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Erdemen Honor #2
A Cold Wind
When retired Erdemen army officer Kemen SEndoa helped the young prince Hakan Ithel relaim his throne, he thought he was happy. He had shaped the future of his beloved country and earned a place of honor and respect. In the shelter of the palace, he finds peace and the promise of a life he'd only imagined. Yet his own choices, and brewing border troubles, may force him to a final sacrifice. A tale of love, honor, and forgiveness, A Cold Wind follows The King's Sword in the Erdemen Honor series.
301 pages, Paperback
First published January 31, 2013
12 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Brightley
28 books253 followersC. J. Brightley lives outside Washington, D.C., with her husband and their two young children. When she's not busy writing, she teaches karate, bakes too many desserts, and makes jewelry. She loves to connect with readers!
Follow C. J. Brightley at https://www.facebook.com/CJBrightley and https://www.instagram.com/cjbrightley/
Follow C. J. Brightley at https://www.facebook.com/CJBrightley and https://www.instagram.com/cjbrightley/
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
September 2, 2014
I enjoyed the first book in this series, and, as I predicted, this one is better. I found it emotionally moving more than once, which doesn't happen often. It has two threads to it: a romance plot, and what can't quite be called an adventure plot because it's deliberately not high-action or fast-paced (and, to me, is none the worse for that).
The two would-be lovers, kept apart by their lack of self-confidence and their inability to communicate, were wonderfully depicted, and the matter-of-fact courage of the hero continues to make him admirable.
I did feel that the early part of the book could have been tighter, and found Riona's unpleasant suitor a little too obviously inserted to make a point; I thought that subplot could have been polished further overall. In the main, though, this is a fine piece of writing, and I'm looking forward to the next one.
The two would-be lovers, kept apart by their lack of self-confidence and their inability to communicate, were wonderfully depicted, and the matter-of-fact courage of the hero continues to make him admirable.
I did feel that the early part of the book could have been tighter, and found Riona's unpleasant suitor a little too obviously inserted to make a point; I thought that subplot could have been polished further overall. In the main, though, this is a fine piece of writing, and I'm looking forward to the next one.
June 21, 2025
Once again, Brightley pleasantly surprised me.
When I began this book and realized it was going to have a romantic swing to it, I was unsure. But, the book itself is both sweet and unpretentious, working with the characters in such a beautiful, sweet way. I appreciated once again the fact that good things happened. Too often in stories like this it is just bad thing after bad thing, but in this one, there was a whole lot of good mixed in there, in a way that felt real and was a relief. We need more wholesome stories in this kind of vein.
Worth the read.
When I began this book and realized it was going to have a romantic swing to it, I was unsure. But, the book itself is both sweet and unpretentious, working with the characters in such a beautiful, sweet way. I appreciated once again the fact that good things happened. Too often in stories like this it is just bad thing after bad thing, but in this one, there was a whole lot of good mixed in there, in a way that felt real and was a relief. We need more wholesome stories in this kind of vein.
Worth the read.
May 7, 2014
This review is for the Kindle edition ebook.
I can't believe I read it in one sitting! Yes, it is that good.
Kemen Sendoa helped the prince gain the throne and become the king. He and the prince became friends, and now he lives in the castle in a position of honor. This is the second book of the Erdemen Honor series, and will not disappoint readers.
I really like the way the author allows the story to flow naturally. There is no forced romance, it all happens almost accidentally. Kemen Sendoa often questions himself, and yet must seem very decisive in front of the military. I was so involved with the story, I actually read the entire story in one day.
I believe C. J. Brightley writes to entertain the reader. Her writing style is very entertaining, and as an independent author, she insures her books continue to grab the readers interest. I read a lot of books. Very few of those books grab me as a reader enough to keep me reading straight through to the end. This one did that.
I can easily recommend this book to all fantasy readers. I think you will find it is something different, something outside the standard fantasy field. I have already grabbed the next book in this wonderful series, and am sure I will enjoy it as much as the first two books.
