Winning the Legend

Blue Eyes Trilogy #3

by B. Kristin McMichael

Arianna has gathered the outside clans to decide her fate in marriage. A tournament will be held, and she is the prize, whether she wants to be or not. The only thing for her to do is watch the clan leaders fight over her, or is it? Thanks to her team's well-made plans, Arianna has other strategies in place. Hopefully one of those plans will earn her freedom. As the contestants gather and she learns more about the night human world, there are new allies to keep close and more enemies to keep even closer. Some even hold more secrets to her legend and possibly the actual reason to her existence. Now Arianna must decide what to do with the fate she has been dealt. The time has come to step out of the shadows of the men who protect her, and into her own power. The time is now for Arianna to take control, and fight for the destiny she wants to live.

Genres: Young Adult, Vampires, Paranormal, Fantasy, Supernatural, Paranormal Romance, Magic

256 pages, Paperback

First published August 30, 2013

About the author

Originally from Wisconsin, B. Kristin currently resides in Ohio with her husband, three small children, and three cats. When not doing the mom thing of chasing kids, baking cookies, and playing outside, she is using her PhD in biology as a scientist. In her free time she is currently hard at work on multiple novels. Every day is a new writing adventure. She is a fan of all YA/NA fantasy and science fiction.

Reviews

[Ash Kemp · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is always the nagging worry that the end of a trilogy will leave you wildly disappointed. Thankfully, this was not the case with Blue Eyes! Winning the Legend was everything you could want in a trilogy closing book- all the action, the romantic tension and turmoil, the suspense, and the feeling of being overwhelmed at her new life remains strong in this installment. Although I had my own idea about who Ari should be with, I was pleased with the outcome, and rather enjoyed how many different times she and the gang had to completely change course due to unforeseen obstacles and setbacks. Devin and the boys are wonderfully delicious as ever, but now we meet even more male night humans vying for a chance to win the lady's hand. And the closing lines of this book almost had me in tears. It's just so beautifully written and unexpectedly profound. I could have been devastated that this part of the story had come to an end, but instead I felt like I had just closed a door I can open to go see these friends at any time. That's the beauty of a truly great book- it's there for your to re-read at your convenience. Absolutely 5 stars, since that is the highest rating available anyway!

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

5

Entire Series Rating: 5+

You know when you have that author you can’t stop gushing about? B. Kristin is one of those authors for me. I absolutely adore her and her words. She had originally won me over with her standalone debut novel To Stand Beside Her. For a while, I gave up on Vampires, Werewolves and the whole lot. Until B. Kristin told me she was coming out with Legend of The Blue Eyes. I’ll admit, I was a little shy, but I had complete faith in B. Kristin, and her writing. I absolutely DEVOURED the book and was ready for book 2, (Becoming the Legend) before it was released. Then I read book 2, and well let’s just say… it did NOT disappoint. Sometimes sequels can be fillers, and kinda drawn out, but this was definitely not the case. A little while ago, I got an email from B. Kristin telling me that the 3rd book was available, and that I could get it.

What did I do?! I legitimately stopped everything I was doing to download this book and read it. I was actually taking a break from reading another book, to get some socialization in, lol. I still haven’t finished that book yet… Oops! Sorry, but when it comes to certain authors, I do play favorites. Don’t judge me… cause y’all know you do it too!! Once again, while reading Winning the Legend, I devoured it. Being the last book in the trilogy, I was overwhelmingly sad to see the end of such a beautiful story. Immediately I was immersed back into the Night World with Arianna and the rest of the crew. It’s funny, I didn’t think I could actually miss a character, but I did.

As I don’t want to spoil any one of the books for anyone, I won’t talk about the storyline. Yes, this makes it incredibly hard for me to write the review. I WANT to tell you everything, believe me. I get so excited and so animated when I talk about books I love, and I LOVE this trilogy. Everything was just perfection. Laced with angst, laugh out loud moments, witty banter, heart stopping anxiety, shooting eye daggers, and heartfelt tears – Winning the Legend gives you the ultimate feels.

