What do you think?
Rate this book
Fate of Vengeance #2
A Burning Throne
A Burning Throne will immerse you into a darker, grittier, and slow-burning fantasy sequel that will leave you with one question—what do you burn for?
Sabine Azterrin bound herself to revenge.
Armed with her newfound destiny, Sabine prepares to unravel the truth behind the sorcerer’s bond and her vow to the Darkness. Her path toward revenge will not only require a crown, but a target on her back in a foreign kingdom. As she is trapped in the convoluted world of politics and power, Sabine may only realize the identities of those who truly oppose her when it is already too late.
Keahi Aldeer had sworn himself to a mask.
Trading a battlefield for a throne, Keahi continues to shroud his magical abilities. His secretiveness poses a threat to the stability of the kingdom and risks the trust of the High Council. Yet, Keahi’s magic thrums deep beneath his skin, longing to be unleashed. The realm trembles with anticipation, fearing the imminent shattering of his control.
Fate believed in more than one path. . .
Faced with their enemies' relentless pull, the bonded sorcerers must listen closely to the whispers of their own hearts, resisting the temptation to stray. For the delicate balance of their love, power, and vengeance intertwine in a dance that will ultimately shape their impending future. . .or demise.
Sabine Azterrin bound herself to revenge.
Armed with her newfound destiny, Sabine prepares to unravel the truth behind the sorcerer’s bond and her vow to the Darkness. Her path toward revenge will not only require a crown, but a target on her back in a foreign kingdom. As she is trapped in the convoluted world of politics and power, Sabine may only realize the identities of those who truly oppose her when it is already too late.
Keahi Aldeer had sworn himself to a mask.
Trading a battlefield for a throne, Keahi continues to shroud his magical abilities. His secretiveness poses a threat to the stability of the kingdom and risks the trust of the High Council. Yet, Keahi’s magic thrums deep beneath his skin, longing to be unleashed. The realm trembles with anticipation, fearing the imminent shattering of his control.
Fate believed in more than one path. . .
Faced with their enemies' relentless pull, the bonded sorcerers must listen closely to the whispers of their own hearts, resisting the temptation to stray. For the delicate balance of their love, power, and vengeance intertwine in a dance that will ultimately shape their impending future. . .or demise.
502 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 13, 2024
81 people are currently reading
985 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Ronan
5 books131 followersJ.D. Ronan is a reluctant storyteller.
Her office is cluttered with stacks of worn notebooks, and pages of poetry hidden away in tiny wooden boxes.
When she isn’t writing. Ronan is an avid reader of the dark fantasy genre, and a self-proclaimed binge reader. Avatar the Last Air Bender, Mulan, Star Wars, and the 2005 Pride and Prejudice are her favorite comfort watches. Each of which is on a strict, alternating rewatch schedule where she cuddles up with a coffee, her two cats Peter and Lily, along with her husband.
Ronan thanks you for taking the time to find her book in this little corner of the world, and encourages all of her readers to check her content warning page prior to purchasing The Fate of Vengeance series.
May Darkness be with you.
Her office is cluttered with stacks of worn notebooks, and pages of poetry hidden away in tiny wooden boxes.
When she isn’t writing. Ronan is an avid reader of the dark fantasy genre, and a self-proclaimed binge reader. Avatar the Last Air Bender, Mulan, Star Wars, and the 2005 Pride and Prejudice are her favorite comfort watches. Each of which is on a strict, alternating rewatch schedule where she cuddles up with a coffee, her two cats Peter and Lily, along with her husband.
Ronan thanks you for taking the time to find her book in this little corner of the world, and encourages all of her readers to check her content warning page prior to purchasing The Fate of Vengeance series.
May Darkness be with you.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
March 25, 2024
A Deadly Vow quickly became one of my favorite books, and while I typically don't reread, I found myself reading it handful of times because I couldn't get enough of Sabine and Keahi, who are my precious stabby babies.
A Burning Throne picks up right after the events of the book one, keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout. The unexpected plot twists often left me bewildered, as I delved deeper into Sabine and Keahi's pasts and traumas, which split opened my heart.
It felt like uncovering an entirely new dimension to the characters and understanding how their pasts had profoundly shaped them into the people they are now. The slowww burn romance has finally paid off and my queen Sabine slayed that whole no-touching-me-while-I-ask-you-questions game.
The political intrigue added another layer of depth who, despite initially provoking dislike towards Sabine, ultimately revealed their own suffering under the previous king's rule and their genuine desire for the kingdom's well-being.
The more secrets revealed, 'my wife/husband' moments, I-almost-killed-him bar fight, hurt/comfort scenes, confessions, I-told-you-so looks, kiss and make up bro fights, and so much fun.
I'd never forget that betrayal, it came from least of all person and left me, 'Seriously, is this shit happening to them??' The cliffhanger is yet horrible cruel again. All I could do is hold my pearls and count down days for book 3.
A Burning Throne picks up right after the events of the book one, keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout. The unexpected plot twists often left me bewildered, as I delved deeper into Sabine and Keahi's pasts and traumas, which split opened my heart.
It felt like uncovering an entirely new dimension to the characters and understanding how their pasts had profoundly shaped them into the people they are now. The slowww burn romance has finally paid off and my queen Sabine slayed that whole no-touching-me-while-I-ask-you-questions game.
The political intrigue added another layer of depth who, despite initially provoking dislike towards Sabine, ultimately revealed their own suffering under the previous king's rule and their genuine desire for the kingdom's well-being.
The more secrets revealed, 'my wife/husband' moments, I-almost-killed-him bar fight, hurt/comfort scenes, confessions, I-told-you-so looks, kiss and make up bro fights, and so much fun.
I'd never forget that betrayal, it came from least of all person and left me, 'Seriously, is this shit happening to them??' The cliffhanger is yet horrible cruel again. All I could do is hold my pearls and count down days for book 3.
Read
March 11, 2024RTC
April 13, 2024
If you don't like to read amazing books poetically written with strong female leads that make you laugh and then make you distraught, then this book isn't for you and you have very questionable taste. Burning Throne IS grittier and sexier and boy, oh boy, how the plot twists and thickens as you read. This is a wonderful addition to the Fate of Vengence series. Pick it up. Read some dark fantasy.
Read
June 5, 2025Meddlesome council - check
Slow burn - check (actually slow)
FMC who will probably gut you - check
Betrayals, lying, and secrets - check
EMOtional damage - check
(I refrain from rating books I've edited)
Slow burn - check (actually slow)
FMC who will probably gut you - check
Betrayals, lying, and secrets - check
EMOtional damage - check
(I refrain from rating books I've edited)
January 24, 2024
Fuuuuuuucccckkkkk
June 4, 2024
2.5/5
The writing was just doing way too much. In its attempt to be deep and poetic the points trying to be made were literally never conveyed clearly. Made the whole thing so hard to follow
The writing was just doing way too much. In its attempt to be deep and poetic the points trying to be made were literally never conveyed clearly. Made the whole thing so hard to follow
June 16, 2024
Ugh!!!! My heart!!!! I could not sleep after finishing this last night. JD Ronan knows how to drag your heart through the fire and I am desperate for book 3!
