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Perilous Courts #6
Prince of Agony
The price of Kazia’s power is pain.
Prince Kazia Dire isn’t nice. Being nice lets people close. Letting people close risks revealing Kazia’s greatest secret—the power that condemns him to a lifetime of abuse.
Until opportunity appears in the form of a captive enemy mage.
Following a dragon across the border lands Lucien Vaire in chains, and matters only get worse from there. Lucien has hated House Dire since the last war. Now, he’s under the notorious brat prince’s direct control.
Yet beneath Kazia’s vicious mask, Lucien senses desperate vulnerability.
Painful experience has taught Kazia to fear mages. He keeps Lucien at a distance even as he uses Lucien’s talents. But that distance narrows with each careful kindness. Each accidental touch. Lucien acts more like a protector than a prisoner, and Kazia is tempted by the dangerous sweetness of trust.
But Lucien is still a mage, and Kazia is still broken. And Kazia’s cruel parents may still destroy them both.
Prince of Agony is a high fantasy gay romance, featuring captivity, hurt/comfort, and enemies hiding in a linen closet together. This is the final book in the Perilous Courts series, which is best enjoyed in order.
Prince Kazia Dire isn’t nice. Being nice lets people close. Letting people close risks revealing Kazia’s greatest secret—the power that condemns him to a lifetime of abuse.
Until opportunity appears in the form of a captive enemy mage.
Following a dragon across the border lands Lucien Vaire in chains, and matters only get worse from there. Lucien has hated House Dire since the last war. Now, he’s under the notorious brat prince’s direct control.
Yet beneath Kazia’s vicious mask, Lucien senses desperate vulnerability.
Painful experience has taught Kazia to fear mages. He keeps Lucien at a distance even as he uses Lucien’s talents. But that distance narrows with each careful kindness. Each accidental touch. Lucien acts more like a protector than a prisoner, and Kazia is tempted by the dangerous sweetness of trust.
But Lucien is still a mage, and Kazia is still broken. And Kazia’s cruel parents may still destroy them both.
Prince of Agony is a high fantasy gay romance, featuring captivity, hurt/comfort, and enemies hiding in a linen closet together. This is the final book in the Perilous Courts series, which is best enjoyed in order.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2024
177 people are currently reading
1024 people want to read
About the author
Tavia Lark
29 books794 followersTavia Lark writes m/m fantasy romance and erotica. Her favorite romance tropes include hurt/comfort, sharing a bed, and enemies to lovers. She writes from a sunny little apartment with the constant "help" of her fluffy cat. He just really likes typing, okay.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 258 reviews
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December 20, 2024
the hurt/comfort and "who did this to you?" vibes in this were so good omg. i loved Kazia and Lucien, individually and together. 😭 i also loved the lil twist of . 🥹
December 21, 2025
I really liked this series, and I’m glad it didn’t disappoint even till the end.
We finally got Lucien’s book and who is his LI but the one and only spoiled and cruel prince Kasia. Of course, ever since he is mentioned for the first time you can easily see there’s more of him that you can imagine. It was really sad when it’s finally revealed what he’s hiding, it made the urgency to figure out how Lucien’s involvement was going to help with his predicament as well as the ongoing war.
It could have been more action packed and the romance felt a tiny bit rushed, but I won’t complaint because I still enjoyed it.
As a plus, it was a nice little bonus how all the MCs from the previous book in the series got together, even if Julien and Whisper will be forever my no. 1.
We finally got Lucien’s book and who is his LI but the one and only spoiled and cruel prince Kasia. Of course, ever since he is mentioned for the first time you can easily see there’s more of him that you can imagine. It was really sad when it’s finally revealed what he’s hiding, it made the urgency to figure out how Lucien’s involvement was going to help with his predicament as well as the ongoing war.
It could have been more action packed and the romance felt a tiny bit rushed, but I won’t complaint because I still enjoyed it.
As a plus, it was a nice little bonus how all the MCs from the previous book in the series got together, even if Julien and Whisper will be forever my no. 1.
March 1, 2024
surprisingly, i pretty much liked every part of this book except for the romance lmao….like all the fantasy aspects were great, so many funny moments:
~“Stop that!” Kazia demands, his whisper rising to an embarrassing pitch.
“Apologies, Your Highness,” Lucien says, strained. “The obedience collar doesn’t work on my erection.”~
~Kazia can’t help leaning forward. “Do you think he likes me? How can you tell?”
Sei’s mouth opens, then closes. “I have eyes?”~
~“I was just going to blow things up,” Lucien admits.