I couldn’t imagine the novel ending any better than it did, either. There’s always so many different was that an author can go with an ending. I left this novel completely satisfied, and that’s what I look for in a series. The Blue Eyes trilogy really leaves no stone unturned. Every question is answered, and you just come full circle, with B. Kristin’s writing. I can’t get over what a beautiful story this was, and I truly hope that everyone whether they like vampires and the lot or not – Read this. This reads with enough sophistication, that it doesn’t quite feel like a YA novel, but has the relate ability to the young adult crowd. I honestly recommend this to EVERYONE. B. Kristin is truly one of a kind. The world she came up with and put into a story is just beyond my comprehension of imagination. I’m in complete awe of this series and I can NOT wait for her next works. Spectacular series, that puts other Vampire / Night Human novels to shame.

B. Kristin, I can’t thank you enough. Not just for your translation of words, but your kindness and genuine devotion to your stories. Please don’t ever stop writing, you’ll always have a fan here! NY Times Bestsellers list Here we come! (and by that I totally mean YOU!)

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 unicorns - I loved it!
**Originally gifted a copy, but I have bought the whole series :)

The cover is just beautiful and I really love all the covers for this series :) I really want to add these to my classroom library to share with my students….someday when I’m independently wealthy and can afford to do it with all the book I’d love to share with them.

This is the third book in the YA trilogy The Blue Eyes. I read the first two books back in 2013. While you probably do not have to read the books in order, I recommend you do because you will miss out on the relationships built and becoming invested in the characters lives :)

I’m not sure why I waited so long to read this one because I really do love this series. It took me a chapter or two to remember my characters and remember what was going on, but once I did I didn’t want to put it down. Of course, I had a few things that disrupted my plan of no interruptions while reading :) but kids do that ;)

Arianna is a typical high school girl who is unsure of herself at times, but she shows such fierce determination to be free and loyalty and love to her friends and family. She also has more compassion than most girls her own age which makes me admire her all the more :) I really do love all her keepers and family too!!

B. Kristin’s style of writing is an easy read, and I had no problems imagining my way through her creative and awesome world. I am amazed at how she wove all sorts of Night Humans into her world and such a complex plot where all the Night Humans are concerned. I am ecstatic that this world continues on in another series Day Human which I will definitely be reading :)

I highly recommend this series to YA paranormal fans.

[Adriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to cry, I really didn't want this book to end, ever. There is something about the way the author writes and describe things that pulls me into her wonderful world that I don't want to let go and I just want to keep reading and reading her words until the end of time.

Winning the Legend was the perfect third book and final installment of this incredible trilogy. I loved that Arianna wanted to fight for her freedom and kick ass. And may I just say that the relationship between Arianna and Andrew was so adorable and so meant to be. Is amazing seeing their bond and the love that they have for one another. They really have become one of my favorite couples.

The development of the characters (especially the development of Arianna) was incredible. With each chapter and book we could see how much she has mature and I was a great thing to presence. I am so proud of her.

It was great to see the characteristics and special traits everyone in the Night World have and see them in action.

Before the battle I was so nervous and I never get nervous while reading a book but I was almost shaking because I didn't knew what was going to happen. The only thing I wanted so badly to see was Andrew releasing his true power but I was glad to see him fight for a little bit with Rhys. Also I wanted to see Ari fight and kick Rhys' ass.

In the end the Blue Eyes trilogy captivated me with each word. It was a truly fantastic ride to read it and learn more about the Night World and the characters. I loved it.

And to B. Kristin McMichael, thank you for writing and sharing this amazing story with us, you rock!

[Lanie (Lanies Book Thoughts) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winning the Legend was a spectacular ending to this trilogy! I absolutely loved the interactions between Ari and Andrew, they're just the sweetest couple. Turner, Devin, Molina and Thomas definitely brought their A-game for this ending.

We finally meet the other clan leaders when they issue a challenge for Ari's hand in marriage. These men might not want from Ari, what she thinks they have in mind though. All of the facts about the legend are finally uncovered and Ari has the option to either act or ignore the legend completely. While all of this is going on, all of the clan heads are fighting for the right to marry Ari, even though Andrew is her mate! There are tons of twists and turns throughout this story, with betrayals and new allies throughout. I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone into a great YA love story, Twilight has nothing on The Blues Eyes Trilogy!