The trauma bonding the FMC and MMC go through while tragic, is so beautifully done! There are some really sweet moments found in healing together. Sabine and Keahi, I'm rooting for you!!!! Morally grey, stabby, touch them and die vibes, wounded but kind, and the inner monologues - aaaaah I love them!!!
This book is a true dark fantasy with a romance subplot, it is complicated both in lore and politics, the kingdom politics reminded me of GOT - I had many questions and had to make notes - this is not a light read in any sense of the word so check your triggers. I'm so grateful for receiving this ARC and my thoughts are totally my own!
The trauma bonding the FMC and MMC go through while tragic, is so beautifully done! There are some really sweet moments found in healing together. Sabine and Keahi, I'm rooting for you!!!! Morally grey, stabby, touch them and die vibes, wounded but kind, and the inner monologues - aaaaah I love them!!!
This book is a true dark fantasy with a romance subplot, it is complicated both in lore and politics, the kingdom politics reminded me of GOT - I had many questions and had to make notes - this is not a light read in any sense of the word so check your triggers. I'm so grateful for receiving this ARC and my thoughts are totally my own!
March 24, 2024
I’m currently at a loss for words and need a few moments to process what the FUCK just happened (respectfully)
I’m scandalized
I’m speechless
I’m absolutely shattered to shit
Update:
Okay now that I’ve had time to process…
Once again, Ronan’s writing had gripped me so tightly it was impossible for me to even look at another book for weeks after. I’m talking a book hangover the size of the darkness living within Sabine and Keahi.
Book two in the Fate of Vengeance series picks up where book one left off, which I loved, especially with the way the first book ended. It was easy for me to jump right back into the story and keep on rolling with the plot. I now see that the roller coaster I went on in the beginning was only to set me up for the even bigger one I’d be on throughout this book. Buckle up, and make sure to have your next therapy appointment scheduled, that’s all I’m saying.
“What do you burn for? What kept you alive in the dark?”
Sabine’s character growth in this book was worlds beyond what we got in book one. From the way she stepped into her authority and position in court, to how she handled her own inner demons, this book truly felt like her moment; the perfect counterpart to Keahi’s spotlight in book one.
“To be pierced or to be loved in a cage. For that is how all strong yet obedient daughters are raised.”
We learned much more about her inner landscape, and while the ending was definitely foreshadowed throughout the book (if you’re wise enough to pay attention), it was still a shock to experience it. Like I had a feeling it would happen, but certainly not the way it played out. Of course, leaving me begging for more and wishing I would stop reading unfinished series LOL.
“Or maybe my father had made me feel so alone…I believed it to be true”
Oh my sweet Keahi Pie…
Keahi still remains one of my favorite characters ever written and the only sad boi I will ever love (and not get the ick from). The depths and darkness of his inner world is something I look forward to exploring more of with each book. This book was heavy for him. He goes through a lot of inner conflict and is deeply haunted by the effects of his trauma and mental health. There are many scenes that may be difficult for some to read, but they’re essential to the essence of his character, in my opinion.
But don’t you worry, he is still an absolute simp for Sabine.
“To burn or remain. From ashes we reign. We are the flame.”
As Ronan continues to build this world for us, I fall deeper into my obsession over it. Her ability to write side characters that rope you in and make you curious is one of my favorite things about her style of writing. Meeting the high council and Solstice’s key players was such a fun part of the book. Some of them are totally fucked, but I’m looking forward to having the many questions I now have, answered (hopefully lol).
Honorable mention for Kane and Drakkon. They’re still the best side characters around. Love them so much.
“Just like that. You’re doing so good for me.”
Okay now to what we all really want, *the spice*
I’m gonna be straight up here, Ronan edged the hell out of me in this book.
When you hear that the relationship between Keahi and Sabine is a slow burn, what you should understand is that it’s the slowest and HOTEST fucking burn you’ll ever get. As stated in my review for book one, I’m a payoff girlie. I’m impatient as fuck. I don’t want to wait multiple books for some goddamn relief. BUT I will wait an eternity as long as Ronan keeps putting this crack into her romantic plot.
SPOILER WARNING: no, there is still no full on penetration. But I wasn’t left unsatisfied in the slightest. Once you get there, you’ll know what I mean. My biggest takeaway: Sabine = MOMMY
“Failing is not the greater sacrifice. It is every time I deny myself of you.”
All in all, this book was incredible. The romantic tension between the MCs, the political intrigue, the character growth, and the set up for what’s to come…10/10. I will continue to scream this series from the rooftops with the hopes that everyone I’ve ever met will read it and be as obsessed as I am. I am not much for rereading, but I already know this is a series I’ll continue to come back to until darkness itself comes and claims me.
Check your trigger warnings, otherwise, enjoy!!
I’m scandalized
I’m speechless
I’m absolutely shattered to shit
Update:
Okay now that I’ve had time to process…
Once again, Ronan’s writing had gripped me so tightly it was impossible for me to even look at another book for weeks after. I’m talking a book hangover the size of the darkness living within Sabine and Keahi.
Book two in the Fate of Vengeance series picks up where book one left off, which I loved, especially with the way the first book ended. It was easy for me to jump right back into the story and keep on rolling with the plot. I now see that the roller coaster I went on in the beginning was only to set me up for the even bigger one I’d be on throughout this book. Buckle up, and make sure to have your next therapy appointment scheduled, that’s all I’m saying.
“What do you burn for? What kept you alive in the dark?”
Sabine’s character growth in this book was worlds beyond what we got in book one. From the way she stepped into her authority and position in court, to how she handled her own inner demons, this book truly felt like her moment; the perfect counterpart to Keahi’s spotlight in book one.
“To be pierced or to be loved in a cage. For that is how all strong yet obedient daughters are raised.”
We learned much more about her inner landscape, and while the ending was definitely foreshadowed throughout the book (if you’re wise enough to pay attention), it was still a shock to experience it. Like I had a feeling it would happen, but certainly not the way it played out. Of course, leaving me begging for more and wishing I would stop reading unfinished series LOL.
“Or maybe my father had made me feel so alone…I believed it to be true”
Oh my sweet Keahi Pie…
Keahi still remains one of my favorite characters ever written and the only sad boi I will ever love (and not get the ick from). The depths and darkness of his inner world is something I look forward to exploring more of with each book. This book was heavy for him. He goes through a lot of inner conflict and is deeply haunted by the effects of his trauma and mental health. There are many scenes that may be difficult for some to read, but they’re essential to the essence of his character, in my opinion.
But don’t you worry, he is still an absolute simp for Sabine.
“To burn or remain. From ashes we reign. We are the flame.”
As Ronan continues to build this world for us, I fall deeper into my obsession over it. Her ability to write side characters that rope you in and make you curious is one of my favorite things about her style of writing. Meeting the high council and Solstice’s key players was such a fun part of the book. Some of them are totally fucked, but I’m looking forward to having the many questions I now have, answered (hopefully lol).
Honorable mention for Kane and Drakkon. They’re still the best side characters around. Love them so much.
“Just like that. You’re doing so good for me.”
