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Elven Alliance #9
Elf King
This is the story of the elf kings of Tarenhiel.
Iron Heart
It all started with an arranged marriage.
When Ellarin, heir to the King of Tarenhiel, finds out that he is dying, his father forces him into an arranged marriage with Lady Leyleira. Will the pressure of the king and the court draw them closer or pull them apart? Will they fall in love before it is too late?
Elf King
This elf king was not always so grumpy.
When Prince Weylind of the elves falls in love with a simple healer's daughter, life seems peaceful and perfect. But a troll attack and an unexpected younger brother change everything, placing more and more burdens on Weylind’s shoulders. Will Weylind find his way back to the person he used to be? Or will he be too late to fix the damage to his own family?
Follow four generations of kings as they shape Tarenhiel into the kingdom it is during the Elven Alliance series!
Iron Heart
It all started with an arranged marriage.
When Ellarin, heir to the King of Tarenhiel, finds out that he is dying, his father forces him into an arranged marriage with Lady Leyleira. Will the pressure of the king and the court draw them closer or pull them apart? Will they fall in love before it is too late?
Elf King
This elf king was not always so grumpy.
When Prince Weylind of the elves falls in love with a simple healer's daughter, life seems peaceful and perfect. But a troll attack and an unexpected younger brother change everything, placing more and more burdens on Weylind’s shoulders. Will Weylind find his way back to the person he used to be? Or will he be too late to fix the damage to his own family?
Follow four generations of kings as they shape Tarenhiel into the kingdom it is during the Elven Alliance series!
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 2, 2023
119 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
Tara Grayce
33 books788 followersBorn and raised in Michigan, I enjoy traveling to new adventures that inspire my writing.
Growing up, I read just about every book I could get my hands on, especially fantasy. I currently write YA fantasy and romantic fantasy filled with lots of humor, spunky and tough leading ladies, and broken heroes.
When I am not writing, I enjoy spending time with my chocolate lab, Miss Kisses.
Growing up, I read just about every book I could get my hands on, especially fantasy. I currently write YA fantasy and romantic fantasy filled with lots of humor, spunky and tough leading ladies, and broken heroes.
When I am not writing, I enjoy spending time with my chocolate lab, Miss Kisses.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
November 19, 2023
The first half of this book rips your heart out and tears it into a million tiny pieces. The second half has you smiling and laughing and hoping once again!
The perfect ending to the Elven Alliance series and it makes me so excited for the cousins series that Tara has in the works 😍
The perfect ending to the Elven Alliance series and it makes me so excited for the cousins series that Tara has in the works 😍
November 9, 2023
This is quite possibly my favorite thing that Tara Grayce has ever written. (It’s a bit hard to say for sure because of course I wouldn’t have loved it so much if I hadn’t loved the other ones first, but still.)
If Elf King as a whole is my favorite thing Tara Grayce has written, then Iron Heart is probably my favorite, favorite thing she’s written. For one thing, both Ellarin and Leyleira are dynamic, sympathetic, and engaging characters, with thoughtful inner lives I could connect to instantly. The supporting cast is wonderful; the setting is rich; and the prose is elegant.
And then I connected to it on a personal level that I needed so much. My heart broke with Ellarin’s achingly familiar account of his countless visits to the healers and eventual diagnosis. I just lost my grandpa, and when the inevitable time came for Ellarin, I cried. Maybe elves like to see the beauty in grief, as Farrendel told Essie, but they also find joy in life. And this story does both.
It’s also a portrait of the deep importance of leaving a legacy. And Ellarin’s legacy was peace.
I just…this story. I love it a lot. It’s wise and healing and beautiful in virtually every way.
content: veiled discussions of how Ellarin and Leyleira will work their wedding night. Some kissing. Some violence.
Thoughts in bullet points:
• Protective brother Weylind is one of my favorite things to see. You’re able to see it quite well in the main Elven Alliance books, but in Elf King, I finally connected with Weylind, with his wrestling, his hidden, admirable fierceness, and his undimmed love for his family. He’s just such a wonderful character.
• Rheva is a dear.
• Chaotic tiny Farrendel is the absolute best.
• Also, something I’ve always thought about her books but am only now putting into words: Tara Grayce writes marriage and the intimacies of marriage so beautifully, and she makes them seem like the wonderful and good things they are, instead of ever resorting to spice and making me feel like I have to look away from squirming so hard. It’s such a lovely balance she strikes, and I admire it deeply.
•This entire story is solidly-written wish fulfillment at its finest, and I am not complaining in the least.
content: illegitimate birth of a child, some kissing, violence and torture
I’m reminded of that Joy Clarkson quote from Aggressively Happy: “I realize I do not need to be reminded that the world is dark and difficult; I am well aware, and very tired. What I need is a vision of goodness so bright that it lights the path ahead of me, keeps me faithful, and makes me brave.”