I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)

[Cheryl Duval · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com and the Author.

Exceptional!! Arianna has finally come into her own and she is making the rules. She must follow old traditions but that doesn't mean she can't change some rules along the way. She has to fight for her freedom and the freedom of all night walkers. She is in constant jeopardy and her keepers have to work very hard to try to protect her. This book was awesome!! The series is well worth reading and I highly recommend it!!

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the last book in the trilogy. Arianna now having more knowledge and the incident of the poisoning has left her exhausted . So many duties to take care of , wishing her grandfather was still alive .Takng many precautions for the future. Arianna wanted to punish all those involved in the poisonings. Now Arianna is faced with an ancient tradition for all the clans to send a worthy mate for marriage. Unhappy in her current situation,even her team is distraught. She will be setting new rules to the game. The clans want a powerful marriage and they all want her powers. One by one they arrive,sending they're powerful member along with they're retainers. Each one has to be in the estate the coordinated time frame. If they aren't there it's considered a forfeit for that clan. it so happens there was only one clan member who didn't arrive. He was disqualified. As Arianna begins to explain the rules for the event, she was interrupted . Everyone questions her as to where the head of the clan is. She then asked if they are questioning her authority. Most of them say no,but they were just as curious . Arianna informs them they are looking at the head of the clan. She continues to tell them all the rules of the competition. She's hoping to be patient with all these ridiculous event. She knows who her true mate is and it is Andrew. She just wishing her grandfather was still alive to navigate the event.The competitors have to master 3 challenges. Arianna will not make it easy for them . Her uncle Gabriel and her team of protectors all come up with a plan. They want to end this sort of event forever. What will happen next? Will Arianna be forced into an unwanted marriage? Will the clans continue to follow her ?
A highly recommended series, very well written . Lots of adventure,mystery and romance.


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[Shalheira · Rating 2 out of 5]

Overall, I was rather disappointed in this series. The main character, Arianna, just seems like the cliché heroine that needs a man to save her from everything. This series consistently talks about Arianna being the "most powerful night human ever" but she rarely uses this power unless she's showing off.

She, thankfully, spends less time sleeping in this book than the other two. Also, she finally gets to learn how to fight, but even with her months of training—which is glossed over so much and the only training scene you get is more of a flirty fight—she only gets to fight one time. Even the fights in the tournament were anti-climatic as they only took about a page, being described as "trading blows" then suddenly someone wins.

Not to mention that the FINAL battle for Arianna's freedom only takes ONE chapter. How anti-climatic can that get? The whole series was building up to this and that's it? Even this legend about Arianna is practically brushed off. The only thing she really completed was getting multiple men to fawn over her.

The whole story ended up becoming so love-centric that the actual plot got glossed over to the point where it was non-existent. I thought that the whole point of the tournament was that Arianna had to marry the winner, but did the rules suddenly change right at the end?

Nonetheless, this story was way too inconsistent for my liking and not a story that I would recommend.

[Rasa Ievkalne · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars purely for the ease of reading and the idea behind the book.I really, really hoped that 2 first books were so action free just to build up a great place for the final book.I just had these hopes crushed.How can you write a trilogy about the fight for freedom without any fight in it.Like none,zero,null... I so wanted this book be the peak,to give us some emotions,show us some fine action,at least a grand final scene... I understand that Arianna and Rhys final standoff is intended as a culmination but it just isn't. It is so sickeningly calm and action free,like two strangers discussing mundane things in the line waiting for milk and about as exciting.The main opponent for the first to books Seeger get easily dismissed and replaced in the last paragraph,what was the point in even try to spin first books about him.I can't even get angry,my feelings are as "meh " as this trilogy.This is not a book I will remember in half year.The author really should check up on basic book writing rules,she have a potential as ideas are promising and her writing language reads easily but every reader needs a culmination,a solution the book have been building towards to,even if it is predictable.And you can't dismiss with couple sentences the problems of the world you spent 2 books explaining and introducing to.This book is unfinished,bleak and leaves you wondering if it was worth your time reading it.