Kazia shrugs. “I was just going to make Lucien blow things up.”~
~Kazia suppresses his first instinctive greeting: ‘I thought my brother was visiting, not a pair of boiled lobsters.’ He’s a king now. He needs to be polite and dignified. “Stop bowing. I can see your bald spot.” Oops.~
~“I have one correction for your heralds.” Vana glances at his bodyguard, his smile softening. “My name is Vana Kaiskara Azri now.”
“What?” Kazia’s jaw drops. Vana took the family name when he joined House Dire, which must mean… “You let your bodyguard adopt you?”~
but yea, the romance was giving very slow build up, until all the sudden it was like BAM full send….the pacing felt off, so i wasn’t really feeling the connection when they were like ‘let’s fuck’ and ‘i love you’….genuinely my jaw dropped at the first i love you, i was damn ! already !?😭
i’m just happy i finished it tho bc after devouring julien and bellamy’s books, i really struggled with the last three books in this series😭 like some real dnf mania going on…..but man, ig a mean, icy, traumatized prince is gonna do it for me every time🤣
~“Stop that!” Kazia demands, his whisper rising to an embarrassing pitch.
“Apologies, Your Highness,” Lucien says, strained. “The obedience collar doesn’t work on my erection.”~
~Kazia can’t help leaning forward. “Do you think he likes me? How can you tell?”
Sei’s mouth opens, then closes. “I have eyes?”~
~“I was just going to blow things up,” Lucien admits.
Kazia shrugs. “I was just going to make Lucien blow things up.”~
~Kazia suppresses his first instinctive greeting: ‘I thought my brother was visiting, not a pair of boiled lobsters.’ He’s a king now. He needs to be polite and dignified. “Stop bowing. I can see your bald spot.” Oops.~
~“I have one correction for your heralds.” Vana glances at his bodyguard, his smile softening. “My name is Vana Kaiskara Azri now.”
“What?” Kazia’s jaw drops. Vana took the family name when he joined House Dire, which must mean… “You let your bodyguard adopt you?”~
but yea, the romance was giving very slow build up, until all the sudden it was like BAM full send….the pacing felt off, so i wasn’t really feeling the connection when they were like ‘let’s fuck’ and ‘i love you’….genuinely my jaw dropped at the first i love you, i was damn ! already !?😭
i’m just happy i finished it tho bc after devouring julien and bellamy’s books, i really struggled with the last three books in this series😭 like some real dnf mania going on…..but man, ig a mean, icy, traumatized prince is gonna do it for me every time🤣
February 29, 2024
lackluster ending but i dont care, cute mean midgets are my thing.
June 7, 2025
Audio reread - I love when there's a solid redemption arc for the universally hated character!
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Probably a 4.5 star, but I'm still riding on the post happiness of seeing a satisfying end to the series.
Really enjoyed Kazia's arc throughout the series, and glad we got into his head and also into Lucien's. Plus, rats! And another adorable dragon. And Whisper, my favorite.
Excited to listen to 4-6 audios when they get released!
------------------------------------
Probably a 4.5 star, but I'm still riding on the post happiness of seeing a satisfying end to the series.
Really enjoyed Kazia's arc throughout the series, and glad we got into his head and also into Lucien's. Plus, rats! And another adorable dragon. And Whisper, my favorite.
Excited to listen to 4-6 audios when they get released!
March 1, 2024
"Prince of Agony" might be my favourite Tavia Lark romance to date. I loved it with my whole damn heart and soul.
I've been (im)patiently waiting for Kazia's book since the very first time he appears on page as a cruel, chaotic, spoiled prince with a wall around his heart a mile wide and a thousand different masks. We all knew he was hiding something, probably something painful, but let me tell you, my heart was not ready. Prince of agony, indeed.
And Lucien! He's been one of my favourites since Whisper and Julien's book, and I was sooooooo looking forward to getting to know him better.
And my expectations were not only met, they were surpassed. I think I say this every time I review one of Tavia's books, but her writing and her characters are MADE for me: everything she writes is a dream come true, and every new book of hers leaves me even more in awe. Her latest release is absolute perfection: it's entertaining and ridiculously easy to inhale, it's fun and subtly snarky, it's steamy and sweet and lovely and romantic, and it also captures your heart and then crushes it into smithereens. I cherished every single second I got to spend inside Kazia and Lucien's head: I never wanted to leave.
Their romance left me breathless and swooning: their dynamic was literal perfection, and seeing them start to slowly care for each other, protecting each other in such small but meaningful ways, despite them being on opposites sides of a war (and despite Lucien's captivity in Draskora) was such a treat, a joy to witness. Slow burn deliciousness with a side of enemies to lovers and reluctant attraction, the snarky sunshine/grumpy brat pairing of my dreams, with the sunshine being a meddling protector type and the grump being the touch-starved, tightly wound type.
Both of them are SUCH chaos gremlins though: they literally thrive on being menaces, and can't follow a plan to save their lives. I loved them.