I can't believe I read it in one sitting! Yes, it is that good.
Kemen Sendoa helped the prince gain the throne and become the king. He and the prince became friends, and now he lives in the castle in a position of honor. This is the second book of the Erdemen Honor series, and will not disappoint readers.
I really like the way the author allows the story to flow naturally. There is no forced romance, it all happens almost accidentally. Kemen Sendoa often questions himself, and yet must seem very decisive in front of the military. I was so involved with the story, I actually read the entire story in one day.
I believe C. J. Brightley writes to entertain the reader. Her writing style is very entertaining, and as an independent author, she insures her books continue to grab the readers interest. I read a lot of books. Very few of those books grab me as a reader enough to keep me reading straight through to the end. This one did that.
I can easily recommend this book to all fantasy readers. I think you will find it is something different, something outside the standard fantasy field. I have already grabbed the next book in this wonderful series, and am sure I will enjoy it as much as the first two books.
March 29, 2019
This story continues the saga of Kemen Sendoa, but is more of a slow burn romance, though there is plenty of action later on. The author, and the narrator of the audiobook, do a great job of showing the differences, uncertainties and confusions between the different cultures and sexes. They also highlights the struggles of the protagonist and how those challenges shape who he is. This story has strategy, action, adventure, loyalty and love. It is an enjoyable story that leaves you wanting to hear more.
May 29, 2022
Interesting sequel. I enjoyed it. (Parental pre-read suggested, mostly due to violent scenes)
June 16, 2020
Sweet and mild love story
4.5
Reader thoughts: It took me a while to get into this book. The previous one was fast-paced and had politics and fights and adventure and travel. The first 30% of this one was mostly just a warrior and servant courting each other.
Then the action happened! We had anger and honor and border battles and subordination and regret and danger. Much more my kind of story.
Through it all, we have characters who are humble but not shy, characters who just genuinely put others before themselves (and usually Erdem first of all). It's refreshing and inspiring to read. The romance is very mild and completely clean. I love that Kemen is always thinking of whether Riona would like this or approve of that (like him wondering whether she would let him put his arm around her and such). From both povs it is clear they really care about each other.
Elathlo! I hope he's in the next one.
Writer thoughts: It's always curious to see an author write a different type of story. This time it was in the same series. Why change?
Well, I suppose because Kemen couldn't find another half-frozen prince and raise him to the crown. That conflict was resolved, and we needed another. So, romance. Instead of playing on Kemen's strengths (like fighting the way the first book did), this book played on Kemen's weaknesses (women and trust). Yes, there was still some fighting, but not much comparatively.
Another series that changed drastically between the first and second books was The Thief to The Queen of Attolia. It even changed from first person pov to third person pov. I despised the change in that case. With Erdemen Honor, I don't mind so much.
4.5
Reader thoughts: It took me a while to get into this book. The previous one was fast-paced and had politics and fights and adventure and travel. The first 30% of this one was mostly just a warrior and servant courting each other.
Then the action happened! We had anger and honor and border battles and subordination and regret and danger. Much more my kind of story.
Through it all, we have characters who are humble but not shy, characters who just genuinely put others before themselves (and usually Erdem first of all). It's refreshing and inspiring to read. The romance is very mild and completely clean. I love that Kemen is always thinking of whether Riona would like this or approve of that (like him wondering whether she would let him put his arm around her and such). From both povs it is clear they really care about each other.
Elathlo! I hope he's in the next one.
Writer thoughts: It's always curious to see an author write a different type of story. This time it was in the same series. Why change?
Well, I suppose because Kemen couldn't find another half-frozen prince and raise him to the crown. That conflict was resolved, and we needed another. So, romance. Instead of playing on Kemen's strengths (like fighting the way the first book did), this book played on Kemen's weaknesses (women and trust). Yes, there was still some fighting, but not much comparatively.
Another series that changed drastically between the first and second books was The Thief to The Queen of Attolia. It even changed from first person pov to third person pov. I despised the change in that case. With Erdemen Honor, I don't mind so much.
August 19, 2015
This one is a little different from the first volume. This volume is told in a different POV in each chapter, revolving around two characters as they creative a relationship with each other. I can't quite remember though if I was thrown off or not. I had a feeling about the new character and decided not to like the character but ended up loving her because reasons. For some reason my first reaction to possible love interests for characters I adore is resentment and it's heinous.
The title is well-chosen and does intimate well to what the reader can expect in the story. The action is, in my opinion, much greater than the action in the last volume and I was not disappointed (especially with the slight gore *cringe*). I was always on the edge of my seat with the suspense and hope that nothing bad was going to happen like major character deaths and all that. I'm glad none of it was boring and I always had to force myself to stop reading sometimes (because I chose to read this in bed at night).
This was also such an emotional roller coaster (in a positive sense). My heart was having a real good field day and the ending made me really happy. I'm really glad that I chose to purchase this book.
The title is well-chosen and does intimate well to what the reader can expect in the story. The action is, in my opinion, much greater than the action in the last volume and I was not disappointed (especially with the slight gore *cringe*). I was always on the edge of my seat with the suspense and hope that nothing bad was going to happen like major character deaths and all that. I'm glad none of it was boring and I always had to force myself to stop reading sometimes (because I chose to read this in bed at night).
This was also such an emotional roller coaster (in a positive sense). My heart was having a real good field day and the ending made me really happy. I'm really glad that I chose to purchase this book.
April 23, 2014
Erdemen has a new king. But Kemen Sendoa's efforts at the denouement of A King's Sword have left him bed-ridden and recovering. Yet there may be a silver lining to the lingering clouds...the palace is full of people the soldier might have otherwise not had occasion to meet. Later, as Kemen's duties again require him to travel on behalf of his friend the king, the man must fight a pair of battles--one a reprise of history (but no less deadly), and the other of a kind for which he has no preparation.
Written from two perspectives across many months of time, A Cold Wind is a good and well-written sequel. It builds upon the history and character of Kemen Sendoa, as well as many of the players in and around the palace. Brightly's descriptions and dialogue make her characters believable and likable (except for that one the King rather cleverly punishes...) and the world of Erdemen seem more alive as events unfold throughout the novel.
Written from two perspectives across many months of time, A Cold Wind is a good and well-written sequel. It builds upon the history and character of Kemen Sendoa, as well as many of the players in and around the palace. Brightly's descriptions and dialogue make her characters believable and likable (except for that one the King rather cleverly punishes...) and the world of Erdemen seem more alive as events unfold throughout the novel.
June 16, 2015
The saga of Kemen continues. I had been hoarding this book for a little while because I knew I was going to really enjoy it, and I did enjoy it very much. A great job of showing the different perspectives and the inherent confusion in conversations between cultures and sexes, where expectations are different and words don't mean the same thing. Action, adventure, love.
I received book #3, Honors Heir, as a gift and I am trying to savor the anticipation for a couple days before I devour it.
Thanks for another great read.
I received book #3, Honors Heir, as a gift and I am trying to savor the anticipation for a couple days before I devour it.
Thanks for another great read.
August 7, 2015
This book answers the question, "You just saved the kingdom - what are you going to do next??" And the answer is, obviously, fall in love and attempt to get married. This book focuses much more on the development of Kemen and his struggle to show his feelings while upholding his sense of honor and duty. While there is less action than in the first book, this is a wonderful continuation of Kemen and Hakan's story.
June 15, 2022
A wandering gentle love story
I wasn't expecting it, so when we jumped into a new character's pov in the first chapter, it came as a shock. But Riona is a gentle, interesting character, and I enjoyed getting to know her.
Kemen is as perfectly honorable and steady as ever. We love him.
This is a story of love, of honor and duty, and of finding one's will to live and thrive.
Kemen gets exactly the ending he deserves. And that was perfectly satisfying to see.
I wasn't expecting it, so when we jumped into a new character's pov in the first chapter, it came as a shock. But Riona is a gentle, interesting character, and I enjoyed getting to know her.
Kemen is as perfectly honorable and steady as ever. We love him.
This is a story of love, of honor and duty, and of finding one's will to live and thrive.
Kemen gets exactly the ending he deserves. And that was perfectly satisfying to see.
December 9, 2014
Where the first book in the series is a story of friendship and love of country, the second is, at heart, a love story. Though the same themes of friendship and honor as in the first remain, we now see a deeper layer of Kemen's heart as he woos Ria. Surrounding all of this is a marvelously told adventure to secure the kingdom's northern border.
August 7, 2015
Unlike book 1 in this series which was a fabulous coming of age fantasy (in the swords and princes line), this (book 2) was 100% romance. I liked being in the head of the hero, and enjoyed the small glimpses into racism. I actually teared up a couple of times.
January 10, 2019
It moves slow but it is stirring
I am awed by the depth of the emotion captured in the tale. Simply great writing! At many points I laughed as well as teared up. But finally with a great sigh I smiled! Brightley is a word smith of rare ability!
I am awed by the depth of the emotion captured in the tale. Simply great writing! At many points I laughed as well as teared up. But finally with a great sigh I smiled! Brightley is a word smith of rare ability!
September 13, 2016
The second book in this series is more focused on finding love and forgiveness. Once again 'good' triumphs over 'bad' and we get to see the hero finally find his HEA.
November 14, 2025
**sighs with contentment**
This book! This deep! Profound! Completely unputdownable book! Has left me with my heart full and my soul entirely satisfied!
Not to say this story wasn’t dark. There were hard times…lots of hard times…Devastating battles…Unacceptable circumstances…unavoidable deaths that ripped my heart out and made me shed a tear or ten. But those struggles (both physically an emotionally…especially emotionally) brought a lovely (even though sometimes dark) depth and authenticity to the story. This story and series just continues to get better! Deeper! More real! And honestly…I couldn’t put it down…literally. I picked it up for a bit of wind down reading before bed and before I knew it two hours had passed and I knew I was in for a rough day at work in the morning which was only a mere 5 hrs away. But it was so so worth it!!!!
Kemen almost died putting Hakan on his thrown. But sometimes when one challenge is battled into submission the story ends and the characters find their happily ever after. And for a bit Kemen finds his rest and healing. A servant girl has caught his eye and with a bit of a nudge he realizes that the life of family…a wife and children…may not be as out of reach as he once believed.
And Riona…well…Riona doesn’t mind her job at the castle. At 26 she is afraid of becoming an unmarried spinster. But when the injured and dying soldier arrives she discovers maybe…just maybe…she won’t have to settle or be alone forever.
But this story is more than just a romance…SO SO SO MUCH MORE! There are attacks in the north and women being stolen and it is up to Kemen to use all of his battle prowess and negotiating skills to save his kingdom, his soldiers, and most importantly his King…and…perhaps the girl who is quickly winning over his heart. But war is hard! Soldiers aren’t always honorable…And sometimes those you care for the most wound you the deepest…
This is a story about HONOR! INTEGRITY! DETERMINATION! And the inner and outer battles that are fought every day! It is an important story that weaves a very believable and plausible tale filled with heartache and happiness and the understanding that you can’t have one without the other.
I just completely devoured this book! I loved it on every level! It was the perfect continuation of both Kemen and Hakan’s story! And I am so so glad I found it! It is quickly becoming one of my absolute very very favorite series and I cannot wait to see where the story goes in Book 3: Honor’s Heir.
This book! This deep! Profound! Completely unputdownable book! Has left me with my heart full and my soul entirely satisfied!
Not to say this story wasn’t dark. There were hard times…lots of hard times…Devastating battles…Unacceptable circumstances…unavoidable deaths that ripped my heart out and made me shed a tear or ten. But those struggles (both physically an emotionally…especially emotionally) brought a lovely (even though sometimes dark) depth and authenticity to the story. This story and series just continues to get better! Deeper! More real! And honestly…I couldn’t put it down…literally. I picked it up for a bit of wind down reading before bed and before I knew it two hours had passed and I knew I was in for a rough day at work in the morning which was only a mere 5 hrs away. But it was so so worth it!!!!
Kemen almost died putting Hakan on his thrown. But sometimes when one challenge is battled into submission the story ends and the characters find their happily ever after. And for a bit Kemen finds his rest and healing. A servant girl has caught his eye and with a bit of a nudge he realizes that the life of family…a wife and children…may not be as out of reach as he once believed.
And Riona…well…Riona doesn’t mind her job at the castle. At 26 she is afraid of becoming an unmarried spinster. But when the injured and dying soldier arrives she discovers maybe…just maybe…she won’t have to settle or be alone forever.
But this story is more than just a romance…SO SO SO MUCH MORE! There are attacks in the north and women being stolen and it is up to Kemen to use all of his battle prowess and negotiating skills to save his kingdom, his soldiers, and most importantly his King…and…perhaps the girl who is quickly winning over his heart. But war is hard! Soldiers aren’t always honorable…And sometimes those you care for the most wound you the deepest…
This is a story about HONOR! INTEGRITY! DETERMINATION! And the inner and outer battles that are fought every day! It is an important story that weaves a very believable and plausible tale filled with heartache and happiness and the understanding that you can’t have one without the other.
I just completely devoured this book! I loved it on every level! It was the perfect continuation of both Kemen and Hakan’s story! And I am so so glad I found it! It is quickly becoming one of my absolute very very favorite series and I cannot wait to see where the story goes in Book 3: Honor’s Heir.
January 15, 2019
•audiobook•
I loved the first book. The sequel was equally deep and charming, however I noticed the present/past tense mixed in singular sentences more and really could do without it. It pulled from the story or foretold of a foreboding that would be best developing on its own.
My other irk was a few consistencies. Like how could volunteer fighters get docked a week’s pay? In one chapter, Kemen narrates he preferred setting up his own tent (but couldn’t because of an injury) then later, gloats having others do it was a perk because of his rank.
Overall, I love our new king. I love Kemen. His new love interest had a slow burn and the relationship is completely based on getting to know someone. My heart ached that the prologue did not include their wedding.
I REALLY hope the third book is released soon. I want to see more of how Kemen completes his healing and mentors another upcoming king.
This narrator is phenomenal. I was captivated each night as I listened to his read A Cold Wind - and I only caught any of my frustrations as I mulled over it during the day, eager to listen again!
I loved the first book. The sequel was equally deep and charming, however I noticed the present/past tense mixed in singular sentences more and really could do without it. It pulled from the story or foretold of a foreboding that would be best developing on its own.
My other irk was a few consistencies. Like how could volunteer fighters get docked a week’s pay? In one chapter, Kemen narrates he preferred setting up his own tent (but couldn’t because of an injury) then later, gloats having others do it was a perk because of his rank.
Overall, I love our new king. I love Kemen. His new love interest had a slow burn and the relationship is completely based on getting to know someone. My heart ached that the prologue did not include their wedding.
I REALLY hope the third book is released soon. I want to see more of how Kemen completes his healing and mentors another upcoming king.
This narrator is phenomenal. I was captivated each night as I listened to his read A Cold Wind - and I only caught any of my frustrations as I mulled over it during the day, eager to listen again!
September 14, 2019
I found the different time periods a little confusing but it didn't matter too much as the romance was the main thread of the story and it felt like Kemen's journey was more of a sideline.
The narrator has a lovely voice.
The narrator has a lovely voice.
October 16, 2018
It probably deserves better than 2 stars, I mean I've read much worse and it really wasn't bad. I just wasn't looking for a romance. I'll have to read a sample before I buy the next one though.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews