — the plot was rather weak, but I did adore Aryal’s character, the romance started off well but went down hill fast, and I didn’t like Quentin at all.
December 16, 2017
I was hesitant going into this novel because Aryal wasn't my favorite character in previous books (to be honest, I down right disliked her). I'm happy to say I worried for nothing. The book was phenomenal.
This book is darker and more gritty than the previous ones, but it didn't feel forced or unnecessary.
I would almost say I love this as much as Dragon Bound and Oracle's Moon (my favorites of the series to date).
This book is darker and more gritty than the previous ones, but it didn't feel forced or unnecessary.
I would almost say I love this as much as Dragon Bound and Oracle's Moon (my favorites of the series to date).
November 8, 2013
According to the reviews and ratings so far I'm the only one that hasn't loved this book. I hated it. The only reason I skimmed to the end was so that if anything actually happened I'd know about it for book 7. I have LOVED this series, but I hated this one. I didn't go into it hating Aryal, like so many others, and I don't hate her now. I wanted to be invested in this couple. But I wasn't.
So here's my list of issues:
1. Nothing happens the first half of the book except one fight and lots of sex. Not my cup of tea. I think I read the first half of the book on about 45 mins because I skipped so many pages.
2. Here's yet another book that has decided to be a 50 shades knock off. I haven't read that for a reason. I don't want to have it thrown in my face in a series that I have otherwise loved. I don't read bdsm books on purpose. Either the author or publisher should let us know if a book in the middle of a series changes genres.
3. Nothing really happens during the book at all. Yes, there's a protagonist and a fight scene and a climax of the plot. But honestly, it was lame. In every other book the entire overarching story has been furthered. I didn't feel like this one did that.
This should have just been a novella. There was about 30-50 pages of actual plot.
So here's my list of issues:
1. Nothing happens the first half of the book except one fight and lots of sex. Not my cup of tea. I think I read the first half of the book on about 45 mins because I skipped so many pages.
2. Here's yet another book that has decided to be a 50 shades knock off. I haven't read that for a reason. I don't want to have it thrown in my face in a series that I have otherwise loved. I don't read bdsm books on purpose. Either the author or publisher should let us know if a book in the middle of a series changes genres.
3. Nothing really happens during the book at all. Yes, there's a protagonist and a fight scene and a climax of the plot. But honestly, it was lame. In every other book the entire overarching story has been furthered. I didn't feel like this one did that.
This should have just been a novella. There was about 30-50 pages of actual plot.
September 8, 2024
Reread September 8, 2024
I'm bumping this one up to 4 stars. I still didn't love the beginning, but the end was really great! Happy reading!
3 1/2 Stars!
It took me until about the 50% mark to really get into this one. But once I did, I enjoyed it. Happy reading!
I'm bumping this one up to 4 stars. I still didn't love the beginning, but the end was really great! Happy reading!
3 1/2 Stars!
It took me until about the 50% mark to really get into this one. But once I did, I enjoyed it. Happy reading!
May 5, 2023
Spoilers ahead 2.5*
Reread
As in the original I struggled with that scene especially as Arayal was turned on but reading further they genuinely did not like each other.... Like to the extent of actual knock down drag out fights. One so bad that Dragos sent them on an assignment and if they couldn't get along at the end of it they'd both be fired.
I enjoyed parts of this but the flip from enemies to lovers was way too quick. I mean these too hated each other and fought frequently so the I love you's weren't quite believable.
I've struggled with liking the harpy throughout this entire series, couple that with Quentin whoring it up and I wasn't A fan of this one really
Original review
Dnf at probably about 6% as Aryal watched through a window as Quentin came within a millimeter of having sex with another woman. Yes he actually had sex with the woman but Aryal left before the grand finale. I don't care that they're not together as yet,my H's can sleep with any women they choose in previous books but in their book I need them to keep junior in their pants goddammit!
Reread
As in the original I struggled with that scene especially as Arayal was turned on but reading further they genuinely did not like each other.... Like to the extent of actual knock down drag out fights. One so bad that Dragos sent them on an assignment and if they couldn't get along at the end of it they'd both be fired.
I enjoyed parts of this but the flip from enemies to lovers was way too quick. I mean these too hated each other and fought frequently so the I love you's weren't quite believable.
I've struggled with liking the harpy throughout this entire series, couple that with Quentin whoring it up and I wasn't A fan of this one really
Original review
Dnf at probably about 6% as Aryal watched through a window as Quentin came within a millimeter of having sex with another woman. Yes he actually had sex with the woman but Aryal left before the grand finale. I don't care that they're not together as yet,my H's can sleep with any women they choose in previous books but in their book I need them to keep junior in their pants goddammit!
October 15, 2013
Quentin has won a position as a Sentinel for Dracos fair and square, but Aryal knows he’s a criminal and he’s been doing bad things for a long time. Aryal never stops to think that she might be wrong.
Unfortunately her vendetta against him has gotten to the point where she’s driving herself mad trying to figure out what he’s done. This leads her to peek in on him at home one night, and he isn’t alone.
Quentin can scent that Aryal was at his place. And he can tell it was while he was with the woman who just left his apartment. This has become too much. Between the restlessness that’s been dogging him and Aryal’s unrelenting investigation, it’s the last straw. He hauls to the Tower and finds Aryal. When he sees her, he attacks.
The two are brawling when Dragos separates them, and if you know Dragos, you know it’s not in a nice way. His solution to their mutual hatred for each other is to banish them from New York for 2 weeks. He gives them an assignment and tells them not to come back until they’ve worked out their issues. Their assignment is to check in on the Elven land of Numenlaur to make sure no one is looting or taking advantage of the decimated town. What they find when they arrive is so much more than they bargained for.