< “How exactly did you plan on doing this without me?”
“I was just going to blow things up,” Lucien admits.
Kazia shrugs. “I was just going to make Lucien blow things up.” >
This quote is so ✨them✨
Lucien and Kazia are WONDERFUL protagonists. Maybe my favourite of Tavia Lark's to date. They both have hidden wounds and secret hurts, and seeing them slowly build a relationship between them, from distrust and reluctance to helpless attraction and affection, the sheer need to take care of one another, to be their own two-person army against the whole world, was absolutely wonderful.
I may have developed a HUGE crush on Lucien: I loved him before to be fair, but now I'd literally jump from a window if he said so. Fierce and snarky and chaotic, attentive and careful and far more insightful than I (and Kazia) gave him credit for. He's absolutely wonderful, and I adored him so much. And Kazia! God, that man is a walking contradiction: he's ruthless and cruel, but out of necessity. He's petty incarnate, but he's also touch-starved and so damned innocent and sweet at times, and seeing his walls come crumbling down from Lucien's persistent, yet careful, brand of care was beyond satisfying and it made me nearly tear up. The build-up to their relationship and their HEA was absolutely brilliant, and I already can't wait to re-read their story.
< “Marek’s a softy, though, based on how he treats his husband. Just act cute and ask for help, and he’ll crack.”
Cuddling his rat, Kazia gives a confused frown. “I don’t know how to act cute.”
Lucien grins. “You’re always cute, brat. It’ll be easy.” >
*SWOONS*
The plot is complex and compelling, the world-building simple yet unforgettable and mesmerizing, and the writing was so damned gorgeous, and it made me feel like I was there with them both, and all the other unforgettable side characters. It was so lovely to see some well-known characters again, and to meet new ones too: Tezurit deserves a special mention. She's as sassy and chaotic as her bonded rider.
I can't believe this series is done, I'll miss this world so much. The ending was perfect though, and I'm so satisfied with how everything turned out.
I'm so excited for the next Tavia Lark masterpiece, but in the meantime, I might have to read her books once or two dozen times.
TWs/CWs: child abuse, torture, violence, death.
I've been (im)patiently waiting for Kazia's book since the very first time he appears on page as a cruel, chaotic, spoiled prince with a wall around his heart a mile wide and a thousand different masks. We all knew he was hiding something, probably something painful, but let me tell you, my heart was not ready. Prince of agony, indeed.
And Lucien! He's been one of my favourites since Whisper and Julien's book, and I was sooooooo looking forward to getting to know him better.
And my expectations were not only met, they were surpassed. I think I say this every time I review one of Tavia's books, but her writing and her characters are MADE for me: everything she writes is a dream come true, and every new book of hers leaves me even more in awe. Her latest release is absolute perfection: it's entertaining and ridiculously easy to inhale, it's fun and subtly snarky, it's steamy and sweet and lovely and romantic, and it also captures your heart and then crushes it into smithereens. I cherished every single second I got to spend inside Kazia and Lucien's head: I never wanted to leave.
Their romance left me breathless and swooning: their dynamic was literal perfection, and seeing them start to slowly care for each other, protecting each other in such small but meaningful ways, despite them being on opposites sides of a war (and despite Lucien's captivity in Draskora) was such a treat, a joy to witness. Slow burn deliciousness with a side of enemies to lovers and reluctant attraction, the snarky sunshine/grumpy brat pairing of my dreams, with the sunshine being a meddling protector type and the grump being the touch-starved, tightly wound type.
Both of them are SUCH chaos gremlins though: they literally thrive on being menaces, and can't follow a plan to save their lives. I loved them.
< “How exactly did you plan on doing this without me?”
“I was just going to blow things up,” Lucien admits.
Kazia shrugs. “I was just going to make Lucien blow things up.” >
This quote is so ✨them✨
Lucien and Kazia are WONDERFUL protagonists. Maybe my favourite of Tavia Lark's to date. They both have hidden wounds and secret hurts, and seeing them slowly build a relationship between them, from distrust and reluctance to helpless attraction and affection, the sheer need to take care of one another, to be their own two-person army against the whole world, was absolutely wonderful.
I may have developed a HUGE crush on Lucien: I loved him before to be fair, but now I'd literally jump from a window if he said so. Fierce and snarky and chaotic, attentive and careful and far more insightful than I (and Kazia) gave him credit for. He's absolutely wonderful, and I adored him so much. And Kazia! God, that man is a walking contradiction: he's ruthless and cruel, but out of necessity. He's petty incarnate, but he's also touch-starved and so damned innocent and sweet at times, and seeing his walls come crumbling down from Lucien's persistent, yet careful, brand of care was beyond satisfying and it made me nearly tear up. The build-up to their relationship and their HEA was absolutely brilliant, and I already can't wait to re-read their story.
< “Marek’s a softy, though, based on how he treats his husband. Just act cute and ask for help, and he’ll crack.”
Cuddling his rat, Kazia gives a confused frown. “I don’t know how to act cute.”
Lucien grins. “You’re always cute, brat. It’ll be easy.” >
*SWOONS*
The plot is complex and compelling, the world-building simple yet unforgettable and mesmerizing, and the writing was so damned gorgeous, and it made me feel like I was there with them both, and all the other unforgettable side characters. It was so lovely to see some well-known characters again, and to meet new ones too: Tezurit deserves a special mention. She's as sassy and chaotic as her bonded rider.
I can't believe this series is done, I'll miss this world so much. The ending was perfect though, and I'm so satisfied with how everything turned out.
I'm so excited for the next Tavia Lark masterpiece, but in the meantime, I might have to read her books once or two dozen times.
TWs/CWs: child abuse, torture, violence, death.
August 30, 2024
“You’re rude. Obnoxious. Petty. You’re a control freak”.
Sexta y última parte de esta saga. La verdad es que me he quedado con un sabor amargo pues yo siento que me esperaba algo más de esta novela. Siento al mismo tiempo que todo ha sido cogido por los pelos y no había química alguna entre los personajes.
Me encanta las historias de esta señora, pero ni de lejos está será mi favorita.
Sexta y última parte de esta saga. La verdad es que me he quedado con un sabor amargo pues yo siento que me esperaba algo más de esta novela. Siento al mismo tiempo que todo ha sido cogido por los pelos y no había química alguna entre los personajes.
Me encanta las historias de esta señora, pero ni de lejos está será mi favorita.
November 2, 2025
This one might be the best of the series
January 22, 2025
January 2025 re-read: I was in more of a romance-reading mood than the first time I read this, so I’m bumping my rating up to 4.5/5. Great characters, great setting, convincing romance; my only real complaint is that I wish Lucien had been developed a bit more.
---
Some truly excellent use of tropes here, and I loved finally learning Kazia’s secrets. I also felt like there was a good balance between romance, worldbuilding, and previously established plot threads – probably the best balance in the Perilous Courts series. Lucien felt a bit underdeveloped compared to Kazia, but I still liked him and their dynamic.
I struggled with how to rate this because it was one of my favorite Perilous Courts books and should have been a 5/5 based on my previous ratings for the series. However, I give ratings based on how enjoyable the reading experience was, and I don’t know if any romance is a 5/5 for me right now. So this got a 4/5, but that doesn’t really reflect where this book would rank among other romances for me if I were to rate them all in comparison with each other.
---
Some truly excellent use of tropes here, and I loved finally learning Kazia’s secrets. I also felt like there was a good balance between romance, worldbuilding, and previously established plot threads – probably the best balance in the Perilous Courts series. Lucien felt a bit underdeveloped compared to Kazia, but I still liked him and their dynamic.
I struggled with how to rate this because it was one of my favorite Perilous Courts books and should have been a 5/5 based on my previous ratings for the series. However, I give ratings based on how enjoyable the reading experience was, and I don’t know if any romance is a 5/5 for me right now. So this got a 4/5, but that doesn’t really reflect where this book would rank among other romances for me if I were to rate them all in comparison with each other.
April 15, 2024
Snarky, plotting, chaotic, vulnerable, traumatized, and surprisingly lovable prince for the win!
Aside from Kazia, loved the hurt-comfort aspect, Lucien's protectiveness, the dragon, the banter, Kazia's eventual bonding with his brothers.
Aside from Kazia, loved the hurt-comfort aspect, Lucien's protectiveness, the dragon, the banter, Kazia's eventual bonding with his brothers.
February 29, 2024
a perfect ending to round off the perilous courts series :)
March 7, 2024
4.5 Stars
Bad pacing with the romance going from zero to 100 with a single page flip, but overall this was a great time. My complaint is once again, it needed to be longer.
I was really hoping this book wouldn’t conclude the series and that there would be three more where Draskorans and Salaisans would have to come together to beat the big bad but it was a satisfying ending regardless.
I thought Kaiza and Lucien were adorable and hilarious together and I only wish the transition in their relationship had been a bit smoother/less jarring.
I am so, so sad this series is done :(
Bad pacing with the romance going from zero to 100 with a single page flip, but overall this was a great time. My complaint is once again, it needed to be longer.
I was really hoping this book wouldn’t conclude the series and that there would be three more where Draskorans and Salaisans would have to come together to beat the big bad but it was a satisfying ending regardless.
I thought Kaiza and Lucien were adorable and hilarious together and I only wish the transition in their relationship had been a bit smoother/less jarring.
I am so, so sad this series is done :(
March 4, 2024
★ Estuve esperando muchísimo tiempo por este libro y dkldñdmdndld. Overall, estuvo muy bien. Tal vez yo esperaba un enemies to lovers cabronsísimo, pero también es bienvenido ser softies.
[ Kazia ]
★ Realmente me emocionaba un montón leer acerca de Kazia, específicamente porque lo pintaban ultra mega malvado pero qué onda con este pastelito. Even tho en los libros pasados quedaba muy claro que él no dejaba entrar a nadie, también me parece fue porque nadie lo intentaba en serio.
♥︎ “And maybe it’s silly, but Kazia wants Lucien to be careful with him.” ｡:ﾟ(;´∩`;)ﾟ:｡ skdmldkdldodks
[ Lucien ]
★ El pelirrojo hot que salva a su príncipe, nunca decepciona.
[ Kazia ]
★ Realmente me emocionaba un montón leer acerca de Kazia, específicamente porque lo pintaban ultra mega malvado pero qué onda con este pastelito. Even tho en los libros pasados quedaba muy claro que él no dejaba entrar a nadie, también me parece fue porque nadie lo intentaba en serio.
♥︎ “And maybe it’s silly, but Kazia wants Lucien to be careful with him.” ｡:ﾟ(;´∩`;)ﾟ:｡ skdmldkdldodks
[ Lucien ]
★ El pelirrojo hot que salva a su príncipe, nunca decepciona.
March 1, 2024
So much sweeter than I thought it would be! All in all, I think it didn’t have quite the oomph I was expecting for a series finale. It’s been a few months since I read all the installments in one go and I struggled more than I expected to remember who everyone is.
Lucien and Kazia had it a tad too easy? But then again Kazia deserved all the ease in the world.
Quotes
NSFW infos:
Smol lavender haired angy kitten prince (virgin)
Taller redheaded commander from enemy camp
Coming in trousers from friction
Strict top bottom dynamic
Lucien and Kazia had it a tad too easy? But then again Kazia deserved all the ease in the world.
Quotes
“Why did you stay?” Kazia asks. Lucien’s lips are wet. His eyes burn blue as flame. “I have so many good, sensible reasons. There’s a war I want to stop and a king I want to kill.” Lucien touches Kazia’s lips, and a small smile warms his face. “But the truth is, I like taking care of you.” (P. 192)
He falls back on the pillow and looks up at Lucien, whose hunger shines like worship in his eyes. Kazia has never hated his height. It’s everyone else who’s too tall, not anything wrong with him. But he’s never truly loved it until this moment, safe and small and protected beneath Lucien’s freckled shoulders. (P. 235)
NSFW infos:
Smol lavender haired angy kitten prince (virgin)
Taller redheaded commander from enemy camp
Coming in trousers from friction
Strict top bottom dynamic
April 9, 2024
No lie, this sounds like a golden retriever himbo (Lucien) x unhinged, chaosbringer gremlin (Kazia) book. Which is my ABSOLUTE. FAVORITE. couple dynamic.
This has the potential to be my favorite book in the entire series, but even if it ISN'T what I expect, I think I would still like it. BUT even so, I hope to fucking god it is what I guessed it is (I mean come on, look at Kazia; he looks like a smug, sassy bitch who can and will raise hell upon literally everyone).
This has the potential to be my favorite book in the entire series, but even if it ISN'T what I expect, I think I would still like it. BUT even so, I hope to fucking god it is what I guessed it is (I mean come on, look at Kazia; he looks like a smug, sassy bitch who can and will raise hell upon literally everyone).
March 3, 2024
Brilliant ending to this awesome series! I always like the bad guys who are really good guys at heart, and Kazia was this, hands down. I’m so glad he got his happy ending with Lucien, he truly deserved happiness. I can’t wait to revisit all these boys when since I can now reread the whole series.
March 2, 2024
3.5 rounded up
One of those authors/books that I'm sure I could pick apart if I was really thinking about it, but I enjoyed this for what it was. Kazia was a little inconsistent, but on the whole it was an enjoyable conclusion to a series I've enjoyed when I want a bit of light mm fantasy.
One of those authors/books that I'm sure I could pick apart if I was really thinking about it, but I enjoyed this for what it was. Kazia was a little inconsistent, but on the whole it was an enjoyable conclusion to a series I've enjoyed when I want a bit of light mm fantasy.
March 4, 2024
This is a satisfying conclusion to this series, ending with the most difficult character of all. The solutions are as twisted as you'd expect. One plot twist completely surprised me, which at my age was a nice gift! While I'm not a fan of strife, the buildup to this story was so good that I was eager to read how it all resolves.
You know you've read a great series when at the end, you sigh and smile.
You know you've read a great series when at the end, you sigh and smile.
August 1, 2024
Hell yes a great book to end the series with.
July 12, 2024
So this one had a slower start than the previous 5 books, but it was really good. It was definitely more plot-driven as well but that's because it does conclude the series and there was a lot to wrap up with this one.
As always I absolutely loved the dragon. This one was younger and wilder which made her even funnier. The MCs were such a complete opposite that it made the romance just pop. And I loved seeing things from Kazia's POV and finally understanding him and why he did things better.
This book was the least spicy of the series, but you really don't miss it as there is more than enough plot to keep you interested. I'll be looking into more by this author.
As always I absolutely loved the dragon. This one was younger and wilder which made her even funnier. The MCs were such a complete opposite that it made the romance just pop. And I loved seeing things from Kazia's POV and finally understanding him and why he did things better.
This book was the least spicy of the series, but you really don't miss it as there is more than enough plot to keep you interested. I'll be looking into more by this author.
October 24, 2024
This audio is the bomb 💣
John Solo and Kirt Graves did an amazing job and really brought those characters to life.
I loved how all loose ties finally are tied up and how all couple ans princes are meeting in the end.
I really really can't decide which coupe is my favorite- they all have a special place in my heart 💜 🌩️🔮🐉💚🌿
John Solo and Kirt Graves did an amazing job and really brought those characters to life.
I loved how all loose ties finally are tied up and how all couple ans princes are meeting in the end.
I really really can't decide which coupe is my favorite- they all have a special place in my heart 💜 🌩️🔮🐉💚🌿
April 7, 2024
(3,5 stars rated down) I really hoped that I would like the last book in the series as much or even more than I liked Prince and Betrothed. Alas, it was not meant to be.
Kazia and Lucien were not unlikable characters, but my opinion of Lucien, who I did not find particularly memorable or amusing as a secondary character in the previous books, did not change all that much with him cast as a main character. My feelings towards him were a step above indifference. As for Kazia, he was much more intriguing as a secondary character than as a main one. Still, I found him more likable and sympathetic than Lucien. This was not surprising once it was revealed that Kazia
The romance between Lucien and Kazia felt underdeveloped, and the action scenes were poorly described. After six books in the series, the deaths of the two main villains seemed little more than an afterthought.
I'm relieved to be finished with the entire series, but unfortunately, I found myself wanting to like these books more than I actually did. While I enjoyed the overall story arc, most of the romances, as already mentioned, felt underdeveloped, lacking chemistry between the characters. Though I appreciated the story setting, I found the action and intrigue not intricate enough for a great fantasy plot. I did appreciate the fact that all the little mysteries from the previous books were answered before the series end.
Apart from Prince and Betrothed Marek and Sei's book, which was the book that I liked the most, my favorite aspects of this world were all the fantastical animals, such as fellcats (some more enjoyable than others), blinkminks (despite being an obvious menace), dragons (somewhat underused in the series), and rats (adorable, despite not being fantastical if we ignore their possible ). Also, I keep forgetting to mention, I thought all the book covers and each of the princes looked pretty damn awesome.
(All the book reviews for this series will be written somewhat quick and dirty as I read through all the books in the span of six days. I've written my quick overall impression of each book as I finished them, but now after finishing the whole series I find myself lacking energy and brainpower to try to write more detailed reviews for each book.)
Themes: dual POV, enemies to lovers, captor/captive, royalty, age difference, virginity, dragons
Kazia and Lucien were not unlikable characters, but my opinion of Lucien, who I did not find particularly memorable or amusing as a secondary character in the previous books, did not change all that much with him cast as a main character. My feelings towards him were a step above indifference. As for Kazia, he was much more intriguing as a secondary character than as a main one. Still, I found him more likable and sympathetic than Lucien. This was not surprising once it was revealed that Kazia
The romance between Lucien and Kazia felt underdeveloped, and the action scenes were poorly described. After six books in the series, the deaths of the two main villains seemed little more than an afterthought.
I'm relieved to be finished with the entire series, but unfortunately, I found myself wanting to like these books more than I actually did. While I enjoyed the overall story arc, most of the romances, as already mentioned, felt underdeveloped, lacking chemistry between the characters. Though I appreciated the story setting, I found the action and intrigue not intricate enough for a great fantasy plot. I did appreciate the fact that all the little mysteries from the previous books were answered before the series end.
Apart from Prince and Betrothed Marek and Sei's book, which was the book that I liked the most, my favorite aspects of this world were all the fantastical animals, such as fellcats (some more enjoyable than others), blinkminks (despite being an obvious menace), dragons (somewhat underused in the series), and rats (adorable, despite not being fantastical if we ignore their possible ). Also, I keep forgetting to mention, I thought all the book covers and each of the princes looked pretty damn awesome.
(All the book reviews for this series will be written somewhat quick and dirty as I read through all the books in the span of six days. I've written my quick overall impression of each book as I finished them, but now after finishing the whole series I find myself lacking energy and brainpower to try to write more detailed reviews for each book.)
Themes: dual POV, enemies to lovers, captor/captive, royalty, age difference, virginity, dragons
March 8, 2025
1.5 - 2 ⭐️
✗ 'Only one way to find out' - said I believe 4 - 5 times
✗ 'What the fuck?' - said about 4 times, at the worst possible moments, like in the middle of steamy scenes.
✗ Both Kazia and Lucien constantly dropped f-bombs for no reason. I don't have anything against a character swearing, but it gets extremely tiring when I have to read the word 'fucking' in every second sentence, also just comes off as extremely juvenile.
✗ Kazia is a noble, and he had about the manners and social skills of a doc worker.
✗ Lucien was a completely different man in this book. Loved him in the previous instalments but I have no idea how Tavia managed to ruin his personality this much
✗ just bad writing in general. it was giving rushed and lazy.
✗ weird degradation bits at the beginning, and same as with Audrics book, I was not into it. I got the feel that it tried very hard to be Captive Prince. But sadly Tavia Lark is no C.S. Pacat and her writing style isn't strong enough to pull it off.
✗ romance was 🥱 there was so much potential there, but any potential was squashed by bad pacing, emotional beats, that were again (as with the last book) all stuffed into the last 90 pages of the book. Only this time it was even worse because there was no chemistry between Kazia and Lucien in the build-up.
✗ The dragon was a copy and paste Loska. Did we even try to invent a new personality? no.
✗ last steamy scene was probably intentionally cut short, so the author can sell it via their patreon. I don't want to buy a DLC for my book. thank you.
✗ 'Only one way to find out' - said I believe 4 - 5 times
✗ 'What the fuck?' - said about 4 times, at the worst possible moments, like in the middle of steamy scenes.
✗ Both Kazia and Lucien constantly dropped f-bombs for no reason. I don't have anything against a character swearing, but it gets extremely tiring when I have to read the word 'fucking' in every second sentence, also just comes off as extremely juvenile.
✗ Kazia is a noble, and he had about the manners and social skills of a doc worker.
✗ Lucien was a completely different man in this book. Loved him in the previous instalments but I have no idea how Tavia managed to ruin his personality this much
✗ just bad writing in general. it was giving rushed and lazy.
✗ weird degradation bits at the beginning, and same as with Audrics book, I was not into it. I got the feel that it tried very hard to be Captive Prince. But sadly Tavia Lark is no C.S. Pacat and her writing style isn't strong enough to pull it off.
✗ romance was 🥱 there was so much potential there, but any potential was squashed by bad pacing, emotional beats, that were again (as with the last book) all stuffed into the last 90 pages of the book. Only this time it was even worse because there was no chemistry between Kazia and Lucien in the build-up.
✗ The dragon was a copy and paste Loska. Did we even try to invent a new personality? no.
✗ last steamy scene was probably intentionally cut short, so the author can sell it via their patreon. I don't want to buy a DLC for my book. thank you.
March 3, 2024
4.25 stars
Prince of Agony is the final book of Perilous Courts series and it wraps up all the brewing war and conflicts of bordering countries of Silaise and Draskora. Kazia is the true son of Imrik Dire and Aliza Dire (Vana and Marek are adopted) and this is his story.
Oh, Kazia!! You poor, poor prince!! I know there's something that Kazia keeps as secret. He is portrayed as being a selfish, bad tempered, brat of a prince in previous books. I KNEW it couldn't be that simple! But I never knew that it was this horrible! That Kazia is
I am so happy that Lucien is a perceptive enough to see what's going on - to know that Kazia only wearing a mask to hide his secret. I am so happy that Lucian is willing to set aside his anger and forget his humiliation of being Kazia's captive - to know that Kazia is unwell. I am so happy that Kazia finds someone who's willing to take care of him.
This two is definitely my favorite couple AFTER Julien and Whisper (who still hold that top position, by the way)
The ending comes a bit too fast - I guess I want more destruction. But Imrik and Aliza get what they deserve. So there's that. And Lucien gets his dragon. So yes, I'm satisfied with this ending. Sorry to say goodbye to the six princes - but they're all live happily with their spouses. Now I just have to wait for Tavia Lark's new books.
Prince of Agony is the final book of Perilous Courts series and it wraps up all the brewing war and conflicts of bordering countries of Silaise and Draskora. Kazia is the true son of Imrik Dire and Aliza Dire (Vana and Marek are adopted) and this is his story.
Oh, Kazia!! You poor, poor prince!! I know there's something that Kazia keeps as secret. He is portrayed as being a selfish, bad tempered, brat of a prince in previous books. I KNEW it couldn't be that simple! But I never knew that it was this horrible! That Kazia is
I am so happy that Lucien is a perceptive enough to see what's going on - to know that Kazia only wearing a mask to hide his secret. I am so happy that Lucian is willing to set aside his anger and forget his humiliation of being Kazia's captive - to know that Kazia is unwell. I am so happy that Kazia finds someone who's willing to take care of him.
This two is definitely my favorite couple AFTER Julien and Whisper (who still hold that top position, by the way)
The ending comes a bit too fast - I guess I want more destruction. But Imrik and Aliza get what they deserve. So there's that. And Lucien gets his dragon. So yes, I'm satisfied with this ending. Sorry to say goodbye to the six princes - but they're all live happily with their spouses. Now I just have to wait for Tavia Lark's new books.
June 13, 2025
Tiny and under-trained, he could never be a threat—except that Kazia is a prince, and Lucien is in chains.
Oh man. I knew this book was going to be good! Kazia caused soooo many feels with what he went through. <3 The whole premise was deliciously set up. Kazia , and Lucien, who has circulated the whole series as a side character, mis-stepping and ending up as his captive?
*dies*
Like most of Kazia’s plans, the demand was less a true plan than a dagger thrown into the darkness. Fling it at random and see if anything bleeds.
Kazia's journey as he learned to trust and even rely on others was such a rewarding plotline. Lucien was a great match up for him - he challenged him but was astute enough to realize the depth that Kazia tried to hide from the world. His subplot where he was lovely too.
Throne, crown, and king, all shattered, but mending.
Overall, I am so sad this series is over! I will definitely revisit the Perilous Courts series as a re-read in the future!
May 19, 2024
I’d expected to love it more than I actually did. The potential is there, but I wasn’t as hooked, especially by the romance.
Maybe it’s my fault jumping right into the last installment of a series, because then I don’t know Kazia apart from what’s written in this book. He came over to me as a young, vulnerable child, and his posturing as a fierce and sarcastic character felt flat because of that. Lucien is also not so well-developed.
Also, like everyone is gay. All the princes from both sides of the opposing countries are gays.. lol, what are the odds?
All in all, it’s an okay, fantasy story. Short enough for it to still be enjoyable, but I’d appreciate more fleshing out.
Maybe it’s my fault jumping right into the last installment of a series, because then I don’t know Kazia apart from what’s written in this book. He came over to me as a young, vulnerable child, and his posturing as a fierce and sarcastic character felt flat because of that. Lucien is also not so well-developed.
Also, like everyone is gay. All the princes from both sides of the opposing countries are gays.. lol, what are the odds?
All in all, it’s an okay, fantasy story. Short enough for it to still be enjoyable, but I’d appreciate more fleshing out.
Read
February 25, 2024*purrs in comfort read*
Gah! That was so good! I love this series so much!
Actual thoughts aren't happening now.
I suppose I should say I'm sorry it's over, but it wrapped up so nicely, that I'm just looking forward to starting over with Whisper and Julien and reading them all through again.
Kazia and Lucian are my favorites out of the Draskoran arc, and their story has the added drama of all the political strife that has built up so far. Plus is was an absolute treat to see the different princes and consorts interact. I definitely wouldn't mind reading more bonus material along those lines.
(*✧ω ✧*)
Gah! That was so good! I love this series so much!
Actual thoughts aren't happening now.
I suppose I should say I'm sorry it's over, but it wrapped up so nicely, that I'm just looking forward to starting over with Whisper and Julien and reading them all through again.
Kazia and Lucian are my favorites out of the Draskoran arc, and their story has the added drama of all the political strife that has built up so far. Plus is was an absolute treat to see the different princes and consorts interact. I definitely wouldn't mind reading more bonus material along those lines.
(*✧ω ✧*)
January 18, 2025
A great ending to a great series. It can be hard to do an over-arching plot across 6 books while also centering a new couple in each but here it works. The world building is solid, the characters well delineated, and the enemies to lovers trope begins with them truly feeling like enemies. While this is not my favorite six book gay fantasy series, it’s up there.
February 24, 2024
Love this conclusion to the series although I hate to see it end. All of the characters are so clearly defined that even I could keep track of who's who throughout the series. Kazia was an intriguing character and I was so glad to finally read his story. Lucien is great and together they make perfect sense. I meant to go to bed early last night but then I got this ARC and couldn't put it down until I realized I was reading with only one eye open, and even it finally wouldn't stay up anymore.
August 19, 2025
This entire series was such an enjoyable and easy read. All of the characters and their individual stories were great. The interconnected plot lines were well done. I’m kind of sad to leave this fictional world so soon.
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