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Warriors #1
Warrior King
One man is a traitor's son. The other is an emperor's. Together, they discover the fine line between duty and justice.
Commander Draylon Aravaid doesn't hide his lineage as the emperor's son but doesn't advertise his origins either. Loyal to a fault, he relies on his hard-won reputation rather than his family name, which his duplicitous father uses to full advantage.
Prince Yarif DiRici trained his entire life to become a consort in an arranged marriage—all while secretly yearning for love. The death of his father and older brother suddenly thrusts an unwanted crown upon his head, and Yarif into a whirlwind of dangerous plans within plans as he and Draylon are forced into marriage.
The political game is set, and Yarif is kidnapped. It's up to Draylon to mount a daring rescue to prevent all-out war.
The two men must get past each other's mistrust, find common ground, and defeat an enemy neither knew they had...and may not survive!
Commander Draylon Aravaid doesn't hide his lineage as the emperor's son but doesn't advertise his origins either. Loyal to a fault, he relies on his hard-won reputation rather than his family name, which his duplicitous father uses to full advantage.
Prince Yarif DiRici trained his entire life to become a consort in an arranged marriage—all while secretly yearning for love. The death of his father and older brother suddenly thrusts an unwanted crown upon his head, and Yarif into a whirlwind of dangerous plans within plans as he and Draylon are forced into marriage.
The political game is set, and Yarif is kidnapped. It's up to Draylon to mount a daring rescue to prevent all-out war.
The two men must get past each other's mistrust, find common ground, and defeat an enemy neither knew they had...and may not survive!
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2023
90 people are currently reading
429 people want to read
About the author
Eden Winters
88 books673 followersYou will know Eden Winters by her distinctive white plumage and exuberant cry of “Hey, y’all!” in a Southern US drawl so thick it renders even the simplest of words unrecognizable. Watch out, she hugs!
Driven by insatiable curiosity, she possibly holds the world’s record for curriculum changes to the point that she’s never quite earned a degree but is a force to be reckoned with at Trivial Pursuit.
She’s trudged down hallways with police detectives, learned to disarm knife-wielding bad guys, and witnessed the correct way to blow doors off buildings. Her e-mail contains various snippets of forensic wisdom, such as “What would a dead body left in a Mexican drug tunnel look like after six months?” In the process of her adventures, she has written over thirty gay romance novels, lost count of novellas and short stories, has won Rainbow Awards, was a Lambda Awards Finalist, and lives in terror of authorities showing up at her door to question her Internet searches.
When not putting characters in dangerous situations she’s cosplaying for children's charities or hanging out at the farm being a mother, grandmother, and vegetarian.
Her natural habitats are hardware stores and on the backs of motorcycles.
Driven by insatiable curiosity, she possibly holds the world’s record for curriculum changes to the point that she’s never quite earned a degree but is a force to be reckoned with at Trivial Pursuit.
She’s trudged down hallways with police detectives, learned to disarm knife-wielding bad guys, and witnessed the correct way to blow doors off buildings. Her e-mail contains various snippets of forensic wisdom, such as “What would a dead body left in a Mexican drug tunnel look like after six months?” In the process of her adventures, she has written over thirty gay romance novels, lost count of novellas and short stories, has won Rainbow Awards, was a Lambda Awards Finalist, and lives in terror of authorities showing up at her door to question her Internet searches.
When not putting characters in dangerous situations she’s cosplaying for children's charities or hanging out at the farm being a mother, grandmother, and vegetarian.
Her natural habitats are hardware stores and on the backs of motorcycles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
June 11, 2025
I really enjoyed the introduction and pacing of the first 60% of the book. After that it got a bit tedious with so many plot points to wrap up. The ending was anticlimactic. While I overall liked the book, I won't read the next in the series.
August 8, 2023
If you're into slow burn, enemies to lovers trope you don't want to miss this one!
This story is set in in mideaval imaginary world and the world building and character development ( including supporting characters) is amazing. I was sucked in this world from the page one and couldn't put it down. The enemies to lovers story feels realistic. Attraction is there from the beginning, but the forced political marriage is something that keeps Draylon and Yarif from trusting their developing feelings and each other's motives. Can something that was built on unsteady foundation of blood, deceit and political games survive and bloom? So what you can expect is a brialntly written, plot driven medieval fantasy, with fair amount of action, heat and a "side dish" of humor that's so characteristic for this author - actually I would miss it a lot if it wasn't there, although in this book it's toned down a bit. This is honestly one of the best fantasy slow burns I've ever read and I'm happy that there's another book coming, because there are characters that stand out and definitely deserve a book of their own. No worries - it's a HEA for this couple, but I'm really looking forward to read more from this world. And BTW - if your trope preferences are different there's just about something for anyone in Eden Winters' repertoar. Honestly she's one of the most imaginative and versatile authors I've ever encountered. My personal favorite (that I've reread more times that I'm willing to admit) is her Diversion series.