Okay now to what we all really want, *the spice*
I’m gonna be straight up here, Ronan edged the hell out of me in this book.
When you hear that the relationship between Keahi and Sabine is a slow burn, what you should understand is that it’s the slowest and HOTEST fucking burn you’ll ever get. As stated in my review for book one, I’m a payoff girlie. I’m impatient as fuck. I don’t want to wait multiple books for some goddamn relief. BUT I will wait an eternity as long as Ronan keeps putting this crack into her romantic plot.
SPOILER WARNING: no, there is still no full on penetration. But I wasn’t left unsatisfied in the slightest. Once you get there, you’ll know what I mean. My biggest takeaway: Sabine = MOMMY
“Failing is not the greater sacrifice. It is every time I deny myself of you.”
All in all, this book was incredible. The romantic tension between the MCs, the political intrigue, the character growth, and the set up for what’s to come…10/10. I will continue to scream this series from the rooftops with the hopes that everyone I’ve ever met will read it and be as obsessed as I am. I am not much for rereading, but I already know this is a series I’ll continue to come back to until darkness itself comes and claims me.
Check your trigger warnings, otherwise, enjoy!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2024
"A Burning Throne" by J.D. Ronan picks up right where the first book left off, plunging readers back into the gripping world of dark fantasy and political intrigue. As a dedicated fan of the series, I was thrilled to dive back into the tumultuous journey of Sabine Azterrin and Keahi Aldeer.
From the outset, Ronan masterfully weaves a tale of revenge, power, and destiny that kept me on the edge of my seat. The intricate web of sorcery and politics adds layers of complexity to the story, drawing me deeper into the labyrinthine plot.
One aspect that truly stood out to me was the strength and fierceness of Sabine, the female main character. Her determination to unravel the truth behind the sorcerer's bond and her vow to the Darkness is both captivating and empowering. I found myself rooting for her every step of the way as she navigated the treacherous waters of power and betrayal.
Moreover, the romance subplot adds an additional layer of depth to the narrative, intertwining with the overarching themes of love, power, and vengeance. The chemistry between Sabine and Keahi crackles with tension, adding an element of unpredictability to their tumultuous relationship.
In conclusion, "A Burning Throne" is a true masterpiece of dark fantasy that will leave readers spellbound. Ronan's impeccable writing draws you into a world where love and betrayal collide, creating a mesmerizing tale that lingers long after the final page. I cannot wait to see what twists and turns await Sabine and Keahi in the next installment of this captivating series.
From the outset, Ronan masterfully weaves a tale of revenge, power, and destiny that kept me on the edge of my seat. The intricate web of sorcery and politics adds layers of complexity to the story, drawing me deeper into the labyrinthine plot.
One aspect that truly stood out to me was the strength and fierceness of Sabine, the female main character. Her determination to unravel the truth behind the sorcerer's bond and her vow to the Darkness is both captivating and empowering. I found myself rooting for her every step of the way as she navigated the treacherous waters of power and betrayal.
Moreover, the romance subplot adds an additional layer of depth to the narrative, intertwining with the overarching themes of love, power, and vengeance. The chemistry between Sabine and Keahi crackles with tension, adding an element of unpredictability to their tumultuous relationship.
In conclusion, "A Burning Throne" is a true masterpiece of dark fantasy that will leave readers spellbound. Ronan's impeccable writing draws you into a world where love and betrayal collide, creating a mesmerizing tale that lingers long after the final page. I cannot wait to see what twists and turns await Sabine and Keahi in the next installment of this captivating series.
March 17, 2024
ARC review
This book is definitely better than the first one. And while I enjoyed it, I'm not okay. The last 100 pages broke my heart. The cliffhanger in this book is so mean. The betrayal hurt. I didn't expect it from that person, at all. New problems arise, political intrigues keep brewing and the war is still looming. What else do you need? The stakes in this book are much higher than they were before. And our main characters are really going through it, they just can't catch a break. Anyway, I love this series and I need book 3 immediately.
This book is definitely better than the first one. And while I enjoyed it, I'm not okay. The last 100 pages broke my heart. The cliffhanger in this book is so mean. The betrayal hurt. I didn't expect it from that person, at all. New problems arise, political intrigues keep brewing and the war is still looming. What else do you need? The stakes in this book are much higher than they were before. And our main characters are really going through it, they just can't catch a break. Anyway, I love this series and I need book 3 immediately.
June 26, 2024
In an unfortunate turn of events, this book did not grow past the mistakes of book one and instead doubled down.
I had no clue what was happening for parts of this book. I would have to re-read the same paragraph multiples just to understand where the characters were and what they were doing.
These characters are either so overpowered or so easily beaten. And often times it’s the same thing and yet an entirely different outcome occurs depending on essentially the weather.
I wanted so badly to love this book. And there are parts that I did really enjoy. But no wonder the kingdoms in shambles apparently no one knows how to get a feckin thing done.
I had no clue what was happening for parts of this book. I would have to re-read the same paragraph multiples just to understand where the characters were and what they were doing.
These characters are either so overpowered or so easily beaten. And often times it’s the same thing and yet an entirely different outcome occurs depending on essentially the weather.
I wanted so badly to love this book. And there are parts that I did really enjoy. But no wonder the kingdoms in shambles apparently no one knows how to get a feckin thing done.
January 24, 2024
Cannot wait to see the bi awakenings this will cause.
I have the most massive girl crush on Sabine after this book.
I have the most massive girl crush on Sabine after this book.
January 30, 2025
In theory, this book/series has potential to be really good. Original ideas, multi dimensional characters who deal with grief and shame and insecurities differently, political intrigue, spice….sounds good right??
While this book has all those things, it made my head feel like I was taking the hardest test of my life and my brain hurt every time I put it down.
The first and second book felt like a thousand mini ideas stuffed into one timeline and left like that. Where was the refinement?? There were so many thoughts and tangents that I could never tell what was a characters thoughts and what was real life to them. Again, I liked the story, but it feels as though I have run a marathon every time I read a chapter to understand who, where, and what is going on in the story.
While this book has all those things, it made my head feel like I was taking the hardest test of my life and my brain hurt every time I put it down.
The first and second book felt like a thousand mini ideas stuffed into one timeline and left like that. Where was the refinement?? There were so many thoughts and tangents that I could never tell what was a characters thoughts and what was real life to them. Again, I liked the story, but it feels as though I have run a marathon every time I read a chapter to understand who, where, and what is going on in the story.
March 19, 2024
I need book 3 NOW! Jada how the heck could you do that to us?? You’re a cruel woman! I Loved this book so much and my heart hurts for Sabine and Keahi. I cannot wait to read the next book ! I honestly had to sit and stare at the ceiling once I finished reading. This book was so amazing that I DREAMT OF IT ! The betrayal and plot twists were beautifully done. Amazing job !