I haven’t really liked Aryal before this book, and I wasn’t too sure I’d like her as the heroine. But Ms. Harrison brought me around. I will say that I love how true to themselves the characters were. Quentin and Aryal never deviate from who they are. In fact that’s why they’re so perfect for each other. When Quentin starts understanding who Aryal is, he begins to see more of why she is how she is. While Aryal embraces her darkness, Quentin keeps his on a short leash so no one will get hurt. Their differences actually show them how similar they are to one another.
Aryal came into being with the universe. She’s ancient. She has seen it and done it all. Literally. So why is it that this criminal is never out of her mind? Aryal can’t get Quentin out of her mind, in fact at one point she suggest hate sex. And once she says it, Quentin can’t stop thinking about it.
But that will have to wait since the empty land isn’t so empty. What happened to the guards posted at the entrance of Numenlaur? Why is there no sign of danger, but each Sentinel can’t kick the feeling that danger is all around?
I love how Aryal and Quentin grow together, and I love how they are together. As Quentin put it, they’re kinked, and that’s perfect for them. Another more unusual trait of this story is that Aryal and Quentin are the only characters for the majority of the book. There are a few later on, but the two of them carry the whole book, and I find that is a difficult feat to pull off. It never felt monotonous and I never wanted a break from them.
This book is expertly crafted and satisfying in delivery. Ms. Harrison takes the reader on a ride with this book and you don’t get a gentle let-down, you get slammed around and full-stop. The ride is intense, and sort of dark, but worth the read.
ARC courtesy of Berkley
April 25, 2019
I went with 3 stars because it was a very nicely crafted book for the most part.
I really did get the feeling that they hated each other. Not just "Oh I hate you but really secretly want to get in your knickers..." But full on "I want you dead". Yet even with the hate, they both grudgingly respect each other's fighting prowess.
Now that Quentin is a Sentinel, they see each other more often. Aryal is like a dog with a bone about Quentin's shady past. Quentin is sick of it. After Aryal crosses the line spying on Quentin in the privacy of his home, they come to blows in the corridors of Cuelebre tower almost banging into Dragos carrying his infant son. So Dragos banishes them on a quest to find out what happened to the elves sent to guard the entrance to Numenlaur.
The first half of the book is basically Quentin and Aryal bitching at each other and it wasn't particularly entertaining to read. It wasn't humorous like some Love/Hate stories with witty repartee. Nope, it was acrimonious and only served to firmly illustrate how much they dislike each other.
For me, the story didn't get entertaining to they entered Numenlaur. There the story gets quite violent and dark.
The curve from them hating each other to love was a nice arc and one of the few things I truly liked about the story. I really did feel that they were completely devoted to each other by the end. and Quentin's last act of love was especially illustrative of his deep understanding and love of Aryal.
Safety is good
So overall I'm glad I read it but can't honestly say I enjoyed it. I loved parts and then wanted to DNF at other parts. *shrug* I did LOVE the parts with Dragos at the front and end of the story ; )
I really did get the feeling that they hated each other. Not just "Oh I hate you but really secretly want to get in your knickers..." But full on "I want you dead". Yet even with the hate, they both grudgingly respect each other's fighting prowess.
Now that Quentin is a Sentinel, they see each other more often. Aryal is like a dog with a bone about Quentin's shady past. Quentin is sick of it. After Aryal crosses the line spying on Quentin in the privacy of his home, they come to blows in the corridors of Cuelebre tower almost banging into Dragos carrying his infant son. So Dragos banishes them on a quest to find out what happened to the elves sent to guard the entrance to Numenlaur.
The first half of the book is basically Quentin and Aryal bitching at each other and it wasn't particularly entertaining to read. It wasn't humorous like some Love/Hate stories with witty repartee. Nope, it was acrimonious and only served to firmly illustrate how much they dislike each other.
For me, the story didn't get entertaining to they entered Numenlaur. There the story gets quite violent and dark.
The curve from them hating each other to love was a nice arc and one of the few things I truly liked about the story. I really did feel that they were completely devoted to each other by the end. and Quentin's last act of love was especially illustrative of his deep understanding and love of Aryal.
Safety is good
So overall I'm glad I read it but can't honestly say I enjoyed it. I loved parts and then wanted to DNF at other parts. *shrug* I did LOVE the parts with Dragos at the front and end of the story ; )
November 4, 2017
★★★★½ (This is a review of the audiobook.) Sophie Eastlake’s narration is growing on me. She gets a little monotone sometimes, but she is improving with this series.
Okay. I liked this installment of the Elder Races series. Enjoyed it, in fact. However, I sure waffled on it a bit before I got there.
Some people are going to love these two Sentinels to Dragos, Lord of the Wyr. I mean, they really hated each other at the beginning. To the point where I thought they were quite mean to one another, in both thought and deed. Therefore, it is quite ironic when they start liking the things they hated about each other, find a common ground, and get together. But it isn’t a quick route to that HEA. Both extremes of their relationship - their physical fights and sexual tension - are both explosive. I didn’t enjoy some of the physicallity when Quentin & Aryal were fighting. But for their personalities, it definitly works.
Things I loved most: 1) How deeply Quentin & Aryal ending up caring for one another and their willingness to show each other their hearts, thought thick & thin. 2)As always, TH writes great dialogue. 3) Dragos, Pia, & Peanut become part of the story! 4) The assignment come road trip to the Elven land of Numenlaur. I love a good road trip storyline and Numenlaur is well developed.
December 19, 2021
I've been waiting for Aryal's story for a long time. I was not disappointed. She reminds me a lot of Xhex from JR Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood books, which is a huge complement as I am a Xhex stan. Rereading Dragon Bound, I can see how hard she was on Pia, but I think her rough, abrasive personality is very in character, as she is a harpy. I love the description of her with perpetually tangled glossy black hair. I did an ink sketch of her in my sketchbook. I hope to do a painting of her as well. Yes, I'm a little obsessed with Aryal. I love a badass heroine. I love me a grumpy hero, so why not a grumpy heroine? Very true to her nature.