This story is set in in mideaval imaginary world and the world building and character development ( including supporting characters) is amazing. I was sucked in this world from the page one and couldn't put it down. The enemies to lovers story feels realistic. Attraction is there from the beginning, but the forced political marriage is something that keeps Draylon and Yarif from trusting their developing feelings and each other's motives. Can something that was built on unsteady foundation of blood, deceit and political games survive and bloom? So what you can expect is a brialntly written, plot driven medieval fantasy, with fair amount of action, heat and a "side dish" of humor that's so characteristic for this author - actually I would miss it a lot if it wasn't there, although in this book it's toned down a bit. This is honestly one of the best fantasy slow burns I've ever read and I'm happy that there's another book coming, because there are characters that stand out and definitely deserve a book of their own. No worries - it's a HEA for this couple, but I'm really looking forward to read more from this world. And BTW - if your trope preferences are different there's just about something for anyone in Eden Winters' repertoar. Honestly she's one of the most imaginative and versatile authors I've ever encountered. My personal favorite (that I've reread more times that I'm willing to admit) is her Diversion series.
August 30, 2023
3.5 Stars
September 1, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Warrior King is the first book in the new Warriors series by Eden Winters. It’s set in a loosely historical, very tangentially fantasy setting filled with royalty and intrigue, with a side of military conquest. I found the narration to be fairly ambiguous: there were no clear indications like subheadings on chapters or white space between sections to differentiate Draylon’s perspective from Yarif’s. However, this somewhat unconventional style did not curb my interest in or enthusiasm for the story. Indeed, it helped bolster the impression of these two characters as enemies, which goes a long way towards building anticipation for them to tip from “enemies” to “lovers.” The enemies theme continues well into the middle chapters with a bit of doubt to keep me on my toes when it came to how much and how deeply Draylon and Yarif felt for one another.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Warrior King is the first book in the new Warriors series by Eden Winters. It’s set in a loosely historical, very tangentially fantasy setting filled with royalty and intrigue, with a side of military conquest. I found the narration to be fairly ambiguous: there were no clear indications like subheadings on chapters or white space between sections to differentiate Draylon’s perspective from Yarif’s. However, this somewhat unconventional style did not curb my interest in or enthusiasm for the story. Indeed, it helped bolster the impression of these two characters as enemies, which goes a long way towards building anticipation for them to tip from “enemies” to “lovers.” The enemies theme continues well into the middle chapters with a bit of doubt to keep me on my toes when it came to how much and how deeply Draylon and Yarif felt for one another.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
dnf-2024
April 13, 2024DNF@23%
I tried, I really did, but the writing style really wasn't working for me - it was too long-winded and the fact that I was skimming so early on in the book was a sign.
It's a shame, everything else was right up my alley.
I tried, I really did, but the writing style really wasn't working for me - it was too long-winded and the fact that I was skimming so early on in the book was a sign.
It's a shame, everything else was right up my alley.
January 14, 2024
Engaging characters and a storyline with plenty of action, even though I skimmed off an on. I found the sex dispassionate.
December 10, 2023
This book is a real page-turner, filled with political intrigue, palace machinations, deception, betrayal, plots, and danger. It also has a great love story. Prince Yarif DiRici watches his castle overrun by the Emperor's army while his father and older brother are killed. Protecting his younger brother and sister, Yarif stands to fight, but is captured. He learns that his father was a traitor who sought to form an alliance to oppose the Emperor.
Commander Draylon Aravaid is the leader of the military and a son of the Emperor. He was responsible for the taking of the castle and the killing of the king in battle. When he meets Yarif, he doesn't trust him, but he also doesn't see any reason to distrust him. When he learns that his father has arranged a political marriage for him with Yarif, he agrees to do his duty. He's attracted to Yarif, but he still doesn't know if a marriage can work long-term. Can these two explore their attraction and developing feelings with so much responsibility and so many people seeking to destroy them?
This book has a beautiful HEA and forever love and is highly recommended. Although it is Bk 1 in the series and there will likely be future intrigue with two supporting characters from this book, the ending is wrapped up nicely and very satisfying.
Commander Draylon Aravaid is the leader of the military and a son of the Emperor. He was responsible for the taking of the castle and the killing of the king in battle. When he meets Yarif, he doesn't trust him, but he also doesn't see any reason to distrust him. When he learns that his father has arranged a political marriage for him with Yarif, he agrees to do his duty. He's attracted to Yarif, but he still doesn't know if a marriage can work long-term. Can these two explore their attraction and developing feelings with so much responsibility and so many people seeking to destroy them?
This book has a beautiful HEA and forever love and is highly recommended. Although it is Bk 1 in the series and there will likely be future intrigue with two supporting characters from this book, the ending is wrapped up nicely and very satisfying.
January 1, 2024
This was just delightful, it has everything I love in a good book! Draylon and Yarif are total sweethearts and completely meant for each other. Loved their story, now I’m hoping for Rufe and Niam’s story next.
March 16, 2025
I really disliked the writing style of this. Strangely modern in places where it didn't work for me. I quite liked the characters, and the political intrigue was entertaining enough, but I found the family history that got info dumped towards the end boring as sin.
August 31, 2023
3.5 stars
June 30, 2025
It's been a while since I read an Eden Winters book and I'm happy to say this one was all I could hope for.
The story was gripping and the romance sweet.
The ending well done and satisfying.
The story was gripping and the romance sweet.
The ending well done and satisfying.
August 29, 2023
This book was very helpful with my reading slump.
August 27, 2023
Fabulous Epic Fantasy Adventure and Romance!
Rating: 4.75🌈
Well, that was one fabulous fantasy epic romance! There’s forced marriages, death and deep intrigue, bloody battles, kingdoms at risk, and finally, finding true love.