April 25, 2024
ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. What an awesome second book, middle book vibes all the way. Empire Strikes Back kind of nonsense, and I mean that in the best possible way! The chaos is at a new level. Sabine is my queen! The shameless flirting! The slow burn! Literally had me sobbing. I cried so much reading this book. The emotional rollercoaster that A Burning Throne puts you through is wild. I am a sucker for sad dramatic pretty boys and Keahi just may hold the top spot. The heartbreak and the twist. I will never be happy again. I was wholly unprepared for the last 100 pages of this book. I am a wreck and devastated at the least. This book is so good. I love it and can not wait for the next one!! RONAN SO FREAKING GOOD!!!!
March 15, 2024
“To live is the deadliest of vows.”
A Burning Throne takes off right where we left off. This book goes full throttle into a world of politics, war, deceit, and the full spectrum of human emotion. Ronan’s writing is beautifully poetic and she does such a good job at capturing the little facets that make her characters who they are. A Burning Throne has the slow burn burning and the plot twisting. The last 100 pages will make you feel all the things and will simultaneously leave you wanting more. I can’t wait to get my hands on book 3.
A Burning Throne takes off right where we left off. This book goes full throttle into a world of politics, war, deceit, and the full spectrum of human emotion. Ronan’s writing is beautifully poetic and she does such a good job at capturing the little facets that make her characters who they are. A Burning Throne has the slow burn burning and the plot twisting. The last 100 pages will make you feel all the things and will simultaneously leave you wanting more. I can’t wait to get my hands on book 3.
April 1, 2024
I am a big fan and I can’t wait to see what happens next! Keahi is a simp for Sabine and I’m here for it. It’s a slow burn with some spice. More spice than the 1st book which is nice and if J.D can make foreplay look like that then I can only imagine what the next few books will look like. This series is a nice palette cleanse if you want slow burn romance with a plot.
I was chosen to be part of the arc team, meaning I was given this book early to read. I am OBSESSED!! The way J.D writes is lovely. The plot is plotting and the plot twist was twisting. I did not see that coming. It has taken me some time to write this review because all I wanna do is spill the tea and talk theories. 🥹
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2024
3.5 stars. Good plot, needs some editing
September 19, 2024
This was such a great read. Explored more of the Kingdoms of Solstice and Novear, but also explored tons of trauma and healing. Internally screaming over how this ended.
April 18, 2024
Oki doki, this is what the Legacy series WISHES it could be, but forgot to make the MCs actually good people and not whiny morons.
Was it better than the first one? Eh, maybe, it fixes some parts, mantained some others and it had a couple of weaker elements so they hover around the same rating. For example the overexplanation at the beginning was a bit jarring because I distinctively remember the first book always keeping one in the dark, then author found the balance i was looking for around the middle portion, so i call that an improvement, while the 'weird' scenes remained (like the Council scene where Sabine gets alcohol poisoning or entering the tomb at the end) and, as I will expand on, the climaxes ring a bit more hollow than the first's
The story kind of follows the same structure as the first one, with a very slow build up with mainly character focussed plotlines, to then pull up the plot in the last part with a double climax (in the first's case: the confrontations with Lucius and then Emeric; in this one's: Sabine trying to turn Shiloh and then her kidnapping), HOWEVER in book 1's case the character stuff was more pertinent to the climaxes: the beef between Keahi and his father was there since the first chapter AND was constantly reminded to us because of the large wound, the second one too, since Sabine was tormented by her father's shadow and it was clear she was hiding who she actually was, therefore the twists work really well, since both times we're revealed the why of the characters in the character focussed section: why doesn’t Sabine think She deserves Keahi? Because she's hiding who she is and what she's done, why doesn't Keahi think he's good for Sabine? Because he thinks himself a monster. So book 1 had a direct connection between the two. Book 2 kind of does it, but not really. Like, okay, the character focussed part of the plot essentially revolves around Shiloh and so do both climaxes. That said, one of the two climaxes doesn't really achieve anything and for the second one it really isn't Shiloh at all, but rather Sabine's father. Yes, i know she was pinching away all book because she had to make sure the king wasn’t waiting to be invited into my mind. and I needed to make sure I woke up in my reality and not in the hands of a dream . Yeah i got that, but none of that is really character relevant, it's just an inconvenient power Lucius has, so she has countermeasures A knock fell against the door....Long ago, I had learned to never respond to the sound while sleeping . . . because I shouldn’t have heard the knock within me at all. it doesn't really affect her personality so the payoff of all the pinching and dreaming isn't as big an impact as the first's revelations.
That said, i still think that a lot of scenes are masterfully crafted, starting from the two times Keahi has a powr crash: the first right at the beginning when he transforms back and they make it clear where they stand in regards to each other:
First she assures him he's not scaring her away with his nature
Then she ensures him she's not running away from the bond
Look, no bullshit drama for the sake of drama, she figures out they're actually married and she's fine with it. Despite that he still gives her the chance to keep their initial arrangement about the marriage behind closed doors
Owning up to his mistakes and taking responsability, trying to make things better. Good shit.
Buuut she's fine with it and finally ensures him she's going to stay because she wants him
Yeah I know this is after that scene specifically, but from the beginning up until Keahi collapses from the salt it's essentially one long dialogue, shut up.
The second one is the Salt Depletion scene, thought
Yeah I don't believe Sabine was living her worst fear while taking care of her lover. That said, the scene in itself is great
Pitch perfect representation. No I cannot do all good scenes, but you get the point, the dialogue is so good, both from recurring characters
And from new ones
EXPECIALLY the chad himself, councilman Rahal, who seems to be unable to say anything that isn't cool
And look
He's not good for the sake of being good. He has personal reason to be on Sabine's side. Yes, I know
in this instance He was 'laying a trap' for Sabine, but he still meant it, the best deceptions are woven with truth.
Speaking of which, while his dialogue is cool i really don't get his "game" with Sabine. I'm not talking about his general motivation and his desire to see her fall because of what he fears she is, but things like his "trap" when he makes Sabine think he's on her side and then pulls back. Nobody gives a shit if the king and the queen are actually bonded. Yeah the council has the power to reject their marriage, but they really don't have any power above Keahi, so what would they even do? How could they ever force him to marry someone else? The threat posed by what exactly the council can and cannot do is never understood, nor is it believable when Sabine can choke one of them into submission, add members and brand them with complete impunity. This makes the "game" Sabine and Rahal play kind of meaningless. Had he been doing it for fun (thought that needed a completely different character, maybe someone like Pariston from HunterxHunter) it would be acceptable, but he's the opposite, he's extremely efficient, so...??
Look, the story has it's flaws, for example I don't get what was all the uproar when Drakkon and Kane's relationship is brought up to Keahi. He knew already, why is everyone so pissed about it being revealed? He knew, so...???? Also
This one i cannot believe. There has been no evidence of Novear actively winning the war, so I really don't get it.
HOWEVER, the main part that needed development was the romance and it got it and i enjoyed (almost) every part of it; yes the spark (Keahi being jelous and beating up Shiloh is what sparks her alcohol poisoning, which sparks his decision to give her his blood, which ends up sealing the second seal of it) was kind of cliche and a bit dumb, but it essentially only sped up the process, which was underway. The two lovebirds have actual reasons for liking each other
Since they are so similar. And they're SO sweet and caring
Really getting each other through trial and error every time getting closer, but very carefully because they know how fragile they are.