This book was that for me. It’s sad and sorrowful, heavy and grieving, but at the same time it’s light and lovely, restorative and fortifying. It’s bittersweet, but it’s also joyful and longing in the most wonderful way, celebrating life and the promise of things to come.
Elf King is a tale that will linger in my heart for years to come, one I’ll want to return to again and again. It’s healing and beautiful and just a blessing of a book.
Iron Heart
If Elf King as a whole is my favorite thing Tara Grayce has written, then Iron Heart is probably my favorite, favorite thing she’s written. For one thing, both Ellarin and Leyleira are dynamic, sympathetic, and engaging characters, with thoughtful inner lives I could connect to instantly. The supporting cast is wonderful; the setting is rich; and the prose is elegant.
And then I connected to it on a personal level that I needed so much. My heart broke with Ellarin’s achingly familiar account of his countless visits to the healers and eventual diagnosis. I just lost my grandpa, and when the inevitable time came for Ellarin, I cried. Maybe elves like to see the beauty in grief, as Farrendel told Essie, but they also find joy in life. And this story does both.
It’s also a portrait of the deep importance of leaving a legacy. And Ellarin’s legacy was peace.
I just…this story. I love it a lot. It’s wise and healing and beautiful in virtually every way.
“Perhaps it is time you focused less on the fact that you are dying and more on simply living.”
content: veiled discussions of how Ellarin and Leyleira will work their wedding night. Some kissing. Some violence.
Elf King
Thoughts in bullet points:
• Protective brother Weylind is one of my favorite things to see. You’re able to see it quite well in the main Elven Alliance books, but in Elf King, I finally connected with Weylind, with his wrestling, his hidden, admirable fierceness, and his undimmed love for his family. He’s just such a wonderful character.
• Rheva is a dear.
• Chaotic tiny Farrendel is the absolute best.
• Also, something I’ve always thought about her books but am only now putting into words: Tara Grayce writes marriage and the intimacies of marriage so beautifully, and she makes them seem like the wonderful and good things they are, instead of ever resorting to spice and making me feel like I have to look away from squirming so hard. It’s such a lovely balance she strikes, and I admire it deeply.
•This entire story is solidly-written wish fulfillment at its finest, and I am not complaining in the least.
One did not have to become a legend to live a good life.
content: illegitimate birth of a child, some kissing, violence and torture
I’m reminded of that Joy Clarkson quote from Aggressively Happy: “I realize I do not need to be reminded that the world is dark and difficult; I am well aware, and very tired. What I need is a vision of goodness so bright that it lights the path ahead of me, keeps me faithful, and makes me brave.”
This book was that for me. It’s sad and sorrowful, heavy and grieving, but at the same time it’s light and lovely, restorative and fortifying. It’s bittersweet, but it’s also joyful and longing in the most wonderful way, celebrating life and the promise of things to come.
Elf King is a tale that will linger in my heart for years to come, one I’ll want to return to again and again. It’s healing and beautiful and just a blessing of a book.
December 19, 2024
It’s over and I’m both deeply satisfied, giddy, and sad all at the same time.
This book is split into two parts with the first half being about grandmother Leyleira and her arranged marriage to the, at the time, prince Ellarin and goodness do they go through the wringer! (and Ellarin’s dad is THE WORST, my GOSH, I hated this man!) But those trials only grow them closer together and then falling in love when it looked impossible was literally the best thing ever! I cried when the inevitable came with Ellarin’s illness, but his impact of having a legacy of peace is so so powerful, and I love them and this story so much it’s hard to put into coherent words.
The second part follows Weylind and I loved his side of the story too! He was a character I grew to love throughout the series and seeing inside his head made it even better, though the best part was definitely when wild child Farrendel jumped on his head—I nearly burst out laughing and had to restrain myself so my family didn’t give me weird looks, lol! Rheva is a dear and seeing how things fell apart for their family but then slowly knitted back together stronger then before was amazing and I nearly cried over that too, dang it! And the very last chapter was EVERYTHING, oh my gosh, I love these characters sooooo much!!!!
I spoke too soon in saying Heart Bond was my second favorite book in the series because now it’s this one because I fell so much more in love with these characters then I already thought I would and this was just so powerful, moving, and sweet—the perfect ending to this amazing, amazing series I deeply love. I can’t wait to reread them all!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a character suffers from nightmares and PTSD; a character has a terminal illness
Violence: a character was tortured (not detailed); fighting with weapons and magic (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed)
Sexual: kissing (not detailed); mild suggestive hints/comments; a married couple is pressured to have an heir
Other: magic; magical abilities and races; a character suffers from nightmares and PTSD; a character is illegitimate; death and grief; a character has a terminal illness
This book is split into two parts with the first half being about grandmother Leyleira and her arranged marriage to the, at the time, prince Ellarin and goodness do they go through the wringer! (and Ellarin’s dad is THE WORST, my GOSH, I hated this man!) But those trials only grow them closer together and then falling in love when it looked impossible was literally the best thing ever! I cried when the inevitable came with Ellarin’s illness, but his impact of having a legacy of peace is so so powerful, and I love them and this story so much it’s hard to put into coherent words.
The second part follows Weylind and I loved his side of the story too! He was a character I grew to love throughout the series and seeing inside his head made it even better, though the best part was definitely when wild child Farrendel jumped on his head—I nearly burst out laughing and had to restrain myself so my family didn’t give me weird looks, lol! Rheva is a dear and seeing how things fell apart for their family but then slowly knitted back together stronger then before was amazing and I nearly cried over that too, dang it! And the very last chapter was EVERYTHING, oh my gosh, I love these characters sooooo much!!!!
I spoke too soon in saying Heart Bond was my second favorite book in the series because now it’s this one because I fell so much more in love with these characters then I already thought I would and this was just so powerful, moving, and sweet—the perfect ending to this amazing, amazing series I deeply love. I can’t wait to reread them all!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a character suffers from nightmares and PTSD; a character has a terminal illness
Violence: a character was tortured (not detailed); fighting with weapons and magic (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed)
Sexual: kissing (not detailed); mild suggestive hints/comments; a married couple is pressured to have an heir
Other: magic; magical abilities and races; a character suffers from nightmares and PTSD; a character is illegitimate; death and grief; a character has a terminal illness
January 24, 2024
Came for cute romances and instead got my heart pulverised. Very much not okay, I don't think i've ever cried so much reading a book 😭😭
November 20, 2023
This was such a beautiful book. Really loved seeing both Weyland and Leyleria's perspective. (not sure if I'm spelling those right). Honestly, this book moved me to tears more than the others, and tugged at my heartstrings. And the epilogue just made it all the more sweet. Such a wonderful book to finish off the series.
May 20, 2024
This series is so good and this is such a wonderful end to the stories (I'm totally ready to read more anytime!)
This book delved deeper into characters that had so many repressed emotions and it was wonderful to see their inner workings and their perception of the world.
Leyleira is MVP and she's taught us why she is and will always be the MVP. Her story broke my heart but also gave us a lot of insight into her. While I'm sad for her for the sad stuff that happened I'm happy that she knew love like Ellarin.
This was just such a fitting end I'm so happy with this series and sad at the same time that this is the end.
This book delved deeper into characters that had so many repressed emotions and it was wonderful to see their inner workings and their perception of the world.
Leyleira is MVP and she's taught us why she is and will always be the MVP. Her story broke my heart but also gave us a lot of insight into her. While I'm sad for her for the sad stuff that happened I'm happy that she knew love like Ellarin.
This was just such a fitting end I'm so happy with this series and sad at the same time that this is the end.
July 19, 2024
4.5 stars.
I was very thankful for the warning in the front of the book about the amount of death already written into the backstories fleshed out here. I generally try to go into books blind, with not even synopsis amounts of spoilers, at least when it's a series I know I love like this one, and this one was a little emotionally rough even with the warning.
Despite that, one of my favorites of the series so far. I love Leyleira more than I did before, and find Weylind more likeable (and oh my goodness I have underappreciated Rheva this whole time!).
You mostly know what's coming here if you've read the rest of the series, but to sum up, be prepared for vivid grief over many deaths, a close up look at dealing with chronic/terminal illness, challenges of war, family tensions, and references to kidnapping and torture, as well as brief references to infertility.
I was very thankful for the warning in the front of the book about the amount of death already written into the backstories fleshed out here. I generally try to go into books blind, with not even synopsis amounts of spoilers, at least when it's a series I know I love like this one, and this one was a little emotionally rough even with the warning.
Despite that, one of my favorites of the series so far. I love Leyleira more than I did before, and find Weylind more likeable (and oh my goodness I have underappreciated Rheva this whole time!).
You mostly know what's coming here if you've read the rest of the series, but to sum up, be prepared for vivid grief over many deaths, a close up look at dealing with chronic/terminal illness, challenges of war, family tensions, and references to kidnapping and torture, as well as brief references to infertility.
July 18, 2023
I enjoyed it but didn't love it. 3*
I really like this series so I was happy to see there was another book in this world. It isn't quite a prequel although most of it occurs before the beginning of book 1 (Fierce Heart). And despite the blurb one isn't really following the story of 4 generations of Elven kings. The 4 kings mentioned in the blurb are: Illythor, Ellarin, Lorsan, and Weylind. We get very little about Lorsan and Illythor. It is divided into two sections. Iron Heart and Elf King.
The books go from 650 years before the start of Fierce heart to roughly the end of the series. Instead of creating an elven calendar it just gives us the number of years before Fierce heart, or the book in the series where the chapter falls. I thought this was quite a nice way of doing it. Unfortunately because she has to cover so much time it jumps quite rapidly through the stories and it felt a bit awkward at times.
Iron Heart follows Leyleira, wife of Ellarin, from their marriage until 7 years after the beginning of Fierce Heart. We do get both of their POVs but as she lives much longer than him it is still a story mostly about her. This is not a spoiler because the forward tells you exactly what chapter he dies in and the opening chapter is about how the king has decided that she shall marry his terminally ill son. I liked this one more than Elf King.
Elf King follows Weylind (mostly) and his wife Rheva(some). It starts just before his grandfather Ellarin dies, through his disappointment with his father, the beginning of the new war with the trolls and then then humans, and through all the major events of the series. It felt a bit too long and disjointed for true reading pleasure but I am still glad I read it.
I do not think this book works at all as a stand alone nor do I think the author intended it to do so.
I really like this series so I was happy to see there was another book in this world. It isn't quite a prequel although most of it occurs before the beginning of book 1 (Fierce Heart). And despite the blurb one isn't really following the story of 4 generations of Elven kings. The 4 kings mentioned in the blurb are: Illythor, Ellarin, Lorsan, and Weylind. We get very little about Lorsan and Illythor. It is divided into two sections. Iron Heart and Elf King.
The books go from 650 years before the start of Fierce heart to roughly the end of the series. Instead of creating an elven calendar it just gives us the number of years before Fierce heart, or the book in the series where the chapter falls. I thought this was quite a nice way of doing it. Unfortunately because she has to cover so much time it jumps quite rapidly through the stories and it felt a bit awkward at times.
Iron Heart follows Leyleira, wife of Ellarin, from their marriage until 7 years after the beginning of Fierce Heart. We do get both of their POVs but as she lives much longer than him it is still a story mostly about her. This is not a spoiler because the forward tells you exactly what chapter he dies in and the opening chapter is about how the king has decided that she shall marry his terminally ill son. I liked this one more than Elf King.
Elf King follows Weylind (mostly) and his wife Rheva(some). It starts just before his grandfather Ellarin dies, through his disappointment with his father, the beginning of the new war with the trolls and then then humans, and through all the major events of the series. It felt a bit too long and disjointed for true reading pleasure but I am still glad I read it.
I do not think this book works at all as a stand alone nor do I think the author intended it to do so.
June 1, 2025
*Minor Spoilers*
What do magic, amazing hair and near immortality have in common? Elves! Ok, that was cheesy. But seriously, I loved this foray into elvendom. We get some glimpses of Tarenheil (elf kingdom) in Fierce Heart, but are left wanting more. This book fills that need perfectly!
It focuses on two separate couples- one, an arranged marriage, and the second a love match. I love how the issues with both of these relationships are explored, and how the characters resolved these issues.
And I can’t forget Farrendel! In this book we see him as he once was, before Fierce Heart. He is adorable! I love all of his scenes and how the author portrays his path from babe to warrior.
I would be lying if I said I didn’t need tissues at some parts. It was so sad to watch one of my favorite relationships end! But it was worth it to get to know Leyleira and Weylind better.
If you loved the Elven Alliance Series, you will love this incredible prequel!
Negatives: What I didn’t like in this book can be summed up in one word - nothing! 😁
Cussing: None
Romance: Some kisses. The elven culture is very no touchy. Some elves view holding hands in public as borderline inappropriate.
Magic: Yes!
Gore: None. A character has been tortured, so there is a scene with healers having to cut stone spikes from his body. Not graphic.
Violence: A war begins in this book.
What do magic, amazing hair and near immortality have in common? Elves! Ok, that was cheesy. But seriously, I loved this foray into elvendom. We get some glimpses of Tarenheil (elf kingdom) in Fierce Heart, but are left wanting more. This book fills that need perfectly!
It focuses on two separate couples- one, an arranged marriage, and the second a love match. I love how the issues with both of these relationships are explored, and how the characters resolved these issues.
And I can’t forget Farrendel! In this book we see him as he once was, before Fierce Heart. He is adorable! I love all of his scenes and how the author portrays his path from babe to warrior.
I would be lying if I said I didn’t need tissues at some parts. It was so sad to watch one of my favorite relationships end! But it was worth it to get to know Leyleira and Weylind better.
If you loved the Elven Alliance Series, you will love this incredible prequel!
Negatives: What I didn’t like in this book can be summed up in one word - nothing! 😁
Cussing: None
Romance: Some kisses. The elven culture is very no touchy. Some elves view holding hands in public as borderline inappropriate.
Magic: Yes!
Gore: None. A character has been tortured, so there is a scene with healers having to cut stone spikes from his body. Not graphic.
Violence: A war begins in this book.
May 21, 2024
This is a collection of two short novellas that are companions to the Elven Alliance series (so won't make much sense if you were to try to read these first and would spoil the series).
Elf King, the second in the book, is a mostly fun and cute look into Weylind's life before, during, and a touch after the Elven Alliance series. Glimpses of his upbringing, getting to see more of little Farrendel, and Weylind finding some healing and growing as a person, husband, and father. This one maybe leaned more 4, 4.5 stars for me.
The first book is Iron Heart, about Weylind and Farrendel's grandmother Leyleira and her marriage, and it was beautiful and heart-wrenching and so, so good! I admittedly had been in a somewhat weepy mood when I read this, but both stories got me choked up (in Elf King, especially Weylind dealing with Farrendel's capture and their father's death), but SO MANY tears for Iron Heart. 😭 Beautiful and loved how this fleshed out and gave so much insight into Leyleira's attitude and actions in Elven Alliance. I already loved her, but this sealed it.
Elf King, the second in the book, is a mostly fun and cute look into Weylind's life before, during, and a touch after the Elven Alliance series. Glimpses of his upbringing, getting to see more of little Farrendel, and Weylind finding some healing and growing as a person, husband, and father. This one maybe leaned more 4, 4.5 stars for me.
The first book is Iron Heart, about Weylind and Farrendel's grandmother Leyleira and her marriage, and it was beautiful and heart-wrenching and so, so good! I admittedly had been in a somewhat weepy mood when I read this, but both stories got me choked up (in Elf King, especially Weylind dealing with Farrendel's capture and their father's death), but SO MANY tears for Iron Heart. 😭 Beautiful and loved how this fleshed out and gave so much insight into Leyleira's attitude and actions in Elven Alliance. I already loved her, but this sealed it.
June 5, 2023
The Beginning and the End
Although the second story was not what I expected, I still enjoyed returning to this fantastical world where elves and humans live, love and laugh together.
Leleira’s story will shred all but the stoniest heart, so don’t let the “Iron Heart” title fool you. It was interesting to learn more about the electrical magic and what shaped the Matron Queen of elves.
As for “Elf King,” I expected to learn more of Weylind’s romance before he married. I am a fan of married romance tropes which are difficult to pull off, but this felt much more like Weylind’s story rather than a romance.
I am sad to see the end of this world’s stories, and reading something that spanned the entire timeline is tempting me to reread the series.
Lovers of elf-human romances should read this entire series and prepare to swoon and laugh, as well as grip the edge of your seat during the tense parts.
Although the second story was not what I expected, I still enjoyed returning to this fantastical world where elves and humans live, love and laugh together.
Leleira’s story will shred all but the stoniest heart, so don’t let the “Iron Heart” title fool you. It was interesting to learn more about the electrical magic and what shaped the Matron Queen of elves.
As for “Elf King,” I expected to learn more of Weylind’s romance before he married. I am a fan of married romance tropes which are difficult to pull off, but this felt much more like Weylind’s story rather than a romance.
I am sad to see the end of this world’s stories, and reading something that spanned the entire timeline is tempting me to reread the series.
Lovers of elf-human romances should read this entire series and prepare to swoon and laugh, as well as grip the edge of your seat during the tense parts.
August 15, 2023
Great read providing insight in the Elven Kings lives
This book contains two stories of the Elf Kings of Tarenhiel. Ironheart centers around the life of Ellarin (Farrendel’s grandfather), his treatment by his father, his arranged marriage to Leyleira, his friendship with his healer, and most importantly the knowledge that he’ll die early. The second book, Elf King, centers around Weylind as a young Prince coming into his own, his marriage and family, his connection with his father, Lorcan, with his brother Farrendel and siblings, and the effects of war. The main Elven Alliance stories from the other books are woven through the books in the appropriate timeframe. They are very good studies of the people, their life’s difficulties, their relationships, and dealing with politics and war. Excellent, heartwarming, heart wrenching, and thought provoking for those who have read the series.
This book contains two stories of the Elf Kings of Tarenhiel. Ironheart centers around the life of Ellarin (Farrendel’s grandfather), his treatment by his father, his arranged marriage to Leyleira, his friendship with his healer, and most importantly the knowledge that he’ll die early. The second book, Elf King, centers around Weylind as a young Prince coming into his own, his marriage and family, his connection with his father, Lorcan, with his brother Farrendel and siblings, and the effects of war. The main Elven Alliance stories from the other books are woven through the books in the appropriate timeframe. They are very good studies of the people, their life’s difficulties, their relationships, and dealing with politics and war. Excellent, heartwarming, heart wrenching, and thought provoking for those who have read the series.
June 4, 2023
Be ready with tissues
We’re told before the story starts that this one’s a tear jerker.
Did that stop me from bawling my eyes out multiple times? Nope!
Did I make embarrassing noises as I tried to hold in my tears after getting my heart crushed one too many times? No comment.
Do I recommend this despite the tears (and snot)? Definitely.
What a beautiful companion novel to the series. (If you haven’t read the main story beginning with Fierce Heart, definitely start there. Such a wonderful love story with deep characters. Highly recommended.)
Elf King is divided into two parts: Iron Heart, which tells Leyleira’s story, and Elf King, which follows Weylind’s story. I’ve always loved both characters, so it was a delight to read things from their perspective, and made me love them (and the people around them) even more. If you’ve read the series, you should definitely read this one too. So many feels. So much love and hope.
We’re told before the story starts that this one’s a tear jerker.
Did that stop me from bawling my eyes out multiple times? Nope!
Did I make embarrassing noises as I tried to hold in my tears after getting my heart crushed one too many times? No comment.
Do I recommend this despite the tears (and snot)? Definitely.
What a beautiful companion novel to the series. (If you haven’t read the main story beginning with Fierce Heart, definitely start there. Such a wonderful love story with deep characters. Highly recommended.)
Elf King is divided into two parts: Iron Heart, which tells Leyleira’s story, and Elf King, which follows Weylind’s story. I’ve always loved both characters, so it was a delight to read things from their perspective, and made me love them (and the people around them) even more. If you’ve read the series, you should definitely read this one too. So many feels. So much love and hope.
June 5, 2023
I LOVE this entire series… and I appreciate the Elf King combo filling in the backstory of the Elf Kings and the lives impacted by their life choices. I took the warning of how each chapter fit into the series books not in a true flow but instead filling the gaps between.
Some readers didn’t like this but I really did. I was able to place the chapters so it all made sense. OMG. the chapters about Farrendal’s life from baby on was wonderful… it shined a light on who he was and who he became. I must say the chapters about Weyland’s coming into himself and then taking us to the wild children to come and how all the parents coped! The wind up was very fulfilling.
I wish it would continue… I fell in love with all the characters and felt invested in their lives… looks like I’ll have to reread the series as a whole again and probably again and again as time goes by.
Some readers didn’t like this but I really did. I was able to place the chapters so it all made sense. OMG. the chapters about Farrendal’s life from baby on was wonderful… it shined a light on who he was and who he became. I must say the chapters about Weyland’s coming into himself and then taking us to the wild children to come and how all the parents coped! The wind up was very fulfilling.
I wish it would continue… I fell in love with all the characters and felt invested in their lives… looks like I’ll have to reread the series as a whole again and probably again and again as time goes by.
February 22, 2025
I LOVE the Elven Alliance series with my whole heart and I didn't want it to end! Nine glorious fantasy romance books about elves, trolls, and humans... heart bonds, war, love, loss, heartache, humor, found family and new friends, self-discovery, healing, and hope. The good news is that Tara Grayce has a sequel series about the next generation that I can't wait to dig into!
This last book, Elf King, contains two beautiful novellas that have some devastatingly sad moments... but they're also incredible stories about love never truly dying... and also about second chances, particularly for Weylind and Rheva. I loved this book as much as all the others! I alternated between listening to the audio (chef's kiss) and reading the ebook.
If you're a fantasy romance fan, I highly recommend reading this complete series!
This last book, Elf King, contains two beautiful novellas that have some devastatingly sad moments... but they're also incredible stories about love never truly dying... and also about second chances, particularly for Weylind and Rheva. I loved this book as much as all the others! I alternated between listening to the audio (chef's kiss) and reading the ebook.
If you're a fantasy romance fan, I highly recommend reading this complete series!
August 15, 2023
surprisingly good
I’ve honestly been rather unimpressed with the authors other works. They haven’t been bad and did have an interesting story but for the most part all of her character are a bit flat and underwhelming. Although each book and set of characters has been better than the last. (FYI I absolutely hated Essie and Farrendale, they were so immature and bland they made me think of 12 year olds. I was horrified when the author had them expecting a child!) But this book, the characters are well developed, less two dimensional, and actually enjoyable to read about rather than making me cringe. Well worth the read and I really hope the growth and development extends to any future books!
I’ve honestly been rather unimpressed with the authors other works. They haven’t been bad and did have an interesting story but for the most part all of her character are a bit flat and underwhelming. Although each book and set of characters has been better than the last. (FYI I absolutely hated Essie and Farrendale, they were so immature and bland they made me think of 12 year olds. I was horrified when the author had them expecting a child!) But this book, the characters are well developed, less two dimensional, and actually enjoyable to read about rather than making me cringe. Well worth the read and I really hope the growth and development extends to any future books!
July 4, 2024
2.5 Stars.
Iron Heart felt more like a survey course than a novel/la. There was little detail given in the development or continuance of the romance. It just jumped through time covering main events in the life of Leyleira. I knew the events of her life but not her by the end.
Elf King was a little better. The courtship in the beginning was much the same as the first novella, leaving out too much for me to feel anything. The middle part was a lot more war, but here the author let me see the personal reactions and growth enough that it began to feel like a novel/la. The end was ok, as I already knew the characters enough from the rest of the series.
*I do appreciate how this author champions morality in all of her books though.
Iron Heart felt more like a survey course than a novel/la. There was little detail given in the development or continuance of the romance. It just jumped through time covering main events in the life of Leyleira. I knew the events of her life but not her by the end.
Elf King was a little better. The courtship in the beginning was much the same as the first novella, leaving out too much for me to feel anything. The middle part was a lot more war, but here the author let me see the personal reactions and growth enough that it began to feel like a novel/la. The end was ok, as I already knew the characters enough from the rest of the series.
*I do appreciate how this author champions morality in all of her books though.
June 12, 2023
Wow, some very touching moments in these two stories. I'm so glad to have Leyleira's story since she played such a big part in Essie's having at least one person accept her into the family and encourage her to love Farrendal.
Weyland became more real to me, rather than the one who stood aloof and rarely smiled or joined in. Knowing his history made that attitude more understandable. Later he did let himself soften and joined in with some of the fun, but I better understand him as well.
Yep, got teary-eyed at some of the parts, and had to hold back a crying jag on one of the scenes! Very well written!
Weyland became more real to me, rather than the one who stood aloof and rarely smiled or joined in. Knowing his history made that attitude more understandable. Later he did let himself soften and joined in with some of the fun, but I better understand him as well.
Yep, got teary-eyed at some of the parts, and had to hold back a crying jag on one of the scenes! Very well written!
June 29, 2023
I bought the first 7 books, but borrowed this one with my Unlimited subscription. There were some truly touching moments in this book. I haven't cried while reading in a very long time. I had to go watch something funny on the tv so I didn't go to bed sad. It was incredible to actually get to read Leyleira's story and Weylind's story. But by far, the most interesting was Farrendel's childhood and other parts of his life we read about in the previous books, but were covered only briefly. The world that Tara has created captured my heart and my imagination. I'm reading whatever I can get my hands on and it just doesn't seem like enough. Just can't say enough good things about these stories!
August 5, 2023
wonderful end of the series!
I definitely give 5 stars but at the same time so sad the series ends here. So, read it after you read all the books.
Both stories, Iron Heart and Elf King, are heartwarming, beautiful stories that greatly enrich the characters we’ve come to know and love. You get a glimpse of kind of behind the scenes and it’s so satisfying. Many things mentioned only add to the beauty of the characters you’ve met before.
One thing I’d have personally preferred is to have two novels not published in one book but rather two separate novellas - only because each is fantastic and deserves its own spot to shine.
I definitely give 5 stars but at the same time so sad the series ends here. So, read it after you read all the books.
Both stories, Iron Heart and Elf King, are heartwarming, beautiful stories that greatly enrich the characters we’ve come to know and love. You get a glimpse of kind of behind the scenes and it’s so satisfying. Many things mentioned only add to the beauty of the characters you’ve met before.
One thing I’d have personally preferred is to have two novels not published in one book but rather two separate novellas - only because each is fantastic and deserves its own spot to shine.
August 5, 2025
Love, Grief, and Hope
I really enjoyed this last book in the Elven Alliance series. It has a more somber tone but that just adds depth even as it manages to remain sweet and hopeful like the rest of the series. Love and grief are often mixed and choosing each other, choosing to love looks different from person to person and situation to situation but it is always worth it. I also felt like I learned more about elven culture and some of the forces that helped shape them to be the way they are. The final scene is so fun and nostalgic and wonderful. It makes me even more excited for the sequel series!
I really enjoyed this last book in the Elven Alliance series. It has a more somber tone but that just adds depth even as it manages to remain sweet and hopeful like the rest of the series. Love and grief are often mixed and choosing each other, choosing to love looks different from person to person and situation to situation but it is always worth it. I also felt like I learned more about elven culture and some of the forces that helped shape them to be the way they are. The final scene is so fun and nostalgic and wonderful. It makes me even more excited for the sequel series!
September 26, 2025
Emotionally Moving
Be prepared for the most heart wrenching stories yet. We get to see Farrendel’s great grandfather, grandfather, father, brother, and children. This book has everything. Excellent stories, compelling characters, and an emotional roller coaster. I highly recommend this book, but be prepared for inevitable tears. Seriously, after reading the rest of the books in this series, I thought I would be fine, but I don’t know that any reader invested in these characters could avoid shedding tears at the raw emotions present. Elf Prince is a must-read in this series. It’s clean in language and content.
Be prepared for the most heart wrenching stories yet. We get to see Farrendel’s great grandfather, grandfather, father, brother, and children. This book has everything. Excellent stories, compelling characters, and an emotional roller coaster. I highly recommend this book, but be prepared for inevitable tears. Seriously, after reading the rest of the books in this series, I thought I would be fine, but I don’t know that any reader invested in these characters could avoid shedding tears at the raw emotions present. Elf Prince is a must-read in this series. It’s clean in language and content.
June 16, 2023
So sad for the series to end!
This book is wonderful! I absolutely love the whole series. I reread every book whenever the next one came out except for these last 2 books, and now I want to reread the whole series again! Seriously I'm not ready for the series to be over! I hope Tara will write another series based on the children! Please!! This book was so good. Reading about the ancestors of Farrendel helped a lot in understanding them. Very well written. There are moments to laugh and moments to cry in this book. And now I'm off to reread the whole series!!
This book is wonderful! I absolutely love the whole series. I reread every book whenever the next one came out except for these last 2 books, and now I want to reread the whole series again! Seriously I'm not ready for the series to be over! I hope Tara will write another series based on the children! Please!! This book was so good. Reading about the ancestors of Farrendel helped a lot in understanding them. Very well written. There are moments to laugh and moments to cry in this book. And now I'm off to reread the whole series!!
August 1, 2023
That epilogue was my favorite. I loved these two stories. It was so great to learn the backstories of some of the characters, and I loved seeing Weylind’s perspective. I didn’t realize both stories would jump into Fierce Heart!
(For books 8&9) Now I just want to re-read the books knowing all these fun add on stories. There was so much to keep track of in regards to writing these and making sure the time frames all lined up. It was done so well, and I could tell where each story was meant to go in the original series. Super impressive on the writing front!
(For books 8&9) Now I just want to re-read the books knowing all these fun add on stories. There was so much to keep track of in regards to writing these and making sure the time frames all lined up. It was done so well, and I could tell where each story was meant to go in the original series. Super impressive on the writing front!
September 4, 2023
I have no words. I am finished with this wonderful series and now I’m just left feeling sad and happy and all the things! These extra little novellas and stories made me so happy! It added more to this series in a way that I always want from an author and she delivered! I know this series isn’t for everyone, but I absolutely love it and even went and bought the first 6 just now 😂 that’s how much I adore it! I so wish I could be living in this world for the first time again, but am looking forward to rereading it!
December 8, 2023
Love, love, love the backstory! Getting to know Leyleira... seeing so much more of Farrendel's childhood... getting to know Weylind. Honestly, I've never really liked him all that much but I understand him better and he was actually really great before all the horrible things happened to him. The ending of this book takes us the farthest into the future yet and it's wonderful!!!!!
I am so glad I grabbed this series and I'm looking forward to what Tara does with the future series' set in this world. I highly recommend this series!!
I am so glad I grabbed this series and I'm looking forward to what Tara does with the future series' set in this world. I highly recommend this series!!
June 3, 2023
This CAN’T be the end!?!
Spoiler alert: do not read this book out of sequence. But it fills in so many gaps and chinks. I did cry while reading Chapter 10. Ellerin comes close to Farendel for my favorite elvin character in this series. And the redemption of Weylind is touching to behold.
The next series in this world can’t come soon enough for me, and I dearly expect to follow the current friends and their families through time. Start with Fierce Heart and read them all!
Spoiler alert: do not read this book out of sequence. But it fills in so many gaps and chinks. I did cry while reading Chapter 10. Ellerin comes close to Farendel for my favorite elvin character in this series. And the redemption of Weylind is touching to behold.
The next series in this world can’t come soon enough for me, and I dearly expect to follow the current friends and their families through time. Start with Fierce Heart and read them all!
June 4, 2023
Loved it
I loved the backstories of some of my favorite characters. Even thought I knew it was coming Chapter 10 of Ironheart had me crying sooo hard I could not see & ended up with a headache. I loved the Elf King with Weyland & Rhea & to see Weyland’s POV. I really enjoyed these stores, they just complete the series! All though now I would love to read the children’s stories HINT HINT.
I loved the backstories of some of my favorite characters. Even thought I knew it was coming Chapter 10 of Ironheart had me crying sooo hard I could not see & ended up with a headache. I loved the Elf King with Weyland & Rhea & to see Weyland’s POV. I really enjoyed these stores, they just complete the series! All though now I would love to read the children’s stories HINT HINT.
June 6, 2023
Fulfilling collection of stories
I really enjoyed getting a deeper insight into histories and characters whose perspectives had not been shared yet. I especially loved adding depth to Weylind's character and seeing Farrendel in his happy, early years. As warned, I did weep in chapter 10. But for all the difficult subject matters in this book, there was also so much richness of love and relationship building. Thank you.
I really enjoyed getting a deeper insight into histories and characters whose perspectives had not been shared yet. I especially loved adding depth to Weylind's character and seeing Farrendel in his happy, early years. As warned, I did weep in chapter 10. But for all the difficult subject matters in this book, there was also so much richness of love and relationship building. Thank you.
December 7, 2023
oh darn, it’s really the last one!
I was really happy that elf king tied up some of the missing pieces the first eight books in the Elven alliance series. What I didn’t like? That it’s over now. The characters begin to feel like longtime friends. So much of what happened on families whether Elvin or human really happens in real life. Tara, you have written a wonderful series! Although, I’m sad that it is ended, I totally enjoyed the cultures you created. Thank you!
I was really happy that elf king tied up some of the missing pieces the first eight books in the Elven alliance series. What I didn’t like? That it’s over now. The characters begin to feel like longtime friends. So much of what happened on families whether Elvin or human really happens in real life. Tara, you have written a wonderful series! Although, I’m sad that it is ended, I totally enjoyed the cultures you created. Thank you!
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