[Bookish Satty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side.
Firstly I would like to thank the author for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
How would you feel when some strangers will fight a tournament for one prize and the prize will be you? Will you accept such a fate? Won’t you want your freedom back?
Well the same thing happens to Ari and to win the hearts and trust of the Night world she has to participate in this and become the prize of the winner. But fortunately destiny had another plan to play!!!
I’m so sad that this is the finale of this series and hope that there will be a spin-off definitely. The ending was perfect and I just couldn’t ask for more. The new characters were awesome and I enjoyed being a part of their journey as well but Ari won the show for me. She developed so much more with each page and we got to see the different aspects of her personality. Mystery, action, suspense are all a part of this book which made it an intriguing read for me.
A great trilogy that I’ll recommend to all and hope that you guys will love it as much as I did. Loved this trilogy from my heart!!!

[Casia Pickering · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will have to say that this was far better than the first two books in the Blue Eyes Trilogy. I am happy I decided to finish it after I read the first two.

First, Arianna not only is starting to have a backbone and make her own decisions, she is also becoming three dimensional. I actually wanted to see her win and have that ending she desperately wanted.

The problems of the second book, the falling plot points and the not so twisty twists, are almost nonexistent in this one. I actually didn't see the biggest twist until it was revealed and boy did I love it! The climax was actually not that bad either.

I would have liked Arianna doing more action and fighting on her own, but for the most part it wasn't that bad. She isn't a fighter person. She may be verbal, but physically she doesn't like the idea of hurting someone.

I found the writing to have evolved as well. There were less repeated statements and I actually felt for the characters. I decided to try more of McMichael's books because of this evolution.

All in all, it wasn't a bad story. It was a great change from the first one and I am hopeful about the other books. Especially the Day Human spin off trilogy.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

**I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.**

*sigh* That was great.

It's funny. The entire series I was a super huge fan of Devin and REALLY REALLY wanted him to be with Arianna in the end and I really thought I would hate if she chose Andrew instead, but honestly I'm not even mad.

Kristin McMichael played it just right. After Devin reaction to having Arianna save him, I knew that McMichael was right, and they were not meant to be. It also only made me love Andrew even more. I will always have a special place for Devin (and can't WAIT for the spinoff) but I was satisfied with the ending for this trilogy.

It was super thrilling, I loved how Nessa became a character in this story and I, as always, loved reading about Arianna's Keepers.

Definitely one of the best series, I've read in a while and I can't wait for me from Kristin McMichael!!!

Thanks for letting me experience this trilogy with you!

[Devon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to read this book. I will say that I could not put it down. We continue on the Journey with Arianna as she leads her clans and full fills the legend of the blue eyes. This book takes us to a tournament for her hand in marriage. Now for a regular 17 year old girl this seems like a very out dated practice, but to win the trust of the night humans, one she must participate in. Needless to say things don't go as planned.

I have been a huge fan of this series since I read the first one when i cam across it on a read for reviews group associated with goodreads.com I really felt that B. Kristen McMichael had a wonderful story to tell, but there were a few small kinks that needed to be worked out as far as pacing and flow in the first one but are now since resolved. I am so excited to continue reading her work and she is one of my favorite new authors to watch!

[Sarez Tomoan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well bk has done it again! Once again she has delivered another compelling novel about her night humans! I have loved this trilogy and this author has fast become one of my very favorites! I knew I was going to be sad to see this trilogy end and I was but at the same time I wasn't! The story was wrapped up so beautifully. I have loved meeting all bk's characters and this book didn't fail with the introduction of new ones! I am in awe of the imagination that this author has and I look forward to reading every book this author produces - especially her next one about Devin!!!!! Bk thank you for taking me on this journey and I do hope one day I see these 3 books turned into movies! They are amazing as is the author who wrote them!!!

[LA · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is more of a rant than an actual review. Filled with SPOILERS so beware!






Seriously? I mean really? I wanted Devin to be the guy she ended up with quite badly! All those promises she made when she was a little girl. Okay I get it they don't really count cause well she was a little girl but they should have! As if it's not bad enough that she didn't pick Devin, Nessa has to come into the story. WHYYYYYY??! I felt like I was being backstabbed over and over again. And now I'm just so sad. How can you just forget or get over someone who has literally been your whole life?! And the way Devin spoke about his memories of her and about the night he spent in bed with her (in previous book) it just all sucks!! :/


Rant over.

[Kayla Edwards · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is it. Arianna's fate and that of the entire night human world has come down to this competition between the thirteen clans. Everyone is fighting over her hand and the power that comes along with it. Can Arianna find a way to decide her own fate? Or will she be forced to marry someone she doesn't love to save her people?

A wonderful conclusion to an excitingly original trilogy. I have really enjoyed sharing in Arianna's trials and triumphs as she grows into her new powers and roles in the night human world. This is a fun and emotionally-charged series that I would definitely recommend to anyone at all interested in the paranormal.

[Sherry · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Overall, I liked the conclusion to this trilogy, but wasn't blown away. It picks up pretty close to where the second book left off with the competition looming. It's not long before all of the competitors vying to Arianna for themselves and their clan. There is lots of plotting, prepping, and contests.

The POV in this book took a little getting use to. You sometimes get to see inside different characters heads all within the same paragraph.

If you read the other books, you might like this one too.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I loved this book 100% all the way thru! This book has a variety of paranormals in it, add in some magic,and romance, and you got yourself on perfect book. The ending was a perfect one for Arianna's story. I am really looking forward to her next instalment. The Spin-off to The Legend of the Blue eyes trilogy, basing on Devin's story. I would recomend this book to just about anyone. This book is fresh, exciting, and unique.

Great Job, and well done! B.Kristen Mcmichael......

I have also reviewed this book on Barns and Noble Nook sight as well. :)

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so sad that this is the end to The Blue Eyes Trilogy. I have loved this series since book one. Each book got more intense and brought you more into Arianna's world. The new characters were just as loveable as the ones that had been with Arianna since book one. This was a perfect ending to a perfect series!

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for an honest review from goodreads.
I enjoyed the trilogy greatly. I liked the hints of political maneuvering and how the heroine refused to have her choices taken away. The romance stayed pg 13 with sweet undertones. I'm looking forward to the spin off series.

[Susie Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

ughh OK so I seriously hate love triangle crap. But then twelve men after one girl, really? Besides that, I found this Trilogy captivating. It is unique and I love it. I found it seriously addicting. My heart aches for Devin but I prefer Andrew 100%. I wanted to hit and kiss this book at the same time.

[Crystal Simpson · Rating 4 out of 5]

At first I was unsure of this series, but the moment Andrew entered I was hooked. He was it for me and reading the series was amazing. I enjoyed seeing how Arianna came into herself and how the world changed around her.

[Annemarien Faraminan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have waited for this book so much... It was a great ending. It kept me in suspense up to the last pages. Great Job....Please keep on writing

[Sheree Gregory · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved all three of the blue eyes books way to go kristin mcmichaeal you did a amazing job on all three

[Kimchi · Rating 5 out of 5]

words to describe this book. Awesome , Adventurous, amazingly done. And it's not over yet. Love this series and cant wait to read the next.

[Nickole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winning the Legend

First I want to thank for making this a trilogy because i defiantly could not afford more with all the other books i bought. Second, while it was dad to see Devon and Arianna move on but in glad a decision was made. I had hoped they would end up together but after her forming such a close bond with Andrew I am kinda glad she didn't. Anyways this was a great trilogy and I am glad I got to read it. Thank you.❤

[Eric Aeschliman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who Enchants Whom

Loved every minute of this series and can't wait to start there next! BKM manages to do something few others can claim. She has broadened, enriched, and innovated within the vampire/werewolf mythos and yet avoided watering it down or increasing the "Cheesyness" or the "Cliché Factor," as so many other authors of the genre have done.

My only question lingering is did I, as Francis Bacon suggested, devour the books, or did they devour me?

[Francesco Tehrani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keeps getting better!

The third book was fantastic and built on what was great about the first two! I liked the direction the story went in and is going in! This is my favorite so far! On to the next one!

[Nic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great conclusion

I loved this series , read them all in 4 days . This was a perfect conclusion to the trilogy. I can’t wait to read the series about Devin .

[Takiyah Dudley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worth the read. I decided to give this series a try when i finally started usung my audible subscription. So glad i did great story, characters, & satisfying ending to main story.