Already hinting at the conclusion of the serie, since "deadly vow" now refers to BOTH living and taking revenge, hinting at a choice to be made, thought maybe i am getting ahead of myself. But speaking of Themes
Thought I may not agree with the sentiment, i am inclined to say it was executed rather well. I also like how the path to absolution (feels more suitable than "redemption" since their faults are called "Sin" many times over AND they aren't really their own faults, but rather something they feel responsabile for regardless) is a rocky and long one, but like all travels, going together halves the journey. May they find absolution in each other, Sabine and Keahi truly deserve it.
Was it better than the first one? Eh, maybe, it fixes some parts, mantained some others and it had a couple of weaker elements so they hover around the same rating. For example the overexplanation at the beginning was a bit jarring because I distinctively remember the first book always keeping one in the dark, then author found the balance i was looking for around the middle portion, so i call that an improvement, while the 'weird' scenes remained (like the Council scene where Sabine gets alcohol poisoning or entering the tomb at the end) and, as I will expand on, the climaxes ring a bit more hollow than the first's
The story kind of follows the same structure as the first one, with a very slow build up with mainly character focussed plotlines, to then pull up the plot in the last part with a double climax (in the first's case: the confrontations with Lucius and then Emeric; in this one's: Sabine trying to turn Shiloh and then her kidnapping), HOWEVER in book 1's case the character stuff was more pertinent to the climaxes: the beef between Keahi and his father was there since the first chapter AND was constantly reminded to us because of the large wound, the second one too, since Sabine was tormented by her father's shadow and it was clear she was hiding who she actually was, therefore the twists work really well, since both times we're revealed the why of the characters in the character focussed section: why doesn’t Sabine think She deserves Keahi? Because she's hiding who she is and what she's done, why doesn't Keahi think he's good for Sabine? Because he thinks himself a monster. So book 1 had a direct connection between the two. Book 2 kind of does it, but not really. Like, okay, the character focussed part of the plot essentially revolves around Shiloh and so do both climaxes. That said, one of the two climaxes doesn't really achieve anything and for the second one it really isn't Shiloh at all, but rather Sabine's father. Yes, i know she was pinching away all book because she had to make sure the king wasn’t waiting to be invited into my mind. and I needed to make sure I woke up in my reality and not in the hands of a dream . Yeah i got that, but none of that is really character relevant, it's just an inconvenient power Lucius has, so she has countermeasures A knock fell against the door....Long ago, I had learned to never respond to the sound while sleeping . . . because I shouldn’t have heard the knock within me at all. it doesn't really affect her personality so the payoff of all the pinching and dreaming isn't as big an impact as the first's revelations.
That said, i still think that a lot of scenes are masterfully crafted, starting from the two times Keahi has a powr crash: the first right at the beginning when he transforms back and they make it clear where they stand in regards to each other:
First she assures him he's not scaring her away with his nature
“Don’t go,” she repeated, sensing my internal fleetingness despite being so still. “I’m not running.”
"I hate seeing you like this, but I do not want you to hide it from me.”
Then she ensures him she's not running away from the bond
“This magic radiating above my head in a crown is all the proof I need, Son of Fire . . . considering this alliance is not as it seems. You are my true husband, King of Solstice.”
Look, no bullshit drama for the sake of drama, she figures out they're actually married and she's fine with it. Despite that he still gives her the chance to keep their initial arrangement about the marriage behind closed doors
"This was never something I initially planned to hide until I realized you did not agree to this marriage . . . you agreed to power—it is yours.”
Owning up to his mistakes and taking responsability, trying to make things better. Good shit.
“It is not in me to berate you for being a liar when I am proudly one myself. I will, however, hold you accountable for what you said in truth”
Buuut she's fine with it and finally ensures him she's going to stay because she wants him
“Win over your Kingdom. For this battle is just the first. Once we make it, prove your title as my husband, but a word of advice— never shut me out of the bond again. It is painful to be parted from you.” Hurt flashed beneath her powerful gaze. “I assume it is not permanent?”
Yeah I know this is after that scene specifically, but from the beginning up until Keahi collapses from the salt it's essentially one long dialogue, shut up.
The second one is the Salt Depletion scene, thought
"The salt depletion cannot find fears to torment you with if you are already living through them.”
Yeah I don't believe Sabine was living her worst fear while taking care of her lover. That said, the scene in itself is great
“No one wants to eat a rotten apple. Especially after your father revealed the inside. That shiny peel, all bruised and scarred."
"The past cannot change. Can’t you see it in the shadows? You are nothing but a monster.”
“My skin. It burns. I tried to take it off. It would not come off. It would not stop.”
"I tried to show her I wasn’t a monster beneath. That I was still her son. She said it was the only way.”
“I never wanted you to see me like this,” he choked. “Please. Forgive me.”
Pitch perfect representation. No I cannot do all good scenes, but you get the point, the dialogue is so good, both from recurring characters
“Do not look at me and think I cannot carry my own—or Kane—or anyone else. We can make sacrifices, too.”
"You are going to get up—again. You are going to be a King, and I am going to stand beside you even if I am the last one left. Stop taking steps back; you are not your own shadow.”
“Do not wait for the right time. It never comes.”
Revenge was our peace, not our betrayals.
And from new ones
“It does not matter if I choose the fall for you this time, Sabine.” Shiloh said my name so gently I almost believed he was capable of remorse. “The King of Novear will always have someone waiting in line for the handle.”
EXPECIALLY the chad himself, councilman Rahal, who seems to be unable to say anything that isn't cool
“What is my role on this council if I do not question? If I do not apprise every last avenue? What good is my council then?"
“To listen is to have power, because it is the seed of change.”
“No, I do not see you as a traitor anymore,”
“But it has made me fear the truth of your words more than the deception of them.”
“You are just like your father.”
And look
“My wife never once forgot your Kingdom..."
He's not good for the sake of being good. He has personal reason to be on Sabine's side. Yes, I know
in this instance He was 'laying a trap' for Sabine, but he still meant it, the best deceptions are woven with truth.
Speaking of which, while his dialogue is cool i really don't get his "game" with Sabine. I'm not talking about his general motivation and his desire to see her fall because of what he fears she is, but things like his "trap" when he makes Sabine think he's on her side and then pulls back. Nobody gives a shit if the king and the queen are actually bonded. Yeah the council has the power to reject their marriage, but they really don't have any power above Keahi, so what would they even do? How could they ever force him to marry someone else? The threat posed by what exactly the council can and cannot do is never understood, nor is it believable when Sabine can choke one of them into submission, add members and brand them with complete impunity. This makes the "game" Sabine and Rahal play kind of meaningless. Had he been doing it for fun (thought that needed a completely different character, maybe someone like Pariston from HunterxHunter) it would be acceptable, but he's the opposite, he's extremely efficient, so...??
Look, the story has it's flaws, for example I don't get what was all the uproar when Drakkon and Kane's relationship is brought up to Keahi. He knew already, why is everyone so pissed about it being revealed? He knew, so...???? Also
“I’m afraid your father has already won, Lightbringer.”
This one i cannot believe. There has been no evidence of Novear actively winning the war, so I really don't get it.