Anyway, I had the suspicion that she would end up with Quentin, ever since he steps up as a future Sentinel, as they have a fierce hate but fierce desire dynamic. At the beginning of the book, I wasn't sure I was feeling it. But after trusting Thea Harrison on the journey, I was pleasantly surprised to see that they grow to love each other deeply. Their virulent relationship is causing issues for the Sentinels and others who work and live in Cuelebre Tower, and Dragos gives them an ultimatum. They have to work together on a mission, and if they don't work things out, then bad stuff is going to happen. Let's just say, you don't want to be threatened by Dragos. Also, Aryal gets a talking to by her good friend and boss, Graydon. Aryal knows she has to make it through this if she doesn't want to lose her status as one of Dragos' sentinels.
I was much more predisposed towards Aryal although she was pretty mean to Quentin. Although I liked him as Pia's boss, he comes off as pretty arrogant when he works his way into the inner circle of Dragos' empire. And his thoughts towards Aryal were really gross, in my opinion. I was legitimately worried that I would hate this book, and I was so looking forward to it and Graydon's books. Fortunately things change wonderfully.
As they work together, these hated foes develop a relationship of respect and trusting that becomes a genuine love. Their scenes of tenderness together touched me on a deep level. I am a big time fan of enemies to lovers, because of such a possibility.
I was glad that I was not disappointed. On top of the satisfying romance, the storyline of Aryal and Quentin exploring the elven lands decimated by the insane elven lord who committed atrocities in the last book was a great mystery and there was so much suspense. These are two highly capable warriors, and Aryal is an investigator. Solving crimes is what she does. But it's evident that they might be in over their head. And it's only working together that can keep them alive. She pegged Quentin as a pretty boy, and he was, but he proved himself as a powerful wyr. It totally makes sense what kind of shifter he is. I think it would be a spoiler to discuss what he is, but it fits. When he acknowledges her as his mate, it is a huge change, so great to see him tender and loving towards her. But also seeing Aryal's soft side that was only reserved for Peanut.
Thea Harrison is such a good writer. She is excellent at building in subtleties into the moments that mean something. I think this is why I like listening to them. I admit sometimes my eyes skip over words when I'm reading. But with an audiobook, you can digest every word.
I think this book has a very different vibe from previous books, even though every one is different. I feel like the story is crafted somehow on a more intimate scale, which this couple benefited from. If they hadn't had that time together, I think they would have gone on hating each other. Well, maybe they would have started sleeping together, but still hated each other, and may have eventually fallen in love. I think it would have taken a while. Since they are immortals, maybe fifty years. Who knows.
I ended up giving this five stars because I really was satisfied and happy with this romance. I was able to exhale.
Anyway, I had the suspicion that she would end up with Quentin, ever since he steps up as a future Sentinel, as they have a fierce hate but fierce desire dynamic. At the beginning of the book, I wasn't sure I was feeling it. But after trusting Thea Harrison on the journey, I was pleasantly surprised to see that they grow to love each other deeply. Their virulent relationship is causing issues for the Sentinels and others who work and live in Cuelebre Tower, and Dragos gives them an ultimatum. They have to work together on a mission, and if they don't work things out, then bad stuff is going to happen. Let's just say, you don't want to be threatened by Dragos. Also, Aryal gets a talking to by her good friend and boss, Graydon. Aryal knows she has to make it through this if she doesn't want to lose her status as one of Dragos' sentinels.
I was much more predisposed towards Aryal although she was pretty mean to Quentin. Although I liked him as Pia's boss, he comes off as pretty arrogant when he works his way into the inner circle of Dragos' empire. And his thoughts towards Aryal were really gross, in my opinion. I was legitimately worried that I would hate this book, and I was so looking forward to it and Graydon's books. Fortunately things change wonderfully.
As they work together, these hated foes develop a relationship of respect and trusting that becomes a genuine love. Their scenes of tenderness together touched me on a deep level. I am a big time fan of enemies to lovers, because of such a possibility.
I was glad that I was not disappointed. On top of the satisfying romance, the storyline of Aryal and Quentin exploring the elven lands decimated by the insane elven lord who committed atrocities in the last book was a great mystery and there was so much suspense. These are two highly capable warriors, and Aryal is an investigator. Solving crimes is what she does. But it's evident that they might be in over their head. And it's only working together that can keep them alive. She pegged Quentin as a pretty boy, and he was, but he proved himself as a powerful wyr. It totally makes sense what kind of shifter he is. I think it would be a spoiler to discuss what he is, but it fits. When he acknowledges her as his mate, it is a huge change, so great to see him tender and loving towards her. But also seeing Aryal's soft side that was only reserved for Peanut.
Thea Harrison is such a good writer. She is excellent at building in subtleties into the moments that mean something. I think this is why I like listening to them. I admit sometimes my eyes skip over words when I'm reading. But with an audiobook, you can digest every word.
I think this book has a very different vibe from previous books, even though every one is different. I feel like the story is crafted somehow on a more intimate scale, which this couple benefited from. If they hadn't had that time together, I think they would have gone on hating each other. Well, maybe they would have started sleeping together, but still hated each other, and may have eventually fallen in love. I think it would have taken a while. Since they are immortals, maybe fifty years. Who knows.
I ended up giving this five stars because I really was satisfied and happy with this romance. I was able to exhale.
December 11, 2015
Aryal is a harpy and a Bitch but I liked her and really enjoyed seeing she didn't change! I loved Quen in previous books and liked him even more in his own book!
November 3, 2019
5 stars
April 10, 2016
I wish I'd followed my initial instinct and skipped this book. It was tortuously hard not to DNF this written mass of manure. The beginning first chapters are from that unlovable insane bitch harpy, Aryal and she's a giant complainer. Her POV is one never ending whiny, complaint. I truly loathe her and would beat her to death with her own limbs. There is absolutely nothing redeeming about her, nothing . She ruined the book.
The hero, Quentin, well, I had high hopes for him, but he plummeted like a dead bird, in my opinion, as soon as he started liking Aryal. He's also into bdsm. Wtf, can I go through a series without some 50 Shades creeping in? Really. Just stop with the bdsm, it's not mainstream, I don't care what Cosmo mag says, it's not. Lies! Anyway. Quentin is aesthetically gifted and has the ladies falling at his feet, but this bores him, and he decides trying to tame the scary & whippet thin, bodybuilder harpy chick, would be more of a challenge. It's one of those I hate you, but I lust for you plots. Blah. So he's "mean" to her, and she's snarky to him. They bond over the shared mission they're on to a formerly barred Elven land.
The book's main mission seemed all about humanizing Aryal and Quentin realizing she's got depths. Blah, blah, blah, not interested, I would still shank her in the abdomen. I skimmed at least 65% of this book, possibly more due to it's beyond slow pacing. Nothing happens for the first 50% of the book. Then a little bit happens for another 10%, but oh, let's not go too fast, back to nothing happening for the next 20%, then the final fight for 10%, nothing for the next 10%, and a little bleep of something at the end. This was partially why I skimmed, the slow pace, in addition to my disinterest in Aryal & Quentin.
The villain was interesting, but barely appeared. The book would've been better if the villain had had a larger part.
The best part about this book was the appearance of the other characters in the Wyr demesne. Fingers crossed Aryal & Quentin die in the next book. I'd even accept them going out Romeo & Juliet style, they're lame enough for it.
The hero, Quentin, well, I had high hopes for him, but he plummeted like a dead bird, in my opinion, as soon as he started liking Aryal. He's also into bdsm. Wtf, can I go through a series without some 50 Shades creeping in? Really. Just stop with the bdsm, it's not mainstream, I don't care what Cosmo mag says, it's not. Lies! Anyway. Quentin is aesthetically gifted and has the ladies falling at his feet, but this bores him, and he decides trying to tame the scary & whippet thin, bodybuilder harpy chick, would be more of a challenge. It's one of those I hate you, but I lust for you plots. Blah. So he's "mean" to her, and she's snarky to him. They bond over the shared mission they're on to a formerly barred Elven land.
The book's main mission seemed all about humanizing Aryal and Quentin realizing she's got depths. Blah, blah, blah, not interested, I would still shank her in the abdomen. I skimmed at least 65% of this book, possibly more due to it's beyond slow pacing. Nothing happens for the first 50% of the book. Then a little bit happens for another 10%, but oh, let's not go too fast, back to nothing happening for the next 20%, then the final fight for 10%, nothing for the next 10%, and a little bleep of something at the end. This was partially why I skimmed, the slow pace, in addition to my disinterest in Aryal & Quentin.
The villain was interesting, but barely appeared. The book would've been better if the villain had had a larger part.
The best part about this book was the appearance of the other characters in the Wyr demesne. Fingers crossed Aryal & Quentin die in the next book. I'd even accept them going out Romeo & Juliet style, they're lame enough for it.
November 12, 2013
Love, love, love this book. These Elder Race books, I think, are the ones I most look forward to a new book on. Unlike every other review I've seen, I had no problem whatsoever with Aryal being a heroine and have absolute trust that this author could pull it off. In fact when I found out, I rubbed my hands together and thought, oh, yeah, this'll be good, bring it on!
So my trust was not misplaced and I adored this book. Made me laugh, cry, laugh and cry. I especially loved the ending. The hero was perfectly matched to Aryal and their romance was totally believable, which is pretty neat considering they hated each other at the start of the book.
The book is very well named. I mean, in what other romance book would you find it acceptable that the hero punched the heroine in the face and you still liked him?! It’s okay, she punched him in the face too (different time) and if you’ve read the previous books in this series, you’ll know it’s all cool because the heroine is Aryal. And Aryal is a harpy and she definitely does not shit rainbows.
I just hope there are more books coming in this series as I would be devastated if I found there weren't. I love this world and every creature in it.
Can't wait for the next one - can't wait to see which couple is next.
So my trust was not misplaced and I adored this book. Made me laugh, cry, laugh and cry. I especially loved the ending. The hero was perfectly matched to Aryal and their romance was totally believable, which is pretty neat considering they hated each other at the start of the book.
The book is very well named. I mean, in what other romance book would you find it acceptable that the hero punched the heroine in the face and you still liked him?! It’s okay, she punched him in the face too (different time) and if you’ve read the previous books in this series, you’ll know it’s all cool because the heroine is Aryal. And Aryal is a harpy and she definitely does not shit rainbows.
I just hope there are more books coming in this series as I would be devastated if I found there weren't. I love this world and every creature in it.
Can't wait for the next one - can't wait to see which couple is next.
October 8, 2018
Sixth in the Elder Races paranormal romance series and revolving around the Wyr based in New York City. The couple focus is on Quentin Caeravorn and Aryal.
My Take
I do like Aryal, even if she obsesses way too much about Quentin.. She's primal, woman, and knows her own mind. She's tried everything—and I mean everything. I like Quentin too. I like the his regret, and that he's trying to make amends for what he set in motion. What I didn't care for was the attempt to drag in the readers with the BDSM angle. It felt half-baked.
It's an odd courtship, betting against each other that they'll never last 15 minutes, half an hour, half a night, giving in, being submissive. I have to confess it was funny to read. And the BDSM is still pretty vanilla.
The journey through Numenlaur to the city felt like a walk down memory lane. A little bit Hobbit, a little bit Anya Bast's Dark Magick, a touch Mercedes Lackey, and a little bit Tairen Soul.
I absolutely loved their particular joke of it always being all about Quentin. Too, too funny.
Oh, boy. Now Aryal's gonna have to accept Pia! After that particular miracle? LOL. Okay, the crop thing? I don't get it.
It's an okay story and has its bright spots. I love Aryal's openness and Quentin's honesty. The exploration through Numenlaur and checking the houses was interesting, even if I did cry at some of what they found. The first encounter with Gayla and her wolves was dramatic and tense, and that was about it. There were a number of points when it could have gotten really tense, but Harrison kept it fairly low-key.
The Story
She's hated him forever, so much that she's invested years in investigating him, hours in trying to follow him. It's when she spies him playing bondage games with a woman that she starts to think of him in other terms.
Caught brawling inside Cuelebre Tower by Dragos walking Liam, Dragos has had enough and banishes Aryal and Quentin until they work their issues out. Or they won't be Sentinels any longer.
It's a pair of brawling, arguing children set loose to check on the abandoned Numenlaur lands. After events in Lord's Fall , 5, Dragos is concerned about looting and anything dangerous. He figures two Sentinels bent on violence are perfect for the job. Aid that Ferion appreciates as he hasn't heard from the guards he sent weeks ago.
The Characters
Aryal is a harpy and one of Dragos' Sentinels. And she is desperate to dig up the dirt on Quentin.
Quentin Caeravorn is a new Sentinel who won his place by winning at the Games in Lord's Fall , 5. He's what Aryal calls a "triple threat": a mixed-breed who is part Wyr (he shifts into a panther), part Elven, and part Dark Fae. Aryal is positive he's also a thief. He also owns a popular bar, Elfie's, where Pia used to work.
Dragos Cuelebre is a dragon and Lord of the Wyr. Pia is his mate and they've just had Liam, their baby dragon son in Lord's Fall . Pia is also a former employee of Quentin's. It was his idea for Pia to steal from Dragos in Dragon Bound , 1. Eva is one of Pia's new full-time bodyguards. Kris is Dragos' assistant.
Dragos' other Sentinels include:
Former Sentinels who re-won their places are the gryphons—Bayne, Constantine, and Graydon (he's the new First Sentinel); Grym, a gargoyle; and of course, Aryal. Quentin and Alexander Elysias, a pegasus, are the new Sentinels.
Others within Cuelebre Tower
Talia Aguilar is a Wyr selkie and the new head of PR for Cuelebre Enterprises. Kathryn Shaw is the Wyr falcon and physician Dragos keeps on retainer for all high-level staff.
Ferion is the new Elven High Lord; it was his arrow in Dragon Bound that endangered Pia's life.
Numenlaur is the first and oldest Elven land from which they all came. The guards Ferion sent are Linwe, a young firecracker with a love of teasing; Caerreth is shy and bookish; Cemalle; and, Aralorn.
It's dangerous to meet Galya Andreyev of Russia. A very powerful witch with wolf shadows. Pyotr is the alpha shadow.
Amras Gaeleveal was one of the ancient Guardians of Numenlaur who went mad and almost destroyed the Elves in Lord's Fall .
The Cover
The cover is a collage of events within the story: a cliff-hugging fairyland city, a leather-clad Aryal standing slightly behind Quentin. It's a beautiful rune-like circle in a pale yellow against a more golden sky.
The title is trying too hard. It's accurate enough, for they do have a Kinked relationship, but I wish Harrison had put a bit more effort in this.
My Take
I do like Aryal, even if she obsesses way too much about Quentin.. She's primal, woman, and knows her own mind. She's tried everything—and I mean everything. I like Quentin too. I like the his regret, and that he's trying to make amends for what he set in motion. What I didn't care for was the attempt to drag in the readers with the BDSM angle. It felt half-baked.
Behold the Power of the peanut.The funny part is the quick confession and immediate release that follows that angers Quentin. All that and this is all that happens?
It's an odd courtship, betting against each other that they'll never last 15 minutes, half an hour, half a night, giving in, being submissive. I have to confess it was funny to read. And the BDSM is still pretty vanilla.
The journey through Numenlaur to the city felt like a walk down memory lane. A little bit Hobbit, a little bit Anya Bast's Dark Magick, a touch Mercedes Lackey, and a little bit Tairen Soul.
I absolutely loved their particular joke of it always being all about Quentin. Too, too funny.
Oh, boy. Now Aryal's gonna have to accept Pia! After that particular miracle? LOL. Okay, the crop thing? I don't get it.
It's an okay story and has its bright spots. I love Aryal's openness and Quentin's honesty. The exploration through Numenlaur and checking the houses was interesting, even if I did cry at some of what they found. The first encounter with Gayla and her wolves was dramatic and tense, and that was about it. There were a number of points when it could have gotten really tense, but Harrison kept it fairly low-key.
The Story
She's hated him forever, so much that she's invested years in investigating him, hours in trying to follow him. It's when she spies him playing bondage games with a woman that she starts to think of him in other terms.
Caught brawling inside Cuelebre Tower by Dragos walking Liam, Dragos has had enough and banishes Aryal and Quentin until they work their issues out. Or they won't be Sentinels any longer.
It's a pair of brawling, arguing children set loose to check on the abandoned Numenlaur lands. After events in Lord's Fall , 5, Dragos is concerned about looting and anything dangerous. He figures two Sentinels bent on violence are perfect for the job. Aid that Ferion appreciates as he hasn't heard from the guards he sent weeks ago.
The Characters
Aryal is a harpy and one of Dragos' Sentinels. And she is desperate to dig up the dirt on Quentin.
Quentin Caeravorn is a new Sentinel who won his place by winning at the Games in Lord's Fall , 5. He's what Aryal calls a "triple threat": a mixed-breed who is part Wyr (he shifts into a panther), part Elven, and part Dark Fae. Aryal is positive he's also a thief. He also owns a popular bar, Elfie's, where Pia used to work.
Dragos Cuelebre is a dragon and Lord of the Wyr. Pia is his mate and they've just had Liam, their baby dragon son in Lord's Fall . Pia is also a former employee of Quentin's. It was his idea for Pia to steal from Dragos in Dragon Bound , 1. Eva is one of Pia's new full-time bodyguards. Kris is Dragos' assistant.
Dragos' other Sentinels include:
Former Sentinels who re-won their places are the gryphons—Bayne, Constantine, and Graydon (he's the new First Sentinel); Grym, a gargoyle; and of course, Aryal. Quentin and Alexander Elysias, a pegasus, are the new Sentinels.
Others within Cuelebre Tower
Talia Aguilar is a Wyr selkie and the new head of PR for Cuelebre Enterprises. Kathryn Shaw is the Wyr falcon and physician Dragos keeps on retainer for all high-level staff.
Ferion is the new Elven High Lord; it was his arrow in Dragon Bound that endangered Pia's life.
Numenlaur is the first and oldest Elven land from which they all came. The guards Ferion sent are Linwe, a young firecracker with a love of teasing; Caerreth is shy and bookish; Cemalle; and, Aralorn.
It's dangerous to meet Galya Andreyev of Russia. A very powerful witch with wolf shadows. Pyotr is the alpha shadow.
Amras Gaeleveal was one of the ancient Guardians of Numenlaur who went mad and almost destroyed the Elves in Lord's Fall .
The Cover
The cover is a collage of events within the story: a cliff-hugging fairyland city, a leather-clad Aryal standing slightly behind Quentin. It's a beautiful rune-like circle in a pale yellow against a more golden sky.
The title is trying too hard. It's accurate enough, for they do have a Kinked relationship, but I wish Harrison had put a bit more effort in this.
September 8, 2024
Good. But Not My Favorite
4.25 Stars
TPAM BR
September 2024
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
This one has a slow start for me.
I actually enjoyed the crazy obsession these two had with each other. Their anger and suspicion for each other was OTT so when it turned sexual I wasn't surprised.
Once this story got going it was nonstop. Kept me completely invested.
Action. Suspense. Mystery. Hot steamy sex scenes. Crazy scary fight scenes. Heartbreak and humor.
I ended up loving it. And loving Quentin and Aryal's mating dance.
4.25 Stars
TPAM BR
September 2024
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
This one has a slow start for me.
I actually enjoyed the crazy obsession these two had with each other. Their anger and suspicion for each other was OTT so when it turned sexual I wasn't surprised.
Once this story got going it was nonstop. Kept me completely invested.
Action. Suspense. Mystery. Hot steamy sex scenes. Crazy scary fight scenes. Heartbreak and humor.
I ended up loving it. And loving Quentin and Aryal's mating dance.
October 15, 2024
Amazing!
I was not sure if I would like Aryal’s story. I hated her from the moment I meet her in Dragon Bound. She is such a bitch with a capital B and the way she treats Pia. Ahhh!
Wow, Thea changed my mind on her character with this novel.
Kinked blew me away! I loved the humor, action, adventure, and the massed up love/connection; between Quentin and Aryal. The main characters complement each other and it worked beautifully. I see Aryal in a new light now.
The Elder Races series is one of my favorite paranormal romance series and I highly recommend it for paranormal romance lovers.
Rated: 5 Kinked Stars
Audio 2021: The audio was splendid. I very much enjoyed listening to Kinked. The adventure, suspense, and characters came out to play. Sophie Eastlake did a great job with her narration. I'm enjoying the series more the second time around and more with the audio re-read.
Some of my favorite quotes from Kinked:
"Her life was one eternal rampage. Maybe it was time someone turned the tables on her and went after her with the same kind of relentlessness with which she went after the entire world."
"And maybe it was past time that someone took that harpy down a peg or two, and showed her who was boss.”
“As the panther found peace, the harpy stroked his hair and discovered tenderness.”
“You really do poop sparkly rainbows."
I was not sure if I would like Aryal’s story. I hated her from the moment I meet her in Dragon Bound. She is such a bitch with a capital B and the way she treats Pia. Ahhh!
Wow, Thea changed my mind on her character with this novel.
Kinked blew me away! I loved the humor, action, adventure, and the massed up love/connection; between Quentin and Aryal. The main characters complement each other and it worked beautifully. I see Aryal in a new light now.
The Elder Races series is one of my favorite paranormal romance series and I highly recommend it for paranormal romance lovers.
Rated: 5 Kinked Stars
Audio 2021: The audio was splendid. I very much enjoyed listening to Kinked. The adventure, suspense, and characters came out to play. Sophie Eastlake did a great job with her narration. I'm enjoying the series more the second time around and more with the audio re-read.
Some of my favorite quotes from Kinked:
"Her life was one eternal rampage. Maybe it was time someone turned the tables on her and went after her with the same kind of relentlessness with which she went after the entire world."
"And maybe it was past time that someone took that harpy down a peg or two, and showed her who was boss.”
“As the panther found peace, the harpy stroked his hair and discovered tenderness.”
“You really do poop sparkly rainbows."
November 13, 2013
Audiobook narrated by Sophie Eastlake
The series has proven to be uneven for me. Enemies-to-lovers isn't a favorite theme of mine and I knew I was in trouble when the h/h started physically assaulting each other with intent to kill. Gee, call me crazy, but not a promising setup for romance. The "I hate you" theme dominates the first half of the book and I hated it. Second half was decent but by that time I didn't find either one of them at all heroic or even interesting. And I don't believe that the next time they have a disagreement they won't start whaling on each other again. I'm hearing the "Cops" theme song in my head.
The series has proven to be uneven for me. Enemies-to-lovers isn't a favorite theme of mine and I knew I was in trouble when the h/h started physically assaulting each other with intent to kill. Gee, call me crazy, but not a promising setup for romance. The "I hate you" theme dominates the first half of the book and I hated it. Second half was decent but by that time I didn't find either one of them at all heroic or even interesting. And I don't believe that the next time they have a disagreement they won't start whaling on each other again. I'm hearing the "Cops" theme song in my head.
August 30, 2018
4 stars - Paranormal Romance
February 20, 2017
4 stars
Gosh! I don't believe the last time I read the latest instalment of Elder Races is like... 4 years ago! It's a wonder that I still remember the story, which I didn't. So I did a little bit re-read of Lord's Fall, just the last part tho, to refresh my memory. I remember one of the reason I hesitate to read the next book after Lord's Fall, Kinked, is because I didn't like Aryal, the harpy sentinel. It's because she always act hostile toward Pia. So full of hatred. And I'm not alone. Many readers see her as a bitchy characters that grated their nerves. A jerk hero sometimes can be acceptable because it's so sweet to read about his redemption and see his grovel (sometimes I don't enjoy it tho). But what if that character is a woman? Can Aryal be a..at least, likable heroine?
The answer...well, yes!
Kinked give me a new perspective also a new side of Aryal. Sure she's crazy, and in Kinked her anger toward Quentin Caeravorn, another sentinel who can shapeshift into panther and a new addition to Dragos's sentinels, is barely tolerable. In the start, there were two people that Aryal hate the most. First is Pia, then Quentin. For Pia, I think Aryal despise her at first because she stole Dragos's penny and maybe because despite all their differences, Dragos become smitten with Pia and they mated. It seems like at first that can't be accepted by Aryal, those her hostile attitude toward Pia. Anyhow, the dislike is not for long. Harrison manage to write Aryal in a believable way to dampen her dislike to Pia, and start to accept Dragos's mate.
Quentin is another matter for Aryal. Their quarrel become so annoying for their friends and comrades, and the last straw snapped when Quentin goes ballistic to Aryal, make Dragos banished them for 2 weeks, to go to a mission to Numenlaur, the deserted Elven land. Who knows, the trip that start with hate, anger, and violence, turn to be a life turning event for both Quentin and Aryal. Both are dominant, predator, unapologetic, know what they want, doesn't take shit from anyone. In theory, they must be battling for centuries, because their difference. Aryal didn't believe Quentin, she think he's a criminal and a danger to Dragos. Quentin can't accept Aryal acerbic words and tauntings. They're least likely become a couple and yet, their love to hate relationship is work. There was a saying in my country "don't hate a person too much, you don't know when you will end up love them". This saying is so true for Aryal and Quentin. Like Rihanna's song, they found love in the hopeless place
Kinked is about Aryal and Quentin, so the event in this book is about how they work their differences. I come to accept and respect Aryal. She is what she is, and like I said before, unapologetic about her attitude. It's drive Quentin crazy at first, but then they start to accept each other. Like Quentin said, they're kinked, and nope, I don't said about those "kinky BDSM", even the BDSM element is there. What Quentin mean is...they are flawed, and because of that, even both are Elder, that make them humans. Aryal and Quentin didn't need to change themselves, they just need to accept what they are, negotiate, compromise and then commit to each other, understanding to each other. And..that's what a couple should do!
While Kinked is my favorite book this year, I don't give this book full 5 stars because I don't like how Harrison write the villain. The villain seems so..lousy. They supposed to be a powerful foe, yet, the action somehow off and have plot hole too. Make me a little bit disappointed, tho. In the other side, I appreciated how Harrison use some Tolkien's work. Seems a little bit lazy at first, but I think she pay homage to Tolkien. Numenlaur is of course remind me of Numenor, and the name of the Elven resonated with Tolkien's Elves name. For Tolkien's purist, maybe this will be annoying, but for me, it's okay. Some readers may complaint about the BDSM aspect. I don't mind tho, since its just written lightly, and the Kinked title is not referred to Quentin's BDSM lifestyle, but about his and Aryal's flaws.
What can I said? I amend my opinion about Aryal now. She become one of my favorite heroine and that's mean something. I'm glad that even she's harpy, she is rational, not like Gena Showalter's harpy that so immature and just crazy for being crazy it's so annoying. I like Quentin too, for his alpha tendencies, it's so hard to accept his obedience into Aryal, and yet...well you will get my meaning. I end up really love Kinked despite my disappointment for some aspect.
Gosh! I don't believe the last time I read the latest instalment of Elder Races is like... 4 years ago! It's a wonder that I still remember the story, which I didn't. So I did a little bit re-read of Lord's Fall, just the last part tho, to refresh my memory. I remember one of the reason I hesitate to read the next book after Lord's Fall, Kinked, is because I didn't like Aryal, the harpy sentinel. It's because she always act hostile toward Pia. So full of hatred. And I'm not alone. Many readers see her as a bitchy characters that grated their nerves. A jerk hero sometimes can be acceptable because it's so sweet to read about his redemption and see his grovel (sometimes I don't enjoy it tho). But what if that character is a woman? Can Aryal be a..at least, likable heroine?
The answer...well, yes!
Kinked give me a new perspective also a new side of Aryal. Sure she's crazy, and in Kinked her anger toward Quentin Caeravorn, another sentinel who can shapeshift into panther and a new addition to Dragos's sentinels, is barely tolerable. In the start, there were two people that Aryal hate the most. First is Pia, then Quentin. For Pia, I think Aryal despise her at first because she stole Dragos's penny and maybe because despite all their differences, Dragos become smitten with Pia and they mated. It seems like at first that can't be accepted by Aryal, those her hostile attitude toward Pia. Anyhow, the dislike is not for long. Harrison manage to write Aryal in a believable way to dampen her dislike to Pia, and start to accept Dragos's mate.
Quentin is another matter for Aryal. Their quarrel become so annoying for their friends and comrades, and the last straw snapped when Quentin goes ballistic to Aryal, make Dragos banished them for 2 weeks, to go to a mission to Numenlaur, the deserted Elven land. Who knows, the trip that start with hate, anger, and violence, turn to be a life turning event for both Quentin and Aryal. Both are dominant, predator, unapologetic, know what they want, doesn't take shit from anyone. In theory, they must be battling for centuries, because their difference. Aryal didn't believe Quentin, she think he's a criminal and a danger to Dragos. Quentin can't accept Aryal acerbic words and tauntings. They're least likely become a couple and yet, their love to hate relationship is work. There was a saying in my country "don't hate a person too much, you don't know when you will end up love them". This saying is so true for Aryal and Quentin. Like Rihanna's song, they found love in the hopeless place
Kinked is about Aryal and Quentin, so the event in this book is about how they work their differences. I come to accept and respect Aryal. She is what she is, and like I said before, unapologetic about her attitude. It's drive Quentin crazy at first, but then they start to accept each other. Like Quentin said, they're kinked, and nope, I don't said about those "kinky BDSM", even the BDSM element is there. What Quentin mean is...they are flawed, and because of that, even both are Elder, that make them humans. Aryal and Quentin didn't need to change themselves, they just need to accept what they are, negotiate, compromise and then commit to each other, understanding to each other. And..that's what a couple should do!
While Kinked is my favorite book this year, I don't give this book full 5 stars because I don't like how Harrison write the villain. The villain seems so..lousy. They supposed to be a powerful foe, yet, the action somehow off and have plot hole too. Make me a little bit disappointed, tho. In the other side, I appreciated how Harrison use some Tolkien's work. Seems a little bit lazy at first, but I think she pay homage to Tolkien. Numenlaur is of course remind me of Numenor, and the name of the Elven resonated with Tolkien's Elves name. For Tolkien's purist, maybe this will be annoying, but for me, it's okay. Some readers may complaint about the BDSM aspect. I don't mind tho, since its just written lightly, and the Kinked title is not referred to Quentin's BDSM lifestyle, but about his and Aryal's flaws.
What can I said? I amend my opinion about Aryal now. She become one of my favorite heroine and that's mean something. I'm glad that even she's harpy, she is rational, not like Gena Showalter's harpy that so immature and just crazy for being crazy it's so annoying. I like Quentin too, for his alpha tendencies, it's so hard to accept his obedience into Aryal, and yet...well you will get my meaning. I end up really love Kinked despite my disappointment for some aspect.
He didn't want a safe word, and she didn't ask for one. They were both dominant, and he knew for a fact he wouldn't be a switch -someone who switched the dominant role with the submissive role - for anybody else but her. And he was almost certain she wouldn't either.
She quieted that internal whip that drove him because she became the whip,her soul as sharp as a knife.
He could cut himself on her, wrap her in his arms and be her buffer. Heal her from herself, bruise himself on her.
Let her heal him. Let her be his buffer.
They were so unapologetic, so kinked.
He said, "We're perfect."
August 1, 2017
Keeping it short and sweet here.
Is this book good? Yes.
Did I like the MC together? Yes, they are highly amusing when they were antagonizing one another and after they put their vendetta’s aside and started to work together I loved it even more.
What about the heroine? She is a crazy bitch who is always in on everything and does everything 100 %. Aryal is a harpy and she is loyal to a fault and loves to hold a grudge my kinda gal.
What about the Hero? Holy smoke balls Quentin is fantastic and he put up with Aryal and is a complete alpha male.
Was the plot surprising? Yes, and fantastic to read. Well done Ms. Harrison.
Would I read it again? Yes. But need to take a genre break at the moment.
Is this book good? Yes.
Did I like the MC together? Yes, they are highly amusing when they were antagonizing one another and after they put their vendetta’s aside and started to work together I loved it even more.
What about the heroine? She is a crazy bitch who is always in on everything and does everything 100 %. Aryal is a harpy and she is loyal to a fault and loves to hold a grudge my kinda gal.
What about the Hero? Holy smoke balls Quentin is fantastic and he put up with Aryal and is a complete alpha male.
Was the plot surprising? Yes, and fantastic to read. Well done Ms. Harrison.
Would I read it again? Yes. But need to take a genre break at the moment.
June 15, 2023
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Introduction
Kinked is the sixth installment in the "Elder Races" series and I was able to listen to this one. I do recommend if you can, reading these books through audiobook. Sophie Eastlake does a superb job with the narration on these books and especially brings the humor out so well. I was pretty apprehensive about this installment because I knew how angst filled this story would be because these two despise each other and I was wondering how that would be manifested throughout the story. But I should have had more faith in this author in doing well on this story because this turned out to be so well done and actually worked so well for me. If you are a fan of the series in general, I highly recommend "Kinked"
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Quentin
Quentin is a newer Sentinel and working on establishing himself among the other sentinels. He is a bit of a playboy, restless, always on the look for something more in his life but is a badass warrior.
The Heroine: Aryal
Aryal is a bit of a prickly sentinel, she has a chip on her shoulder but is completely dedicated to Dragos and Pia. She knows how to be a badass warrior, but hides her more softer parts under a thick violent exterior and always has a drive to prove herself.
Summary
When harpy, Aryal, lets her hate consume her surrounding Quentin and they end up brawling and putting Drago's infant son at risk, Dragos is forced to take drastic measure to resolve the tension that has risen among his sentinels. So he forces them to go on a mission together and banishes them where they are forces to confront their conflicts and differences and find some common ground. At first Aryal and Quentin battle each other, but with each step forward on their mission, they find commonality where they least expect it and find a deeper connection that neither of them expects.
My Outlook
I really had a blast with "Kinked" I always get apprehensive with enemies to lovers, but Thea Harrison really handled the tension here so so well. And honestly these two are so hilariously addictive together. This author knows exactly how to place in humor so well and it was delectable seeing it all come together. The sexual tension that is built between Aryal and Quentin was so tasty and there was some light BDSM. Mostly domination type of things between both of them so that was quite interesting seeing how that developed in this one. It really fascinated me though seeing how they slowly changed from hating each other to being willing to die for each other. I adored how it was implemented throughout. And we do get some moments with Dragos and Pia that were just perfection. And the way that we see their vulnerabilities in the quiet moments is what really did it for me here.
Overall View
Kinked is a action packed angsty filled romance that will keep you on edge, curl your toes with some dominant sensual vibes, and delivers on soft feels in the least expected moments....a true winnter!
Rating Evaluation:
Plot: 5
World Building: 4
Cover:4
Hero: 4
Heroine: 4
Steam: 4
Heart & Feels:4
Ending:4
Overall View: 4
Displaying 1 - 30 of 663 reviews