I had such a fantastic time reading this and getting into the lives of these characters! And happily, this is only the first book in the Warriors series.
But starting us off is the taking of the Kingdom of Revellan by the Emperor’s son, Commander Draylon Aravaid. He’s leading the battle and the troops to defeat the traitor King and insure that the Emperor’s orders are carried out.
However, once the blood is spilled, the battle ends, left standing is two young siblings guarded by the enemy we spare heir, Prince Yarif DiRici .
With those elements, Winter creates a fantasy world of bitter kingdom politics that incorporates spies, assassins, intrigue on a vast scale, betrayal, forced marriages, and a cast of beautifully drawn characters, from the main couple to the several villains of the story.
Both men are easily seen by the reader, well defined by their personalities and rich descriptions. There’s Draylon Aravaid, Commander of the Emperor’s Army. Second son, scarred, a seasoned warrior with a thoughtfulness and determination that underpins his ability to strategize and fight. He’s such a splendid man and character. I adore him.
He plays up perfectly against his counterpart, the third son and heir spare of the traitorous and now dead King. That’s Prince Yarif DiRici, a multidimensional figure, protector, secretary, linguist, consort to be. And here he’s the one person protecting his younger brother and sister from the Emperor and his plans.
The Emperor is an evolving figure here , one I wish we could have had more insight into. He is more of a one dimensional character than he could have been, and the hints at the end would have made the Emperor a far more complex figure.
But the rest? Fabulous! Especially Rufe, Draylon’s best friend who’s suffered much in his past. The red-headed king who’s playing a big role here, no spoilers. And May from the kitchen.
Can’t wait to read more about the next in this universe from Eden Winters.
Love fantasy? Big epic adventures with romance thrown in? Grand characters and world building? Warrior King is all that and more!
I’m highly recommending it.
Rating: 4.75🌈
Well, that was one fabulous fantasy epic romance! There’s forced marriages, death and deep intrigue, bloody battles, kingdoms at risk, and finally, finding true love.
I had such a fantastic time reading this and getting into the lives of these characters! And happily, this is only the first book in the Warriors series.
But starting us off is the taking of the Kingdom of Revellan by the Emperor’s son, Commander Draylon Aravaid. He’s leading the battle and the troops to defeat the traitor King and insure that the Emperor’s orders are carried out.
However, once the blood is spilled, the battle ends, left standing is two young siblings guarded by the enemy we spare heir, Prince Yarif DiRici .
With those elements, Winter creates a fantasy world of bitter kingdom politics that incorporates spies, assassins, intrigue on a vast scale, betrayal, forced marriages, and a cast of beautifully drawn characters, from the main couple to the several villains of the story.
Both men are easily seen by the reader, well defined by their personalities and rich descriptions. There’s Draylon Aravaid, Commander of the Emperor’s Army. Second son, scarred, a seasoned warrior with a thoughtfulness and determination that underpins his ability to strategize and fight. He’s such a splendid man and character. I adore him.
He plays up perfectly against his counterpart, the third son and heir spare of the traitorous and now dead King. That’s Prince Yarif DiRici, a multidimensional figure, protector, secretary, linguist, consort to be. And here he’s the one person protecting his younger brother and sister from the Emperor and his plans.
The Emperor is an evolving figure here , one I wish we could have had more insight into. He is more of a one dimensional character than he could have been, and the hints at the end would have made the Emperor a far more complex figure.
But the rest? Fabulous! Especially Rufe, Draylon’s best friend who’s suffered much in his past. The red-headed king who’s playing a big role here, no spoilers. And May from the kitchen.
Can’t wait to read more about the next in this universe from Eden Winters.
Love fantasy? Big epic adventures with romance thrown in? Grand characters and world building? Warrior King is all that and more!
I’m highly recommending it.
September 29, 2023
great start to a new series!
I loved the intrigue, the action, the friendships, family, and love found within this story. Draylon and Yarif were well matched and I loved seeing them grow to trust each other despite the situation. There were time I questioned who to trust but it all worked out for a good HEA. As this is book one, I can assume the couple for the next book and that things aren’t all quite settled in the Empire but I look forward to that story too!
I loved the intrigue, the action, the friendships, family, and love found within this story. Draylon and Yarif were well matched and I loved seeing them grow to trust each other despite the situation. There were time I questioned who to trust but it all worked out for a good HEA. As this is book one, I can assume the couple for the next book and that things aren’t all quite settled in the Empire but I look forward to that story too!
January 6, 2024
Enjoyed this one.
August 13, 2024
3.5 stars for me, rounded down because of the lack of resolution on a couple of things. Overall, it's a pretty good book, well-written and decently interesting.
Draylon and Yarif are both strong characters and likable enough. Draylon came off as a bit of an asshole at first, but he came around. Their relationship seems natural enough, although I felt we didn't get some of the emotional depth I'd expect with this story (given what Draylon was party to regarding Yarif's family). It felt a bit too "high-level" at times, and those parts didn't really snag me nor draw me in.
Related to that, one significant issue is the lack of communication between Yarif and Draylon regarding what Draylon did at the beginningnof the book, especially after he found out the truth of how murky the situation was surrounding Yarif's father and especially brother. Draylon never apologized to Yarif at all. He never even said something along the lines of "I didn't know the truth then, but I'm still sorry." It wasn't Draylon's direct fault really, but I'd expect to feel very heavy remorse if (⚠️ spoiler alert ⚠️) . But Draylon didn't mention it hardly at all, and Yarif never asked for an apology nor gave forgiveness explicitly.
That felt fake, unrealistic, and downright uncomfortable. Especially because Yarif said his brother was good-hearted (a musician) until his father beat and manipulated him. His brother never let Yarif be married off to anyone abusive, despite their father trying for power plays. Sure, he may have been acting selfishly because he needed Yarif to help with his duties when he struggled with his (implied) dyslexia, but that's just an assumption. It isn't demonstrated either way. If anything, I tend to believe that he genuinely cared for Yarif because he didn't seem to be mean or abusive to Yarif in any way, so why assume he wasn't also trying to protect his younger brother from being an abused consort? Yarif treated him well. So maybe his brother was actually just a decent person struggling in a shitty situation (as heir to his shithead father).
If Yarif's brother had been spared, maybe he would have been a decent, caring person when out from under his father. It's pretty sad that he died because of a power grab. And it's really weird that Yarif doesn't take more issue with Draylon, or at least expect him to say he's sorry. Given Draylon's character, it's very weird that he doesn't apologize under his own power because he is presented as a very self-aware and honorable man. It just didn't make much sense.
Another thing that didn't make sense was why Draylon and Yarif did not discuss Yarif becoming king at the end of the book. After all was revealed, it is clear that Yarif's family really wasn't guilty as originally believed; they were conned. So, Yarif is the rightful heir to the throne of Renvalle. Draylon, caring for his partner and wanting to respect him, should have offered Yarif the throne, taking the position of king consort himself. That would have been one way Draylon could try to atone for his hand in the above-mentioned stuff, too. Perhaps Yarif would have rejected the offer, or maybe he accepted. But they should have at least discussed it either way. Yarif and his family were used, which Draylon knew, but when Draylon finally achieved a position where he could change those circumstances, he didn't actually do anything like try to give Yarif his kingdom back. That betrayed most of the good will the author tried to build up by having Draylon defend Yarif's integrity to his father. It just felt skin-deep if Draylon isn't even going to try to make things right.
Those issues aside, the book was entertaining enough. It's nothing to be particularly impressed about, but at least it was mostly coherent.
I may continue on in the series (if more get written), or I may not. Not sure, really. I think I will check out this author's other books, though. Perhaps the oversights in this one are not regular occurrences for this author.
Draylon and Yarif are both strong characters and likable enough. Draylon came off as a bit of an asshole at first, but he came around. Their relationship seems natural enough, although I felt we didn't get some of the emotional depth I'd expect with this story (given what Draylon was party to regarding Yarif's family). It felt a bit too "high-level" at times, and those parts didn't really snag me nor draw me in.
Related to that, one significant issue is the lack of communication between Yarif and Draylon regarding what Draylon did at the beginningnof the book, especially after he found out the truth of how murky the situation was surrounding Yarif's father and especially brother. Draylon never apologized to Yarif at all. He never even said something along the lines of "I didn't know the truth then, but I'm still sorry." It wasn't Draylon's direct fault really, but I'd expect to feel very heavy remorse if (⚠️ spoiler alert ⚠️) . But Draylon didn't mention it hardly at all, and Yarif never asked for an apology nor gave forgiveness explicitly.
That felt fake, unrealistic, and downright uncomfortable. Especially because Yarif said his brother was good-hearted (a musician) until his father beat and manipulated him. His brother never let Yarif be married off to anyone abusive, despite their father trying for power plays. Sure, he may have been acting selfishly because he needed Yarif to help with his duties when he struggled with his (implied) dyslexia, but that's just an assumption. It isn't demonstrated either way. If anything, I tend to believe that he genuinely cared for Yarif because he didn't seem to be mean or abusive to Yarif in any way, so why assume he wasn't also trying to protect his younger brother from being an abused consort? Yarif treated him well. So maybe his brother was actually just a decent person struggling in a shitty situation (as heir to his shithead father).
If Yarif's brother had been spared, maybe he would have been a decent, caring person when out from under his father. It's pretty sad that he died because of a power grab. And it's really weird that Yarif doesn't take more issue with Draylon, or at least expect him to say he's sorry. Given Draylon's character, it's very weird that he doesn't apologize under his own power because he is presented as a very self-aware and honorable man. It just didn't make much sense.
Another thing that didn't make sense was why Draylon and Yarif did not discuss Yarif becoming king at the end of the book. After all was revealed, it is clear that Yarif's family really wasn't guilty as originally believed; they were conned. So, Yarif is the rightful heir to the throne of Renvalle. Draylon, caring for his partner and wanting to respect him, should have offered Yarif the throne, taking the position of king consort himself. That would have been one way Draylon could try to atone for his hand in the above-mentioned stuff, too. Perhaps Yarif would have rejected the offer, or maybe he accepted. But they should have at least discussed it either way. Yarif and his family were used, which Draylon knew, but when Draylon finally achieved a position where he could change those circumstances, he didn't actually do anything like try to give Yarif his kingdom back. That betrayed most of the good will the author tried to build up by having Draylon defend Yarif's integrity to his father. It just felt skin-deep if Draylon isn't even going to try to make things right.
Those issues aside, the book was entertaining enough. It's nothing to be particularly impressed about, but at least it was mostly coherent.
I may continue on in the series (if more get written), or I may not. Not sure, really. I think I will check out this author's other books, though. Perhaps the oversights in this one are not regular occurrences for this author.
August 1, 2023
Warrior King is the first book in the new duology, Warriors, written by Eden Winters. I have been eagerly awaiting this book, and from start to finish, I just could not put it down. After experiencing not only the descriptive world-building and well-rounded character development but also the political intrigues, Warrior King definitely did not disappoint.
In the eyes of Draylon Avaraid, a wrong was committed, a battle was fought, and he won. And although a few might know him as the emperor’s second son, most people know him as Commander Draylon of His Imperial Majesty’s Army; the head of it, that is. King Lleval DiRici and his family were traitors and Draylon was sent ahead of the emperor to prepare for his arrival.
In the eyes of Yarif DiRici, his family has just been murdered. The only life he’s ever known has been destroyed, and the man responsible is a barbarian named Draylon. Why does that sound familiar? Yarif is the third son of a traitor king, but he’s more than his father’s son. He’s lived behind the scenes and the people love and respect him. When his father’s latest consort neglected his younger twin siblings, he took on the responsibility of raising them himself.
Draylon never expected to marry; Yarif dreamed of his wedding. When forced to wed against their will, something interesting happens, and it doesn’t go exactly to the emperor’s plan. They start to listen to each other. And, they decide to try . Draylon thinks Yarif is feisty and not to be underestimated; Yarif thinks Draylon might be willing to make necessary changes after all.
But, the morning after the wedding, a duplicitous plot is put into motion, and the real suspense begins. Is this an act of war? Who’s behind it? Draylon and his best friend, Rufe (i.e., player extraordinaire, for now), go on the mission of their lives to rescue Yarif before he’s killed or worse, a war with Delletina is started. Along the way, they receive help from unforeseen allies but still find themselves in need of aid. When push comes to shove, a secret card must be played.
Our players need some downtime, and they get to rest for a time, but trouble once again comes calling, and away they must. There’s one final battle that must be fought, and it will be brutal to the heart. The true ruthlessness and cruelty behind the political scheming for the greater good is brought to light, and the past repeats itself in an unfortunate but necessary way. However, a new day dawns, and our heroes live to fight another day.
The author wraps this book’s main story arc up nicely, so no cliffhangers here. It’s definitely a HEA/HFN ending, with terrific foreshadowing for the upcoming finale of the duology, and I cannot wait to get my hands on it!
Happy Reading!
* I received an ARC of this book and I am leaving my honest review. *
In the eyes of Draylon Avaraid, a wrong was committed, a battle was fought, and he won. And although a few might know him as the emperor’s second son, most people know him as Commander Draylon of His Imperial Majesty’s Army; the head of it, that is. King Lleval DiRici and his family were traitors and Draylon was sent ahead of the emperor to prepare for his arrival.
In the eyes of Yarif DiRici, his family has just been murdered. The only life he’s ever known has been destroyed, and the man responsible is a barbarian named Draylon. Why does that sound familiar? Yarif is the third son of a traitor king, but he’s more than his father’s son. He’s lived behind the scenes and the people love and respect him. When his father’s latest consort neglected his younger twin siblings, he took on the responsibility of raising them himself.
Draylon never expected to marry; Yarif dreamed of his wedding. When forced to wed against their will, something interesting happens, and it doesn’t go exactly to the emperor’s plan. They start to listen to each other. And, they decide to try . Draylon thinks Yarif is feisty and not to be underestimated; Yarif thinks Draylon might be willing to make necessary changes after all.
But, the morning after the wedding, a duplicitous plot is put into motion, and the real suspense begins. Is this an act of war? Who’s behind it? Draylon and his best friend, Rufe (i.e., player extraordinaire, for now), go on the mission of their lives to rescue Yarif before he’s killed or worse, a war with Delletina is started. Along the way, they receive help from unforeseen allies but still find themselves in need of aid. When push comes to shove, a secret card must be played.
Our players need some downtime, and they get to rest for a time, but trouble once again comes calling, and away they must. There’s one final battle that must be fought, and it will be brutal to the heart. The true ruthlessness and cruelty behind the political scheming for the greater good is brought to light, and the past repeats itself in an unfortunate but necessary way. However, a new day dawns, and our heroes live to fight another day.
The author wraps this book’s main story arc up nicely, so no cliffhangers here. It’s definitely a HEA/HFN ending, with terrific foreshadowing for the upcoming finale of the duology, and I cannot wait to get my hands on it!
Happy Reading!
* I received an ARC of this book and I am leaving my honest review. *
August 27, 2023
4.5 stars!
This review and so much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Draylon is the Commander of the Emperor’s army and also his son. He’s just found a battle and killed the kind of a rival kingdom. Then his father informs him that he will be marrying the dead king’s son and will rule this kingdom. Not what Dray was expecting.
Yarif has lost all in his family except for his young twin half-siblings. He must do what he can to ensure their survival. That means he has to marry. A virtual stranger. He will do anything for Emile and Andira that he can to ensure their safety. The emperor is cruel and isn’t above using children. So he married Draylon. But then he is kidnapped and tortured. He’s sure he won’t survive. But after one night with his husband, he can’t know that Draylon takes his vows seriously. And Draylon will not rest until he gets back what is his. Dray swore to protect Yarif, and by god he will.
Enemies appear from everywhere. Every time they think they are safe, someone else comes out of the woodwork to attack them. Will they find allies in time to save themselves and the kingdoms and the innocent people around them?
Well this was unexpected! Truthfully this is not my usual genre. I am however, a huge fan of this author. And I was not disappointed. This is a very well-written enemies to lovers, forced political alliance marriage and forced proximity story that kept me on the edge of my seat a good deal of the time. Draylon and Yarif are thrown into the deep end of the ocean and end up becoming each other’s life preservers, much to their own surprise. Draylon as son of the emperor is a warrior through and through. Yarif, the second son of a traitor king felled by the hand of his now husband, has never wanted to rule. Forcing them into a political marriage to shore up the emperor’s designs to control the kingdom is only part of the story. Dray knows not to trust what he sees, but he is loyal. And when he married Yarif, he took his vows seriously. He will not rest until he rescued his husband – or die trying. There is really no dearth of villains and scoundrels in this story. Plenty of political intrigue and traitors, greedy spies and unhinged power-hungry nobles. But the heart of the story is the growing loyalty, love and admiration between these two unlikely leaders. There is a HFN ending that is plenty satisfying, but there is more to come. I cannot wait to see what happens next and how Dray and Yarif figure into the next steps for the continent with plenty of kingdoms that could unite. Or not. Highly recommended.
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Draylon is the Commander of the Emperor’s army and also his son. He’s just found a battle and killed the kind of a rival kingdom. Then his father informs him that he will be marrying the dead king’s son and will rule this kingdom. Not what Dray was expecting.
Yarif has lost all in his family except for his young twin half-siblings. He must do what he can to ensure their survival. That means he has to marry. A virtual stranger. He will do anything for Emile and Andira that he can to ensure their safety. The emperor is cruel and isn’t above using children. So he married Draylon. But then he is kidnapped and tortured. He’s sure he won’t survive. But after one night with his husband, he can’t know that Draylon takes his vows seriously. And Draylon will not rest until he gets back what is his. Dray swore to protect Yarif, and by god he will.
Enemies appear from everywhere. Every time they think they are safe, someone else comes out of the woodwork to attack them. Will they find allies in time to save themselves and the kingdoms and the innocent people around them?
Well this was unexpected! Truthfully this is not my usual genre. I am however, a huge fan of this author. And I was not disappointed. This is a very well-written enemies to lovers, forced political alliance marriage and forced proximity story that kept me on the edge of my seat a good deal of the time. Draylon and Yarif are thrown into the deep end of the ocean and end up becoming each other’s life preservers, much to their own surprise. Draylon as son of the emperor is a warrior through and through. Yarif, the second son of a traitor king felled by the hand of his now husband, has never wanted to rule. Forcing them into a political marriage to shore up the emperor’s designs to control the kingdom is only part of the story. Dray knows not to trust what he sees, but he is loyal. And when he married Yarif, he took his vows seriously. He will not rest until he rescued his husband – or die trying. There is really no dearth of villains and scoundrels in this story. Plenty of political intrigue and traitors, greedy spies and unhinged power-hungry nobles. But the heart of the story is the growing loyalty, love and admiration between these two unlikely leaders. There is a HFN ending that is plenty satisfying, but there is more to come. I cannot wait to see what happens next and how Dray and Yarif figure into the next steps for the continent with plenty of kingdoms that could unite. Or not. Highly recommended.
December 9, 2025
BUENISIMO. Este tipo de historias con trope de arranged married, romance y plots políticos son mi debilidad.
Tengo que empezar diciendo que amé a Yarif, su personalidad fuerte, lo inteligente q es, y al mismo tiempo un tremendo sweetheart.
Lloré en 2 ocasiones. La primera cuando está secuestrado y sus ánimos están destruidos pensando en que está totalmente solo recordando/extrañando a su familia (hasta el imbecil de su Padre), genuinamente sentía que me estaban arrancando el corazón del pecho.
La segunda fue cuando tuvo su reencuentro con su tía y pensó que era su Mamá, i lost it. Estas lagrimas fueron más de felicidad cuando se da cuenta de que si tiene familia y no está completamente solo. Loved it.
De mi amigo Draylon puedo decir que me gustó su personalidad decidida tmbn y cómo no se dejó influenciar por su papi. El aspecto del romance estuvo... bien, nada fuera de lo común o nada extraordinario.
Y ahí viene mi crítica LOL, el secuestro sucedió MUY rápido. Me hubiera gustado ver a Dray y Yarif desarrollar un vínculo después de casarse, verlos trabajar en el reino como Rey y Rey Consorte aunque sea un par de semanas para que el build up fuera TOTALMENTE creible. No niego que Draylon igualmente hubiera ido a rescatar a su marido (aunque no tuvieran sentimientos) por que repetidamente vemos que el es un hombre de VALORES eso es creible.......El momento de 'i love you' lo sentí medio forzadito pq literal NO SE CONOCEN.
Pero bue, mi única critica. Lo demás es buenisimo especialmente el destino muy merecido del Emperador.
Tengo que empezar diciendo que amé a Yarif, su personalidad fuerte, lo inteligente q es, y al mismo tiempo un tremendo sweetheart.
Lloré en 2 ocasiones. La primera cuando está secuestrado y sus ánimos están destruidos pensando en que está totalmente solo recordando/extrañando a su familia (hasta el imbecil de su Padre), genuinamente sentía que me estaban arrancando el corazón del pecho.
La segunda fue cuando tuvo su reencuentro con su tía y pensó que era su Mamá, i lost it. Estas lagrimas fueron más de felicidad cuando se da cuenta de que si tiene familia y no está completamente solo. Loved it.
De mi amigo Draylon puedo decir que me gustó su personalidad decidida tmbn y cómo no se dejó influenciar por su papi. El aspecto del romance estuvo... bien, nada fuera de lo común o nada extraordinario.
Y ahí viene mi crítica LOL, el secuestro sucedió MUY rápido. Me hubiera gustado ver a Dray y Yarif desarrollar un vínculo después de casarse, verlos trabajar en el reino como Rey y Rey Consorte aunque sea un par de semanas para que el build up fuera TOTALMENTE creible. No niego que Draylon igualmente hubiera ido a rescatar a su marido (aunque no tuvieran sentimientos) por que repetidamente vemos que el es un hombre de VALORES eso es creible.......El momento de 'i love you' lo sentí medio forzadito pq literal NO SE CONOCEN.
Pero bue, mi única critica. Lo demás es buenisimo especialmente el destino muy merecido del Emperador.
August 9, 2023
First in duology (Warriors). Fantasy. Enemies to lovers. Arranged marriage. Slow burn. His father and brother dead, Prince Yarif is believed to be a traitor to the empire, but he didn’t participate in the attempt to assassinate the emperor and Yarif’s only priorities are keeping his younger siblings alive and helping the people of his kingdom. Commander Draylon tries not to acknowledge his relationship with his father the emperor, he is a soldier and leader made for battle, not interested in politics or ruling. When Draylon and Yarif are forced to wed as part of the emperor’s plan to expand the empire it starts with plenty of mistrust and anger, however both men are willing to try their best. There is plenty of intrigue, adventure, and action in this story about two men forced together but quickly learning that each is honorable and kind. Both Draylon and Yarif are admirable, capable, intelligent, and loyal, and as a couple they are a force to be reckoned with. Such an entertaining start to this duology, I think we all know who the main characters may be in the second story, and I can’t wait for more about the empire and Draylon and Yarif’s HEA. 4.5 rounded up
August 26, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. There was plenty of action and adventure and a sweet romance. I usually read several books at once, but while I was reading this one I didn't even look at another book. Which obviously says a lot about holding my attention.
Now there were a few things that niggled at me. The pacing of the book felt like I was on a ride that raced through parts but threw on the breaks for lots of others. Sometimes to the point of jarring. Also, there's the enemies to lovers aspect. Both rather minor complaints though.
If you enjoy court intrigue, secret passages, battles, assassination attempts, and rescues along with your romance I think you'd like this book!
Now there were a few things that niggled at me. The pacing of the book felt like I was on a ride that raced through parts but threw on the breaks for lots of others. Sometimes to the point of jarring. Also, there's the enemies to lovers aspect. Both rather minor complaints though.
If you enjoy court intrigue, secret passages, battles, assassination attempts, and rescues along with your romance I think you'd like this book!
August 25, 2023
Slow burn enemies to lovers
Yarif and Draylon are forced into a political marriage to unify the empire.
Neither one was expecting it or wants it because one blames the other for murdering their family.
There's plenty of mistrust on both sides.
There's attraction on both sides though which slowly leads to them actually getting to know and care for one another which is an unexpected situation certain parties were unprepared for.
Suddenly they're beset all around by danger and have to rely on each other in order to survive.
There's amazing world building with plenty of fast paced action, danger, drama and political machinations behind the scenes.
The book ends in a HFN to segue into the next books conclusion.
I can't wait to be immersed in this amazing world again.
Yarif and Draylon are forced into a political marriage to unify the empire.
Neither one was expecting it or wants it because one blames the other for murdering their family.
There's plenty of mistrust on both sides.
There's attraction on both sides though which slowly leads to them actually getting to know and care for one another which is an unexpected situation certain parties were unprepared for.
Suddenly they're beset all around by danger and have to rely on each other in order to survive.
There's amazing world building with plenty of fast paced action, danger, drama and political machinations behind the scenes.
The book ends in a HFN to segue into the next books conclusion.
I can't wait to be immersed in this amazing world again.
May 12, 2024
epic story told as fairytale
It could have been great unfortunately It’s not a finished book only a premise of a book. There are really some nice dialogues and we are introduced to some interesting characters and what makes them interesting bu then most of them dissapers. Mostly we are just told what will happen or what slready happened not shown. I think a lot more work should be put into It. It would probably be around three books just to cover well what this premise is about. It could have been a really great epic book but unfortunately right now It’s like goodnight story for children like when you are trying to make everything as easy as possible nothing complicated just simple summary of events.
It could have been great unfortunately It’s not a finished book only a premise of a book. There are really some nice dialogues and we are introduced to some interesting characters and what makes them interesting bu then most of them dissapers. Mostly we are just told what will happen or what slready happened not shown. I think a lot more work should be put into It. It would probably be around three books just to cover well what this premise is about. It could have been a really great epic book but unfortunately right now It’s like goodnight story for children like when you are trying to make everything as easy as possible nothing complicated just simple summary of events.
August 4, 2023
This is an enemies to lovers tale set in a medieval universe. In order to save his kingdom and siblings, Prince Yarif must marry the man who killed his father, Commander Draylon, who is also the son of the Emperor. Both go into the marriage with good intentions. The next morning, Yarif is kidnapped.
Great worldbuilding, the author has an eye for detail. Very likeable main characters and secondaries. The action really picks up after Draylon and his friend Capitan Ruse go chasing the kidnappers. I didn't want to put it down.
Very enjoyable. A fairly quick read. There are supposed to be more books in the series. Really can't wait.
Great worldbuilding, the author has an eye for detail. Very likeable main characters and secondaries. The action really picks up after Draylon and his friend Capitan Ruse go chasing the kidnappers. I didn't want to put it down.
Very enjoyable. A fairly quick read. There are supposed to be more books in the series. Really can't wait.
October 28, 2023
Romance, action adventure, and trauma bonding about horrible fathers. All in all, it was a pretty decent read with a solid plot and world-building galore.
Yarif and Draylon may have been the main characters. However, the book is filled with tons of interesting side characters, who could definitely get their own books if the author continues to expand the series.
Cute Quote:
"Oh, no. Yarif hadn’t just been saved to lose his life now. He also had no intention of becoming a young widower. Draylon made vows, and by the deities, he’d watch Yarif grow old, see what they could become to each other."
Yarif and Draylon may have been the main characters. However, the book is filled with tons of interesting side characters, who could definitely get their own books if the author continues to expand the series.
Cute Quote:
"Oh, no. Yarif hadn’t just been saved to lose his life now. He also had no intention of becoming a young widower. Draylon made vows, and by the deities, he’d watch Yarif grow old, see what they could become to each other."
January 23, 2024
A sweeping historical fantasy with a carefully realised world, where the surviving prince of a conquered kingdom is offered in marriage to the victor, with neither man a willing party.
I warmed to both Yarif and Draylon immediately and could sympathise with their contrasting outlook given the circumstances. However, there was plenty of scope for the beginnings of trust and a tentative understanding.
The story was fast-paced, detailed and exciting with terrific worldbuilding and our heroes discovered they were inveigled in a complex and nefarious plot against their will. This was a lovely balance between romance and epic adventure and made for a thoroughly enjoyable read.
I warmed to both Yarif and Draylon immediately and could sympathise with their contrasting outlook given the circumstances. However, there was plenty of scope for the beginnings of trust and a tentative understanding.
The story was fast-paced, detailed and exciting with terrific worldbuilding and our heroes discovered they were inveigled in a complex and nefarious plot against their will. This was a lovely balance between romance and epic adventure and made for a thoroughly enjoyable read.
July 26, 2024
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July 30, 2024
good enough…
if you are simply looking for a good enough read to finish with a modest level of enjoyment this one is right for you. the overall plot of well done and thought out, the main characters are complex, low angst, low heat and likable. still, the transition between scenes happen near abruptly as though things are missing, the war scenes aren’t particularly exciting, and i found myself more intrigued by the secondary characters in Niam & Rufe by the end with little investment into the main couple.
3stars for plot & writing that still made the book worth finishing.
if you are simply looking for a good enough read to finish with a modest level of enjoyment this one is right for you. the overall plot of well done and thought out, the main characters are complex, low angst, low heat and likable. still, the transition between scenes happen near abruptly as though things are missing, the war scenes aren’t particularly exciting, and i found myself more intrigued by the secondary characters in Niam & Rufe by the end with little investment into the main couple.
3stars for plot & writing that still made the book worth finishing.
January 18, 2025
𝙙𝙣𝙛: dnf 52%.
𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙨: everything after the wedding night just went downhill for me. the reactions to things that were happening felt highly unrealistic and childish, the actions being taken felt like they didn't fit in with where we were with the story, and everything just suddenly felt super rushed. i 100% felt like i went from reading a somewhat good book with potential to something written by a 13 year old from one chapter to the next.
𝙙𝙞𝙙 𝙞 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜: i actually DID like the book and what was happening up until the wedding. and then suddenly it was like insta love from draylon's side, and everything just got super... childish. it's a shame.
𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙨: everything after the wedding night just went downhill for me. the reactions to things that were happening felt highly unrealistic and childish, the actions being taken felt like they didn't fit in with where we were with the story, and everything just suddenly felt super rushed. i 100% felt like i went from reading a somewhat good book with potential to something written by a 13 year old from one chapter to the next.
𝙙𝙞𝙙 𝙞 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜: i actually DID like the book and what was happening up until the wedding. and then suddenly it was like insta love from draylon's side, and everything just got super... childish. it's a shame.
February 16, 2025
This was so much fun to read! I was immediately invested in the characters, and most of the book was almost nonstop action. That said, I couldn’t give it five stars because I felt like I was scrambling to catch up with where the author was taking the story at some points. It felt like I was expected to arrive at certain conclusions that didn’t come across naturally. Overall, that did not detract from the story enough to pull me out of it, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I hope to read more from this world!
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