HOWEVER, the main part that needed development was the romance and it got it and i enjoyed (almost) every part of it; yes the spark (Keahi being jelous and beating up Shiloh is what sparks her alcohol poisoning, which sparks his decision to give her his blood, which ends up sealing the second seal of it) was kind of cliche and a bit dumb, but it essentially only sped up the process, which was underway. The two lovebirds have actual reasons for liking each other
maybe it was because he perceived me the way I did him now. The lives we lived before meeting had been different, but a parallel.
“How does it feel to be free of someone who caused you so much pain?”
Fear and the tang of jealousy combatted through the bond on her side.
Since they are so similar. And they're SO sweet and caring
“I want you to hear me say it out loud. I know you can make your own decisions. But if you do not want to be touched by him, then do not make a sacrifice of yourself to do so. You are not collateral to me. You never were.”
“Failing is not the greater sacrifice. It is every time I deny myself of you. In every sense. From the mornings I wake up without you. To the days we spend beside each other yet apart. Into the nights where all I can think about is you. We try until it feels right. Make it our own, whatever it may look like.”
Really getting each other through trial and error every time getting closer, but very carefully because they know how fragile they are.
“Are we capable of it?” I genuinely questioned. “A forever of trying? Tell me now when you are calm. When you are unrushed and content beside me, as I will always be the opposite in your presence, fated to be hopeful.”
“To live is the deadliest of vows.”
“I choose you to perish with me.”
Already hinting at the conclusion of the serie, since "deadly vow" now refers to BOTH living and taking revenge, hinting at a choice to be made, thought maybe i am getting ahead of myself. But speaking of Themes
"There is only falsehood in the idea of free will, and it is a wretchedness to discover. We have all been lied to. We live for what we burn for.”
Thought I may not agree with the sentiment, i am inclined to say it was executed rather well. I also like how the path to absolution (feels more suitable than "redemption" since their faults are called "Sin" many times over AND they aren't really their own faults, but rather something they feel responsabile for regardless) is a rocky and long one, but like all travels, going together halves the journey. May they find absolution in each other, Sabine and Keahi truly deserve it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2024
Absolutely unreal sequel to an almost perfect start to a series. Someone please explain to me how I can go from literally crying actual tears and within pages be reading one of the most satisfying sexual encounters I’ve read in ages… and it feels exactly how the story should flow! So many pulse jumping plot points, even more soft moments between a couple that is quickly becoming a favorite of mine, and even a plot twist I had talked myself out of (which is so hard to get me to do). Insane. Hats off to JD!
March 1, 2024
I was lucky enough to be gifted an ARC of this masterpiece. I am forced to believe that J.D. Ronan can do no wrong when it comes to storytelling. It is poetically and tragically beautiful that as you're reading until the moment you've reach the end, you feel part of the world and characters she created. Days after reading the book, I am still thinking about the characters and their well being LOL.
The execution of this book couldn't have been any better. The slow burn the two main characters have is EXCEPTIONAL and the banter was taken up a notch from book one. What I also loved about book two is getting to know all of the secondary characters and how their existence plays a major role in the series.
This book answered the questions I had from book one yet left me with more as the book ended on a major cliffhanger. The last 100 pages will give you whiplash in the best way. I am still processing my thoughts/feelings days after finishing this read BUT my love for the book keeps growing.
Truly wish I could give it more than 5 stars. Will be making shirts that say "ASK ME ABOUT THE FATE OF VENGEANCE SERIES!"
On the floor waiting for book three!!!
The execution of this book couldn't have been any better. The slow burn the two main characters have is EXCEPTIONAL and the banter was taken up a notch from book one. What I also loved about book two is getting to know all of the secondary characters and how their existence plays a major role in the series.
This book answered the questions I had from book one yet left me with more as the book ended on a major cliffhanger. The last 100 pages will give you whiplash in the best way. I am still processing my thoughts/feelings days after finishing this read BUT my love for the book keeps growing.
Truly wish I could give it more than 5 stars. Will be making shirts that say "ASK ME ABOUT THE FATE OF VENGEANCE SERIES!"
On the floor waiting for book three!!!
March 14, 2024
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of this book and let me tell you, J.D. Ronan can absolutely do no wrong!!! I started this book the second I received my copy and was finished by the end of the day. Keahi and Sabine 😍😍 even the artwork in this book was great!! I can not waaaaait for the next book! The cliffhanger is killing me😭😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2024
🔥🔥🔥You burn. I burn. We burn. Together.🔥🔥🔥
First of all - thank you to the author J.D. Ronan for the e-arc. I bow before You, as it was one of the best reads of this year so far.
And I strongly recommend to read/reread Deadly Vow before you jump into a second book of a very intricate and dark story that the author is telling us. Be ready to highlight a lot as the book has so many hidden details.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉 magic
🌶️🌶️spice
🌍🌍🌍🌍 world building
📖📖📖📖 story telling
🗝️🗝️🗝️🗝️🗝️♾️ - infinite secrets
💝💝💝 romance
Secrets. A bottomless well of them - from pretty much every single character. It kept me on my toes throughout the pages and can’t lie - I was scared starting nearly every chapter.
Characters. Oh dear. We get so much of Keahi’s bleeding fragile soul - I wanted to tear my heart out of how much and how strongly, endlessly he FEELS. Both hurt and love. J.D. Ronan doesn’t mess around when it comes to getting into the depths of pain, lust, anger, fear - and it just felt so right through the poetic way she writes. It was SO refreshing to read about characters where the usual roles we see in fantasy romance are reversed - Sabine clearly having traits that somehow screams male/man and still remaining the essence of a woman. The trauma of both main characters rang loud in my ears and was executed in a heartbreaking style. Keahi’s after black salt effect scene made me sob.
We see much of side characters as well, but as the book is dual POV, there’s always a veil of who is who and I never felt sure how I should feel about anyone, even at the end of the book - by the way, what a CLIFFHANGER.
Magic. Yes yes and yes to the dragons. The subtle descriptions that author inserts of shifting(common bathhouse scene and when Sabine unconsciously slips into behind closed doors memories) gave me goosebumps. Oh and the Sabines darkness, curse - absolute deliciousness that I haven’t seen yet and is so unique and so beautifully written.
Romance. We get way more from Keahi in this book, he has fallen hard and deep and strong. And he accepts it without a blink, where’s Sabine is more guarded, regal and damn if she is worth of that gorgeous crown atop of her head. I believe we will see more of their hearts dancing together in the future.
The steam/spice. I will just say that the dynamics of them two is mouthwatering. Sabines natural dominance and Keahi’s inexperience was another thing that I honestly cherished in the book. We have couple delicious open scenes in this book and I can’t wait to see how will their sexual relationship develops in the future.
The writing keeps you on your toes and there were quite few occasions that I had to reread the pages to understand what was happening, because J.D. Ronan not only writes what is seen, but what is felt as well.
Oh and the artwork. High end artwork that is always a big bonus and ideally matches with the characters.
I bow once more and can’t wait to see where the magnificent brain of this author will take my beloved characters further in the story.
First of all - thank you to the author J.D. Ronan for the e-arc. I bow before You, as it was one of the best reads of this year so far.
And I strongly recommend to read/reread Deadly Vow before you jump into a second book of a very intricate and dark story that the author is telling us. Be ready to highlight a lot as the book has so many hidden details.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉 magic
🌶️🌶️spice
🌍🌍🌍🌍 world building
📖📖📖📖 story telling
🗝️🗝️🗝️🗝️🗝️♾️ - infinite secrets
💝💝💝 romance
Secrets. A bottomless well of them - from pretty much every single character. It kept me on my toes throughout the pages and can’t lie - I was scared starting nearly every chapter.
Characters. Oh dear. We get so much of Keahi’s bleeding fragile soul - I wanted to tear my heart out of how much and how strongly, endlessly he FEELS. Both hurt and love. J.D. Ronan doesn’t mess around when it comes to getting into the depths of pain, lust, anger, fear - and it just felt so right through the poetic way she writes. It was SO refreshing to read about characters where the usual roles we see in fantasy romance are reversed - Sabine clearly having traits that somehow screams male/man and still remaining the essence of a woman. The trauma of both main characters rang loud in my ears and was executed in a heartbreaking style. Keahi’s after black salt effect scene made me sob.
We see much of side characters as well, but as the book is dual POV, there’s always a veil of who is who and I never felt sure how I should feel about anyone, even at the end of the book - by the way, what a CLIFFHANGER.
Magic. Yes yes and yes to the dragons. The subtle descriptions that author inserts of shifting(common bathhouse scene and when Sabine unconsciously slips into behind closed doors memories) gave me goosebumps. Oh and the Sabines darkness, curse - absolute deliciousness that I haven’t seen yet and is so unique and so beautifully written.
Romance. We get way more from Keahi in this book, he has fallen hard and deep and strong. And he accepts it without a blink, where’s Sabine is more guarded, regal and damn if she is worth of that gorgeous crown atop of her head. I believe we will see more of their hearts dancing together in the future.
The steam/spice. I will just say that the dynamics of them two is mouthwatering. Sabines natural dominance and Keahi’s inexperience was another thing that I honestly cherished in the book. We have couple delicious open scenes in this book and I can’t wait to see how will their sexual relationship develops in the future.
The writing keeps you on your toes and there were quite few occasions that I had to reread the pages to understand what was happening, because J.D. Ronan not only writes what is seen, but what is felt as well.
Oh and the artwork. High end artwork that is always a big bonus and ideally matches with the characters.
I bow once more and can’t wait to see where the magnificent brain of this author will take my beloved characters further in the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2024
Kindly....what the fuck?
Ronan knows how to keep a reader on the edge of their seat and if you're like me, screaming at the ending and wondering where the rest of the story is. She is a phenomenal writer and if you haven't give The Fate of Vengeance a chance then you are missing out.
A Burning Throne dives more into both Sabine and Keahi's secrets, lies, and past all while they try to navigate their marriage and rule of the kingdom.
I truly don't know how to write this review because my mind is still spiraling. This story is so intricately woven, full of lush prose, and twists that will keep a firm hold of your throat the entire time. Let me briefly mention that the spice was hot. It's not full blown smut, so simmer down. But the tension, the way she edged not just Keahi and Sabine but ME while she teased us with this slow burn romance is still killing me. If these two do not get together soon I am going to combust. That being said, the moments between them were incredibly satisfying.
Keahi and Sabine are intricate characters that I adore equally. I love the power Sabine wields within herself and over Keahi and how eager he is to please her while at the same time finding his freedom and who he is without the rule of his father. In A Burning Throne we deep dive more into what both characters have suffered and how they navigate their trauma individually.
(Spoiler but that part with Shiloh gutted me. IYKYK.)
I was trying to figure out who the traitor was the entire time and out of all my guesses I was still wrong. And yet it was so incredibly sweet (bitter but...) because it made perfect sense.
I'll need to come back at a later date when my thoughts and emotions have settled and I'm not just rambling.
This book is incredibly. Ronan is an auto buy author and I cannot wait for book three and the rest of the stories I know she's going to thrust us into.
Ronan knows how to keep a reader on the edge of their seat and if you're like me, screaming at the ending and wondering where the rest of the story is. She is a phenomenal writer and if you haven't give The Fate of Vengeance a chance then you are missing out.
A Burning Throne dives more into both Sabine and Keahi's secrets, lies, and past all while they try to navigate their marriage and rule of the kingdom.
I truly don't know how to write this review because my mind is still spiraling. This story is so intricately woven, full of lush prose, and twists that will keep a firm hold of your throat the entire time. Let me briefly mention that the spice was hot. It's not full blown smut, so simmer down. But the tension, the way she edged not just Keahi and Sabine but ME while she teased us with this slow burn romance is still killing me. If these two do not get together soon I am going to combust. That being said, the moments between them were incredibly satisfying.
Keahi and Sabine are intricate characters that I adore equally. I love the power Sabine wields within herself and over Keahi and how eager he is to please her while at the same time finding his freedom and who he is without the rule of his father. In A Burning Throne we deep dive more into what both characters have suffered and how they navigate their trauma individually.
(Spoiler but that part with Shiloh gutted me. IYKYK.)
I was trying to figure out who the traitor was the entire time and out of all my guesses I was still wrong. And yet it was so incredibly sweet (bitter but...) because it made perfect sense.
I'll need to come back at a later date when my thoughts and emotions have settled and I'm not just rambling.
This book is incredibly. Ronan is an auto buy author and I cannot wait for book three and the rest of the stories I know she's going to thrust us into.
March 16, 2024
✨A Burning Throne✨
“Are you well?”
“You are causing trouble. How could I not be?”
—
“What do you burn for? What keeps you alive in the dark?”
“You.”
—
@jdronan.author is literally the Queen of slow burn. Book two was so good- even better than book one! I love when series continue to get better. Why was it better, you ask?!
1. *swoon* the connection with Keahi and Sabine. They fight so hard, my friends. They are so broken, so fierce, and so precious beneath their scars and pain. As we continue to learn about their forced bond, I just die inside each time they give a little more of themselves freely. If I wasn’t happily married, I’d wait for Keahi. My fiery broken king. 🫶
2. Ronan is so incredibly intricate with her character’s development and pasts. The histories of the lands and wars are laid out firmly and beautifully as we see how we got to where we are.
3. Holy plot twists, Batman. This book was WILD. So much betrayal. I never felt safe the whole time. And I never trusted a scene to go the way I thought. She’s just that good!
A Burning Throne has such delightful witty banter, strong FMC character full of rage, a MMC who is just so precious to me lol (morally grey cinnamon roll? A burnt cinnamon roll…), forced proximity/bond, political intrigue, epic world and magic building, slooooooooooooow burn, a dash of spice but picking up heat, language, “my wife”. Y’all. It’s just so good. Read Deadly Vow then preorder A Burning Throne releasing April 13.
“Are you well?”
“You are causing trouble. How could I not be?”
—
“What do you burn for? What keeps you alive in the dark?”
“You.”
—
@jdronan.author is literally the Queen of slow burn. Book two was so good- even better than book one! I love when series continue to get better. Why was it better, you ask?!
1. *swoon* the connection with Keahi and Sabine. They fight so hard, my friends. They are so broken, so fierce, and so precious beneath their scars and pain. As we continue to learn about their forced bond, I just die inside each time they give a little more of themselves freely. If I wasn’t happily married, I’d wait for Keahi. My fiery broken king. 🫶
2. Ronan is so incredibly intricate with her character’s development and pasts. The histories of the lands and wars are laid out firmly and beautifully as we see how we got to where we are.
3. Holy plot twists, Batman. This book was WILD. So much betrayal. I never felt safe the whole time. And I never trusted a scene to go the way I thought. She’s just that good!
A Burning Throne has such delightful witty banter, strong FMC character full of rage, a MMC who is just so precious to me lol (morally grey cinnamon roll? A burnt cinnamon roll…), forced proximity/bond, political intrigue, epic world and magic building, slooooooooooooow burn, a dash of spice but picking up heat, language, “my wife”. Y’all. It’s just so good. Read Deadly Vow then preorder A Burning Throne releasing April 13.
June 27, 2024
"If all my strength revealed itself as brokenness before him, I would carry myself in pieces, and wield the sharp edges as a weapon."
I love how these books are written. Absolutely love it, it's beautiful. Just as much as I hate what Keahi and Sabine have been through (and continue to go through). Just let them be happy and safe, please, I'm begging you. Keahi is still absolutely terrifying and I still want to give him a hug. Sabine continues to be a badass bitch who I only wanted to strangle occasionally for being so stubborn and focused on revenge and literally nothing else. You two are so perfect for each other and the slow building of trust is killing me.
"We were meant to be each other’s end, but we kept making beginnings for ourselves."
and
"The realm would only be spared from me if he continued to exist happily within it."
and
"We both had crossed our own oceans to experience a glimpse of each other."
It's KILLING ME. The yearning, the trauma, the touch-them-and-die vibes that both of them give off because they're both absolutely feral.
Just like "A Deadly Vow," this book is all terrible things written in a beautiful way. I have so many highlights because everything sounds metal as fuck and it just twists the knife.
"She was another kind of daughter who was spoon fed on the scraps of hatred, and told it was love when she choked on it."
I love how these books are written. Absolutely love it, it's beautiful. Just as much as I hate what Keahi and Sabine have been through (and continue to go through). Just let them be happy and safe, please, I'm begging you. Keahi is still absolutely terrifying and I still want to give him a hug. Sabine continues to be a badass bitch who I only wanted to strangle occasionally for being so stubborn and focused on revenge and literally nothing else. You two are so perfect for each other and the slow building of trust is killing me.
"We were meant to be each other’s end, but we kept making beginnings for ourselves."
and
"The realm would only be spared from me if he continued to exist happily within it."
and
"We both had crossed our own oceans to experience a glimpse of each other."
It's KILLING ME. The yearning, the trauma, the touch-them-and-die vibes that both of them give off because they're both absolutely feral.
Just like "A Deadly Vow," this book is all terrible things written in a beautiful way. I have so many highlights because everything sounds metal as fuck and it just twists the knife.
"She was another kind of daughter who was spoon fed on the scraps of hatred, and told it was love when she choked on it."
March 22, 2024
I. AM. UNWELL.
I loved 𝘈 𝘋𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘭𝘺 𝘝𝘰𝘸 so much. So, when the opportunity to possibly be an arc reader for 𝘼 𝘽𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙚 presented itself I jumped on it. I am so thankful to be apart of her arc team. Having said that. This book far surpassed any expectations I may have had. I knew it was going to be good. BUT DAMN! It picks up right where we left off in book one, and it is one thing after another through out the whole book. The tension between Keahi and Sabine is SIMMERING. The banter is still top notch. We dive head first into politics, loss, the battle of healing internal wounds, betrayal, and of course the plot twists. Man, she did not hold back. Sabine, is such a badass and I love her so much. She deserves so much better than she has been forced to endure. My Keahi Pie, is such a stabby little cinnamon roll. He’s as violent as they come to anyone but Sabine. It makes me feel all the things. AND CAN WE TALK ABOUT THAT FIGHT SCENE(you know the one) I was so enthralled and in my feelings the entire time. The last 100 pages wrecked me. And the cliffhanger crushed my soul into nothing. I wanted to throw my kindle through the wall. So, I guess I’ll just sit and stare into the abyss until book three comes out.
“The fates gave me nothing but pain—but she was mine. They would have to pry her from my lifeless body.”
“You burn. I burn. We burn. Together.”
I loved 𝘈 𝘋𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘭𝘺 𝘝𝘰𝘸 so much. So, when the opportunity to possibly be an arc reader for 𝘼 𝘽𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙚 presented itself I jumped on it. I am so thankful to be apart of her arc team. Having said that. This book far surpassed any expectations I may have had. I knew it was going to be good. BUT DAMN! It picks up right where we left off in book one, and it is one thing after another through out the whole book. The tension between Keahi and Sabine is SIMMERING. The banter is still top notch. We dive head first into politics, loss, the battle of healing internal wounds, betrayal, and of course the plot twists. Man, she did not hold back. Sabine, is such a badass and I love her so much. She deserves so much better than she has been forced to endure. My Keahi Pie, is such a stabby little cinnamon roll. He’s as violent as they come to anyone but Sabine. It makes me feel all the things. AND CAN WE TALK ABOUT THAT FIGHT SCENE(you know the one) I was so enthralled and in my feelings the entire time. The last 100 pages wrecked me. And the cliffhanger crushed my soul into nothing. I wanted to throw my kindle through the wall. So, I guess I’ll just sit and stare into the abyss until book three comes out.
“The fates gave me nothing but pain—but she was mine. They would have to pry her from my lifeless body.”
“You burn. I burn. We burn. Together.”
April 19, 2024
This series and author has quickly surpassed all others. I devoured this book. Not only is the author’s writing beautiful, this book didn’t fall into the typical “second book slump.” The main characters are dynamic, complex as is their relationship and story. My frustrations with them is because the portrayal of their emotions, their trauma and their fears are real. I loved watching their growth (even if I wanted to pull my hair out at times because the romantic in me wants their love to be easy, but the realist in me appreciates characters who I can relate to via their complexity, trauma, and fear(s). The slow burn is so worth it. It’s refreshing to have a MMC who isn’t just the same variation of the confident beautiful dark trope we get so often. Yes the FMC is strong but she far surpasses that usual disdain I have with strong FMCs who are just plain annoying.
I had to let J.D Ronan know that my heart physically hurt after finishing this book and she is a real and genuine author who responded to my message. I want to shout this from the rooftops. This series is so worth it. It hurts, but it’s worth it for all of us who like dark fantasy and are tired of these over-done tropes and recycled characters, archetypes and plots.
I had to let J.D Ronan know that my heart physically hurt after finishing this book and she is a real and genuine author who responded to my message. I want to shout this from the rooftops. This series is so worth it. It hurts, but it’s worth it for all of us who like dark fantasy and are tired of these over-done tropes and recycled characters, archetypes and plots.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews